Shire Magazine November-December 2024 North Wales

Phantom

WELCOME, DEAR READER…

Publisher Dan Bromage

Editor Kate Speedie

Chief Subeditor

Wendy Reed

Sta Writers

Juliet Davies

Lynda Kenny

Alison Steele

Designers

Ella Knight

Meryl McIntosh

Advertising Design

Andy Beavis

Sales & Marketing

Pauline Jones

Jon Hunt

Angela Newall

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, Adele

Barry, Catherine Buckley, Alice Leetham, Deborah Law, Lee Ruddin, J McKinney

Credits Selected Images by pressfoto on Freepik

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

Shire Magazine

PO Box 276

Oswestry Shropshire SY10 1FR

Tel: 01691 661270 shiremagazine.co.uk

Welcome to your festive edition of Shire Magazine! The season of cheer is just around the corner and we can’t wait to make the most of it and help you do the same. Whatever your plans – meeting up with friends, hosting a party or gathering the family for paper hats, games and Christmassy films – you’ll find plenty of inspiration on these pages.

Across the patch there are more wonderful Christmas events than ever, from stunning light trails to magical winter adventures, food fairs and gift fairs, carols and Christmas tree festivals – not forgetting everyone’s favourite steam-train ride with Santa. You’ll find all the information and booking links in our bumper What’s On section. Have fun!

Of course, Christmas is also a time for giving and we’ve been talking to organisations and charities across the patch about ways we can all help out at this time of year. There’s plenty of opportunities to lend a hand, from baking cakes for a fundraiser to giving your neighbour a lift to a community get-together, and you may be surprised at what the experience brings to you in return.

We haven’t forgotten the big draw – Christmas dinner! Our food pages are full to bursting with festive inspiration from the region’s top producers and suppliers. So, settle down and work up an appetite as we bring you all this plus your regular favourites – interiors, arts, books, schools, fashion, health, holidays and so much more!

Have a peaceful and happy Christmas, from all of us at Shire!

ISSUE

TASTY!

1

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

2

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

It’s all about the veg with our new garden-toplate guide, plus all your foodie news

3

HO HO HO! Where to see the big man (and his missus!), plus all your local lights and fairs – and fireworks too!

We have lots of regulars that readers can contribute to:

Reader photos Taken a great shot recently? Email your best e ort and it might get featured! See page 102.

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 105 for more.

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

with their name and anything else you want to tell us. See page 93 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

7 What’s On

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2024

89 Gardens

A bit of rain doesn’t deter us!

We talk to the experts about jobs to be done - and take an inspirational wander through a popular Welsh garden

Our packed listings section covers North and Mid Wales, Cheshire including the Wirral, and the whole of Shropshire –with fireworks displays, local lights switch-ons, Christmas fairs and lots more festive fun!

92 Pets & Wildlife

37 Celebrity

Our first celebrity interview is a legend of the music scene – Ian Broudie of the Lightning Seeds is celebrating 25 years of chart success with a new tour and album re-releases

38 Celebrity special

It wouldn’t be Christmas without a panto star on our pages (oh no it wouldn’t!). Shire chats to Jennifer Ellison as she takes on the role of Poison Ivy in Llandudno

49 Reviews

The Shire team reports back from live events and concerts in the region, to bring you our recommendations for the hottest tickets in town

50 Give a helping hand

Charities and organisations across the patch could use a little extra support over the festive season. We asked them how we can all do our bit to make a di erence for those in need this Christmas

58 Holidays

Traditionally winter is when everyone gets busy booking their breaks for next year – so check out our round-up of holiday parks, cosy cottage stays, canalboat hire and glamping pods. There’s even a railway wagon!

64 Charity

A look at the voluntary and charity organisations that do so much good for so many good causes across the area

65 Active

From rambling to scrambling –we have some great suggestions for getting outdoors and staying active through the winter

67 Food & Drink

Seeing as it’s o cially feasting season, we know you’ll want to hear from the region’s top chefs and producers with their recipes and tips for Christmas – our popular section is packed as always

76 Homes & Interiors

If a move’s on the cards in the new year, we’ve tips on how to get your place ready for viewers – plus the latest interiors trends

Dog owners will want to read our informative feature on winter health risks, and we’ve more of your adorable pet pictures

97 Gift guide

Present ideas for her – and turn to page 126 for gifts for him

99 Health & Beauty

Advice from the experts in health, fashion, beauty and wellbeing – this section will keep you looking and feeling at your best this season

100 Arts & Crafts

We visit Oswestry to view a brilliant art project helping to revitalise the town centre – and meet an artist who brings joy and colour to every piece. Plus craft news, exhibitions near you and the winners of our latest photo competition

104 Books & Poetry

Fans of short stories will enjoy a new collection by a Mid Wales author – and we take a look at Chester Literature Festival events. There’s book reviews too, and some of your best poetry

107 Schools

Our education pages round up the latest news from schools, colleges and universities across the region, keeping you up to date with developments across the sector

112 Recruitment

Introducing an exciting new section for Shire – we take a look at the changing world of work in our focus on all things recruitment

119 Retirement

We bring you more news and features on issues a ecting our older readers – and some fun Christmas recollections too

129 Competitions

If you fancy your chances of winning some brilliant tickets and experiences, don’t miss the exclusive competitions in this issue

130 Letters to the editor

It’s over to you, as we feature a selection of the lovely letters our amazing readers have sent in to us once again

Lightning Seeds

ALL ABOARD!

ere’s lots of festive fun on Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway this Christmas! Santa will be aboard Welsh Highland Santa trains from Caernarfon on 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st & 22nd December, and in his magical Christmas grotto at Porthmadog Harbour station on 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd & 23rd December. If you can’t wait, visit the Christmas Food Festival Market at FWHR’s Caernarfon station on 16th November… And the celebrations continue with Seasonal Snowdonia Specials from 28th December right through to 1st January. Timetables at www.festrail.co.uk

AT SANTA’S TABLE

Have a meal with the big man at Erddig, near Wrexham. Tuck into a delicious Welsh breakfast and enjoy songs and a story from Jake the Elf (9-10.30am), before exploring the house and gardens. Or enjoy a delicious Christmas dinner and pud with Santa from 5pm. Tickets £18.95 (child £19.95, includes gift). www.nationaltrust.org.uk

DID YOU KNOW?

Santa is also known as Kris Kringle in the USA, Père Noël (France) and Święty Mikołaj (Poland)

Santa’s magical farm

In December, Santa and chums are setting up home at Greenacres Animal Park in Deeside. e hardworking elves will be in their craft workshop – join them making reindeer food, then let the little ones whiz around the indoor soft play. Have a magical time meeting festive characters and furry friends, with guaranteed snow for those family photos. All good boys and girls receive an early Christmas present! Book a timed entry online, prices from £14.99. See www.greenacresanimalpark.co.uk

CHRISTMAS BY THE BEACH

Celebrate the festive season with e Beaches Hotel & Spa in Prestatyn: enjoy a two-course Christmas Cracker dinner on 29th November or three-course Christmas Party Night on 6th, 7th & 14th December – all with bubbly on arrival and a DJ until 1am. For something a bit di erent, try a Christmas Murder Mystery on 30th November & 13th December: be greeted on the red carpet with a drink, dine as you work out whodunit, then dance till 12! www.thebeacheshotel.com

RACE INTO WINTER

Embrace the autumnal hues with some racing at Bangoron-Dee’s Countryside Day on 13th November. en kick o your festive season at Breakfast with Santa Raceday on 30th – the perfect chance for the children to tell Santa what they’d like for Christmas! Join in with the Virgin Bet Christmas Jumper Day on 13th December and maybe enjoy a Yuletide meal at one of the restaurants. See www.bangorondeeraces.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 2ND-12TH NOVEMBER

•Until 2nd November, Halloween at Ruthin Gaol Enjoy spooky fun, games and crafts whilst visiting the Gaol. From 9am. Normal admission applies.

•6th & 7th November, Waxcap Fungi Walk, Chirk Castle, Wrexham Discover rare and beautiful waxcaps whilst strolling through this Site of Special Scientific Interest. Normal admission applies.

•8th November, Discover Bangor Wildlife, North Wales Wildlife Trust O ces, Bangor Hanging oak woodlands, interesting grasslands and winter seabirds can all be found in and around Bangor: discover where! 10:30am-1pm, Tickets £3.

•9th November & 14th

December, Pop-Up North Wales Contemporary Craft Fair, Mostyn, Llandudno Browse 14 stalls with featuring a variety of artists, designers and makers from Wales and the rest of the UK. 10.30am-4.30pm. Free entry.

•10th November & 17th

December, Bangor University Symphony Orchestra, PrichardJones Hall, Bangor BUSO

presents two concerts: one for Remembrance Sunday, followed by a Christmas concert with the Symphony Chorus, featuring a host of festive numbers. 6pm (10th), 7pm (17th). Tickets £12.

•12th November, The World in One Garden, Halkyn Cricket Club, Holywell Barry Grain, head gardener at Cholomondelay Castle Gardens, talks about special plants in his patch and plans for the future. 7.30pm. £3 (members free).

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

15TH-23RD NOVEMBER

•15th November, Steptoe & Son – Live, Brymbo Sports & Social Complex, Wrexham Revisit your favourite moments from the BBC series – Albert remains a dirty old man and Harold is as pretentious as ever! 7.30pm. Tickets £11 via www. ticketsource.co.uk

•15th November, Pictures of Britain, Prichard Jones Hall, Bangor The BBC National Orchestra of Wales performs Grace Williams’ Hen Walia, Elgar’s sumptuous Sea Pictures and Vaughan Williams’ Fifth Symphony. 7.30pm. Tickets £15.

•16th November, Pinc Ffloyd, Ucheldre Centre, Holyhead Experience ’70s-era Floyd sounds and visuals, including favourites from Dark Side of the Moon, Wish You Were Here and more. 7.30pm. Tickets £15.

•17th November, Artisan Market, Tweedmill, St Asaph Celebrate the Outlet’s 30th anniversary and find a selection of artisan wares, crafts, bakes and booze, with hot street food and a pop-up bar. 10am-4pm.

•19th November, Catrin Finch & Aoife Ní Bhriain, Neuadd Dwyfor , Pwllheli The virtuoso duo explore a musical world of creative possibility, challenge and discovery, linked by the culture of their home countries. 7.30pm. Tickets £22.

•23rd November, Festive Lino Printing, RSPB South Stack, Holyhead Local artist Lora will guide you through carving intricate designs, rolling and printing onto unique cards to take home. 10am-noon. Tickets from £17.

Celebrate with St David’s

is Christmas, lend your support to one of these enticing fundraisers for St David’s Hospice…

Venue Cymru hosts its Christmas Fair on 30th November, with stalls and a visit from Santa (11am-4pm, £2, under-16s £1).

ere’s a Christmas Fair at the Valley Hotel, Anglesey on 15th November too, from 4-7pm.

Two locations are hosting Christmas Tree Festivals: St Mary’s Church, Conwy, from 2nd-7th December and St John’s Church, Llandudno, from 9th-14th December. Find beautifully decorated trees designed and themed by local businesses, schools and organisations. On 5th December, St Mary’s hosts Carols Around the Trees at 6.30pm,

MAKE IT MAGIC…

and on 12th St John’s is open late from 7.30pm. All funds raised from the Christmas Tree Festivals will go towards patient care and family support services. Details at www.stdavidshospice.org.uk

Get festive at Abakhan Mostyn! Learn how to make reusable Christmas gift bags from fabric on 1st December or make a Christmas wreath on 8th December. Treat the family to Breakfast or Afternoon Tea with Santa on 21st, 22nd & 23rd December and watch the children’s faces light up as the big man arrives from the North Pole. Every child will receive a gift and there’ll be craft activities and a photo op. Breakfast 9-10.30am, tea 2.30-4pm. Book for £14.95 (child £13.95) via www.eventbrite.co.uk. Details at www.abakhan.co.uk

Steaming into Bala

Stars of the show

For a great day out for the whole family, don’t miss Anglesey Winter Fair on 9th & 10th November. See livestock, equine and produce exhibitors, a dog show, craft stalls and machinery – all under cover in the Pavilion and cattle sheds. Gates open 9am, and entry is £5 (children free). www.angleseyshow.org.uk

SANTA ON THE BEACH

Santa will be arriving at Bala Lake Railway, home of Alice the Little Welsh Engine, on 7th & 8th December. Specially decorated trains will be travelling down the line to the Christmas Grotto, where the children can meet Santa and receive a gift. Grown-ups can get festive with sherry or a hot drink and mince pie. Tickets £12.50 (under-12s £15), advance booking essential. www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk

Get down to Abersoch for their Christmas Festival from 30th November – 1st December, a magical weekend of Yuletide celebrations. Visit Santa’s Grotto, sing Christmas carols and enjoy live music and entertainment for all the family. ere’ll be lantern making at St Tudwal’s, followed by a parade along the harbour, as well as face painting and hair braiding at e Vaynol. Be sure to line the High Street on Sunday to cheer through the illuminated tractor parade! See www.abersochlife.com

NORTH WALES WHAT’S

CHRISMAS AT GREENFIELD VALLEY’

Come and celebrate Christmas at Green eld Valley. On 7th & 8th December the heritage park will be adorned with lights. Listen to live music whilst enjoying festive food and drink, take part in family crafts, activities and face painting, experience Christmas Day through the ages and sort your gift shopping at the Makers’ Market. Open 9.30am-7pm Saturday, 9.30am-3pm Sunday. Tickets £3.50 (under-3s free), online in advance or at the Visitor Centre on the day.

Meet Father Christmas! Visit the Grotto and meet Father Christmas and his Elf sitting by the re. Each child will receive a present, then you’ll all enjoy full access to all the other activities onsite. Please book online in advance, £12.50 (child), £4 (adult). www.green eldvalley.com

CASTLE ADVENTURE

Abergele’s Gwrych Castle o ers a new immersive Christmas Adventure from 30th November – 23rd December. Help the elves solve puzzles as you journey through an enchanting story trail; visit the charming St Noell Village and meet Mrs Claus; try the ‘Naughty or Nice’ courtroom to see where you stand; help x Santa’s futuristic sleigh and receive a gift from the man himself. Before you leave, explore the scenic Castle and Gardens trail for a perfect ending to your holiday experience. See www.gwrychcastle.co.uk

STEP INTO CHRISTMAS

Manorafon Farm Park, Abergele has festive treats in store for December! e Christmas Village & Magical Light Trail is an immersive experience for friends and family, with sparkling tunnels, giant trees and a very big snowman – new for 2024 is a musical light show. ere’s a 3D Christmas Tree Maze, guaranteed ‘snowfall’, walkabout entertainment by festive characters, live music, an Alpine bar and festive food and drink. Upgrade your experience to include a visit to Santa – each child will receive a golden coin to spend in the Christmas Village. Optional extras include Build A Bear, decorating gingerbread and axe-throwing for over-16s! www.manorafon-farm-park.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW?

A section of Wat’s Dyke runs through the Valley, an ancient boundary with England

Introducing an all-new magical Christmas experience for all ages! e Festive Forest at Zip World Betws-y-Coed is open every weekend in December and on 23rd & 24th. Ride the Polar Coaster Express, the UK’s only alpine coaster of its kind, as it whizzes through the woodland under the stars – three rides included. Bounce in the Snowdrop Nets in the high treetops, lit by icy lights, and grab a giant in atable snowball. Refresh with festive music, food, drinks and cheer in the Bar Tipi. See www.zipworld.co.uk/festive-forest

Steaming through Snowdonia

Hurry to Llanberis Lake Railway to enjoy their Lakeside Winter Wonder, every Tuesday, Wednesday and ursday from 12th November – 19th December. Take a scenic journey along the shores of Padarn Lake, admiring the splendour of the Eryri mountains from heritage carriages pulled by an historic steam engine. Adults will receive a seasonal beverage and a mince pie, while children get a soft drink and chocolatey treat. Times and tickets at www.lake-railway.co.uk

FESTIVE CRUISING

Celebrate aboard a Christmas Party Boat – enjoy an ’80s-style retro bu et, a glass of zz or beer and Christmas tunes from across the years. Departs Llangollen Wharf on 30th November & 7th, 14th & 21st December On 5th & 18th December why not treat a friend to a Luxury Festive Afternoon Tea, with mulled wine and Christmas songs, as you meander along the Llangollen Canal enjoying the beautiful Dee Valley. Tickets for either event are £32.95. To book, call 01978 860 702 or visit www.horsedrawnboats.co.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 01766 516024 More details @ festrail.co.uk/christmas or scan the QR code -

Join us for a truly memorable Christmas celebration. From festive parties and thrilling murder mysteries to a night of excitement at our NYE casino, there’s something for everyone. Scan the QR code to discover more and book your unforgettable experience.

LLANDUDNO

The Premier Gift & Homeware Trade Show for North Wales

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

It is the premier destination in North Wales if you buy for:

GARDEN CENTRES

ZOOS

VISITOR CENTRES

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

ONLINE RETAIL

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.

Make Llandudno Gift Fair your rst choice for all your purchasing needs in 2025. Visit the show’s website for the full exhibitor list.

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

DID YOU KNOW?

Dwylo Bach is a free creative session for 0-5s (and adult) at the Craft Centre every month

Hand in hand with nature

‘Basketry: Rescuing, Reviving, Retaining’ is a new exhibition at Ruthin Craft Centre,showcasing the work of artists striving to save this ancient craft. It’s one of several shows running until 12th January. Eleanor Glover uses wood as her primary material to create whimsical, observational art in her retrospective ‘Hidden In ere Somewhere’. David Nash’s ‘Wooden Boulder’ comprises prints, drawings, a sculpture and lm depicting his muse, and Elin Hughes presents her beautiful wood- red pottery. Open Tuesday–Sunday 10am–5.30pm. Free entry. www.ruthincraftcentre.org.uk

Lapland, here we come!

e spirit of Christmas comes alive on a festive steam train journey through the Dee Valley. Llangollen Railway’s Santa Specials run weekends from 30th November–22nd December, and on 20th, 23rd & 24th too! Journey with Santa and his elves to ‘Lapland’ (Carrog). Each child will receive a gift and adults can enjoy a mince pie and festive drink while the mischievous Jester sprinkles a dash of magic and laughter. Tickets from £30. After Christmas, relax on a Mince Pie Special and enjoy the views from your festive carriage. www.langollen-railway.co.uk

A CARING CHRISTMAS

Show support for Wrexham’s Nightingale House Hospice this Christmas. An evening of glitz and glamour is guaranteed at the Strictly Nightingales Showcase, hosted by the Stiwt on 9th November. Contestants from local companies team up with professional dancers to dazzle the audience with Latin and ballroom (6.30pm, £24.50).

e city centre lls with light at the Lantern Parade on 16th November. Decorate a lantern at the workshop, enjoy fair rides and entertainment before the walk (4pm, child £6, adults free).

William Aston Hall hosts A Christmas Celebration Concert on 24th November – Christmas jumpers a must! Starts 7pm, see www.nightingalehouse.co.uk

Raise a glass to Novemberfest!

Move over Oktoberfest – now’s the time to celebrate in Mold! Enjoy real ale, real food and real entertainment on 8th & 9th November at e Pod (formerly St Mary’s Church Hall). ere’ll be craft beers, local cider and great wines as well as real ale, all accompanied by food and live music. New for 2024 – CAMRA will be hosting an Introduction to Ale Tasting event. Full details on Facebook and at www.mold novemberfest.org.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 23RD-28TH NOVEMBER

•23rd November, Soul’d Out, Criccieth Memorial Hall The Midlands’ leading soul, Motown and Northern Soul band will have everyone on their feet –with a posh picnic downstairs! 8pm. Tickets £25.

•Weekends from 23rd November, Father Christmas’ Grotto, Jester’s Tower, Conwy Father Christmas in a traditional grotto, with a unique gift for each child. £12.50 (adults free). Bookings via Ticketsource on 0333 666 3366.

•24th November, Tree of Lights, Rhos on Sea Promenade Support St David’s Hospice by dedicating a light to remember a loved one. Llandudno’s Promenade Tree will be lit on 1st December and Llangefni’s on 12th December. Details from www.stdavidshospice.org.uk

•26th November, Christmas Lights Switch-on, Mold Head down to the town centre and enjoy festive choirs and the big switchon by Father Christmas. 3.306.45pm. Free.

•27th November, Gee Atherton – Hold Fast, Galeri Caernarfon Hear the remarkable story of mountain biking legend Gee: multiple champion and star of Ridgeline, where he conquered ‘unrideable’ mountain ridges on two wheels. Starts 7.30pm. Tickets £20.

•28th November, 7th8th, 14th-15th & 21st-24th December, Santa’s Grotto, Dobbies Moreton Park, Wrexham Meet Santa on the Little Seedlings train-themed journey, complete with interactive elements, snowy scenes, snowball fights, and a gift to take home. Timed slots throughout the day. Child £12.99.

WHAT’S ON IN

BRIEF

30TH NOVEMBER –6TH DECEMBER

•30th November, Llandudno 5k Santa Dash, North Promenade The route takes you along the North Shore and you can walk, jog or run. Register at the Pier from 9.30am, race starts 10.45am. Entry £17 (child £11.50), spectators free.

•30th November, Christmas Market, Alyn Waters Country Park, Wrexham Browse Christmas gifts and festive food from vendors across Wrexham, showcasing and supporting small local businesses. 11am-3pm. Free.

•30th November, The Illegal Eagles, William Aston, Wrexham This acclaimed tribute brings you the very best of the country rock giants, including ‘Hotel California’, ‘Desperado’, ‘Take It Easy’ and other classics. 7.30pm. Tickets £34.50.

•30th November, Mold & District Choral Society, Capel Bethesda, Mold Flintshire’s largest mixed voice choir performs Mendelssohn, Mozart and VaughanWilliams together with traditional Christmas carols. 6pm. For tickets email gail13. roberts@gmail.com

•1st December, Llangollen Illuminated Tractor Run Enjoy the spectacle of local farmers driving their tractors festooned in fairy lights to raise funds for Wrexham Maelor

Children’s Ward. Tractors leave Llangollen Pavilion around 3pm.

•6th December, Soul & Motown Night, Venue Cymru, Llandudno Keep the faith at this great night of Motown and soul classics in the Orme Suite at Venue Cymru, with DJ’s Garry Carr, Mickey Moonshine and Nige Watkinson. 7.30pm. Tickets £12.50.

THE FUN NEVER STOPS!

Pagliacci, 7th November

Mid Wales Opera performs Leoncavallo’s thriller, with a second half of popular cabaret music. 7.30pm. Tickets £17.50.

Murder on the Nile, 14th-16th November e classic Agatha Christie whodunit: can Poirot use his little grey cells to probe the suspects and identify the killer? 2.30 & 7.30pm. Various prices.

e Big Country Music Show, 23rd November

Sing along to hits by Kenny Rogers, Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash and the Eagles. 7.30pm. Tickets £23.50.

Pinocchio, 21st December – 4th January A family

Village Christmas

panto packed full of comedy, puppets, sensational songs and dance routines. Tickets £17 (child £12). www.theatrcolwyn.co.uk

ART ON THE ISLAND

Experience Portmeirion at its twinkling best as the Food & Craft Festival returns on 6th-8th December. Artisan stalls will be selling nest Welsh produce, and there’ll be festive entertainment too. 9.30am-5.30pm. Standard entry. www.portmeirion.wales

Club classics

Rhyl Music Club presents three fabulous concerts: 13th November features young stars Annemarie Federle (French horn) and Harry Rylance (piano) at 7pm. Catch club regulars, violinist Mary Hofman and pianist Richard Ormrod on 27th November, performing Mendelssohn, Schubert and more with cellist Rebecca Knight (7.30pm). And on 11th December, the Welsh Chamber Orchestra performs Mozart’s 27th Piano Concerto at 7pm. Tickets for each show are £15. www.rhyl music.com

If you’ve not had a chance to see ‘Mapping Anglesey’ at Oriel Môn, this fascinating exhibition closes on 19th January. ‘A place in the heart: Ky n and East Anglesey’, running until 2nd February, focuses on Ky n Williams’ emotional and cultural responses to his landscape, and you can catch Jane Paice’s ‘Elements’, exploring the heritage of the Welsh copper industry until 16th February. e gallery’s Christmas Craft Fair is on 9th November – 24th December, o ering unique quality gifts. www.orielmon.org

It’s a wonderful world…

Discover a new walkthrough adventure at Mold’s Reindeer Lodge, from 22nd November – 24th December. Take time to enjoy the attractions and immerse yourself in the experience. Explore hidden elf villages, a magical lakeside light trail and woodland walks, stage shows, a free fairground and toy workshop. You’ll meet lots of festive characters and gorgeous reindeer. Optional extras include meeting Santa, VR sleigh rides, a Polar Express train, giant toasted marshmallows and more! Prices start from £24. www.tickettailor.com/events/ reindeerlodge/1104445

Mystery and dance at Pontio

O Little Town of Aberystwyth, 26th November ‘Children singing, police sirens ringing… and a department store

Father Christmas lies dead.’ Louie Knight, the only gumshoe private detective in Ceredigion investigates! Pre-show Q&A 6.40pm, show 7.30pm. Tickets £16.50.

Daydreams and Jellybeans, 30th November Sparkling dance from Ballet Cymru, while Wales Children’s Laureate Alex Wharton raps and rhymes. 6pm. Tickets £16. www.pontio.co.uk

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

Thank Cymru for the music!

ank Abba for the Music, 9th November Celebrate the 50th anniversary of ‘Waterloo’ with a high-octane feast of Abba’s greatest hits. Fancy dress optional but encouraged! 7.30pm. Tickets £29.

Robots Live, 23rd-24th November See the most formidable bots competing: with 110kg machines clashing, you can expect metal carnage, sparks and awesome battles. Various times and prices.

Anything for Love, 28th November Steve

TWICE AS NICE

eatr Clwyd has not one but two festive pantos for you. Oh yes it does! www.theatrclwyd.com

Mother Goose – the Rock ‘n’ Roll Panto, 23rd November – 19th January Enjoy rock, pop and soul bangers, outrageous costumes, water pistols galore and puppets. Various times. From £15.

Jack and the Beanstalk, 27th November – 8th December Head to Hawkesbury Little eatre, Buckley for a great night as the little theatre with a big heart presents songs, dance and oodles of comedy. 2 & 7.30pm. Tickets £10 (child £8).

WINTER AT T PAWB

Steinman brings you his new production featuring over 25 of Meat Loaf’s and his own greatest hits. 7.30pm. Tickets £38.

Jack & the Beanstalk, 7th-29th December Enjoy a giant family pantomime starring CBeebies’ Ben Cajee, TV and theatre’s Jennifer Ellison, hilarious John Evans, and Simon Nehan as Dame Trott. Various times and prices. www.venuecymru.co.uk

Fairytales at the Pavilion

Fairytale of New York, 10th November

Imagine St Patrick’s Day at Christmas! 7.30pm. £30.50.

Rhod Gilbert & e Giant Grapefruit, 20th November Hilariously dark and way too personal, this is classic Gilbert. 8pm. Tickets £38.

Oh What A Night, 23rd November Celebrate Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons – slick harmonies and even slicker dance moves. 7.30pm. Tickets £28.

Cinderella, 7th-31st December Corrie’s Beverley Callard headlines. www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

Lords of the dance

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 6TH-24TH DECEMBER

•6th-8th & 13th15th December, Wrexham Christmas Market & Winter Festival Head down to Bellevue Park for festive family entertainment and Christmas shopping. 10am-8pm. Free entry.

•6th December – 4th January, Dick Whittington, Grove Park Theatre, Wrexham Join Dick, his cat Tommy and their merry band as they navigate a world of wacky misunderstandings and very cheesy jokes. Tickets £13 (child £11, family £44).

•7th December, Llandudno Christmas Parade. Starting at the Station and travelling through the town, the Parade will feature Father Christmas and lots of festive attractions. 4pm. Free.

•7th December, Christmas Floristry, Wernog Wood, Ruthin Make a Christmas wreath in the morning or garland in the afternoon, using locally sourced materials to create gorgeous scented decorations. Sessions 9.30am12.30pm, £85; 2-5pm, £95.

Sinfonia Cymru presents a harp, ute and cello recital including Elgar’s Salut d’Amour on 6th November (1pm, donations), while on 30th November drummer and multi-instrumentalist Sidiki Dembélé directs the orchestra in a fusion of West African, classical and Celtic music (8pm, £15 via www.eventbrite.co.uk). e prestigious Ty Pawb Open exhibition runs from 16th November, showcasing artists from North Wales and beyond (free entry). Finally, buy local this Christmas at Wrexham Makers Market on 7th December, 10am-4pm. www.typawb.wales

Wrexham Symphony Orchestra opens its new season with Strings & Shadows on 17th November, showcasing double bassist Leon Bosch in a performance of Stravinsky’s boundary-pushing ballet score, Petrushka. On 8th December, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker travels from Clara’s cosy home to the kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Performances 2.30pm. Tickets from £10. www.williamastonwrexham.com

•7th-24th December, Santa’s Special Train Ride, Rhyl Miniature Railway Enjoy an ever-popular Santa Special: every child will meet him and receive a festive gift. Book a timed slot online at www. rhylminiaturerailway.co.uk. Tickets £13 (child), £5 (adult).

•7th & 8th December, Christmas at Rhug Estate, Corwen Browse a host of stalls at the Christmas Fair, o ering unique gifts and festive treats, and visit Santa in his grotto. Afterwards enjoy a farm walk around the estate. www.rhug.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 10TH-27TH DECEMBER

•10th & 15th December, Royal Ballet & Opera Live (and Encore): Cinderella, Ucheldre Centre, Holyhead Be transported to an ethereal world where fairytales come true. Prokofiev’s uplifting score is matched with classical choreography and beautiful costumes. 7.15pm. Tickets £13.

•14th December, Henge, Neuadd Ogwen, Bethesda Extra-terrestrial joymongers Henge bring a unique sound, occupying a space between rave and prog rock that nobody knew existed!

19th-23rd December, Dick Whittington, Rhyl Little Theatre The classic tale of a lad, his knapsack and his cat in this fun family panto! 7.30pm. Tickets £10 (£35 for 4) www.ticketsource.co.uk

Messiah, Jerusalem Chapel, Bethesda Mold and District Choral Society and North Wales Choral Union join in a performance of Handel’s uplifting classic. For tickets email gail13.roberts@gmail.com

•26th December, Boxing Day Sea Dip, Llandudno Organised by the Lions Club the event regularly sees over 100 dippers taking the plunge into an icy Irish Sea. Prizes for best fancy dress. Registration 10am, swim 11.30am. Free. Enquiries on 07947 683 553.

•27th December, Llandudno Train & Toy Fair, Venue Cymru Collectors buy and sell new and second-hand model railways as well as vintage and new toys. 10.30am-3.30pm. £3.50.

Festive highlights

Jason Byrne: No Show, 15th November Jason creates the show from scratch, with audience interactions and a sprinkling of props! 7.30pm. Tickets £26.50.

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, 5th-7th December Tip Top brings you the classic story with plenty of laughter and shimmering special e ects. Various times. Tickets £13 (child £11).

Welsh of the West End, 17th December e musical theatre super-group presents a festive concert full of Christmas classics and favourites from shows such as Les Misérables, Phantom of

Wicked. 7.30pm.

DID YOU KNOW?

Jason played a football ref in an episode of Channel 4’s classic sitcom Father Ted

Carols for Christmas, 22nd December BBC National Orchestra of Wales and a massed choir from across North Wales join for this glittering favourite. Wear your Christmas jumper! 3pm. Tickets £12. www.williamastonwrexham.com

THE BIGGEST AND BEST…

Shortlisted for the Go North Wales Event of the Year 2023, Ruthin Christmas Extravaganza returns on 30th November across seven locations in the town. With around 200 stalls it’s the biggest Christmas market in North and Mid Wales. ere’ll be food and drink, entertainment and a free Santa bus stopping at all the locations. Open 10am4pm See www.artisanmarkets.wales

LIGHTING THE WINTER DARK

Catch an exhibition at the Royal Cambrian Academy in Conwy this autumn: until 19th November, Heather Eastes and Alan Salisbury’s ‘Dark to Light’ invites viewers on a journey from shadowed depths to radiant illumination. e much-anticipated Annual Winter Exhibition runs from 23rd November –28th December, a captivating showcase bringing together the diverse talents of Academy members in North Wales. e gallery and shop are open Tuesday-Saturday 11am-5pm. Free entry. www.rcaconwy.org

SEASONAL FAVOURITES AT WREXHAM’S STIWT

Oktoberfest, 15th November

Autumn fun with North Wales’ only live 10-piece Bavarian party band, bringing you dance oor llers from the ’70s to the noughties. 7.30pm. Tickets £20 (includes traditional Bavarian fare).

Cinderella, 6th-31st December

An enchanting pantomime from LHK Productions: the classic tale of a girl, a fairy godmother and a glass slipper. Times vary. Tickets £17.50 (child £15.50). www.stiwt.com

Magical days out this Christmas with National Trust Cymru

The festive season is fast approaching, so if you’re looking for something to keep you entertained this Christmas, look no further than the places cared for by National Trust Cymru across North and Mid Wales.

From poetry inspired decorations, to a dragon guarding treasure and a Victorian wonderland there’s something for everyone to enjoy this season.

Please note: Normal admission charges apply (National Trust members enter free). Some activities are bookable and may incur an additional charge. Please check the property websites for individual events.

Erddig

Hall and Garden | From 30 November

Experience the magic of Christmas as Erddig Hall comes alive with traditional decorations and the garden transforms into a breathtaking winter landscape.

The late 17th century house will be adorned with decorations inspired by the Clement C Moore poem ‘The Night Before Christmas’. As you wander, you’ll encounter key moments from the poem brought to life. Children can follow a magical spotter trail to uncover hidden surprises. From 16 until 19 December much of the property will be staying open until 7pm. Tuck into a tasty treat at the marshmallow toasting station or take part in festive colouring activities during these magical evenings. At weekends, join Father Christmas for breakfast or supper featuring festive songs, a delightful story, and a special gift for every child –booking essential. On Saturdays, participate in storytelling with Jake Evans and on Sundays, get creative during Christmas craft sessions.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/erddig

Chirk Castle and Garden | From 30 November

Immerse yourself in a festive and magical experience this Christmas at Chirk Castle. Discover the loyal guardians of the medieval fortress as they protect the many treasures within its walls, including the legendary dragon, returning this year with new companions. Then embark on a winter adventure outdoors by collecting a spotter activity sheet from the Ticket Office and searching for hidden stars in the gardens.

Each weekend, be sure to visit Chirk Castle’s reverse grotto in support of Oswestry and Borders Foodbank, where you can meet Father Christmas and contribute essential items.

Alternatively, join Father Christmas for a tasty Welsh breakfast on 30 November and 1 December, or Christmas dinner on 7 and 8 December. Enjoy a comforting story and a special gift for every child. Booking essential.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/chirk-castle

Powis Castle and Garden | From 30 November

Experience the magic of a Dickensian Christmas with a twist from 30 November to 5 January. Step back in time as the first floor of the castle transforms into a charming Victorian wonderland, inspired by A Christmas Carol. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the 19th century, where flickering candles, evergreen garlands, and classic holiday scenes bring the spirit of a Victorian Christmas to life.

For little guests, Father Christmas will be making special breakfast appearances. Join him on 30 November, 1, 7, 8 or 15 December for a festive morning in the enchanting café with a magical story afterwards in the library - booking is essential.

From 13-23 December, watch Powis Castle come alive in a dazzling display of mesmerising lights illuminating its grand exterior. With extended hours each evening, visitors can experience the castle’s magic after sunset. The castle, courtyard, shop and café will be open for this evening event starting at 4.30pm and finishing at 7pm.

https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/powis-castle-and-garden

Winter gardens to explore

Explore outdoors and celebrate the magic of winter in the stunning collection of gardens cared for by National Trust Cymru.

Enjoy a winter walk through the formal woodland ‘The Wilderness’ at Powis Castle where the bare branches reveal beautiful vistas of the castle and terraces.

Freshly trimmed topiary in Chirk Castle’s garden resemble Christmas puddings in the winter landscape. The garden’s Long Border showcases vibrant dogwood stems and striking white birch trunks, creating a captivating winter scene.

This season is also the perfect time to admire the impressive structure of Erddig’s walled garden with its pleached limes, canal and pond. Head to the Rose Garden to discover winter-flowering shrubs.

Discover more exciting days out near you here:

Visitors admiring the Christmas decorations inside Chirk Castle, Wrexham. Powis Castle will open of an evening for a magical Christmas experience.

rspb.org.uk/ynyshir

The RSPB is a registered charity in England & Wales 207076, in Scotland SC037654. Image by Chris Gomersall (rspb-images.com)

Cows, crafts and Christmas cheer!

As one of the nest stock shows in Europe, the Royal Welsh Winter Fair in Builth Wells on 25th & 26th November draws huge crowds to enjoy two days of competitions, festivities and Christmas shopping. e Winter Fair is a hugely popular attraction on the British agricultural show calendar and leading stockmen from all over the UK will compete for the top accolades. Away from the

judging, the very best of Welsh food producers will be showcasing their wares, and 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! ere’s also a spectacular reworks display. Gates 8am. Tickets from £22 (ages 5-15 £5), two days £40. www.rwas.wales

BATTLE OF THE SEXES?

e Albert Hall in Llandrindod Wells has two fantastic nights of music in store. On 15th November, Here Come the Girls is a multi-diva tribute featuring the music of Cher, Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Adele, Abba and more. Show starts 7.30pm, tickets £23.50. en on 23rd November, Welsh vocal sensation Only Men Aloud return for ‘A Merry Little Christmas’, featuring hymns, folk songs, opera and pop. Starts 7pm, tickets £32.50. www.thealberthall.co.uk

Baubles and bells

e Barmouth community comes together on 5th December as the Christmas Lights are switched by the Mayor, surrounded by carol singers. e church bells will ring out as people head towards the shops, which are staying open late for the occasion.

Listen to the Batala Bermo Samba band, celebrate with mulled wine and toasted marshmallows, or visit Santa’s Grotto or the many pubs and hotels o ering live music.

Santa special

WHAT’S ON IN

BRIEF

5TH-21ST NOVEMBER

•5th November, Bonfire & Fireworks Display, Llanidloes Enjoy the pyrotechnics whilst supporting local charities. Beefburgers, hotdogs, soft/hot drinks available. From 6.30pm. Free, but donations appreciated.

•9th November, Book Signing, Great Oak Books, Llanidloes Author Kim Gravell will be signing copies of Tales Beyond Midnight, her anthology of short stories. Drop in for an informal chat about writing and self-publishing, and support your local independent bookshop! 10.30am-1pm.

•14th November, Pictures of Britain, Aberystwyth Arts Centre BBC National Orchestra of Wales performs Grace Williams’ overture Hen Walia, Vaughan Williams’ Fifth Symphony, and Elgar’s Sea Pictures, featuring Cardi Singer of the World finalist Beth Taylor. 7.30pm. Tickets £15.

Defy Scrooge and his like and take a steam train to meet Santa on the Rheil ordd Corris Railway at Machynlleth. Special services will run on 7th & 8th December, with presents for the children, activities to take part in and seasonal refreshments for the whole family. For times and tickets visit www.corris.co.uk

Hike or bike…

Cyclists who like Welsh ales will enjoy Llanwrtyd Wells’ Real Ale Wobble on 16th November, kicking o the 10-day Mid Wales Beer Festival. Routes are waymarked and marshalled, and traverse some of Wales’ most unspoilt scenery: entry £25. e Real Ale Ramble on 23rd & 24th November o ers a choice of waymarked routes (12 or 20 miles) and a guided walk, with real ales at the checkpoints: £15, £25 for both days. ere’s live music on both evenings. www.green-events.co.uk

•17th November, Ranju Roy, Presteigne Assembly Rooms Hear about Ranju’s book Yoga as Pilgrimage with a class beforehand illustrating some of the themes. Class 1.30pm, talk 3-6.30pm. Tickets £5, or £15 with yoga session.

•20th November, Create Lino Print Cards & Gift Tags, Old Bell Museum, Montgomery Make and print designs for Christmas. All materials and tools provided. Workshop 1.30-4pm. Tickets £20 via www. eventbrite.co.uk

•21st November, Nightshade Mother: In Conversation with Gwyneth Lewis, National Library of Wales, Aberystwyth The author talks about her memoir and the pain su ered at the hands of her coercive parent. 5pm. Free.

MID WALES WHAT’S ON

Festive fun

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

21ST NOVEMBER –

1ST DECEMBER

•21st November, Dervish, Aberystwyth Arts Centre Some of Ireland’s finest traditional musicians, fronted by one of the country’s best-known singers, Cathy Jordan. 8pm. Tickets £24.

•23rd November, Renewables for Households: Insulation, Centre for Alternative Technology, Machynlleth

A one-day course on how to identify draughts and air leakage and useful improvement techniques. 9.30am-3.30pm. £125.

•23rd November, Writing the Dark, Strata Florida, Pontrhydfendigaid Jacqueline Yallop explores darkness as inspiration for creative writing – less than a mile from a Dark Skies Discovery Site. 4-8pm. Tickets £40.

•30th November, Will Barnes Quartet: Source of the Severn, Montgomery Town Hall The band performs songs from their album, an exploration of the rugged landscapes of Mid Wales and the Marches. 7.30pm. Tickets £15.

•30th November, Llandrindod Wells Christmas Market With 60-plus stalls, live music, funfair and entertainers, this first Christmas market is an event for the whole family. 8am-10pm.

Steptoe & Son Live! 14th November

Favourite moments from the BBC series – Albert’s still a dirty old man and Harold pretentious as ever! 7.30pm. £20.

Ed Byrne – Tragedy Plus Time, 15th November Ed tests Mark Twain’s famous formula by mining the most tragic event in his life for laughs. 7.30pm. £34.

Santa’s Christmas Cracker, 14th December Join Father Christmas and friends – every child receives a present! 11am & 2pm. Tickets £12.50, family £44.

So is Is Christmas, 20th December Hilarious sketches and Christmas tunes. 7.30pm. £29.50. www.thehafren.co.uk

Music at Gregynog

Ensemble Cymru, 9th November, 7th December Describing the extraordinary lives of Gregynog’s Gwendoline and Margaret Davies. 11am. Donations welcome.

Gregynog Young Musicians Competition, 16th November £10, £18.

LLANERCHAERON AT CHRISTMAS

Sam Lee, 24th November

Acoustic folk with an emphasis on peril in the natural world. 7.30pm. £22. www.gregynog.org

e tragic clown

Join gardener Meg on 29th November – 1st December and create a festive wreath using natural materials collected from around the estate. £25, including mince pie. Buy beautiful gifts and local artisan treats at Llanerchaeron Christmas Fair on 6th-8th December. Enjoy carol singers and beautiful festive decorations, and on Saturday and Sunday meet Santa (11am-3pm). Open 10am-5pm. Standard admission applies. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales

•1st December, Raw Chocolate Making, Denmark Farm, Lampeter Make your own chocs using only a few healthy ingredients: add fruit, nuts and flavourings, mould shapes and learn how to package as beautiful gifts. 10am-12.30pm. £35.

Mid Wales Opera is back on tour this autumn with Leoncavallo’s operatic thriller Pagliacci (Clowns). MWO’s production features a cast of 10, a new English translation and new chamber arrangement. e second half of the evening features a cabaret by the cast. 5th November, St Andrew’s, Presteigne; 7th, eatr Colwyn; 8th, Criccieth Memorial Hall; 12th, Holroyd Community eatre, Weston Rhyn; 14th, Dragon eatre, Barmouth; 15th, Wyeside Arts, Builth Wells; 22nd, Hafren, Newton. www.midwalesopera.co.uk

New art at MOMA

From 16th November Kaan K and Angela Christo lou’s ‘ e land isn’t binary and neither am I’ contrasts the division of their Cyprus homeland with gender identities. From 23rd November, ‘Young Welsh Artists’ showcases under-30s talent; plus the Tabernacle Collection and David Nash’s wood sculptures. Free entry. https://moma.cymru

Big band and big trouble!

Get your groove on at Montgomery Town Hall with Eddy Gartry’s Big Magic Dance Band on 23rd November: classic R&B mixed with rock & roll. 8pm, tickets £15 via www.ticketsource.co.uk Circusberzercus’ Magical Elves Christmas Show is on 15th December at noon. Will Gerald and Wallace manage to wrap all that circus equipment? Enjoy visual comedy, dazzling juggling, unique unicycling and mindboggling magic with a hint of danger! Tickets £9 (child £6). www.montgomerytownhall.uk

Scandinavian Style

in Mid and North Wales

Stressless® has been challenging the conventional way of making furniture for five decades. The desire to understand the science of comfort and movement was realised in 1971 when they introduced the first recliner designed to meet the body’s need for movement and support.

Today, the brand’s recliners, sofas, dining chairs and home office, are assembled in their factories through mixing advanced technology combined with careful hand finishing to the leather and fabric covers.

Constantly questioning the norm in order to push design boundaries and innovate, Stressless® release new regularly to diversify and expand on the collection of timeless bestsellers. All the furniture is designed to be sustainable by creating pieces of superior quality that are made to last

The Perfect Match

The Stressless® recliner range is perfectly complimented with a range of Stressless sofas – your choice of modular, highback, low back and manual designs. Timeless design makes a perfect match for your living room.

The selection of Scandinavian style sustainable fabrics and sumptuous leather gives you freedom to choose your unique combination of colours and materials to make your own style. Stressless offer an array of beautiful leather colours chosen by their team of experts in Norway who keep a close eye on trend forecasts. The fabric ranges are picked with a focus on natural fibres like wool in natural muted tones which really adds to the Scandinavian look and feel.

Visit our state of the art Stressless Studios located in Llanidloes and Aberystwyth in Mid Wales to discover the superior comfort for yourselves. Browse the range online at www.hafrenfurnishers.co.uk, with free delivery in England and Wales.

Llanidloes Stores

Border Showrooms, Llangurig Road, Llanidloes, Powys, Mid Wales, SY18 6ES

Telephone: 01686 414000

Aberystwyth Store

Llanbadarn Fawr, Aberystwyth, SY23 3TN

Telephone: 01970 864000

Myths, music, magic

, 10th November Little ones will have lots of fun with the chaotic characters in this high-energy musical. 12.30 & 2.30pm. Tickets £15.

A Mythical Musical Odyssey with Calan, 23rd November e power-folk band combine original tunes and songs with ancient melodies unearthed from the National Library of Wales. ey are supported by e Marcellas. 7.30pm. Tickets £21.50.

DID YOU KNOW?

Martyn has been a keen golfer since he was 10. By 15, he was playing o a handicap of 1

Martyn Joseph, 4th December Experience the ‘Welsh Springsteen’, with his jaw-dropping percussive guitar melodies and powerful voice. 7.30pm. Tickets £21.

Cinderella, 21st-30th December Have a ball at the Cardigan eatre’s magical pantomime, featuring songs, dazzling dance routines, awful jokes, bundles of audience participation and hilarious slapstick. Daily at 2pm, plus 7pm on Saturday 27th. Tickets £10. www.mwldan.co.uk

Dynamic dance

National Dance Company Wales presents ‘Frontiers’, a dynamic double bill. In August, dancers are clothed in deconstructed, glowing suits, while Skinners transports the audience to a digital landscape that blurs the edges of reality.

At Pontio Bangor on 6th November and Aberystwyth Arts Centre on 20th at 7.30pm.

Lea Anderson’s Zoetrope is a family show inspired by early animation: the stage will be ooded with illusions and exhilarating movements performed by magical creatures.

At Pontio Bangor on 7th November and Aberystwyth Arts on 21st, 1pm. For tickets and concessions see www.ndcwales.co.uk

On track for Christmas

ere’s nothing quite like carol singing to get you in the festive spirit, especially aboard a steam train! Enjoy Talyllyn Railway’s Carol Train on 21st December – depart from Tywyn Wharf at 18.45pm, carolling all the way to Abergynolwyn. Enjoy a complimentary mince pie at the café and maybe some mulled wine. Tickets £15 (ages 6-15 £5).

From 21st-24th December, catch a Santa Special to the big man’s original Plas Nadolig grotto, with children’s activities on the way – and of course a gift to bring home. Departures 11am & 1.30pm. Tickets £20 (under-2s £7). www.talyllyn.co.uk

MASTERS OF THEIR ART

Martin Simpson, 16th November Among England’s most revered folk artists, Martin is widely acknowledged as one of the nest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world. He performs intense and deeply moving interpretations of traditional songs – masterpieces of musical storytelling. 7.30pm. Tickets £20.

Al e Moore: A Face For Radio, 7th December Enjoy BBC’s comedic raconteur: ex-She eld steel worker turned copper on the beat (where he was punched in the face quite a lot, leaving him with ‘a face for radio’). 7.30pm. Tickets £20. www.wyeside.co.uk

CRAFT & ANTIQUE CENTRE

HOME STYLE LIVING ACCESSORIES, FURNITURE: ANTIQUE, VINTAGE & MODERN, JEWELLERY, FOOD HAMPERS, GIFTS, CRYSTAL AND MORE. DAILY CRAFT/ARTIST DEMONSTRATIONS. AMAZING HOME FOODS.

HOME STYLE LIVING ACCESSORIES, FURNITURE: ANTIQUE, VINTAGE & MODERN, JEWELLERY, FOOD HAMPERS, GIFTS, CRYSTAL AND MORE. DAILY CRAFT/ARTIST DEMONSTRATIONS.

DELICIOUS HOMEMADE FOODS, BOOKING ADVISABLE. INSIDE & OUTSIDE EATING AVAILABLE. OPENTUES TO SUN 9.30AM TO 5PM

... treftadaeth a diwylliant Cymru a chenhedloedd Celtaidd.

• 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

• Ardal chwarae

• Free admission to the Reading Rooms and resources

• Free exhibitions

• A diverse programme of events and activities

• Caffi Pen Dinas serving home cooked food

• Play area ... the heritage and culture of Wales and the Celtic nations.

• Shop selling Welsh products

Wrexham Symphony Orchestra

www.wrexhamorch.co.uk Orchestra in Residence at Wrexham Glyndŵr University

The Nutcracker

Sun 8 Dec 2:30pm | William Aston Hall | Tickets From £10

What’s Christmas without The Nutcracker? Tchaikovsky’s glittering classic transports you from Clara’s cosy house to the magical Kingdom of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Tutus, tiaras and swords at the ready for a warming WSO Christmas Adventure!

This concert sells quickly, early booking is recommended.

Strings & Shadows

Sun 17 Nov 2 | William Aston Hall | Tickets From £1030pm In every string, there’s a story waiting to be told

Our opening concert has it all, with the world renowned double bassist Leon Bosch joining us to perform a concerto, a world premiere symphony and Stravinsky’s boundary-pushing ballet, Petrushka - famous for its bold and beautiful sounds, thrilling melodies, and vibrant characters. Programme includes: Paul Benyon | Symphony de Hartmann | Double Bass Concerto Stravinsky | Petrushka

DID YOU KNOW?

O Little Town… is based on a novel by Malcolm Pryce. Try his Aberystwyth noir series

Song and a dance at Aberystwyth Arts

Romeo a Juliet presents an extraordinary adaptation, performed to Proko ev’s dramatic score. 7.30pm. Tickets £20.

O Little Town of Aberystwyth November a department store Father Christmas lies dead.” Louie Knight, the only gumshoe in Ceredigion, investigates! 2.30 & 7.30pm. Tickets £16.50.

Aberystwyth to North Pole: return

e Polar Express at the Vale of Rheidol Railway departs 30th November – 24th December. rill to this immersive theatrical performance, with singing and dancing on the platform and during the hourlong stream train ride. Receive a gift from Santa and meet characters from the movie. PJs encouraged! Details at https://thepolarexpress.seetickets.com

GRIPPING YARNS

Barmouth’s Dragon eatre presents e irty Nine Steps on 9th November, a one-man thriller based on the John Buchan classic. Can Hannay solve the riddle of the Black Stone in time to avert a global con ict? 7.30pm. Tickets £15. For more tales don’t miss the Welsh Whisperers’ free storytelling events: Tamar Williams on 16th November and a Story Circle on 6th December, both at 7pm. Dragon Christmas Fayre returns on 30th November, 10am-4pm, o ering unique gifts. www. dragontheatre.co.uk

e Wynne Evans Christmas Special, 19th December Wynne performs hits from his debut album, A Song in My Heart, with a live band and guest vocalists. 8pm. Tickets £40.

A Christmas Carol, 19th-22nd December Upper Youth eatre breathes new life into the classic tale in Mark Gatiss’ spine-tingling adaptation. 2 & 7pm. Tickets £15. www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

Pop goes the Pavilion

e Watch plays Genesis, 16th November A tribute to the band’s pioneering spirit: hear the full double album e Lamb Lies Down on Broadway reprised, with snippets of narrative to unravel the mysteries at the heart of the story. 7.30pm. Tickets £19.80.

e Rubettes, 29th November e ’70s icons return: expect all the hits and some seasonal songs from their Let ere Be Christmas album. 7.30pm. £30.80. www.pavilionmidwales.org.uk

Ho ho ho!

Father Christmas and his Elves are making plans to visit Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway! ey’ve promised to be in Llanfair the rst three weekends in December and Monday 23rd, with four steam trains a day. Tickets are £24, which includes a quality present for each child, a drink and a splendid train cookie. Under-1s travel free, and also receive a small present.

e festivities continue with Mince Pie Specials from 28th-30th December www.wllr.org.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 8TH-31ST DECEMBER

•8th December, Welshpool Illuminated Tractor Run For the last time enjoy the parade of tractors decked with lights raising money for the Farming Community Network. Tractors leave the Livestock Market 5pm.

•8th December, Abergynolwyn Silver Band, Magic Lantern, Tywyn The band will play a range of music from traditional marches to popular classics, along with Christmas songs to get you in the festive mood. 4pm. Tickets £6.

•14th December, Welsh of the West End, Aberystwyth Arts Centre The musical theatre super-group presents a festive concert with Christmas classics and musical show favourites. 7.30pm. Tickets £26.

•21st December Singalong with Sgarmes & Friends, Aberystwyth Arts Centre Wear your Christmas best and sing along to raise money for Cyfeillion Bronglais League of Friends. 7.30pm. Tickets £12.50.

•28th December, Welsh Wrestling, Victoria Hall

Lampeter Welsh Wrestling brings its live bodyslamming family entertainment show to town for Christmas – get ready to rumble! 7-9pm. See Facebook page for details.

•31st December & 1st January, Mari Lwyd & New Year Walk, Llanwrtyd Wells Experience the ancient bardic tradition to celebrate New Years’ Eve, from 10pm. Shake o those excesses next day with an 8-mile guided walk from the town square, 11am.

Tree-mendous Tatton

Experience the magic of Christmas at Tatton Park, a festive wonderland in the heart of Cheshire. This year, you’ll find experiences like no other, including Journey to Oz – the Christmas Mansion is a magical adventure through iconic scenes from The Wizard of Oz. Or head outdoors for Yuletide: A Glittering Winter Garden Adventure, and let enchanting stories and music take you to lands afar. Children will love meeting Father Christmas at the Farm, with roaming entertainers, festive choirs, brass bands, crafts and treats in the Christmas Cafe. There’s also a Christmas Gift Fair in the Tenants’ Hall (not usually open to the public), a Christmas WreathMaking Workshop and Christmas Carols in the Stableyard

For dates, times and prices of all Christmas events, please visit www.tattonpark.org.uk

Lights, music, magic!

Enthral your senses at Luminate: The Enchanting Winter Light Trail, at Arley Hall from 30th November – 24th December. As darkness descends, immerse yourself in this mesmerising mile-long trail, with stunning lighting and fabulous interactive play, all set to music. There’s hot food and drinks, and along the way you’ll find mulled wine and marshmallows for toasting. Timed entry 4.30-8pm. See www.arleyhallandgardens.com

Twinkle twinkle little star

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 2ND-12TH NOVEMBER

DID YOU KNOW?

‘Jingle Bells’ was the first song to be played in space, on 16th December 1965

Go WILD

BeWILDerwood is staging a very special mini-pantomime on selected dates from 30th November, suitable for all ages and full of family fun! There’s a Sparkly Light Trail where you can spot Silly Snowmen, candy canes and other festive favourites – and you could even meet Father Christmas himself. Timed entry from 4-7pm, tickets £17.50. BeWILDerwood is near Cholmondeley. www.bewilderwood.co.uk.

The Christmas season at Chester Cathedral begins on 21st November at 6.30pm with the switch-on of thousands of lights for the annual Christmas Tree Festival, which runs from 23rd November – 5th January

Dickens’ timeless tale of hope and redemption, A Christmas Carol, is brought to life by Chapterhouse Theatre Company on 26th & 27th November. Tickets £19.50 (child £14). 14th December sees the annual Carol Concert and on 23rd there’s a chance to see The Snowman film with a live orchestra. Santa comes to brunch and festive afternoon tea on Sundays in December & Christmas Eve. Details at www.chestercathedral. com

Fantastic beasts

Lanterns and Light is a festive light trail at Chester Zoo from 15th November –1st January. Journey through exciting lands where elephants, lions and orangutans roam. A sea of lights is synchronised to music, plus there’s a fire garden, rainbow bridge and pea-light lanterns. Enjoy treats at food markets on the trail and greet Santa in his workshop. Timed entry from 4.30pm, from £12. www.chesterzoo.org

•2nd November, Crochet Christmas Baubles, Stitch, Tarporley Using lots of lovely colourful yarns you’ll create beautiful Christmas baubles in this fun workshop. 10am12.30pm. £45.

•3rd November, Forage & Nibble Workshop, Arley Hall & Gardens, nr Northwich A guided session with a foraging expert focusing on the four ‘F’s of foraging: Fungi, Fruit, Flowers, and Foliage. There’ll be plenty of food and drink to get stuck into! 11am-2pm. £35.

•6th November, Charity Christmas Shopping, Jojo Bradley Interiors, Kingslee, nr Chester Sponsored by Boodles and supporting James’ Place, a men’s mental health charity, with a fantastic selection of exhibitors – start ticking o your Christmas shopping list! 9am-4pm £5, 5-10pm £15.

10th November, Silver Clay Jewellery Workshop, Cheshire School of Jewellery, Wettenhall Road, Nantwich Make your own jewellery from silver clay: learn how to roll, shape, add texture, dry, refine, fire and polish. Materials, tools and equipment included. 10am-4pm. £90.

•12th November, Sound Healing Ceremony, St Mary’s Creative Space, Chester Through sound vibration and frequency, discover a new sense of wellbeing. Bring blankets, mats and cushions to create your own cocoon! 7pm. Tickets £12.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

14TH-19TH NOVEMBER

•14th November, Grainne Du y, The Live Rooms, Chester A fantastic Irish guitarist, singer and songwriter whose genres include blues, soul and Americana enriched with delicate pop elements. 7pm. £18.

•15th November, Chasing the Fall, Tom’s Tap, Crewe A dynamic pop punk ensemble hailing from Crewe, comprising talented musicians deeply passionate about their craft, with an energetic stage presence. 8.30pm. £7.

16th November, An Evening of Magic and Music, St Mary’s Creative Space, Chester Featuring performances by members of the Chester Guild of Magicians, in a blend of close-up illusions and grand stage magic that will leave you astonished. 7.30pm. £27.

Christmas at the Lyceum

Swan Lake, 24th November The greatest of all the classical ballets, Swan Lake has captured the imagination of generations. Full of mystery and romance, it is performed here by Moldova’s Crown Ballet. 7.30pm. Tickets from £24.

HA!Milton Jones, 6th December This is not a musical. Milton Jones is tone deaf and has no sense of rhythm, but at least he doesn’t make a song and

•17th November & 15th December, Crewe Christmas Makers Market, Market Square Visit a fantastic line-up of traders and small businesses from local and surrounding areas. Sample the very best artisan food and buy unique gifts, craft items and treats! 11am-4pm. Free entry.

19th November, Ceramic Christmas Houses Workshop, Toolerstone House, Sandiway Create lasting impressions in clay, using cutting out techniques to make stunning winter-themed houses that can be used as candleholders or Christmas ornaments. Materials provided. 9.30am-3.30pm. £125.

Woodland wonders

Curious about nature? The Field Studies Council is running two fantastic beginners’ courses at Quarry Bank, Wilmslow. Autumn Fungi on 10th November is an introduction to identifying fungi groups. Trees: Winter Broadleaf Identification 17th November will help you understand basic biology and ecology of trees. Workshops 10am-4pm, £65 each, booking essential. www.field-studies-council.org

Festive traditions

For a novel take on the season, visit Grosvenor Museum Dickensian Grotto on 30th November & 7th December, with traditional toys and all the sights and scents of a Victorian Christmas. Entry 11am and 2pm, child £10 (includes gift). Then return on 14th & 21st December for Storytime with Mother Christmas plus crafts. This is free but please book at www.grosvenor museum.westcheshiremuseums.co.uk

dance about it. He has more important things to discuss. Like giraffes… 7.30pm. Tickets £38.

Beauty and the Beast, 13th December – 5th January Starring The Chase’s Jenny Ryan with Malcolm Lord and Ste Johnston, this has all the ingredients for a truly memorable panto: hilarious slapstick, audience interaction and marvellous musical numbers. From £20. www. crewelyceum.co.uk

To market, to market…

A magical experience awaits at Chester Christmas Market on 15th-22nd December, where 70 stalls will fill the main square, new arcade and the forum around a sparkling tree. Discover unique, locally made produce, crafts, accessories and stocking fillers. We have your Christmas all wrapped up! Details at www. chester-christmasmarket.com

Orchestral manoeuvres

Join the Northern Chamber Orchestra for their annual Christmas Concert on 13th December, in the grand Tenants’ Hall at Tatton Park. Expect festive favourites, readings and carols to join in with. Included in the ticket price is a tour of the mansion, park entry and car parking. Matinee 3.30pm, tickets £21 (under-18s £11); evening 7pm, tickets £28 (under-18s £18). www.ncorch.co.uk

© Sara Porter 2022

3.30PM – 8.30PM

TUESDAY 17TH – FRIDAY 20TH DECEMBER www.jodrellbank.net

CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

22ND NOVEMBER –5TH DECEMBER

•22nd November, Nantwich Christmas Lights SwitchOn, The Square, Nantwich With a street market, live entertainment, refreshments and treats, a fabulously festive time is guaranteed! Free.

30th November, Christmas Wreath Workshop, ABDA Co ee Shop, Northwich Join Stacey Hartley Florals for a wonderful afternoon, where you’ll design and make your own Christmas wreath using seasonal foliage, fauna and foraged materials. 2-4pm. £55.

•30th November, Crewe Christmas Lights Switch-On, Memorial Square With live entertainment throughout at Memorial Square and Ly2, a Christmas market, fairground rides, walkabout entertainment and much more! 2-7pm. Free.

•30th November & 1st December, Knutsford Christmas Market This two-day festive street market features over 120 traders selling the finest foodie treats, crafts and gifts, with live entertainment, hot food, mulled wine and more. The Saturday market coincides with the Santa Parade at 5pm and Christmas Light Switch-On at 6pm. Open noon-7pm Saturday, 11am-4pm Sunday. Free.

•5th December, The Loose Moose String Band, Ebenezer’s, Crewe One of Liverpool’s finest roots music party bands, with a vast repertoire ranging through a variety of styles, plus their own take on more recent classics. 8pm. £10.

Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement offers some outof-this-world entertainment, including a new Dome Show. Visit www.jodrellbank.net

The Great Solar System Adventure! See the Space Dome transformed in a spellbinding journey to the stars! A new immersive adventure. Weekends 11am & 3pm. Tickets £5. Other Dome shows available weekdays.

Winter of wonder

Festive Cinema, 7th-31st December 15 showings to choose from including Elf, Mupper Christmas Carol and Love Actually. 2.30-6pm. Tickets from £7.

Winter of Wonder, 17th20th December Experience Jodrell

Celebrations

Clonter Opera Theatre’s 50th anniversary celebrations culminate in two Gala performances: at 7pm on 23rd November and a 3pm matinee on 24th November. The programme includes the Overture and Champagne Chorus from Die Fledermaus, as well as arias and ensembles from the worlds of opera, operetta and musical theatre. Tickets from £48. www.clonteropera.com

Time for tea

Treat yourself to a festive afternoon tea at glorious Lyme Park between 29th November24th December. Served in the Servants’ Hall at noon and 2pm, a welcome drink is followed by warming soup, a selection of sandwiches, sweet treats and scones, tea/coffee and mince pies, for £24.95. See www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/ cheshire-greater-manchester/lyme/events

as you’ve never seen it before, with illuminations and starlit walkways. Exclusive ‘Starlight Spectacular’ science show, family favourite The Snowman in the Space Dome, warming treats, mulled wine and Christmas shopping. Little ones can enjoy crafts and astronaut dress-up. 3.30-8.30pm. Tickets from £12 (family offers; annual tickets not valid).

Astronomy Photographer of the Year, until 27th April New exchibition, free with admission.

Wonder world

Quarry Bank is one of Britain’s great industrial heritage sites, in pretty gardens near Wilmslow. Don’t miss their Enchanted Winter Walk with festive lights and illuminated walkways, from 28th November – 21st December. Tickets £9.50, including hot drink and reindeer food. Email quarrybank@nationaltrust.org.uk

In the Rooms

Elles Bailey is the awardwinning chanteuse who has powered her way to the forefront of the British Americana and roots scenes. Currently touring her fourth studio album, Beneath the Neon Glow, you can catch her at the Live Rooms in Chester on 17th November at 7pm. Tickets £25.50 from www.theliverooms.com

Every race day offers a unique blend of excitement, elegance, and exceptional service. Whether you’re hosting a corporate event, celebrating a special occasion, or simply enjoying a day out with friends and family, our hospitality packages are designed to create lasting memories.

Why Choose A Hospitality Experience?

• Stunning Setting: All of our hospitality enclosures provide a luxurious setting to your raceday.

• Tailored Packages: From private boxes to fine dining experiences, we cater to a range of preferences and budgets.

• Exceptional Service: Our dedicated hospitality team is committed to providing you with top-notch service, making your experience seamless and enjoyable.

• Thrilling Races: Feel the adrenaline as you watch the horses thunder down the track, creating an electrifying backdrop for your day.

6 – 16 November 2024

DID YOU KNOW?

Martin Fry was Hugh Grant’s vocal coach for 2007’s ‘Music and Lyrics’

Folk like us

The Breath are guitar whiz Stuart McCallum and singer/flautist Rioghnach Connolly, a performer with a larger than life personality and a powerful voice to match. You can catch

WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

Telling tales

ABC – An intimate evening with Martin Fry, 9th November ABC was the ’80s band that re-defined cool. Their charismatic frontman presents an evening of stripped-back music and conversation. 7.30pm. Tickets from £35.

Dear Santa, 9th-15th December Based on the favourite children’s book by Rod Campbell, this show is an ideal introduction to theatre for ages two and over. Afterwards there’s the opportunity to meet Santa in his grotto! Tickets from £17.

Sleeping Beauty, 5th-29th December. Embark on an enchanting journey into the land of dreams with a spellbinding production based on the timeless fairy-tale, packed with pop favourites, audience interaction and dazzling dance routines. Tickets from £16.65. www.storyhouse.com

their contemporary take on alt-folk on 16th November at the Salt Works Sessions at Lion Salt Works, Marston, near Northwich. Expect stories that soothe, stir, exalt and touch emotional chords. The show starts at 8pm and tickets are £18 from www.wegottickets.com

Seriously good

Rhythm ’n’ blues hits new heights with the return of Zoot Serious & the Bellyful of Bop to Alexander’s Live, Chester on 23rd November. The 11-piece band bring all the colour and excitement of blues and jump jive, modern swing and soul, with classics by everyone from The Blues Brothers to James Brown, Colin James to Cab Calloway. Tickets £14 from www.alexanderslive.com

e name of love

Set in Ireland in 1833, Brian Friel’s Translations tells of the British Army’s campaign to survey and replace Gaelic place names with English. Lieutenant Yolland falls in love with Maire, with devastating consequences. This hauntingly lyrical play runs from 9th-16th November at 7.30pm, tickets are £12. www.chesterlittletheatre.co.uk

Secret squirrel

Follow the enchanting trail of the Squirrel Earl and his friends through some of the hidden rooms of Dunham Massey in ‘Squirrel’s Tail: A Winter Experience’, from 30th November – 22nd December Perfect for ages 3-10 but suitable for the whole family, the trail will take about 30 minutes and is led by Stuff & Nonsense Theatre. Book a timed slot in advance. Trail £5 (under-2s free), standard admission applies. www.nationaltrust.org.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 5TH-14TH DECEMBER

•5th December, Winter Watch Parade, Chester Watch the Lord of Misrule and his ghoulish friends hit the cobbles for a riotous romp with a mischievous coterie of devils, skeletons, ice queens and Jack Frosts as the procession dances through the city. 7pm at Town Hall. Free.

•7th December, Christmas Candle-making Workshop, Capesthorne Hall, nr Macclesfield

A fun two-hour masterclass with Manchester’s Ma Lumière, with all tools and materials provided. 10am, 1pm & 4pm. £49.

•8th & 9th December, Tip Top’s Christmas Concert, St Mary’s Creative Space, Chester The programme will feature a wonderful mixture of carols, festive pop songs, and tune from Christmas films and wintery musicals. 7.30pm. £15.

December 13th, Make Your Own Christmas Wreath, Englesea Brook Chapel, Weston A special festive craft event, with all equipment provided – but you are welcome to bring your own greenery or decorations to personalise your special wreath. 11am-1pm. £15.

•14th December, The LockIn Christmas Party, Clonter Opera Theatre, Congleton Part gig, part dance show and part panto, this family-friendly night features folk powerhouse The Demon Barbers, Breaking Tradition Dance Company, and a ‘slightly unhinged’ approach! 7.30pm. Tickets £21 (child £11).

CHESHIRE WHAT’S

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

14TH-24TH DECEMBER

14th December, Rotary Club Christmas Concert, Daneside Theatre, Congleton Regulars Silk Brass and the accomplished choristers from the Eaton Bank Encore Choir perform a programme of Christmas favourites, with music from the movies, carols, and more than a few seasonal singalongs. 7.30pm. £12.50.

•14th-15th & 21st-22nd December, Santa at Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre, Tarporley Meet Santa, receive a gift and enjoy the magnificent horses and other animals on the farm. 10am-5pm (last admission 4pm). Book a timed session in advance. Tickets £11 (child £17, under-3s £9.50, valid 1 month).

•14th-24th December, Sleeping Beauty, Ellesmere Port Civic Hall ABP return with another sensational festive production. Various times. Tickets £17 (child £15).

•15th December, Hit the North Record Fair, Crewe Market Hall Whether you’re a collector or just want to get lost in nostalgia, you’ll love the treasures this fair has to o er. 10am-4pm. Free.

•17th December, Christmas Carol Concert, Eaton Chapel, Eaton Park, Eccleston Raising funds for Shelter and featuring the Chester Cathedral Nave choir. Space is limited so book early. Refreshments available in the Long Room following the concert. 8pm. Tickets from £9.

Creating Christmas memories

Music, magic and a merry Christmas at Northwich Memorial Hall…

Ultimate Bublé at Christmas, 30th November

Michael Bublé’s greatest hits are brought to life by Mark Daniels and his incredible band in this sensational live Christmas tribute show. Featuring a selection of Bublé classics along with all your Christmas favourites. 7.30pm. Tickets £25.

Cinderella, 8th-31st December Anton Benson Productions return with the most magical pantomime of all! Times vary. Tickets from £20.

Dee-lightful

Chester Boats are lighting up the river! Christmas Party Nights Afloat are perfect for your office party or a festive catch-up with friends. Fancy dress and Christmas jumpers welcome! Tickets £31.50, sailing 7pm. Or the whole family can Sail with Santa. Lady Diana will be decked in tinsel and the elves on hand with songs and fun activities. £15.50 (child ticket includes gift). www.chesterboat.co.uk

After Austen

The Watsons is a play adapted by Laura Wade from the unfinished novel by Jane Austen. Will Emma get her happy ending? Can a new author keep the rebellious characters in check? And just what happens when the writer loses the plot? Find out on 2nd-7th December at MADS Theatre, Macclesfield. Performance at 7.45pm. For tickets visit www.madstheatre.org

Breakfast with Santa, 15th & 22nd December Make new friends on shared tables while you enjoy your festive breakfast and wait for Santa to arrive. Grown-ups can choose a bacon or sausage bap with tea or coffee whilst children tuck into pastries, fruit and cordial. Each child will receive a gift from Santa. Breakfast time is 9-10.30am. Please book tickets in advance. Children £14 (includes gift); under-2s free (no food, gift optional £2.50), adults £10. Visit www.brioleisure.org

It’s a cracker!

Christmas gets off to a fun start on 2nd-4th December with Santa’s Christmas Cracker, an interactive family show for 2-8 year olds at Nantwich Civic Hall. Afterwards the adventure continues: each child can meet Father Christmas to receive a wrapped gift. Tickets £7 (child £11). Book at www.nantwichtowncouncil.gov.uk

Christmas at Congleton

Join the holiday cheer and creativity at Congleton Museum’s very first Santa Grotto! From 30th November – 2nd December, don’t miss the opportunity to create a Christingle, meet Santa Claus and explore the Christmas Trail, discovering festive surprises around every corner while learning about the history and traditions of Christmas. Book your timed visit in advance, £6 per child. www.congletonmuseum.co.uk

IT’S STILL A THRILL

CELEBRATING 35 YEARS SINCE HIS FIRST HIT STORMED THE UK CHARTS, LOCAL LAD IAN BROUDIE IS BACK ON HOME TURF AT LIVERPOOL AND WARRINGTON IN DECEMBER. HE TALKS TO SHIRE MAGAZINE ABOUT HIS SURPRISING SUCCESS AS FRONTMAN OF THE LIGHTNING SEEDS

It’s 2024, and 35 years after The Lightning Seeds’ debut single

‘Pure’ hit the airwaves, Ian Broudie remains as dedicated as ever to crafting the perfect pop song. A career that began with modest ambitions has produced some of the most enduring tracks in British pop, including ‘Lucky You’, ‘The Life of Riley’ and the ubiquitous football anthem ‘Three Lions’. He’s just released a career-spanning anthology, Tomorrow’s Here Today, along with long-awaited vinyl reissues of classic albums.

Settled in his Liverpool studio, it’s clear Ian’s love for the music hasn’t wavered. “Some people look down on pop,” he muses, “but after all these years, it’s still the one thing I truly believe in. These melodies land on your shoulders, and if you treat them well you might just create something that outlives you.”

Many of his songs look set to do just that. Yet his career – Lightning Seeds was a solo project to begin with – happened almost by accident.

UNSTOPPABLE RISE

“I never intended for ‘Pure’ to be released,” he admits. “When I recorded it, I hated it. I thought it was embarrassing, like I’d said too much. I even told the engineer to stop mixing it. But he didn’t listen, thankfully. He sent

“I

NEVER EXPECTED TO BE WRITING A FOOTBALL SONG BUT SOMEHOW IT WORKED. THE THING WITH ‘THREE LIONS’ IS THAT IT’S NOT REALLY ABOUT FOOTBALL — IT’S ABOUT HOPE, ABOUT BELIEVING IN SOMETHING AGAINST THE ODDS”

it off, and the next thing I knew it was being championed by Steve Wright on Radio 1.” The song climbed into the Top 40 and the momentum was unstoppable from that point.

“I’d always been in the background,” he explains, recalling time on the Liverpool post-punk scene with Big In Japan and later as a producer for Echo & the Bunnymen, The Fall and The Pale Fountains. “Producing was safe for me, it meant I could avoid the spotlight. Songwriting – that was always the dream.”

In 1994 he struck gold with Jollification, an album that caught the essence of his songwriting philosophy. “Pop songs, for me, are about capturing a moment of pure pleasure – that feeling where you want everything to stay as it is forever,” Ian says. He references pop art influences like Roy Lichtenstein and Andy Warhol. “That’s what I was trying to do with songs like ‘Lucky You’ and ‘Change’ – freeze those moments in time.”

AGAINST THE ODDS

Of course, 1996 brought the release of ‘Three Lions’, the song that would catapult Ian to an entirely new level of fame. Co-written with comedians Frank Skinner and David Baddiel, the track became the anthem for England’s Euro ’96 campaign.

“It was surreal,” Ian reflects. “I never expected to be writing a football song but somehow it worked. The thing with ‘Three Lions’ is that it’s not really about football – it’s about hope, about believing in something against the odds. That’s why it resonates.

“I did all the TV shows – Top of the Pops, Live & Kicking – but I always felt a bit out of place,” he admits. “I was more comfortable in the studio, making records.”

These days, he enjoys the best of both worlds, balancing his role as producer with a return to performing. The Lightning Seeds are a festival favourite, with Ian’s son Riley now playing guitar. “It’s been brilliant having Riley on board,” Ian beams. “There’s something special about sharing a stage with him.”

Even after all these years, the pursuit of the perfect pop song is ongoing. “I don’t think I’ll ever stop chasing that feeling. I still get a thrill when I pick up my guitar. To have a thought that becomes a song, and then see that song connect with someone on the other side of the world – that’s the magic of music.”

Tickets are on sale now at www.lightningseeds.co.uk/live

FROM BROOKSIDE TO BADDIE

TV and stage star Jennifer Ellison is preparing to light up Venue Cymru this Christmas, taking on the villainous role of Poison Ivy in Jack and the Beanstalk. She talked to Shire Magazine about her love for North Wales, her panto return and what makes this holiday season extra special

With a career spanning soap opera, musicals, reality TV and dance, Jennifer Ellison is no stranger to the spotlight. Born and raised in Liverpool, she’s known for her breakout role as Emily Shadwick in Brookside, which she played until 2003. But North Wales, and specifically Venue Cymru, feels like home.

attended ballet school from the age of three, and won numerous competitions and a coveted Carl Alan Award before making a name for herself as an actress. In 2012, she reached the semifinals of Dancing on Ice, and later hosted the UK version of the popular US show Dance Moms. “Dance has always been a huge part of my life – but panto is something special,” she says.

BACK FOR THE BOOS

This year marks Jennifer’s seventh pantomime, though it’s her first in six years. “I took a break from it while my kids were young – I didn’t want to be away during Christmas. But now we’re so close to home, I can do both,” she beams. “My kids are huge panto fans, so they’re really excited to come and see me on stage, and they get to boo at me too!”

“Llandudno is practically local to me,” she explains. “It’s only about an hour from where I live, and I love to visit with my family. The town, the beach and the theatre are just beautiful.”

Although she’s best known for her acting – after Brookie, she starred as Meg Giry in the 2004 screen adaptation of The Phantom of the Opera – Jennifer’s roots are in dance. She

Playing Poison Ivy is a prospect Jennifer is relishing. “I love being the baddie. You get the best reaction from the audience, and I especially love the school shows. The kids go wild, their energy at 10am is incredible.”

Jennifer is also thrilled to be working with co-stars John Evans and Ben Cajee. “That’s another great thing about panto, you meet new people and have a lot of fun. John has won awards for his comedy, so I know we’re going to have a blast.”

COUNTDOWN TO CHRISTMAS

Reflecting on highlights from her varied career, from winning reality cookery show Hell’s Kitchen to a top 10 hit with ‘Baby I Don’t Care’, Jennifer’s love for theatre stands out. “There’s nothing like performing live, especially in a panto, where the audience is so involved. It’s going to be a lot of fun playing Poison Ivy, it’s a role I can make my own.”

“There’s nothing like performing live, especially in a panto, where the audience is so involved. It’s going to be a lot of fun playing Poison Ivy, it’s a role I can really make my own”

As for why families should head to Venue Cymru this Christmas? “It’s a brilliant story, not overdone like some, so it might be new to kids. It’s got laughs, boos, songs and dancing – it’s the perfect holiday show. Plus, Venue Cymru is such a lovely theatre in a beautiful seaside town. For a Christmas trip, it’s ideal for families. I can’t wait to be a part of it!”

Jack and the Beanstalk is at Venue Cymru from 7th-29th December. For tickets see www.venuecymru.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 2ND-11TH NOVEMBER

2nd November, Co ee School, Ludlow Farmshop Learn about ‘all things co ee’ including the history and background of beans, tour the roastery and have a professional co ee cupping session along with lots of tasting! Make your own blend to take home too. Perfect for co ee lovers! 10am-1pm. £45.

•7th November, Andy Parsons:

Ba ingly Optimistic, Festival Drayton Centre, Market

Drayton As seen on Netflix, BBC iPlayer, Live at the Apollo and Mock the Week, Parsons is laugh-out-loud funny in his brand-new stand-up tour. 8pm. Tickets from £15.

•9th November, How to Paint Your Pet Workshop, Willow Gallery, Oswestry Myfanwy Powell shows how to capture your beloved pet in acrylics on canvas. Discover techniques to create the impression of hair and fur. 10am-4pm. £70.

•9th & 10th November, Scale Model World 2024, Telford International Centre The world’s greatest fine-scale model show returns, with club and special interest displays, trade stands and IPMS model competitions. From 9am. Day ticket £25.

•11th November, Armistice Day Service, Newport General Cemetery Commemorating the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and civilians in wartime. The Town Council’s annual service includes the playing of The Last Post, a two-minute silence and wreathlaying. Parade begins 10.45am at the Chapel of Remembrance.

Local heroes

Celebrating their 50th anniversary, Shropshire’s rural theatre company Pentabus is excited to announce a national tour of their new musical, in conjunction with New Perspectives. Make Good tells the story of the Post Office scandal now recognised as one of the gravest miscarriages of justice in British history.

Inspired by interviews with sub-postmasters, and performed with a community choir in each

Lighting the skies

Alderford’s Bonfire and Fireworks Extravaganza lights up the skies on 2nd November. Gather friends and family for a mesmerising display, crackling bonfire, live music, food and drink, plus fairground rides for all ages. Gates open 5pm for a quieter display for the sound-sensitive, followed by the main display at 8pm. Tickets from £12.95 (child £9.95, under-2s free). www.alderford.com

DID YOU KNOW?

Ed Gaughan was the voice of Baron von Greenback in Danger Mouse

venue, the show features Victoria Brazier as Elsie, Charlotte Delima makes her professional stage debut as Indira, Samuel Gosrani is Mohandas, and actor and comedian Ed Gaughan plays Postman. Innocent sub-postmasters had their lives torn apart, faced bankruptcy, isolation and jail for crimes that were never committed and debts that never existed. Make Good dives into this most local of stories, capturing the raw emotions, the bewilderment and the bonds of faith and family that were put to the test. For venues, dates and ticket prices visit www.pentabus.co.uk

Winter wonder

Visit Telford Wonderland for an extra-special Evening Winter Wonderland on December. Meet Santa in the Winter Village, make a wish with Mrs Claus, feed real reindeer, strike a pose with Anna and Elsa and enjoy a woodland lights walk. You might also bump into circus friends and the Grinch! ere’s a Christmas-themed rework nale. 5-9pm, last admission 7pm. Tickets £30 (under-2s £10). www. wonderlandmidlands.co.uk

Santa safari

From 22nd November –24th December, visit West Midlands Safari Park for a magical, festive day out, combining a four-mile Winter Safari and a visit to Santa in his Grotto. One of Santa’s Elves will transport you to the North Pole via Santa’s Enchanted Elevator. As the doors close, you’ll travel up and away across snowy landscapes and festive scenes before arriving at Santa’s log cabin. Pick a present from a wide selection, then visit Mrs Claus’s Craft Club to make reindeer food and enjoy festive refreshments. 10am-5pm. Tickest from £24 (under-3s £14). www.wmsp.co.uk

Meet Sally

The nation’s favourite psychic comes to Ludlow Assembly Rooms on 6th November. Whether you know her from her hit TV series, watching her on Celebrity Big Brother or reading one of her best-selling books, there’s nothing like seeing Sally live on stage. A unique evening not to be missed. Starts 7.30pm. Tickets £28. www. ludlowassemblyrooms.co.uk

Russell’s magnificent tour

“He sings like Pavarotti, and entertains the audience like Sinatra,” said the New York Times. Russell Watson’s Magnificent Buildings concert series comes to Shrewsbury Abbey on 22nd & 23rd November. The multi-award winning tenor will be accompanied by world-renowned pianist Mike Morgan, and joined by special guest Nancy May. Four-time Classical Brit winner, Watson will be performing classic

Festive Fizzgigs!

Have a fabulous, festive time on 29th & 30th November at Ellesmere Winter Festival, a wonderland of community spirit, fun activities and live entertainment. Shops stay open late, there’s a Christmas market, Santa’s grotto, carols around the tree and of course the Fizztastical Fizzgigs Lantern Parade! Starts 4pm. Details on the festival Facebook page or via www. ellesmeremarket.co.uk

Follies 4x4

Join a Follies Safari at Hawkstone Park from 29th November-23rd December. After a warming welcome drink you’ll be whisked off in a Land Rover up the hill to Santa’s caves. Wander the fairy-lit tunnels to the grotto, where children receive a gift from Santa. Safari from £139, or share an eight-seater with friends or family for £175. www. hawkstonepark follies.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW? Russell’s debut album The Voice topped the charts for 52 weeks

songs old and new, together with a selection of hits from his illustrious career during this special show.

Nancy is an Essex-based classical crossover soprano who trained at the Royal Northern College of Music. She has sung at the Grenfell Tower memorial services and is releasing more music next year. Show starts 7.30pm. Tickets from £58.50. www.shrewsburyabbey.com

The dream team

Brad Fitt is back! eatre Severn’s fun- lled family pantomime this Christmas is Sleeping Beauty, and it’s a dream of a show. Produced by the team behind more than a decade of smash hits at eatre Severn, this year’s spectacular stars Tommy J Rollason (Britain’s Got Talent), Dionne Ward-Anderson (Six: e Musical) and Gemma Sutton (StrictlyBallroom). It runs 29th November –12th January, tickets from £18. www.theatresevern.co.uk

Mad Jack’s 5

A joint venture between Shrewsbury Athletic Club and the National Trust, Mad Jack’s 5 is a multi-terrain race in the grounds of Attingham Park, the majority o -road. e ve-mile route takes competitors through pasture land with cattle and sheep – where you might also catch sight of some deer – and through wooded areas with obstacles such as fallen trees, ending at Mad Jack’s Pond where you run or wade through half-a-metre of water. e race starts 10.30am, and you can register online from £14 at www.shrewsburyac.org.uk/ our-races/mad-jacks-5 or see www.nationaltrust.org.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 13TH-21ST NOVEMBER

•13th November, Tai Chi for Relaxation, Rose Paterson Art Gallery, Weston Park Unwind and find inner peace with the gentle practice of Tai Chi which combines deep breathing and slow, flowing movements to calm the mind and relax the body. 9.30-10.30am. £10. Pre-booking is essential.

•14th November, Sam Lewis, Hermon Arts, Oswestry. Sam has collaborated with everyone from Leon Russell to the Wood Brothers, his voice compared to molasses by some! It’s feelgood music that meets vital social commentary: “We are all trying to get somewhere – all running from something or toward something; we’re all in it together, though.” 7.30pm. Tickets £18.50.

•16th November, California Dreamers, Theatre on the Steps, Bridgnorth Return to ‘hippy heaven’ for a show celebrating the greatest counterculture of the 20th century, with vintage film footage of events that inspired the soundtrack for a generation, including hits from The Byrds, The Doors, Joni Mitchell, Je erson Airplane and many more. 8pm. Tickets £20.

•19th November, Interactive Quiz Night, Albert’s Shed Southwater, Telford Join Albert and his merry bunch of quiz masters for a night of quizzical torment, tears and prizes! Albert’s Shed are the premier live music venues in Shropshire, championing grassroots music locally and beyond. 8pm. £2.

•21st November – 5th January, Ice Skating, Alderford Lake

Whether you’re seeking a romantic date, fun family outing or a unique way to celebrate the festive season with friends, skating at Alderford is the perfect choice. Themed nights and SEN sessions available, session times vary. Prices from £10.95 (child from £7.95).

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

22ND-30TH NOVEMBER

22nd November, Christmas Lights Switch-On, Newport, Shropshire Visit Newport this Christmas for lots of free entertainment on stage, Santa, lantern parade, fun fair, late-night shopping and of course the big switch-on on Friday 22nd from 5-8pm.

•22nd-24th November, Apley Christmas Market, Apley Farm, Norton Apley’s Christmas Market promises even more stalls this year! Start your festive shopping with local crafts and handmade gifts, from holly to hampers, cakes to candles, mince pies to mistletoe. Enjoy some tasty treats too. Friday 4.30-8pm, Sat & Sun 10am-4pm. Admission free.

•23rd November, Shifnal Christmas Lights

Switch-0n The final event of the year from Shifnal Town Council and Love Shifnal is an afternoon of live music, stalls, street food and a bar on Cheapside, plus visits from Father Christmas, before the main event at 6.45pm. The fun starts at 1pm.

•30th November, Made on the Borders: Homemade Christmas Festival, British Ironwork Centre, Oswestry A celebration of local crafters and makers and all things homemade. Shop from 9am. £5 (children free).

•30th November – 1st December, Santa Experience, Parkhall Farm, Oswestry Make festive memories: visit Santa, enjoy some pantomime fun with The Flying Reindeer show, meet the animals, then explore indoor and outdoor play areas. 10am4pm. £13.95 (child £20.95).

Destination: North Pole

DID YOU KNOW?

Tom Hanks voices seven characters in the 2004 animated film, including a Scrooge puppet

From 22nd November-20th December everyone’s favourite Polar Express puffs into Telford Steam Railway. Embrace the festive spirit with an experience unlike any other as you’re transported into the world of the iconic Christmas movie. Enjoy a cookie and a hot chocolate as you are entertained by the Conductor and his helpful Chefs. Upon arrival at the North Pole, Santa will climb aboard to present ‘The First Gift of Christmas’, your silver sleigh bell. Back at the station, visit Santa’s Workshop, where you can go through the ‘Naughty or Nice’ Scanner or buy a souvenir. Why not wear your PJs? Most passengers do! Tickets from £63.99 for two (under-2s free). For dates and times visit https://telfordsteamrailway.digitickets.co.uk

Just right for Christmas King of the Castle

A familiar fairytale takes an unexpected twist in Telford International Centre’s magical pantomime, when Goldilocks and her new friends venture into the dazzling world of the circus. eir joy is short-lived when they encounter the evil rival circus owner, threatening to destroy their beloved Big Top. Will Goldilocks and the bears work together to overcome challenges and triumph against all odds? Find out from 17th December–2nd January Tickets from £16. For performance dates and times visit www.telfordtheatre.com

Double display

Watch rockets light up the night sky with colours and sparkle in the historic surroundings of Weston Park as Bonfire Night returns on 3rd November Featuring two dazzling firework displays, a roaring bonfire and traditional funfair, it’ll be fun for all the family. Keep warm with street food from gourmet burgers to loaded fries, fish and chips to freshly cooked donuts. Gates open 3pm. Early-bird tickets £12.60 (ages 4-14 £6.30). www.weston-park.com

e atmospheric setting of Ludlow Castle ruins is the perfect place for a magical meeting with Father Christmas in his grotto. Each exclusive session is personalised – Father Christmas will discuss your child’s interests and Christmas wishes before presenting them with a gift. Visitors are welcome to take photos with the big man himself and you can also take part in the Christmas tree trail. Father Christmas is at the castle from 7th-24th December, 10am 3.50pm (early nish 1pm on Christmas Eve to prepare for a busy night ahead!). Entry is £9 (child £8). www.ludlowcastle.com

Santa’s helpers

How does Santa deliver gifts all around the world in just one night? Visit RAF Cosford on 30th November, 1st December, 7th December & 8th December to discover the secret! Train to become one of the RAF’s nest Elf Cadets. Learn how to load the sleigh, pick the right craft for the job and map a route for Santa as he prepares for the biggest mission of the year. 10am-4pm. £5 per child. www.rafmuseum.org.uk

Santa and Mrs Christmas are coming to Derwen College’s Christmas Fayre this November! Join us for festive tales, photo opportunities and present giving!

Nuffield Health Shrewsbury Hospital

u eld ealth hrews ury ospital is purpose uilt with ensuite edroo s operatin theatres an endoscopy suite and a usy outpatients depart ent that includes physiotherapy and a dia nostic i a in depart ent. roud to e one of hospitals within the s lar est healthcare charity at hrews ury we specialise in rthopaedics eneral ur ery o en s ealth and phthal olo y. ur hospital tea ta es pride in our short waitin ti es professional atron led nursin tea and e cient radiolo y depart ent.

Upcoming Free Events

Radiology & Imaging at Nuffield Health Hospital Shrewsbury here waitin ti es for so e i a in results can e an issue within the u eld ealth hrews ury ospital s adiolo y ser ices can help shorten your dia nostic ourney. cans offered include scan or at scan scan steoporosis screen ltrasound ay cho ardio ra s esticular ltrasound and scans. s your healthcare professional to refer you and opt for one of our e i le ways to pay. el or e ail shrewsbury. radiology@nuffieldhealth.com

Time:

Location: u eld ealth hrews ury ospital

The Indoor Market is

every Wednesday, Friday and

and the

market every

and

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.

Look out for special events throughout the year

CHRISTMAS SWITCH ON 21ST NOVEMBER –

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

CHRISTMAS LIVE

6TH DECEMBER –

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

CHRISTMAS PARADE

7TH DECEMBER –

Spectacular parade from 11am within the town centre

SANTA RUN 8TH 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

Whitchurch Town Hall & Community Hub Station Road, Whitchurch, SY13 1RE

Town Council Services & Tourism Information Community Group Meeting Spaces

Private Bookings & Events

Coffee Mornings & more …

Same friendly team, newly refurbished venue 01948 665761

whitchurch town council

Socials: @wtcwhitchurch Web: whitchurchtowncouncil.gov.uk

Christmas countdown

For a day of shopping in a delightful Christmassy setting, visit Much Wenlock Christmas Fayre on 7th December. With an eclectic mix of over 100 stalls plus the town’s fantastic selection of independent shops decked out for the festive season, you are guaranteed a fabulous time.

Steeped in history, Much Wenlock is a quintessential English town with winding streets, half-timbered buildings, Georgian houses and plenty of tea shops! Throughout the day

there’ll be a variety of performances and entertainment for children, ending with a candlelit procession and carols in the square. All day 10am-5pm. Free entry. www.wenlockchristmasfayre.org.uk

Choir by candlelight

An ever-popular celebration of the season, Ex Cathedra’s Christmas Music by Candlelight will take place at St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury on 6th December. Immerse yourself in the serenity of the setting as music fills the air and the choir is enveloped in the soft glow of candlelight. Ex Cathedra has been described as “one of Britain’s very best choirs” by the New York Times and will perform Christmas favourites and littleknown gems alongside new music and a selection of readings, to explore the magic, mystery and humour of the season. Performance starts 7pm. Tickets from £22 (student/child £11). Booking essential. www.shropshiremusictrust.co.uk

Sultans of swing

The smooth sounds of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Sammy Davis Jr will fill Shrewsbury’s Buttermarket on 18th December as the original and longest-running Rat Pack Show celebrates its 25th anniversary tour. Immerse yourself in the glamour of Las Vegas as talented performers pay tribute to the legends, their classic tunes and timeless style. A star-studded cast includes former EastEnders actor and current ITV News Central weather presenter Des Coleman as Sammy Davis Jr. Show starts 6pm, tickets from £19.50. www.thebuttermarket.co.uk

DID YOU KNOW?

We use 227,000 miles of gift wrap in the UK, enough to wrap the island of Guernsey!

Finders keepers

Oswestry Antique & Collectors Fair launches its rst Winter Fair at Oswestry Showground on 7th & 8th December. Browse indoor and outdoor stalls selling antiques, vintage, collectables, architectural salvage, mid-century and decorative items. Find unusual gifts and enjoy festive refreshments. Opens 8am, £3.50 (cash please).

e Fair regularly hosts experienced dealers from all over the country and has been a regular on BBC’s Bargain Hunt. www. jos-events.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

30TH NOVEMBER –8TH DECEMBER

•30th November – 24th

December, Breakfast with Santa, Telford Exotic Zoo Set yourself up for a day at the zoo by having breakfast with Santa, to include a present for each child. 9.30-10.30am. Tickets £7 (child £18), zoo entry is an additional £7. Pre-booking only. Email info@exoticzoo.co.uk

•2nd, 9th & 16th December, Christmas Crafting Classes, Lilleshall Hall Make your own Christmas wreath or table decoration to take home under the instruction of expert guides. Ticket includes craft materials, a hot drink and of course a mince pie! 7-9pm. £35. To book, call 01952 603 003.

Lights fantastic

West Mids

Showground hosts its hugely popular Bon re and Firework

Spectacular on 2nd November, featuring two

displays – the rst with a reduced level of noise ideal for younger children, followed by a louder display later in the evening. All proceeds will go to the Shropshire and West Midlands Agricultural Society’s Rural Charity, ensuring the Shrewsbury showground can continue as a vital part of the community, while enabling donations throughout the year to various groups and organisations. Gates open 5-9pm, and tickets are £16 (ages 6-17 £6.50, under-5s free). www.westmidshowground.co.uk

7th December, Late Night at Market Hall, Shrewsbury Do a spot of Christmas shopping and enjoy some festive fizz, with a great selection of stalls, cafes and street food available. If you don’t want to wait for a table grab some takeaway including Game Changer venison burgers and Charlie’s Smokeouse BBQ. Open 5.30-10pm.

•7th December, Weaving with Brambles, The Greenwood Centre, Coalbrookdale Brambles aren’t just special for their berries. Join tutor Jeanette Gray to learn how to turn these vines into beautiful baskets. Suitable for beginners. 9am-4.30pm. £85.

•8th December, Shropshire Santa Run, Festival Square Oswestry For Shropshire’s largest Santa Run thousands of runners spread festive fun through the streets, burning o a few mince pies! All runners 11 years plus welcome. 8am.

SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 10TH-14TH DECEMBER

•10th December, The Royal Ballet: Cinderella, Walker Room, Theatre Severn Be transported to an ethereal world in this enchanting ballet by The Royal Ballet’s founding choreographer Frederick Ashton. A magical experience for all the family. 7.15pm. Tickets £17.50 (child £12.50).

•11th December, Celebration of Insects of the Mosses, Methodist Church Hall, Oswestry Shropshire Wildlife Trust invites you to meet the extraordinary insects living on the Fenn’s, Whixall & Bettisfield nature reserve with local photographer Barry Probin. 7.30pm. £4 (members £3).

A Victorian Christmas

e festive spirit will ll Blists Hill Victorian Town for its Victorian Christmas weekends on 7th-8th & 14th-15th December. Streets will be decked with traditional decorations while festive music rings out from a band and choir. Visit Father Christmas in four unique settings including the mine and sawmill, and take lessons

DID YOU KNOW?

Dickens wrote four more Christmas books besides ‘A Christmas Carol’

in the schoolroom to be a Christmas Elf. Learn about Christmas past and enjoy live entertainment with a panto-style show. Pick up unique gifts and stocking- llers in the Christmas Emporium including delicious treats and local-made crafts. Open 10am-5pm, from £25.20 (child £14.40), Elf School and Santa extra. www.ironbridge.org.uk

Set in stone

•11th, 18th & 19th December, Christmas Lates, Blists Hill Victorian Town, Telford Experience the festive cheer of a Dickensian Christmas after dark, as characters from A Christmas Carol make an appearance on the streets of the Victorian town. 6-9pm. From £18 (child from £12.60).

•13th December, Murder Under the Mistletoe, Hawkstone Hall, Shrewsbury A night of mystery and intrigue in the Hawkstone ballroom. Engage with actors to solve the murder as you enjoy a three-course meal. Starts 8pm. £80. Accommodation available.

•13th & 14th December, Festive Gin Train, Severn Valley Railway Departing from Kidderminster, enjoy a welcome G&T, taste the coal-infused gin exclusive to the railway and learn about flavours and botanicals from Piston Gins along the way. 7pm. £55.

On 21st November join stonemason and author Andrew Ziminski as he introduces his new book, Church Going, at Booka Oswestry, and leads a tour of nearby St Oswald’s. Enjoy an insightful talk and Q&A on the history of Britain’s churches, followed by a book signing. Andrew has spent decades as a stonemason and church conservator, acting as an informal guide to visitors, and his beautifully written and richly illustrated book reveals the fascinating history, features and furnishings of Britain’s medieval churches. Event starts 1.30pm. Tickets £5 from www.bookabookshop.co.uk

Put on the glitz

For a truly glamorous New Year, get dressed up on 31st December and enjoy the opulence of Spring Grove House at West Midlands Safari Park. The New Year’s Eve Ball is the highlight of the year, with entertainment, live band and balloon drop at midnight. You’ll be greeted with champagne followed by a seven-course dinner, before dancing into 2025. Dress code: black tie and evening wear. Starts 7pm. £130 (over-18s only). www.wmsp.co.uk

Step into Halloween

Pull on your wellies for a walk around Stokesay Court on 2nd November, guaranteed to clear the cobwebs! A relaxed family afternoon of fun and prizes includes a pumpkin trail and craft tent. e Shepherd’s Hut will be selling warming soup, burgers, hotdogs, hot chocolate and brownies. Fancy dress welcome! Open 2-6pm, £7.70 (child £5.50, under-5s free). www.stokesaycourt.com

Blossoming

Andrew Harrison leads a still life botanical photography workshop at the Hive, Shrewsbury on 3rd November. Learn some professional techniques to help lift your photography and produce images you can be proud of. Andrew is generously providing the session as a fundraiser; proceeds will enable the Hive to continue delivering creative activities to improve wellbeing. 10am3.30pm, tickets from £15. www. hiveonline.org.uk

Celebrating a landmark 35 years in business

Premier Windows is a family-run company that wasfounded in 1989. The business has now been passed onto the next generation, with Ben and Kelli taking over leadership from the original founders, Paul and Caroline.Ben brings over two decades of industry experience, while Kelli has recently joined the team, bringing expertise from her previous roles in accounts and HR.

Our stunning indoor display centre showcases a wide range of our products from full size Conservatories and Orangeries with both traditionalroofs and solid roof systems to an extensive selection of Windows andDoors. Recently, we’ve also introduced our new stand alone Garden room. Whether you are looking for a complete transformation or a unique addition we are here to help bring your vision to life.

Give us a call to see how we can help your windows and doors become more energy efficient and maybe help to lower your energy costs this winter, plus for a limited time only any window orders will receive a free upgrade to Ultimate glass, call for details. T&C’s apply

Visit our local indoor showroom or call us to arrange your no-obligation quote

SHOWROOM ADDRESS

Unit 5 Moreton Business Park, Gledrid, Shropshire, LL14 5DG

OPENING HOURS

Mon - Fri : 8:30am - 5pm Saturday: by appointment only

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

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

TWIG OR TREAT LANTERN PARADE, BEWILDERWOOD, CHESHIRE

BeWILDerwood’s ‘Twig or Treat’ event is a must-visit for anyone who loves Halloween. This year, the Glorious Glowing Lantern parade was revamped, with exciting interactive stops along the light trail. The adventure begins in a cosy teepee tent, where kids can get

“Thoughtfully designed to be spooky without being too scary – perfect for even the youngest Halloween fans”

creative and make lanterns to carry with them along the trail. While the main park remains closed, the BeWILDerwood team had worked their magic to transform the adventure playground into a journey of lights. The trail winds along wooden walkways, with every twist revealing hidden doors. Behind each door, BeWILDerwood characters wait to greet children, who must shout “Twig or Treat” to bring them out of hiding for a fun surprise.

A highlight along the way is the Storytelling Stage, featuring a brand-new, 10-minute Halloween show. The Munch Bar is open throughout, serving snacks and warm drinks, and to top it all off, every child receives a sweet surprise as they finish the trail.

The event is thoughtfully designed to be spooky without being

SOUL TRAIN, MARKET DRAYTON FESTIVAL CENTRE

If soul music is all about intensity of feeling, Soul Train got off to a promising start at Festival Drayton Centre.

Claire launched the journey with Willie Dixon’s 1954 classic ‘I Just Wanna Make Love to You’. Her powerful voice had a throaty edge, in contrast to the sweet backing vocals of the other five on stage, and it went down a treat.

Without the spontaneity of a live band the Soul Train singers nevertheless captured the flavour of the times. There was a strong medley of Aretha Franklin hits, a moving version of the ballad ‘Night Train to Georgia’, a tribute to Motown, and a humorous take on The Weather Girls’ ‘It’s Raining Men’.

When Wayne Kennedy tried wooing the front

too scary, making it perfect for even the youngest Halloween fans. To fully enjoy the experience, you should plan to spend a couple of hours exploring the trail and pausing for refreshments along they way. And don’t forget to come dressed in your best Halloween costume! AB ★★★★★

“A strong medley of Aretha Franklin hits, a moving version of ‘Night Train to Georgia’ and a humorous take on The Weather Girls’ ‘It’s Raining Men’”

row with ‘I Get Down On My Knees For You’, there was just a moment’s doubt as to whether he would get up again! But he had everyone on their feet in front of their seats as he delivered The Traamps’ 1975 classic ‘Hold Back the Night’ and ‘Love Train’ (The O’Jays, 1972). It gave a sense of the Soul Train finally making it to the station called Market Drayton – axed by Beeching in 1963. JH ★★★

Give a helping

Baking a cake, answering the phone, driving a car, valuing old books –

In the run-up to Christmas those of us able to share the season with family and close friends realise how lucky we are, and are more aware than usual of those who may be homeless, or in hospital, or lonely – and want to do our bit. But where to start? Shire spoke to local organisations and their volunteers to ask how best to help. We started in the town centre…

ON THE HIGH STREET

Many charities have shops selling pre-loved items, clothes and shoes, books, records and other treasures. As well as needing people to work on the sales side, they also require back-room

Did you know?

Victoria sponge is still the nation’s favourite, followed by brownies and lemon cake

sta to sort and price items, and volunteers with cars who can collect from donors’ homes. Donations are always welcome too and it’s often the rst port of call if you’ve had a pre-Christmas sort-out, although you can end up coming home with just as much as you’ve taken!

Helping your favourite charity takes many other forms too, such as fundraising. You can do this by joining in if they have a speci c day or week when they have a big drive for funds, or keep a collection box at your place of work, hold a co ee morning, sell ra e tickets, donate a prize for a ra e – or think up something more unusual like wearing fancy dress to work (depending on where you work!) for a small fee.

helping Hand

THIS CHRISTMAS

“If you

use social media, sharing posts from your favourite charity is a good way to bring their work to the attention of others, adding a note saying why it means so much to you”

Animal charities get busy in the winter due to increased energy costs and other priorities forcing people to re-home or even abandon their pets. Sanctuaries that care for these animals are often part-funded by a shop selling donated or new items. ey’d be looking for people to help at all levels, from caring for the animals, organising admin and managing social media to helping run the shop.

Sometimes with both money and time tight, you may wonder what you can o er? If you use social media, sharing posts from your favourite charity is a good way to bring their work to the attention of others, especially if you add a note saying why it means so much to you.

PARTY TIME

Helping at Christmas parties is a fabulously sociable way to help out! Many towns and villages have organisations that provide welfare support to vulnerable, socially isolated or older people. In Audlem, near Nantwich, ADCA (Audlem & District Community Action) promotes social inclusion, community participation and independence. On a day-to-day basis they provide lunch and co ee clubs, run a carers’ support group, o er dementia support and organise a voluntary medical transport service to take people to medical appointments. It’s a fantastic community asset. Check if your town has a similar organisation, as a lot of them will be arranging Christmas get-togethers and will need extra hands.

Many charities run helplines, and often all that is required is a friendly

Sadly, rescue centres are often inundated at this time of year

voice and compassionate manner. e perceived excessive jollity of Christmas can exacerbate feelings of loneliness or depression, and helplines are very busy over this period, so if you have a talent for listening and talking this may be just up your street.

If your time is too tight to volunteer on the ‘front line’ at a charity, maybe consider supporting those who do? If it’s a drop-in centre, a hospice or a shop, do they have a sta room? Is it well furnished with comfortable chairs and a table for their meals – if not can you help with organising this? Can you make sure it has a Christmas tree and other decorations? With your friends, neighbours, workmates, could you collect and donate small gifts for the volunteers to make them feel cherished? A beautifully scented hand cream or candle, or some lovely biscuits or cakes for when they get a break would go down a treat.

Whilst many people have a January sort-out to make space for the children’s new presents, it’s before Christmas that charity shops can make the most of good quality pre-loved items, as that’s when those of us on a budget or keen to reuse and recycle are looking for gifts. Encourage children to work out what they still play with and cherish, and get everything else o to its new home! Above all, it’s a good way for them to learn the many levels that charity works on.

Did you know?

Animal sponsorship makes a great gift.

Dogs Trust is just one charity that o ers the option

Did you know?

In 2023/24, Trussell Trust distributed more than 3.1 million emergency food parcels

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

“Trussell is working to end hunger for good”

Food banks need donations all year round, but coming up to Christmas it is good if you can add some treats too. ey usually have a list of their most-needed items on their websites or social media, and many supermarkets have collection points so it’s easy to add one or two things to your trolley. If you need inspiration, picture how the items would be used together – for example, buy a box of tea bags, some long-life milk and a packet of biscuits, or shampoo, shower gel, talc and deodorant. Sometimes very ordinary things can make a world of di erence. What do you buy yourself as a little treat? Could you buy two and give someone else that boost too?

“Winter is a tough time for food banks. ey see increased levels of need as more people nd themselves unable to a ord the essentials,” Dan O’Brien, Trussell Trust network lead for North West England told us. “Everyone should have enough to live on, and alongside our community of food banks across Cheshire, Shropshire, and North and Mid Wales, Trussell is working to end hunger for good. But right now, we urgently need your help to make sure food banks can be there for people this winter and you can play your part by donating to a local food bank. You can nd out what they need most by visiting www.trussell.org.uk/support-us/donate-food”

Local food banks also rely on fundraising in all its forms, and need volunteers to sort the donations and help to make up boxes and distribute them, as well as greeting customers.

Food banks often post requests for items on social media

If you can, include some Christmassy treats

SCOPE FOR ACTION

Clare Glynne-Jones works with disability equality charity Scope as area manager, retail, and looks after shops throughout the Shire region. Scope works to create an equal future with disabled people, and campaigns to transform attitudes to disability, tackle injustice and inspire action. “We run a range of services that are a lifeline for disabled people, from our free helpline to employment services, our cerebral palsy network, the online community and our community programmes,” Clare explained.

e run-up to Christmas is their busiest trading period of the year. “We see an increase in footfall and sales as our customers are out buying Christmas gifts for their friends and family,” Clare added. “We do really well on our bric-a-brac, and also where the customers are entertaining friends and family for Christmas dinner and need those extra plates, dishes and pans at a ordable prices.

“We also do great cello-wraps where we have lots of di erent gift sets all beautifully wrapped up ready for secret Santas or stocking llers. ese make lovely gifts at great prices. At Christmas we have a great range of brand new accessories and there’s a stunning gift range from our amazing Disabled Artists Collection, exclusive to Scope.

“Kids’ toys and books y out at Christmas. Board games and quiz games are really popular too and ideal for when

“We do really well on our bric-a-brac, and also where the customers are entertaining friends and family for Christmas dinner need those extra plates, dishes and pans at affordable prices”

friends and family come over during the festive period.”

Scope is passionate about giving everyone equal opportunities and welcomes volunteer applications from everyone; they work hard to make sure their volunteer opportunities are as accessible and inclusive as possible. “A great, can-do attitude is ideal,” said Clare. “ ere are so many varied jobs that need doing and no two days are the same in our charity shops. You don’t need to have experience as we’ll train you on the job. Best of all, the hours are exible to t around people’s lives.”

Volunteer roles can help develop a wide range of skills and experience; customer service, leadership and teamwork, time management, administration and o ce experience too.

“If you have been stuck at home and maybe feeling lonely, volunteering gets you out of the house,” said Clare. “If you’re looking for work, volunteering looks very impressive on your CV. It’s also good for those in education, helping to give you extra people skills and building your con dence, while giving you important work experience. Also, volunteering in one of our shops may give you the opportunity to complete a National Vocational Quali cation.”

And volunteering can count towards your Bronze, Silver or Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) Award; Scope is an approved activity provider for volunteering in their retail shops, meeting the DofE’s activity standards.

Did you know?

Scope is planning to launch an online shop, selling luxury items by designers with disabilities

PEOPLE MATTER

Mencap provides personalised support to people with a learning disability, and also raises money which allows them to create sustainable change. “Our vision is for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives,” said Anne-Marie Zaritsky, head of volunteering at Mencap. “We all know how important friends and family are at Christmas but sadly for some people we support, the Mencap volunteer visitor could be the only person in their life who isn’t paid to be there for them.

“Our volunteers spend quality one-on-one time with the person they visit, focusing on activities that person really Did you know?

You can download a fantastic A-Z of fundraising ideas from www. mencap.org.uk

enjoys. It could be watching a lm together, crafting, popping out for a co ee and cake, going to watch a football match or an evening in the pub. Our volunteers go to great lengths to nd the right gifts, treats and surprises; to make sure the person they visit can feel the joy of Christmas.”

You don’t need any prior experience to volunteer with Mencap – they are looking for people who are kind and friendly, reliable and patient, and accepting of people who may be di erent to themselves; people who have a little time to share to help make their community more inclusive and understanding.

“We have varied volunteer roles available,” explained AnneMarie, “from visiting a person with a learning disability six times each year, regular volunteering within our retail stores, or helping at our ad hoc fundraising events.”

“Our vision is for the UK to be the best place in the world for people with a learning disability to live happy and healthy lives”

You can help in all sorts of roles

You don’t need experience, just a friendly, patient approach

CHRISTMAS IN THE COMMUNITY

Let’s not forget the real meaning of Christmas. e Christmas Eve carol service is a staple for many, but a lot of people who can no longer drive may nd themselves missing out. Some church groups organise volunteer drivers to bring people to services, and would welcome enquiries from people with a little time on their hands - and a car - for events across the festive period.

Finally, Christmas dinner itself - the focal point of the day! Drop-in centres try their utmost to provide a meal, company and support to people who are there for an enormous variety of reasons. ey rely on volunteers to collect food and items such as decorations in the run-up to Christmas, as well as help on the day, serving meals and picking up and dropping o visitors who otherwise may not be able to get there. A lot of volunteers who do this at Christmas nd themselves helping throughout the rest of the year too!

“Drop-in centres try their utmost to provide a meal, company and support to people who are there for an enormous variety of reasons. They rely on volunteers to collect food and decorations in the run-up to Christmas, as well as help on the day, serving meals and picking up and dropping off visitors”

Whilst we’ve looked here at ways to volunteer with a charity, always remember that if you are feeling that you or a loved one are in need of some assistance yourself, there’s a host of organisations that can give you advice or practical help – you just need to ask. Because that’s what they are there for.

Did you know?

Rough sleeping has increased by 27 per cent this year. You can donate at www.crisis.org.uk

If you’re needed elsewhere on Christmas Day, maybe you can help with preparations in the run-up?

If you’re on your own this year, there are lots of places that would really welcome your help

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your loved ones to a luxury gift

Holidays

At the heart of picturesque Whitchurch, in Shropshire, lies Whitchurch Marina, your starting point for an extraordinary canal adventure with ABC Boat Hire. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the waterways as you set sail on a comfortable narrowboat to explore the hidden gems along Britain’s canals.

Choose from a selection of meticulously maintained craft, each equipped with modern amenities and

EASY AS ABC GRAND DESIGN

designed to ensure your utmost comfort. Whether you’re embarking on a romantic getaway for two, a family holiday or a break with friends, there’s a boat to suit your needs.

“Friendly sta equip you with the skills to handle your boat”

The Georgian mansion of Glansevin, which nestles in the foothills of the Brecon Beacons, was constructed during the Napoleonic Wars as a family home. Now in its third century, Glansevin welcomes guests to delight in the opulence of its rooms and its enchanting surroundings. Exclusive use of the house and private grounds make this an ideal setting for precious time with family and friends.

A perfect destination for a cosy winter break, the house has served as a cherished retreat for over three decades – a place for commemorating special events and hosting informal gatherings. Corporate groups find themselves drawn back year after year for the flexibility and informality the property offers.

The expansive space, which includes a large sitting room with an open fire and a separate games room, is designed for entertaining and hosting parties. The bar area in the sitting room can be stocked with your preferred refreshments, and there’s no additional corkage fee. With accommodation for up to 40 guests, including

From Whitchurch Marina, you have the freedom to follow a choice of captivating routes that showcase the region’s natural splendour and historic landmarks. Cruise the peaceful Llangollen Canal, meandering through breathtaking countryside and across the iconic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Or opt for the Shropshire Union Canal, where charming towns like Ellesmere, with its nine glacial meres, await your discovery.

From the outset, you’ll find ABC Boat Hire an invaluable support. The friendly and knowledgeable staff provide training, ensuring you’re equipped with the skills to confidently handle your boat. Should any questions arise during your journey, the dedicated support team is just a phone call away, ready to assist you.

Moor your boat at inviting villages and towns along the way, where you can explore the shops, sample delicious local cuisine and soak up the atmosphere. Enjoy the great outdoors, walking or cycling along the scenic towpaths, or simply relax on deck, relishing the serenity of the waterways.

To book your canal holiday now, call www.abcboathire.com

“Groups find

You’re assured a warm welcome

additional pull-out beds for children, Glansevin Mansion is a unique and comfortable place that you can truly make your own.

themselves drawn back year after year”

Whether marking a milestone birthday or anniversary, hosting a corporate retreat or simply desiring some time away to relax in luxurious surroundings, Glansevin promises guests an unforgettable experience. www.glansevinmansion.com

Meet some of the canal’s other inhabitants

A chance to really get away from it all

HAVEN OF CALM

For those seeking a luxury escape with a view, Porthllongdy Farm on the Isle of Anglesey is idyllic. Set on the shores of Red Wharf Bay, this family-run holiday park boasts stunning vistas of the Anglesey coastline and the majestic Snowdonia mountains in the distance.

Established in the 1950s, Porthllongdy has evolved into one of Anglesey’s premier holiday destinations, with beautifully landscaped grounds and a tranquil, relaxing atmosphere. Just a short walk from sandy beaches, guests can enjoy the award-winning pubs and restaurants nearby or simply bask in the peace of this picturesque haven.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious static caravan or a modern holiday cottage, Porthllongdy has options for every kind of getaway.

New to the park are four luxury holiday cottages, each offering breathtaking sea views. These beautifully designed properties provide the perfect blend of comfort and style, making them an ideal retreat for families looking to explore the island or simply relax by the coast.

Pioden Y Môr, a stylish cottage for four, features a king-size bedroom with en-suite bathroom and Juliette balcony. The open-plan living area opens onto a private patio with direct access to the shore. Môr Wennol and Gwylan Y Môr are luxury options with spacious interiors, modern amenities and sea

MARINA MAGIC

“A private patio with direct access to the shore”

In the heart of the Cheshire countryside, Overwater Marina is an idyllic holiday destination, a short drive from the historic town of Nantwich. Offering an array of facilities and accommodation options, visitors seeking a peaceful retreat are ensured an unforgettable stay.

The Caravan and Motorhome Club certified site and holiday park presents a carefully curated holiday experience, including 10 luxury hardstanding touring pitches. Available on a night-by-night or seasonal basis, these provide a cosy and exclusive setting for guests.

For those in pursuit of a unique and relaxing escape, bespoke glamping wagons at the award-winning marina offer an enchanting alternative. Alongside what was formerly the Gingerbread Line, these luxury wagons boast fully fitted bathroom, kitchenette, stove and comfortable beds. Opt for the ultimate relaxation by booking a wagon with a wood-fired hot tub.

Overwater Marina enjoys a canalside location on the outskirts of Audlem village, making it an ideal

views from the bedrooms. For a unique stay, Yr Hen Stabl, a contemporary barn conversion, offers a charming blend of rustic style and modern convenience, perfect for families who want to be close to the beach while enjoying the comforts of a beautifully renovated property.

At Porthllongdy Farm, you’re guaranteed not just top-tier accommodation but a memorable, relaxing holiday experience year after year. www.porthllongdy.co.uk

“The luxury glamping wagons boast fully fitted bathroom, kitchenette, stove and comfortable beds”

starting point for exploring Cheshire and Shropshire. Popular tourist attractions within easy reach include the Anderton Boat Lift and Jodrell Bank Centre for Engagement – the World Heritage site and home of famous observatory. The marina serves as a convenient base for hiking, cycling and fishing. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Overwater Marina, where every detail has been crafted to ensure a serene and memorable stay. www.overwatermarina.co.uk

The new cottages

A prime location on the bay

A peaceful setting on the Shropshire Union canal

Stay in style in a glamping wagon

ESCAPE IN STYLE

Craving a high-end experience but drawn to the idea of an off-the-grid, nature-focused retreat?

Purslow Hall Farm offers the best of both worlds with its premium glamping experience.

Located in a peaceful spot in the heart of the Shropshire Hills, this haven is home to Shropshire Luxury Glamping – a trio of individually styled and fully equipped pods, designed to provide a unique luxury escape. With soft, 100% cotton linens and all the home comforts you need, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and recharged. The location is perfect for families too, with lots of space and countryside walks on the doorstep.

The Ludlow pod boasts a chic industrial design, combining denim blue shades with striking copper accents. Its matt charcoal kitchen and washed oak-style worktops and floors create an upscale, modern vibe that will appeal to all.

Wenlock is infused with a softer, country charm – decorated in calming cashmere grey and gentle pastels, it’s the ideal cosy nook for a peaceful getaway.

For something a little different, the Stretton pod stands out with its lively green tones

and playful retro feel. Complete with bold Orla Kiely patterns and Scandi-inspired furnishings, it’s another luxurious option within the collection.

And the best part? Each pod has its own private hot tub offering stunning views over the south Shropshire countryside, perfect for those chilly winter days and evenings under the stars.

Simply pack your clothes and food and turn up at your pod. Everything else is taken care of so you can fully unwind.

www.shropshireluxuryglamping.co.uk

FIVE-STAR IDYLL

For a winter escape, discover the best of self-catering in Wales at Tyddyn Sydney Bach, a refurbished and extended Visit Wales 5-star garden cottage for two. Boasting exposed wooden beams and high ceilings, this peaceful retreat offers open-plan living, with a double bedroom and bathroom furnished and equipped to high standards. Wi-fi, towels, bed linen and table linen are included. The modern fitted kitchen is well equipped, with dishwasher, combination microwave/ oven, gas hob and extractor hood. The tasteful lounge has red leather reclining sofas, brass lamps, computer desk, smart TV and DVD player. Set in the secluded grounds of a larger cottage in Treborth, Tyddyn Sydney Bach is the ideal base for exploring Snowdonia and Anglesey or just enjoying a quiet, romantic retreat for two. For details, please visit www.tyddynsydney.co.uk

“Exposed beams and high ceilings”

TRAVEL IN STYLE

Looking for a stress-free getaway packed with memorable moments? Owen’s Travelmaster, based in Oswestry, has you covered with a varied selection of expertly curated coach tours. With decades of local knowledge, Owen’s is renowned for comfortable travel, well-planned itineraries and exceptional customer service. Popular choices include a five-day Cornwall tour, where you’ll discover maritime history, beautiful beaches, lush gardens and fishing villages on the rugged coast; and Weston super Mare, a perfect base for exploring the South West, the Mendip Hills, Bath and Wells. Shorter themed trips such as a Welsh Country & Western tour, with evenings in Caernarfon, are a big hit. Owen’s Travelmaster also runs day trips and shopping excursions to Manchester and the Trafford Centre and evening theatre outings, while a fleet of coaches is available for hire, for group trips across the UK and Europe. Wherever your destination, a seamless and enjoyable journey is assured. For a full programme of tours, see www.owenstravel.co.uk

Ludlow interior

The Oswestry o ce

Your garden outlook

YOUR HOME FROM HOME

Lyons Holiday Parks have been proudly making happy holiday memories for families for over 90 years. It’s no surprise that the team know their stuff when it comes to the perfect holiday in North Wales.

Lyons Pendyffryn Hall is an idyllic holiday home and touring park situated between the Conwy Valley and the Edwardian village of Penmaenmawr. It enjoys the perfect location within Snowdonia National Park, with stunning panoramic views over the Menai Strait and Puffin Island, and a spectacular blend of natural beauty and rich medieval heritage just waiting to be explored. And of course, you’re never far from the sandy beaches of the North Wales coast.

If you’re looking to invest in a ‘home from home’ of your own, there’s always a selection of new and pre-owned static caravans available at Pendyffryn Hall, to suit every style and budget. The park can offer a finance service and visitors

Hot spots

RHYL’S MINI THRILLS

Rhyl Miniature Railway is the perfect destination for families and steam fans of all ages seeking a fun day out on the North Wales coast. Established in 1911, it is Britain’s oldest miniature railway and offers visitors a nostalgic, steam-powered ride around Marine Lake, as well as a fascinating little museum to browse.

The picturesque circular route takes you along the shoreline of the lake, offering some beautiful views while the engine chugs gently along.

Kids will love the thrill of riding in the miniature open carriages, and adults will enjoy the slice of nostalgia.

“Britain’s oldest miniature railway”

Back at Central Station, visit the gift shop, enjoy hot and cold drinks and snacks, and let the children let off more steam at the play area! There’s plenty to explore nearby too, including a nature trail, walking paths and picnic spots.

With seasonal events like the popular Santa Specials, Rhyl Miniature Railway is a delightful destination for a relaxed and memorable family day out.

The touring site has been extended

are welcome to come and view the options available.

“Stunning

Owners at Pendyffryn Hall enjoy the park’s true community atmosphere, with regular barbecues, live entertainment in the club and special events throughout the year for all to enjoy. The park is open yearround, including Christmas and New Year.

panoramic views over the Menai Strait and Pu n Island”

Lyons have recently developed and extended an area for touring caravans and tents at Pendyffryn Hall. The site makes the ideal base for exploring the local area, from the bustling town of Conwy and its historic castle to lively Llandudno, with its steam railway to the Great Orme.

To discover more and book your stay at Lyons Pendyffryn Hall, visit www.lyonsholidayparks.co.uk/park/pendyffryn-hall/

Hot spots

LAKESIDE LOCOMOTION

Justover the Cheshire border near Leek is another delightful narrowgauge railway. Rudyard Lake Railway winds its way along the scenic shores of Rudyard Lake, and you can buy a ticket and hop on and off the vintage-style steam and diesel trains as you like.

“An ideal spot for picnics, walks and wildlife”

At over two-and-a-half miles long, the lake – it’s actually a reservoir – is the largest straight stretch of water in England outside the Lake District. It’s an ideal spot for picnics, walks and wildlife spotting. Pick up the train at The Dam or Hunthouse Wood – you can buy tickets from the guard (cash only, please).

Trains run hourly on the hour from Rudyard Station, sometimes two an hour in peak periods. Relax and enjoy a gentle journey through some of the area’s most beautiful countryside, before returning for refreshments at Platform 2 cafe. Watch for themed events throughout the year, including Santa Specials and Halloween trains.

A comfy interior

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With our stellar 5-star TripAdvisor rating and glowing Google and Hoseasons reviews, rest assured, your Love2Stay experience will be unforgettable.

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Charities & Volunteering

RIDE FOR HOPE

Hundreds of cyclists rode into Hope House children’s hospice, near Oswestry, to take part in the charity’s most successful Cycle Challenge yet. A record-breaking 200 entrants signed up for the scenic rides, with the option of a 56-mile route to Lake Vrynwy or 70 miles to Lake Bala. Friends, families and businesses entered as teams and individually to support the hospice, which cares for children with life-threatening conditions and their families. A total of £14,000 was raised and money from sponsorship is expected to boost this further.

Walk

“…the most successful yet”

The event was sponsored by Recycling UK and supported by Principality Building Society as well as other local businesses who donated food, drinks and goodie bags. Harry Evans Sports Massage offered massages to achy riders at the finish. Thanks to the many volunteers who helped the day run smoothly.

for cousin Callum

Transport manager George Williams swapped his hi-vis jacket for a charity T-shirt to walk 27 miles in memory of his cousin Callum. George, from Newtown, near Wem, walked from Veolia’s waste management depot in Wem to Oswestry to raise money for Hope House children’s hospice. Hope House provided respite care for Callum, who had quadriplegic cerebral palsy and needed round-the-clock care. He died aged just 18.

Very happy birthday

AShropshire charity that has already distributed £45,000 to organisations and individuals across the county is celebrating its second birthday.

Shropshire Community Foundation was set up in 2022 to connect those who want and are able to give with the local organisations and projects most in need of their support. Nine trustees use their combined experience and knowledge of the Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin community and the volunteer and charity sector to ensure funds go where they will have the most impact.

“…longterm strategy”

Chair Selina Graham DL said: “We have been working hard on a grants programme targeting the most pressing challenges and issues in our county. Our mission is to use philanthropy to build a longterm source of sustainable, strategic grant funding for those communities and people most in need.”

CHANNEL CHAMPS

Six pupils from Beech Hall School completed a relay swim of the English Channel, accomplishing the feat in 11 hours 48 minutes and taking their fundraising total for learning disability charity Mencap to over £105,000. The young swimmers are the eighth team from the

fantastic achievement

Tytherington school to take on the challenge, and beat its previous record by six minutes.

Headmaster James Allen said: “It is truly outstanding what they have accomplished. They have spent many months training, utilising our outdoor pool here at Beech Hall and several open water spots across the country, acclimatising to conditions. I am inspired by each and every one.”

“Callum attended Hope House for respite stays and absolutely loved it. He had a cheeky

“He absolutely loved Hope House”

smile and used to make staff laugh,” George said. George raised over £2,000 and was grateful to receive the support of Veolia’s six Shropshire depots. You can still donate to his fundraiser at www.hopehouse.org.uk/walking-for-callum

A special place

Severn Hospice has created a new space at its Shrewsbury gardens for remembering loved ones. The Garden of Memories has at its centre a hand-crafted sculpture that carries ‘Hospice Hearts’ – heart-shaped tributes inscribed with messages of remembrance.

“We wanted to offer a special place so people can call to mind those they love,” said Tracie Harrison, director of income generation at the hospice. “Anyone can dedicate a Hospice Heart and the beauty of the space is that it is open and available to visit every day.”

The hospice supports families in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and North Powys living with incurable illnesses and this year marks its 35th anniversary. All

services are provided free, but they are not without cost.

The hospice has to raise £2 for every £3 it spends on care.

Tracie said: “As well as remembering a loved one, making a donation through the Hospice Hearts will make such a difference to other families facing heartbreak.”

For information visit https:// donations.severnhospice.org.uk/ hospice-hearts or call Sophie Higgins, individual giving fundraiser on 01952 221 350.

If you would like a charity event to feature on these pages, just email the details to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk

RUK’s Alex Pinson and friend Sean Newman

Veolia transport manager George

The trustee group

Hospice Hearts

SCRAMBLING SEASON

With interest in scrambling soaring over the past three months, it’s clear that this adventurous outdoor activity is becoming a top choice for thrill-seekers across the UK

It may be wildly popular, but what exactly is scrambling? Often described as the bridge between hiking and rock climbing, it involves using hands and feet to navigate steep, rocky terrain. Whether you’re in the mountains of Snowdonia or the wilds of Scotland, scrambling o ers adrenaline-fuelled excitement, and winter conditions can make it even more rewarding. Winter scrambling is a perfect choice for those who want to stay active as the temperatures drop. You get to enjoy the views without the crowds, while snow and ice can turn familiar routes into brand-new experiences, testing your agility and balance as you navigate rocky ridges.

Mind the gaps

The right equipment is vital in winter when conditions can change quickly. Boots, warm layers and waterproofs, gloves, backpack, ropes and a helmet are essentials. For tips and recommended gear, visit www.blacks.co.uk

Rewarding

“Test your agility on rocky ridges”

Another advantage is the mental focus it demands. The mix of climbing and hiking encourages full-body engagement, requiring you to pay close attention to every step and handhold. As a bonus, you’ll be treated to panoramic landscapes, often covered in frost or snow.

Stiperstones

Difficulty level: Moderate

Walking time: 3 hours 45 minutes

Length: 7.6 miles (12km)

Start: Bridges

Youth Hostel, Shropshire SY5 0SP

Wales o ers some of the best scrambling routes in the UK, especially in Snowdonia. Popular grade-one scrambles are Pen yr Ole Wen or Tryfan, a majestic peak that’s long been a favourite with adventurers. It’s a perfect introduction, not requiring ropes, and rewards you with stunning views over the Glyderau and Carneddau ranges, and at the summit you’ll find the iconic Adam and Eve stones, two boulders that brave climbers traditionally jump. Mountain leader and scrambling expert Alex Peake Jones (@scramblethisuk) advises newcomers to gain experience on easier routes before attempting more di cult scrambles such as the infamous Crib Goch. “Having taken hundreds of people across the ridgeline of Crib Goch, I’ve seen first hand how treacherous it can be. The exposure is intense and the weather can make route-finding di cult,” he says. He recommends building confidence on routes like Striding Edge in the Lake District before attempting more challenging climbs.

plantation before emerging onto open farmland. Here, you’ll ascend on a stony farm track, rising to a saddle between two low hills. The sweeping views from the top are just a taste of what’s to come.

With breathtaking views stretching into Wales and a chance to explore the mystical rock formations of the Stiperstones, this moderate hike o ers a perfect blend of natural wonder and local history. From Bridges Youth Hostel, turn right and follow the road for a few minutes until you reach a kissing gate just before a bridge. This marks the start of your journey along the Shropshire Way, alongside Darnford Brook. Keep to the clear path, passing through gates and a conifer

Countless myths surround the stones – read up before you go!

“The Devil’s Chair is one of the most famous formations”

As you follow the farm track downhill, the route weaves through quiet country roads and farm tracks, steadily climbing towards the iconic ridge. You’ll pass through marshland and open pastures before the landscape changes dramatically.

Approaching Shepherd’s Rock, you’ll soon find yourself on a rocky ridge that o ers stunning panoramic views. The ridge leads to the Devil’s Chair, one of the most famous rock formations in the area, where folklore and geology meet. Manstone Rocks, the highest point on the ridge at 536m, o ers a fantastic vantage point.

The final leg takes you downhill, crossing boggy fields and gorse-covered terrain before looping back to Bridges. Expect a varied landscape, from rocky ridges to pastures, all with the promise of a well-earned rest back at The Bridges pub or the hostel. For full directions, visit www.ramblers.org

This scenic circular reveals the rugged beauty of Shropshire, with some mystical rock formations along the way

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Food&Drink

Season’s feastings

In our new column dedicated to what’s fresh and at its best at this time of year, we suggest ve veg you can grow, harvest and enjoy throughout the winter

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, there's a bounty of fresh, seasonal produce available locally to keep your kitchen vibrant. Here are five delicious foods that are at their peak in November and December, along with ideas for dishes to celebrate them – plus an insight into how to sow, grow and store them at home

Brussels sprouts

Planted in mid-spring and taking around six months to mature, Brussels sprouts are ready for harvest from October through to December. They thrive in the cooler months, and their flavour improves after the first frost. For a fresh take, try them pan-fried with pancetta and chestnuts. The salty pancetta balances the slight bitterness of the sprouts, while chestnuts add a lovely sweetness. Store Brussels sprouts in a cool, dark place or refrigerate them for up to a week.

Parsnips

Didknow?you

The usedVictorians beetroot juice as a hair dye

Parsnips are typically sown in early spring and left in the ground for around five to six months. Harvested in late autumn and early winter, they actually taste sweeter after a frost, as the cold converts their starches into sugars. Roast them with honey and thyme, or create a hearty parsnip and apple soup for a comforting, creamy blend of savoury and sweet flavours. Stored in a cool, dry place, parsnips can stay fresh for several weeks.

Beetroot

Didknow?youParsnips make dreamy ice cream. Findonlinerecipes

Planted in late spring, beetroot is ready for harvest from summer through to early winter. It's best harvested before the first hard frost, though it can withstand cooler weather. A versatile root vegetable, beetroot can be stored in a cool, dry place for several weeks. Try it in a roasted beetroot and goat's cheese salad, where its earthy sweetness pairs perfectly with the creamy tang of the cheese. Alternatively, bake beetroot into a cake for a seasonal twist on dessert.

Yum! Our favourite

Warming soup for a cold day

Beetroot pairs beautifully with goat’s cheese and pomegranate seeds

Leeks

Planted in spring, leeks are ready to harvest from late summer through to early winter. This hardy vegetable withstands the cold well, making it perfect for November and December cooking. For a cosy supper, try a leek and potato gratin: the creamy, cheesy sauce pairs beautifully with the mild onion flavour of the leeks. In the fridge leeks will stay fresh for up to two weeks.

Didknow?you You can mash or roast celeriac too, it’s very versatile

Celeriac

Celeriac, often overlooked, is planted in spring and harvested in autumn, with its peak season running from October through January. It stores remarkably well, keeping fresh for several months in a cool, dark place. A celeriac remoulade is a deliciously tangy side dish –simply shred it and mix with mustard, lemon and mayonnaise for a crisp accompaniment to meats or fish.

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

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Pan Fried Chicken Supreme, Sauteed Celeriac, Wild Mushroom and Madeira Fricassee - serves 4

Ingredients:

• 4 Chicken Supremes (breast with bone in and skin on)

• 1-2 celeriac (depending on size)peeled and cubed into 1cm pieces

• 4-5 thyme leaves

• 50g butter

• 1 white onion sliced

• 1 garlic clove crushed

• 500g mixed wild mushrooms (sliced)

Wild Mushroom Fricassee

• 75ml Madeira or sweet sherry

• 100ml chicken stock

• 50ml double cream

• Heat 25g of butter in saucepan or frying pan over a medium heat. Once melted, add the onions and garlic. Cook for 3-5 minutes or until soft.

• Turn the heat up and add the wild mushrooms. Cook over a high heat for 3-4 minutes stirring occasionally.

• Add the madeira and cook for 1 minute.

• Add the chicken stock and allow to reduce by approximately half.

• Add the cream and bring to the boil. Simmer until it is at a thick runny cream consistency.

• Set aside and reheat when the chicken is cooked.

Chicken and Celeriac

• Preheat an oven to 200ºC.

• Heat an oven-proof frying pan on a medium heat. Once hot, add a tablespoon of oil and place the chicken breasts skin side down in the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden.

• Remove the chicken from the pan. Return the pan to the heat. Add the celeriac and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring to colour the celeriac. Add the thyme leaves, 25g of butter and return the chicken to the pan.

• Place in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Check the chicken is cooked by poking a knife into the centre of each breast to make sure the juices run clear. Rest for 5 minutes.

To assemble:

Warm the sauce, spoon onto the plates, add the celeriac, additional veg if required and top with the chicken breasts.

Add a tang to potato cheese

Slowly and responsibly reared, our White and Bronze Turkeys have won Best in Show for 5 years running.

Available in sizes from 10lb (4kg) to 30lb (10kg), you can design your menu around a bird of a perfect size for your number of guests and our commitment to welfare*, quality and (of course!) taste, ensures your Christmas turkey creates the perfect centre-piece for a traditional festive dinner table.

Selling premium turkeys to our customers and wholesale to butchers

Contact us now to set the scene for a perfect Christmas

www.kelsallstraditionalhomerearedturkeys.co.uk/

*Guaranteed traceability by only using our responsibly rearedTurkeys, no external suppliers

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.

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

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

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 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

Due to expansion and new titles, we are looking for a bright new team member keen to get a head start in publishing.

No experience required, only an ability to get along and communicate well with people. Work from your own home, and be part of a team.

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.

Due to expansion, there is now an opportunity for a new member to join our team.

Work from home, with hours to suit you, liaising with business owners and marketing teams to help them tailor their campaigns in the magazine. The role is wide ranging and includes:

•market research

•sales pitches to business owners

• briefing Shire design teams

•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.

“It

would make a fantastic gift and includes all the wines, the exam, access to the portal and lunch”

All French to you?

If you’re ba ed by the variety of French wine on o er, Shire’s wine expert Gary Carter from Shropshire Wine School is not only here to help – he’s also running a course that could turn you from a novice to the knowledge

France is the second largest producer of wine after Italy. It has by far the largest collection of premium wines – think Bordeaux, Burgundy, and of course Champagne. However, for many British wine lovers, French wines can be confusing due to the Appellation system and its link to the mysteries of terroir.

This is where Shropshire Wine School can help, as we are launching a brand-new course aimed at people who would love to know more about French wine. The course is called French Wine Essentials and is a formal, structured programme designed by the Wine Scholar Guild, an international wine education organisation that specialises in French, Italian and Spanish wine knowledge.

Shropshire Wine School is one of only a handful of approved providers for this course in the UK. Students receive the lavishly illustrated 100-page course manual one month before the classroom

sessions, containing maps, grape profiles, sections on French wine law, the history and geography of France and much more.

Each French wine region is covered in detail – Alsace, the Loire, Champagne, Bourgogne (Burgundy), Beaujolais, Bordeaux, the Rhône Valley, Provence and Languedoc-Roussillon – and alongside the key wines from each region are suggested food pairings. The course is supported by an online portal with interactive maps, quizzes and flashcards, which students also have access to in advance.

weekend tasting

The classroom sessions are held over an intensive weekend, running from the evening of Friday 7th February, all day on Saturday and continuing on Sunday 9th, with a multiple-choice exam in the afternoon. Over the course of the weekend, we will taste at least 20 wines including several Champagnes, red and white Côte d’Or Burgundy, left and right bank Bordeaux and Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

The course is being held at the Lion & Pheasant Hotel, Shrewsbury and the fee includes a two-course lunch on the Saturday. The hotel is offering a special dinner, bed and breakfast package for anyone who wants to ‘make a weekend of it’ (details on request).

The course would make a fantastic Christmas present and is priced at £425, which includes the manual, access to the online portal, all the wines, exam entry and the two-course lunch. It can be booked via the Shropshire Wine School website. www. localwineschool.com/shropshire/french-wine-essentials Places are limited and the course is likely to sell out, so please book ahead to avoid disappointment

Bordeaux is among the regions we'll study

FOODIE NEwS

Labour of love

Newly married couple Anna and Felix Roseblade-Shore have returned to their Cheshire roots to open their first restaurant together. The duo, who had been living in New Zealand, spotted the potential of a vacant building on the Barnston Estate in Farndon, and flew back to the UK to seize the opportunity.

In addition to planning their wedding, which took place on a picturesque beach near Harlech, in Wales, the couple have spent the past months transforming the former Little Churtons/Farmhouse Café. Just days ago, they opened the doors to Restaurant 209, named after the room at The Ritz where they got engaged.

Anna, who grew up in Farndon and attended the local primary school, first met Felix at Bishop Heber High School in Malpas. Reflecting on their journey, Anna said: “We got together in 2018 and since then have lived all over the world, from Liverpool and Chester to New Zealand. Felix worked there as a chef and I was a general manager. It’s always been our dream to open our own place and be our own bosses.”

While living in New Zealand, they found the building online and asked Anna’s father to check it out in their absence. The couple decided to move back to Farndon, get married and settle in Anna’s hometown. “We live on the High Street, just a few doors down from the restaurant. We want it to be a key part of the community,” said Anna.

Felix, who grew up in Whitchurch, has worked as a chef in locations around the world, including Sweden, Denmark and Auckland. Now he’s excited they have their own place. He said: “Anna and I are a great team. I set myself a goal to open a restaurant by the time I was 30 – I managed it at 31, so not bad!”

Restaurant 209 is open seven days a week for brunch, lunch and takeaways, with evening dining from Wednesday to Saturday.

Restaurant 209 is located at Top Farm, High Street, Farndon CH3 6PT. For reservations visit www.restaurant209.com

Kelsall’s Traditional Home-reared Turkeys

At Kelsall’s we supply the traditional white turkey along with Kelsall’s bronze turkey to give our customers the choice they want. All turkeys can be collected directly from the farm – you can even call and see how we keep the turkeys, if you wish.

Our farm shop opens in the run-up to Christmas and sells not only the turkeys but many other delicious meats and vegetables to make your Christmas this year one to remember. You’ll find us

much more reasonably priced than the major supermarkets and you can select your bird in a relaxed and stress-free manner at the farm.

Over the last 100 years, four generations of the Kelsall family have been farming and raising turkeys for our Christmas feasts. Our birds are raised and grown slowly throughout the year in order to bring you the finest possible product for Christmas.

Our turkeys are the best in the area, we think – and the fact that we have won Best in Show for five years’ running suggests that we might be right!

You can order online at www.kelsallstraditionalhomerearedturkeys.co.uk

New spot for foodie favourite

Having established a popular restaurant in Trentham Gardens, Willow has now expanded to a second location, in Telford, offering all-day dining that seamlessly transitions from relaxed mornings to lively evenings. Whether you’re stopping by for a morning coffee, brunch with friends or an intimate dinner, it’s the perfect setting to unwind and enjoy the Mediterraneaninspired dishes.

The menu at Willow Telford is a celebration of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Crafted with passion by skilled chefs, the dishes capture the bold flavours of the Mediterranean, making every meal feel like a mini escape to the sun. From leisurely breakfasts to evening meals, there’s something for everyone, with every dish freshly prepared and beautifully presented.

The restaurant’s interior adds to the Mediterranean feel. An open, airy space filled with natural light, the atmosphere is relaxed for coffee after a lakeside walk or lunch during a shopping trip. As night falls, the space transforms into a cosy, softly lit environment ideal for winding down or a lively dinner with friends. Willow regularly hosts live music, providing a vibrant backdrop to your evening.

Back home: Felix and Anna at Restaurant 209

Willow Telford: Mediterranean vibe

Ready for the oven…

SEASONS HEATINGS

WOOD, GAS & ELECTRIC STOVES

& ELECTRIC FIRES

WOOD FIRED HOT TUBS & OUTDOOR LIVING

Perfect choice

Play Santa and get Christmas all wrapped up with these fabulous gift ideas for the men in your life

2. Weird Fish Broxton check shirt in Navy £39.99, Charlies Ltd, Welshpool; www.charlies.co.uk

3. Barbour Fairisle socks £34.95 for set of two pairs, Anna Davies, Conwy; www.annadavies.co.uk

4. Bugatti comfort fit leather Chelsea boots £120, Peppers Menswear & Ladieswear, Church Stretton; www.peppersfashion.co.uk

5. Rodd & Gunn Fordell jacket £249.95, Outdoor & Country, Shrewsbury; www.outdoorandcountry.co.uk

1. Egyptian cotton bath robe in Dove Grey £60, John Lewis; www.johnlewis.com

6. Padders slip-on quilted slippers £14.99 (sale price), Pavers; www.pavers.co.uk

7. The White Cedar handmade recycled wood wristwatch £159.99, MOOand BOOM, Whitchurch; www.mooandboom.com

8. Brabantia Make & Take thermal cup £20.89, Charlies Ltd, as before

9. Unisex traditional Aran sweater in Cream Merino £69.95, Cherry Tree Country Clothing, Denbighshire; www.cherrytreecountryclothing.com

10. Givenchy Gentlemen Society eau de parfum 60ml Christmas fragrance gift set £87, John Lewis, as before

11. Mac Jeans Macflexx rinsed wash 3D £139, Vaughan Davies, Flintshire; www.vaughandavies.co.uk

12. Ashwood Kingsbury brown leather 8-card bifold wallet £29.95, Bodenhams, Ludlow; www.bodenhams.co.uk

13. Ridgeline Torrent III jacket £134.95, Cherry Tree Country Clothing, as before

14. Barbour Carlton fleck beanie & scarf gift set £59.95, Anna Davies, as before

Homes & Interiors

SECOND-HAND SCARIES

While online platforms like Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree and Preloved can be an excellent way to shop sustainably and find bargains to furnish your home, there are some potential dangers. Tristan Lynch, chief executive officer at Roseland Furniture, has shared five ‘red flags’ to watch for when purchasing second-hand furniture, to keep Shire readers safe from scams.

Check for shoddy DIY work before purchase

While flatpack furniture can add value and style to any home, buyers must be cautious when purchasing second-hand. The issue comes with the assembly and disassembly: flatpack items are relatively easy to assemble, but some are more adeptly put together than others. Check the item before you purchase, looking for any signs of glue. If you later need to disassemble furniture parts containing glue, they may get destroyed, ruining your second-hand bargain.

Cracks, woodworm and more – the importance of inspecting woodwork Second-hand purchases are often completed quickly, but inspecting the item you’re buying

Buying furniture for your home second-hand is not only sustainable, it often makes quality items a lot more a ordable – but there are pitfalls to avoid

is vital. You are almost sure to find a few scratches on any used item, but instead look for things like cracks, loose joints, signs of woodworm or wobbly legs, which significantly affect the structural integrity of the item. If you are purchasing an item with drawers, opening these and inspecting the dovetail joints (ie corners) is an excellent way to gauge quality quickly. By contrast, more dated woodwork might fail to catch your eye, but these items can be of very high quality and simply require a coat of paint.

Spot a fake seller fast

“Check fl atpack furniture for any signs of glue”

Sometimes you spot a bargain that seems too good to be true. Well, it might not be. If you need clarification on the seller and item, there are steps you can take to vet them. Browsing a seller’s profile can often give you an indication of fraudulence. Do they have no profile picture? Are they a new account with no ratings? Does their profile have minimal information? Have they put up more than one listing for the same item? If the answer to any of these questions is yes, it is best to proceed very cautiously or find a more reliable seller.

Stay safe: stay on the platform

A common tactic for scammers selling furniture or anything else online is to suggest exchanging email addresses or phone numbers to discuss the purchase. They usually like to speak outside of platforms like Facebook Marketplace so there is no record of what was communicated and they can continue scamming on the platform afterwards. Even exchanging emails can result in the seller sending phishing emails to scam you, so

it is advisable to only communicate with sellers through the platform where the item is listed, to provide you with as much security as possible.

Shield yourself from PayPal scams and advance fee fraud

It has become common practice to pay for goods before they arrive. But whereas purchases from online retailers come with levels of protection via refunds, return policies and more, secondhand marketplaces do not provide the same level of security.

Buyers are advised not to pay in advance and, if purchasing locally, to meet the seller in a public location where they can safely assess the item and make the payment. If you must get an item shipped, insist on tracking so you can monitor when it is posted and its location.

BEST BUYS

Some items represent better value than others when it comes to buying preloved furniture. Here’s how to make the most of your budget

PayPal may seem like a secure way to transfer money, but scammers have found a way to remove your buyer protection. If a seller asks you to send money through the ‘Friends and family’ method on PayPal, reject the request. This option means they don’t have to pay a fee to receive payment, but it also removes any form of buyer protection. Instead, opt for the ‘Goods and services’ method, which sees you supported by PayPal’s Buyer Protection, allowing you to request a refund if the product doesn’t arrive or fails to match its description. www.roselandfurniture.com

New lease of life

Upcycling has become a popular way to breathe life into old furniture. Here’s a few simple tricks that can help you create stunning, unique pieces from second-hand finds.

• Before diving into any project, always prep the furniture properly. Clean thoroughly to remove dirt, dust or grease. Sand down wooden surfaces to smooth imperfections and create a better surface for paint or varnish to adhere to.

• Chalk paint is a favourite among upcyclers because it doesn’t require priming or sanding. It provides a matte, vintage look and adheres to most surfaces. It’s perfect for giving a shabby-chic vibe to dressers, chairs or tables. Seal with wax for durability and a soft finish.

Withsustainability on everyone’s minds, and the cost of living continuing to rise, buying second-hand furniture has become an increasingly popular choice in the UK. Not only does it save money, it’s also an eco-friendly way to furnish your home with quality pieces that often outlast newer alternatives.

Solid wood furniture such as dining tables, chairs and coffee tables are some of the best purchases. Vintage wood furniture is often made from higherquality timber than is found in modern, flat-packed versions. These items are durable, timeless and easy to upcycle if you fancy a DIY project. A quick sand and a new coat of paint can bring new life to old wood (see left).

• Swapping out old knobs, handles or drawer pulls lends a piece a modern touch. Look for unique hardware such as antique brass handles or colourful ceramic knobs to elevate the look of an old cabinet or dresser.

• Revamping chairs with new fabric is easy and effective. Choose bold patterns or textures to add style, and replace padding if necessary for extra comfort.

Another good purchase is quality leather furniture as it often improves with age, developing a rich patina that can’t be replicated in new items. If you’re after a comfortable, character-filled piece, second-hand leather sofas and armchairs are great investments. A wellmade leather item can last for decades, with scratches and wear adding to its charm.

“Vintage sideboards are highly sought after”

Vintage sideboards, especially mid-century, are highly sought after in second-hand shops. Not only are they functional with plenty of storage space, but they also bring a touch of retro style to any room. These pieces are built to last and can be easily refinished or restored if needed.

Investing in antiques is a slightly different market, but this is the ultimate second-hand furnishing vision. In particular, antique dressers and wardrobes tend to be more spacious and sturdier than newer, mass-produced ones. Look for classic designs made from solid oak, pine or mahogany, which can last generations with proper care.

Update your existing furniture too

Leather improves with age

focal point

Don't agree to ‘Friends and family’

TIME TO MOVE?

e end of the year and the start of a new one is when many people start thinking about selling their home. Shire has some great advice from the experts

Selling your home can take anywhere between four and eight months, according to property website Zoopla. But there are strategic steps you can take to entice potential buyers. Experts housebuyers4u shared their insider tricks for making a lasting impression.

Clean the windows There’s no denying that the atmosphere is everything when selling a property, and buyers are specifically drawn to bright and inviting homes – therefore, use natural light to your advantage. Not only do dust, dirt and smudges significantly reduce the amount of sunlight that enters a room, clean windows are one of the best ways to ensure the space looks well-maintained.

“Clean windows ensure the space looks well maintained”

Hang mirrors They play a huge role in making a home seem brighter and more inviting as they reflect light. Place them in darker areas of the house – corners of rooms, poorly lit corridors and rooms with smaller windows.

Open some windows Consider the first things people will think about when they walk in. Unpleasant odours can be an instant deal-breaker, so remove any lingering smells such as cigarette smoke and this morning’s eggs and bacon before a viewing. In addition to lighting scented candles, housebuyers4u recommends baking bread or cookies to create a welcoming atmosphere. You might also temporarily relocate your pets, or at least their litter trays or food bowls.

History beneath their feet

James

Clarke, owner and managing director of Clarke

Contracting explains: “Ludlow Castle asked us to install our bonded gravel system to various areas within the castle walls. Working closely with the castle personnel and under the encouraging eye of on-site archaeologist Leon Bracelin, we delivered on time and to the highest standard.”

“Working with the on-site archaeologist”

The work followed a contract in January 2023, where Clarke Contracting established an excellent working relationship with Powis Estates, Ludlow Castle and Historic England. Another similar project installing new access ways starts this month,

Tackle minor repairs You may have lived with that squeaky door for years, but to a prospective buyer it may be the last straw. While appearance is key when selling a home, it’s essential to fix any issues to a decent standard rather than simply covering them up with paint or a photo frame. Hire professionals to sort everything from leaky taps to peeling wallpaper. And the same goes for the outside of the property –including painting the front door and mowing the grass. Small touches like this add up to create a welcoming environment.

Lose the clutter Finally, it might seem obvious, but day to day it’s easy to let living spaces accumulate clutter. A spotless, tidy home not only looks more spacious but also suggests to buyers that the property has been well cared for.

Surfacing specialists Clarke Contracting recently completed a prestigious project at Ludlow Castle, in association with Powis Estates and Historic England

which will greatly assist visitors over the festive period.

Jack Tavernor is chief executive and estate manager at Powis Estates. He said: “We have used James and Clarke Contracting over the years, and they can always be trusted to deliver on time and with a great end product.”

A first-class result

Clarke Contracting offers a number of innovative surfacing solutions. The full product range and contact details can be found on the website at www.clarkecontracting.uk

impressions count

STRIPES ARE THE STARS

As interest in stripes soars, Shire looks at two ways to bring the trend into your home

Stripes are trending everywhere, from glassware to wallcoverings and bedding. And the look goes hand in hand with another interiors fashion – panelling. For SlatWall specialists Naturewall,

the appeal is obvious. Olivia Crosher, interior designer for Naturewall said: “Not only are stripes incredibly versatile but they are fun too, bringing colour and pattern in all areas of the home. However, they really come into their own when used on the walls. As well as making a space feel more expansive, they add depth and texture to give a room an architectural feel.

“Stripes are brilliant for creating a sense of space. Vertical stripes draw the eye upwards and make ceilings appear higher, so are ideal for low-ceilinged rooms. Similarly, horizontal stripes across walls will make narrow spaces feel wider.

“Homeowners looking to add a subtle injection of personality can always rely

“Stripes really come into their own when used on the walls”

Contemporary homeware retailer Black By Design backs up the theory that stripes are definitely having their moment. The company’s research, using data from Google, found searches for ‘stripe’ in the Home & Garden category have peaked in autumn 2024. At the same time, the team recognises that not everyone wants to commit to a whole interior re-design, so they have suggested ways to bring in the same vibe, with accessories that can be changed in simple steps.

Lynette Pym, founder of Black By Design, said: “Stripes are incredibly versatile when it comes to interiors, from making a space feel more expansive to bringing a touch of sophistication to a room. It’s no surprise that homeowners are embracing them.”

With cosy evenings fast approaching, Black By Design has unveiled a collection of striped homewares to help homeowners embrace the trend. From throws and vases to glassware and carafes, it has everything

ACCENT ACCESSORIES

“Stripes can make a space feel more expansive and sophisticated”

on stripes. Bold, wider stripes create a dramatic statement, sleeker stripes offer a more understated look. Stripes literally come in all widths, sizes and colours, making them suitable for a whole range of interior styles. So if you want a cohesive interior style throughout the whole home that isn’t matchy-matchy, different stripes can be used across a variety of space.” www.naturewall.com

needed for an injection of colour and character.

Lynette said: “Stripey homewares can be a vibrant antidote to the gloom of winter. Their bold patterns add a sense of energy and cheerfulness to any space. Whether it’s a striped throw to snuggle under, or striped vase to brighten up your living room, these playful elements can instantly elevate your interior scheme.”

Striped homewares from Black By Design start from just £29.50. To browse the collection, visit www.black-by-design.co.uk

SlatWall Mini in Walnut

Tweedmill pure new wool throw in Brecon Stripe £59.95

SlatWall in Natural Oak

Clash Dot vase by

Sun Green bowl by &Klevering £49.95

SlatWall in Natural Oak

Our Sales Office is now open by appointment.

Call Sharon on 01743 403131 or email sharon@syhomes.co.uk

Old Coleham Court is Shrewsbury’s most exciting new riverside residence

• One- & two-bedroom apartments

• Penthouses & duplex with large terraces

• Ideally located in Coleham, Shrewsbury

• Contemporary architecture & design

• Spacious, light-filled, luxury interiors

• Open-air central courtyard

• Above-ground, ANPR-secured parking with EV chargers

• Lift access to all levels

• Expertly engineered for its riverside location

• Excellent energy-efficiency: EPC-rating B

Orders now being taken for Tesla Powerwall 3

www.tesla-powerwall.co.uk

The Rennet Works, 11 Market Street, Ellesmere, Shropshire, SY12 0AN 01691 624336 | renewables@princeslhs.ltd

www.princeslhs.ltd

www.tesla-powerwall.co.uk

The Rennet Works, 11 Market Street, Ellesmere, Shropshire, SY12 0AN 01691 624336 | renewables@princeslhs.ltd

www.lowcarbonhomesystems.co.uk www.tesla-powerwall.co.uk

www.tesla-powerwall.co.uk Orders now being taken for Tesla Powerwall 3

#Hashtag #Home

#OnTrend

Anew study has revealed the most popular home design trends, based on TikTok rankings. While we might not all be fans of the channel so adored by teens and celebrities, we can’t ignore its influence across all spheres, and home interiors is no exception. There are millions of accounts sharing stylish images of homes as well as refurb and renovation projects. Experts at Cinch Home Services analysed data from TikTok’s Creative Center under the ‘Home Improvement’ section to compile their top ten.

Love it or loathe it, interiors and design trends are one of the many areas now mainly in uenced by social media. We take a look at the home inspirations getting the most online traction

6The #LuxuryLiving aesthetic, accounting for over 388,000 posts, focuses on minimalist decor and high-end furniture, often aligning with the ‘quiet luxury’ trend. Features include marble coffee tables, walk-in closets, statement mirrors and fire pits.

5In autumn 2024 #Blankets have amassed over 397,000 posts. As the weather begins to cool, they’re seen as an essential for both warmth and aesthetic value. Faux fur and weighted blankets have been rising in popularity, due to their luxurious appeal.

10In 10th place, with over 234,000 posts on TikTok over the past four months, is #Rugs. The start of winter means that cosy has become all the rage, and rugs in rich, warm colours are a popular interior design feature, a must-have for enhancing your home’s comfort levels and aesthetics

“The #LuxuryLiving aesthetic includes marble coffee tables, walk-in closets, statement mirrors and fire pits”

9

#Sunflowers are the next most popular trend, with over 310,000 TikTok posts. Perfect for adding a pop of colour to your surroundings, they can be dried and preserved to last through winter, and are also proving a popular motif for prints and fabric.

8#ArtsandCrafts amassed over 313,000 posts. In addition to being cost effective, crafting is a great creative outlet, while handmade decorations add a unique personal touch in the run-up to Christmas.

4

#PlantTok is TikTok’s fourth most prevalent home design trend, with over 579,000 posts in the past four months. Filling your home with plants is a fantastic way to connect with nature while brightening your decor. In addition to improving the air quality of your home, indoor plants have an undeniable aesthetic quality, bringing colour, texture and life to a room.

7Related to the crafts trend, #Spray-painted artwork is another favourite, with over 344,000 posts. People are increasingly using spray paint to add a pop of colour to existing furniture, for a new lease of life. It’s also a popular way to refresh kitchen cabinets and door handles.

3When it comes to home décor, the #Modern aesthetic focuses on minimalism and functionality – the direct antithesis of cluttered spaces and an overflowing trinket collection. Over 780,000 posts have covered the topic.

2Leaping the bar with over a million posts is #Bouquets. A stylish bouquet, often from a local florist, finds its way into every aesthetic video uploaded to TikTok. Placed in an eye-catching vase, bouquets are a fantastic centrepiece for any room.

1Offically the most popular design trend for winter 2024, with over two million posts is… drumroll, please… #Candles – and as Christmas nears, they become even more soughtafter. They do provide an undeniably cosy atmosphere indoors, though, which is why Shire loves them too!

Weighted blankets are at no.5

Influencers hold increasing sway

People love to share ideas and pick up tips online

Season’s greetings

1. Green Christmas Woodlands cushion £29.95, The Range; www.therange.co.uk

2. Frosted Winter Berry Pine 6ft artificial Christmas tree £99.99, Charlies Ltd, Welshpool; www.charlies.co.uk

3. Snowflakes & Robin hanging decoration 30cm wide £3.99, Charlies Ltd, as before

4. Traditional Christmas hand-printed paper garland £13.50, Mostyn, Llandudno; https://shop.mostyn.org

5. Mini red tartan fabric heart decoration £5, Mostyn, as before

6. Painted boot house £15.16 (sale price), British Ironwork Centre, Oswestry; www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk

7. St Eval scented gold-dipped multi-wick candle in Winter Thyme £26.50, The Silver Pear, Ludlow; www.silverpear.co.uk

8. Winter Solstice wood slice coaster set £9 for four, Make Your House A Home, Whitchurch; www.makeyourhouseahomewhitchurch.com

9. Christmas Village wooden napkin holder £12, Make Your House A Home, as before

10. Medium red glitter bow decoration 22x30cm £6.99, Bents Garden Centre, Warrington; www.bents.co.uk

11. Red berry wreath with bells £21.99, The Range, as before

12. Nkuku Karru Christmas stocking £35, John Lewis; www.johnlewis.com

13. Wicker Berry Star tree topper £12, John Lewis, as before

14. Standing Santa with nutcracker puppet £69.99, Bents Garden Centre, as before

Cosy up

Settle in for winter with a new stove, fire or surround and some wonderful fireside accessories

1. Alexander & James Percy chair £519, Hafren Furnishers, Llanidloes and Aberystwyth; www.hafrenfurnishers.co.uk

2. Clearview 750 high canopy stove from £2,214, Clearview Stoves, Bishops Castle; www.clearviewstoves.com

3. Evershot electric stove with oven £1,495, Derwas Fires & Stoves, Welshpool; www.derwas.co.uk

4. Herdwick sheepskin footstool in oak-stain wood £235, Ewemoo, Swansea; www.ewemoo.co.uk

5. Ecofan UltrAir 810 stove fan in Black £105, The Stove Company, Wrexham; www.thestovecompany.co.uk

6. Stove brush £19.20, Clearview Stoves, as before

7. Fireside ash bucket £12.99, The Range; www.therange.co.uk

8. Willow log baskets with natural rope detail from £22, RN Williams, St Asaph; www.rnwilliams.co.uk

9. Black Bird Fireplaces Hemyock spark guard £59 (sale price), British Ironwork Centre, Oswestry; www.britishironworkcentre.co.uk

10. Flare Barrowden 42-inch timber inglenook surround in Natural Oak & Anthracite £819, Hafren Furnishers, as before

11. Pentagram trivet £15.95, The Stove Company, Wrexham; www.thestovecompany.co.uk

12. Carimel oak fireplace surround price on request, Fires by Design Ltd, Measham, Leicestershire; www.fireplacebydesign.co.uk

13. Ironwood Thaw stove (Ecodesign, Clearskies level 5), RN Williams, as before

14. Mansion Duchess 24-inch fireplace companion set in Antique Brass £39.99, Charlies Ltd; www.charlies.co.uk

CHRISTMAS SHOPPING AT TREFRIW WOOLLEN MILLS

VISIT US FOR QUALITY CHRISMAS GIFTS OR TREAT YOURSELF TO WINTER WARMTH!

We specialise in Welsh tapestry bedspreads, pure wool knitwear and accessories for ladies and gents, sheepskin gloves, slippers and rugs. We also stock seasonal gifts, decorations and stocking fillers. Find us in the picturesque village of Trefriw in the foothills of Snowdonia.

- Saturday

Trefriw Woollen Mills, Main Road, Trefriw, Conwy Valley LL27 0NQ 01492 640462. W: www.t-w-m.co.uk

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RECEIVE UP TO £20,000 DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION* With 95% of phase 1 reserved, phase 2 is now selling— we have homes ready for you to move into now.

Plants&Gardens

A winter stroll at Bodnant

Not all of the big gardens in our patch are open through the winter, but some such as Bodnant in North Wales encourage visitors with special seasonal suggestions

Thegarden team at Bodnant, near Conwy in North Wales, want to make sure they keep up a steady stream of visitors over the winter months, so they’re come up with an appealing attraction that will suit young and old alike – a gentle circular walk among nature on Bodnant’s Winter Garden trail.

This short walk takes you through 250 years of horticultural history and is suitable for all the family to enjoy. It is dog friendly, can be completed in under an hour – or ambled along in over an hour, it’s up to you – and covers about half a mile. Here’s how to enjoy it and a guide to what you might find along the way.

Through the laburnum arch

As you leave the Visitor Centre take the curving gravel path straight ahead beside the old acer tree. After a few metres take the first left turn and head for the Laburnum Arch. On the left of the arch entrance you’ll see another old acer (Acer dissectum palmatum). Its twisted trunk looks stunning even in winter. Exit the arch by turning right and continuing ahead until you reach the main path. Continue to your left and follow the path. To your right you’ll see four large trees: two sessile oak (Quercus petraea), a common beech (Fagus sylvatica) and a sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa). Continue along this path a few feet until the next turn on your left, next to the Himalayan birch (Betula utilis, var. jacquemontii). Turn left here into the Winter Garden.

Continue along the path, passing Magnolia ‘Heaven Sent’ to your left. A little further along you’ll come to a bench on the right, where you can enjoy the view into the centre of the Winter Garden. Looking left as you continue along the path, you’ll see the Old Park, a meadow with native trees that was laid out in Georgian times. Continue down the path alongside the Winter Garden boundary.

Champion tree

Just past the gate to the Old Park meadow you’ll see an evergreen ‘Champion Tree’ on your left – you may catch the scent of its white winter flowers too. This is false holly (Osmanthus fortuneii). Eight metres high, it’s the tallest of its kind in the British Isles. (Champion Trees are the best examples of their kind and Bodnant is home to 40 UK Champions and 130 Welsh Champions.) At this junction, you can opt to turn right and loop back up in a circular route along the crazy paving through the Winter Garden. Alternatively, from the Osmanthus tree, continue onward a few metres towards a bench on the left. A little further on the righthand side spot a large group of early-flowering pink Rhododendron nobleanum. From this bench you’ll get a great view of the formal East Garden, running from the Round Garden to Bodnant Hall. Loop around the Round Garden and back up along the north boundary of the Winter Garden alongside the Top Lawn. At the top turn left along the Puddle Garden. Developed in 2011, it honours three generations of Bodnant head gardeners, Frederick, Charles and Martin Puddle, who played a key part in the development of the garden from 1920 to 2006. It is filled with plants loved by these men, including a number of rhododendron hybrids raised here. Back at the Acer palmatum ‘Osakazuki’ near the Visitor Centre, turn left on to the Range borders. You’ll find the garden exit along the garden wall on the right.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/wales/bodnant-garden

Children will love exploring the garden’s hidden corners

e joys of winter gardening

Dispelling the old notion of ‘putting the garden to bed for the winter’ our friends at Reaseheath College in Nantwich have rounded up all the jobs you need to do at this time of year

Whenweather permits, spending a couple of hours in your garden is a fabulous opportunity to enjoy the last splashes of autumn colour from leaf and berry, and to appreciate nature as it slows down. Remaining flowers, vegetables and fruit can be harvested, and you can sow and plant now for a spring harvest or to crop through winter.

On the patio

• Plant heather, small ferns, pansies, violas, primulas and trailing ivy in pots for winter colour. Place where they’ll get most sun

• Fill a terracotta pot with hyacinth bulbs for scent and colour in spring

• Prevent containers becoming waterlogged by raising off the ground using bricks or ‘pot feet’

• Insulate delicate plants in bubble wrap or horticultural fleece and move to a sheltered spot

In the garden

• Plant Christmas roses (hellebores) for beautiful winter flowers, ranging from deep pink to lime

Winter cheer

TOP TIPS

Buying bulbs early ensures they’re fresh – and you’ll have a wider selection

Peas and beans store nitrogen in nodules on their roots. When clearing, cut off the tops for the compost heap and dig the roots into the soil as a natural fertiliser.

Use foliage and dried flowers to create a Christmas wreath

• Plant bare-root roses anytime from now to March. It’s a great time to plant a native rose hedge

• Naturalise daffodil bulbs into grassed areas using a bulb planter

In the veg patch

• Plant rhubarb crowns in soil with plenty of organic matter

• Plant out strawberry plants in freshly cleaned beds

• Build supports and plant raspberries and blackberries. You can also introduce currants of different colours and bare-rooted gooseberries

Indoors / in the greenhouse

• Sow pots of basil, dill, chives and parsley on a bright windowsill

• In the greenhouse, sow winter salads that don’t require extra heat such as lettuce ‘Winter Gem’, winter land cress, purslane and corn salad.

followed by ornamental (but not edible) black berries. At 1 metre in height, it is also happy in a pot filled with moist, well-drained soil and placed by the front door, where its perfume welcomes visitors.

Here is Shire’s round-up of the best plants to brighten your garden in November and December commonly plants.

Common dogwood: ‘Midwinter Fire’

The stems of this aptly named shrub are resplendent on bright, frosty mornings and it also delivers good leaf colour in autumn. Plant in groups or singly in a sunny spot and keep well watered. Once established, cut back to 5-7cm from the ground in late March or early April to promote colourful new growth.

Sarcococca

The sweet or Christmas box as it’s commonly known is a perfect winter-flowering evergreen for a shady border. Glossy, dark leaves are complemented by small, white vanilla-scented flowers from December to March,

Winter-flowering clematis

At a sparse time of year, the evergreen foliage and beautiful floral display of winter clematis is sure to impress. Although clematis commonly flower in summer, ‘Freckles’ puts on its show of scented, cream bell-shaped flowers from December to February with the bonus of glossy leaves, tinged with bronze. Choose a sheltered, sunny position and support with a trellis, arch or pergola.

Winter pansies

Providing dependable colour until mid-spring, smaller flowered varieties are more weather resistant and easier to combine with other plants. Who can resist their little faces, providing cheer on the darkest days!

Plant up pots for winter colour

Time to put the rhubarb in

Sow a miniature herb garden

Join a wreath-making class

Beautiful hellebores

Pets&Wildlife DANGERS FOR DOGS

The

winter months pose a few risks to our furry friends – and some may surprise even the most careful of pet owners

AsNovember rolls in and the UK braces for an unpredictable winter, pet owners are being urged to remain vigilant. Forecasters are predicting plenty of wet weather, which brings with it certain risks that can affect our canine companions. While cosying up indoors may seem appealing, those bracing the elements on dog walks should be aware of the hidden dangers that come with winter weather – particularly the risks associated with dogs drinking from puddles.

Puddles, a seemingly harmless attraction for thirsty or curious pups, can harbour serious threats to their health. Pooch & Mutt’s resident vet, Dr Linda Simon, shares important advice on how to keep dogs safe when out and about during wet and muddy walks.

Hidden risks

“One of the biggest risks with puddle drinking is the possibility of a dog catching leptospirosis,” explains Dr Simon. “This is a serious infection passed on by vermin, and it can also be transmitted to humans. It can make both dogs and people very unwell. Fortunately, vaccinated dogs should have some level of protection, but it’s still crucial to be cautious.”

Aside from puddle drinking, there are several other seasonal dangers pet owners should be mindful of as the temperature drops.

Antifreeze poisoning: used in our cars during winter, antifreeze poses a significant risk to pets. Even a small amount can be lethal if ingested. Dogs (and cats) are often drawn to the sweet taste, but the chemical ethylene glycol can cause kidney failure. Be sure to clean up any spills immediately and store products out of reach.

Salt and grit: while grit and road salt help keep our streets safe, they can be harmful to dogs’ paws and stomachs. Prolonged exposure to salt can cause irritation, dryness and cracking in their paw pads. And if they lick their paws afterwards, they could ingest harmful chemicals, leading to vomiting or electrolyte imbalances. Consider wiping your dog’s paws after walks or using pet-safe booties to protect their feet.

“Always carry a collapsible bowl and a bottle of water”

Leptospirosis, often referred to as ‘lepto’, thrives in stagnant water, making puddles, ponds, and other water sources breeding grounds for the bacteria. Infected dogs can suffer from symptoms ranging from fever, vomiting and diarrhoea to more severe outcomes like liver and kidney failure. In some cases, the infection can be fatal if not treated promptly.

Dr Simon also highlights that puddles can contain a range of other pathogens, such as giardia or campylobacter that can upset your dog’s stomach or cause intestinal distress. “Even if your dog doesn’t catch a life-threatening disease, drinking from a puddle can result in stomach upsets, which is uncomfortable for both dog and owner.”

Preventive measures

Dr Simon advises dog owners to be proactive in preventing their pets from drinking from puddles. “When heading out for a walk, always carry a collapsible bowl and a bottle of water for your dog. If they’re insistent on drinking from puddles, keep them on a lead to prevent them from doing so.”

Hypothermia and frostbite: just like humans, dogs are susceptible to cold weather conditions, especially smaller breeds, those with short coats and elderly pets. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can lead to hypothermia or frostbite. Make sure your dog has adequate protection, such as a warm coat, and avoid extended walks in extremely cold weather.

Darkness and low visibility: with winter’s dark mornings and evenings, there’s a higher risk of pets getting lost or involved in accidents. Make sure your dog is visible to passing cars – and to you! – by using reflective gear, LED collars or clip-on lights.

Stay safe

With the onset of colder, wetter months, preparation is key to keeping your dog safe and healthy. Regular vet check-ups are recommended to ensure your pet’s vaccinations, including the leptospirosis vaccine, are up to date. Keep an eye on your pet’s behaviour during and after walks, and always be cautious when they encounter puddles, grit or other winterrelated hazards.

For more advice, visit www.poochand mutt.co.uk

Road salt can make paw pads sore

Keep them cosy!

Aim for shorter walks when it’s really cold

WIN CUTE PETS

Winter wildlife wonders

Our friends from the RSPB share some thoughts as we head into the chillier months

Atthis time of year, it’s easy to retreat to the comfort of our homes. Wildlife too hunkers down, with many species huddling together for warmth. The colder weather can mean that some birds turn to urban spaces, where the temperature can be a little warmer than the wider countryside. With trees and shrubs now bare of their leaves, look at dusk for species such as pied wagtails, gathering on branches, all fluffed up for extra warmth.

Out in the countryside some of our native bird species are joined by birds from eastern and northern Europe, escaping the colder conditions there. Starlings gather at dusk, in sometimes huge groups, creating spectacular aerial displays of flight known as murmurations, swooping together over reedbeds before dropping down to roost for the night.

Another native species particularly associated with this time of year is the

BOOST FOR BUTTERFLIES

There’s positive news from researchers, who report that the UK’s butterflies are responding to a helping hand

Thanks to the dedicated efforts of gardeners across the country, some of our most delicate insects have been given a much-needed lifeline. New research shows that simple, wildlife-friendly practices can, and have, dramatically boosted butterfly numbers in the UK.

The six-year study, led by scientists from the wildlife charity Butterfly Conservation, has provided the first solid evidence that allowing areas of grass to grow long in gardens can increase butterfly numbers by up to 93 per cent. The study offers an exciting glimpse into how small changes in our gardens can create a big impact for the natural world.

robin, a favourite on Christmas cards since the Victorian times. It is one of the few bird species that sing all year, so even on the coldest, darkest days its song can lift your spirits on a walk.

Otters at play

Highlights of a visit to RSPB Ynys-hir in these months include special raptors like the hen harriers. Their breeding habitats are upland moors, but they have suffered from persecution in the past and their breeding numbers are still low. The male is a distinctive pale grey, the females and young birds are brown with a white rump and a striped tail, giving them the name ‘ringtail’. Flying with wings held in a shallow ‘V’, gliding low in search of food in the winter months, you can spot them over the wet grasslands here at the reserve.

As vegetation dies back across the site, winter vistas are exposed from the woods to the reedbeds and hills beyond. Search along the wetland paths for signs of one of our most playful water mammals, the otter. You may be lucky and see them on our saltmarsh trail, at Marian Mawr pools or on the riverbank at Domenlas hide.

“Winter vistas are exposed from the woods to the hills beyond”

Why not take part in some of the seasonal activities at the reserve, from wreath-making workshops to natural decorations? Wrap up and come for a walk to immerse yourself in the seasonal attractions of this stunning Welsh reserve. Check our opening times and events at www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/ynys-hir

Butterfly Conservation’s research, published in Science of the Total Environment, is the first of its kind to prove that long grass and wilder garden spaces are key to attracting butterflies. Undertaken by Dr Lisbeth Hordley and Dr Richard Fox, the study analysed data from more than 600 UK gardens, collected by members of the public through the charity’s Garden Butterfly Survey.

Exciting potential

The findings show that gardens with areas of long grass not only saw an impressive increase in the number of butterflies but also attracted a wider range of species.

The presence of wild, untamed patches in urban areas and near intensively farmed land had the most significant impact, showing that even in densely populated or agricultural regions, biodiversity can thrive with just a little help.

“Long grass makes a real difference to butterfly numbers”

“In areas dominated by arable farming, we saw up to a 93 per cent increase in butterfly numbers in gardens with long grass,” said Dr Fox. “Urban gardens showed an 18 per cent rise, demonstrating that even here, we can make a real difference.”

As gardens in the UK cover more than 728,000 hectares – the equivalent of over a million football pitches – the potential for change is enormous.

Spot winter visitors

Wrap up and come for a walk

The Peacock shows its finery (photo: Andrew Cooper, Butterfly Conservation)

Small white: © Ann Collier, Butterfly Conservation

rsa’s outiqu

Nestled in the heart of Shrewsbury, Teresa’s Boutique is more than just a ladies fashion shop —it’s an experience. Since its opening in 2019, the boutique has quickly become a go-to destination for those in search of carefully curated clothing that exudes style and sophistication. Stocking a range of exclusive brands such as Bariloche, Tinta, Alice Collins, Jack Murphy, Marble and Robell, Europe’s No. 1 selling trousers known for providing a size and shape for every figure.

Each piece is handpicked by Teresa, who travels both across the UK and internationally to find the finest fabrics and unique designs. Whether you’re looking for a stunning outfit for a day at the races, a lunch or dinner with friends, or simply a fabulous jacket to wear all year round, Teresa ensures her collection caters to all shapes, sizes, and personal tastes. The boutique also specialises in beautiful wedding outfits for Mother of the Bride or Groom, offering a selection of hats and accessories, as well as cruise wear that’s perfect for those special voyages. It’s all about offering versatility with style, helping you feel confident and fabulous every day.

But the magic of Teresa’s Boutique goes beyond the clothes. When you visit, you’re not just shopping; you’re welcomed into a relaxed environment where you can enjoy shopping with no pressure. Teresa herself is always on hand to guide you, offering a personal touch that makes every visit memorable. She encourages her customers to browse at their own pace, try things on, and take their time making decisions. This emphasis on customer care is at the heart of the boutique’s success.

Teresa also hosts two fashion shows every year — one in autumn and another in spring — offering the perfect day out with friends. These events provide a wonderful opportunity to preview the latest styles in a fun and social setting. And as the festive season approaches, Teresa’s carefully selected range of Christmas and New Year outfits—from timeless classics to dazzling pieces with sparkle —ensures you’ll find the perfect ensemble for every holiday event.

Teresa is also committed to giving back, regularly supporting the Climbing Out charity, a cause close to her heart. This sense of community and compassion shines through in everything she does, making Teresa’s Boutique a true gem in the fashion world. Follow her on social media to keep up to date with her latest events and news.

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

Classic & Timeless well chosen pieces to be worn over and over again

Here you’ll find a carefully selected collection for every kind of woman, including pieces by

Shrewsbury SY1 1ST Phone: 07849 680 234

Email: teresa@teresasboutique.com

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.

Gifts galore

1. The Bridge shoulder bag £335, Douglas Attire, Ludlow; www.douglasattire.com

2. Clogau Ripples double hoop white topaz Creole earrings £219, Mococo, Deeside; www.mococo.co.uk

3. Pretty You London plaid cotton pyjama set £56, John Lewis; www.johnlewis.com

4. Soake frilly plum umbrella £32, Appleby & Shaw, Church Stretton; www.applebyandshaw.co.uk

5. Barbour Da odil quilt jacket in Windsor £229, Peppers Menswear & Ladieswear, Church Stretton; www.peppersfashion.co.uk

6. Hoggs of Fife Lauder ladies’ pullover £51.95, Cherry Tree Country Clothing, Denbighshire; www.cherrytreecountryclothing.com

7. Longline flower necklace £23.50, Tweedmill Shopping Outlet, Denbighshire; www.tweedmill.co.uk

8. Lofina mid-length boot in London Magnolia £342, Olivia May, Cheshire; www.oliviamay.org

9. B.young wool poncho £39.99, MOOand BOOM, Whitchurch; www.mooandboom.com

10. Pan Aroma scented tealights advent calendar £4.99, Charlies Ltd, Welshpool; www.charlies.co.uk

11. Jo & Joe Tiggi slippers in Dark Grey £10, Charlies Ltd, as before 12. Carignan pullover £95, Gemina knitted skirt £95, Abi Fisher, Cheshire; www.abifisher.co.uk

13. Bobble hat £19.99, fingerless gloves £16.49, Tweedmill Shopping Outlet, as before

14. HJ Hall Country Dog socks £4.50, Cherry Tree Country Clothing, as before

Beach bliss

If you're in need of some headspace before the Christmas rush, look no further than the newly unveiled Spa at The Beaches Hotel in Prestatyn

JustDip & Dine

One-course lunch and swim, £20 per person

a short drive along the scenic North Wales coast, The Beaches Hotel and Spa is a haven of tranquillity, offering the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of daily life. The Spa boasts a calming swimming pool, a soothing spa bath and a revitalising hot room, all ideal for melting away stress. A dedicated relaxation room provides a tranquil space to unwind before or after your treatments.

The Spa caters specifically to your needs, with a comprehensive menu of body and facial treatments utilising the renowned Thalgo skincare range, tailored to your specific skin type. Renowned for its focus on marine-based ingredients, Thalgo products promise a transformative experience, leaving your skin feeling nourished and revitalised.

“We understand the demands on everyone nowadays,” says Sacha Massey, general manager of The Beaches Hotel and Spa. “Our new Spa is designed to offer a haven of relaxation and rejuvenation by the Irish Sea, allowing guests to truly relax, and return home feeling refreshed and pampered.”

Whether you’re seeking a solo spa day, a relaxing escape with friends or a romantic getaway, The Beaches Hotel and Spa is the perfect solution. Throughout November and December, indulge in 20 per cent off all spa treatments, making a luxurious spa experience even more affordable.

To discover the full range of treatments and book your escape, visit www.thebeacheshotel.com

“Looking for a thoughtful Christmas present for a loved one? Treat them to a Spa Day Gift Voucher”

Escape &Relax

Lovelife,wakeupbytheIrishSea. BookyourSpaBreakinNorthWales.

TheBeachesHotelandSpa, Prestatyn,NorthWales

TheBeachesHotel.com

This region features some of the most stunning locations in the UK to hold a wedding celebration. Our readers will look first to the businesses or venues featured in the Shire Weddings Specials.

We feature venues, hotels, wedding dresses, mother of the bride wear, chauffeur services, cake services, catering, photography, entertainment and more...

Look out for our Weddings Special in the

Health&Beauty

WINTER S.0.S!

A timely reminder to Save Our Skin. As we head into the colder months, it’s just as important to consider the need for sunscreen and other protection measures to maintain a healthy complexion

Just because the temperature drops doesn’t mean your skin is safe from damage. Harsh weather, indoor heating and even minimal UV exposure can accelerate signs of ageing if left unchecked. With the rise of social media trends focused on youthful looks, particularly among the younger generation, society's fixation on anti-ageing is coming into question. Rather than chasing the reversal of ageing, experts suggest taking a balanced approach to maintaining healthy skin from an early age. Yelena Budovskaya, PhD, ceo of epigenetic health company TruMe Labs, shares five tips for skincare in your 20s and 30s that are as important in winter as in summer.

Wear sunscreen

It’s essential for protecting skin from UV damage, which can lead to premature ageing. According to Yelena, checking the UV index daily and applying sunscreen

with an SPF of at least 30 (ideally 50+) when necessary is key. The NHS also recommends using broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield skin from both UVA and UVB rays.

Cut down on processed sugar

High sugar intake accelerates the ageing process through glycation, which damages collagen and elastin, two proteins vital for maintaining skin elasticity. Yelena highlights the benefits of a diet rich in anti-inflammatory and antioxidant foods, such as berries and nuts, which help neutralise the harmful free radicals that damage cells.

Avoid harsh chemicals

Yelena advises against using alcohol-based or abrasive skincare products, which can strip the skin of its protective barrier. Instead, opt for gentler ingredients like niacinamide, ceramides and naturally occuring hyaluronic acid to help retain moisture and keep the skin hydrated. She also recommends paying attention to daily habits that expose skin to bacteria, such as touching your face after handling everyday objects.

This time we’re ironing out the facts about wrinkles…

Old age causes wrinkles

This is true, at least in part. While ageing is the primary cause of wrinkles, factors such as sun exposure, smoking, dehydration and repetitive facial expressions can contribute to premature wrinkle formation. Young people can develop wrinkles due to these environmental and lifestyle factors.

Sleeping on your back prevents wrinkles

This is actually partly true: sleeping on your side or stomach can contribute to

Be wary of skincare trends

Sticking to a consistent skincare routine is more effective than jumping on every new bandwagon, notes our expert. Many popular skincare fads lack scientific backing, and frequent product changes can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier. Instead, focus on products that work well with your skin type and have proven results.

“Drink plenty of water”

Prioritise sleep and hydration

Quality sleep allows the skin time to repair and regenerate, while chronic stress from sleep deprivation can break down collagen and elastin, speeding up ageing.

Hydration is also vital; alongside drinking water, using hydrating skincare products and consuming water-rich fruits like cucumbers help maintain skin health.

the development of ‘sleep lines’ over time, especially on the face and chest. While sleeping on your back may reduce pressure on the skin, it’s not a guaranteed way to avoid wrinkles entirely.

Facial exercises can prevent or reduce wrinkles

This is false, unfortunately! Repetitive facial movements – such as squinting or frowning, for example – can actually cause wrinkles, particularly around the eyes and mouth. While some people believe facial exercises can ‘tone’ the skin, they are more likely to accelerate wrinkle formation by breaking down collagen.

Arts&Crafts

AFONWEN CRAFTS

2nd November, Jenny’s Crafts Jenny makes wonderful shawls and rugs from sheep and alpaca fleece, which she dyes herself.

3rd November, Ally Mo Maureen produces lovely knitwear, and Alison quirky gifts and cards.

9th & 10th November, Tegfan Textiles Janette’s cards, scarves and textile art often combine processes and mediums, and she tries to use every last scrap.

12th & 13th November, Magpie Fairy Designs Liz has many of her metal tape crafts on display and is happy to advise beginners.

16th & 17th November, Thelma Evans Local artist Thelma paints with a delicate style.

19th November, Crafty Sisters

The ladies make jewellery, from resin, fused glass and beads, embellished in eye-catching colours.

A burst of colour

One local artist is having the time of her creative life, producing work full of passion, joy and fun

Jill and one of her playful designs

Jill

H.Art, an open studios festival that takes place each September. “It’s been very successful for me and this year was no exception,” Jill says.

A new challenge

Jill’s design-led style has prompted suggestions over the years that her work would translate well to textiles and wallcoverings. “I’ve finally taken up the challenge,” she says. She is now studying surface pattern design and learning to use industry-standard digital tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator to create designs that can be licensed for commercial use.

28th November, Stef Nicol Stef is a local artist and will have many of her wonderful paintings on display. She takes commissions.

29th November, Weaving with Trevor Blackburn Trevor works with wool, alpaca and camel yarn, and is always happy to chat.

5th & 6th December, Sandra Roberts Sandra creates unique pieces of jewellery using eco silver.

7th & 8th December, Gill Benjamin Local artist Gill takes many commissions.

10th-13th December, Jackie at Jewels Jackie will have lots of wonderful pieces perfect as gifts and to suit most ages.

17th & 18th December, Noodle & Norman Kate makes all her wonderful, quirky jewellery using polymer clay, which she decorates.

21st December, Marie at Earth Deva Marie has a huge selection of handmade gifts, including her own original designs.

Afonwen Craft & Antique Centre, near Mold, open Tues-Sun 9.30am-5pm. www.afonwen.co.uk

Crowther, resident artist at Apple Store Gallery in Hereford, is a vibrant force on the contemporary art scene. She describes her work as “very colourful, contemporary and fun. I want each piece to give joy.”

Her process is rooted in experimentation, with a focus on abstracting subjects and seeing where the journey takes her. “I like to play. I go into a place of pure creativity,” she says. “The goal is to see what happens, what I’m capable of. That’s the thrill for me.”

The move is opening new doors. “It will enable me to sell my art to companies for their products,” she explains. Already her fabric designs are available through Woven Monkey (under the name JC Art), where customers can order fabric by the metre. Some popular items include a wash bag in her Cornflowers and Dragonflies design, and an apron featuring her Seedpods motif.

“My work is very colourful, contemporary and fun. I want each piece to give joy”

Jill’s artistic practice divides into three main areas: pure abstract, semi-abstract and figurative, all of which are showcased on her website. Visitors to the site can also watch a video of Jill in the studio, working on a piece called Irises

Her dedication and focus are unwavering. “It’s all-encompassing, it’s my passion, it’s the ultimate form of self-expression,” she says.

Pushing the boundaries

Working in a variety of media, from pastels and acrylics to watercolours, oils and mixed media, Jill’s versatility allows her to push the boundaries of her creativity. Beyond original artwork, she offers prints, greetings cards and cushions featuring her designs. Her studio, located above the gallery, is open to visitors, a welcoming space to discuss commissions. “If you live within a 50mile radius, I can deliver by hand,” she adds.

An important platform for connecting with art lovers and potential clients is Herefordshire’s

Jill’s commitment to exploring new avenues, whether through new media or commercial connections, reflects her ever-evolving journey as an artist.

From canvas to screen, she continues to push boundaries, inviting audiences to experience the joy that defines her work. For those seeking a burst of passion in sombre times, her art is a celebration of the unexpected, in both subject and possibilities. www.jillcrowtherart.com

“The goal is to see what happens,” says Jill

SparkyAuthor and DoodleDeb, aka Sarah and Debbie

e future’s bright

Visitors and residents alike are thrilled with the outcome of an ambitious art project in this Shropshire town centre

Astrikingnew mural celebrating Oswestry’s popular indoor market has been unveiled in the heart of the Shropshire town. Adorning the side of Powis Hall, just off Bailey Head, the colourful artwork offers a bright welcome to visitors and provides a snapshot of the treasures that lie within. From fresh fish to flowers, books to haberdashery, cakes to coffee, it beautifully captures the essence of the market’s eclectic offering.

Measuring an impressive six metres wide by three metres high, the mural doesn’t just showcase the variety of items on sale but also pays tribute to local landmarks and buildings, and even features Ghost the cat, a muchloved local mascot. As an additional touch of interactive fun, visitors are invited to snap selfies under a bunch of painted balloons – which can also be purchased inside.

The mural is part of a broader initiative by Oswestry Town Council to revitalise the market, made possible through government funding. Future improvements include new

flooring and lighting, enhanced accessibility and the installation of a heritage clock on the front of the market hall, all designed to make it an even more attractive and welcoming space for shoppers.

Labour of love

Artists Sarah Parkinson and Debbie Carr, better known as SparkyAuthor and DoodleDeb, are the creative minds behind the mural. They said: “This has been a labour of love. To perfect our original design concept on such a large scale, whilst being able to add so many tiny, yet important details, has been challenging but so rewarding. We’ve worked really hard planning this epic task and would like to thank everyone who has helped us.”

The artists were keen to express their gratitude to local businesses and supporters. “Our thanks to Griffiths Hire Shops for the scaffolding, and especially to Dyfan; Morgans Decorators for the paint; SDPS for the vinyl templates for the word Oswestry; council staff for being on hand whenever we needed them, and always with a smile – and to all the people of Oswestry who have shown up literally every day, excited and buzzing to see the progress throughout the week.”

The mural has quickly become a source of local pride, with Oswestry’s mayor, councillor Mike Isherwood, praising the artists and their work. “The mural is a great advert for our indoor market and a wonderful addition to our town, bursting with colour and fun. The design draws inspiration from our fantastic array of market traders and from our town’s rich heritage. Sarah and Deb are rightly feeling happy and proud. They have created a lasting celebration of our market for all to enjoy,” he said.

As the council’s project to enhance the market space continues, the wall signals a bright future for this cherished institution.

‘Mapping Anglesey’, Oriel Mon, Llangefni, until January 19th For centuries, maps have been used for many purposes, from helping to guide travellers to confirming political boundaries and land ownership. With examples from the Anglesey Archives and private collections, this exhibition takes you on a journey to explore Anglesey through maps. Featuring rare 16th-century manuscript maps through to estate maps and coastal charts, it reveals how mapping techniques – and the island itself – have evolved.

‘The Romance of Ruins – the Etchings of George Cuitt’, Chester Grosvenor Museum, until January 12th George Cuitt (1779-1854) was Chester’s greatest Regency artist. His etchings of the city’s medieval architecture and the ruined abbeys of Yorkshire invite us to look again at these familiar places. Clearly indebted to the picturesque tradition, which emphasised visual delight, Cuitt always retained his unique point of view. This exhibition draws extensively from the Grosvenor’s art collection, revealing anew a master of print-making for the first time in nearly 200 years.

‘Sun & Fire – Life and death at the dawn of history’, Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery, until April Experience life in Shropshire between 4,500 and 2,000 years ago – roughly the time when the Romans invaded Britain in 43CE. Before the Romans came, people in Britain didn’t use writing. That means there’s a lot we don’t know about them. But they left many objects and other traces in the landscape and by examining these closely, we can try to work out what their lives were like. Come and see how we can tell that heat was vital to them. Find out how they used fire to make beautiful and useful objects, to cook and to cremate their dead. Step into the ancient Shropshire landscape at this new thought-provoking exhibition and experience them for yourself.

Selfies encouraged!

PHOTO COMPETITION

What a fabulous array of images our ‘Fall’ contest inspired – thank you so much for all your entries. We’ve shared as many as we can here, but if you didn’t make it into print, we hope you do next time!

With Christmas just around the corner, your new challenge is ‘Holiday Cheer’. What makes you smile about the festive season – the children’s excited faces? Christmas pud? Or just putting your feet up? Email your photos to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk. Good luck!

By Julie She eld

By Jill Parry

By Kieran Hudson

By Marion Zazzi

By Jill Parry

By Sue Hutchings

By Sally Stacey

By Jill Parry

By Julie She eld

By

Kieran Hudson

By Jill Parry

By Sabrina Hackett

By Julie She eld

By Stuart Carr

By

Sabrina Hackett

Thrilling, unputdownable storytelling set in mid-Wales

Set in a fictional version of the Welsh market town of Llanidloes, Kim Gravell’s awardwinning Dark Places novels are modern fantasy at its best.

Exciting, fast-paced adventure, well-drawn characters and beautiful descriptive writing combine in stories that pull you in and keep you reading, wanting just one more page.

“Right from the start, the author sets the mood and doesn’t let up. This is for sure one of those stories that you don’t want to put down.”

Available from Amazon and AbeBooks.co.uk. For more information visit www.kimgravell.com

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.

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

Illuminate a colour lover’s world with a spectrum of glass

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.

Ji Crowther Art

My work is very colourful, contemporary and fun. I want each piece to give joy

Outlets / stockists: Apple Store Gallery, Hereford Willow Gallery, Oswestry Website shop, jillcrowtherart.com

Email: jill71@outlook.com Telephone: 07562112712

Books&Poetry

SPOOKY SHORTS

Kim Gravell, a prize-winning author from Llanidloes, is set to thrill readers once again with a new book of short stories

“…that sense of unease that comes in the still of the night when the corners of the room are lost in shadows”

Kim Gravell moved to Mid Wales in 2001 and quickly found the rugged hills and old lead mines to be the perfect backdrop for her writing. Her ‘Dark Places’ trilogy is set in a fictional version of Llanidloes, and captivated readers with its vivid storytelling. The first novel, The Demon’s Call, won a Red Ribbon in the prestigious Wishing Shelf awards, marking her as a rising talent in the world of paranormal fiction.

“I’ve always had a fascination with the paranormal,” Kim says. “I think a lot of people relate to that sense of unease that comes in the still of the night, when the corners of the room are lost in shadows.”

Success in a magazine competition encouraged Kim to explore a new format. “So many people have asked me for a short story collection,” she says. “The

MEET THE AUTHOR

Chester’s annual celebration of literature, poetry and more is back this November, with an exciting line-up of events for book lovers, aspiring writers and culture fans.

The 2024 Chester Literature Festival takes place at Storyhouse and brings together an array of talent, from poets and historians to comedians and authors. With readings, discussions, workshops and Q&As, don’t miss the chance to engage with your favourite writers and explore the power of storytelling in all its forms, including:

People’s Friend bursary was the nudge I needed.”

Tales Beyond Midnight is an anthology of stories ranghing from fantasy to dystopian and crime thriller, showcasing Kim’s versatility as a writer. Subtitled ‘Short stories for sleepless nights’ it is dedicated to those who have lost sleep reading her books. “As an author, one of the best things anyone can say to me is they stayed up late because they just couldn’t put the book down. That’s when I know I’ve done my job.”

For relaxation, Kim likes to run. “Running gives me time to work on my storylines – although the further I run, the more bad-tempered I get, which means my characters often su er much worse fates than they would if I stayed home and ate chocolate!”

Find Kim’s books at www.abebooks.co.uk and Amazon

• George the Poet, 14th November – politically charged poetry and social commentary

• Ruby Wax: I’m Not As Well As I Thought I Was, 13th November – her most raw and personal show yet

• Shaparak Khorsandi: Scatterbrain, 16th November –the comedian opens up about her ADHD diagnosis

• Pam Ayres & George Fenton: Who Are You Calling Vermin?, 16th November – Pam’s new show combines her humorous poems with music

• Writing Spies in the Shadow of Bond, 8th November – authors Ava Glass, Greg Mosse and Jack Jewers explore the enduring appeal of spy fiction

• Beyond the Runway, 9th November – model and ’60s icon Penelope Tree in conversation with Lady Jean Campbell

• Mackenzie Crook: If Nick Drake Came To My House, 11th November – the BAFTA-winning actor and director discusses his first book for adults, a tender tribute to musician Nick Drake

• Lucy Worsley: On Jane Austen, 15th November – the acclaimed historian delves into the life of one of our most cherished literary figures

• Luke Wright: JOY!, 7th November – exploring this elusive emotion in poetry

• Workshop: How to Get Published, 9th November – the ins and outs of the industry

• Workshop: How to Write a Book, 9th November – practical tips and guidance

• Chester Authors’ Party, 15th November – showcasing homegrown talent.

Tickets at www.storyhouse.com/ chester-literature-festival/

Rising talent: Kim Gravell

REVIEWS

We’ve picked three great reads on a numerical theme for winter or perhaps as Christmas gifts…

Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott

Teenagers Stella and Will meet in hospital and quickly develop feelings for each other. But both are living with cystic fibrosis, and the risk of infection means they must stay five feet apart.

In this young adult romance, Rachael Lippincott and co-writers Mikki Daughtry and Tobias Iaconis capture the intensity of young love, with Stella’s optimism and Will’s rebellious streak making their relationship feel authentic. The novel balances hope and heartbreak, shedding light on living with chronic illness while delivering a moving love story.

Six Years by Harlan Coben

Jake Fisher is still pining for the love of his life, six years after her marriage to another man. When he learns Natalie has been widowed, he is compelled to find her – but everything he thought he knew about their past soon starts to unravel, in dangerous and unexpected ways. A tense, well-crafted thriller.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

A reclusive Hollywood icon chooses an unknown journalist to write her tell-all biography. Evelyn’s story is both glamorous and heart-rending, and the novel delves into themes of love, ambition, identity and sacrifice as she recounts her rise to stardom and her seven tumultuous marriages.

Earth Day

Tread carefully

As you walk upon the Earth. Care as you tread upon our green land. Our planet will eventually be finite.

Earth Day extols the beauty And the delicateness

Of Mother Earth.

Each day, a treasure.

Our time spent in this world

Should be revered, For a lifetime is not long Walking, feeling our way

Upon our journey,

This Earth Day!

Anne Douglas

What does summer mean to me?

Still, shallow and silent, at the Dyfi mouth

Ripple free, waiting for the turn, Colourful dinghies, sailing and fishing boats

Tethered to their buoys, calmly facing upstream, Soon to be disturbed and rotated to face the distant sea.

Just for now all is quiet, Soundless specks circling above.

A human void.

Smooth emerged sandbanks, Appearing innocent and inviting to explore,

Their deception and treachery revealed in the darkness.

Bunched caravans almost hidden in the dunes

Peacefully basking in the sun’s reflection. Jellyfish floating in the shallows. Suddenly the angry cry of a gull Swooping downwards for a feed. Broken! The tranquillity is over.

Shells scraping on the sandy bed, pebbles chinking, The repetitive sound of an outboard motor, Excited voices on the shore.

The water level is rising rapidly. Swimmers and sails reappearing. Tomorrow the welcome return of a placid estuary.

Jo Young

0n Kindness, Cheerfulness and Joy

May we be cheerful, positive and kind in what we do and with the words we say; let’s keep all hint of misery at bay, and radiate instead, the joy we find around us, and the love and peace of mind

encountered – mostly every single day –for even when our skies seemed somewhat grey, the sun, for sure, for some, came out to shine.

A cheerful disposition is a sign –it’s said – of one who has a loving heart, which is the key to all that we would do. And whether it is veiled, or clear in view, our inner joy should always play a part in every act, intention or design.

Mikeila Burns

Oh, for a potting shed

Wu Wu was the Secret Seven’s password

Where Betjeman’s Myfanwy settled her bicycle

Monty Don whispering his advice

A compost called Diazepam

A last bastion of tranquillity

Oh, oh for a potting shed

Eric Craven

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

AFFORDABLE BOARDING

Haberdashers’ Adams has a reputation for academic, musical and sporting excellence. In addition, as a state school there are no education fees to pay, making sixth form boarding an affordable option. Families only pay the fees associated with boarding, making it a perfect stepping-stone between home and university.

“A stepping stone between home and university”

Ify Chinwuko, senior boarding captain, gives an insight into his experience: “Life as a boarder is a unique blend of camaraderie, routine and independence. Each day starts early, with the sounds of our alarms echoing through the dorms, signalling

the start of a well-structured schedule. Mornings are filled with bustling activity as students prepare for classes, sharing quick conversations and laughter over breakfast in the dining hall, before the school day filled with lessons, sport and extra-curricular activities.

“Evenings bring a quieter rhythm; study sessions and communal dinners create a sense of unity among boarders. Weekends offer a respite, with opportunities for relaxation, recreational activities and outings.”

Visit Haberdashers’ Adams Senior Boarding House on 21st January during Open Week.

CELEBRATING IN STYLE

Moor Park in Ludlow hosted a hugely successful 60th anniversary ball, with glamourous guests gathering

in a beautifully decorated marquee to celebrate this milestone for the school.

Alumni from across the years joined past and current teaching staff, parents, governors and friends to share happy memories of their time at the school. An auction and raffle generated over £27,000 for the Founders’ Fund, supporting future bursaries to help more families access a Moor Park education.

UNIVERSITY CHALLENGE

This summer 45 students from Concord College in Shrewsbury were celebrating success in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, C3L6. The students secured an impressive 21 gold awards, nine silver and 11 copper. Four were among only 70 winners of the highest award, the Roentgenium. Around 13,000 students from schools across the country entered the challenge, making a top 70 place an incredible achievement, being in the top 0.5 per cent.

The C3L6 is aimed at students in 6.1 (Year 12), encouraging university-style problem-solving. Congrats to Roentgenium winners Jerry, Kevin, Thomas and Hayden, who were invited to a residential at St Catherine’s College.

WE ARE U

A documentary film following teenagers from five Ukrainian cities was shown at Ellesmere College, followed by a Q&A session with all five of the young people featured. We are U shared their experiences of living through war, as well as the projects they are developing to rebuild their country, their mentors and their hopes for the future.

The screening was arranged by Ellesmere College student Anna Polonska, 14, working with Arts Centre manager. Eliza Badham-Moore and director of drama, Rachel Schubert.

Anna said: “We are delighted we have been able to show We are U not only to our own students but to other members of our community who wanted to experience this opportunity.”

The film was created by savED, a charity developed to help Ukrainian children access education, returning some normality through their right to study, socialise and prepare for future success. .

INSPIRING SUCCESS

With January mock exams on the horizon, pupils at coeducational independent Rydal Penrhos in Colwyn Bay are drawing encouragement from the school’s latest GCSE and A-level results. This summer saw 25 per cent of Rydal Penrhos pupils achieve the highest possible grade of A* (9 to 8), over quadruple the Welsh national average of 6 per cent. In addition, 47 per cent secured A* to A (9 to 7) grades, more than twice the Welsh and UK national averages of 18.7 and 21.8 per cent.

The school maintained its strong academic standards at A-level, securing a 100 per cent pass rate for the fifth consecutive year, with 37 per cent of pupils attaining A* or A, surpassing the Welsh national average of 30 per cent.

Results day at Rydal Penrhos

The Roentgenium stars

Anna at the screening

Hanging out with friends after lessons

At the champagne reception

WORLD CHAMPION

An Elite Pathway student in Year 13 at Cheadle Hulme Sixth Form has been crowned Junior Men’s Kickboxing World Champion 2024. Rory, who is studying three A-levels at Cheadle Hulme, represented Team GB in the World Association of Kickboxing Organization’s Junior World Kickboxing Championships in Budapest.

“Support in balancing academic studies with a rigorous training regime”

He has been enrolled on the Elite Pathway at the school since its inception, and has received support in balancing his academic studies with a rigorous training regime and club and international competitive commitments. Rory is now the best Junior Men’s tatami fighter in the world – congratulations on an amazing achievement.

SAFETY IN THE MOUNTAINS GREEN TEAM

Christ College Brecon was pleased to present a cheque for £2,500 to Brecon Mountain Rescue, following another ambitious Mountain Challenge earlier this year. The event, which has become a popular fixture in the Brecon community, offers an opportunity to explore the breathtaking landscape of the Brecon Beacons while raising awareness and funds for the charity. Brecon Mountain

Rescue oversees checkpoints, ensuring safety and tracking competitor timings.

“Their work is paramount”

Chris Kerr, director of outdoor education at Christ College Brecon said: “It’s wonderful to be raising money for such important causes. The work of Brecon Mountain Rescue is paramount in keeping us all safe in the mountains, and the CCB Foundation enables us to help all pupils develop their potential, irrespective of their background.”

Next year’s event will take place on 24th May 2025.

TURTLEY INSPIRING

Award-winning writer Hannah Gold visited The Queen’s School Lower School in Chester to share her latest literary journey. The author of The Last Bear captivated Key Stage 2 and Year 7 pupils during an engaging session centred around her new book, Turtle Moon

The session sparked curiosity and enthusiasm among the girls, who were fascinated to learn quirky facts such as how turtles breathe through their bottoms!

Head of English, Alison Bradshaw said: “Hannah’s visit not only enriched the girls’ understanding of storytelling but also inspired them with important environmental messages.”

“Fascinated to learn quirky facts”

StThomas and St Anne’s Primary School in Hanwood, near Shrewsbury has won £750 worth of plants and trees in a garden competition.

The school’s design was one of three shortlisted by Love Plants at Salop Leisure and Shrewsbury Food Festival and displayed at the festival, where it took top prize. The school plans to create an outdoor area that can be enjoyed by the whole community, including local care home residents.

Headteacher Hannah McGrath said: “As a small school, it means so much to us and will have a tremendous impact.”

Take a bow

Oswestry School first-former Jasper is celebrating an outstanding year in competitive outdoor archery, achieving several personal bests alongside the Gold Rose award and the Six Gold Rose.

Jasper was overall U12 Shropshire Heritage Series male champion and took home the male Junior Trophy for the series across all age categories. He secured silver at the Shropshire County Championships and bronze at the Junior National Outdoor Championships. At the Cheshire Junior Open Tournament, he won Gold in his class and was awarded the Top Visiting Recurve Score (Boy) trophy. Congrats on a remarkable set of results!

Aximaiorro ist ommolut

Rory is on the Elite Pathway

Headteacher Gareth Pearson presents the cheque

Jasper’s a top shot

The school has big plans

Hannah meets Queen’s School readers

E

Britain’s first female neurosurgeon.

Diana Beck attended The Queen’s School before pursuing a medical degree at the London School of Medicine for Women, going on to establish the first neurosurgical department at Middlesex Hospital and paving the way for future generations of female surgeons.

The commemorative plaque was unveiled at her former home and consulting rooms in Marylebone, London where she lived from 1948 to 1954.

“…love of learning, a drive to excel”

Adistinguished alumna of The Queen’s School in Chester has been honoured by English Heritage with a prestigious Blue Plaque, recognising her ground-breaking achievements as

Isabelle takes to the skies

Teenage pilot Isabelle Gledhill flew arches over seven local schools as part of a flying challenge, raising money for Hope House children’s hospice.

Diana’s commitment to her field and her advocacy for women in medicine continues to inspire today’s women – including pupils of Queen’s – to pursue careers in science. “She embodied the values our school instils in its students – a love of learning, a drive to excel, and the courage to defy expectations,” said headmistress Joanne Keville.

SWEET START

TheFirs School in Chester has enjoyed a wonderful start to the new school year, welcoming families for the annual coffee morning. Parents were invited to visit classrooms, and at the end of the first week the children were treated to ice-creams.

The school is excited for the busy term ahead, full of learning, sports, special events and extra-curricular clubs, including a parent pottery class, music and drama.

MUSIC MATTERS

Forty-eight students from The Thomas Adams School joined other secondary schools for the 3-18 Education Trust’s inaugural music event. Students from The Priory School in Shrewsbury, St Martin’s in Oswestry and William Brookes in Much Wenlock and their music teachers gathered at Thomas Adams to perform as a massed orchestra.

“It is really exciting”

The 15-year-old from Market Drayton took time out from GCSE studies to fly over the Marches Schools Academy Trust for the ‘Colours of the Rainbow’ challenge for the British Women Pilots’ Association, before returning to Sleap Airfield, Shrewsbury.

The young musicians performed four songs including ‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ by Journey, ‘Shake It Off’ by Taylor Swift, ‘Hallelujah’ by Leonard Cohen

“She joined a gliding club at 10”

Isabelle has wanted to fly since the age of six, joining a gliding club when she was just 10. She enjoys regular lessons with Shropshire Aero Club. So far, she has raised over £650 of her £1,000 fundraising target – there’s still time to sponsor her at justgiving.com/ page/isabellesflyingchallenge

and ‘Danger Zone’ from Top Gun. Rebecca Heywood, director of music at Thomas Adams, said: “This came about from our Music Network meetings. It is really exciting to celebrate music-making with the Trust and I hope we can be involved with more events.”

LET’S HEAR IT FOR THE GIRLS!

Almost100 people gathered at a London wine bar for the first ever Old Salopians Girls’ Night Out, marking 10 years since girls joined the Third Form at Shrewsbury School.

Girls were admitted to the Sixth Form in 2008 when Mary Sidney Hall opened, followed by Emma Darwin Hall in 2011. When girls arrived in the Third Form in 2014, The Grove became a girls’ house, along with Moser’s in 2017 and Queen Elizabeth in 2023.

“They enjoyed swapping stories”

The Old Salopians enjoyed swapping stories and memories, including those who have experienced modern co-ed.

Diana Beck, 1900-1956

Nine members of sta joined the fun

Isabelle prepares for take-o Welcome back!

The young musicians loved the experience

Recruitment

THE WAY YOU WORK IT

We are excited to introduce a new section to Shire Magazine, dedicated to all things related to the world of work and recruitment

Love it or hate it, work is a big part of most of our lives. On these pages, we’ll be exploring the ever-evolving landscape of employment, offering advice, insights and expert opinions on trends and challenges shaping the world of work. Whether you’re seeking new opportunities, reflecting on how the workplace has changed or interested in where the future is heading, stay tuned.

Seismic shift

The world of work has undergone immense changes over the past half-century. In the 1970s, the typical workday for adults was often defined by stable employment in industries like manufacturing, mining and office-based jobs that required physical presence. Workers typically held the same job for decades, even for life, with a clear pathway from entry-level positions to retirement. It was a time of rigid hierarchies, standard hours and a strong expectation that work was separate from your personal life.

to split their time between home and office, have become widespread. Many jobseekers now place work/life balance above traditional incentives such as salary and job security. For employers, this has meant a significant shift in recruitment strategies, with a stronger focus on employee well-being, purpose and sustainability.

“The culture has moved to a more dynamic model”

Fast-forward to the 2020s, and the landscape is unrecognisable. While manufacturing and manual jobs remain, their prominence has waned, replaced by a surge in technology-driven industries. The rise of the service sector and the ‘gig economy’ have fundamentally altered the way adults approach their working lives. Where once there was stability and routine, now there is flexibility and constant change. The Covid-19 pandemic acted as an unprecedented catalyst, accelerating trends that had already begun to surface. Remote working became a necessity for many industries, and ‘Zoom’ meetings, home offices and virtual collaboration became the new norm.

As the dust settles in a post-pandemic world, many are reluctant to return to the old ways. Hybrid working models, allowing employees

People-focused

The world of work is not only responding to societal changes but actively shaping them. The push for greater diversity and inclusion, and growing recognition of mental health’s impact on productivity have transformed the workplace. Employment culture has moved away from the rigid, topdown approach to a more dynamic, people-focused model. Digital transformation has affected both how and where we work. The concept of a ‘global workforce’ has taken off, with companies hiring talent from across the world for remote or freelance roles. AI and digital platforms are transforming recruitment: employers and employees alike are expected to have an online presence and building a ‘personal brand’ is critical to career development.

One thing is clear: flexibility and adaptability are key. In the coming months, we’ll be bringing you insights from industry experts, and practical advice for jobseekers navigating this fast-changing world.

FACTS AND STATS

• As of June–August 2024, 75 per cent of people aged 16-64 were in employment in the UK – around 33.37 million.

• Unemployment stood at 4 per cent, with 1.39 million people actively looking for work.

• 9.26 million people aged 16-64 were economically inactive (not seeking work) – 21.8 per cent of the working-age population.

“Flexibility is key” More roles are remote

• The number of job vacancies in the UK was 841,000 from July–September 2024. Vacancies remain above historical norms.

• In the three months to August 2024, wages increased by 1.7 per cent in real terms (adjusted for inflation). Nominal wages rose by 3.8 per cent including bonuses (4.9 per cent excluding bonuses).

*

Companies are becoming more inclusive

Universities & Colleges

NMITE’S ROYAL VISITOR

New Model Institute for Technology and Engineering welcomed the Duke of Edinburgh to its Centre for Advanced Timber Technology at the award-winning Skylon campus. His Royal Highness met NMITE president and ceo James Newby, along with academic staff and students.

The visit provided an opportunity to witness NMITE’s unique approach to learning, with MEng and BEng Integrated Engineering students showcasing their projects. Professor Hairstans, CATT

AA+ AUDIT

TRAINING FOR HAWK

“A centre for research and education excellence”

director said: “It is a privilege to have the opportunity to explain how CATT is being established as a nationally renowned centre for research and education excellence.”

Reaseheath College in Nantwich has received a coveted AA+ rating – the highest possible – from food industry consumer protection organisation BRCGS, following an unannounced audit. Processing halls manager Mike Bennett said: “It’s important that Reaseheath proves it is the absolute best food training centre. These audits highlight our positive food safety culture and dedication to ensuring students are trained in a centre that follows the highest standards.”

Building on 10 years of partnership working, Grŵp Llandrillo Menai and defence company Babcock International Group have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding that expands the scope of specialist aeronautical training provision at RAF Valley.

Working together with awarding body EAL, Babock and Grŵp Llandrillo Menai have established seven specialised training programmes or Industrial Vocational Pathways for Babcock

personnel employed on the MoD Hawk contract. Grŵp Llandrillo Menai already delivers an Aeronautical Engineering Programme Apprenticeship for Babcock, which has seen over 70 apprentices take part since it was set up in 2016.

UNIVERSITY NEWS

SUSTAINABILITY PRIZE

Harper Adams graduate Harry Parsons was one of five students to win a Morrisons Sustainability Prize at the 2024 Harper Adams graduation ceremony. Harry studied BSc (Hons) Agriculture with Farm Business Management.

Prizes were awarded to students for Honours research projects or final-year dissertations relating to sustainability, with each recipient receiving £500. Harry’s project was titled ‘An Evaluation of the Uptake and Utilisation of Precision Livestock Farming Technologies on British Dairy Farms’, and involved researching technologies, the companies behind them and the farmers who use them.

Harry has moved on from campus life to a graduate role with his placement employer.

DIGITAL HUB

Telford College welcomed a range of businesses to its new base in the town’s Station Quarter for a meeting of its Digital Employer Skills Hub. It was the first hub meeting to be held at The Quad, the college’s new Digital & Maths Skills centre in the heart of Telford town centre.

Participating employers included Wrekin Housing Group, Lanyon Bowdler and Shropshire Chamber of Commerce. Attendees had a tour of the new facilities before sitting down to discuss current issues in their sectors. The hub is an opportunity for businesses to feed into the college’s curriculum planning, with employers working together to share best practice and o er support and training opportunities.

Beckie Bosworth, Telford College’s director of apprenticeships and employer engagement said: “Members will be able to share recruitment models, training resources and facilities, and even candidate referrals in the right situation.”

TEACHING RELIGION

Dr James Holt, associate professor of Religious Education at the University of Chester, has released the latest in a series of books for teachers. Understanding Hinduism: A Guide for Teachers explores Hinduism as a lived religion, engaging with beliefs, practices and concepts that form the central tenet of Hinduism and its expression in worship and daily life.

James is currently chair of examiners for Pearson/Edexcel GCSE, A-level and International GCSE Religious Studies. Previously he worked as an RE teacher. He said: “In my role I aim to train and inspire the RE teachers of the future. I hope this book helps to give teachers more confidence to teach this fascinating area of RE.”

Harry Parsons

The Duke with James Newby (centre)

A student explains a project

Working together in Telford

Dr James Holt

Expanding training at RAF Valley

It was the college’s first BRCGS audit

MEET CUBBIE…

The University of Wolverhampton is the first higher education institution to take delivery of a new immersive, multi-sensory space where people can go if they feel stressed, anxious or want to energise. The Cubbie is part of a £1.5 million refurbishment of library facilities at its City Campus.

Work started at the beginning of summer to refurbish the ground and third floor of the Harrison Library, creating an accessible Student Life Centre to house frontline help and support for students in the areas of mental health and wellbeing, disability and inclusion, finance, safeguarding, and skills for learning.

“The space helps regulate sensory stress”

Cubbie is an immersive sensory space that helps regulate sensory stress through professional, tailor-made programs. The facility was designed with autistic and neurodivergent people in mind, but can benefit anyone feeling stressed or anxious.

MUSIC & MORE

Agroup of Sound Engineering learners from Coleg Cambria Deeside recently spent two weeks in Barcelona as part of an education and research programme, in partnership with international careers organisation NexGen.

“…how to break into the industry”

The trip gave students access to experts in the sector, as well as an opportunity for sightseeing. The group visited Barcelona Zoo, the beach and saw the city from the air on a cable car ride.

Learner Cory Robinson said: “We learn a lot of technical skills in college, so to look at setting ourselves up in business and how to break into the industry was very useful, and gave us the knowledge to do that in the future.”

Opportunities on the doorstep

Dr Clare Dickens, associate director, student life said: “We are the only university in the world to have taken delivery of one of these spaces… part of our focus in our Strategy 2035 to improve the student experience with additional channels of support. Cubbie offers sensory breaks that are timed and reliable, as they are tailored to each student and their needs.”

Chester at the Oscars

University of Chester is celebrating being shortlisted for the prestigious Times Higher Education Awards in not one but two categories: Business School of the Year and Outstanding Library Team of the Year.

“Not one but two categories”

Chester Business School is committed to connecting with the outside world to prepare students for the future, working with the local community and entrepreneurs. The library team collaborated via a Students As Partners initiative to create a decolonising and diversifying toolkit for reading lists.

Widely recognised as the Oscars of higher education, the THE Awards attract hundreds of entries each year from all corners of the UK and Ireland. Winners will be announced at a ceremony in London on 28th November.

Herefordshire, Ludlow & North Shropshire College offers a range of courses suited to working people who wish to study part time to enhance their prospects. HLNSC believes it is important people can access good quality study programmes locally, without the time and cost of travelling out-of-county. Students can achieve a Higher National Certificate (HNC), Higher National Diploma (HND), a Certificate in Higher Education or a Foundation Degree, working in small groups with a high level of support from tutors. Courses available include Community Coaching for England, Computing, Counselling and Health & Social Care. Full course information at www.hlnsc.ac.uk

“Small groups with tutor support”

Welcoming the Cubbie to Wolverhampton

The University: shortlisted

Visiting the Cruïlla cultural festival

Achieve AMAZING THINGS

Hear from some of our students who are going on to study at various universities around the UK.

It’s a really good learning environment, all staff are friendly and chatty, therefore there is a good vibe around the place and they have good sports facilities for football etc.

Kai Davies -Cardiff Met University

I was supported so much during my time at North Shropshire College. My course gave me a wide range of knowledge and I loved the experience I gained during my work placement.

Evie Richards -University of Salford

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INVEST AND GO? A COMPELLING CASE

It’s been said that a wise approach to investment in the stock market is to make your choice and then head for a desert island with no communication links for at least three, preferably five years…

This drastic approach was meant to stop the investor from watching the markets day to day, worrying about any temporary falls and making changes that would later prove ill-judged. The logic holds true today: investment in shares is for the long term, and what happens in the short term is often best ignored as nothing more than noise.

“The figure emerged on a Friday, giving those prone to panic the chance to spend the entire weekend fretting”

If you went on holiday for the first half of August 2024, you could have experienced something very similar over a shorter timeframe (provided you resisted the temptation to look at your phone). The first two days of August were consecutive days of disappointing employment data from the US, prompting concerns that the US economy was heading for a recession, even though it grew at a healthy annualised rate of 2.8 percent in the second quarter of 2024. The second set of employment figures showed the US had created 114,000 new jobs in July – much lower than expected but higher than the (revised) figure for April. Unfortunately that figure emerged on a Friday, giving those prone to panic the chance to spend the entire weekend fretting that the US economy was about to crash, dragging the world economy with it.

On Monday 5th August, amid speculation that the US Federal Reserve would have to make an emergency rate cut of at least 0.5 percent, the Japanese stock market (as measured by the Nikkei

225) collapsed by over 12 percent. On the following day, there was a change of heart and the Japanese market rose by over 10 percent. Thereafter, a calmer mood prevailed, aided by better US employment data on Thursday 8th August. As the graph shows, by 16th August the US market (represented by the S&P 500) was higher than at the end of July, and Japan was down, but by less than 5 percent.

As a lesson in ignoring the noise in favour of the beach, it could not have been a better example.

Provided by Hartey Wealth Management Limited. 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.

* The value of your investment and any income from it can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. Investing in shares should be regarded as a long-term investment and should fit in with your overall attitude to risk and financial circumstances.

Retirement Living

PAYING THE COST

The changes to the Winter Fuel Payment will impact a lot of our older readers this year. Is it a harsh move or a long-overdue update?

As the winter months draw near, many older people across the Shire patch will be preparing for colder temperatures and rising energy bills. The Winter Fuel Payment, a lifeline for many since its introduction in 1997, is designed to help with these costs. However, recent changes to the scheme, effective from winter 2024, have sparked considerable debate. While the government argues that the adjustments are necessary, many fear they could leave vulnerable individuals struggling.

The Winter Fuel Payment was originally introduced to help older people heat their homes during the coldest months. Available to anyone born before 25 September 1957, the payment is usually made between November and December and ranges from £100 to £300 depending on age and individual circumstances. In recent years, however, the sustainability of the scheme has come into question, as an ageing population gives rise to an ever-increasing number of claimants and the cost to the public purse swells. With the economic aftershocks of the Covid-19 pandemic, Brexit and the ongoing energy crisis to contend with, the government has had to scrutinise all areas of public spending. As a result, changes to the WFP have been implemented as part of a broader strategy to manage the nation’s finances more effectively.

What

now?

Under the new guidelines, the payment structure has been altered to prioritise those deemed most vulnerable. While all pensioners previously received some level of payment, the 2024 changes introduce a means-tested element. Pensioners on low incomes, particularly those receiving Pension Credit, will continue to receive the full amount or even enhanced payments. Those with higher incomes may see their payment reduced or eliminated. There are also changes in eligibility for people living abroad.

Why now?

From the government’s perspective, the modifications are a pragmatic response to current financial pressures. With over

“There is concern that the changes could increase fi nancial anxiety among older people”

Many face tough choices

12 million people over the age of 65 in the UK, the cost of the Winter Fuel Payment has ballooned to over £2 billion annually. Critics of the original scheme pointed out that wealthier pensioners received the payment even if they did not require it. This universal approach was seen by some as an inefficient use of public funds. Energy prices have also been highly volatile, with bills rising sharply in 2021 and 2022, leaving the government looking for ways to manage costs while continuing to support the most vulnerable.

What it might mean

While there are sound economic reasons for reforming the Winter Fuel Payment, the changes are not without controversy. Many older people fear they could face financial hardship as a result. For those who will see their payments reduced or stopped entirely, the decision could lead to tough choices this winter.

Many pensioners live on fixed incomes and have already been squeezed by rising inflation and energy costs. The additional burden of losing some or all of the WFP may force some to cut back on heating, potentially putting their health at risk.

According to Age UK, cold homes can exacerbate health conditions such as arthritis, respiratory issues and cardiovascular problems, leading to a higher risk of hospitalisation during the winter months. There is also concern that the changes could increase financial anxiety among older people.

Supporters of the changes argue that they are a necessary step towards creating a more sustainable and fair system. By focusing resources on those most in need, the government can help the most vulnerable pensioners without overstretching public finances. They also point to other schemes, such as the Warm Home Discount, which remain in place to assist older people with energy costs, and the fact that pensions rose considerably this year and are due to do so again in the spring.

There are strong reasons both for and against the changes but here’s hoping they don’t cause hardship for many readers.

JINGLE ALL THE WAY

A big family Christmas isn’t always top of everyone’s wishlist. Here’s Shire tips for getting through the festive season not just unscathed but smiling

Ah,Christmas! The twinkling lights, the carols, the mountain of mince pies and, of course, the big family gathering. With the passing years, the prospect of hosting or even attending a large family Christmas can be a little overwhelming. But fear not – here are some ways to keep the festive chaos under control and your energy intact.

1. Pace yourself

You might have been a festive dynamo in your younger years, but now it’s time to embrace a slower pace. There’s no need to run yourself ragged trying to do everything at once. Spread tasks out over several days – maybe one day for putting up the tree, another for food shopping, and another for preparing a few dishes. After all, who says Christmas miracles need to happen all at once?

2. Delegate, delegate, delegate

you need to

This is the time to pass the baton. Let the younger generation handle the heavy lifting. Whether it’s cooking, setting the table or managing the kids, don’t be afraid to

CHRISTMAS PAST

Join us as we take a look at the changing traditions of the season. Bring back any memories?

• Stir-up Sunday Traditionally, families gathered on the last Sunday before Advent to make the Christmas pudding, taking turns to stir the mixture and make a wish. Nowadays, with shop-bought puddings readily available, this ritual has almost disappeared.

• Carol singing While carol services are still popular, it’s rare for groups to go door to door singing. This used to be a common way for communities to come together and spread festive cheer.

• Christmas cards In the past, people sent and received dozens of cards, which would be proudly displayed in the home. With the rise of digital communication and e-cards, most homes now only receive a handful.

• Stockings at the foot of the bed Remember the excitement of waking and finding Santa had been? Most gift action has now shifted to the living room.

• The King’s Speech Once, families gathered around the TV or radio to hear the monarch’s Christmas message live at 3pm on Christmas Day. With modern technology, many catch it later or skip it altogether.

delegate. It’s a perfect opportunity for the family to learn the art of making the perfect roast potatoes – or at the very least, how to clear the table. By sharing the load, you’ll save yourself from exhaustion and make Christmas a more collaborative (and fun) affair.

3. Keep it simple

Gone are the days when you were expected to whip up a three-course feast from scratch. Embrace simplicity! You don’t need to make everything yourself. Ready-made trimmings, pre-prepped vegetables and shop-bought puddings can be a life-saver. Or why not encourage everyone to bring a dish, and avoid the stress of doing all the cooking yourself. Your only job then is to enjoy what’s on offer!

4. Take breaks

It’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of a big family party, but don’t forget to take care of yourself. Step away when things get too noisy, or find a quiet corner to sip a cup of tea and recharge. Even just five minutes away from the mayhem can make all the difference. It’s your Christmas too, so don’t feel guilty about taking a breather.

5. Enjoy the moment

With age comes wisdom, so they say, and one of the perks of advancing in years is knowing that perfection isn’t the point. Christmas is about spending time with your loved ones, even if things don’t go exactly to plan. If the turkey’s a bit dry or someone forgets the crackers, it’s not the end of the world. What matters most are the memories being made – the laughter, the jokes, and even the occasional short-lived squabble.

In the end, Christmas is about togetherness, and you’ve more than earned the right to enjoy it without taking on all the work. So put your feet up, let the younger ones fuss over the details, and relish the magic of the season without lifting a finger –unless it’s for another mince pie!

Personal finance

Are you taking advantage of Trivial Benefits?

TheEmma Williams, B.A. (Hons), F.C.C.A. is client manager at D.R.E & Co. Chartered Accountants & Chartered Tax Advisers in Oswestry

Trivial Benefits in Kind (BiK) exemption applies to small non-cash benefits such as a bottle of wine or bouquet of flowers given occasionally to employees. Taking advantage of the exemption offers an excellent, and tax-efficient, opportunity to give small rewards and incentives to employees. The key condition is that the gifts are not provided as a reward for services performed or as part of their duties. Gifts for personal milestones such as the birth of a child or a marriage, as well as other gestures of goodwill, usually qualify.

Employers benefit as these trivial BiKs do not need to be included in PAYE settlement agreements or reported on P11D forms. Additionally, they are exempt from Class 1A national insurance contributions.

To qualify for the tax exemption, trivial BiKs must:

•Not be cash or a cashvoucher (something that can be directly changed to cash);

•Cost £50 or less;

•Not be part of a salary sacrifice or other contractual arrangement;

•Not be given in recognition of services performed by the employee as part of their employment, or in anticipation of such services.

“Gifts

for milestones such as a birth or marriage

Home care

EXPERT VIEW: WHERE TO CARE?

Mandy Williams-Vance is the registered manager at Komplex Care, a nationwide company specialising in supporting adults and children with complex care needs in their own home.

For many, the phrase ‘home care’ conjures up visits to older people to make them lunch or keep them company for a while. In reality, the concept has developed over the years and it’s now possible to provide hospital-level care in people’s own homes, for individuals with complex needs and multiple health conditions.

Staff training led by nurses and other clinicians ensures homecare teams have the right skills and knowledge to be able to safely and competently manage everything from respiratory equipment to gastronomy feeding to medication schedules. All of this means those with acquired brain injury, spinal cord injury, motor neurone disease,

“It’s now possible to provide hospitallevel care in people’s own homes”

muscular dystrophy and many other conditions are able to return home from hospital much sooner, avoid unnecessary admissions and live as independently as their health allows.

Why is home care preferable?

There are many answers, not least the increased comfort and uplift in wellbeing that comes from being in your own surroundings. Care plans can be arranged around the individual’s schedule rather than being dictated by staff shift times and the needs of multiple patients, as they would be in hospital. The individual can live with or be visited at any time by family and friends – they don’t need to be away from all of their personal possessions and their beloved pets.

A chance to thank sta

For directors or office-holders of close companies and their families, there is an annual cap of £300. Each gift must still adhere to the £50 limit, but this allows up to £300 of non-cash benefits per person each year. This cap does not apply to employees. If the £50 limit is exceeded for any gift, the entire value becomes taxable.

At Christmas, it is worth thinking about gifting staff £50 vouchers. Selecting a voucher redeemable at a variety of shops makes this ‘trivial benefit’ a significant one, stretching its value through power of choice.

D.R.E. & Co. has offices in Oswestry, Shrewsbury, Ludlow, Newtown, Wrexham and Knighton. Call 01691 654 353 or see www.dre.co.uk

With the right support, children may be able to access education alongside their peers, and community activities are also possible for many being cared for at home, or opportunities like volunteering, going on holiday, even working.

How can we all benefit?

The recent government review by Lord Darzi highlighted that 13 per cent of hospital beds are occupied by people who could be discharged if suitable care was in place in the community. If those who are stable but require ongoing care receive that support, it ensures hospitals are reserved for the onset of illness or injury, surgery and short-term recovery – leaving us all better served by the healthcare system. www.komplexcare.co.uk

• Self Assessment

• Audit

• Book-keeping

• Accounts Preparation

• Payroll ...plus many more specialist services. • Making

DRY EYES?

‘Dry eye’ is a common condition that a ects millions worldwide, particularly women and older people. It’s easily managed and your eyes will be the healthier for it

Dry eye happens when your eyes don’t make enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly, leading to discomfort like burning, itching and blurred vision. Managing dry eye can help ease these symptoms and improve eye health.

he thought his foreman had been dragged over the edge by his rope following the print machine in its downward destructive plunge!

On A Gravestone

One of the easiest ways to manage dry eye is by using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops, which keep your eyes moist. You can use them throughout the day as needed. If your dry eye is more severe, your doctor may prescribe antiinflammatory eye drops such as ophthalmic cyclosporine or lifitegrast to help with irritation.

“Punctal

plugs are tiny devices placed in the tear ducts to stop tears draining too fast”

Another option is punctal plugs. These are tiny devices placed in the tear ducts to keep tears from draining too fast, helping your eyes stay moist longer.

For people with gland issues, warm compresses and eyelid cleaning can help. This promotes better oil flow from the glands in your eyelids, which helps tears stay on the eyes longer.

DID YOU KNOW?

In severe cases, scleral lenses, a special type of contact lens, can help keep the eyes hydrated. Eye drops made from your own blood, called autologous serum eye drops, may also be recommended by a doctor.

Tears contain a fatty element like omega-3, so eat more nuts and fish

Simple changes like using a humidifier or avoiding fans and air conditioning blowing directly on your face can also provide relief.

For more information on dry eye or other eye issues visit www.northwaleseyespecialist.co.uk

Rearrange

Sudoku

PUZZLE TIME ANSWERS

Across

6 ____ Chaplin, granddaughter of Charlie, who has starred in Taboo and Game of Thrones (4)

8 City in Tuscany, home to the world’s oldest bank (5)

9 ’____ Three Ships‘, English Christmas carol (1,3)

10 ‘____ E ect’, term coined by the media to describe the influence of a particular royal on fashion (4,9)

11 Alan ____, fantasy author of The Weirdstone of Brisingamen, celebrated in a recent Chester Grosvenor Museum exhibition (6)

13 Evergreen conifer popular as a Christmas tree (6)

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.

15 Bard in Greek mythology who went to the underworld to rescue his wife Eurydice (7)

16 Rudolf ____, Soviet-born dancer and choreographer who produced works such as Swan Lake (7)

18 Concrete road surfacing material patented by Welsh inventor Edgar Purnell Hooley (6)

WELLS

20 Archipelago of three islands in the mouth of the River Dee estuary (6)

21 ____ Records, label originally founded in 1961 to import American music to the UK and which recorded The Dubliners and Billy Connelly (13)

23 ____ Satie, composer of the Gymnopédies and Gnossiennes (4)

24 Island country in Micronesia, 300km west of Kiribati (5)

25 ____ Martin, had a hit in 1959 with ‘Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!’ (4)

Down

1 A marketplace in North Africa or the Middle East (4)

2 A molecule with the same molecular formula as another but a di erent structure (6)

3 Thin, pointed leaves found on trees such as 13 Across (7)

4 Maria ____, AmericanGreek soprano who performed the lead in I puritani at six days’ notice (6)

5 Loch ____, Scottish lake to the north of Ben Vorlich (4)

7 18th-century Grade I-listed estate near Shrewsbury owned by the National Trust (9,4)

9 Formally questioned a government minister on their conduct or a policy (13)

12 The largest artery in the body, which carries blood away from the heart (5)

14 ‘And everyone telling you “be of good ____”’, lyric from Andy Williams’ ‘It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year’ (5)

17 A ____ of Dollars, 1964 spaghetti Western that provided Clint Eastwood’s first leading role (7)

19 American aircraft company whose 172 is the most produced airplane in history (6)

20 To become warm or more intense (4,2)

21 Metal neck ring worn by Celts in the Iron Age (4)

22 Italian greeting (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

Mid Wales town that hosts the Royal Welsh Winter Fair

Imagine having every copy of Shire magazine delivered to your door as soon as it’s printed. You need never worry again about missing an issue. Shire magazine is essential local reading, packed with great features and the best What’s On guide to our area

You can now set up a new subscription on the Shire website

Just go to www.shiremagazine.co.uk and click “Subscribe to Shire” at the top of the page

Or simply fill in the order form below, choose how many issues you’d like to receive, and send with your cheque to:

Shire Magazine Subscriptions, PO Box 276, Oswestry SY10 1FR

Mr/Mrs/Miss

First name:

Surname:

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Why not buy a friend or loved one a Xmas gift they’ll enjoy all year – a Subscription to Shire!

ONLY £24.95 12-month subscription (6 issues) ONLY £39.95 subscription (12 issues)

Starting with which issue? This issue (NOV/DEC) or the next issue (JAN/FEB)? Choose which deal you’d like: 12-month subscription (6 issues) – £24.95 24-month subscription (12 issues) – £39.95

You can pay the full amount by cheque or cash. Please complete: I enclose a cheque / cash amount for £__________ payable to Shire Magazine for which I will receive the next _______ issues of Shire Magazine posted to the address provided (UK only) Signed Date

Post this form with your cheque to: Shire Magazine Subscriptions, PO Box 276, Oswestry SY10 1FR If you have any queries, just call 01691 661270 and our friendly staff will help!

Motoring

SEAT ARONA

The marketplace is awash with small SUVs, but the Seat Arona should be high on your list, writes Bob Hickman

From a driving perspective, the Arona is like a comfort blanket.

If you’re used to a VAG interior – whether it’s a Volkswagen, Audi or Skoda – you’ll be instantly at home with the instrumentation and controls. The manufacturers seem to raid the same parts bin, and it is reassuringly familiar.

The test model came with what you’d normally think of as a diminutive 1-litre petrol engine. The engine produces 115 bhp and has a 0-60 of 10.3 seconds and an astounding top speed (where permissible) of 120mph. The CO2 g/km is acceptable at 131. What’s a big feature of this vehicle, however, is the seven-speed DSG automatic gearbox. This has an uncanny knack of anticipating the gear required whatever the circumstances, and the change is so smooth you don’t really notice it’s happened at all.

in a week of almost 300 miles on a variety of roads, including a lengthy motorway trip and plenty of stop/start in and around town, the computer suggested 47mpg. That’s not to be sneezed at.

Whilst the Arona is not a big SUV, it does give you a slightly elevated driving position and this does, of course, improve visibility on the road. It’s also satisfying being able to see and enjoy the dynamics of the vehicle.

The Arona is marketed as a four-seater, but I admit I found the rear space less accommodating than the front. The limited legroom and headroom make it really more suited to children or teens – I certainly wouldn’t want to do a lengthy journey in the back.

The front cabin accommodates driver and passenger in comfort. The steering wheel can be adjusted multiple ways and houses a lot of the controls, which is something I like to see. There’s a huge central screen for the infotainment system, and the dashboard with digital speedometer is right in front of the driver, so you can see the important dials. What I did particularly rate was the heater control, which is a separate entity in the centre console – no messing about with touchscreens to adjust the temperature. Surprisingly, the Arona still has a manual handbrake.

There’s the opportunity to choose driving mode – Eco, Normal or Sport. I stuck with Eco to see what the car was capable of, and

As you would expect in this day and age, electronic features give you a line-keeping system as standard, rear parking sensors in addition to front parking sensors, and a rear-view camera – which is now on my list of must-haves. In addition, the standard vehicle Arona also has cruise control, hill hold assist and rear parking sensors, although why you would use hold assist when you have a handbrake, I’m not sure.

The Seat Arona comes with a three-year or 60,000 miles warranty. You can extend this to four years at additional cost, and five years if you want to add another £320 – assuming that you are planning to keep the vehicle that long.

I do like manufacturers that offer a fixed-price service plan. Seat does and it is worth looking into getting it included in the initial package if you can, knowing the expense of servicing.

The Seat Arona Limited Edition 1.0 TSI 115PS DSG came in a pleasant Graphene Grey metallic paint with black microsuede upholstery and an on-the-road price tag of £28,620.

“The gear change is so smooth you don’t notice it’s happened”

Hickman is a lifelong car and motorcycle enthusiast. After a 30-year career as a police patrol officer, latterly as a sergeant patrolling the Midlands motorways, retirement beckoned and he embarked on writing about his love of transport. Bob is a member of the Guild of Motor Writers and the Midland Guild of Motor Writers. He rides a Royal Enfield Continental GT and drives a 1994 MG RV8.

Bob

Steering wheel controls and a large touchscreen

The Limited Edition 1.0 TSI in Graphene Grey

Bob approved of the 47mpg in Eco mode

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

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YOUR CHANCE TO WIN A FANTASTIC PRIZE WITH SHIRE

W in! £100 in vouchers for an Arts & Crafts experience at Wernog Wood, near Ruthin

Located in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the heart of the Clwydian Range, Wernog Wood is a hidden gem, offering over 30 traditional and contemporary craft workshops. Choose from fashioning glass, ceramics and stone to photography; drawing, painting and printmaking to leather and textiles. Why not try wood crafts, metalworking or silver jewellery making?

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Win! Four tickets worth up to £180 to see Sleeping Beauty at Storyhouse Chester

Make your Christmas extra-special with an unforgettable adventure that will transport you to a world of wonder, packed with pop favourites, audience interaction and dazzling dances. This classic fairytale runs at Storyhouse from 6th-29th December. To enter, fill in the form below.

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and daytime contact number. Send it by the closing date to Competitions,

Q: What was the first song broadcast in outer space?

a) Bowie’s ‘Starman’

b) Elton’s ‘Rocket Man’

c) ‘Jingle Bells’

Sheila, Chester, tea for two at Abakhan

Liz, Holyhead, family ticket to RWAS show

Ian, Oswestry, tickets to Whittington Music Festival

Kate, Llangollen, Aspray Chester Deeside Dragons ice hockey trip

Extra help

I’m writing on behalf of Citizens Advice Shropshire, who are looking for new trustees to help oversee their vital and much-needed service. Based in Shrewsbury, the charity is looking to recruit a new treasurer – ideally from an accountancy background – as well as trustees who can bring their skills and experience related to strategic management, charity sector regulations and compliance.

Trustees will be joining a long-standing charity aimed at giving people the knowledge and confidence they need to find a way forward. They will also play a vital role in making sure Citizens Advice achieves its core purpose by overseeing the overall management of the charity as they work towards their goals.

The charity will welcome all applications, especially from younger people or underrepresented groups. Any new trustees will be supported with an induction and a chance to meet senior managers.

Citizens Advice Shropshire has seen demand for its free, confidential and impartial service rise following the cost-of-living crisis. Last year it supported nearly 10,000 people, helping them resolve over 36,000 issues, ranging from benefits to immigration, debt to employment. The service provides a vital source of

Thanks once again to all our readers who have been keeping in touch with us here at Shire

It means so much to hear from you all – and who doesn’t love a bulging postbag as we head towards Christmas!

We’ve printed a few of our favourite letters here, but please do keep them coming. We love hearing your thoughts and opinions, as well as bits of news you want to share. As always, please include a picture when you can and send your correspondence to us at editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk

information and advice across the county. We are grateful to our long-standing trustees who are retiring this year. However, this provides us an exciting opportunity to find new trustees from our community. It is an excellent opportunity to support a trusted and important organisation, helping to ensure our vital service will continue to flourish.

Anyone wanting to find out more should visit the website at www.cabshropshire.org.

uk/join-us-as-a-trustee

Joan Hughes

Powys County Council’s Shared Prosperity Fund allocation. With this support, we are now able to actively develop our artistic plans for the next two years.

Our ‘Keep MWO on the Road’ campaign is driving this progress. Touring opera, much like the emotions experienced by the clowns in Pagliacci, faces its own set of challenges. Just as Canio must carry on performing despite his personal turmoil, we too have pushed through di cult times. Every donation helps ensure we can continue to share this unique and powerful art form with communities across Wales. Our goal is to raise £25,000 per year to secure the future of opera in Wales, keeping live performances accessible to the audiences we serve.

In case you’ve missed an edition, or perhaps you weren’t able to get out to the shops before they were snapped up, we have a supply of back copies we’re happy to send out. Let us know which one you’re looking for and we can pop it in the post – just send an SAE for £1.60 to Shire Magazine, PO Box 276, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 1FR. Better still, subscribe to the magazine so you never miss a copy of Shire again! See page 125 for details of how to do this. Keep writing, keep emailing and keep reading Shire!

READER FEEDBACK

I recently moved to the Wirral, which seems to be a place few people have heard of or even acknowledge. So I was delighted to find it well covered within your magazine. I enjoyed checking the directory of events, as well as seeing my new home area mentioned in several sections.

Carlo Dopaf

What an excellent magazine this is. And free too. Such a rare treat in this ever more costly world. Thank you, Shire

Rob Richards

As someone who has recently taken a career break and gone back to college as an adult, I loved reading your feature on adult education. Some great advice and well put together.

Kath Jones

My daughter left a copy of Shire Magazine with me on a recent hospital visit and it was a welcome read during my stay. Keep up the good work, team!

Atonia Merl

I wanted to update your readers on progress at Mid Wales Opera and the challenges still ahead. A year after losing our core funding from Arts Council of Wales, Mid Wales Opera is – almost miraculously – very much alive and kicking. This is thanks to the enormous outpouring of support from our friends and audiences, as well as a significant grant from

Like Canio, we don our costumes and step onto the stage, knowing that what we o er – emotion, music, and connection – is more essential than ever.

There is a link to ways people can support us on our website at www.midwalesopera. co.uk/support

Yours sincerely, Gareth Williams, Chair of the Board, Mid Wales Opera

Keeping opera accessible across Mid Wales

Demand has been high

NORTH WALES EYE SPECIALIST CENTRE

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Dedicated to providing exceptional eye care services in the North Wales region. We look forward to welcoming you to our state-of-the-art clinic and theatre facilities; designed to meet the highest standards of excellence and patient satisfaction O

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