Shire Magazine September-October 2022

FREEWHYBUYONE? SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 The best of NORTH and MID WALES, CHESHIRE, WIRRAL AND SHROPSHIRE HEALTH & BEAUTY | GARDENS | PHOTOGRAPHY | FASHION | BOOKS & POETRY www.shiremagazine.co.uk MAKETHEMOST OF EVERYMINUTE60TOWHAT’S ON THIS AUTUMN!50-PAGEGUIDE The boys are back in town! ON GRAPEVINETHE A passion for painting A North Wales artist whose late start hasn’t held him back My little Persian kitchen Flavours to savour from a local chef bringing spice back to the kitchen Zoos news Meet the fruity flock of young chicks keeping their keepers busy Getting hitched? Check out our weddings guide! B£AT the bills Who knew our area could produce so much fine wine? Shire did! Money saving expert Martin Lewis is here to help with home heating costs Jay Osmond brings his new musical about pop’s top family to North Wales

Holiday letting made easy officesLocal 500sitespartner support24/7 In maintenancehouse Maximiseincome Fullyservicemanaged 01248 665 www.menaiholidays.co.uk/letyourcottagenewowners@menaiholidays.co.uk155

Many of us will be hoping to keep hold of that summer sun for as long as possible, as the worrying prospect of rising heating bills is looming. With so much talk in the media of the impending crisis, we thought we’d better have a look at the facts – so in this issue you’ll find an in-depth feature on how this situation has come about and, most importantly, what we can do to try and keep on top of our energy bills.

What’s On! The most complete guide to events in your area, now with its own App –see page 145 GET IN TOUCH! We want to hear from

We’ve also got a longer read on a much more cheerful topic – wine! Not only are we looking at types and styles, we’ve spoken to some of the local vineyards and grape producers from across the Shire patch – of which there are more than you would maybe imagine. In fact, some of the vintages from our region have won top international awards and are firm favourites in the world of wine.

TURN TO PAGE

you…

Here we are heading into the autumn season once more – after a busy summer for all of us! For the first time in a couple of years it has felt like things are getting back to normal. People have been out and about, away on holiday and generally enjoying themselves – helped by some lovely, hot sunny weather across the patch.

3We have lots of regulars readers can contribute to: Reader photos Taken a great shot recently? Email your best e ort and you might get picked! See page 104. 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 141 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 107 for further details. Get social Follow, like and friend us on Facebook and Instagram to be first in line for event updates, competitions and more. Visit our website online at shiremagazine.co.uk and send submissions and information by email to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk

So settle in – maybe with a glass of local wine – and read on. Enjoy! Vines and fine wines Meet the local growers who are making a name in competitivethisindustry With a atahead,fewworryingmonthswelookwhat’scausingtheenergycrisisandhowtogetthroughit

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 November/December 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.

Alongside you’ll find all your regular favourite pages – homes and interiors, arts and books, fashion and health, and with it being the start of a new academic year, plenty of news from across the education sector.

51 for our subscriptionfantasticoer A free copy of Shire delivered to your door! If you’re having trouble getting to the supermarket and would prefer your copy delivered to you at home, just send us an A4 sae with £2 postage to Shire Magazine, PO Box 276, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 1FR. We’ll send you the latest issue by return. WELCOME, DEAR READER… IN THIS ISSUE Publisher Dan Bromage Editor Kate Speedie Chief Subeditor Wendy Reed Sta Writers Juliet SarahLyndaDaviesKennyWaterfall Designers Ella MerylKnightMcIntosh Advertising Design Andy Beavis Sales & Marketing Pauline Jones William Bushell Claire Evans Distribution Manager Paul Howard Finance & Accounts David Kynaston Nicky Kynaston Jane Osman Contributors Holly Johnson, John Hargreaves, Gloria Mans, P Parker, Helen Cooke, Bob Hickman, Lisa Whelan, Adam Gaunt-Evans, Eryl Jones, Adele Barry, Catherine Buckley, Alice Leetham, J. McKinney Email Shire magazine advertising@shiremagazine.co.ukeditorial@shiremagazine.co.uk Shire Magazine PO Box Tel:SY10ShropshireOswestry2761FR01691661270 SUBSCRIPTION RATES ONE YEAR – £19.95 TWO YEARS –shiremagazine.co.uk£34.95 SHIRE MAGAZINE is published bi-monthly by Superstar Publishing Ltd. Every e ort is made to ensure that the information and advice contained in these articles is correct and appropriate, but no liability or responsibility for loss or damage to any person acting or refraining from action in reliance on or as a result of anything omitted from such articles can be, or is accepted by, the authors, the publishers, their employees or any other persons connected with Superstar Publishing Ltd. Views expressed by contributors to Shire magazine are not necessarily those of the magazine or of Superstar Publishing Ltd and should be attributed to the authors concerned. Save as expressively permitted by law no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior written authority of the Publisher, acting for Shire magazine. Privacy Policy published online at shiremagazine.co.uk © 2022 Superstar Publishing Ltd, all rights reserved. Registered Number: 10604188. Print ISSN 2514-3913 Online ISSN 2514-3921 September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 3

53 Celebrity Shire speaks to Jay Osmond ahead of The Osmonds: A New Musical arriving in Llandudno.

74 Food & Drink Our food and drink section is packed with food news, a new recipe with a hint of Persian spice, a look at a favourite Italian wine and much more fine feasting and perfect produce from across the patch.

112 Weddings As the flurry of preparations for your special day begins, let Shire do some of the legwork with our guide to local venues and wedding services.

125 Education It’s all systems go for the new academic year, so our packed education section has all the news and views from across the sector as we prepare for a September start.

Cheers! PAGE 73 Autumn layers PAGE 120 What’s On PAGE 41 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2022 Contents

142 Puzzles A crossword featuring local clues, and a sudoku number puzzle just for fun!

It’s not too late to book an autumn break at one of the parks across the patch – or plan now for next year’s adventures with our holidays guide.

146 Letters Check out what our other readers have to say with a selection of the letters we’ve been sent here at Shire, as well as feedback from you on our most recent issues!

79 Homes & interiors As always, we have the news and developments across the housing sector, as well as interior style advice and some great new ways to get your home cosy for the autumn.

110 Health & Beauty Our health and wellbeing guide will keep you at your best with advice from medics, professionals and experts.

63 Holidays

Taste test PAGE 76 PAGE 53 The boys are back! PAGE 54 Home heating help Naturally warm PAGE 91 Womens Fashion PAGE 111 Garden shopping PAGE 94

70 Wine We take a look at the surprisingly successful industry of local wine production that is making its mark in a world normally reserved for warmer climes and traditional grape growers.

140 Books & Poetry Meet the local author whose latest piece of fiction is inspired by a real-life fairytale – the takeover of Wrexham AFC by Hollywood A-listers!

143 Charities & Volunteering As always, we use our pages to show our appreciation for the voluntary and charity organisations that do so much good for so many causes across the area.

106 Pets & Wildlife A round-up of news a ecting our furry friends, with wildlife updates, some new zoo arrivals, and a collection of cute pet pics sent in by our lovely readers.

118 20 Questions In this edition we put our probing questions to a Miss Wales hopeful, who overcame mental health issues to earn a coveted apprenticeship with a top car manufacturer.

49 Reviews

138 Retirement Stories focusing on the older generation include a look at a social group that is tackling the issues of loneliness su ered by many single seniors.

101 Green Living The latest from local firms doing their bit for the planet, as well as news from the environmental world and ideas on how we can all be greener.

6 What’s On Don’t miss the ultimate guide to what’s going on across the region with our comprehensive What’s On section.

97 Gardens It’s a busy time of year for gardeners – there are plenty of jobs to do before the winter arrives and there are plenty of beautiful local places to go and enjoy the changing season too.

54 Home heating help With prices soaring and temperatures dropping we look at how the energy crisis a ects you and what you can do to keep the bills down.

Discover what Shire’s team thought of the concerts, live events and theatre shows they’ve seen over the summer.

102 Arts & Crafts Check out the artist who made a change later in life to take up his brushes – and hasn’t looked back since. And see if your entry has made it into print in our photography competition too.

69 Active Our walk in this edition is provided by the experts at The Ramblers organisation and we’ve also got some suggestions for sports the whole family can enjoy together.

TICKETS & HOSPITALITY NOW ON SALE BANGORONDEERACES.CO.UKAT13/01NEWYEARMEETING11/02THEWINTERMEETING13/03SUNDAYRACEDAY09/04GRANDNATIONALCELEBRATION14/05FAMILYFUNDAY24/05THESPRINGMEETING29/07LADIESDAY15/08FAMILYFUNEVENING23/08THESUMMERMEETING28/09THECLYWDSPECIALRIDINGCENTRECHARITYDAY25/10HALLOWEENDAY09/11EARLYNOVEMBERMEETING26/11LATENOVEMBERMEETING09/12CHRISTMASSPECIAL2022FIXTURES

OCTOBERFFORESTFfear2022 BETWS-Y-COED @zipworlduk @zip_world Follow us on social media to be the first to find out more @zipworld

David Essex, 16th September Catch one of only 18 dates by this multi-talented artist, performing his hits and new music. 7.30pm. From £35.50.

Autumn is bountiful at Chirk Castle, so why not try their day course on Wild Food, Foraging and Wilderness Cookery on 24th or 25th September? Join an expert and explore the world of edible plants, fungi and wild game (9.30am-4.30pm, £60). The Autumn Foraging Walk on 8th October offers a hunt for the best wild foods plus cookery tips (10am-1pm, £30). Identifying Trees in Autumn on 9th October looks at leaves, nuts, seeds and fruit, with a bit of woodland folklore thrown in! (10am-3.30pm, £40). woodlandclassroom.com DID KNOW?YOU Strictly Ballroomis part of a trilogyincluding Romeo +Juliet and RougeMoulin Glamour and the Grump DIDKNOW?YOU An spot,inspirationalHawardenwasthehomeofPMWilliamGlad stone Catch three varied exhibitions running until 25th September at Ruthin Craft Centre. In ‘Harvest: Fruit Gathering’, Neil Wilkin and Rachael Woodman harness the unique optical and physical qualities of glass. ‘Interrupted Views’ by Jennie Moncur offers abstract, colourful and beautifully finished tapestries, while the life-size mosaics of Cleo Mussi’s ‘Herbal’ are created from reclaimed ceramic tableware, reflecting the patterns and glazes from the last 200 years of the British industry. Tuesday–Sunday 10am-5.30pm. Free. ruthincraftcentre.org.uk theGatheringlight

Mawr y Rhai Bychain, 7th9th October. A weekend of top-class Celtic indie music, featuring Breabach, Cerys Hafana, Dafydd Iwan, Talisk and Yws Gwynedd. 7-11pm. From £15. neuaddogwen.com

Firing the imagination Think bonfires, apples, lingering wood smoke, foraging, talk, ideas and giant feasts – think Camp Good Life, from 16th-18th September on the Hawarden Estate, near Buckley. There’ll be music with indie headliners, a speakers’ line-up curated by Caught by the River, late-night DJs, craft workshops, celebrity chefs, wild swimming and more. Join the last hurrah of the summer. Weekend ticket with camping £230, day ticket from £49, family tickets available. See thegoodlifesociety.co.uk

Mists and mellow fruitfulness

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON 8 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Jah Wobble & the Invaders of the Heart, 17th September The ex-Public Image bassist has been likened to “an oldfashioned band leader, barking out instructions within a cavernous, space-echoey dub mix” (Guardian). 7.30pm. Tickets £16.

Live at Neuadd Ogwen

Jack Dee: Off The Telly, 17th September “In these uncertain times people need hope – a ray of sunshine to brighten their day. And that’s very much where I come in.” 8pm. Tickets £26. RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Series 3 Tour, 21st September Expect a more!Milan,KrystalKittyextravaganzadazzlingfeaturingScott-Claus,Versace,VanityEllaVadayand8pm.From£38.

Strictly Ballroom – The Musical, 24th-29th October Directed by Craig Revel Horwood and starring Strictly’s Kevin Clifton and champion Maisie Smith, enjoy all the drama, comedy and fabulous routines of Baz Luhrmann’s awardwinning film. 7.30pm. Tickets from £27. venuecymru.co.uk

Chirk Castle has some epic events in September! On 3rd & 4th witness a re-enactment of the Battle of Crogen, one of Wales’ most iconic conflicts, between the forces of Henry II and the Welsh Princes.

•3rd September, Llandudno Goldwing Light Parade, North Shore Promenade 150-plus Honda Goldwing bikes will parade on the prom from 10am4pm and tour the town centre from 8-8.45pm showing o their fantastic light displays. Free to spectators.

Every Monday in September the Harmony Singers present popular classical music, showtunes and modern melodies. 8pm. £7.

The Mirror Crack’d, 17th-22nd October Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple returns to unravel another murderous web of lies, danger and tragedy. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets from £10.

•10th September, Anglesey Abseil, Holyhead Breakwater Country Park Take the plunge for St David’s Hospice by daring this 120ft drop! Perfect for individuals looking for a challenge or as a team social with friends or colleagues. Registration is £29, plus raise a minimum of £100 sponsorship.

Music and mystery at eatr Clwyd

•6th, 13th & 20th September, The Magic of Musicals, Llandudno Town Hall Llandudno Musical Productions, the town’s longest-running musical group, perform classic songs from the musicals. 7.30pm. Tickets £8.

Strange Creatures, 8th-9th October This magical musical adventure explores childhood and belonging, with singing, drumming and games. 8.30am, 10.30am, 1.30am (40mins, suggested ages 4-7). Tickets £8.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 1ST-10TH SEPTEMBER Foodie cruise

There’s a chance to inspect tiny woodland creatures at the Creepy Crawly Show at Greenfield Valley on 29th October. It runs from 11am-3pm, with outdoor shows at noon and 1.30pm. Earlier in the month you can discover a wonderful variety of trees on the ranger-led Tree Tour on 15th October. greenfieldvalley.com

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 9

Visit Llangollen Wharf on Sundays in September and October to enjoy an Afternoon Tea with Prosecco whilst cruising along the Llangollen Canal. Board at the Wharf at noon, returning at 4pm. Tickets £29.95. Or how about a Real Ale/ Wine trip with a deli grazing platter on 8th or 22nd October? To book call 01978 860 702 or visit horsedrawnboats.co.uk

•From MondaySeptember,5thNight is Music Night, St John’s LlandudnoChurch,Methodist

New perceptions

The Famous Five, 23rd September – 15th October

Visit both encampments, engage with the warriors and get an insight into early medieval life. Normal admission applies. Movie lovers will enjoy outdoor cinema on 9th-11th September with a choice of three films. Details at nationaltrust.org.uk DID KNOW?YOU There’s an ‘Strangeperformance8.30amofCreatures’forearlyrisers.Greatidea! Autumn in the Valley

•1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd September, Male Voice Choir Concerts, St John’s Methodist Church, Llandudno Enjoy the soaring sounds of Wales with songs performed in English and Welsh. 8.15pm. From £7.

BowerDavid

Based on Enid Blyton’s books, this heart-warming new musical finds the gang on a daring mission with the future of the planet at stake. Various times. Tickets from £10.

The Lavender Hill Mob, 25th-29th October. The men who broke the bank and lost the cargo are back, in a new adaptation of the classic Ealing comedy. Miles Jupp and Justin Edwards star. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets from £10. theatrclwyd.com

Mayhem in Wrexham

‘Searching Perceptions’ is one of two new exhibitions at the Royal Cambrian Academy, Conwy. Painter-printmaker David Bower’s show runs from 10th September to 15th October, together with ‘Aberystwyth 3’ –a selection of three pictures each from 20 Aberystwyth artists, representing morning, afternoon and night. Tuesday to Saturday, 11am-5pm. Free. rcaconwy.org WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

©KristinaBanholzer 50thAnniversary 17September–1October2022 BBCNationalOrchestraofWales Calan EnsembleCymru RedPriest CommunityOperaGelert PaulMealor NEWSinfonia NEWVoices&Kana MugenkyoTaikoDrummers CanolfanGerddWilliamMathias NationalYouthChamberChoirofGreatBritain NorthWales International Music Festival GŵylGerdd Ryngwladol Gogledd Cymru nwimf.com AllconcertsareheldatStAsaphCathedral Bookonline-nwimf.com TheatrClwydbyphone-01352344101 CathedralFramesshop,StAsaph-01745582929 HeadlineSponsor/PrifNoddwr

Talking books Lively literary discussion is guaranteed at the tenth Gladfest on 9th-10th September. Victoria Gosling will talk about her debut Before the Ruins, which explores games people play. Bestseller Natasha Pulley discusses her alternative future novel The Half Life of Valery K. My Past is a Foreign Country by Zeba Talkhani reflects on her Haig’sArabia,growingexperiencesupinSaudiandFrancesca The Cookbook of Common Prayer explores food, grief and hope. £10 a session. Programme at gladstoneslibrary.org

10cc in Concert, 8th October One of the most inventive and influential bands in pop present an inspirational live show, performing their hits and a surprise or two. 7.30pm. Tickets from £37, from co.ukrhylpavilion. rills at Rhyl Pavilion

•11th September & 9th October, Mold Artisan Market This vibrant market will be filled with plants, produce and gifts featuring local and regional 11am-4pm.artisans.Free.•

John Owen-Jones, 7th September

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 10TH-17TH SEPTEMBER Thrillseekers are in for a fright as Snowdonia’s biggest scare-fest returns to Zip World Fforest from 25th-31st October. Runaway clowns will be on the loose as visitors make it through the Cursed Coaster and treetop Nets. The 100ft Nightfall is available as an upgrade. Night passes cost £25. Not suitable for under-9s zipworld.co.uk

Adapted from Helen Forrester’s autobiography, this drama set in the Great Depression tells the story of a penniless family relocated to Liverpool. 2.30pm and 7.30pm. Tickets from £17. Sleeping Beauty, 5th October Experience this traditional fairytale ballet with stunning choreography, sumptuous costumes and wonderful sets, all set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime score.7.30pm. Tickets from £23.

Art on Anglesey

•16th September, Coastal Wildlife Walk, Cemlyn, Anglesey Join North Wales Wildlife Trust in spotting wild flowers, birds, seals and porpoises around the nature reserve, part of the Wales Coast Path. 11am-2pm. £2.

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES DID KNOW?YOU John was in an episode of The Bill in 2001, as a character called Steven Barnes

John is best known for his performances as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables and the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera. Catch his new Music of the Night tour. 8pm. Tickets from £29.50. Twopence To Cross The Mersey, 14th-17th September

16th September, Scott Quinnell – The Lion Speaks Tonight, Theatr Clwyd, Mold Rugby legend Scott bares all in hilarious tales about his colourful life. His son Steele will perform musical hits. 7.45pm. From £25.

• AngleseyNeubwll,LlanfairPlasDarkSeptember,17thSkyNight,Llanfair,yn Bring your own telescope and binoculars and learn about the night sky. A mobile observatory will also be visiting. 5-11.30pm. Details from 07399 036063.

A frenzycentretransformWrexhamfeastweekendFeastwillthetownintoafoodieon

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 11

•17th September, Crochet for Beginners, Abakhan, Mostyn Learn how to hold the hook and yarn and create basic stitches to make a granny square. 10.30am-2.30pm. £30.

•10th & 11th September, Owain Glyndwr Day, Harlech Castle Celebrate one of Wales’ mightiest heroes at the scene of his triumph, with the help of the Ardudwy Knights. 11am-4pm. Standard admission applies.

September24th-25th . Enjoy a packed weekend sampling international street food and clever cocktails, and browsing the artisan makers, bakers and craft stalls. Skills demos start from 11am each day or sign up for Cookery School. ere’ll be a vintage fairground and live music at the Bandstand. 10am-5pm. Tickets from £4.75 (under-16s free). wrexhamfeast.com Deep in the Fforest

Promising young talent is on display as the 2021 cohort of Criw Celf show their work at Oriel Môn, Anglesey until 2nd October. Bill Swann and Meic Watts’ ‘A Flight of Thoughts’, until 6th November, is an exploration in glass and stone, kiln and carving, while ‘A Life in the Country’ charts the lives of Cornelyn’s Massey sisters via their botanical art. TuesdaySunday 10am-5pm. Free but please book. orielmon.org

Into the wild DID KNOW?YOU Beetles use their hind wings forflying: the front pairact as wing-casesprotective

The Ffestiniog Railway has been operating passenger trains since 1865 and has been run by the same company, making it the oldest independent railway company in the world. Join the celebrations at their Bygones Weekend on 7th-9th October. There’ll be special vintage trains running from Porthmadog to Beddgelert, Blaenau Ffestiniog and Tan y Bwlch throughout the weekend. Details at festrail.co.uk

17th September & 15th ColwynOctober,BayArtisanMarket

If you enjoy country pursuits then the GWCT Welsh Game Fair is for you. Hosted by the Vaynol Estate, near Bangor on 9th-11th September, there’ll be fishing, clay shooting, gundogs, game cookery, falconry, horses and hounds, as well as rural crafts and plenty of fabulous food and drink. Enjoy displays, live debates and family entertainment, all with a countryside theme. 9am-5.30pm. Tickets from £15 (child £6). welshgamefair.org

The Art of Bug Hunting… for Grownups!

Railway history in action

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON There’s always something new to learn about the fascinating world around us, and a day with North Wales Wildlife Trust is a fabulous place to start:

Discover our Woodlands: Hedgerows, 10th September Foraging, bird-box building and guided walks at ancient Graig Wyllt. 10am-4pm. Free.

•18th September, North Wales Classic Car Show, Bodrhyddan Hall, near Rhyl 600-plus vintage, classic and modern vehicles on display, plus autojumble, kids entertainment and food. 10am-4pm. From £3.20.

e game’s on

Discover unique arts and crafts by local makers: there’ll be artisan gifts and goodies and food trucks serving cuisine from around the world. 10am4pm. Free entry.

Trees and Flower ID for Beginners, 7th September Don’t know your ragwort from your hogweed? Learn how to recognise trees and flowers at Cors Goch, Anglesey. 1-4pm. £3.

12 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October

Riding for all

•21st September-1st October, Mamma Mia! Venue Cymru, Llandudno Have the time of your life and enjoy the world’s sunniest smash-hit musical. 7.30pm. From £20.

•22nd September, Tim Peake: My Journey to Space, Venue Cymru, Llandudno A thrilling account, with breathtaking photos and never-before-seen footage. 7.30pm. From £28.

Celebratingfruity?Feelingthe only Welsh plum grown in the Vale of Clwyd, the Denbigh Plum Feast returns to the Town Hall on 1st October. Along with guest chef Geoff Cegin Caribi, there’ll be food and drink stalls, crafts, gifts and barbecue demonstrations –with the emphasis on this unique plum! 10am-4pm. Entry and car parking free. visitdenbigh.co.uk

•24th-25th September, Meet the Household, Plas Mawr, Conwy Learn more applies.admissionStandard11am-4pm.andthejoinTudoraboutlifeandinwithdancinggames.

17TH-25TH SEPTEMBER

Enjoy the thrill of live jump-racing whilst supporting a great local cause, at Bangor-on-Dee’s Charity Day on 28th September. Clwyd Special Riding Centre offers a variety of experiences for people with additional needs, including riding, carriage driving, equestrian vaulting, equine learning and therapy. The event starts at 11.30am, advance tickets for the day cost from £7. Expect thrills of a different kind at Halloween Day on 25th October, when there’ll be special activities and plenty of surprises alongside the racing! bangorondeeraces.co.uk

•17th September, Denbigh Beer Festival Expect around 35 beers and numerous ciders sourced from micro-breweries in North Wales and Chester. Details at visitdenbigh.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

17th September Understand how these little creatures rule the world! Local artist Honor Pedican will be creating a piece of environmental art. 11am-3pm. Free. Bird Watching at The Spinnies, 27th October Join local experts to spot the wide variety of birds in this wonderful little reserve. 10am-1pm. Free. northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk 2022

1000’s OF READYMADE CURTAINS BETTERTHANBETTERQUALITYPRICEONLINE METAL POLES FROM £17.99 VENETIAN, VERTICAL AND ROLLER BLINDS We stock the largest selection of readymade curtains in the area. SIMON BOYD www.simonboyd.com SHREWSBURY SY1 1PB 01743 363006 FACTORY OUTLET LL12 8LX 01978 854941 KNUTSFORD WA16 6DD 01565 CHESTER633855CH35UG01244311160

AFONWENCRAFT&ANTIQUECENTRE 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.OPEN TUES TO SUN9.30AM TO 5PM Wrexham Symphony Orchestra Tickets £15 balcony, £12 stalls, £10 concessions £2 students, school pupils and young children, £25 family ticket Available at www.wrexhamorch.co.uk/tickets.htm Registered Charity No. 519295 www.wrexhamorch.co.uk Film music concert Sunday 27th November 2022 at 3pm - William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University Conductor: Bedwyn Lloyd Phillips Christmas concert, featuring “The Snowman” Sunday 11th December 2022 at 3pm - William Aston Hall, Glyndwr University Conductor: Mark Lansom ˆˆ Rhyl Music Club Classical music on the N Wales coast 12 annual concerts between October and March Venue: Rhyl Town Hall, Wellington Road LL181AB Lift for access available Concerts on Wednesdays at 7.30 Tickets at door £15 12 concerts £105 | Concessions £95 Accompanied children/students free More about concerts from:concerts@rhylmusic.com www.rhylmusic.com www.facebook.com/rhylmusic

atWorkshopsBodnant DID

WHAT’S ON NORTH

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 15

Have a animalatHalloweenfunGreenacrespark.Little ones can play all day on the fairground rides, then hop on board a spook-tacular tractor ride round the fields. A treasure hunt will end in a sweet treat, and there’s creepy cookie decorating too. All the usual activities will be open. Book via greenacresanimalpark.co.uk

Trains take the strain Return to the halcyon days of the railway at Llangollen Railway’s Diesel Weekend on 3rd-4th September. A busy timetable features interesting workings and stock in use – hopefully including the popular brake van. ere’s more vintage diesel at the Heritage Railcar Weekend on 8th-9th October. en brace yourselves for a dark ride through the Dee Valley on the Halloween Train on 29th October llangollen-railway.co.uk

WALES

Visitors from home and abroad October brings two exciting classical music concerts to Rhyl Town Hall, hosted by Rhyl Music Club. 5th October, Callum McLachlan Trio from Salzburg, featuring Isobel Warmelink (violin) and Madeleine Doucot (cello). All have active international careers and their programme includes Beethoven, Rachmaninov and Brahms. 19th October, Lara Melda A chance to hear the wonderful BBC Young Musician 2010 live! A natural storyteller on piano, Lara plays works by Chopin and Ginastera. Concerts start 7.30pm, tickets £15. rhylmusic.com

KNOW?YOU fireverberation’meansMugenkyo‘limitless–nd outwhenyouseetheTaikoDrummers!

•Until 25th September, ‘Temporary Atlas: Mapping the Self in the Art of Today’, Mostyn, Llandudno A selection of works exploring alternative cartography, the traditional science of drawing maps. Tues–Sun, 10.30am-5pm. Free.

BanholzerKristina

•1st October, Barn Dance in a Brewery, Snowdon Craft Beer Brewery, Colwyn Bay A fun night of dancing and foot-stomping to the music of Tympathology, with a hog roast. 7-11pm. £18.

On 10th September join a pastel workshop with Paul Pigram to produce an atmospheric landscape using your own photo. Jennifer Rye teaches abstract landscape acrylics on 17th September. Andrew Jenkin leads an autumn woodland workshop on 1st October, using loose washes to spectacular effect, and there’s a linocut workshop with Ann Lewis on 15th October bodnantart.com

•25th September & 30th October, Ruthin Artisan Market, Ruthin Gaol Hosting up to 70 local food, drink and crafts stalls, you’re bound to find something you love. 10am-4pm. Free entry.

•8th October, Calling Planet Earth, The Stiwt, Wrexham A New Romantic symphony to that great musical era – the electrifying ’80s. 7.30pm. £23.50.

•7th October, An Evening with Liverpool Legends, Venue Cymru, Llandudno Phil Thompson, Sammy Lee and Bruce Grobbelaar talk about their careers. 7.30pm. From £38.

returnsfestivalhappyMany

•29th September1st October, Dream Academy, Ucheldre Centre, Holyhead Robert escapes into a fantasy world where his teachers are celebrities and fairytale characters. 7.30pm. From £4.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 25TH SEPT - 8TH OCT North Wales International Music Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary from 17th September to 1st October, in the superb acoustic of St Asaph Cathedral. The BBC National Orchestra of Wales opens the festivities with a Celtic-themed programme that includes Weber’s ‘Oberon Overture, the first piece played at the festival’s launch in 1972. Other highlights include multi-award-winning Welsh folk band Calan (18th) with a set that includes clog dancing and Welsh bagpipes; Ensemble Cymru with a programme of chamber music (23rd, am) and “the world’s most extraordinary Baroque quartet”, Red Priest, with their rock-chamber approach to early music (23rd, pm). Then there’s a world premier of Gelert, a community opera based around the Welsh legend (24th), and a performance by the international Mugenkyo Taiko Drummers (30th), whose sharp synchronisation and high energy cannot be missed! NEW Sinfonia, the National Youth Chamber Choir and baritone Emyr Lloyd Jones perform Celtic songs and a new commission by Jon Guy to close the festival on 1st October. Free events throughout the fortnight encourage youngsters to enjoy classical music as well as comedy theatre. For a full programme and to book, see nwimf.com

Animalmagic

There’ll be old favourites such as ‘The Blackpool Belle’, ‘Matchstalk Men’ and ‘Wild Rover’, new songs and funny stories galore! 7.30pm. Tickets from £20.50.

•16th October, Fungus Foray, Erddig Country Park, Wrexham Hosted by North Wales Wildlife Trust, hunt for the many species of fungi found here. 11am-3pm. Free.•21st October, The Madchester Experience, Tŷ Pawb, Wrexham A trip back to the ’90s with all the attitude and baggy fashion to boot! Music, film and fashion combine to take you on a nostalgic journey. 7.30pm. £12.

Nowhere sweeter Have a sweet tooth? Make a bee-line for Conwy Honey Fair on 13th September, where local beekeepers expect to sell over a tonne of honey by lunchtime! The Fair dates back more than 700 years to the reign of Edward 1st, when local beekeepers were given the right to sell honey within the walls of the town. There’ll be lots of local produce plus a farmers’ market. Open from 9am-4pm, admission free. conwybeekeepers.org.uk

Variety at

•22nd October, Music for Peace and Passion, St Asaph Cathedral The Vale of Clwyd Singers with Liverpool Mozart Players will perform works by Vaughan Williams, Handel, Bruckner and Harris. 7.30pm. £14.

La Bohème, 12th & 13th October Puccini’s opera paints a vivid portrait of bohemian life in Paris at the turn of the 19th century: a tale of love, loss, rebellion and freedom.

The Makropulos Affair, 14th October Janáček´s dramatic score explores the mystery of a 300-yearold diva and her quest for eternal youth.

ExperienceAtten-tion!,Britain’s newest military extravaganza – the North Wales Military Music Pageant at Yale College, Wrexham on 22nd October. This family spectacular takes you through each decade of Her Majesty’s reign, featuring the Regimental Band of The Royal Welsh, the Military Wives Choir and Ellesmere Port Sea Cadet Band, to name a few. It runs from 6.30-10.30pm, tickets from £20, in support of veterans. britishinternationaltattoo.com

Justin Moorhouse: Stretch & Think, 7th October Justin is back with a new show, a new suit and saucy fun and laughter. 8pm. Tickets £16.50.

•14th & 15th October, Horse Country, Theatr Clwyd, Mold An anarchic two-man comedy –think Waiting for Godot but with more chaos. “Tarantino by way of Beckett”. 7.45pm. From £10.

ColwynTheatr

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 14TH-22ND OCTOBER

The Invisible Man, 27th October This re-telling of Wells’ classic tale is packed with comedy, song and illusions – and plenty of audience involvement. 7pm. Tickets from £13.50. theatrcolwyn.co.uk

A very friendly festival

llanbedrbeerfestival.co.ukTheHoughtonWeavers,24thSeptember

NORTH WALES WHAT’S ON 16 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Puss in Boots, 21st October Join Mid Wales Opera for an evening of family-friendly fun. the purr-fect way to introduce youngsters to opera, complete with a matchmaking cat, slow-witted ogre and a very happy ending. 7.30pm. Tickets from £9.50.

Welsh National Opera at Venue Cymru

15th LlangollenOctober,FoodFestivalBuilding on last forasized’successfulyear’s‘bite-event,there’smeatierportion2022! foodfestival.comllangollen

Migrations, 15th October Parallel storylines chart the highs and lows of migration: from bird flight to experiences of NHS doctors from India. A cast of 100 includes a gospel choir, Bollywood dancers and a children’s chorus. All performances begin at 7.15pm. Tickets from £22, book at venuecymru.co.uk

Real ale lovers will flock to Llanbedr Beer Festival, near Harlech on 9th-10th September to sample locally brewed pints and Welsh ciders. There’s live entertainment from the Ardudwy Male Voice Choir, TV star the Welsh Whisperer, Martyn Rowlands and rock band Session. It’s in aid of local good causes and takes place in the grounds of Ty Mawr Hotel from midday. Tickets from £3.

•15th-16th October, Mona Antique Home & Vintage Fair, Anglesey Showground Plenty to browse, with two halls of up to 250 stands, plus up to 100 outdoors. Saturday 8.30am5pm (£10, or £5 for afternoon), Sunday 10am-5pm (£5).

Bangor KouyateN’Famady& band + Lisa Jên 25 Tachwedd / 25 November Nosweithiau gwych allan yn Pontio! Brilliant nights out at Pontio! NT MuchLive:Ado About Nothing 8 Medi / September Sioe FamilyDeuluShow Catrin Finch + Seckou Keita 14 Hydref / October Little Red Riding Hood 22 Hydref 22 October Tylwyth 28 + 29 Hydref / October 26 Hydref / October 18 Tachwedd 18 November Pontio Shires Gorff 20 198x140mm.indd 1 14/07/2022 11:01 10.30–5.00Tuesday–Sunday mostyn 12 Vaughan St #InspiredByMostynpost@mostyn.org01492mostyn.orgLL30Cymru/WalesLlandudno1AB879201@siopmostyn craftsArt, andloveMadecreativity.andwithinWalesbeyond.

{ { { { Alternative gift shop offering a large selection of skulls, skeletons, tankards & goblets. Cauldrons, candles, sage, incense, books, tarot, crystals, silver jewellery, and other finery and shiny things. Jordash clothing, Wild tshirts, alternative leggings & bags. Also stockists of Nemesis Now, the number one name in alternative gifts. A massive selection of the Witches of Pendle collectable witches. Wizards chocolate including all the new CBD flavours. The Deiniol Shopping Centre, Bangor LL57 1NW The Dead Faeries A SELECTION OF MYSTICAL CURIOS VOTEDBangor First Home,Gift and theRetailerLeisureofYear2021 Psychic Readings by appointment

WHAT’S ON NORTH WALES

• October,27th WhodunnitDoing, Rhyl TheatreLittle The Golden Age ExperienceTheatre Company presents a comedy murder-mystery evening with whacky characters and lots of laughs. 7.30pm. From £10.

All aboard the ghost train!Hop aboard Bala onRailwayLake Octoberand28th29th and take a spooky trip down the line as far as the train can go, before disaster strikes and the crew are forced to turn back… Beware as the train stops at the little-used Flag Halt… You’re welcome to dress up. Tickets £9, child £3, advance booking at bala-lake-railway.co.uk Cooking up a storm

Little Red Riding Hood, 22nd October A family show that will take you down the path into the snowy wild wood where you’ll hear catchy songs on the wind and spot hilarious puppets between the trees. 11.30am & 2.30pm. Tickets from £6.50. pontio.co.uk Autumn at Pontio DID KNOW?YOU Harlech Castle was built in just six years, by 546 labourers and 227 masons

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 22ND-30TH OCTOBER Wonderful, unusual and beautiful buildings will be open free of charge this September as part of the national Open Doors scheme. From Anglesey to the Borders, take your pick from tiny churches to grand stately homes and castles. Highlights on the Shire patch include Bodnant Gardens near Conwy on 10th-11th September (9.30am-5pm); Ruthin Castle on 10th-11th (10am-4pm); Wrexham’s Chirk Castle and Erddig on 17th (10am-5pm); St Tudclud’s Church, Penmachno on 17th (10am-4pm, including craft localdemonstrations,historytalks and a guided walk; RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve on 17th-18th (9am-5pm); Plas Newydd on Anglesey on 24th-25th (10.30am4pm) and Harlech Castle also on 24th-25th (11am-4pm, including free tours). cadw.gov.wales

Mountains and myths at Galeri Caernarfon

•22nd October, Ned Boulting –Retour de Ned, Theatr Colwyn The cycling commentator hands out his entertaining, thoroughly unreliable advice on How To Win The Tour de France. Or if not, then at least How To Watch It On The Telly! 7.30pm. £26.50.

Catrin Finch and Seckou Keita, 14th October This awardwinning musical partnership combines Wales and Senegal, harp and kora, the classical and traditional. 7.30pm. Tickets from £18.

Adrian Hayes: To the Ends of the Earth, 23rd September The former Gurkha talks about Nepal, his success in summitting K2 and the challenges of his three polar expeditions. 7.30pm. Tickets from £15.

•27th October2nd RailwayLlanberisHalloweenNovember,Hunt,Lake Enjoy mischief and thrills. Will you ride the Padarn Lake Ghost Train to find ghosts and send them all away? Prices and timetable at lake-railway.co.uk

•29th October, Discover our Woodlands: Coed Cilygroeslwyd, Ruthin Join North Wales Wildlife Trust to discover a huge variety of seasonal fungi at this gem of a reserve. Donations10.30am-2.30pm.appreciated.•

29th October, BUSO, Neuadd Pritchard-Jones, Newborough, Anglesey Bangor University Symphony Orchestra performs Mendelssohn, Grace Williams and Vaughan Williams. 7.30pm. From £5.

The popular Kids’ Cookery School and Food Science Lab are back at Mold Food & Drink Festival on 17th-18th September. Indulge in the best regional produce and international street food, enjoy craft displays – Flint Beekeepers will show you how to roll a beeswax candle – and live music from brass band and choir to acoustic and indie. Prices vary, see moldfoodfestival.co.uk

Phil Okwedy: The Gods are All Here, 27th October Inspired by the letters of his Nigerian father and his mother in Wales, this one-man performance blends myth, song and African legends. 7.30pm. Tickets from £8. Leo Houlding: Closer to the Edge, 28th October Leo recounts his audacious ascent of Mount Roraima, the South American plateau that inspired The Lost World. 7.30pm. Tickets from £14. galericaernarfon.com

Doors wide open

•30th October, Kiri PritchardMcLean: Home Truths, Theatr Clwyd, Mold Anglesey’s own comedian jokes about skinny jeans, learning Welsh and rescue 7.45pm.chickens!£15.

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 19

KNOW?YOU

With its roots rmly embedded in farming, Kington Show on 10th September provides a fantastic day out. Along with equine, livestock and horticultural competitions, there’ll be lively entertainmentfrom the Squibb Freestyle Stunt Team, the Wye Valley Axemen, a dog show, exotic animals, sheep shearing, ferrets, birds of prey and vintage cars. 9am-6pm. From £12.50 (10-17s from £5). kingtonshow.co.uk MORE THAN JUST SHEEP! Ever wanted to knit like a Viking or learn about herbal medicine? en Llandovery Sheep Festival on 17th-18th September has a workshop for you! With the theme of ‘Welsh Myths and Legends’, this is a celebration of all things rural, with sheepdog trials, a dog show, live music, guest speakers, cookery demos and even a bucking sheep challenge! ere’ll be oodles of artisan craft and food stalls. Entry is free (fee for workshops). llandoverysheepfestival.co.uk TO NATURE song and dance at Aberystwyth Arts DID onJasminChoreographerworkedPalomaFaith’s‘Loyal‘video

BACK

John Owen Jones, 8th September e West End and Broadway star is best known for his performances as Jean Valjean in Les Misérables and as the Phantom in Phantom of the Opera. Enjoy his new Music of the Night tour! 8pm. Tickets from £27.50.

Alice, 5th & 6th October Choreographer Jasmin Vardimon re-imagines Alice in Wonderland, promising a sensory feast. 7.30pm. From £10.

Experience fabulous Welsh food at the Mid Wales Autumn Fayre on 29th-30th October at the Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells. e event o ers tasty treats from over 70 artisan food and drink producers from across Wales, as well as cookery demonstrations from great Welsh chefs, and a pop-up restaurant and cocktail bar. Over 40 Welsh arts and craft vendors will be selling local products, and there’ll be choirs and displays of trucks, cars and motorcycles. Open 10am-5pm. Tickets from £6 (under-12s free). mwaf.wales

MID WALES WHAT’S ON A

LET’S GO TO THE SHOW

Ed Gamble – Electric, 2nd October Catch the comedy superstar, co-host of hit podcast O Menu, new judge on Great British Menu and Taskmaster champion! 7.30pm. £20.

Soweto Gospel Choir – Freedom, 21st October Hailing from the home of Nelson Mandela, the choir continues to inspire audiences with a powerful blend of African gospel, freedom songs and international hits. 7.30pm. From £20. aberystwythartscentre.co.uk

20 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

A TASTE OF WALES

Visit the Centre for Alternative Technology in Machynlleth on 10th September or 8th October for a Gardening for Nature day, packed full of know-how to help wildlife thrive in your garden. If DIY’s more your thing, Fixing Your Damp House on 1st & 2nd October shares advice on how to make your home more habitable, cheaper to run and more eco-friendly. e Viking art of Shrink Pot Carving (7th October) will give you the skills to begin a new hobby. See cat.org.uk

14th October), Criccieth (20th) and Presteigne (28th). midwalesopera.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 2ND-4TH SEPTEMBER

•3rd & 4th InternationalSeptember,AntiqueHome & Vintage Fair of Wales, Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells Set across two exhibition halls with up to 1,000 stands, this is one of 8.30am-Saturdaydayapromisingcountry,fairsantiquelargesttheinthegreatout.5pm, £10 (£5 after 2.30pm). Sunday 10am-5pm, £5.

Blast through the blisters Work those legs at the Mid-Wales Four-Day Walking Festival on 21st-24th September in Llanwrtyd Wells. Choose from 12 or 20-mile waymarked routes over mountains and moors, and shorter guided walks. NightlyDetailsfordaySaturday!BlisterculminatesentertainmentintheBallon£10per(£5perdayguidedwalks).at events.co.ukgreen-

Llanwddyn Weekend of Folk & Acoustic Music is a little fest with a big heart! On 2nd-3rd September the banks of Lake Vyrnwy will host folk faves including Martyn Joseph , Jez Lowe and Honey and the Bear, together with singarounds, a craft fair and a ceilidh. Tickets £3. llanwddynevents.co.uk FOLK BY THE LAKE

•From 4th September, Silent Space Sundays, Cae Hir Gardens, near Lampeter ‘Silent Space' is a movement sweeping the gardening world. When entering the Wild Garden Silent Space simply switch o free).under-2s£610am-5pm.talking.doletphonemobileyourandnaturethe(child£2,

GregynogCatchtohiscatfamiliarMontsalvatge’sLAUGH!versionofthetaleofthewealth-seekingwhosecuresakingdomforyoungmasterisagreatwayintroduceyoungsterstoopera.MidWalesOperaatHall(

PUSS IN BOOTS

WHAT’S ON MID WALES September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 21

•3rd September, Strictly Sherlock, Dragon Theatre, Barmouth andmostsomelife,detectivetheshowone-manGoodwin’sJonathanbringsgreattorecreatingofhisbaingspectacular cases. 7pm. £15.

EnjoywalkingtheCeredigion countryside by joining the Llandysul and Pont-Tyweli Walking Weekend from 23rd-25th September. e guided walks tour delightful villages, the Tei River and winding eld and woodland paths. Most are easy to moderate, with some hill climbs, and there is a barbecue and bingo on the 24th. Walks are £4 if prebooked, and £5 on the day. Details at llandysul-ponttyweli.co.uk/walking-weekend

•2nd, 16th & 30th September and 14th & 28th October, Aberystwyth Sunset Walk Meet at the bandstand just before dusk to walk a 1.5-mile route along the promenade and enjoy the magical sunset. 5pm. Free.

Aberystwyth Comedy Festival, taking place from 30th September to 2nd October, is establishing itself as a quality xture on the comedy calendar. is year’s programme includes big-name stars such as Ed Gamble, Rosie Jones, Angela Barnes, Jessica Fostekew, Kiri Pritchard-McLean, David O’Doherty, James Acaster, Mark Watson and many more. ere’ll be performances for kids, a set in Welsh by Tudur Owen and a play written and performed by Molly Naylor. With around 40 shows in venues across Aberystwyth, you can watch as much or as little as you wish. ere’s plenty going on in town too, where you can soak up the atmosphere. abercomedyfest.co.uk YOU’RE HAVING A

Mellow autumn

•3rd September, Llanfair Caereinion Show, LanerfylmotorcycleFlyinandashearing,sheepdisplays,withruraltraditionalAshowequinedogshowtheRyan stunt show. There’ll be rural crafts, stalls and children’s entertainment. Tickets from £8 (5-15s £4).

•Until 17th September, Terence Lambert: Nature is in the Detail, MOMA, Machynlleth Terence is a renowned wildlife painter – catch this exhibition of his pencil drawings, ink and mixed media paintings. Wed & Fri 10am-4pm, Tue, Thu & Sat 10am-1pm. Free entry.

VARIETY MWLDANAT

EAT TO THE

Open air and an open door…

WALES BY HIKING BOOT

• CardiganMwldan,MalePendyrusSeptember,10thChoir, inTylorstowninFormed1924intheRhondda Fach, the choir has over 80 members and has sung around the world to great acclaim. 7.30pm. £15.

•18th September, Newton Faulkner, Pavilion Mid Wales, Llandrindod Wells Influenced by the stasis of the pandemic, performsNewton a hissongssetbackstripped-acousticfeaturingfrom Feels Like Home tour. 8pm. £27.50From WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 4TH-18TH SEPTEMBER

Ralph McTell, 3rd October Ralph will perform songs from his long career, in addition to showcasing some of his most recent work. 7.30pm. Tickets £24. Beauty and the Beast, 19th October Join Ballet eatre UK for one of the most enchanting love stories set to a timeless classical score. 7.30pm. From £10. e Invisible Man, 21st October A comic take on Wells’ classic, set in Wales in 1933 where strange things begin to happen! 7.30pm. From £12. mwldan.co.uk

Entry is free Food foodFeaturingFestival.anddrink from around the world, as well as the best regional produce, the festival at Town Hall Gardens will o er family entertainment all weekend, including kids’ activities, live music, tastings and local chefs in action. 10am. newtownfoodfestival.org

22 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

ere’s ghoulish fun for all the family at the Silver Mountain Experience from 23rd-31st October. Follow the Witches’ Potion Trail and learn about Welsh history, myth and legend – with a few spooky surprises thrown in. Pumpkin carving is available for £3. Tickets from £15.95 (£11.95 child) include a tour. mountainexperience.co.uksilver-

•11th September, Open Doors – Llanfyllin WorkhouseaThere’llinworkhousesVictorianpreservedofentryFreetoonethebestBritain.beFoodFair showcasing the best Welsh food and street food – as well as authentic workhouse gruel. Enjoy live music, open studios, history displays and guided tours. 10am-5pm.

•4th September & 2nd October, Open Days, Rhiw Valley Light Railway, near Welshpool Catch the last opportunities this year to visit and travel on this private 15inch gauge railway, running alongside the River Rhiw through farm and woodland. 10.30am-4.30pm. From £4.

Enjoy September evenings outdoors at the movies, in the stunning grounds of Powis Castle. Watch the feel-good Mamma Mia! on 2nd (with ’70s and ’80s hits before the lm), e Greatest Showman Sing-A-Long on 3rd and Elvis (12A) on 4th. Gates open at 7pm and the lms start shortly after sunset. Tickets from £14.50 (under-12s £9.50) via adventurecinema.co.uk Plus, you can enjoy free entry to the castle and gardens from 10am-5pm on 17th September as part of the Open Doors scheme. cadw.gov.wales

HalloweenHalf-term fun

Enjoy guided walks around the Mawddach Estuary and southern Snowdonia with Barmouth Walking Festival from 17th to 26th September. ere are walks for all abilities, from easy rambles to full-day, high-level hikes, all in some of the nest walking countryside in Wales. Highlights include: Dolgellau to Barmouth; A Celtic Rain Forest Trail and Talk; Cader Idris; Exploring Sacred Spaces; In the Paw Prints of the Pine Martens, and the Barmouth Historical Trail. Walks can be booked from £8.50 (£10 on the day), registration is at the Dragon eatre. barmouthwalkingfestival.co.uk

MID WALES WHAT’S ON

DID KNOW?YOU John Ruskin declared Dolgellauto Barmouth “one of the finest walks in Britain”

205846.rhifgofrestredigElusen2022.Genedlaethol©YmddiriedolaethHarrisImages/PaulTrust©National205846.no.charityRegistered2022.Trust©NationalDarganfod yr hydref yng Nghastell a Gardd Powis Ar agor bob dydd (ar gau 25-26 Rhagfyr). Croesewir cŵn rhwng 1 Tachwedd a 28 Chwefror. Gwiriwch yr amseroedd agor cyn teithio. Discover autumn at Powis Castle and Garden Open daily (closed 25-26 December). Dogs welcome from 1 November to 28 February. Please check opening times before travelling. 01938 551920 | #PowisCastlenationaltrust.org.uk/powis-castle

southern Snowdonia Beautiful lake and mountain views Family friendly attraction dog friendly too! A Day with ‘Alice the little Welsh Engine’ 30th July A day celebrating the beautifully illustrated children’s books by Pauline Hazelwood, and a chance to meet the author herself. ‘Winifred’ will again be standing in for ‘Alice’ Evening bbq excursions - 4th, 11th, 18th August Enjoy a leisurely evening trip with a barbeque by the lake 50 Anniversary Steam Gala 27th to 29 August Trains daily in July and August Further details and tickets online at www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk  01678 540666 Bala Model Railway Show 24th and 25th September Halloween Trains 28th and 29th October Santa Specials 10th and 11th December Book online now!! For further information and advanced tickets See the Autumn colours in southern Snowdonia by steam train Llanuwchllyn, near Bala, Gwynedd LL23 7DD Trains most days until 3rd November Beautiful lake and mountain views Family friendly attraction – dog friendly too!

AT WELSHPOOL & LLANFAIR

PADDINGTON RIDES THE RAILS

• FrederickMatthewOctober,8thThe Belated Fragments LibraryNationalTour,of Wales, Aberystwyth Matthew fuses a love of classic singersongwriters with more recent influences to create a distinctive blend of acoustic pop, indie folk and blues with a touch of Cymrucana. 7pm. £8.

An exhibition of photos WelshPolish-bornbyresident, artist Michal Iwanowski after he saw ‘Go home Polish’ scrawled on a wall in Cardi . 10am-5pm, closed Sunday. Free entry.

He’s met the Queen – now you can meet Paddington Bear at Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway on 24th and 25th September! Earlier in the month, the Gala Weekend on 2nd-4th September is a chance to celebrate all things transport. ere’ll be visiting locomotives, steam traction engines, vintage cars, vintage Routemaster bus trips, a 7¼-inch gauge railway at Llanfair and even a y-past on Saturday.eBeerFestival on 14th16th October promises great ales, steam trains and an allround top day out. wllr.org.uk

JOURNEY INTO THE PAST Shazia Mirza - Coconut, 21st October Nominated in Channel 4’s National Comedy Awards, Shazia presents a hilarious and unique take on the issues of our time. 8pm. Tickets from £14. VRï, 29th October ree Welshmen harness the raw energy of the ddle, the nesse of the violin and the hedonism of a pub session! 7.30pm. Tickets from £14. wyeside.co.uk

•Until AberystwythMuseum,CeredigionAmgueddfaPolish’,‘GoOctober,15thHome

It’s time to pack up your troubles in your old kit bag and head for Welshpool 1940s Weekend on 23rd-25th September – a light-hearted look at life in a small rural town in wartime. Be captivated by re-enactors and entertainers in period costume, including Johnny Victory presenting An Evening of Fish ‘n’ Chips and Knees Up Mother Brown! ere’ll be harmony singers, dancers, Glenn Miller tributes, a George Formby impersonator and Builth Male Voice Choir. You even have your hair styled by a vintage hairdresser! On Saturday there’s a midday parade through the town. welshpool1940sweekend.co.uk

FORGET…DON'T

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 25

WHAT’S ON MID WALES

•7th-9th October, The Eye International Photography Festival, Aberystwyth Arts Centre Speakers include a diverse mix documentaryGiladaSaturdaygenres.intalentinternationalofworkingdierentOnthere'sscreeningofBaram’s

Music and laughter at Wyeside Arts Calling all railway enthusiasts! Talyllyn Railway is running a special Pioneers Train on 8th and 15th September! Learn how dedicated people discovered and saved a little railway lost in time. e tour takes in the engine works at Pendre. Tickets £39.50 (child £15). talyllyn.co.uk GET IN THE MOOD Glenn Don’tfavouriteMiller’slyric:“ItMeanAThingIfItAin’tGotThatSwing!”

ShootingKoudelka Holy Land. Weekend pass £60 (students £35).

Terror Mountain near Aberystwyth is Wales’ premier Halloween experience, a unique event that plunges visitors into live-action horror attractions: investigating a Victorian mine, witchcraft, the paranormal, cracking a bloodthirsty murder case – plus a brand-new surprise. No admittance to under-12s; under-15s must be accompanied by an adult. Advanced booking essential, prices from £25. terrormountain.co.uk

•15th & 16th October, Barmouth Beach Race (Moto X) Motorcycles and quad bikes will race on a specially prepared circuit on Barmouth’s extensive sands. View the action free from the safety of the promenade.

Enter if you dare

•23rd October, Milkshake! Live, Aberystwyth Arts Centre This brand-new show has plenty of laughs and audience interaction to get everyone up on their feet! Noon & 3.30pm. £17 (child .£15.50, family of four £56).

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 7TH-23RD OCTOBER

Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out at Beeston Castle this half term, October22nd-30th

adventure gets underway on 8th October when the eerie Bolesworth maze opens. Discover its secrets –just don’t get lost! In partnership with Picking Patch, the pumpkin elds will be open over the rst two weekends in October, then daily from 21st-30th October. e week ends with a bang as reworks light up the Cheshire sky on 30th October. See bolesworth.com

WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

BolesworthSpook-tacular

Don’t miss the Great British Food Festival at Arley Hall on 24th-25th September with its dazzling range of stalls, live music, competitions and entertainment. GBFF o ers a chance for special time together enjoying chef demos, live music, a cake-o , foraging walks, BBQ stage, street food, artisan marketers and a mini-zoo. It’s open 10am-5pm, prices from £14.50 (child £6.50). See greatbritishfoodfestival.com DID KNOW?YOU AtUnderbasedtheBeWILDerwoodentrypriceisonheight.92cmandyou’refree!

•7th & 21st September, Social Kayaking, Dee River Kayaking, Chester Experience the beautiful city of Chester from a whole new perspective, and make new friends along the way! Meet at Sandy Lane Boat Parking. 6pm. £22.

•1st September-17th October, In Flux: Salt and Glass in the North-West, Lion Salt Works, Northwich A new exhibition that explores how Cheshire salt was one of the catalysts for the region’s hugely successful glass industry. 10.30am-5pm, closed Monday. £6.60 (child £4.20).

. Follow the trail to solve creepy clues and gather round to listen to spooky stories. e castle is open 10am-5pm, and tickets are £6 for children, £10 for adults if booked online. english-heritage.org.uk Half-term

SEPTEMBER 26 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

CALLINGHalloweenALLFOODIESeHalloween

•1st-24th September, A Spectacle of Sport, Nantwich Museum Whether you are a liftime fan or a sporting sceptic, you’ll love this grandstand journey through the local sports stories and objects that have made headlines (often international) over the past 150 years. 10.30am-4.30pm.Tuesdays–SaturdaysFree.• Until ChesterMuseum,GrosvenorPictures,TheOctober,2ndBFGin QuentinofexhibitionfascinatingAsomeofBlake’s early and unknown illustrations for Roald Dahl’s The BFG. Tuesdays–Saturdays 10.30am-5pm. Free.

ofwonderThewords

Special guests include writers, poets, actors and broadcasters, with the full line-up to be revealed.Con rmed so far are: Patrick Gale: Mother’s Boy, 15th November (£13.50); Joanne Harris: #Storytime, 19th November (£16.50); An Afternoon with David Harewood, 20th November (£27.50); Lemn Sissay: My Name is Why, 24th November (£27.50) and Kit De Waal, 25th November (£13.50). Storyhouse is also hosting a series of writers’ workshops and panel events where you can learn from storytellers, consider key questions around creating different genres of literature and develop your own skills in the process. Times and prices of all events vary, but book well in advance at storyhouse.com/literature

Chester’s Literature Festival, an annual celebration of the written word, will ll Storyhouse with two weeks of unmissable performances, events and conversation from 10th-25th November

BRIEF

CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

•8th September, Ian McNabb – Utopian ChesterAlexander’sTour,Live, Catch The Icicle Works’ frontman in his awesome solo show. 9pm. £16.50. IN 1ST-8TH

Keep bouncing! e Bouncing Boggles Bonanza at BeWILDerwood runs until 25th September. Hear Swampy’s big adventure – the story the fantastical park is based on. Visit the Big Hat craft tent, the face-painting pavilion, Twiggles Treetop Trail and enjoy activities and storytimes. A fantastical day out! Open 10am-5pm most weekends, but check before travelling. See cheshire.bewilderwood.co.uk

WHAT’S ON

PARTY LIKE A KING

•10th & 11th September, Soviet Threat, Hack Green Secret NantwichBunker,Nuclear In waswhatinsteptakesmuseumtheweekend,historylivingthisabacktimetolifelikeeither side of the Berlin Wall during the Cold War. 10am. £13 (child £9).

Join in with the celebration of a brilliant racing season at the nale of Chester Racecourse’s 2022 programme on 24th September. ere are seven races on the schedule for what’s sure to be an unforgettable day of racing and fun, starting at 11.30am. Check out chester-races.com for enclosure tickets and hospitality packages.

• WinsfordTheBenSeptember,11thOttewell,Hive, Live music from the lead singer of indie rock band Gomez. 5pm. £15.

Crewe Lyceum presents… Chester Cathedral hosts an amazing programme of events all year round. Here’s just a selection… Addleshaw Tower Open Day, 10th September Especially for Heritage Open Days, a rare chance to see inside the tower – the rst detached belltower built for an English cathedral since the 15th century – and meet the bell ringers. 10.30am-3pm. Bowie by Candlelight, 30th September A night of anthems featuring ‘David Live’ – the David Bowie Tribute Show. 8pm. Tickets from £20.50. Travel Photographer of the Year, 2nd-27th October Selected winning images from across the globe here in Chester, the only opportunity to view in the UK outside of London! Entry by donation.

•9th September, The Village&Club,PuddingCuddingtonSandiwayHall

•9th September, The Tom Petty Legacy, The Live Rooms, Chester A full two-hour show celebrating the US songwriting icon, performed by experienced musicians who really capture the energy and excitement of their hero. 7pm. £13.20.

Mountain High Women in Rock, 25th September A spectacular journey through ve decades. 7.30pm. Tickets £27.

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 27 DID KNOW?YOU For tickets call 01244 500 959 or see cathedral.com/chesterevents 2022©TPOTY

•11th September, Cheshire Half Marathon, Siddington, Macclesfield Starting and finishing outside stunning Capesthorne Hall, the flat route is on closed rural roads. Entry is £28. WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 9TH-11TH SEPTEMBER

This free social run by Pregnancy, Baby & You, Cheshire is a new network of local antenatal and pregnantandprofessionals,postnatalwelcomeswomen and new parents, their partners and babies. 11am-12.30pm, Free.

Riversoon!Dee,

Silver & Gold, 8th September A powerful moral drama, based on RL Stevenson’s classic maritime adventure Treasure Island. 8pm. Tickets £16.50.

Heritage Discovery Day, 22nd October Medieval treasures, family activities, academic lectures, ‘medieval’ food and drink, heritage skills, a sensory tour and more! 10am-8pm. Entry by donation. Wonders at the Cathedral

WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

Enjoy ‘Miracles and Wonders on the Dee’ as Chester Boat pays tribute to the Motor City and the best dance music ever made. 1st October is the date for a night of ‘Supreme’ entertainment –signed, sealed, delivered. Tickets are £34.50 when booked online at chesterboat.co.uk Planning ahead for AdvanceChristmas?tickets are now available for party events and tend to sell out by the end of October, so book

e Boat Shed community hub, Ellesmere Port. £5. Call 01606 861770.

Swan Lake, 24th October Featuring ballet’s most breathtaking choreography set to Tchaikovsky’s sublime music. 7.30pm. £32. crewelyceum.co.uk

Dancing shoes on… Dance for Home Education is o ering a new session for ages 7-12, Step Into Dance. MondaysandlearnCheshirenewcreativeGetwithskillsfromDance,newstyleschoreography.10amat

Walk Like a Man, 23rd September Celebrating the 60th anniversary of e Four Seasons, this is the only group to win the National Tribute Awards two years running. 7.30pm. Tickets £23.

Manford’s Comedy Club, 21st October A strong line-up includes Dave Twentyman, Brennan Reece, Steve Gribbin and Alex Stringer. 8pm, £10.

AUTUMN GLORY e glorious Cholmondeley Castle Gardens will be open from 10am on 27th October, for you to discover the romantic temple and folly water gardens, arboretum and Tower Hill, and wander the lakeside nature trail around Deer Park Mere. Tickets are £8.50 (£4 child). For an additional £12.50 you can join an afternoon of autumn fun in the cafe, including a pumpkin hunt and crafting autumn collages. To book, visit cholmondeleycastle.com

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 15TH SEPT - 1ST OCT If you work with elders, teens or toddlers – or any age group in between – Chester Zoo would love you to join their free Wildlife Champions course. Whatever your knowledge of wildlife, all you need is a green space and people to engage. ere are four workshops, running on ursdays at 10am3pm on 1st, 8th, 15th & 22nd September, led by experts from Chester Zoo. Over four sessions, they’ll give you the know-how and resources to run inspiring activities with your group that are great for wildlife! Book now at chesterzoo.org

Making tracks Where e Trains Would Run is 100thetakenofusingCongleton,walkillustratedanthroughimagesthetownoverpastyearstoshow how the main streets have developed to meet the changing social and economic needs of its inhabitants. Ian Doughty will lead the walk on 2nd October – meet him at Congleton Museum at 2pm. Adults £4, children £1. Details at congletonmuseum.co.uk ere’s top entertainment in store at Ellesmere Port Civic Hall. Book tickets at brioleisure.org

Playing at the Port

•17th & 18th Works,OpenMurgatroyd'sSeptember,BrinePumpsDays,Murgatroyd'sBrineMiddlewich Discover this unique heritage site, recently restored, and explore the history of salt making in Cheshire, and the life and work of local engineer George Murgatroyd. Open midday-4pm. Free entry.

Rene and Edith’s Le Comedy Dinner Show, 30th September Another ‘Sitcom Experience’ from Laughlines – a loving parody of the BBC’s ’Allo ’Allo! 7.30pm. £39.

CHESHIRE WHAT’S ON

•20th September, MicroVolunteering Opportunity: Wildlife Recording Day, Chester Zoo Estate Help with observing, identifying and recording wildlife. 9.45am-3pm. Free but register on Eventbrite.

Go wild for wildlife

28 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

1st October, Antiques & Salvage Market, Cheshire Showground, Knutsford An exciting day for all those who love a rummage for antiques and Free8.30am-3pm.excellentaroundsalvage,architecturalwith200dealers.£6.parking!

•1st October, Carriage Shed Makers’ Market, Chester The place to find 10am-4pm.muchandjewelleryhandmadewares,artisandelights,foodiesomore.•

Jive Talkin’ perform e Bee Gees, 7th October e only Bee Gees tribute to have performed with the originals! 7.30pm, £21.

•15th-18th September, LeMieux National Dressage Championships, Somerford Park, Congleton A highlight of the calendar for any countryside enthusiast, showcasing the best of equestrian dressage at all levels of the sport. 8am-6pm. From £20.

Taking you back to the golden age of jazz, e Easy Rollers are a roaring seven-piece jazz band performing hits from the speakeasy bars of the Prohibition era. Join them on 8th October for an evening of jumpin’ and jivin’ at Clonter Opera eatre in Congleton. Tickets £20. clonter.org

Drop me o in Harlem!

FIXTURES2022chester-races.comTICKETSONSALENOWWEDNESDAY 4 THURSDAY 5 FRIDAY SATURDAY6 28 SATURDAY 11 FRIDAY SATURDAY24 25 FRIDAY SATURDAY8 9 SATURDAY 16 SUNDAY SATURDAY31 20 FRIDAY SATURDAY9 10 Boodles May Festival City ChesterLadiesDayDayCup Day Roman SeasonAutumnLadiesFamilyMidsummerCityLadiesSummerLadiesSummerDaySaturdayEveningFestival&GentsEveningPlateDayMeetingFundayDayFestivalFinale MAY SATURDAY 24 SEPTEMBERAUGUSTJUNEJULY

Travel Photographer of the Year Exhibition Sunday 2 OctoberThursday 27 October chestercathedral.com Discover an inspiring, thought-provoking and breathtaking exhibition of award-winning images from the Travel Photographer of the Year awards; the only opportunity to view in the UK outside of London.

WHAT’S ON CHESHIRE

LIGHTS FANTASTIC

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 4TH-13TH OCTOBER

•4th MiddlewichBusinessWheelockCourse,SocialOctober,MediaHub, In this howguidedcoursefull-dayyou'llbethroughtoformulate an e ective strategy for your socials and learn the best tips, tricks and tools to make it as easy as possible. 10am-4pm. £149.

Make time for Tatton Park At up to 17 hands high, Shire horses are among the biggest in the world. At Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre, near Tarporley you can get a taste of caring for these gentle creatures and preparing them for the showring. Visitor experiences cost from £50. cotebrook.digitickets.co.uk.

•6th October, Leading Ladies Club, Love Lane Kitchen, Nantwich If you are a businesswoman who enjoys connecting, supporting and empowering other women in a relaxed setting, you won't want to miss this event! 6.45-9.30pm, £17.50.

•8th October, Brewbarn Sessions, Waverton, Chester An afternoon of beer, food, music and laughs at Spitting Feathers HQ. Discover how they do it on a brewery tour, and sample a range of beer styles and flavours – all included in the price. Plus great food from the farm (usually a hog roast) and entertainment from live bands and singers. 2pm-6pm. £30.

Age and beauty Experience the glories of autumn as you’ve never seen them before, lit by canopies of fairy lights, tunnels of dancing Borealis-style lasers and interactive features. e Magical Woodland trail can be looped as many times as you wish, with plenty of opportunities to refuel and warm up with tasty snacks and hot drinks. It’s open 7th-31st October and tickets are £19.95 (child £15.50, under-2s free). magicalwoodland.com

DIDKNOW?YOU Allow around an hour and a half to walk the 1 mile route. There’s lots to see!

Autumn Deer Ruts, 12th & 18th October Join the rangers for a guided walk to catch one of nature’s true spectacles. is is the time of year when male deer compete for females, resulting in much posturing and bellowing. 4-6pm. Over-8s only. £15. Book at tattonpark.org.uk e Segway Experience Explore the grounds on an exhilarating 30 or 60-minute ride on one of these innovative vehicles. From £25 via segwayevents.co.uk UK Bungee, 29th & 30th October Will you dare try this 300ft bungee – the highest regular jump in the UK – which takes place over Tatton’s vast and picturesque lake? Tickets are £120 per person, the screams are free! Book at ukbungee.co.uk

GET DOWN AND DIRTY! e muddiest challenge of the Tough Mudder series is at Cholmondeley Castle Gardens on 10th September. With runs for all ages, you can opt for a 5k, 10k or 15k or enter the little ones in the one-mile Lidl Mudder. Ready to push yourself to the limit? Take part in Europe’s Toughest Mudder right through the night – 12 hours of fromgrit.staminateamwork,extremeandEntry£79,spectators £10. toughmudder.co.uk Dunham Massey has one of the nest collections of ancient trees in England. A walk through the park on their Ancient Tree Trail takes you through layers of history going back 1,000 years. It’s also rich in wildlife and home to 150 fallow deer. Call 0161 941 1025 for visitor information.

DID KNOW?YOU Male fallow deer shed their antlers in October and grow them again by February.

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 31

•13th October, BuzzKocks –A Tribute to The Buzzcocks, Alexander’s Live, Chester The UK’s number one Buzzcocks tribute 8pm.Manchester!yertheyWhat’sgoldenfromrecreatebandsongstheband’sera.more,hailfromactual£11.

•7th October, The Madchester Experience, The Hive, Winsford Bringing you all the classic hits from one of the UK's most influential cities! 8pm. £7.

Now that’s champion!

Kathryn Williams, 12th October e songwriter’s songwriter has a loyal fan-base. 7.30pm. £15.

32 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

•16th MacclesfiAdlingtonColours,AutumnalOctober,Hall,eld With a wide variety of trees, bushes and plants, groundstheare a must-see at this time of year. 2-5pm. Adults £6, students and children free.

Words & Music brings a superb line-up to the beautiful town of Nantwich. Details and booking at Beverleywordsandmusicfestival.comCraven&JudieTzuke, 13th October Two of the UK’s foremost singer-songwriters, backed by a string quartet. 7pm. Tickets £30. Space, 14th October Witty and unpredictable, Space hold a special place in our hearts. 7.30pm. £18.

•19th October, NetWalk Delamere, Delamere Forest Business networking in the forwithpartneralongseveralthentoyouryourselfIntroduceoutdoors!greatandbusinessthegroup,atstopsthewayupsomeonededicated1-2-1 discussions whilst you walk. 11am. Free.

•22nd October, Stanley Palace Ghost Hunt, Chester Brave Chester's most haunted home! Tickets include ghost tour, ghost hunt, soup, snacks and hot drinks. 7.30pm-2am (Sunday morning). £45.

ON

Rich Hall, 15th October Don’t miss this special appearance from a brilliant stand-up and writer. 12.30pm. £20.

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 16TH-29TH OCTOBER

Stand-up comedy, classical music, reggae, theatre, folk, jazz, poetry, painting and craft are just some of the wide spectrum of arts on o er at Goosfest, taking place in Goostrey from 7th-16th October. e festival takes place at a range of venues around the village and features seefree.somepricesTimesamateurprofessionalbothandacts.andticketvary,andeventsareFordetails goosfest.com Village of variety Streaming now ‘Gathering Downstream’ is a specially commissioned installation by artist Jen Southern at Quarry Bank. e piece, created with the help of machine-learning technology, takes the form of ve lms that are embedded in a river-like installation inside the historic cotton mill. e exhibition is free, but normal admission charges to the mill apply (opening times 10.30am-5pm). quarrybank@nationaltrust.org.uk

Ian McCulloch, 15th October Spine-tingling stu from Echo & e Bunnymen star. 7.30pm. £20.

IT’S YOUR ROUND! Now in its 28th year, Northwich Beer Festival’s popularity is down to three main factors: the beer, the bands and now the gin! Taking place on 16th & 17th September at Northwich Memorial Court, you can choose from evening sessions (£10)or quieter afternoons (£5). Organised by Rotary in Northwich, updates are available on Facebook.

Lyrics come toTravellifebackintime to the roaring ’20s with Razzle Dazzle – a Musical Murder Mystery Dining Experience. On 21st October, Northwich Memorial Court transforms itself to the Vaudeville eatre in downtown Chicago. Enjoy a delicious three-course meal whilst the cast present a 261100ToTicketsKelly.Missnightclubhostedinteractivehighlyshow,bysensationalsingerermal7.30pm.cost£39.book,call01606oremail brioleisure.orgNorthwichMC@ ROARING FOR MORE

•From 27th October, MidCheshire Woodland Wellbeing, Marbury Park, Northwich During this sixsession Wellbeing with spaces,food-growingorchardyou'llNatureexplorelocalgreenspace,manageawildflowermeadow,andandbuild dead hedges. Transport is provided from Winsford and Northwich. 10am-3pm. Free but booking is essential.

•29th October, Day of the Dead, Rudheath Social Club, Northwich An evening of music and fun based around the 7.30pm.andHarley'n'DutchmusicwithlosofcelebrationMexicanDíadeMuertos,livefromfriends.£10.

CHESHIRE WHAT’S

www.overwatermarina.co.uk Locomotive Luxury Hard-standing Touring Pitches at our Award Winning Waterways Marina All enquiries please call us on 01270 812677 Self Catering Accommodation in our Bespoke Glamping Wagons Both with a Wood-Fired Hot Tub

It’s a very desirable town and location, sitting on the eastern side of the Dee estuary, with views across the river to North Wales and stunning sunsets to enjoy from the shore. From one of its higher points, you can see the towers of Liverpool’s cathedrals on the horizon. The modern town centre is separated by a winding downhill road from the old village where red sandstone is the order of the day. Here, all routes lead to the shoreline, where you can join the famous Wirral Way walking and cycling route.

1909. It occupied a nine-acre site and had a clock tower and grounds with views over the estuary. However, it closed in 1985 and, despite campaigns, was demolished to make way for a Tesco superstore. The commerce this attracts keeps other businesses thriving, and Heswall has a selection of independent and chain outlets as well as an impressive array of pubs, restaurants and bars.

The music video for Coldplay’s ‘Life in Technicolor II’ was shot at Heswall fete

The Dungeon Another SSSI – historic sandstone cave and WirralwaterfallWay,Heswall CH60 6SG

Heswall Dales Open parkland and a Site of Special Scientific parks-and-open-spaces/heswall-daleswirral.gov.uk/leisure-parks-and-events/Interest

Famous faces An affluent area, Heswall was once listed as the seventh richest neighbourhood in the UK. Paul McCartney bought his dad a house here; Ian Botham and radio presenter John Peel are among its famous sons. It’s popular with musicians and footballers, including John Barnes, who still resides in the village. With historic spots, beautiful views, bustling shops and brilliant schools it is easy to see why those who can afford to tend to stick around in this sought-after suburb.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO

One of the jewels in the crown of the Wirral Peninsula, Heswall attracts the rich and famous, and affluent families looking for a smart neighbourhood and great connections All’s well in Heswall

St Peter’s tower is as old as it gets here

DIDKNOW?YOU

The coast itself is usually bereft of water, although the marshland attracts rare and endangered birds, and enough channels fill on the tide to launch the occasional boat. Like much of the Wirral, Heswall claims plenty of Viking links and was originally recorded in the Domesday Book as ‘Eswelle’. It was a tiny hamlet for many centuries, counting a 168 residentsmereeven in 1801. Over the next 40 years this only crept up to 398, but eventually the place experienced a welldeserved boom. Wealthy merchants from Liverpool decided it was a great place to live, especially once two rail stations appeared that allowed them to commute or to reach onward connections into North Wales. One has since closed, but the survivor still serves the area well and enables a direct journey to Chester. Built to last Heswall’s oldest structure is the tower of St Peter’s parish church, but this is still only about 500 years old as the building suffered more than its share of misfortune. The present church dates from 1879 and is the third to have been built on the site. Its predecessor was destroyed by a violent thunderstorm in 1875 that also claimed the lives of the organist and bellows boy.

On the edge of the Wirral Peninsula, Heswall is popular with commuters and families, being just 20 minutes’ drive from both Liverpool and Chester and surrounded by countryside. It can declare itself proudly part of Cheshire or Merseyside, depending on who you ask, and is home to a population of around 16,500 – if you include the outlying areas of Gayton and Barnston.

34 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

It’s a green and pleasant place to live

The remains of Gayton’s windmill, which stopped operating in 1860 and is now a private home, can be seen on the main road, and several handsome houses and sandstone buildings still grace the town. A more recent loss was The Royal Liverpool Children’s Hospital, which originally opened here in

Oriel Glasfryn Ad JulyAug22 97x140mm AB.indd 1 14/06/2022 10:08 Advertise your Plus all events are included on the new What’s on App Free for all to use advertising@shiremagazine.co.uk 01691 661270 for 2022 SHIRE MAGAZINE With SHIRE Magazine you will get... • Over 100,000 readers • Coverage throughout North Wales, Mid Wales, Cheshire and Shropshire House_ad_Events_MarJun22_97x140mm LR.indd 1 22/04/2022 11:11Are you a local author? Do you have a story to tell our readers? We’d like to know more… Shire Magazine, The best of North and Mid Wales, Cheshire, Wirral & Shropshire Get in touch editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk or 01691 661 270 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 Warm, friendly & welcoming

01745 582254 fireandstoveshow.co.uk Station Yard, Chester Street, St Asaph, LL17 0RE f t • • • • THE FIRE & STOVE SHOW With many manufacturers affected by supply issues and ever rising prices due to raw material costs, buy now to secure the best possible price and installation before winter arrives. UP TO £1500 OFF RANGE COOKERS SAVE £500 ON STOCK WOOD FIRED HOT TUBS NO VAT ON STOVES, FIRES & FIREPLACES *

•25th September, L’Orchestra dell’Arte, United Reformed Church, Heswall The wonderful ‘American’ by 3pm.K157.quartetMozart’sandDvorak£6. an eye on wirralartsfestival.co.uk ART FOR ART’S SAKE Tubular Bells, one of the iconic works of the 20th century and the highest selling instrumental album of all time, is approaching its 50th anniversary. On 22nd September e Light cinema is showing a lm of an epic new stage production, recorded at the Royal Festival Hall. 8pm. Tickets £13.95 (child £11.45). newbrighton.lightcinemas.co.uk Keep it in the family

Ray Quinn, 8th October Celebrating the fabulous music and incredible story of the Rat Pack. 7.30pm. £26.75. Hal Cruttenden – It’s Best You Hear It From Me, 21st October Hal’s single again, but instead of getting the therapy he clearly needs, he’s made a show about it! 7.30pm. £21.75. Howard Jones, 30th October In this acoustic show Howard presents a fresh take on the hits and recollections from his career. 7.30pm. From £29.25.

•18th September, Classic Car Rally, Goredale Garden Centre, Burton Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just love a vintage display, this is an event you don’t want to miss! 11am.

e Wirral Arts Festival is an annual two-week celebration of music, plays, crafts, paintings, dancing and anything else you can class as art! From 1st-15th October you can enjoy highquality live entertainment and artwork in venues across the Wirral. Join in with workshops and make new friends. Times and venues to be announced, keep

e Floral Pavilion in New Brighton genuinely has something for everyone! Book tickets at oralpavilion.com Twopence to Cross the Mersey, 6th-11th September is stunning drama based on Helen Forrester’s autobiography is set in the 1930s, in the midst of the Great Depression. Times vary. From £26.25. A Beautiful Noise, 25th September Fisher Stevens and a full band perform the music of Neil Diamond. 7.30pm. Tickets £26.75.

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 37

•7th September, Netwalking wiht Netork She, Eastham Country Park Netwalking combines networking, walking, being outdoors and plenty of laughs in one event. 10am. Free.

It’s Halloween, time for trick or treat and all things spooky, and the Addams Family are back! Morticia and Gomez are preparing for the annual gathering of family members – alive and dead. Join them plus Uncle Fester, Lurch, Wednesday and Pugsley on a journey through the twists and turns of love, family and friendship. Hilarious and heart-warming, this musical comedy is at Port Sunlight from 27th-29th October. Tickets £20. gladstonetheatre.org.uk WHAT’S ON WIRRAL DID KNOW?YOU Howard had an incredible 15 top40 hit singles inthe 1980s and early ’90s , info@

•7th, 21st September & 5th, 19th October, The Original Panama Jazz Band, The Irby Club, 15 Thingwall Road, Irby Dance and listen to the best live Dixieland/Chicago-style jazz every first and third Wednesday, often with surprise guests. Free.

Capturing nature

An illustrated talk by WirralRichardaward-winningSteelforBirdClub, taking a summer journey from the pine grosbeak of Lapland’s forests to the fascinating ru lek on the tundra. 7.30pm. £4.

Tubular Bells strikes gold

Join one of the UK’s leading botanical illustrators Simon Williams for a two-day workshop painting ora and fauna in gouache or watercolour, on 12th-13th October at the Hulme Room in Ness Botanical Gardens. e course is suitable for all abilities, and you are welcome to join for one or both days. Each day costs £121 and there are discounts for members. For details email eldbreaksart.co.uk

•22nd Centre,Bridget’sArcticDegrees‘BeyondSeptember,66.5North–Norway’,StChurchWestKirby

•22nd September, Wirral & Chester Business Fair, New Brighton Floral Pavilion Support day featuring 40-50 exhibitors, a networking session, business workshops, advice clinics and more. 10.30am. Free.

string quartet

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 7TH-25TH SEPTEMBER

BLOOMING BRILLIANT ENTERTAINMENT

An evening with the Queen of History as she delves into the life of the Queen of Crime, Agatha Christie. 7pm. £25, includes book.

•8th September, Lucy BirkenheadWorsley,School

28th October, Burn – Deep Purple Tribute, Heswall Hall Over two hours of searing rock, from ‘Highway Star’, ‘Space Truckin’’, ‘Woman from Tokyo’ to MkIII classics like ‘Stormbringer’ and, of course, ‘Burn’. 8pm. £17.

38 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

15th BirkenheadFutureShawnJeromeOctober,Hill&Cartier,Yard, Two legends of the UK dance scene, joined by local spinners All Trades, Cersy and Luna thee Frenchie. 10pm. Tickets from £10.

WIRRAL WHAT’S ON

Showing from 19th to 23rd October, at various times. Tickets from £5, visit theatreporto.org

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF

It’s a special year for Wallasey Motor Club, marking 40 years of its Cataclean Promenade Stages Rally. Taking place on 9th-10th September, two stages will run on the Friday night, the second oodlit, followed by up to 10 stages on Saturday, on King’s Parade, New Brighton. e service area is hosting a Rally Village with fun for all the family. Tickets are £10 (per vehicle) or £15 for two days. wallaseymc.com Race to the finish

Kiki Dee and Carmelo Luggeri – e Long Road Home Tour, 17th September For almost two decades, the duo have been touring their spellbinding acoustic live show. 7.30pm. Tickets £24.

Miranda Sykes and Hannah Martin, 25th September An exciting new collaboration from two of folk’s nest voices. 7.30pm. Tickets £14.

GO WEST Into the woods…

1ST-30TH OCTOBER

STAND BY YOUR BEDS

Snake Davis, 14th October One of the world’s most respected and in-demand sax players, Snake and his band will be playing sax classics, plus solos including ‘Search For e Hero’. 7.30pm. £20. Autumn Wine Festival, 29th October Dove and Olive bring you a selection of 30-40 of their favourite wines in this informal tasting. 6pm. £10. westkirbyartscentre.org.uk

•27nd October, ‘Around the World in 80 Birds’, St Bridget’s Church Centre, West Kirby Chris Galvin shares two decades of travel with a telephoto lens at Wirral Bird Club. 7.30pm. £4.

e Chronicles of Atom & Luna is Murray Lachlan Young’s epic tale for families. Our heroes must seek out the mysterious Old Mother Redbeard to save their larger-than-life childminder I y Sney. To do so they will journey deep into a magical forest on a life-changing adventure.

Paul Walker and Karen Pfei er, 23rd September Self-penned and imaginatively arranged songs, with guitar, woodwind and percussion. 7.30pm. £10.

1st-30th October, Family Fright Festival, Church Farm, Thurstaston Lots of fun activities, friendly animals and awesome views for you to see. 10am-5pm. Tickets from £5. 9th October, Art Poetry Tour, Lady Lever Art Gallery, Port Sunlight Join local poets from the Wirral Poetry Festival to hear poems inspired by the works of art within the gallery. 2pm. Free.

16th October, Antiques Fair, Hulme Hall, Port Sunlight Long-established antiques and collectors’ fair in this beautiful Victorian hall. Over 60 tables of desirable items. 9.30am.

Experience the world from new angles at Birkenhead Park from 19th-25th September. An exhibition at the Visitor Centre showcases art, craft and pottery by members of Wirral Society of the Blind and Partially Sighted, demonstrating how the world is seen from the perspective of sight loss. Open 9.30am4.30pm, entry free. wirralsociety.org.uk

A di erent perspective DID KNOW?YOU Snake has playedwith James Brown,PaulandMcCartneyTinaTurner. CarrPete e Prenton Park sleep-out returns on 23rd September. Leave the comfort of your bed and raise funds for the homelessness and housing charity Shelter. It’s just £10 to register (over-18s) and you’re asked to raise at least £100 in sponsorship. Can’t make it to the ground? Pitch a tent or make a den in your living room – registration is free, just raise £40. Details at tranmererovers.co.uk

©2021–WestKirbyArtsCentreLtd. RegisteredinEnglandandWalesCompanyNumber07855490. The Old Unitarian Church, 29 Brookfield Gardens, West Kirby CH48 4EL 07484 537 502 Doorsopenat 19:00unless otherwisestated hello@westkirbyartscentre.org.uk West Kirby Arts Centre CONCERT S 2022 21JaneTaylor 22JaneTaylor Songwriting workshop 12.00-5.00pm 22ChrisWhileand Julie Matthews 23ConcertforUkraine 27MarkSebastian D’Lacey 28JoeMartin 29AutumnWineFestival 4 Keith James Every Human Heart 5TennesseeWaltzwith Jeffery Straker 11RafaOMusicofDavidBowie 12KathOrdandGrenBartley MusicofJoniMitcheland JamesTaylor 13AfternoonAcousticinConcert 18 KatieSpencerMusicof John Martyn 19Winter Wilson 20MarkHarrison 25BonfireRadicals 27Christmasexhibition open evening September November 1JonathanHeyesexhibition openevening 2MartynJoseph 3HenryPriestman 4SteveKnightley 9SimplyDylan 10SimplyDylan 16The Roving Crows 17KikiDee 18John O’Connell and RachelJones 2.00pm 23KarenPfiffer and Paul Walker 24FullHouse 25MirandaSykesand HannahMartin 1LukeJacksonandJulieAube 7PhilChisnall'ssongwriters circle 8GaryMurphy 14Snake Davis 15ElfinBow It’s time to upgrade your garage door to a Garolla electric door. Not only are they strong and secure, they are also thermally insulated. So if you’re transforming the garage into a home gym, o ce or even a garden bar, Garolla is perfect for you. Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up FREE of charge. TWO REMOTE CONTROLS ACOUSTIC & THERMAL INSULATION FREE DISPOSAL OF YOUR OLD DOOR AVAILABLE IN 21 COLOURS CALL US TODAY FREE ON: 0800 135 7945 MOBILE: 07537 149128 www.garolla.co.uk Quality Doors. Great Service. Free Fitting. Example shown: • 3.6m wide opening • 77” Anthracite grey slats Only £1,990 Price on this door style can range from £1,440 - £2,740 depending on the width of door opening. Are you a local artist? We’d like to share your work with our readers, and tell your story. Shire Magazine, The best of North and Mid Wales, Cheshire, Wirral & Shropshire Get in touch editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk or 01691 661 270 ... is a gift that lives forever – and a unique, personal investment. Call now for a quotation. Above: Latest private commission Stephen Hopper 07802 779484 or 01691 780876 www.stephenhopper.net A portrait in oils... FREE–three gilcléeprintsincl.Typical size 30’’ x 24’’ > Quote SHIRES9 for a 15% first order discount Close up detail

Runner and TV personality Nell McAndrew will be on hand with professional advice at the brand-new Wellbeing Festival, taking place on 3rd September in Quarry Park, Shrewsbury. Comprising wellbeing, fitness, nutrition and kids health, along with a yoga and mindfulness zone, there’s opportunities for everyone – from bootcamp to sound healing, chair exercise and kids’ dance fitness. You can indulge in a spot of retail therapy in the shopping village too. Admission is £12.50, under-15s free with a paying adult. wellbeingfestival.co.uk

23rd-30th October. e park will be decorated for Halloween, an impressive pumpkin patch will be open and pumpkin-scarecrow ‘Patch’ will be greeting and entertaining guests. Open hours have been extended during half term so visitors can experience the dinosaurs and theme park rides in the dark. Adult £25, child £20, all theme park rides charged additionally. wmsp.co.uk

RailwaySevernBeerBridgnorthSeptember,•8th-10thFestival,Valley

Country pursuits enthusiasts will be entertained at the Weston Park Country Fair on 17th- 18th September. Whether you enjoy competitive gun dog and clay shooting events, fishing or displays of falconry, there will be lots of first-class performances, as well as live music, rural crafts and antiques, and a food festival area. Family entertainment is offered all day in the main arena, including jousting, motocross stunts and the Red Devils display team. Have-a-go activities are also on offer. Dogs welcome, and parking is free. Save money by buying tickets online in advance: day tickets are £20 for adults, £6 for children online, weekend tickets are also available. westonparkcountryfair.com

SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

•10th September, Water’s Edge Fest, Chetwynd Deer Park, Newport The second date of the Water’s Edge Fest, featuring no less than nine hours of live music, pop-up food and drink vendors, face painting and festival glitter, all in a tranquil setting by the water. Tickets must be bought in advance. £24.95 (£14.95 child). 11am.

TelfordCarnival,OakengatesSeptember,•10th processiontraditionalA will move through the andandvintagecarnivalincludingstreets,floatscarstractors,streetperformers.

Celebrating the countryside

Enjoy SpectacularhostingSafariWestsafarispookyaMidlandsParkisitsSpookyfrom

The smooth tones of Marti Pellow are fromrecognisable,instantlyinseparableoneofthesmashhit movie soundtracks of the ’90s. In this intimate evening in The Place Theatre on 30th September he shares his story, wrapped in songs you know and songs you’ll get to know. Tickets start from £31.50, and meet and greet options are available. theplacetelford.com

Loveisallaround

BRIEF 1ST-10TH SEPTEMBER 40 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

•1st September, The Blackheart Orchestra, Hermon Arts Centre, Oswestry Billed as the smallest orchestra in the world – two people, 13 instruments – the duo draw on their background in folk, rock, electronica and classical. £15. 8pm.

Over three days, the Severn Valley Railway Station will host up to 50 real ales, ciders and perries for the free Bridgnorth Beer Festival. Times vary.

All wellnessabout DID KNOW?YOU A single barn owl family can eat 3,000 rodents in four months!

•3rd September, Astronomy Day, Whittington Castle, Oswestrynear Various alltalkingatingroupsastronomylocalwillberesidencethecastle,things space and demonstrating the equipment used in viewing and photographing the night sky. Talks will happen throughout the day. 10am-4pm.

This will be followed by a free family fun day at Hartshill Park. 11am. IN

aheadSteam at Blists Hill Blists Hill Victorian Town will be filled with the evocative smells of hot oil and steam for the second of its steam weekends on 3rd-4th September. Admire the mighty machines in the world they originally inhabited. There will be visiting engines of different scales and makes, including four full size. Regular admission fees apply (£21.50, £14 child), with the option to purchase a passport ticket allowing unlimited access to all the museums in the group for one year. ironbridge.org.uk

WHAT’S ON

•13th September, Fungi Foray, NatureLightmoorReserve Join butweather.dressafungi.amazingaWildlifeShropshireTrustforpeekintotheworldofPleasebringpackedlunchandsuitablyforthe10.30am.Free,advancedbookingrequired.

director Pedro Almodovar, Madres Parallelas, starring Penelope Cruz, one of several world cinema features showing during autumn and winter. Films from Italy and Mexico follow in October. 8pm. Tickets £6.

beautiful county from 17th-25th September as part of the Shropshire Way Walking Festival. Groups across the county will be organising and leading walks that include a section of the Shropshire Way main route. The festival has been extended following high demand, and details of all walks can be found at shropshireway.org.uk Market Drayton is the home of gingerbread, with a culinary history extending back over 200 years, so treats are guaranteed at the Ginger and Spice Festival on 24th September. Follow the heritage trail and sample tasters along the way, help judge the best-dressed gingerbread contest, and visit the spice exchange and artisan street market. ere’s a food theatre and eclectic mix of fringe events. e fun takes place between 10am and 5pm and it’s free. gingerandspicefest.co.uk

Record-breaking adventurer and former Gurkha officer, Hayes takes you through jungles, deserts and ice-caps, sharing lessons learnt along the way. 7pm. Tickets £19.50.

EnjoythisWalkwaywalkingour

•24th September, Fizzgigs 10th Anniversary Ceilidh, Criftins Village Hall Ellesmere Community Arts group Fizzgigs are celebrating their 10th anniversary with a night of dancing and music from the Fizzjigs band, and surprise interval entertainment. 7.30pm. Pay on the door £5.

Shrewsbury Proms SUGAR, SPICE, ALL THINGS NICE . Award-winning£29.50. to WHAT’S ON SHROPSHIRE

Adventure Cinema brings four blockbuster movies to Attingham Park from 2nd4th September. Pack a picnic and bring chairs, beanbags, blankets – whatever you need to get comfy. Most screenings begin after sunset, but there’s an afternoon showing of Encanto on the 3rd. Tickets £14.50 (under-12s £9.50). nationaltrust.org.uk

The autumn programme at Theatre Severn is packed with music, comedy, theatre and interest. Here’s our top picks:

September,•23rd MothersParallel (cert 15), The ShrewsburyHive, fromlatestpresentsFilmShrewsburySocietythereleaseSpanish

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 13TH-24TH SEPTEMBER

28th September, Newton Faulkner – Feels Like Home

•17th & 18th September, Oswestry Antique & Collectors Fair, Oswestry Showground A mixture of indoor and outdoor stalls selling antiques, vintage, collectibles, architectural salvage, mid-century and simply decorative items. Opens 8.30am. Free parking, free entry for under-16s, adults £3.50.

The top singer-songwriter performs acoustic versions of his best-known songs. 8pm. Tickets from £29.50. 13th October. Ed Gamble Award-winning comedian who co-hosts hit podcast Off Menu with James Acaster, extends his Electric show to Shrewsbury. 7.30pm. £22. theatresevern.co.uk

•23rd September, An Evening with Raynor Winn, The Holroyd OswestryTheatre, Hosted by Bookabookshop, Sunday Times

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 41

Music lovers can enjoy the magic of Elgar, Tchaikovsky and Beethoven as the late summer sun sets over the West Mid Showground on 10th September. Expect all the classics from ‘Last Night of the Proms’ performed by Shropshire-born opera singer Holly Teague and the 40-piece Midlands Proms Orchestra. e performance begins at 7pm. Tickets start from £20 for early-bird bookings, with accompanied under-12s free (strictly up to three children per adult). westmidshowground.co.uk

22nd September, Adrian Hayes – To the Ends of the Earth

Winnauthorbest-sellingRaynorintroduces her new book Landlines, which details her and husband Moth’s walk along the 200-mile Cape Wrath Trail. 7.30pm. Tickets £8, or £20 to include a signed copy.

A movie That’sAttinghamatentertainment

Pay your respects to thisSherryInternationalWeekwithtwo-hour tasting at the Lion Hotel. You will get to sample six sherries, accompanied by delicious tapas. 7pm. £40, booking essential.

•25thAutumnSeptember,AppleDay,ShropshireHillsDiscoveryCentre Take a tour of the orchards at Onny Meadows, get help with apple identification and watch apple pressing and jellymaking demonstrations. There will be a chance to sample the delights, along with apple craft activities. 11am.

Join in with Halloween activities at Park Hall Farm, Oswestry, from 14th-16th October and 21st October-3rd November. As well as Pumpkin Alley, e Witches’ Cavern, e Little Scare House and singing pumpkins, there’s a daily fancy-dress competition, so dig out your best costumes. Every paying child receives a pumpkin to carve, to take home at the end of the day. Entry to the farm is £11.95 per person, pre-bookable online, with a £1 supplement for the Halloween event. parkhallfarm.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 24TH SEPT - 1ST OCT 42 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

•1st WineShrewsburyMasterclass,SherryOctober,andTapasSchool

Garden call for artists

e Dorothy Clive Garden, near Market Drayton, is inviting artists to spend a day sketching, painting or taking photographs in these glorious surroundings. Between 19th and 23rd September the usual entry fee will be reduced for artists, and tables set up in the Bryan Mayer Pavillion for use as a work base. A sink will also be available. Groups and individuals are welcome but please book ahead. Cost £8 per artist. dorothyclivegarden.co.uk

This annual festival of culture and history offers a chance to visit new places, many not normally open to the public. Among the locations in Shropshire taking part is Shrewsbury Drapers Hall, which has an open day on 9th September The hall dates back to 1575, and has been the headquarters of the Shrewsbury Drapers for over 400 years. It will be open to view, and visitors can also take part in the Drapers Trail around the town. All Heritage Open Day events are free of charge. heritageopendays.co.uk

9th October offers the best of the town’s scenic surroundings. The race sets off from West Mid Showground, proceeding along the river and through the Quarry, taking in some of the town’s most historic sites, before heading back through the Shropshire countryside. Road closures will be in place, and finishers will receive a T-shirt or can opt to commemorate the event by having five trees planted. Entry costs £32. ukrunchat.co.uk

•25th September, Wem 10K Starting and finishing at Thomas Adams School, the fast-paced route passes through the town and into countryside. Alongside the standard race there will also be an elite race and children’s 1k. All finishers will receive medals. 10am. Standard entry including T-shirt £23.

First Family of folk

For more than 50 years Martin Carthy has been one of folk music’s greatest innovators, and on 21st October he and his twice Mercury Prize nominated daughter Eliza Carthy make their first appearance at St Mary’s Church in Shrewsbury.

Heritage Open Days take place around the country over ten days from 9th-18th September

Martin is a legendary ballad singer and guitarist who has influenced generations of artists, while Eliza is a multiple-award winner at the BBC Radio Two Folk Awards. The show starts at 8pm and tickets are £18 from ticketsource.co.uk

RunFUNPUMPKIN-TASTICATPARKHALLthebestofShrewsburyShrewsburyHalfMarathonon

SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

A whole of heritagelot DID KNOW?YOU The hall cost just under £10 to build, less than a pair of cotton pillow cases today!

•24th September, Newport Food Frenzy Expect more than 50 artisan food and drink producers from across the West Midlands, with many local eateries hosting their own events. There will be Newport’s own ‘bake o ’, plus musical entertainment. 10am-4.30pm.

•1st October, Aviation Photography Workshop, RAF Cosford Museum This full-day workshop, suitable for all levels, includes professional tuition, and access to the Cold War hangar after hours to put your new skills into practice. 11am. £75 including lunch and parking, booking essential.(Please note cameras are not provided.)

3rd September Solar Scope Astronomy Day 9th 10th & 11th September Archaeology Days 17th & 18th September Handmade Fair 8th October Autumn Eco Printing DarnitPatchitandJoinit@thecastle* 15th October What to do with an old shirt – make a house DarnitPatchitandJoinit@thecastle* 22nd & 23rd October Multi Period Re-enactment 29th & 30th October Wellbeing into Winter 31st October Halloween Lantern Parade 5th December Make a Christmas Wreath DarnitPatchitandJoinit@thecastle* *To book onto a creative course, please email info@whittingtoncastle.co.uk places will be limited. kitchen@thecaslle is open daily from 9am until 5pm events@thecastle SEP & OCT 22 Contact Civic Centre directly on 01948 66576110:00amSaturday,Saturday,#ShopWhitchurch3rdSept1stOctoberuntil4:00pmQuality makers & farmers market with 20 stalls. SHROPSHIRE FARMERSMAKER S MARKEWhitchurchFridayMarketisopenbothindoorsandatthefrontofWhitchurchCivicCentre,everyFriday7.30am–12.30pm. Award-winningMARKETS The Indoor Market is open every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and the outdoor market every Wednesday and Saturday. Plus we hold the Artisan Market on the last Friday of every month. The new weekly street market has gone from strength to strength attracting some fantastic bespoke stalls. For further information call 01691 680222 or visit: www.oswestry-tc.gov.uk CHILLOUT IN THE PARK 11th September 12 till 5pm – Cae Glas Park  APPLE DAY –8th October – Town Centre BONFIRE NIGHT –5th November – 7pm Brogyntyn Park CHARITY MARKET –2nd September – Bailey Head CULTUREFEST –10th September – Cae Glas Park –celebrating Oswestry’s diverse cultures Open 10 September 2022. Pre-book exhibition tickets to guarantee entry: ShrewsburyFlaxmillMaltings.org.uk Brand new exhibit ion, shop & independent café Not so the-millrun-of-

If you’re unlucky enough to have been diagnosed with a cataract, you’ll know it can have a major impact on your ability to live your life as you want to, from driving to enjoying your favourite hobbies – and the chances are you might face a bit of a wait to have it Cataractstreated.happen when the lens inside your eye develops cloudy patches. Over time, these generally grow, leading to misty vision, blurring and can eventually result in loss of sight altogether. If you’re unlucky enough to have been diagnosed with a cataract, you’ll know it can have a major impact on your ability to live your life as you want to, from driving to meet friends, to enjoying your favourite hobbies – and the chances are you might face a bit of a wait to have it treated.

“Being able to themhelpis a realforhonourus”

To find out more, visit www.newmedica.co.uk/clinics/shrewsbury, email shrewsbury@newmedica.co.uk, or call

ACTIVE

292392.

Keeping cataract surgery quick and easy in North Wales with Newmedica Shrewsbury

Operational director and partner Cinty Yarnell says: “We’ve had terrific feedback from our patients since we opened. We know that, for the patients we support, their loss of vision is having a massive impact on their ability to enjoy their lives, so being able to help them is a real honour for us. Why not get in touch and find out how we can help you.” 01743

Newmedica Shrewsbury, based on Anchorage Avenue on the Shrewsbury Business Park, offers patients across North Wales, a safe, fast and effective cataract surgery option within weeks of being referred by your optician or GP, meaning you can get back to doing the things you enjoy sooner. There are a number of reasons why some patients choose to go private. It might be that the treatment they need isn’t available on the NHS, they’d like to have more options on their treatment plans, or they’re after more flexibility around their appointment and treatment types. The independent eye health clinic and surgical centre treats private patients from just £2,295 per eye, depending on your choice of lenses, and accepts patients with private medical insurance from Aviva, Allianz, AXA PPP, Bupa, Saga and Vitality, amongst others. The team also offers YAG laser treatment, which is used to treat cloudy vision after cataract surgery, and aftercare.

Kate Bush’s 1985 hit ‘Running Up That Hill’ hit the top of the charts again earlier this year, thanks to the Netflix hit show Stranger Things. New fans of her music – and original followers too – will enjoy the enigmatic star’s most authentic tribute act, Cloudbusting, at Festival Drayton Centre on 9th September. The two-hour professional production includes all the hits, from ‘Hounds of Love’ to ‘Babooshka’, and several members of the group – musicians Del and Preston and dancer Stewart – worked with Kate back in the day. 7.30pm. Tickets £20. festivaldraytoncentre.com

September24th-25th at Severn Valley Railway. e Engine House at Highley will be full of modellers from all over the UK, working exclusively in O gauge. Access to the exhibits of dioramas and technology as well as trade stands is available via the railway, with a busy timetable in operation to allow visitors easy access. svr.co.uk DID KNOW?YOU Kate was the first woman to reach No.1 with a selfwritten song WHAT’S

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 1ST-5TH OCTOBER

Make the most of

thiscontinuesCastleTraditionally,MichelmasMichelmasFairwasheldattheendoftheharvestseason,andBishop’sMichelmasFairtothrive,takingplaceyearon

•1st-2nd October, Bonsai Live, Telford International Centre Overflowing with inspiration, this is the UK’s largest bonsai event, featuring the best traders and exhibitors selling trees, tools, pots, soils and every manner of bonsairelated goods. 10am. £15.

•1st October, Hadrian’s Wall Challenge for Climbing Out If you recall last year’s Snowdonia Challenge to raise money for this valuable charity, you may like to try one of their four Northumberland routes for 2022. Climbing Out funds places on outdoor activity programmes, aimed at rebuilding confidence and motivation after life-changing injury, illness or trauma. Find out more at climbingout.org.uk or email admin@climbingout.org.uk

Head in the clouds

ON SHROPSHIRE

ludlowfoodfestival.co.uk

IT’S GLORIOUSFOOD, FOOD Indulge in your favourites or try something new as over 100 food and drink producers converge in the grounds of Ludlow Castle on 9th-11th September for Ludlow Food Festival. As well as the showcase of products from Ludlow and the Welsh Marches, a line-up of chefs, food writers and authors are ready to entertain and inspire. Day tickets cost £13.50, and multi-day tickets are also available. A must for model enthusiastsExpectaward-winningO-gaugedisplaysattheAutumnModelRailwayWeekendon

17th September, with a wide range of entertainment for everyone, beginning at midday. Alongside street traders, you can expect music, displays, exhibits, two vehicle parades and a lantern procession at dusk. michelmasfair.org.uk

•5th October, Ludlow Races It’s Ludlow Brewery Day at the racecourse. Enjoy some early autumn racing at the most family-friendly course around. Several Ludlow beers will be on sale, and entry including a pint is £16. Gates open at midday.

A wide range of local artists are exhibiting their work from 1st-11th September as part of the Secret Severn Art Trail. e main show is at Jack eld Tile Museum, with other open studios within walking distance. It’s a great opportunity to meet the artists, see them work, and even add a piece to your collection. See secretsevern.co.uk Art around the Gorge

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 45

•2nd October, Dudmaston Hall Autumn Fair For this Made in Shropshire artisan market, traders are carefully selected to ensure quality and no duplication, and include food and drink, arts and gifts stalls. 10.30am-4.30pm. Admission to the hall is £13.20, with free entry to the market. 3rd ShrewsburyOctober,GhostCruise,SabrinaBoat Available on selected theOctober,throughoutdatesboard Sabrina for an evening river cruise and be regaled with Shrewsbury’s spooky history. Strictly advanced booking only. May not be suitable for young children. 7pm. £12 (child £6.50).

Come into the garden Sip stylein

•26th-27th October, Ghost Walk, Bridgnorth A guided tour through ancient alleyways to discover how ten ghosts met their grisly ends. Starts 7pm at Town Hall, ends at the Theatre with a 30-minute stage show. Booking essential. £12 (£6 child).

•21st October, Massaoke Sing the Musicals, The Buttermarket, Shrewsbury The ultimate fun night out. Sing along with a live band to all your favourites, then party into the early hours with an ’80s retro disco. 7pm. £18.

One of the biggest nights out of the year, Shropshire Oktoberfest takes place in Quarry Park, Shrewsbury on 30th September and 1st October. The original Oktoberfest is an important part of Bavarian culture, and has been held in the German city of Munich since 1810. The Shropshire festival will be filled with independent brewers, distillers and local drinks producers, serving up ale, lager, cider, perry, wine, gin, rum, fizz and cocktails. Vorsprung Durch Oompah will be entertaining on the music stage to give that Oktoberfest feel, or you can dance to your own tune – literally – at the silent disco. Tickets are £25, with some online discounts available and VIP options. Sorry no dogs allowed. shropshireoktoberfest.co.uk

The finest bars and bartenders in Shrewsbury are coming together from 3rd-11th September for Shrewsbury Cocktail Week. Enjoy classic cocktails along with some new creations, and even a mocktail, all made with quality ingredients. The programme for the week includes cocktail classes, tasting menus, parties and special offers, all with the ethos of drinking better not more. Entry by wristband, £8. shrewsburycocktailweek.com

6thShropshireOctober,MusicAwards,ThePlace,Telford styles.ofinlocalaShininglightontalentarangegenresand6pm.£12.

•28th-30th October, Market Drayton Arts Festival Showcasing local talent, the festival provides a range of interactive events at venues including Festival Drayton Centre, St Mary’s Church, the library and more. Many are free, and the full programme will be published in early September.

championaBecomecoracle DID KNOW?YOU Oktoberfest beganas a wedding partyfor Prince Ludwig. Thestagultimatedo? Oteley Garden, on the Mere in Ellesmere, was one of the original members of the National Garden Scheme when it launched in 1927.

•29th TelfordBurroughsSpookyOctober,Marathon,Bank, Places are limited for this fright night run. eitherChooseafullor half marathon, run in fancy dress with your head torch and enjoy post-race refreshments around the bonfire. Race entry £35.

ArmsCravenCastle,atHalloweenOctober,•22nd-30thStokesay Gather your little monsters for a ghoulishly good day out. Follow the trail to solve creepy clues, then gather to hear spooky stories. 10am-5pm. Adults £11.20, children £6.60.

SHROPSHIRE WHAT’S ON

communitybringingsustainability,fusesBlackberryWhitchurchmattersArtFairartandthetogether through positive energy. is chilled-out free festival takes place on 1st October, and as well as some interesting markets and kids activities, o ers a massive range of arts entertainment including street artists, poetry slams, sea shanty singers, concert pianists, fashion shows and story-telling. More information about the programme and locations can be found at blackberryfair.co.uk

WHAT’S ON IN BRIEF 6TH-29TH OCTOBER 46 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

The ten acres are home to a fantastic array of trees and shrubs and extensive lawns, and incorporate features from the original house. Open days take place in conjunction with a local market, and the next is 8th October (10am-5pm). Entry to the garden is £6, under-16s free. oteley.com

Cheers to OktoberfestSeizeyourplace in the record books as part of the Macmillan Coracle World Championships, taking place on 16th September at Pengwern Boat Club in Shrewsbury. Up to 48 teams of four will take part in the race, mostly in fancy dress. It’s a chance to get involved in a great day on the water, or just enjoy the atmosphere. Team entry is £300, with additional fundraising welcome. coracleworldchampionship.co.uk

You don’t have to compromise on quality & style to get excellent value for money. more competitive than online prices SIMON www.simonboyd.comBOYD SHREWSBURY SY1 1PB 01743 FACTORY363006OUTLET LL12 8LX 01978 854941 KNUTSFORD WA16 6DD 01565 CHESTER633855CH3 5UG 01244 311160 CURTAIN & UPHOLSTERY FABRICS The Largest Fabric Stockists in the UK • PVC Table Coverings • Leatherette • Hessian/Felt/Calico • Feather Cushion Pads • Polyester Cushion Pads • Foam - All sizes

THE HEART OF IRELAND 18th – 22nd Sept 5 Days from £449.00 LLANDUDNO –Jewel Of North Wales 30th Sept – 3rd Oct 4 Days from £350 COLOURS of CORNWALL & the ISLES OF SCILLY 25th - 30th September 6 Days from £740 SCOTLAND’S DEEP SOUTH Explore Some Of Scotland’s Finest Castles & Gardens 18th – 22nd Sept 5 Days from £415 ROYAL SANDRINGHAM & ENGLISH SHIRES 12th – 16th Sept - 5 Days from only £415 BEAUTIFUL ROMAN CITY BATH CITY BREAK 11th – 13th September - 3 Days from £285 JUST A SMALL SELECTION OF OUR UPCOMING DAY EXCURSIONS Ad Snr Ch ThursSEPTEMBER1st West Mid Safari Park * (SH) 32.50 31.00 27.50 Sat 3rd Borth & Aberystwyth 22.00 21.00 16.00 Sat 10th Beautiful Bath (SH) 32.00 31.00 22.00 Sun 11th Cotswolds (SH) 28.00 27.00 20.00 Thurs 15th Elan Valley & Llandrindod Wells 20.00 19.00 15.00 Sun 18th Emmerdale Village Tour 56.50 55.00 49.00 Sat 24th Malvern Autumn Show* (SH) 42.00 41.00 18.00 Sun 25th Llandudno 20.00 19.00 15.00 SatOCTOBER8th Litchfield & National Memorial Arboretum (SH) 22.00 21.00 16.00 Sat 15th Trentham Makers Market (SH) 20.00 19.00 15.00 Sun 23rd Blackpool Illuminations (SH) 24.00 23.00 18.00 Wed 26th Blackpool Illuminations 24.00 23.00 18.00 Thurs 27th West Mid Safari Park * (SH) 32.50 31.00 27.50 Sat 29th Blackpool Illuminations 24.00 23.00 18.00 Sun 30th Autumn Tints In The Peak District 28.00 27.00 20.00 01691 652126 or www.owenstravel.co.ukvisit Oswestry 01691 652126 Newton 01686 626576 Whitchurch 01948 662361 HEAD OFFICE 36-38 Beatrice Street Oswestery FOR DETAILS OF THESE AND ALL OUR OTHER GREAT HOLIDAY TOURS & DAY EXCURSIONS CALL LATE AVAILABILITY ON OUR SUMMER 2022 COACH HOLIDAYS… SCAN THIS QR CODE WITH YOUR PHONE AND GET THE APP TODAY! SHIRE MAGAZINE We are pleased to announce… Shire brandmagazine’snew What’s On app FREE TO USE FOR EVERYONE! No need to download from the Apple App Store or Google Play We wanted to make our What’s On pages accessible to all – not just in print but also on phones, tablets and laptops! All events in our What’s On section are available to browse, like and share with friends. • previews and pictures for all events • listed by date, by area and event type • links to buy tickets • you can save events as Favourites You can also: • share your reviews of events • submit events to be added HOW TO GET THE APP Just scan the QR code with your camera, and follow the instruction to ‘Add to Home GoORScreen’online to greasy-coast-2812.glideapp.io and it will take you straight to the app Share this fab new app with your friends! Just go to the top left and tap “Share this app” “It’s just like havingWhat’sShire’sOnguide in your pocket!”

costumes“Thewereawonder” evensoundedsongs“Thebetterlive” FOODIES FESTIVAL, TATTON PARK, CHESHIRE Foodies is not just for foodies – there’s so much more. Where to start? The Cake & Bake Theatre, Drinks Theatre, Chefs’ Theatre… I opt for Tom Rhodes, MasterChef Champion 2021, showing how to flavour tofu. Liam Rogers, a finalist from last year’s Professionals show, effortlessly prepares a fish dish. Then it’s off to the main music stage, ringed with quirky bars, for Rozalla, East 17 and S Club Allstars. Everyone goes home happy. Day two and Lee Ryan and Simon Webbe of Blue are on stage tonight, sharing their new album ‘Heart & Soul’. The place is packed. Simon’s mellow vocal starts the show, Lee joins him, and the crowd sing to the hits. Great memories. DL ★★★★ “The stage isquirkywithringedbars”

Discover what Shire’s team thought of the concerts, live events and theatre shows they’ve seen over the past couple of months at local venues If you have a show in the Shire area, we can send a reviewer – and your show can appear on these pages too! Email shiremagazine.co.ukeditorial@ Get in touch!

UTILITABIRMINGHAMMORISSETTE,ALANISARENA I’d been waiting for my night with Alanis Morissette on her Jagged Little Pill –25 Year Anniversary tour since pre-Covid. That makes the album, which was staple listening for many a ’90s teen, 27 years old now, and makes me feel decidedly ancient. I’m a massive fan of Alanis, and aside from the absence of those once trademark leather trousers, she didn’t disappoint. Winner of no fewer than seven Grammys, her vocal is still amazingly strong, and performed with a live band the songs sounded even better to me. We had opted for standard not tiered seating, but I was glad as it meant I could I get up and dance for the whole show, where others had to sit politely in their seats. Although I’m not sure Alanis’ heart is really in touring any more, one thing is certain – I’ll be first in the queue to see her again in 25 years’ time! SW ★★★★

MADNESS – ONE STEP BEYOND!, SHREWSBURY Fedoras, bowler hats and shades were donned by the capacity crowd at the Quarry who rocked to the heavy, heavy monster sound of Madness in FrontmanJuly. Suggs, in a silver suit, joked that it was great to be back in Barcelona. Then the roar of Lee SunPrince’,keptallfantasticsection,awaskickedtrademarkThompson’ssaxophoneofftheshow.‘OneStepBeyond’accompaniedbywonderfulbrasscreatingafestivalatmospherenight,anddrummerWoodytherock-steadybeat.Moreskaclassics:‘The‘Embarrassment’,‘TheandTheRain’,‘Returnof

NOZSTOCK 2022 Ever fancied Glastonbury but can’t be bothered to battle for tickets? Or maybe Reading/Leeds but wary of the commercialism? Then Nozstock might well be for you. With a capacity of just 5,000, the four-day event in July managed to contain 11 stages and some wild and wondeful revellers in a carnival-like atmosphere – the costumes were a wonder to behold. Nestled in a valley close to the Shropshire/ Herefordshire border, you could cross the arena in five minutes. Food choices were plentiful and not unreasonably priced – the raclette grill deserves special mention. The huge number of bars were well organised, so no queuing for the triple gooseberry mojitos! The acts gave it their all, our highlights being Bill Bailey and Andy C. With not a drop of rain, and everyone treating it like a free weekend of fun (paid for in 2019) it revived my faith in independent summer festivals. See you guys in 2023! ★★★★★

the Los Palmas 7’, ‘My Girl’s Mad at Me’ and ‘Shut Up’ were among their fantastic repertoire. The finale, ‘Night Boat to Cairo’ with footage from Burton and Taylor’s Cleopatra, was brilliant. (So were the medics for the dance casualties!)

Finally Suggs said: “You’ve all got homes to go to. Merry Christmas!” SW ★★★★★ “The roar of saxtrademarkLee’skickedofftheshow”

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 49

LawDeborah

Grosvenor Park’s open-air production of Romeo and Juliet was outstanding. Directed by John Young, the 10-strong cast brought Shakespeare’s story of teens defying their families as they fall in love to life in a quirky staging set in 1950s Italy. Samuel Awoyo and Joelle Brabban played the leads with easy conviction, while Eddy Payne was a standout hit as Benvolio: he entertained every time he stepped on the stage. Haylie Jones as Mercutio was endearing, and Nicola Blackman, playing Nurse, hilarious and poignant by turn. Songs by Chester composers ME + Deboe were a perfect fit. A mesmerising evening from start to finish. ★★★★★

★★★★

★★★★★ DulacPaul

QUARRYFOODSHREWSBURYFESTIVAL,PARK

TEXAS AND SAM RYDER, FORESTDELAMERE

Few settings could be more suited to Sam Ryder’s laidback melodies. Saving his Eurovision song ‘Spaceman’ till last, his gentle presence delighted the crowd. Texas, opening with ‘I Don’t Want A Lover’, their global hit from 1989, brought everyone to their feet. Sharleen Spiteri thrilled from start to finish with tracks from new album Hi. The concerts were part of Forestry England’s ‘Forest Live’ series which aims to introduce forests to new audiences. Going on tonight’s show, it’s a resounding success.

DLIeasysyrupknow!’‘Don’tdishmuchNovelliJean-ChristopheSale.talkedsoheforgotaintheoven.letmywifehejoked.Hisbasketlookedenough…untiltrieditathome.

QUARRYROCKS,SHREWSBURYPARK

phenomenal”atmosphere“Thewas a“…doingroaringtrade” 50 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

ANDROMEOJULIET PARK,GROSVENOR,CHESTER

FORESTMAN,RAG‘N’BONEDELAMERE The hottest day of the year, and we had tickets to see Rag‘n’Bone Man in the cool of the forest. What could be more perfect. The concert was part of series,‘ForestEngland’sForestryLive’raisingfunds to help look after the nation’s forests for people to enjoy. Special guests Will and the People and Charlotte Jane were fantastic warmups, and the atmosphere was phenomenal. My teenage daughters loved it. Rag‘n’Bone Man with his distinctive baritone voice did not disappoint. He opened with 2017’s ‘Skin’, followed by a mix of older tracks. The crowd went wild for ‘Human’ mid-set, then he treated us to some new unreleased music before finishing with ‘Giant’. ★★★★★

FOOD SHOWCOUNTYCHESHIREROYALLIVE, I based myself in the Food Live theatre – and spent two sweltering days in a marquee, but I didn’t want you to miss out! My first highlight was Brian Mellor sharing pranks he’s played on new chefs, telling them to shave the hairs from strawberries or whip single cream in the cold store with a fork! Ex-Corrie star Sean Wilson defied the heat to make cheese from scratch. Simon Rimmer did wonders with a slab of beef, though as a veggie I’m more excited about Greens, his new place in

Another huge success for the Shropshire Festivals team. There were plenty of visitors, but the space was big enough that it didn’t feel crowded. With the family in tow, food was not the main focus. The kids enjoyed the inflatables, one of the longest courses in Europe, my husband liked the festival feel of the music stage, and I could have spent all day listening to The Wiggles theatre group. Park and ride made it easy, and it was great to see local food producers doing a roaring trade. SW

Fine Young Cannibals frontman, gave an outstanding delivery of their hits, and Living In A Box got the crowd dancing too. Belinda Carlisle was on top form, so too were Tony Hadley and Billy Ocean. All three could have rivalled Wet Wet Wet for the top slot but new vocalist Kevin Simm, replacing Marti, gave his all. Security and medics did an amazing job in the heat, as did the volunteers from Child Bereavement UK. SW ★★★★

★★★★

Ottowan’s ‘D.I.S.C.O’ helped get the heatwave party started amid a sea of parasols and ice-packs. whileforwereHaircutShirts’,Day’Heyward’sNick‘Fantasticand‘Favouritehitsfromhis100daystheperfectvibetheafternoon,RolandGift,former

summerperfect“…thevibe”

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 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 StartingEmail:TelPostcode:Address:Surname:FirstMr/Mrs/Missname:number:with which issue? This issue (SEPT/OCT) or the next issue (NOV/DEC)? Choose which deal you’d like: 12-month subscription (6 issues) – £19.95 24-month subscription (12 issues) – £34.95 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! Subscribe to Shire magazine and never miss an issue again! £19.95ONLY subscription12-month (6 issues) £34.95ONLY subscription24-month (12 issues) Just go to www.shiremagazine.co.uk and click “Subscribe to Shire” at the top of the page NEW! You can now set up a new subscription on the Shire website 51 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022 SUBSCRIBE TODAY

& HER FULL LIVE “OUTSTANDING”BAND! ★★★★★ LIVE BAND GIANT SING ALONG LYRICS THE GREATEST SMASH HITS OF ALL TIME A THE WEST END ARRIVES IN SHREWSBURY! FRI 9 SEPT SAT 10 SEPTEMBER SAT 24 SEPTEMBER SUNDAY 2 OCTOBER THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER FRI 16 SEPTEMBER THURS 24 NOVEMBER FRIDAY 28 OCTOBER FRIDAY 11 NOVEMBER FRI 25 NOVEMBER FRI 23 SEPTEMBER FRI 21 OCTOBER FRIDAY 2 SEPTEMBER SUPPORT: The BARTELLS HHHHH including a 3 course Christmas dinner w r e s t P L U S S U P P O R T AT 1 OCTOBER “the hotly tipped Scottish indie rock band” H o w a r d S t r e e t , S h r e w s b u r y , S h r o p s h i r e S Y 1 2 L F (2 mins from Shrewsbur y Train Station / NCP Car Park next to the venue) BOOK: www.thebutter market.co.uk FRIDAY 18 NOVEMBER SAT 3 DECEMBER 8-10 DECEMBER THURS 22 December THE RUTH TOUR AT 8 OCTOBER LE FREAK EVERYBODY DANCE GOOD TIMES I WANT YOUR LOVE DANCE DANCE DANCE A Supersonic Show Of The Very Best Oasis Anthems RIDAY "The Definitive Oasis Tribute Band" R STARRING: Johnny Warman's Magic Bus Band MEAT LOAF’S GREATEST HITS TOUR! S H R O P S H I R E ’ S B i g g e s t L i v e M u s i c & E v e n t s V e n u e A U T U M N / W I N T E R 2 0 2 2 THURS 15 SEPTEMBER SAT 17 SEP + FRI 30 SEPT + SAT 1 OCT! EXTRA PERFORMANCES ADDED! SAT 22 OCTOBER BUY TICKETS HERE

The Osmonds: A New Musical tells the true story of the five brothers from Utah who were pushed into the spotlight as children and went on to create smash hits, decade after decade. From their star residency on TV’s The Andy Williams Show from 1962 to 1969, to the ‘Osmond-mania’ of the early ’70s and The Donny & Marie Show, featuring their younger sister, The Osmonds were pop royalty – recording chart-topping albums, selling out arena concerts and making record-breaking television specials. They sold over 100 million records and won 59 gold and platinum awards.Now Jay Osmond pulls back the curtain to reveal the real family behind all the hits: parents George and Olive and their nine children: Virl, Tom, Alan, Wayne, Merrill, Jay, Donny, Marie and Jimmy. Musical memoir The musical features a list of 1970s anthems, including ‘One Bad Apple’, ‘Down by the Lazy River’, ‘Crazy Horses’, ‘Let Me In’, ‘Love Me For A Reason’, ‘(We’re) Having A Party’, ‘Puppy Love’, ‘Paper Roses’ and more. Jay explains how it came about. “I wrote this book called Stages about my life, and it turned into more of a travelogue. I always wanted to do a backstage version that included not only the good times but the bad and sad times too. A friend said: ‘Why don’t you write a musical memoir and put it on stage?’ And I thought: ‘Exactly!’ I have always loved the theatre, and it was one last frontier to conquer. A family affair “I wrote from the heart. It was hard – I had to play my drums a lot to get my emotions out – but it all boiled down to this: why did we do what we did? It was because we wanted to help people – to use our talents to do good in the world. I wanted to get that purpose across. I think you can do anything in life if you have a purpose.

It was the group’s thousands of fans in the UK who made him determined that the show should have its premiere here. “Osmondmania happened everywhere, but there was something about the UK – our family was so accepted and so loved here. We have been to almost every place on the tour list at some point, and they hold so many memories. We’ll go to Canada and America too, sure – but it feels right to begin here. I want people here to know how much they have helped me and my family. They are part of The Osmonds.”

“I want people here to know how they helped me and my family. They are part of The Osmonds”

CELEBRITY

When it comes to ’70s stardom few bands could match the furore surrounding the Osmond brothers as they shot up the charts, taking the pop world by storm. Theirs was a story worth dramatising – and now Jay Osmond has done just that. Shire spoke to him ahead of

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 53 The Osmonds: A New Musical Venue Cymru, Llandudno Tuesday 29th November –Saturday 3rd December Tickets venuecymru.co.uk£15-£48

“The story is about the four brothers who were there at the start. It begins at the 50th anniversary and then goes way back. Each of us has a different perspective, so this is very much mine.”

Jay started his barbershop quartet with Alan, Wayne and Merrill to fund hearing aids for their older brothers, Virl and Tom. They were ‘discovered’ by Walt Disney and TV appearances brought global fame. Donny joined the group, and international tours appearances transformed them into pop royalty.

Jay with the show’s cast

The Osmonds: A New Musical arriving in Llandudno.

hikesheatingamidcoolyourKeeping

DO KNOW?YOU What energy tariff are you on? If it has run out and you haven’t selected a new one, you’ll be put on a (pricey)tariff.default

Dramatically rising energy costs are causing concern for many, and as we head towards the colder months, the thought of those booming bills is a real worry. Shire offers some practical help

54 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Caps o You have probably heard talk of the Energy Price Cap – and wondered why this doesn’t mean your bills are capped to prevent them going any higher. Unfortunately the device is not as simple (and promising) as it sounds.

And if analysts and experts are correct, it is expected to soar to £3,359 per year from October. It’s no wonder everyone is talking about energy bills!

Why has it happened?

Well, it’s due to a number of factors, and the unfortunate timing of these all happening at the same time, creating a sort of ‘energy perfect storm’. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is the latest contributor to record energy costs globally, even though we as a nation rely very little on those oil supplies. Unlike some European countries, only around three per cent of our energy was reliant on Russian exports.

The Russia–Ukraine conflict is not the only reason for the price hike. Costs were already high before that, due to a cold winter in Europe last year that put pressure on supplies and depleted the levels of stored gas, with the result they are far lower than normal. Also, hot weather in Asia saw more gas used for air-conditioning, while gas exports from Russia to north-west Europe were down, even before the invasion of Ukraine. Experts tell us it is only going to get worse. But it’s not all bad news. The government has revealed schemes to help with energy costs that are now coming in to play and every household is due a £400 grant to help with fuel bills – with some lower income households able to get even more help. Not only that, over the next few pages your trusty Shire Magazine has tried to gather as much information as possible to help you through the colder months without breaking the bank.

Any other reasons?

Few of us have much knowledge of how the global oil and energy markets work, so it’s hard to see why prices have suddenly gone up – especially when the media is telling us that the energy giants are still scooping massive profits. The reason for the overall rise is due to wholesale energy prices having reached an all-time high –that is, what our providers like Western Power and British Gas pay for gas and electricity. Now those providers have begun to pass on their costs to consumers. But what has caused wholesale prices to go up in the first place?

The energy regulator Ofgem sets the Energy Price Cap in a bid to limit the price a supplier can charge you per unit of electricity and gas. However, the energy cap only applies to customers who are on a standard variable (or ‘default’) tari , which is usually a provider’s most expensive tariff. Also, the price cap does not limit your total energy bill: the figure is just an indication for the ‘average user’. If you use more, you pay more. In February, Ofgem’s latest price cap was announced. An increase in wholesale energy costs as global demand recovers means the new cap has risen sharply by £693. The new cap is set at £1,971 per year. As we go to print, yet another rise in the price cap is expected.

It has been in the headlines for months now. We are in the middle of a global energy crisis and everyone’s bills are set to rise. Most people have felt the impact already, with rates climbing steeply in April – but we’ve also been warned there is far worse to come as we head into autumn and winter. Even those who have seen their prices soar probably haven’t felt the full effect yet, as we use far less energy over the summer when, for most of the time, the heating stays off. But as the evenings darken and temperatures fall, we won’t be able to put off firing up the home heating for much longer. So for those who are worried about what that might mean, Shire is here to help you understand and tackle the potential issues coming our way.

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 55 

The government grant will help but it’s unlikely to be enough

“The government has revealed schemes to help with energy costs that are now coming into play and every household is due a £400 grant to help with fuel bills”

Finland, by contrast, imported 75 per cent of its gas from Russia, Austria took a staggering 86 per cent of its supply from them, and even Italy was 38 per cent dependent. However, Russia is the second-biggest exporter of crude oil and the world’s largest natural gas exporter, which is vital to heating homes, powering planes and filling cars with fuel. The US, EU and UK placed restrictions on oil and gas imports from Russia after it invaded Ukraine in February.

This has a huge impact on the global market as everyone is now looking for alternative suppliers and, as a result, prices are rocketing.

56 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

One name constantly in the news as we tumble into an energy crisis is Martin Lewis, the well-known Money Saving Expert from Cheshire, who o ers advice on all things financial on his website and tips DIDKNOW?YOU Martin tried stand-up comedy for a while – pal Gary Delaney even wrote some jokes for him. Comedy’s loss is our gain… If you haven’t heard of Martin Lewis we’re not sure where you’ve been living for the past few years! The Delamere, Cheshire-born master of money shot to fame when he launched his website moneysavingexpert.com, packed with savings and advice for the general public – giving most of us access to easy-tounderstand financial guidance for the first time. Martin has gone on to appear on television and radio shows whenever the economic situation changes, and has helped millions of people save, well, millions over the years. Unsurprisingly our local legend has been busy recently, so much so that he has announced he’s taking a break before what are likely to be challenging months ahead. But not before Shire could pick his brains about the current situation and get some advice on what our readers can do to stay warm, save money and still pay the bills this winter.

andhintsexpert’sEnergytips

“A lot of devices, such as games consoles, laptops and TVs, also draw small amounts of power when not in use but still plugged in and turned on at the socket”

Martin says: “Some complain that only having the heating on when required risks you being cold, as it takes time to heat up a home. That may be true, but as a compromise maybe you could adjust the timer to come on a little earlier, so the house will be warm when needed but you’re not pumping out energy all day.”

Should I keep the hot water boiler on all the time or turn it on and off as needed?

If you’re not using all the rooms in your home, it is best to keep doors closed to those you don’t heat, says the Energy Saving Trust. Radiators, electric panel heaters and convection heaters all work by creating a convection current in a room. As hot air rises, it circles around to the other side of the room, cools and sinks, and travels back along the floor to the heater to be reheated again. Closing doors makes sure this current remains within the designated space, and stops cold air entering.

Will smart meters save me money? Not all by themselves, but overall they may well help you reduce your usage, which in turn would cost you less. Smart meters simply replace your existing gas and electricity meters, measure your usage and automatically send meter readings to your supplier each month. However, they can help you identify ways to save energy via the in-home display. By keeping an eye on the readings you’ll be able to pinpoint the devices and activities that cause a hike in your household usage and be more aware of what you are spending where – giving you helpful hints on what to cut down.

Should I set thermostats on individual radiators rather than using the main thermostat to control all of them?

Is there anything we can do?

for the sake of energy consumption, your bill and, in the case of faulty devices, the potential fire hazard too. Martin agrees. “A lot of devices, such as games consoles, laptops and TVs, draw small amounts of power when not in use but still plugged in.”

Turn it down or turn it off?

Switch off plugs and save pounds

Here at Shire we’re not experts but we’ve researched as best we can to provide you some pointers for reducing bills over the coming months. Between checking Martin Lewis’s advice and sharing knowledge from the Energy Saving Trust, we’ve tried to answer some of the most common questions flying around at the moment. Some answers offer practical suggestions, and some will hopefully put your mind at rest by dispelling a myth or two!

Should I put clingfilm on the windows? Strange though it may sound, this would actually work to keep your home a tiny bit warmer, thus saving on the bills. The Energy Saving Trust says: “The idea is that putting a sheet on your window traps a small layer of air, which can help stop heat escaping. You can use any material for the second layer of glazing, as long as it’s transparent and airtight. However, while clingfilm works in theory, in practice you’ll probably want to use specialist secondary glazing as it’ll last longer. If you have double glazing, adding a third layer could make you a little warmer, but the benefit will be much less than when dealing with a single-glazed window. If your windows are draughty, it’s worth fixing that as well as adding secondary glazing, as otherwise you’ll only get half the benefit.”

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 57 

Is it cheaper to leave the heating on low all day or turn it on only when I need it? This is a common query and a hotly debated topic. According to experts at the Energy Saving Trust, the idea that it’s cheaper to leave the heating on low all day is a myth. They’re clear that having the heating on only when you need it is, in the long run, the best way to save energy, and therefore money. However, some specialists disagree, arguing that you should keep the heating on constantly to avoid a build-up of condensation within the walls that could lead to heat leaking out more easily. But all houses are different and there is no one answer for every property.

Do devices on standby or chargers left in the socket while not in use still use electricity? In short, yes they do. British Gas reiterates this on its website. You should always turn off chargers and appliances at the plug when they’re not in use,

If my heating is on, should I keep the doors of each room open or closed?

Again, there’s not a straight answer to this as it depends on the type of heating system you have. Martin said: “If you have a gas, oil or LPG central heating system, the experts say it will always be cheaper to set the system timer so the hot water comes on only when required. However, if you use an electrical immersion heater and have an Economy 7 or 10 tariff (where energy is cheaper at night), it’s cheaper to heat your water overnight. Make sure your water tank is well insulated to prevent the water cooling again during the day, though.

In short, yes, this would be helpful. It’s best to have as many controls as possible, so you’re in charge of the way your home is heated.

There’s some debate about just how effective this measure is in cost-saving terms. The Energy Saving Trust says you can save about £40 a year by turning off your appliances at the plug, while British Gas cites £110 a year – which seems a bit high to us. It’s EU law that TVs and other devices made since 2013 can’t use more than 0.5 watts in standby mode, and recent research by energy supplier Utilita estimated the average annual cost of a TV left on standby to be around £16.24, or 4.4p a day .

A useful insight Paint colour isn’t that important

Installing thermostatic radiator valves and using them with your thermostat could save £75 per year, according to the Energy Saving Trust. It recommends using the thermostat to control the heat in your main living space and using thermostatic radiator valves to lower the heating in rooms you don’t use as often. Would painting my radiators black help? Many people have pondered this recently, based on the capacity of different coloured surfaces to store and retain heat for longer. Unfortunately, where black radiators are concerned, the answer’s no, according to the Energy Saving Trust. It’s best to keep them the standard white, although the difference is not huge and if you fancied black paint to match a funky interior, then don’t let us stop you. But for the sake of keeping your home warm, it’s more important to insulate your walls to prevent the heat leaking out of your home altogether.

CLAIM UP TO £6,000 TOWARDS THE COST OF A NEW HEAT PUMP ON THE *BUS SCHEME *BOILER UPGRADE SCHEME 01691 624336 | www.princeslhs.ltdmail@princeslhs.ltd Low Carbon home systems renewable energy showroom is now open 01691 624336 | www.lowcarbonhomesystems.co.ukrenewables@princeslhs.ltd

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 59 

One key way to make sure you’re not spending more than you have to on home heating is by making sure you have the optimum system in place. It might be time to upgrade or even change your main appliances.

Princes LHS can advise on and install:

setGet up

Not only is it a good idea for the environment, the prospect of investing in renewable energy sources such as solar panels and heat pumps is even more appealing when there’s a cost saving to be had! There is an alternative energy option for most homes, so the best bet is to speak to an expert if you’re interested in going green.

• Air source heat pumps – which work by extracting heat from the outside air, much as a fridge extracts heat from inside it

• Ground source heat pump systems – designed to transfer thermal energy from a cooler space to a warmer space using a method called the refrigeration cycle

Efficiency is key when it comes to saving money and, as energy prices rise, old, inefficient heating systems are throwing money –and heat – away. Not only is it a good idea to make sure your boiler is working properly, has been regularly serviced and is performing well, it might also be a good time to consider alternative heating options. Wood As a natural source that is not subject to global price hikes, burning wood might seem more appealing than ever. In particular during the early autumn and late spring, when full central heating isn’t quite needed but a little extra heat is welcomed, lighting up a wood-burning stove has its appeal. There is an investment to consider, and getting the right system for your home is essential, so it is worth speaking to an expert and visiting a showroom or two to choose the style that suits you. One showroom with hundreds of makes and models on display is RN Williams & Sons, based in St Asaph. The North Wales business was established in 1956 and has grown rapidly into the area’s leading home and heating specialist, while retaining the personal touch and keen interest in solving customers’ problems on which they built their reputation. The team is particularly knowledgeable about clean air regulations and how to make sure your stove is in line with guidelines.

Matt added: “Technology keeps on evolving and improving. We are constantly updating our showroom with new products. Please come and have a look or give us a call.” So cosy

• Multiple different solar systems – all of which absorb sunlight and turn it into electricity; an amazing, cheap and eco-friendly option for your home.

One local firm that knows its stuff when it comes to renewables is Princes LHS, based in Ellesmere. The business was officially established in 2004 as an electrical contractor and renewables specialist. Since then the team have continued to provide unrivalled service to Shropshire and surrounding counties, including heating, electrical and renewable solutions for both domestic and commercial properties.

“There were misleading headlines following the unveiling of the government’s new Clean Air Strategy, which prompted a number of our customers to question whether wood-burning stoves will be banned. The answer is no, but there are a number of proposed changes that our industry is already working towards. The stoves industry is continually pushing forward to increase efficiencies and make cleaner burning appliances. Open fires and stoves of about 10 years and older are less efficient and produce higher particulate matter or PM, whilst the latest Ecodesign Ready stoves can produce 90 per cent fewer PM emissions than an open fire and 80 per cent fewer than a 10-year-old stove.”

Renewables

So if you have an older model of stove or are thinking of making the switch, rest assured that all current rules will be followed by the team at RN Williams.

“Technology keeps on evolving and improving. We are constantly updating our showroom with new products.”

Director Matt Smith said: “From the initial survey to the final installation, everything is dealt with by our experienced in-house team. We have been MCS accredited and installing renewable energy systems for over 10 years.”

Take your home into the future with solar or other renewables

Make a move? As bills climb, many of us have been left wondering whether now is the time to shop around and look for a better deal elsewhere.

Make sure you look at the unit price and standing charge so you can understand how much you will be charged for your usage.

• Flame effect I would definitely suggest paying close attention to the flame effect. Electric fires and the technology used have come a long way since they were first invented, but there is still a big variation in flame effect quality, and things like flicker speed and flame height have a big impact on how realistic the fire looks. For authenticity, I would suggest choosing a model that comes with crackling fire audio, as this really gives you the look and feel of a real fire.

Check those seals Andy Hitchman of Solution Fires “…the bonus of little to othercomparedmaintenancenotooptions”

Insulation

Just because a deal is available doesn’t mean it is a good one or the right one for you.

• Installation and style One of the many benefits of a modern electric fireplace is that, unlike a wood-burning stove, you can install it in any room – be that living room, open-plan kitchen, or even the bedroom – as they just require a standard socket.

Doors and windows are costly to replace, but if your energy bills are heading into the thousands, then the outlay may not seem too high after all.

It always used to be the case that electric heaters cost more than gas central heating, but with prices fluctuating that may not still be the case – especially if you invest in a modern, efficient model that is also a stunning focal point for yourTherehome.has been a significant rise in demand for electric fires in recent years. A fantastic design feature for modern interiors, and available in so many styles and sizes, electric fires afford a state-of-the-art, ultra-realistic flame display with the added bonus of little to no maintenance compared to other fireplace options. Modern components give the appliance an indefinite lifespan and so it’s important to ensure that you select an electric fire that is right for your home, and your needs. Andy Hitchman, managing director of Solution Fires, advises on several key considerations when choosing the perfect electric fire.

• Size is the first thing you need to consider Everyone’s homes and room configurations are different. There is an array of different sizes and widths to choose from; however, it is important to pick a fire that is right for your space.

Do stay informed. It’s important to keep a close eye on the market and run regular comparisons to see what deals are on offer.

• Usability Electric fires can now be controlled not just with a handset but through most smartphones, tablets and watches. This means that you can set your desired ambience from the comfort of your armchair, or even in advance of your return home. Inspect the controls and features if you want this luxury!

Experts from Uswitch have the following advice: “With the energy price cap expected to rise further in October and January, we might have come to the point where it could be worth considering signing up to a fixed energy tariff. However, before you commit to a fixed deal, you should consider the following:

Don’t just go for the first deal you’re offered.

• Reduced condensation build up on the inside of windows, which can contribute to damp and damage frames.

Don’t just look at the direct debit amount.

Energy-efficient glazing covers both double and triple glazing – these are windows with two or more glass panes in a sealed unit. You can also improve the energy efficiency of your home by installing secondary glazing, or even by using heavy curtains.”

• Peace and quiet – not only do they keep the heat in, energyefficient windows insulate your home against external noise.

Do consider the length of the deal. Most deals are for 12 or 24 months. During this time the price cap could rise or fall depending on market conditions, so consider how long you would like to stay locked in for.

Experts at the Trust add: “Double-glazing costs vary significantly depending on the materials and style. PVC windows tend to be cheaper, while hardwood frames are the most expensive. A set of A-rated windows for a semi-detached house will typically cost around £7,500. By installing A-rated double glazing to windows in an entirely single-glazed, gas-heated, semi-detached property, you could save £145 a year and 335kg of carbon dioxide. If you installed A++ rated double-glazed windows in place of single glazing, the savings could be up to £175 a year and 410kg of carbon dioxide.”

The Energy Saving Trust advises: “Making your doors, windows and conservatory more energy efficient will reduce your bills and lower your carbon footprint.

Some of the benefits include:

DIDKNOW?YOU If you have a condensation problem, you need to sort that out before blocking off any draughts in that room

60 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

• A more comfortable home, with fewer draughts and cold spots

Unfortunately, the simple truth is that in the middle of this energy crisis, there are not many deals available anywhere. The tariff you’re on may seem expensive but it’s likely to be as good as it gets for a while. It’s also worth noting that many suppliers have upped their exit fees, meaning it might cost you more than you would save to change anyway. Even the comparison websites are struggling.

Do consider exit fees.

• Customisation Many people want to be able to tailor their fire to suit their interior design and individual taste, so I’d say that having a customisable element to your fire is a big benefit. With most electric fires nowadays, you can alter the flame colour, and with more advanced models, you have the option of customising your fuel bed, downlights and scene lighting to suit your mood.

Electric heaters

Ghoulishly good homes at our Mercia Developments For more information please call 01785 508 267 or visit bovishomes.co.uk If you know someone who'd love a Bovis Home, introduce them to us, and if they go on to buy from us, we'll give you £500* as a thank you! Recommend a friend *Terms and conditions apply. Offer applies to the sale of selected homes only. This entitles the named referrer to £500, which will be paid by bank transfer once your nominated friends or family member has legally completed on their property purchase of a new home from us which is covered by the offer. Recommendations must be identified on your nominated friend or family member's first visit to the development. Only one introduce a friend voucher may be used per sale. If the same individual is referred to us more than once, the first referral will take precedence. Find your new home this Halloween... Our range of homes offer features such as open plan living areas, premium fitted kitchens, bi-folding doors and spacious master bedrooms with en-suites. Whether you're a country dweller or a city lover we've got the home for you, with open green spaces and strong transport links to wider communities.

Whether you have recently purchased your second home, or own somewhere special that is very close to your heart; with over fifteen years of owning and operating holiday homes - we share your passion and will work together with you to understand your objectives for your property. Providing exceptional levels of service to both our homeowners and guests is at the core of our ethos, and we believe is key to fulfilling your property’s true potential. • 24/7 access to live booking data and alerts • Support from experienced revenue management professionals • Tailored marketing activity • Expert concierge team Explore the benefits of joining our collection by calling us on 01625 416430 or emailing join@togethertravel.co.uk your property, our promise. 080722_Shire-Magazine22july.indd 1 15/07/2022 15:01 We always have a wide selection of high quality holiday homes for sale. Call today on 01286 830205 to find your perfect home away from home. 2 stunning holiday parks with so much to offer! Luxury holiday home lodges with beautiful views and fantastic facilities • Free Sat TV • Wi-Fi • Dog FacebookFindWelcomeOwnersuson Escape to andbetweencountrysidetheWelshpoolNewtown. Some of the fantastic places of interest within 35 mile radius: Lake Vrynwy RSPB, Coed y Dinas, Powis Castle, Hafren Forest, Ynyshir RSPB, Devils Bridge, Elan Valley, Abbey Cwm Hir, Whittington Castle, Stiperstones, Long Mynd, Llandrindod cycle museum, Clun Castle. ABERMULE, MONTGOMERY, POWYS, SY15 6NW Tel: 01686 670 408 Email: park2006@btinternet.com www.goetreretreatcaravan park .co.uk MID WALES MINI BREAKS FROM JUST £150 theExperiencenewOakdalePremierluxury6berthholidayhomecompletewithsundeck! MONDAY TO FRIDAY, FRIDAY TO MONDAY

SET SAIL FOR ADVENTURE

Holidays HEAD FOR A HIDEAWAY

Looking ahead to holiday plans for 2023? Imagine sitting back and watching the world drift by on board a Cheshire Cat Narrowboat. This small family-run firm is based at the award-winning Overwater Marina, Audlem, on the Shropshire Union Canal. It is a stunning location, just below the Audlem Lock flight and only three hours’ cruising time to the popular Llangollen Canal. The fleet includes boats for two as well as family-sized vessels and its newest addition, New Moon. 60ft in length, and in the popular reverse layout with the L shaped lounge/ diner at the rear. The team at Cheshire Cat Narrowboats aim to ensure you have a truly enjoyable holiday experience, with expert tuition to set you on your way with confidence. They can provide guidance on routes, and tell you all about the amazing scenery, cosy pubs and historic architecture you are likely to see along the way. cheshirecatnarrowboats.co.uk

If you’re in North Wales on holiday, Wrexham is one (newly crowned) city worth a visit, set between the mountains and the lower Dee Valley on the border with England. At its centre is an Edwardian park called Bellevue, built to celebrate the jubilee of the town’s incorporation.

Idyllically located on the Isle of Anglesey, on the shores of the Menai Strait and with spectacular panoramic views of Snowdonia, Ben and Holly’s Hideaways are a selection of exclusive retreats that can accommodate a range of groups in one truly stunning location. The buildings have all have been extensively restored and developed by antique dealer and interior designer husband-and-wife team Holly Johnson and Benjamin Aardewerk, to a standard that makes a stay in any of the properties a luxury vacation. The ofluxurycomprisesportfolioacollectionfourhouses.Ty Stable is an ‘upside-down’ house sleeping 11 people. Ty Pinc, a beautifully restored property dating to the 16th century, sleeps 12. High Tide is a first-floor apartment sleeping six, and Low Tide on the ground floor sleeps four. All are just a five-minute walk from the beautiful town of Beaumaris, with its variety of shops, restaurants and famous castle and pier, and all have rooms that look out across the bay. Ty Stabl, originally the stables to the manor house Tros Yr Arfon, has been restored as three storeys, with a balcony to maximise the views. Filled with bespoke artwork and mid-century pieces, it has a unique style. Originally part of the manor house, Grade II listed Ty Pinc has undergone comprehensive restoration, peeling back time to reveal a hidden Tudor wall painting, ‘A’ frame beams and timbers – a unique home, now with a touch of modern luxury. benandhollyshideaways.com

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 63

HOT SPOTS WREXHAM Ty Pinc ofluxurycomprisesvacation.acollectionfourhouses.Ty Ty Stabl Ride the LlangollenInsideAquaductHigh Tide ofWonders“…threeoftheSevenWales”“Allthelookingroomshaveacrossbay”

Often used for concerts in the summer, it has a wide range of facilities including a play park, bowling green, tennis and basketball, or just enjoy a leisurely walk. Of the Seven Wonders of Wales, three are in Wrexham. The 16thcentury tower of St Giles’ Church can be seen for miles and is one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in North Wales. The Gresford Bells can be found in the 15th-century All Saints, another of the country’s finest churches. And in Overton village, in the churchyard of St Mary the Virgin, are 21 yew trees dating from early medieval times.

There’s the chance to visit a festive light show in London’s Kew Botanical Gardens as well as the Christmas market at Blenheim Palace on 20th-21st November. The seasonal theme continues with a mini-break to York and Castle Howard on 4th-5th December, and follow it up with a Christmas Day trip to Waddesdon Manor, Buckinghamshire, home of the Rothschild art collections.

Wisteria Tours, which specialises in tailored coach tours to destinations across the UK, is offering a seasonal triple of trips leading up to Christmas.

The

is a short drive away and features many walks for all levels of experience. From the determined mountaineer to the Sunday stroller, there is a walk waiting for you, packed full of wildlife, stunning views and everything else nature has to offer.

Garden and historic house lovers have the chance to capture the magic of Christmas in a trio of outings with a unique Shropshire family tour business.

Wisteria Tours co-owner Jacky Burnell said the Kew Gardens trip had been organised in response to popular demand. “It is the most wonderful time of year at Kew, with a magical winter trail for Christmas. To add to all that, on our return we will stop at Blenheim.”

The company is run by sisters Jacky and Sue Burnell and builds on the business set up by their mother Jackie Crick.

“We all share a love of finding the really special places in the UK to share with our customers. These Christmas tours will really capture the magic of the season,” said Jacky. For details and to book call Jacky on 07892 953217, email jacky@wisteriatours.com or visit wisteriatours.com

Llawrbetws Caravan Park is a peaceful, family-run park set in 14 acres of idyllic countryside with panoramic views of Wales’ rugged Berwyn Mountains. It’s the perfect spot for some splendid isolation – this time of your own choosing! If it’s an authentic country experience you look for in a caravan holiday, and scenery, wildlife and a rural lifestyle are important to you, then it’s the ideal spot for you. The park is positioned between the most notable National Parks in the world, with pitches looking out on Snowdonia and the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Llawrbetws Caravan Park is an excellent base to explore the local area, as you can get to most notable destinations within 30 minutes. The area has recently received the accolade as the 4th most popular world destination by Lonely Planet Guide, and is title.deservingcertainlyoftheTheentrance to the park itself is on a country lane, right in the middle of NationalSnowdoniaandoffscenery,spectacularjusttheA5A494.Park

THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS

HOT SPOTS CHESTER

paradise”“Investinasliceof

The Old City has been a conservation area for more than 50 years and retains numerous well-preserved half-timbered houses, as well as the Rows, its amazing two-tiered medieval arcades. Add to the mix attractive bridges, parks and river walks, as well as festivals, excellent shopping and one of the world’s top zoos, and it’s little wonder Chester ranks among the most popular UK destinations. Set in 14 glorious acres

64 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Christmas at Castle Howard

For those who prefer a day trip, Wisteria Tours has organised a Christmas outing to Waddesdon Manor on 8th December.

“The Old City has been conservationaareafor50years”

Chester’s roots date back to Roman times, and the Vikings, Danes, Saxons, Scots and Normans also occupied the place at various times. But it was maritime trade along the River Dee in the 12th-14th centuries that brought commercial and cultural prosperity.

Llawrbetws has upgraded facilities including piped gas and WiFi on this country caravan park and there are a range of caravans and pitches for sale throughout the year. In addition, eight newly built pitches on the exclusive Berwyn View site are now on the market, making it a perfect time to invest in your own slice of paradise. llawrbetws.co.uk away from it all

park is very peaceful

GrahamCharlotte

HOLIDAYS

If you’re spending time in the countryside or waterways around Cheshire, be sure to pop in to the city itself as Chester has a lot worth visiting, not least its magnificent medieval walls.

Get

“It’s wonderfulatimeofyearatKewwithamagicaltrail”

The Farm House, Glan yr Afon, Corwen, LL21 0HD www.llawrbetws.co.uk | 01490 460224 THE FARM HOUSE | SLEEPS 12 Hot tub Ground floor bedroom Media room 6 bedrooms 7 nightfromstay £1583 Christmas in the countryside... QE Both Holiday Parks o er the following: • Season: 1st March31st January allowing you to enjoy all seasons  • Couples only, ensuring peace and quiet to enjoy your surroundings ♂♀ • Dog friendly • New & Pre-Owned Holiday Homes for Sale • O ering you the freedom to escape and unwind whenever you wish in the comfort of your own second home  Set in 74 acres ofcountrysideMid-Wales • Beautifully manicured parkland of mature trees and shrubberies, with open countryside views of Herefordshire  • Perfect base to explore Herefordshire and the medieval town of Ludlow, with many tourist attractions and walking trails.   • 2 acre fishing lake   • Welcome touring caravans and seasonal pitches  • Just over 1 hrs drive from Shrewsbury  • Within 1 hrs drive of Chester and 1.5 hrs from Liverpool/ Wirral  • Nestled in a natural valley and screened by coppices of mature trees  • Close to many tourist attractions and within easy reach of the coastline  • Ideal location to relax and watch wildlife from the comfort of your decking NEAR WELSHPOOL Tel - 01938 811806 @ - info@oakwoodvalleylodges.co.uk | Web - www.oakwoodvalleylodges.co.uk Tel - 01584 831617 @ - enquiries@orletonrise.co.uk | Web - www.orletonrise.co.uk COUNTRYSIDE RETREATS NEAR LUDLOW Oakwood-JulyAug22 198x140mm v2.indd 1 01/06/2022 18:19 Travel Club Go to website to see the BENEFITSAMAZING GoPackGoTravel.com GoPackGoTravel Call us anytime 01691 624464 or 07972 066291 Ellesmere, Shropshire, SY12 www.thenewnes.co.uk9HH Robin and Jane welcome you to Newnes Touring Caravan Park, where they have created a wonderful haven for visitors to escape from their busy lives and get back to the wonders of nature. For adults only.

To see a travel club presentation or have the business opportunity explained contact Michael at GoPackGoTravel.com

The park sits within beautiful, unspoilt parkland and offers excellent facilities, while being served by a team of helpful and dedicated staff. Visitors can choose between the two heated outdoor swimming pools, with patio areas and allocated play areas for the children, and the park shop offers a wide range of groceries, fresh produce, newspapers and gifts.

INVEST IN THE BEST ESCAPE HOT SPOTS SHREWSBURY hanggorgeous“Aplacetoout” “Fun anightsfamilyanddancefloorreadytobefilled” 66 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022 Choose between two heated outdoor swimming pools outstanding“Incrediblevalue,bestservice,benefits” The best deals, hassle-free

Michael Colley is the man behind an exciting travel lifestyle club and he is welcoming new members to find out what it’s all about.Hesaid:

Set up with the members in mind to give incredible value, industry best service and outstanding benefits, it stands apart from other travel clubs.” The club offers members their own booking portal with exclusive access to compare millions of real-time prices on flight tickets, and amazing deals at hundreds of thousands of hotels worldwide. There is also an exclusive car rental search engine, and holiday rentals at rock-bottom rates, as well as

For history buffs the castle is a must. Surrounded by the River Severn, it has been a fortress for generations of the elite. Just a short stride from the town centre, The Quarry is a sprawling 29-acre park. Unless there’s an event on, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along its walkways or have a picnic overlooking the river.

Morfa Lodge has a large number of facilities available for guests of all ages and there is free wifi across the whole site. The Clubhouse offers a large family room with adjacent games room, where you’ll find a range of amusement machines and a pool table. Over-18’s can also enjoy the Lounge Bar throughout the day and evenings, where bar meals are served daily. In the peak season there is live entertainment to provide fun family nights out, as well as the dance floor ready to be filled. The popular hog roasts offer a more relaxed evening at Morfa Lodge. The site is in close proximity to many local attractions, such as Caernarfon Castle, Bangor Cathedral and the stunning Aber Falls, and it makes a great base for exploring this beautiful corner of Wales.There are a range of lodges available to purchase or hire and with plots available in unrivalled locations, Morfa Lodge can offer the ultimate holiday idyll. morfalodge.co.uk

HOLIDAYS

“We all like value for money and few travel clubs, if any, can offer the amazing benefits of GoPackGoTravel.com

opportunity to promote the club and over 150 other quality non-travel related services. He said: “For budding entrepreneurs wishing to increase their earnings part time working from home there is a business opportunity behind this which may be of interest to readers. It is direct sales with approximately 150 services and products in 27 countries with a major award-winning company.”

over offeringrewardmatchedeverypayments,quarterlydiscountedsubscription,aMembersandtours,300,000attractionsactivities.paylowmonthlyfororannualandpoundiswithcredits.Michaelisalsoaninternational

Canny travellers will know the joy of researching holiday options and weighing up the pros and cons of different travel plans. But there is one way of nabbing the best deals and holidays that work for you, without all the hard work.

The beating heart of Shropshire lies in its county town, Shrewsbury, where there is a lot to see and do during a visit to the area. Nestled amongst the Shropshire Hills and just a few miles from the Welsh border, this laidback little place is a gorgeous spot to hang out. It’s perfect for a day trip or weekend break, with sites of interest dotted all across the town. As a child, Charles Darwin called Shrewsbury home, and there are plenty more nuggets of history to discover as you wander the streets and beside its waterways too.

Start living the lifestyle

If you’ve decided this is the year to invest in your own slice of holiday heaven, then chack out the options available at Morfa Lodge holiday park. This family-owned and operated park occupies the perfect location, nestled in the foothills of the Snowdonia mountain range, for that ideal family holiday.

...GET ON A CANAL BOAT Hire for a day, a weekend, a week or longer BOOK YOUR 2023 HOLIDAY NOW Visit www.cheshirecatnarrowboats.co.ukTel07867790195anytime Tel: 07867 790195 • www.cheshirecatnarrowboats.co.uk Spend a day exploring the beautiful Shropshire Union Canal aboard our 10 seater, self-drive Day Boat • Ideal for family celebrations and team-building days • All-weather accommodation • Easy to steer – no experience necessary • From just £115 “ ” THERE IS SIMPLY MESSINGBETTERNOTHINGTHANABOUTINBOATS AVAILABLEVOUCHERSGIFT

adventureparcsnowdonia.com | info@adventureparcsnowdonia.com | 01492 353 123 BOOK NOW to secure availability! Breathe it in. It’s clean, it’s fresh, it’s wild and it’s beautiful. • Stylish hotel or glamping accommodation • Perfect for extended family get-togethers • Relax at the indoor / outdoor Wave Garden Spa • Home to the UK’s biggest surf park • Award-winning adventures at Adrenaline Indoors • Beautiful hiking trails on the doorstep Welcome to Adventure Parc Snowdonia, nestled in the lush green Conwy Valley at the foothills of Snowdonia. We are proud to deliver a world-class destination designed with wellbeing in mind. Centred around the glistening waters of our inland surf lagoon, where you can choose from reinvigorating and restorative spa days, adrenaline-fuelled activities or even slow-paced sightseeing.

streams, up hills, along hedgerows, to the grassy mounds of the summit September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 69 Be prepared for all weathers – see The Ramblers website for tips Many clubs will have junior equipment to loan out Give them time to perfect their swing – their attention to detail is greater at a young age Be patient – don’t rush them It’s the best age to learn 54321 Views in directionsall You can see for milesand miles

GolfSupport.com has put together some great advice for parents who want to encourage their children to play.

From the bottom of the steps take a path at right angles to the way you came, following a fence on your left. You join a path coming up a hollow way and turn left through a kissing gate. Continue uphill with telegraph poles to your right to another kissing gate. Walk diagonally left to a gate leading onto a road.

Follow the detailed route across fields, streams, up hills, along hedgerows and to the grassy mounds of the summit of Linley Hill. You have the Stiperstones behind you, the Long Mynd to the left. To your right, across the valley of the Black Brook, you should see the ridge leading to Nipstone Rock, with Corndon Hill behind it, and possibly the outline of Cadair Idris on the horizon. Follow fields,

the route across

time to perfect their swing – children are notoriously better at getting to grips with a new sport from a young age, as their attention to detail is greater as they learn the ropes. Keep it fun and keep your feedback light - as serious as golf may be to an adult, to a child it’s just another sport to grasp. Your child wants to have fun and enjoy their time with Speakyou.intheir language – as a parent or adult guiding a child around the course, you need to be patient as you explain to them in simple terms how to play the game.

Turn right and walk to a junction where you turn left. After 100 metres turn right at a field gate onto a signed footpath.

Givefor them.them

Provide them with the right equipment – they’ll soon get discouraged with clubs that are too long or too heavy

Our friends at The Ramblers have provided another great walk suggestion – you can find full details on their website at ramblers.org.uk. Just south of the Stiperstones and 100 metres lower, Linley Hill o ers fine views in almost all directions. The return leg passes through Nipstone Rock nature reserve, where wild heathland has been restored in recent years.

Make it a short game – there’s nothing worse than dragging youngsters around the course for a five-hour stint when they were bored after two.

Take the road leading uphill towards the Stiperstones ridge. Just past the car park the road turns left, but your route carries straight on up a small path signed to the Viewpoint. You reach wooden steps up an artificial mound, where an information board helps visualise the layout of mining activities in the past.

ACTIVE • Linley Hill and Nipstone Rock, Shropshire • Di culty – Moderate • Walking time – 2.5 hours • Length – 18.6km / 11.6 miles Tee o for fun Keep active and healthy together outdoors with a family game of golf

Start: The Bog Visitor Centre, Shropshire SY5 0NG

Golf is recognised as being great exercise for kids, strengthening spine and core muscles while also improving hand/eye coordination – and of course, the mental health benefits of sport are widely known. And with so many amazing golf courses in the Shire region, along stunning coastlines and across rolling landscapes, it’s an ideal sport to take up as a family.

“It is unusual to have a vineyard in a hotel so far north,” added Dan. “Many guests comment on this unique aspect of the Carden Park experience. It is also a beautiful area to explore, especially in summer!”

DIDKNOW?YOU It takes around 600–800 grapes to make a bottle of wine, depending on the variety, soil and climate 70 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Carden Park and it is Cheshire’s largest commercial vineyard, therefore it acts as a relatively exclusive feature for our guests.”

When you think of drinks made from produce grown in the Shire region, cider and ales come to mind, mead, maybe fruit liqueurs – but many would assume it’s just too cold here for wine. They’d be wrong. In North and Mid Wales, Cheshire and Shropshire, there are a surprising number of vineyards producing the most delicious English and Welsh wines! Let’s take a look at some of them…

HEARD IT ON GRAPEVINETHE

Wroxeter Roman Vineyard is situated alongside the ancient Roman city of Uriconium (Wroxeter), between the upland of the Wrekin and the town of Shrewsbury. This family-run winery, headed by Martin and Amanda Millington, occupies a sandy, sheltered site near the River Severn at around 180ft above sea level. The vineyard was planned in 1987, when vines were ordered and the land prepared, Exclusive to Carden Park Hotel & Spa

A team of greenkeepers manage the crop, with harvesting taking place over a number of days in October.

“ThemarketingDanwasinandPinotvarieties,whereits ownspecialnearCardensurroundings,beautifulguestsatParkHotel&SpaChesterhaveaverytreat–thehotelhasthree-acrevineyardtheygrowtwograpeSeyvalBlancandNoir,producingrosewhitesparklingwine.“Westartedgrowingvines1988,andthevineyardreinstatedin2008,”Rennie,CardenPark’smanagertoldus.wineisonlysoldat

It’s said that the occupying Romans brought vines with them so they’d have a taste of home whilst in Britain, but when they left the British had no love of wine and their vineyards gradually disappeared. But over the past few decades, the wine market in this country has grown and grown, and luckily so have the number of enterprising folk who are establishing vineyards here, and making wine that can challenge that from anywhere in the world. As well as

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 71

But Kevin brought some of Spain back with him! “I couldn’t plant a vineyard in Spain so I turned the idea on its head and planted the vineyard in Anglesey and imported other things from Spain to sell in the vineyard shop – ceramics and leather and the like. This is the result: a Welsh vineyard with a distinctly Spanish ethos.” Red Wharf Bay Vineyard currently has 400 vines growing Solaris and Rondo grapes, making Llain Gam Solaris (a white wine) and Llain Gam Rondo (a light red). They are varieties adapted to cooler regions, and Kevin has plans to increase that to about 1,200 vines.

“I don’t sell via other retailers at the moment as I don’t have enough produce. If you are a gin producer and you need more produce, you just put on another ‘brew’. With a vineyard you have to wait for the annual harvest, so I have to balance sales quite carefully to ensure that I don’t run out.” Produce of Anglesey

and they were planted in 1991, with the five varieties grafted onto a range of American-descended root stocks. Vigour and suitability The vines, varieties and root stocks were chosen for their vigour and suitability of the site. The plantation is north/south so that the morning sun catches one side and the evening sun the other, benefiting from maximum sunshine on the rows. It must work - Wroxeter’s Noble Roman 2010 and Shropshire Gold 2010 have both won silver medals in The English & Welsh Wine of the Year competition.

BonaparteNapoleon

“So I had the idea of planting my vineyard in Andalucía. A year of misadventure followed and, finally thwarted by the Common Agricultural Policy, I came back to Anglesey and learnt, courtesy of agricultural collage, how to work in this delightful, infuriating profession properly.

“Sometimes it feels very complex, sometimes it feels very straightforward. There are many variables that need to be taken into account and you have to work out how they interact in your 

“If you are a gin producer and you need more produce, you just put on another ‘brew’. With a vineyard you have to wait for the annual harvest, so I have to balance sales quite carefully to ensure that I don’t run out.” vineyard. What works in one vineyard may not work in another, and you have to get to know your own land.”

“I think of it as a micro-vineyard, in the spirit of micro-breweries,” he said. Kevin sells direct from the vineyard, at food festivals and craft fairs, and to a limited extent online.

Red Wharf Bay Vineyard is wonderfully situated, overlooking the bay from which it takes its name, in the Traeth Coch Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on Anglesey. Owner Kevin Mawdesley first planted vines here in 2010, on a whim, after he had stumbled across somebody else who had planted a few vines in North Wales. A Spanish ethos “I didn’t know what I was doing and totally mismanaged them for the first five years, eventually producing a very small amount of unremarkable wine,” Kevin said. “Then I was made redundant from my day job in IT and was wondering what to do next, and I thought: ‘Wouldn’t it be fun and so much easier to grow grapes somewhere with a bit more sun and make wine there?’ Like southern Spain, where grapes just, well, grow instead of having to be teased into ripeness in the marginal climes of Anglesey!

time on the slopes

Harvest

it.”needyoudefeatInChampagne.deserveyouvictory“In

“We consulted our agronomist John Buchan, who took soil samples and confirmed the ground would be 100% suitable,” she said. “We also consulted Martin Vickers from Halfpenny Green Winery for his expertise, and then we started work. For three years we prepared and cultivated the ground and installed the infrastructure – roads, windbreaks, fencing and drainage.”

Having been in England for three generations, they longed to connect with this heritage in the beautiful fertile soil. In 2009 they bought the ten-acre plot at Rodington, recognising the natural, untapped potential of the land, which they could see would make a perfect vineyard.

“We took our first crop and that was the start of our journey into the viticulture world,” Denise told us. “Since then our Jai Chahal of Rodington Vineyard

“We are a tight-knit family business, 24/7,” Denise told us. “Everyone has a role within the family. My dad and uncle are in the vineyard taking care of the viticulture, Mum is the office manager taking care of the day-to-day business. My brother looks after the accounts and my sister supports the IT and media for the business. “A“As a director, my role has developed over the years as the business has grown. My main focus now that we are well established is working to maintain the standard and quality of the wine from vineyard to winery, also monitoring the coordination of distribution, and our exports. Also, to establish new client relationships and maintain present ones with trust.”

Armed with the Stephen Skelton viticulture volumes that are the industry’s bible, in 2014 the family hand-planted 3,800 vines, consisting of 1,000 Solaris, 1,000 Rondo and 1,000 Seyval Blanc, along with 600 Pinot Noir Precoce and 200 Bacchus, giving them their own chosen collection of cool-climate vines and allowing them to develop their own style of wines.

72 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Montgomery Vineyard in Powys started life as a rural bolthole. Back in 1970 the Lennard family bought the property as a country retreat – it came with nine acres that had never had any agricultural use and had become natural meadow.

Cool-climate vines

“Our Seyval & Solaris blend white pairs perfectly with line-caught seabass or a fresh goats’ cheese salad; our Rondo red is excellent with Welsh lamb, and our sparkling white is refreshing served as an aperitif or to accompany risotto”

it!”likeImorethegetIolderTheage.withimproves“Wine

A lifetime’s dream Rodington Vineyard near Telford is an award-winning, family-owned vineyard, run by brothers Jai Chahal and Sagreev Dev Chahal, and their father Ram Dass Chahal.

It had always been the family’s dream to have a vineyard – they come from an ancestry steeped in farming in India.

After many years of planning, planting and nurturing the vines, they had their first harvest in 2013 and officially opened their gates to the public in October 2015. In the short space of time since, they have achieved a bumper harvest of international, national and local awards, including the prestigious International Silver Medal from the International Wine Challenge, two Silver Cup Trophies from the Mercian Vineyards Association, the Welland Valley Trophy for the Best Rosé Wine, and the Best Medium Dry White Wine Trophy.

In 2011, Denise Lennard, with a lifetime interest in wines, combined with a degree in geology, became aware that the natural terroir was potentially viable for a vineyard.

The perfect accompaniment to a celebratory menu vintage has sold out each year.” The vineyard is located in Montgomery, the heart of Mid Wales, 275metres above sea level. It occupies a five-acre site, with over three acres under vine, and is on a natural hillside, free-draining and south-facing, with the vines planted directly north/south. The terroir is made up of flinty, glacial deposits – again, good for drainage, which is the key to their success. The vineyard is a naturally sheltered amphitheatre created by the contours of the hillside.

Anon

Nine acres of vines have been planted on the former farmland, transforming the slopes of Dyffryn Nantlle. There are six different varieties: Seyval Blanc, Siegerrebe, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Frühburgunder/Early Pinot Noir and Rondo. These were specifically chosen to work with the soil and climate conditions in North Wales, and produce white, red and rose wines in return.JustnorthShrewsbury,of and moulded by the glaciers of the Triassic Age, the land upon which Hencote Vineyard sits is rich in history and the glacial till that forms its soil. With the first 18,000 vines planted in 2016, the vineyard has grown to comprise 23,000 vines today, and aims to consistently produce award-winning, international quality wines. The land gives Hencote wine its unique character, and the team does their utmost to preserve the land’s distinctive microclimate: no herbicides, minimal pesticide use and traditional, hand-picked harvesting. They prefer to let the conditions of the land take a leading role in dictating the kind of wine that is created, and believe that this pragmatic approach means the very best outcome for every Hencotevine.comprises a restaurant, vineyard tours, a Georgian farmhouse holiday home and luxury glamping lodges – you can even get married there! Their wedding venue features a 180degree panoramic view that takes in the Welsh hills in the west to the Wrekin in the east. So next time you’re shopping for gifts that you want to reflect your home region, why not consider some of these amazing wines. Who wouldn’t want to receive a bottle or

Direct from Snowdonia: Pant Du DIDKNOW?YOU We have Sir Kenelm Digby (1603-65) to thank for the green wine bottle. Previously wine was kept in goatskin bags!

Impressive accolades

Rich in history

To make the wine, Montgomery Vineyard has partnered with Halfpenny Green Winery, “because of their unwavering support and superb wine-making skills,” said Denise. “Between Martin Vickers, Clive and Ben the process of vine to wine has been seamless.

two?chosen

The vineyard’s accolades are impressive. As well as gold, silver and bronze awards nationally and internationally, and mentions on TV and radio, wine critic Matthew Jukes described their Montgomery 2018 Bacchus & Solaris, as “in the top 50 most influential wines in the UK”.

“Because we grow cool-climate vines at such high altitude on virgin ground, the result is smaller, more intensely flavoured grapes, which produce wines of exceptional quality and taste and complexity. Our Seyval & Solaris blend white pairs perfectly with line-caught seabass or a fresh goats’ cheese salad; our Rondo red is excellent with Welsh lamb, blue Stilton and game dishes; and our sparkling white is refreshing served as an aperitif or to accompany risotto.”

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 73

There are challenges to growing grapes in Mid Wales, but taking the time to choose the correct vines and site, developing the infrastructure, cultivating and creating the right microclimate within the mesoclimate goes a long way to help mitigate this.

Pant Du Vineyard is located on the slopes of the Nantlle Valley, Snowdonia. It is a family-run vineyard and orchard, established in 2007 by Iola and Richard Huws. Pant Du produce includes wine, cider, apple juice, spring water and honey, and over the years has won many awards and accolades for its unique Welsh products.

ongleton-based Beartown Brewery has opened a taproom at its Spindle Street site. After halting brewing in January to allow for renovations, the family-run brewery is now back in production and, along with swish re-branding, has a new venue for customers’ enjoyment.

The Den is ideally located for watching the brewers at work, and will serve an ever-changing selection of beers, plus wines, spirits and coffee.

An ideal venue for a post-work pint, The Den is also available for private hire for celebrations and corporate events. Brewery tours as well as beer and gin tastings are planned.

“WemanagingManning,directorsaid:areexcitedtofinally open the doors to The Den. It has long been a dream of mine, and we’re looking forward to welcoming the people of Congleton and beyond. We have space for up to 70 and are open 10am-10pm, Tuesday to Sunday.”

The new taproom makes a lively party venue

The Manning family who own the business are committed to sustainable brewing. As they expand the site, they are looking at new ways to be as sustainable as possible. beartownbrewery.co.uk

As we head into autumn we bring you a warming dish that celebrates the avours of the season but adds a bit of exotic spice as well

Food&Drink

Joseph

Rebekah Jones is a Whitchurch-based chef who has been being busy in the kitchen for years. Her book My Little Persian Kitchen is a collection of incredible flavours, stunning visuals and stories inspired by Persia. She said: “As you journey through this book you will learn about the delicate herbs and spices used in modern and traditional Persian cooking, and the secret ingredient – time. You can expect to find flavours ranging from the smoky woody notes of cardamom to delicate saffron and everything in Rebekahbetween.”has launched own spice subscription service, selling spice selections she recommends for her recipes. ingredientsecret“Theistime”

“The Den has dreambeenlongaofmine” one to savour

Whitchurch chef Rebekah Jones

74 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October

Perfect for a pint or a party

State-of-the-art equipmentWatch as beer is brewed

An innovative Cheshire brewery has expanded, adding a taproom to allow customers to enjoy the tantalising selection of beers produced on-site 2022

examples.However,finishcombinedfull-bodiedleveltheonyouth.undrinkablepracticallyintheirAlsonotablethepalateisunusuallyhighofalcoholandfeel,withalonginthebetterit is

leg of lamb!

The wine produced by the Nebbiolo grape is deceptive in appearance. It usually has a pale intensity and even at a young age is often garnet in hue, a phenomenon usually associated with older wines. The paleness, however, is no preparation for the shock to the palate produced by the very high levels of tannin (and acidity) common in this variety. Oak ageing and further bottle ageing will soften those tannins – many top-quality wines are on the nose where this wine shines. In its youth it combines floral notes of rose and violets with red fruits such as cherry, strawberry raspberry. Riper examples may have black fruit and liquorice. For without food with Shropshire the with

Wine School introduces us to Italy’s greatest grape variety September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 75 FOOD & DRINK Piedmont is home of the Nebbiolo Gary pays homage to one of the greats Didknow?you Nebbiolo is named after the harvesttime fog, nebbiathe Persian Leg of Lamb Serves 4 • Cooking time 5 hours • Prep time 30 minutes INGREDIENTS 1 tbsp coconut oil For dusting 1 tsp turmeric 1 tbsp plain flour Pinch of salt and pepper For

1 tsp sugar and dissolved in 1 tbsp rose water

And the all-important You shoulder however dish I prefer leg METHOD Pre-heat fan oven to 150degrees. Add 1 tbsp coconut oil into a heavy-bottomed pan. Rub the dusting into the lamb and fry off. When golden, remove from the pan (5 minutes max) and place in a deep roasting dish To the frying pan add the rest of the ingredients and bring to a gentle boil. Pour over the lamb and cover with foil. Cook for around 5 hours, basting every hour, and every 15 minutes for the last hour. Garnish with sliced pistachios and pomegranate. I love this best served whole for everyone to pull a piece off (it falls apart so no need to carve) with a big plate of Baghalie polo (broad bean and dill rice). Nooshe Jaan! More recipes to enjoy

marinade 1 white onion, sliced 3 garlic cloves, sliced 1 tsp advieh (Persian spice mix) 1 tbsp runny honey juice of 1 orange and the grated rind ½ tsp saffron, ground

can use a

also,

for this

and

to go

it. ree to try • De Forville Barbaresco DOCG 2017 (£18.99 Majestic) Manfredi, Barolo DOCG 2017 (£25 Tanners) • Serre Alta Barolo Riserva DOCG 2015 (£24 Sainsburys) Italian passion in a bottle Gary Carter from

most people it can all be a bit much

Sampling freshly made pies… it’s a tough job but someone had to do it. Unsurprisingly there was no shortage of volunteers in the Shire o ce

We sampled the Chicken, Leek and Ham Pie, the Steak Pie and the Apple and Pork. The first two came in sturdy cardboard boxes that indicated cooking for 20 minutes at 180degrees Celsius. No quibbles over the pastry, which was light with a glazed, flaky top. It made a tasty package for the very generous fillings - “packed to the rafters” was one enthusiastic comment. One pie would be ample as a main meal, and for those fixing dinner in a hurry, they more than hit the mark.

and

76 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022 Matt at the roastery LambLookat that fruity centre Packed

The Apple and Pork was a revelation. The all-important hot-water crust was thin and fluted, attractively glazed on the top. The pork was finely ground and nicely seasoned, with a little gem of apple in the centre to sweeten the meat. The approval was unanimous. We were very impressed with Cheshire Pie Co. and look forward to trying more of their authentic flavours. Chicken Tikka or Minted Lamb next perhaps? cheshire-pie.co.uk

irrespectiveguarantee“Weapriceofthemarket”

“The

Matt has been in the industry for 20 years and has visited many of the origin farms that Hundred House now buys from. He said: “We work through direct trade where possible, and a selection of green suppliers, guaranteeing a price irrespective of market fluctuations and before a harvest is complete.” This gives farmers the freedom and commitment to develop unique coffees of distinction, and often the funds to improve post-harvest processes.

Anabelle tastes the latest blend

Hundred House has won multiple awards for its coffee but the team are just as passionate about the not-forprofit side of the business, highlighting independent creatives. Matt explained: “Supporting the arts through industry was a founding principle of Hundred House – weaving the non-profit into our day-to-day activities came instinctively. As the business grows, we are able to support more projects and we have some exciting new ventures on the horizon.” hundredhousecoffee.com Pick of the Producers

Every culture has its version of meat and vegetables baked in a tasty pastry pocket: from samosas in India and Cornish pasties to the ubiquitous sausage roll. But making pies at home can be laborious and invariably disappointing, while manufactured versions are often an insult to the ingredients, an envelope of indifferent pastry wrapped around a meagre filling, more air than meat.

It’s not often we get to celebrate local co ee, but a brand roasted in Shropshire is making a big impact on the industry pieCheshiretest:co.

Taste

Guild of Fine FoodGreat Taste 2018-2021Award Roasting is a fine art pork was finely ground, with a little gem of apple in the centre tothesweetenmeat” with chicken ham

Cheshire Pie Co. turns all that on its head. Here are people who understand what’s required of a topquality product. Tasting their pies is like taking a stroll down memory lane.

Hundred House coffee was born out of the passion of co-owners Anabelle de Gersigny and Matt Wade, whose commitment to sustainability and their suppliers shows in every aspect of the production process. Their roastery is based in the Shropshire Hills, in a yard shared with other speciality food producers. The business uses 100 percent renewable electricity sourced from solar, wind and hydro, and is working towards using 100 percent offset gas for its roaster.

FOOD & DRINK

OUR MISSION We proudly produce a hand-made range of pork pies, along with award winning steak, chicken, lamb and vegetarian pies which are baked daily by our highly skilled bakers with over 150 years of combined experience using our secret recipes. Visit our Farm shop at Dagfields Craft and Antiques, Walgerton, Heathfield, Nantwich, CW5 7LG All handmade daily at our bakery in Sandbach, delivering fresh scrumptious products to our valued customers across Cheshire, Staffordshire, Wales and Shropshire. You can find us every week at Sandbach market, and monthly on Congleton Treacle market and Knutsford makers market as well as many others and we are open daily in the summer at Llandudno Pier, for the full list follow us on Instagram or Facebook where all the information is posted weekly. Telephone: 01270 768 999 | info@cheshire-pie.co.uk www.cheshire-pie.co.uk Cheshire Pie Co. Ltd cheshirepiecoltd

S H OW R O O M ADD R E S S U n it 5 Moreton B u s i n e s s P ark , Gle d rid , Nr O s w estr y, Shropshir e , L L 1 4 5 D G O P E N I N G H OU R S Mon - Fr i - 9am to 5 p m Sat u rd a y : By appoi n t m e n t o n l y F A MI LY R U N B US IN ES S T R A D I N G F O R O V E R 3 3 Y E A R S O N E O F S H R O P S H I R E ’ S L E A D I N G I N S TALL E R S Visit yo u r local showroom or c all us t o arr a ng e yo u r no-o b ligation quot e 0 1 6 9 1 7 7 3 9 9 3 ww w .p r e m ie r w in d o w s o s w e s t r y . c o . u k W e b el ie ve our s t u n n i n g i n door s h o w room is th e bigg es t and bes t i n t h e ar e a s h o wc a s i ng e ve ry th i n g w e d o , so it ’ s de fi n it e l y wor t h a v i s i t t o v i ew th e fine st arra y of op t ion s u n d er one roo f W h y not pop into the someshowroomPremierforgreatideasandfreeadvice Registe 15146 If it ’ s W IND OW S , D O O R S , C O N SE R V AT O R I E S o r a N E W L I V I N G S PA C E you d esir e , we o er bot h quality a nd large choice to suit all bud get s .

Homes

“Seeing the screen and lift in action, they knew this was solution”the Loudspeakers, mood lighting and big screens just don’t sit right alongside oak beams and original sash windows. So when one family started the project of developing their dream home in Shropshire, they took the advice of nearby experts Pure Theatre to look at how to incorporate their home entertainment needs within the period setting.

“If you are currently renovating a period property of your own, get in touch and book a demo to see how to conceal your home entertainment system and preserve the beauty of your living space. To book a demo, visit puretheatre.com

Embracing period features and architectural quirks is all part of the fun when renovating an older property – but modern living tends to demand some home entertainment too. One Shropshire company has combined the two in a renovation revolution.

The renovated exteriorDiscreet speakers Now you see it… now you don’t The ultimate viewing experience

Clever use of cabinetry under the front bay window hides all of the AV equipment. Discreet in-wall speakers are neatly fixed behind bespoke grilles within the panelling. Teamed with four in-ceiling speakers and an in-ceiling subwoofer the audio quality in the room is second to none. The result is a beautifully crafted period living room with a discretely integrated modern entertainment hub that the owners use every single day.”

&Interiors September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 79

“The finished room includes a projector lift and screen, and everything hides away at the touch of a button, meaning the owners have an elegant period lounge – and also a space to watch their favourite shows and movies. The wood panelling not only looks incredible but hides many of the system elements.

The team explained: “This property is one with character in abundance. Situated on the former Lilleshall Hall Estate, the property now sits within the boundaries of the Lilleshall National Sports and Conferencing Centre. With renovations of this kind preserving the original aesthetic is very important. When the owners started looking at converting an old estate building into a living space they had a specific look in mind. Featuring beautifully crafted half wood panelling and a flagstone floor the finished project exudes class. The clever part, though, is its concealed home technology. Secret screen “With a view to this becoming the main living room in the property, the owners were keen to install a system that could be utilised every day for television as well as for home cinema. Whilst browsing at the Home Building and Renovation Show they came across the Pure Theatre stand and booked a showroom demonstration for a later date. Seeing the recessed ceiling screen and lift in action they knew this was the perfect solution.

HIDDEN HOME COMFORTS

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 80

“At Holly Johnson Antiques, we have extensive experience in advising clients on interior design, specialising in period homes. We also run a bespoke design service for high-end residential properties. More information at hollyjohnsonantiques.com/interior-design

Once you’ve styled and selected items for your period home, there is another area crucial to setting the right tone – the wall coverings. Luckily there is no shortage of options, according to interior designer Holly Johnson.

willopulentdamasksrichlycurtainsorittoawhoseFornasetti,Barnabadesignsmodernistfamousbyartbringsplayfulcharmanyroom,behiswallpaperfurniture.“Heavyincolouredwithswagscreatedrama

to enrich the look of a bygone era. In contrast, for modern subtlety you may want to consider blinds. Here there are so many variations to be experimented with, not to mention different trims to choose from. I like to include crystal-cut beading as this elegantly catches and reflects the light. Houles and Samuel & Sons are two prolific trim houses that we use a great deal as they supply meticulous and delicate designs.

“Cole & Son is one not to forget, as they are known for their bold, maximalist creations. Their collections range from colourful and floral to those

WALL TO WALL

“To achieve an intricate fi nish, consider rich tapestries and hand-painted wallpapers from Watts of Westminster”

HOMES & INTERIORS

As a starting point, settle on your aesthetic

hand-woven silk damasks and gilded papers are breathtaking, with exquisite textures and finishes. A fashionable choice is their Badminton design, and we have also used L’Eden, Pine Trees, Wisteria and Temple Newsam. For a Georgian aesthetic, Liberty makes beautiful prints, and also among my favourites are Sanderson, Zoffany and, of course, the iconic William Morris. Rich damasks and elegant trim

Design consultant Holly Johnson

From paint to papers to fabrics, there’s an endless array of options for dressing the walls of your home, depending on the aesthetic you are aiming for – traditional or modern, minimalist or maximalist, soft or “Abold.simple approach would be to use a paint in a heritage colour, such as a deep red or dark green,” says interior designer Holly Johnson, owner of Holly Johnson Antiques. “If you are conscious of your environmental impact, you may want to consider brands such as Earthborn. Earthborn has been developing designer paints for around 20 years, creating a formula that is both breathable and eco-friendly whilst keeping a high-saturated and hard-wearing pigment. In my showroom, I stock their sample pots and have also painted the walls and staircase in an assortment of colours to display finishes and “Alternatively,durability.consider applying a textured wallpaper to give a warmer, more inviting feel that still holds a simplicity. We often look to suppliers such as Arte and Stereo, as they produce a vast selection of designs, from monochromatic textures to bold three-dimensional, Art Deco inspired prints. If you are wanting to achieve an intricate finish, consider rich tapestries and hand-painted wallpapers, such as those from Watts of Westminster. If budget permits, de Gournay’s

Telephone: 01691 238180  contact@iheatltd.co.uk www.iheatltd.co.uk We are proud to be MCS Certified. Giving you confidence in home-grown energy Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Solar BatteryPVStorage Switch from LPG/Oil to a greener energy by installing: Air Source Heat Pumps Ground Source Heat Pumps Underfloor Heating n n n n n n Specialist dealer in Country Pursuit Antiques & Collectables Registered Fire Arm Dealer Quality Antique and Modern Game Fishing Tackle, Guns & Shooting Accessories, Taxidermy, Sporting Art, Natural History items, Quality Country Clothing jds@deesidecountrysportcollectables.co.uk 07740 737375 / 01978 710500 Discreet & Confidential Service - Distance no object Deeside Country SPORT COLLECTABLES We are lookingalwaystobuy All our firewood is sourced from sustainable UK woodlands and are naturally seasoned over 18 months.This ensure our logs hold an average moisture content of just 20%. FREE EXPRESS DELIVERY STRAIGHT TO YOUR DOOR WITHIN 25 MILES OF PREES, NORTH SHROPSHIRE Shrewsbury, Telford, Wrexham, Chester, Nantwich, Oswestry, Newport and everywhere in between! ✓ Seasoned Hardwood Logs ✓ Kindling ✓ Seasoned Sawdust info@goodwoodstock.comwww.goodwoodstock.combetween!Call:07860548865 Fully Qualified Tree Surgeons 24hr emergency call out service on tree surgery jobs Dangerous Tree’s / Ash Dieback (Hymenoscyphus Fraxineus) www.sawmill-midwales.com | themill2212@gmail.com 01938-810649 | 07960-671320 We have a wide range of Oak LiveSoftwoodBeamsCladdingEdgeCladding Tree Stumps for your garden features. THE www.sawmill-midwales.comSAWMILL 4th Generation Sawmill Brookfield-Timber-The-sawmill-Firewood-Merchants

Telford UK 01952 898 533 @puretheatreuksales@puretheatre.com THE BEAUTIFUL ALTERNATIVE TO A TV Looking for the big screen experience without ruining your room? Introducing concealed home cinemas, a combination of ceiling recessed projectors, screens and speakers which give you a home cinema when you want it and your room back when you don’t. See it for yourself by booking a demo at our ultimate home cinemaINTRODUCINGcentre. CONCEALED HOME CINEMA puretheatre.com/book-a-demo

“The most sustainable furniture would be second-hand – it already exists so you are keeping it from landfill and reducing the need to produce new furniture. We recognise that secondhand is not everyone’s first choice, though, so if it is new that is required, then look at eco-friendly materials that have a lower impact on our planet, for example reclaimed wood, recycled steel or aluminum, natural fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp and linen, or recycled fabrics for upholstery.

Darwyn Ker, managing director of Woodpecker Flooring, said: “With quality and style at the fore, our Salcombe range brings a real sense of coastal beauty, and while there might be a real complexity to these boards, the subtle tones create a welcoming notion of calmness.”

Bring the beach back

A Welsh flooring company has launched a new coastal range, perfect for hanging on to that holiday feeling delicate Salcombe Moonbeam Oak from Woodpecker Flooring

In a wide range of subtle shades and a beautiful natural texture, Woodpecker Flooring’s Salcombe is the perfect choice of flooring to bring the light and vitality of the seashore into your home. Salcombe is expertly created from engineered wood with seven styles to choose from. From the charms of a rustic beach-house to multi-tonal sanddunes, the assortment of dusky and delicate tones creates a beautifully stylish floor range – the perfect complement to a coastal interior. Many of the boards are specially treated using a process called ‘smoking’, which subtly intensifies the tones by awakening the natural tannins in the timber, adding a new dimension to floors.

“Lots of initiatives are now in play to reduce our carbon footprint, including a take-back scheme where you return your old sofa and replace it with a new one, and the old sofa gets stripped back, re-covered and sold again. There’s a repair programme so furniture can be mended, painted and can live another 100 years, and a programme of reforestation where furniture companies plant above the number of trees sourced so the environment is benefiting.

Thoughtful living with MOO and BOOM

HOMES & INTERIORS

Salcombe Dune Oak September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 83

“Thecalmness”notioncreatetonessubtleaof

Being ethical and eco-friendly is not always an easy task as our high streets and online stores are full of non-planet-friendly wares. However, the smallest steps can help and MOO and BOOM have some great finds that will not only transform your home but are recycled, upcycled or reconditioned. What is sustainable furniture?

“We love second-hand, and if you pay us a visit we always have something in that has been reworked or reupholstered. Layer this with our beautiful soft furnishings – recycled throws, cushions and unique accessories – and you have a sustainable living space.

When we think of coastal interiors, those blue-striped curtains, anchors and miniature ships are a thing of the past. Coastal themes have moved on and today’s interpretation of beach-inspired interiors is all about creating a relaxing and stylish haven. From floor to ceiling, soft muted colours and wonderful textured layers stand strong.

“We reworkedthingshavealwaysinthatareorre-covered”

Hand-crafted and planet-friendly

“Visit us at MOO and BOOM, 10A Green End, Whitchurch SY13 1AA. We will be excited to see you and more than happy to discuss your wishlist of thoughtful living items.” mooandboom.com

Woodpecker is a Welsh family-run business with a heritage in the timber industry that goes back three generations. Founded by Bruce Ker, a skilled craftsman, the tradition is continued today by his son Nelson and grandson Darwyn. woodpeckerflooring.co.uk

Elizabeth Scarlett cushions

If you’re someone that prefers tech over toil, a great addition to the home is an air purifier. Using extremely fine filters, they suck in air and cleanse it to remove any allergen particles.

KEEP IT CLEAN

Lift the lint If you have light fixtures or blinds that are made of a delicate material, put down the damp cloth or vacuum and instead invest in some lint rollers. Designed primarily for clothing, they have a sticky outside surface that lends itself beautifully to removing dust. end-of-tenancy-london.co.uk

“The best course of action is to remove any triggers,” said cleaning expert Ivan Ivanov, from End of Tenancy. “This means tackling dust within your own home first and foremost. It doesn’t have to be an arduous task.” Here’s Ivan’s cleaning tips to keep your house dust-free.

Dust like a pro

Dust busting needn’t be a chore

84 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Get those bed sheets washed Microscopic dust mites love to nestle into the fibres of the sheets, causing unwanted irritation on the skin. Plus, with the close proximity of the sheet to your mouth, you run the risk of breathing in dust mites, which is unhygienic and a potential trigger point for allergies. Get the vacuum out Dust falls into carpet crevices, meaning the only way to avoid a build-up is to vacuum frequently, with special attention to thick carpets. Also consider transitioning to hardwood flooring, as it makes spotting dust a whole lot easier.

Get the vac out often

Mop it up If you have a hard floor, a quick once-over with the mop is an effective way of lowering allergy triggers in the home.

“If you prefer tech to toil, invest in an air purifier to remove allergens”the

Invest in a purifier

The secret here is having a damp cloth over a dry one. A dry cloth just disperses dust particles into the air, making allergies a whole lot worse. A damp cloth collects all the dust with ease.

With hayfever season out of the way for another year, the last thing anyone wants is dust around the home prolonging those annoying sni es and itches. Thankfully it’s not hard to tackle, says our cleaning expert.

more

HOMES & INTERIORS

As autumn flutters in, many of us will be feeling the relief of not having to keep up the seasonal battle with pollen. Allergies can be especially debilitating over the summer – but still troublesome throughout the year for those who suffer more general dust allergies.

According to Met Office data, hay fever negatively affects the lives of roughly 10 million people around the UK. Just last month, Google searches for ‘hay fever symptoms’ spiked by 306 per cent. However, hay fever season isn’t the only trigger for allergies. Common dust mites, dead skin and even animal fur often result in hayfever-like symptoms.

Armed and ready for action

Cover the cracks Dust can build up inside gaps in the walls or the ceiling. To stop the tide, be sure to try and cover up all the cracks indoors.

COMPANYGLASSOSWESTRY ourforusContactlatestcolourbrochure www.bespoak.coinfo@oswestryglass.comE.2PNSY11OswestryRoad,MiddletonT:01691680008

Bespoke Woodworking for your Home and Garden Items are available in Pine, Oak, Cedar, Sycamore Personalised designs allow you scope for creativity and inventiveness to create your own garden paradise. Phone: 07854 784339 Email: www.glandwrwoodworks.comjames@glandwrwoodworks.com ofWiththelaunchouronlineshopweareoffering10%discountonallorders. Your business will feel right at home in Shire Magazine Expert homes & interiors advice, and shoppingfabulouspages filled with inspiration Get in touch 01691 661270 advertising@shiremagazine.co.uk RELAX LIKE AN OLYMPIAN IN YOUR OWN JACUZZI HOT TUB VISIT OUR SHREWSBURY SHOWROOM TO SEE THE AMAZING RANGE TEL: 03336 WWW.ALLWEATHERLEISURE.CO.UK00700828A VANGUARD WAY, BATTLEFIELD ENTERPRISE PARK SY1 JTG ADAM PEATY 5x Olympic Medal Holder Allweather-JulyAug22 198x140mm.indd 1 13/06/2022 15:18

ATYOURACREATESPAOFOWNHOME

important”iscooling-“Thedownprocessjustas

Clients are often also surprised by the EASY Sauna – a versatile DIY sauna that can be easily assembled by two people, and plugs into a standard socket. This opens up the possibility of installing a sauna in any room of the house. Best in the business “Our ability to provide clients with every element of a wellness suite in-house sets us apart from other suppliers in the field,” says Gilles. “Rather than liaising with different contacts and project managers, with Guncast and KLAFS, clients have the assurance of one supplier overseeing the entire project, ensuring the final space is cohesive and each element sits harmoniously together. For further information call 0161 358 0840 or visit klafs-uk.com

important, bringing your core luxurious.justtheIceandLounge,suchtotemperaturebodybacknormal.ProductsastheIceSnowCabinSTALAGMITEFountainmakecoolingprocessasenjoyableand

The EASY Sauna plugs into a standard socket YOUR OWN HOMES & INTERIORS September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 87

Surprising At home, wellness is not reserved for large homes with plenty of space. The latest product range takes into account rooms of all shapes and sizes. Gilles continues: “For those with limited space, the KLAFS S1 Sauna is the perfect solution. The S1 Sauna is the first of its kind, and can retract at the touch of a button, like a zoom lens on a camera. When retracted, it is just 60cm deep and no wider than the average closet. Extended, the 1.60metre depth offers plenty of room to enjoy a relaxing sauna.”

ore common in Scandinavian countries, home saunas are a great way to replicate the relaxation and luxury of your favourite spa days as well as an excellent means of boosting wellness. One Cheshire company has all the experience to help you bring a little Scandi snugness to your home, and has joined forces with German experts to establish a range of facilities that can be admired at its extensive showroom in Knutsford.

Guncast is part of KLAFS, world leaders in the design and installation of sauna and spa facilities. The marriage of one of the UK’s most respected pool suppliers, Guncast, and world-leading German wellness supplier KLAFS means that clients can select from the most exclusive swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms and more. Soothing Saunas are not only a leisure facility – many people associate them with long-term health benefits and this area of the market is growing as we become more aware of our own wellbeing. Gilles Darmon, director at KLAFS, explains: “We work with an array of private developers as well as directly with clients, and the investment being made into wellness is at record levels. More so than ever, clients are looking to enjoy the complete thermal journey in their home – something that was previously reserved for luxury spas.” The ‘warming up’ process is well understood, with many clients enjoying sweat-bathing in a sauna or steam room to help detox. However, to get the most out of the experience, the ‘cooling down’ is just as Extend that wonderful summer feeling by creating a luxury experience at home and give your body a boost of warmth whenever you need it

Modern styles suit any space or room size

KLAFS and Guncast will oversee the entire project A discreet addition to the home

88 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

We could probably all clear out a few boxes if we put our mind to it, and one place that often ends up as a dumping ground is the garage. By sorting out properly, we could be gaining so much more space that could be used as an extension of the home.

Ready-made storage

DEBRISTHEDITCH

Old decorations

HOMES & INTERIORS

We are all guilty of hoarding things we don’t need, if we are honest. Some have sentimental value and can’t be parted with. Some are items bought in error and never returned. And then there’s the projects we never finished – or never even started!

Marie Bateson, volunteers director of the Association of Professional Declutterers and Organisers (APDO) and owner of Cut the Clutter, became a professional organiser three years ago after re-organising spaces for friends and family and finding a unique job satisfaction. She has shared with Shire some of her top tips to tackle the clutter you really don’t need in your life. Unused sports equipment It’s only convenient to have a personal sporting goods store in your garage if you actually use the equipment. Rather than having it sit collecting dust, recycle it if the equipment is worn or damaged, or donate it if it can still be used. Most local leisure centres gladly accept gently used equipment.

Let it go… Motivator: Marie Bateson What lies beneath? Lovely uncluttered space!

there’s“Thentheprojectsweneverfinished–orneverstarted”

Old electronics If you’ve been holding onto your old VCR or broken record player out of nostalgia, it’s time to let it go. There are plenty of people who will enjoy the antique tech that’s collecting dust in your garage. If anything is valuable, there are many places to donate or sell it – try Vintage Cash Cow. Just because you can see the value in an item doesn’t mean it’s worth the space it’s taking up in your home, though! Unwanted tools First sort and categorise. Any rusty or broken items: in the box for recycling. Any duplicates: consider the need for these; most of us have two hammers and many screwdrivers. Old power tools you were bought but never use: do you know someone who would use them? (You could always borrow them back then!) Broken strimmers and lawnmowers should go in the recycle pile. And thin down those nails and screws. There are artists that use old metal items, and look online to see if your recycling could go to a good cause or artistic group rather than the local tip. apdo.co.uk and cut-the-clutter.co.uk

Looking to free up some extra space in your home? It’s time to tackle that dark and dusty realm that’s often used as a dumping ground – the garage

You may want to hang onto your child’s first holiday ornament or the Halloween skeleton that’s past its best, but it all takes up space. There’s no point in storing decades-old decor just to use it once a year. Clear out any item that is damaged or hasn’t been brought out in a few years. Empty boxes We are taught as good consumers to keep packaging and paper that comes with big purchases. It’s not a bad idea to save the box your toaster came in or the packaging from a TV – but if you’ve had the items for more than a year, it’s time to get rid. The returns policy has most likely expired, especially if you have been using the item regularly. In many cases, you may only need the proof of purchase or serial number in case of complaint, as packaging is sent out for returns by lots of companies now. So check your warranty and only save what you need. You could reuse the boxes for storing things you are keeping.

A very lucky couple called at one of our recent roadshow events with a couple of old gold chains and a silver charm bracelet and a bag of old silver shilling coins. We paid them over £1600.00 just for the coins alone. They turned out to be pre-1947 silver coins that were normal currency a few years ago and are now highly collected. We asked them for their permission to pass on this story on and they were only too pleased to allow us to let everyone know that they might be sitting on a goldmine and not even know it! Like most people, who can only dream of winning the pools or the lottery, a lot of normal households have a hidden treasure of old gold jewellery, silver jewellery, teapots, trophies, trays and old objects d’art. Why not get a free valuation from our expert at our roadshow. There is no queuing and our expert will give you a one-on-one appraisal of the value of your treasured possessions in a private area. If you like the valuation our expert will make you the same offer in cash which you can accept or decline at no cost to yourself.

Wanted For CASH GOLD & PLATINUM DIAMOND RINGS 9ct, 18ct & 22ct Wedding Rings Any Silver Items, Chain Rings and Bracelets GOLD COINS IN ANY CONDITION FOR CASH Sovereigns, Krugerrands, Maples Broken or any condition chains in 9ct gold or any other gold Dental Gold, Gold Teeth, Old Bracelets & Bangles & Pendants ALL PRE-1947 SILVER COINS AND ALL FOREIGN SILVER COINS WANTED At least 10 times face value All Gold Watches and Silver Watches Silver Trays, Silver Teapots, Silver Cigarette Cases, Silver Knives & Forks and Trophies All Platinum Jewellery & Antique Jewellery

Gold and Silver Roadshow FOR 1 DAY ON SATURDAY 1st OCTOBER AT THE ROYAL OAK BROMBOROUGHHOTEL, from 10.30 to 4.00 FOR 1 DAY ON TUESDAY 4th OCTOBER AT THE MERCURE ABBOTS WELL HOTEL, CHESTER from 10.30am to 4.00pm FOR 1 DAY ON MONDAY 3rd OCTOBER AT THE WYNNSTAY ARMS by MARSTON INNS HOTEL, WREXHAM from 10.30am to 4.00pm

2 1 Choose rustic natural materials for sustainability and great style HOME SHOPPING 9 1. Rupert two-seater leather sofa £1,649.95 (sale price), Cousins Furniture, Shrewsbury; cousinsfurniture.co.uk 2. Midas dining sideboard £899 (sale price), Stokers Fine Furniture, Chester; stokers.co.uk 3. Rock Mill tapestry throw £185, Meirion Mill, Machynlleth; meirionmill.co.uk 4. Ewemoo ivory sheep footstool £130; ewemoo.co.uk 5. Vintage Rose lambswool cushion from £60, Melin Tregwynt, Haverfordwest; melintregwynt.co.uk 6. Colorado magazine rack in waxed rosewood £79, Browns Furniture, Deeside; brownsfurniture.co.uk 7. Himalayan rock salt lamp £24, Make Your House a Home, Whitchurch; makeyourhouseahomewhitchurch.com 8. Antique dowry chest 38 x 18 x 32cm £95, Wilstone Interiors, Leebotwood, Shropshire; wilstone.com 9. Wycombe oak-framed armchair £695, Holloways, Suckley, Worcestershire; holloways.co.uk 10. Nature’s Way teak mushroom side table £179, Shannon Sales, Wrexham; shannonsales.co.uk 11. Recycled cotton throws £24 each, Moo and Boom, Whitchurch; mooandboom.co.uk 12. Vintage Sofa Company beach ball beanbag £149, Hafren Furnishers, Llanidloes; hafrenfurnishers.co.uk 13. Wood-fired ceramic storage jar by Wayne Clark £75, Mostyn, Llandudno; mostyn.org 14. Pure sheepskin rug from £45, The Rug Retailer; therugretailer.co.uk 3 4 5 6 7 10 12 13 14 t��S����yb���

COSY UP IN WOOL! Shop open: Monday - Saturday or order our products online! Trefriw Woollen Mills, Main Road, Trefriw, Conwy Valley LL27 0NQ T: 01492 640462. W: www.t-w-m.co.uk Five miles north of Betws-y-Coed on the B5106 We stock home produced Welsh bedspreads & travelling rugs plus pure wool knitwear, accessories and slippers for men & women. Also sheepskin rugs, slippers, mitts, gloves, wool duvets & pillows. Wool - the original sustainable, bio-degradable, breathable fibre. Keep warm this winter in wool! BEAT THE FUEL BILLS MOOand BOOM sustainable lifestyle store Looking for that unique gift, a eco friendly choice of giving or just a sustainable piece of clothing that is planet concious? Come and visit our beautiful store in the heart of Whitchurch, Shropshire for a truely wonderful shopping experience IN STORE CAFE SERVING VEGAN AND GLUTEN FREE cakes, (food served Thur/Fri/Sat) 10am 3pm Workshops all online to book @ www.mooandboom.com 10a Green End, Whitchurch, SY13 1AA Painting, Photography, Journaling, Yoga, Pilates, Pottery, Tia Chi just a few of our classes em sustainable & eco friendly outdoor furniture • recycled plastic durable • colourful • maintenance free • can be left outside all year round mobek.co.uk I 01492 515 318 I sales@mobek.co.uk Mobek, Unit 4, Ty Mawr Enterprise Park, Llysfaen, Old Colwyn, LL29 8UE UK LONG GUARANTEES MADE IN CANADA

Abbey Kitchens, Shrewsbury Quality kitchens, cabinets and appliances We are a family run business established in 1993. We pride ourselves on supplying the best quality kitchens cabinets and doors in Shrewsbury with over 100 years of collective experience. Experts in design, planning and after sales service, we deliver an exceptional standard of product and service to our clients. Enjoy a hot Neff coffee while you browse or have an informal chat with our designer about your project. You can also see your new virtual kitchen, get a feel for the space on our top of the range CAD system. This puts you in the driving seat, ensuring you get the perfect kitchen for you and your family that you can delight in for many years to come. Abbey Kitchens, Unit 3, 93, Whitchurch Road, Shrewsbury SY1 4EO 01743 588656 I https://abbey-kitchens.netinfo@abbey-kitchens.net

HOME VISIT

“I would definitely recommend Abbey Kitchens to friends – in fact, I already have done! We’re very happy with their service.” Abbey Kitchens, 93 Whitchurch Road, Shrewsbury SY1 4EO 01743 588656 abbey-kitchens.net

The little details “There was a big discussion about the cupboard handles. There were so many to choose from! I knew I wanted gold, but not too shiny, and I liked the design of these ones as they’re quite modern.

We moved here from Lincolnshire in December,” Carrie told us. “My mum’s side of the family are from Shrewsbury, but even so it was a big move for us. When we bought the house, we knew it needed a new kitchen. It was a country-style kitchen originally. I think it was a DIY job – it was very open, there were no cupboards so everything was on display. It was fine but it wasn’t our style. “We’ve done quite a bit to the house, and in the kitchen everything except the floor has been redecorated! We did think about changing the flooring but it’s actually worked out well.

“We decided on a new oven, hob and extractor hood, which Abbey Kitchens sourced for us. We chose an induction hob – they’re really good, I had one at the previous house and I wanted the same again. They’re so quick, they get hot straightaway and are very safe to use. I wanted to keep the original Belfast sink but the size didn’t quite

“The worktop and handles took longest to choose. Handles make a kitchen –they can change the whole look”

“I love the Shaker style. I chose the colour because I’ve got a thing about blue. I used to have a thing about grey – now it’s blue! I enjoy home decorating and upholstery, and I have a good eye for colour, I think. I’m always changing colour schemes, and I wanted the option to repaint the cupboards in the future, so they are solid wood which is easier to paint than other finishes. We’ve got two corner units and a pull-out larder next to the fridge, all of which are really handy.”

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 93

“We didn’t need any structural changes and we kept the sink and oven in the same place. All the fittings were there and it made sense to keep the layout the same. But storage was important as the old kitchen barely had any. I wanted tall units up to the ceiling – I didn’t want dead space at the top, it just gets dusty. And we went for the under-unit lighting, which you need really.

“Once we confirmed what we wanted and the design, we didn’t have to wait long for the installation. We moved in December, I went into the showroom in January and the kitchen was fitted soon after. The installation took a week altogether, including all the electrics and lights, the plastering and everything. We really like the under-cupboard lights, it’s nice to have them on in the evening. It’s a very sociable kitchen, we like the open-plan layout and we spend most of our time in here.

“There’s a lot of cupboard space now – I actually struggle to fill it! – and it’s very nice cooking in this kitchen. Abbey Kitchens knew where the best positions were for everything, they definitely they know their stuff.

“Abbey Kitchens is a family-run business, and we went straight to them because we knew of them – in fact, they’re second cousins of mine. Richard came round and took measurements, and then I went into the showroom and they showed me some ideas.

“Thework.worktop was probably the hardest thing to choose in terms of colour. I wanted something lighter this time round. This one is travertine, which is like marble and you can put reasonably hot pans on it. Another big advantage is it doesn’t chip on the edges.

“Abbey Kitchens were really good to work with. Roy, our kitchen fitter, did a fantastic job. He was very good with the dog too! The whole thing went very smoothly. The handles and the worktop took the longest to choose. The handles make a kitchen, I think. They can change the whole look.

Blue is the colour

Carrie wanted more storage space, ceiling-height cupboards – and it had to be blue!

Carrie and Dave couldn’t be happier with their brand-new kitchen from Abbey Kitchens

Satisfied customers

8 94 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022 1. Decorative matches £6.50, Moo and Boom, Whitchurch; mooandboom.com 2. Wall-hanging iron fireside tool set £65, British Ironwork Centre, Oswestry; britishironworkcentre.co.uk 3. La Nordica Emiliana stove from £1,619, Ludlow Stoves, Ludlow; ludlowstoves.co.uk 4. Dunsley Avance 500 with log store £1,856, RN Williams, Conwy; rnwilliams.co.uk 5. Le Feu Sky black bio fireplace £1,599, Bright & Shine Stoves, Llanidloes; brightandshine.co.uk 6. Mansion paper briquette maker £16.99, Charlie’s Home and Garden, Shrewsbury; charlies.co.uk 7. Clearview 750 from £1,980, Clearview Stoves, Ludlow; clearviewstoves.com 8. Cast-iron hot potato cooker £35, Saxon Home Care, Chirk; saxonhomecare.co.uk 9. Copper match holder £15.99, Make Your House A Home, Whitchurch; makeyourhouseahomewhitchurch.com 10. Manor Tanner log basket £30, Wynnstay Country Stores; wynnstay.co.uk 11. Stainless steel ash bucket with leather strap £40.99, Black Country Metalworks, Oswestry; blackcountrymetalworks.co.uk 12. Ecofan Airdeco 8203 £109, The Stove Company, Wrexham; thestovecompany.co.uk 1 12 11 2 3 6 4 10 7 By firesidethe Stylish stoves and accessories to take the chill off autumn evenings 9 5

FREE TEA/COFFEE FOR 1 1 I I J • HOME ACCESSORIES NEW HOME & LIVING DEPARTMENT GIFT OR AFTERNOON TEA VOUCHERS online at tweedmill.store STYLING YOU AND YOUR HOME FOR OVER 25 YEARS FREE TEA/COFFEE FOR 1 1 � BLAS CLWYD VALID UNTIL 30/4/22 NOT TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WIT ANY OTHER OFFER CODE: SHIRE L------------ J Images are for illustration purposes only SOUP & SANDWICH OFFER £5.95 VALID UNTIL 31/10/22 NOT TO BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER CODE: SHIRE CHRISTMAS DEPARTMENT OPENING LATE SEPTEMBER

AttinghamSHROPSHIRE Home to a fabulous walled garden (right) and orchard, there can be few better places to visit in autumn. The team has been bringing this important part of the estate back to life and production. Originally created in the 1780s, after In all their glory

Autumn colours can be the most magical of all in our gardens.

Dudmaston at sunset Plas Newydd

TrustNationalImages:

Plants&Gardens

Unmissable autumnal views as the woods are ablaze with colour, and the yellows and browns of the moorland stretch to the horizon, speckled with red deer.

Attingham Park Quarry Bank Erddig As es aute re eat harum ex

BodnantValley

LymeCHESHIREPark

As the heat of the summer fades there is no greater sight than a garden bursting into late colour and showing off its autumn finery to visitors Dunham

LymeMasseyPark

The National Trust, which cares for some of the finest houses and gardens in the country, gave us their suggestions for the best to visit across the Shire patch, saying: “Jumping in crunchy leaves, discovering shiny conkers and enjoying fresh air with all the family – autumn is here for us all to embrace.”

Carding Mill

Quarry Bank Catch autumn colour cascading through the woods and into the gardens - reds, golds and bronze against a blue sky. Keep your eyes peeled for fungi poking through the leaves too!

Carding Mill Valley Swap the cultivated gardens for a walk in the wild. Carding Mill Valley is a great day out that will show you nature on all sides, changing with the arrival of autumn.

NORTH WALES

Dudmaston Another fine ancient estate, with wonderful gardens (above) to explore and activities on offer too. A visit in the autumn is particularly worthwhile if you join one of the organised foraging walks while fungi season is here.

Bodnant Garden, Conwy With sweeping lawns, grand terraces and verdant woodland, there are many gardens in one at Bodnant. Created over 150 years, with plants collected from far afield, and the incredible vision of the McLaren family and Puddle head gardeners, this haven of rarity and beauty with a stunning backdrop of the Carneddau mountains of Snowdonia is a delight for the senses. Erddig, Wrexham On a dramatic escarpment above the Clywedog river, Erddig boasts a fully restored 18th-century garden, with 180 different varieties of apple tree.

falling into disrepair, and having different uses in the 20th century, this Georgian kitchen garden is both beautiful and bountiful today.

Plas Newydd, Anglesey Massed hydrangeas give spectacular autumn colour, there’s a woodland walk to a delightful spring and stunning views across the Menai Strait to Snowdonia. nationaltrust.org.uk

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 97

It’s also the season of cutting back and raking leaves – but if you need some inspiration, then the dramatic arrival of abundant reds, golden, yellow and orange hues in a professional garden might be enough to convince you that the hard work is worthwhile.

Dunham Massey Deep evergreens, riots of red and golds from thousands of shrubs and trees make up the UK’s largest winter garden.

• Plant up containers with pansies, cyclamen, heathers, heucheras and other colourful bedding plants for autumn interest.

HARDALLREWARDSAUTUMN’Sboost?FORYOURWORK

sunflower“Leaveseedheadsforthebirds”

The hazy days of summer may be fading, but that doesn’t mean the pleasure you get from your garden is over. In their regular column, the experts at Reaseheath College remind us there’s still plenty to enjoy and look forward to

With columns of flowers that can reach up to 2m, these tall perennials grow stronger and produce more flower stems each year to draw the bees in. Some of the popular varieties, such as Hollyhock ‘Creme de Cassis’, are a wonder to behold for us humans too!

of unripe continueindoorstomatoestoripeningiftemperaturesaredropping PLANTS & GARDENS

Keep busy There are other jobs you can do now to ensure your garden continues to deliver, benefiting both you and the local wildlife. Lis Morris, lecturer in Horticulture and Sustainable Technologies at University Centre Reaseheath in Cheshire, suggests: “As you dead-head, collect the ripe seeds from your favourite flowers and store in labelled envelopes, ready to sow in spring. If your beds look bare, fill gaps with late-flowering perennials such as sedums, which will provide nectar for pollinating insects. It’s also

Coneflower You’ll often see bees buzzing eagerly around the prominent central cones of these daisy-like flowers, visiting each floret to partake of its nectar and pollen. A long bloom period keeps bees well fed for months.

98 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

TOP TIP Bring trusses

BEST FOR BEES We all know our bees and other essential pollinators are under threat – so when you’re ordering plants for next year, why not consider some of these favourite pollen providers to give them a

Hollyhocks

Buddleia

Hopefully your flower beds, containers and veg patches are still bursting with flowers and produce and, with a little attention, will keep going until well into autumn. Regular dead-heading of flowers and cutting back tired foliage will pay dividends by revitalising your borders. Watering in warm spells will extend the flowering of favourites such as dahlias, Japanese anemones and heleniums, while regular feeding can keep hanging baskets producing until the first frosts.

• Wash and disinfect bird feeders with a wildlife-approved product.

For more on Reaseheath’s horticulture courses see reaseheath.ac.uk/horticulture

Lis also suggests:

Japanese anemones make a long-lasting display Bring the harvest home

• Harvest pumpkins and squashes and stake Brussels sprouts and broccoli.

a great time to whileplantedandandforspring-floweringorderbulbsplantingnow,bare-rootedtreesfruitbushes,bestinNovembertheyaredormant.”

• Divide and replant congested clumps of perennials, such as achilleas, after flowering.

• Begin trimming hedges to control height.

• Pick apples and pears before they get blown down and bruised, then store.

Lavender You can often locate a lavender plant in summer from the buzzing bees as they flit from scented flower to scented flower. These extremely tough and drought-resistant small shrubs come in a variety of shades, from white to a very deep purple.

One of the best plants for bees, with masses of conical blooms that are always covered with all sorts of pollinating insects. If you don’t have room for a larger variety such as Buddleia davidii ‘Black Knight’, there are others specially bred to remain compact.

Sunflower In addition to being prolific nectar and pollen producers, sunflowers have bee-healing properties. Both wild bees and honeybees will self-medicate on the pollen when ill or infected with pathogens, so try to avoid the hybrid varieties bred to be pollenless.

• Leave sunflower seedheads in place as feed for birds.

The European Market Leader in Home Life Safety More UK homes trust Aico to protect them Keeping you and your family safe from Fire and Carbon Monoxide since 1990, Aico has home life safety products that your household can rely on. Aico first. Safety first. www.aico.co.uk | 01691 664100 | enquiries@aico.co.uk We work with our clients from the design stage through to completion, whether it be a total garden makeover, building work or a home renovation. Working with other trusted suppliers including chartered surveyors, electricians, plumbers and gas engineers means we are able to quote, supply, fit and project manage all of your works. Our team work from our Malpas based office being well placed to cover Cheshire, North Wales and Shropshire. BuildscapeUK is a Cheshire based family run business, established since 2013 offering a range of domestic and commercial based services. n LANDSCAPE GARDENING n RENOVATIONS n BUILDING WORK 01948info@buildscapeuk.com860135 11 High St, Malpas, Cheshire SY14 8NN

“BuildscapeUK did a great job re-roofing our stables, they managed the job from start to finish and will most definitely use again. Thank you!”

“Buildscape worked tirelessly to get our garden as we wanted – the transformation was amazing we expected it to take much longer than it did but they were very organised. The job itself was done exceptionally well with such attention to detail. “

‘We were really impressed with the professional service they were able to offer. I would highly recommend BuildscapeUK, and I am glad I know who to call on next time.’

Some 80 per cent of our orchards have disappeared in the past few decades. We know that trees help to retain water, that their canopies create shade and cooling, but they are also vital for biodiversity, which is shockingly low in Britain. Under the Parks and Gardens project in Wales, apple orchards are beginning to grace free spaces in our towns, supplying an enriched population of pollinating insects and helping to increase biodiversity. Some trees, however, have been destined for bolder things and soon we shall have the interesting sight of cider orchards gracing our hillsides. Richard Edwards is delivering the Productive Orchard Project, funded by the Welsh Government. He has been busy setting up small orchards of heritage varieties in community spaces – school playing fields, parks and tracts of land. Montgomery, Newtown, Kerry, Llandyssil and Caersws are among the fortunate recipients. An orchard can be as few as five fruiting trees: Richard has been planting four apple trees, a pear and a plum. The fruit is available for anyone to eat, but it is hoped it may initiate community activities. In Newtown, at the Pen Dinas headquarters of Cultivate, Richard has equipment for pressing and juicing; people will be able to take their harvested apples, berries and currants for juicing, pasteurising, even drying into jelly. But Richard is concerned that the longevity of the orchards will rely upon proper maintenance. New partners need to be found to invest in the work, to inspect and prune the trees, and teach others to maintain their orchards for themselves. It is a project for our future and that of our grandchildren and deserves to succeed. If you are interested in volunteering or donating, email the Cultivate team at info@cultivate.uk.com

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 101

Reflecting on her Countryfile experience, Eleri added: “It was fantastic to be part of the programme and quite exciting as I had to speak and do some action shots with the presenter, showing them how to clear the gorse. The most important thing is it shone a light on this amazing project, which I’m proud to have been a part of.”

Eleri Turner is in her element

THECLIMBINGLADDER

“It is a project for ourchildren”grandontolearnt“ShewalkMoelFaban”

Eleri couldn’t be happier

Eleri Turner is enjoying life as an apprentice at Coleg Cambria with the Carneddau Landscape Partnership, a five-year National Heritage Lottery-funded scheme conserving an area of northern Snowdonia. The 23 year-old has been working alongside National Trust Cymru ranger Abbie Edwards, and the pair – who both hail from Bethesda – featured in a recent episode of BBC’s Countryfile Their work clearing gorse around an Iron Age hut settlement on Moel Faban peak was watched by more than six million viewers.

Hillsides are a prime site for planting

We need to plant more trees. But they must be the right ones in the right places. Watch this space

Having secured another year with the Snowdonia National Park Authority, Eleri is excited at what the future will bring.

GreenLiving

Eleri Turner took her first steps in the mountains. Now she has returned as a conservation apprentice – and she’s brought the TV cameras with her.

“It’s been so enjoyable, especially as this area of Snowdonia is right on my doorstep,” said Eleri, a former pupil at Ysgol Tryfan, Bangor. “I am looking forward to staying on with the conservation section and continuing in a further apprenticeship role, having completed the Level 2 Diploma in Work-based Environmental Conservation with the college.” Early start Eleri took her first steps on Moel Faban, as her mum took her there to learn to walk! Her love of the outdoors was there to stay, and there’s only one thing she wants to do with her career.

“Growing up in the village I always imagined I’d live elsewhere after leaving school, but there is nowhere more beautiful to carry out work like this and nowhere I’d rather be,” she said. “Conservation is important to me, and this part of the world is very special, but I am also planning on taking a forest school qualification so I can help to teach children more about their surroundings and the environment.”

“I am drawn to people and places. I guess that’s the geographer in me! I like bold images: a composition, a colour, a mood. As my interests change, so too will my subjects. I will swap between people and places every now and again. I am particularly drawn to the coast. Most of my younger life was spent living by the sea and now I return to it whenever I can. I am lucky as the magical coasts of Mid and North Wales are not too far.”

He said: “At the tender age of 50, following the loss of my parents, I started painting again after a 30-year break. The minute my brush touched the canvas, the feedbacksensoryhitme and I knew this was the place for me. “I use acrylic in my painting. This wasn’t something I had used before, as I am not sure the paints were around in the 1970s, but I love the it offers.”flexibility

Family influences Jon’s father was a commercial artist for a large London company before setting up as a freelance. His mother studied fashion at art school. They both had a huge impact on Jon’s understanding of art, and still influence his work today. Jon also draws on his teaching experience and plans to develop a workshop programme at The Granary, giving others the chance to explore and enjoy their creativity.

He said: “Having spent years working in inclusion, teaching young people one to one, I have learned there is no one answer or piece of advice. What works for one person, may not work for another; what worked yesterday may not work today. The biggest lesson is to never give up trying. Find the things that gain your interest, be honest to yourself, look and listen – but above all it’s meant to be fun, so look for the good in your own work and other people’s.” jonyoungart.co.uk

PASSION PAINTINGFOR

102 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Life changing During lockdown, having had his share of medical issues and work stresses, Jon decided it was time to start a new venture and throw himself headlong into Jon Young Art. He said: “Difficult times to start a new business, but maybe the right one for me. From odd snippets of time painting here and there, I now paint a lot more. I tried painting to a timetable but it did not work, so I now paint when I want to – or have to – which means that some weeks I will produce two or three paintings, some weeks none.”

Left: Cathy Below: Barmouth Winter Sun Top of page: Stormy Skies Arisaig

Jon likes to get out and about, exploring and finding inspiration. He said: “I love cycling, canoeing, hillwalking, open space and light. I want to experience a place. Being active or just sitting outdoors affords a real appreciation of where we live. If I can share a bit of that in my paintings, I’m happy. We live in a wonderful part of the country, in rural Shropshire. The Granary is a set of old cowsheds and barns we have converted. My wife Cathy has created a lovely series of gardens, and a few weekends a year we open them up to share. It’s a great opportunity to chat and relax with people.”

When Jon Young took up his brushes again after a 30-year break, he knew painting was what he was destined to do Arts&Crafts Jon in his studio “I am drawn to people and places. I guess that’s the geographer in me! I like bold images: a composition, a colour, a mood”

DespiteA-leveltakingArt and working in design and print, Jon Young failed to get into art school and ended up studying for a degreeGeographyinstead. He went on to teach Geography and PE as well as children with special educational needs, and then spent a couple of decades in inclusion, working with young people who were out of school for a variety of reasons.

1st & 2nd October, Sunnyside Crafts Linda has gift items made from wood, seaglass and more.

ofdifferentrepeatedideassourcesVisualandmusic,includingoffromrefinedworkexperiences.discursiveHispoeticderivesitsaestheticarangeinfluencesfilm,literaturephilosophy.ortextualandareoftenacrossbodieswork,an

Burning desires Wyn Evans harnesses the potential of language to create moments of rupture and delight, where desire and reality conjoin, evident in his series of firework sculptures where wooden structures spell out texts and fleetingly burn over a period of time. These performative sculptures take on new life when documented through photographs or film. Likewise, in an ongoing series of neon text sculptures, he uses favourite passages of text or film subtitles to create powerful, open-ended works that produce a retinal after-image in the viewer.

A major solo exhibition by Cerith Wyn Evans, the most widely established and internationally recognised Welsh artist working today, takes place this autumn at the Mostyn gallery in Llandudno

6th & 7th October, Jackie at Jewels Jackie has a large collection of jewellery, made with stones, beads and crystals.

Radical and romantic The visual narrative will unfold through a sort of ‘controlled randomness’ throughout Mostyn, in which different artworks will be at once radical and romantic. Neon works will be suspended and isolated in space, and sound will be emitted from glass and aluminum panes through small directional speakers that play faint, tinkling notes or a barely audible radio signal. Light columns seven metres high will emerge from the floor as a subliminal forest of thought. The artist’s practice explores the way that ideas can be communicated through form, incorporating diverse media including installation, sculpture, photography, film and text – in fact, he began his career as a filmmaker producing short, experimental films and collaborations. His strategies of exhibition making are often site-specific – exhibitions as a catalyst to produce a reservoir of possible meanings and

29th & 30th September, Chris Cornwell An artist in watercolours and oils, this will be Chris’s first visit to the centre.

2nd TrevorWeavingSeptember,withBlackburn Trevor has some lovely wovenshawlsscarves,andotheritemsand he will be here adding to his collection and happy to chat about his craft.

Cerith Wyn Evans was born in 1958 in Wales and lives and works in London, but his homecoming show – due to open on 8th October at Mostyn – is sure to attract great attention from art lovers locally, nationally andWyninternationally.Evans’work, especially his intricate neon sculptures, interrogate the idea of perception and question not only how we interpret the works, but also how we interpret their spatial surroundings as well as the broader systems of spoken, visual and written language. The neon works are not simply neon but forms of perception that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the exhibition environment, with the audience walking through, around and under a plethora of intricate light works, sound works, vibration works and transparencies. These will fascinate, seduce and at the same time challenge the individual’s perception of what constitutes art, what it is to be a viewer, and what is communicated to us and from us within this environment.

15th & 16th September, Eco Silver Jewellery by Sandra Roberts Sandra repurposes silver from the jewellery industry to make her unique pieces. 22nd & LizatSeptember,23rdElaineCherryBea,and Elaine knits clothes to dress her cute teddies, whilst Liz makes fabric bags with eyecatching embellishments.

Home show for Welsh wonder

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 103 AFONWEN CRAFTS ARTS & CRAFTS

Jenni uses wool from her own flock to make cushions,beautifulscarves and shawls. Under her tuition, you can learn the basics of this lovely craft. jennifrost@outlook.com

indication of a desire to keep ideas in play or bring them back to life as raw material for future use.

6th & 7th September, Tracey Davies Tracey’s watercoloursincludebuildingsandlandscapes,aswellasportraitsandpetportraitsfromphotos.

8th & 9th September, Gill Benjamin The local artist will be busy adding to her collection during these two days. Gill is happy to take commissions and to talk through any of your own creative ideas.

8th & 9th October, Thelma Evans Thelma’s delicate paintings include floral seascapes.landscapesscenes,and 12th October, Crafty Sisters Jewellery in striking colours and designs, cards and tote bags.

22nd & 23rd October, Marie at Earth Deva Quirky items, some with a mythical theme. afonwen.co.uk “…a subliminal forest of thought”

Aspen Drift (2021) Pirelli Hangar Bicocca, Milan 2019-2020

Wyn Evans’ work is a fully immersive, sensory exploration of the mind and body, our cognitive system and consciousness.

3rd & 4th September,JenniMasterclassSpinningwithFrost

Morton Roberts, Ruthin Library, 3rd October - 23rd December

COMPETITIONPHOTO

ART IN YOUR AREA

Born in Denbigh in 1947, Morton Roberts was educated in Ruthin, Wrexham and Newport College of Art and Sculpture. His career for the following 35 years took him into the world of leather goods, but he always had an interest in painting. Moving to Betws y Coed in 2006, the sheer beauty of his surroundings rekindled his creative passion and he started to draw again. This exhibition is influenced by Picasso, moving water, old buildings, landscapes, seascapes and boulders. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2016, Morton has found that planning this exhibition has revived his creativity and it is dedicated to his family and all fellow sufferers.

By Tony Walker By Linda Webb By Lyn Berman

‘The Tailor’s Tale’, Ty Pawb, Wrexham, until 24th September ‘The Tailor’s Tale’ brings together artistic responses to the famous Wrexham Tailor’s Quilt, created by James Williams between 1842 and 1852. The quilt, now housed at St Fagan’s Museum and loaned to Tŷ Pawb for this exhibition, is actually a single-layer patchwork coverlet made up of 4,525 pieces of woollen cloth. It depicts scenes from the Bible such as Adam naming the animals, Cain and Abel, Jonah and the whale, and Noah’s ark. It also features motifs symbolising Wales, England, Scotland and Ireland, and features the Menai Bridge and Cefn Viaduct. Such was the workmanship of the quilt, it was displayed at the Art Treasures Exhibition of North Wales in 1876 and the National Eisteddfod in 1933, both held in Wrexham. The quilt is now widely regarded as one of the best surviving examples of Welsh folk art.

104 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Emma Rodgers: ‘Wunderkammer’, The Williamson Art Gallery, Wirral, until 1st October Wirralbased Rodgers is one of the most celebrated sculptors working in ceramic and bronze. Her work, acclaimed for its vibrancy, strength and flexibility has been exhibited at the V&A, the Royal Academy, SOFA Chicago, and in New York and Miami. The artist has undertaken several significant public commissions, including the Cilla Black statue on Mathew Street in Liverpool, and, most recently, a statue celebrating pioneering Welsh writer and feminist Elaine Morgan in Mountain Ash, South Wales. ‘Wunderkammer’ is a miniretrospective of her practice.

By Kathryn Hall

By Elaine Hagget By Michelle Boden By Ken Lawrence

Well, Fantastic Flowers certainly proved to be a popular topic! We just love these stunning shots you sent in for our last photo competition – so pretty and such a lovely burst of colour for our pages. We’ve been inundated with entries, so we have printed as many as we can here and selected our winners. If you didn’t make it into print this time, please do keep sending your photos to us and perhaps you’ll see your name into the next edition. We’re hoping the change of season will help you to find artistic inspiration once again, and as we head into autumn and harvest time we’d like you to use the theme of Food and Feasts for the next competition. As always, you can email your photos to us at editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk – and good luck!

By Chris Bright

By Jill Parry

By Kenneth Davies By Tracey Williams By Keiran Hudson By Sian Eirian Rees By Kathryn Hall By Sandra Bayley

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 105

By Nerene HughesBy Jennifer Wallace

By Estelle Roberts By Jill Parry By Maggie Naylor

By Graham Bexon By Sam Hulse

“There thrivehelppotentialistowildlifeacrossawiderareabyconnectinghabitats”

106 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

James Hitchcock, chief executive officer of Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, said: “Welsh wildlife is under a huge amount of pressure, but everyone can do their bit to help us restore nature to Pentwyn. This project will benefit us all – it’ll be somewhere to enjoy a wander through the wild, listen to the waterfall, see the flash of a wood warbler, and watch butterflies flit across a wilder hillside. Pentwyn will also store more carbon, help tackle the climate crisis, stop rainwater washing off the hill too quickly and help reduce pollution levels in the River Lugg. Creating more space for nature will have the added benefit of boosting tourism and creating more green jobs.” People can donate to the Pentwyn appeal at rwtwales.org/ appeals/wilder-pentwyn-appeal

“We’re appealing to people everywhere to help us secure and protect this land for the future. Nature needs it – and so do we, because time spent in natural places soothes our souls and makes us feel good. People will be welcome at Pentwyn. Please donate if you can – nothing is too small to help!”

It’s a small start – but so much is possible

Iolo Williams is a patron

Additional funds are also needed to restore the land – for example, £1,000 could pay to plant 300 metres of hedgerow.

Star support Iolo Williams, TV wildlife presenter and patron of Radnorshire Wildlife Trust, said: “In Wales we’ve lost beautiful birds such as the nightingale and corn bunting – and the haunting call of curlew and purring of the turtle dove may soon disappear too.

Asmall charity with big plans for nature’s recovery is launching an appeal to help breathe new life into Pentwyn, an upland in the Welsh Marches. Last year, Radnorshire Wildlife Trust took out a loan to buy 164 acres – about the size of 80 rugby pitches – in a bid to tackle river pollution and flooding across central Wales, address climate change and help wildlife fight back. It now needs to raise £1 million to secure the future of the land for people and nature.

Pets&Wildlife TOGETHER WE CAN SAVE PENTWYN

James Hitchcock, Trust leader

Nature is in crisis but a small wildlife trust in Radnorshire has vowed to lead the way in reversing the decline, acre by acre – and it needs our support

Much-loved animals such as red squirrels and water voles, which were once widespread here, are now only found at a few sites and are threatened with extinction. Nature is in crisis, and we need to help wildlife fight back fast.

The land at Pentwyn, near Llandrindod Wells, will be transformed from an intensively farmed landscape into a humming, buzzing and chirruping oasis where the calls of threatened birds can be heard once more. It sits beside other wild land, so there is potential to help wildlife thrive across a wider area by expanding and connecting habitats and increasing nature’s resilience to climate change. Lagging behind Wales is close to the bottom of the international league table for nature. A 2021 report found that the country has lost around half of its wild animals and plants; one in six species is threatened with extinction, including water voles and red squirrels, and over 60 per cent of protected rivers in Wales exceed phosphate pollution limits. At Pentwyn, Radnorshire Wildlife Trust will allow natural habitats to recover, creating wetlands, scrub, and potentially new woodland, as well as increasing plant diversity to ensure the landscape is better equipped to cope with climate change. By restoring nature, the landscape will also retain more rainwater, filtering it and releasing it more slowly. This will help to keep the nearby River Lugg clean and healthy.

PETS & WILDLIFE Bradeley Green, Tarporley Road, Whitchurch, Shropshire SY13 4HD www.petcetera.co.uk a £25 voucher for Bradeley Green pet store in Whitchurch, to spend in-store or online petcetera.co.ukat WIN Terms: The winner will be chosen by Shire and be given the option of receiving a voucher to spend in-store or a digital code to redeem online at petcetera.co.uk. The voucher will be valid for six months and cannot be used in conjunction with any other o er. Win some pet treats! To enter, email a photograph of your pet and their name to editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk and the Shire team will pick the winner! Dora is 15, a rescue dog who enjoys life to the full A calledguineacheekypigGinny! enjoyingDobby,hergiantted Marlowe the ragdoll who is queen of the house Jack Russell Gus loves a bath after his walk Hero CavapoochonShelby,andtwoShropshireSmudgeMistyand Ned, one-year-theoldblackLabrador Oscar patientlywaitingwithhisteddy Pauline devotedPlatt’sfriend andHarveypuppyPeter 16Smokey,yearsoldandverylaidback Tilly on her birthdayfirst Rocky the Yorkie, mischievousstillat10 GeorgeRescuedog Pip Pomeranianthe year-oldTwo-DoraWa es Dotty 12-month-oldPomeranianMonty PetswinningRobertsCongratulationstoHannah-ownerofStormfortheCutecompetitionthisissue!’ herenjoyingStormdayonthebeach Cute Pets September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 107

Nine adorable penguin chicks have hatched at Chester Zoo – and keepers like Sophie had the joyful task of finding a new set of names

makes their debut

Little Plum was the first of the Humboldt penguins to emerge from its egg and has since been joined by eight others, including Peach, Papaya, Cherry and Rhubarb. Hatching at a weight of just 80g, penguin chicks triple in size in their first three weeks of life and quickly reach around 3kg, like their parents. After spending their early days tucked away in their nests, being cared for and fed by attentive parents, the youngsters have now begun swimming lessons. Sophie Bissaker, Parrots and Penguins Keeper at the zoo, said: “There’s nothing quite like hearing tiny chirps coming from the nests and seeing little balls of fluff snuggled up with their parents moments after hatching. Penguin Island is buzzing with activity. For the first three months, mum and dad keep their new chicks tucked away while they feed and nurture them. To help them gain weight while they’re so young, we provide the parents with extra fish, which they swallow, churn into a high-protein soup and regurgitate at feeding times. The name game “Zookeepers have a trend of naming the penguins using a different theme each year. We’ve had brands of crisps, chocolate bars, and in 2020 our NHS Heroes. After some thought, we’ve decided to name this year’s class after our favourite fruit. So we have Plum, Banana, Lemon and Iona-Berry – in honour of a vet who saved dad Munch’s eyesight last year,” explained Sophie. “They’ve just started to venture into the main pool, where they’ll learn how to catch food for themselves. In a few weeks they’ll shed their grey fluff to reveal their iconic black and white feathers

“It has been asteep learning curve, working long hours to develop the branding and website, all while ensuring this is a completely natural series of products,” said Gillian. “With the support of customers like PetPlace, who are a breath of fresh air, we can work together to create products dedicated to the health and happiness of animals and their owners, which is our priority.”

Caring: Gillian Thomas-Jones

“We are opening the doors to smaller, independent suppliers who specialise in the health and wellbeing of animals,” said Paul. “A lot of chains stock pet goods, but without the emphasis on sustainability and the environment that will make a difference to the pets, their owners and, ultimately, the planet. We want to hear from the innovators, anyone with an idea in motion or a start-up that could cause a stir.”

A local pet retailer is targeting bespoke suppliers and fledging firms with products designed to improve the health and wellbeing of animals Mum Plum

listed as ‘vulnerable to extinction’ by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. On the rocky coast of Peru and Chile, for example, the birds face a number of threats such as rising acidity and temperatures in the oceans and over-fishing of their food sources, causing them to search further for fish and increasing their vulnerability.

One supplier who has worked closely with PetPlace is Gillian Thomas-Jones of Mountain Garden Botanics, based in New Brighton, Wrexham. Having created handmade shampoo and soaps for pets (and humans) – palm oil, cruelty and plastic free –she is using raw ingredients to develop new lines including an anti-pecking spray for chickens and a calming mist for dogs and horses.

had“We’vecrisps,chocolatebarsandourNHSHeroes…”

Wanted: eco ideas for pets

PLUM…WORLD,TOWELCOMETHE

theHumboldts18throughandwhichunderneath,arewaterproofhelpthemzoomthewater.”Oftheworld’spenguinspecies,areamongmostatrisk.Theyare

Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh are co-owners of PetPlace, which has stores in Abergele, Ruthin, Mold, Llangefni and Chirk. The business already stocks many environmentally friendly items but, said Sion, they plan to develop this range in the near future.

108 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022 A thorough health check An extra serving for

SHIRE MAGAZINE CUSTOMERS SAY…

‘We believe Shire to be one of the best in the country. Full of interesting information, articles and features, Shire has plenty to offer its readers and it really helps us connect to our target market

WREXHAM SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

‘Shire Magazine is a very important asset for Premier Windows and Conservatories. Their team takes the time to understand our business which leads to carefully constructed adverts. We have greatly benefited from Shire’s features on our installations. We look forward to continued success with Shire Magazine.’ Caroline Chenery, Premier Windows ‘Shire magazine helps us to reach out to our audiences across the region with quality editorial, uptodate features and advertorial support. Dan and the team at Shire are great to work with and it’s the type of magazine you want to pick up and delve into to find out what’s on.’ Ben Walker, The Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust We always know when a Shire magazine hits the shops, as it gets our phone ringing. The circulation area is really well suited to our target market, and the magazine has a quality feel. We certainly get results from our advertising. The team at Shire are always helpful and friendly, making the whole process hasslefree.’

Linda Andrews, Cheshire Cat Narrowboat Holidays

WWW.SIMONBOYD.COM Chester CH3 5UG 01244 311160 Knutsford WA16 6DD 01565 633855 WWW.SIMONBOYD.COM Chester CH3 5UG 01244 311160 Knutsford WA16 6DD 01565 633855 Shrewsbury SY1 1PB 01743 363006 Factory Outlet 01978 854941 WWW.SIMONBOYD.COM Chester CH3 5UG 01244 311160 Knutsford WA16 6DD 01565 633855 Shrewsbury SY1 1PB 01743 363006 Factory Outlet 01978 854941 WWW.SIMONBOYD.COM Chester CH3 5UG 01244 311160 Knutsford WA16 6DD 01565 633855 WWW.SIMONBOYD.COM01743ShrewsburyChester CH3 5UG 01244 311160 Knutsford WA16 6DD 01565 633855 01743Shrewsbury WWW.SIMONBOYD.COM 3111605UGCH3Chester01244 6DDWA16Knutsford01565633855 1PBSY1Shrewsbury01743363006 Call 01691 661270, email advertising@shiremagazine.co.uk or go to www.shiremagazine.co.uk to find out more InwoodExpectationsGate(Cymru)Ltd ` ade to garagesidegatesmeasurewoodenandhingeddoors 01745 362 444 enquiries@woodworkersuk.co.ukwww.woodworkersuk.co.uk Come and see us in our workshop! Unit A1, Cefndy Industrial Park, Cefndy Denbighshire,Rhyl,Road,LL182HJOpen: Mon – Thurs 9.00am – 4.30pm, Fri 9.00am – 3.00pm Closed for lunch each day 12.30pm – 1.00pm ExpectationsGate In-Store and Online petcetera.co.uk Open Monday to Saturday 9am-5pm I Sunday 10am-4pm 01948 668 100 Bradeley Green, Whitchurch, SY13 4HD BRADELEY GREEN YOUR LOCAL PET STORE l Comprehensive Ranges for Dogs l Specialist Pet Grooming Products l Small Animal Supplies l Supplements for Livestock l Exceptional Service l Free Parking l Loyalty Scheme l Dog Friendly Visit Today A Friendly Welcome Awaits Keep up to date with offers, new products and events at Bradeley Green when you sign up to our newsletter. Open 7 Days a LocatedWeekon the A49, North Whitchurch.of

‘When I came across the Shire magazine I knew immediately that this was THE place to be seen. We were looking for a magazine that not only covered a wide area but moreover was informative and full of interesting articles on subjects that would appeal to people of all ages and lifestyle.’ Ann Wynne, Wynnes Countrystore

The Shire team are one of our favourite to work with.’ Phil Sanders, Stokers Fine Furniture ‘Once we knew the team behind Shire magazine and understood the vision for the publication we were eager to be part of it. The quality of the magazine is equal to those that attract a £5 price tag, filled with useful and informative articles, rather than simply packed with adverts. The adverts are well thought out and the editorial opportunities often prove equally as valuable as the advertising space, promoting key products and positioning us as experts in our field. Communication is fantastic and pro-active, with a real understanding of how a business might benefit from being in each issue. Shire Magazine is definitely one of the first mediums penned into our advertising schedule

‘Shire magazine hits the perfect mark for us. Through a regular programme of promotions and editorial content, Shire is increasing our exposure and extending our audience reach. Our collaboration with Shire magazine is increasing awareness about us, our music and our considerable charitable work.’ Derek Jones, Wrexham Symphony Orchestra

‘We have found the team always to be helpful, professional and supportive. They are brilliant at including us in features. The magazine is well read and it is effective advertising. We see how well the public react to the magazine here in the centre as they pick up their free copies. Its a great read.’ Janet Dallolio, Afonwen Craft & Antique Centre

‘We were delighted with Shire’s help in producing a new look to our advertisements – they gave our ads a new lease of life and superbly promoted our products. The professional and personal approach of the sales team made them a joy to work with –nothing was too much trouble.’ Carla Huxley, Simon Boyd Ltd

This time we’re tackling some common misconceptions about teeth…

There’s growing awareness of menopause issues – and rightly so. While the transition a ects everyone in di erent ways, Dr Tanja Harrison, lecturer in Public Health Nutrition at the University of Chester explains how adjusting your diet could help allay the symptoms and improve your overall health

Pregnancy affects the teeth This is also true and extra dental care is needed during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can put you at increased risk of decay, gum disease (‘pregnancy gingivitis’) and growths on the gums called pyogenic granulomas. Morning sickness that involves vomiting can also erode the enamel. So regular check-ups are more vital than ever.

Many women are unsure of how they can manage their lifestyle during this period of transition. Whilst a considerable number will have first-hand experience of symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, insomnia and brain fog, to name just a few, many are unaware that the decline in natural oestrogen levels also leads to an increase in other risk factors for their health.

Some of these are again more noticeable than others. Many of us are aware how much harder it is to maintain a steady weight and wonder how we have developed this ‘muffin top’ – seemingly overnight! Oestrogen actually leads to the body putting on fat mass, generally around the bottom and the upper body. During menopause the declining levels lead to an increase in so-called visceral fat mass around the waist and the inner organs. This type of fat is known to have the most negative impact on our health and increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Nutritional needs Now more than ever good nutrition is an important factor. And whilst it is not a magic bullet, it does play a key role in helping us to enter the next phase of our lives as healthily and happily as possible. Our diet can help supply natural oestrogens in plant form and whilst these are not as powerful as those produced by our own bodies, they can help to at least improve the symptoms. However, it can take several months for these improvements to be noticeable and whilst this can be annoying when you are desperate for a good night’s sleep and a return to your cooler self, the consumption of these foods also has additional health benefits.

A number of dietary patterns, for example the Mediterranean diet, also show a lot of promise. A good starting point is to cut down on any ultra-processed foods as much as you can. Cholesterol charity Heart UK has a number of healthy recipes on its website that can potentially address both issues at once –your menopausal and your long-term health. heartuk.org.uk

Plant-based oestrogens (or phytoestrogens) are contained in a wide range of foods, but probably the best known and richest sources are soy-based foods such as edamame beans, tofu, tempeh and soymilk. Other types of peas and beans are also good sources, as are flaxseeds and berries. All these foods are also recommended as part of a healthy diet, rich in vegetables, fruits and wholegrains, to prevent heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Health&Beauty HOT TOPIC

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 110

“Our diet can help supply natural oestrogens in plant form. Whilst not as powerful as those produced by our own bodies, they can help”

Adopt a fresher, more Mediterranean diet

Teeth are as unique as a fingerprint

This is true and often referred to in TV detective dramas when solving a case! Adult human teeth comprise incisors, canines, pre-molars and molars, which vary in shape, size and spacing. And the way the teeth are arranged in the mouth is unique to every individual, as is the oral cavity itself. At the same time, every tooth possesses a set of unique ‘tooth class characteristics’ that can pinpoint the owner of a set of gnashers if needed in a forensic investigation. Further dental pathology can establish age, sex, race/ ethnicity, occupation and habits etc.

BUSTERMYTH

Heart health habits

Sugar-free drinks are better for your teeth Not really. Even without sugar, the acidity of soft drinks can still be very damaging to your tooth enamel. The average pH level of water sits at 7, which is neutral on the scale of acids and bases. Diet sodas sit at around a level of 2 or 3, which is still incredibly acidic to your teeth. For reference, the pH level of battery acid is a 1.

AccessorizeforAutumn 1 September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 111 2 3 4 6 710 11 Cosy up with these stylish accessoriesfor AccessorizeAutumn 8 9 1. Cashmere scarf £58, Moo and Boom, Whitchurch; mooandboom.com 2. KuSan uneven yarn bobble hat £26.99, Meirion Mill, Machynlleth; meirionmill.co.uk 3. Oversize check scarf 80% alpaca 20% polyamide £355, Abi Fisher, Willington, Cheshire; abifisher.co.uk 4. Barbour Wellington socks £13.99, Charlie’s Home and Garden, Shrewsbury; charlies.co.uk 5. Emu Angahook earmu s £44.95, Outdoor and Country, Chester; outdoorandcountry.co.uk 6. Irisou knitted poncho £85 (sale price), Olivia May, Ashton Hayes, Cheshire; oliviamay.org 7. Alpaca everyday socks £15 a pair, Mulberry Alpacas, Wrexham; mulberryalpacas.co.uk 8. Faith rib reversible headband £16 (sale price), White Stuff; whitestuff.com 9. Lightweight neck snood £11.95, Cherry Tree Country Clothing, Ruthin; cherrytreecountryclothing.com 10. Clog mule slipper £14.99 (sale price), Pavers; pavers.co.uk 11. Cashmere wrist warmer £42, Joules; joules.co.uk 12. Pachamama Flock of Herdwick sheep handwarmer £16.50, Anna Davies, Betws-y-Coed; annadavies.co.uk 13. Failsworth black leather gloves with Harris Tweed back £45, Peppers Fashions, Church Stretton; peppersfashion.co.uk FASHION 13 5

There’s the perfect opportunity to find out more on Saturday 24th September, when you can discover Chester Cathedral’s spectacular wedding and event spaces at a luxury Wedding Show. The Nave and South Transept will transform into a wedding wonderland of inspiration for your day. Meet a huge selection of reputable exhibitors showcasing the latest themes and trends. Enjoy catwalk shows at 11am and 1pm, and entertainment from top performers. Entry is £2, with proceeds going to support the Cathedral.

As the urry of preparations begins, let Shire do some of the legwork with our guide to local venues and wedding services

Bangor-on-Dee Racecourse is set in rolling countryside by the River Dee with breathtaking views over the Welsh hills. A left-handed jumps course, Bangor-on-Dee was first used for horse racing in 1859 and over a century and a half later, horses still run on almost the exact same track. This sporting heritage makes it a popular choice for couples to mark their wedding, as the location in 150 acres of greenfield space provides the perfect backdrop and venue to host your special day.

112 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October

DID KNOW?YOU Princes Harry andWilliam were ushersat the Cathedralwhen Lady GrosvenorTamarawedin2004

The venue boasts three separate spaces, with six individual rooms and a range of capacities. From 20 up to 600 people, the team can accommodate parties of any size, providing the perfect venue for small and large weddings alike. When booking a wedding package at Bangor-onDee, you gain a whole host of other benefits as part of your package, including access to experienced event planners and managers, in-house catering solutions and a range of entertainment offerings. The venue works with the experts at Horseradish to collaboratively deliver culinary moments for you and your guests on one of the most important days of your life. A dedicated team will work with you from concept stage to deliver delicious menus tailored to fit your vision. bangorondeeraces.co.uk/our-venue/weddings

If you want to feel like a film star or fairytale princess for your big day, why not check out the potential of Chester Cathedral as your venue? With its Georgian square and series of streets, the most complete set of monastic buildings in the country, the remains of Roman barracks on the Dean’s Field and the largest open green spaces within the city walls, your guests can experience everything this historic site has to offer. Have your wedding reception in one of the fantastic event spaces within the stunning Cathedral. Experience the ‘royal wedding’ treatment and grab the attention of passersby, all with good wishes at the ready. The Cathedral grounds are a fantastic location for your drinks reception, as well as providing a beautiful backdrop for photographs.

Weddings

“Culinarymomentsforyourguests” 2022

Versatile venue

Fairytale venue

When it comes to choosing the ultimate wedding menu to celebrate your big day, you need to make sure you’ve got the perfect caterer for you.

Hughes Caterers was founded in 1908 and is based in Welshpool, Powys, from where they have been catering to all for over a century. The team specialises in private and public event catering, providing a superb service that ensures your event is a total success. They can cater for all sizes and types of occasions, from private parties and weddings to large corporate events. Their impeccable customer service starts with a free initial consultation. The team will then create a bespoke menu, with your choice of food, designed with you in mind. Any special requirements can be easily implemented. You won’t be expected to make any decisions without some serious sampling, so there will be a tasting day – the big day for you to trial your wedding food and make any changes you need to for the perfect occasion.

Chester Racecourse – also known as the Rodee – is the oldest racecourse still in use in the world. Its historic façade is complimented by contemporary interiors and surrounded by beautifully manicured lawns. It’s an iconic setting, rich in heritage and offering over 20 acres of stunning green space, flanked by the River Dee – the perfect backdrop for a truly magical day. With a range of rooms available, from historic stands to contemporary character-filled suites with floor-to-ceiling views, you’ll find the ideal space for your special day. With a choice of six licensed ceremony spaces, from small and intimate to large and lavish, Chester Racecourse has something to suit everyone. A variety of wedding packages include champagne and canapés, buffets, sumptuous wedding breakfasts and elegant receptions to help you create your own unique day. Award-winning caterers Horseradish specialise in creative catering using the best local produce – whether you choose a classic formal wedding breakfast or a contemporary reception buffet, they’ll help you create a menu that reflects you both. Use the team’s contacts and experience to add something special. From entertainment, wedding photography, hair, makeup and wedding cakes to evening fireworks or a dramatic arrival by hot air balloon, let your imagination run wild.

A good bet

WEDDINGS DID KNOW?YOU Chester Racecoursehas its own on-site hotel and ampleparking for your guests September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 113

Top it off fascinators”beauties“Lavishtocute

Hughes Caterers also offer a range of services such as seating plans, flower arrangements and the finest tableware and linen, with trained uniformed staff to provide a professional and attentive level of service to ensure the day runs exactly as you wish. hughescaterers.co.uk

Fine feasting

Get Ahead Hats has a local showroom in Wrexham with a vast selection of hats and accessories – from lavish and extravagant beauties that Chanel and Dior would be proud of, to timeless classics or cute little fascinators in a myriad of colours. Our ladies at Get Ahead Hats have a passion for hats and can offer that touch of frivolity for those that seek it. Get Ahead Hats has been featured on national television, radio, in Hello! magazine, Vogue, Woman & Home and many other national newspapers and magazines. Our hats are seen on the heads of many famous celebrities, as well as being worn by members of the Royal family. getaheadhats.co.uk

Looking for weddings inspiration?

Expert outfitters

This superb 17th-century listed barn is ideally situated, with spectacular views of the Dee Valley. Elegant surroundings and a warm ambience set the scene for your special day. As you walk in you will be blown away by the high timbered ceilings, stone walls and slate floors. Perfect for an intimate gathering or a big party, the venue is very adaptable with a marquee sitting alongside the barn and an expansive outside space with seating and picturesque gardens. Plas Isaf overlooks the open countryside, and is ideally suited for everything from an intimate gathering of 30 to a celebratory party of 300 guests. The exclusive wedding and party venue has been developed as part of the Jones family’s working farm, and is run by Helen and Liza, with a full team of experienced trained staff and all the family helping out. With the help and dedication of this family team, every effort is made to ensure that your wedding will be the most memorable day of your life.

Plas Isaf is holdingopen evenings on13th September &13th October 5-8pmand an open dayon 13th1-4pm.November

sevenpick-upstress“No-daysahead”

Early booking is advised as availability is limited.

The Inspiration Station is an online wedding and events directory based in the heart of Mid Wales. Our aim is to shout about all of the fantastic, talented local suppliers and businesses we have right here on our doorstep. Our website is due to launch in October. If you are a local supplier or venue, and interested in exhibiting at our wedding events, please contact us for an information pack. Rest assured, we are not a huge, faceless multinational – we are simply two local businesswomen already working within the industry right here in Mid Wales.

Plas Isaf Country Barn and Gardens

Martin David Menswear has been supplying the great British gentleman – and now the world – for nearly 30 years with the finest brands and premium fashion lifestyle outfits. We are wedding and formal hire specialists, offering a personal service, and carry high quality stock from Magee and Wilvorst. All our stock is our own and held at our Shrewsbury menswear store, and is available to pick up seven days before your event to take away any unnecessary stress. With over 40 years’ experience in wedding hire, we can safely say we are experts in the field. co.uk/formal-hire-shrewsburymartin-david.

WEDDINGS 114 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Finally! A wedding fair that’s local to Mid Wales. The Inspiration Station is holding a Wedding Fayre at Theatre Hafren, Newtown on 25th September, 11am and 3pm. Come and meet our wonderful suppliers and see how Mid Wales can make your wedding the one everybody will remember – for all the right reasons! Tickets are now on sale via theinspirationstation@outlook.com

Plas Isaf "Every once in a while, right in the middle of an ordinary life, love gives us a fairy tale" Plas Isaf x www plasisaf co uk Are you dreaming of a barn wedding? Country Barn & Wedding Venue Our authentic, grade ll listed, 17th Century, historical welsh barn... nestled in the heart of the picturesque North Wales countryside is the perfect venue for your special day... We'd love to show you around, contact us to arrange a private viewing, or please do join us for one of our open days. We're so looking forward to meeting you! You' re perfect I Doo s wedding venue Welcome to your perfectallinclusiveweddingpackages available Also Tel: 07870 info@hughescaterers.co.uk744140

Poulton Hall on the Wirral offers a stunning backdrop for your special day. The fairytale gardens provide a unique, picture-perfect setting. Whether you want an intimate afternoon tea, a larger BBQ celebration or something in between, the team can work with you to create your dream day.

Whittington Castle Once the home of Marcher Lords, Whittington12th-centuryCastle near Oswestry is set in 12 lovely acres. The team specialise in intimate weddings which take place in the Lady Eleanor Room. The grounds are also available for weddings, outdoor receptions and of course photographs. A friendly and experienced team will ensure your special day runs smoothly. whittingtoncastle.co.uk

Dedicated event organisers Rainbow Grey Events would love to work with you every step of the way. For bespoke packages and support with every detail, please get in touch. poultonhall.co.uk

Step In LimousinesStyleis a professional wedding car hire company based in Rhyl. We have served the industry for 25 years with our beautiful vintage Rolls Royce and stretch limousines, and provide a service second to none. We travel from Mid Wales through to Cheshire. Prices include ribbons, flowers and complimentary bubbly. stepinstylelimousines.co.uk

The PulfordGrosvenor is an awardwinning venue in Chester, where weddings really are a speciality. With settings and packages tailored to your requirements, the hotel boasts impressive facilities and can offer intimate candlelit ceremonies and romantic outdoor nuptials at the lakeside gazebo. A stunning Asian sensory garden is one of many wonderful settings for photographs. grosvenorpulfordhotel.co.uk

Oriel Hotel Our professional and attentive team, led by weddings manager Michelle, will ensure that your day exceeds your expectations. With our reputation for impeccable service and fine foods we guarantee a truly memorable day. We can host outdoor and indoor weddings for 12-180 guests, and offer 15% discount on 2023 packages. To arrange a viewing, email events@orielhotel.co.uk or call 01745 582 716.

Directory WEDDINGS

So Chic is an award-winning ladies boutique selling beautiful clothing and accessories for the discerning woman, situated on the high street in the historic town of Bangor. If you haven’t chosen your outfit yet, this is the place to go – especially if you have an important role such as mother of the bride or groom. Established in 2006, So Chic has secured an excellent reputation and is well known for the stunning collections, impeccable customer service and professional advice.

Chateau Rhianfa is a destination wedding venue with a dream Anglesey location and stunning views. Our beautiful château tells an exciting history both inside and out, following Lady Sarah’s dream that everything would be perfect and no detail overlooked. Believe in the magic of your childhood dreams and let our dedicated wedding planners turn them into reality. chateaurhianfa.co.uk

The Hand Hotel in Chirk, on the edge of the Ceiriog Valley, is one of the oldest hotels in the northeast of Wales and the perfect choice for your very special day. From the initial planning right through to the day itself, the team pride themselves on personal attention to detail. The team has extensive experience of delivering different styles and sizes of wedding functions, and catering for a variety of needs. thehandhotelchirk.co.uk

116 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

The Celtic Royal Hotel in Caernarfon is an ideal setting for the most important day of your life. Your big day should be whatever you wish – as extravagant, flamboyant or as quiet as you desire. This charming hotel with its decorative staircase combines modern comforts with original architecture, boasting fine dining and superb leisure facilities for you and your guests to enjoy. It can host ceremonies for up to 150 and receptions for up to 300. celtic-royal.co.uk

Wedding

info@benandhollyshideaways.comwww.benandhollyshideaways.comHolidayletsinBeaumarisontheIsleofAnglesey

Running. I'm no Usain Bolt, but it’s a sport I can always count on to make me feel better.

2What do you do? I’m a maintenance engineer apprentice for Toyota UK and attend Cambria College. I am the future! I program and fix robots and will be one of the people who integrates Toyota’s future technologies in the automobile world.

18You’re hosting a celebrity dinner party for four guests. Who’s on the list? Kate Middleton, Taylor Swift, Dean Thompson (from Aussie soap Home and Away) and author Marian Keyes.

Questions O the workshop

16What is your guilty pleasure? Spa days and indulging in a full body massage.

20What’s your proudest achievement? Passing my French GCSE with an A at 14 and being put forward for an Oxford summer school by my secondary school Emrys ap Iwan. And passing six intense weeks of training to fly. And my apprenticeship with Toyota!

2

23-year-old Jess Downes from Towyn overcame mental health issues and anorexia – as well as losing her job as a flight attendant during the pandemic – to be shortlisted for the Miss Wales final and secure an engineering apprenticeship with Toyota. Jess hopes to fly the flag for both organisations while raising as much money as she can for the global charity Beauty With A Purpose.

9Who is your all-time hero? My parents. My dad for proving that if the path you’re on isn’t making you happy, it’s never too late to make changes. And my mum is also my inspiration. If I turn out to be the woman my mum is, I’ll have succeeded in life.

15If you had to take part in a reality TV show, which would you have the best chance of winning? Love Island. I have the best personality, which viewers would love – and who would pass up a free holiday!

10Any fears or phobias? My fear in life is not leaving an impression on the

3Who shares your life? I live in Towyn, North Wales, with my family. I have three siblings: Joe is 21, Bethany is 18 and Olly’s eight. We have three toy poodles, who are the most adorable animals I’ve ever laid eyes on.

1Full (real) name – including any embarrassing middle names Jessica Ann June Downes.

5And the worst moment? Being made redundant by Thomas Cook Airlines and being stood down from my job with Virgin Atlantic due to the pandemic.

14What is your favourite drink? soya milk and four sweeteners.

13If you were representing your country in the Olympics which sport would you choose?

19Where is your favourite place in the world? My nan and grandad’s holiday cottage in Ceredigion. My parents could never afford going abroad so our family holidays were spent down on the west coast.

118 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/OctoberJess2022in

Hopingsuccessfor

4The highlight of the last 12 months? Securing a role with a global company and being selected as a Miss Wales finalist.

12What would be your dream job (other than your own)? An ambassador for mental health, or an author so I could share my journey and let others know they’re not alone.

11What would be the first thing you’d buy if you won the lottery? A new car!

17When did you last laugh uncontrollably? At the gym. My sister forgot the treadmill belt was running and went flying!

6If you could come back as any animal, what would you be and why? A bird. I’m a free spirit and love the idea of just deciding on a destination to call home for as long as you like until you’re ready for the next adventure.

8If you could have one superpower what would it be? To be able to scan people’s minds to pinpoint who is suffering and help them fight the demons that cause them pain. As someone who has their own mental health struggles, it’s something I’d love someone to be able to do for me.

world. I want to write a book so people will have something to remember me by.

7Your desert island single and what it means to you? I’m not really into music but I love a good podcast.

Academic excellence in a caring environment School Open Day Tuesday 20th September 2022 Morning tours at 9.15 am and 11.45 am Open Evening 5.30 – 8.00 pm Sixth Form Open Day Tuesday 27th September 2022 Daytime tours by appointment Open Evening 5.30 – 8.00 pm Alternatively, please call to arrange a convenient time to visit. Telephone: 01939 237000 or email: enquiries@thomasadams.net A home away from home! •Step in to Adams House and you’ll instantly feel at home •Catering for boys and girls between 11 and 19 and with a capacity of up to 65 boarders •We welcome students from the UK and across the world who hold a current UK passport or have a Right to Residency in the UK •FREE education to all students •Supportive and caring environment for all • Latest Ofsted judged Good If you would like to know more about boarding contact Mrs Nicki Cooper via email: nc@thomasadams.net or by telephone: 01939233311 Adams House (State Boarding for The Thomas Adams School and Sixth Form) The Thomas Adams School, Sixth Form and Boarding, Lowe Hill, Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5UB CENTRESSPECIALIST MUSIC & DRAMA FOOUNDED IN 1650SPORTSCENTRE MULTI-USE OUTSTANDING BOARDING HOUSE www.thomasadams.net The best thing about Thomas Adams is that the staff are very friendly and every subject is fun. Charlie, Year 8

1. Organic cotton vest £15 pack of two, John Lewis; johnlewis.com 2. Black Sheep The Jacket £175, Anna Davies, Betws-y-Coed; annadavies.co.uk 3. Long-sleeved base layer £17.95, Cherry Tree Country Clothing, Ruthin, Denbighshire; cherrytreecountryclothing.com 4. Fynch-Hatton lightweight gilet £120, Peppers, Church Stretton; peppersfashion.co.uk 5. Craghopper Torney half-zip fleece £55, Charlie’s Home and Garden, Shrewsbury; charlies.co.uk 6. Barbour Barton Coolmax shirt £69.95, Vaughan Davies, Mold; vaughandavies.co.uk 7. Van Buck reversible scarf £29.95, Woods of Shropshire, Church Stretton; woodsofshropshire.co.uk 8. Sealskinz all-weather waterproof socks £35, Proadventure, Llangollen; proadventure.co.uk 9. Patagonia P-6 Responsibili-Tee £45, Summit to Sea, Holyhead; summittosea.co.uk 10. Euston leather boots £89 (sale price), Pavers; pavers.co.uk 11. Scho el Ketton II packaway jacket £249.95, Outdoor and Country, Chester; outdoorandcountry.co.uk 12. Joules Mayday full-zip hoody £49.95, Majors, Shrewsbury; majorsonline.co.uk FASHION Layer up for those cooler autumn temperatures 120 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022 Loving e layers 4 2 3 5 11 7 6 12 8 1 9 10

A LEVEL RESULTS 2022 A* grades - 37.78% Welsh National Average - 17.1% A*-A grades - 64.2% Welsh National Average - 40.9% admissions@r ydalpenrhos.com • 01492 530155 • r ydalpenrhos.com I Whats On I Homes I Interiors I Food & Drink I Holidays I Activities Arts I Photography I Fashion I Gardens I Books & Poetry I Health Green Energy I Pets I Wildlife I Schools & Colleges I Charities Retirement I Personal Finance I Motoring The best of North & Mid Wales, Cheshire, Wirral & Shropshire

Generous boot space – and more storage under the floor HickmanBob is a thenofficer,patrolacareerafan.motorcyclecardevotedandAfter30-yearaspoliceandsergeant,

As to driving dynamics, steering was excellent and very light, in spite of the sporty connotations. Parking was a delight due to the power system, which eases as the vehicle gains speed. It corners very well considering its SUV pedigree and was a willing companion – you only needed to breathe on the accelerator pedal and it took off. The on-the-road price is £36,655 and the Cupra comes with a three-year, 60,000-miles warranty.

Cupra was badged by Seat as its sporty derivative. Now it’s a standalone brand and the Formentor is its first model, writes Bob Hickman. have included a huge number of storage areas, and the cupholders in the centre console are different sizes so if you have a bottle or a drink they actually fit. There’s storage for a mobile phone, with a wireless charging pad. As you’d expect of a five-seater, the boot space is a reasonable 450 litres – one downside is quite a high lip to lift items over. There’s also more space beneath the floor of the boot.

While promoted as a sporty derivative, the Formentor will also pass as a family car: during a 400-mile sojourn encompassing motorways, town work and some rural aspects, we achieved 48.9mpg according to the computer, which is certainly acceptable. The test car was one of the top specifications and well equipped when it came to the bells and whistles. Certainly, the electronic adjustment of the front seats was a bonus feature – there is so much flexibility, and if you are sharing the driving as we were, the option to specify driver and store your seat settings in the memory system is a practical feature.

The test car had a 2.0litre petrol engine assisted by an electric motor, giving a total power output of 140bhp, and it drove through a seven-speed automatic gearbox.

While the Cupra is a sporty brand, the Formentor does have a plethora of choices when it comes to power. A 2litre turbo petrol with 310bhp? Or go the plug-in hybrid route with a 1.4litre engine with battery. If you really do want the performance, then the 310bhp 2litre with its four-wheel drive and seven-speed dual clutch gearbox is a serious contender. Not only does it have outstanding performance at 0-60 in a mere five seconds and 130mph top speed, but should you venture off-road onto the car-boot field, four-wheel drive will extricate you – and in winter conditions it really is a bonus.

Formentor Cupra

“A willing companion for a road trip – you only needed to breathe on the accelerator pedal and it took o ” On the road for £36,655

The front bucket seats are really supportive and the seat detail and trim are one of a much higher spec vehicle – the contrast orange stitching is a work of art. The vehicle is classified as a five-seater and in the rear there is plenty of space for two adults, with the advantage of excellent leg and headroom despite the sloping roof. The designers

122 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

TheMotoringnamemaybefamiliar–the

patrolling the Midlands motorway, retirement beckoned and he embarked on writing about his love of cars and bikes. Bob is a member of the Guild of Motoring Writers and the Midland Guild of Motoring Writers. He rides a Royal Enfield Continental GT and drives a 1994 MG RV8.

CAR OF THE YEAR AWARDS 2022 Best small electric car CUPRA Born BOOK A TEST DRIVE FAINTREE SEAT AND CUPRA BATTLEFIELD SHREWSBURY NOW OPEN New and used cars | Service and M.O.T. | Parts THE NEW NAME FOR SEAT AND CUPRA IN SHROPSHIRE To book your test drive experience, and to find out about our latest offers, contact Faintree Garage, your SEAT and CUPRA Specialist in Shrewsbury 01743 216081 www.faintreeseat.co.uk Vanguard Way, Battlefield Enterprise Park, Shrewsbury, SY1 3TG

Register now - www.moretonhall.org/open-day Independent Boarding & Day School - Girls 3-18, Boys 3-13 Boarding School of the Year TES INDEPENDENT SCHOOL AWARDS 2021 Moreton Hall, Weston Rhyn, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 3EW 01691 773671 | admissions@moretonhall.com Open Day Saturday 17th September, 10am

SCHOOL

NEWS

Schools

FROM SCHOOL HALL TO MARKET HALL

A group of past and present students from Ellesmere College attended the palace to receive their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Awards

Wrekin andteamsinvitedyearStudentspop-upideaschanceentrepreneursofferedBusinessCollege’sSchoolbuddingatotrytheiratacharitymarket.fromallgroupsweretoformoffourbringtheirmarket

stall idea to life. Stalls could be rented for £5 per pitch, with proceeds donated to charity. Profits on the day were split between house charities and the team members. The winning stalls took their business into the public realm at Wellington Market Hall.

Kriss with head girls Mya Chogugudza and Eleni FabulousHigginswork

ICELANDDESTINATION

Some of the successful students An experience to remember “Challengesfacedandovercome”

BEHIND THE MASKS

MORETON MINI MUN Intense debate

Students were encouraged to look out of the window of nature, for lasting memories of ice caps, ice sheets, fumaroles, volcanoes and glacial rivers – plus an unimaginable number of Icelandic horses.

Fifteen current and former Ellesmere students were among the 10,000 DofE Gold Award holders hosted over two days in the beautiful gardens of Buckingham Palace for speeches and fun activities. The celebration was hosted by HRH Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex, and numerous Olympians, celebrities, adventurers and inspirational speakers were there to share their stories of careers, life goals and extreme endurance challenges they have faced and Ellesmereovercome.College is the largest single contributor to the DofE scheme in Shropshire, as every student has the opportunity to take the three levels as part of their co-curricular activities.

GOOD ADVICE FOR ADCOTE STUDENTS

ELLESMERE

Athletics legend Kriss Akabusi told students to seize opportunities and embrace people who recognise their potential when he was the guest of honour at Adcote School’s Speech Day and prize-giving. Talking to an audience of 450, including students, parents, teachers and dignitaries, the former 400m hurdler and sprinter shared life lessons he had learned, from time in a children’s home to joining the British Army, and representing Team GB in the 1980s and ’90s. “Whoever you are, whatever your background, dream big,” Kriss told students.

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 125

Creative marketing

Geography students from Abbeygate College packed a lot in on their recent trip to Iceland. The group from KS4 and 5 enoyed activities including swimming in geothermally heated pools, walking through some of the huge tears in the Earth’s crust, exploring an extinct volcano, a visit to a geothermal power station, passing between the Eurasian and North American plate via the Bridge Between the Continents, and even soaking up a little city culture in Reykjavik.

Year 5 and 6 pupils at substancesusingtonesinthepupilsforpapiermasks.AfricaninvestigatinghaveWinefride’sStbeentribalUsingmachethebase,paintedmasksearthbeforenaturalincluding raffia, pinto beans, twine and shells to create the details. It was a great learning opportunity blending culture and art.

Moreton Hall hosted its second Mini MUN (Model United Nations), with students from Oswestry, Cheadle Hulme and Shrewsbury Schools, Manchester High and Packwood Haugh joining in a day of debating. beaofresolutionwithSkillsoffromdiscussed,worldwideRelevantissuesweredebatedtheperspectivedifferentcountries.werestretchedtheemergencyattheendtheday.ItishopedShropshireMUNwillcreatedinfuture.

BUCKINGHAMCELEBRATESCOLLEGEGOLDATPALACE

Since starting freestyle football two years ago, it’s been quite a journey for Thomas Adams student Kumi Ward. From posting videos of 10 keepy-uppies to a few followers on social media, Kumi went on to perfect thousands of tricks through countless hours of practice, and then finished in the top ten of a worldwide youth freestyle competition.Kuminow has over 30,000 followers and has recently been involved in the ‘Kick It Out’ campaign, along with semi-pro and academy footballers, freestylers, influencers and a variety of other players. They spent two days’ filming with Sky TV in London.

Shrewsbury School’s green setting Head Leo Winkley Nurturing a love of learning Kumi Ward at the shoot

PROMOTING A LOVE OF LITERACY

Kumi commented: “Nothing normally phases me while doing freestyle, but having a cameraman so close I was almost kicking him in the face was a bit daunting!”

Coby Chan, a Year 12 student at

Coby said: “I hope to work as an organic chemist in the pharmaceutical industry to manufacture medicines that are cheaper and more e ective, so as to help the world.”

Shrewsbury School has been shortlisted in three categories in this year’s Independent School of the Year Awards, which highlight the excellence of the student experience offered by the UK’s independent schools. Shrewsbury is pleased to have been shortlisted for Performing Arts (Music & Drama), the Green Award for Environmental Achievement, and Independent School of the Year for Student Careers Programme. Independent Schools of the Year 2022 is an awards programme run by Independent School Parent magazine, designed to showcase schools’ success stories and celebrate the extraordinary student experience they provide. The finalists will be announced later this month.

17, finished in the top 35 in the event, which is open to almost 10,000 students, and was the only one of his age to qualify.

Pam Smy receives her award

inorganisationsprestigiousoldest,byOlympiad,ChemistrySocietyataCollege,MyddeltongainedgoldawardtheRoyalofheldoneofthemostscience.Coby,

SCHOOL NEWS SCHOOLS

FOR COBY The Wolverhampton Children’s Book Award celebrates children’s books published in the past year. It is an opportunity for children aged nine to 13 to read a range of fiction and to nominate new books they have enjoyed, with the aim to promote reading for pleasure, and reinforce the importance of fiction. Over 120 children from six local schools attended the Book Award Ceremony organised by Wolverhampton Grammar and Authors Aloud UK earlier this year. Congratulations to Pam Smy who won the 2021 Award for her powerful and thought-provoking book The Hideaway

EXCELLING IN DYSLEXIA SUPPORT

ROYAL SOCIETY ACCOLADE

Affiliated to the award-winning Firs School, Fir Cones Day Nursery will offer all-year-round (51 weeks) day care for children aged 0-4 years from thisFirmonth.Cones is a standalone day nursery, though it draws upon more than 75 years of outstanding educational experience that the Firs School has to offer. Central to the nursery’s ethos is celebrating the uniqueness of every pupil and developing a love of learning. Full and half-day sessions are available, with all sessions based around exploring interests, learning from play, and engaging in indoor and outdoor activities.St David’s College is proud to be one of the best dyslexia boarding schools in Wales, and a silver member of the British Dyslexia Association. As many as one in 10 people in the UK has some degree of dyslexia. All St David’s teachers hold (or are qualifying in) the postgrad BDA Level 5 Certificate in Dyslexia, Literacy, Support and Intervention or an equivalent. Additionally, all teachers have qualifications in multi-sensory techniques. This forms part of the school’s holistic programme, assisting students to really take advantage of their education.

Firs takes the next SHREWSBURYstep SHORTLISTED FOR THREE AWARDSvalidationfabulous“Aofthevibranteffortsofourpupilsandstaff”“Sequesamnusdaenetur” 126 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

A variety of teaching techniques help pupils progress Coby is a Chemistry atAmbassadortheschool

FOCUSFOOTBALLFREESTYLE

ADMISSIONS FOR SEPTEMBER 2023 OPEN Award winning education set in a 30 acre Tudor Estate, nestled between Snowdonia National Park and the North Wales coastline Independent Boarding & Day School Ages 9-19 Upcoming Open Days: 8th October 2022 | 11th February 2023 | 20th May 2023 @StDavidsCollege@stdavidscollege @stdavidscollege_llandudno ISA Awards Winners2020 Outstanding Sports Provision (Small School) AHOEC ASSOCIATION OF HEADS OF OUTDOOR EDUCATION CENTRES GLODDAETH HALL, LLANDUDNO LL30 1RD | ADMISSIONS@STDAVIDSCOLLEGE.CO.UK | TEL: +44 (0)1492 875974 FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.STDAVIDSCOLLEGE.CO.UK

Led by full-time head of careers Julietta Dawson, Queen’s achieved the national Quality in Careers Standard for schools and education providers who can demonstrate the importance they place on careers, and how they support students to make decisions about life after school.

A YEARTOP-PERFORMINGFORQUEEN’S

Brendan Brady, Moor Park “We continuewilltofindthatsomethingforeachchild”

SCHOOLS CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF THE GIRLS’ DAY SCHOOL

LLION TAKES THE HELM The Queen’s School in Chester is proud to have retained the top rating of ‘Excellent’ in all areas from the Independent Schools Inspectorate.Hotonthe heels of this endorsement the school was awarded the highest-level gold award in recognition of outstanding careers provision for students throughout the school.

Rydal haveheldManyisSailingCommodore/titledecades,moreofbeensportssailingRYA-accreditedPenrhos’andwater-centrehasattheheartschoollifeforthansixandtheofPupilCaptainacovetedone.who’vethetitlegoneontoachieve

Eco-friendlystudents.farming insight

LETTER 128 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

The Girls’ Day School Trust comprises 25 schools, including Shrewsbury High. In celebration of 150 years of the trust, all head girls were asked to compose a handwritten letter to the 2032 head girl of their school, reflecting on what the position means to them, along with any advice for the person in the role 100 years from now. An electronic version of the messages will be sent to every school’s head girl email address and is scheduled to be delivered on the GDST’s 160th anniversary in 2032, whilst the handwritten letters will be kept under lock and key, before being opened on the same date.

great things nationally and within the Team GB youth set-up, providing a strong role model. Llion Morris has been appointed the role for this academic year. Llion is part of the RYA Cymru Wales ILCA and British Sailing squads and dedicates a great amount of time to reaching his goals.

Clara Bray, head girl at Shrewsbury High Head Sue Wallace-Woodroffe with pupils Brendan joins Moor Park Morris in action

Llion

Six students and three staff members from Alderley Edge School for Girls walked part of the Camino de Santiago in northern Spain this summer. Initially part of an ERASMUS initiative with schools across Europe, Covid issues meant only EdgeAlderleywasable to undertake the pilgrimage as planned. The group set out from Sarria, walking 125km in five days to reach Santiago de Compostela, where they received an official certificate. A road well travelled Pilgrims on the path

HTRUSTorticulturestudents

Learning in the field

HEAD’S “Focus on the herClarathings,”smalladvisesinletter

from Derwen College gained an insight into eco-friendly farming when they visited Pili Pala Farm, in Llanfyllin. Named after the Welsh word for butterfly, the farm has a mission to increase biodiversity and create a haven for pollinators. It produces a range of fruit, veg and flowers using a chemical-free approach. It’s hoped that as Pili Pala becomes more established, it can offer regular placements to

As a head with over 20 years’ experience in leading prep schools, I am excited and honoured to be part of Moor Park’s future and look forward to working with the passionate, dedicated and highly qualified staff to offer the best prep school experience possible to the children of Moor Park. It is essential that we listen to children in their environment. Moor Park children, and children in all schools, must have a voice and be heard. By listening, we help them uncover their passions and create bespoke experiences for their education. As my predecessor eloquently puts it: “Not every child can be good at everything, but every child can be good at something.” We will continue to find that something for each child.

“125kminfivedays” title“Theis covetedaone”

Independent Day School for Boys and Girls Junior School ages 4-11 Senior School ages 11-16 Sixth Form ages 16-18 Wolverhampton Grammar School Compton Road, Wolverhampton, WV3 9RB 01902 951831 | www.wgs.org.uk | admissions@wgs-sch.net Registered charity (England and Wales no. 1125268) Saturday 8th October 2022 Tours at 10am and 12pm We invite you to visit us! Whole School Open Day (Reception to Sixth Form) • Limited places remaining in Years 3 to 6 for September. • Now registering for our Year 7 Entrance Test. Application deadline: Friday 2nd December. • Currently in Year 10 and starting to think about your Sixth Form options? Come and talk tostudents and see our facilities. • Sign up for our Open Day at www.wgs.org.uk/openday or alternatively, for more information please contact our Admissions team. BridgnorthTelford Penkridge OldburyWalsall Stourbridge

• Fit your study around family or work • Follow your interest • Part-funded courses • Save time and money by staying local Part-time and Distance Learning courses are available at Shrewsbury Colleges group Visit scg.ac.uk for more information Register online now thequeensschool.co.uk/open-events • OPENSCHOOLLOWERHOUSE Fri 7 Oct • SCHOOLSENIOR MORNINGOPEN Sat 8 Oct • FORMSIXTH EVENINGOPEN Thurs 20 Oct October Open Events AN OUTSTANDING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL for girls aged 4-18 in the heart of Chester. Small enough that we get to know every girl personally, and big enough to provide a wealth of opportunities that go well beyond the classroom, challenging your daughter along the way to ensure a successful and happy future. forAWARDLEVELGOLDoutstandingcareersprovision Ignitingherpotential INDEPENDENTSUPPORTIVEMOSTSCHOOL2022–NorthWestEngland open events 88-131.indd 1 23/06/2022 11:55 A truly independent co-educational country prep school in the heart of Shropshire, combining outstanding academic and extra-curricular success, with a culture of kindness founded on Catholic principles. OPEN MORNING 7th October 2022 to book in contact Andrea Cowan Taylor on registrar.moorpark.org.uk or 01584 876 061 Richards Castle, Ludlow, SY8 4DZ 140 Year 8 leavers from Moor Park over the past 6 years have won 113 scholarships and awards to the very top British schools around the country. YOU ARE INVITED TO OUR OPEN DAY ON SATURDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER at 9.30am - 12.00pm For further information or to arrange a visit contact: The Firs School, 45 Newton Lane, Chester, CH2 2HJ. Tel: 01244 322443 Fax: 01244 400450 Email: admin@firsschool.org www.fircones.net www.firsschool.net Independent day nursery and primary education specialists for boys and girls 0-11 NEW FOR SEPTEMBER 22 0-4 year olds all year round

Shrewsbury Colleges Group’s Level 1 Painting and Decorating students have been centrerunsaShrewsburynewre-furbishtoatheirstudentsarticlereadmembertoolkitsrewardedunexpectedlywithnewafteraofthepublicanewspaperaboutthevolunteeringskillstoassistlocalcharity.TheclasshelpeddecorateandthepremisesforArk,charitythatadrop-intosupporthomeless people and other vulnerable adults. The donor was so impressed by their hard work that she gifted a generous sum of money, and the Painting and ofindonationthenStuartConstruction,directorcurriculumowntheeverybedecideddepartmentDecoratingthiswouldusedtobuystudentoncoursetheirstarterkit.Thecollege’sforRaine,matchedthemoneycelebrationthestudents’ achievements and to expand the list of tools included in their kits.

Students show their starter kits Student Daniel Wilcock worked with Cheshire Fire & Rescue Service

Vice-Chancellor Professor Ken Sloan welcomed the result. “Across feedback, key themes of success were ‘Learning community’ (6th highest score), ‘Opportunities to work with other students’ (7th) and ‘Community of staff and students’ (11th). These lie at the heart of the Harper Adams experience,” he said.

AlmostUniversity500 of assistantconservationambassadorfromtakenstudentsChesterhaveonrolesFairtradetoasthey gained work experience, supporting businesses, charities, schools and tourist attractions. The flagship Enhancing Your Employability module has been running successfully for more than 25 years at the university. At its core is the five-week placement undertaken during the second year of study.

The National Student Survey 2022 results are out, showing exactly what graduates thought of their time at college or university.

HARPER ADAMS HAPPY

Universities & Colleges September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 131

Dr Wax will see you now… The winning writers “The universities”responsehighestrateofallUK

Harper Adams’ score has remained high for overall satisfaction, gaining the fifth highest overall satisfaction rating in the UK from full-time students completing their first undergraduate degrees. The university’s overall score was determined by the highest response rate of all UK universities.

A DECORATING DONATION

Students support the region

Food Technology students

Ruby Wax OBE awarded honorary degree

Ruby Wax, the acclaimed American-British actress, comedian, writer, TV personality and mental health campaigner has been awarded an honorary degree from the University of Bangor. The star has research and teaching links with the university’s School of Human and Behavioural Sciences, and in particular its Centre for Mindfulness Research and Practice. She took part in seminal research at the university in 2015 when neuroscientists scanned her brain before and after her attendance at a mindfulness retreat. The honorary doctorate was presented to Ruby for her role in highlighting and discussing mental health.

Winners announced for Cheshire Prize for Literature With climate change at the forefront of the world’s agenda, this year’s Cheshire Prize for Literature focused on the theme of sustainability. Through short stories, poetry, scriptwriting or children’s literature, the writers explored creative, eco-friendly solutions and aspects of living in a ‘greener’ way. An anthology of the winning works will be published by the University of Chester Press.

herscientists“Neuro-scannedbrain”

UNIVERSITYABERYSTWYTHTURNS

Cheshire College has o ered fully funded English classes to Ukrainian refugees in preparation for the new academic year. The college’s English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) team provided classes to approximately 50 Ukrainian nationals to help them gain a recognised qualification. The college additionally provided free transport to the campus and meals. The programme also provided a safe space for the new students and their families and introduced them to fellow Ukrainians in a similar position.

The first School of Veterinary Science in Wales opened at the university last year, and Nursing education starts for the first time this academic term.

Celebrating its tenth anniversary, the University designeddrop-inexperimentsgames,ofpackedSciFestWolverhampton’sofwasafun-familydayfreeworkshops,hands-onandactivities,alltobringSTEM

150 COLLEGE UKRANIANSUPPORTSSTUDENTS

A Travel and Tourism student from Coleg Menai’s Bangor campus has received a £100,000 scholarship to study Nautical Science at Southampton University. Stephanie Humphreys will train to be a deck o cer, learning how to sail and manage a ship, as well as key skills such as first aid. Always drawn to a life at sea, Stephanie has worked on the Seacoast Safari in Beaumaris and at the shipping docks in Holyhead. Her message for any woman hoping for a career at sea is: “Don’t stop – keep going and keep following your dream.”

UNIVERSITY

Gareth Edwards, assistant director of ESOL at Cheshire College, said: “We could see that there was a great interest in our ESOL course starting in September from Ukrainian adults and their families, but we wanted to help as soon as we could and provide tools that will help them to integrate with UK culture and the community.”

“It’s a key time CampusWrexhamforandour2025strategy”

Students with special guest Kimberly Wyatt Hazel with teammates Colin with Maria Hinfelaar and chair of governors Dr Leigh Griffin

BREAKFAST WITH ROBOTS Foxdog’s Robot Chef

Hazel Wilson, ALN transformation project manager based at NPTC’s Newtown campus, made it four in a row as team manager for Welsh women’s bowls at the Commonwealth Games. The team accompanying Hazel included 14 athletes competing in men’s and women’s singles, pairs, triples and fours, para men’s and HAZELfeelingthereWelshyousaid:pairs.impairedvisuallymixedHazel“Whenputonthatshirtisnootherlikeit.”

achievinghardhavetocongratulationsbe“BeKimberleyentertainment,said:you,befearless,authenticandallofyouwhoputsomuchworkintosuch phenomenal results. Well done, everyone.”

Wrexham Glyndwr University has announced that former Olympic athlete Colin Jackson CBE will continue in his role as Chancellor of the University until 2025. The Chancellor is a figurehead and acts as an ambassador for the university and its staff and students, fulfilling a number of important duties, including attending graduation ceremonies. Colin commented: “I’m very much looking forward to spending more time in Wrexham again over the next three Vice-Chancelloryears.”Professor Maria Hinfelaar said: “Colin has had a very positive impact on students and staff during his time with us so far. We look forward to working closely together over the next few years, which are a key time for Wrexham – having just achieved city status – and for our own Campus 2025 strategy.”

subjects to life. From virtual reality to the planetarium explorer dome, visitors of all ages explored the fantastic opportunities STEM has to offer, including Foxdog Studios’ Robot Chef, where you control the robot to cook breakfast from your mobile phone.

NEWS

Aberystwyth, long may you prosper! ESOL students at the college

Aberystwyth University is celebrating 150 years. The university was founded in 1872 following e orts locally and nationally to raise money to establish the first university in Wales, and August 2022 marked the beginning of its 150th academicVice-chancelloryear.Professor Elizabeth Treasure said: “Beginning our anniversary celebration is a unique opportunity to discuss the university’s rich history, as well as to look forward.”

The resilience and talent of Coleg Cambria learners from all sites was celebrated at the annual student awards ceremony at the end of the summer term, with an appearance from Kimberly Wyatt – TV star and member of best-selling group Pussycat Dolls. Following an inspirational speech in which she looked back on her own life in

STAR GUEST ATTENDS AWARDS CEREMONY AT CAMBRIA

SHIP AHOY FOR STEPHANIE Stephanie Humphreys: on course for success

HEADS UP TEAM WALES

UNIVERSITIES & COLLEGES 132 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

OLYMPIC CHAMPION CONTINUES IN CHANCELLOR ROLE “Be you, beauthentic”andfearlessbe

Cyrsiau Rhan Amser Pro esiynol ac i Oedolion Gwnewch rywbeth i chiDysgwch Rywbeth Newydd Lawrlwythwch ein Canllaw Cyrsiau Rhan Amser newydd a Chofrestrwch Rŵan Adult and Professional Part Time Courses Do Something For YouLearn Something New Download our new Part Time Course Guide and Enrol Now 0300www.cambria.ac.uk3030007

There’s a good balance between theory and practice in the delivery of both programmes. For instance, in the Digital Technologies in Surveying module, we hire the latest digital surveying equipment so that students have hands-on experience of the latest technologies. The department also owns and operates its own drone. In their final year, ADT students work towards the completion of a major design project from concept to development, whilst Construction Management students undertake an individual research project, which can focus on any aspect of particular interest to them. This allows students to further develop their independence as they approach graduation.

Enrolling individuals with a range of qualifications and experiences ensures students not only learn from the academic delivery but also from each other, through discussion and debate within a relaxed but enthusiastic classroom environment. pert andlearn“Studentsfromeachotherthroughdisbussiondebate”

eet the

The courses can be studied full time for three years or part time for five years. We also have students who are already employed in the industry and have a day-release arrangement with their employer. They can obtain a Higher National Certificate (HNC) at the end of their first year, before deciding whether to continue to a degree through a further three years of day-release.

Those students who are more interested in the supervision of construction sites and the management of associated contracts are more likely to gravitate towards the Construction Management degree.

What can students expect from your course?

How can students get a place on the programmes?

The best advice I was given growing up was from my sister, when she said I could do the most boring job in the world to earn lots of money, or pursue something that really interested me and be rewarded in so many other ways too. I left school at 16 to work in a welding factory before going to college to study mechanical engineering. A job came up in the local authority architects’ office for a junior technician, so I decided to apply and was fortunate enough to get it. Four years of day-release study allowed me to qualify as an architectural technician and eventually, acting on my sister’s advice, I decided to resign and go to university full time to study architecture. It was a seven-year programme altogether, including two years of professional practice in a design office, then working on commercial, industrial, educational and institutional projects. Then I decided to change direction again and develop my career towards teaching.Mostarchitects set out with good A-level results, but my journey was very different. That early experience in an architectural office, and completing associated qualifications in construction technology, proved an equally appropriate start.

Gareth Carr, senior lecturer in Built Environment

Whilst formal qualifications are important, they don’t reveal everything about a person’s capabilities and levels of interest. It’s really important that applicants are prepared to work hard and engage so that they can get the most out of their time at Wrexham Glyndwr. Relevant industrial experience is also appropriate and can be considered alongside (and even instead of) formal qualifications. We can also help those who have been outside education for some time.

EDUCATION x

Both degree programmes are technical in their nature, but ADT incorporates elements of conceptual architectural design.

How did you get into Built Environment as a career?

Both our Construction Management and Architectural Design Technology (ADT) degrees share a combined first year, which enables students to explore the broad industrial context before specialising in their second year. This means they can start on one qualification and swap to the other if they discover a preference.

Head to Glyndwr.ac.uk to find out more about Build Environment degrees, open days and short courses

Modules cover a broad range of themes, from drafting, sketching and model-making to how such forms and shapes can be constructed at full scale using materialsindustrialisedthatsatisfy the requirements of a project’s functional performance and structural integrity. A constant theme is the importance of delivering sustainable projects and the need to limit environmental impact; considerations that are significant at all stages: during conceptual and technical design, through the construction process, in use, and eventually in the decommissioning and disposal of buildings and infrastructure.

134 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

GCSE RESULTS 2022 A*-A grades - 57% Welsh National Average - 25.1% A*-C grades - 97% Welsh National Average - 68.6% admissions@r ydalp enrhos.com • 01492 530155 r ydalp enrhos.com

Get in touch now advertising@shiremagazine.co.uk or simply call (01691) 661 270 Shire Magazine, the No.1 magazine for holiday parks throughout Wales, Cheshire and Shropshire. To ensure your school is featured, contact us now on editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk or simply call (01691) 661 270 Shire Magazine, supporting local universities, schools and colleges. We are able to provide assistance with: Call us today for a free initial consultation Self BusinessHMRCMakingTaxLimitedVATAccountsassessmentpreparationReturnscompanyauditsplanningTaxDigitalenquiryinvestigations&faultreviews Divorce & separation agreements Corporate sales and purchases Business planning Financial services Visit our website at www.dre.co.uk Knighton 01547 Knighton@dre.co.uk528383 Oswestry 01691 tax@dre.co.uk654353 Shrewsbury 01743 Shrewsbury@dre.co.uk241581 Ludlow 01584 Ludlow@dre.co.uk875715 Newtown 01686 Newtown@dre.co.uk626534 Wrexham 01978 Wrexham@dre.co.uk310600 We are able to provide assistance with: Call us today for a free initial consultation Self BusinessHMRCMakingTaxLimitedVATAccountsassessmentpreparationReturnscompanyauditsplanningTaxDigitalenquiryinvestigations&faultreviews Divorce & separation agreements Corporate sales and purchases Business planning Financial services Visit our website at www.dre.co.uk Knighton 01547 Knighton@dre.co.uk528383 Oswestry 01691 tax@dre.co.uk654353 Shrewsbury 01743 Shrewsbury@dre.co.uk241581 Ludlow 01584 Ludlow@dre.co.uk875715 Newtown 01686 Newtown@dre.co.uk626534 Wrexham 01978 Wrexham@dre.co.uk310600 We are able to provide assistance with: Call us today for a free initial consultation Self BusinessHMRCMakingTaxLimitedVATAccountsassessmentpreparationReturnscompanyauditsplanningTaxDigitalenquiryinvestigations&faultreviews Divorce & separation agreements Corporate sales and purchases Business planning Financial services Visit our website at www.dre.co.uk Knighton 01547 Knighton@dre.co.uk528383 Oswestry 01691 tax@dre.co.uk654353 Shrewsbury 01743 Shrewsbury@dre.co.uk241581 Ludlow 01584 Ludlow@dre.co.uk875715 Newtown 01686 Newtown@dre.co.uk626534 Wrexham 01978 Wrexham@dre.co.uk310600 Buckley / Wrexham / Oswest ry Contact: 0845 310 5374 www northwalesmusictuition co uk North Wales Music Tuition Centres Registered Charitable Incorporated Organisation No.1156684 CHILDREN FROM FIVE / ADULTS VERY WELCOME M OST INSTRUMENTS & VOICE FREE - ‘Triple Try’when byou ooka ‘Trial’ package!

The allowance works by permitting the lower earning partner to transfer up to £1,260 of their personal tax-free allowance to their spouse or civil partner. The marriage allowance can only be used when the recipient of the transfer (the higher earning partner) does not pay tax at the higher income tax rates. This would usually mean that their income is between £12,570 and £50,270 in 2022-23. The limits are different for those living in Scotland. This transfer of unused allowances could result in a saving of up to £252 for the recipient (20 per cent of £1,260), or £21 a month for the current tax year. If you meet the eligibility requirements and have not yet claimed the allowance, you can backdate your claim to 6th April 2018. This could result in a total tax refund of up to £1,220 if you can claim for 2018-19, 2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22 as well as the current 2022-23 tax year. If you claim now, you can backdate your claim for four years (if eligible) as well as for the current tax year. In fact, even if you are no longer eligible but would have been in all or any of the preceding years, then you can still claim your entitlement. If you would like to discuss this further, or if you require any help in applying for the marriage allowance, please don’t hesitate to email or get in contact with your local DRE & Co office:

tax@dre.co.uk

Once their relative has settled into Deewater Grange they are able to focus on spending quality time with them again just enjoying each other’sWithcompany.theextra support Deewater Grange offers, new residents are often surprised at what they can do, whether that’s being able to continue with an activity they’ve enjoyed in the past, or discovering new hobbies with our daily activities. So if your loved one enjoys a cup of tea in bed before starting the day, loves strolling in the grounds or a chat over a beer, the team will spend time to enable them to continue living life as they want to. Deewater Grange is part of award-winning provider, Care UK – one of the UK’s most successful care home operators * with over 40 years’ experience of delivering high-quality care to older people When a family is thinking about care for a loved one, they want the best. ey want to know that the care home they choose will put their relative’s safety, happiness and wellbeing rst.

If your partner is a low earner or pays no tax, you could be eligible for a refund on your own tax. Emma Williams, client manager at DRE & Co chartered accountants explains the rules.

September/October

| SHIRE MAGAZINE 137

Retirement Living

Personal finance

surprisedareresidents“Newoftenatwhattheycando”

The Marriage Allowance on personal tax can be claimed by married couples and those in a civil partnership where a spouse or civil partner does not pay tax or does not pay tax above the basic rate threshold for income tax (ie, one of the couples must currently earn less than the £12,570 personal allowance for 2022-23).

Applying528383 for Marriage Allowance

Care UK’s Deewater Grange care home in Chester, rated ‘Good’ by the CQC, provides residential, dementia and nursing care, giving families peace of mind that their loved ones can stay living at the home should their needs change. Living at Deewater Grange is all about quality of life. Every colleague in the home is passionate about enabling residents to enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle, tailored around their unique needs and preferences. The lifestyle team organises a huge variety of group and one-to-one activities, with plenty going on each day. The team at Deewater Grange are proud to have achieved some great results in the recent relative survey, in fact 97% of families feel their loved ones are treated with kindness, respect and dignity^.

Deewater Grange, 93 Chester Rd, Huntington, Chester CH3 6BS Enquiries: Andrew.Kenny@careuk.com or call 01244 455904

• Oswestry - 01691 654353 • Shrewsbury - 01743 241581 • Ludlow - 01584 875715 • Newtown - 01686 626534 • Wrexham - 01978 310600 • Knighton - 01547

*As rated by the Care Quality Commission in England and the Care Inspectorate in Scotland. ^Care UK relatives survey August 2021/March 2022. Study operated by QRS Market Research, an independent survey agency. 2022 Quality care you can trust in Chester Home from home

You could be due up to £1,220

“You wellyourbackdatecanclaimforfouryears,ifeligible,asasthecurrenttaxyear”

Retirement Living

Dr Jennifer Wild, consultant clinical psychologist and associate professor at the University of Oxford Jean Atkins with members at an Easter event

yourtominutesthreechangelife

Denise Turner, branch secretary of Deeside Oddfellows, a not-for-profit that brings people together in the community for social activities, said: “Trying something new can be nerve-wracking, especially if it’s the first time an individual has really put themselves in a social setting without having their partner by their side. We’d obviously love people to stay for the entirety of our events, but we also recognise that people need to move at their own pace. So, if you decide that three minutes is enough for you that day, that’s totally fine. If you want to stay longer, then that’s great also.”

More than half of over-55s (58 per cent) would like to see the benefits of giving financial help to their family while still alive, a survey commissioned byAviva has found.

Many have reconsidered their priorities

Asked whether they would rather leave an inheritance than help younger family members on to the property ladder, the response from the 45-plus age group was evenly split, with 26 per cent agreeing and 25 per cent disagreeing. But among the 75-plus age group, 32 per cent disagreed with this statement, while only 19 per cent agreed.

Matter of minutes Dr Wild, who has written a series of blogs for the Oddfellows, commented: “After your three minutes you can decide if you are going to turn around and go home, or if you are going to carry on. You’ll find that more often than not, you will carry on. But by giving yourself permission to leave, it relieves the pressure.”Denise added: “When Dr Wild explained this technique to us, we wanted to share her advice more widely, as it could be the thing that encourages someone to take that one small, positive step forwards.”

Matt McGill, managing director of Aviva Equity Release said: “This is perhaps a reflection of the turbulence everyone has been through since we last ran our survey in 2016. It’s been a time of reflection for many and this could have included a resolution to live more for the moment and help loved ones now.”

Jean Atkins, from Chester, who has been a group member for two years said: “Going along to meet a new group of people is easier said than done. But once I got over the hurdle of first introductions any concerns just melted away. The Oddfellows couldn’t have made me feel more Deesidewelcome.”Oddfellows organises social events for its members across the area, and holds regular coffee mornings at its hall on Saltney High Street every Thursday at 10.30am. “Ring or email us ahead of your first event, so we can explain exactly where we meet and can welcome you,” added Denise. Contact Denise on 01244 675757 or email denise.turner@oddfellows.co.uk. Further information about the Oddfellows can be found at oddfellows.co.uk/firststeps

138 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Give

Deeside Oddfellows, a friendship group based in Saltney, is inviting visitors along to its events for just three minutes. The unusual offer is based on the ‘Three Minute Carrot Method’, which gives you permission to stop or leave something after three minutes instead of feeling daunted by staying for an hour. The technique was suggested to the group by clinical psychologist and author Dr Jennifer Wild, who was asked for her advice on ways in which people can rebuild social confidence after losing a partner.

Recognising the loneliness that often follows the loss of a partner, one friendship group in Cheshire is helping people take the difficult first step towards socialising again

Aviva commissioned surveys of more than 1,500 over-45s in April and more than 3,500 UK home-owners aged 55-84 in June.

us

“Youdecidecan if you are going to go home or on”carry

MOST WANT TO SEE THEIR MONEY SPENT

While outings are a regular feature in our lifestyle programme, if your loved one likes to stay closer to home, Deewater Grange has everything they need under one roof. Our home has a coffee shop, hair and beauty salon, cinema, pub, and beautiful landscaped gardens. Keen gardeners are always welcome to lend a hand! And, when it comes to wishes, we’ll do our best to make them happen. Residents have visited the theatre, gone skydiving, horse riding, and even met their entertainment heroes.

Follow us on Facebook

Be sure to ‘like’ us on Facebook to keep up-to-date with what’s happening at our home. Ready to live life in style at Deewater Grange?

Recently, residents of Deewater Grange have enjoyed an arts and crafts session, creating decoupage portraits. Residents have also enjoyed gardening in the sun, whilst others joined team member Jordan in the local pub for his stag do!

Advertising

To find out more about Deewater Grange, Care UK’s home in Chester, please call 01244 455439 or email

When you join us at Deewater Grange, Care UK’s care home in Chester, every day is exciting and rewarding. That’s because we believe that moving into a care home should be about having fun, enjoying hobbies, making new friends and trying new experiences.

Living life in style at Deewater Grange Feature

careuk.com/deewater-grangeChester93Deewaterandrew.kenny@careuk.comGrangecarehomeChesterRoad,Huntington,CH36BS

Enjoy each day your way When your loved one joins us, we’ll learn all about their personality and preferences – even if they have a wish they’d like to fulfil. We’ll then create a care and lifestyle plan focused on enabling your loved one to live each day in the way they want, and always with independence and choice. Our Lifestyle team is passionate about enhancing your loved one’s quality of life. They organise an array of activities, entertainment, events and outings, as well as vital one-to-one time. Regular activities include reminiscence, baking, arts and crafts, gardening and pet therapy. If your loved one is socially minded, we host coffee mornings, afternoon teas, cheese and wine evenings plus regular themed evenings. Then there are our strong links with local schools, nurseries, charities and places of worship, helping your loved one to feel connected to local life. Everything under one roof

Calling local authors… If you’re living in the Shire area or have written about a local person or place, we’d love to feature you on these pages. Email editorial@ shiremagazine.co.uk

It’s Hard to Be Good by Charlie Seiga Now enjoying a

A MODERN MIRACLE

WrexhamAFCsupportershavebeenlivinginadreamworldsincethenon-leagueclubwastakenoverbytwoHollywoodsuperstars.ForAndrewFoley-Jones,theimplausibleacquisitionof

We JonesbyDemocracyLostJames James A Jones was also born in hislivesandLiverpoolnowwithfamily in Cheshire. Well travelled technicallyand minded, his decision to write fiction was greeted with scepticism by his family, who at first felt their opinion was justified. Now, several years later, he feels he is making progress. We Lost Democracy follows the life of fictional detective Tom Copeland and is set in the United States, where fires have broken out at key locations across the country. He quickly discovers there could be as many as 2,000 incidents. The e ect on the economy is dramatic; it appears to be an act of terrorism, while Tom is cautious about making such a claim. Public life is a ected as America’s largest companies are seen to be in trouble and in need of financial support. Tom’s opinion is that the United States is at war – an economic war – and he predicts that it will take many years for the US to regain its former position in world a airs…

140 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022 Books&Poetry

It could happen… Andrew added: “You can’t help but glimpse into the future. Maybe some of the things I bring to life do happen? Joe Wicks as the next PM? Hugh Jackman taking over at Chester FC? Danny DeVito drinking pints at the Turf? No-one knows what’s around the corner, but we can all dream.” You can order It’s Almost Always Never Sunny This Side of Wrexham (Red Dog) on Amazon. Follow Andrew @afoleyjones and visit andrewfoleyjones.co.uk

Local legends

big names making the switch to soccer –Donald Trump at Cowdenbeath, Madonna as the new CEO at Holyhead Hotspur.

LOCAL BOOKS

Featuring anecdotes and characters from Wrexham AFC’s rich history, the novel is sure to be a hit with football fans of all ages, including the legions who have joined their ranks since last autumn’s buyout. Anglesey-based dad-oftwo Andrew, a solicitor and writer whose other titles include the popular Please Don’t Take Me Home: A Cat Called Robson-Kanu, hopes it will capture the spirit and excitement of the past year. “The book is written in the first person and follows a central character who wakes up in a room with no memory of how he got there,” said Andrew, who was born in St Asaph and attended Prestatyn High School.

Superfan Andrew

“Where will all this end? Madonna as CEO atHotspur?Holyhead

the fifth-tier outfit by Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney was so astonishing, he was inspired to write a novel about it. It’s Almost Always Never Sunny This Side of Wrexham is the tale of a fan who wakes from a 10-year coma in 2030 to find his beloved Red Dragons have two A-listers at the helm. He’s brought up to speed on what he’s missed – a pandemic, assassinations and much more – by psychologist Dr Paskin and a wall of TVs that play out the intervening decade.

Times1940sLiverpoolchildhoodonSeigaauthorColwynexistencepeacefulinBay,Charliereflectshistroubledinintheand’50s.were hard, food was rationed and kids went hungry; some families had to beg, steal or borrow to survive. Charlie and his childhood gang were grafters, bunking o school and doing whatever it took to put food on the table. Charlie set his sights higher. With his baby face and dressed as an o ce boy in blazer, shirt and tie, he was soon darting in and out of buildings in the city, making rich pickings as he raided their cash drawers and safes. Branded a gangster for most of his life, Charlie never considered writing about how it all began, until he found himself drawn to pen long passages about his childhood and subsequent adult life in crime. A brilliant combination of narrative writing, memoir and biography, this is a true story of a childhood delinquent and his young gang, growing up in war-torn Liverpool.

“The current position still feels too good to be true, after the challenges the club has faced o and on the pitch for years, so I’ve tried to include moments of comedy, albeit mostly quite dark, with the fundamental question being, where will all this end?” The book sees other

Lifelong Wrexham fan Andrew Foley was so inspired by the unlikely takeover of his beloved club by Hollywood A-listers, he based his latest novel on it

as it’s back to school time for so many, our friends at Linghams have suggested a couple of exciting titles to lure the kids back into reading after the long summer break We want your poems! Share your creativity – we print our favourite poems every issue. Send them to Poetry Page, Shire, PO Box 276, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 1FR or email editorial@shiremagazine.co.uk and

orders for all children to be tested, her best friend tests positive and is to be sent to the island of Spinalonga to isolate. The next day a white mark appears on her mother’s neck and the chaos begins. The absorbing story of the Cretan village of Plaka and the tiny, deserted island of Spinalonga – Greece’s former leper colony – is related by Maria Petrakis, one of the children in the original version of The Island. She tells us of the ancient and misunderstood disease of leprosy, exploring the themes of stigma, shame and the treatment of those who are different, which are as relevant for children as adults. Gill Smith’s rich, full-colour illustrations will transport the reader to the timeless and beautiful Greek landscape and Mediterranean seascape.

To all my garden spiders I o er “thank you”, for constructing features of exclusive Embracedprecision.withsilent mist and morning dew their webs assume a sparkling transition, the products of vapour and frost that crystalise, a display, diaphanous, wispy, glistening, that spreads beauty, radiating from a unique enterprise, capturing nature’s sparkles on flimsy Allthreads.spiders’ birthright since divine creation, the fragile, microscopic strands, fine spun, will no more provide concealed accommodation for a patient, deadly highwayman. ’Til night frosts will again the camouflage dismiss, sustenance demands a reconstruction, from scratch, complete, another edifice to o er creatures disguised self-destruction.

Of all the trees (an excerpt) by Annette Edwards

An owl lands on an oak tree His sound reverberates in the darkness As he calls out to his mate Too-wit too-wit-a-woo In the cold night air And now comes a rainshower Drops fall gently down Upon a silhouetted woodland I see an early autumn moon A moon that is wandering On an early autumn evening

The mighty Oaks stand proud As centuries of growth, allowed Born of windfall, long ago Upon ground, where acorns fall Safe from squirrels, searching all Under oaken leaves, they hide Beneath, other oaks that shroud In ancient woodlands, or aside Upon the ridge and furrow field Ageing Oaks, their seeds do yield

Maria’s Island by Victoria Hislop

This book is a retelling of the classic The Island, from the same author, this time from a

thewildfire.spreadingwhenlivingisperspective.child’sMariaayounggirlinGreeceleprosyislikeWhengovernment

She by Norman Marshall She moves and dances with grace, This lady lightens the place. She sings with a nightingale’s voice And all around simply rejoice. Her eyes are of pure quartz, And always in our thoughts. Her cuisine is the finest fare, Like her personality, beyond compare. In her company one is a king, Her vocabulary has an eternal ring And in her arms all shine, She is the one: all divine. Thankful are all for knowing her For she is all: gold, frankincense and Nowmyrrh.this lady comes with a price: Extravagance is her only vice! And this I will gladly pay, If only she would come my way.

A hertakenfindsorphaned,PettyWhenchildren’snewfromhistoricalbeautifullygripping,writtenmystery,anincrediblevoiceinfiction.IsobelissuddenlysheherselfbeingawayfromhomeinIndia and sent to live with a distant uncle in England. On board the SS Marianna, she witnesses a shocking act – somebody being thrown overboard in the middle in the night. But when the ship’s captain insists that nobody is missing, Isobel and her two new reluctant friends must solve two mysteries – the identities of both the murderer and the victim – before they reach England and the culprit has the chance to escape.

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 141

I see an early autumn moon Silver streaks of moonray Su use down to the ground Leaves fall gently from boughs Onto the pathway From ancient coppices From the forest throng A crafty fox in disguise In the Decidesshadowtopad by unknowingly UponUnwittinglytheleafy ground

The DetectivesSecret by Ella Risbridger

BOOKS POETRY REVIEWS Seeing

An early autumn evening by Anne Douglas

&

Frosty Cobwebs by Les Lacey

7Across&16& 9 Across Satirical rock band from Birkenhead (4,3,4,7) 9 See 7 Across 11 One of Donald Duck’s nephews (5) 12 Mesopotamian flood epic (9) 13 Isaac ____, author of the trilogyFoundation(6) 14 A river that rises in the Rocky Mountains, or a university in New York City (8) 16 See 7 Across 17 One of Aaron’s sons who was consumed by God’s fire (5) 19 The Scottish Gaelic name for Scotland (4) 22 Leon ____, inventor of an physicalthatmusicalelectronicinstrumentisplayedwithoutcontact(8) 23 ‘____ Davies Eyes’, song by 7 & 16 & 9 Across that references a World of Sport presenter (6) 26 ____ Man, novel by Ralph Ellison (9) 28 Ken ____, director of I, Daniel Blake (5) 29 Wheat variety that was one of the first plants to be cultivated (7) 30 Semitic language from ancient Syria (7)

Severn Di culty: medium Sudoku rules 1. Every square has to contain a single number. 2. Only numbers 1 to 9 can be used. 3. Each 3×3 box can only contain each number from 1 to 9 once. 4. Each row and column can only contain each number from 1 to 9 once. PUZZLE TIME ANSWERS Sudoku 142 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

Across 17HalfMan 9Biscuit 11Louie 12Atrahasis 13Asimov 14Columbia 16Half 17Abihu 19Alba 22Theremin 23Dickie 26Invisible 28Loach 29Einkorn 30Aramaic Down 1Thalia 2Emperor 3O’Neal 4Abersoch 5Ischium 6Cubs 8LaurieLee 10Tostada 15Balaklava 16Hittite 18 spellhighlightedBeestonBrisbane2021Hillman24Ethics25Degas27VennTheletterswhenrearrangedIRONBRIDGE Alice Leetham is a writer and puzzle maker from Cheshire. She works in the

1Down In Greek mythology, one of the Graces or the Muse of comedy (6) 2 A species of penguin or moth (7) 3 Surname of the father and daughter actors who starred in Paper Moon (5) 4 Seaside resort southwest of Pwllheli on the Llŷn Peninsula (8) 5 Bone that forms part of the hip bone (7) 6 One of two Major League Baseball teams based in Chicago (4) 8 Author of Cider with Rosie (6,3) 10 Mexican dish with a toasted tortilla base (7) 15 Site of the Crimean War battle that inspired Tennyson’s ‘Charge of the Light Brigade’ (9) 16 Bronze Age Anatolian empire that had its capital at Hattusa (7) 18 Capital of the Australian state of Queensland (8) 20 Village with medieval castle ruins a few miles southeast of Chester (7) 21 British car maker that produced the Minx and the Imp (7) 24 Branch philosophyofdealt with in works by Aristotle and Spinoza (6) 25 French Impressionist who often depicted ballet dancers (5) 27 A diagram that shows the logical betweenrelationsets(4) River

Rearrange the highlighted letters to find the name of a Shropshire village on the

crosswords.quizzesalsoindustryfintechandenjoyscreatingandcrypticContact: alice@downstream.co.uk

Charities& Borderlands doubles its effortThe future of Corwen FC has been secured for the next 20 years after Rhug Estate gave a betweeninboyssection,hasFootballforcommitmentlong-termoflandasportsfield.CorwenCommunityOrganisationathrivingjuniorwithover110andgirlsplayingavarietyofteams,theagesoffour and 16. They currently train at Dee Park under a provisional agreement, but the club is pleased to have agreed a 20-year lease with Rhug Estate.

SPINNING TO VICTORY struggle“Thewasreal”

Michael McNamara from CCFO said: “The future of all football teams in Corwen is now secure. We would like to express our sincere thanks to Lord Newborough for facilitating this and the generous terms he has offered. We would also like to thank Llewellyn-Jones Solicitors who offered their services on a pro bono basis.”

Anna Openshaw of Miwtini: “We are here for you” If you would like a charity event to feature on these pages, just email the details to magazine.co.ukeditorial@shire

The Miwtini programme this summer featured workshops on topics including web design, PR, marketing and customer service before participants pitched their business ideas, with £3,000 investment for the winner and £2,000 for a runner up, from the Community Renewal Fund. Hub manager Sara Roberts said they want to help people begin their journey to commercial success. “It’s about opportunities, providing anyone with the spark of an idea the platform to bring it to reality.”

Bright future for footballers

Two theirsession,24-hourcompletedinstructorsCollegeDerwensportshaveapunishingspinningsmashing£5,000targettoraise a phenomenal £7,300 so far, with donations still coming in. The money will be used to purchase bespoke sports equipment for people with learning difficulties andSiandisabilities.Thomas and Steve Evans took on the non-stop indoor cycling challenge to pedal all through the day and night, and say they couldn’t have done it without the support of students, staff and supporters. With a dozen spin bikes going altogether, a constant stream of spinners joined them for the event. All embarked on their own personal challenge, with some joining for an hour while others kept going for up to 12 hours at a time. The event was a first for the Gobowenbased educationaloldsforeducationfurthercollege16-25yearwithspecialneeds andSiandisabilities.said:“It was definitely a challenge and the struggle was real, especially in the small hours of the morning. But we all success.”hugewaseventandthroughgotitthea future“The of all teams is secure”now

Borderland Rotary, who have organised the annual event since 1994, joined Aico’s community liaison Jane Pritchard to launch the event at the company’s headquarters, alongside Tim Gray, managing director of Dairi-Pak, a long-standing sponsor of the ride, and James Davies, owner of Mule Cycles. Jane said: “As an employer committed to supporting our local community, Aico were delighted to be given the opportunity to sponsor the Borderland Mountain Bike Challenge 2022. The event was even bigger and better than ever before, attracting many more riders and raising much-needed funds.”

More riders than ever were able to tackle the popular Borderland Mountain Bike Challenge, thanks to additional sponsorship from home safety specialists Aico and Mule Cycles, Oswestry. A total of 300 entrants, double the usual number, took on the 22-mile off-road route to raise funds for charities including Midlands Air Ambulance.

Volunteering

Ambitious entrepreneurs have been pitching their ideas in the hope of investment in an Apprentice-style scheme at a Colwyn Bay enterprise hub. Experts from the world of business joined forces with Hwb Menter/Enterprise Hub @M-SParc to share knowledge, advice and experience with participants from across Conwy county.

“We can help confidence”forwardmoveyouwith

The launch at Aico’s Oswestry baseTomorrow’s stars in the making Cycling: Steve and Sian

Anna Openshaw, senior project officer for Miwtini, said: “Whether it’s a hobby you want to take to the next level or a great big idea that’s going to change the world, we are here for you and confident that Miwtini can play a part in helping you move forward with confidence.”

To find out how the Enterprise Hub can help you, email post@ hwbmenter.cymru, call 01248 858 070 or visit hwbmenter.cymru

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 143

Blossoming businesses do battle

Eryl Jones was brought up on a small Welsh farm and studied agriculture in Aberystwyth. He became farm manager on a large estate and later farmed on his own account. Eryl does environmentalvoluntarywork with Denbighshire Council and has a passion for the rural way of life.

TWO WINGS GOOD… So the answer to increasing the yield of red clover seed in outlying fields is to control the rodent population. It would be a bit impractical to re-locate cartloads of moggies to the countryside, and the solution lay not on four legs but two wings. Purpose-built owl nesting boxes were placed in trees near the clover fields and the nocturnal predatory birds did not need much encouragement to take up residence.

DID KNOW?YOU Red clover is justas useful as a soil improver inyour garden Bumble bees are best to pollinate clover

The last piece in the jigsaw was to ensure the owls controlled the mice and voles in the vicinity of the clover fields and not elsewhere. To facilitate their hunting, numerous high perches were obligingly erected, from which the owls could easily detect even the slightest rustle in the undergrowth. And these took the form of – telegraph poles! Hope you managed to keep up. Have you heard the one about red clover, the mouse and the telegraph pole? Well, it all starts with the increased demand for red clover seed…

FIT FOR A QUEEN So, for good crops of clover seed, you need a healthy population of bumble bees. Now, as more land was put into clover seed production to meet the demand, it emerged that those fields near towns and villages produced heavier crops than ones further away from human habitation – and no-one knew why. So a detailed study into the lifecycle of the bumble bee was commissioned as a starting point in solving theThequandary.queen hibernates for the winter, not in hives or hollow trees but alone in holes in the ground, and being incapable of excavating such a hole, she looks to muscle in on someone else’s. Voles’ and field mice’ burrows provide an ideal winter ‘des res’ for bumble bees. The downside is, these particular rodents are not over-keen to have large insects as lodgers, so the bees have to look for unoccupied holes whose former owners have fallen victim to predators. The conclusion was that more mice and voles end up as dinner in fields near urban areas, thus enabling more queen bees to survive the winter to produce a larger crop of bumble bees the following summer, in turn fertilising more clover flowers, etc, etc.

144 SHIRE MAGAZINE | September/October 2022

But what was the predator laying waste to the voles and mice in close proximity to man? The answer was blindingly obvious – your common or garden domestic cat.

F��� G��� O��� T��

What with Nitrate Vulnerable Zones and fertiliser prices on the face-blanching side of £600 a ton, red clover’s nitrogen-fixing capabilities and high protein level make it an essential constituent of any grass ley. Most of the red clover seed used over here is grown in Holland and Germany. Should you find yourself in that part of the world, you may be perplexed to see telegraph poles (minus wires) dotted around the perimeter of fields of red clover grown for seed. Why are they there? Let us start with very basic ‘birds and bees’ havemagentaseed,Tonature.producetheclover’sflowerstobepollinated, and for this they need the help of insects. The insects carry the pollen from plant to plant in return for nectar produced at the base of the flower. However, red clover’s problem is that it possesses a long, narrow, tubular flower and needs an insect with an inordinately long proboscis in order to reach the nectar. Enter the humble bumble bee, ideally equipped for the purpose.

“Fields near towns produced heavier crops than ones further away – and no-one knew why”

SCAN THIS QR CODE WITH YOUR PHONE AND GET THE APP TODAY! SHIRE MAGAZINE We are pleased to announce… Shire brandmagazine’snew What’s On app FREE TO USE FOR EVERYONE! No need to download from the Apple App Store or Google Play We wanted to make our What’s On pages accessible to all – not just in print but also on phones, tablets and laptops! All events in our What’s On section are available to browse, like and share with friends. • previews and pictures for all events • listed by date, by area and event type • links to buy tickets • you can save events as Favourites You can also: • share your reviews of events • submit events to be added HOW TO GET THE APP Just scan the QR code with your camera, and follow the instruction to ‘Add to Home GoORScreen’online to greasy-coast-2812.glideapp.io and it will take you straight to the app Share this fab new app with your friends! Just go to the top left and tap “Share this app”

“A beautiful and tender tribute to our years of happiness, love, and devotion. Most moving. We cried. We had it framed and it has pride of place on our lounge wall.” Joyce & Albert, 70th wedding anniversary “Absolutely fantastic. The way all the facts were woven into the fabric of the poem was really good.” Susan, 40th anniversary “The poem was absolutely beautiful.” Natasha, 40th birthday  Price£35

Claire’s mum, Jacqui Email Brian Stone at brianstone212@btinternet.com

Send a poem of tender love, a poem so personal from you, conveying your deepest heartfelt love, a present given by few, give me the sentiments you want to say, and I will compose for you... My poem will weave the name of your loved one and their personal attributes in a tender loving way. This may be for birthday, Christmas, Valentines day, Anniversary, Wedding, funeral or any other occasion. I also write speeches. “Funny and sincere. Captured my mum perfectly.”

Your Personal Poetry

“It’s just like having in your

What’sShire’sOnguide

pocket!”

Denbighshire via the UK Community Renewal Fund, matched by Clocaenog Forest Windfarm Fund and led by Cadwyn Clwyd. Jessica Evans, chair of Llangollen Parks Community Group, said the money will be used for a feasibility study on ideas including a new ‘splash pad’, mini golf, bandstand renovations and e-bike charging points. More community groups and social enterprises can apply for funding of up to £20,000 for bids to the government’s Shared Prosperity fund when it launches – centred around sustainability and green growth and innovations that help the local economy ‘bounce back’. Community Innovation Denbighshire also provides grants of up to £5,000. Email admin@cadwynclwyd.co.uk, or call 01490 340500. Lowri Owain, Cadwyn Clwyd Manager I wanted to let your readers know about a new scheme that may help them, or people they know, into employment. The WeDiscover programme run jointly by Conwy Employment Hub and Wrexham-based WeMindTheGap had such a positive impact it is now being rolled out in Wrexham, Flintshire, Denbighshire, Gwynedd and Anglesey. As well as access to IT equipment and presentations by guests such as MMA fighter Aaron Aby and a zookeeper from Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay, those taking part enjoyed days out, helped with community events and received prizes for engagement. WeDiscover taster sessions will be taking place from 19th September, and are open to those not in education, employment or training. For information, email laura@wemindthegap.org.uk or call 0333 939 8818.

If you’ve missed a copy of Shire while you’ve been away, we’re happy to send you one. Just let us know which issue you need and we can pop it in the post – as long as you send us an sae for £1.60 to Shire Magazine, PO Box 276, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 1FR. An even safer bet is to subscribe to the mag so you never miss out again! See page 51 for details. Keep reading – and keep in touch! TO THE EDITOR

Maisie in the studio with tutor Clementine

Employment opportunities

Cash grants up for grabs

I’ve never won anything before and it just made it all the better. We had a fantastic day, thank you again to you and your team. I can’t wait to pick up my copy of Shire on 1 September at Sainsburys, Cheshire Oaks. Sian

FEEDBACKPICK

September/October 2022 | SHIRE MAGAZINE 146

Libby Duo, Strategic Manager for Conwy Employment Service

Thanks to all our readers for keeping in touch with us here at Shire. It has been great that so many still found time to write while the country was basking in some glorious summer weather – your e orts during the holiday season are particularly appreciated. We’ve printed a few favourites 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

Chris Bright My husband and I have just returned from the Passion for Power Car Show at Tatton Park and we thoroughly enjoyed it.

LETTERS

Parks chair Jessica Evans

Thalia and MJ, who benefited from the programme, with members of WeMindTheGap

Wrexham Sounds would like to share a callout to aspiring musicians and those who might want to share their skills. Since its launch the music studio has been providing young carers and disadvantaged children with free lessons to provide inspiration and an escape from the challenges of everyday life. One of those to benefit has been Maisie Carman, 12, a pupil at Ysgol Dinas Bran, Llangollen, referred by Young Carers. Maisie, from Cefn Mawr, helps her mum and stepdad look after her brother Leo, seven, who has completed chemotherapy and is making a full recovery while he awaits tests for autism. She loves her singing lessons with vocal and wellbeing coach Clementine Gong, and says being part of Wrexham Sounds helped rebuild her confidence after she “lost her sparkle” in lockdown. Our sessions include piano, drums, guitar, singing and more, and we plan to roll out more. For information or to join our team as a freelance tutor or volunteer, visit wrexhamsounds.org

Make music with us Allow me to thank all those involved in creating and producing your magazine. A wonderfully inspiring tribute to our treasured and exquisite Lady Cheshire and our beautiful sister districts we share. Thank you again. Yours sincerely, Rob Cunningham-Caskie I have read a few of your magazines and found them interesting and informative. Having lived in Shropshire all my life you cover the areas I love to explore. Gary Thomas Shire Magazine is professionally produced, very informative and an absolute joy to read. I keep it for reference when I want to take my family out to interesting events, and then when finished with pass it on to Bestothers.wishes, Christine I look forward to reading every issue of your magazine and love your photo pages. I have sent some pictures for the next competition as I love to take Regards,photos.

FEEDBACKREADER

UP THE NOV/DEC ISSUE AT SUPERMARKETTHEFROM4THNOV

The Enhance Llangollen Riverside Project was one of 14 initiatives to secure funding from Community Innovation

Cadwch le/ Book now Ymunwchwgu.ac.uk/openâniyn un o’n openJoinagoreddigwyddiadauusatoneofoureventsYnbersonol neu ar-lein In person or online

thatDegreesmatter Open Day: October 8th, 2022 Book now at harper.ac.uk/open 97.4%GraduateEmployment Graduate Outcomes 2022 Top 5 in the UK satisfactionstudentfor NSS 2022 Top 30 UK University The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 Limited places available via Clearing for 2022 entry - call now: 01952 815 000 VeterinaryVeterinaryVeterinaryLandFoodEnvironmentalEngineeringBusinessAnimalAgricultureSciencesManagementManagementScienceandInnovationandPropertyManagementNursingPhysiotherapyMedicine(Harper&KeeleVet School) Wildlife ZoologyConservation