EssentialsMAG February 2025 – South Wrexham Magazine
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Welcome...
Following the festivities of the New Year and the return to daily routines, February has always felt like a time to pause, take a moment, and catch our breath.
Yes, the weather might still be chilly and damp, with the days short and dark, but there’s a sense of optimism in the air. Spring is just around the corner, bringing brighter days and a sense of renewal.
This month also brings plenty to look forward to: LGBT History Month, celebrating the history and achievements of the LGBT community, St. Valentine’s Day (14th), Half Term, Random Acts of Kindness Day (17th), and Rare Disease Day (28th).
I’m also excited to share that we’ve partnered with local chef and cookery teacher Adam Gaunt-Evans, who is regularly creating recipes for us, including the one on page 26. Adam’s expertise and passion for food will add something special to each issue.
If previous years are anything to go by, February will fly by in the blink of an eye. Whatever this month has in store for you, I send you my warmest wishes.
All the best, Vicky Heathfield
EssentialsMAGYour go-to magazine for Wrexham and the bordering Cheshire villages.
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March copy deadlines: Editorial - 7 February Advertising - 14 February
Wrexham is set to host a record number of runners for this year’s Village Bakery Half Marathon, with over 1,800 participants expected to take part – the largest turnout in the event’s history. More than half of the runners hail from the city itself, marking a significant milestone for the much-loved race. Taking place on Sunday 16 February, the route begins and ends on Wrexham Industrial Estate, with the finish line located on Oak Road at the former BICC Club. Each finisher will be rewarded with a medal and a selection of Village Bakery products.
In addition to the race, this year’s event will support Wrexham Food Bank, serving as a collection point for donations on race day.
Wrecsam National Eisteddfod 2025
In August, the 2025 National Eisteddfod is coming to Wrexham, bringing one of Wales’ most celebrated cultural festivals to the heart of the community. The Eisteddfod is inviting tenders for a range of catering and retail opportunities at the 2025 festival. These include:
• Pentref Bwyd (mobile catering units)
• Retail offers across the Maes
• Platiad restaurant (sit-down dining)
• Ice cream vendors
• Caravan site catering and convenience store
• Maes B catering
• Crew canteen
Closing Date: 12:00, 17 February 2025
Proposals should be sent to catering@eisteddfod.cymru For details and to download the proposal form, please visit: https://eisteddfod.wales
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WEDDING SHOWCASE EVENING
Tuesday 4th March 2025
Call in anytime from 5:00pm – 8:00pm
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Flower Remedies and Grief
By MELANIE BURGESS
Grief comes in many forms and is something that individuals go through for many different reasons. It is unfortunately, something that we will all experience, some of us time and time again, and is possibly one of the most challenging set of emotions that any person will have to endure during their life.
When we think of grief the immediate thought is having lost a loved one or a pet. But grief can be felt for many other reasons; a friend moving away, your child no longer wanting to hold your hand, the end of a relationship, PTSD, a life changing event or the loss of a job or a home.
Whatever the cause, grief comes with a myriad of intense emotions including sadness, anger, guilt, shock and depression. Some of us may only experience one or two, whilst others experience a whole lot more. Each person is different and will experience grief in their own way, there is no set pattern or ‘correct’ way to grieve.
Bach Flower Remedies and how they can help
As with any emotional struggle, Bach Flower Remedies could help to ease the negative feelings so that you can cope more easily with your loss.
Star of Bethlehem, one of the remedies in Rescue Remedy, is for shock,
trauma and deep loss, an absolute must in such times.
Clematis could help you to reconnect with the world and to begin to process what has happened if you feel disconnected, like you are on the outside looking in, almost as if a dream.
Holly is for feeling angry or frustrated and could help you to feel less prickly, and to address situations with a more measured approach.
Pine is for those feelings of guilt or the ‘What if I had...?’ or ‘If only I had…’, ‘I wish I had...’ thoughts.
Gentian, Gorse or Sweet Chestnut are remedies for depression when you are ‘knocked back’ by the situation, or feel like there is no hope, or no point carrying on.
There are many more emotions associated with grief and these are just a few of the remedies that can help. Whichever stage you are at in your grief, whatever you are feeling, a combination of Bach Flower Remedies could give you the natural emotional support that you need.
The Pilates Centre, Wrexham welcomes everyone, from complete beginners to fitness enthusiasts who enjoy a challenge.
Whether you're looking for a mat or reformer Pilates class to improve flexibility and strength, individual Pilates sessions for a more personalised workout or to refine your technique, our specialist instructors have it covered!
We also offer group Yoga classes, Soundbaths, and Breathwork sessions to enhance your overall well-being.
Fuelled by Fibre
By SATISH CHAPPITI, Arc Healthcare Dental Services
Fibre - Part 2 – My Personal Journey
You may be wondering why a Dentist is writing about fibre? Surely teeth are my thing and all we care about is sugar.
That is correct. However over the past 29 years I have come to realise that simply asking someone to give up something is easier said than done. Reading the book “Fibre Fuelled”, made me realise that the reason people are not able to give up certain foods or their bodies will not tolerate certain foods is because of the microbiome within our guts. Each dietary choice you make will empower a specific group of microbes in your gut. If you permanently remove a food group, the microbes that thrive on that food will starve themselves into extinction.
I have never had a sweet tooth, but I do like my rice. The problem was I would gain weight very quickly and would have to give up rice for a while to lose the weight. I just couldn’t understand it, until now.
In the book, Dr Will does an experiment with someone who likes rice and by altering their microbiome, that person could now tolerate rice with no problems. So I put it to the test. And sure enough, by eating a fibre-rich diet everyday, not only did I lose weight (and two inches off my waist), but I am now able
to eat as much rice, if not more, than I did before, and not put on any weight at all.
By changing my microbiome I have also lost all cravings for any sugar at all and even snacks like crisps and biscuits. It is absolutely amazing! I have more energy than ever before, I feel better than ever before and my skin is certainly healthier than ever before.
If you or someone you know suffers from any of the following then this is for you: Heart disease, Cancer, Diabetes, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Chronic Fatigue, Autism, ADHD, Migraines, Fibromyalgia, Irritable bowel syndrome, Anxiety, Depression, Obesity, Type 1 and 2 Diabetes, Gout, Chronic Kidney Disease, Coeliac Disease, Crohn’s Disease, Sjogren’s syndrome... the list goes on.
Make it a new year’s resolution to change what you eat and alter your microbiome for good.
Once again I highly recommend getting the book, ‘Fibre Fuelled’ by Dr Will Bulsiewicz and take a look at his website, www.theplantfedgut.com. Join me on this journey. It will change your life forever.
By Satish Chappiti from Arc Healthcare, 2 Watergate
FAMILY RUN PRIVATE DENTAL PRACTICE
We o昀er a full range of dental treatments: Tooth Coloured Composite Fillings, Crowns, Bridges, Extractions, Root Canal Therapy, Digital X-Rays, Dentures, Dental Implants, Hygiene and Periodontal Treatment
The Physio & Therapy Clinic is an established and independent clinic with a team of highly specialised and experienced physiotherapists and hand therapists.
We treat a broad range of conditions - sports injuries, dizziness, women’s health and general musculoskeletal physiotherapy - using a variety of treatment techniques.
The Physio & Therapy Clinic, Gwenfro, Unit 10, Wrexham Technology Park, Wrexham LL13 7YP Tel: 01978 312 407 / Email: info@thephysioclinic.org.uk
AWARD WINNING LOCAL ESTATE AGENTS DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE
At Monopoly Buy Sell Rent Wrexham, we offer an expert service with a personal touch.
As a multi-award-winning agency, we’re known for our exceptional customer care. Our team of 8 professionals, with over 100 years of combined experience (including 5 full-time valuers), are here to support you 24/7, 365 days a year.
We’re proud to be Wrexham County’s number one selling agent for 2023 and 2024, also covering Chester, Flintshire, and North Shropshire.
With state-of-the-art IT systems and Giraffe 360 Cameras for high-quality property photos, floorplans, and virtual tours, we make sure your property stands out.
If you are thinking of selling or renting your property please get in touch today for a free-of-charge property appraisal/valuation - we’re here to help you move forward with confidence!
Dear Landlord,
Monopoly Buy Sell Rent, based in Rossett, offers both let-only and rental management services tailored to your needs.
Nearly 10 years ago, Rent Smart Wales was introduced by the Welsh Government, making it a legal requirement for landlords to register themselves and their rental properties in Wales. Two years ago, the Renting Homes Wales Act came into force, bringing significant changes for landlords. This includes a requirement to issue an Occupation Contract to all current and future tenants (now referred to as contract holders). An Occupation Contract is a standardised rental agreement, where the format is created by the Welsh Government has to be adhered too. The legislation also made it more challenging to serve notice on tenants, and similar laws are expected to come into effect in England this year.
We’ve noticed that many landlords are either unaware of the new legislation or unsure how to comply with it.
This can have serious consequences:
• Without the correct paperwork, you cannot serve notice on a tenant.
• Tenants can legally stop paying rent at any time.
• You could face prosecution for non-compliance.
To comply with the law, every rental property in Wales must have:
• The landlord registered with Rent Smart Wales (regardless of where you live).
• An Occupation Contract, Deposit Certificate, and Prescribed Information.
• An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate), Gas Safety Certificate, and EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report).
• The property maintained in a good, habitable condition at all times.
WE CAN HELP YOU!
No matter what you currently have - or don’t have - in place, we’re here to provide advice and support. Rent Smart Wales encourages landlords to register all properties, even retrospectively, so the sooner, the better.
Kindest regards,
Monopoly Buy Sell Rent
Dates for your Diary
EVERY MONDAY (DURING TERM TIME)
Inclusive Dance Sessions
WISP Dance Club
St Margaret’s Church & Community Hall, Garden Village LL11 2SH
Inclusive dance sessions for children and young people living with additional needs. 4:30pm - 5:30pm (ages 8-14) 6pm - 7pm (ages 14-25)
Taster session free Tel: 07942 361052
EVERY TUESDAY (DURING TERM TIME)
Pilates with Lucy Eccleston Village Hall, Eccleston, nr Chester CH4 9HT
Pilates focuses on improving flexibility, strength, and posture through controlled movements and breathing techniques. All welcome. 9:15am
£10.00
Tel: 07738 037432
2ND & 4TH THURSDAY
Gresford Retirement Club
Gresford Trust, off High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS
Held on 2nd and 4th Thursday of each monthjoin for engaging talks, day trips, and lovely social events! All are welcome. 2pm
Tel: 01978 852956 (Christine)
SAT 1 FEBRUARY
Indoor Car Boot
Eagles Meadow Shopping Centre Car Park, Wrexham LL13 4DG
Approximately 250 spaces available, make some extra cash, discover unique finds, and support Nightingale House Hospice.
6am - 12pm
£10.00 (per car)
SAT 1 FEBRUARY
Wrexham Street Market
Queen's Square, Wrexham LL11 1AT
Fantastic selection of street food, hot and cold drinks, sweet treats, local produce, handmade crafts and unique gifts - plus loads more! 10am - 4pm Free https://bit.ly/3PFBeVh
WED 5 FEBRUARY
Gresford WI Open Meeting
Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, off High Street, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8PS
Gresford WI open meeting with special guest speaker, Simon McCleave, author of The Snowdonia Killings series. All welcome.
7:30pm
£5.00 (Supporting Lupus UK) Tel: 07523 385048
6 - 8 FEBRUARY
Performance: My Family and Other Animals
Grove Park Theatre, Hill St, Wrexham LL11 1SN
Journey to a sun-drenched Greek island in this delightful coming-of-age story based on Gerald Durrell’s cherished memoir and adventures.
7:30pm
£6.00 groveparktheatre.co.uk
SAT 8 FEBRUARY
Coffee Morning with a Bring-and-Buy Sale
Church House, The Green, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8RG
Enjoy a cup of coffee, delicious treats, and the chance to browse unique items while supporting a great cause.
10am - 12pm Free
SAT 8 FEBRUARY
Rossett Food, Craft & Gift Market
Rossett & Burton Village Hall, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0HE
Monthly market - a mixture of local produce, gifts, artwork, Welsh blankets and more. Refreshments served. 10am - 3pm acrefayreevents@gmail.com
For a comprehensive list of local events, scan the QR code:
SAT 8 FEBRUARY
Volunteer Day
Maes y Pant, Pant Lane, Gresford LL12 8HB
Do you fancy some fresh air, good company and not too strenuous work? Maes y Pant Volunteer Days are suitable for all ages and abilities.
10am - 1pm
Meet main entrance (the gates on Pant Lane)
13 - 15 FEBRUARY
Pantomime: Peter Pan
Dodleston Village Hall, Pulford Lane, Dodleston, Chester CH4 9NN
Dodleston Players present Peter Pan, an Awfully Big Pantomime Adventure!
St Margaret’s Church & Community Hall, Garden Village LL11 2SH
Book your lifesaving blood donation session today. https://wbs.wales /EssentialsMAG
SUN 16 FEBRUARY
Stori Brymbo Dog Walking Group
Brymbo Fossil Forest
Fortnightly dog walk on Lodge Valley Park. Please keep all dogs on leads and under control. Refreshments for dogs (and humans) at the end of the walk.
9am
@StoriBrymboUK
TUE 18 FEBRUARY
The Friends of Wrexham Museum Lecture
Wrexham Memorial Hall, Wrexham LL12 7AG
Lecture on our favourite subject, “Walks in Wrexham” by Adam Howarth. Car parking in the Waterworld car park - charge applies. All welcome. 7pm
£3.00 (non-members) asandra66@hotmail.co.uk
WED 19 FEBRUARY
Pulford & Poulton
Local History Group
Pulford Village Hall, off Burganey Court, Pulford, Chester CH4 9ES
A talk by Dr Tim Astrop: "Fossil Forest - Brymbo" All welcome. Refreshments served.
7:30pm
£3.00 members/£5.00 non pplhg.org.uk
While every effort has been made to ensure all the details are correct at the time of going to print, it is advisable to check details with the venue concerned.
THUR 20 FEBRUARY
Dodleston Local History Group
Dodleston Village Hall, Pulford Lane, Dodleston, Chester CH4 9NN
A talk by Edward Hilditch: "The History of Ness Gardens".
7:30pm
£5.00 (non member) andrewbettley@gmail.com
SATURDAY 1 MARCH & SUNDAY 2 MARCH
Come and See/Bottle
Feed the Baby Lambs! The Bungalow, Darland Lane, Lavister, Rossett
Come and feed the baby lambs! Homemade cakes and refreshments available. All proceeds to Christ Church, Rossett.
St Dunawd's Church, Bangor-on-Dee, Wrexham LL13 0BU
St Dunawd’s Church, Bangor-on-Dee presents a concert by Penybont Fawr Male Voice Choir in celebration of St David’s Day.
3pm
£10.00
Tel: 01978 780735 (Brian)
Seasonal Opportunities
By JULIE GREGORY
February is a month filled with unique marketing opportunities for brands to capitalise on to engage with their customers. With events such as Valentine’s Day, the start of spring, and the anticipation of sports events, businesses can craft targeted strategies to resonate with their audiences.
Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14th, serves as a significant occasion for businesses, particularly in the retail and hospitality sectors. Once the Christmas break ended, we were surrounded by advertising and offers from local restaurants and hotels with suggestions for romantic dining experiences or mini breaks.
With thoughtful gift ideas from retailers, brands can create marketing campaigns that tap into the desire for connection and love. Engaging consumers with personalised offers, such as special discounts on flowers or chocolates can enhance brand loyalty. Additionally, using social media to share stories or user-generated content around love can foster community engagement. Brands like Hallmark and Moonpig thrive during this season, providing personalised products that appeal to consumer sentiment.
Apart from Valentine’s Day, February also brings the hope for new beginnings as spring approaches. This transition is ideal for brands to refresh their marketing messages. Businesses can start rolling out their spring collections,
encouraging customers to breathe new life into their homes and wardrobes. The promotion of seasonal items, such as garden supplies or fitness gear, can stimulate interest in outdoor activities, aligning with consumers’ aspirations for a healthier lifestyle post-winter.
Sports enthusiasts are another audience segment to consider. February often sees sporting events, including the men’s and women’s Six Nations. Brands can create marketing campaigns linking product promotions to these events, such as themed parties or exclusive merchandise. Capitalising on local pride can further strengthen community ties and drive foot traffic to physical locations, as we have all seen over the last few years with Wrexham AFC.
So, February presents a multitude of marketing opportunities for UK businesses. By tapping into the emotive nature of Valentine’s Day, the excitement of upcoming seasons, and the spirit of sports, marketers can create engaging campaigns that resonate with their audiences.
Focusing on personalisation and community connection will not only drive sales but also build lasting relationships with customers.
EssentialsMAG marketing contributor is Julie Gregory of Time For Marketing julie@timeformarketing.org
Tel: 07474 333004
Spread Kindness Every Day
Random Acts of Kindness Day began in 1995, created by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation in Denver, Colorado, to encourage people to perform selfless acts and spread positivity.
It aims to inspire kindness and remind people of the impact small, thoughtful gestures can have on others and communities. This year, the special day falls on the 17th of February.
As the date approaches, we hope to inspire you to spread a little more love and light into the world that day.
Kindness doesn’t have to be grand or expensive; even small gestures can have a big impact. Here are some simple yet meaningful ideas to spread joy this year.
For friends and family:
Send a heartfelt message
Take a moment to write a kind text, letter, or email letting someone know how much they mean to you.
Surprise them with their favourite treat
Whether it’s their favourite coffee or a home-baked goodie, a little effort can make them feel cherished.
Offer your time
Spend quality time with a loved one. A walk, a shared meal, or a video call can mean a lot.
In your community: Pay it forward
Cover the cost of a coffee or meal for the person behind you in line at a cafe. It’s a small act that can create a ripple of positivity.
Write positive notes
Leave uplifting messages in public places, like library books, park benches, or community noticeboards.
Support a local charity
Donate to a cause close to your heart or volunteer your time to help out.
For strangers:
Compliment someone
A genuine compliment to a colleague or a stranger, can make someone’s day brighter.
Lend a helping hand
Offer assistance to someone who looks like they need it, such as helping an elderly neighbour with their shopping or holding the door open for someone.
Deliver kindness anonymously
Leave a small gift, like flowers or chocolates, on a neighbour’s doorstep with a little note.
For yourself:
Practice self-kindness
Don’t forget to be kind to yourself. Treat yourself to something you enjoy or take time to rest and recharge.
Kindness is contagious, and the joy you spread can inspire others to do the same. While Random Acts of Kindness Day is a special reminder, the impact of your actions isn’t limited to just one day. Whether it’s a small gesture or a grand act, your efforts can make the world feel a little bit brighter.
Wrexham Tourism News
By JOE BICKERTON, Tourism Manager, Wrexham County Borough Council
February is here and we’re just coming to the end of a busy few weeks running our North Wales vs North America food challenge, which has seen venues across Wrexham make new relationships with local producers and kick start the year with some friendly competition! Supporting hospitality businesses has always been fundamental to what we do - as they are major employers in the area and offer a platform for many young people to develop skills and confidence.
With the increased global attention on Wrexham in recent years, as a tourism partnership - trying to ensure that our new audiences are aware of all that Wrexham County has to offer is so important and turning those day visits into overnight staycations or repeat visits.
To help with this, in 2025 we’re working more closely with neighbouring areas such as the Liverpool City Region, Marketing Cheshire, Visit Shropshire and Transport for Wales to highlight the easy access to Wrexham for those staying across the border. We know from feedback that tour operators are developing themed itineraries which span from the North West into North Wales.
With a UNESCO World Heritage Site of our own, two National Trust properties, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) plus the Ceiriog Valley, the STōK Cae Ras stadium,
an expanding University, a world class tennis centre and our growing food scene amongst many other attractions, Wrexham is becoming popular on a number of fronts.
National Eisteddfod
This summer, we also welcome the National Eisteddfod which will bring potentially over 200,000 to the Maes (the Eisteddfod site) in Iscoyd, so we’ll be helping with fringe events and activities during the festival to encourage visitors to explore Wrexham further and dip into the Welsh culture whilst they’re here. It’s a really key event this year and will take us a step further along the journey to demonstrating our capacity to hopefully become UK City of Culture in 2029, following our bid submission next year.
Tourism Ambassador Scheme
Finally, for this month, our Tourism Ambassador Scheme continues to grow in numbers and is still a free, online resource which anyone can register to take part in. By completing three short modules, you can personally become an accredited Wrexham Tourism Ambassador - or if 50% or more of your workforce complete the first three modules, you’ll become a Wrexham Ambassador business!
It’s a great tool to learn more about our area, and also to use to further promote your business. Visit: www.ambassador.wales/ambassadorcourses/wrexham-ambassador-course/
By Joe Bickerton, Tourism Manager at Wrexham County
Borough Council T. 01978 292015
www.thisiswrexham.co.uk
Gardening Tips and Advice
February - Spring is in Sight
This month, there are signs of the approaching spring, with bulbs appearing and wildlife waking up as light levels and temperatures increase. There's plenty to do indoors this month to prepare for the season ahead. Outdoors, as the garden comes to life again, it's time to prune shrubs and climbers, such as Wisteria, as well as evergreen hedges.
TOP 10 JOBS TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS MONTH
1. Prepare vegetable seed beds and sow some vegetables under cover
2. Chit potato tubers
3. Protect blossom on apricots, nectarines and peaches
4. Net fruit and vegetable crops to keep the birds off
5. Prune winter-flowering shrubs that have finished flowering
6. Divide bulbs such as snowdrops and plant those that need planting 'in the green'
7. Prune Wisteria
8. Prune hardy evergreen hedges and renovate overgrown deciduous hedges
9. Prune conservatory climbers such as Bougainvillea
10. Cut back deciduous grasses left uncut over the winter, remove dead grass from evergreen grasses.
PART TIME JOB VACANCY
APPLICATIONS ARE INVITED FOR POSITION OF: Clerk/Responsible Financial Officer to Sesswick Community Council
Salary: £12.21 per hour, plus travel over and above regular meetings.
REQUIREMENTS:
Attendance, agenda and minute taking skills and office skills (email, Word, Excel) are essential with some knowledge of operating a website. The role entails an average of 3 hours per week, working from home, starting 2025.
To apply, please complete a CV with references. It would be appreciated if applications were forwarded as early as possible for consideration.
Please refer to Sesswick Community Council website for more details, or see the community notice board.
Please email your CV and references to: clerk@sesswickcommunitycouncil.gov.wales Tel. 01978 781220 / 01978 780738
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Mussels with Bacon, Leeks, Cider & Cream
Mussels are in peak season during colder months (the old saying is to cook Mussels in months of the year containing the letter ‘R’) They are a healthy, inexpensive and sustainable source of protein - as well as being delicious! Mussels are available in good local supermarkets with fish counters.
When preparing fresh mussels, rinse the shells and using a small knife remove any barnacles and ensure shells are clean of debris. Next pull out the ‘beards’ which attached the mussels to their rope or rock - these are on the flat side of the shell. Only cook mussels which are fully closed and discard any that do not close up fully when you tap the shells on a worktop, (fresh mussels will close up when tapped which replicates the tide).
INGREDIENTS:
1kg fresh mussels
100g smoked bacon, or pancetta lardons
1 small leek, thinly sliced
100ml dry cider
150ml double cream
Small handful chopped parsley
TO SERVE:
Chunks of crusty bread. (I’ve started buying an amazing sourdough from Humble & Whole bakery in Rossett)
PREP: 15 minutes SERVES: 4
COOK: 5 minutes
METHOD:
Heat up a large sauce pan and add bacon or pancetta, start to fry until light golden in colour.
Add leeks and soften with the pancetta for one minute.
Add mussels and cider, and quickly cover with a lid turning the heat up high.
Simmer the mussels, shaking occasionally until they have all opened (2-3 minutes).
Drain mussels and arrange in bowls, discarding any that haven’t opened.
Reduce the cooking liquor by half, add the cream and bring back to the boil.
Finish the mussels with the cream sauce, a handful of chopped parsley and chunks of bread.
Recipe by ADAM GAUNT-EVANS
Adam
Seasonal Treats in February
Bring some cheer to meal times in the depths of winter with these seasonal superstars…
Cauliflower
With a mild flavour when properly cooked, cauliflower can easily take on the taste of any ingredients it’s used with. There is, of course, the comforting classic of cauliflower cheese – steam cook then drain before generously covering in Cheddar cheese sauce and baking until the cheese is bubbling and turning golden. Its meaty texture also makes cauliflower a perfect replacement for vegetarian dishes – cut into 5cm-thick steaks, steam until just tender, then add to a hot frying pan and sear in butter before roasting for 10 minutes until caramelised.
Forced rhubarb
When there isn’t much fresh produce around, forced rhubarb brings a touch of brightness to winter menus. It is traditionally grown in almost complete darkness in heated sheds inside the fabled Yorkshire Rhubarb Triangle (nine square miles between Rothwell, Morley and Wakefield) and hand-picked between January and March by candlelight.
Forced rhubarb’s eccentric cultivation results in pretty pink stalks that need no peeling, as they are far more tender than the outdoor-
grown version, and they keep their shape better when cooked, too – and without a hint of stringiness. To prep, simply trim and remove the toxic leaves before cooking or freezing.
Jerusalem artichoke
Jerusalem artichoke is a small, lumpy tuber that’s no relation to its rather more gorgeous globe namesake. But what it lacks in the looks department, it more than makes up for in taste.
With a nutty, earthy flavour, it can be used both raw and cooked, but you do need to cook or serve it fast once you’ve trimmed and sliced it, as otherwise it starts to oxidise and lose its depth of flavour. It goes well with earthy fish, or white meat like chicken or pork.
Try it sliced and fried in butter, spiralised in a crunchy salad, or roasted.
The Centre for the Child, Wrexham University, Mold Road, Wrexham LL11 2AW
For information about places please contact KIM or BECCA
Tel: 01978 314912 littlescholars@activechildcare.co.uk Why not pay us a visit and see what we
“Almost all creativity involves purposeful play”
- ABRAHAM MASLOW
ffer you and your
• Purpose built nursery
• Dedicated and passionate practitioners
• Registered to deliver EE and the Childcare Offer
• Open to the general public as well as students and staff at GlyndŴr University
• Holiday Club provision for ages 4‐12 also available
Acton Park Primary School
Happy, Respectful, Inspired Achievers
Acton Park Primary School is a friendly, caring and nurturing school with a ‘family feel’, catering for children aged from 3 - 11 years.
To find out more about our school, or to arrange a visit, please contact us.
01978 318950
mailbox@actonpark-pri.wrexham.sch.uk
Box Lane, Wrexham LL12 8BT
Alyn Family Doctors Latest News
As qualified healthcare professionals, Pharmacists are experts in medicine who can help you with minor health concerns. Pharmacists dispense prescriptions, provide free advice, and offer over-the-counter medicines for common ailments. Pharmacies in Wales offer a free ‘Common Ailments Service’, providing consultations and medication for conditions that self-care can't manage - an alternative to GP, or out-ofhours appointments. Conditions include:
• Acne
• Diarrhoea
• Nappy rash
• Athletes foot
• Dry eye
• Oral thrush
• Backache (acute)
• Haemorrhoids
• Ringworm
• Chickenpox
• Hayfever
• Scabies
• Cold sores
• Head lice
• Sore throat
• Colic
• Indigestion
• Teething
• Conjunctivitis (bacterial)
• Intertrigo
• Threadworm
• Constipation
• Ingrowing toenail
• Vaginal thrush
• Dermatitis (dry skin)
• Mouth ulcers
• Verruca
The Pharmacist Independent Prescribing services is also available at selected pharmacies locally, where suitably qualified and competent pharmacists can prescribe for a range of minor illnesses not covered by the common ailment service, and for routine contraception. These independent prescribers can now offer advice and treatment for the following conditions:
• Urinary tract infections
• Skin infections - impetigo, rash
• Ear infections
• Sinusitis and sinus pain
• Sore throat and tonsillitis
• Eczema and dermatitis
• Shingles
Pharmacies offering the ‘Sore Throat Test and Treat’ service can assess your symptoms, and where appropriate, perform a quick and pain-free test where they will swab your throat. Medication may be supplied for those patients where an antibiotic is required. To utilise any of these services, you will require an appointment; simply call your selected pharmacy to arrange an appointment, or visit: https://111.wales.nhs.uk/localservices to see live availability at local pharmacies.
Pharmacies also offer services like emergency contraception, health checks, needle exchange, and over-the-counter medication.
Tel: 0333 332 3260
www.alynfamilydoctors.co.uk
www.facebook.com/alynfamilydoctors
Are you tired of rushed eye tests or feeling uninspired by your glasses?
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* This offer is limited to five EssentialsMAG readers. Terms & conditions apply.
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Legal Advice
By MICHAEL OGDEN, Senior Conveyancing Solicitor
It’s an ill wind that blows when it comes to responsibility for damaged fences!
Following the recent spate of high winds that have caused fences to fall like stacks of dominoes in some areas, solicitors have been inundated with requests for confirmation of who owns which fence.
Historically, there have been a variety of misconceptions among property owners regarding fence ownership. Some think that they are responsible for the fence on the left side of their boundary, others that the responsibility lies with whoever has the posts on their side. In reality, however, there is no rule of thumb.
One indication of ownership is a ‘T’ marked on your Land Registry plan, which if it is on your side of a boundary indicates that that fence, together with its posts and cross bars, is your responsibility. These days, however, such marks are often nowhere to be found on the plans.
If neither your Land Registry plan nor documents indicate boundary responsibility, then it usually means the responsibility for the fence is jointly held by the property owners each side of it.
But even if you can prove the fence is the other party’s responsibility, getting them to do anything about it is another matter altogether.
If the state of the fence is considered a danger and it is the responsibility of your neighbour who refuses to do nothing about it, then you can report it to your local council who can take enforcement action against your neighbour to make it good. This can however, take months or even years.
When you buy a property, it is likely that your conveyancing will establish whose responsibility the boundary fences and walls are and inform you. The problem is that in the whole scheme of things this may not be of sufficient importance to you at the time to remember what was said. It is, however, a good idea to know and retain such information prior to maintenance work being required.
If you do find that you and your neighbour have joint responsibility, you should speak to them about how you are going to get the repairs done and paid for. If they are difficult about it, getting a solicitor to send them a letter confirming their responsibility may help.
This article has been written by Michael Ogden, Senior Conveyancing Solicitor, GHP Legal Tel: 01978 291456 www.ghplegal.com
Getting Your Head Around Tax Jargon: Top Financial Terms Explained
By WARREN HADLOW
Financial jargon can get in the way of feeling confident about managing your money and can put us off making sound decisions (or any decisions at all) if we don’t understand the terms and whether or not they apply to us. Hadlow Edwards want to help as many people as possible to feel empowered in their financial choices, so here are some of the top terms that might crop up when dealing with your finances or taxes.
1. What does CGT stand for?
CGT stands for Capital Gains Tax - the tax you pay if you sell certain assets or investments (such as a painting, vintage car, or second home) that have increased in value since you acquired them. You pay tax on the increase in value (or the ‘gain’), not on the total value of the asset itself.
For the current tax year, 2024/25, the first £3,000 of a capital gain is tax-free, however CGT rules and regulations can be quite complex. Even when you understand the principle, there are different levels of CGT, depending on your tax band and the asset you’ve made a gain on, as well as some CGT exemptions.
2. What does IHT stand for?
IHT stands for Inheritance Tax which is the tax charge on your ‘estate’ when you pass away. It only applies to the value of your estate above your available nil rate band and residence nil rate band, which varies depending on your individual circumstances. Family conversations around inheritances and legacies can be challenging due to the emotions surrounding the topic of death, so involving a financial adviser as an intermediary can help you reach a decision that everyone is comfortable with.
3. Is there an annual pension allowance?
The Pensions annual allowance is the maximum amount that can be paid into your pension each tax year from yourself, your employer or any third party, plus the government’s pensions tax relief. The current amount you can pay in is capped at £60,000.
By Warren Hadlow of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited
hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk
Tel: 01978 311 611
www.hadlowedwards.co.uk
If you would like us to help you make sense of your finances, build your confidence, and help you utilise your tax reliefs and allowances before the Tax Year End deadline (5th April), please feel free to get in touch.
If you didn’t use all your allowance in the previous three tax years you can carry it forward for up to three tax years.
Any amount paid in excess of your available annual allowance, including any carried forward, will be subject to Income Tax.
We understand that the financial services industry can be complex which is why we are happy to break down the confusing jargon and share our knowledge in a way that is easier to digest.
The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.
The levels and bases of taxation and reliefs from taxation can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances.
Business Advice Learning Hub
By VICKY HEATHFIELD
How to optimise your email marketing without a huge customer list or budget
Email marketing remains one of the most effective ways to engage with your customers and build a loyal following, even for small businesses with modest resources. The key to success isn’t about having a massive email list – it’s about making the most of what you have.
Segment your audience
Segmenting your email list allows you to send more personalised, relevant messages. Even with a small list, you can break it down into groups based on interests, location, or past purchasing behaviour. This way, each email feels more tailored, increasing the chance of engagement.
Focus on quality over quantity
Focus on attracting the right people to your email list, to ensure your subscribers are genuinely interested in what you offer.
For example - a local dog walking company may ask clients to sign up after a walk or consultation and offer a free guide on “Five Essential Tips for Your Dog’s Health” in exchange for joining. They then send out targeted emails to these subscribers, offering services that match their specific needs, such as daily walks or pet-sitting. This way, they ensure that their messages are relevant, leading to higher engagement, better customer retention, and more word-of-mouth referrals.
Test and Improve
A huge benefit of email marketing is that you can track and measure the success of your campaigns. Test different subject lines, send times, and content formats to see what works best, and use these insights to improve the future emails you send.
Optimise for mobile
More people read emails on their phones than ever before, so make sure your emails are mobile-friendly. For example - the dog walking company email might include:
• Large, clickable buttons for easy booking of walks or pet-sitting services, making it simple for subscribers to book.
• Short, scannable content with clear headings and short, concise text.
• Optimised images of dogs during their walks, ensuring the pictures load quickly without slowing down the user experience.
By focusing on creating quality content, segmentation, and continual improvement, even a small email list can lead to big results.
Whether you’re starting a new business, working for yourself or managing a team, EssentialsMAG Learning Hub is home to a growing collection of jargon-free marketing and business resources. Visit: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/learning-hub
By Vicky Heathfield, Editor of EssentialsMAG
Tel: 01978 855459
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Empower Yourself: First Aid Training
By DAVE JONES, Red Dragon Ventures
Learning basic first aid is a vital skill that everyone should have. While emergencies are unpredictable, being prepared to respond can not only give you peace of mind, but could also make a life-saving difference.
Minor injuries like cuts, burns, or sprains are common, and knowing how to treat them properly with first aid can help prevent infection and speed up healing. Plus, acting quickly and calmly can prevent the situation from worsening and improve recovery.
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)
Would you know what to do if someone collapsed in front of you? The ability to act quickly could literally be the difference between life and death. CPR works by manually restoring blood flow to the brain and other vital organs when someone's heart stops beating or they stop breathing. It involves two key steps: chest compressions and rescue breaths.
Chest compressions help pump blood to the heart and brain, ensuring oxygen continues to reach vital organs. By pushing down on the chest at a steady rhythm, you mimic the heart's pumping action, helping circulate blood until professional help arrives.
Rescue breaths provide oxygen to the lungs, helping to replenish the body’s oxygen supply. Together, chest compressions and rescue breaths can significantly increase the chances of survival by buying time until emergency responders can take over with advanced care.
Choking
Imagine you're dining out at a restaurant with friends when suddenly, one of them begins to choke on their food! They're struggling to breathe and unable to speak. In this moment, would you know what to do?
Knowing basic first aid in this situation could save their life. ‘Abdominal Thrusts’ is a simple technique that involves applying pressure to the abdomen, which forces air from the lungs and can help dislodge the object blocking the airway. But if you're unable to perform abdominal thrusts, or the person is pregnant or too large for abdominal thrusts, back blows are an effective alternative. By leaning the person forward and delivering firm back blows between the shoulder blades, you can help clear the obstruction.
Red Dragon Ventures
These are just a few examples of how important first aid skills can be - and why it’s essential to receive proper training to ensure you know how to act effectively in an emergency.
Red Dragon Ventures Ltd are a local family run company. We offer a wide range of first class First Aid Courses, including options for beginners, workplace, outdoor, paediatric, and refresher training, starting from just £60.
By Dave WW Jones Red Dragon Ventures Ltd dave@reddragonventures.co.uk
www.reddragonventuresltd.com Tel: 07779 003131
LIVE MUSIC
THROUGHOUT
Mr C Karaoke 8pm – 1am
Function
From 8pm Saturday 8th February Steven Lockheart
From 5pm Sunday 9th February Purple
From 8pm Saturday 1st February Holly Bush Inn & Ebenezer
From 8pm Saturday 15th February Free
From 8pm Saturday 22nd February Jamie Cook
From 5pm Sunday 23rd February
2ND & 4TH WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH Jazz & Blues 8pm
1ST, 3RD & 5TH WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH Open Mic Karaoke 8pm
Phil Cabral
Lesley Griffiths MS
Member of the Senedd for Wrexham
Nightingale House Hospice is a cornerstone of our community, providing specialist palliative care services to those with lifelimiting illnesses. In recent years, the hospice has undergone an extensive renovation, which includes the redevelopment of a state-of-theart 12-bed in-patient ward. Over £5m has been invested in total and after initial delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the new facility officially opened last year.
Before Christmas, I had the pleasure of visiting Nightingale House, to not only see the exceptional, new facilities, but also meet some of the amazing staff who deliver outstanding care and support to individuals and families often facing the most difficult time of their lives. During my visit, I was able to discuss some of the challenges facing the hospice with Chief Executive, Steve Parry and Chair of Trustees, Chris Burgoyne.
Nightingale House is a registered charity. It receives approximately 20% of its funding from statutory sources, such as the local Health Board and Welsh Government. The remaining 80% comes from the local community and grant funding bodies.
The hospice simply would not be able to function without the support of the community and I pay tribute to the 450 active volunteers who make such an invaluable contribution.
I was also interested to learn how Nightingale House is encouraging self-referrals, meaning patients can access its services without going through a healthcare professional. Whether its physiotherapy, a period of respite, family support or end of life admission, people are
welcome to contact the hospice directly to discuss their specific situation and needs. The Patient Flow Team is available between 9am –4pm, Monday to Friday and can be contacted on 01978 316806
We are fortunate to have such a fantastic facility on our doorstep and I will continue to do all I can to support Nightingale House.
Congratulations to Wrexham residents Zac Jones Prince and Morgan Peters who were recently elected to the Welsh Youth Parliament. First established in 2018, the Welsh Youth Parliament offers Wales’ younger generation the chance to have their say on the things that matter to them.
60 young people aged 11 – 17 were elected to the third Youth Parliament in November. Zac, who attends Ysgol Clywedog, is Wrexham’s representative and Morgan was a partnerelected member, thanks to his work with EYST (Ethnic Youth Support Team).
Being a member of the Welsh Youth Parliament offers a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and develop your skills and I wish both Zac and Morgan the very best.
Welcome to your February colouring adventure! Grab your crayons, felt tips, or pencils, and let your imagination run wild. Have fun, and get creative!
Please share your colouring creations with us with us on Facebook:
@EssentialsMag Wrexham
What’s your favourite colour?
CREATE TRUE CONFIDENCE FROM WITHIN
YOUR PRO-AGEING JOURNEY
with Amanda Azzopardi
Have you ever thought about how you want to age?
Throughout your ageing journey, various hormonal stages affect bone strength, joints, and skin health. We lose collagen, fat, and bone density, leading to issues like hair loss, pelvic floor dysfunction, and joint pain. From pregnancy to menopause, hormones impact our ageing, but you can take control of your journey!
With extensive experience and a genuine approach to client care, Amanda Azzopardi stands as a leading provider of aesthetic treatments.
BEFORE AFTER
ENABLE EMPOWERMENT THROUGH THE PRO-AGEING PROCESS
» Full facial rejuvenation
» Anti wrinkle treatment
» Thread lift procedures
» Skin boosting treatments
» Dermal filler treatment
» Polynucleotides
» Resurfacing peels
» Preventing skin cancer with skin care
» IV nutrition therapy
» Intimate vaginal rejuvenation
» Spider leg veins
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» Weight management/ gut health
Directory of Advertisers
Puzzle Page...
Just For Fun
Crossword
ACROSS
1 Nasal (6)
4 Shelter (6)
9 Goal; intention (7)
10 Short moral story (7)
11 Indian lute (5)
12 Choose to do something (5)
14 Expressed clearly (5)
15 Exceed (5)
17 Wide-awake (5)
18 Diminish (7)
20 Beginning to exist (7)
21 Not real or genuine (6)
22 Colourless gas with formula C2H6 (6)
DOWN
1 Meal (6)
2 Source of annoyance (8)
3 Love affair (5)
5 Deprived of food (7)
6 Young sheep (4)
7 Relatively limited (of an amount) (6)
8 Substitute (11)
13 And so on (2,6)
14 Noisiest (7)
15 Late time of life (3,3)
16 Sculptured figure (6)
17 Item of value (5)
19 Writing fluids (4)
If you’d like to know the answers, they will be published in next month’s edition.
Here are the answers from January:
Classic Sudoku
Upgrade your conservatory by replacing your old polycarbonate roof with a new, insulated ‘Warmer Roof’ system and make it into a more usable space not only for those sunny days but for everyday.
Give us a call to find out how we can make your windows and doors more energyefficient and maybe help to lower your energy costs in the winter. Plus, for a limited time only, any window orders will receive a free upgrade to ‘Ultimate Glass’ - call for details. T&Cs apply.
SHOWROOM ADDRESS
Unit 5 Moreton Business Park, Gledrid, Nr. Oswestry, Shropshire, LL14 5DG
