EssentialsMAG March 2024 – South Wrexham Magazine

Welcome to our March issue!

Spring has arrived, or has it?

The Met Office declares that ‘meteorological’ spring always starts on 1st March, but here at EssentialsMAG, we embrace it on 19th March – the vernal equinox.

Regardless of your chosen day, this month unmistakably exudes a springtime vibe, marked by various celebrations: St. David’s Day (Friday 1st), Mother’s Day (Sunday 10th), and St. Patrick’s Day (Sunday 17th). And as we reach the end of the month, there's the delightful occasion of Easter to celebrate.

For me, a special note strikes on Made in UK Day (Saturday 9th). It's a chance to celebrate the local talent and craftsmanship that breathes life into British-made products. It's an opportunity to support our communities, strengthen our economy, and harmonise with the environment. Discover more at: www.makeitbritish.co.uk/madeinukday

And don’t forget that the clocks ‘spring forward’ on Sunday 31st March, when we can start to look forward to longer, lighter evenings with more opportunities to get outside and enjoy the fresh air, and all those other glorious signs of spring!

Have a great month!

All the best,

Vicky Heathfield

News

Nature Connect

Agri-cation CIC, is an on-farm education provider on the outskirts of Wrexham. Their innovative approach, combining the virtues of agriculture and education, are to empower individuals, equipping them with essential life skills and qualifications that open doors to employment opportunities. This concept bridges the gap between people seeking work, and the world of agriculture, connecting them with the land, the environment, and a range of valuable life lessons.

Agri-cation are running a six-week programme giving participants the opportunity to gain:

• Employability skills

• Level 2 in Agricultural Health & Safety

• LANTRA qualifications that suit individuals’ key goals

• A reconnect with nature.

Transport, resources and food are provided. If you feel this course is of interest and would like some more information, contact: info@agrication.co.uk /emma@agrication.co.uk Visit the website: https://agrication.co.uk

Shooting Star Celebrates 20th Birthday

The Shooting Star Cancer Support Unit at Wrexham Maelor Hospital, has recently celebrated its 20th Anniversary. This marked an amazing milestone in improved cancer care for patients in the Wrexham area.

At the event, Lord Barry Jones, Mick Crumplin, and David Parry all paid tributes to the dedicated staff, past and present, for their wonderful work over the years. David Parry, Chair of Shooting Star, said: “I would like to thank the local people who have supported the charity so constantly and generously, enabling the original construction of the main unit, The Macmillan Centre, and the three surrounding gardens. The continuous donations have also funded the regular purchase of equipment, and various projects over the last 20 years.”

Wrexham Museum and the Football Museum Wales are launching a new season of Football Heritage Tours of the city centre. English and Welsh language tours will be running on:

• Friday 15 March

• Thursday 28 March

• Friday 26 April

Tickets are £9.00 each.

Book online at: http://tinyurl.com/ 38b9tdz2

Overton Knit & Natter

The Overton Knit and Natter group meets every Thursday morning between 11am and 2pm at the Two Doves Café in Overton. Established around 18 months ago, the group fosters a sense of community among local knitters and crocheters, welcoming both experienced crafters and those interested in learning from scratch. Currently, the group comprises 11 members, each possessing unique skills and abilities in knitting and crocheting.

The group has engaged in various charitable activities, including 'yarn bombing' the Overton postbox at Christmas, selling knitted and crocheted hearts for the British Heart Foundation on Valentine's Day, crafting bees with seeds for St Mary's Church, and creating a King Charles tea cosy for a charity raffle. Additionally, the group has donated knitted teddies, baby hats, and blankets to the Special Care Baby Unit at Maelor Hospital, provided knitted hats for the homeless through the Salvation Army, and currently offers knitted Easter chicks (with Cadbury's Creme Eggs) for sale at Two Doves Café, Overton, supporting Hope House Hospice.

Engaging in knitting and crocheting can be both enjoyable and creative, offering a calming and relaxing outlet that may help reduce feelings of depression and anxiety. It helps with dexterity, hand-eye coordination and strengthens social connections.

Overton Knit & Natter welcomes new members. The friendly and supportive group also enjoys sharing a cup of tea or coffee, along with a delicious piece of cake!

Join them for a delightful experience! No need to book - just turn up on a Thursday!

Calling All Artists and Artisans!

Ebenezer Chapel in Cefn Mawr at the Pontcysyllte World Heritage Site, is set to re-open in May 2024. Local artists and artisans are welcome to reach out for the opportunity to exhibit their work at the beautiful gallery in the Chapel. The Ebenezer plans to host a continuous programme of arts throughout the summer, providing a platform to showcase local talent to international visitors and locals alike.

If you’d like more information, or would like to exhibit at Ebenezer Chapel, please contact Dave Metcalfe: email: pkcgroup@hotmail.co.uk, Tel: 01691 239 644

Grow Your Mindset!

By EssentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KENNEY

Fun tips for crushing your health goals!

Hey there, health enthusiasts! Ready to kick those goals into high gear? Well, buckle up because we're about to dive into the wonderful world of growth mindset and how it can turbocharge your journey to better health.

Let's get started with three simple tips:

Flip the script

When life hands you lemons, make lemonade, right? Same goes for health hurdles. Instead of seeing setbacks as roadblocks, think of them as detours on the road to success. Embrace the challenges and learn from them.

Remember, it's not about avoiding the bumps but about how you navigate them that counts.

Progress, not perfection

Listen up, perfectionists—this one's for you! It's time to ditch the all-or-nothing mentality and embrace the beauty of progress. Every little step forward, whether it's swapping soda for water or adding an extra lap to your run, deserves a round of applause.

So, celebrate those small victories like the health champ you are!

Stay ‘flexy’

No, we're not talking about yoga (although that's cool too). We're talking about being flexible with your approach to health. Sometimes life throws curveballs, and your perfectly planned workout or meal prep might go out of the window. But fear not! A growth mindset means rolling with the punches and adapting on the fly.

So, if your kale salad turns into pizza night, just remember—tomorrow's a new day to crush it.

In a nutshell, adopting a growth mindset is like strapping a rocket booster to your health journey. Embrace challenges, celebrate progress, and stay flexible; with these three tips in your toolkit, there's no stopping you from achieving your health goals and living your best, vibrant life.

So go on, get out there and show those goals who's boss!

By Sasha Kenney

Helping people to think and feel better

The founder of Hoola Nation

sasha@hoolanation.co.uk

Brighter Days & Flower Remedies

By MELANIE BURGESS

Spring is on its way. The days are longer, the weather is warmer (mostly!), spring flowers are starting to grow and life is generally a little bit brighter now that the darker winter months are almost behind us for another year.

But are you still finding life tricky, an emotional rollercoaster that you just can’t seem to get off? Bach flower remedies might just be what you need to make the emotional challenges of life a bit easier to manage.

Bach flower remedies are a natural, gentle and safe approach to emotional healing suitable for any person or animal, of any age. Taken as drops, in your mouth or in a drink, the remedies help to bring our emotions back into balance so that we aren’t overwhelmed by constant negativity and can get on with day to day life.

There are 38 remedies in total, each relating to a different emotional state, taken in combinations of up to six remedies so they can be tailored to meet anyone’s needs. When your needs change, you can change the remedies to address how you are feeling at that moment in time.

Have a good look at what is causing you concern at the moment, how does it make you feel?

Are you feeling anxious about your job or income, worrying about a family member, struggling with feeling low and not having any motivation?

Do you feel frustrated by other’s actions?

Are you suffering from menopause symptoms, Mum or Dad guilt, extreme anxiety about mixing with large groups of people?

Are you struggling with a traumatic event, lost someone close or have exams coming up?

No matter what the emotion, whether the situation has just happened or has been going on for years, there is a Bach flower remedy to help.

You can choose your own remedies; book a consultation, or there are tried and tested remedy combinations. There is an option for everyone.

Life can be brighter!

Find more information, please visit: www.pureflowerremedies.com

For more details, contact

Burgess at Daisy Holistics Tel: 07970 758811

Dates for your Diary

FRI 1 MARCH

St David's Day Parade

Wrexham city centre

The St David’s Day Parade procession will traverse through the town, concluding at Queen’s Square, where participants will unite to sing the National Anthem.

1pm Free

Tel: 01352 744040 (Maiwenn)

SAT 2 MARCH

Coffee Morning

Overton Village Hall, Penyllan Street, Overton, Wrexham LL13 0EE

Overton WI's annual Coffee Morning - tea, coffee and the famous bacon baps! Lots of stalls - crafts, handbags, cakes, cookies, local honey, eggs, plants.

10am - 12:30pm Free

TUE 5 MARCH

Project Blossom

Holt Community Centre, Chapel Street, Holt, Wrexham LL13 9DJ

New weekly classes to support girls aged 8-13 with their confidence, self-esteem, and low-level anxieties.

6:30pm - 7:30pm

£8.00

http://tinyurl.com/ye25y9ds

WED 6 & 20 MARCH

Rossett Art Group

Rossett Village Hall, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0HE

Friendly art group - all welcome! Meet on the first Wednesday of each month, 10am - 12pm; and also on the 3rd Wednesday of each month, 2pm - 4pm.

Tel: 01244 571089

FRI 8 MARCH

Brymbo Male Choir Concert

St Mary Magdalene Church, Penley, Wrexham LL13 0NN

Renowned for their impeccable vocals, this will be a truly enchanting performance. Book early to avoid disappointment. All proceeds to Penley Church.

7:30pm

£8.00

Tel: 01948 830258 (Phyllis)

SAT 9 MARCH

Penley Litter Pick

Penley Village Hall, Hollybush Lane, Penley, Wrexham LL13 0NH

Village litter pick meeting at Penley Village Hall. Refreshments and all equipment supplied. All welcome.

10am

SAT 9 MARCH

Mothering Saturday

Craft Event

Christ Church, Rossett, Station Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0GD

Free ‘Mothering Saturday’ craft event for all the family. All welcome.

10am - 12pm

Free

FRI 15 & THU 28 MARCH

Football Heritage Tour of Wrexham

Wrexham County Borough Museum & Archives, Regent Street, Wrexham LL11 1RB

A walking tour looking at the people, places and events that shaped football in Wrexham and across the whole of Wales. Tours in English and Welsh.

10:30am

£9.00

http://tinyurl.com/yc54zvkb

FRI 15 MARCH

Maelor Music Society Concert

St Chad's Church, Hanmer, Wrexham SY13 3DE

Another wonderful evening of music making, featuring John’s Boys Choir.

7:30pm

£10.00 on the door

Tel: 01978 710486 (Geoff)

SAT 16 MARCH

Refugee Kindness

Ladies Tea Party

Wrexham Methodist Church, 37 Regent St, Wrexham LL11 1RY

Bring along your favourite Welsh delicacy so that all women from various backgrounds have this opportunity to experience a real British Tea Party! Also hair, nail and henna stalls.

2pm - 5pm Free

TUE 19 MARCH

Holt Flower ClubWorkshop For All Wrexham Golf Club, Wrexham LL13 9SB

Flower demonstration with Dawn Weaver. All flowers and material provided.

7:30pm

£20.00 members/£30.00 non

Tel: 0000

TUE 19 MARCH

Friends of Wrexham Museum Talk

Wrexham Memorial Hall, Bodhyfryd, Wrexham LL12 7AG

Archaeologist, Fiona Gale, will be talking about the current conservation work at Ruthin Castle.

7pm

£3.00 visitors asandra66@hotmail.co.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.

For a comprehensive list of local events, or to submit yours, please visit our website: essentialsmag.co.uk/whats-on

TUE 19 - SAT 23 MARCH

Frankenstein - play

Grove Park Theatre, Hill St, Wrexham LL11 1SN

Latest performance from Grove Park Theatre.

7:30pm

£8.00 adult/£5.00 child groveparktheatre.co.uk

WED 20 MARCH

Celebrating Entrepreneurship

Wrexham University, Mold Road, Wrexham LL11 2AW

Connect with like-minded individuals, gain inspiration, and learn from successful entrepreneurs. Book online

12pm - 3pm Free

http://tinyurl.com/3ymva9ka

WED 20 MARCH

Pulford & Poulton Local History Group

Pulford Village Hall, off Burganey Court CH4 9ES

A talk by Rob Philpot: "Vikings in the Wirral"

7:30pm

£3.00 members/£5.00 non pplhg.org.uk

THU 21 MARCH

Holt Local History Society Lecture

Holt Community Centre, Chapel Street, Holt, Wrexham LL13 9DJ

A talk by Dr Rob Philpot: "The Huxley Hoard"

7:30pm £5.00 visitors

SAT 23 MARCH

Spring Food Fair

Alyn Waters Country Park, Mold Rd, Gwersyllt, Wrexham LL11 4AG

Delicious food from vendors across Wrexhamshowcasing what small businesses in our local community have to offer.

11am - 3pm Free

SAT 30 MARCH

Wrexham Artisan Market

Queen’s Square, Wrexham LL11 1AT

Quarterly event in Wrexham city centreeverything from gifts to street food.

10am - 4pm Free

An Ocean State of Mind

By DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

When it comes to ultra-luxury cruising, there’s a new kid on the block: Explora Journeys. This brand-new cruise line is carving out a category of its own by offering unparalleled comfort and space - a real home-away-from-home at sea.

Explora 1 was launched last summer with five more spectacular ships to follow in the next five years. With just 922 passengers and a guest per host ratio of 1.25:1, the service on board is second to none. It showcases six vibrant restaurants, twelve elegant bars and lounges and a Chef’s Kitchen where guests can learn about - and participate in - exceptional cooking from all around the World.

The atmosphere on board is less cruise and more top luxury hotel resort. There are beautiful spaces to relax both inside and out. The four fabulous pool areas with ocean view Jacuzzi are the perfect areas to enjoy the sun. You can choose your restaurant each evening as the mood takes you and enjoy premium drinks and fine wines throughout the ship. The dress code is informal which encourages a relaxed atmosphere.

To accompany your pre-dinner cocktail, there is diverse musical entertainment in the various lounges around the ship and the Journeys Lounge has two top-notch shows each evening.

However, unlike most cruise ship shows, there is a more laid-back approach and you are welcome to come and go as you wish. Movie nights in the comfortable Conservatory pool and bar area is the ultimate in low-key relaxation, whilst those who enjoy live music and dancing are also well catered for. There is an amazing spa with steam room, sauna, salt cave, hydrotherapy pool and heated marble loungers.

Having just spent nine wonderful nights on board, I would be delighted to share my experience with those of you who are interested.

Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises.

Tel: 01978 853 886, www.delmarworld.com

54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE

Wrexham Tourism News

By JOE BICKERTON, Tourism Manager, Wrexham County Borough Council

As we move towards the Spring, there are a few upcoming events to bring you news about, and some exciting developments on the horizon that will enhance the tourism experience here in Wrexham over the coming year.

Indeed, this next year promises to be a really busy one from an inward travel point of view. Only last month, we welcomed 20 US-based travel agencies to Wrexham. These US agencies are already seeing a big influx in North Wales bookings with Wrexham high on the itinerary!

We’re working closely to highlight the wider attractions of Wrexham County with the likes of United Airlines, Visit Wales and Visit Britain, so that visitors coming primarily to see the Racecourse Stadium, The Turf and our World Heritage Site are given enough reasons to base themselves here longer, for the benefit of our wider hospitality industry.

St David’s Day Parade (Friday 1st March)

As usual, we have our City Centre Parade leaving Queen’s Square at 1pm, and live music either side of it, with many shops in town dressing their windows in celebration.

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct re-opening!

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct has been closed for winter maintenance. These works require a full draining of the canal trough and inspection of the ironwork, usually under the water.

There will be no plug pulling this year! Instead, the canal will be blocked off at each end of the aqueduct and the water from Llangollen pumped across to Froncysyllte to maintain the downstream flow. All being well, the aqueduct will reopen in mid-March and be ready for the new boating holiday season from Easter.

Alongside this, works (as part of the UK Levelling-Up project) are ongoing to improve the visitor experience at the Trevor Basin, and visitors to the site over the next 12 months will start to see new boating facilities, signage and pedestrian access improvements as part of phase one.

This is Wrexham app!

Over the winter, we have been developing our ‘This is Wrexham Countywide Tourism’ app with the aim of launching it in early March. The app replaces the former ‘This is Wrexham Card’ that you may remember, and is designed to be a simple guide to local tourism businesses with the added ability to give exclusive rewards and offers to users. Look out for this in the usual app stores in a few weeks’ time.

There is also a separate new City Centre app launching this spring too, part of the SMART Town Objective. This will really complement our tourism app, with details about car parking, transport, high street businesses and events in and around town.

More on this next month...

By Joe Bickerton, Tourism Manager at Wrexham County Borough Council T. 01978 292015 www.thisiswrexham.co.uk

EBENEZER CHAPEL

OPENING MAY 2024

ART GALLERY / VISITOR HUB

CLIMATE CRISIS MITIGATION CENTRE

In May 2024, we're reopening The Ebenezer Chapel in the heart of Cefn Mawr, which will serve as an Art Gallery, Visitor Hub and Climate Crisis Mitigation Centre for our community at the Pontcysyllte World Heritage Site.

Our goal is to boost tourism and promote sustainable tourism development.

CALLING ALL ARTISTS & ARTISANS...

Local Artists & Artisans are welcome to reach out to us for the opportunity to exhibit their work in our beautiful gallery. We plan to host a continuous programme throughout the summer, providing a platform to showcase your talent to the world!

The Ebenezer Chapel

Cefn Square, Crane Street, Cefn Mawr, Pontcysyllte World Heritage Site, Wrexham LL14 3AE

pkcgroup@hotmail.co.uk

www.pkcgroup.wales

Gardening Tips and Advice March - Spring Arrives

Spring usually arrives by mid-March and the frequent sunny days provide the opportunity for an increasing range of gardening tasks. It's time to get busy preparing seed beds, sowing seed, cutting back winter shrubs and generally tidying up around the garden.

TOP 10 JOBS TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS MONTH

1. Protect new spring shoots from slugs.

2. Plant shallots, onion sets and early potatoes.

3. Plant summer-flowering bulbs.

4. Lift and divide overgrown clumps of perennials.

5. Top dress containers with fresh compost.

6. Mow the lawn on dry days (if needed).

7. Cut back Cornus (dogwood) and Salix (willow) grown for colourful winter stems.

8. Hoe and mulch weeds to keep them under control early.

9. Start feeding fish and using the pond fountain; remove pond heaters.

10. Prune bush and climbing roses.

Seeds of Conservation

By MATT TORGERSEN from Hashtag Gardening

Meteorological spring is finally upon us, making March the ideal time to cultivate a habitat for two of our most endangered local species in our own backyards.

Purple for pollinators

Bees have been catapulted into the media of late, due to their increasing vulnerability to extinction and the potentially devastating effects this would have on crop yields. Although any nectar producing flower will create an irresistible sweet odour that honeybees can’t resist, these insects can see purple better than any other colour. Consequently, the purple blooms of lavender, buddleia and catmint may be the best spring sowings to make your garden as eye-catching as possible for our precious pollinators.

Hawthorns for hedgehogs

After facing a dramatic decline in numbers over the past millennium, these spiky critters need our help more than ever. Essential for maintaining the balance of our garden ecosystem, the hedgehog loves a garden with plenty of large deciduous leaves, and shrubbery which it can forage and nest in. Bare roots or hedging plants, in particular the UK’s native hawthorn, are best planted when dormant. This period stretches from autumn to spring, so may make this tree an ideal addition to your March planting schedule.

Furthermore, populating your garden with wildflowers will inevitably attract more insects, drawing in our prickly pals as they hunt for food. March and April provide the perfect conditions for sowing your own wildflower meadow. Preferring full sun, and well drained soil, annual meadows may contain species such as cornflowers, field poppies and corncockles. These plants can create an insect paradise that will germinate, bloom, set seed and die all in one year, making them the ideal choice if you like to switch up your environment year on year.

So, if spring has you digging out your gardening gloves, why not think about building a sanctuary for endangered wildlife?

Hashtag Gardening

Hashtag Gardening, based in Burton, offer a comprehensive range of services, from landscaping to patio cleaning; grass cutting to fencing; waste removal to strimming. We can also help with plant selection and personalised advice on attracting wildlife to your garden. Whether you're aiming to attract butterflies, birds, hedgehogs, or beneficial insects, we can provide tailored guidance, ensuring that your garden becomes a sanctuary for biodiversity.

By Matt Torgersen from Hashtag Gardening

www.hashtaggardening.co.uk

Dee Valley Medical Practice Latest News

Dee Valley Medical Practice, Overton, would like to highlight two immunisations available to eligible adults:

Shingles Vaccination

- Shingrix

A vaccine to prevent shingles, a common, painful disease is available from the NHS to patients:

• Aged over 65 (on or after 01/09/2020)

• Aged 70-79 years

• Anyone over 50 years of age, deemed by a specialist to be severely immunocompromised

In the majority of cases you will be offered two doses of the vaccine. It is important that you attend for the second dose to ensure you are fully immunised.

Pneumococcal Vaccination

- Pneumovax 23

A vaccine that protects against 23 strains of pneumococcal bacterium, is also available to patients:

• Aged over 65 years

• Available to children and adults with certain long term health conditions.

This is usually a single dose vaccine but is, in some cases, given as a booster every five years.

NB: Babies and children under two years of age are given the Prevenar pneumococcal immunisation as part of the childhood immunisation schedule.

If you are interested in having either of these immunisations, please contact your surgery to discuss. Eligible patients are usually invited into clinics on a monthly basis, but we are aware that sometimes telephone numbers and addresses change without practices being informed.

For Dee Valley patients, we hold clinics on a Wednesday afternoon.

NHS App

Have you downloaded the free NHS Wales app yet? The app allows you to:

• Check and cancel appointments

• Repeat prescription requests

• View medication and immunisations

• Health advice from NHS Wales 111

• Manage blood and organ donation status

• Link to other health and care services.

The NHS Wales app is available online at: https://app.nhs.wales/login and can also be downloaded to mobile phone or tablet via Apple App Store or Google Play Store

Dee Valley Medical Practice

15 High Street, Overton-on-Dee, Wrexham LL13 0ED

Tel: 01978 710666

Call between 08:00 and 18:30 weekdays

www.deevalleysurgery.co.uk

Fostering is Teamwork

By JAYNE ASHFIELD, Carer Recruitment Officer, Fostering Solutions Wales

Fostering Solutions Wales, proudly based in Wrexham, encapsulates a steadfast commitment to transforming the lives of vulnerable children and young people by providing stable and caring homes. As one of the leading fostering agencies in Wales, Fostering Solutions stands out for its dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of children who, for various reasons, cannot live with their birth families. With a focus on Wrexham and the surrounding areas, the agency has become an integral part of the local community, working to ensure that every child has the opportunity to stay in a safe and nurturing environment where they can thrive.

Fostering Solutions understands that fostering is not just about finding homes for children, but about creating families. The agency actively recruits, trains, and supports foster carers, recognising that the key to a successful fostering experience lies in the empowerment and preparedness of these dedicated caregivers. Through comprehensive training programs and ongoing guidance, Fostering Solutions ensures that foster parents are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to provide the physical, emotional, and educational support that each child requires.

The agency collaborates closely with the Wrexham community to raise awareness about fostering, dispelling misconceptions and encouraging a diverse range of families to consider opening their homes.

By engaging in local outreach initiatives, information sessions, and community events, Fostering Solutions actively seeks to build a network of compassionate foster families.

Thinking about fostering?

If you’re thinking about fostering children, you probably have a lot of questions. Are you suitable? How can you apply? What financial support will you get? How can you access training?

We welcome applications from people of all ethnic, cultural and religious backgrounds, physical abilities and the LGBT+ community. You can be single, married, a homeowner or a tenant (you’ll need a spare room for the exclusive use of your foster child). Your ability to care for, and nurture a child, is what really matters.

How much do foster carers get paid?

Some foster carers give up their jobs to care for children, so the foster care pay they receive is vital to support them and their household. Fostering allowance is in the region of £24,500 a year. For most, this is tax free and will not affect benefits.

Start your fostering journey

Foster carers undoubtedly improve the lives of thousands of children and young people. If you would like more information about applying to be a foster carer, contact Fostering Solutions on: 01978 311590, E: jayne.ashfield@fosteringsolutions.com

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Spanish Eggs with Chorizo & Peppers

You'll need only five ingredients for this delicious one-pan recipe. The combination of smoky chorizo, sweet peppers and rich eggs is irresistible - a perfect weekend breakfast or brunch. Serve with toast or crusty bread.

INGREDIENTS

500g baby new potatoes

2 onions, sliced

2 red peppers, deseeded and cut into strips

200g cooking chorizo, sliced

4 eggs

METHOD

SERVES 4

Steam the potatoes for 15-20 minutes or until cooked.

Heat 1 tbsp oil in a non-stick pan. Add the onions and peppers, then cook for about 10 minutes until soft.

Push the peppers to the side of the pan and add the chorizo, sizzling until cooked though and releasing its oils. Transfer to a plate.

Once cool enough, halve the potatoes. Heat 1 tbsp oil in another non-stick pan and tip in the spuds. Fry for about 10 minutes until golden and beginning to crisp.

Stir in the onion mix, heat through and season.

Meanwhile, in the onion pan, fry the eggs to your liking. Place them on top of everything, allowing 1 egg per person.

Trying out our recipe? Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham

Seasonal Treats in March

With the clocks going forward, blossom budding and the days noticeably longer, spring is most definitely in the air this month – and there are some new tasty ingredients around, too.

Purple sprouting broccoli

Home-grown purple-sprouting broccoli is only available between February and March, and its emergence signals the start of a seasonal shift away from roots to leafy spring ingredients. Related to calabrese, large-headed broccoli is sometimes compared to asparagus for its fleeting appearance and delicate flavour. It’s bursting with nutrients, including vitamins A, C and K, and only needs the briefest of cooking. Keep it simple by steaming or stir-frying for a couple of minutes until still tender, or try it tossed in olive oil, seasoned and roasted until slightly charred.

Lemon sole

With a delicate flavour and tender, juicy meat, lemon sole is a type of right-eyed flatfish and a member of the plaice family rather than a true sole. Bang in season in March, with most coming from the waters off the southwest of England, it’s perfect for oven-baking or roasting, grilling or frying – one per person makes a great meal. You’ll get more flavour if you leave the bones in, but it’s still delicious cooked as fillets.

Try it coated in seasoned plain flour, cooked in a hot pan in olive oil and a dab of butter – fry skin-side down for two minutes, then flip over and cook for another one to two minutes, before serving drizzled with the pan juices.

Wild things

Wild garlic

Wild garlic grows in vast clumps across damp woodland floors and is easily recognisable from its familiar garlicky aroma. The entire plant is edible, including the pretty white flowers which grow from April to June. Prep is easy: give it a good rinse, pat dry then store in the fridge for up to five days. Use chopped towards the end of cooking time in a casserole or risotto, as a topping for a pasta dish or to pep up a salad – it’s far less pungent than bulb garlic, so it won’t overpower your meal.

Nettles

March is also a great time of year to try nettles, which taste similar to spinach and are equally as nutritious, packed with B vitamins, beta-carotene, calcium and iron. Choose short, bright green shoots and pick, wearing thick gardening gloves, then wash and blanch to neutralise the stings, before using raw, stir-fried or steamed – or even to make pesto!

March Shopping List

Beetroot, Broccoli, Carrots, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Celeriac, Chard, Cod, Endive, Hake, Jerusalem Artichoke, Kale, Leeks, Lettuce, Parsnips, Pollock, Pumpkins, Purple-Sprouting Broccoli, Radishes, Forced Rhubarb, Shallots, Spring Greens, Spring Onions, Swedes, Turnips, Venison.

Time to Get Crafting!

From MARGARET O’NEILL

Do you have a flair for floristry or a penchant for painting? If so, why not embrace the opportunity to display your creations at the 2024 Overton Village Open Handicraft Show!

Saturday 18th May will see the Village Hall transformed into an emporium of beautiful creations, from novice makers, and experienced crafters alike.

The day begins for organisers at the crack of dawn, as they prepare the hall for the arrival of competitors’ exhibits from 9am. Then, at 10:30am, the business of judging, by a selection of impartial experts, will commence…

The judges, most of whom will travel in from neighbouring counties, have until 2pm to make their decisions (and enjoy a well-earned lunch!) before the hall reopens to competitors and members of the public. Winners will be chosen entirely anonymously, as the judges have no way of knowing who has produced each creation.

The next two hours are dedicated to delighting in the myriad of talents on show - as well as plenty of cakes and bakes to keep rumbling tums at bay!

At 4pm, our arena will fall into hushed anticipation, as the Mayor of Wrexham himself, Cllr Andy Williams, announces winners in each category.

You can enter as many classes as you like. With prizes available in disciplines from photography to felting, there is really nothing stopping you from showing off your creative side, whether you are a novice knitter or accomplished artist.

The event is broken down into seven handicraft categories: Craft, Art, Photography, Woodcraft, Floral Art, Floristry, Junior Competitions.

A full list of our 29 classes, the day’s schedule, and vital information for entrants can be found in Overton’s shops, Library and Café, or on www.overtonoracle.com

The entry form should provide all the hints and tips you need, but any further queries will be happily answered by Margaret O’Neill. Contact her on: 01978 710451.

Regardless of if you include handicrafts on your own list of hobbies, it is a true privilege to be able to appreciate the outstanding local talent, so please come along to enjoy the show!

Only one thing remains to be done… it’s time to get crafting!

Written by MATILDA HUGHES

see magic because they look for it”

Business Advice Learning Hub

By VICKY HEATHFIELD

Mistakes are good for business!

“If you haven’t made mistakes in your business, you’re not trying hard enough.”

- DAVE FISHWICK, 'Bank of Dave'

In the world of business, making mistakes is not just inevitable, it can also be a pathway to development. Although failure is often viewed negatively, it plays a crucial role in shaping and advancing businesses.

Failures, especially in the early stages, act as catalysts for innovation. Progress rarely follows a smooth path; it thrives on experimentation. By considering failures as opportunities for learning, calculated risk-taking can lead to amazing breakthrough discoveries.

Consider the iPhone – without embracing early prototypes that fell short (and there were many!), Steve Job’s ground-breaking device may not have emerged.

In today's fast-paced business landscape, customer needs can evolve swiftly. Failure rates in product launches or advertising and marketing campaigns act as vital feedback. They pinpoint misalignments and oversights, allowing businesses to adjust, and stay relevant.

For example, Blockbuster's reluctance to shift to streaming, in contrast to Netflix; demonstrates not adapting to changing consumer behaviour.

Competitive advantage

Businesses learning from setbacks are better prepared to navigate challenges and overcome unforeseen obstacles, providing a competitive edge, enabling them to weather storms and seize opportunities which their competitors might overlook.

Fostering a growth mindset

Embracing and learning from failure nurtures a growth mindset within the business. This encourages employees to experiment, take calculated risks, and see challenges as chances for learning and improvement. In the process of rectifying errors, new perspectives emerge, creating a culture of continuous improvement, which is crucial for long-term success.

While businesses may not actively seek failure, a business that views mistakes and failure as stepping stones, rather than stumbling blocks, is better equipped to adapt, innovate, and thrive in the dynamic world of commerce.

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 vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

www.essentialsmag.co.uk

Tel: 01978 855459

Awakening of Spring

By HELEN CONWAY

As we transition from the hibernation of winter to the awakening of spring, there's a natural inclination to shake off the sluggishness and embrace a more active lifestyle. The changing season brings longer days, milder temperatures, and a sense of renewal that serves as motivation for increased physical activity.

During the winter, the cold weather often discourages activity, particularly outdoor activity, leading to a more sedentary lifestyle. However, as the grip of winter loosens and the weather becomes more inviting, there's an opportunity to reintroduce movement into our daily routines.

Getting more active as we transition from winter to spring doesn't necessarily mean committing to intense workouts. Simple activities like walking, gardening, playing outdoor sports, and of course, Pilates, all contribute to a more active lifestyle. The key is to find activities that align with personal preferences, making it easier to incorporate them into your regular routine.

Nature itself becomes a compelling incentive for increased activity during this transition. The blossoming landscape, and the gradual warming in the air, encourage people to explore more, engaging with the natural surroundings which, not only provides physical benefits but also enhances mental well-being. A tonic after long, dark days.

The shift to spring is an ideal time to reassess fitness goals too, and incorporate variety into exercise routines. There are greater opportunities to make physical activity more enjoyable and social. It's a chance to break away from the monotony of the indoor hibernation, and embrace change.

Moreover, the increase in physical activity aligns with the body's natural response to the changing season. Just as nature undergoes a renewal process, our bodies, too, benefit from increased movement and fresh air. The boost in activity contributes to improved cardiovascular health, increased energy levels, and a positive impact on overall mood.

So, throw open the curtains, let the spring light flood in and shake off that winter sluggishness.

Bodywork-Pilates was established in 2002. They offer the very best in pilates, yoga and holistic fitness, with over 20 classes a week to choose from in and around Wrexham and Chester.

EssentialsMAG fitness contributor is Helen Conway from Bodywork-Pilates Ltd

www.bodywork-pilates.co.uk

Tel: 01978 512401

The Right to Protest

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF

“Climate activists are sometimes depicted as dangerous radicals. But the truly dangerous radicals are the countries that are increasing the production of fossil fuels. Investing in new fossil fuels infrastructure is moral and economic madness.”

- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres

The failure of governments to take the action necessary to tackle the climate emergency has prompted protests around the world. The UK government has chosen to respond by reducing the ways in which we can protest legally and increasing penalties. A protestor was recently sentenced to six months in prison for participating in a 30 minute ‘slow march’. You can now be imprisoned for up to ten years for causing a “public nuisance”.

Protestors have been jailed for mentioning the climate crisis in their defence; allowing people to explain the motivations for their actions seems a pretty vital component of a fair trial. A retiree faces two years in prison for the ‘crime’ of holding a placard outside a trial stating “Jurors: you have an absolute right to acquit a defendant according to your conscience”.

The numerous critics of new UK protest legislation include Amnesty International and the UN. A UN Special Rapporteur emphasised that peaceful protest is a human right and “states have a duty to facilitate the right to protest, and private entities and broader society

may be expected to accept some level of disruption as a result of the exercise of this right.”

This right to protest clearly needs to be balanced against the rights of others. However, the disruption and economic impacts resulting from protests are miniscule in comparison to those already resulting from our failure to take climate action. An LSE study estimated the cost of climate change damages to the UK was 1.1% of GDP in 2022 and would increase to 3.3% by 2050 and 7.4% by 2100 (strong global action would reduce this 2100 figure to 2.4%)

Some attempt to demonise and dehumanise environmental protesters as ‘eco-zealots’ who somehow threaten ‘our way of life’. The reality is that they’re ordinary people, just like us, with absolutely legitimate fears about the path we’re currently on. They’re certainly not doing it for personal gain, or to make themselves popular - they’re simply asking us to do what the science says we must to avoid catastrophe.

History’s verdict on those protesting is likely to be far kinder than on those failing to act.

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Sarah Atherton MP

Member of Parliament for Wrexham

'I recently undertook a survey on mobile connectivity in the ‘not-spot’ area of Rossett. An unacceptable number of respondents stated that poor mobile signal is a barrier to accessing health, education, and financial services, despite Ofcom’s coverage checker stating that Rossett is, “likely to receive good coverage”

Having discussed these issues with Wrexham Council, Ofcom, UK Government Ministers, and Building Digital UK over the past few months, I recently met with representatives from FreshWave to see what they are doing to improve services for Wrexham residents. FreshWave recently signed an open-access agreement with Wrexham Council, which now allows mobile network operators to use lampposts to boost mobile coverage for residents. Whilst FreshWave’s work attempts to bridge the gap, it will only boost mobile phone signal within the city centre. In addition, after checking with EE about mobile coverage in Rossett, they claimed that they upgraded the mast at Broadoak, which services the area. However, I didn’t see any improvement when I visited. I am meeting with EE representatives soon to push for better solutions for Rossett residents’ concerns.

Most worryingly, given Ofcom’s skewed predictions, Rossett may not be covered by the Shared Rural Network which is a £1 billion UK Government initiative to ensure UK mobile phone operators deliver strong 4G coverage for those in rural areas. I am lobbying Ministers to ensure that Ofcom’s Checker discrepancy is resolved and have written to all the survey respondents to share the latest update.

Having nominated Amy Griffiths, General Manager of Gwersyllt Cricket Club as Wrexham’s ‘Local Sport Community Champion’, a reception at Number 10 Downing Street was the perfect opportunity

to highlight how UK Government funding is enabling the club to lead the path to sporting success.

The club was amongst the many Wrexham recipients who received a portion of the £22.7 million from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. A few months ago, I visited the club and heard from Amy about how they were going to spend the £500,000.

During the reception, Amy provided the Culture Secretary, Lucy Frazer MP and my office with some exciting updates. Whilst there is a long way to go until completion in September 2024, building and drainage works for the new cricket pavilion have begun! This facility will provide digital and numeracy courses and physical activity classes. It was particularly exciting to hear that they are expanding the cricket offering with more availability for girls and ladies’ teams, as well as increasing opportunities for young, budding cricketers!

If you are a resident in the current Wrexham constituency boundary and need my assistance with any local or national issues, please contact me on:

sarah.atherton.mp@parliament.uk.

Sarah Atherton MP for Wrexham/ Prospective Parliamentary Candidate.

How You Can Beat The 60% Tax Trap

By WARREN HADLOW

Ever heard of anyone paying 60% tax?

Chances are not, since, according to HMRC, Income Tax is charged at 0%, 20%, 40% or 45%, depending on how much you earn.

The rates are slightly different in Scotland, but a 60% tax band doesn’t seem to exist.

If you’re earning between £100,000 and £125,140, the tapering of the personal allowance means you could end up paying 60% tax.

How does the 60% tax trap happen?

Once you’re earning £100,000 or more, the £12,570 personal allowance slowly reduces or tapers off. The personal allowance is the amount of income you can earn each year without paying Income Tax. Currently, the allowance tapers down at a rate of £1 for every £2 you earn above £100,000.

In real terms, for every £100 of income between £100,000 and £125,140, you only get

to take £40 home – £40 is deducted in Income Tax, while another £20 is lost by the tapering of the personal allowance. This amounts to a 60% tax rate. Once you’re earning £125,140 or more, you don’t get any personal allowance at all.

Not only that, but you’ll also be paying another 2% employee’s National Insurance contribution.

Beating the 60% tax trap – top up your pension

One of the quickest and simplest ways to bring your taxable income below the threshold is to pay more into your pension before tax year-end.

This is a win-win since you reduce your tax bill and boost your retirement fund at the same time.

For example, you get a £1,000 pay rise or bonus, which takes your taxable income to £101,000. If you pay that £1,000 into your

By Warren Hadlow of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited

hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk

Tel: 01978 311 611

www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

pension, you won’t enter the 60% tax zone and you’ll get the benefit of a 40%* top-up on your contribution, thanks to pension tax relief.

A well-timed pension contribution might help you sidestep the higher rate or additional tax band, so you avoid paying more Income Tax.

You can also massage your income back down below one of the tax band thresholds if you receive Child Benefit. High-income Child Benefit is a tax charge on families where one partner has a net adjusted income of more than £50,000. This is another charge that uses tapering, with an extra 1% deduction of the amount of Child Benefit for every £100 of income over £50,000.

Taking control of your taxes

Tax rules are complicated, and the goalposts often move. Checking in with your financial adviser on a regular basis (not just before tax

year-end on 5 April!) means you can often swerve around any tax ‘sinkholes’ or at least manage them.

Talk to us today if you’d like some more advice on beating the 60% tax trap.

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.

* Any tax relief over the basic rate is claimed via your annual tax return.

Lesley Griffiths MS

Member of the Senedd for Wrexham

While it is extremely disappointing there is a need for foodbanks to exist at all, there is no doubt they provide an invaluable lifeline to people, particularly during this cost-ofliving crisis.

The staff and volunteers at Wrexham Foodbank have experienced a hectic few months. As well as organising appeals and collections ahead of the busy Christmas period, the team was forced to leave its former premises at Felin Puleston and moved to a new warehouse on the Rhosddu Industrial Estate. I recently visited the new HQ to speak to the hard-working volunteers, trustees and new Foodbank Manager, Amy Jones.

Despite the high profile appeals in the run up to Christmas, the cost-of-living crisis is impacting Wrexham Foodbank as donations in recent months have dipped and stocks are lower than in previous years. Wrexham Foodbank is currently spending around £2,000 per month on purchasing food for the parcels.

Stock is lower as demand is increasing. Since 1st April 2023, Wrexham Foodbank has given 9039 parcels out, which is an increase of around 33 % from the previous 2022/23 statistics.

Wrexham Foodbank is a charity and relies on the local community to function. It supports people all year round and any donation, whether it's dropping off items or offering a financial contribution to help towards rent or general upkeep, is always warmly welcomed.

Several constituents recently contacted me

regarding staffing changes at Pen y Maes Surgery in Summerhill. I made urgent representations on their behalf to the Chair of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) and I am grateful for his speedy response and explanation.

Following a Welsh Government directive, the Health Board is in the process of recruiting more salaried GPs to its managed practices. While the clinical expertise offered by locum and agency GPs is valued, the temporary nature of their employment coupled with the higher cost implications for the NHS mean the model is unsustainable.

As a result of BCUHB’s campaign, a total of five Clinical Lead GPs and 18 Salaried GPs have been recruited across Wrexham and Flintshire. Three of the Salaried GPs have been offered roles at Pen y Maes Surgery to join the existing Clinical Lead GP and Advanced Nurse Practitioners.

These actions will hopefully lead to a more resilient workforce and, therefore, an improved service for patients. I have shared the latest information with my constituents, which I hope has provided some reassurance, but if anyone remains concerned, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Tel:

Talwyd

Whether

looking for a quick repair for some cracks, or a total redecoration complete with floor screeding, existing render removal and coving, you won’t find better than J P Plastering.

Safeguarding Your Legacy

By Simon Davies, LLB (Hons)

Estate planning is a vital process often overlooked by individuals, who may perceive it as a task reserved for the elderly or the wealthy. However, irrespective of age or financial standing, establishing a well-considered estate plan is essential for everyone. This proactive approach not only ensures the smooth transfer of assets but also provides reassurance to individuals and their loved ones.

At its core, estate planning involves making arrangements for the management and distribution of an individual's estate during their lifetime and after their demise. The estate encompasses all possessions, including property, bank accounts, investments, personal items, and more. The primary objective of estate planning is to facilitate the seamless transfer of these assets to chosen beneficiaries while minimising taxes and potential conflicts.

A fundamental component of estate planning is the creation of a Will. A Will is a legal document that details how a person wishes their assets to be distributed upon their death. Without a Will, the State may determine how to distribute assets, potentially diverging from the deceased's intentions.

Another critical aspect of estate planning is the establishment of a Trust. A Trust is a legal arrangement that permits a third party, known as the Trustee, to manage and distribute assets to beneficiaries as per the terms outlined in the Trust document. Trusts can help bypass probate, a timeconsuming and costly legal process that validates a Will. They also provide enhanced privacy, as the details of a Trust typically remain confidential.

In addition to Wills and Trusts, estate planning incorporates other vital documents such as Powers of Attorney, Healthcare Directives, and Living Wills. These documents empower individuals to designate someone to make financial and healthcare decisions on their behalf in case of incapacity, ensuring that their wishes are respected even when they cannot communicate them.

Seeking guidance from a professional can be invaluable in navigating the intricacies of estate planning, tailoring the strategy to individual needs, and ensuring a legacy that aligns with one's values and aspirations.

Please call me to see how I can help.

A carefully drafted Will enables individuals to specify beneficiaries, allocate assets, and appoint guardians for minor children. For information on writing

Will, contact Simon Davies

Armour Wills

019999

Useful Numbers

Puzzle Page...

Just For Fun

Crossword

ACROSS

1 Loose hood (4)

3 Finding (8)

9 Tell a story (7)

10 Speed music is played at (5)

11 Bitumen (3)

12 Denise van ___ : English actress (5)

13 Abatement (5)

15 Answer (5)

17 Avoided by social custom (5)

18 What you hear with (3)

19 Killer whales (5)

20 Concentrated on (7)

21 Smiling contemptuously (8)

22 Associate (4)

DOWN

1 Buildings (13)

2 Electrician (5)

4 Wildcat (6)

5 Branch of astronomy (12)

6 People in jail (7)

7 Amiably (4-9)

8 Troublemaker (6-6)

14 Fiasco (7)

16 Seabird (6)

Classic Sudoku

18 Supporting frame used by an artist (5)

If you want to find out the answers they will be published in next month’s edition.

Here are the answers from February:

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