As we step into the month of May, we are greeted with the promise of warmer weather, blossoming flowers, and two well-deserved bank holidays!
I don’t know about you, but it feels to me that business is picking up, and there’s a ‘buzz’ around the place, with new businesses, shops and eateries opening their doors in our community. After a period of uncertainty and challenges, over the last few years, it's heartening to witness these signs of growth and revitalisation in Wrexham and beyond. As we welcome these fresh faces, let's continue to show our support and encouragement by shopping local and embracing the unique offerings our local businesses bring to our community.
June copy deadlines:
Editorial - 8th May
Advertising - 15th May
In each edition, contributor Joe Bickerton, Tourism Manager of Wrexham County Borough Council, tells us of the increase of international visitors and ‘staycationers’ to our region, many of whom are likely to be visiting for the first time.
So, here's to a bright future filled with prosperity, growth, and an ever-expanding array of shopping and eating delights on our doorstep!
Wishing you all a wonderful May! All
XLM Wrexham is a community organisation focused on empowering young people, through personalised one-to-one mentoring and outreach programs. Volunteer mentors work closely with young people to identify their needs, struggles and strengths; spending a couple of hours a week with them, over 12 months. This can help the young person remain in mainstream education, as they are often at risk of exclusion, due to behaviour.
XLM gives a young person a positive role model and trusted adult who believes in them; which is life changing! This unique approach empowers young people to navigate challenges and pursue their aspirations.
If you would like to become an XLM volunteer mentor, please contact Abi Hughes at XLM Wrexham on: xlmentoringwrexham@gmail.com, Tel: 07703 781838
18th & 19th May, 10am-4pm
Bangor-on-Dee Village Hall
This special two-day event celebrates more than 25 years of Bangor-on-Dee Art Group. Entry is free and there will be refreshments available and a raffle. Come in and browse through the artworks on display created by our talented artists. There will be many artworks for sale, in a variety of styles and mediums, together with handmade greeting cards and other craft items.
PLEASE NOTE: Artworks will be available to buy cash sale only. Raising money for Erlas Victorian Walled Garden.
Since October 2020, visitors to Wrexham have enjoyed complimentary car parking after 11am at Waterworld, Market Street, St Giles, Crescent Road, and the Library car parks. This initiative, spearheaded by the council's Independent and Conservative Administration, aimed to bolster support for essential workers and city centre businesses amidst and beyond the challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. However, on 1st April 2024, the free parking ended and new parking charges for council operated city centre car parks came into effect.
Details of all town centre car parks, charges and restrictions can be found at: www.wrexham.gov.uk/service/parking/find-car-park
NOTE: A Blue Badge entitles you to park free of charge in all council car parks.
The Vicar of St Giles Church in Wrexham is to be the new Dean of Llandaff Cathedral. Revd Canon Dr Jason Bray has been appointed to the post by the Bishop of Llandaff, the Rt Revd Mary Stallard.
Jason, originally from Merthyr Tydfil, has served his entire ordained ministry in the Church in Wales, since his ordination by Bishop Rowan Williams in 1997. With a doctorate in Theology and a passionate interest in Biblical scholarship, systematics and mediaeval and reformation history, Jason is a published author and skilled teacher of the faith as well as being a wise and pastoral priest and an experienced church leader.
Welcoming his appointment as the new Dean of Llandaff, the Bishop of St Asaph, the Rt Revd Gregory Cameron said: “St Asaph will be very sorry to lose Dr Jason Bray who has done phenomenal work with St Giles Church in Wrexham, but our loss will be Llandaff’s gain, as they say. Jason will be an excellent Dean for an important Cathedral in the life of Wales.”
Jason is married to Laura, and they have two grown-up sons, Thomas and Benedict. They also have three cats – one of whom considers himself ideally suited as a candidate for the post of Llandaff Cathedral Cat! They plan to move into the Cardiff Deanery in July.
Are you passionate about photography but find yourself wishing for better results? Seeking to enhance your skills, garner more likes, or grow your followers? Look no further!
Wrexham Photo Club (founded 1947) warmly welcomes you to join our community. With a team of experienced members eager to share their knowledge, with enlightening talks from globally renowned photographers, guided club ‘photowalks’, and engaging competitions, we offer a comprehensive platform to nurture your passion for photography.
Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, a fan of traditional film, embrace the digital realm, or prefer the convenience of smartphone photography and AI enhancements, we cater to all interests and skill levels.
Mark your calendars and join us for the start of our exciting season this September. We can't wait to meet you and explore the world of photography together at Wrexham Photo Club!
Register your interest
We meet on Monday nights, between September to May, 7:30pm to 10pm.
For more information and to register your interest, please visit: www.wrexhamphotsoc.org, or email us at: wrexphotoclub@gmail.com
The children across our Early Years’ department, alongside our Infant speech and language resourced class, enjoyed their first school trip with a visit to Chirk Castle. To enrich their topic, the children visited to explore the different parts of a castle and to find out what life was like in a dungeon! In order for the children to share their learning, parents were also invited into school to attend our ‘Royal Banquet’ where they enjoyed dining with their children and learning about life inside a castle.
After standing empty for a number of years, the old ‘Chums’ building that once stood in-between the Infant and junior schools has finally been demolished. Wrexham Council have supported school to demolish the building, to lay tarmac and erect fencing in order to create a new playspace for the children. The school have also been successful in gaining grant funding from The Thomas Howell Foundation in order to add multi-pitch markings and to
purchase new goal posts. It is a fantastic addition to the school’s play area.
Following their successful qualification, the year 5 and 6 mixed team competed in the Active Wrexham football finals day and produced some very good performances; winning four of their five games. The team were very proud of their performance and are looking forward to further success in the summer term.
In order to further develop a culture of promoting positive mental well-being, Acton Park Primary School are fully embracing the My Happy Mind’s initiative.
Using proven research methodologies, the school are teaching their children about how their brain works and are helping them to develop active listening skills and a positive self-esteem. The children have already had the opportunity to meet their brain and are, this term, celebrating themselves and their learning potential. Acton
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
Wrap around childcare at St. Peter’s Primary School, Rossett
We offer wrap around childcare for all our pupils, including those of nursery age. We are open from 7:45am to 5:30pm during term time. We also offer childcare during the school holidays.
St Peter's Playscheme
For details contact Mrs Sophie Cannon 07958 915685
playscheme381@gmail.com
WED 1 MAY
Wrexham Prostate Cancer Support Group
Trevor Arms Marford, Marford Hill, Marford, Wrexham LL12 8TA
Raising public awareness of prostate cancer and providing support to those who have prostate cancer, or merely suspect that they may have symptoms.
7pm Free
Tel: 07525 824679 (Phil)
SAT 4 MAY
Climb the Tower at St Giles Church
St Giles Church, Wrexham LL13 7AA
The ever-popular tower climbs return to St. Giles Church this spring and summer. The views over the city and beyond are truly spectacular!
11am - 12pm
Tel: 01978 292015 to book
SAT 4 MAY
Rock ‘n’ Roll & Soul Dance Night
Worthenbury Village Hall, Worthenbury, Wrexham LL13 0AW
Bank Holiday Party Night! Reservations by email only.
7:30pm
£12.00
dwilliams@gmail.com
Rossett & Burton Village Hall, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0HE
Explore the rich and diverse possibilities of painting with renowned artist, Andrew Kinmont.
10am - 1pm
£25.00/class (first class free) andrewkinmont.com
TUE 7 MAY
"Steeleye Span"
55th Anniversary Tour
William Aston Hall, Mold Rd, Wrexham LL11 2AW
Pioneers of folk-rock, Steeleye Span’s 55th Anniversary Tour - the night will offer a selection of songs from across the years and albums, coupled with firm fan favourites.
7:30pm
£28.50
williamastonwrexham.com
9, 10, 11 MAY
Various locations around Wrexham
International showcase festival taking place in multiple venues across the city of Wrexham. The festival places the music industry spotlight firmly on the emerging talent. focuswales.com
10, 11, 12 MAY
Bellis Brothers’ Three Day Craft & Gift Fair
Bellis Brothers Garden Centre, Wrexham Road, Holt, Wrexham LL13 9YU
Bellis Brothers 3-day Craft Fair. Come and shop for handmade crafts, gifts and tasty treats in the marquee.
Fri/Sat: 10am - 4:30pm Sun: 11am - 4:30pm Free bellisbrothers.co.uk
SAT 11 MAY
Erlas Victorian Walled Garden Spring Fayre
Erlas Victorian Walled Garden, Bryn Estyn Rd, Wrexham LL13 9TY
There will be a selection of plants and crafts on sale. Refreshments will be available, and visitors will be able to walk around the beautiful gardens. 10am - 2pm erlas.org
TUE 14 MAY
Holt/Marchwiel WI
Kenyon Hall, Castle Street, Holt, Wrexham LL13 9YL
“Park in the Past”
A talk by Paul Harston about the heritage project in Hope. All welcome. 7:30pm
agbowdler@gmail.com (Ann)
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: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/whats-on
WED 15 MAY
Pulford & Poulton Local History Group
Pulford Village Hall, off Burganey Court CH4 9ES
AGM at 7.00pm followed by a talk by Tony Bostock: "Colours of Heraldry"
7pm AGM/7:30pm talk
£3.00 members/£5.00 non pplhg.org.uk
WED 15 & 29 MAY
Plant Sale
Christ Church car park, Station Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0GD
Plant Sale in aid of Christ Church, Rossett. Raffle, refreshments and cake stall.
2pm
Tel: 01244 570242 (Mary)
FRI 17 MAY
Wrexham Night Market
Llwyn Isaf, Wrexham LL11 1AY
Live music, street food, refreshing drinks, and a fully stocked bar serving cocktails and ‘mocktails’.
3pm - late Free fairevent.co.uk
SAT 18 MAY
Open Handicraft Show
Overton Village Hall, Pen-Y-Llan Street, Overton LL13 0EE
Classes for craft, art, floral, wood, photography, etc...
2pm - 4:30pm Free
SAT 18 & SUN 19 MAY
Art Exhibition
Bangor-on-Dee Village Hall, Overton Road, Bangor-on-Dee, Wrexham LL13 0BY
Come in and browse the Artwork over a cup of tea or coffee.
10am - 4pm Free
SAT 18 & SUN 19 MAY
Discover Sailing Weekend
Gresford Sailing Club, The Flash, Old Wrexham Road, Gresford, LL12 8TY
Discover Sailing Weekend where you can try out dinghy sailing for free.
Sat: 10am - 1pm
Sun: 10am - 2:30pm Free gresfordsailingclub.com
TUE 21 - SAT 25 MAY
Home I’m Darling - 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
SUN 26 MAY
Gresford Spring Fair and Artisan Market
Gresford Trust Memorial, High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS
Spring Fair featuring great food and craft producers from the region - plus some extra fun for everyone!
12pm - 4pm Free
SAT 1 JUNE
Chirk Carnival Station Road, Chirk, Wrexham LL14 5BQ
Artisan market, fairground, live entertainment, street food, bar, etc. A fun day out for all the family!
10pm - 7pm
£3.50 adult/£2.50 children
£10 family (2 adults+2 kids)
Last month, I set sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida on a 14-day Atlantic crossing to Barcelona, Spain, onboard Viking Star. With only two stops, at St Maarten and Madeira, there were lots of sea days to fill but, with the onboard talks, quizzes, activities, movies and live entertainment, there was never a dull moment.
Interspersed by the superb dining in the several included restaurants (beer, wine, soft drinks included at lunch and dinner) this really did provide the opportunity to relax and spend quality time.
Heading north-westerly for the most part, warmer days receded in the wake. The main pool’s retractable roof still provided a sanctuary throughout as did the included Nordic Spa area with fitness room, thermal baths, sauna, steam room, cold-plunge pool and even a Snow Grotto. Entrance was free yet it never seemed crowded (a supplementary charge did apply to massages and other treatments)
Viking Star is one of several identical ships in the increasing Viking Cruises fleet. Its all-balcony accommodations provide understated luxury for a maximum of 930 adults (no children allowed!)
Other cruise lines provide contrasting experiences, some with larger ships and
more entertainment and others with differing routes and varied number of ports of call (including Iceland and Greenland!). Last November I sailed from Southampton to Fort Lauderdale on Sky Princess – almost three times the size of Viking Star! - with five ports, including four in the Caribbean.
In most instances cruise lines are repositioning their ships to different regions. Typically, eastbound in the spring and westbound in autumn. With excellent pricing this also provides opportunities to expand the experience with pre, or post, cruise time in the USA, Canada or the Caribbean.
My conclusion...
Give me 14 days sailing rather than nine hours on a plane!
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
By JOE BICKERTON, Tourism Manager, Wrexham County Borough Council
There’s a lot of excitement building in the Wrexham tourism community as we gear up for another busy spring and summer. A lot of the excitement will be further fuelled by the return of the ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ documentary for a third series at the start of May. The TV crew have interviewed several of our tourism operators this year, so look out for some familiar faces when it returns.
It’s also been great to support the annual F Jones Initiative Awards and to see a number of our local hospitality businesses feature alongside some incredibly inspiring community heroes. One of these, Samantha Harris from Fair Events Management, has worked tirelessly to stage events such as the Wrexham Feast and on the 17th May, they’re bringing the first ’Night Market’ to Llwyn Isaf from 3pm until late.
More info at: www.fairevent.co.uk
On the theme of events, FOCUS Wales returns from 9th-11th May, with headliners including local band, The Royston Club. Taking over multiple city centre venues, this international festival attracts artists and creatives from around the globe and is a must for all music fans.
More info at: www.focuswales.com
Over the last few weeks, I’ve also been out to see some new ventures, including plans for an apart-hotel in town (more next month!) and ex-Wrexham captain, Neil Roberts’ new bar, Vault 33, on the High Street which looks incredible inside!
I’ve also spent some time with Ian Futter (head chef at the Bank) and Matt ScardJones who has just returned to the Buck in Bangor-on-Dee as head Chef.
Both venues have superb new seasonal menus and are well worth visiting.
Finally, our whole Tourism Partnership team passes on their sincere thanks to the Rev Jason Bray who will be leaving St Giles to become the Dean of Llandaff Cathedral in Cardiff this summer. Jason has been a long-standing tourism partner and has worked tirelessly to welcome group visits to the Church, whilst developing their visitor offer to become one of our most loved attractions with monthly tower tours and diverse events that attract thousands of global visitors each year.
Congratulations Jason!
www.thisiswrexham.co.uk
Our website is your go-to guide for everything Wrexham has to offer. From historical landmarks and family-friendly activities, to delicious cuisine, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
By Joe Bickerton, Tourism Manager at Wrexham County Borough Council
T. 01978 292015
www.thisiswrexham.co.uk
We invite you to join us as we unveil the revitalised Ebenezer Chapel in Cefn Mawr, a multifaceted haven nestled in the heart of the picturesque Pontcysyllte World Heritage Site.
With its transformation into an Art Gallery, Visitor Hub, and Climate Crisis Mitigation Centre, we're eager to showcase the beauty of our community while fostering sustainable tourism practices.
Come and experience the essence of our rich heritage and the promise of a brighter, greener future. We look forward to welcoming you.
As bulbs fade and herbaceous borders grow, it is now clear that summer is approaching. Sowing and planting out bedding can begin, depending on regional weather variations, and you can take softwood cuttings. It's also time to get back into the lawn mowing regime, as the lawn will be loving the warmer temperatures this month brings. 1.
Why mystery shopping should be in your marketing mix
If someone asked you to critique a 5 star hotel, to sample the menu and an overnight stay, you would jump at the chance, wouldn’t you?
Mystery shoppers are trained to test a product, sales process and/or service, and to provide honest feedback on their experience. So, from the minute they step through the door of your hotel or shop, or online when they first hit your website, to when they leave, your business is being secretly evaluated.
Mystery shoppers pride themselves on their attention to detail, professionalism and observation skills and the ability to behave as though they are simply, just another customer.
Such honest, objective insights can prove invaluable to all manner of businesses as part of the marketing mix, and provide an all-important competitive edge. The results of a mystery shop may even be the catalyst to recognising the need to change at least one element of your process, products – or team.
For example, if you have a feeling that somewhere along the line, your sales process is letting you down, but you are not sure at which point, a mystery shopper can hold the key.
Is your footfall not converting to sales, for example? You can instruct the shopper to test the customer experience, paying particular attention to a specific area or potentially, an employee – or simply ask them to place telephone calls, online orders, or visit and test a full buying process. Then measure competitors’ experiences against the one provided by your business.
This process will demonstrate exactly how you compare to your competition – both positively and negatively – whilst providing you with more awareness of areas for improvement, overhaul or even when to start afresh.
Such feedback should then be acted upon to ensure you continue to offer the best possible service or product to remain at least one step ahead of your competition.
From customer service and sales to product launches and development, the use of an unbiased mystery shopper could be your eyes and ears for a true understanding of your customer journey.
At Active Childcare, we have been a steadfast presence in the area since 1998, our name synonymous with quality childcare and early education.
We have two nurseries: Rossett House in the village of Rossett, with easy road links, and The Little Scholars Nursery at the Centre for the Child, Family and Society at Wrexham University. We offer full and part-time nursery places for children from six weeks old to school age.
Back in 2005, in the very first edition of EssentialsMAG, Active Childcare proudly adorned the back cover (and has remained there, in the ‘North’ edition, ever since!), advertising to capture the attention of families seeking the best for their little ones. Upon the launch of EssentialsMAG 'South' magazine in 2018, we initiated our advertising efforts within its pages as well.
With each passing year, our adverts have served not just as a promotional piece, but as a testament to our commitment to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning, providing reassurance for parents navigating the task of selecting the right nursery for their children.
Year after year, as the pages of EssentialsMAG turned, we have continued to evolve and innovate, always staying ahead of the curve in early childhood education.
In the past year or so, we have achieved remarkable milestones. Here are the highlights of our recent accomplishments:
• Recognition at the Leader Live Awards for Early Years Education.
• Pioneering the Tiny Tums Initiative, dedicated to nutrition and meal planning for children under the age of one - this is a first for nurseries in Wrexham.
• Contribution to the co-construction of the new Curriculum for the NonMaintained Sector - a document integral to supporting children's learning and development across Wales.
• Participation in the development of the Early Childhood Play Learning and Care Quality Framework - a pioneering document in Wales that tracks a child's journey from birth.
• Leading four impactful initiatives as part of the Child Impact Initiative Projects for The World Forum on Children’s Rights Notably, we believe to be the first private day nursery worldwide involved in such endeavours.
Active Childcare: An inspired approach to child care and early education! For more information, or to arrange a visit to see what we have to offer you and your child, contact the details below.
By Rebecca Mottram, Managing Director at Active Childcare
Tel: 01978 661189
info@activechildcare.co.uk
www.activechildcare.co.uk
“Play
In 1953, Leo Rubin, along with Jule Styne, wrote the song “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend,“ sung in the musical “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes“.
So why are Diamonds revered in this way?
Credit must go to the De Beers Diamond Corporation, through which most of the world’s Diamonds are processed. This of course means they also control the supply and demand of this most sought after gemstone. It is said that Diamonds are not as rare as we are led to believe.
Diamonds are the hardest known substance on Earth. Pure Carbon, which, over millions of years and through great heat and pressure within the Earth's crust, crystallise in volcanic Kimberlite pipesand, after cutting and polishing - become the gemstone admired and envied by millions.
So, what happens now that modern technology is able to replicate the conditions in which Diamonds occur naturally? Are they really any different from the real thing?
Lab grown Diamonds have essentially the same optical, physical properties and crystal structure as natural Diamonds. They respond to light in the same way and are just as hard as Natural Diamonds.
The main difference between Natural and Lab grown Diamonds is their origin.
Think of it like this, Lab grown Diamonds are like Ice from your refrigerator, while natural Diamonds are like Ice from a glacier. They are both Ice, although their formation stories and the age of each is very different.
The question is, will they hold their value?
Lab grown Sapphires and Rubies have been commercially available since the beginning of the 20th Century and are quite easily affordable today, having dropped in value since their introduction.
Will the same thing happen to the Lab grown Diamond?
After all, we have come to accept Cultured Pearls, which are produced in huge quantities from Pearl Farms, rather like battery farming, and which make them very affordable compared to the very expensive Natural Pearls.
So, what happens to the value of Lab Grown Diamonds could well be in the hands of the consumer, rather than the De Beers Diamond Mining Corporation.
Watch this space!
By Erik Irwin, Designer Goldsmoith
erikirwin40@gmail.com
Tel: 07957 551441
www.erikirwinjewellery.co.uk
With only a few ingredients, these lean meatballs couldn't be any easier to make. Made with lamb mince and a hefty dose of spices, the smell when these are cooking is intoxicating!
500g lamb mince
1 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp ground coriander
2 fat garlic cloves, crushed
1 tbsp chopped mint
Oil for brushing
Greek yoghurt
Flat breads or pitta bread for serving
In a bowl, mix together all the ingredients until well blended. Divide into eight balls, then roll each ball on a board with a cupped hand to turn them into ovals.
Thread onto four metal skewers and brush with oil.
To cook on a griddle: heat the pan until you can feel a good heat rising and cook for 3-4 minutes each side. Don’t turn until they are well sealed or the meat will stick to the grill or pan.
Season if you want, and set aside.
Serve the koftas with Greek yogurt and warm flat breads, or pittas.
Let’s celebrate balmy spring days with four of the best British savoury spring ingredients.
Succulent spring lamb is a Great British classic. Keep it simple to make the most of its tender, mild flavour and pair with earthy seasonal ingredients like boiled Jersey Royals or roasted aubergines or asparagus. While leg is the default family roast joint, fattier shoulder is often tastier and definitely cheaper. Lamb is traditionally served with mint sauce, but mint or apple jelly makes an interesting alternative. Try searing it in a hot griddle pan for an additional burst of chargrilled flavour.
Traditionally, we like our radishes small and peppery in Britain. Use them simply sliced or chopped in salads, or try them cut in half and dipped in a little salt or salted butter, which compliments their nutty taste. You can also eat the leaves, which are slightly pungent, like rocket. Radishes are quick to grow, so if you’d like a home-grown supply, get planting now and you’ll be enjoying your own crop by the time our June issue pops through your letterbox!
The Atlantic herring, with a beautiful silvery skin and cream-coloured flesh, has been prized right across Europe for centuries, with records of salting recipes (think rollmops) dating back over a thousand years. It’s often sold smoked, as kippers or bloaters. If you’re buying fresh, look out for red rather than brown gills and bright eyes, and eat within 48 hours, as this is a fish that
doesn’t keep well. Herring is excellent fried, grilled or baked. It’s easy to find sustainably fished herring – just look out for the blue MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) logo.
Growing profusely in fields and hedgerows, wild fennel is a common sight in the English countryside, although it’s not actually a native species but was brought here by the Romans as a culinary herb. Not to be confused with poisonous species like hemlock, its delicate green fronds have a distinct fennel smell. Finely chop and use in casseroles, in stock for gravy or fresh as a herbal tea, where it will impart a sweet aniseed flavour. The pretty yellow edible flowers, which appear in July, are wonderful in salads or as a garnish, while the dried, crushed flower heads give chicken, pork or fish an aromatic kick when used as a seasoning. The seeds are even more perfumy and intense – grind them up and add to sweet or savoury homebaked biscuits.
Asparagus, Aubergine, Cabbages, Carrots, Cauliflower, Cucumber, Horseradish, Jersey Royals, Kale, Leeks, Lettuce, Radishes, Rocket, Shallot, Spinach, Spring Onions, Raspberries, Rhubarb, early season
Strawberries, Brown Crab, Herring, Sea Trout, Turbot.
Don’t hide your smile...
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
Meeting the dental needs of our local community
Welcoming new patients
Call to make an appointment: 01691 623692
2 WATERGATE STREET, ELLESMERE, SY12 0EU
info@archealthcaredental.co.uk www.archealthcaredental.co.uk
Your Local Independent Opticians with over 30 years of experience
• PRIVATE & NHS EXAMINATIONS
• WECS ACCREDITED
• PRE/POST CATARACT SCREENING
• FREE EYE EXAMINATIONS FOR OVER 60
• EARLY DETECTION OF GLAUCOMA & DIABETES
• PROTECT YOUR EYES WITH TRANSITIONS
17 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NB
Tel: 01978 855828, email: gresford.eyecare@gmail.com
www.gresfordeyecare.co.uk
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.
Women’s Health | Pain, Strain & Injury | Dizziness
Sports Injuries | Pain Rehabilitation Program
The Physio & Therapy Clinic, Gwenfro, Unit 10, Wrexham Technology Park, Wrexham LL13 7YP
Tel: 01978 312 407 / Email: info@thephysioclinic.org.uk
www.thephysioclinic.org.uk
Rhosddu is home, and since the age of 18, I've served as a local church youth leader. Fifteen years ago, our Friday night youth clubs buzzed with activity and excitement, yet failed to captivate the youngsters congregating on the nearby playing field. Despite the late hours and varied weather conditions, they chose to be there. Concerned for their wellbeing and irritated by the complaints surrounding their presence, I couldn't help but wonder about their choices and absence from home.
During this period, XL Mentoring Wrexham (XLM) was established, and fully accredited to XLP London. I had heard about the impactful work they did supporting local marginalised families. So I eagerly volunteered, and was motivated to dedicate my time to mentoring a young person in need.
Today, I am involved in the recruitment and training of individuals who are eager to make a difference in a young person's life. Our approach addresses relational poverty by serving as trusted adult role models. Establishing trust, fostering genuine connections, and boosting self-esteem are processes that require time and dedication. Hence, our structured 12-month programme is designed to facilitate these essential aspects of mentorship.
Although not all young people flourish within an academic setting, school often serves as a safe place from external challenges.
While there are instances where exclusion becomes unavoidable, its ramifications can foster feelings of disconnection and potentially lead to involvement in criminal activities. Assisting young people in selfmanagement and cultivating their resilience can prevent this.
During the initial stages, working one-onone with individuals poses challenges, such as awkwardness and insecurities, as we begin as strangers. However, gaining insight into their lives is a privilege, and encouraging their abilities and passions is immensely fulfilling. Their lives can be chaotic, so the monthly supervision help recognise the progress and give direction.
Identifying the precise impact of mentoring on an individual's decisions is difficult, due to the unique nature of each person's chosen path. However, research indicates that establishing a long-term relationship can greatly bolster self-worth. I too have my story of ‘that person’ who was there for me when I was young. They believed in me, stood by me - and I know how differently things could have been without them. I expect you have one too.
For more information, or to register your interest to become a volunteer, please contact Abi at XL Mentoring Wrexham: xlmentoringwrexham@gmail.com
By Abi Hughes, Coordinator
XL Mentoring Wrexham
xlmentoringwrexham@gmail.com
Tel: 07703 781838
@xlmentoringwrexham
Premier is Leading the Way, Again!
After celebrating 35th in business, bringing you innovative products, to complement our current range of high-quality WINDOWS, DOORS, CONSERVATORIES and ORANGERIES, we are proud to introduce our multi-functional, stand alone GARDEN ROOMS
Visit our showroom to be entered into our prize draw, for a chance to win £200 of M&S vouchers
What Will You Use Yours For? Work, Rest or Play?
Your journey begins with Premier, and your imagination. We are here to turn your dreams into a reality. The possibilities are endless, and the choice is yours!
Visit our large indoor showroom to view our range and see what we can build for you
Unit 5 Moreton Business Park, Gledrid, Nr. Oswestry, Shropshire, LL14 5DG OPENING HOURS
Mon - Fri 9am to 5pm Saturday Appointment only www.premierwindowsoswestry.co.uk 01691 773993 email: info@premierwindowsoswestry.co.uk
Can a business survive without advertising?
Imagine you've just opened a new pet shop in Borras. You’re offering top-quality pet products, priced below your competitors, with free delivery to all Wrexham residents. It's a fantastic deal that nobody would want to miss - and yet, you aren't making sales.
Even the most effective sales strategies can falter if your potential customers are unaware of your business's existence. Unless you make people aware of what value you bring to them, it will take a lot of work (and luck) for customers to find you. This is why advertising is crucial - you need to spread the word and get your business in front of customers! The more effectively you promote your product or service, the more people will become aware of it, increasing your likelihood of converting them into customers...easy, right?
So, what happens when you don't advertise your business?
Let's revisit the example of owning the pet shop. The only hope for your business to survive without advertising is for people in the neighbourhood to come across your shop and start buying from you. Even if positive word-of-mouth can help bring in more customers, you are still drastically limiting your reach. This will keep your business ‘inside a bubble’, as there are a lot of potential customers you will be missing out on.
Missing out on potential customers is a huge setback for any business. Advertising expands business opportunities to attract customers through various methods, such as magazine and radio advertising, leaflet distribution and social media.
Advertising builds trust
Advertising gives your brand a voice. By promoting effectively, you give people a reason to choose your business over a competitor, even if you're relatively new in the market. It gives people confidence that they won't be left in the dark, even if they encounter a problem with your product.
Promoting yourself isn't easy, and every business is different. But advertising is a constant process, not a remedial measure you only look to when things aren't going well, or when you want to temporarily boost your sales or business pipeline. It requires a consistent, long-term effort to promote, nourish and grow your business.
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
This month marks the fifth anniversary of the UK Parliament’s declaration of a climate emergency. Many countries followed our lead, and later that year we became the first major economy to commit to legally binding carbon reduction targets. In the spring of 2019 children around the world joined Fridays for Future school strikes, and a pink boat in Oxford Circus symbolised the growing demand for climate action. After decades during which climate scientists’ warnings went largely unheeded, it seemed like the world was finally waking up to the severity of the climate and ecological emergency and the urgent need to act.
In spring 2019 it felt like something had really changed - but in spring 2024 it’s clear that nowhere near enough actually has. The pandemic showed what a genuine global emergency response looks like - we’ve not seen anything approaching that for the climate emergency. The pandemic offered an opportunity to reconsider how we were living and to build back better. However, what’s followed has largely been a return to business as usual.
In 2019, UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, told the world that tackling the climate and ecological emergency required “Fundamental transformations in all aspects of society - how we grow food, use land, fuel our transport and power our economies.” Many of us have made changes in our own lives, but if we look around us it’s clear that
far too much still remains the same. We’ve witnessed the climate crisis accelerating more rapidly than many predicted and action failing to keep pace.
If I wanted to get there, I wouldn’t start from here!
Our limited progress in the last five years means the challenges we face are now even greater. However, there’s still reason for hope - the majority of people around the world support action to tackle the climate and ecological emergency; the problem is we’re currently being let down by too many in positions of power.
This leaves ordinary people like us needing to do two things:
1. Make further changes in our own lives, as few of us have yet reached a point which could be termed ‘sustainable’.
2. Recognise that on its own this will never be enough, so we also need to become politically active and push governments and businesses to do far more.
Showing we’re unwilling to accept continued inaction is essential if we want to see real progress in the second half of this critical decade.
EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com
I hope that everyone had an enjoyable Easter and a relaxing Bank Holiday weekend with friends and family?
During a recent visit to the Wrexham Tennis Centre, amidst the buzz of the Lexus Welsh Junior Open, I was delighted to see the impact of the £2million injection from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund. I heard how the investment will help to transform the Centre, as well as being used to resurface all existing tennis courts, install floodlights, and make various improvements to the Centre.
In addition, the Centre also plans to use this money to build three outdoor padel Courts. The Centre has been granted planning permission and it was exciting to hear that the works are starting in May. Thanks to UK Government investment, Wrexham is becoming a tennis powerhouse.
In other Shared Prosperity Funding news, I visited the Salvation Army in Wrexham to see how they are utilising almost £50,000 of UK Government investment for their ‘Employment Programme’. This initiative supports an Employment Development Coordinator aiding up to 60 long-term unemployed individuals. Meeting the Salvation Army team and programme beneficiaries, including military veterans transitioning to civilian work, was inspiring.
Metastatic Cancer Nurses is to patients fighting cancer. At a time when only 52.9% of Welsh patients are starting treatment within two months of a diagnosis, well below the 75% target, resources should be provided to enhance cancer services in Wrexham – not scale them back.
Despite the UK Government handing the Welsh Government £18billion a year, which is the largest annual funding settlement to Wales since devolution began, the Welsh Government consistently argue that it does not receive enough money to sufficiently fund health services in Wales.
I have written to the Minister for Health and Social Care to press for more funding to be provided by the Welsh Government to secure the nurse’s position and I will be exploring other avenues to ensure that Wrexham patients don’t miss out on this vital service.
If you have not done so already, I am calling on you to sign my ‘Health Survey’ on my website (www.sarahatherton.org.uk).
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.
Meanwhile, many constituents have raised concerns about potential cuts to the Metastatic Cancer Nurse position in Wrexham. Earlier this month, I wrote to Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board to raise both mine and residents’ concerns. In their response, which I received a couple of weeks ago, the Health Board confirmed that this post is being funded for another three months while evaluating the service. As a former nurse, I know how important the support and guidance provided by the Tel: 020 7217 4885
sarah.atherton.mp@parliament.uk
www.sarahatherton.org.uk
Tom was renting but was frustrated with the rising payments, so wanted to see if buying his first house was a viable option.
He spoke with Hadlow Edwards’ Mortgage Adviser, Jon, wanting to review his options and to find out how much he was able to borrow so that he could start looking for his ideal property.
He discussed his deposit options with his parents who wanted to help him onto the property ladder by gifting him a sum of money, which Hadlow Edwards were also able to help with.
Jon was on hand to talk through the next steps: making an offer, which documents were needed for the solicitors, improving his credit score, typical timescales, and the main fees to consider.
“Having been referred to Jon, I found the home buying process much easier with his guidance. Without his help, I wouldn’t have known where to start and what was available to me. Jon explained everything at every stage, and I feel comfortable that I have the best mortgage deal for me.”
- Tom
What documents will I need?
Photo ID
Either a passport or driving licence will be needed to prove your identity.
Your last three months of payslips
Or at least a years’ SA302s & Matching Tax Year Overviews if you are selfemployed. These will be needed to prove your earnings. Irregular income payments can also be included.
Your last three years address history
This is used as an additional proof of identity.
Your last three months of bank statements
This shows your ingoing earnings and your general banking conduct.
Proof of your deposit
This will be needed to show you have the funds to pay the deposit. If your deposit has been gifted, you’ll need proof of where the funds have originated from.
Details of any current credit commitments
This proves your affordability of mortgage repayments. These can include car finance or personal loan repayments, etc.
Copy of your credit report (optional)
This helps to understand how likely your application will be accepted.
By Jon Peatfield Mortgage Adviser at Hadlow Edwards
Jonathan.peatfield@sjpp.co.uk
Tel: 07901 643920
www.hadlowedwards.co.uk
Wrexham was well represented at a recent award ceremony that recognises the very best mental health services in Wales. Based on Belmont Road in the city centre, Advance Brighter Futures won ‘Best Mental Health Support Service’ and local resident, Keir Harding, triumphed in the ‘Inspirational Leader’ category. Both entries were nominated as part of the Mental Health & Wellbeing Awards, which highlights and celebrates the work, interventions and success of individuals and organisations throughout Wales.
The ceremony took place in Cardiff at the end of last year, and I recently caught up with the local winners to offer my congratulations.
Advance Brighter Futures (ABF) is a mental health charity that has helped countless people over the years. As well as celebrating its 30th anniversary, in recent years the charity has secured significant Welsh Government funding which helped refurbish and expand their premises, enabling ABF to continue to provide a fantastic service to local people.
Wrexham’s second winner on the night was Keir Harding, a mental health professional with more than 20 years of experience. Keir founded Beam Consultancy and is passionate about improving services for people suffering from severe and complex mental health issues. People like Keir, and those who work at Advance Brighter Futures, do not seek praise but it is right their outstanding efforts are celebrated. I will continue to work with both winners and I am proud their pioneering work, that provides crucial support to people in and around Wrexham, has received national recognition.
For 30 years, Care Forum Wales has championed the social care sector, offering a voice to its members whose primary role is to look after some of the most vulnerable people in society.
The organisation represents more than 450 independent care homes, nursing homes and other social care providers throughout Wales. The united members share best practice and resources and work to influence policy makers.
Last month, I sponsored a special event at the Senedd celebrating Care Forum Wales’ achievements over the past three decades. Mario Kreft MBE, the Chair of Care Forum Wales, presented former First Minister, Mark Drakeford, with a Special Recognition award, praising his contribution and long-term support for the sector. The recognition was fully deserved and the First Minister is leaving some big shoes to fill.
As always, if you’re a constituent in Wrexham and there is an issue I could help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Tel: 01978 355743
Talwyd costau’r cyhoeddiad hwn gan Gomisiwn y Senedd, o gronfeydd cyhoeddus / The costs of this publication have been met by the Senedd Commission from public funds.
Lesley.Griffiths@senedd.wales www.lesleygriffiths.co.uk
Facebook & Twitter: @lesley4wrexham
If you want to find out the answers they will be published in next month’s edition.
Here are the answers from April:
Celebrating a landmark 35 years in business!
In 1989, Paul and Caroline founded the company, and 13 years later their eldest son, Ben, joined the business. This year, they welcomed Ben’s wife, Kelli, to the business. It’s this family approach that resonates with so many of our customers, and sets us apart from so many others, as we provide a personal service that has family values at its heart.
Our stunning indoor display centre showcases a huge range, consisting of seven different types of windows, several full-size conservatories and orangeries, an extensive range of doors, our brand-new free-standing garden room and different solid roof options for your conservatory.
