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MARCH 2019 | ISSUE 44
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Welcome to the latest edition of your Inside Flintshire magazine. Wow what a crazy month this has been? we’ve added lots of news businesses in this issue plus 95% have re-booked with us because because their advertisments have really worked for them. Big thank you to all our readers who have used their services and for giving us a mention. As I write my editors notes there really is a feel of Spring in the air, (I hope I haven’t tempted fate). and I’m really looking forward to the lighter nights and warmer days. So what do we have in this months issue? Dont forget Mother’s Day on March the 26th and if you’re stuck for gift ideas then take a look at our Mother’s Day gifts ideas with a difference on page 8-9. Do you like the image on our front cover this month? it was kindly supplied by Simon Kitchin a fantastic photographer, take a look at his website all about his book www.landscapephotographyuk.com. This months discover feature takes us to the beautiful cotswolds, pages 18-19. This month we ventured outside of Flintshire to do our restaurant review with a visit to Sheldrakes in lower Heswell, see what we thought on pages 28-29. Lots lots more inside so please take a look.
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Italy’s best holiday destinations for 2019
The Italian Lakes
Venice
Holidaymakers have been attracted to the lakes since Roman times, and each has its own special character and appeal. If you’re after a quieter romantic escape, you may be drawn to Lake Orta or Lake Como . Outdoorsy types should head to the northern shores of Lake Garda for canyoning and kite surfing, while Lake Iseo is well-suited to hikers and cyclists. And for opulent hotels, and grand resorts, Stresa, Pallanza, and the Golfo Borromeo of Lake Maggiore are the places to stay.
Always beautiful, always alluring, always romantic and never disappointing: you can’t go wrong with Venice at almost any time of year. On clear days, the canals sparkle in the sunlight, and you can see the snowcapped Dolomites on the horizon. In February you can also choose between crowd-free sights coupled with bargain prices, or the excitement and glamour of the Carnival (February 23 - March 5, 2019).
Recommended Hotels
F
rom the splendour of Rome, the colour of Venice’s Carnevale, the unspoilt beauty of Tuscany and the peace and tranquility of Lake Como, Italy is a country of year-long delights.
Rome The world’s greatest historic city with fabulous sights ranging from the Colosseum to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling, from remarkable Baroque churches to the catacombs, Rome has its appeal at almost any time of year. But winter is an especially good choice. The sights are much quieter, but it’s also a surprisingly cosy: some restaurants even have a roaring open fire in the dining room. And, the build-up to Christmas is especially atmospheric.
Recommended Hotels Gran Meliá Rome: Its location in the heart of historic Rome is undeniably urban, while its lush grounds and pools, fine-dining, glam lounge and elegant spa create an all-inclusive, luxury-resort atmosphere The H’All Tailor Suite: A chic and stylish hotel in Rome’s upscale Borghese neighbourhood, with 14 luxuriously appointed rooms, highly attentive and personalised service and,
lidays Ho
not least, a gourmet restaurant. Hotel Raphael: Pairing the Old World grace of its wisteria and bougainvilleacovered façade with a New Millennium environmental sensibility, the elegant vegetarian rooftop restaurant is the culmination of this eco-luxe philosophy.
Sicily It’s the amazing variety which makes Sicily so special - from smouldering Etna, to stunning baroque towns and fabulous Greek and Roman ruins. But the sights are spread all over the island so you need to spend time on the road to link them all together. Plan to circumnavigate the island – you’ll need two weeks, but the highlights can be squeezed into a week.
Recommended Hotels Seven Rooms Villadorata: This stunning boutique hotel is a devastatingly gorgeous feast for the senses housed in a wing of the most extravagant Baroque palazzo in Sicily. Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea: Set among subtropical gardens on its own private stretch of beach on the Bay of Mazzarò, this luxurious hotel oozes understated elegance. Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo: The luxurious Timeo, set in one of Sicily’s
Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli: This exclusive villa is set in impeccably kept grounds and offers outstanding service and Michelin-starred cuisine to match. The rooms are elegant and cosy with the living areas seemingly melting into one, and meals are served anywhere on the property.
Luxury yachting in Capri prettiest towns, not only offers exceptional services and facilities, but also one of the best views in Italy, straight onto Europe’s largest active volcano.
Tuscany Tuscany encapsulates everything that is most seductive about Italy - glorious landscapes, perfect climate, great art and architecture and a matchless cuisine. In the autumn, when the light turns golden, the days are still warm, the rich harvest of figs, grapes, chestnuts, olives, apples, pears and pumpkins is at its peak, and fresh funghi are being gathered in the woods
Locanda San Vigilio: This charming 16th-century locanda has one of the most stunning locations on Lake Garda, offering a peaceful and romantic setting right on the water. Relax by the swimming pool set amid olive trees and lemon groves and dine to the sound of the water lapping against the stone building.
Recommended Hotels Belmond Hotel Cipriani: With sweeping views across the Venetian lagoon, the 96-room Belmond Hotel Cipriani is the definition of luxurious perfection. Guests can count on stellar – and discreet – service at this five-star resort in addition to Michelin-starred dining, an Olympic-sized pool filtered with seawater and gorgeous grounds. The Gritti Palace: This 15th-century palazzo occupies one of the loveliest spots on the Grand Canal, looking across to the magnificent Salute church
Venice Carnival
Punta Tragara: This is probably Capri’s most impressively located hotel,
Hotel Orsa Maggiore: Albergo Orsa Maggiore, undoubtedly one of the prettiest hotels on the Isle of Capri, is a four-star utopia complete with an elevated swimming pool, Mediterranean gardens and a rooftop terrace sporting a 360-degree wraparound view of the sea.
Castello La Leccia: You can drink in the heady views (and heady wines) at this handsome 12-room Chianti castle, complete with organic farm, winery and Italian gardens.
● Visit booking.com for details of the hotels featured on these pages. To advertise text ADVERT to: 07446 778 482
Undiscovered Cotswolds Undiscovered Cotswolds is run by two locals - Graham and Ian - and offers both private and small guided tours for up to 8 people. The focus is on getting off the beaten track, to see how it really is to live in this stunning region. Take in small hamlets, streams and meadows that can inspire you for many years to come. Some of the villages visited cannot be reached by a larger vehicle so you will get to see places as yet untouched by tourism. Some of these places are known for inspiring famous authors and film directors. If you wish you could visit some of the sights in Downton Abbey or see how Tolkien found his inspiration in the Lord of the Rings, then now you can! During summer they operate cycle tours and can combine the Cotswolds with some traditional Oxford punting down the river. This is a wonderful combination!
Blenheim Palace
Whether it is afternoon cream tea in a traditional tea room, punting down the river, cycling, horse riding or just getting a wonderful overview of the area and taking some stunning pictures, then this is for you.
he Cotswolds is a very special, very wonderful place. The Cotswolds covers a huge area - almost 800 square miles - and runs through five counties (Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire). One of the delights of visiting the Cotswolds is exploring the different areas, each with its own identity, yet all with those defining Cotswold features: golden stone and rolling hills, the ‘wolds’.
Blenheim Palace A visit to Blenheim Palace offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to share the splendours of Baroque architecture designed in the 1700s by Vanbrugh and Hawksmoor, to wonder at the collections of art, tapestry and antiques, and to explore the Park and
Gardens and discover landscapes crafted by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown to form magnificent vistas of English countryside. In just a single day, you can enjoy guided tours of the Palace, home to the Dukes of Marlborough and the greatest Briton, Sir Winston Churchill. You will find exhibits that tell the story of their lives, and the lives of those who have run the Palace and Estate for three centuries, through diaries, artefacts, photographs and film.
Find out more at: undiscoveredcotswolds.com
Cotswold Wildlife Park Take a walk on the WILD SIDE! Stroll around the Park and get eye-to-eye with giraffes, watch rhinos graze on the Gothic manor house lawns, walk with lemurs or take a ride on Bella the Train (April-Oct). The stunning gardens and themed borders, make a beautiful backdrop. With over 260 different species of animals in over 120 acres of parkland, there’s plenty of space to relax and get closer to wildlife! Kids of all ages will love the adventure
playground in the woods with treehouses, rope bridges and slides. Don’t miss the Children’s Farmyard with goat petting area and daily penguin feeding. They have one of the largest reptile collections in the UK with crocodiles, lizards, frogs and snakes such as green anacondas.
Chedworth Roman Villa Chedworth Roman Villa was rediscovered by the Victorians over 150 years ago. Leading the way in archaeology and conservation, Chedworth is coming towards the end of an exciting five-year summer excavations programme. A modern conservation building provides exceptional access to the extensive mosaic floors, hypocaust systems and bathhouse rooms. And a small museum houses a range of finds and artefacts from the villa. As well as all this, the tranquil setting, idyllic views and rich wildlife haven gives plenty of opportunities for walks, relaxation and reflection.
Film and TV locations The Cotswolds has the perfect scenery for TV and film locations. Many of the Cotswold country retreats are perfect settings for great British drama. For example: Chavenage House was used as a setting for ‘Lark Rise to Candleford’, the great British drama set in the 19th century, and also for the BBC’s recent remake of Poldark. The Cotswold manor Stanway House featured in the film ‘The Libertine’ where Johnny Depp plays a debauched 17th century poet. Gloucester Cathedral has been used in many of the ‘Harry Potter’ films as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardary. The Cotswolds feature regularly in Countryfile where presenter Adam Henson has his farm park. ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ was filmed in the beautiful Cotswold village of Snowshill where there is a snowy Christmas scene just before the family festive party.
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General knowledge quiz 1 Michael Keaton 2 Cowboys 3 Marie Curie 4 Richard III 5 Dubai 6 Roadrunner 7 Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi 8 1971 9 2001: A Space Odyssey 10 The blue whale
Shelldrakes restaurant review
T
his month took us out of Flintshire and to Lower Heswell, to the award winning Sheldrakes restaurant. The proprietor is Helen Demetrios, who, as a Greek Cypriot, is passionate about food and creating the perfect atmosphere.
Sheldrakes is situated in Lower Heswell, which was originally a small fishing hamlet on the River Dee. Sheldrakes was originally the home of the Dee Sailing club until the siltings of the River Dee in the early 1980s caused the club to relocate and it became a restaurant for the first time. Once fondly nicknamed ‘Shack on the Beach’, it has been tenderly restored over the last seven years. The name ‘Sheldrakes’ was a
common term for Shelduck. Sheldrakes borders one of the most important areas in Europe for wintering and migrating bird populations. Sheldrakes has the most breathtaking views of the Dee Estuary and beyond towards the Welsh Mountains. We were so happy that we visited in the afternoon as, even though it was January, it felt like we were on holiday somewhere, as the restaurant is very much like a rustic Greek tavern with white washed walls,
exposed brickwork, and wooden furnishings and the most amazing sunset over the picturesque Welsh mountains. We had taken advantage of a great Groupon deal, which was 4 courses for £49. For starters we had a Greek Meze sharing platter which included chargrilled pitta bread, humus, tzatziki,
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The Cotswold village of Bampton doubles as the fictional village of Downton in the hit drama series ‘Downton Abbey’.
Cotswold Guided Tours Cotswold Guided Tours are run by husband & wife team Lucy & Richard Lambert. If you are staying in the area or visiting for the day, they can’t wait to share this beautiful region with you! For an introduction to the Cotswolds, learn the quirky history and interesting facts, get free time to explore at each stop then join them for a wonderful day out! Visit hidden Cotswolds villages inaccessible by public transport, mustsee market towns, enjoy breath-taking scenery, architecture and fabulous English countryside. All tours start between 10am-10.15am from Moreton in Marsh Railway Station and finish no later than 4.30pm. Easily accessible from London, Paddington and Oxford, they are also the only tour company that offers local collection & drop off - all for the amazing price of £45 per person!
Feldon Valley Feldon Valley has a mature 18 hole golf course in a beautiful Cotswold setting, an excellent restaurant and will shortly be offering superb accommodation as well. The par 71 golf course that wraps around the site is a perfect reflection of the Cotswold setting, offering a game to suit every golfer from beginners to lower handicaps. The Kitchen at Feldon Valley offers two menus with dishes proudly reflecting the seasonality of local produce and the success of its own Ecology Island. If you time it right, you may be able to sample the honey produced by their bee hives or the fruit from the trees. The restaurant offers the opportunity for a four-course lunch or dinner whilst the bar menu offers simpler dishes for a quick bite to eat or an afternoon tea. For more information about the attractions listed, including prices and opening times, go to: www.cotswolds.com
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Crossword
Recommended Hotels
perched above the Faraglioni rockstacks at the end of panoramic Via Tragara. A refurb has given it a stylish classic-contemporary look to match its romantic setting.
Portrait Firenze: An exceptional hotel with a centralissima location and a discreetly luxurious atmosphere, Portrait Firenze’s sleek and sophisticated design will appeal to style hounds and families alike.
The Cotswolds
Competiton Winners for February: Wilko Johnson - S Critchley - Roger Daltrey Totally tina - M Willson - Simply The Best Who am I - B Hayes - Andy Murray
Easy Sudoku
Ever since the (admittedly somewhat debauched) Emperor Tiberius went to Capri to avoid the pressures of running an empire, this lovely island just off the Sorrento peninsula has been about escapism. To make the most of it today you have to do a bit of extra escaping by avoiding the crowds of day trippers who arrive by boat from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. But you can make this a positive by heading off on the footpaths or beaches when they arrive, then returning to enjoy the more peaceful evenings.
Rome’s Collosseum
Villa Cora: A fantasy world of immaculately-restored luxury, Villa Cora is an outstanding hotel offering a superb facilities, impeccable service and a best-of-both-worlds location.
r Discove
T
Brain Workout Answers
Capri
Recommended Hotels
Cotswold Wildlife Park
Reg - Editor Inside Flintshire Magazines T: 01352 870 760 E: reg@insideflintshiremagazine.co.uk
Aman Venice: The Clooneys celebrated their nuptials in this 16th-century Grand Canal palace. Yet there is much more to say about this incredible property, which balances contemporary décor with museumquality treasures in 24 luxurious suites.
Palazzo Albricci Peregrini: This lovely boutique hotel in the historical heart of Como offers stylish rooms set around a quiet garden courtyard. They’re tastefully furnished, decorated with objects the owners have purchased on their travels.
Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements
18
and has equally sumptuous interiors to match, with priceless antiques and frescoes, and a small but exquisite spa.
Melitzanosolata, kopananist and crudités vegetables; this was really tasty and beautifully presented so we were really impressed and looking forward to the next three courses! The service throughout was impeccable. The staff were very attentive and asked if we were ready for our main course, which was the Chateaubriand steak. We were also advised that for it to be at its tastiest they would cook it rare to medium and explained this is cut from the thickest part of the tenderloin filet and this is the best way to appreciate the full flavour of the meat.
On arrival, the Chateaubriand looked to die for; it was cooked to perfection and served with plump tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms and tin of homemade gorgeous chunky chips. On the side was a jug of creamy peppercorn sauce. This was the first time we have tried Chateaubriand and we both agreed it was amazing, it melted in your mouth; the only thing missing was a few onion rings on the side and that would have made it perfect! The dessert was presented on a slate platter and once again, the presentation was first class. The cheesecake was creamy
with a tangy lemony twist and the Chocolate cake was rich and decadent - a perfect combination which complimented each other perfectly. The fourth and final course was a cheese board, which was a perfect finish to a remarkable meal. It had a good mixture of cheeses, including a Stilton, Brie, Extra Mature Cheddar and a Crumbly Cheshire. They were accompanied by homemade chutney, celery, apple and grapes. Even though we were fit to burst, there were no leftovers from us! We have to say this is now one of our favourite restaurant and cannot wait to visit on a warmer day so we can take advantage of the beautiful views and superb food and pretend we are in the Mediterranean! A musttry restaurant - even better if you can manage to get a Groupon deal!
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Mother’s Day gifts with a difference
Floating Photo Glass Dome by NO ORDINARY GIFT
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‘The Pamper Box’ Letterbox Gift Set by LETTERBOX GIFTS
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Personalised Welly Boot Family Print by THIS IS NESSIE
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Personalised Mixed Birthstone Necklace by RACHEL JACKSON LONDON
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Personalised Leather Make Up Bag by BEGOLDEN
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Luxury Mohair/ Cashmere Bed Socks by QUIRKY GIFT LIBRARY
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‘A Great Big Hug From Me To You’ Personalised Cushion by THE DRIFTING BEAR CO
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Katia Silver &Thread Bracelet by BLOOM BOUTIQUE
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Personalised Cashmere Blend Ombre Scarf by STUDIO HOP
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Italy’s best holiday destinations for 2019
F
rom the splendour of Rome, the colour of Venice’s Carnevale, the unspoilt beauty of Tuscany and the peace and tranquility of Lake Como, Italy is a country of year-long delights.
Rome
y s a d i l o H
not least, a gourmet restaurant. Hotel Raphael: Pairing the Old World grace of its wisteria and bougainvilleacovered façade with a New Millennium environmental sensibility, the elegant vegetarian rooftop restaurant is the culmination of this eco-luxe philosophy.
The world’s greatest historic city with fabulous sights ranging from the Colosseum to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling, from remarkable Baroque churches to the catacombs, Rome has its appeal at almost any time of year. But winter is an especially good choice. The sights are much quieter, but it’s also a surprisingly cosy: some restaurants even have a roaring open fire in the dining room. And, the build-up to Christmas is especially atmospheric.
Sicily
Recommended Hotels
Seven Rooms Villadorata: This stunning boutique hotel is a devastatingly gorgeous feast for the senses housed in a wing of the most extravagant Baroque palazzo in Sicily.
Gran Meliá Rome: Its location in the heart of historic Rome is undeniably urban, while its lush grounds and pools, fine-dining, glam lounge and elegant spa create an all-inclusive, luxury-resort atmosphere The H’All Tailor Suite: A chic and stylish hotel in Rome’s upscale Borghese neighbourhood, with 14 luxuriously appointed rooms, highly attentive and personalised service and,
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It’s the amazing variety which makes Sicily so special - from smouldering Etna, to stunning baroque towns and fabulous Greek and Roman ruins. But the sights are spread all over the island so you need to spend time on the road to link them all together. Plan to circumnavigate the island – you’ll need two weeks, but the highlights can be squeezed into a week.
Recommended Hotels
Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea: Set among subtropical gardens on its own private stretch of beach on the Bay of Mazzarò, this luxurious hotel oozes understated elegance. Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo: The luxurious Timeo, set in one of Sicily’s
Luxury yachting in Capri prettiest towns, not only offers exceptional services and facilities, but also one of the best views in Italy, straight onto Europe’s largest active volcano.
Tuscany Tuscany encapsulates everything that is most seductive about Italy - glorious landscapes, perfect climate, great art and architecture and a matchless cuisine. In the autumn, when the light turns golden, the days are still warm, the rich harvest of figs, grapes, chestnuts, olives, apples, pears and pumpkins is at its peak, and fresh funghi are being gathered in the woods
Recommended Hotels Villa Cora: A fantasy world of immaculately-restored luxury, Villa Cora is an outstanding hotel offering a superb facilities, impeccable service and a best-of-both-worlds location. Portrait Firenze: An exceptional hotel with a centralissima location and a discreetly luxurious atmosphere, Portrait Firenze’s sleek and sophisticated design will appeal to style hounds and families alike. Castello La Leccia: You can drink in the heady views (and heady wines) at this handsome 12-room Chianti castle, complete with organic farm, winery and Italian gardens.
Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements
The Italian Lakes
Venice
Holidaymakers have been attracted to the lakes since Roman times, and each has its own special character and appeal. If you’re after a quieter romantic escape, you may be drawn to Lake Orta or Lake Como . Outdoorsy types should head to the northern shores of Lake Garda for canyoning and kite surfing, while Lake Iseo is well-suited to hikers and cyclists. And for opulent hotels, and grand resorts, Stresa, Pallanza, and the Golfo Borromeo of Lake Maggiore are the places to stay.
Always beautiful, always alluring, always romantic and never disappointing: you can’t go wrong with Venice at almost any time of year. On clear days, the canals sparkle in the sunlight, and you can see the snowcapped Dolomites on the horizon. In February you can also choose between crowd-free sights coupled with bargain prices, or the excitement and glamour of the Carnival (February 23 - March 5, 2019).
Recommended Hotels Grand Hotel a Villa Feltrinelli: This exclusive villa is set in impeccably kept grounds and offers outstanding service and Michelin-starred cuisine to match. The rooms are elegant and cosy with the living areas seemingly melting into one, and meals are served anywhere on the property. Locanda San Vigilio: This charming 16th-century locanda has one of the most stunning locations on Lake Garda, offering a peaceful and romantic setting right on the water. Relax by the swimming pool set amid olive trees and lemon groves and dine to the sound of the water lapping against the stone building.
Recommended Hotels Belmond Hotel Cipriani: With sweeping views across the Venetian lagoon, the 96-room Belmond Hotel Cipriani is the definition of luxurious perfection. Guests can count on stellar – and discreet – service at this five-star resort in addition to Michelin-starred dining, an Olympic-sized pool filtered with seawater and gorgeous grounds. The Gritti Palace: This 15th-century palazzo occupies one of the loveliest spots on the Grand Canal, looking across to the magnificent Salute church
Venice Carn
and has equally sumptuous interiors to match, with priceless antiques and frescoes, and a small but exquisite spa. Aman Venice: The Clooneys celebrated their nuptials in this 16th-century Grand Canal palace. Yet there is much more to say about this incredible property, which balances contemporary décor with museumquality treasures in 24 luxurious suites.
Capri Ever since the (admittedly somewhat debauched) Emperor Tiberius went to Capri to avoid the pressures of running an empire, this lovely island just off the Sorrento peninsula has been about escapism. To make the most of it today you have to do a bit of extra escaping by avoiding the crowds of day trippers who arrive by boat from mid-morning to mid-afternoon. But you can make this a positive by heading off on the footpaths or beaches when they arrive, then returning to enjoy the more peaceful evenings.
Recommended Hotels Punta Tragara: This is probably Capri’s most impressively located hotel,
ival
Palazzo Albricci Peregrini: This lovely boutique hotel in the historical heart of Como offers stylish rooms set around a quiet garden courtyard. They’re tastefully furnished, decorated with objects the owners have purchased on their travels. Rome’s Collosseum
perched above the Faraglioni rockstacks at the end of panoramic Via Tragara. A refurb has given it a stylish classic-contemporary look to match its romantic setting. Hotel Orsa Maggiore: Albergo Orsa Maggiore, undoubtedly one of the prettiest hotels on the Isle of Capri, is a four-star utopia complete with an elevated swimming pool, Mediterranean gardens and a rooftop terrace sporting a 360-degree wraparound view of the sea. ● Visit booking.com for details of the hotels featured on these pages. To advertise text ADVERT to: 07446 778 482
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The Cotswolds Blenheim Palace
Cotswold Wildlife Park
T
he Cotswolds is a very special, very wonderful place. The Cotswolds covers a huge area - almost 800 square miles - and runs through five counties (Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire). One of the delights of visiting the Cotswolds is exploring the different areas, each with its own identity, yet all with those defining Cotswold features: golden stone and rolling hills, the ‘wolds’.
Blenheim Palace A visit to Blenheim Palace offers an unforgettable experience. It’s a chance to share the splendours of Baroque architecture designed in the 1700s by Vanbrugh and Hawksmoor, to wonder at the collections of art, tapestry and antiques, and to explore the Park and
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Gardens and discover landscapes crafted by Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown to form magnificent vistas of English countryside. In just a single day, you can enjoy guided tours of the Palace, home to the Dukes of Marlborough and the greatest Briton, Sir Winston Churchill. You will find exhibits that tell the story of their lives, and the lives of those who have run the Palace and Estate for three centuries, through diaries, artefacts, photographs and film.
Cotswold Wildlife Park Take a walk on the WILD SIDE! Stroll around the Park and get eye-to-eye with giraffes, watch rhinos graze on the Gothic manor house lawns, walk with lemurs or take a ride on Bella the Train (April-Oct). The stunning gardens and themed borders, make a beautiful backdrop. With over 260 different species of animals in over 120 acres of parkland, there’s plenty of space to relax and get closer to wildlife! Kids of all ages will love the adventure
playground in the woods with treehouses, rope bridges and slides. Don’t miss the Children’s Farmyard with goat petting area and daily penguin feeding. They have one of the largest reptile collections in the UK with crocodiles, lizards, frogs and snakes such as green anacondas.
Chedworth Roman Villa Chedworth Roman Villa was rediscovered by the Victorians over 150 years ago. Leading the way in archaeology and conservation, Chedworth is coming towards the end of an exciting five-year summer excavations programme. A modern conservation building provides exceptional access to the extensive mosaic floors, hypocaust systems and bathhouse rooms. And a small museum houses a range of finds and artefacts from the villa. As well as all this, the tranquil setting, idyllic views and rich wildlife haven gives plenty of opportunities for walks, relaxation and reflection.
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Undiscovered Cotswolds Undiscovered Cotswolds is run by two locals - Graham and Ian - and offers both private and small guided tours for up to 8 people. The focus is on getting off the beaten track, to see how it really is to live in this stunning region. Take in small hamlets, streams and meadows that can inspire you for many years to come. Some of the villages visited cannot be reached by a larger vehicle so you will get to see places as yet untouched by tourism. Some of these places are known for inspiring famous authors and film directors. If you wish you could visit some of the sights in Downton Abbey or see how Tolkien found his inspiration in the Lord of the Rings, then now you can! During summer they operate cycle tours and can combine the Cotswolds with some traditional Oxford punting down the river. This is a wonderful combination! Whether it is afternoon cream tea in a traditional tea room, punting down the river, cycling, horse riding or just getting a wonderful overview of the area and taking some stunning pictures, then this is for you. Find out more at: undiscoveredcotswolds.com
Film and TV locations The Cotswolds has the perfect scenery for TV and film locations. Many of the Cotswold country retreats are perfect settings for great British drama. For example: Chavenage House was used as a setting for ‘Lark Rise to Candleford’, the great British drama set in the 19th century, and also for the BBC’s recent remake of Poldark. The Cotswold manor Stanway House featured in the film ‘The Libertine’ where Johnny Depp plays a debauched 17th century poet. Gloucester Cathedral has been used in many of the ‘Harry Potter’ films as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardary. The Cotswolds feature regularly in Countryfile where presenter Adam Henson has his farm park. ‘Bridget Jones’s Diary’ was filmed in the beautiful Cotswold village of Snowshill where there is a snowy Christmas scene just before the family festive party.
The Cotswold village of Bampton doubles as the fictional village of Downton in the hit drama series ‘Downton Abbey’.
Cotswold Guided Tours Cotswold Guided Tours are run by husband & wife team Lucy & Richard Lambert. If you are staying in the area or visiting for the day, they can’t wait to share this beautiful region with you! For an introduction to the Cotswolds, learn the quirky history and interesting facts, get free time to explore at each stop then join them for a wonderful day out! Visit hidden Cotswolds villages inaccessible by public transport, mustsee market towns, enjoy breath-taking scenery, architecture and fabulous English countryside. All tours start between 10am-10.15am from Moreton in Marsh Railway Station and finish no later than 4.30pm. Easily accessible from London, Paddington and Oxford, they are also the only tour company that offers local collection & drop off - all for the amazing price of £45 per person!
Feldon Valley Feldon Valley has a mature 18 hole golf course in a beautiful Cotswold setting, an excellent restaurant and will shortly be offering superb accommodation as well. The par 71 golf course that wraps around the site is a perfect reflection of the Cotswold setting, offering a game to suit every golfer from beginners to lower handicaps. The Kitchen at Feldon Valley offers two menus with dishes proudly reflecting the seasonality of local produce and the success of its own Ecology Island. If you time it right, you may be able to sample the honey produced by their bee hives or the fruit from the trees. The restaurant offers the opportunity for a four-course lunch or dinner whilst the bar menu offers simpler dishes for a quick bite to eat or an afternoon tea. For more information about the attractions listed, including prices and opening times, go to: www.cotswolds.com
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PRIZE
COMPETITIONS WIN two tickets to see
The Undertones with Special Guests The Neville Staple Band
at Manchester -O2 Ritz: Saturday May 11, 2019 Formed in Derry, Northern Ireland in 1975, The Undertones became renowned for combining lyrical invention and musical flair with intelligent simplicity. Their anthemic Teenage Kicks, much loved by John Peel, is one of the most influential songs of the postpunk era. On May 13, 1979 Seymour Stein’s
Sire records released the band’s self titled debut album ‘The Undertones’. To mark the 40th anniversary of its release, The Undertones now present a glorious set of classic tracks taken from what is considered by many to be one of the best punk albums of all time (Family Entertainment, Male Model, Jump Boys, Here Comes The Summer, Jimmy Jimmy), adding to them a whole bucketful of their iconic guitar pop
hits and anthems My Perfect Cousin, You’ve Got My Number, Julie Ocean, Wednesday Week, and, of course, Teenage Kicks. Special guest Neville Staple, also known as The Original Rudeboy, is credited with changing the face of pop music not only once but twice. Neville Staple’s 40 year career in the music business is well documented, from the early days with The Coventry Automatics, The Specials & FunBoy3 in the late ‘70s and ‘80s, to The Special Beat and various other collaborations during his solo career from the ‘90s up to the present day.
To be in with a chance of winning the tickets, just answer the following question:
“Which anniversary are The Undertones currently celebrating?”
Saturday May 11, 2019; Manchester - O2 Ritz; Box Office No: 0161 714 4140; Tickets: £20.00; Doors: 7.00pm; Website: academymusicgroup.com/o2ritzmanchester/eventevents/1226454/undertones-tickets
To enter our competitions please send your full name, address and contact details to reg@insideflintshiremagazine.co.uk (Closing date March 18) 24
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WIN two tickets to see
Totally Tina at Rhyl - Pavilion: Friday May 3, 2019
Ten years have passed since the UK’s official number one Tina Turner tribute first sprang to life in the vibrant city of Liverpool, but a Lifetime Achievement Award and many other prestigious accolades along the way have earned Justine Riddoch’s ‘Totally Tina’ a deserved top spot in the tribute world.
To be in with a chance of winning the tickets, just answer the following question:
“In which city did Totally Tina first perform?” Justine is determined the Show will always be known as ‘Simply The Best’, which is particularly fitting in 2019 - the 30th Anniversary of
the much-loved song of the same name, released in 1989. The Show is designed to make the audience feel that the legendary performer is right back in front of them, strutting her stuff on the most famous legs in show business! This year’s production is a heady mix of nostalgia and surprise with all the favourite Tina Turner hits, her best duets, much-loved covers and the odd twist in the tale. Jumping Jack Flash, Honky Tonk Woman, Get Back, It’s OnlyRock and Roll and The Bitch is Back have been added to a set which includes Simply The Best, Proud Mary, Nutbush City Limits and Private Dancer to name a few. It’s probably the closest thing to a live Tina Turner concert!
Friday May 3, 2019; Rhyl Pavilion; Box Office No: 01745 330000; Tickets: £20.00 / 21.00; Doors: 7.00pm; Website: www.rhylpavilion.co.uk/totally-tina-3/
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Who am I?
Born December 30 1937, he was an English professional footballer who played as a goalkeeper. He made 628 appearances during a 15-year career in the Football League, and won 73 caps for England. Regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time, the IFFHS named him the second-best goalkeeper of the 20th centuryafter Lev Yashin. He was named Footballer of the Year in 1972 and was named FIFA Goalkeeper of the Year on six
Guess the identity of our mystery celebrity and you could WIN £25 CASH!!
occasions. He joined Chesterfield in March 1953, making his first team debut in November 1958, and was sold to Leicester City for £7,000 in July 1959. He played in four cup finals for the club, and during this time he established himself as England’s number one goalkeeper, and played every game of the nation’s 1966 World Cup victory. He signed for Stoke City for £50,000 in April 1967. He made one of the game’s great saves to prevent a Pelé goal in the 1970 World Cup, but was absent due to illness as England were
beaten by West Germany at the quarter-final stage. He was Stoke’s goalkeeper in the 1972 League Cup win – the club’s only major honour. He was still Stoke and England’s number one when a car crash in October 1972 cost him both the sight in his right eye and his professional career. He did though play in the United States for the Fort Lauderdale Strikers in 1977 and 1978. He briefly managed Telford United, but left the game after he was sacked in December 1980. Sadly passed away on February 12, 2019.
To enter our competitions please send your full name, address and contact details to reg@insideflintshiremagazine.co.uk (Closing date March 18) To advertise text ADVERT to: 07446 778 482
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Shelldrakes restaurant review
T
his month took us out of Flintshire and to Lower Heswell, to the award winning Sheldrakes restaurant. The proprietor is Helen Demetrios, who, as a Greek Cypriot, is passionate about food and creating the perfect atmosphere.
Sheldrakes is situated in Lower Heswell, which was originally a small fishing hamlet on the River Dee. Sheldrakes was originally the home of the Dee Sailing club until the siltings of the River Dee in the early 1980s caused the club to relocate and it became a restaurant for the first time. Once fondly nicknamed ‘Shack on the Beach’, it has been tenderly restored over the last seven years. The name ‘Sheldrakes’ was a
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common term for Shelduck. Sheldrakes borders one of the most important areas in Europe for wintering and migrating bird populations. Sheldrakes has the most breathtaking views of the Dee Estuary and beyond towards the Welsh Mountains. We were so happy that we visited in the afternoon as, even though it was January, it felt like we were on holiday somewhere, as the restaurant is very much like a rustic Greek tavern with white washed walls,
exposed brickwork, and wooden furnishings and the most amazing sunset over the picturesque Welsh mountains. We had taken advantage of a great Groupon deal, which was 4 courses for £49. For starters we had a Greek Meze sharing platter which included chargrilled pitta bread, humus, tzatziki,
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Melitzanosolata, kopananist and crudités vegetables; this was really tasty and beautifully presented so we were really impressed and looking forward to the next three courses! The service throughout was impeccable. The staff were very attentive and asked if we were ready for our main course, which was the Chateaubriand steak. We were also advised that for it to be at its tastiest they would cook it rare to medium and explained this is cut from the thickest part of the tenderloin filet and this is the best way to appreciate the full flavour of the meat.
On arrival, the Chateaubriand looked to die for; it was cooked to perfection and served with plump tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms and tin of homemade gorgeous chunky chips. On the side was a jug of creamy peppercorn sauce. This was the first time we have tried Chateaubriand and we both agreed it was amazing, it melted in your mouth; the only thing missing was a few onion rings on the side and that would have made it perfect! The dessert was presented on a slate platter and once again, the presentation was first class. The cheesecake was creamy
with a tangy lemony twist and the Chocolate cake was rich and decadent - a perfect combination which complimented each other perfectly. The fourth and final course was a cheese board, which was a perfect finish to a remarkable meal. It had a good mixture of cheeses, including a Stilton, Brie, Extra Mature Cheddar and a Crumbly Cheshire. They were accompanied by homemade chutney, celery, apple and grapes. Even though we were fit to burst, there were no leftovers from us! We have to say this is now one of our favourite restaurant and cannot wait to visit on a warmer day so we can take advantage of the beautiful views and superb food and pretend we are in the Mediterranean! A musttry restaurant - even better if you can manage to get a Groupon deal!
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020119T&C_135x90_FINAL.pdf
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Friday 9am & 11am Contact Steph on 07507 083674 Broughton The War Memorial Institute, Main Road Saturday 8am & 10am Contact Katie on 07804 215134
Sandycroft Community Centre Phoenix Street CH5 2PE Saturday 8am &10am Contact Tracey on 07545 531698
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Advertising Feature
moneytalks
It’s fair to say that for most of us there isn’t a shortcut to financial security, and I’m fairly certain that most, if not all of you reading this weren’t born to royalty or vast inherited wealth so obtaining that security is achieved through hard work and careful planning.
though various banking scams, emails, or even
As we approach the end of another tax year, the letters telling won all you opportunity to you buildthat upyou’ve capital in the taxlottery, advantaged havesuch to do is payment to analso account number areas assend ISAa or Pension draws to a close, at least the 2018/19 tax year, won so I thought to release theforfunds you’ve apparently without I would offer a timely reminder ever even having bought a ticket!!of how, coupled with good quality financial planning advice, these twoUnfortunately tax efficientthough, areas many can support financial of these your fraudsters are wellbeing.
sounding more and more plausible and so, in a slight
According HMRC, as ofarticle, September 2018, over departuretofrom my usual I wanted to make £608 billion is held in ISA’s by over 22 million adults, you aware of some of the things which should send yet only one in five subscribers maximise their warning lights goingofoff, withper regards to current allowances upparticularly to £20,000 annum your ispension savings. which then free from income and capital gains tax. Of course, I appreciate that maximising annual • First of every all, no reputable Financial Adviser is going allowances year, won’t be within everyone’s to cold call you offering a pension review, so if reach, but had you have been able to do so since the start of the ISA you haven’t askedregime for one,in I 1999, suggestyou youwould hang have up. been able to have sheltered £213760 and with average stock market returns over the same period, yourcaller fundmanages would now be worth considerably • If the to keep you on the phone, more than this.
they will often talk about accessing your pension
Whilstfunds ISA’s offerage greater flexibility in you terms of before 55. This is simple, can’t, access, againpension hang up. contributions have a clear advantage, which is tax relief. Everyone receives basic relief of 20% contributions, • Assuming they on stilltheir havepension you on the phone, you which means that for every 80p paid in, the may hear words like “pension liberation, pension government adds a further 20p. If a business is loophole, free reviews, environmental making the contribution for anunique, employee, the relief friendly, or ethical, in by corporation now your alarm is given by aoverseas 20% reduction tax
bells should really be ringing, so please, hang up.
Ifonafter all isof treated this, youas areastill temptedexpense. to deal with what business This is particularly valuable directors companies the person you have neverformet, and hasofcalled you trying capital business a tax out of to theextract blue, then do from checkathem out onin the efficient way, whilst at the same time building up Financial Services and not a pension pot forRegister the future. Allthe toodetails often they I hear give you. You do this by the company the words “mycan business is entering my pension” which will alwaysthe depend there is their a buyer name, personsupon namewhether who called you, FCA for the business when the owner actually wants to registration number (if they have one) or a postcode. retire! If they are genuine, they will be on this register, as Tax breaks associated with pensions are so efficient am I, and as is the other qualified Adviser who works that they will inevitably remain under government in my team. scrutiny, and so changes cannot be ruled out in the future. If you can then, making the most of reliefs
Despite the so called Simplification Rules and allowances whilstPension they are still available would seem to make good financial sense. which were implemented in 2006 and the 2015 implementation of the Pension Freedom this I started this piece by saying that Rules, the majority of us ofwon’t have planning massive inherited area financial remains wealth, complex,but regular readers the importance I place particularly when will you know are making decisions about on intergenerational planning, and its worth accessing your that pension savings. Advice often in remembering there is scope forwill saving be needed, but please be on the front foot, find a pensions on behalf of children, with a maximum current annual contribution of £2880 being topped qualified regulated Adviser yourself, or ask someone up to £3600 thanks to tax relief. you know has done so . In my practice, the majority Please remember that investment of our clients come to us as aanresult of referralswith fromSt. James’s Place will be directly linked to the existing clients.
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Fortunatelyinfortheme, I knew about this was to be or a Uncertainty markets thegoing economy government tax policy, will to often present obstacles scam, someone trying effectively steel my and challenges, ashad we asaw last year, but as I’ve pension pot, and good idea of what would said many times over the past ten years, having a come next in terms of the caller trying to reel me in. plan and being disciplined enough to keep taking guessing thattomany of that you plan reading theI’m steps needed stick to canthis gethave you of attempted to been wherevictims you want to be. theft at some point, either
performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise, which means you may get back less Finally, if you deal with a firm or individual who is not than you invested, and the levels and bases of regulated, you reliefs may notcan be covered taxation and change by at the anyFinancial time, and depends uponService an individual’s Ombudsman of the circumstances. Financial Services
Compensation Scheme. please do contact us on For more information
01948 840738 where me and my team will be
The value a pension with St. James’s Place will be happy to of help. directly linked to the performance of the underlying funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than you invested.
Carolyn Ling Financial Planning Ltd represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management lc (which is authorised and Carolyn Ling Financial Planning Ltd represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct regulated Financial Conduct Authority) the management purpose ofproducts advising thedetails Group’s wealth Authority) forby thethe purpose of advising solely on the Group’sfor wealth andsolely services,on more of which are setmanagement out on the Group’s products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website at www.sjp.eo.uk/products. website at www.sjp.co.uk/products.
Carolyn Ling Financial Planning Ltd 01244 01948 561323 840738 / 07469 075959871283 28907 alexander.smith@sjpp.co.uk carolyn.ling@sjpp.co.uk www.sjpp.co.uk/carolynling www.sjpp.co.uk/carolynling
Quality is never an accident…. Based locally on the Shropshire/Cheshire border, Based locally in Hawarden, we work closely where I have lived for most of my life, I work with our clients and their families to fully closely with my clients and their families to fully understand their financial aspirations, hopes understand their financial aspirations, hopes and and concerns. concerns. Ourbusiness businesshas hasquality qualityand andservice serviceatatit’s itscore core Our and we would like to invite readers to find out and I would like to invite readers to find out for for themselves our personal approach to themselves my personal approach to financial financial planning. planning.
It is always the result of intelligent effort WHAT MY CLIENTS SAY “The level support, help and advice “Alex hasofprovided trustworthy Carolyn provides to me and my family and sound advice. He explains goes far beyond what have everything in a clear andwe easily experienced in the past. Nothing is too understood manner. much trouble and she and her team are I have complete trust in his always available. We have complete advice and I would not hesitate trust in her advice and have no in recommending Alex to hesitation in recommending her”
anyone.”
Fred & Jill Dimelow, Farmers P. Reilly
Investment Planning Retirement Planning Protection Inheritance Tax Planning Long Term Care Fees Planning
Carolyn Ling Financial Planning Ltd represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website at www.sjp.co.uk/products.
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Skinny honey lemon Recipe chicken This month we’ll try a simple sweet and savoury meal that’s sure to please a crowd - and the cook as well. It’s sautéed, not fried... it’s naturally sweetened with honey...and it’s very good!
Method Combine the chicken, soy sauce and rice wine vinegar to a large ziplock bag, and toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes, or up to 8 hours. When you are ready to cook the chicken, drain and transfer it to a separate plate. Season the chicken
on both sides with a few generous pinches of salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the honey lemon sauce ingredients together until combined. Heat oil in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and saute for 5-7 minutes or until it is cooked through and no longer pink inside, stirring and turning the chicken occasionally for even cooking. Transfer the chicken to a separate (clean) plate with a slotted spoon.
Pour the (whisked) honey lemon sauce into the empty saute pan. Cook over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce reaches a low boil and thickens. Add in some sriracha if you would like for extra heat, to taste. (Feel free to also season with extra salt and pepper, or extra honey or lemon.) Add the chicken back into the pan and toss until it is evenly coated with the sauce. Remove from heat and serve the chicken immediately, topped with optional toppings if desired.
Ingredients For the skinny honey lemon chicken ● 1.5 lbs. boneless, skinless (raw) chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces ● 3 tablespoons soy sauce (if making this gluten-free, be sure to use GF soy sauce) ● 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar ● Salt and pepper ● 1 tablespoon olive oil ● 3Honey Lemon Sauce ● Optional toppings: toasted sesame seeds, thinly-sliced green onions, extra lemon zest, lemon slices
For the honey lemon sauce ● 3/4 cup chicken stock ● 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice ● 3 tablespoons honey ● 2 tablespoons cornstarch ● Zest of 1 lemon ● Pinch of ground ginger
Easy 38
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Prep: 10min
Cook: 10min
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The big household cleanup
One big job to do every month We said it last year but we mean it this time - in 2019, we’re finally getting our houses in order. There’ll be no more panic before guests arrive. Instead, we’re going to keep on top of the dust and the disorder at all times. And to kick-start our efforts, we’ve come up with a definitive cleaning calendar.
March Freshen up fabrics
January Declutter the house
April Clean the windows
A tidy house is good for your mind, happiness and well-being, and will allow you to switch focus to other areas in your life. What better way to set yourself up for the year ahead? It’s a particularly good time to tackle the kids’ rooms. Make space for the new toys and clothes they were lucky enough to receive at Christmas by taking anything they don’t wear or play with any more and donating it to charity.
With spring well and truly sprung, sunlight should hopefully be streaming through your homes. The downside? It will show up even the tiniest of smudges on the glass, which is why it’s a good month to clean the windows.
February Clean hard-to-reach spaces When was the last time you cleaned under the bed or behind the sofa? EXACTLY! Now’s the time to do just that. Clean behind radiators and along difficult to reach ledges, picture rails, door frames and shelves. Other areas to target include wardrobes and cabinets, shelves, frames, bannisters and skirting boards.
It’s a good time to tackle upholstery and rugs, blinds and curtains. They’re often neglected but it’s important to clean them. Research shows they can pose health risks if dust mites are allowed to form, since bacteria and mould attaches to dust. Vacuum fabric blinds and curtains, and plump up any loose cushions and throws, ensuring any loose dirt is removed.
May Spruce up the garden Start by having a good sweep up – rake dead leaves off gravel and turf, brush up debris from decking, paths and paved areas. Don’t forget to lift plant pots and sweep up loose earth that gets washed out and gathers beneath them. Next, break down spring cleaning your outside area into small, achievable jobs such as clearing out the garage, for example, or flushing out your gutters.
June Tackle the DIY By now, you should be well in to your cleaning regime, so it’s time to take things to the next level with some DIY. Fix that leaking tap, do some painting or deal with creaking floorboards.
July Aim high Freshen up by taking time to move anything hiding on top of bookcases, kitchen cupboards, wardrobes or bathroom cabinets. Not only does it look unsightly, but an enormous amount of dust gathers quickly.
August Make floors fabulous With everyone traipsing in and out, your floors will see a lot of action at this time of year. Steam kills 99 per cent of bacteria and viruses, so use a multi-tasking steam cleaner to clean
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your carpets, hard floors, upholstery and surfaces with minimum elbow grease.
September Love your sofa Don’t neglect upholstered armchairs and sofas, which can gather fluff, biscuit crumbs and greasy marks over time. Start by vacuuming all textile surfaces thoroughly, using a brush attachment to remove loose dust and hairs. Get inside nooks and crannies with your vacuum cleaner using a narrow nozzle - you’ll be surprised at the dirt that accumulates behind cushions.
October Head to bed Launder all your bed linen including spare sets and follow washing or dry-cleaning instructions to clean duvets and pillows, too, which can harbour dust mites and sweat and are often forgotten. Vacuum and turn your mattress, vacuum your bed base and ensure you clean under your bed thoroughly as this is a key area where fluff and dead skin cells can build up over time.
November Scrub up any appliances Your appliances are likely to see serious action at Christmas, so now’s the time to get them ready. And we’re not just talking the fridge and the oven. It’s not visible, but limescale, dirt and detergent builds up inside washing machines and dishwashers, leaving them prone to mildew and bacteria.
December Do one final detox The final clean of the year should be focused on getting your house prepped for Christmas and New Year. Do a deep clean of the bathroom and kitchen. Also, if you have a porch area for coats and shoes, make sure this is organised and smelling fresh.
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A new era for Corolla at Lindop Toyota
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fter 12 years at the heart of the Toyota range, the Auris has been renamed Corolla - marking the start of an exciting new era for the world’s bestselling car. The all new Corolla Hybrid leads the way in its segment, with self-charging hybrid technology and modern styling. Whether you go for the sporty, compact and dynamic Hatchback or the sleek, refined and versatile Touring Sports, it’s time to choose Hybrid with the Corolla. With Hybrid, you can drive anywhere and everywhere without having to worry about emissions restrictions. You’ll also enjoy a supremely quiet drive when running on electric power, generated by Toyota’s unique selfcharging ability. And you can choose between the 1.8 litre Hybrid for a smooth relaxed drive and a new 2.0 litre Hybrid for effortless acceleration and a spirited dynamic drive you’ll love. The engines are even made locally, in Deeside, Flintshire. The innovative Toyota Safety Sense package takes driver assistance to the next level, with features like Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Lane Trace
Motoring Assist and Lane Departure Alert. The car doesn’t just alert you to potential dangers - it actually helps you respond to them. Which means you not only have peace of mind that comes with knowing you and your passengers are protected, but driving also becomes more enjoyable than ever before. There are 11 body colours to choose from, including four new shades. Exclusive in its segment, the new model is available with four optional bi-tone colour schemes, combining a black roof, pillars and lower grille surround with a contrasting body colour. The Corolla is also available with five new wheel designs, including 18-inch machine-finished aluminium alloy wheels and two new 17-inch alloys one silver and one black/machined. The range showcases an all-new
interior that presents a spacious, modern and cohesive cabin environment in which new textures, colours and trims combine to offer the highest levels of visual and tactile quality. Enjoy a clean and simple dashboard, an intuitive multimedia touchscreen and an optional 8-speaker JBL sound system. You can opt for a sliding panoramic roof and there is soft, ambient lighting to complete the harmonious effect. With design this inspired, you will enjoy every moment in the all new Corolla. Brands including Autocar, Auto Express, Car, Car Buyer, Parkers and What Car? sampled the Corolla 1.8 Hybrid and the 2.0 Hybrid, in both Hatchback and Touring Sports body styles, on roads around Madrid in late October. Auto Express went so far as to declare the Corolla “Toyota’s most convincing family car in a generation”. If you want to build your own Toyota Corolla, book a test drive or order a brochure, visit lindoptoyota.co.uk for more information. And remember, if you have a question that you can’t find the answer for, we’re available on Twitter and Facebook, whenever you need us.
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Your monthly
Brain workout Easy Sudoku Use this area to work out your answers
General knowledge quiz 1. Which award-winning actor has played both Birdman and Batman? 2. What is the American equivalent of the Argentinian gauchos of the Pampas? 3. Which Polish scientist was the first woman ever to win a Nobel Prize? 4. In 2012, which English king was excavated from beneath a Leicester car park, over 500 years after his death? 5. Which city in the Middle East is
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home to Emirates Airlines? 6. In the Looney Tunes cartoon series, which animal of the American West was chased by Wile E. Coyote (pictured)? 7. From 2007-2018, which two footballers won every single FIFA Ballon d’Or award, with 5 each? 8. In which year did the UK shift from an Imperial to Decimal currency? 9. Which iconic Stanley Kubrick film opens with pre-historic human-
like apes’ discovery of a black monolith? 10. What is the largest species of animal to have ever lived?
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Films
The pick of this month’s movie releases
Captain Marvel Set in 1995, Captain Marvel follows Carol Danvers, a former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, as she turns into one of the galaxy’s mightiest heroes and joins Starforce, an elite Kree military team, before returning home with questions about her past and identity when Earth is caught in the center of a galactic conflict between two alien worlds. It is set to be the twenty-first film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Released: March 8, 2019 Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Directors: Anna Boden, Ryan Fleck
Cast: Brie Larson, Mckenna Grace, Samuel L. Jackson
Dumbo Circus owner Max Medici enlists Holt Farrier to care for a newborn elephant whose oversized ears make him a laughing stock in an already struggling circus. But when Holt’s children discover that Dumbo can fly, persuasive entrepreneur
The Aftermath Set in postwar Germany in 1946, Rachael Morgan (Keira Knightley) arrives in the ruins of Hamburg in the bitter winter, to be reunited with her husband Lewis (Jason Clarke), a British colonel charged with rebuilding the shattered city. But as they set off for their new home, Rachael is stunned to discover that Lewis has made an unexpected decision: They will be sharing the grand house with its previous owners, a German widower
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V.A. Vandevere and an aerial artist named Colette Marchant swoop in to make the peculiar pachyderm a star.
Released: March 29, 2019 Genre: Family, Fantasy Director: Tim Burton Cast: Eva Green, Colin Farrell, Michael Keaton
(Alexander Skarsgård) and his troubled daughter. In this charged atmosphere, enmity and grief give way to passion and betrayal.
Released: March 1, 2019 Genre: Drama, Romance, War
Director: James Kent Cast: Keira Knightley, Alexander Skarsgård, Jason Clarke
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Tech talk
Reviews and advice on recent tech innovations
Smartwatches explained
A smartwatch is a portable device that’s designed to be worn on a wrist. Smartwatches - like smartphones - use touchscreens, offer apps, and often record your heart rate and other vital signs. While digital watches have been around for decades - some with abilities like calculators and unit converters - only in the 2010s did tech companies begin releasing watches with smartphone-like abilities.
What do smartwatches do?
tied to either Apple’s or Google’s environments. Smartwatches with a dedicated purpose, such as for hiking or diving, generally support the apps they need to accomplish that purpose without the opportunity to add other kinds of apps.
Media management Most smartwatches paired with smartphones can manage media playback for you. For example, when you’re listening to music on an iPhone using Apple’s AirPods, you can use your Apple Watch to change volume and tracks.
Most smartwatches — whether they’re intended for daily use (as with the Apple Watch) or for specific purposes (as with the Garmin Fenix) — offer a suite of standard features:
Notifications Smartphones display notifications to alert you of important events or activities. The types of notifications differ; devices connected to a smartphone may simply mirror the phone’s notifications on your wrist, but other smartwatches display notifications that only a wearable could provide. For example, the newest Apple Watch includes a fall sensor. If you fall while wearing the watch, the watch senses your subsequent movement; if it doesn’t detect any, it’ll send a series of escalating notifications. Fail to respond to the notification, and the watch will assume you’re injured and alert authorities on your behalf.
Answer messages by voice: Remember the old Dick Tracy comics, where the hero detective used a watch as a phone? Modern smartwatches running either the watchOS or Wear OS operating systems support voice dictation.
Fitness tracking
varies; the Apple Watch typically gets 18 hours of normal use on a single charge, while the Pebble gets two or three days.
Types of smartwatches ● Apple Watch: Designed and sold by Apple ● Wear OS watches: Designed and sold by many vendors, using Google’s Wear OS operating system. ● Tizen watches: Proprietary operating system designed by Samsung for its popular Galaxy line of smartwatches. The other niche includes specialty devices intended for specific-use cases. These devices often offer a more robust version of a fitness tracker, insofar as they bleed between a phone-dependent smartwatch and a stand-alone fitness tracker like a Fitbit. Examples of these specialized devices include: ● Hiking watches: Intended for remote travel and featuring solid battery life, GPS tracking and navigation, basic vitals, and weather forecasting. Examples include the Garmin Fenix 5 Plus, the Suunto 9 Baro, and the TomTom Adventurer. ● Diving watches: Connect your first-stage regulator to a Bluetooth transmitter to use a diving watch. Garmin’s Descent Mk1 and Suunto’s DX offer depth, time-remaining, temperature, and other important indicators.
If you’re a hard-core athlete, a dedicated fitness band is likely a better choice than a smartwatch. Still, many smartwatches include a heart rate monitor and a pedometer to help track your workouts.
GPS Most smartwatches include a GPS for tracking your location or receiving location-specific alerts.
Apps
Good battery life
Beyond displaying notifications from your phone, a smartwatch is only as good as the apps it supports. App ecosystems vary, and they’re
Modern smartwatches feature batteries that will get you through the day, with normal use, with a bit of juice still left to go. Battery use
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Garden tasks for March Don’t let the ferocious winds and snow put you off from maintaining your garden this month... it will clear up soon to welcome in fresh spring blooms
Garden paving
In the British garden calendar, March is a time to buck up your garden design ideas and step outside to begin tidying your outdoor space. With the days getting longer and the temperature rising gradually, your garden is bound to be starting to grow with a vengeance this month. This means that there is plenty of work to be done...
Continue making compost
Plant summer-blooming bulbs With the chance of a late overnight frost still possible, continue to sow seeds under glass – if you can – for now. The warmer conditions are ideal for sun-loving summer plant, and now is the time to plant these bulbs if you want to see them bloom come summer.
After a winter of bad weather and the only ‘cleaning’ coming from the rain, garden paths can end up looking a bit grubby and moss-covered by March.
Use the grass clippings and prunings from your other March garden activitie to boost the contents of your compost bins. Ideally, have at least two bins on the go so that you can be using the contents of one to mulch and fertilise your soil, while the other, newer one breaks down into compost. fruit trees and bushes. Keep an eye out for weather conditions that might damage your flowers, and your future fruit crop – we’re talking about late frosts, really.
Repair fences and outbuildings If you’re talking about garden maintenance in March, then it’s wort taking a closer look at the condition of your fencing, walls and outbuildings after a winter of weathering. Now is the time to fix any damage caused over the winter months.
Tackle the weeding Weeds are most troublesome to gardeners in spring and summer, so start the year as you mean to go on by getting to grips with the weeding.
Mow the lawn If your lawn is in need of a trim (it probably is after a winter of being left to the elements) give it the first mow of the year. Choose a dry day to do this, or you’ll end up doing more harm than good! As well as mowing the lawn itself, be sure to trim or strim the edges, re-cutting where necessary, using a spade or special edging tool – make sure you have all the tools you’ll need before you begin, so you can complete the job!
Mulch the ground around your fruit trees Use deep wood chips or bark to mulch the earth around your plants, and manure or compost the ground around
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Divide perennials (such as snowdrops)
Leave the bushes to the birds’ nests
Towards the end of the month, you should lift and separate winter perennials, such as clumps of snowdrops. The purpose of this is to achieve an even better yield and display of the pretty petals next year.
Hold off from using your topiary skills to clip back or trim hedges and bushes for as long as possible - the result of this will be that any birds living in the hedges can continue to nest there safely and in peace.
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In this month... ...Albert Einstein born
Most notable for developing the general theory of relativity, the world’s best-known and most influential theoretical physicist came into the world in Wurttemberg, Germany on March 14.
1879
44BC ...Julius Caesar assassinated
1836
Betrayed and violently slain by his own Senators, Caesar’s death hastened the end of the Roman Empire and also ensured that the 15th of the month would be forever remembered as the Ides of March.
1979 ...Charles Dickens publishes his first novel Aged 24, Dickens sold the first instalment of ‘The Pickwick Papers’ on March 18. Previously, books were sold one chapter at a time and led by illustrations rather than words. The popularity of Dickens’ books changed all of that.
1807
1963 ...The Beatles release their first album
Rush-released on March 22, ‘Please Please Me’ hit the top of the album charts in May, remaining there for 30 weeks before being replaced by the band’s second album ‘With The Beatles’!
1969 ...Abolition of the slave trade Making slavery illegal on English soil, the Act for the Abolition of the Slave Trade was given Royal Assent on March 25. It paved the way for the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833.
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...Nuclear accident at Three Mile Island On March 28, a fault inside Reactor 2 resulted in radioactive gases and iodine being released into the environment near Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The cleanup operation cost $1 billion and took 14 years to complete.
...First London Marathon Now an established fixture on the sporting calendar, the first London Marathon took place on March 29, with 6,255 runners completing the gruelling 26.2 mile course. By 2017, the number of finishers had swelled to a massive 9,487.
...Concorde’s maiden flight The supersonic passenger plane developed by Britain and France took to the skies for the first time on March 2. It began commercial service in 1976, halving the time taken to fly from London to New York.
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Fitness
Is running good or bad for you? R father died similarly when he was ten years younger than Jim. It is likely that Jim Fixx’s devotion to running gave him an extra ten years of quality life that his father didn’t enjoy. The percentage of fatalities in races is infinitesimally small and regular running provides a great many health and fitness benefits that outweigh rare instances of heart attacks or other medical problems that may occur whilst training or racing.
running has often been viewed as a potentially dangerous or damaging activity. But can a sport that improves your cardiovascular fitness really be bad for you? Here’s an assessment on whether running is good or bad for you.
Running causes joint problems and impact injuries
Runners are inflexible and frequently get muscle injuries
Running is good for you: Running strengthens your joints and bones and provided you wear well-cushioned shoes, run off-road regularly for improved shock absorption, and avoid heavy training mileages, you’ll not experience problems.
Running is good for you: Providing you warm up well and include flexibility exercises in your training schedule, runners should not experience strains and muscle pulls.
Running is bad for you: Repeated pounding takes its toll (in both the short and long-term) on bones, particularly on joints such as the knee, which is particularly susceptible to injury. Regular running will strengthen the skeleton but equally, if you always run on pavements, have unsuitable footwear or focus on long distances on the road, you can get injured.
Running is boring Running is good for you: The great outdoors, off-road exploration and freedom that running brings means that it’s never boring. Running is bad for you: Plodding around the same routes week in, week out is dull, dull, dull. Exercising without any purpose (as opposed to running during a football game or sport) is pointless.
training with friends as well as alone should mean that you never get stale.
Running is dangerous to your health Running is good for you: Running brings a whole host of physiological benefits, including an improved cardiovascular (CV) system, stronger heart, greater blood volume and improved resistance to infection to name a few.
Running can be boring because by nature it is a repetitious activity.
Running is bad for you: Running is a killer. Remember Jim Fixx, the American running guru that died whilst on a training run? More recent examples of fatalities in the other major running events show that it is a dangerous activity.
However, by varying yourroutes, distances and training sessions,
Yes, Jim Fixx did die whilst running and of a heart attack, but his sedentary
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Running is bad for you: The primary topic of conversation on any running club night or the start line of any race, is who’s currently injured, who’s been injured and who’s coming back from injury. Injuries and running go handin-hand. It’s true that far too many runners get injured and needlessly so. Following correct training protocols and focusing on regular flexibility training, particularly for the older runner, should ensure that you can continue to train unhindered.
The verdict Both camps have valid points. It would be very easy for us to categorically promote running and disregard the valid and real problems that running can bring. However, to remain completely balanced, that would be an invalid assessment. Running is a life enhancing activity that can be enjoyed at every age and level by whoever puts on a pair of training shoes. As a health and fitness activity, it’s pretty hard to beat. Running is neither a killer nor a cure-all, but the positives massively outweigh the negatives.
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