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YOUR FREE GUIDE TO SERVICES, BUSINESSES AND EVENTS IN MID WALES
The Royal Welsh Winter Fair Silver Jubilee Celebrate Safely with your Fire Service FREE support to NHS hearing-aid users Q&A: Chief Executive of Powys Carers Christmas Wreaths Past & Present Keeping it Real - Christmas Trees Shop Local this Christmas Farming in Early Winter Zero Carbon Powys Craft for Kids
Issue 8 November & December 2014
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FREE Beginners Taster Lessons - Llandrindod Golf Club WINTER FUEL OFFER - Hay & Brecon Farmers SPECIAL OFFERS - Huws Grey FREE Home Fire Safety Check - Mid & West Wales Fire Service • FREE Support to NHS hearing-aid users - Action on Hearing Loss Cymru • FREE Fireworks & Late Night Shopping - Royal Welsh Winter Fair
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Newtown
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"I’ve advertised with the FOCUS for several issues and always get a good response without fail. It is efficient, affordable & professional” - Sciatica Specialist “We’ve had loads of calls as a result of our advert, we’re finding the FOCUS is a godsend” – Happy Valley Dog Hotel
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Provide an informative guide to services and events in Mid Wales. O ff e r businesses, charities and organisations an effective method of reaching customers, clients and communities. Support people’s efforts to make Mid Wales thrive
Q&A
With Gyles Palmer, Chief Executive of Powys Carers
P
owys Carers Service is a voluntary organisation and charity which provides information, advice and practical support to over 2,700 Carers of all ages (from under 6 years old to over 100 years old) throughout Powys. Over 1,600 new Carers are referred to the service each year. Without these unpaid family Carers (who are not obliged to provide the care that they do) our health and social care system would collapse completely.
Gyles has been Chief Officer of Powys Carers Service for nearly eight years and has lived and worked in Wales for over 12 years. He studied Philosophy and Sociology at Hull University for his first degree and later gained a Masters in Public Sector Management at Aston Business School. He was born in London and has lived and worked in several countries including India, Italy and Germany, almost entirely in the voluntary sector. His work has included driving tractors in remote villages in Northern India as an aid worker, working as a care worker and manager in Germany, managing a training Centre for Gestalt psychotherapists in Italy and senior management posts in two large national charities in the UK.
Describe yourself in three words. Passionate, relaxed and inquisitive
How would those close to you describe you in three words? Overenthusiastic, lazy and nosey
What’s one of your favourite words? Discombobulated
What’s important in life? That children have the best start possible in life so that they can achieve their dreams
What’s the least important thing in life? Too much money
If you could only possess one thing what would it be? My paraglider
What's the single best piece of advice you've ever been given? ‘You won’t die of it’
What would make the world a better place? If everybody left it just a little better than they found it
What phrase do you over-use? I can’t say because it includes a swear word you will have to ask my colleagues!
If you were given an invisibility cloak what would you do with it? I would cut it up into little pieces and give it to spiders to wear because they always get a bad press and that way nobody would see and be scared of them
Who or what has inspired you the most? The Dalai Llama
What’s your biggest regret? I don’t have any regrets
If stranded on an idyllic desert island with one piece of music, one movie, one book, one meal and one luxury; what would you choose? None of the above if it’s an idyllic island I wouldn’t need them and if I did need them then one of each would be too few
What's the biggest fib you have ever told? That I don’t have any regrets
What do you think is the worst item of clothing ever invented? The onesie
Do you try to stay in shape? How? I am happy with the shape I am and am definitely in it
What’s your favourite item of clothing? A rain jacket (it has to be in Wales)
Which living thing frightens you most? Some human beings
Do you enjoy cooking? What’s your signature dish? I do – but I don’t have a signature dish
Where are we most likely to find you at a house party? Outside having a cigarette – but I’ve given up smoking!
Which three people, dead or alive, would you like to have dinner with? I think having dinner with dead people would be a bit unpleasant
What’s one of your favourite (short) jokes? “Capitalism is the exploitation of man by man and communism is the other way round”
Do you have guilty pleasure you can tell us about? I never feel guilty
If you could only watch one programme on TV and hear one programme on Radio - what would they be? One wouldn’t be enough What’s the worst thing anyone has asked you to do? Make somebody redundant
What are the secrets to success? I am not sure what success is so find it difficult to suggest the secret to achieving it
How would you like to spend your last day on earth? Planning my next holiday
If you could travel back in time for a day, where/when would you go? Yesterday so I could see where I left my car keys What’s been your most rewarding experience so far? Too many to choose just one
What’s the worst thing that could happen? Losing my interest in life
If you could, what would you consider changing about yourself? Nothing
If you could acquire a new skill or talent overnight what would it be? To play a musical instrument
How do you like to relax? By flying my paraglider
What’s your favourite means of transport? A paraglider
What’s the best holiday you have had so far? Every holiday is the best one (until the next one)
Where would be your ideal place on earth to live? Wales of course! What motivated your vocation and career choices? Enjoyment and satisfaction
What are the main responsibilities of the CEO of Powys Carers? To provide the conditions which enable our Outreach Workers to support as many Carers as possible as effectively as possible
What's been one of your most rewarding experiences as CEO of Powys Carers? To see the organisation and its staff grow and thrive and to meet happy Young Carers
What's been one of your most challenging experiences in the job? Getting the Health Board to understand why they need to support Carers (still haven’t succeeded)
What is the most important issue facing Powys Carers at the moment? A growth in the number of Carers and the level and complexity of their responsibilities at a time when the government prefers to spend its money on trident and tax cuts for the rich How would you like to see Powys Carers develop in the years ahead? It’s not up to me - it depends on what Carers want or need from us
For more information on Powys Carers visit www.powyscarers.org.uk or call 01597 823 800
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Phoenix Furniture
is rebuilding lives with its innovative Peace of Mind Project Our Peace of Mind Project provides the rehoused homeless with furniture FREE of charge, which helps them to rebuild their lives and to create a home environment for themselves and their families.
We are asking you to help this cause by donating any unwanted furniture (beds, 3 piece suites, chest of drawers, wardrobes etc), clothing, bric a brac, and white goods (fridges, TVs, cookers etc).
In our showroom we provide good quality and, most importantly, affordable second-hand furniture. Everybody is welcome to come and make savings by getting furniture from our showroom. Everybody is eligible to get furniture as we believe in recycling furniture amongst the entire community.
Your purchases all go towards our community effort and Peace of Mind Project by helping us to pay costs such as fuel for our vehicles, rent, utilities etc. We are located on the ground floor of the Pryce Jones building in Newtown, opposite the Railway Station. For more details please visit our website:
To make donations of any kind please ring us on:
01686 623 336
Monday - Friday, 9am and 4pm.
www.phoenixcfl.co.uk
Please also feel free to visit our showroom.
registered charity no. 1085074
SPECIAL OFFER: Bring in this Voucher to get FREE delivery on any items For Advertising, Editorial & Listings, contact us on mwcf@icloud.com / 01597 829789
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Christmas Wreaths Past & Present
L
ong before the introduction of central heating and other luxuries of the 21st century, people required greater faith that they would safely survive the harsh upcoming winter. One such symbolic display of this hope was the beautiful Christmas wreath. Now creeping back in fashion and
available in a number of guises, they can be found hanging on doorways, both inside and out, as a centrepiece on a table, and even hung on walls as decorations.
Although we may have lost the traditional reasoning behind displaying such garlands, I’m on a mission to bring them back … in whatever style suits your home.
The word ‘wreath’ is linked to the word ‘wrist’, both words describing the form of a continuous circular shape. Fuse this with ‘wrethe’ from middle English (meaning a twisted band or ring of leaves) and you have the wreath as we know it today.
The circular shape is symbolic of eternity, or everlasting life because it has no beginning or end. In ancient
Rome the symbol became a popular display of victory. From a Christian perspective it represents the unending circle of life, with the traditional Holly as the thorns on Jesus’ crown and the red berries as his blood.
thinner gauge wire, then wiring in the foliage and decorations. Be aware though that holly wreaths are tricky and gloves should be worn!
Zero Carbon Powys
The Americans seem to be leading the way in the contemporary wreath, so why not try something a little different this year such as a circle of pine cones, dried leaves, dried sweetcorn cobs, pussy willow or even a ring of astroturf!
At this bleak time of year, it’s wonderful to use evergreens and other brightly coloured flowers, foliage, or fruits to adorn your wreath. The addition of expensive and rare fruits such as pomegranates, indicated wealth, but wreaths also included the display of pinecones, seashells and even imported products. Once the decorations had been taken down, the edible decorations would be eaten and the bounty of summer enjoyed in the depth of winter.
Merry Christmas. Lee Bestall
Making your own wreath is fun and easy, and can vary from a simple and cheap evergreen circle to an elaborate bauble ring. For those who like a quick and easy option, simply buy a circle of oasis and soak it in tepid water, before sticking in sprigs of evergreen foliage from the garden, flowers, berries, dried fruits, nuts, and bows.
If you have more time why not make your own base by taking a ring of string wire and covering it in moss or hay, holding it in place using
"We have everything we need to create a positive future." - Paul Allen.
Powys Transition and Low Carbon Communities invite you to their event “ZERO CARBON POWYS: Rethinking the Future for our Rural Communities” on Saturday 8th November 2014,from 10.00 to 16:00 at the beautiful cutting edge venue “Wales Institute for Sustainable Education,” within the Centre for Alternative Technology at Machynlleth. This conference will discuss the latest Zero Carbon Britain report, which shows that it IS possible to protect our planet without hardship!
The keynote speaker is PAUL ALLEN the Zero Carbon Britain project leader, and our conference will be of great interest to everyone who is concerned with building sustainable and resilient communities anywhere in rural Britain. online bookings - ww.tinyurl.com/ZCPowys. The price- £5(plus a small booking fee) includes buffet lunch etc. We are supported by the Big Lottery and Renew Wales For more details visit www.powystransition.org.uk or ring 01982 553398
Traditional Pub Restaurant in Howey Village
Christmas menu Starters Spiced carrot and parsnip soup with Tandoori potatoes. Potted confit of duck with Christmas chutney. Prawn and crab cocktail with horseradish Marie Rose sauce. Deep fried sun dried tomato and mozzarella rissotto balls with basil pesto.
Main Courses Roast Carmarthenshire turkey breast with sage and onion stuffing, chipolata in bacon, roast potatoes and gravy.
Private Functions
Celtic pride rump steak with chestnuts and shallot. Finished with brandy, cream and parsley, served with home made chips.
Spit roast pig from £450
Fillet of monkfish wrapped in dry cured bacon served with potato purée, lentils and a red wine and thyme reduction.
Including rolls, stuffing and apple sauce.
Celeriac and apple rösti layered with spinach and Teifi cheese served with a sun dried tomato coulis.
From £5.00 per person
All served with seasonal vegetables
Finger buffets Barbecue buffets
Restaurant Opening Hours
Desserts
Tuesday-Saturday 6.00pm - 9.00pm Sunday Lunch 12.00pm - 2.00pm
Christmas pudding with brandy sauce. Lemon tart with mixed berry conserve and raspberry sorbet. Salted caramel profiteroles with praline.
Howey, LD1 5PT
Chocolate and ‘Merlin liqueur’ pudding. Coffee and mince pies
01597 822406
Selection of welsh cheeses
thelaughingdoghowey@gmail.com
£19.95
www.thelaughingdog.co.uk
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Page 5
From £6.00 per person
Traditional cask ale Good quality pub food (sample menu available online)
Quiz Nights 1st Wednesday of every month Proceeds to Wales Air Ambulance
Festive Fun in Fayre Christmas Llandrindod WellsWells on in the Pavilion, Llandrindod
S
Saturday 29th November community groups and charities to have a stall food, – 3.30pm hopping, entertainment, 10am at the event and fund raise. Spaces will be
drink and competitions all in limited, so if you feel your group would like a Wells,& what more could Llandrindod spacein at thishis event please contact the Town “Come visit Santa Grotto” Council on 01597 823116 or you want? A weekend extravaganza of festive fun and activities for all the family is planned for 29th and 30th November. Starting on Saturday 29th - all the fun of the annual Christmas Fayre at the Pavilion. An opportunity to buy your Christmas gifts from local community groups and crafters, and give them much needed support. Of course do not forget to visit Santa in his Grotto.
*Jewellery On Sunday 30th the Llandrindod Wells Festive Lighting Committee and the Town Council *Fabric & Woollen Gifts invite you to the “Big Christmas Switch On”. Starting at 12.00 noon withToiletries the opening of the *Handmade European Christmas Market in Middleton Street *Hope Hospice supported by localHouse shops, so come along and see what Llandrindod Wells has to offer. *The Lion’s Club The market and local shops will remain open for business until early evening. *Christmas Decorations
llandrindodcouncil@btconnect.com to pre-book your space. Are you creative? Well how about that Christmas hat you have always wanted to make? Yes, there will be a Christmas Hat Competition for both children and adults. The categories will be for Under 12’s, 12-16 and over 16’s with prizes for the winner of each category.
*There Craft will beItems an I-Spy Treasure Hunt for children to find all the pantomime characters *The who will Cake be hidingBox out in shops windows . They must all be found, as theyTrust will soon be leaving *The Bracken for Pantoland! *Cancer Research Santa will fly in for a visit late afternoon to see *Local Charities all the boys and girls so get your wish list ready! *Handmade Cards At 5.20pm, we will start to gather at the top of Middleton Street by HSBC for the countdown to switching on our Christmas lights at 5.30pm.
LLANDRINDOD WELLS TOWN COUNCIL
European Christmas Market & Christmas Lights Switch On In Middleton Street Sunday 30th November 2014
Live Music & Entertainment I-Spy Junior Treasure Hunt Best Christmas Hat Competition Local Charity Stalls and much more
Market from 12.00 noon Activities throughout the day Switch On at 5.30pm SEE SANTA ON HIS SLEIGH
Refreshments available and much more……… We want you all to come along and join us for this community day and start Christmas off in Something forLlandrindod everyone! Wells with a bang! There will also be an opportunity for local
Further information: www.llandrindodtowncouncil.co.uk
in the Pavilion, Llandrindod Wells on Saturday 29th November 10am – 3.30pm
LLANDRINDOD WELLS TOWN COUNCIL
During the afternoon there will be a programme of entertainment from local singing and music groups, so bring your singing voices and come and join in.
Christmas Fayre
VINTAGE FAYRE
European Christmas Market & Christmas Lights Switch On In Middleton Street 11AM – 5PM, SATURDAY 29th NOVEMBER Sunday 30th November 2014 AT ROCK PARK, LLANDRINDOD WELLS
“Come & visit Santa in his Grotto”
*Jewellery *Fabric & Woollen Gifts *Handmade Toiletries *Hope House Hospice *The Lion’s Club *Christmas Decorations
Live Music & Entertainment I-Spy Junior Treasure Hunt LOTS OF STALLS TO INCLUDE FURNITURE, Best Christmas Hat Competition VINTAGE Local CLOTHING, TOYS, UPCYCLING, Charity Stalls and ECO much more
BOOKS, JEWELLERY, GIFTS, PLANTS, CRAFTS, MarketACTIVITIES from 12.00 & noon CHILDRENS MORE....
* Craft Items *The Cake Box *The Bracken Trust *Cancer Research *Local Charities *Handmade Cards
Activities throughout the day THE CAFE WILL BE OPEN AGAIN SERVING CAKES, Switch On at 5.30pm SNACKS, HOMEMADE SOUP & DRINKS. SEE SANTA ON HIS SLEIGH
❄ FREE ENTRY ❄
Refreshments available and much more……… Something for everyone!
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Page 6
Further information: FOR MORE DETAILS OR TO BOOK A STALL PLEASE CONTACT www.llandrindodtowncouncil.co.uk GWALIA INTERIORS, 1A TEMPLE ST, LLANDRINDOD WELLS. 01597 825865 OR 07074473711
Buying her Jewellery?
D
iamonds are a girl’s best friend right? Well maybe but some women don’t actually wear or even like this sort of jewellery. So how do you get it right?
Rule one - Look at the jewellery she
wears every day. If she always wears a fine gold chain and locket and discrete earrings then she’s probably not going to want a chunky plastic bangle no matter how ‘current’ the style. Likewise if she always wears chunky costume jewellery in bright colours it’s highly unlikely she’ll covet a dainty pearl bracelet.
Rule two - Look at the colour palate she
Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
normally wears. The funky pink necklace might be the right style but if she usually wears browns and greens she might not have anything to wear it with so make sure colours tone with her wardrobe. If you want to buy precious jewellery look at her natural colouring. Silver haired women look great in silver, platinum or white gold, as do dark skinned women. Blondes look beautiful in warmer gold tones.
WHY NOT COME AND PAY US A VISIT IN THE EVENING FOR THE “ULTIMATE DINING EXPERIENCE” Varied Lunchtime Menu Available From Panini’s to filled jacket potatoes Fish & Chips to steak on the “Rock” (If you are limited to time, you can pre-order)
Opening Hours Monday to Friday, 12 – 3 then 6 until Late Saturday, 12 until Late (It is advisable to book for Friday/Saturday Evenings)
From 5th October until 21st December, we will be open 12 to 7pm on a Sunday serving our full lunchtime menu PLUS traditional roast dinner (Last orders for all food will be 5.30pm) Mirrens will be CLOSED from Friday 26th December 2014, reopening on Tuesday 6th January 2015
Celebrate Christmas in Style!!! Party bookings NOW being taken For Lunchtimes, Evenings & Christmas Day To request our Christmas 2014 brochure email: info@mirrenssteakandtapasbar.co.uk or contact us through Facebook with your name & address www.mirrenssteakandtapasbar.co.uk | 17 PARKERS LANE, NEWTOWN POWYS SY16 2LT Tel: 01686 621120
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Page 7
Rule three - Consider her build. Petite
women suit fine chains and tiny stones whereas those who are larger need a statement piece of jewellery which won’t accentuate their size.
Choose carefully and she’ll be overwhelmed at your thoughtfulness. - By Louise Addison
For Advertising, Editorial & Listings, contact us on mwcf@icloud.com / 01597 829789
Page 8
FREE support to NHS hearing-aid users
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ction on Hearing Loss Cymru (RNID), has setup free hearing-aid support services across Powys. The project provides both local community drop-in services and home visits to NHS hearing aid users. Working in partnership with Local Health Boards and audiology departments, the sessions are run largely by volunteers, most of whom are hearing aid users themselves.
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Drive On
Jackie Poley, a volunteer with Action on Hearing Loss Cymru, said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Hear to Help is an invaluable service for many people who wear hearing aids, particularly those who live in rural communities.â&#x20AC;?
â&#x20AC;&#x153;We carry out maintenance such as fitting new batteries or replacing tubing, as well as providing advice and support. As a hearing aid user myself I understand the issues people face.â&#x20AC;?
Richard Williams, director of Action on Hearing Loss Cymru said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Developing a hearing loss can have a profound impact, with many people feeling isolated or suffering a drop in confidence, which can lead to associated mental health issues. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Hear to Help service aims to help and support people with hearing loss, enabling them to keep in contact with their friends and families, and continue to live independently.â&#x20AC;?
Action on Hearing Loss Cymru volunteers really do make a difference to the 1 in 6 people in Wales who are deaf or have hearing loss.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!
New volunteers are urgently needed to run the charityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hearing-aid maintenance groups in Powys. Whether you think you could give advice about getting the most out of a hearing aid, fix a hearing aid battery or just offer someone a cup of tea and friendly face then Action on Hearing Loss Cymru has a volunteering opportunity for you. The charity will match your skills and experiences to a suitable role and will provide training and support. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to give a lot of time, whatever you can manage is appreciated, and any expenses will be paid.
To find out more contact Margaret Jones â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 02920 907524 or margaret.jones@hearingloss.org.uk
The free Hear to Help sessions are funded by a grant from the Big Lottery Fund.
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assessments are carried out by Approved Driving Instructors and are conducted using either their vehicles or the clients.
Driving Assessment Scheme for Mature Drivers
The course is available to any full driving licence holder over the age of 55 years who wishes to improve their driving skills and to increase confidence in their driving ability.
Drive On is a one hour driving assessment scheme aimed at helping mature drivers in Powys to drive safely for as long as they are fit to do so.
Two FREE schemes for Powys residents aged 55 and over
The inevitable effects of ageing could affect sight, hearing, reaction times, and judgement of speed and distance. Fragility increases with age, so injuries tend to be more serious. The course is an informal, confidential assessment of oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s driving skills, which aims to offer advice and support to enable a person to continue driving with improved safety and confidence.
Following a practical driving assessment, each candidate is given a comprehensive debriefing, where advice and possible remedial actions are discussed. The scheme is run by Powys County Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Road Safety Unit and is not a driving test. The
For Advertising, Editorial & Listings, contact us on mwcf@icloud.com / 01597 829789
Mature Motoring Theory Workshop for Older Drivers
Mature Motoring is an informal, classroom based workshop session designed to recap attendeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; knowledge on road safety issues including the Highway Code.
Page 9
The workshop, which is two hours long, looks at every day road safety issues such as driving licence requirements, personal safety while driving, winter driving, the dangers of drink driving and not wearing seatbelts. It is hoped the programme will help preserve valuable driving skills and make drivers more aware of what influences our driving, ultimately leading to a reduction in collisions and casualties in this vulnerable driving group.
For further information on the courses or to register, please contact the Road Safety Unit on: 01597 826637 (Radnorshire) 07909 895 346 (Montgomeryshire), or 01874 612355 (Brecknockshire)
Junk n Disorderly Vintage, Retro & Painted Furniture
• We offer a painting service • Stockists for Annie Sloan Chalk Paint
TM
Special Offer! Bring this advert into the shop for a chance to win Annie Sloan products TM
New Upstairs: Vast selection of Vintage Clothes, Shoes, Hats & Handbags
For more information pop into the shop or call Unit 1, Old Town Hall, Llandrindod Wells, 01597 829666
10 % off all commissions booked in the pre-Ch Christmas period!
Cl ive Powell
Greenacre Garden Centre Howey, Llandrindod Wells, LD1 5PL
BIKES
Cwmdauddwr Arms, West Street, Rhayader, LD6 5AB 01597 811343 clive@clivepowell-mtb.co.uk
Bike Sales
Bike Hire
Mountain Bikes Road Bikes Leisure Bikes Cyclo Cross Bikes Kids Bikes
Gardening Tools • Log Baskets • Malasian & Terracotta Pots • Garden Ornaments for Indoors & Out • Shrubs • Trees • Fruit Trees • Composts & Manures • Bark • Sands & Grits
Tel: 01597 822890
Christmas Trees Holly Wreaths & Posies From 25th November Call in for a Browse
Bird Tables & Baths • Large Range of Seeds & Feeders
Everything for your Garden Birds
Flowers for all occasions • Bouquets • Arrangements • Funeral tributes • House plants • Silk Arrangements • Local Deliveries Made
C U RLE Y’S CR AFTS Craft Shop, Llangurig
100% Woollen Products Sheepskin Rugs Gifts & Much More Home Made Cakes Tea & Coffee
www.clivepowell-mtb.co.uk
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Spe cia l O ffer 10% O ff with this Advert
Offer Ends 31/12/2014
Page 10
07748 343252 www.curleyscrafts.co.uk
8 Broad Street, Builth Wells 07971896532
Exclusive Suppliers: Joma Jewellery Gisela Graham Christmas Lily Flame Candles Also available for home parties
Shop L o cal
Berg Go-Carts, large selection for children and adults, from £99, TOM’s Mowers. (Road tested by a member of the FOCUS team - they are awesome!)
Deluxe sheepskin booties £10.95, Curley's Craft
this Christmas
Jelly Rolls (for Quilting) £11.50, Ty Hardd Fabrics
Recycled Wool Rugs from £14.99, Country Living
Support the local economy and invest in your community. You may be surprised by the fantastic range, quality and great value of gift choices close to home. Often local shops stock locally-sourced goods, so you can help reduce the cost to the environment too. Windows 8.1 Laptops from £279.99, Its Dun
Fair Trade Frangipani Floral Enamelware Cups, handpainted in India - £4.50, Junk n Disorderly
2014 top-end bikes now reduced: The Cycling Bike Of The Year Award winning ‘Giant Propel Advanced 2’ is now £2350, Clive Powell Bikes
Bolla Bags - a large variety, J.E.M Footwear
A MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM
J.E.M FOOTWEAR
Middleton Street, Llandrindod Wells, 01597 824418
Quality shoes for the whole family.
Call in to see our Winter stock.
We are stockists of: Clarks, Rieker, Hotter, Jenny Ara, Lotus, Heavenly Feet & Silentnight
Large selection of slippers for that ideal Christmas present. Large selection of leather and non-leather bags to suit all ages
Bring along this advert for 10% off any bag purchase in Nov & Dec 2014
STOCKISTS Christmas Eve platters - available in welsh and english - £15, Sheer Rustic
For Advertising, Editorial & Listings, contact us on mwcf@icloud.com / 01597 829789
Page 11
Garden ornaments - large variety from £3.99, Greenacres Garden Centre
Tom’s Mowers, Crossgates Road, Llandrindod Wells 01597 824447, Curleys Craft, Llangurig 07748 343252, Country Living, Newtown 077914 61124, Junk n Disorderly, Llandrindod Wells 01597 829666, J.E.M Footwear, Llandrindod Wells 01597 824418, Greenacres Garden Centre, Howey 01597 822890, Sheer Rustic, Builth Wells 07971 896532, Clive Powell Bikes, Rhayader 01597 811343, Its Dun, Llandrindod Wells 01597 824020, Ty Hardd Fabrics, Llanidloes 01686 413557
out & about Mon 24th 10am Walking for Fitness, meeting at Llandrindod Wells Bandstand. 01597 829363
N O V E M B E R
Weds 5th – Sat 8th 7.30pm Cyrano de Bergerac – Mid Powys Youth Theatre @ Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells
Fri 7th 10am - 12noon Coffee Morning, Holly Trinity Church, Llandrindod Wells
Sat 8th & Sat 22nd 9.30am-12.30 Knighton Community Market @ Knighton Community Centre
Sat 8th & Sun 9th 10am-4.30pm Elan Valley Christmas Craft Fair @ Elan Valley Visitor Centre. Handmade gifts, fair trade crafts, paintings and more.
Sun 9th 10.30am-4.30pm Mid Wales Bushcraft & Survival Show @ The Elephant and Castle, Broad Street, Newtown. Stalls, demos and activities. £3 entry, under 12s free. Contact Kate & Chris 07557 668784 www.facebook.com/midwalesbushcraft
Fri 14th Wales Rally GB comes to Newtown www.newtown.org.uk
Fri 14th 8pm Wyeside Comedy Club Come and laugh your socks off at the best comedy club in Mid-Wales! www.wyeside.co.uk
Sat 15th 2pm-5pm Llandrindod Repair Café @ Rock Park, Llandrindod Wells. Bring along your broken and damaged items from home to be repaired. Free entry, donations for running costs. For more info www.facebook.com/llandrindodrepaircafe
Sat 15th 10.30 - 3pm Tearfund Day @ Holy Trinity Church Llandrindod Wells. An opportunity to browse and buy a wide selection of beautiful fairly traded gifts and cards from around the world. Tea, coffee and cake available all day, lunch from 12.30. Orchestra from Holy Trinity will be playing in the morning.
Sat 15th 7pm Ashton Owls meets Mid-Wales Paranormal @ Unicorn Pub, Caersws, Newtown. Come along for a ghost walk and meet a Barn Owl and an Indian Eagle Owl. £5 per person. www.ashtonowls.co.uk
Sat 15th 1pm onwards CAMRA Campaign for Real Ale social. Rhayader pubs tour – meet at Triangle Inn, Bridge Street, Cwmdauudwr
Sat 15th & Sun 16th Real Ale Wobble @ Llanwrtyd Wells www.green-events.co.uk
Sun 16th – 24th Dec 10.30am-4.30pm Mon-Sat Annual Craft Fair @ Minerva Arts Centre, Llanidloes. Extensive range of crafts including pottery, jewellery, Christmas decorations and more. For more info 01686 413467
Fri 21st 7.30pm Dr Nicolas Grimoire’s ‘Strange Tales from the Darker Side’ @ The Judge’s Lodging, Presteigne. Tickets £10. Bookings 01544 260650 www.judgeslodging.org.uk
Sat 22nd & Sun 23rd Real Ale Ramble @ Llanwrtyd Wells www.green-events.co.uk
Fri 28th – Sun 30th Hay Festival Winter Weekend @ Hay on Wye. Sparkling stories, Christmas inspiration, fine shopping and candlelit banquet in the Castle. www.hayfestival.org
Friday 28th 2pm til late Newtown Kicking Off Christmas. Food & Craft market, Entertainment, Charity stalls, Fun fair, Christmas Carols, Newtown Silver Band, Santa, switching on the lights, live music and fireworks display. www.newtown.org.uk
Sat 29th 10am-5pm Hay Winter Food Festival @ Hay on Wye, Market Square
Sun 7th From 10am Tree-mendous Decorations @ Elan Valley Visitor Centre. Suitable for the whole family. To book 01597 810880
Sat 13th 4pm-8pm Christmas Fair @ Llanidloes Community Centre. Craft stalls, carol singing, Santa and more.
Sat 13th, Sun 14th, Sat 20th & Sun 21st Santa Trains @ Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway www.wllr.org.uk
Sat 20th & Sun 21st 10am-4pm Santa’s Grotto @ Elan Valley Visitor Centre Call 01597 810880 for more info
Mon 29th 10am Walking for Fitness, meeting at Llandrindod Wells Bandstand. 01597 829363
Weds 31st 10.30pm Mari Llwyd New Year Walk In @ Llanwrtyd Wells Town Square. www.green-events.co.uk
Would you like your events in our next out & about? Contact us mwcf@icloud.com 01597 829789 When responding to advertisments please mention the FOCUS -Thanks01597 829789 mwcf@icloud.com
Sat 29th 10am-3.30pm Llandrindod Wells Christmas Fair @ Pavilion, Llandrindod Wells
Sat 29th 11am - 5pm Vintage Fayre, Rock Park, llandrindod Wells
Sat 29th – Sun 30th Santa Specials @ Brecon Mountain Railway. www.breconmountainrailway.co.uk
Sat 29th – Sunday 21st December 2-5pm Weds to Sunday. The Bleddfa Christmas Arts and Craft Fair @ The Bleddfa Centre, nr Knighton. A seasonal collection of arts and crafts for sale by local craftspeople and designer makers. Free admission. www.bleddfacentre.com
Sun 30th Builth Wells Carnival Committee Christmas Fair @ White Horse Car Park, Builth Wells
Sun 30th Llandrindod Wells European Christmas Market from 12.00, Christmas Lights Switch On at 5.30pm plus Live music & Community Events throughout the day.
D E C E M B E R
Mon 1st & Tues 2nd RWAS Winter Fair @ Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells. www.rwas.co.uk
Fri 5th 4.30pm-10pm Broneirion Winter Wonderland @ Broneirion, Llandinam. Christmas market, carols, entertainment and meet Santa. www.broneirion.com
Fri 5th 7.00 pm The Brecon & Radnor R.A.B.I. county committee’s Christmas Carol Service at St Mary’s Church, Builth Wells, Guest artistes.
GRAHAM’S HOUSE CLEARANCE SPECIALIST
Fri 5th 10am - 12noon Coffee Morning, Holly Trinity Church, Llandrindod Wells
Sat 6th 12.30pm CAMRA Campaign for Real Ale social. Newtown pubs tour. Meet at Wetherspoons, Black Boy, Broad Street, Newtown
Houses - Flats - Sheds - Attics We Buy and Clear the Lot If you’re moving or bereaved, we are your company.
Sat 6th 10.30am-2pm Farmer’s Market @ Llanwrtyd Wells www.llanwrtyd.org.uk
Sat 6th, Sun 7th & Sat 13th 11am-3pm Santa’s Grotto @ Gregynog Hall & Gardens, Tregynon, Nr Newtown. www.gregynog.org
Sun 7 6.00pm The Montgomeryshire R.A.B.I. county committee’s Christmas Carol Concert at Welshpool Livestock Centre, Guest Artistes.
For Advertising, Editorial & Listings, contact us on mwcf@icloud.com / 01597 829789
Page 12
Continuing our long-established Family Business with a discreet & confidential service. Look in your Cellar/ Shed/ Attic/ Outhouse to see if you have anything to sell
Tel. mobile: 07814 365613
G RA HA M ’ S REMOVALS S P E CI A L I S T • HOUSES • FLATS • BUSINESSES
Small Local Removals from £50
Fully Trained & Insured Family Run Business Covering All Areas of Powys
Tel. mobil e: 07814 365613
As the festiv festive season arrives, Powys County Council is trying to get people to continue to reduce, reuse and recycle their household waste as much as possible. Due to the bank holidays, there will be some changes to the recycling and rubbish collection dates during the ffestiv estive period as follo follows: Usual U sual collection collection da date te
Revised Revised collection collection date date
Monday 22nd December 2014
As normal – no change
Tuesday 23rd December 2014
As normal – no change
Wednesday 24th December 2014
As normal – no change
Thursday 25th December 2014
Saturday 27th December 2014
Friday 26th December 2014
Sunday 28th December 2014
Monday 29th December 2014
As normal – no change
Tuesday 30th December 2014
As normal – no change
Wednesday 31st December 2014
As normal – no change
Thursday 1st January 2015
Saturday 3rd January 2015
Friday 2nd January 2015
As normal – no change
You can find out how to recycle more at home this Christmas by visiting www.powys.gov.uk/recycle
Week W eek beginning Monday 5th January 2015 - All recycling and rubbish ker kerbside collections will return to the normal day
w www.powys.gov.uk ww.powys.gov.uk
$ &KLOGÕV &KULVWPDV !"#$%&'( !"#$%&'(## -%('5#1"#+*'#(*1,+#(+1,.#<.#:.&%"#)*1;%( -%('5#1"#+*'#(*1,+#(+1,.#<.#:.&%"#)*1;%(## )*'%+,#-,./*'0"012#3#-,'/1"# )*4,(5%.#6# )*4,(5%.#6#77#84"5%.#9#:'/';<',# For Advertising, Editorial & Listings, contact us on mwcf@icloud.com / 01597 829789
Page 13
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Focus
I
T
Me (part1)
here are many scientific studies that show that the way we habitually, unconsciously, think about ourselves affects our mood, body chemistry and wellbeing. Thinking we are not good enough, not worthy, rubbish at this or that, actually harms us by producing cortisol and other chemicals that stress the body. When we are stressed, our organs are stressed. Lack of self-love, lack of compassion for ourselves as normal, fallible humans and a lack of self-acceptance have measurable ill effects.
For many of us, caring for ourselves or putting ourselves first is considered a totally selfish act and indeed, this would be so, if we didn’t also demonstrate care for others. But idea that we are selfish if we think of ourselves, whilst ingrained, doesn’t actually make sense. After all, if we don’t look after ourselves, we may become unable to help others.
Consider the effect we have on those around us. If we are miserable or anxious, we make others feel that way. Feeling happy and good about ourselves, creates lots of positive physical changes and makes others happy. Self-love makes us more resilient to life’s challenges.
So how do we learn to love ourselves unconditionally? Many of our habitual patterns of thought stem from our earliest years. Before we understood the world of adults, we took as correct their careless or intended criticisms and the behaviours that let us know we were not good enough. One successful way we can change is to mentally go back and with adult eyes understand and reinterpret what we were told and so move on.
An additional way is to use the body to change the mind. We can imagine and practice new, empowered feelings and behaviour. Our brain will then rewire pathways from old thoughts and behaviours and accept these new ones as fact. ‘Fake it till you make it’ really can work and practice is the key. Try this: Hunch up your shoulders, bend your back over, frown slightly, look at the floor and sigh. How does this make you feel? Not good? If you replied ‘How I always feel’, then are you prepared to spend a little time changing that?
Harvard scientists reckon it takes between 5 and 20 seconds for body posture to affect brain chemicals and mood. They found that if people hold a particular pose for two minutes, and practice that pose, they can make those mood changes more permanent.
With Catherine Allan
THE BRACKEN TRUST
CANCER SUPPORT CENTRE Cefnllys Lane Llandrindod Wells, LD1 5LJ
Tel: 01597 823646 Email: bracken.trust@btopenworld.com www.brackentrust.org.uk Open Monday - Friday
We are here to support people who are affected by cancer, their families and the bereaved.
Now, try this: Those same Harvard scientists got people to stand in a powerful stance, (they chose the Wonder Woman pose, but you could try Superman!) - legs a shoulder width apart, hands planted on hips, spine straight, chin up and chest out. Even though people initially felt a bit foolish, two minutes in this pose lowered stress hormones and increased confidence. In experiments, people who practised and held their ‘power pose’ before interviews or giving presentations were much more likely to be offered the job or be highly rated on what they said.
Following on from that, is another exercise. This time, think of a situation where you feel disempowered. It could be at work, at home, at school or with a particular person. Repeat the following five step exercise, five times, (not in one session!). Do each step quickly (ten seconds) as it is much more effective to do short sharp repetitions than longer ones: 1) Remember how you feel in the situation or with the person. Then imagine yourself in your power pose. Open your eyes and shake yourself. 2) Repeat step one. 3-5) Go straight into feeling empowered in that situation or with that person. As before after ten seconds, open your eyes and shake out between each step. Repeat at intervals through the day and week and try the exercise in different situations.
Finally, if you hate how you look or dislike part of you, choose three bits of yourself you do like, e.g. eyes, hair, nails. Concentrate on those for a week, especially when you catch yourself criticising your appearance.
Practising these three exercises, as well as remembering to be kind to ourselves, can help us feel permanently much happier and healthier.
Next time, I will write about how we can delete old thought patterns which can cause us to sabotage our attempts to change. - Catherine Allen www.midwalestherapies.co.uk 07855310333
For Advertising, Editorial & Listings, contact us on mwcf@icloud.com / 01597 829789
Page 14
Chez Louise Bridal Bridal Gowns 1st Floor
CARDIGAN HOUSE Also Occasion, Promwear, Party and Accessories
14 Pier Street Aberystwyth SY23 2LJ Telephone: 01970 611408
Get Crafty Kids
I
n their first full year as an independent company, the young people of Mid Powys Youth Theatre celebrate their return to Wyeside with a big, bright beautiful and bold retelling of Rostand’s epic comedy: a heroic tale of love and wit, poetry and war, baked goods, bravado and brothersin-arms.
“It’s an amazing play,” said Director Ralph Bolland “It’s epic in scale, brilliantly plotted and very, very funny with lashings of swordplay and stylish repartee. We’re looking to have a lot of fun.”
MPYT has always packed a hefty punch in the work it delivers and punches well above its weight in the opportunities it offers young people in mid Wales. It's no coincidence that over the last 27 years young people from MPYT have been offered places with major theatre companies and gone on to work in television and film. "We invest in young people," Ralph continued. "We hold no auditions and turn no-one away." Membership is flourishing and this production involves one of the
biggest cast and crews that MPYT has seen in many years. "Our young people work hard,” added Ralph, “and we have high expectations of them. Here in rural mid Wales, with commitment and imagination, MPYT aims to demonstrate that you can give young people confidence in all that they do and ensure that the next generation of people working in Britain's creative industries don't come solely from the more affluent areas of the country". With a big nose and a bigger heart, Cyrano’s hilarious, heartbreaking tale, should delight audiences of all ages as MPYT bring their inimitable trademark style to bear on this thrilling new adaptation.
Cyrano de Bergerac plays at the Wyeside Arts Centre, Builth Wells from Wednesday the 5th to Saturday the 8th of November at 7:30 each evening with a 2pm Saturday matinee. Tickets for the evening performances are £9 (£6 concession) and £5 on the Saturday afternoon. You can book tickets online at www.wyeside.co.uk or by phoning 01982 552 555.
E
very Christmas as a child I received a new colouring book and set of crayons with which I spent many happy hours sprawled on the living room floor colouring in the pictures. As the years progressed, the colouring book was replaced with a series of craft sets, and I remember one year spending ages knitting an extremely long scarf! Crafting helps children to develop their imagination, express themselves and explore new ideas or concepts. The creative process brings feelings of satisfaction and pleasure, and builds children’s confidence in their ability to make their own decisions and choices. Crafting is a great way to learn how to solve problems, follow directions and develop skills such as cutting, measuring, gluing and sewing. It can also give family
members the chance to spend quality time together in a shared activity. Christmas offers children the opportunity to hand make gifts for friends and family members. From home-baked treats to a painted plant pot or a decorated photo frame, there is no end to the possibilities.
Craft sets also make ideal stocking fillers and promise hours of entertainment. Loom bands are extremely popular right now, knitting is enjoying a revival, finger puppets are always lots of fun and cardmaking, jewellery kits and scrap books are guaranteed winners. You could also consider science and modelling kits. Have fun getting crafty this Christmas! - By Debbie Singh-Bhatti
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“We have a weekly vegbox scheme. Ranging from £5 - £10. If you would like to have freshly picked vegetables you can order by ringing Ashfields Office 01597 829 689.
Ashfield also has a new catering kitchen which is running every Tuesday and Wednesday. If you would like to take part in these group sessions contact the Ashfield Office. This week a group made mulligatawny soup, crab apple jelly and apple and berry crumble. We also make pickles. Want to grow your own vegetables? Ashfield have 2m x 5m growing plots for only £10 per year. Training Room rental. We have a large training room with accessible kitchen and toilet facilities. The parking is immediately outside. On the grounds of the horticultural site. Situated between Llandrindod and Howey. Central within Powys and Wales. Ideal for events, meetings or courses. Call Ellie in the Office 01597 829 689 Monday – Thursday. www.ashfieldce.org.uk”
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Hundreds to benefit from £500k domestic abuse initiative
A
A new £500,000 service is to support victims of domestic abuse across a huge part of Wales.
It will see five new support workers help reduce the risk of abuse and increase the safety of victims in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Powys.
The service will be provided by a partnership of Welsh organisations on behalf of DyfedPowys Police and Crime Commissioner Christopher Salmon. In the year to September 2013, the region recorded 1,346 domestic abuse-related crimes.
Mr Salmon said: “Domestic abuse wrecks lives and makes people fearful in the very place they should feel safe – at home; I want to tackle it and this frontline initiative will help. It will give independent support to vulnerable individuals, repeat and high-risk victims and their families. Our new support workers will improve victims’ access to specialist agencies, will increase feelings of safety and will improve victims’ quality of life.”
The workers will be employed by Carmarthenbased charity Hafan Cymru, the Carmarthenshire Domestic Abuse Forum (CDAF) and Swanseabased care and support specialist Grwp Gwalia. They will be based in all four counties of DyfedPowys and will complement the region’s existing IDVA services.
They will ensure that those referred to them by agencies such as Dyfed-Powys Police and
domestic abuse charities including Women’s Aid groups are offered swift and effective support by relevant services.
Hafan Cymru acting chief executive Nikki Warrington said: “Our five new Independent Domestic Violence Advisor (IDVA) support officers will help address a regional shortfall in such provision. They will be flexible, responsive and will provide crisis intervention, and emotional, financial and practical assistance. They will support victims through the criminal justice process.”
Gwalia executive director Richard Davies said: “Gwalia are delighted to strengthen the support we give to victims of domestic abuse in DyfedPowys through the recruitment of IDVA Support Officers. There is a huge demand for such services and Gwalia welcomes the fact the Commissioner has prioritised this for investment and development in order to meet the needs of our communities.”
CDAF chair Angela Riddington said: “We’re very pleased to be working with the Commissioner, Hafan Cymru and Gwalia to ensure there’s a consistent IDVA service across Dyfed Powys. It’s crucial that issues around domestic abuse and violence against women are addressed.” Dyfed Powys Police Domestic Abuse Officers can be contacted by phoning 101. Wales Domestic Abuse Helpline: Call free on 0808 08 10 800 (24hrs).
Puzzles
Wordsearch Belle Bob Cratchit Charles Dickens Ebenezer Fan Fezziwig Fred Ghosts Humbug Ignorance Jacob Marley Martha Michael Caine
Miser Money Mrs. Cratchit Mrs. Dilber Muppets Nephew Old Joe Past Present Scrooge Tiny Tim Want Yet to Come
Christmas Crossword
Sudoku
How to play Sudoku It’s simple!
Fill the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition
You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone.
Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive!
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Across 1 Traditional Festive drink - rum _____ (5) 3 Striped confectionary - _____ canes (5) 6 Mary gave _____ in a stable (5) 7 Festive colour (3) 8 Given by 12 down (4) 10 Christmas lunch - ____ turkey (5) 12 12 Down came to _____ the baby (7) 14 City where King Herod lived (9) 16 Also given by 12 Down (5) 17 Christmas trees are usually this type (3) 18 Mary was told her ____ would be the son of God (4) 19 Christmas Carol - The First ____ (4) 20 Christmas Carol - Oh ____ Night (4)
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Down 1 2
3 4 5 9
11 12 13
15
US festive treat Pumpkin ___ (3) Christmas song - When a _____ is Born (5) 25th December! (9,3) ____ log (4) 12 Down followed a ____ (4) The ____ sent an angel to Mary (4) Might be cranberry or bread (5) There were three of them (4,3) Fortified ____, drunk after dinner (4) Greeting - _____ Christmas! (5)
Solutions: Page 23
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Farming in early winter
Keeping it Real
I
T
live in a house that is divided. My husband loves real Christmas trees but in recent years Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve talked him around to the artificial option, believing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; incorrectly as it turns out â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that a reusable tree is better for the planet than one that is chopped down and discarded after a few weeks.
Most artificial trees are made from PVC â&#x20AC;&#x201C; one of the most nonrenewable, polluting, unrecyclable materials around - and consequently their carbon footprint is ten times greater than that of real ones.
Shocked into realising that my fake tree is not the morally correct choice I thought, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m now keen to join the six million Brits who opt for a real tree at Christmas.
Christmas trees spring up all over the place from late November and the quality varies greatly. Before you make your choice, do a bit of fact finding about its freshness. Ask where it was grown (UK produced trees are likely to be fresher), how long it has been in stock and when it was cut. You can carry out a couple of tests yourself. Give the tree a firm tap on the ground or run a closed hand over its branches. If lots of needles fall off, chances are itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not that fresh. You can also try bending the outer branches.
he winter months can result in a lot of hard work on the farm. The days are now significantly shorter meaning less daylight to get all the jobs done and the inevitable cold and wet weather doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make life easy.
They should be pliable - not brittle and dry â&#x20AC;&#x201C; without discoloration. Before leaving to make your purchase, measure the height and width of your space and take a tape measure with you to check your tree. Most are trimmed to an 80% taper, which means that a 10 foot tall tree will measure 8 feet at the bottom. You should also consider how you plan on decorating your tree. The three main species â&#x20AC;&#x201C; spruce, fir and pine â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all have their own characteristics. Spruces and firs have short needles whilst a pineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are long. Pine branches tend to bend, making them unsuitable for heavier ornaments. Firs have lush branches and ornaments sometimes get lost in them.
The traditional British Christmas tree, the Norway spruce, is attractive but tends to drop its needles. An
alternative is a â&#x20AC;&#x153;non-dropâ&#x20AC;? variety like the popular Nordmann fir, which will last longer but is more expensive. To care for your tree, cut off half an inch from the base of the trunk and place in a water-holding stand. Position the tree away from sources of heat and keep it topped up with fresh water.
At present, 90% of real trees end up in landfill, so after Christmas is over try and recycle! By turning your tree into wood chippings or compost you will continue to do your bit for the environment.
Hopefully with this guide choosing the family tree will be a holiday highlight, not a headache!
- By Debbie Singh-Bhatti
However, a warm dry summer has meant that stock has been able to stay out in the fields for longer this autumn, but by now the cows are being bought in and the daily routine of feeding, bedding up and checking stock begins.
The annual ram, ewe and lamb sales continue and it is the time of year for farmers to showcase their fat stock at the many sales and prime stock shows, like the Royal Welsh Winter Fair, held across the country. For those autumn calving dairy herds the influx of freshly calved cows back into the milking herd itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a welcome, but labour-intensive time. And of course the ploughing and cultivations carry on in preparation for drilling spring cereal crops. - Courtesy of the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society
R.A.B.I Seeks Volunteers â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution is a welfare charity which helps farming people in financial difficulty. Our mission is to provide confidential welfare advice, practical care and financial support to people in need within the farming community, and to do so with compassion, discretion and friendship. Our county committees are the lifeblood of R.A.B.I. and we very much value the
time and effort that people put into supporting us. The Brecon & Radnor R.A.B.I. county committee is looking for new volunteers to join their friendly group. If you are interested, please contact the Regional Manager for Wales, Linda Jones, for a chat, on 01559 364850, or 07557363016 or send an email Linda.Jones@rabi.org.ukâ&#x20AC;?
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The Royal Welsh Winter Fair celebrates its silver jubilee Come and celebrate Christmas at this year’s 25th Royal Welsh Winter Fair on 1 & 2 December at the showground in Llanelwedd, Builth Wells.
Along with the usual packed schedule of competitions, classes, exhibitions and displays the two-day event will be packed full of silver jubilee themed celebrations including free late night shopping and a celebratory firework display on the Monday evening and a visit from HRH The Princess Royal on the Tuesday.
The past 25 years have been a turbulent quarter of a century for the British meat and livestock industry; extreme weather conditions, economic down-turns, BSE, foot and mouth, bluetongue, avian flu, export bans, cheap imports, falling prices, the list goes on and on…
But despite the challenges, the agricultural community has remained strong. Refusing to give up in the face of adversity, Welsh and other British producers have stuck together and remained loyal to the industry.
First staged in 1990 and originally just a modest one-day event, the Royal Welsh Winter Fair is now widely referred to as the finest prime stock show in Europe and has become well established as one of the most popular attractions on the British agricultural show calendar. Leading stockmen from all over the UK will compete for the top accolades in the classes and competitions. Just shy of 30,000 of visitors attend the annual twoday event each year. Away from the judging rings the very best of Welsh food producers showcase their produce and Christmas shoppers are able to explore the hundreds of tradestands, demonstrations, exhibitions and silver jubilee celebrations.
Gates open at 8am FREE car parking
Late night shopping on Monday night with FREE entry after 4pm
FREE celebratory firework display at 7pm on Monday evening
Royal visit from HRH The Princess Royal on Tuesday
Christmas gifts • Food hall and Farmers Market • Cookery, produce and handicraft • Santa’s grotto
For more information and to order your tickets in advance, please visit www.rwas.co.uk
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Page 20
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Page 21
www.mawwfire.gov.uk www.tancgc.gov.uk
We offer a free Home Fire Safety Check Please call to find out more
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Please quote HOME1 Dyfynnwch CARTREF1
Rydym yn cynnig Archwiliadau Diogelwch Rhag Tân yn y Cartref am ddim Ffoniwch i gael gwybod mwy, os gwelwch yn dda
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Kids’ Corner
Puzzle Solutions From pg 16
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