North Wales Magazine - April 2019

APRIL 2019

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MAGAZINE

What’ s on?

You

r guide monthly to eventlocal s

Ten of the best

Spas in North Wales

Easter Fun

THE BEST FAMILY DAYS OUT

Holding Fort

EXPLORING OUR HISTORIC CASTLES INSIDE J Nature J Food & drink J Homes & Interiors

MAGAZINE

LUXURY OUTDOOR LIVING

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Complete your garden with a quality furniture set and/or a Weber Barbecue Our experts are always on hand to find the perfect combination for each individual customer and there is something for everyone. Beat the Spring/Summer crowds and make the most of some fantastic early season deals, ensuring that every precious heatwave is appreciated to the full. Alongside our Weber range, we stock a variety of garden furniture suites from three fantastic companies: 4Seasons, Hartman and Lifestyle Garden.

Page 2 NWM 2019 Snowdonia Nurseries & Garden Centre, Glan Conwy 01492 580703 www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk

MAGAZINE

DEAR READER It’s our birthday this month – North Wales Magazine is two years old!

And what a couple of years it’s been…

I’d like to take this opportunity to personally

more exciting is that they all have even

thank all of the businesses in North Wales,

grander plans for the future. We are thrilled

both large and small, for providing such

to be such a big part of North Wales during

fabulous products and services throughout

such an exciting time, and can’t wait to see

the region – meaning that, from an editorial

what the next two years brings!

perspective, we always have something fascinating to write about.

And, in order to celebrate our birthday properly, we have gone to town with some

Take our Easter Days Out feature on

great competitions this month – fancy

page 27 as a prime example – Zip World,

winning a £1,500 barbeque anyone?!

Adventure Parc Snowdonia and Greenwood

Turn to page 79 if so…

are just three of the amazing companies that are firmly putting North Wales on the map as the adventure capital of the world.

To have such facilities here on our doorstep is an absolute honour – and what’s even

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

J

J

J Are you organising or taking part in an event that should be covered in our what’s on listings? Then make sure you tell us! whatson@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Keep in touch. Send in your contributions, letters, photos and press releases and become part of the North Wales Magazine family. editorial@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Subscribe. If you want to ensure that you receive each and every copy of North Wales Magazine then why not subscribe? All you pay for is the post and packaging. subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Advertise. If you own a business in North Wales and want to get your message in front of 20,000 local readers every month then drop us a line. Prices start from just £75. sales@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

In this issue...

We have some amazing prizes to be won this April!

We want to hear from you!

Front cover credit: The historic Conwy Castle

Making the most of North Wales in the spring

NWM 2019 Page 3

MAGAZINE

Page 4 NWM 2019

Contents

MAGAZINE

07 What’s On? Your guide to the best events taking place this April

EDITOR

14 The Big Picture

PUBLISHER

Kate Hamilton Grant Hamilton

Abersoch in April

17 Top Ten…

17

SALES & MARKETING MANAGER

Carly Redgers

…Spas. Relax and unwind!

ART DIRECTOR

23 Interview

Simon Marriott

Meet Dan Jones of The Aspie World

CONTRIBUTORS

27 Easter Days Out Get out and about this bank holiday

33 The call of the castles Exploring the historic fortresses of North Wales

23 43

37 Town in focus Discovering Anglesey’s county town of Llangefni

CONTACT US editorial@northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales@northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

43 Food & drink The regions wining, dining and culinary scene

whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

59 Homes & Interiors Get inspired by homes that are on the market

73 Walking Hike up Aber Falls this April

59

77 Crossword Get to grips with our brain-teasing puzzle

79 Competitions We have some amazing prizes to win!

81 Community News A roundup of regional happenings

85 In My Opinion…

Our expert columnists share their thoughts

98 Horoscopes What does April have in store for you?

Steve Goodier Lowri Llewelyn Cai Ross Tim Watson Sally Ann Harding Frankie Hobro Caroline Roberts Julian Hughes Ali Hough Dave Rothnie Russell Grant

81

North Wales Magazine is an independent, regional monthly magazine produced

by KSG Publishing. It is available to pick up from a wide range of independent outlets throughout Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham, Gwynedd and the Isle of Anglesey.

Disclaimer: All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part (electronically or in print) without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content, and any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of North Wales Magazine.

The publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in, or as a result of, any offer, competition, information or advertisement contained within the magazine. North Wales Magazine does not endorse any of the advertisements featured. All words and images remain the property of their respective owners and all copyrights are observed. North Wales Magazine is not associated with any newspaper group.

Privacy Notice. You can read North Wales Magazine’s Privacy Notice in full at www.northwalesmagazine.com

NWM 2019 Page 5

NEW FOR 2019 Surf Snowdonia is evolving. From Easter 2019 we’ll be bringing you more adventure, more thrills, and more fun. Inspired by nature, in the heart of North Wales.

ADVENTUREPARCSNOWDONIA.COM 01492 353 123 // info@adventureparcsnowdonia.com

What’s on this...

April

3rd

Russell Watson 2nd

Join four-time Brit Classical Award

Young Bakers Club

winner Russell Watson for a very special evening at the Anthony

As a post Mother’s Day special, Hawarden Estate invites all mothers and their little ones

Hopkins Theatre, accompanied by

for a little baking fun in the kitchen. Oksana

his pianist and guest choir. Tickets

will be teaching the young bakers and their

are £351st July.

mums how to make a Fruit Basket Cake. All organic ingredients will be provided as well as an apron.

Contact the Farm Shop for more information

2nd

ROH Opera Live: La Forza Del Destino

5th

Rose Wine Tasting Vinomondo in Conwy invites wine fans to taste

Leonora falls in love with Don Alvaro,

eight different styles of rose wine – including

but when her father forbids their

fizz. Learn about the colour, flavours and

marriage, a fatal accident triggers a

discover your favourite type. Tasting is from

drama of obsession, vengeance and tragedy. Broadcast starts at

7pm-9:30pm

6:15pm at the Ucheldre Centrematched to each course. Voilà!

2nd

Taste of Spring at Ty Llywelyn Chef Shaun Lynch invites you on a Spring taste journey of four seasonal courses, raising money and awareness for the centre. Tickets can be bought directly at the Ty Llywelyn Centre in Llandudno

4th

Pastels with Shirley This is Shirley’s first visit to the Afonwen Centre. Shirley paints in pastels from photographs, landscapes, and is also a member of FVAC and association of animal artist and has

6th

also sold some of her work at the National Exhibition of

Magic of Motown

wildlife

Prepare yourself for 40 backto-back classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes,

5th

Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour

dazzling dance moves and outstanding musicianship celebrating the sounds of Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross,

Experience an extraordinary collection of short films from

The Temptations and more in this explosive concert

the world’s most prestigious mountain film festival at Venue

experience. Disco starts at 7:30pm at the Rhyl Pavilion

Cymru. Tickets start at £13.50

NWM 2019 Page 7

8th

Open Climb Snowdon Walk

MAGAZINE

Sign up with RAW Adventures for a full day

April

walk on Yr Wyddfa/Snowdon, using the Pyg Track up and the Llanberis Path down (approximately 9 miles in total)

7th

Word Heritage Walk Free to attend, join Nightingale House supporters from 11:30am-4pm on a distinctive 13 mile walk through beautiful scenery along the legendary towpaths and footpaths of Llangollen and Oswestry. Breathtaking scenery will greet you at every twist and turn, including the iconic Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Chirk Aqueduct, Trevor Basin and the Chirk Tunnel 8th-13th

Benidorm Live The official world premiere of Derren Litten’s smashhit ITV comedy Benidorm is set to bring sunshine and smiles to Llandudno in the stage debut production of the hugely popular TV show. Show starts nightly at 7:30pm at Venue Cymru

11th 7th

Ben and Holly at Greenwood

All About Eve Starring Gillian Anderson and Lily James, All About Eve tells

Young fans of the animated series will

the story of Margo Channing. Legend. True star of the theatre.

be delighted to know that Ben and Holly

The spotlight is hers, always has been. But now there’s Eve.

are coming to GreenWood today, making

Her biggest fan. Young, beautiful Eve. The golden girl, the

appearances at intervals between 10.30am

girl next door. But you know all about Eve, don’t you…? Live

until 4pm

screening starts at 7pm at the Theatr Clwyd cinema

5th-7th

The Annual Prisoner Convention Based on the cult 1967 Patrick McGoohan TV series, and hosted by the Six of One Prisoner Appreciation Society, this annual convention returns to Portmeirion. Come join in the fun and celebrations with an Election Parade, Tally-Ho Theatre, and Human Chess, followed by a special performance by David Rhodes and the PortmeiriCON Ukulele Band

12th

The Trials of Cato Originally from North Wales and Yorkshire, the band lived in Lebanon for a year boiling down the roots of their folk sound.

Tickets are £8 at the Ty Pawb

Page 8 NWM 2019

2019 Gwyl Beaumaris Festival

ALL WALES

BOAT AND LEISURE SHOW

Mai / May 21-27

30 May/Mai - 1June/Mehefin 2019

Anglesey Showground LL65 4RW | 10am - 5pm

C

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Tocynnau o'r Ganolfan 01248 811200 Tickets Canolfan Beaumaris, Rating Row, Beaumaris LL58 5AL Online bookings at www.beaumarisfestival.org

MY

CY

CMY

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Entry: £10 Adults, £5 Children, Under 4’s Free (children must be accompanied by an adult)

COOKE

C

EF UN

& SCIEN RY

You’ll Enjoy - African Drumming • Samba • Tuned Percussion Clog Dancing • Fun Fair • Donkey Rides • Plus MUCH MORE...

B U B BL

CIR CUS

.......................

3 Days of Jam-packed Events keep the kids entertained during the school holidays dip in & out as you wish 4 Nights camping Glamping (optional) Explore the Isle of Anglesey! .......................

boatshowwales @WalesBoatShow

CE

K MUSIC OL MPETIT & O

CE DANNS IO

F

www.allwalesboatshow.com

SKI

THEATRE

Outdoor s

C&

DANCE, MUSI

Family Festival

LLS

ivities act

BOOK YOUR TICKETS TODAY

PRICES: Adult £145 • Child £50 • Under 4’s FREE

Amlwch Holyhead

Includes camping, parking, festival entry with priority access to activities

SHOWGROUND

Day Tickets: £10 Adult • £5 Kids (priority access not included)

Gwalchmai, LL65 4RW Main entrance off A5 A5

Llangefni A55

Bangor A55

Caernarfon

.............

(disability concessions and accessibility available)

ANGLESEY SHOWGROUND

•

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LL65 4RW

www.festivalofdiscovery.wales

Orchestral Concerts / Chamber Music A Night at the Musicals / Young Artists Recitals Art Exhibition / Festival Lunch Tango Quintet/ Camau Cerdd Choral Work / Piano Recital / Festival Talks Folk Music with Afternoon Tea Poetry / Wine Tasting Craft Fair / Woodturners Exhibition Fringe Festival Family Fun Day

MAGAZINE

April

12th

Roy Orbison and the Traveling Wilburys

Roy Orbison and the Traveling Wilburys Experience will take you on a journey through the story of the Wilburys. With expert narrative and big screen action,

14th

this 30th Anniversary Special is unmissable. With tributes to

Coast Half Marathon

Jeff Lynne, George Harrison, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison and Bob

Showcasing the amazing coastline and shows off the sights

Dylan. Show starts at 7:30pm at the Rhyl Pavilion

and sounds of this great seaside towns, this half marathon is the ideal choice for first time runners as well as seasoned pro’s alike. A spectator friendly route, with lots of activities,

13th

Gruffudd Wyn After stunning the judges on Britain’s Got Talent in 2018,

coffee houses and restaurants to explore make it a weekend away with the whole family. Race starts at Bryn Williams at Porth Eirias at 10am

Gruffydd Wyn brings his 2019 tour to home turf at Pontio Bangor. Show starts at 7:30pm 14th

Faeries at the Theatr

13 th

From the Organiser of the

The Illegal Eagles

Legendary Llangollen Faery Festival, this is a one-day mini

Described as ‘flawless’ by The

Faery Fest at Theatr Clwyd. Enjoy

Express, The Illegal Eagles

stalls and amusements for £3

are internationally renowned for their outstanding ability to recreate the Eagles’ distinctive sound with both flare and incredible

17th

authenticity. Having toured for over two decades

As You Like It

they remain true Eagles fanatics! Music starts at

Director Kimberley Sykes (Dido, Queen of Carthage) directs

7:30pm at the Rhyl Pavilion

a riotous, exhilarating version of Shakespeare’s romantic comedy. Broadcast starts at 7pm at the Ucheldre Centre

13th

Vale of Clwyd Celebrate Handel’s Messiah

18th-19th

Wrexham’s magnificent church, St Giles, will host a performance

Beauty and The Beast Panto

by the Vale of Clwyd Singers of Handel’s ‘Messiah’ and his

Starring Atomic Kitten’s Kerry

famous Zadok The Priest. Singing will commence at 7:30pm

Katona, Heartbeat’s Tricia Penrose, Basil Brush, Lauren Platt, Ryan Greaves and Dame Phylip Harries, the Easter pantomime will have you

13th

Bangor on Dee Discovery Day

howling in laughter. Tickets start at £14.50

See what the fun is all about at Bangor on Dee Racecourse. There are two enclosures to choose

20th

from and prices start from £7 for adult racegoers

Britain’s Got Magic

in advance of race day. Children aged 17 and

Reaching the Live Finals of Britain’s Got Talent 2016, prepare

under and accompanied by a responsible adult

to experience the sensational magic of Christian Lee, who is

are admitted free of charge

an award-winning comedy magician. Magic will commence at 7pm at William Aston Hall

Page 10 NWM 2019

20th

Iwan Owen Piano Recital The Ucheldre Centre welcomes back pianist Iwan Owen for a live performance starting at 7:30pm

19th-22nd

Easter at Bodnant Garden Bodnant Garden invites families to follow the Easter bunny’s clues through fields, woods and across streams to find the chocolate

25th

surprise. Cost is £2 per child +

Lost Voice Guy

normal garden admission

Following the unprecedented success of his appearance on the final of Britain’s Got Talent 2018, BBC New Comedy Award winner and star and writer of BBC Radio

19th-22nd

Easter Egg Hunt at Bala Lake Railway Can you find all the Easter eggs

4’s comedy series, Ability, Lee Ridley (aka Lost Voice Guy) has something to say and his comedy will leave you speechless. Show starts at 7:30pm at the Galeri Caernarfon

that are hidden along the line and at the station and solve the puzzle? The Easter Egg Hunt is included free with your normal train ticket

23rd

Textiles with Nia Nia returns to the Afonwen Centre with her fabulous silk items, in which Nia has used natural dye to print lovely

22nd

Easter Bonnet Hunt at Gypsy Wood

patterns in soft and muted colours, alongside her art and textile frameworks

Celebrate Easter Sunday with the family at this enchanting theme park located in Caernarfon 25-27th

The Welsh National Opera - The Magic Flute This irresistible production transports you to a dream world where you’ll meet colourful characters, combined with a witty story and Mozart’s sublime music. Various broadcast times, contact Venue Cymru for more information

26th

Liz at Femme Fatale Liz makes beautiful evening and special occasion bags, plus some accessories, in wonderful fabrics to include velvet, satin and silk, with many being embellished with feathers and other trimmings. Chat with Liz at the Afonwen Centre

23rd

26th-28th

A show from Riverbank Productions telling the story of Dr

Everyone’s favourite blue

John Dolittle MD whose parrot, Polynesia teaches him how to

tank engine will be arriving

speak to animals! Ideal for all the family and particularly for

at Llangollen Station on the

children aged 5 to 10, Dr. Dolittle will perform live at 1pm &

26th. Book your tickets to

3:30pm at the Ucheldre Centre

see him today

Dr. Dolittle Panto

Day out with Thomas

NWM 2019 Page 11

MAGAZINE

April 27th-28th 27th

Stand up at Seaside

Wales Comic Con Wrexham University will host the popular action-packed

This month’s comedy night stars Edinburgh

Cosplay conference with celeb guests Sam Neil, Jennifer

comedy award nominee Tom Wrigglesworth

Morrison, Kiefer Sutherland, Rupert Grind and more

who is also known for his hit radio 4 series Tom Wrigglesworth’s hang-ups. Tom will be joined by two fantastic support acts plus resident compere

27th-28th

and Colwyn Bay local Dave Rothnie, plus the

Student Quilt Exhibition

monthly audience joke competition. The event is

Pwythau Pentre – Gwenfai Rees Griffiths’ students will

held upstairs at the Station Pub in Colwyn Bay and

be displaying their works at the Canolfan Bro Aled in

tickets cost £12.50. Email dcrothnie@gmail.com for

Denbigh. Free parking, coffee, tea, cake, tombola raffle in

more information…

aid of Wales Air Ambulance and admission of £3 will go towards the North West Cancer Research Institute

27th

The Mayor’s Musicals Masquerade

30th

In aid of ARC Communities, Pancreatic Awareness, Conwy Arts

Water Colour Class

Trust and Pancreatic Cancer UK, the Mayor’s Masquerade Ball

John Morris will be teaching a watercolour painting class at

will host a 3-course meal, live music and DJ at The Barn at

the Afonwen Centre. All materials will be supplied and will

Eirias Park. Tickets are £50

run from 10:30am-3pm. Cost is £35 to take part

27th

Spring Fair The St David’s Hospice fundraising team in Llandudno invite you to a Spring fair from 11am-3pm.

Stalls included plants, cakes, seasonal homemade produce, entertainment, fundraising stalls, crafts and lots more

27th

The Amazing Bubble Man Galeri Caernarfon welcomes Louis Pearl, who has been thrilling

30th-May 4th

audiences around the world for nearly 30 years with the art,

Home, I’m Darling

magic, science and fun of bubbles. Bubbles start at 6:30pm

Following sell-out success Home, I’m Darling is back at the Anthony Hopkins Theatre. Katherine Parkinson will wow the audience again by showing that being a domestic goddess

27th-28th

Forties Festival The 7th annual 1940’s festival returns to Colwyn Bay for two days from 11am-4pm. The Festival will include cookery demonstrations and local food producers showing the vibrancy of the area with a World War II twist

Page 12 NWM 2019

isn’t as easy as it looks. Tickets start at £10

Are you organising or taking part in an event that should be covered in our what’s on listings? Then get in touch! whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 13

MAGAZINE

The Big Picture This shot was taken on a beautiful spring day in Abersoch by local resident Luke Pilling. “I am an avid photographer, so I try and upload as much as I can with my camera, and also now drone, to capture some slightly different angles of the area,” explains Luke, who runs a local information account for Abersoch and the surrounding area. “When the tide was filling into the harbour, the drone allowed me to capture both sides of the headland – and also Saint Tudwal’s Islands in the distance.”

Page 14 NWM 2019

NWM 2019 Page 15

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Discover Tan Rallt Holiday Park, a hidden gem in North Wales, just 5 minutes from A55 and the beach. Tan Rallt is an ideal home away from home with all of the privacy and luxury desired to create your own perfect escape.

The advice we give will be very specific to you and what you are trying to achieve. It will focus on supporting the processes in the body that may have become tired over time, by adding in specific nutrients that may be deficient, overall macro and micronutrient balance as well as lifestyle advice that will work for you and your personal circumstances. We will not only help you with understanding WHAT you need to do to improve your health, but give you practical solutions on HOW you can implement that into your busy life, to ensure you are seeing the results you want.

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Tof enthe best Spas & Beauty Salons Whether you are interested in holistic therapy, a romantic escape, an advanced aesthetics treatment consultation or just a break from the stresses and strains of daily life, then fear not as North Wales has a wonderful selection of spas, beauty salons and unique treatments that scrub up nicely!

Marina Spa at the Quay Hotel, Deganwy Overlooking one of the most spectacular views in Wales, that of the 13th Century Conwy Castle, the mountains, the estuary and marina, The Quay Hotel and Spa is a modern luxurious stylish hotel with a wellloved Marina spa. The spa is laid out across two stories with a swimming pool, hydro-therapy pool, sauna, steam room and changing facilities on the ground floor and, alongside the cosy relaxation “chill out” room on the first floor, are the treatment rooms and the make-up and beauty area. Treatments use ESPA luxury, natural products.

Book the Triple Indulgence Package (1 hour 20 minutes) which includes a salt and oil scrub, hot stones back/neck/shoulder massage, personalised express facial, a light spa lunch, use of leisure facilities and chill out room, all for only £99 per person. www.quayhotel.co.uk/quay-spa

The Spa at Tre-Ysgawen Hall, Llangefni

wmost exciting of all – the Salt Inhalation Therapy Room.

Replacing the spas steam room, the principles of salt

The Spa at Tre-Ysgawen boasts a 16-metre level-deck

inhalation are based upon the health benefits of a walk

swimming pool, sauna, steam room, Whirlpool spa

along the coast, breathing the ozone rich salty sea air.

bath and gymnasium. With inspiration taken from the

Anyone working with computer screens, or generally in

beautiful gardens at Tre-Ysgawen Hall, the spa team has

offices surrounded by electrical equipment all day will

developed a fragrant and natural body care range. Each

be subjected to positive ions. Positive ions can induce

item is carefully handmade using only natural ingredients

headaches, migraines and feelings of lethargy. Salt vapour

and local Anglesey Sea Salt in its body scrub to nurture,

produces negative ions, which help to counteract these

protect and balance your skin – whatever its type. The spa

effects leaving you feeling invigorated. Tre-Ysgawen’s salt

team is also a proud stockist of ESPA and Guinot products.

inhalation room will release particles of Anglesey Sea Salt

The thermal suite has an Experience shower, Herbal

– only the best will do!

Essences for the sauna, an Ice Fountain and probably the

www.treysgawen-hall.co.uk/spa

NWM 2019 Page 17

MAGAZINE

Indulgence Spa, Rhos-on-Sea The team at Indulgence truly believe that you deserve the best, as is evident in the positive testimonials that the spa has received. Offering a fantastic array of treatments to choose from, including the Ultimate Indulgence package, which consists of an OPI Deluxe Manicure, Deluxe Pedicure, Full Body Aromassage, Eyebrow Shape, Decleor Expert Facial and lunch.

The double treatment room is perfect for mum and daughter, his and hers or friends pamper packages. The sumptuous mother-to-be package is a firm favourite which includes a complete facial and body treatment helping to prevent stretch marks while promoting relaxation, however the friendly team at Indulgence can tailor any package to meet your requirements. theindulgencespa.co.uk

Aberconwy Spa, Conwy Based on the beautiful Aberconwy Resort & Spa, you have everything that you could possibly need for a day of pampering under one roof. Partnering with Aromatherapy Associates, their extensive treatment menu allows you to visit for a quick facial, a refreshing scrub and wrap treatment or spend a few hours treating yourself to a blissful spa day. Take your pick from the Aromatherapy Mixer Package, Weekend Ready Package and Ultimate Aromatherapy Package for a day of pampering that you definitely deserve.

All the spa experiences include complimentary use of robes, full use of Aberconwy’s on-site facilities – which include a heated pool, sauna and steam room – and a glass of prosecco. While you’re visiting, why not add a delicious two course Signatures lunch to your spa experience for only £15? Experience fabulous food as well as sheer relaxation and tranquillity when visiting Aberconwy Spa for a spa day like no other. www.darwinescapes.co.uk

Mermaid Spa at Portmeirion, Porthmadog The Mermaid Spa at Portmeirion is a space to relax and restore body, mind and spirit. It offers a range of well-being and beauty treatments for both men and women including massage, facial, body wraps and quick luxuries. The qualified beauty therapists at The Mermaid Spa use the purest vegan-friendly products and all-natural therapies. Guests enjoy complimentary entry to Portmeirion Village with any spa treatment booked in advance. So why not book a signature treatment or a full spa day, including a two-course lunch in Castell Deudraeth, and a variety of therapeutic treatments? Whatever you choose, you will leave feeling refreshed and relaxed. Spa gift vouchers are also available. www.portmeirion.wales/spa

Page 18 NWM 2019

Tranquillity Beauty & Aesthetics Salon, Pwllheli Winner of the Wales Beauty Salon of the Year 2016, Lindsay Thompson and her friendly team of beauticians have been pampering the town of Pwllheli for the past 12 years. Treatments include manicures, pedicures, massages, reflexology, wraps, facials, tanning, waxing, brows, lashes, makeup and advanced aesthetics. A proud stockist of Elemis products, all customised facials and peels are performed using the best ingredients in the industry. Lindsay says the most popular treatments at the moment are Lipofirm Pro and Geneo Therapy. Lipofirm Pro is a non-invasive skin tightening procedure using radio frequency to reduce cellulite and fine lines, tighten skin and permanently removes fat cells. The Geneo facial increases oxygen in the skin, revitalises, infuses and firms, giving amazing results in just one treatment! Head to Pwllheli and mention ‘North Wales Magazine’ when you book to receive 10% off all treatments. www.tranquillitybeautystudio.co.uk

The Retreat Spa, Abergele Set in the beautiful countryside of North Wales, The Retreat Spa feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of the local towns. Its newly refurbished spa & gymnasium aspires to provide an exclusive pampering destination to the North Wales coast. The Retreat Spa has a boutique manicure and pedicure room where you can enjoy great products including CND Shellac. The ultimate relaxing space where you’re to free your mind and release tension. Receive a facial from Comfort Zone as well as luxurious body treatments that may include wraps, scrubs and massages. In the warmer months you may wish to escape to the beautiful balcony garden, which is the ideal place to relax before or after your treatments. The Retreat Spa now offers personal training sessions with Rebecca Davies, a level 3 qualified personal trainer who offers one-toone sessions as well as sessions for couples and small groups (max four clients). To book your fitness training, email Rebecca at rebeccadaviesfitness@gmail.com. www.tanrallt.co.uk/the-retreat-spa-gym

NWM 2019 Page 19

MAGAZINE

Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa, Llanwddyn Situated in the Berwyn mountains, just outside the Snowdonia National Park, the Lake Vyrnwy Hotel & Spa is perched on the hillside overlooking Lake Vyrnwy and the mountains beyond. With unrivalled views from their thermal suite, spa pool and balcony, this is the perfect place to unwind from the stresses and strains of modern living. Explore the elements in its Thermal Suite, which combines different temperatures for a whole-body experience; together they bring relaxation, cell renewal and stimulate circulation. Enjoy the Experience Showers of monsoon and fragrant mist. By blending cold and warm water, the Experience Showers invigorate the body in a multi-sensory experience and perfectly complement the sauna and steam treatments. The spa recognises that each guest has different needs, some may visit to relax, others wish to feel energised. The knowledgeable therapists keep this in mind and offer a personalised approach ensuring all needs and requirements are met. www.lakevyrnwy.com

GLOW Beauty, Wrexham & Mold Founder, Sara Shoemark brought her training from the Ray Cochrane Beauty School in London, as well as a number of prestigious spas and stores, to her salons in Mold, Wrexham and Chester. With a passion for the beauty industry, Sara has compiled a team of therapists who have been trained to the highest standard and their awards have been a testimony of that. Sara’s philosophy has always been to provide an exceptional service, believing that high quality products, expertly executed, results driven treatments and the provision of an escape from the hustle and bustle of life, promotes an inner beauty that positively glows. Glow has received Decléor Platinum status, ensuring clients of the highest level of Decléor treatments and advice. In addition, understanding that some clients may be contraindicated for some treatments due to medical conditions, early 2019 sees GLOW therapists being trained in Touch Therapy – Made for Life Wellness Treatments – specifically designed for clients living with and recovering from cancer or other life changing conditions. Choose from the latest in anti-ageing therapy, body treatments, hair reduction, waxing, hands, feet and more. The Ultimate Glow package lets you customise your own three treatments. www.glow-beauty.com

The Lifestyle Spa, Ruthin The Lifestyle Spa in Ruthin offers over 150 years of combined experience and is committed to bring you the very best alternative therapies, aesthetic treatments and healing practices to enhance your health and wellbeing. Every therapy is given by experienced, fully trained, professional practitioners with a passion for what they do. In addition to your therapy, you’ll be given helpful advice and techniques for you to use at home to help you maintain and prolong the benefits of your treatment. Having such diverse treatments and therapists specialising in their own field of expertise, creates an opportunity for them to refer you to another therapist within The Lifestyle Spa or your therapist may incorporate other techniques in to your treatment, if they believe it to be more beneficial for you. Quote ‘North Wales Magazine’ when booking to receive 10% off your booking. www.thelifestylespa.co.uk

Page 20 NWM 2019

MAGAZINE

Page 22 NWM 2019

THE

CHANGING

FACE OF

AUTISM

Kicking off Autism Awareness Month, Lowri Llewelyn caught up with one of North Wales’s most prolific influencers.

To date, The Aspie World has amassed over 78,000

the school had no real special education unit. “There was

subscribers. The YouTube channel of Daniel M. Jones, in 2017

a special ed table where me and a guy with schizophrenia

it won the YouTube Next Up award and has since been voted

used to sit, which was a bad combination. And then we had

one of the world’s leading autism channels. Exploring a wide

the same one-to-one teacher than the “normal” kids had, so it

range of topics ranging from the effect autism has on family

wasn’t the best experience.”

life, to the lesser recognised traits of autism in girls, Dan’s video blogs aim to educate the masses from the perspective of

Autism meant that activities other kids took for granted –

an adult navigating life on the spectrum.

swimming lessons, playing outside – could cause intense stress and anxiety, which served to single Dan out from his

Of his huge following, Dan estimates 50% to be parents of

peers. “Kids could be really nasty – I definitely felt left out,”

children with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Others,

he admits. He did, however, have one ally. “We were both

meanwhile, are those seeking a face that represents them

dyslexic so we got on; he was my only friend.”

amid the thousands of mainstream influencers.

Though there was nobody who identified as autistic he On meeting Dan, of Holyhead, it’s not immediately obvious he’s

could look up to, he found inspiration in the world’s greatest

any different to you or me. Confident and funny, he’s far from

thinkers. “Growing up I was obsessed with space and

the stereotype most of us have in our minds. He seems so

robotics: Tesla, Einstein, Professor Hawkins. I suppose the

relaxed, in fact, that he happily offers photos of his baby son

closest role models I had would have been on the spectrum if

for me to admire. Then I begin to notice the way he can’t make

they were assessed today.”

eye contact.

Like his heroes, many of those on the spectrum are able to He cites school as the place he realised he was different.

excel in areas in which they have a special interest – and

“That’s the first time you’re presented with people who are

Dan is no exception. From releasing a successful pop punk

of a standard,” he explains.

album, to publishing a bestselling book about Star Wars, to establishing his own religion and church – which amassed a

A hallmark of autism is difficulty navigating social

whopping half a million followers – it’s fair to say he doesn’t

interactions, and Dan was no exception. But despite his needs,

do things by halves.

NWM 2019 Page 23

MAGAZINE

A role model himself now, he insists he doesn’t feel

of the video and a blog version. I’ll also line up what I need

pressure. “I’m a big believer in self awareness, and if you

for a podcast version and record that.”

can be yourself to a degree that you’re a master at yourself, then you can help influence others. That’s a great honour.”

Then there are phone interviews, replying to a thousand emails, recording brand deal videos… and finally, family time.

Considering that social interaction can be a minefield for

Many researchers believe that the genes which predispose

those on the spectrum, the idea of vlogging to interact

children to autism are inherited from their parents. As a

with others while also creating a safe space for himself is

father himself, how would he like autism to be viewed and

fascinating to me. What was the attraction of YouTube? “I’ve

treated by the next generation? “There’s stigma with autism

always been obsessed with wanting to create content,” he

– people either think you look like Rain Man, or you don’t have

says. He admits his first videos, way back in 2007, were

it. But one person who has autism is different to the next.

“silly” – making a Pot Noodle, for instance. “Nobody needs to

Even though they have inherent traits that are very similar

know how to do it, but I just thought it would be fun.”

and they have the same issues, they are individual people – not clones. So that’s what I want for the next generation –

It would be several years before his videos became what

understanding, which is exactly what my channel does.”

they are today. “Then I had an operation and was in a wheelchair, this huge barbaric thing – it was like having

So, what’s going on over at The Aspie World for Autism

a C-section! I was bored out of my skull – I’d seen every

Awareness Month? “I’m kicking off with five ‘A day in the life’

episode of Star Trek – so I started recording a diary, just

vlogs, which is going to be really fun.” Unscripted and raw, the

talking to the camera. That was my first interaction with

videos will show Dan at his most vulnerable as he struggles

YouTube as a vlogger.”

with OCD and anxiety. “I’m also getting a T-shirt together to raise money for the National Autistic Society.”

But it took time to settle on a niche. “I played about with different channels; my obsessions with toy collecting and

Also in the works is a book on autism advocacy. “I’m working

comic books. Then I did personal insight videos, and when

on it with my girlfriend, who has a degree in childhood

I first did a personal insight video on asperger’s syndrome,

studies and childhood development, specialising in

it took off.”

autism. We’re taking life experiences and questions about relationships, growing up, school, work life, travel – all those

Today, Dan is one of few creators that has built a career

things that are going to be challenging – and working on

out of uploading content. And just like any career, content

hacks. Hopefully it will become a guide book for anyone with

creation requires hard work.

an autism spectrum condition.”

His daily routine is highly specific, down to the cup he

I ask him to fast forward a few years – what would he like to

drinks from (black, YouTube logo). He gives a detailed run-

have achieved? “I want to be the biggest YouTuber on mental

down of his vitamin intake, along with each one’s function

health!” I’ve no doubt he’ll manage it. n

(kelp tablets cured his alopecia and there’s a backlog to get rid of – his hair is strong and glossy now).

All of Dan’s vlogs can be viewed at www.YouTube.com/ TheAspieWorld, and don’t forget to visit www.TheAspieWorld.

“Then I hit the work hard. I open up YouTube and reply to

com for blogs, merchandise and further resources

every single comment. Then I plan out videos. People think that YouTube is talking to a camera and then uploading it, but to upload a good video, I spend just as long deciding how to create the title and thumbnail. I’ll come up with a title, create the video script, then I’ll create the description

Page 24 NWM 2019

Lowri Llewelyn is a lover of all things wild and wonderful.

She loves to write about the driven young people who inspire her.

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A nice day out on a bike!

Diwrnod braf ar gefn beic Come and discover hidden Anglesey on a guided bike tour!

We lead leisurely small-group bike rides along quiet lanes. There’s plenty to see along the way, whether it’s spring flowers, scenery or the island’s fascinating history. We currently offer rides on Saturdays and on Saturdays and Wednesdays from May. Hire a bike, electric bike or bring your own on the tour. Bespoke tours can be arranged for groups. Must be 16+ Visit www.greenlanebiketours.co.uk, contact@greenlanebiketours.co.uk, 07940966879

Easter Opening: April 6th to April 28th 10 am to 5 pm

Easter

Extravaganza If you are planning to get out and about with the kids this Easter then look no further, as the attractions in North Wales are promising a cracking good time…

Who said that Easter was all about lazing around and stuffing your face with chocolate eggs? Well, OK, that does sound pretty tempting – but when the need arises to burn off some energy then North Wales has a whole host of fantastic attractions specifically designed to keep

Left: Adventure Parc Snowdonia will open its doors for the season from Easter weekend Below: Kids from as young as five can surf at Adventure Parc Snowdonia

the whole family entertained…

First up is Surf Snowdonia, or rather Adventure Parc Snowdonia! After a spectacular and hugely exciting transformation the magnificent Adventure Parc Snowdonia will open its doors from the Easter weekend, and should definitely be on your Easter hols hit list.

Just in time for Easter weekend, the parc’s world-first inland waves will be joined by a whole bucketload of new adventures. An adventure concierge service will help you to explore exciting instructor-led activities like gorge walking,

while the adventure concierge activities cost from £40, and

abseiling, SUP safaris and coasteering. There will be on-site

are suitable for children age six and over.

mountain bike hire too – perfect for family groups who’d like to explore the beautiful Gwydir Mawr / Marin Trail which is

And, if you wanted to make a weekend of it, glamping pods,

close by. And, of course, those beautiful inland waves will be

a lagoon-side bar, diner and the magnificent mountains-and-

rolling just as before with expert tuition from the APS surf

forests setting of the Conwy Valley make Adventure Parc

academy. Kids from as young as five can surf from just £35,

Snowdonia a wonderful place to stay over.

NWM 2019 Page 27

MAGAZINE

Zip World Fforest is promising Easter inspired adventure and activities

Soar through the Welsh woodland on the Dragon Flyer, the UK’s only alpine coaster of its kind

Meanwhile, a bit further down the road in Betws-Y-Coed, Zip World Fforest is promising Easter inspired adventure and activities. Soar like a dragon with the kids through the Welsh woodland on the Dragon Flyer, the UK’s only alpine coaster of its kind. Count the hidden Easter treasure on your way up, then fly at speeds of up to 25mph on your way down!

Or work together to solve the puzzle on Treetop Quest, a huge

Parents of toddlers and young children will be familiar with

bouncy net adventure set high up in the trees. Explore each

the adorable characters of Ben Elf and Princess Holly and

section of the nets to find the clues- don’t forget to take a peek

their adventures in their Little Kingdom. Young fans of the

at the carpet slide too! Children can unleash their inner-

animated series will be delighted to know Ben and Holly are

adventurer on Hoppity Hoppers too, as this treetop adventure

coming to GreenWood on Sunday 7th April!

course will see them zipping, climbing, balancing and hopping along the obstacles, collecting their Easter treasure along the way.

But what Easter event would be complete without an egg hunt?! Join Zip World Fforest during Easter weekend and explore every nook and cranny of the Fforest for those chocolatey treats – you can indulge in a bit of biscuit decorating, crafts and face painting too.

Greenwood Family Park also has a jam-packed itinerary throughout April. From 6th – 28th April, be entertained by family favourites Erwyd the Jester, Smarty Marty the Clown and Harley’s Showtime in the extraordinary Forest Theatre, get creative in the craft area and keep your eyes peeled as you explore amongst the trees for giant eggs on the Easter trail.

Page 28 NWM 2019

Greenwood Family Park has a jampacked itinerary throughout April

Left: Green Lane Bike Tours take away the responsibility or the worry about getting lost Below: The Welsh Highland Railway invites you to join them at their brand new station at Caernarfon for a weekend of family activities and foot plate rides

Elsewhere on the park, you can make a splash on the UK’s only solar powered water ride, jump aboard the world’s first people powered roller coaster or zoom down the longest sledge run in Wales! Children will love discovering the super bouncy Giant Jumper, exploring the turrets of TreeTop Towers, taking their shoes and socks off for the BareFoot Trail

opportunities to stop, look at the view, and visit places (and

or aiming for gold at archery.

cafés) along the way!

This Easter is also an exciting time for the Welsh Highland

Many people are unsure of where to go or what to see when

Railway as they invite you to join them at their brand new

going out for a family bike ride, so Green Lane Bike Tours

station at Caernarfon for a weekend of family activities and

take away the responsibility or the worry about getting lost!

foot plate rides in addition to longer train rides to Beddgelert

Join them on one of their weekly (twice weekly from mid May)

and Porthmadog.

day trips, and you’ll see some of Anglesey’s hidden treasures – from fresh Spring hedgerow flowers to Neolithic prehistory,

This innovative new building sits next to the harbour and

or medieval castles, there’s something for every taste!

castle of this proud old royal town making it ideal as part of a day out to the town. Caernarfon boasts a wealth of things

For the younger kids, the Adventure Trail in Abergele is a

to see and do including shopping in the narrow streets,

perfect day out. A surprise awaits around every corner of this

crab lining beside the harbour, walking and cycling along

unique action-packed trail. Explore beautiful woodland and

dedicated paths and, of course, visiting the castle and railway.

experience nature at its finest with more than 40 fun games

The new station café – Caffi De Winton – will be open to offer

and challenges along the walk, and there are plenty of picnic

freshly cooked snacks and cakes when visiting the station.

areas along the way so, pack up a feast and enjoy fresh air

And if you need to burn off a few calories after too many

and fun activities for a perfect family day out.

cakes, then Green Lane Bike Tours has a new offer for visitors and local people alike – they’ll lead you on a guided

The park is constantly making little changes and

bike ride along selected routes, showing you and your family

improvements in the trail and regularly introducing new

details that you may well miss otherwise! Their tours are

games and challenges to keep visitors and season pass-

leisurely – they say it’s just a ‘day-out on a bike’, with lots of

holders interested and entertained. Harry Potter fans will be

NWM 2019 Page 29

MAGAZINE

For the younger kids, the Adventure Trail in Abergele is a perfect day out

delighted to see a tribute area dedicated to the characters and

farm animals, go on a reptile hunt, ride quads, role play in tiny

props of the film.

town, take part in outdoor activities and burn off any excess energy in the indoor soft play area.

Gypsy Wood is another destination that is just ideal for the younger members of the family. After all, there aren’t many

Visitors to the farm park over the Easter weekend are also

places where you can combine the magic of fairies with the

invited to enjoy an Easter egg hunt and meet the Easter Bunny

charm of animals and the rugged wilderness of 20 acres of

himself in the brand-new Easter grotto. Ticket prices include

beautiful natural woodland!

regular admission plus one go at the hunt.

Gypsy Wood Park is a unique North Wales attraction that all

So, what are you waiting for? Grab the kids and get out and

the family will love. There are loads of things to see and do

about this Easter – you can always save those chocolate eggs

at their outdoor park in the foothills of Snowdonia, and it is a

for when you get home after an action-packed bank holiday

must-see attraction for all animal, nature, outdoor, train and

weekend... n

fairy lovers.

However, as its only Easter, make sure that you bring your wellies if you want to explore the wetlands. Visitors can also meet all the different animals who live there, find the fairies, make a wish, hop on Woody’s train and enjoy one of Gypsy Wood’s fabulous adventure play areas. And, if you visit the park on Easter Sunday, then you will also be able to take part in the Easter Bonnet Hunt…

Another place to visit farm animals is Manorafon Farm Park, located just off the A55 in Abergele. Manorafon is a hands-on, family attraction that invites you (and the kids!) to meet their Gypsy Wood is another destination that is ideal for the younger members of the family

Page 30 NWM 2019

As well as meeting the animals, kids can meet the Easter Bunny at Manorafon Farm Park

Harbour Station, Porthmadog, Gwynedd, LL49 9NF

01766 516024

www.festrail.co.uk

facebook.com/festrail

Easterat

GreenWood

Pasg yn Gelli Gyffwrdd Spring has sprung in the woods so get ready for a hopping good time!

Try to find all the Easter eggs in the woods (before the Pesky bunnies eat them) and enjoy the daily shows, seasonal crafts and much more!

6th-28th April

6ed-28ain o Ebrill Book tickets online & save greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk

An experience above everything else Snowdon Mountain Railway trains will be running to Clogwyn ž up Snowdon this April (weather permitting), where the open mountainside offers spectacular views.

By early May, the service will extend to the Summit and the Hafod Eryri visitor centre will reopen (weather permitting).

Check our website and social media pages for service updates!

Avoid disappointment, book in advance online at

snowdonrailway.co.uk Or call 01286 870 223

Snowdon Mountain Railway, Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4TT info@snowdonrailway.co.uk

snowdonrailway.co.uk

CASTLE COUNTRY Did you know that Wales has more castles per square mile than any other country in Europe? There are 600 castles throughout Wales – and the following are the jewels of the North‌

Harlech Castle was constructed in record pace by an army of nearly a thousand skilled craftsmen and labourers

NWM 2019 Page 33

MAGAZINE

With around half a mile of town walls, Denbigh Castle is another typical stronghold of Edward I’s

Beaumaris has been deemed as the most technically perfect castle in Britain

North Wales is a pretty amazing place at the best of times but,

a halt in 1330 – with the castle still not built to its intended

if you have ever decided to view the region from a heritage

height – by which time a whopping £15,000 had been spent.

perspective, then this is when the area really comes to life.

Rich with castles that are testament to our unique history, the

Conwy Castle is another fortress built for Edward I by

North Wales landscape simply wouldn’t be the same today if it

Master James of St George, and is one of the finest medieval

wasn’t for these impressive fortresses.

fortifications still standing in the UK today. An estimated £15,000 was spent building the castle, which was the largest

The majority of castles in North Wales were commissioned by

sum Edward spent in such a short time on any of his Welsh

King Edward I who, along with his architect Master James of

castles between 1277 and 1307. Edward’s trademark ‘walls

St George, proceeded to build his empire in here North Wales

within walls’ weren’t needed at Conwy, as the rock it sits

– with dramatic results.

on provided enough security itself, but you will find two barbicans, eight towers and a large bow-shaped hall all

Caernarfon, for example, is simply one of the most impressive

located within its unusual elongated shape.

castles of its time. The original design includes polygonal towers, with Eagle Tower being the most impressive of

With around half a mile of town walls, Denbigh Castle is

these, as opposed to the more traditional round towers. The

another typical stronghold of Edward I’s. From 1282, the

site of Caernarfon Castle, like the location of all of Edward’s

English king’s 13th Century campaign in the area was

defences, was shrewdly picked as it was the former site of a

strengthened by the conception of an English borough.

Norman motte and bailey castle and, before that, a Roman fort.

By building over this Welsh stronghold, Edward ensured

Edward’s son, the first English Prince of Wales, was born in

that all signs of Dafydd ap Gruffudd, the previous occupier,

Caernarfon Castle in 1284 – and just under 700 years later,

were removed for ever. Henry de Lacy, one of the king’s

in 1969, the investiture of the current Prince of Wales, HRH

commanders, was given the job of building the new castle

Prince Charles, took place here.

along with (you guessed it) Master James of St George. A Welsh rebellion, led by Madog ap Llywelyn in 1294, captured

Meanwhile Beaumaris has been deemed as the most

the partly-built castle but Edward’s reign and building

technically perfect castle in Britain. Featuring classic

programme were soon restored. You can see still see the two

proportions and perfect symmetry, Beaumaris was built

phases of building work today – the post-rebellion work is

according to Edward I’s ingenious ‘walls within walls’ plan

marked by different colour stone, thicker curtain walls and a

on the Isle of Anglesey. Work began in the summer of 1295,

hint of Caernarfon-style angular towers.

overseen by Master James of St George, but it was never officially finished due to lack of funds. Work finally came to

Page 34 NWM 2019

Yet another one of Edward I’s masterpieces, Harlech Castle

An estimated £15,000 was spent building Conwy Castle

the recently installed ‘floating’ bridge makes access to the castle accessible for everyone.

The first English Prince of Wales was born in Caernarfon Castle in 1284

Criccieth Castle is pretty unique in that Llywelyn the Great began building it during the 1230s. It is believed that the

cost just £8,190 to build, making it one of his cheaper

Welsh prince may have taken design inspiration from a range

investments. It was also constructed in record pace between

of English castles, hence its English style of gatehouse. Despite

1283 and 1295 by an army of nearly a thousand skilled

its pure Welsh start however, Edward I’s forces took the castle

craftsmen and labourers. The castle, again overseen by James

around 50 years later, and undertook their own improvements.

of St George, boasts two rings of walls and towers, with an

These included remodelling a tower for stone-throwing

incredibly strong east gatehouse making it impenetrable from

engines. The gatehouse had another storey added at this

every direction. In addition, a 200-foot long stairway joined

point, and several towers were reinforced. An outer barbican

the castle to the cliff base, meaning that supplies were easy to

was also added to the curtain wall. Unusually, Criccieth Castle

access. When Harlech castle was first built, a channel would

may have given its name to the town, rather than the other

have connected the castle and the sea, meaning that a boat

way round. Its suggested origins are ‘crug caeth’ – ‘crug’ (hill

could sail up to the moat. Seven hundred years later, the sea

in Welsh), ‘caith’ (captives) – the name given to the jail on the

has receded and the castle appears almost stranded. Today,

hill, a function once held by the castle. n

Llywelyn the Great began building Criccieth Castle in the 1230s

NWM 2019 Page 35

MAGAZINE

Bathrooms/Interiors/Ensuites/Wetrooms/Tiles

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EXPLORING

Llangefni TOWN IN FOCUS

Steve Goodier heads to the heart of Anglesey and discovers Llangefni, the islands county town…

Prior to 2001 more tourists visiting the island of Anglesey

past. Doug used to manage a small sawmill near Bangor for

knew where Llangefni was. The old A5 ran quite close to

many years. It was sold for re-development, and he reluctantly

the town and was a much more sedate road to motor on than

decided to retire – he was 75 at the time. Fifteen years later I

the high speed A55 that opened just after the Millennium.

found myself at Llyn Cefni looking for a spot to eat my lunch

Although the new road ran parallel to its predecessor in most

on what was the first hot day of the spring. There was a tap

places, it meant that motorists could travel much faster on

on the car window and there was Doug on a bicycle. He had

their way up the island to the port of Holyhead, or the coastal

moved to the island and couldn’t bear retirement so had taken

areas to be found on the south west side. It’s not that Llangefni

on several small jobs – one of which was delivering flyers and

is not signposted off the new road (it is), but modern motorists

newspapers to outlying farms on his bike. He was out doing

plan their journeys to correspond to the type of road they

this the day we met again and although he was by then 89, he

will be travelling on and the town is whizzed past as ferry

still seemed as spritely as ever.

deadlines are aimed for. And, to be fair, this doesn’t bother Llangefni one little bit.

They made them tough in those days! Anyway, enough reminiscing – let’s take a look at Llangefni and see what it has

It has always been ‘connoisseurs Anglesey’ and more popular

to offer!

with the locals than the tourists who tend to stay around the islands edges anyway where the beaches are the big pull.

In a previous existence I called into the town at least twice a month winter and summer alike to see The Anglesey Timber Company on the towns industrial estate. I travelled and sold fencing and timber material in those far off days and this was one of my bigger accounts. Then there were a few agricultural merchants I stopped at too so I got to know the place pretty well. Anglesey Timber has long ago been bought out by a large builder’s merchant group and I moved on from that line of work but I can honestly claim to have seen Llangefni in sun, rain, snow and storm.

My abiding memory from the area took place a little away from the town at nearby Llyn Cefni where I met someone from my

NWM 2019 Page 37

What to do

GO AND SEE THE RAYNER MEMORIAL CLOCK TOWER

VISIT ORIEL YNYS MON

designated a Grade II listed building. The tower was built in

Oriel Ynys Mon is an arts centre and museum and a really

1902 and designed by Chester architect John Douglas. It was

interesting starting point for your exploration of Llangefni

erected in memory of George Pritchard Rayner who died in

and Anglesey as a whole. The centre is made up of two parts

1900. The clock tower is built in a Gothic Revival style and is

with the History Gallery providing a fascinating insight into

polygonal in shape but with four clock faces. The structure is

Anglesey’s history and culture. The Art Gallery section has

made from limestone and has a weather vane at the top. The

a changing programme of exhibitions, art, crafts, drama,

Rayner Memorial Clock tower is a very impressive structure

sculpture and social history displays. The art galleries are

and highly photogenic so make sure you take along your

well stocked and there is a permanent display of the works of

camera – and better still its free to see and is close enough to

Sir Kyffin Williams who was born in the town in 1908.

Llangefni town centre for a café or pub to be included in the

www.kyffinwilliams.info

day’s itinerary.

EXPLORE NANT Y PANDY (THE DINGLE) NATURE RESERVE

TAKE A TRIP TO PLAS NEWYDD COUNTRY HOUSE

Nant Y Pandy or The Dingle local Nature Reserve is a 25-acre

Owned and run by The National Trust since 1976 Plas

site located by The Afon Cefni in Llangefni. It consists of a

Newydd Country House is about five miles from Llangefni

pretty wooded valley which is rich in history and wildlife. The

and an easy car ride away. Set in a spectacular location on

Dingle is a steep sided gorge through which The Afon Cefni

the north bank of The Menai Staits near Llanfairpwllgwyngyll

runs and the rivers name comes from the Welsh word ‘Cafn’

the building dates back to the 1470’s. Over the centuries Plas

meaning trough or hollow. The gorge was formed by glacier

Newydd was Anglesey’s principal residency and became

action and its Welsh name Nant y Dilyw means Valley of The

the country seat of the Marquises’ of Anglesey. Plas Newydd

Deluge. The Dingles alternative name of Nant y Pandy means

makes a great day out and an exploration of the house,

‘Brook of the Fulling Mill’ and refers to an old wool processing

attractions and the grounds is recommended. The views over

plant once found here. It has locally been called The Dingle

the Menai Straits to the Snowdonia mountains are superb and

since around 1830 and is home to lots of wildlife and plants.

although Plas Newydd is always busy, you will not want to

A walk through it is delightful and there are sculptures,

rush a visit here as it strolling around is very atmospheric and

benches and picnic tables.

pleasant and both adults and children will love it.

The Rayner Memorial Clock tower is located in front of Llangefni Town Hall in Bulkeley Square and has been

www.nationaltrust.org.uk TAKE A WALK BY LLYN CEFNI Llyn Cefni is the second largest manmade lake on the island of Anglesey and is very popular with day trippers, fishermen, dog walkers and general pleasure walkers. A currently disused railway line cuts the lake in two. Today the reservoir supplies Anglesey with its drinking water and a walk around it covers around 3.5 miles/5.63 km. Walking around the lake is fairly straightforward on good tracks and paths which often leave the waterside and work a way through trees. There are picnic benches and general benches for a rest along the way. From the dam a cycleway and path link with The Dingle Nature Reserve in Llangefni. There are car parking areas at the dam itself and also at the south west and north eastern tips of the lake.

In Anglesey terms Llangefni is an important place, being

Km North West of the town to create the reservoir of Llyn

both the principal administrative centre and the county town

Cefni (which is actually the original source of the Afon Cefni)

for the island. It is both a commercial and agricultural hub

which has a catchment area of about 9,400 acres. Llyn Cefni

(it once hosted the largest cattle market on Anglesey) and a

itself is small in reservoir terms and covers around 210 acres.

major shopping point for the residents of the surrounding area. Llangefni is a pleasant market town that is often busy

The reservoir was completed in 1951 and was designed

and bustling and its central location on the Anglesey map

to supply the water needs of most of Anglesey for the

make it an ideal base to stay at and explore the rest of the

foreseeable future. The reservoir is fed by two main streams,

island from. Llangefni was built on the Afon Cefni which is one

The Afon Frogwy from the west and the Afon Erddreiniog

of Anglesey’s main rivers. It has been damned about 1 mile/1.65

for the north east. It is the second largest manmade body of

Page 38 NWM 2018 2019

Where to stay

THE BULL HOTEL

TRE-YSGAWEN HALL COUNTRY HOUSE HOTEL AND SPA

Bulkley Square and makes a good central location to

Set close to Llangefni Tre-Ysgawen Hall Country House

explore the town from. The Bull Hotel offers 22 bedrooms

Hotel has a good selection of en suite bedrooms including

in total, and welcomes both families and dogs. Each room is

four-poster suite rooms, family rooms, twins, doubles, small

individually named and these were chosen by local school

doubles and singles. The hotel has a spa with swimming

children. Bedrooms are located in both the main hotel and a

pool, thermal suite and gym plus it offers the usual spa

courtyard area. The Bull Hotel offers good grilled food and

treatments. Tre-Ysgawen Hall Hotel has several dining

pub style fare in comfortable surroundings and has a well

The Bull Hotel is located in the heart of Llangefni in

options – The Grill,

stocked bar.

Noelle’s Restaurant

www.sabrain.com

and The Clock Tower Restaurant, all of which offer a good and varied menu. And, in case you want to arrive in style, there is a helicopter landing point! www.treysgawen-hall.co.uk MEILLION COTTAGE Meillion is a cosy cottage that is situated on a small holding on the outskirts of Llangefni. Sleeping two people, Meillion provides a wonderful retreat for a relaxing romantic break where you have complete freedom to do as much (or as little!) as you like. www.walescottageholidays.co.uk

TREGARNEDD COTTAGE Tregarnedd Cottage is part of an 18th Century Manor House Estate set amidst 400 acres of farmland. This modern barn conversion, which is just a few miles from Llangefni, has two bedrooms and is bright and airy with lovely exposed beams. www.northwalesholidaycottages.co.uk

water on Anglesey after Llyn Alaw (which is also a reservoir).

Llangefni hosted the National Eisteddfod in 1957 and 1983 and

The north east end and the surrounding area has been

gave its name to the Eisteddfod held at the nearby village of

designated a nature reserve and there are several car parks

Llanbedrgoch in 1999. It also hosted the Urdd Eisteddfod (the

including one by the dam which is on the south east edge of

youth Eisteddfod) in 2004.

the reservoir. Llyn Cefni is a popular fishing destination.

The town has the highest percentage of Welsh speakers Geographically Llangefni is well serviced by a good road

on Anglesey and, according to the 2011 census, the sixth

network which includes the A5114, the B5111, the B5110, The

highest in Wales. It is the second largest town on the island,

B5420 and the B5109 while both the A55 and the A5 run

after Holyhead, and has a population of around 5,000. The

close by it. The town once had a railway station which was

town centre has a good selection of pubs and cafés as well

on The Anglesey Central line and opened in 1864. It closed

as plenty of shops, and there is a lively open-air market on

in 1964 although goods trains continued to pass through

both Thursdays and Saturdays. For local recreation there is a

the town until 1993. Today the nearest railway station is at

leisure centre and a nine-hole golf course and driving range.

Llanfairpwllgwyngyll about 5 miles/8 km away. However, a frequent bus service links the town to others around the

Visitors to Llangefni and Anglesey in general could do worse

island and to the likes of Bangor on the mainland.

than start their visit with a trip to the purpose built museum

NWM 2019 Page 39

MAGAZINE

and art gallery of Oriel Ynys Mon. As well as a shop and café you will also find an absorbing introduction to the islands past

Eating and drinking

in the History Gallery where imagery, sound, reconstructions

FOUNDRY VAULTS

who one of the 20th Century’s wildlife and countryside artists

Located in the centre of Llangefni town centre Foundry

and a truly unique collection of his paintings brings the

Vaults offers a good selection of traditional pub grub

islands abundant wildlife to life. The museum has a changing

and is a noted local music and entertainment centre in

collection of art exhibits and is home to the world’s largest

the evenings.

collection of works by local painter Sir Kyffin Williams who

www.robinsonsbrewery.com/foundryvaults

was born in Llangefni in 1908.

and real artefacts bring to life Anglesey both past and present.

Part of the History Gallery is dedicated to Charles F Tunnicliffe

The best-known Church in Llangefni is St. Cyngar’s and MONA HOUSE COFFEE SHOP

this is a Victorian parish Church set in a lovely wooded

Located in the centre of Llangefni, Mona House Coffee

riverside location called the Dingle which is also a nature

shop gives a warm welcome and offers traditional café

reserve. Llangefni was formerly known as Llangynagar which

fare from snacks to more substantial meals.

translates as ‘St Cyngar’s Church’.

01248 724070 As well as the painter Kyffin Williams, other notable people ORIEL DANIEL TEAROOM

who were born or lived some of their lives in Llangefni

Centrally located in Llangefni and dog friendly. Oriel

include Oscar winning actor Hugh Griffith, television and

Daniel Tearooms offer traditional café fare plus teas,

radio personality Hywel Gwynfryn, Oscar nominated actress

coffees, cakes and snacks in a welcoming and pleasant

Naomi Watts, author Gabriel Fielding and the goalkeeper

environment.

Wayne Hennessey of Wolverhampton Wanderers, Crystal

01248 750005

Palace and Wales fame.

AVONDALE CAFE

And as well as all this, the countryside around Llangefni is

A pleasant and welcoming café in the central area of

lovely rolling farmland with a good network of footpaths that

Llangefni. Avondale Café offers traditional café fare

make exploring the great outdoors a pleasure. n

with snacks, teas and coffees and more substantial meals too.

07837 626738 NOELLE’S RESTAURANT Noelle’s Restaurant is located in the Tre-Ysgawen Hall Hotel and is open to non-residents. Noelle’s offers a large and varied menu with a wide variety of meals available. www.treysgawen-hall.co.uk

Page 40 NWM 2019

Steve Goodier is a freelance outdoor writer that specialises in North Wales. He is the author of ten outdoor books and his latest ‘Ten Best Pub Walks in Snowdonia’ will be published later this year, followed by ‘Ten Best Waterfall and Lake Walks in Snowdonia’ (www.northerneyebooks.co.uk). He is married to Paula and has two grown up children.

NWM 2019 Page 41

MAGAZINE

Celandine pieces from our Wildflower collection

Celebrate our Welsh homeland where our story began, our true sense of place where hearts, minds and souls align.

Celebrate our rich cultural heritage and our legacy of myth and legend, where fairies enchant childhood daydreams and dragons come alive through storytelling.

Celebrate our breathtaking landscapes, their bygone memories held deeply within slate and stone, protected by dramatic mountaintops that fall steeply into our seas.

30 years of Clogau. Celebrate it with us.

www.clogau.co.uk

Page 42 NWM 2019

#30YearsofClogau

FOOD & DRINK INSIDE Recipes Wine Chef profile

NWM 2019 Page 43

MAGAZINE

WORKTOPS |HEARTHS | VANITIES | SILLS | CLADDING GRANITE |QUARTZ |SLATE | MARBLE | LIMESTONE

THE GLASS ONION CAFÉ A small friendly café, offering a place to meet, eat, relax & watch the world go by!!

BESPOKE GRANITE & QUARTZ WORKTOPS WITH A *15 YEAR WARRANTY (subject to terms & conditions)

Enjoy tasty home cooked food, prepared & created daily using fresh locally sourced produce. We try to cater for a wide range of dietary requirements including: vegetarian, vegan, gluten & dairy free options…our menu caters for Healthy Diets too!!!

For our 'Younger Guests' - choose a smaller portion from our menu - or make your own 'Picnic Plate': includes a drink, crisps & a ‘sweet treat’ (Highchair & booster seat available) A warm welcome to all...including dogs in our outside eating area.

Outside Catering: From a platter of freshly made sandwiches to something more elaborate, we would love to assist you with any catering requirements you may have at your home, venue or office.

Pick up the ‘Keys’ to unlock & explore the ‘Denbigh Town Wall Walks’; The ‘Keys’ are available during opening hours.

Natural Stone & Quartz Specialists, all products bespoke. Full measuring & installation services provided Call our friendly team for a quote, advice or just to talk through options

Glass Onion Café, Back Row, Denbigh, LL16 3TE. Tel: 07715545564. www.glassonioncafe.co.uk

Free No Obligation Quote

Starting on the 21st of April, we will be open on Sundays throughout the Summer from 10am-3pm!

Also find us on Tripadvisor & Facebook

01745 797 007 • info@stoneworkzltd.co.uk • www.stoneworkzltd.co.uk Page 60 NWM 2018

TRADE ONLY

OF THE

Month

The Bramble is a gin cocktail that was created in 1984 by London bartender Dick Bradsell. This refreshing tipple was inspired by Bradsell’s memories of going blackberrying as a child – and coming across the inevitable bramble in the process! Despite being relatively new to the cocktail scene the Bramble has become a modern classic, and its fruity flair makes it the perfect springtime drink.

Bramble Equipment: 9oz Rocks or Tumbler, Boston Shaker, Hawthorne Strainer Ingredients: 2 shots gin, 2 dashes gomme, 1 shot lemon purée and 1 shot crème de mûre Method: Pour the lemon purée, gin and gomme into the Boston Shaker, and add ice. Give it a shake, and then strain the mix from the shaker over crushed ice. Finally, pour the crème de mûre down the side of glass so that ‘bleeds’ into the drink To serve: Garnish with a lemon wedge and a blackberry

IN THE MIX

Of course, if you’d rather sit back and relax while somebody mixed your ideal cocktail for you, then why not visit Sheldon’s in Colwyn Bay? From a Margarita to a Mojito, it has quite the cocktail selection and is quickly becoming the place to go for cocktails in North Wales.

01492 339821 www.sheldonsbar.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 45

MAGAZINE

Page 46 NWM 2019

Food for thought

I have a particular fondness for Easter. It’s Christmas, but on Valium. All the different component parts are there, but with all the stress, heartache and potential family breakdown taken away. Gifts for everyone? Yes, but just a few chocolate eggs and perhaps a Kinder Surprise each for the kids. No reason to have secretly taken yourself to the edge of bankruptcy to buy your children the latest must-have games-console or super gadget. An ovate choccie and a Crunchie bar is all that’s required.

Family lunch? Present and correct, only it’s completely informal and no one will cut you out of the will for forgetting to invite them, and you haven’t had to build an extension in your kitchen to get every member of your extended family around the table(s). Chances are there won’t be more than six of you, all getting along famously.

Plus, the roast will most likely be delicious. A leg of Welsh lamb stuffed with rosemary and garlic maybe, as opposed to the unnecessarily vast turkey from Christmas, which tasted like an over-boiled telephone directory. Plus, at Easter there is little or no chance

Cai Ross is co-owner and

that anyone will try to make you drink Advocaat.

Maitre d’ of the awardwinning Paysanne Bistro

Instead of taking place at the darkest, coldest part of the year, when your chances of

in Deganwy, which has

being felled by a deeply unpleasant flu bug are about one in three, Easter arrives at the

been serving French

height of Spring when all about is as bright, green and yellow as the daffodils that have

country-style food to the

sprung up everywhere, and everything radiates with renewal and rebirth.

fine people of North Wales since 1988. He also writes

Perhaps this year we’ll have another ‘White Easter’ like a few years ago when an

for Calibre Magazine, BBC

embarrassingly delayed snowfall turned up in March by mistake. It almost felt like Easter

Good Food, HeyUGuys.

was showing Christmas how to do a religious public holiday properly.

com and The North Wales Weekly News

Here are a couple of recipes to try out around Easter, one an egg classic with a pleasingly 1970s feel to it, and the other an interesting way to use up your grown-up Easter Egg chocolate.

NWM 2019 Page 47

MAGAZINE

Recipes gs Devilled eg

ce ocolate Sau h C h it w in Venison Lo

Serves 6

Serves 4

eggs free-range J 6 large se ai n ayon J 2 tbsp m ard glish must n E p ts 1 J epper J Salt & p ka oked papri sm J 1 tsp onal) ti p (o r this) ce sau a nozzle fo J Tabasco g bag with in ip p a d ee (You will n

ail’s Party’ A bit ‘Abig they make these, but . eal canapés great pre-m a e water in Bring som d the boil an saucepan to s. g eg e d th carefully ad minutes, ve fi r fo l Boi drain the lly then carefu ld g it with co pan, refillin s g eg e h ice. T water and in l ee p to y will be read s. te u in m n te ave peeled Once you h all alve them the eggs, h s. Carefully lengthway lks out into yo e spoon th e owl. Add th a mixing b d, ar st u m e , th mayonnaise a, a pinch of the paprik ists ood few tw g salt and a a e ak T per. of black pep ing t it to have nd everyth le b d an – if you wan g in fork on lend as co sauce. B aste it for se ps of Tabas ro together. T isk. d h w w fe d a ick, add with a han cy en st si more of a k n co into an even everything . Arrange ten the end h g ti d an ing bag yolk mix lly pipe the ix into a pip m fu e re th ca n en oo Sp tter, th g of smoked ites on a pla light dustin a h it w le the egg wh rink e holes. Sp guests. back into th ound your ar em th s d pas paprika an

into 4 equal erloin, cut d n te on is prox) ven J 750g (ap portions J Olive oil ed butter J 60g salt t or J 150ml p k icken stoc ch l J 400m g, epper e Easter Eg J Salt & p ark chocolat d , later!) h st os p re e of th 0g can eat ou J About 3 (y s it b e p into littl smashed u etal d have a m ˚C (FAN) an 0 18 ng yi to fr t en e ov t your bes Pre-heat th ready. Hea of e, g er lu g th a in d t, then ad baking tray d m-high hea an iu lt ed sa m h it a w pan over nison loins zzle. son the ve an with a si p e th olive oil. Sea in em lour th co ce of la p good bit pepper, then they get a so . s) em te th u of o min Turn each ke about tw is should ta all over (th d the oven an the tray in to y tl on h is g n li (s e ve inutes Transfer th e, (pink) ten m s on te d u ’s in it m x ed!). When in cook for si u (r s te u e it or 15 min en and leav overdone) out of the ov minutes. on n is te n to ve e ve take th r about fi fo st re to foil covered in oked that you co e same pan th oon to to sp t or en p d h a woo Add the it w g n l ri ir in, st by half unti the venison that reduce d et ad L f. lly of u s bit ing. Caref get all the sticky coat by a o, to an th ce u d ch re it’s not mu and let that ntil stock, stir of butter u ob n k l the chicken al sm a in k Whis about half. gamated. al am l al it’s plates. Just nge on the ra ar d an to the nison chocolate in Slice the ve , whisk the pour g in en th rv , se th e befor until smoo t ea h w lo a sauce over venison. around the

Don’t fancy cooking?

01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk

Page 48 NWM 2019

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NWM 2019 Page 49

MAGAZINE

Page 50 NWM 2018 2019

Community

spirit

Fine dining at a local community centre?

We sent Carly Redgers to the Ty Llywelyn Centre in Llandudno to learn more...

Duo of duck - pan fried breast, confit leg bon bon, duck fat potato with pak choi, carrots and five spice

Built in 2003, and named after Lance Bombardier

Not only does he create comfort favourite foods like

Llywelyn Evans, the Ty Llywelyn Centre was founded

fish and chips and ham and cheese toasties – he has

to assist families in the community with their every

also introduced the art of gastronomy to the centre and

day needs. From free breakfasts, tutoring, exercise

the residents, challenging them to try new flavours

classes, free room rentals for special occasions, and

and dishes.

activities to help build social confidence, the Ty Llywelyn offers a safe and friendly space for people in

With an Italian heritage, training from Coleg Llandrillo,

the Llandudno community.

and working in various restaurants around North Wales and Cheshire, Shaun has shared his acquired

Welsh chef Shaun Lynch has been running the kitchen

skills with the centre by cooking modern British foods

at the centre since June 2017 and was delighted to

with a hint of Asian and Mediterranean flavours.

receive National lottery funding as well funding from

Today, as well as catering for hungry locals, Shaun

Gwynt Y Mor in order to pay for a new modern kitchen

trains both students looking to gain employment in a

so that he can continue to serve fresh food to Llandudno

kitchen and culinary enthusiasts wishing to further

locals at a very low price.

enhance their skills.

NWM 2019 Page 51

MAGAZINE

Crispy cod fish tacos with avocado puree, chili jam, pickled shallots on a homemade taco

Carly followed Shaun around the kitchen during one of his

If you could cook for anyone, who would you like to cook

monthly taster sessions to learn more about the chef…

with?

I would like to cook with Tom Kerridge, I think he is an

How did you get your start in cooking?

amazing chef and is a big inspiration of mine. But I love

I fell I love with cooking from a young age. My Nana is from

cooking with my wife. She is my harshest critic and tells me

Italia and was always cooking, so I remember just wanting to

straight, which I like. So I would always choose her!

be a chef and produce homemade food like she did.

On a night off, where do you like to dine?

What makes Welsh food so special?

I love Asian food. I think it takes skill to produce food with so

For me it’s the way it’s grown and produced. A lot of hard

much flavour and balance. But I like to try different types of

work goes in to making the products we use and you can tell

food. So I go to a lot of different restaurants on a night off. As

by the flavour we get from them.

long as it fresh and full of flavour, I’m happy to eat anywhere.

What are your favourite local ingredients to cook with?

What advice would you give a cooking enthusiast?

Conwy mussels. For me, they have the best flavour and you

Try new things. I think everyone gets in a pattern when

can’t get any fresher than right on your door step.

cooking or eating food. We have some of the best products locally so I would say to try all of these and then create

Tell us a little bit about these taster sessions

something that is new and tasty. n

We started doing them to give people a chance to taste something new and different, but at a lower cost than going to a restaurant. I get to create and produce dishes that I

Chef Shaun will be hosting the next taster menu on 2nd

have had in my head for a long time, but have never had the

April which will include savoury dishes like a gin cured

chance to put on a menu. All the profit we make on these

salmon served with cucumber jelly, soda bread croutons

sections goes back in to our centre that helps people from

with tonic gel and lime pearls. And, for the sweet tooth,

the local community. So running these sessions gives me a

enjoy a lemon and rose posset with rhubarb honey and

real sense of joy.

shortbread.

You work closely with culinary students from Coleg

For more information about Shaun and his taster sessions,

Llandrillo – tell me more…

visit the Ty Llywelyn Community Centre on Facebook.

It’s something we are working on. We have had a few people from the local community volunteer with us that have then

To volunteer, email enquiries@tyllywelyn.org.uk or phone

gone on to study at the college.

01492 873412

Page 52 NWM 2019

NWM 2019 Page 53

MAGAZINE

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www.NowtoBed.co.uk Page 54 NWM 2019

Raise your glass WORLD MALBEC DAY – APRIL 17TH 2019 Most of us will be celebrating Palm Sunday on 17th April – but

distilled continuously four times,

the same day has also been de-clared by the Argentine wine

make an extraordinary and

industry as World Malbec Day. Celebrations for the varietal took

modern gin.

place for the first time on 17th April 2011, and celebrations for ANTONIO MAS SINGLE

this diverse varietal have been going strong ever since.

VINEYARD MALBEC – UCO New World wine-producing countries have sought to create a

VALLEY

reputation for their wines around individual grape varieties. In

A step up from run-of-the-mill Malbec, this wine perfectly

South America, Chile is promoting the merits of the Carmenère,

illustrates the new heights that Argentinian Malbec is hitting.

Uruguay the Tannat, and Argentina the Malbec.

Deeply concentrated and densely fruity, this is a dark-berried, generous red, with hints of dark chocolate, mocha and spice,

Interestingly, all these grape varieties were historically grown

illustrating the elegance that comes from the cooler climate of

in Bordeaux. Now they have been all but abandoned — in the

the Uco Valley.

case of the Malbec, because of its susceptibility to disease.

Nevertheless, Malbec still flourishes in certain parts of France,

MAD BIRD MALBEC/ANCELLOTTA –

notably as the grape responsible for the Black Wine of Cahors,

MENDOZA

where it is known as the Auxerrois; and in Touraine, Cot.

A delicious 50/50 blend of Argentina’s

It’s now notably widely planted in Argentina, where the climate

greatest grape, Malbec, and Ancellotta,

seems to be ideally suited, and the degree of extra ripeness

a grape you find more in Lambrusco

that the grapes attain means that the wines have lost the

but adds another dimension to the

austerity that they sometimes have.

wine. Huge scents of red berries, raspberries and spices. Delicate

Of course, Argentina is known for its prime meat, especially

hints of vanilla from its time spent in

steaks, and there is no better accompaniÂŹment than a glass or

American oak barrels. Elegant on the

two of Malbec.

palate with soft velvety tannins, and a stunningly long finish.

Malbec doesn’t just produce a wine, it’s a fruit that generates

FILUS MALBEC – UCO VALLEY - MENDOZA

work, individuality, culture and development. Each bottle is a

50% of the wine of the wine was aged

declaration of what sets Argentina apart. Each bottle speaks of

in French oak barrels for six months to

the hands, the dexterity and the soul of the people who tend to

give a robust style of Malbec that allows the fruit to shine through. On the nose,

the varietal.

black fruit, liquorice and violet aromas are present and on the palate this lovely

Oh, not to mention, we even have a MALBEC GIN! So, let’s celebrate with some new arrivals, here at The Grape

ripe wine has good mouth feel with sweet

to Glass.

tannins and a medium body. n

HILBING MALBEC GIN - MENDOZA

Iechyd da!

Elegant and fruity due to the maceration

Tim and Markđ&#x;˜Š

of Malbec raisins mixed with juniper and coriander in a unique way. The pure melting water of the Andes and the alcohol are

The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room

Tim Watson runs The Grape to Glass Wine Shop

8b Rhos Parade, Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea, LL29 7RE

and Tasting Room in Rhos-on-Sea which, as well as

Tel: 01492 545934

offering wine from far reaching lands, also stocks

www.thegrapetoglass.co.uk

locally produced beers, wines and spirits

NWM 2019 Page 55

MAGAZINE

✓ Family run business ✓ 10 year manufacturer and fitters guarantee ✓ Secure by Design Standards ✓ Showroom car parking ✓ Installers are employed not sub-contracted

✓ Card facilities ✓ Finance available ✓ Certass members ✓ Extensive product range

Call today for a free, no obligation quote

01492 543 317 info@conwyvalleywindows.co.uk

www.conwyvalleywindows.co.uk

Showroom location: The Roundabout, Glan Y Mor Road, Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno, LL303NI

Page 56 NWM 2019

WINDOWS . DOORS . CONSERVATORIES EXTENSIONS . ORANGERIES . LANTERNS TILED CONSERVATORY ROOF SYSTEM Our sales team, workmanship and aftercare are first rate, but don’t just take our word for it, this is what our customers have to say...

“Every workman was on time, knowledgeable and friendly. The workmanship is of a very high standard.

I must say a special ‘Thank You’ to Andy, the Surveyor. He has been very approachable and nothing has been too much trouble. I highly recommend Conwy Valley Windows.”

- S.Lloyd “Provided sound, practical and budget-friendly advice on the best ways to double glaze The fitters were polite, knowledgable and experienced... The windows and doors are of excellent quality, and heating bills have reduced since fitting. Sound-proofing is top notch. Finally, this was an on-going project over 18 months; we used Conwy Valley Windows for all the work because we were confident and happy they would provide the best service.

- S. Gow “We are more than happy to continue to work with Conwy Valley because the support was honest, authentic and the price was so fair, and to top if off the quality of the work was absolutely superb.”

- I. Urbat NWM 2019 Page 57

MAGAZINE

Page 58 NWM 2019

HOMES & INTERIORS REDUCED TO CLEAR - 1/2 PRICE ON ALL STOCK RUGS

NWM 2019 Page 59

MAGAZINE

END OF SEASON

SALE FRI 5TH & SAT 6TH APRIL

UP TO 40% OFF CLEARANCE STOVES

SAVE UP TO £200 ON NEW STOVES

& FIREPLACES

01745 582254 Page 60 NWM 2019

rnwilliams.co.uk

Chester Street, St Asaph, LL17 0RE

f t

Property of the month

Cedar Court is an impressive sustainable development, located in a prominent position of Colwyn Bay, that is home to 22 exclusive apartments.

It has been built to an exceptional standard and benefits from

extremely high specification. Every master bedroom has an

stunning panoramic sea views. The four-storey build is split

en suite bathroom/shower room, and most apartments have

into two blocks of ten and 12 apartments, where the open plan

a terrace or a balcony. There is a lift to all floors together

lounge, kitchen and dining area provide the ultimate in stylish

with a video entry telecom system, while the penthouse

living. Careful consideration has been given to guarantee that

apartment has its own lift access key and directly opens into

each room achieves the greatest light and the double A rated

the apartment.

windows have been designed to ensure optimum views from each apartment.

All apartments are set in its own secluded grounds with a private entrance and driveway and an option of one or two

The kitchens and bathrooms have all been fitted to an

designated car parking spaces. There is also external bicycle

NWM 2019 Page 61

MAGAZINE

An 815 square foot two-bedroom apartment at Cedar Court costs £179,950, while a 962 square foot two-bedroom apartment is on the market for £218,000.

The three-bedroom penthouse, which boasts over 2,000 square feet, is available for £395,000.

For more information visit www.oakingdevelopments.com

storage at the rear of the car park.

With the many attractions North Wales boasts, residents at Cedar Court can enjoy a relaxing/outdoor lifestyle and be located close to all the local amenities, schools and parks.

Colwyn Bay has been regenerated in recent years and now benefits from one of the best beaches in North Wales, a sports stadium and concert venue. There are easy accessible train links to Chester, Manchester and London, as well as, being able to fly from Anglesey to Cardiff or go to Ireland via Holyhead port.

Page 62 NWM 2019

n

EST. 1986

A range of traditional and contemporary fires, fireplaces and stoves, exclusively from Colwyn Fireplace Centre.

T: 01492 540033 www.colwynfireplacecentre.com Colwyn Fireplace Centre Ltd Bron-y-Nant Road, Mochdre, Colwyn Bay, North Wales LL28 4YL

The Selling & Letting Agents

Sales / Lettings - 3 Lancaster Square, Conwy LL32 8HT • Tel 01492 583100 Sales - 1a Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea LL28 4PS • Tel: 01492 549178 email: conwy@fletcherpoole.com

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

LLANDUDNO JUNCTION

CONWY MARINA £365,000

£425,000

• Overlooking the Conwy Marina with views of the Gt. Orme, Vardre, Deganwy & the Conwy mountains • A beautifully appointed 4 bedroom end town house with accommodation laid over 3 floors • Driveway parking, garage & low maintenance rear garden overlooking the marina • Viewing highly recommended

EPC

• Immaculately presented detached 4 bedroom bungalow, drive, double garage • Situated in a small gated development in a convenient yet tucked away location • Enjoys lovely far reaching views over towards Conwy Castle, Conwy, the countryside & mountains • South facing rear garden with hot tub & greenhouse

F

LLANDUDNO JUNCTION

PENMAENMAWR £259,950

£310,000 • Light & spacious 3 bedroom detached bungalow occupying a good size plot • Within easy access to the centre of the village, transport links, beach & mountains • There is a very large loft which is ripe for development (subject to gaining relevant planning permission) • Large gated driveway with garage & landscaped gardens to front, side & rear with a variety of seating areas

• Very well maintained 3 bedroom detached bungalow, driveway parking & garage • Situated in a convenient location close to the link road to Llandudno, & access to the A55 • The bungalow enjoys a lovely rear garden & hillside views • Built by award winning Beech Homes in 2013, with ventilation heat recovery system & solar panels

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.00-5.30 SATURDAY 9.30-4.00

INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS VALUATION - If you are thinking of moving at anytime in the near future please do not hesitate to ask for a FREE SALES VALUATION www.fletcherpoole.com

The Selling & Letting Agents

Sales / Lettings - 3 Lancaster Square, Conwy LL32 8HT • Tel 01492 583100 Sales - 1a Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea LL28 4PS • Tel: 01492 549178 email: conwy@fletcherpoole.com

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

COLWYN BAY

OLD COLWYN £149,950

£224,950

• Traditional Style Three Bedroom Semi Detached House • Well Presented Throughout • Convenient Location, Walking Distance to the Promenade

• Three Bedroom End Terrace Home • Well Presented & Maintained • Convenient Central Location

EPC

F

RHOS ON SEA

OLD COLWYN £279,950

£239,950 • Three Bedroom Detached Bungalow • Refurbished To A High Standard • Light And Well Planned Accommodation

• Impressive Detached Three Bedroom House • Renovated By the Current Owners to Create a Beautiful Family Home • Enjoys Far Reaching Open Views

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.00-5.30 SATURDAY 9.30-4.00

INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS VALUATION - If you are thinking of moving at anytime in the near future please do not hesitate to ask for a FREE SALES VALUATION www.fletcherpoole.com

£415,000

Cwm Road, Dyserth Ref: WP7888

£450,000

Cambrian Drive, Prestatyn Ref: WR8938

• Detached four bed house

• Double garage

• Spacious 3/4 bed newly built home

• Open plan hi spec. kitchen diner

• Village location

• Ideal family home

• Integral solar panels

• Side Drive & garage

• Stunning views

• EPC rating E-49

• Two bedrooms having Juliette balconies

• EPC rating TBC

Ffordd Cae Canol, Trefnant Ref: WR8938

OIRO £320,000

• Detached House

• Two reception rooms

• Four bedrooms

• Immaculately presented throughout

• Four bathrooms

• EPC rating TBC

Bromfield Commercial Unit Mold

Monthly Rental of

Ref: WM218

• Commercial unit with B1, B2 & B8 usage • A large and versatile industrial unit • Visitor parking for up to 10 vehicles

• Positioned only 6.5 miles from the A55 • Subject to a new lease • EPC rating E-106

£2,300 Drovers Cottage, Rhewl

£469,950

Ref: RN1546

• Immaculately Presented Five Bedroom House • Sought After Village Location • Unique and Characterful Property • Sympathetically Restored and Extended

• Ample Parking for Several Vehicles • EPC rating D-57

Inside Out North Wales Magazine brings you the latest products from the world of interiors

Classic ceramic Visit the Maldives…

The Maldives fabric collection from ILIV includes contemporary flora and fauna in varying scales, inspired by the idyllic beauty and intense pigments and shades found on those tropical islands.

Pictured is a range of cushions from the collection with exotic names such as Seychelles in Caribou colourway (£74 per metre), Maldives in Caribou colourway (£21 per metre) and Espinoza Blue (from £36 per metre). So why not bring a bit of island life to mainland North Wales with these fabulous florals? www.i-liv.co.uk

Caple’s new Shapwick ceramic sink makes the perfect accompaniment to a classic kitchen. Featuring Caple’s signature Hygiene finish, this model has been specially glazed to reduce surface bacteria by 99.9%. The glazing lasts for the entire lifetime of the sink, so germs are unable to spread. In striking white, this beautiful model is perfect for those who are looking for a timeless finish in their kitchen.

Product manager Luke Shipway explains: “We have introduced our new Shapwick sink to cater for those who are looking for a statement piece in a classic kitchen setting. However, with this model, hygiene is also key as you can benefit from an anti-bacterial glazing. With ample room for rinsing bulky pots and pans, this model is ideal for those who enjoy plenty of room in the wet zone.” This traditional-style, sit-on sink is a heavy fire clay sink, which makes it even more durable, due to its density.

It features a large bowl with a slab front and has a 90mm waste outlet for basket strainer and waste and overflow. It is also suitable for a waste disposer. Optional accessories include a Universal chopping board and block, plus a basket strainer waste decorative cover. www.caple.co.uk

Make an entrance Make your hall look good while being practical too, with this brilliantly sized compact storage unit from The Painted Furniture Company’s Millbrook collection. Built by craftsmen using solid hardwoods and painted in a wide selection of beautiful colours, the unit features three fully adjustable internal shelves and can be bespoke finished to your exact size, just call us to discuss your requirements. Meanwhile the Richmond Hall Bench features solid timber construction with Oak tops.

Each piece features three baskets and is hand built to order. www.paintedfurnitureco.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 69

MAGAZINE

Going for gold Soft SThis set of four gold leaf wine glasses feature a stunning gold band complete with an engraved leaf wrap around design on each glass, perfect for adding some classic elegance to a dining table, dinner party or special occasion. With their timeless design and durable glass material, these gold wine glasses from Dibor will never go out of style and can be used again and again. Priced at £29.95, this elegant wine glassware set would also make a beautiful wedding or house warming gift. www.dibor.co.uk

Bar snacks

Smart showering VADO has announced the launch of the Sensori SmartTouch.

Expertly designed for maximum performance, the Sensori SmartTouch introduces showering innovation for the contemporary bathroom. Designed to personalise your bathroom experience, the SmartTouch saves your temperature, flow and operating time so you can recreate the perfect shower; luxurious showering made simple. The SmartTouch also allows you to assign coordinating icons for each of your selected outlets so you can enjoy a shower that’s tailored to you. Featuring a black, scratch-resistant glass panel with touch sensitive control, Sensori’s sleek and modern design is brought to life with a vividly defining, colour LED display for ease-of-use. The wireless SmartTouch Start/Stop remote also allows you to control your shower from outside your bathroom delivering effortless control with maximum efficiency. Developed as a versatile solution to suit all bathroom requirements, the SmartTouch Single Outlet and SmartTouch Dual Outlet are both available as a low- and highpressure system. With an outstanding five-year guarantee for complete comfort, the SmartTouch is easy to use and designed for a quick and simple installation. www.vado.com

Page 70 NWM 2019

MY Furniture has really made an impact with its Margonia bar stools in Olive. Distinctive buttoning to the back gives character to these elegant bar stools, which are priced at £129.99 each. Finely tailored velvet upholstery with beautiful pinched pleat detailing and deep buttoning complete the eye catching package, while buyers can rest assured that they are comfortable as well as attractive due to the foam seat with sprung webbing. Minimal assembly is required, simply attach the stained solid ash legs and sit back and relax… www.my-furniture.co.uk

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www.snowdoniawindows.co.uk

PART OF THE WALL-LAG GROUP OF COMPANIES

Walking

world

A VISIT TO ABER FALLS Aber falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in North Wales and is certainly the most famous and visited cascade in Snowdonia National Park. The setting is superb at the end of a deep-sided valley and it can only be reached by walking either along the wide tourist track from Bont Newydd or on a more adventurous path that follows an elevated line high above the valley floor. The second option is our route of choice for today’s walk and the tourist track is saved for the return journey but with an entertaining variant that climbs scree slopes to follow a path through woods and escape most of the crowds found lower down.

Aber Falls (known as Rhaeadr Fawr or ‘big falls’) are formed when The Afon Goch leaves its mountain home to plunge over a sill of igneous volcanic rock near the foothills of the impressive Carneddau Mountain

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW J Distance: 5.0 miles/8.04 kilometres J Time: Allow a good three hours J Start: There is a free car park slightly north of Abergwyngregyn and south of the A55 coastal expressway

J Grid Ref: SH 656728 J Nearest postcode: LL33 0LF J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer OL 17 –Snowdon and The Conwy Valley

J What to expect: A very strenuous

range. The resulting waterfall drops a dizzying 120 ft/37 metres and

walk using a mixture of lanes,

in harsh winters is often frozen from top to bottom. To the right of the

mountain footpaths and tracks and

main Aber Falls, and also visited on this walk, you will find an additional

valley tracks to make a circuit that is

waterfall known as Rhaeadr Bach or ‘small waterfalls’. It is nowhere near

best saved for a bright clear day and

as dramatic as the main Aber cascade but is nevertheless well worth

avoided in bad weather or mist. The

seeing. The area around both falls is a national nature reserve and the

outbound route has some very steep

scenery is very beautiful and Alpine in character. You may spot serious

ascents and rough going and follows

walkers heading along a narrow path that climbs to the top left of the

a very high course above the valley.

falls and passes them to continue to the high tops of the Carneddau. This

There is some rough going before

is not for the faint hearted and the rocks passing the upper part of the

the falls are reached. From the falls

falls are very slippery. Beyond these you will find wilderness country

the going gets easier although the

and some of the wildest summits in Snowdonia. It is the preserve of the

higher level path used to avoid the

hardened hill walker who can navigate competently in the mists that

valley crowds can be rough in places.

often plague this mountainous upland. For the rest of us a walk along the

Avoid this route after heavy rain as

edge of the valley rim and back down it (with a visit to the falls thrown

there are some stream crossings to be

in), will be more than enough for one day. The start point is the village of

negotiated.

Abergwyngregyn just off the A55 coastal expressway.

J Suitable for: Experienced walkers who are used to hill country and steep ascents/descents. A good

WALK DETAILS

level of fitness is required on the outbound journey and good boots should be worn and a rucksack

START

carried containing waterproofs, hat

START – Leave the car park area heading back towards Abergwyngregyn

and gloves as well as some food and

crossing a bridge to go left at a footpath sign. Follow the path through

drink. Care should be taken around

houses to reach a lane via a gate. Continue through the village going left

the falls as the rocks can be wet and

at a lane junction near a chapel. Pass Caffi Hen Felin continuing on the road to a point where the village thins out and the lane bends left. Here take a footpath right up steps. Pass through a gate taking the rising path beyond to go left at a junction. Rise through a gate and rise steeply beyond

slippery

J Dogs: OK on leads J Refreshments: Caffi Hen Felin in Abergwyngregyn

to a track junction. Go left following the good track to stay ahead at a path junction and pass through a gate.

NWM 2019 Page 73

MAGAZINE

Points of interest on this section

J You are climbing the lower slopes of Moel Wnion (1,903 ft/580 metres) which is an outlier of The Carneddau Mountains.

Its isolated summit gives stunning views of Anglesey, The

Madryn Gorddinog

P

Coed Gorddinog

START/ FINISH

North Wales Coast and the mountains of Snowdonia

Pen-y-bren

2) Continue ahead on a grassy track passing a plantation right.

At the plantation end keep ahead rising under overhead cables.

5 Coed Bryn meddyg

As you progress along this section you get your first sight of

2

P

the two waterfalls at the valley head with Aber Falls being the

Cydgoed

P

one left. Next descend to pass through two gate/openings. After

Foel Dduarth

the second of these go half left descending to pass through a gate into Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve. Follow a

Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve

narrow path crossing over a stream to a marker post and path junction. Go left continuing towards the waterfalls. At the next path junction and marker post go left continuing to descend

3

more steeply and cross a large stream on stones. Follow the

4

undulating path beyond crossing several streams. Finally descend to reach a bridge under Rhaeadr Bach Waterfalls.

Points of interest on this section

J Rhaeadr Bach Waterfalls means literallyA494 ‘small waterfalls’ (T) and is appropriately named as it is nowhere near as big as

Reserve sign. Follow the descending path by woods right.

nearby Aber Falls

Eventually curve left to go right on a good track that you reach.

Follow this to pass through a kissing gate by a shelter and go

3) Cross the bridge cutting half left up steps to follow an

ahead immediately at a junction. Just before the next gate (by

undulating path beyond. The going is rough and requires care.

a big sign) go left at a junction. Pass through a gate, cross a

At a marker post pass through a gate to go right to view Aber

bridge and follow the dramatic path beyond cutting right to

Falls. Take care around the falls area as rocks can be very

descend down steps and continue to pass through a kissing

slippery

gate to a car park at Bont Newydd.

Points of interest on this section

Points of interest on this section

J Aber Falls is also known as Rhaeadr Fawr or ‘Big Falls’ for

J Keep a look out for great spotted woodpeckers as you walk

obvious reasons. It has a drop of 120 ft/37 metres and freezes

back from Aber Falls. Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve is

totally in harsh winters when experienced ice climbers can be

home to many of them as well as goshawks and a huge variety

seen ascending it.

of other birds

J The area you are now in is known as Coedydd Aber National

J The mountains that surround Coedydd Aber National Nature

Nature Reserve. Aber Falls are the main attraction here but

Reserve are The Carneddau range and contain seven summits

there are also historic and archaeological sites such as an Iron

over 3,000 ft/914 metres. The area is the largest continuous

Age hill fort and the remains of several round houses. The

region of high ground above 2,500 ft/762 metres in Wales and

Reserve is made up primarily of oak, hazel and alder woodland

England.

and the humidity produced near the waterfall itself make ideal conditions for mosses, liverworts and ferns to prosper – over a

5) Go ahead up the lane following it back to Abergwyngregyn

hundred species have been recorded.

picking up your outbound route at a footpath sign left. Follow your outbound route to go right before the Chapel. Continue

4) Return to the gate but go right of it (not through it) taking

through houses, pass through a gate and follow the path

a footpath to Curve right and descend steps to cross a bridge

beyond going right to the car park. n

over The Afon Rhaeadr Fawr. Rise up steps beyond going left

has been cut down. Descend past an upright slate fence and

A WORD OF CAUTION Walking in the outdoors can be a strenuous activity and it is up to you to ensure that you are fit and healthy enough to undertake the route described and to approach the venture with caution and care. You should wear appropriate footwear and suitable clothing, take along food and drink plus carry the relevant map and a compass and be able to use it. The details given here are believed to be correct at the time of going to press. However, neither North Wales Magazine nor the author can accept responsibility for

pass through a kissing gate by another slate fence and Nature

inaccuracies encountered.

at a path junction on a good path. Leave this good path shortly going half right up steps. Continue over a stile in a fence. Follow the rising path beyond through a boulder field. Pick up a fence and as the angle levels cross a boulder field. Continue to cross a stile by a gate. Take the path ahead through a forest that

Page 74 NWM 2019

North Wales Business Energy offers a free comparison of your energy bills – meaning that we can save your business money Try us, we guarantee to beat your renewal quote.

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We are a local company that likes to meet in person in order to better understand your energy requirements We are paid by the energy companies – so you don't have to pay us a penny We have access to preferential rates that individual customers cannot access We save you time to use on your business We remind you when your contract is up for renewal so you never end up on a deemed tariff We complete all of the paperwork for you We have the ability to find and lock in a price six months before your current contract ends We provide free quotes on a no obligation basis.

For further information, please contact us on: 1 Mostyn Road, Colwyn Bay, Conwy, LL29 8PB Tel 01492535490 / Mobile: 07535000745 / Marie@northwalesbusinessenergy.co.uk Proud sponsor of the Ty Gobaith Hope House Llandudno Lantern Walk 2018

Use North Wales Business Energy and make your business moreNWM profitable 2019 Page 75

MAGAZINE

Page 76 NWM 2019

Puzzle

Corner

Across: 1 Rates, 4 Steadfast, 10 Marriage, 11 Saddle, 12 Hairbrush, 14 Lemon, 17 Yoga, 18 Gamma, 22 Pixie, 23 Creases, 24 Sight, 25 Empty, 28 Oboe, 31 Oscar, 34 Revolting, 36 Snooty, 37 Incident, 38 Accessory, 39 Arose.

Down: 2 Alabama, 3 Eardrum, 5 Teensy, 6 Also, 7 Fudge, 8 Salvo, 9 Maori, 13 Hoist, 14 Lapse, 15 Mix-up, 16 Needy, 18 Gusto, 19 Magic, 20 Actor, 21 Senor, 26 Matador, 27 Tenants, 29 Eerier, 30 Touch, 32 Sonic, 33 Abode, 35 Dyes.

ACROSS 1 Charges (5) 4 Unwavering (9) 10 Wedding (8) 11 Bicycle seat (6) 12 Tonsorial tidier (9) 14 Yellowish citrus fruit (5) 17 Indian exercise method (4) 18 Type of radiation (5) 22 Sprite (5) 23 Folds (7) 24 Vision (5) 25 Vacant (5) 28 Woodwind instrument (4) 31 Academy award (5) 34 Disgusting (9) 36 Condescending (6) 37 Event (8) 38 Secondary piece of equipment (9) 39 Got up (5) DOWN 2 U S state on the Gulf Coast (7) 3 Aural membrane (7) 5 Minute (6) 6 Too (4) 7 Soft sweetmeat (5) 8 Simultaneous firing of artillery (5) 9 Native New Zealander (5) 13 Raise (5) 14 Pass into disuse (5) 15 State of confusion (3-2) 16 Destitute (5) 18 Zest (5) 19 Sorcery (5) 20 Participant (5) 21 Spanish Mister (5) 26 Bullfighter (7) 27 Lease holders (7) 29 Weirder (6) 30 Contact (5) 32 Operated by sound waves (5) 33 Residence (5) 35 Stains (4)

NWM 2019 Page 77

MAGAZINE

Win

COMPETITIONS North Wales Magazine has not one, not two but FIVE absolutely amazing prizes to give away this month! Just remember though, you have to be in to win…

Four tickets to the Conwy Real Ale Trail

All aboard! The Conwy Real Ale Trail is giving all designated drivers a day off!

Hop on and off the ale trail buses at real ale pubs and one special microbrewery on 11th May. Sample locally brewed real ales, delicious food and awesome music.

Win four tickets (that’s right, that’s a ticket for you and for three of your mates), for this one-day moving bus based festival exploring Conwy! realaletrail.co.uk

A family ticket to the Welsh Mountain Zoo We have a family ticket (four tickets) available to visit the Welsh Mountain Zoo. Set high above Colwyn Bay with panoramic views and breathtaking scenery, the winners will be able to roam the wooded pathways, relax on the grassy slopes and spend a lovely lazy day learning about many rare and endangered species from all around the world… www.welshmountainzoo.org

A £40 shopping spree, facial and a glass of Prosecco at Sienna Skye Boutique

This lovely boutique in Caernarfon brings world styles to North Wales accommodating to all shapes and sizes. Amanda and her team are very friendly and enjoy styling their customers from all over the UK – and one lucky North Wales Magazine reader will have the chance to splurge £40 on themselves in this lovely boutique while sipping on a glass of Prosecco after enjoying a relaxing facial. www.siennaskyeboutique.com

A spa package for two

The Lifestyle Spa in Ruthin is offering North Wales Magazine readers a chance to win an aromatic back, neck and shoulder massage, Reiki treatment and glass of Prosecco for two! The Lifestyle Spa is committed to bringing you the best alternative therapies available to enhance your health and wellbeing, with every treatment given by experienced, fully trained, professional practitioners with a passion for what they do.

The winners will also receive 25% off any additional treatment booked. thelifestylespa.co.uk

Page 78 NWM 2019

A Heston Blumenthal BBQ worth £1,499!

Snowdonia Nurseries in Glan Conwy is offering one very lucky reader the chance to win a Hub BBQ model from Heston Blumenthal’s Everdure range worth a whopping £1,499!

Usually barbeques of this size have a gas bottle, but the Hub is a traditional charcoal grill that can still cater for large crowds. And don’t let the elegant contemporary design fool you either – this barbeque is ready to cook in just ten minutes, thanks to its Fast Flame Ignition System. What better way to start the summer?! www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk

To Enter Full prize descriptions can be found at www. northwalesmagazine.com/win but, in order to enter, all you need to do is send your name and address to us at competition@northwalesmagazine.co.uk by Friday 26th April, making sure that you put the name of the competition that you are entering in the subject line. Of course, you could always enter all five – good luck!

WWW.NORTHWALESMAGAZINE.COM

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Notice We collect your information when you enter our competitions, and store this information on our systems. We will use this information to contact you if you are the competition winner, and to contact you occasionally with details of relevant offers and items which may be of interest to you. If you win the competition, your name and the town where you live may be printed in a future edition of North Wales Magazine. We will also share your information with the competition provider, and they may contact you with details of relevant offers. Please see www.northwalesmagazine.com for our full Privacy Notice.

NWM 2019 Page 79

MAGAZINE

Page 80 NWM 2019

Bodnant supports Ty Gobaith For the eighth year running, Bodnant Garden Centre in Tal y Cafn, Conwy was transformed into a magical Grotto in December to raise funds for Ty Gobaith Children’s Hospice.

“We had a fantastic turnout this Christmas at Santa’s Grotto,” commented Angela Vaughan Thomas. “Almost 600 happy children visited our beautiful Winter Wonderland to spend some time with Santa and his Elves in his grotto, each child receiving their own special gift and a Santa certificate. A grand total of £685.26 was eventually raised for a very worthwhile cause and a charity which is very close to our hearts.” Ty Gobaith is a beautiful ‘home from home’ with stunning views across the Conwy estuary.

The site was chosen for the peace and tranquillity it affords the children and families who visit. The hospice opened in 2004 and provides care and support to children and their families living in North Wales, many of whom speak Welsh as a first language. “I would sincerely like to thank all the team at Bodnant Garden Centre for all their support over the years in raising many thousands of

Beaumaris Festival set to return next month

pounds for our cause,” said Beverley Bradley of Ty Gobaith.

“Fundraising is vital so that we can provide the care and support that our children, young people and families so desperately need. We must raise over £6.3 million

The 2019 Beaumaris Festival takes place between

every year to maintain our services.” Bodnant will be

21st and 27th May this year, and it kicks off in true

running more fundraising activities this year, as part of a

Welsh fashion with a hymn-raising Cymanfa Ganu

programme of Community events planned over the coming

at St Mary’s Parish Church. The London Chamber

months at the centre.

Ensemble will be performing previously unpublished

www.hopehouse.org.uk

music by the Welsh Composer Grace Williams and an afternoon tea at The Bull includes entertainment by the Welsh folk singer Sera Owen (pictured). The National Poet of Wales (2008-16) Gillian Clarke will be reading from her work and the 17-year-old Welsh pianist, Ellis Thomas from Llandudno, will be making his third Festival appearance – as will the Canolfan Gerdd William Mathias who will be showcasing some of their most promising young pupils. Camau Cerdd will be providing fun and music for tiny tots, Pauline Kenyon will be running creative writing sessions at Beaumaris and Llangoed Infants schools.

Welsh Baritone Jeremy Huw Williams will perform a Song Cycle that includes the work of Wm Mathias and the Welsh Chamber Orchestra conducted by Anthony Hose features a new work by the Welsh composer Nathan James Dearden. The Craft Fair returns to the Green over the Bank Holiday weekend and the Woodturners to the Town Hall. On Bank Holiday Monday a marquee on the Green will host a Festival Family Day Fringe Event with a raft of activities spread across the day, making this year’s festival an event not to be missed… www.beaumarisfestival.org

NWM 2019 Page 81

Darwin Escapes reveals the new look Talacre Beach Resort Leading holiday park operator Darwin Escapes has unveiled the results of its transformation of Talacre Beach Resort. The company has just spent £1million

Gwinllan Conwy Vineyard attends St David’s day reception

upgrading the resort’s clubhouse and accommodation facilities. The investment has seen the introduction of a number of new caravans, a new entrance to the pool area and an extension to the clubhouse with a beach hut theme. There is also a new children’s play area, a modernised reception, a new menu

The owners of Gwinllan Conwy

in the restaurant and a silver Airstream offering light bites. Every year,

Vineyard, Colin and Charlotte Bennett,

over 25,000 guests stay at the 5-star family friendly holiday resort set

were thrilled to receive invites from

on the beautiful North Wales coast. The site comprises a mix of luxury

the Prime Minister to a St David’s day

lodges and caravans. The facilities for guests include an extensive gym,

reception at No10 Downing Street.

a tropically heated indoor swimming pool, a shop, free Wi-Fi and an

The PM accepted a gift box of their

activity programme for children. Pets are also welcome.

international award winning ‘Pefriog’

www.darwinescapes.co.uk

sparkling wine with chocolates from Baravelli’s of Conwy. They were in the company of Fashion Designer Julien Macdonald OBE, Rhodri Owen

North Wales pet industry ‘leading the world’

from Heno and weatherman Derek

A world-renowned animal psychologist who trained the Queen’s corgis

Brockway. “Walking through the door

has praised a North Wales pet store for opening a revolutionary play

at No 10 was surreal!” commented

park and cinema complex for dogs. Roger Mugford is known far and

Charlotte. “To walk up those famous

wide for his work in behavioural therapy, which has seen him give

stairs with signed portraits of past

talks internationally and win a coveted Blue Cross Welfare Award.

Prime Ministers and, of course,

In 1979 he founded the Animal Behaviour Centre in Surrey, a referral

meeting the Prime Minister was a

service which has treated more than 80,000 problem pets over the last

real privilege. We are very proud that

40 years. He has seen it all, or so he thought before visiting PetPlace

all our work developing the vineyard

in Abergele and its purpose-built cinema, health store, play park and

and the resulting award-winning

coffee shop for dogs. “The layout of the new PetPlace is fantastic, and

wines and vineyard tours have been

that’s before you arrive at the play park and coffee bar,” said Roger.

recognised at this level!”

“I have travelled all over the world and I’ve never seen another store

gwinllanconwy.co.uk

like this, with such a safe and open environment for dogs - it’s quite outstanding. The park is massively beneficial in helping dogs and their owners in improving social skills and as a training area.

This is seriously a world-first in providing a socialisation and play environment, I’m hugely impressed.” The purpose-built centre cost £100,000 and forms part of an overall £1.3m revamp at PetPlace, which employs more than 90 workers at its five stores in Llangefni, Chirk, Mold, Ruthin and Abergele, and head office in Mochdre. Managing director Sion Pritchard has also revealed that there are plans to roll-out the rebrand and play park concept to the other sites in the future. www.farmandpetplace.co.uk/Abergele

Page 82 NWM 2019

With truly stunning views, Cedar Court is a Brand New luxury development overlooking Colwyn Bay. Each apartment is finished to the highest specification and designed with spectacular views overlooking the countryside and beyond.

A small handful have just recently come to market, starting from just £179,950. If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us today!

Why not visit our website or social media pages for further updates and new developments coming soon.

Website: www.oakingdevelopments.com Tel: 01492 338 228 Email: Info@oakingdevelopments.com NWM 2019 Page 83

MAGAZINE

OPEN MORNING Senior: Friday 26 April Prep: Saturday 27 April Both 9.30am start Boys & Girls • 2 ½ - 18 • www rydalpenrhos.com Stunning location on the North Wales coast in Colwyn Bay • GCSE, A-level and BTEC Senior Scholarships available for talented individuals Rydal Penrhos is a top 100 school (The Times League Table) Thriving co-curricular provision • RYA Accredited Sailing Centre To book your place at our Open Morning events, or for more information email Page 84 NWM 2019 admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or call 01492 530155

Learning by heart This is a critical time for Sixth Form pupils who are nearing

well-paid, average, or low-paid job? You may not know what

the end of their school lives. What they decide in the weeks

you’ll end up doing but at least you’ll be making a decision

and months ahead will have a huge bearing on their overall

with your eyes open.

employment options and quality of life.

J 5. Have you done your research?

University is the more logical option for many, but there is

Look closely at course content. Just as there is a difference

plenty to consider before making such an important decision:

between subjects at GCSE and A-level, so the jump from A-level to degree can bring a different focus. Consider

J 1. What’s your end goal?

employment prospects for your chosen course – where have

Perhaps not the most obvious starting point, but if you go

recent graduates ended up?

to university what would you like to do when you finish?

Understanding your end goal can help you explore other

J 6. Can you do things differently?

options and work out if university is your best route.

Going to university doesn’t have to mean you need to follow the standard route of moving to a new town and becoming a

J 2. What are the alternatives?

full time student – there are different and more flexible ways

If you don’t go to university, what else could you do? Some

to get a degree which may suit you better. You could:

options include:

- Study at your local university and live at home

- Higher Apprenticeships – these now provide pathways to

- Do a part-time degree that you can combine with work or

many careers traditionally followed by graduates - Getting a job – there are lots of opportunities and trainee positions for school leavers. Some people choose to work

other commitments - Study with the Open University (distance learning courses which mean you can study at time and place that suits you)

first and go to university a few years later when they have a

- Do a sponsored degree. Certain employers will pay for you to

better idea of what they really want; others find their feet at

do your degree but you may need to work for them first and/

work and never look back

or for a certain period after you graduate

- Taking a Gap Year – doing something different is a great way to try new things and find out what you like, and may help

J 7. What’s right for you?

you make more focused choices

It can be easy to fall into doing the same as your friends or what your parents or teachers expect so it’s important to

J 3. Do you need a degree?

consider if your next step is really right for you. It’s also worth

Sometimes, a degree is little more than a passport; employers

bearing in mind that people looking back at their university

simply want to know you have one but don’t have any real

days sometimes do so with rose-tinted glasses – they may

interest in what you’ve studied. For certain careers, a degree

have gone to university when fees were much lower or before

is not necessary and work experience is considered more

they were introduced, or graduated when a degree was sure-

important. Yet in other careers, such as medicine, a degree in

fire route to a good job. One thing is certain, advancements in

a set subject is essential.

technology and the changing nature of the job market means that many jobs of the future don’t yet exist. The ability to

J 4. How much will going to university cost?

continue learning – whatever route you take – is set to become

Fees and talk of future debt and earnings can soon start to

an essential skill in working life. n

seem like Monopoly money and without an idea about your future expenses and living costs, are not always particularly meaningful. That said, it does pay to find out exactly what going to university is likely to cost, what help you can get and what student loans mean. Explore different scenarios – what

Sally Ann Harding is Acting Head of Rydal Penrhos. She is about to embark on her 28th year at the school and her 40th in the teaching profession

would student loan repayments look like if you went on to a

NWM 2018 2019 Page 85

MAGAZINE

Tech expert shares skills

technical policy

A technology expert whose studies at Wrexham Glyndwr

authority on the UK,

University led to him working for and advising the UK’s

and the kind of job you

information watchdog has said the role meant he could

know is going to be

test his skills ‘on the biggest stage possible.’ As Head

interesting!” The role

of Technology Policy at the Information Commissioner’s

put him at the heart of

Office, Nigel Houlden helped advise the Commissioner,

the UK’s information

Elizabeth Denham, about how emerging technologies

regulator as it dealt

would affect her work, the implications of new regulations

high-profile issues –

on individuals and businesses, and much more. He also

from the investigation

helped to design and implement a new research-based

into the Cambridge Analytica consultancy to First Tier

technology strategy for the ICO, aimed at making the UK a

Tribunal challenges to the Freedom of Information Act.

world leader on information privacy issues. “I was a lecturer

However, while he found his work at the ICO exciting and

here at Glyndwr, teaching networks, data protection and

interesting, Nigel began to realise that he missed his work

cybersecurity,” said Nigel, who is from Wrexham. “The

at Glyndwr – and is now back running a 12 week course on

opportunity came up to be the Head of Tech Policy for the

GDPR and what it means for them in the real world.

Information Commissioner’s Office – this was the highest

www.glyndwr.ac.uk

EDUCATION NEWS Executive Principle to continue at Rydal Penrhos continue in his role as Executive Principle until September

Coleg Cambria raises money for incredible causes

2020. The experienced figure has already made a massive

Coleg Cambria is gearing up for

impression at both Prep and

a year of events and challenges

Senior sites, and the school’s

after unveiling the British

Governing Body confirmed

Heart Foundation (BHF) Cymru as its nominated charity

the news last month.

partner for 2019. Following an incredible 12 months

“This will bring a much

in which Cambria raised more than £115,000 for the

needed period of stability,”

NSPCC, staff and students have already started planning

commented Julian Barnes,

activities to support BHF Cymru. Chief Executive David

Chair of Governors at Rydal

Jones also revealed the college’s new approach to charity

Penrhos. “Sally Harding will

moving forward under the brand name Calon - Charity

continue as Senior School

in action, which will give them an even sharper focus

Head teacher and Alison

and structure in supporting organisations across the

Hind as Prep School Head teacher and, combined with the

country. “To have raised so much and worked so well in

other senior leaders of the school, we are fortunate to have

collaboration with the NSPCC was one of the highlights

such a very experienced team. This decision also gives

of our year,” David, who himself walked 48 miles across

us time to undertake a full recruitment process for a new

three counties in just 14 hours for the cause. “We will of

Principal, starting in September this year. This is the normal

course be aiming to carry out as many challenges and

time to go to market and for candidates to be looking for

events as we can alongside our partners and businesses,

new opportunities.” John Waszek is a highly experienced

because we know what amazing and vital work the

Principal, having led St Edward’s College, Liverpool for

British Heart Foundation does across the UK. We’ve given

24 years from 1992 to 2016 during which time the school

ourselves a huge task in trying to match the target we

secured several “outstanding” inspections and was

raised for the NSPCC, but we will do everything we can to

subsequently designated as “exempt” from inspection by

get as close as possible, or even beyond it.

the Department for Education. He was previously a Head of

That’s what we do at Cambria, we always try and be

Department and Boarding Housemaster at Rugby School.

better and this year will be no different.”

www.rydalpenrhos.com

www.cambria.ac.uk

Rydal Penrhos School has announced that John Waszek will

Page 86 NWM 2019

Spring Fair Saturday 27th April in the grounds of St Davids Hospice, Llandudno

11am-3pm Adult Entry: £1 Child Entry: FREE Plants | Cakes | Seasonal homemade produce Entertainment | Fundraising stalls | Crafts and lots more!…

For more information. please contact our Fundraising office on

01492 873664

www.stdavidshospice.org.uk

Registered Charity No. 1038543

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North Wales Magazine Loving Local Life

JUly 2017

cover and

spine.indd

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Scho ’s ou for suol mmert!

How to keep

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It’s gin o’c lo your favo urite tippl

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22/06/2017

17:25

Sea life

Immerse yourself in a marine egg hunt this Easter!

The weird and wonderful world of marine reproduction comes

down one side from where it’s precious cargo hatched.

in the most intriguing and remarkable forms in our British seas – and Easter is the perfect time to search for them.

Common cuttlefish are elusive masters of disguise, able to

Hunting through rockpools or rocky shores in springtime

completely bury themselves and to change their skin colour

during low tides can prove very fruitful if you know what

and texture to blend into their surroundings. They are

you’re looking for.

wonderfully interactive in our tanks here but unsurprisingly are rarely encountered in the wild, other than their ‘bones’

One example is the egg mass of the common dogwhelk, a

which are actually an internal shell of the animal and light in

carnivorous sea snail, recognised by its large white, pointed

weight so often get washed up on the shore. Cuttlefish eggs

shell. These predatory sea snails are common around our

can occasionally be found at extremely low tides and they

rocky shores where they feast on mussels and barnacles.

prove an amazing find, appropriately called ‘Sea Grapes’ as

Once the young have hatched, their empty egg cases, which

they closely resemble a bunch of black grapes, with each egg

are known as ‘Sea Wash Balls’, are lightweight and float

having a tiny characteristic point on its surface.

inshore to wash up on our beaches where they are a familiar sight, but many people are unaware of their origin.

Possibly the most bizarre and beautiful are the eggs of nudibrachs (pictured) or sea slugs. These creatures

Similarly, a mermaids purse is easily recognised on the

themselves are pretty blooming incredible, they are what

tideline, with its typically rectangular shape and projections

tecchie scientists refer to as ‘soft-bodied marine gastropods’,

referred to as ‘horns’ in each corner. However, many people

basically meaning that they are sea snails without shells,

are unaware that these empty cases have been the protective

making the name sea slug rather apt, if not somewhat

capsule for a developing baby shark or skate. Many of our

belittling for such dazzling creatures. These amazing little

British sharks and skate species lay these eggs, which are

dudes are far from dull in appearance, possessing delicate

attached to seaweed or rocks underwater by long, rigid twists

and colourful fronds (which are in fact external gills). There

of collagen fibres, and they are occasionally exposed at low

are several common species in our local seas which can be

tides. The exact species can be determined with an expert

encountered at low tide and their eggs look like rosettes of

eye from the shape and size of the egg case.

translucent ribbon, delicately positioned in a decreasing spiral pattern and really must be seen to be believed.

Here at the Anglesey Sea Zoo our exhibits have natural seawater flowing through all year round directly from the

However none of these fascinating marine eggs are known

Menai Strait, so they experience natural temperature changes

to be edible, so for those egg hunting with an appetite, I

and seasonal cycles. Therefore many of our animals breed

recommend you stick to the usual chocolate variety! n

here and we frequently have eggs in our displays. We collect the egg cases from our sharks and rays when they have been laid and separate them out for display until they hatch and the babies can be released. Baby sharks take many months, sometimes over a year, to grow large enough to fill their egg capsule and they can be seen wriggling around inside it.

To hatch, they pop the capsule open and sink to the bottom, leaving the egg case light enough to be carried away by the tide onto a nearby beach, where it will have a tell-tale split

Frankie Hobro is the owner and director of Anglesey Sea Zoo. She has always been a passionate advocate for conservation, and has a long history working on hands-on conservation projects with critically endangered species in difficult conditions abroad

NWM 2019 Page 89

© Martin Vaughan Photography

© Loveclic

Talhenbont Hall Estate is a family run business nestled in the North Wales countryside on the Llyn Peninsula, just 2 miles from the sea set in an area of outstanding local beauty.

Situated in 100 acres of private ancient woodland and gardens Talhenbont really is a stunning location for your exclusive wedding venue.

From the moment you come through the wrought iron gates and drive down the mile driveway you will know you have arrived at a simply stunning location. Completely private, exclusive and a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, you and your guests will be totally relaxed at our beautiful country estate.

We offer exclusivity for your wedding for the whole weekend, or longer if you wish! We have capacity for 150 day guests and 170 evening guests. For larger weddings a marquee can be placed in our grounds.

© Loveclic

© Martin Vaughan Photography © Loveclic

YOUR 4 STAR HOTEL

BY THE SEA ABBA TRIBUTE NIGHT SATURDAY 11th MAY One of the best Abba Tribute acts you’ll see, playing all the most popular songs, with costume changes and all the best 70’s Disco moves this is an evening that will certainly get you singing and dancing along. Enjoy an arrival drink and a three course menu combined with the brilliant live entertainment.

Arrival 7.00pm Three Course Menu and Entertainment £38 per person

events@stgeorgeswales.co.uk Tel: 01492 877544 stgeorgeswales.co.uk The Promenade, Llandudno, Conwy. LL30 2LG

Talhenbont Hall, Chwilog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd, LL53 6SZ. Tel 01766 810247, enquiries@talhenbonthall.co.uk www.talhenbonthall.co.uk

THE

weddingplanner

Whether your partner surprised you with the four magical words, “Will you marry me?” or it was a joint decision, one of the first things that should be discussed is your budget. Ask yourselves truthfully, “What can we afford?”

You may have a secret Pinterest board with

this save you money, it also makes the day

all the ideas, colour schemes and themes but,

more personalised to you both, as they’ll be

in reality, you need to make sure the choices

songs you’ve chosen together.

you make meet your budget. Don’t forget the real reason why you’re getting married, it is to

Stationery

make a lifelong commitment to the person you

If you don’t have the money to pay for a

love. It’s not about how big your table centres

wedding stationer to do your save the date,

are, how much your friend spent on her

invites, table plan, place names, table names,

wedding dress or what the latest celebrity did

why don’t you give it a go yourself. Make sure

at their wedding.

you leave plenty of time to make the items, but once you start you might find a hidden talent

Get planning!

For those of you reading this article thinking

you didn’t know you had. This makes it more

The Beaches Hotel

about getting married but you have a tight

personal too, as you’ve lovingly put in the time

Wedding Showcase

budget, don’t worry you will still have one of

to hand make each one.

Wednesday 3rd April

the best days of your lives. Here are some

Ask for wedding help instead of wedding gifts

5pm – 8.30pm

areas to think about saving money…

You may have family members or friends who

Glyndwr University

The Wedding Dress!

be musically gifted or they may just have a

Wrexham Wedding Fair

To save money on your wedding dress and

trick or two up their sleeve (literally). Why don’t

Sunday 7th April

bridesmaid dresses, shop around to find out

you ask if they can use their talents towards

11am – 5pm

if any wedding dress shops in your area

part of your wedding in lieu of a gift. This will

are holding sample sales or if they have any

help not only keep your budget on track but

dresses which you can buy ‘off the rack’.

also your friends and family can play an even

are talented when it comes to baking, they may

Venue Cymru Wedding

bigger part of your day!

Fayre Sunday 7th April

Background Music

11am

To help provide a bit of ambience, why don’t

There are many other areas where you can

you create a playlist on your iPod, which you

save money and I hope this month’s article has

Bodrhyddan Hall

can set up with speakers, so your favourite

made you feel at ease, knowing you can reduce

Wedding Fayre

songs play throughout the day. Not only can

your budget without compromising your day. n

27th & 28th April 11am - 4pm

Caroline Roberts runs Events by Caroline Louise, an event management company that specialises in wedding planning. She also owns Bella, the Prosecco Van and provides happiness in a glass! For more information please visit www.eventsbycarolinelouise.com

NWM 2018 2019 Page 91

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Three places to visit in April

Getting back

Coed Llandegla, Wrexham

to Nature

One of the spectacles of the North Wales moorlands is the springtime ‘lek’ of Black Grouse. Males gather at dawn in traditional areas, displaying with much jumping around,

There’s plenty of wildlife across the region in March, says Julian Hughes, if you know where to look.

Like a constellation of stars spreading across the woodland floor, Wood Anemones are a sign that you’re in an ancient woodland.

warbling call that carries on Credit: Julian Hughes

Stars of the woodland

fanning of tail feathers and a the morning air. RSPB Cymru organises early-morning walks to witness the spectacle, every Sunday to mid May

They spread by their roots, so progress is slow – just a metre in

Criccieth

50 years! Wood Anemones favour sunny glades and can have up

Cardigan Bay is one of the

to eight white petals. But they bring no perfume to the woodland,

best places in Britain to

with a musky smell similar to foxes, which signals an acrid taste

see dolphins and porpoises

that grazing animals avoid.

without getting on a boat, and the headland chosen by

Going Cuckoo

Edward I to build Criccieth

April is when most of our summer migrant birds arrive from Africa,

Castle is a great vantage point.

including Cuckoos that return from the tropical forests where they

North Wales Wildlife Trust

spent the winter. Only the males utter the ‘coo-koo’ call; the gingeryplumaged females have a softer, bubbling call. Once mated, the male’s work is over, and he’ll head south by early June, with the females

Credit: Chris Romeiks vogelart.info

invites you to a Wednesday evening picnic on 17th April, where experts will be on hand

following once they have laid their single egg in the nest of an unwary host, most typically

to look for marine mammals

Meadow Pipits. Now largely restricted to the uplands of North Wales, Cuckoos are a bird in

and seabirds that will be

decline, so if you hear one this spring, savour the moment.

arriving at the coast to nest.

Credit: Andreas Eichler

Credit: Charles Sharp

Coed y Gopa, Abergele This woodland above the town hosts an ancient hilltop fort, a 19th Century folly, and lead and copper mines that now provide a home to several bat species, including the rare Lesser Horseshoe Bat. April is

Blue butterfly likes the Holly and the Ivy

Of the handful of blue butterflies in Britain, the Holly Blue is the first to fly, usually appearing in April. The females, with thicker black markings on their forewings, lay their eggs on holly bushes (though the second generation in August seek out ivy). Holly Blues often occur in gardens, usually around flowering bushes. They are one of the few butterflies doing well, partly because of their northward spread that is probably linked to a changing climate.

The 7-spot is the most abundant Ladybird, with three and a half black spots on each wing case. Having hibernated colonially in a sheltered gap in a fence, wall or even indoors (the hinge of the French windows is a favoured place in our house), they emerge in warm weather to feed, initially on nectar but then on aphids such as greenfly. The English name ladybird comes from their vivid red colour, referring to the Virgin Mary (‘Our Lady’), who was often painted in a red cloak.

a great time to hear birdsong, including Chiffchaffs and Willow Warblers, and to see colourful wild flowers, both in the woodland and on the limestone grassland.

Julian Hughes grew up in North Wales, which instilled a lifelong love of nature. He lives near Llandudno, manages the RSPB’s public affairs work in Wales, and writes about the region’s wildlife.

NWM 2019 Page 93

Prestatyn Golf Club is an outstanding Championship Links 18-hole Course, you are also welcome to use our excellent practice facilities and enjoy the hospitality on offer in our Clubhouse.

The club also boast being hosts to the Open Amateur Strokeplay Championship 2019. Whether you’re organising a game with friends or an official event for your own club or company, non-members can visit us for a unique golfing experience and challenge for all levels of player. a

Join us in our clubhouse and enjoy the fabulous views whilst having a drink or indulge yourself with our popular afternoon tea and our Sunday Lunch ideal for all the family.

Pre booking is advisable.

For more information please contact the General Manger: 01745 854320 email: manager@prestatyngolfclub.co.uk www.prestatyngolfclub.co.uk

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The confessions of a modern day Magpie Tatty has something to celebrate Hoorah! This month marks the first year celebration of Tatty Divine Headquarters, Ivy St. Otherwise known as TDHQ. Can someone please tell me where the year has gone? It is absolutely right when they say time flies when you’re having fun. Taking on premises was both a strategic risk and a huge step forward for Team Tatty, and I’m relieved to say it was a definite step in the right direction and has paid off in dividends. I am super proud of our achievements and grateful for having a strong loyal team and network, not to mention the most amazing customers. Tatty is already thinking bigger – “mighty oaks from little acorns grow” after all…

Suntiang Sumatran ceremonial headdress

In other news: Tatty has been on a vintage buying frenzy. In March Tatty and her bag-carrying

wearing one to his Mr&Mr civil wedding – how utterly,

entourage hastily headed to The Chester Vintage Fair at

ostentatiously, fabulous! Now that’s one wedding album I

Chester Racecourse. The jewel in my vintage crown, and

won’t be bored looking at!

the highlight of my vintage calendar! Forearmed with my discerning clientele shopping list and a wad of cash, it

We go through buying phases, all depending on what

was full steam ahead. A brilliantly put together fair with

the market dictates. Sometimes It can be all about the

a real vintage community atmosphere, bringing together

decorative antiques and I’m out and about buying with

the best of vintage fashion and accessories from all over

Alex, then it can swiftly change and all my attentions are

the country. Sadly the fair is only on twice a year, the next

focused on vintage fashion. In my opinion, the diversity

being on 22nd September – I will remind you nearer the

of our stock is the winning formula to our success. A

time.

look which is both masculine and feminine, and when displayed side by side in our showroom at TDHQ, it is an

It’s funny the people you meet: One of the most interesting

“eclection” (I made that word up) which really works and

contacts we have made this year is with a lady who

one look compliments the other.

has spent a large part of her life travelling and living in Indonesia. Throughout these years she has amassed

See you soon at TDHQ…

a large collection of Sumatran ceremonial headdresses and tribal wear. Highly decorative with a strong leaning

Love Tatty x

towards the interior design market, they were a “must purchase” for Tatty. They were also a “must purchase”

PS: Happy 70th Birthday to Trevs, The Best Dad in the

for one of our most treasured clients, who will be

World xx

Tatty is constantly searching for new stock and would love to hear from you if you have any of the

Ali Hough (Tatty) is a dealer in fine

following for sale: fine vintage, decorative antiques,

vintage and antiques. Based at: Tatty

vintage textiles/quilts or Welsh blankets.

HQ, No. 12 Ivy Street, Colwyn Bay. For all

You can catch Tatty on Insta @tattydivine.co.uk

enquiries please contact 07940 730421

or Twitter @tatty_divine

or email sales@tattydivine.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 95

The

Last laugh

With the clocks going forward this is the time of year when North Wales comes into its own. We turn our back on the dark mornings and the 60mph winds that turn Bin Day into an endurance version of It’s a Knockout.

Before I lived in North Wales, I lived in the South of England

So I’ve become that person, the one who gets up 20 minutes

where long evenings just meant an extra hour in traffic,

earlier so I can get a wash on before the school run. My mates

slowing roasting on the M25 before arriving home having just

would call me boring, if they called me at all, which they

lost the dying embers of the day, like Michael Douglas in Falling

don’t anymore. That’s because rather than keep the ‘drying

Down. Now they mean the luxury of a walk along the beach, or

day’ thought to myself, I posted it straight onto the ‘Lad’s Golf

a glass or two in the garden.

Weekend 2018’ WhatsApp group. They blocked me. And I didn’t care.

where long evenings just meant an extra hour in traffic, slowing roasting on the M25 before arriving home having just

Not caring is another big sign that you’re middle aged. Not

lost the dying embers of the day, like Michael Douglas in Falling

caring is a sign that you’re contented. Is there any way back

Down. Now they mean the luxury of a walk along the beach, or

from this? Perhaps. Shortly after my drying day epiphany I

a glass or two in the garden.

found myself watching Gardener’s World. This was a first.

I watched and was lured in by Monty Don and his blissed

But there’s a catch. Longer days bring home to me the fact that

out drawl. As a younger man I would have felt jealous of his

I’m middle-aged. This is a label that means different things

massive sprawling garden or made a snarky remark about his

depending on where you live (in Stockport, for example, where

jumpers. And when he said ‘hoes’ I immediately thought Garden

I grew up in the 1970s, ‘middle-aged’ meant 17 and a half), or the

Centre, rather than Jay-Z.

circumstances you find yourself in – following the recent Brexit votes, for example, I felt like I was 102 and considered booking a

Then something happened. At the end of the show he was just

mini-break to Switzerland.

about to head off to his potting shed (we all need a safe place), when up flashed a section called ‘Jobs for the weekend.’ He

In fact, I’m 49. Just one year off the dreaded half century. But

then reeled off five or six things that I should be doing. I leapt

that doesn’t make me middle aged. Rolling Stones guitarist

to my feet and started shouting at the TV. “I’ve got three kids,

Keith Richard is 75, but is he middle-aged?

do you think I’ve got any time to do anything? The only spare time I get at the weekend is the bit before I put toothpaste on

On the inside we all stay the same age. Middle age is a state

my brush. And you’re setting me jobs?! I don’t even know you.”

of mind and it hit me on 15th April last year, on the first fine

I clicked off the TV and stormed out of the room. As the door

morning after the clocks had gone forward. I looked out of the

slammed I heard my son say: “Ooh, who’s the teenager now?”

window at the cloudless sky, the blossom wafting in a stiff

And do you know what? I didn’t care. It felt good. n

breeze and thought: “It looks like a good drying day.”

I knew this was a turning point because the year before I’d witnessed exactly the same conditions and thought: “This is

Dave Rothnie is resident

beer garden weather.” Another sign that you’re middle aged is

compere of Stand-up at the

if you wake up at the weekend and without even opening your

Seaside, an acclaimed comedy

eyes announce: “I think I’m going to have a bonfire.” Of course,

night that takes place on the

you don’t need me to insult your intelligence by reminding you

final Saturday of every month

not to have a bonfire on a good drying day. I’m middle-aged, but

at The Station in Colwyn Bay.

I’m not a monster.

NWM 2019 Page 97

MAGAZINE

IN THE

STARS...

While everyone remembers Russell Grant from his Breakfast TV appearances in the 1980’s, most people don’t realise that Russell was the first astrologer in over 300 years to present a horoscope forecast to a member of the Royal Family (HRH Queen Mother). Now dubbed the “Royal Astrologer” Russell has appeared on numerous television shows, including Strictly Come Dancing.

He divides his time between London and his North Wales home near Portmeirion. www.russellgrant.com

April’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st-April 20th) You want to take on a different role at the beginning of April, but there are people around you hoping to block your path. The New Moon on the 5th makes you fully aware of the conservative attitudes and stuffy restraints that are holding you captive. On the 19th, someone close to you and trusted will come to your rescue. Accept their offer to expand your horizons. .

LIBRA (September 24th-October 23rd) The New Moon on the 5th creates tension in your personal life. If you’re in a relationship, your other half will embarrass you with their wild and rebellious ways. You resent having to apologise for their boorish behaviour. The Full Moon on the 19th further emphasises the importance of satisfying your own needs. Use this opportunity to take a college course for pleasure.

TAURUS (April 21st-May 21st) The New Moon on the 5th finds you butting heads with an expert who wants to take all the credit for your hard work. Staying in this situation will make it impossible to advance. It’s time to start looking for a better situation. On the 19th, the Full Moon will help you wrap up a work project that attracts lots of favourable publicity. Use this achievement to move into a better job. .

SCORPIO (October 24th-November 22nd) Things will be especially tense near the 5th, when a stressful New Moon causes a clash of egos. Some people will ask you to do perform tasks a certain way and others will denigrate your methods. You have no intention of getting drawn into a power struggle. On the 19th, the Full Moon urges you to take a break. Sneaking off to a private hideaway will allow you to reflect.

GEMINI (May 22nd-June 21st) A stressful New Moon on the 5th warns against lending or borrowing money. Coming to a troubled person’s rescue won’t resolve their problems. This troubled person has to answer for their behaviour. Don’t feel pressured to pay a fine or cover a bill. On the 19th, the Full Moon will showcase your creative talent.

CANCER (June 22nd-July 23rd) On the 5th, the New Moon will attract a problematic career opportunity.

Although you’re eager to advance, you don’t want to work with a famously toxic executive. Instead of subjecting yourself to their abuse, hold out for a better offer. Your path will become clearer after the 19th, when the Full Moon will help you sew up a real estate matter.

LEO (July 24th-August 23rd) Legal problems could block your path at the beginning of the month. The New Moon on the 5th warns against breaking the rules. You’ll fare much better colouring inside the lines than defying authority. On the 19th, the Full Moon will prompt you to put some newly acquired skills to use. Your knowledge will attract a creative opportunity.

VIRGO (August 24th-September 23rd) On the 5th, the New Moon will put strain on relationships bound by money.

If you’re embroiled in a custody battle, you’ll have to fight to get funds for a child’s wellbeing. To protect your interests, it may be best to get a job that can sustain you through this difficult period. The Full Moon on the 19th will improve your economic situation.

Page 98 NWM 2019

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd-December 21st) On the 5th, the New Moon creates drama in your love life. Financial difficulties could be taking a toll on your union. Instead of sniping at each other about money matters, go to a counsellor. The Full Moon on the 19th is ideal for attending a party or gathering. There’s a good chance you’ll meet someone who finds you utterly charming.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd-January 20th) The New Moon on the 5th creates tension on the home front. Everyone is resisting your authority. You won’t be able to rein in someone who is intent on going their own way. Instead of trying to shield this relative from trouble, let them go. On the 19th, the Full Moon marks an important career milestone. You could be given a rise, promotion or both.

AQUARIUS (January 21st-February 19th) On the 5th, the New Moon will create some tension in your personal life. Angry words will be exchanged on social media, making you defensive and angry. Don’t let feelings of bitterness and betrayal consume you. The Full Moon on the 19th might find you returning from a trip, collecting a diploma or publishing some written work.

PISCES (February 20th-March 20th) A moneymaking opportunity on the 5th has strings attached, due to the challenged New Moon. You might have to prove yourself to an unfriendly group that doesn’t want you to succeed. Instead of trying to live up to their expectations, it may be better to look for another job. Money from an investment, insurance refund or legal settlement will arrive on or around the 19th. That’s when the Full Moon strengthens your financial situation.

Use this windfall to advance your career.

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NWM 2019 Page 99 sales@purecommercial.co.uk

MAGAZINE

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Page 100 NWM 2019

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