January 2022
! EE FR
MAGAZINE
Way of Life Exploring the three diverse routes of The Wales Way
What’s On? GET OUT AND ABOUT THIS JANUARY
Castle Country
EXPLORING THE ROYAL TOWN OF CAERNARFON Whatever the reason we are here to help. Cambrian Credit Union offers savings and loans to people who live or work across North Wales and Powys. 0333 2000 601
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MAGAZINE We want to hear from you!
DEAR READER Well, this isn’t quite the New Year that we were hoping to be welcoming in! Covid has reared its ugly head once again, and now we face another winter stuck indoors. Or do we? I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – we
month in North Wales Magazine. So, if you
are so incredibly lucky to be living in
want to see any of our previously published
beautiful North Wales with the countryside,
routes, then simply visit www.issuu.com/
beaches and mountains all right on our
northwalesmagazine where you will find
doorstep. So make the most of brisk winter
all of our back issues – each containing a
walks, and blow the cobwebs away while
different walking route that will ensure you
admiring our stunning scenery.
can still make the most out of our region during this rather unexpected winter…
And, if you are looking for walking inspiration, then turn to page 59 where you can find the detailed route of a circular walk around Bryn Alyn in the Clwydian range of hills. We publish a new walking route every
Kate Hamilton Founding Editor
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:
Fresh air is the order of the day this January!
Cato Crane Auctioneers
CELEBRATING 36 YEARS OF HELPFUL SERVICE AND SUCCESSFUL SELLING
Email: info@catocrane.co.uk & sell@lowerpercent.co.uk
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
www.catocrane.co.uk
Telephone Soon for Home Visit and Internet Appraisals
Front cover image © Shutterstock
Cato Crane Auctioneers Liverpool Auction Rooms 6 Stanhope Street Liverpool, L8 5RF Chester and North Wales Tel: 01244 680055 Wirral Tel: 0151 342 2321
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Contents
MAGAZINE
12
EDITOR
Kate Hamilton PUBLISHER
Grant Hamilton ART DIRECTOR
Simon Marriott OFFICE MANAGER
27 08 The big picture
The Point of Ayr Lighthouse
09 What’s on?
The best events taking place in North Wales this January
Three ways to explore our beautiful country
15 You and your pet
Getting out and about with your four-legged friend
Denbigh’s Victorian Asylum in pictures
19 Town in focus Exploring Caernarfon
37 Homes & interiors
Get inspired by homes that are on the market
47 In business
23 Music to your ears
North Wales business news and advice
The live music coming to North Wales this year
24 A story of hope
A tale with light at the end of the tunnel
27 Food & drink
The regions wining, dining and culinary scene
65
CONTRIBUTORS
Stephen Gregory Steve Goodier Cai Ross Pete Greensmith Ashlee Smedley Russell Grant John Waszek CONTACT US editorial@northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales@northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@northwalesmagazine.co.uk whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk
12 The Wales Way
16 Hospital history
Sian Roberts
51 Education
Learning in North Wales
56 Community News
A roundup of regional happenings
59 Walking
A Bryn Alyn circuit
63 Motoring
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
A new location for an established brand
65 Where to stay
The best places to stay in North Wales
66 Horoscopes
What does January have in store for you?
COVID-19 DISCLAIMER North Wales Magazine is produced in advance. While we take every care to ensure that our content is up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in regards to current COVID-19 restrictions. We absolutely do not encourage travel where local rules forbid it, so please check with both your local council, and the council of your destination, before planning any days out in order to ensure that your journey is legal and in line with current guidelines.
NWM 2022 Page 5
the
BIG MAGAZINE
picture
The Point of Ayr Lighthouse, also known as Talacre Lighthouse, is a Grade II Listed building situated on the Point of Ayr (funnily enough). The oldest lighthouse in Wales, it was built in 1776 by a Trust of the Major, Recorder and Aldermen of Chester to warn ships entering between the Dee and the Mersey Estuary. After over a century of service it eventually fell into disuse and was decommissioned in 1884. While it is now privately owned, the Point of Ayr Lighthouse remains a commanding figure on peaceful Talacre beach. Mark Andrew Photography / Shutterstock.com
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MAGAZINE
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n o s ’ t Wha MAGAZINE
The biggest and best events taking place in North Wales this January...
1st Zip World
8th RGC v Pontypridd
To kick off your 2022, Zip World is opening all of its sites so
Support RGC at Parc Eirias in a home game against
that you can start the New Year with an adrenaline rush! Visit
Pontypridd. Kick off 2.30pm. Free entry for Under 16’s. Tickets
zipworld.co.uk to find out more and to book activities
available on the day or in advance from venuecymru.co.uk
1st Christmas Train Services, Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
8th Met Opera Live: Cinderella, Galeri Caernarfon
Steam in to the New Year with a train journey through
Laurent Pelly’s storybook staging of
beautiful Snowdonia. A lovely way to spend New Year’s Day,
Massenet’s Cendrillon is presented
sit back and relax and take in the views. For further details
with an all-new English translation
and to book visit festrail.co.uk
in an abridged 90-minute
1st & 2nd Aladdin, Venue Cymru, Llandudno
adaptation, with mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard as its rags-to-riches princess. Maestro Emmanuel Villaume leads a delightful cast,
This is the last chance to catch Aladdin at Venue Cymru this
which includes mezzo-soprano Emily D’Angelo as Cinderella’s
panto season. It’s had great reviews and promises an hilarious
Prince Charming, soprano Jessica Pratt as her Fairy
family friendly show, so don’t miss out.
Godmother, and mezzo-soprano Stephanie Blythe and bass-
Tickets from venuecymru.co.uk
baritone Laurent Naouri as her feuding guardians. Tickets
1st to 15th Beauty and the Beast, Theatr Clwyd, Mold
from galericaernarfon.com
9th A Night at the Opera, Stiwt, Wrexham
The acclaimed rock ’n’ roll panto written by Wales’ Christian Patterson is now on, with bonkers frocks, dazzling sets and the anarchic panto puppets! Ticket information from theatrclwyd.com
1st – 31st Jacqueline de Jong: The Ultimate Kiss, Mostyn, Llandudno Jacqueline de Jong is considered one of
North Wales Opera Studio presents ‘A Night at the Opera’, an exciting programme of staged excerpts from all the favourites in one evening, including La Traviata, Madame Butterfly, Magic Flute, West Side Story and more. Tickets available from stiwt.com
the crucial artistic figures of the post-war avant-garde. The first institutional solo presentation of her work in the UK is open now at Mostyn. Further details from Mostyn.org
1st – 31st Anathemata, Mostyn, Llandudno Anathemata is a display that interrogates the tradition of epic poetry within a tetrad of 20th Century avant-garde artists;
13th & 14th Eco Silver jewellery by Sandra Roberts, Afonwen Sandra uses reclaimed silver from the jewellery industry, to create her unique pieces, which she then finishes with whatever pretty stones she can find. Further information afonwen.co.uk
These four artists are presented alongside contemporary
15th RGC v Cardiff
artists Martin Bladh, Paul-Alexandre Islas, James Richards
RGC are home at Parc Eirias against
and Karolina Urbaniak through a display of manuscripts,
Cardiff. Kick off 2.30pm. Free entry for Under 16’s. Tickets
drawings and videos. Exhibition open now. Further details
available on the day or in advance from venuecymru.co.uk
David Jones, Antonin Artaud, Sarah Kane and Pierre Guyotat.
from Mostyn.org
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MAGAZINE
15th Gisda Giggles, Pontio, Bangor
26th & 27th Homemade Jewellery and Handmade Bags, Afonwen
Following the sell out success of
Elaine makes lovely pieces of
2020’s Gisda Giggles we have Gisda
jewellery, using many different
Giggles 2! A night of laughter to raise
beads stones and crystals, plus she knits cute little outfits
money and awareness for GISDA’s
for her teddy bear collection, whilst Liz makes gorgeous
youth LGBT+ groups. Local girl Kiri Pritchard-McLean (Live at
bags, using rich tapestries and embellishments. Further
the Apollo, Have I Got News for You) welcomes a hand picked
information at afonwen.co.uk
line up of the country’s best LGBT+ stars including Suzi Ruffell (The Last Leg, Live at the Apollo), Josh Jones (8 out of 10 cats), Ben Hodge, Sikisa Bostwick Barnes (Jonathan Ross’ Comedy Club) and Leila Navabi (Live from Aberystwyth Pier). Tickets from pontio.co.uk
16th Annual Mini Run to Llandudno
29th Blue Nation (plus support), The Motorsport Lounge, Llandudno Blue Nation are a 3 piece band from Birmingham. They use Riff based Melodic Blues Rock from a reservoir of influences, including Beatles, Cream, Zeppelin, Brit Pop
Annual mini run from Bromborough to Llandudno, organised
90’s, more recently Rival Sons and Vintage Trouble, to
by Wirral Minis. The run starts in Bromborough and heads
create their memorable sound. Their songs are delivered
along the coast road and up the Great Orme in Llandudno.
by three accomplished musicians, fronted with stunning
After a short stop the run heads down the Orme and it ends
vocals. All backed up with impressive gig experience, stage
on Llandudno’s promenade for a few hours. This event is
presence and great songs. Further details and tickets are
always a spectacular sight and free to spectators. 11am – 3pm
on Facebook.
20th & 21st Sunnyside Crafts and Gifts, Afonwen stools and hearts, plus many stitchwork items
30th Puccini Madama Butterfly, Rhyl Pavilion
to include cross stitch, hand painted boxes and
Back by overwhelming public
glasses. Further information at afonwen.co.uk
demand, this award-winning
Linda has made some lovely crochet dolls, wooden
21st to 23rd Peppa Pig’s Best Day Ever, Venue Cymru, Llandudno
Opera returns in a new production with exquisite sets including a spectacular Japanese garden and fabulous costumes including antique
With the car packed they
wedding kimonos from Japan. One of the world’s most popular
are ready for their road-trip
operas, Puccini’s Madama Butterfly tells the heart-breaking
full of adventures. From
story of the beautiful young Japanese girl who falls in love
roadworks to royalty, castles
with an American naval lieutenant – with dramatic results.
to caves and ice-creams
Tickets from rhylpavilion.co.uk
to muddy puddles – there
30th Jimmy Carr Terribly Funny, Venue Cymru, Llandudno
is something for all of the family and their friends to enjoy, including Miss Rabbit, Danny Dog, Gerald the Giraffe and more! Prepare for the brand new Peppa Pig live show packed full of songs, games and laughter, it really is the best day ever
Jimmy’s brand new show contains jokes about all kinds of
for Peppa Pig fans! Tickets from venuecymru.co.uk
terrible things. Terrible things that might have affected you or
22nd Rydal Penrhos Assessment Day Rydal warmly invites you to attend their Assessment Day,
people you know and love. But they’re just jokes – they are not the terrible things. Having political correctness at a comedy show is like having health and safety at a rodeo. Now you’ve been warned, buy a ticket. Tickets from venuecymru.co.uk
which is for all year groups and will take place from 9am. This is for any child looking to join Rydal Penrhos for September 2022 entry and the Assessment Day will all be
Please Note
conducted with consideration of COVID-19 safety protocols at
All events listed are correct at the time of going to press. All
the time. Anyone wishing to register can do so by emailing
events will be subject to current COVID safety measures, so
admissions@rydalpenrhos.com, calling 01492 530155 or using
please check that you are fully compliant before attending
the online form on their website. Further details are available
any event. We recommend that you check the event is still
from Rydalpenrhos.com
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running before travelling.
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Image credit: Crown Copyright
o g o t Way The Wales Way is a family of three national routes that lead you along the coast, across castle country, and through our mountainous heartland…
The Wales Way consists of three distinct routes – The Cambrian Way, The Coastal Way and The North Wales Way – each with its own theme and character. The routes help position Wales as a destination for experience-seeking travellers who are willing to get off the beaten track and explore at a more leisurely pace. These routes have been designed as a starting point for planning your journey, on top of which you’re encouraged to add your own curiosity in order to make your own unique Welsh adventures...
THE CAMBRIAN WAY IS A COMPLETE NORTH-SOUTH JOURNEY ALONG THE MOUNTAINOUS SPINE OF WALES, RUNNING FOR 185 MILES FROM COAST TO COAST.
The Cambrian Way
are plenty of loops and byways to explore: the north coast of
The Cambrian Way is a complete north-south journey along
the Llyn Peninsula, Snowdonia, Pumlumon, Preseli... endless
the mountainous spine of Wales, running for 185 miles from
ways to discover your own secret places.
coast to coast. It winds through the Snowdonia and Brecon Beacons National Parks – and the big green spaces of the
The North Wales Way
Cambrian Mountains in between. At the north end you’ll find
The North Wales Way follows an old trading route for
the Victorian splendour of Llandudno. In the south is Cardiff,
75 miles along our northern coast into Anglesey. It’s the
our cosmopolitan capital city. Along the way, the route takes
trio of huge castles that immediately grab your attention:
in market towns, forests, lakes and reservoirs – as well as the
Beaumaris, Caernarfon and the walled citadel of Conwy.
old slate and coal mining heartlands. Connect with the Wales
Together with Harlech, this cluster of immense 13th
Coast Path and Glyndwr’s Way towards the Offa’s Dyke Path,
Century fortresses forms a UNESCO World Heritage site.
or try the Cambrian Way walking trail – the most challenging
There are plenty of loops and diversions too. From here
long distance walk in Wales.
you can explore the mountains of Snowdonia, the Menai Strait, and our largest island, Anglesey. It’s the gateway to
The Coastal Way
the Vale of Conwy and the Vale of Clwyd, where a string of
The Coastal Way runs the entire length of Cardigan Bay. It’s a
handsome market towns line the route down to Llangollen.
180-mile odyssey that threads between blue seas on one side
The Way also links easily with its sister Ways, public
and big mountains on the other. From Aberdaron to St Davids,
transport, and long-distance cycling and walking routes. n
the coast is dotted with harbour towns and resorts, fishing villages and secret coves. There are vast stretches of sand,
For further information on all three routes, along with
towering cliffs, and beaches of all kinds in between. There
suggested itineraries, please visit www.thewalesway.com
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Image credit: Crown Copyright
The Cambrian Way
The Coatal Way Image credit: Crown Copyright
Image credit: Crown Copyright
The North Wales Way
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MAGAZINE
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You & Your
Pet
DON’T STAY INSIDE – GET UP AND GET OUT! As we bid farewell to December and bring in a brand New Year,
great way to get your dog’s body and mind working, this can
it’s time to dust off those boots and head for the outdoors. Get
be done indoors or in a safe space like your garden. If you have
some well-needed fresh air in our lungs, stretch those legs and
a young dog it could be a fun way to introduce them to the
enjoy the wonderful scents of the wintry season.
outside and it can also be great for the older dogs, older dogs enjoy games, therefore, looking for a treat shouldn’t put too
I’m sure our pets are dying to hear the rattle of the key on the
much pressure on their limbs.
front door, excited to get those muscles moving. If none of the above suits you, then we have a wonderful Dog January is a great time to get back into fitness for both
Park in petplace Abergele. It is set up so dogs can get their
ourselves and our four-legged friends. Apparently having a
daily dose of exercise whilst interacting with other dogs.
workout buddy makes the process easier and more enjoyable
If the weather is bad it’s the perfect place to tire out your
so grab your dog and head on out.
energetic pooch.
Some of us may have gained new family members over the last
Keep in mind that the temperatures drop in January and the
few months, that, due to the dark nights and stormy weather,
nights are still dark, make sure that you and your furry friend
perhaps have not seen as much of the outdoors as you may
are wrapped up and can be seen when out and about. Investing
have hoped and therefore will be overjoyed as the evenings
in a hi-vis dog coat and/or a safety light, such as an Orbiloc one
become lighter.
would make sure that you and your pet can be seen while out.
Don’t let the cold temperatures stop you and your pet from
With all exercise it is really important to be prepared, we have
maintaining your health and fitness this new year. Routine
a more in-depth article on our website to support you and your
is key for your dog, being outside will keep them happy,
dog on your health and fitness journey. Do remember you can
energised and avoid weight gain which can lead to a build-up
pop into our stores or speak to us on our social channels about
of pressure on their poor little limbs.
the types of harnesses and outdoor accessories we stock, we are here for you and your best friend. n
There are several ways to ease yourself back into fitness and at a pace that suits both you and your pet.
Walking is a wonderful way to start, if your muscles are taking a little longer than your dogs then you can always use an extendable lead giving your pet space to run and jump without putting the pressure on you. Going to an open dog-friendly space is always great because you can throw a ball or set up cones and have a bit of fun whilst exercising.
Ashlee is the Social Media and Marketing Assistant at petplace. Animal obsessed, she has a fondness for all living things and the environment using her creativity to build awareness. If you follow petplace on social media you will no doubt have interacted with Ashlee, she loves engaging with their customers and, most importantly, seeing all your wonderful pets.
If you just want to ease your dog in then hide and seek is a
NWM 2022 Page 15
Dr Richard Lloyd Williams of Denbigh who played a leading role in setting up and running the hospital The oldest photo of the Hospital, pre-1880 and discovered in a loft
A HOSPITAL WITH HISTORY Victorian photos discovered in a loft illustrate new book on historic hospital…
Photographs dating back to the 1870’s have been used to illustrate a new book about the first half-century of the first ever specialist mental hospital in Wales. The book, written by Clwyd Wynne, a former nursing manager at the North Wales Hospital, hits the bookshelves just as planners have thrown a lifeline to the iconic Grade II* listed building in Denbigh.
THE BOOK, WRITTEN BY CLWYD WYNNE, A FORMER NURSING MANAGER AT THE NORTH WALES HOSPITAL, HITS THE BOOKSHELVES JUST AS PLANNERS HAVE THROWN A LIFELINE TO THE ICONIC GRADE II* LISTED BUILDING IN DENBIGH.
Victorian Asylum, the story of the North Wales Hospital from its opening in 1848 to the end of the 19th Century, is the first of three volumes covering the history of “The North Wales Asylum for the Insane”. After the hospital closed in 1995, the buildings were neglected and fell into a state of dangerous decay, hastened by vandalism and arson attacks, before Vale of Clwyd-based contractors Jones Bros drew up ambitious plans to redevelop the site and save the magnificent original central building. Those plans have now been approved by Denbighshire County Council, subject to detailed agreement, paving the way for a project which will boost the local economy by £75 million and create 1,200 jobs. “It’s got to be good for Denbigh and I’m glad that the original 1848 building is being retained and restored,” said Clwyd, who began his career at the hospital as a 19-year-old nursing assistant in 1965 and worked there for 30 years. “I’m pleased that it is a local firm that is carrying out the redevelopment because it will provide jobs for the area and apprenticeship opportunities for young people. At last something positive is being done.” Clwyd, whose wife Carol was also a nurse, retired in 1999 after helping find new roles for the 500 staff who remained when the hospital closed in 1995 when there were still 600 patients. He then took charge of the Ablett Ward, the psychiatric ward of Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, Bodelwyddan, named after Joseph Ablett, the wealthy
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Matron Catherine Parry and colleagues with Dr Llewellyn Cox about 1900
Male staff in 1884
Hospital Matron Miss Pugh, late 19th Century Clwyd Wynne with his new book, Victorian Asylum, which charts the 19th Century history of the North Wales Hospital in Denbigh
benefactor from Llanbedr Hall near Ruthin, who donated
hospital. There was a strict regime for the patients but
the 20 acres on which the original North Wales Hospital
treatment consisted simply of work and recreation.
was built. “Life was very hard for poor people in those times and often He is chairman and a founding member of the North Wales
it would have been easier for the patients who would have
Hospital Historical Society and as chairman of Vale of Clwyd
regular meals and clean and sanitary conditions,” continued
MIND is still involved in supporting people with mental
Clwyd. “Many of them probably lived longer as a result of
health issues.
being at the hospital – a lot of them were there for very many years. One of those admitted in the first week of the
In the book he documents how the five counties of North
opening in November 1848, died there in 1907.
Wales came together to plan and build the very first psychiatric hospitals in Wales. It also tells of the dreadful
“It wasn’t until the 1920s that any idea of treatments started
conditions in which unfortunate people were often kept if
and then it was very rudimentary, experimental and
they were judged to be insane by their families.
sometimes horrific. That was the case until the NHS was founded in 1948 – but from then on the hospital had a very
Dr Richard Lloyd Williams of Denbigh, the driving force
high reputation for the care and treatment it provided. At
behind the building of the hospital and later the visiting
the same time the people of Denbigh were very welcoming
physician at the hospital, described the conditions of a woman
and accepting of the patients and many strong friendships
found in appalling squalor in a room above a blacksmith’s
were forged and obviously it was a big employer and many
forge in Llangefni in 1844: “In the middle of this loathsome
families worked there for generations.”
chamber was Mary Jones, the lunatic, on a foul pallet of chaff or straw and here she had been confined for a period of 15
Clwyd, who wrote a brief history of the Hospital in 1995, is
years and upwards… seated in a bent and crouching posture
already halfway through volume two of the hospital story
on her bed of nauseous and disgusting filth.”
which will cover the years from 1900 to the foundation of the NHS with the third and final book taking the story up to
The hospital opened in 1848 with 200 patients, but by
its closure in 1995. n
1890 that number had trebled – many of those sent to the hospital from across North Wales came from the
Victorian Asylum is published by Fineline of Ruthin, and
workhouses which existed in most towns and it was
is available for £13.95 from Denbigh Museum. For further
cheaper for the county councils to keep them at the
information email denbigharchive@gmail.com
NWM 2022 Page 17
MAGAZINE
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Exploring
n o f r a Caern
For several years we had a caravan near Caernarfon at the village of Waunfawr and went to it most weekends during the holiday season. During that period we got to know Caernarfon very well as it was our main area to get the shopping we needed. But my association with the town goes back much further than that and dates from a school trip we were taken on to the magnificent castle in my early secondary school days. And down the years I have passed through the town or stopped off in it on many, many occasions – and still do so now when I can usually be found in the café at the Morrison’s store enjoying a hot chocolate and a bacon buttie after a day on the Snowdonian hills that border the Caernarfon to Beddgelert road. This often occurs during the colder winter months when the warm drink is much appreciated! But Caernarfon is a
day Caernarfon caters for the tourist trade in a big way as
delight to visit at any time of the year and attracts tourists
visitor’s flock to the town winter and summer alike. There are
on a year round basis. They are drawn by the town’s narrow
plenty of guest houses, inns and pubs, hotels, restaurants and
streets and its stylishly redeveloped and classy waterfront
shops. Most of the shops are to be found either in the centre
along with its spectacular castle.
of the town around Pool Street (which is pedestrianised and is the town’s main shopping street) and Castle Square (most
Geographically Caernarfon is located on the southern shore
commonly known as the ‘Maes’) which is the market square
of the Menai Straits opposite the Isle of Anglesey. It lies at the
for the town with a market being held there every Saturday
mouth of the River Seiont where it flows into the Menai Straits
throughout the year. Market Square was re-vamped in 2009
and creates a natural harbour which is always colourful with
at a cost of £2.4 million.
boats. Caernarfon is on the A487 approximately 8.6 miles/13.8 km south west of the city of Bangor and has a population
There are also shopping areas on Victoria Dock (Doc Fictoria)
of around 10,000 permanent residents. The mountains of
which was opened in 2008. The majority of the residential
Snowdonia border the town to the east and south east.
and retail sections of Victoria Dock is built directly beside a
Porthmadog is 19.4 miles/31.2 km away to the south while the
popular Blue Flag beach marina. It contains lots of residential
Alpine village of Llanberis in Snowdonia is eight miles/12.9
homes, bars and bistros, cafés and restaurants, shops
km to the east. The town is easily accessed by car and a good
and stores as well as a maritime museum and an award
bus network connects it to surrounding towns. Five railway
winning arts centre. Victoria Dock is stylish and modern and
stations have serviced Caernarfon down the years but the
very popular with locals and tourists alike. There are also
main line was shut and the track lifted in 1964 and 1965. The
numerous restaurants, public houses, inns, guest houses
current railway station is the northern terminus of the narrow
and hotels located in and around the town walls. These walls
gauge Welsh Highland Railway which opened on 11th October
include eight towers and two twin towered gateways and
1997. It is a spectacular line built mostly for the tourists and
form a complete circuit of around 2,625 ft./800 metres around
the station itself was modernised in 2018 and 2019. Modern
Caernarfon’s old town. They were built between 1283 and 1285
NWM 2022 Page 19
MAGAZINE
and today only a very small section
DESPITE ALL THE OTHER ATTRACTIONS CAERNARFON HAS TO OFFER, IT IS MIGHTY CAERNARFON CASTLE THAT IS AT THE TOP OF THE TOURISTS ‘MUST SEE’ LIST WHEN THEY VISIT THE TOWN
is open to the public with the walls being in the care of Cadw
Despite all the other attractions Caernarfon has to offer,
(the Welsh Governments historic
it is mighty Caernarfon Castle that is at the top of the
environment service). Both the
tourists ‘must see’ list when they visit the town. The castle
town walls and Caernarfon
is recognised around the world as one of the greatest
Castle (more of which later)
buildings of the middle Ages. It was built in the 13th Century
were designated (along with the
by King Edward 1st as a Royal palace and military fortress
castles at Conwy, Beaumaris and
and was as the very core of a Medieval walled town. The
Harlech) as a UNESCO World
castle was constructed between 1283 and 1330 at the then
Heritage Site in 1986. UNESCO
staggering cost of £25,000. The banded stonework and
describes the towns castle and
polygonal towers are thought to have been inspired by the
wall (along with the three other
walls of Constantinople and imperial Roman architecture
castles mentioned) as ‘the finest
with the impressive curtain wall, with nine towers and two
examples of late 13th Century
gatehouses, still surviving largely intact. Indeed, the castle as
and early 14th Century military architecture in Europe’.
a whole is still fairly complete which is hardly surprising as the building was built to survive assault and siege. Today the
Also in the care of Cadw, and often overlooked by visitors to
castle is under the care of Cadw and welcomes visitors. It is
Caernarfon, is the Roman fort of Segontium. These impressive
home to the regimental museum of the Royal Welsh Fusiliers.
ruins (mostly just the foundations remain) are passed by one
Caernarfon castle towers above the River Seiont and
of the major roads into the town and are well worth a visit. A
provides the quintessential view of the town. It is easy to see
Roman alter was found in one of the walls during restoration
why such a site was chosen for this impressive structure.
work carried out in the 19th Century. Segontium was founded by Agricola in AD77 and was designed to hold a 1,000 strong
Caernarfon has hosted the National Eisteddfod in 1862, 1894,
regiment of auxiliary infantrymen. It was linked by Roman roads
1906, 1921, 1935, 1959 and 1979. Caernarfon was previously
to the main legionary bases at Chester and Caerlon. The Romans
spelt ‘Carnarvon’ and ‘Caernarvon’ but these were Anglicised
occupied the fort until about AD394 with no other fort in Wales
spellings and were superseded in 1926 and 1974 respectively.
being held by them for so long. Segontium is free to visit.
As towns go it is Welsh through and through and well worth checking out. A summer visit will be busy, especially in the
A short 656 ft./200 metres away from the fort is the Church
vicinity of the castle but you could always come in winter
of St Peblig which was itself built on the site of a Roman
when things are a little quieter – but not too much! n
temple. The Church is dedicated to St Peblig and the current structure dates from the 14th Century and is a Grade I listed building. Also of interest is the statue of David Lloyd George located in Castle Square. It was sculpted by W. Goscombe John and was erected in 1921 when Lloyd George was Prime Minister. He acted as the Member of parliament for the local area from 1890 to 1945.
Page 20 NWM 2022
Steve Goodier is an outdoor writer and photographer who specialises in North Wales. He has walked and explored all over the world and is the author of 11 walking books with a further two on Snowdonia due to be published shortly.
What to do Visit the castle Undeniably the biggest attraction in the town, Caernarfon Castle is well known for being one of the greatest buildings of the Middle Ages. Complete with colour-banded octagonal towers, this architectural medieval marvel — connected to an impressive 734m circuit of town walls — was built on the site of a Norman earth-and-timber castle. Visit the Cadw website to buy your admission ticket online before you visit. Take a slate workshop tour Situated just outside of the royal town, Inigo Jones Slate Works is open all year round. Originally founded in 1861 to prefabricate school writing slates, Inigo Jones had to find new products to sell when writing slates were replaced by paper. The owner at the time, Hugh Jones, started producing electrical panels in slate which proved to be very popular and the company rapidly expanded, sourcing its slate from the whole of North Wales. Workshop tours are available and there is a café on site. Go for a bike ride The Lôn Eifion cycle track is part of Lôn Las Cymru (it’s route number 8 on the National Cycle Network) and it begins near Caernarfon Castle. This traffic-free route climbs 500ft over ten miles to its highest point, a radio mast south of Penygroes, before a gentle downhill stretch to the village of Bryncir. The entire length of Lôn Eifion has a tarmaced surface making it ideal for the whole family. Take in a show Galeri Caernarfon includes a theatre and cinema, work units, art space, rehearsal studios, meeting rooms and a café bar. A wide range of events are organised at Galeri Caernarfon every year so there’s bound to be something on when you visit – have a look at its website for up to date event listings. Go on a family day out Gypsy Wood Park is a unique North Wales attraction that all the family will love. There are loads of things to see and do at its outdoor park in the foothills of Snowdonia – and it is a must-see attraction for all animal, nature, outdoor, train and fairy lovers. Primarily a summer attraction, Gypsy Wood will be open its doors in March.
NWM 2022 Page 21
MAGAZINE
LIVE IN NORTH WALES 2022
IMELDA MAY
NOEL GALLAGHER’S
HIGH FLYING BIRDS
BRYAN ADAMS
PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
LIGHTNING SEEDS THE K’S
02/04/2022 Rhyl Pavilion Theatre
18/06/2022 Stadiwm Eirias Colwyn Bay
02/07/2022 DCBL Stadium, Widnes
08/07/2022 Rhyl Events Arena
TOM GRENNAN
ONLY BOYS OLLY ALOUD MURS ANNIVERSARY CONCERT
SCOUTING FOR GIRLS
10/07/2022 Rhyl Events Arena
17/07/2022 Rhyl Pavilion Theatre
12/08/2022 Stadiwm Eirias Colwyn Bay
THE VACCINES FEEDER
PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS
JAMES
PETE TONG
AND THE HERITAGE ORCHESTRA
13/08/2022 Stadiwm Eirias Colwyn Bay
ORCHARDLIVE.COM | GIGANTIC.COM Page 22 NWM 2022
! y a l p c i s u m e Let th There are some absolutely fabulous live music events coming to North Wales this summer…
Pete Tong
Olly Murs Jools Holland
Orchard Live, Wales biggest independent live music
performing at the Rhyl Events Arena on Sunday, July 10th. The
promotions company, is hosting an unmissable selection of
Bedford-born musician has had an incredible year, performing
shows in North Wales during 2022.
to sold-out festival crowds, and embarking on a mammoth 15city UK tour in support of his album ‘Evering Road.’
The amazing schedule kicks off with Imelda May at Pavilion Theatre in Rhyl on the 2nd of April. The Irish singer,
2020 saw the tenth anniversary of Only Boys Aloud, and last
songwriter and multi-instrumentalist will be celebrating the
year the group announced two gala concerts to celebrate
launch of her sixth studio album ‘11 Past the Hour’ with a great
this huge milestone. With young singers from every corner
live performance.
of Wales, join them as they celebrate a decade of music and memories with two gala concerts in Rhyl on the 17th of July.
Then, on the 18th of June, Noel Gallagher’s High-Flying Birds is coming to Stadiwm Eirias in Colwyn Bay. The Oasis legend and
Jools Holland & His Rhythm and Blues Orchestra are also
his full, formidable eleven-piece band are playing a massive
coming to North Wales on the 17th of July. Llandudno will host
outdoor show – it’s bound to be the show of the summer!
musical virtuoso Jools Holland and his illustrious Rhythm & Blues Orchestra as they perform at Venue Cymru.
Later on in the summer, on the 2nd of July, Bryan Adams will be playing just over the border at DCBL Stadium in Widnes.
ACCESS ALL EIRIAS will be closing the summer, with Olly
The show is part of platinum-selling and Grammy award-
Murs and Scouting for Girls playing at Stadiwm Eirias in
winning Adams’ ‘So Happy It Hurts’ tour to honour his new
Colwyn Bay on the 12th of August. Originally planned for
fifteenth album of the same name.
2021, Olly Murs highly anticipated show in Colwyn Bay show promises all the hits!
Then just a few days later, James, The Lightning Seeds, and the K’s will be performing at Rhyl Events Arena in Rhyl on the
The hottest ticket of the summer returns to Wales the next day,
8th of July. James will perform tracks from the new record and
with Pete Tong & The Heritage Orchestra playing Stadiwm
many more from their rich back catalogue, and the legendary
Eirias in Colwyn Bay on the 13th of August. With a brand-new
band will be supported by The Lightning Seeds and The K’s.
Ibiza Classics show for 2022 with re-workings of more iconic dance anthems, this is going to be a great way to round off the
Pop sensation and indie heartthrob, Tom Grennan will be
summer of music! n
NWM 2022 Page 23
MAGAZINE
Emerging from the shadows
Stephen Gregory finds more than a glimmer of hope thanks to a rare Brocken spectre in the Snowdonia mountains…
In these difficult and challenging times, especially now in
take in something of the history and culture of
the darkest months of the winter, we’re all looking forward to
Wales. Despite the gathering gloom, she
lighter, brighter days… when the restrictions might be eased,
was inexhaustibly upbeat, a force of
when the pandemic is controlled… or simply the coming of
youthful energy whose company
spring.
we were enjoying. She was talking and talking, in softly
One of the commonest metaphors bandied about over the
whispered French, not to
past couple of years is the idea of ‘light at the end of the
herself but to the little dog
tunnel’, a glimmer of hope. A pessimist might say it’s a train
she’d brought with her, a
hurtling horribly towards us, and our hopes will be dashed
terrier called Fitou.
into an even greater disaster. But I’m an optimist. For me, and millions of like-minded people, the idea of striving forwards
A dismal afternoon. My wife,
and upwards towards the light has a literally life-giving
who’d been a rock climber
importance.
in Snowdonia and in the Alps for many years and knew the
It was a grey and misty Sunday afternoon. Deep midwinter,
odd colloquialisms of life in the
when sunset was supposed to be around four o’clock, a dreary
mountains, said it was ‘claggy’. And
prospect of dusk and twilight. And we were driving through
indeed it was a claggy afternoon, a Sunday
Nantlle, under the looming masses of the abandoned and
smothered in mist and drizzle, as we nosed through the
derelict slate quarries. The mist clung like cobwebs, dirty
narrowness of Drws y Coed and up the steep road towards
and dark, to the scrubby forests of rowan and alder which
Llyn Dwyarchen at the higher end of the pass.
had somehow managed to colonise the heaps of spoil. It was a place of long-forgotten ghosts.
And yes, the sky was a little bit lighter. Up and up, towards a lightening in the grey sky… as though we might defy the
We drove onwards and upwards, me and my wife in the front
darkening day and break into sunlight before the sun itself
of the car, and Alix in the back. She was a thirteen-year-old
might slip below the horizon. As though we might dare
French girl, funny and fey and flippant, who had come to
to race the sun, and win something of its light and energy
stay with us for a few weeks and improve her English and
before it set…
Page 24 NWM 2022
We pulled into Rhyd-ddu, and parked at the little station of
her higher up. She was windmilling her arms in a strange
the mountain railway. Ours was the only car. Nobody with an
and dazzling dance, and as we arrived breathlessly beside
ounce of gumption would be walking on the Snowdon track
her we saw her face lit up by joy and the excitement of a
on a day like this one. It was an afternoon for hot soup in the
strange magic.
Cwellyn Arms, or tea and scones in Beddgelert. But Alix and Fitou bounced out the car and started up the path before we
The shadow of her body was cast onto the clouds above us,
could stop them, and so we followed, for their energy and
a kind of spectre of herself. We saw our own shapes thrown
youth were somehow magnetic, a force which pulled us up
into looming dark shadows… suffused with a halo of golden
and up, away from the darkness and towards a strangely
light, projected onto the sky.
glimmering light in the sky above us… It was the phenomenon of the Brocken spectre. My wife had A strange light – what was it? As we hurried to keep up with
seen it before, in the Alps and in Snowdonia, when a walker or
the girl and her scurrying dog, the mist seemed to cleave in
a climber sees his own shadow larger than life and faraway,
from of us, as though the heat of our bodies and breath was
thrown onto cloud or mist.
turning it aside and melting it away. The three of us, we waved our arms and posed. We were And so we broke into a world of gloriously golden light.
shape-shifters in a magical world. Until the sunlight started
Nobody but us – we were the only people in the whole world
to fade behind us, and we made our way down and down into
who had pushed upwards and upwards and found this
the gloom…
heavenly place of softly golden light. So we found ourselves burrowing back into the darkness We climbed even further, and it felt as though we had
of a wintry Sunday afternoon. It was claggy, through Drws y
pushed the time backwards and our late Sunday afternoon
Coed and into Nantlle, where the ghosts were sleeping in their
had become a bright, fresh morning. The only humans, yes,
graves of slate… and back to the town of Caernarfon, as black
because all the others were huddling over their soup and their
as night and only six o’clock in the evening.
pots of tea in dimly fire-lit restaurants… But me and my wife and Alix and Fitou, we were alive with the But we weren’t the only living creatures to have emerged into
energy of the ascent we had made. Up and up, into the light…
this magical world. The sky was whirling with gulls. They
tugged upwards by the unquenchable energy of youth and
soared and shimmered, silvery white. And by our feet, moving
lured into the sunshine by a miraculous spectre. The Brocken
like a mouse in the thickets of gorse and heather, there was
spectre – a phenomenon of the high mountains – which we
a wren, a tiny trog who belied his name by seeking out this
had shared with the gulls and a wren, defiantly alive in the
giddying upland… where time had stood still since the morning
deep midwinter.
and the sun was bright and warm. And a special phenomenon… Real, and yet a metaphor for the hope of life and light which is Alix was calling to us and waving for us to hurry and join
always up there – within our reach. n
Stephen Gregory’s first novel, The Cormorant, which he wrote in Snowdonia 35 years ago, has been published several times in both the UK and the USA, and translated into German, Polish and Italian. The new edition, which is available from Parthian Books, is its tenth publication.
NWM 2022 Page 25
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NWM 2022 Page 27
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OF THE
Month
January Punch
January tends to be a time to hunker down and become all virtuous on the
drink front. But, if you think that this month is already depressing enough, then shun the traditional ‘Dry Jan’ and celebrate the start of the New Year with a warming winter fruit punch instead...
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
• 500ml Pimm’s
• Fill a large jug with ice. Then mix the
• 1.5 litres apple juice
juice and give it a good stir. Add the
• 500ml brandy • Ice
• 2 cinnamon sticks • Apple, sliced
Pimm’s and brandy with the apple
cinnamon sticks, the sliced apple and orange and enjoy!
• Orange, sliced
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 2022 Page 29
FP Talenbont Hall March20.pdf
1
11/02/2020
12:38
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Llandudno
Food for thought
I think I might be in the minority here, but I really love
Then there’s the food. Quite often January diets are based on
January. For many, January is like the worst, most brain-
just that – diets. This is the month that people start measuring
deadening hangover imaginable, following the greatest
their muesli portions on kitchen scales, giving up alcohol, and
night-out ever. There’s the sombre ceremony of taking down
using curly kale to make milkshakes.
the bright, sparkly decorations and returning the house to comparative drabness once again – not to mention the painful
For me, food at this time of year is all about staying warm with
experience of hoovering up all the pine needles off the living
winter at its bleakest, so it’s soups, casseroles, stews, tagines,
room carpet. (When will we learn not to do this wearing just
cassoulets and one-pots all the way. When it’s cold enough
socks?)
outside to freeze the tail off a brass monkey (PG version), a quinoa and cucumber salad just isn’t going to hit the spot.
There’s a sense that the magic has been suddenly switched off, like a 17th Century Puritan stamping through your house,
Instead, reach for a couple of old, never-fail favourites to give
grabbing anything that looks like fun and throwing it into
you and your family some inner warmth as the wheels of
a sack of shame. All you have to look forward to now is the
2022 start to turn.n
annual tradition of joining a gym to rid yourselves of your surplus Christmas weight, knowing full well, that by February you’ll have given it all up and asked for a partial refund.
Cai Ross is co-owner and Maitre d’ of the award-winning Paysanne
Well, sorry everyone but January is a highlight of the calendar
Bistro in Deganwy, which has
for me. Firstly, my birthday lands three weeks in (as most
been serving French country-style
others are observing ‘Blue Monday’, officially the most
food to the fine people of North
depressing day of the year). As any January-born person will
Wales since 1988. He also writes
tell you, the pay-off is that your presents are markedly better
for Calibre Magazine, BBC Good
than the average because they were all bought in the New
Food, HeyUGuys.com and The North
Year sales.
Wales Weekly News
NWM 2022 Page 31
MAGAZINE
RECIPES SOUPE AU PISTOU
BOEUF BOURGUIGNON
(For the Pesto sauce)
the day you serve it, all you have to do is reheat everything.
J 4 garlic cloves
Serves 6.
J 1 large bunch basil
You will need:
J 125g pine nuts
J 1kg chuck steak, cut into fairly large chunks
J 125g grated Parmesan cheese
J 200g thick, rindless streaky bacon
J Olive oil
J 85g beef dripping (or butter if you can’t get any)
Serves 6
This is a classic, three day recipe, the beauty of which being that on
J 2 cloves crushed garlic (For the Soup)
J 100g button onions, soaked in hot water and peeled whole
J 2 potatoes, peeled
J 1 punnet whole button mushrooms
J 350g green beans
J Plain flour
J Brandy
J Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
J 350g courgettes J 2 carrots, peeled
For the marinade, you will need:
J 2 leeks
J 1 onion, 1 carrot and 1 stalk of celery, all sliced
J 2 ripe tomatoes, peeled and de-seeded
J 1 bottle red Burgundy
J 250g Savoy cabbage, finely sliced
J 2 bay leaves
J 2.5 litres vegetable stock
J Salt and pepper
J 2 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
J 3 sprigs thyme J 2 tablespoons olive oil
J 2 400g tins haricot beans J 125g small macaroni
Put the diced beef into an earthenware pot and season. Cover with
J Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to season
the ingredients for the marinade, stir it together briefly and leave it covered overnight. Remove meat from the marinade and dry with a
To make the pesto sauce, place all the ingredients
kitchen towel (otherwise it won’t brown when you fry it). Strain and
in a blender with enough oil to give a consistency
reserve the marinade and vegetables.
of thick cream and blend thoroughly. Heat the beef dripping (or butter) in a heavy casserole dish and Prepare the vegetables by chopping into small
brown the meat on all sides, transferring it to another bowl when it
chunks about the same size. Bring the stock to a
is browned. Do this a few chunks at a time and don’t crowd the pan.
rolling boil and add the vegetables. Simmer for 45
When that is done, place the vegetables from the marinade into the
minutes, then season with salt and pepper. Add
casserole and fry them for about five minutes until browned a little,
the haricot beans and the macaroni, and continue
adding a little olive oil if necessary.
cooking with the lid off until the macaroni is done. At this point, return the beef to the casserole, together with any Drizzle the pesto sauce over your bowl of soup
juices which may have collected in the bowl, sprinkle it with a good
and sprinkle Parmesan over it all. Have some extra
tablespoon of the flour, stir in the reserved marinade liquid and a good
Parmesan on the table along with some warm
slug of brandy, season and let it simmer very slowly with the cover on,
crusty bread.
for two hours. In a frying pan, cook the bacon and baby onions until golden in a little olive oil, place them in the casserole then fry the mushrooms in the
Don’t fancy cooking?
01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy
Page 32 NWM 2022
remains of the oil for 2 or 3 minutes and add them as well. Carry on cooking it slowly for another hour. Let it stand overnight again. To serve, heat it up the next day for one more hour. To add a little colour, add some freshly boiled carrots.
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Blwyddyn Newydd Dda, welcome to ‘Tryanuary’ 2022! We have had a tough couple of years that have pushed us harder than we knew was possible. There have been good times, but tough times also. It feels to me like a ‘new normal’ (whatever that may mean) is starting to establish itself, we are used to the differences in how we are living and spending our time. As things start to feel more comfortable, I think it is the right time to push my boundaries. So while many will be doing dry January, I am going to do try January. The plan is to challenge myself with things that have always been on the edges of my tastes and what’s acceptable. So lots of foods that I have never tried, but have no reason not to (other than things on the bone, I hate things on the bone). The teams knowledge always manages to find that perfect So if I am going to be having that rack of lamb, Jacobs ladder
thing to test you. Why not put them to the test?
beef joint or a lamb shank, it only seems right that I start to push my boundaries in what I am drinking also. In recent
Or put yourself to the test, put your trust in them, tell them
times I have certainly pushed the boat out with beers and
how much you want to spend, what you like (either styles or
tried lots of new things. New flavours and styles in cocktails
characteristics – way more important to say ‘I like slightly
and spirits have also been tried (in moderation) recently.
woody but not too heavy’, than to say ‘I like Chardonnay’) and what the occasion is.
All that being said my taste in wines has remained fairly stable. Despite the best efforts of Tim and Mark, I am still no
See what gems they find to test your palate with. They spend
fan of French wines or Chardonnay. Ant has tried but Rosé is
a lot of time tasting and researching to get the best new wines
still on my ‘its ok but no thanks’ list. So it is time for me to do
onto the shelves to tempt you with, it would be a shame for
what I tell others to do, put my trust in the team and let them
that time to not be put to good use.
pick out some wines for me to try. There are going to be a few changes to TGTG Wine Shop this The tasting counter has always made it easier to try new
2022. There’ll be more ‘Supplier and Wine Maker’ tastings,
things without the risk of ending up with a bottle or glass of
dedicated ‘Discovery Wine Courses’ led by Tim and Ant,
something that you really don’t like. The layout of the shop
‘Special Tasting Counter’ exhibitions, and new room centre
encourages you to stray out of your comfort zone.
display shelving offering range deals and offers. All in the
But nothing beats that personal recommendation, something
name of making TGTG the ‘Best Tasting Room’ ever!
that can perfectly complement that meal, music, relax in the garden, dip in the hot tub, or just feet up on the couch reading.
Felicidades; here’s to 2022! n
The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room
Tim Watson and his team run the Grape to Glass
8b Rhos Parade, Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea, LL29 7RE
Wine Shop and Tasting Room in Rhos-on-Sea which,
Tel: 01492 545934
as well as offering wine from far reaching lands, also
www.thegrapetoglass.co.uk
stocks locally produced beers, wines and spirits
NWM 2019 Page 35 NWM 2022 Page 35
NEW YEAR, NEW HOME LLWYN Landscapes LTD Landscape Design, Construction & Maintenance Contractors
WOOD, GAS & ELECTRIC STOVES
Commercial & Domestic: Driveways, Decking, Lighting, Paving, Brickwork, Turf Laying, Water Features, Artificial Grass, Fencing, Tree Work, Stump Grinding, Ground Maintenance
GAS & ELECTRIC FIRES AND FIREPLACES
TRADITIONAL & MODERN RANGE COOKERS
LLWYN LANDSCAPES LTD
Quinten Hazell Enterprise Parc, Glan Y Wern Road, Colwyn Bay LL28 5BS Office: 01492 552521 Mobile: 07896 222702 Email: info@llwynlandscapes.co.uk
www.llwynlandscapes.co.uk
WOOD FIRED HOT TUBS & BARBECUES
Visit our award winning showrooms for inspirational ideas and advice for the most important rooms in your home. Displaying quality items from exclusive brands you can trust, all at competitive prices.
01745 582254 www.rnwilliams.co.uk Chester Street, St Asaph, LL17 0RE
HOMES & INTERIORS
NWM 2022 Page 37
MAGAZINE
CYFREITHWYR•SOLICITORS
Ein Pobl, Eich Tîm Our People, Your Team Yma i helpu…
Here to Help…
Mae ein swyddfeydd agor ar gyfer cyfarfodydd sydd wedi eu trefnu o flaen llaw ac er mwyn gollwng dogfennau. Rydym eisoes yn cynnig cyfarfodydd dros y ffôn a thrwy fideo.
Our offices are open for pre-arranged appointments and to drop off documents, we continue to offer meetings via telephone and video.
Rydym ni’n cynnig ystod eang o wasanaethau cyfreithiol, sy’n cynnwys:
Offering a wide range of legal services including:
• • • • • • • • •
• • • • • • • • •
Eiddo Masnachol a Phreswyl Amaethyddiaeth Ewyllysiau, Ymddiriedolaethau a Phrofiant Cyfraith Teulu Cyflogaeth Corfforaethol a Masnachol Anghydfodau Troseddau Moduro Niwed Personol ac Esgeulustod Meddygol
Commercial & Residential Property Agriculture Wills, Trusts & Probate Family Law Employment Corporate & Commercial Disputes Motoring Offences Personal Injury & Medical Negligence
Swyddfa Conwy Office 1 & 2 Connaught House, Riverside Business Park, Benarth Road, Conwy LL32 8UB
01492 557070 info@lblaw.co.uk www.lblaw.co.uk Yr Amwythig • Bromyard • Conwy • Henffordd • Llwydlo • Croesoswallt • Telford Shrewsbury • Bromyard • Conwy • Hereford • Ludlow • Oswestry • Telford
Page 38 NWM 2022
Anthony Flint voted best in county for customer service Anthony Flint Property Consultants has been crowned the best estate agents for customer service in Conwy county at the prestigious ESTAS Customer Service Awards 2021. The Llandudno-based estate agents took home the Best in County award in the sales customer service category at The ESTAS awards night recently. Managing director, Anthony Flint, said he was over the moon with the latest accolade. “We don’t do this job for the recognition, but our team has worked extremely hard this year and thoroughly deserves the accolades,” he commented. “There is nothing better than the feeling you get when you find someone their dream home. That is what the job is all about. So offering the best customer service achievable is vital. You must also consider how stressful it can be moving home, so we want to make sure we are there throughout the whole process, making sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.”
The team at Anthony Flint Property Consultants in Llandudno
Now in its 18th year the awards, which are powered by ESTAS own customer review platform,
“You’ve had to work incredibly hard, you’ve had to adapt
recognise the best estate and letting agents for customer
your businesses, you’ve had to absorb considerable costs
service based on ratings from clients who have been
to follow the protocols and to enable things to happen
through the whole moving experience with an agent.
safely,” said Phil, who has hosted The ESTAS every year
This year’s results were calculated from over 200,000
since their inception in 2003. “Quite simply delivering
customer review ratings.
great service has never been more challenging – so The ESTAS Awards for 2021 are the most well deserved ever
“We were absolutely blown away with the feedback we
in their entire 18 year history.”
have received from customers and clients we have dealt with,” continued Mr Flint. “We only signed up to The
Simon Brown, founder of The ESTAS, added: “When we
ESTAS last year and the amount of feedback we have
started we wanted to create a set of property awards
received since is fantastic. We are always striving to be
which were completely pure, where winners were
the best we can be and receiving this kind of feedback
selected solely on customer service ratings from actual
allows us to constantly learn and develop to continue to
transactions. Eighteen years on, The ESTAS is now
provide a high calibre of customer service.”
the customer review platform of choice for property professionals, and the most prestigious award an agent, a
The winners were announced at the Grosvenor House
conveyancer or mortgage broker can win in the property
Hotel in London on 22nd October at the largest event in
industry.” n
the property industry in the past two years. The event was hosted by the country’s favourite TV property
For further information about Anthony Flint Property
presenter, Phil Spencer, in front of 1,100 guests.
Consultants please visit www.anthonyflint.co.uk
NWM 2022 Page 39
MAGAZINE
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
COLWYN BAY
RHOS ON SEA £229,950
OPEN EVENT SATURDAY JANUARY
• Spacious Two Bedroom Ground floor Apartments 22ND 2022 12 NOON - 2PM VIEWING • High Specification Throughout BY APPOINTMENT 5 SOLD LAST • Allocated Off Road Parkingade FEW REMAINING • Superb Location Close To Promenade & Rhos on Sea Village
EPC
£659,950
• Simply Stunning Family Home • Enjoys Views Over Rydal Penrhos Playing Fields & Extending Over Colwyn Bay & The Sea • Detached Annexe With Potential For Income • Situated In A Highly Sought After Area
F
OLD COLWYN
LLANDDULAS £595,000
• Impressive Five Bedroom Detached House • Far Reaching Sea & Coastline Views • Quadruple Garage, Ample off Road Parking, • Enclosed Rear Garden & Good Size Balcony
website: www.fletcherpoole.com
£295,000
• Impressive Two Bedroom First Floor Apartment • Part Of A Newly Built Well Maintained Development • Private Roof Terrace With Panoramic Coastal Views
OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.00-5.30 SATURDAY 9.30-4.00
INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS
Page 40 NWM 2022
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
LLANFAIRFECHAN
CONWY MARINA £330,000
£365,000
• A well presented detached two bedroom former Coach House • Enjoying sea views, situated in a slightly elevated position on the outskirts of the village. • Completely refurbished, retains some lovely character features • Gated driveway parking for two vehicles, low maintenance south facing garden, Garage with a utility area
• A beautifully presented and spacious ground floor apartment • Situated on the sought after Conwy Marina Development • Low maintenance rear garden and front and side gardens laid to lawn. • Off road parking and garage.
EPC
F
DEGANWY
LLANDUDNO £195,000
• An immaculately presented two bedroom mid terrace cottage • Superb far reaching views over Llandudno, the sea, the cable car route • Extended and well planned accommodation, which is laid over three floors • Front path area, small walkway to the rear and a decked roof garden accessed from the first floor.
website: www.fletcherpoole.com
£238,950
• Light, spacious and well planned two bedroom purpose built top floor apartment • Enjoying far reaching views over Conwy, the castle, countryside, estuary and mountains. • UPVC double glazing and Glow Worm gas fired central heating boiler. • Outside there is one allocated parking space, plus visitor parking and communal bike store.
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
NWM 2022 Page 41
MAGAZINE
£385,000
Tremeirchion Ref: WP6836
• Detached bungalow
• Two double bedrooms
• Two en-suites
• Garage and off-road parking
• Good sized garden
• Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
• No onward chain
• EPC Rating G-19
£400,000
Prestatyn
Ref: WP9111
• Detached house
• Three bedrooms
• Two reception rooms
• Off-road parking
• Large gardens
• Located in Upper Prestatyn
• Close to the town centre
• EPC Rating TBC
£385,000
Mold
Ref: RN2102
Page 42 NWM 2022
• Semi-detached cottage
• Three generous bedrooms
• Original period features
• Beautiful kitchen/diner
• Picturesque village location
• Good sized gardens
• Off-road parking
• EPC Rating E-44
£525,000 Llanbedr Dyffryn Clwyd
Abergele
Ref: WR9229
OIRO £450,000
Ref: RN2086
• Spacious detached house
• Three bedrooms
• Detached family home
• Four double bedrooms
• Recently reduced
• Tiered landscaped garden
• Four reception rooms
• Gardens to front and rear
• Double garage
• Off-road parking
• Integral single garage
• Views to front and rear
• No onward chain
• EPC Rating E-44
• Ample off-road parking
• EPC Rating D-59
NWM 2022 Page 43
MAGAZINE
Page 44 NWM 2022
New location for an established brand North Wales Motor Company has announced that North Wales Honda is moving to a new location from the 1st February 2022.
Honda will share the KIA showroom on Argyll Road for nine
over two locations. Having all our staff in one location from
months, while its new showroom is being built. The new
1st February is going to be better for our team, and more
long-term location is next door to the Magistrates courts and
importantly our customers,” continued Jade. “As a team we
opposite the brand-new Marks and Spencer’s on the corner of
have worked tirelessly over the past nine years to deliver the
Argyll Road and Conway Road in Llandudno.
best sales and aftersales experience in North Wales in terms of facilities and equipment. With a state-of-the-art workshop,
“The relocation will offer an even better customer experience
new showroom, improved customer parking and used car
and we can continue employing more local people,” commented
sales display we are now aiming even higher.”
Jade Paveley, North Wales Motor Co’s marketing director. “The build has been delayed by Covid, and we are now playing catch
North Wales Motor Company was formed in 2021 to give its
up while ensuring the service we provide to our customers
customers more choice and a better aftersales service. Both
is not affected. Sharing the former Peugeot garage, we will be
Honda and Kia brands reside under the North Wales Motor
even closer to Marks & Spencer’s exciting new store, with Asda
Company name, and help the company to deliver a broad
also in walking distance. Our new home, when it’s built, will
range of petrol, hybrid and electric cars.
deliver an even better experience for our customer’s –whether it’s for an MOT or buying a new or used car.”
“The multiple choices we now offer in the centre of Llandudno provide numerous skilled job opportunities for local people
North Wales Motor Company’s technical manager, Ben Hall,
demonstrating our commitment to North Wales with the
has designed and overseen the build of the new workshop
investments we have made,” added Jade.
over the last six months. This new workshop benefits from eight service and repair ramps, two MOT bays and an internal
“We want to thank every one of our customers who have
paint shop. It has been future proofed with nine electric
supported us this year and we are truly excited to show
charge points.
you our new premises in the New Year. Our team are more than happy to discuss any questions you may have about
“The last few months have been difficult splitting resources
our move.”n
NWM 2022 Page 45
MAGAZINE
Co me a nd s ay he llo... T o y ou r l o ca l in su ra n c e b ro k e rs ! W e a r e b a ck in the o f f ic e a n d re a dy t o get y o u g r ea t co v e r a t the r ig ht p ri c e. Yo u ca n alwa ys ca ll us i f t hat f ee l s m o re c o m for t ab l e.
10% OF F
AL L NE W I NSU RAN CE P OL I CI E S*
C OL W Y N B A Y B RA D Y & J O N E S
03 3 3 2 0 26 4 73 C AE RN A R FO N B RU C E E D W A R D S, J O NE S
03 3 3 4 0 0 8 7 55
DENBIGH GEORGE WILLIAMS
01 74 5 6 0 7 4 71
W RE X H A M IN S U RA N C E
01 9 78 4 47 8 0 3
* Cal l y ou r l oca l b r a nc h & qu o t e “ 1 0% OF F ” p ri o r t o qu o t a t i o n. O nl y v a l i d o n p o l ic y p r e m i u m s b e t we e n £ 2 0 0 - £7 5 0 . 1 0 % d is c oun t app li ed to pr e m iu m . A u th o r i se d an d r e g u l a t e d by t h e Fi n a nc ia l C o n d u c t A ut ho r it y ( 3 0 5 56 0 ) . R e g i s t e r e d in E ng l a nd & W a l e s ( No. 4 7 8 7 9 41 ) . R e g i st e r e d o f f i c e : 7 t h F l o o r , C o rn E xc ha n g e , 55 M a rk L a n e , L o n d o n , E C 3 R 7 N E
Page 46 NWM 2022
Business NEWS Rydal Penrhos hosts rugby league team Rydal Penrhos welcomed one of the country’s most
Castleford at Wembley.
prestigious rugby league sides from December 20th
Instead of going abroad
to 22nd, where St Helens utilised areas such as the
in the current COVID-19
fitness suite, sports hall and trained on Rydal Penrhos’
climate, St Helens have chosen to stay closer to home and
exceptional New Field playing area during their pre-
Rydal Penrhos took every possible precaution to ensure
season camp. They stayed at the school’s accommodation
their time at the school was safe in accordance with Welsh
throughout their stay and Rydal Penrhos staff put on a
Government guidelines. This is the latest high-profile club
special Christmas dinner for the squad and coaches at
or organisation to use Rydal Penrhos’ incredible facilities,
the Ferguson Centre. St Helens sealed a third consecutive
with Glamorgan Cricket Club and Cricket Wales holding a
Super League final thanks to two tries by Kevin Naiqama
recent coaching day at the school that was led by former
in a dramatic encounter against Catalans Dragons in
England international Matthew Maynard. During their time
October, which represents a remarkable achievement
at the school, the Saints’ first-team squad participated in a
and one that head coach Kristian Woolf is keen to build
special coaching session on Tuesday 21st December, which
on after agreeing to stay on for the 2022 campaign. Woolf
members of the Rydal Penrhos community were welcome to
led Saints to their seventh Super League title in his first
attend. A special presentation of the new first-team Rydal
season in charge, while he has since overseen their first
Penrhos kits by the visiting rugby league juggernauts also
Challenge Cup triumph in 13 years with victory against
took place.
The legal position of clearing snow As we move into the depths of winter, farmers and landowners are being reminded of their liabilities for clearing snow and ice from their property. Edward Nutting, an agricultural law specialist at Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors in Conwy, says landowners need to take “reasonable care” to ensure people visiting their farm can do so safely. “On private farm drives, tracks and paths where people need to walk or drive to reach the farm, as with all other owners and occupiers of property, there is a duty of care owed under the Occupiers Liability Act 1984,” he explained. “If you need to clear snow or ice, it should not make the problem worse, which can sometimes happen when snow is not properly cleared and is then replaced by black ice. Additional gritting may help demonstrate that reasonable care has been taken. Ultimately, it comes down to practicalities, and if the decision is taken to clear the snow, then as many steps as reasonably possible should be taken to leave it safe.” Edward added that extra care should be taken when it came to clearing other roads not on the farm, as councils were legally responsible for the public highway. “If a private person decides to clear the road and an accident then occurs, the injured party could have a potential claim against the person who cleared the snow – but only if it can be proved on the balance of probabilities that the clearance led to the injury. Of course, local councils do not have the resources to clear snow on all rural roads, so farmers will understandably feel the need to clear roads themselves. If snow clearing is needed where people have to gain access to the farm then it should be done thoroughly, and if there is the risk of thawing and refreezing it would be wise to apply grit to prevent or reduce the formation of ice.”
NWM 2022 Page 47
MAGAZINE
Page 48 NWM 2022
Expert Focus Dr. Kathryn Ellis, Programme Leader and Senior Lecturer in Social and Cultural History at Wrexham Glyndŵr University, explains what to expect from this diverse course…
How did you get into this career?
retired even. We’re always interested in looking at students’
When I was at school my interests were in humanities subjects,
experiences whether it be professional or academic, and we
specifically languages, English literature, and history. I was
always encourage applicants to get in touch with us if they’re
guided into a career in law and thought it was the natural
unsure. Some people feel like embarking on the degree is
progression from those subjects, utilising those analytical
beyond them which can hold them back. If they have an
and communication skills I’d learnt. However, when I started
enthusiasm for the subject and the ability to be part of a team
studying law I realised I missed the curiosity I had in studying
and acquire new skills, then we can support them.
the past and I didn’t truly enjoy it. I decided to follow my heart and change to history which was my main passion
What type of work are you involved with outside of the
and I’ve never regretted it. I think it’s incredibly important to
programme?
think about your career choices and skillsets but also study
I am fortunate that my career filters into other aspects of my
something you absolutely love. Throughout my studies I’ve had
life and my personal interests in a range of social and cultural
some fantastic research opportunities. I completed my PhD on
historical themes helps me to learn alongside my students. I’m
the procedural workings in the House of Commons in the 17th
particularly interested in the lives of women in Wales in the
Century, so I spent a lot of time in London in the House of Lords
18th Century, so my research is often on the same lines as the
record office and the British Library. I’m extremely fortunate to
kind of things I teach on the programme. I’m also the joint editor
have a career in a subject I love.
of a local journal ‘Transactions of the Denbighshire Historical Society’, which is also a platform my students can engage with.
What can students expect from your course?
We publish the best student essays that are submitted to us,
We’re interested in a range of themes on the Social and Cultural
so it gives students a real insight of what it’s like to have their
History programme, from crime and fashion to family life,
research published.
politics and art across a range of time periods, from the Roman era to the modern age. In the first year we concentrate on
What opportunities are open to students after they
building our students’ skills, so we help them with research,
graduate?
communication and essay writing alongside looking at the
History is such a broad degree and I think that is an advantage
subject matter. We look at the value of history in today’s society
as the current job market is so fluid. There are so many career
and consider how looking at the past can help us understand
routes available to our students because they learn such a
the present. In the second year we mainly look at the 15th-18th
diverse set of skills that can be applied to many professions.
Century period from Henry VIII and his wives to the American
We’ve had students go on to history-based work such as
colonies and the Georgians. We take the students on field trips
teaching, archiving, becoming a museum curator or working in
to a range of National Trust houses to give them an idea of
the heritage sector. Alternatively, we’ve had students who have
how people lived then. Students also have the opportunity to
gone into post-graduate study and utilised their skills to enter
complete a work placement whether it be in a record office,
into law, the finance sector, management and policing. There
museum or with the National Trust. Many of our students have
are so many routes to go down and countless careers that
gone on to gain paid employment from their work experience
require students of a certain calibre who can prove they’ve got
or continue in a volunteering capacity. The third and final year
the key skills of a historian – an analytical mindset, excellent
of the programme gives students the opportunity to use their
research skills, and strong communication.
skills and passions to create a specialised research project for their dissertation. They use the knowledge and diverse themes
What is your best advice for anyone wanting to pursue a
they’ve studied in previous modules to find a topic that they’re
history degree?
passionate about and want to explore in more detail.
Always follow your passions and get involved with any history related activities. There are so many opportunities to get
How can students get a place on the programme?
involved in volunteering or joining local history groups. Here
We’re keen to take on students that have a real passion and
at Glyndŵr we host taster days in the spring and summer
enthusiasm for history. We have our basic entry requirements
which offer a flavour of what the degree is like. We also host a
on the website where we look at related A-levels and things
number of short courses which can give applicants a good idea
like that, but we often have students who haven’t come
of what the programme entails and the academic level they
to us the traditional way and may be changing careers or
need to be at. n
NWM 2022 Page 49
MAGAZINE
Join Our Pre-School Safe, Happy and Thriving Children From aged 2. Including Forest School, Coastal School, Swimming, Yoga, PE, Music, Ballet and lots more.
admissions@rydalpenrhos.com • 01492 530155 Page 50 NWM 2022
www.rydalpenrhos.com
Learning by heart Our Pre-School mantra is about trying new things, letting children explore the world we live in, have adventures, and learn along the way, thus allowing each child to discover more about themselves socially, physically, emotionally, and academically. Provision both for those children that have been identified as having learning needs and those who are gifted and talented is vital to the early development of our children and something we track carefully with the use of a key workers allocated specifically to a child. We are fortunate to have exceptional facilities that enable Wellies are an essential part of the uniform at Rydal Penrhos
our children to thrive further. Rydal Penrhos has its own
Pre-School… Creating happy, confident and resilient children
swimming pool, Forest School, Music rooms and Dance rooms,
and young adults has never been more important for schools –
situated just a stone’s throw from the Colwyn Bay beach,
a mission we take very seriously here at Rydal Penrhos where
which is the home for our Coastal School activities and, as we
children start from as young as two years old.
say, wellies are essential!
We are fast approaching a time when our new Pre-School
Communication is another of our most important jobs. It can be
children will never have known a time without COVID-19. Most
a nerve-wracking experience leaving your child in the care
of their life so far may have been spent with people wearing
of others for the first time, but Rydal Penrhos Pre-School staff
masks and they may potentially have had some or all the
are constantly keeping parents updated on the “Evidence Me”
normal activities small children take part in restricted in some
app, which shows what the children are doing during the day
way or another.
with photos and descriptions, encouraging interaction from family members.
Rydal Penrhos Pre-School is the perfect setting for young children, an education provider, not a nursery, an environment
Pre-School children also benefit from trips out to further
where it is all about helping the children to learn. An
enhance their overall experiences and early development
environment focused on building a child’s self-esteem and
along with wrap-around care for families until 6pm, and a
confidence by making sure they feel safe and happy. We
Holiday Club run by their very own teacher Ms. Spencer.
see each child as an individual with their own passions and challenges, and we treat them accordingly.
Pre-Schoolers are part of the Rydal Penrhos family. Everyone from Pre-School up to Year 6 eats, plays, and dances together.
It is honestly hard to imagine a more joyful place to begin a
Our recent Nativity Production “Lights, Camel, Action” was a
lifetime of education than at Rydal Penrhos Pre-School. The
fine example of this and an absolute triumph!
teaching team, headed by manager Letitia Spencer, who also teaches ballet and yoga which the children enjoy enormously,
Pre-School forms the bridge between home and school
have hit every challenge and hurdle that Covid-19 has thrown
and is a young child’s first experience of an educational
at them running, they have been making life not only normal
environment. It is therefore an important stepping stone in a
for the children but wonderful – with a song in their heart, a
child’s life and there is no better place than Rydal Penrhos for
spring in their step and an awful lot of giggling along the way.
this transition. n
Learning how to learn is one of the first skills taught and from as early as two, our children begin to learn the basics: how to read, write and work with numbers, following the “Foundation Phase Profile”. But this more traditional classroom education
John Waszek is the Principal of Rydal Penrhos
is extended and enhanced using the wider school facilities for dancing, music, PE (Physical Education) and swimming as well as exploring the forest and the coast.
NWM 2022 Page 51
Independent Day & Boarding School for ages 9-19 MAGAZINE
ISA Awards 2020 Winners
Award winning education set in a 30 acre Tudor Estate, nestled between Snowdonia National Park and the North Wales coastline
Outstanding Sports Provision (Small School)
ADMISSIONS FOR SEPTEMBER 2022 OPEN
FREEDOM TO FLOURISH REGISTER AT WWW.STDAVIDSCOLLEGE.CO.UK
GLODDAETH HALL, LLANDUDNO LL30 1RD | ADMISSIONS@STDAVIDSCOLLEGE.CO.UK | TEL: +44 (0)1492 875974
Page 52 NWM 2022
EDUCATION NEWS Owain Evans invited to train with Wales U20 rugby squad St David’s College has revealed that
one of its exceptionally talented young rugby stars has been training with the Wales Under-20 squad. Owain Evans has also been selected for the squad to play against Scotland Development. It’s a fantastic achievement as Owain, at 18, is training a year ahead of his age group. If he impresses the coaches at the WRU training academy at the Vale of Glamorgan, then he could be picked to play for Wales during the forthcoming Six Nations Under-20 Championships. It would be the first time a St David’s pupil has ever been
is hoping to further his studies at University. “Owain is
called to play for Wales, and it would be a dream come true
walking on water at the moment,” commented Director of
for Owain as he’s always harboured an ambition to play for
Sport, Dan Lycett. “He’s a very intelligent player with the
his country. Owain plays for RGC (Rygbi Gogledd Cymru)
way he manipulates the ball. Wales became interested in
the regional team for the North Wales Rugby Development
him when RGC played the Osprey’s development squad
Region, Llangefni Rugby Club, and is Captain for the 1stXV.
and he ended up scoring three tries against them. He’s
Owain also excels academically and joined the school
fantastic off the pitch excelling academically, the world is
after gaining a raft of A* and A grades in his GCSE’s. He
very much his oyster.”
is studying maths, PE, physics and biology A-levels and
Image courtesy of Tony Bale
Motor vehicle student faces tense World Finals wait
A Rhyl College-based Motor Vehicle student who won a silver medal at the WorldSkills UK finals last year has gone one better, claiming gold in this year’s Vehicle Body Repair competition and being crowned the best new talent in the industry. 20-year-old Tiler Moorcroft-Jones now faces a tense wait to see if he has booked a seat on the plane to Shanghai to represent the UK at the global finals next year. The Coleg Llandrillo student pitted his skills against five of the best young Vehicle Body Repair students from across the length and breadth of the UK during the tense national finals, which were held at Cardiff & Vale College. All six had to tackle a range of different challenges within a set time period. These included detailed jig work, changing a quarter panel within five hours, and repairing a wing without using filler. Tiler, who lives in Johnstown and is employed by Body Perfect in Wrexham, combines his work commitments with his training at Coleg Llandrillo’s Rhyl campus. “I’m absolutely over the moon with the gold and can’t wait to see if I will be representing the UK in Shanghai next year,” commented Tiler, who now has ‘the full set’ medal-wise, after initially claiming bronze at 2019’s Skills Competition Wales finals.
NWM 2022 Page 53
EDUCATION NEWS MAGAZINE
and began accepting donations to assist the Conwy Home-Start appeal – a local community network of trained volunteers and expert support helping families with young children through their challenging times. This has once again received a tremendous response from the school community, with Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6) collecting a huge array of gifts that were donated to the Prep across every year group. Once all items were collected, members of the
Rydal Penrhos pupils support good causes
in order to give themselves time to wrap and distribute them
Rydal Penrhos is very proud of its charitable work throughout
to the Rydal Penrhos family for their incredible generosity,
the academic year. This is something that forms a key
which comes following a fantastic BBC Children in Need Day –
component of the school’s ethos and has been prevalent
complete with a day-long Dance-a-Thon – which raised more
across campus with initiatives and fundraising days for
than £1,600 collectively. A large number of items were also
worthy causes across the North Wales area and beyond
donated to the school’s annual Harvest Food Drive, which saw
during the autumn term. During the Christmas festivities, the
an exceptional amount distributed to the Conwy Food Bank
school launched a campaign to support those less fortunate
and the Kind Bay Initiative.
charity have collected these generous donations to local families in need. The school is enormously grateful
Celebrations at official opening of Xplore!
Wrexham’s Science Discovery Centre has had its long-awaited official opening, marked with a special ribboncutting ceremony. Xplore!, which is now based at the heart of the town centre on Henblas Street, has been open to the public for some months and has already welcomed a number of visitors including Minister for the Economy, Vaughan Gething MS. However, due to the pandemic, this was the first opportunity staff, stakeholders and dignitaries have had to safely gather together to celebrate the launch of the centre in its new location. The centre, run as a charity owned by Wrexham Glyndwr University, first opened on the university’s campus in 2003 as Techniquest Glyndwr – and continued to grow until reaching the stage when new premises were needed. In moving to Henblas Street, the centre has breathed life back into a space which had remained empty for many years, a building fondly remembered by local people as the old TJ Hughes department store. The centre has been developed with a multi-million pound investment from Wrexham Glyndŵr University, the Inspiring Science Fund (Welcome Trust) and the Targeted Regeneration Investment Programme (TRIP) for Wales. At the opening ceremony, the Deputy Mayor of Wrexham, Councillor Brian Cameron (pictured) was on hand to cut the ribbon.
Page 54 NWM 2021 2022
NWM 2022 Page 55
MAGAZINE
Community
News
Why do people choose the Abbeyfield Colwyn Bay Society? Residents come from all over to settle in North Wales. Take Jenny, who had her own interior design company in South Africa, visited North Wales to stay with a friend and decided she loved North Wales. She decided to move to Abbeyfield after realising she needed more support and has been there since 2016. Jenny enjoys
Safety number one priority at North Wales law firm Staff at a North Wales law firm have reassured
painting and keeping in touch with her friends and family all
clients that safety remains the number one priority
over the world. Meanwhile Pam, a keen Bridge enthusiast, moved
as they continue to provide legal support throughout
to Glan Conwy from Cheshire after a very successful career as a
the Coronavirus pandemic. Edward Nutting
physiotherapist, and subsequently decided on Abbeyfield as she
(pictured), of Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors in Conwy,
could remain independent and still enjoy Bridge while taking
said that although lawyers were currently working
advantage of not having to cook and clean. Pam has been with
from home whenever possible, they were easily
Abbeyfield since 2019. Abbeyfield also has people local to the area,
accessible to speak to clients. “The advice in Wales
such as Myfanwy who had a long career as a teacher in North
has been for people to work from home for some
Wales and, at 90 years old, still walks daily to Rhos promenade.
time now, so we are well used to working remotely,”
Gwladys, a local to Rhos-on-Sea, can see the house she was born
he said. “But I want to be clear to clients old and new
in from her lounge window. She has a large extended family close
that our offices are still open to receive documents,
by but decided to move into Abbeyfield in 2016 to stop her family
and our lawyers are very much available. We are
worrying about her being lonely, despite their many visits. Oliver
trying to continue the practice of meeting clients
was a hospital doctor and has enjoyed a long retirement but his
by video call, or of course a good old-fashioned
family decided after the loneliness of the pandemic he needed
telephone call, but we are still happy to meet face-to-
company and good food. If you are looking help a family member
face if that is the preferred option. Anyone visiting
to move, Abbeyfield has a guest room at Alexandra Road where
our offices in Conwy can be assured that safety is
people can come and experience communal living before deciding
the top priority, and all necessary precautions will be
on their future.
taken.”
www.abbeyfield.com
www.lblaw.co.uk
Page 56 NWM 2022
Calendars, diaries and almanacs
Have you had your new calendar yet, or opened the pages of a new diary? In the past, at the start of a new year, the old printed almanac would be removed from a string on the side of the mantelpiece, replacing it with a clean new one. The almanac predicted the minor events of the coming months, and also included fair dates, a calendar, some poems, and some advertisements. It was also where older people would record the main events of the farm, often in fairly garbled handwriting. Between the publication of the first in 1680, and the last in 1953, many printers published several sets of Welsh almanacs, hundreds of which are in the National Library’s collections. The pioneer was Thomas Jones ‘the Almanacer’ (1648-1713). A native of Tre’r-ddol, near Corwen, Jones moved to London as a youngster, turning his back on the craft of tailoring, and started printing instead. By license in 1679, he obtained an official monopoly on printing Welsh almanacs, and the following year he published his first almanac, beginning a popular annual series that lasted until the year of his death. After moving to Shrewsbury, Thomas Jones made an invaluable contribution to the literature of Wales by publishing books, but it was as a publisher and printer of the annual almanac that he gained the affection of the ordinary folk, and reached a wide audience. People looked forward to reading his vague prophecies, details of his own sweaty diseases, as well as his sardonic criticism of contemporary society. Today, we will buy printed calendars or diaries in shops or use them on our computers. But, when turning the leaves of the old almanacs during the Christmas season, one can’t help thinking of the generations of homeless vagrants who travelled from door-to-door, and from area-to-area in Wales, to sell these little booklets in the past. They earned a few pennies for their labour, a little bit of profit in the harshness of winter. To learn more about the Almanacs the collection at the Library, visit: https://www.library.wales/discover/digital-gallery/printed-material/the-welsh-almanac-collection Maredudd ap Huw (Curator of Manuscripts)
North Wales entrepreneur unveils new leg cover The founder of North Wales’ Limb-art has unveiled a world first – a “I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!” prosthetic leg cover. Former Paralympic swimmer and medalist Mark Williams, who lost his leg in a cycling accident at the age of ten, has designed the eye-catching leg cover. It depicts the famous Gwrych Castle and contestants from this year’s show. “As the hit show is being filmed right on our doorstep we wanted to show our support by making the world’s only ‘I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here!’ prosthetic leg cover,” explained Mark. “I set up Limb-art, which designs and manufactures prosthetic leg covers, to help other people who have lost a leg. As well as giving prosthetic legs a better shape, our eye-catching leg covers allow the wearer to express their personality and gives them confidence. They are also a great talking point. I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been stopped in the street and been told my leg looks amazing.” Limb-art has won numerous awards for its prosthetic leg covers. Last month Mark was named as ‘Entrepreneur for good’ winner at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards. www.limb-art.com
NWM 2022 Page 57
Ymunwch â ni yn un o’n
digwyddiadau
agored
Yn bersonol neu ar-lein
Join us at one of our
open events In person or online
Cadwch le/ Book now
wgu.ac.uk/open
Walking
world
A BRYN ALYN CIRCUIT
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW J Distance: 3.7 miles/5.95 kilometres J Time: Allow around 2.5 – 3.0 hours J Start: Park in the large layby on A494
The Clwydian range of hills roughly run along the border between
just south of Llanferres between Mold
Denbighshire and Flintshire and have been designated an Area of
and Ruthin. The layby has a bus stop
Outstanding Natural Beauty. These lovely summits offer superb high-level
and an information board for Bryn
walking on mostly good paths and give stunning views in all directions.
Alyn in it
Be prepared for steep ascents and descents if you intend to explore them, but generally they are friendly and benevolent hills which rise to their highest point on mighty Moel Ffamau at 1,821 ft./555 metres. From most areas of the Clwydian Hills towns such as Ruthin and Denbigh look tiny far below you and seem a long way away with the network of farmers’ fields
J Grid Ref: SJ 187598 J Nearest postcode: CH7 5SN J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer 265 – Clwydian Range
J What to expect: This walk uses a
that surround them making pretty patterns in the landscape. Offa’s Dyke
combination of field paths and hill
Long Distance footpath follows the crest of the Clwydian range on the final
paths and tracks which are fairly
stages of its epic 177 miles/285 km from Chepstow in the south of Wales to
clear throughout apart from in one
Prestatyn in the north. The Clwydian Hills also have a chain of high-level hill
small section. It also involves some lane
forts along them and the largest of these (which is also one of the biggest
walking. There are plenty of steep ups
hill forts in Wales) covers around 21 hectares and is on the 1,440 ft./440
and downs with some rough going in
metre summit of the hill of Plenycloddiau. This month’s walk climbs to one
places and one or two awkward stiles
of the more unusual of the Clwydian tops and does a circuit of Bryn Alyn
to negotiate. You will need full hill
on reasonably good paths and tracks. Bryn Alyn is a limestone summit and
walking gear and a map and compass
has three separate tops the highest of which rises to 1,338 ft./408 metres.
with the ability to use them. The route
Our walk does not visit the highest summit, which is not the best viewpoint
should be avoided in bad weather
anyway. We do however climb one of the summits which is a magnificent spot with great views in all directions. Although not long, this is a strenuous walk with plenty of steep ascents and descents, but the reward for all the
J Dogs: OK on leads J Suitable for: Experienced hill walkers J Refreshments: Best heading for Mold
effort is an airy outing in spectacular surroundings. Bryn Alyn was once
or Ruthin where there are cafés, pubs
ignored in favour of some of the other Clwydian peaks such as Moel Ffamau
and shops. There is also a café at
but things have changed here and the hill is now gaining in popularity
Loggerheads Country Park north of
and is especially loved by dog walkers. On this outing you will encounter
Llanferres
fields, forests, limestone features and open fell side in this varied round. You will need full hill walking gear and a bright day if you want to get the best from this outing and don’t forget the camera as you will get plenty of opportunities to use it!
NWM 2022 Page 59
WALK DETAILS
Pen-y-M
START/ FINISH
2
5
4
Near the start
3
3 Retrace your steps back to the track and go left to pass through a gate and descend beyond on a grassy track. In a short distance take a faint path left before a low maker post by bushes is reached – if you reach this you have gone too far.
START
Follow the path as it become clearer to pass through a wall gap and reach a gate in a fence. Cross an awkward stile right of the
Exit the layby over a stile near the bus stop at the
gate and take the path beyond towards a quarry. Descend the
north end by a sign for Bryn Alyn. Take a track up
main path steeply towards buildings below to cross a stile in a
the right side of a field beyond the stile. Cross a
fence and wall. Once over continue ahead to reach a lane.
https://openstreetmap.org/copyright
https://openstreetmap.org
Copyright OpenStreetMap and contributors, under an open licence
bridge over a brook to cut half right over a field to pass through a gate by a hedge. Continue by a hedge
Points of interest on this section
right with a stream next to it to pass through another
J The massive quarry you see on this section is Burley Hill
gate into woods. Cross a stream on stones and planks
Quarry where limestone is quarried.
and follow the path by the stream to pass by a metal beyond. Rise steadily in trees to pass through a gate
4 Go left on the lane descending to a junction left with a driveway for houses. Leave the lane to fork left towards the
and continue in the woods beyond to pass houses and
houses to reach a gate and stile right and follow the footpath
reach a track junction by a ‘byway’ sign.
sign to cross the stile and go left to pass buildings and rise
barrier. Continue uphill in the woods on the path
beyond to reach a fence corner. Follow the improving path besides the fence. Rise steadily to cross a stile and shortly go 2 Go right to pass houses and shortly after the track becomes
left down steps at a path junction. At the bottom of the steps
surfaced reach a stile and footpath left. Cross the stile to take
cross a stile to continue ahead on a path to reach a junction
the marked footpath beyond rising steeply through trees.
with a track.
Follow the path as it winds a steep way up through woodland. Take a few paces forward to reach a track and go left on it and
5 Go right on the track through trees to reach your outbound route by houses. Go right on your outbound route to pass
climb steeply – the angle eases further on as you pass through
through a gate and continue on your outbound route to pass
a limestone valley. Then the track steepens again – continue
the metal barrier. Continue by a stream to cross it on stepping
on the main track to curve left to join a fence. Continue on the
stones and planks. Pass through a gate to go down the left
track and just after it bends right (and just before it rises to a
side of a field. Pass through another gate continuing on your
gate) take a narrow path left to climb to one of Bryn Alyn’s three
outbound route to cross the next field and cross a bridge. Rise
tops and a great viewpoint passing through a broken wall just
up a track beyond the bridge to cross a stile back to the layby
before you reach it.
and the start.
Climb to exit the trees and cross a stile left of two small gates.
Points of interest on this section
J Bryn Alyn is a limestone summit and has three separate tops the highest of which rises to 1,338 ft./408 metres
J The views from the top we visit are extensive and include Mole Ffamau which is the highest summit in the Clwydian range at 1,821 ft./555 metres
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 inaccuracies encountered. You also must ensure that travelling to any location does not breach any current lockdown restrictions.
Page 60 NWM 2022
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MAGAZINE
Need to expand your class space for the January fitness rush? Rydal Penrhos’ sporting facilities and pool are available to hire/rent For more information contact events@rydalpenrhos.com or call 01492 530155
www.rydalpenrhos.com
Page 62 NWM 2022
e m o c o t s g n i th f o The shape Once the Christmas season comes to a conclusion and the cheeseboard, wine and other treats become a distant memory, the time comes to focus on health and either maintaining or boosting fitness levels. New Year’s resolutions about getting in shape are
training camps with us. The school’s incredible New Field
commonplace throughout most households in the United
sporting venue – which has its own pavilion – regularly hosts
Kingdom. Blowing away the cobwebs in January after the
Cricket Wales youth matches and has seen iconic figures such
festive period is something many aspire to – but find difficult
as Andrew Flintoff attend.
to accomplish for one reason or another. Rydal Penrhos has a vast array of facilities, including a Sports It can be quite overwhelming with social media filled with
Hall and Fitness Suite that can be used for netball, basketball
posts about body transformations and adverts for cut
and indoor cricket nets, with the astroturf surface providing a
price gym membership. Couple this with work and family
floodlit training area for pupils and clubs across the region to
commitments and it’s not hard to see why many people fail to
utilise.
meet their objectives. The school also has its own outdoor cricket nets area, no There are a plethora of fitness groups and trainers that can
fewer than five immaculate rugby pitches, seven outdoor
help you accomplish your individual goals in the short and
tennis courts, two squash courts, four Eton Fives courts and
long-term. For any groups such as this looking to expand,
a dedicated short game golf area for anyone wishing to hone
Rydal Penrhos has first-class facilities to give them and those
their bunker, chipping or putting skills.
attending another major boost. The school was recently used by three-time defending Super League champions St Helens for a special pre-season camp to further testify the outstanding facilities available that are used weekly by local clubs and teams in addition to prestigious organisations such as Cricket Wales and Glamorgan Cricket Cub, who recently held a coaching day at Rydal Penrhos. This also includes Welsh youth rugby, cricket, netball and hockey squads who hold residential
“THE GREAT FACILITIES AT RYDAL PENRHOS HAVE ENABLED ME TO OFFER MY CLIENTS AN ELITE, SPACIOUS AND FOCUSED ENVIRONMENT TO TRAIN IN. THE NEW MODERN EQUIPMENT, BIG SPACE AND HIGH LEVEL OF CLEANLINESS HAVE ALLOWED ME TO GROW MY BUSINESS OFFERING A WIDER RANGE OF FITNESS OPTIONS TO MORE PEOPLE.” SIMON LACEY (PERSONAL TRAINER)
And if that wasn’t enough, Rydal Penrhos has an RYA accredited Sailing and WaterSports Centre as part of its campus, and this is available to visiting groups. Rydal’s instructors can put together taster sessions or a day on the water for more qualified visitors, which has been part of the school’s history for more than 60 years – and something pupils absolutely love all through the academic year.
n
The school’s sporting facilities are available for evening and weekend hire and during all school holidays. For more information call 01492 530155 or email events@rydalpenrhos.com
NWM 2022 Page 63
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NWM 2021 Page 65
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
January’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st – April 20th) Don’t be in a rush to make important decisions about love and other close relationships. Spend some time talking about your future as having a mutual goal to work towards will strengthen loving ties. Be honest about your feelings. Your other half will be secretly pleased to listen. They may even feel compelled to reveal a secret they’ve been keeping to themselves.
LIBRA (September 24th – October 23rd) Embarking on a new venture is a fun idea as the year begins but you don’t have to act immediately. You would be wise to concentrate on tying up the loose-ends of any projects already begun. You’re determined to prove what you are capable of but trying to do too much at once will take a toll on your health. Think about getting outside more and getting some exercise.
TAURUS (April 21st – May 21st) Thoughts on travel and all the holidays you had hoped to enjoy in the last few years but haven’t had a chance to, could lead you to making a booking. Knowing that very soon you will be heading off for a welldeserved break will feel exciting and liberating. News from overseas around the 8th could cause some havoc when plans may need to be rearranged quickly.
SCORPIO (October 24th – November 22nd) You’re on the lookout for new ideas and you won’t be disappointed with plans that come under discussion as the year begins. On the downside, retrograde planets suggest that in your eagerness to try something new you could take on more than you can handle. Avoid problems by tackling one thing at a time and this will ensure steady progress.
GEMINI (May 22nd – June 21st) There will be advantages and disadvantages to your overactive imagination. As the year begins, creative ideas will make jobs you are working on more interesting. At the same time, any suspicions you may have about someone not being loyal or trustworthy should be kept to yourself. These thoughts will prove to be unfounded and could ruin a special relationship.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd – December 21st) You had been intending to spend less over Christmas only it may not have quite worked out as you had hoped. It’s a New Year, so make a new start with your finances. When you feel in control of your financial situation, life may not necessarily get easier but you will worry less and be able to relax and have more time to devote other things.
CANCER (June 22nd – July 23rd) Sit tight as the year begins. When it comes to partnership concerns, this isn’t the time to rush things. Your patience will pay off later in the month when joint matters will improve dramatically. If there is anything in a friendship or love affair that needs to be cured, this is a good month to do what you can to restore your relationship to good health. LEO (July 24th – August 23rd) Take good care of your health. Make it a resolution to get plenty of rest, prepare nourishing meals and exercise regularly. If you have become too reliant on an addictive medication get professional help to overcome this problem. Arguments in the workplace won’t bode well for your job and can be avoided if you keep well away from someone you don’t normally get on well with. VIRGO (August 24th – September 23rd) If you’re unhappy with a present romance don’t be too quick to break off this relationship. It may be you have reached a stage where you need to spice things up and find exciting things to do together. Suggesting fun ideas will keep boredom at bay. Whip some romance into your relationship before you both start losing interest.
Page 66 NWM 2020
CAPRICORN (December 22nd – January 20th) The new moon in your sign as the year begins makes this a great time to gain a greater understanding of where you are at in life. Whether you are thinking of relocating or making a fresh start in your career, the important thing is to express your feelings, state your intentions and then make a plan on how to bring this goal about. AQUARIUS (January 21st – February 19th) Strengthening your spiritual and emotional foundations will be a priority as the year begins. You might feel as if you have lost sight of your long-term aims and as if you are going nowhere. Spending more time on your own will make you realise how little you need to cultivate contentment. You’ve been concentrating too long on other people’s needs and not your own. PISCES (February 20th – March 20th) Mystical and spiritual matters will be a big attraction as the year begins. You will be keen to find out more about other people’s beliefs and religions. This will lead to some enlightening conversations. Discussions will be deep and meaningful and you could discover you have become the person your family, friends and workmates want to confide in.
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