JUNE 2022
! EE FR
MAGAZINE
What’s On? THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO GETTING THE BEST OUT OF NORTH WALES THIS JUNE
A day to remember CELEBRATING 70 YEARS OF ROYAL CONNECTIONS
WALK THIS WAY FROM HARLECH TO DYFFRYN ARDUDWY...
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MAGAZINE We want to hear from you!
DEAR READER
I know that every month I harp on about how lucky we are to live in such a beautiful corner of the world, but never has it been quite so important as it is today. As the cost of living continues to soar, the
choice. From strolling along a promenade to
residents of North Wales are simply blessed
hiking up a stunning mountain, North Wales
with a huge amount of free activities that
has it all.
can be found right here on our very doorstep. Cadw has supplied a fabulous walking route Wild swimming has increased ten fold in
that is worth following, from historic Harlech
popularity in recent years, and whether you
to the Neolithic site of Dyffryn Ardudwy –
prefer taking a dip in one of our many lakes
turn to page 73 to find out more.
or launching into the waves from a popular beach, you can be sure to find plenty of places to blow the cobwebs away! Of course, if you’d rather stay on dry land, then walking is the obvious (free!) activity of
Kate Hamilton Founding Editor
CELEBRATING 36 YEARS OF HELPFUL SERVICE AND SUCCESSFUL SELLING
Email: info@catocrane.co.uk & sell@lowerpercent.co.uk
www.catocrane.co.uk
Telephone Soon for Home Visit and Internet Appraisals
J Keep in touch. Send in your contributions, letters, photos and press releases and becomepart 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 £80. sales@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk
Getting the most out of North Wales needn’t cost the earth…
Cato Crane Auctioneers
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
Front cover image © Visit Wales
Cato Crane Auctioneers Liverpool Auction Rooms 6 Stanhope Street Liverpool, L8 5RF Chester and North Wales Tel: 01244 680055 Wirral Tel: 0151 342 2321
NWM 2022 Page 3
Page 4 NWM 2022
Contents
MAGAZINE
15
EDITOR
Kate Hamilton PUBLISHER
Grant Hamilton ART DIRECTOR
Simon Marriott ACCOUNTS
Sian Roberts
33
06 The Big Picture
Stadiwm Eirias Stadium has got a busy summer ahead…
09 What’s On?
The best events taking place in North Wales this June
13 You & Your Pet
37 Let the music play
At the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod
39 Food & drink
The region’s wining, dining and culinary scene
46 Homes & Interiors
How to get through fly season
A selection of homes that are currently on the market
15 The Queen’s Jubilee
Celebrating 70 years of Royal Connections
19 Break a leg!
53 In Business
North Wales business news and advice
Train with the best at Venue Cymru this summer
21 Four legged friends
Making a home in North Wales for all the family
22 Meet the owner…
59 Education
Learning in North Wales
65 Community News
A roundup of regional happenings
Sophie Reynolds owns three businesses in Rhos-on-Sea
69 Planning a funeral
27 Bird Watching
73 Walking
29 It’s show time…
77 In full swing
31 The historic house
79 Cycling
33 The circus is in town
81 Where to stay
With The North Wales Wildlife Trust
What to do when someone dies From Harlech to Dyffryn Ardudwy Golfing in North Wales
At Pontio Bangor
Get on your bike!
Exploring Plas Newydd
The best places to stay in North Wales
SABOTAGE comes to North Wales
82 Horoscopes
35 Denbighshire News
What does June have in store for you?
What’s happening in the county
53
CONTACT US editorial@northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales@northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@northwalesmagazine.co.uk whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk
79
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 by North Wales Magazine 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. Please note that some of the authors and companies featured may have paid in order to write their column or article. The publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in, or as a result of, any offer, competition, information, editorial or advertisement contained within the magazine. North Wales Magazine does not endorse any of the advertisements featured, or any of the author’s opinions. 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
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
Page 6 NWM 2022
Access All Eirias, the home of live music entertainment in North Wales, is bringing an unmissable selection of shows BACK to Eirias Stadium this summer! The first act to kick-off, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds with very special guests The Vaccines & Feeder will take to the stage on 18th June! On Saturday 13th August, the hottest ticket returns to Wales – Pete Tong & The Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Jules Buckley will bring his brand-new Ibiza Classics Show to Eirias with re-workings of more iconic dance tunes! Followed by pop-soul legends, Simply Red – who will play an exclusive North Wales show on Sunday 14th August! Tickets are on sale now from Gigantic.com.
NWM 2022 Page 7
MAGAZINE
Saturday 18 th June 2022 Stadiwm Eirias Stadium, Colwyn Bay TICKETS: ORCHARDLIVE.COM | GIGANTIC.COM VENUE CYMRU – 01492 872 000 Page 8 NWM 2022
n o s ’ t Wha The biggest and best events taking place in North Wales this June...
27th May – 11th June SABOTAGE Leading Welsh circus company,
3rd & 4th Bottomless Brunch
NoFit State, is back with a brand
This Jubilee
new large-scale Big Top show,
weekend the Y
SABOTAGE, which is performing
Review Restaurant
in Bangor at the beginning of
will be holding a
this month.
Bottomless Brunch.
www.nofitstate.org/sabotage
Enjoy a Brunch sharing platter, pancakes and Prosecco whilst
31st May – 4th June Jersey Boys The Internationally
enjoying the beautiful view of Llandudno’s sweeping bay. www.venuecymru.co.uk
sensation, Jersey Boys, is
3rd & 4th Battle of Rhuddlan
working its way back to
Join the re-enactors at Rhuddlan Castle today as they take
Llandudno! This smash
you back to the year 1075!
hit musical has won 65 major awards and has been seen by
cadw.gov.wales
acclaimed stage
over 27 million people worldwide. www.venuecymru.co.uk
2nd – 5th Men at Arms
Sunday 5th Discover Meadows Over half term visit Penrhyn Castle and discover meadows.
Beaumaris Castle welcomes fighting knights
Spot some honey bees, swoop like swallows and smell the
to the castle over the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee
dandelions in the sensory trail or pick up a spotter sheet and
Bank Holiday weekend! Come along and
learn about the wildlife supported by meadows.
train to be a knight in the Knight’s School for
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
children. Adults can have a go at learning some basic sword fighting skills too, and learn about weapons and archery in the displays and talks. cadw.gov.wales
Friday 3rd Feel Good Friday at Bangor Local Market lots of added fun and
Sunday 5th The Great Strait Raft Run
entertainment lined up for you on this special day!
From Y Felinheli
There’ll be live music with performances from the fabulous
(11am) rafts
community band ‘Ghostbuskers’ and the popular steel drum
proceed along
duo ‘Blend’ will also be providing the market with sweet beats
the Menai Strait to Porthaethwy (Menai Bridge),
throughout the afternoon. Alongside all the wonderful regular
through the notorious Swellies, passing beneath the
stalls there’ll be many new Artisans joining the market too, so
iconic Britannia and Menai bridges. A date for your
you can shop for gifts, treats, crafts, cakes and bakes – as well
diary… next year the 20th anniversary run takes place
as all your regular lifestyle essentials including fresh fruit,
on 28/5/23.
veg and meat.
www.greatstraitraftrun.co.uk
Bangor Market has got
www.theartisanmarketcompany.co.uk
NWM 2022 Page 9
Friday 10th An evening by the RIVER
MAGAZINE
Sunday 5th Summer of Stories
Join the North Wales Wildlife Trust for a beautiful evening down by the RIVER in
A celebration of Wales’ oral traditions, held across several
Llangollen as they team up with New Dot Cinema to bring
Cadw sites, including Conwy Castle today. Listen to stories
you a live indoor screening of ‘RIVER’ by Jennifer Peedon...
based on historical characters, legends and myths from across
a cinematic and musical odyssey that explores the
Wales. Drop in to listen to a story based on Welsh culture and
remarkable relationship between humans and rivers.
heritage. Each story can last up to 30 minutes. No booking
www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/river-tickets
required. cadw.gov.wales
Friday 17th Menopause The Musical 2
Sunday 5th Jubilee at the Castle
Hot flushes, mood swings, memory lapses, weight gain – these are a few
Celebrate the Queens Jubilee at Chirk
of our favourite menopausal things!
Castle. Go back to the 1950’s and play
Cruising Through Menopause is a
traditional games in the gardens with
hilarious, heartfelt, reassuring and unflinching look at the
picnics and afternoon teas. Dress up
joys of menopause and friendship.
for a photo as royalty under the Jubilee Arbour.
www.rhylpavilion.co.uk
www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Tuesday 7th Sunnyside Crafts
Friday 17th Ed Byrne – If I’m Honest Join Ed at Theatr Bryn Terfel tonight as he takes a long hard look at himself and tries to
The ladies have some lovely gift
decide if he has ANY traits that are worth passing on to
items, with some made from
his children.
wood and seaglass, plus some
www.pontio.co.uk
cute crochet dolls and handmade clothes for them. afonwen.co.uk
Wednesday 8th Creatures of the night
Saturday 18th Colwyn Bay Artisan Market You’ll discover a host of unique handmade artisan arts and crafts from local artists, designers and makers at the Colwyn Bay Artisan Market today. Alongside an array of artisan
A moderately strenuous walk at dusk around Gwaith Powdwr,
cheeses, breads, olives, chocolates, cakes and, of course, our
a post-industrial nature reserve, in the company of North
delightful street food trucks serving an impressive choice of
Wales Wildlife Trust reserve officer Rob Booth. Bring a torch
hot foods from around the world.
and be prepared for midges…
www.theartisanmarketcompany.co.uk
www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/events
8th & 9th Local Artist Tracey Davies Tracey has some wonderful paintings, plus some pet portraits photographs. Tracey
Saturday 18th Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds
paints in watercolour and
Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds have
acrylic, with a modern
announced an exclusive North Wales show
and fluid style.
at Stadiwm Eirias Stadium in Colwyn Bay
afonwen.co.uk
tonight. With brilliant support from The
which she copies from
Vaccines and Feeder. orchardlive.com
Page 10 NWM 2022
18th & 19th Big Wild Weekend!
Saturday 25th Deganwy Prom Day
Come to Llyn Brenig this
Pop along to Deganwy today
weekend, and join the North
for a family fun day with
Wales Wildlife Trust for
activities, stalls, food and
nature trails, pond dipping
refreshments – and lots of music!
and lots of other family fun. www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/events
25th & 26th Jackie at Jewels
Sunday 19th Father’s Day Distillery tour
Jackie makes different styles of jewellery, using lovely stones, plus
If you take a tour at our
she is able to take on some repairs to
Penderyn Llandudno Lloyd St
your own treasured broken pieces.
Distillery on Father’s Day all tour
afonwen.co.uk
parties will be provided with a free box of chocolates, and an extra tasting in the bar! Tours run from 10am to 4pm, and you can book a tour here: www.penderyn.wales/tours-llandudno
Sunday 26th Rufus Wainwright Orchard Live presents Rufus Wainwright plus special guests at
Sunday 19th Wardens’ Walk
Rhyl Pavillion Theatre tonight orchardlive.com
Join the North Wales Wildlife Trust wardens for a walk around Cemlyn Bay and a chance to hear all about the tern colony – one of the largest in Wales. www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/events
Tuesday 28th June Comedy Club Join Little Wander, in association with Pontio, for a night of
Wednesday 22nd The Ladyboys of Bangkok
comedy with three comedians from the British comedy circuit – a great night out! www.pontio.co.uk
The UK’s BIGGEST night out is back on tour with a new glamorous and beautiful showgirl’s – that just happen to
28th & 29th Spinning Masterclass with Jenni Frost
be men!
Jenni uses wool from her own flock of sheep, to
www.venuecymru.co.uk
make her wonderfully warm and cosy shawls,
production for 2022. Starring 16 of the world’s most
scarves and cushions. She will be busy weaving at Afonwen on both these days, and is most happy
Friday 24th The Unthanks
to chat and demonstrate this wonderful craft. afonwen.co.uk
The Unthanks return to live touring after two years off the road, showcasing forthcoming new album, Sorrows Away, their first non-project based record since 2015 BBC Folk Album Of The Year, Mount The Air. www.pontio.co.uk
Thursday 30th The Magic of Motown Prepare yourself for 40 back-to-back classic Motown hits, glittering costume changes, dazzling dance moves
Saturday 25th Dragon Boat Festival
and outstanding musicianship in this explosive concert experience. www.rhylpavilion.co.uk
40 foot-long Dragon Boats will return to Llyn Padarn today, racing in aid of St David’s Hospice stdavidshospice.org.uk
If you have an event taking place in North Wales that you
would like to be mentioned in our What’s On? listings then please email editorial@northwalesmagazine.co.uk
NWM 2022 Page 11
MAGAZINE
Page 12 NWM 2022
You & Your
Pet
HOW TO GET THROUGH FLY SEASON Temperatures aren’t the only thing that begins to rise towards the end of May into early June, the warmer weather is the perfect temperature for flies. This time of the year flies come out of hiding and begin reproducing at a rapid rate, which unfortunately isn’t great for our pets. During fly season some pets are more vulnerable to these pests than others. Rabbits and other small animals such as guinea pigs are more susceptible to a condition known as Flystrike. During the summer months, flies are quite often looking for a host to lay their eggs onto which can result in this condition. Flystrike is caused by the hatching eggs of flies that are embedded in their host. This can escalate at a very quick pace if not treated and the area can become badly infected. To
prevent the horse fly from biting your horse.
J The bot fly is known for laying its eggs on your horse’s
prevent your small pets from suffering there are a few steps
coat. Unfortunately, when your horse grooms itself it can
you can take during the warmer months:
often be ingested and in some cases, its larvae can cause
J Make sure your pets body is clean and dry, especially
both stomach and mouth ulcers. Make sure your horse has
towards their tail end and rear area as this is one area to
been wormed and continue to brush and spray them with a
become most likely infected, especially if damp
horse-friendly repellent.
J Check them daily for imposters, signs of injury or any abnormal behaviour
J Their living space should be clean and dry, pest-proof
Overall the best way to reduce the risk of flies biting or irritating your pets is to make sure they are healthy by feeding them a
their beds and living quarters to stop these tiny bugs from
well-balanced diet along with exercise as this should prevent
gaining access
sickness and injury which can make animals easy targets.
Another victim of the fly during the warmer months is our
Good grooming, will alert you of any issues that may need to
horses. Not only do they irritate these beautiful creatures,
be addressed. As well as coverings such as rugs, masks and
they can often carry harmful diseases. Some of the most
repellent sprays, there are also creams to help soothe your
common summers pests that may irritate or harm horses are:
animals if they do get bitten as well as flypapers which attract
J Midges, these tiny little bugs may not be the worst of the
the flies away from your pets.
summer flies in terms of carrying disease but then can be extremely annoying and cause discomfort. Midges can
If you have any questions or queries regarding Fly Season do
also cause an allergic skin reaction known as Sweet Itch.
pop in to one of our stores or reach out to us on social media. n
When it comes to midges, prevention is definitely the best cure. Try to have your horse stabled at dusk and dawn as these are key feeding times for these flies. Fans are also a great way to keep them at bay because they don’t have much power in their wings. There are also special rugs and masks designed to protect your horse’s body and face from getting bitten.
J Horse flies are another critter that appears during the summer months. This small fly feeds on your horses, especially targeting their neck, legs, withers and your horses underside. Being prepared can help reduce and
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.
NWM 2022 Page 13
© Alessia Pierdomenico / Shutterstock.com
Royal connections As the countdown to the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations begin, Lowri Llewelyn looks back at the part North Wales has played in her reign…
On a very special four-day bank holiday beginning on Friday
Her Majesty has visited the length and breadth of North
3rd June, the UK will come together to celebrate the Platinum
Wales, the first in the capacity of Queen being the Coronation
Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, marking an astounding 70 years
tour of 1953. With what must have been the weight of the
as the monarch of the United Kingdom. According to a 2018
world on her shoulders, this was an opportunity for Elizabeth
YouGov survey, a whopping 31% of us have either met or seen
to meet the Welsh public and prove herself worthy of this
the Queen in real life – that’s almost one third of the British
new role.
population! The next visit to North Wales, in 1958, would be an As Her Majesty rings in a milestone never before celebrated
opportunity for the Queen to attend the Royal Welsh
by a British monarch, the Jubilee brings opportunity to show
Agricultural Show.
gratitude towards the woman who has guided us come what may. Indeed, a 25-year-old Elizabeth was thrust into the role
In 1963, the Queen would visit Caernarfon Castle, with Lord
of Queen following the premature death of King George VI,
Snowdon presenting Her Majesty with an enormous key to
learning of his death while enjoying a visit to Kenya with
the castle! During this visit she would also visit the burial site
husband Philip.
of Lloyd George, who led Britain to victory during World War I and remains history’s only Welsh-speaking Prime Minister.
Her visits have brought her to every corner of the United Kingdom and many of us have fond childhood memories of
During this visit she would also wander further afield, taking
trying to catch a glimpse, or if we were lucky, being able to
the trip down to Pwllheli to meet no other than Billy Butlin! On
hand her a bunch of flowers.
her way home, she would also stop in Trawsfynydd to marvel
In 1953 The Queen visited Llangollen to see the International Musical Eisteddfod
NWM 2022 Page 15
at the new nuclear power station and make an appearance at the National Eisteddfod in Llandudno, where she was treated to a performance by an enormous children’s choir. The Queen’s most memorable visit to North Wales would be in
The Queen’s most memorable visit to
North Wales would be in 1969. While Prince
Charles’s investiture would prove thrilling for most, with in excess of 500 million viewers
1969. While Prince Charles’s investiture would prove thrilling for most, with in excess of 500 million viewers watching from across the globe, the pomp would be much to the chagrin of
Some readers might be younger still and, like this writer,
Welsh patriots. As portrayed in The Crown, Prince Charles
will recall the Queen’s 2002 tour in celebration of her Golden
had studied the Welsh language while at university in
Jubilee. I personally remember the day off school as we
Aberystwyth and wowed the crowds with a speech in Welsh.
congregated in Pringle’s car park, Llanfairpwll, to await her arrival. In my mind she wore yellow; at 10 years old, I was
Her Majesty’s next major visit to North Wales would take
unconcerned with her outfit, but I do know what she wasn’t
place in 1977 on the occasion of her Silver Jubilee. While in the
wearing… “I can never wear beige because nobody will know
past the Queen had not been able to receive unarranged gifts
who I am,” the Queen has said previously!
from onlookers, on this visit she readily accepted all manner of kind gestures, including flowers, cards and drawings. It is said that four fifths of the British population was not yet born during the Queen’s coronation. For some readers, then, the first memory of Her Majesty will be that of her 1991 North Wales visit, during which she would open the Conwy Tunnel along with Conwy’s Bodlondeb civic offices.
In 1969 Her Majesty attended the investiture of the Prince of Wales at Caernarfon Castle
Page 16 NWM 2022
Lowri Llewelyn is a North Wales based journalist who is endlessly curious [read: nosy] and loves everything to do with this beautiful region that she is lucky enough to call home.
n
The Cabin at Bragdy Ref: DYBRAG
From great-clifftopvistas-overlookingthe-sea Cottages To cosy-log-cabinssurrounded-bytrees Cottages Find your original Welsh escape at walescottageholidays.co.uk
Trefaes Ref: TREFAB
NWM 2022 Page 17
FOOTLOOSE 23.05.22 - 28.05.22
JERSEY BOYS 31.05.22 - 04.06.22
Starring Sinitta and Lee Mead 25 - 30 Gorffennaf / July www.venuecymru.co.uk 01492 872000
West End Workshop returns to Venue Cymru The once-in-a-lifetime weeklong workshop for eight to 21 year olds, West End Workshop, is returning to North Wales this July.
All of West End Workshop’s tutors are West End performers who will lead an exciting mix of drama, singing and dance
J Two complimentary tickets to the showcase (extra tickets are available to purchase)
classes, grouped according to age and ability. They challenge, support and encourage young performers to shine.
So whether you have bags of experience already, or simply want to discover your hidden talents, West End Workshop has
The highlight of the week is when students perform their
a safe and supportive environment to give you the confidence
very own Showcase performance at Venue Cymru – giving
to reach your potential.
all students the exciting opportunity to step out in front of an audience of family and friends.
And if you have younger children, Broadway Babies is also available. This separate course is tailored to younger
There is also the chance to be treated like a real West End
performers (four to seven year olds), and it also culminates in a
performer in masterclasses with industry professionals, all
performance in front of friends and family.
designed to teach something new; from choreography straight from the West End to new types of stage combat or acting for
So come along, build confidence, learn new skills, make
television. Past masterclasses have included Hamilton, Matilda,
friends for life and, of course, have fun! n
Wicked and Six. West End Workshop runs from 10am-5pm and costs £253 for What you get:
the week, while Broadway Babies runs from 10am-1pm and
J Showcase performance on the Friday afternoon at Venue
costs £103.
Cymru
J Taught by West End stars and industry professionals J Daily Masterclasses J Individual attention in small class sizes to make the most of
Both five-day courses take place in the incredible facilities at Venue Cymru, Llandudno, from Monday 25th to Friday 29th July.
every moment
J A chance to make new friends and learn new skills J New found confidence both on and off stage
You can book online at https://www.venuecymru.co.uk/ west-end-workshop, or by calling 01492 872000.
NWM 2022 Page 19
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Marmite
ercolour cobra... a wat Marmite vs ris Ch ife w s n’ by Stephe
Poppy
Home from home… from Borneo to North Wales When Stephen Gregory and his wife Chris moved back to Caernarfon from exotic Borneo, they didn’t travel alone…
Either by choice or out of sheer necessity, people are very
sure enough, a day or two later he was enjoying our chicken
mobile these days. I suppose they always have been… for
and rice and moving into the house and sharing our air-
thousands of years, ever since he stood up on his hind legs
conditioned bedroom.
and peered at the horizon, Man has set off on his journeys across deserts and mountains, crossing rivers and seas, in
Marmite came to us a few years later, in a torrential
search of land and food and security.
thunderstorm. Our son, hearing a whimpering commotion from beneath a parked car, and seeing how the rain was
Today, maybe more than ever before, in these troubled times…
overflowing from the drains in a churning river of foam,
Some people say that the world has become our global village,
peered and looked and saw a puppy sheltering there. He
where we live and breathe and survive as best we can,
brought the puppy home and called him Marmite, a brown and
travelling and settling as needs must.
black bundle of soggy fur, like a shivering wolf cub.
Poppy and Marmite came to Wales in the cargo hold of a huge
And from their walks along Crocodile Beach, they travelled
thundering aeroplane. One afternoon they were running and
more than seven thousand miles to North Wales, and the
sniffing and digging up the sand of a place called Crocodile
crunching shingle of Dinas Dinlle.
Beach, on the north coast of Borneo – and a few days later they were exploring the cold salty shingle of Dinas Dinlle, in
Crocodile Beach was aptly named, not just nicknamed to
lovely North Wales.
sound exotic. There were crocodiles in the muddy tangles of mangrove and in the eucalyptus forests, and sometimes
Poppy and Marmite, two dogs we bought back with us, all the
they lay among the great heaps of driftwood on the shore.
way from faraway and little known Brunei Darussalam…
They emerged from the creeks and rivers which ran out of the jungle, and they slithered into the sea, to move stealthily
Poppy was a beautiful stray, only a puppy, coloured and built a
and dangerously along the coast to the next outpouring of
bit like a foxhound, white and black and a lovely russet. When
fresh water and then slip back upstream. Their likeliest prey
we first met him we were living in a spacious stilted house
was dogs, for there were plenty of strays along the beach.
with a pretty garden, only a few yards from the seashore.
Poppy and Marmite, with their smart yellow collars and long
Poppy came to stand at our gate and stare at us and cock his
retractable leads, looked at these skinny specimens with an
head on one side and wag his tail – because he knew he was
unmistakable air of smugness… for they, Poppy and Marmite,
borderline irresistible and we were hopelessly dog-friendly
had won the affection of a couple of ex-pats. Every evening
ex-pats. He’d learned already, in the first few months of
they ate chicken and rice, and they had learned the delicious
his life, that some of the people living in the leafy suburbs
delight of air-con.
of Kuala Belait were not at all fond of dogs… some of them disliked and distrusted dogs for long established cultural
And so to North Wales. After 18 exhausting and turbulent
reasons, and others were not completely averse to including
hours in the belly of an aeroplane, with all its horrible stink
them on their menu.
of fuel and its terrible roaring, they landed in London. How sweet it was, a few more hours later, to be outside again, in
So Poppy came to our gate and cocked his head at us and,
the cool fresh air of Dinas Dinlle! The cleanest air in the whole
NWM 2022 Page 21
Marmite
AND FROM THEIR WALKS ALONG CROCODILE BEACH, THEY TRAVELLED MORE THAN SEVEN THOUSAND MILES TO NORTH WALES, AND THE CRUNCHING SHINGLE OF DINAS DINLLE.
world, on the salty, seaweed beach just below the cliffs of the Iron Age fort… and the sea so keen and tangy and cold! And the gulls, a whirling of great white birds, screaming and squalling in a sweet, salty breeze! And no other dogs, except a few sleek and glossy characters with their sleek and glossy owners! And no crocs! Not a crocodile for more than seven thousand miles! Gudrun and Smokey came along soon afterwards. From the sultanate of Brunei Darussalam to the royal borough of Caernarfon… Gudrun and Smokey, two cats we brought with us. We’d
Smokey gets deep and meaningful
found Gudrun on another night of lashing monsoon, outside our favourite fish restaurant. She was huddled in the sodden
Gudrun and Smokey… like Poppy and Marmite before them,
remains of a cardboard box, all sticky with slime as though
they snuggled in the belly of an aeroplane for 18 tumultuous
she’d been stuck in a mud-slide, and so utterly emaciated that
hours and arrived in London. And so to North Wales.
she looked like a strip of rag that had been tossed out of the restaurant kitchen and onto the street outside. The waitresses
Sadly now, Poppy the sweet foxhound and lovely, loving
in the restaurant, to give them some credit, had been leaving
Gudrun are no longer with us. They’ve passed on – they’ve
a few scraps for her to sniff and lick – but the poor little
made another journey, even more extraordinary than their
creature was too weak and apathetic to try and eat.
passage from Borneo.
We took her home. She would surely die. Except that my
But Marmite is still enjoying the cooler climes of North Wales.
wife tended to her so lovingly and carefully that she made an
Every day he explores the park on the outskirts of Caernarfon,
almost miraculous recovery. Gudrun, that would be her name…
sniffing long and deep into the dewy grasses and into the
and within another month she was strong enough to get up
shade of beech and oak and horse chestnut… no mosquitoes
and about and into the jungle around our house. She repaid
whining in his ears, and no crocodiles lurking in the shallows
my wife’s kindness with all the love she’d kept and stored
of the lake.
within her resilient frame – for she had a strongly beating heart full of love. And sometimes she would return from her
And Smokey has a life of leisure and luxury in a comfortable
forays into the jungle with a gift… a snake, black and writhing,
house… no air-con, but central heating. He prowls in the little
brought into our kitchen, or a mud-hen, a bird like a coot,
garden, where sparrows come for a scattering of peanuts and
bigger than Gudrun and still feebly fluttering in her fierce
there are gulls gleaming in a cool blue sky.
fangs. A long way from their native land, re-settled in North Wales – On one of her adventures into the neighbourhood she must
home from home. n
have met an ardent admirer, because Gudrun grew plumper and one evening she hid herself in the cupboard under the kitchen sink and had four kittens. They grew fast and they grew strong. Gudrun, who’d been skin and bones and starving not long before, was a super mother to her rumbustious, ebullient offspring. And when the time came for us to leave Brunei and return to Europe, we found loving homes for three of the kittens and kept one of them – a swift and sooty panther we called Smokey.
Page 22 NWM 2022
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.
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Ellekat and EK and Co are independent shops that can be found in the heart of Rhos-on-Sea
e e r th f o r e w o The p Rhos-on-Sea is renowned for it’s fabulous selection of independent cafés and shops. Sophie Reynolds owns no less than three of these great establishments, and here she explains just what it is that makes this picturesque village so special…
While I was born in Somerset I moved to North Wales when I
I took on Marmalade Kitchen five years ago. It was originally
was about three. I grew up in Llandudno and went to St Marys
Marmalade café but, following a rebranding in January 2020
College in Rhos, but then moved back down south in order to
with the help of Simon Cotton from VCA, we established
attend university in Kent and then Cambridge. I taught for 22
the new contemporary name, look and vibe and created
years with my specialism being in special needs, but decided
Marmalade Kitchen.
that it was time for a change… I think that one of the things that makes Marmalade so My grandparents all had businesses in retail and
appealing to customers is the fact that we support local
hospitality, and my mum owned her own cafés
suppliers. Our ice cream is locally produced, as are our
in Glan Conwy and Beaumaris, so I decided to
sausages, bacon, breads and patés. I work closely with two
follow in my family’s footsteps by establishing
local bakers for my bara brith and my gluten free cakes – as
my own small business. I spent my teenage
well as an amazing local vegan chef. The rest of the extensive
years with friends pottering around the shops
range of homemade cakes and scones are all baked on site
in Rhos, hanging out in Nino’s, drinking in
by me in Marmalade baking kitchen, and I have established
the Cayley and attending school parties at the
some great unique recipes – ask everyone locally about my
Aberhod. I think it must have been these fond
Guinness and ginger cake and see what they say!
memories that drew me back to Rhos-on-Sea, because it seemed like the most natural place on earth to launch my new enterprise.
I owe a great deal of gratitude and love to my team at Marmalade Kitchen who are more like a family to me. Customers often ask if we are all related in some way as we all get on so well
I THINK THAT ONE OF THE THINGS THAT MAKES MARMALADE SO APPEALING TO CUSTOMERS IS THE FACT THAT WE SUPPORT LOCAL SUPPLIERS Page 24 NWM 2022
and work so efficiently as a team! Although they aren’t completely wrong as my sister, who has Down Syndrome, does actually work at the café three times a week – and my mum, dad,
daughters and niece have all had their part to play in the success of the businesses. This was especially true during lockdown when the family was all hands on deck to ensure that Marmalade Kitchen managed to survive when all the team were furloughed. And, thanks to the support of my great team at the café, I was able to undertake my next challenge! I had felt for a long time that Rhos-on-Sea needed an independent clothes shop – and so Ellekat was born out of my love of clothes and fashion. I fell
I HAD FELT FOR A LONG TIME THAT RHOS-ON-SEA NEEDED AN INDEPENDENT CLOTHES SHOP – AND SO ELLEKAT WAS BORN OUT OF MY LOVE OF CLOTHES AND FASHION
in love with the look of the shop, even before I took it on, as it lent itself well to a small boutique. The name is derived from my daughters’ middle names – Ellen and Kate. I consider my latest venture, EK and Co on Everard Road, as
Ellekat stocks a wide range of gorgeous clothes
more of an extension of Ellekat – introducing gifts cards and household finishing touches. I aim to offer unique Welsh gifts, but this is still a work in progress as I continue to source local suppliers and interest in the shop. Opening post pandemic and before a looming recession was a significant risk when considering opening Ek and Co, but I saw a niche in the market in Rhos and wanted to offer something different in terms of gifts and homeware. It is still early days, but I have a good feeling about it. Ellekat and EK and Co customers travel from everywhere too, and this is not only due to the gorgeous clothes we have, but also for the excellent customer service. Customers can shop privately if they prefer if they book a time slot, or they can browse and try on at their leisure with honest feedback. We very rarely have items returned, which I think speaks for itself.
In all three businesses we have established a good local trade. I was overwhelmed by the local support during Covid
I decided early on that I was not going to have a website. I very
19 when times were hard for all businesses. Of course, the
rarely buy things off the internet, incredibly old fashioned I
tourism trade is especially important to us, and we welcome
know, but my aim was to ensure that customers had great
customers back year-on-year due to our excellent customer
customer service and face-to-face interaction. We have
service and great food. We pride ourselves on meeting the
established a great deal of trust with our customers, allowing
needs of the local community as much as we can, supporting
them to try before they buy, reserve items, and even pay over
charity events, donating afternoon tea vouchers for prizes,
time if that helps them financially. Again, it is a very old-
and creating a central meeting place for people to meet.
fashioned approach, but it seems to work for us.
I would never consider myself to be an entrepreneur, I do not really like that term to be honest. I am just a businessperson who likes developing ideas and seeing if they will work. I really struggle with numbers and anything financial, but my thinking is always brought back to the term ‘we are a nation of shopkeepers’. I enjoy being busy and strangely get a buzz from being stretched – both physically and mentally. I owe a great deal to my husband Simon, daughters Phoebe and Neve, and my mum and dad who, even though I am now 50, still encourage me to do whatever I think might work. I do quite often think ‘what next?’ and I do have some ideas, but they are just seedlings at the moment so watch this space!
Sophie Reynolds is the proud owner of Marmalade Kitchen in Rhos, as well as boutique Ellekat and gift and homeware shop EK and Co
In the meantime I am simply enjoying walking the dog, cooking, socialising and drinking good wine – as well as working on my three businesses in order to help make Rhoson-Sea be the best seaside village it can be. n
NWM 2022 Page 25
© Nia H Jones
Seabird Spectacular
For a brief few months, Cemlyn Nature Reserve on Anglesey is home to one of the most amazing seabird spectacles in Wales…
Meet the terns Join the wardens for a walk around Cemlyn Bay and Sandwich ter
a chance to hear all about the tern colony – one of the
n © NWWT He
nry Cook
largest in Wales. Visit Cemlyn Nature Reserve Situated on the wild north coast of Anglesey, with its
Each year, as winter turns into spring and summer,
unique, elliptical shingle ridge, Cemlyn is an incredible
thousands of birds from all around the world make their
site to visit. The site is best visited from May through
long way back to our coasts to take advantage of the wealth
to July when the islands within the lagoon host the
of food and opportunity. These include three species of
nesting colonies of Sandwich, common and Arctic terns.
terns: remarkable and beautiful birds (their ‘sea-swallows’
It is the only nesting colony of Sandwich terns in Wales
nickname is perfectly descriptive) who travel thousands of
and a true wildlife spectacle – not to be missed!
miles from the southern hemisphere to raise their young on the small islands in Cemlyn’s lagoon.
Virtual tour Discover what makes Cemlyn Nature Reserve such a
Linking North Wales with the seas and oceans across the
great place for terns and what the North Wales Wildlife
world, Cemlyn is one of the most important seabird colonies in
Trust is doing to help them make it their home! Visit
Wales. Its Sandwich tern colony is the only one in the country
their website to take a virtual tour with their interactive
and regularly one of the largest in the UK; with smaller
infographic.
numbers of common and Arctic terns and black-headed gulls. Throughout the summer months, visitors can watch quite a spectacle as the birds go about their daily life. Sandwich tern pairs dance around each other in courtship displays and later bring sandeels in to the nest to feed their hungry youngsters; whilst squabbles and fights break out regularly. Away from the colony, other spring and summer visitors are also busy – dunlin and sandpipers are often seen feeding around the lagoon, while the churring call of grasshopper warblers can be heard from the surrounding scrub. And every year at Cemlyn brings renewed promise of a rare visitor – golden oriole, bee-eater, sooty tern, wryneck and isabelline shrike have all visited in the past, and brought plenty of human visitors with them soon after! Throughout the summer wardens will be on site to welcome you and help you learn more about the wonderful world of
More details are available at:
terns. Bring your own binoculars or get up close on one of the
northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/cemlyn-terns
guided walks. n
NWM 2022 Page 27
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Come for a great night out to Pontio, Bangor! Dewch am noson wych allan i Pontio, Bangor! Gwledd o gomedi, cerddoriaeth, ffilm a dawns; rhywbeth i bawb dros yr haf. A summer of festivities with something for everyone; an array of comedy, music, film and dance.
Comedi / Comedy
Sinfonia Cymru a Casi Wyn
ED BYRNE
Dyma gydweithrediad newydd rhwng
Bydd Ed Byrne, seren Mock the Week
saith o gerddorion Sinfonia Cymru a
a Live at the Apollo, yn ymuno gyda
Casi Wyn, y gantores/cyfansoddwr
ni fis Mehefin gyda’i sioe newydd
caneuon, bardd ac awdur aml-dalentog,
If I’m Honest, i fwrw golwg manwl
a ysbrydolwyd gan ddiwylliant, hanes,
drosto’i hun a cheisio penderfynu a oes ganddo unrhyw
pobl a thirwedd Cymru.
nodweddion sy’n werth eu trosglwyddo i’w blant. Ychydig o A new collaboration between seven musicians from
docynnau ar ôl.
Sinfonia Cymru and multi-talented singer/songwriter, poet Ed Byrne, star of Mock the Week and Live at the Apollo,
and writer Casi Wyn, inspired by Welsh culture, history,
join us this June with his new show If I’m Honest, to take
people and landscape.
a long hard look at himself and tries to decide if he has any traits that are worth passing on to his children. Some
Dawns / Dance
tickets left.
Ballet Cymru: DREAM Mae DREAM yn waith newydd, sy’n GISDA GIGGLES
fywiog, ffres ac arloesol ac yn seiliedig
Noson gomedi, wedi’i gyflwyno
ar A Midsummer Night’s Dream gan
gan Kiri Pritchard-McLean, i
Shakespeare. Gan weithio gyda’r
godi pres ac ymwybyddiaeth i
offerynnwr a’r cyfansoddwr nodedig, Frank Moon, mae
grwpiau ieuenctid LGBT+ GISDA.
Ballet Cymru wedi creu byd hudolus o dylwyth teg, cariad a hudoliaeth swynol sy’n troi rhywedd ar ei ben.
A comedy night presented by Kiri Pritchard-McLean to raise money and awareness for GISDA’s LGBT+ youth groups.
Mae DREAM yn waith newydd, sy’n fywiog, ffres ac arloesol ac yn seiliedig ar A Midsummer Night’s Dream gan Shakespeare. Gan weithio gyda’r offerynnwr a’r
Cerddoriaeth / Music
cyfansoddwr nodedig, Frank Moon, mae Ballet Cymru wedi
The Unthanks
creu byd hudolus o dylwyth teg, cariad a hudoliaeth swynol
Mae enillwyr BBC Folk
sy’n troi rhywedd ar ei ben
Album of the Year 2015, The Unthanks yn
Sinema / Cinema
dychwelyd i berfformio
Llu o ddigwyddiadau amrywiol yn ein
cyngherddau byw ar ôl
sinema fis Mehefin, gan ddathlu mis
dwy flynedd heb deithio,
PRIDE gyda chyfres o ffilmiau gan
i gyflwyno eu halbwm newydd, Sorrows Away. Dyma eu
gynnwys Moonlight, ymweld â Jurassic World, nodi 40
record gyntaf, nad yw’n seiliedig ar broject, ers Mount
mlynedd Bladerunner a mwy!
The Air. An array of films awaits 2015 BBC Folk Album of the Year winners, The Unthanks
you this June, celebrating
return to live touring after two years off the road,
PRIDE month with a series
showcasing forthcoming new album, Sorrows Away, their
of films including Moonlight,
first non-project based record since the acclaimed Mount The Air.
visiting Jurassic Worlds and celebrating 40 years of Bladerunner, and much more!
MAGAZINE
Page 30 NWM 2022
Exploring Plas Newydd Plas Newydd, which means ‘new mansion’ in Welsh, sits along the banks of the Menai Strait, offering spectacular views of the surrounding scenery and the mountains of Snowdonia. The current building has its origins in 1470, evolving
Enjoy the gardens
over the centuries to become one of Anglesey’s principal
With 40 acres of
residences and the country seat of the Marquesses of
garden and 129 acres
Anglesey. The property has been cared for by National Trust
of woodland, there’s
Cymru since 1976.
a garden for every season at Plas Newydd. Discover fiery colours, atmospheric woodlands and romantic rhododendrons as you explore. The Italianate Terraces and Sunroom Courtyard are full of colour from early spring to autumn. Expansive lawns dotted with large specimen trees, beautiful
Explore the house
magnolias, many hydrangeas, as well as Japanese maples,
Inside the house you can explore the Military Museum, where
bring colour and interest throughout the seasons.
you will find an exhibition of items and pictures of the 1st Marquess of Anglesey and his part in the Battle of Waterloo.
Thanks to a reintroduction programme, the woodland is now
It’s here that you can see the famous Anglesey Leg, the first
home to over 100 red squirrels, see if you can spot one as you
ever articulated artificial limb, created for the Marquess after
walk around, or join one of the guided Red Squirrel walks.
he lost his leg due to a cannonball in the battle. For younger visitors make sure to visit the fabulous Treehouse Painted by artist Rex Whistler, Plas Newydd is home to one
and adventure playground, the whole family can join in the fun
of the largest and most well-known murals in the United
on the ‘Frisbee Golf’ course too.
n
Kingdom. It’s designed as a European fantasy landscape and encourages looking out over the sea with an impressive
For more information about Plas Newydd, including
coastal town featuring Roman and baroque architecture,
opening times and to plan your day out, visit:
along with identifiable British buildings, all backed by the
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/plas-newydd
mountains of Snowdonia. This playful scene was one of Whistler’s great masterpieces, and he even included a portrait of himself as a gardener with a broom in hand. @NTWales
From March until November 2022 we are presenting unfinished artworks by Rex Whistler, some of which are on show for the first time in over a decade.
www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wales
NWM 2022 Page 31
S A B O TA G E 27 Mai - 11 Mehefin / 27 May - 11 June Ffordd y Traeth / Beach Road Bangor, LL57 1BU
“ Pioneers of contemporary circus” The Telegraph
“ Circus with a difference” Western Telegraph
Archebwch nawr / Book now nofitstate.org/sabotage 01248 382828 Tocynnau / Tickets: £17 – £24 Tocyn teulu / Family ticket: £65
Rhif Elusen / Charity No: 1102850
Rhif Cwmni / Company No: 3180348
Ffotograffiaeth gan / photography by Mark J Robson.
NoFit State Circus returns to North Wales!
Leading Welsh circus company NoFit State is back with a brand new large-scale Big Top show, SABOTAGE, performing in Bangor from 27th May – 11th June!
This exceptional new Big Top show is on its third Welsh
Make sure not to miss this exciting new performance while
stop after having its world premiere in Pembrokeshire in
it is in North Wales. NoFit State’s spaceship Big Top tent is
April, where audiences called it “magical, powerful, blissful,
on Beach Road in Bangor, and there are matinee and evening
beautiful!” Following Bangor they will continue to Stoke-on-
performances, with Pontio as the presenting partner.
Trent and finally Cardiff to finish this year’s tour. SABOTAGE can be enjoyed SABOTAGE is brought to you by the same award-winning
by people of all ages, it has
creative team that developed LEXICON, BIANCO, ImMortal and
nothing in it that makes
tabu. With SABOTAGE you can expect an exceptional new
it unsuitable for children,
large scale circus spectacular, but with a darker, grittier edge.
but it is not made for them
There is an astounding international cast with performers
specifically.
from Albania to Ireland and Brazil to Wales. With awe inspiring circus skills including aerial silks, breakdancing,
Don’t miss out, get your
duo trapeze, acrobatics, hula hooping, slack line, straps and
tickets now!
much more. Tickets start from £17 and SABOTAGE is a “is a visual and audio feast” that “encapsulates
can be purchased online
the joy and the pain of what it means to be human and both
www.nofitstate.org/sabotage
sides of that beauty. Every scene tells a story, some poignant
or by calling the Pontio
and heart tugging and some utterly joyful” said a reviewer
Box Office on 01248 382828.
from the Western Telegraph.
NWM 2021 Page 33
Cocktails
&T A P A S
1891RHYL.COM
Denbighshire NEWS Red Arrows and Typhoon confirmed for Rhyl Air Show The Rhyl Air Show is back this
summer with a spectacular line up, including world-class acts across both days of the August Bank Holiday. For the first time in Rhyl Air Show’s history, The Red Arrows and The Typhoon have confirmed aerial displays for both 27th and 28th August. The award winning air show is fast becoming North Wales’s biggest FREE seafront event and the 2022 show will feature spectacular aerial displays and land-based attractions and entertainment. The Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, the Red Arrows, is one of the world’s premier aerobatic display teams. Representing the speed, agility and precision of the Royal Air Force, the team is the public face of the service. Flying distinctive Hawk fast-jets, the team is made up of pilots, engineers and essential support staff with frontline, operational experience. Often with their trademark Diamond Nine shape, and combination of close formations and precision flying, the Red Arrows have been displaying since 1965. denbighshireleisure.co.uk/RhylAirShow
Reopening of The Terrace
The Terrace offers the same excellent food quality and superb customer service as the 1891 Restaurant, but with an alfresco twist. Customers dropping in for a drink or relaxing over a delicious meal can enjoy the outdoor beachfront location, with far reaching views across the North Wales coast. If you’re looking for a lighter bite, The Terrace also serves Costa coffee. 1891rhyl.com
Denbighshire Leisure looking to expand team
The application deadline is fast approaching for numerous positions at Denbighshire Leisure. They are currently recruiting for the following roles at 1891 Restaurant & Bar:
J Executive Chef – £32,798 to £36,371 a year, full time & permanent J Waiting On & Bar Staff – £9.50 per hour, a range of hours and contracts available They are also looking for lifeguards to join their passionate teams throughout Denbighshire, from SC2 Waterpark to Canolfan Hamdden Huw Jones. You don’t need to have an NPLQ already as Denbighshire Leisure loves to invest in their staff, so they can support you in achieving this qualification. If you’re a strong swimmer, super attentive, and like to work with a smile on your face, then they can train you in all the specifics. Rates range from £9.79 to £10.19 per hour, and a range of hours and contracts are available. For further information on all job opportunities currently available at Denbighshire Leisure please visit: https://denbighshireleisure.co.uk/careers
NWM 2022 Page 35
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mon Fowler) Aled Jones (© Si
Anoushka Shankar
s Band
as Llareggub Br
The 2022 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod programme comprises:
International Llangollen Eisteddfod brings the world to North Wales This summer (7th – 10th July 2022), the world-renowned Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod returns after a two year hiatus with two of the classical world’s vocal powerhouses, Aled Jones and Russell Watson performing together at the festival for the first time to open the 2022 programme.
Russell Watson (© Simon Fowler)
In a line-up that celebrates the best traditional and
Peace message
contemporary music from around the world, 2022
In recognition of the festival’s founding principle
highlights include Grammy Award winner Anoushka to spread peace, visitors will be invited to write a Shankar with Manu Delago and the Britten Sinfonia
message of peace on a luggage label and attach
while on Sunday 10th, the ever popular Llanfest will
it to trees around the site to create a forest of
feature British indie three-piece, Amber Run and
peace. On Thursday 7th July, children’s day, the
Welsh/Bajan singer Kizzy Crawford.
festival is teaming up with The Welsh Centre for International Affairs, Size of Wales and Council
Celebrating its 75th anniversary, the festival
for Wales of Voluntary Youth Services for the
returns this year with a broad cultural programme
Young Peacemakers’ Awards – celebrating young
that spreads the message of peace and friendship
people who have contributed to peace and global
on which it was founded in 1947 after the Second
citizenship at home and overseas. Details of how
World War. Each year around 4,000 performers
to enter can be found here: www.international-
from around the world and as many as 35,000
eisteddfod.co.uk/get-involved/
visitors converge on this beautiful small Welsh
young-peacemakers-awards-2022/
town to sing and dance in a unique combination of competition, performance and community
Llanfest
spirit. The festival’s ability to spot future talent is
This July, Llangollen International Musical
renowned and it’s credited with helping to launch
Eisteddfod and Llangollen Fringe Festival join
the career of Luciano Pavarotti among others.
forces to celebrate two significant cultural milestones for the town; the Eisteddfod’s 75th
New in 2022
anniversary, and the Fringe’s 25th which
After an online event last year, organisers are
combine to make an amazing 100 years of
thrilled to welcome back visitors to Llangollen with
summer festivals in Llangollen. To mark these
a line-up which celebrates the broadest possible
two anniversaries, the Eisteddfod and Fringe
range of genres from classical, choral, folk, dance
are collaborating for the first time to produce
and world music. This year’s festival has been
Llanfest 2022, which will see a co-curation of
redesigned with a more compact site revolving
the programme on Sunday 10th July, with an
around a single music stage and a new in-the-
emphasis on home-grown talent incorporating
round stage developed for spoken word events
eclectic music, theatre and comedy. n
offering a thought-provoking series of talks. As well as live music and talks there will be food stalls, bars For more information and to buy tickets please visit and free community events around the site.
www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk/whats-on
Thursday 07 July | 7.30pm Back In Harmony: Russell Watson and Aled Jones Following their 2019 sellout In Harmony tour, two of the world’s most loved classical voices launch the Llangollen 2022 concert programme performing songs from their album, Back In Harmony. Limited tickets available. Friday 08 July| 8pm Anoushka Shankar & Manu Delago In Concert In this captivating concert highlights from Anoushka Shankar’s catalogue are presented in new arrangements by Jules Buckley, featuring several co-written with her friend and collaborator Manu Delago. Saturday 09 July | 7.30pm Choir of the World, Dance Champions & Voice of the Future 2022 Choral finalists compete for the coveted Choir of the World title and the Pavarotti Trophy. Alongside this we crown the 2022 Dance Champions with the Lucille Armstrong Trophy, and the International Voice of the Future. Sunday 10 July | from 11.30am Llanfest Llanfest has quickly become a firm favourite in the summer festival diary with outside stages featuring live music throughout the day and a chilled, family friendly, atmosphere in the spectacular setting of the Dee Valley.
NWM 2022 Page 37
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The History Of Welsh Whisky While there were stills in Wales dating back to the Middle Ages, it was Evan Williams who put Welsh distilling on the map. In 1705, he left his family’s distillery in Dale, Pembrokeshire and set off to America, establishing himself as a founding father of the Kentucky Bourbon industry.
Later, in 1889 a small fortune was spent on a distillery in
now dozens of countries produce whisky. This means that,
Frongoch near Bala. Sadly, the temperance movement and the
like Evan Williams, Penderyn is also a pioneer in the world
fact that it wasn’t taken seriously outside, or even inside, Wales
whisky industry. Nowadays Penderyn Whisky is exported
meant the distillery closed down in 1903.
to 48 countries, and has won over 70 international Double Gold and Gold medals. Penderyn is expanding, and opened a
Twelve years later, in 1915, Prime Minister David Lloyd George,
second distillery in a Grade II listed school building in Lloyd
the only Welsh person to hold that role, introduced the ‘3 years
St, Llandudno in May 2021, and a future one in Swansea
and 1 day’ whisky rule. This was to shut down illegal stills
later in 2022.
during the war which were damaging the war effort. This accidentally created the premium whisky industry.
Now a few other Welsh distilleries have emerged, and Stephen Davies, Penderyn’s CEO, has been working hard to establish a
Fast forward to 1999, and a group of friends in the Glancynon
Welsh Whisky Geographical Indicator: “We’re seeing the creation
Inn, in Hirwaun in the South Wales valleys, were talking about
of a new premium spirits industry in Wales and we are thrilled
the fact that there wasn’t a Welsh whisky. They decided to
to have been the catalyst for that. This will enable the sector
establish a distillery. A unique still was found and the landlord
to ringfence the quality and reputation of Welsh whisky as a
of the pub, Alun ‘The Glan’ Evans had a wine warehouse in
prelude to taking on the mighty Scottish and Irish distilleries.”
the village of Penderyn, with a borehole which drew natural water from the Brecon Beacons and this was the beginning
From humble beginnings, Welsh Whisky is now very much
of Penderyn Distillery. The first bottle of Welsh whisky was
established on the international whisky map, with Penderyn
produced on St David’s Day, 2004.
being the home of Welsh whisky. n
Only a handful of countries were distilling in 2000, but
For further information please visit www.penderyn.wales
NWM 2022 Page 39
Discover Harlech and picnic at sunset A world heritage site, beautiful sands stretching for miles, amazing Welsh food and the steepest street in the UK – what more could you ask for? Visit Harlech on your holidays this year.
20 minutes drive from Porthmadog and you will find the small town of Harlech, hosting Harlech Castle – World Heritage Site, a small high street filled with local shops and eateries selling a range of fabrics, gifts, lampshades and Welsh food, the steepest street in the UK and four miles of glorious stretching sands. Whether you drive to Harlech or come by foot along the Welsh
Anglesey Rum or the multi-award winning cold-brew coffee,
coastal path, the locals will tell you the one thing to do is picnic
the Anglesey-crafted coffee liqueur.
on the beach at sunset. Adrian and Gary, owners of Y Groser Harlech are constantly Just two minutes walk from the castle you’ll find Y Groser
updating stock to show the range that North Wales has to
Harlech, a small independent grocers and delicatessen, which
offer, talking to independent local suppliers and looking at
prides itself on selling the best of Welsh produce, particularly
new products that will tantalise customers’ taste buds.
from North Wales! Looking for picnic food, or gifts to take home? They’ve got you covered!
Suppliers include:
something to wash it all down with…
J Award winning Pork Pies from Edwards of Conwy J Caws Cenarth Cheese - Lancych J Blas ar Fwyd - Llanrwst J Halen Mon - Anglesey J Snowdon Craft Brewery - Colwyn Bay J Purple Moose Brewery - Porthmadog J Ffa Da Coffee - Llandanwg J Blue Slate Gin handcrafted in Bala n
Y Grocer Harlech also offers a wide range of local ales and
Y Groser is situated on Harlech High Street, not far from the
lagers from Snowdon Craft Brewery and Purple Moose,
town’s medieval castle. For more information please visit
plus wines and a wide range of spirits. Try a Blue Slate Gin,
www.ygroserharlech.cymru
The delicatessen hosts a range of delicious Welsh cold meats, artisan cheeses, award winning pork pies from Edwards in Conwy, Blas ar Fwyd salads and quiches, dips and sauces from Dylans, the list goes on! A perfect selection for any picnic. Grab a loaf of freshly baked bread, some local crackers, chutneys and grapes, then all you’ll need is
NWM 2022 Page 41
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
Awards success for local brewery Magic Dragon Brewing has won the Gold, Silver and two Bronze awards at SIBA Wales and West Independent Beer Awards.
Magic Dragon Brewing took home the Gold in the Cask
of real beer-lovers. The winners from the SIBA competition
session pale ale category for Green One IPA, a Silver in the
are officially the best independent craft beers in the West
bottle/can bitter category for Eyton Gold, Bronze in the Cask
England and Wales region, something brewers should be
session Dark Beer category for Old Magic Mild and Bronze in
extremely proud of.”
the cask pale ale category for Dolphin IPA at the SIBA Wales and West Independent Beer Awards, which took place at
The SIBA Wales and West Independent Beer Awards judges
Ludlow Spring Festival last month.
a huge range of beers across a number of styles in separate cask and keg competitions. As the awards are judged mostly
“Judges had a tough job separating the pack as the standard
by brewers, industry experts and beer journalists. the
was extremely high once again,” commented Roy Allkin, SIBA
SIBA Independent Beer Awards are very much seen as the
Chairman. “Lucky beer festival attendees at Ludlow Spring
prestigious ‘Brewers’ choice Awards’ by the industry.
Festival were able to try this and other award-winning beers immediately after the competition, something which is great
“It’s been great to be back at the beer awards, the last was in
for brewers too as they get to put their beers into the hands
2019. We’re so pleased to have won and that all our hard work has paid off,” said Richard Lever from Magic Dragon Brewing, which started in 2017 and is run by a small team of people. The brewery uses traditional brewing methods to create bottled beers that are sold in shops across Wales and supplies pubs and restaurants in North Wales, Shropshire, Cheshire and beyond with cask and keg products. n To find out more about SIBA’s Independent Beer Awards visit: www.siba.co.uk/awards/ To find out more about Magic Dragon Brewing please visit: www.magicdragonbrewing.com
NWM 2022 Page 43
The
GUNROOM R E S T A U R A N T
www.plasdinas.co.uk
Plas Dinas Country House, Bontnewydd, LL54 7YF Call 01286 830 214
I’m becoming increasingly keen on one-pot cooking. Naturally, there’s the enormous appeal of having to wash just one large pot after the meal rather than the usual five. It’s also part of a long and fine tradition of home cookery that found new favour after Elizabeth David started championing it in her books. Slow, patient cooking where a disparate group of wellchosen ingredients come together over time to make something singularly wonderful, filling
Food for thought
the kitchen with appetising aromas while it does. This kind of cookery conjures images of autumnal, hearty casseroles and tummy-filling stews: not exactly what you want on a balmy late-spring evening. Here though is a great Keith Floyd recipe for four people, perfect for a dusky June supper that I’ve reworked over years of experience to make it a bit easier. Ask your fishmonger to skin and debone the tail for you. You’ll need a casserole dish, a frying pan (OK, so not quite a one-pot dish!) and something decent on the radio and in your glass.
SPRING MONKFISH CASSEROLE Serves 4
J One monkfish tail, cut into chunks J One celeriac (200g), peeled and cut into large pieces J 8 new potatoes J 4 small turnips peeled and diced J 100g smoked thick bacon cut into dice-sized pieces J 1 leek (white part only), sliced J 200g petit pois J 25ml double cream J Small glass of white wine J 1 pint fish stock J Butter, salt and pepper
In the pan, gently fry the bacon in butter over a medium heat until lightly browned and add to the casserole. Repeat the process with the celeriac, turnips and leeks, topping up the butter and seasoning. Grate the new potatoes, fry them until lightly browned and add them too. Finally, fry the monkfish and add that to the casserole. Pour in the wine and gently stir. Pour in two thirds of the stock, then put the lid on and cook in the oven (180˚FAN) for 20 minutes.
Cai Ross is co-owner and
Whisk the cream into the remaining fish stock.
Maitre d’ of the award-winning
Take out the casserole and pour in the creamy
Paysanne Bistro in Deganwy,
stock, finally adding the peas. Put it back into the
which has been serving French
oven for five minutes. Serve with hunks of warm
country-style food to the fine
granary bread and a bottle of Muscadet or something
people of North Wales since
similarly dry and chilled.
1988. He also writes for Calibre Magazine, BBC Good Food, HeyUGuys.com and The North Wales Weekly News
Don’t fancy cooking?
01492 582079 / @PaysanneDeganwy / www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk
NWM 2022 Page 45
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
LLANRHOS
DWYGYFYLCHI £765,000
£795,000
• 1930’s spectacular ‘Arts and Crafts’ style detached home occupying a large plot. • Highly sought after location, enjoying superb views over the Orme, the sea & Puffin Island. • Retaining a wealth of period features to include high coved ceilings and picture rails. • To the rear there is a lovely landscaped south/west facing garden with paved terrace area
• Beautifully presented detached period home built circa 1850's • Enjoying great views over the sea, Gt. Orme, Puffin Island, golf course & the mountains. • Occupies a large plot with lovely gardens and grounds wrapping around the property • Situated at the foot of the mountain, within the stunning Snowdonia National Park
EPC
F
GLAN CONWY
DEGANWY OFFERS OVER 395,000
• A detached three bedroom cottage built circa 1899 • Brimming with lovely character features, situated in a highly sought after location • Enjoying views over towards Conwy town, the estuary and the mountains. • Occupies a good size plot with driveway parking and a large garage
website: www.fletcherpoole.com
£400,000
• An extended immaculately presented detached four bedroom dormer bungalow • Enjoys a large plot with a good size driveway • Pretty stream and bridge forming part of the boundary • And a garden which can only be described as a gardeners dream
OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.15-5.00 SATURDAY 9.30-4.00
INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS
Page 46 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
LLANDDULAS
COLWYN BAY £549,950
£349,950
• Impressive Five Bedroom Detached House • Far Reaching Sea & Coastline Views • Quadruple Garage, Ample off Road Parking, Enclosed Rear Garden & Good Size Balcony
• Four Bedroom Detached House • Spacious & Well Planned Accommodation • Situated In A Sought After Location • No chain
EPC
F
RHOS ON SEA
PENRHYN BAY £329,950
website: www.fletcherpoole.com
• Modern Three/Four Bedroom Detached House • Well Planned Accommodation With Conservatory • Situated In A Sought After Area Close To Local Shops & Amenities
£124,950
Reduced From £139,950
• One Bedroom First Floor Retirement Apartment • Superbly Located For Rhos On Sea Village • Light And Spacious Apartment • Sunny South Facing Frontage
OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.15-5.00 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 47
MAGAZINE
£650,000 Garth Lane, Ffynnongroyw
Brynhedydd Bay, Rhyl Ref: WR9338
£650,000
Ref: WP9383
• Prestigious three bedroom property
• Adjoining three bedroom annexe
• Unique Grade II Listed detached farmhouse
• Set within approx. 1/3 of an acre
• Ideal for multi-generational living
• Unspoilt views towards the Dee Estuary • Short drive to Prestatyn town centre
• Potential for use as a holiday let
• Walking distance to the promenade
• Private sought-after location
• Opportunity for rental income
• Benefitting from sea views
• EPC Rating C-74
• Annexe and static caravan
• EPC Rating F-32
Llanbedr Dyffryn Clwyd
• Approximately 2 acres of land
£875,000
Ref: RN2219
Page 48 NWM 2022
• Grade 2 listed detached
• Five bedroom character property
• Two bedroom adjoining annexe
• Potential for additional income
• Established gardens to the rear
• Easily reconfigured to form one home
• Outbuildings and ample parking
• Planning for an extension
Ruthin Road, Gwernymynydd
Offers in Excess of
Ref: WM1101
£250,000 Picton Road, Picton
£499,950
Ref: WM868
• Semi-detached house
• Renovated throughout
• Newly refurbished detached house
• Built with natural Gwespyr stone
• Two double bedrooms
• Modern kitchen/breakfast room
• Two/three bedrooms
• Approximately ½ and acre
• Loft room to second floor
• Courtyard to the rear
• Outbuildings with potential for conversion
• Ample off-road parking to the rear
• Sought-after village of Gwernymynydd
• Sought-after location
• Short drive to Prestatyn
• EPC Rating F-34
£650,000
Nantglyn, Denbigh Ref: WE5398 • Detached farmhouse
• Four bedrooms, one with en-suite
• Set In approximately 3 acres
• Outbuildings, stabling and tack room
• Potential for an annexe
• Outskirts of the village of Nantglyn
• Beautiful countryside views
• EPC Rating F-27
NWM 2022 Page 49
DomElec provides professional electrical installation and property testing services to customers throughout Cheshire, North Wales and Wirral.
EICR Comprehensive electrical test and inspection services. Consumer Unit Replacement Upgrade your consumer unit and increase electrical safety within your home. Electric Vehicle Charging Money saving grants towards installation of electric vehicle charging points. PAT Testing Reduce the risk of electric fires and faults through regular PAT testing. Hot Tub and Outbuilding Supplies Installing power from house to garden. Lighting LED lighting solutions. CCTV Supply and installation of CCTV systems. General Electrical Maintenance We also provide General Electrical Maintenance Services. Emergency Call Outs Out of hours and emergency call outs are available – Call 01244 422101
01244 422 101 / 01978 696 007 info@domelec.co.uk
www.domelec.co.uk HIRE – SALES – REPAIR
YOUR LOCAL FRIENDLY TOOL HIRE, SALES AND REPAIR CENTRE
Dealers for: COBRA / MAKITA / EGO / BELLE CALOR GAS / ASPEN / SCRUFFS
LLANDUDNO JUNCTION 01492 592900
www.peterlucaspowertools.co.uk
Are solar panels right for me? Energy prices have soared in the UK because of a rise in global demand and issues with the war in Ukraine, so people are obviously looking for ways to combat this rise.
Of course, deciding whether solar panels are right for you depends on a lot of factors such as whether you have a high demand for energy and the right roof orientation – we don’t fit solar panels on north facing roofs. Ideally the best roof is south facing, but west and east can also work as well, so that you get a nice spread of power. Solar panels are right for most people but, as with everything, some people will benefit more than others. This is because they might be working from home and are therefore using more power during the day than they were before, and obviously how many people actually live in the household will make a difference too. However, with a standard solar system you can’t store the power. So the best way to get the most from your solar panels is to use the power in the day but, if you are struggling to do that, you can always look into batteries that store the energy. As a result, people are spending money on energy saving
These are becoming increasingly popular and we are seeing a
technology, such as heat pumps and solar panels, simply so
huge increase in people ordering batteries – up from 10% last
that they can reduce their energy costs every month. Many
year to 90% this year.
people are literally spending money now in order to save money in the long run – and now is a good time while their
This combination of solar panels combined with energy
money isn’t performing in the bank.
storage batteries has resulted in a huge shift in the way people are running their houses today – and it’s really
The other reason why solar panels are so popular right now
exciting to see how many more people will adopt this way of
is because it is quite a simple system to install. It can be done
powering their homes in the future. n
quite quickly, in around a day, and other technologies that work in tandem with the solar panels, such as energy storage batteries, are becoming very popular too. Solar is a very quick and easy way to have an instant impact on your home or business energy bills, and that’s why solar is leading the way in energy saving technology in the UK. We also now have tech that allows us to fit onto awkward roofs, and high wattage panels that allow us to get more output for a smaller roof space.
Gareth Jones, founder of Carbon Zero Renewables, is a multi-award-winning international entrepreneur from North Wales. He is well known in the construction and renewable energy industry having been the youngest ever president of the Federation of Master Builders. He was also identified by Wales Business Insider as one of the top 25 Entrepreneurs in Wales, one of the Western Mail’s Top 35 under 35, Business Man of the Year and Winner of the Institute of Directors, Director of the Year.
NWM 2022 Page 51
ION leadership have been developing extraordinary leaders for 11 years. For the first time ever we are running a PAN Wales leadership programme, which will enable delegates to build networks with other fast-growth Welsh businesses, and develop the skills and knowledge required to thrive in a post-pandemic marketplace. Interested?
Ffon/Tel: 01248 383024 E: n.sturrs@bangor.ac.uk www.ionleadership.co.uk Mae Arweinyddiaeth ION wedi bod yn datblygu arweinwyr eithriadol ers 11 o flynyddoedd. Am y tro cyntaf, rydyn ni’n cynnal rhaglen arweinyddiaeth Cymru gyfan. Bydd y rhaglen yn galluogi cynrychiolwyr i adeiladu rhwydweithiau gyda busnesau eraill yng Nghymru sy’n tyfu’n gyflym a datblygu’r sgiliau a’r wybodaeth angenrheidiol i ffynnu mewn marchnadle ar ôl y pandemig. O ddiddordeb i chi?
Business NEWS Penderyn Distillery Llandudno celebrates first anniversary Tuesday 17th May 2022 was a special day for Penderyn
Rydal Penrhos to host a vegan pop up lunch
Distillery Llandudno Lloyd St as they celebrated their first birthday. Unfortunately, Covid put a stop to any
Rydal Penrhos is proud to begin an
launch events when they first opened however, for their
exciting enterprise with Catherine
first birthday, Penderyn definitely weren’t going to let it
Humphrys, the founder of Wildings
go by without marking the day. Customers were treated
Vegan Kitchen, who is launching a
to complimentary tours on the day and of course there
“Pop Up” lunch event at the Rydal
was cake! As you can see from the pictures everyone
Penrhos Pavilion on Walshaw
had a fantastic day. Did you know? For the first time
Avenue on Sunday 3rd July. This is
Penderyn Distillery are using Peated Barley, which
situated at Rydal Penrhos’ stunning
means that Llandudno’s whisky will have a different
New Field site, which plays host
flavour profile to the current Penderyn range. However,
to school sporting fixtures, major
we won’t be able to taste the Llandudno whisky for at
school and community events as
least three to four years, until it’s fully matured, but it
well as weddings and functions.
will definitely be worth the wait. Penderyn is now very
Catherine has been creating tasty
much part of the Llandudno tourism experience, and
and creative plant-based food for
here’s to many more birthdays in the future!
more than 30 years after becoming vegetarian in 1982 and has proudly been vegan since 2016. She takes her culinary inspiration from
Solicitor assists with successful new business venture
cuisines around the world, always focusing on vibrant, fresh and colourful ingredients. Not always one to stick to a recipe, she loves to experiment with flavours and ideas so that her food is constantly
A commercial property expert has hailed
evolving. “Vegan food has become so
the success of a new fitness club which has
much more mainstream in the past
recently opened in Flint. Fervid Fitness has
few years so the challenge is on to
taken over the former Home Bargains unit
keep offering more exciting food
on Flint Retail Park and opened earlier this year – with the owners already looking
options,” she explained. “I absolutely
to expand across North Wales. The gym, which includes a state-of-the-art cardio
love surprising people with new
area, extensive free weights area, an Olympic lifting zone and training studio,
creations and inspiring them to try
is open seven days a week and will shortly be opening 24 hours a day. Juana
new things.” Based in Colwyn Bay,
Eastwood, commercial property solicitor at Conwy-based law firm, Lanyon Bowdler,
Catherine has been running supper
said she was delighted that the opening had gone so well. “It was a pleasure to
clubs and pop-up dining evenings
assist owner Shaun Thomas (pictured) with the commercial lease on the former
for the past three years so she’s
Home Bargains unit,” she said. “I hear that the opening few months have been
really excited to launch this first
really positive, and we wish him every future success. It’s always great to see new
lunch event at the Rydal Penrhos.
businesses opening in North Wales, and Fervid Fitness is a very welcome addition
Anyone wishing to book their place
to the Flint area.”
at the Pop Up Lunch can do so by visiting the Wildings Vegan Kitchen Facebook page @NorthWalesVegan.
NWM 2022 Page 53
t n e v e n i a m The
Organising an internal event or perhaps even an external one for clients or the wider industry you operate in can be difficult. But such occasions are an excellent tool for improving communication and Rydal Penrhos has everything you might be looking for.
If you are arranging this specifically for your staff, it is a
skills, employee motivation, and employee collaboration.
superb method of improving productivity, company culture and morale. When working day in and day out, it can be easy
Fun activities that help people see each other in a different
to fall out of love with your profession.
light allow them to connect in a different setting. People on your team are asked to think about the implications of these
This might seem like a hassle, especially with the ongoing
activities at their workplace.
stresses of a working environment now that offices are bustling once again following a significant period of disruption
Rydal Penrhos caters for these occasions, too. Our vast campus
due to COVID-19. What better way to get everyone back into
and sporting facilities are the perfect places for team building
the swing of things than hosting a team-building event to get
exercises or a corporate away day. We also have a 25-metre
everyone singing from the same hymn sheet.
swimming pool, a large sports hall and large outdoor spaces available for hire with a multitude of different possibilities.
Rydal Penrhos recently opened its exceptional campus to such events, which have been hugely popular and a roaring
Our staff team will be happy to assist with the planning
success so far. The school boasts spacious meeting and
aspect of such events to ease the burden. They are helpful,
conference rooms that can host anywhere between five
vastly experienced and go above and beyond the call of duty
and 250 guests and come complete with state of the art AV
to ensure your stay will be everything you hoped for and more.
equipment for presentations or other interactive tools. The school has accommodation available for those looking to Our facilities include smaller rooms, ideal for group training,
organise weekend activities, with Rydal Penrhos fortunate
the Dining Hall and the Memorial Hall which are available for
enough to be situated in a fantastic location close to the beach,
larger conferences and for refreshments in-between sessions
with some prominent North Wales landmarks also within
courtesy of Rydal Penrhos’ exceptional catering team.
close distance and a nearby railway station in Colwyn Bay just a stone’s throw from the A55 expressway.
Team building in the workplace is the process of creating a team that is cohesively working together towards a common
Rydal Penrhos is proud to be at the heartbeat of the local area
goal. The importance of team building is to create a strong
and we look forward to welcoming many more organisations,
team through forming bonds and connections.
businesses, clubs and societies in the coming months. n
Creating these bonds through team building is very
Anyone wishing to enquire about booking Rydal Penrhos’
beneficial to businesses and organisations. The benefits of
exceptional facilities, contact 01492 530155 or email
team building include increased communication, planning
events@rydalpenrhos.com for more information.
NWM 2022 Page 55
MAGAZINE
Page 56 NWM 2022
Expert
FOCUS
Angela Williams and Chloe Farrington, Senior Lecturer and Lecturer in Nursing at Wrexham Glyndŵr University share more about this essential course…
How did you both get into careers in nursing?
We always look at applicant’s relevant transferrable skills and
Angela: I started out on a health programme which required
experiences and how they might feed into the programme.
a two-week compulsory nursing placement and I knew
During the interview stage we want to see applicants who are
immediately that it was the profession for me. I absolutely loved
well prepared, enthusiastic, composed, caring and passionate
the care element, looking after people and feeling like I was
because those are all traits that will help them go far in a
making a difference. Nursing actually runs in my family as my
nursing career. I’ve experienced the application process at
great-grandfather was a nurse in Liverpool in 1925, I still have
Glyndŵr and know how nerve-wracking it can be, but it can
his old nursing dictionary.
also be the most rewarding process.
Chloe: At the age of 11 I had my appendix taken out and this solidified that caring for people was my passion and a career
What opportunities are open to student’s after they
I wanted to pursue as I admired the nurses who looked after
graduate?
me. I worked as healthcare assistant and Domiciliary carer
Angela: Nursing is a broad degree that can open many doors
before and during my nursing degree course here at Glyndŵr
for graduates. Our students can enter into careers in acute care,
University. Angela was my personal tutor at the time and taught
medical, surgical, community work, education and research
me for most of the three-year programme. On qualifying I
and we have close links with BCUHB and seven NHS Trusts.
secured my first job as an A&E Nurse where I spent ten years.
We also offer a number of post-registration courses such as
I loved studying at Glyndŵr so when I saw a lecturing job
BSc (Hons) Specialist Community Public Health Nursing in
opportunity come up I jumped at the chance and got the job.
health visiting or school nursing which allows students to go into more specialist fields. BSc (Hons) Community Specialist
What nursing programmes does Glyndŵr offer?
Nursing allows students to gain a qualification in district
Angela: We were successful in our bid for multi-million pound
nursing. We’ve even had students who have gone on to work
funding from Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW)
medically on cruise ships and have secured jobs in countries
to expand our health courses and we now offer three fields
like Australia and New Zealand.
of nursing; Adult, Mental Health and Children’s Nursing. The nursing and midwifery council requires all nursing students
What does Wrexham Glyndwr University have to offer?
to complete 2,300 hours of clinical placement so we have a
Chloe: We have such an incredible study skills team and as
practice education facilitators who link in with the health board
a university we provide so much support to our students.
across North Wales to organise those student placements.
I’ve been a student here and know how accessible all of
Students studying on any of our nursing programmes are
our support resources are. I’m currently studying towards
eligible for a full NHS bursary from the Welsh Government and
completing my Post Graduate Certificate in Higher Education
their tuition fees are covered. As the funding comes from HEIW,
(PGCHE) and the university helps make it so much easier to
students who accept the bursary are expected to secure a post
manage working and learning at the same time, especially
in a healthcare position in Wales for a minimum of two years
through our blended learning approach. All our lecturers
after receiving their qualification. We are currently number one
have extensive experience all different areas of nursing, from
in Wales for securing student’s jobs, achieving an employability
the community, health visitors, midwifes, theatres, children’s
figure of 93% in the latest Destination of Leavers Survey (DLHE).
nursing, mental health to acute care. This enhances the way we teach and how we prepare students for their careers
How can students get a place on one of the nursing
in the future. Personally I have worked in A&E during the
programmes?
Covid pandemic, and can pass on those experiences as well
Chloe:When we read applicant’s personal statements, we are
as forwarding on my extensive knowledge of A&E nursing
always keen to learn what their drive and motivation is to
care to my students alongside Angela and other lecturers who
become a nurse. We want to identify what they are passionate
have there their own career experiences and skills to offer to
about and why they have chosen to pursue nursing as a career.
our students. n
NWM 2022 Page 57
Learning by heart One of the keys to success with a Rydal Penrhos School education is the fact we insist on small class sizes, where every child is challenged to succeed, progress and achieve their short and longterm goals. Supported by an exceptional staff team, we are able to treat every child and young person as an individual with high levels of support so that children quickly build strong literacy and numeracy skills alongside those in debating, presenting, writing and analysis. Reducing class size, particularly in the early years, at a time
The numbers are all well and good, but no research could
when firm foundations are laid for a thriving education and a
possibly capture the intricate classroom processes that
strong attitude towards learning is acquired, is one of the key
underpin the outcomes. There is an outstanding focus
educational strategies shown to impact achievement in young
on children’s attitudes to learning, their enthusiasm and
and old alike.
confidence, learning independently, thinking critically and developing personal creativity and practical skills.
This was recently highlighted by the NASUWT – The Teachers’ Union – who will reportedly be lobbying for class
These are all attributes we actively seek to nurture at Rydal
size numbers to be restricted in the state school system.
Penrhos. We place great emphasis on levels of well-being, cooperation and positive personal relationships.
Teachers in the survey (across primary and secondary phases) reported an average class size of around 28 pupils.
Couple this with broad curriculum options at A Level and
However, more than 75% said their class sizes have increased
GCSE, a diverse extra-curricular and outdoor education
in the last five years.
provision and thorough preparation for the next step, it’s not hard to see why Rydal Penrhos has been a core part of
“Increases in class size numbers are having a detrimental
the community since 1885.
impact on both the learning experiences of pupils and the health and safety of teachers and students,” said Dr Patrick
Things have been incredibly challenging over the last
Roach, general secretary of the NASU WT. “The damaging
two years. But the school’s commitment to ensuring each
impact of increased pupil numbers in classes has been
child gets the most out of their education at Rydal Penrhos
further exposed during the pandemic, creating the perfect
remains unaltered. n
conditions for the transmission of COVID-19.” Rydal Penrhos has long recognised the benefits of small class sizes to pupil development. Our pupil-to-teacher ratio remains at 9:1 despite a significant increase in numbers across the school
John Waszek is the Principal of Rydal Penrhos
over the last 18 months – an ethos that has brought exceptional examinations results consistently and high value-added scores – which highlight a pupil far exceeding expectations.
NWM 2022 Page 59
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 60 NWM 2022
EDUCATION NEWS New menu for St David’s pupils
St David’s College is very proud of the exceptional quality of food served in the Dining Hall, and in the upcoming weeks a new menu is being introduced that will hopefully tickle the taste buds of our pupils and staff. The success of their food is undoubtedly down to the fabulous kitchen staff headed by catering manager, Will Jones and head chef, Joseph McKenna. Both are professional chefs and have recently been joined by Daniel Wild, another experienced chef, who has been busily introducing exciting new dishes at supper time. The new menu will include more vegan and vegetarian choices, and the catering team is hoping they’ll become attractive options for all pupils to try. One of the dishes that is already going down well is the stuffed aubergine, with feta cheese and pomegranate seeds. “It gives Will and I great satisfaction when we see pupils transform from being quite nervous eaters to trying everything we offer and even asking for seconds,” explained Mr McKenna, who used to work as a chef at the famous Chelsea Barracks in London. “Our new menu will include butter garlic chilli chicken, Indian curries made with our own Indian stock and ground up spices.” www.stdavidscollege.co.uk
Grŵp Llandrillo Menai announces upcoming events Grŵp Llandrillo Menai has a number of events coming up across its campuses in June. Their Community Engagement Events are a fantastic opportunity to find out about college, with fun activities for all the family, plus opportunities to win exciting prizes. At these Evening Open Events, you can find out about the wide range of courses, tour
Rydal Penrhos plans sports tour After a huge period of disruption to sporting
the facilities and meet the expert staff.
fixtures and significant events at Rydal Penrhos
Coleg Llandrillo:
full swing. And the school is thrilled to announce a
Abergele Campus: Monday 13 June, 5:30 - 7pm Rhos-on-Sea Campus: Monday 13 June, 5:30 - 7pm
over the last two years, things are now back in special Senior Sports Tour, which will take place in October 2022. The school’s staff have devised an
Rhyl Campus: Tuesday 14 June, 5:30 - 7pm
action-packed schedule for the tour, which will see
Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor:
to Holland for training sessions and competitive
Dolgellau Campus - Community Engagement Event: Saturday 11 June, 11am - 2pm Pwllheli Campus - Community Engagement Event:
Rydal Penrhos’ rugby and hockey hopefuls travel matches in unfamiliar surroundings. This is the latest in a series of exciting tours arranged by the school in recent years, with excursions to Japan,
Saturday 18 June, 11 - 2pm
Spain and Ireland among the most memorable
Coleg Menai:
The tour is set to run from Sunday 23rd October
Bangor Campus: Thursday 16 June, 4:30 - 6:30pm Llangefni Campus - Community Engagement Event: Saturday 11 June, 11am - 2pm
highlights that benefitted our pupils considerably. until Thursday 27th, and the intention is for the girls to play two hockey fixtures and the boys one hockey and one rugby contest against opposition
Parc Menai Campus: Tuesday 14 June, 4:30 - 6:30pm
from the continent. Those on the tour will also
Glynllifon:
visiting prominent landmarks, building friendships
Community Engagement Event: Saturday 11 June, 10am - 2pm
get the chance to sample some Dutch culture by and gaining new experiences that will be a tremendous boost to their overall development. www.rydalpenrhos.com
To book your place at the event, visit gllm.ac.uk/events
NWM 2022 Page 61
MAGAZINE
EDUCATION NEWS Wrexham Glyndwr’ students graduate in style and 2021 graduated in style with a large celebratory outdoor
Myddelton College gets seal of approval from Microsoft
festival. The University held the Graduation Festival across
Myddelton College in Denbigh is the only school in North
two days in the quad at the Plas Coch campus to honour
Wales to be recognised as a Showcase School by the
those who graduated during the pandemic years. The
world’s leading software company, Microsoft. “Microsoft
celebrations featured a huge marquee, food stalls, live music
showcase schools are truly transforming learning and
and entertainment including a magician. There were also
providing more personalized education to students,
giant games including Jenga, Connect 4 and a buzz wire for
empowering them to achieve more,” said Microsoft
graduates and their families and friends to enjoy. And on
vice-president Anthony Salcito. “We are so proud of
Wednesday, Wrexham Glyndwr’s Chancellor, Olympic Games
what you have achieved over the past year, particularly
medalist Colin Jackson was in attendance for the first on-
in these trying times. Your resilience, creativity and
campus event since the start of his chancellorship in 2019.
innovation continue to inspire students and empower
In her speech to graduates, their families and friends, Vice-
them to achieve more.” As a Showcase School, Myddelton
Chancellor Professor Maria Hinfelaar said: “It is really good
College works closely with Microsoft to lead innovation
to welcome you all today and to hear the buzz of so many
in educational transformation and communicate an
visitors to our campus. It’s been too quiet and we’ve missed
education transformation vision, enabled by technology,
you. It is you, our graduates of 2020 and 2021, who are the
through their commitment to host and mentor other
reason we are here today to congratulate you and to celebrate
schools in the local community and around the globe.
your success.”
admissions@myddeltoncollege.com
The wait was worth it as Wrexham Glyndwr’s class of 2020
www.glyndwr.ac.uk
Coleg Cambria sports courses netted praise from talented graduates
Samantha Coffin and Jordan Broom are among the learners to successfully complete the FdSc Sports Coaching and FdSc in Fitness and Health with Coleg Cambria University Centre. The college, which has sites in Wrexham, Deeside, Llysfasi and Northop, delivers the foundation degrees in partnership with Liverpool John Moores University – students who complete the FdSc can apply to do a top-up year for a BSc in Sports Coaching – and has seen many students go on to achieve success in their chosen careers. FdSc sports coaching programme leader Angela Jones congratulated Samantha and Jordan on realising their goals and wished them well for the future. “Both showed great commitment to the courses and the passion and determination to help others through sport and exercise,” she said. “As we move forward in partnership with Liverpool John Moores the programme goes from strength to strength, and the breadth of modules covered, including a work placement element, means there is a wide variety of careers out there for those who complete it. Well done again to Samantha and Jordan, we are proud of them and hope they and fellow graduates go on to enjoy successful roles in sports and education for many years to come.” www.cambria.ac.uk/courses
Page 62 NWM 2022
DIGWYDDIADAU AR Y GWEILL UPCOMING EVENTS Dewch â’ch teulu a’ch ffrindiau i’n Digwyddiadau Ymgysylltu lle cewch gymryd rhan mewn gweithgareddau yn ogystal â gweld ein cyfleusterau tan gamp, yr hyn sydd gennym i’w gynnig a sut rydym yn cefnogi ein cymunedau.
Bring your friends and family to our Engagement Events, where you can take part in activities, tour our excellent facilities, see what we have to offer and how we support our communities.
Yn ein Nosweithiau Agored mae ein tiwtoriaid hefyd yn edrych ymlaen at ddangos i chi sut y gall cofrestru ar gwrs ym mis Medi eich helpu i wella eich dyfodol.
Our tutors are also looking forward to showing you how enrolling on a course in September can help you improve your future at one of our Evening Open Events.
Digwyddiadau Ymgysylltu â’r Gymuned: Community College Engagement Events:
Nosweithiau Agored: Evening College Open Events: Abergele - 13/6/22
17:30 - 19:00 17:30 - 19:00
Dolgellau - 11/6/22
11:00 - 14:00
Llandrillo-yn-Rhos / Rhos-on-Sea - 13/6/22
Llangefni - 11/6/22
11:00 - 14:00
Parc Menai - 14/6/22
16:30 - 18:30
Glynllifon - 11/6/22
11:00 - 14:00
Rhyl - 14/6/22
17:30 - 19:00
Pwllheli - 18/6/22
11:00 - 14:00
Bangor - 16/6/22
16:30 - 18:30
Archebwch eich lle heddiw! Book your place today!
gllm.ac.uk/events
NWM 2022 Page 63
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
Page 64 NWM 2022
Community
News
Cambrian Credit Union seeks board members Cambrian Credit Union are actively recruiting for new volunteers to join their board of directors. This is an ideal opportunity to start a non-executive board role by bringing your valuable experience to help support the local community. Cambrian Credit Union is a fair, ethical, and responsible
Penderyn’s great June offer
provider of financial products and services. They exist to
Throughout June 2022, Penderyn Distillery are offering all
cost credit, more inclusive and community led while following
customers shopping at their Llandudno Lloyd St Distillery
the vision that: “Wales will be a place where the financially
shop a complimentary branded whisky glass if you buy
vulnerable do not fall victim to high-cost lenders.” They are
a 70cl bottle of Penderyn whisky. Over 12,000 visitors
100% committed to improving financial wellbeing whether it
have already taken tours, which are available seven days
is providing affordable loans or giving a safe place to save. So,
a week, and the shop is also open to the public, stocking
if you have business or community development experience,
their full range of bottles and merchandise. With a wide
or a background in law or finance, or any skills you feel are
range of whisky products to chose from, you can liven up
relevant, please contact: sandy.highfield@cambriancu.com
create a new way of banking that is an alternative to high-
your whisky collections at home with a stunning bottle of Penderyn while drinking from your beautiful whisky glass too. And… if you haven’t had the chance to experience their distillery tour, where you’ll be taken through the exhibition area, their distilling hall, and finishing in their beautiful
New Zip World attraction for Rhyl Zip World will soon be
tasting bar (where you’ll have the chance to experience a
flying high above Rhyl with
sample drink or two!) make sure you get yourself booked in
the introduction of their
this summer. For more information please email: llandudno@
20th adventure, Skyflyer.
penderyn.wales
Launching at the new Zip World Rhyl site the airship will be the ultimate sight seeing adventure, with visitors being
It’s a musical theme for June’s Artisan Market...
elevated 400ft in the air to soak up the panoramic views of
Since Noel Gallagher’s coming to town, the Artisan
www.zipworld.co.uk
the North Wales coast. Skyflyer opens on 6th July, and will be joined by Big Red – a mini zip line perfect for families.
Market is going all Champagne Supernova on you on Saturday 18th June and putting the Rock & Roll into Colwyn Bay! An amazing line up of ‘Indie’ style musicians, including an OASIS tribute band, will be playing for all you lucky market-goers, and there will be plenty of musical fun for the kids too – including a ‘soundtrack’ workshop where you can take part in creating a community based piece of music to provide the soundtrack for a special Colwyn Bay promotional film! And, of course, the top-notch arts and crafts stalls will be as tempting as ever so you can peruse, muse and shop till your heart’s content! www.theartisanmarketcompany.co.uk
NWM 2022 Page 65
Free legal clinics available
Leading North Wales law firm Lanyon Bowdler will be hosting two free legal clinics this summer, where people can discuss any questions they may have relating to possible claims for either personal injury or clinical negligence. The clinics will be held at the firm’s Conwy offices on Riverside Business Park on Wednesday 13th and Thursday 21st July between 10am and 4.30pm and will provide the opportunity for people to seek free professional advice from lawyers who specialise in these areas of law. “If you ever find yourself in the unfortunate position of suffering either clinical negligence or personal injury, it is important to know that there
“When it happens there are many questions to be answered, and
Foster Wales Flintshire rejoices Foster Care fortnight
advice and guidance is needed to help people know what to do
During the month of May, foster families across
next. We know that approaching a solicitor can be difficult, so
Flintshire came together to celebrate Foster Care
our free clinics are a great way of taking that first step. There’s
Fortnight. This year, Foster Wales celebrated the
always a way to fund a claim, so come and talk to us entirely free
difference that foster carers had made to children’s
of charge and commitment.” To make an appointment please
lives with the UK’s biggest awareness raising
email: info@lblaw.co.uk
campaign #fosteringcommunities, delivered by leading
is specialist legal advice available,” said Laura Weir (pictured), a clinical negligence specialist at Lanyon Bowdler’s Conwy office.
fostering charity, The Fostering Network. For two weeks, Foster Wales Flintshire praised the many ways
Mynydd Sleddog Adventures launches Husky Hiking
people in the fostering community had supported each other during and post the Covid-19 pandemic. There is a national crisis for more dedicated foster carers, not
Summer has arrived, and the dogs at
only in Flintshire but across the country. One foster
Mynydd Sleddog Adventures are now
carer who decided to open up her heart and home to
enjoying their well-deserved summer
care is Caz, 40 from Mancot. ‘’For the past couple of
holiday from their fast paced winter work.
years we have discussed the possibility of us fostering
Visitors can still enjoy the super sleddogs
as a family,” she explained. “It was only during the
though, so why not sign up for a Husky
pandemic that we all sat down together to have an in
Hiking adventure? Hiking with Huskies
depth conversation as a family about moving forward
is not like walking with any other breed of
with the idea. With more time at home we decided to
dog, as sleddogs PULL! You will have the
make enquires with our local authority. We completed
opportunity to forget the hustle and bustle
the skills to foster training online and in May 2021
of everyday life, take in beautiful scenery,
we were officially approved. We have had over a
breath fresh air, listen to the sound of white water streams and
dozen foster children so far!” Foster Wales wants to
rivers meandering through the landscape, spot wildflowers and
encourage more people to become foster carers in
look out for wildlife along the way. And the team at Mynydd Sleddog
Flintshire so that children can stay local and maintain
Adventures will pick a beautiful spot to enjoy refreshments and
their sense of identity during a really difficult time. To
Husky Hike photos.
find out how you can foster in Flintshire visit:
www.mynyddsleddogadventures.com
www.fosterwales.gov.wales
Abbeyfield looks to expand team
three years. House manager Franco, an Italian who has lived
The staff at Abbeyfield are dedicated to making the residents
in the UK for over 40 years, has worked for Abbeyfield for
live a happy life without the worry of looking after their
15 years and is supported by Sian, who has been a member
own home. House manager Dot has worked at Alexandra
of the Abbeyfield staff for six years. The House staff are
Road for 21 years, and has seen many residents come and
supported by domestic staff Amalia, Pauline, Kath and Donna,
go while they make Abbeyfield their home. Dot is known for
and the whole team is managed by GM Anna Hamblett, and
her attention to detail and presentation and is supported by
overseen by a Board of Trustees who volunteer their time
her deputy, local girl Sara who makes the most fabulous Bara
unpaid. Abbeyfield’s longest serving member of staff is
Brith for the residents. Rhos Road has two great cooks, Ros
Maxine who works in all of the Houses and will be greatly
and Hazel. Ros is known for her ‘cooking from scratch’ skills
missed when she retires shortly – so, if you would like her
and each day is a surprise for the residents. Ros has been
job, please enquire at the office.
with Abbeyfield for 16 years and Hazel, her deputy, for just
www.abbeyfield.com
Page 66 NWM 2022
SHOWROOM OPEN: FRIDAY: 10.30am – 3.30pm SATURDAY: 10.30am – 3.00pm TELEPHONE: 01492 536353 WE ARE NORTH WALES ONLY RETAIL SHOWROOM WITH AN IN-HOUSE REGISTERED GAS SAFE ENGINEER AND FIREPLACE INSTALLER
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Unit 1, Falcon Estate, Eagles Farm Road, Mochdre Business Park, Mochdre, LL28 5HF Customer car park • Wheelchair friendly
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Abbeyfield Colwyn Bay Abbeyfield offer supported housing for elderly people Why not try our guest/respite room to see if you would enjoy staying in an Abbeyfield House Ring Anna on 01492 533724 for more information Your family are welcome to visit you in your accommodation at any time, all flats and bedsits have door entry systems. Let Abbeyfield take the strain of every day living; a life of no food shopping, cooking and household bills • • • •
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If you would like to view any of our three properties please contact Anna by telephone or email Search @ abbeyfield colwyn bay society on facebook
For more information contact General Manager Anna Hamblett on 01492 533724 or email abbeyfieldcolwynbay@gmail.com
Abbeyfield Colwyn Bay Society 10/12 Alexandra Road Colwyn Bay LL29 7YB
Abbeyfield.com
What to do when someone dies
When a relative or friend has just died it can be overwhelming and daunting not knowing what to do or who to call first, especially if you have never experienced a bereavement before. Depending on the circumstances, and where the person has died, there are a few different steps to take… If the death was expected (e.g. due to a terminal illness)
the Funeral Director who attended for the funeral. For our
Have they died at home or in a Nursing Home?
local area, the coroner’s designated hospital is Ysbyty Glan
If the death was expected, perhaps due to a terminal illness,
Clwyd. The coroner may request a post-mortem or inquest
a doctor or registered nurse will need to verify the death. You
to determine the cause of death. The coroner will speak to
should call your GP practice, which will divert to the on-call
you about their investigation and will ask you to appoint a
duty doctor if out of hours. The doctor or nurse can take a
Funeral Director if you haven’t already done so.
number of hours to attend. Once the death has been verified, you can contact a Funeral Director when you are ready. You
Have they died abroad or away from home?
may choose to take some time to say your goodbyes before
If someone dies abroad, the death needs to be registered
calling the Funeral Director.
according to the regulations in that country. The death will also need to be registered with the British Embassy to obtain
Have they died in Hospital?
a consulate death certificate. You should let a tour operator or
If someone dies in hospital, you will be contacted by the
resort representative know about the death. If someone died
bereavement team based at the hospital. If the death occurs
while on a ship or plane, you must register the death in the
outside of the bereavement office hours, you can usually
country that the ship or plane is registered to and not where
expect the call to take place the next working day. They
the ship or plane was at the time of death.
will be able to offer practical and emotional support. The bereavement team will ask you if you have a Funeral Director
If you are unclear on what to do next in any of the above
appointed. As the hospital will arrange all of the necessary
situations, we recommend calling your preferred Funeral
paperwork, the Funeral Director cannot usually bring the
Director to ask for advice and guidance. n
person that has died into their care straight away, this means you can take your time to appoint someone. If the death was unexpected
Have they died unexpectedly? For sudden or unexpected deaths, the standard procedure is for the ambulance service to attend to verify the death. Once the paramedics have verified the death, the Police will be asked to attend on behalf of the coroner. The police officer(s) will collect information for the coroner and will then contact a Funeral Director to take the person who has died to a nearby hospital, in the care of the coroner. You may request a Funeral Director or alternatively the police will contact a local Funeral Director to act on their behalf. You do not need to use
Kelly Bowsher is the first female funeral director, and soon to be family member, at Tom Owen and Son – an award-winning, family run, independent community Funeral Director situated in Llandudno. They provide a modern fresh approach to organising funerals that empowers you to have a unique funeral that is fitting for the person that has died. For more information, please get in touch with one of the team by calling 01492 860 280 or visit the blog and website at https://www.tomowenandson.com/
NWM 2022 Page 69
As seen in the
GERALLT BREESE RICHARDS TIWTOR MATHEMATEG PROFIADOL EXPERIENCED MATHS TUTOR
Anglesey & Lake District yoga retreats 2022
Yoga & Wild Swimming Yoga & Wellness
Dwi’n cynnig gwersi ar lein neu wyneb yn wyneb I offer online or face-to-face lessons
Yoga & Relaxation JUNE50
£50 off, if you book before the end of June
Codwch y ffôn am sgwrs neu yrru e-bost am fwy o fanylion Pick up the phone for a chat or send an email for more details gbr.cymru@gmail.com | 07831642912 | Pen Y Bont, Cynwyd, Corwen, LL21 0ET
www.thezestlife.co.uk
Cerddorfa WNO Orchestra Yn cyflwyno | Presents
www.gbr.cymru
Mehefin 10 June 7.30pm Pontio, Bangor
Mehefin 11 June 4pm
Yr Hafren, Y Drenewydd Hafren, Newtown
Dathliad Ganol Haf A Midsummer Celebration Mendelssohn Agorawd A Midsummer Night’s Dream Overture Gerald Finzi Let us Garlands Bring Owain Llwyd Y Gogarth (Comisiwn newydd | New commission) Vaughan Williams The Lark Ascending Mendelssohn Symffoni Rhif 4 | Symphony No 4 Italian
Archebwch nawr ar | Book now at wno.org.uk/orchestra wno.org.uk/orchestra #WNOorchestra Rhif Elusen Gofrestredig | Registered Charity No 221538
r e n r o Book C African Twist
Twist combines immaculate balance of flavours combined with
From the added heat of West African chillies to leafy greens
for those wanting to explore broader culinary horizons.
Maggie Ogunbanwo
playful presentation to ensure these are recipes to remember
and pulses from the east, this collection of African-inspired recipes showcases a range of ingredients, flavours and
Recipes include: Golden Rice with Raisins, Carrot and Apricot
combinations to invigorate any plant-based offering with an
Soup, Courgette, Kale and Leek Bitetuteku, Banfora: Burkina
African twist.
Welsh Cakes, Rum Caramel Oranges, Puff-Puff with Kombucha.
Written by the owner of Maggie’s African Twist sauce
African Twist is available to purchase now for £9.99 from local
company based in North Wales, Maggie Ogunbanwo, African
bookshops or online from www.graffeg.com
NWM 2022 Page 71
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world
Walking
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
Harlech to Dyffryn Ardudwy – following in Glyndwr’s footsteps…
Amenities:
J Public toilets, cafés, pubs, restaurants and shops
With 870 miles’ worth of trails, choosing the most spectacular
are available in Harlech and Dyffryn Ardudwy.
Wales Coast Path walk is a task that even the most ardent
There are also some public toilets on the route.
adventurers might find tough. Transport: Boasting vistas alongside one of Wales’ most captivating castles,
J Car parking is available, with regular train and
the 12-mile route from Harlech Castle to Dyffryn Ardudwy would no
bus services between Harlech, Pensarn and
doubt top the list of many a keen walker.
Dyffryn Ardudwy.
Curated by Natural Resources Wales’ Deiniol Tegid, this route is
Food and Drink:
a collaboration between Wales Coast Path and Cadw — one that
J Shell Island has shops, a snack bar, pub and
marks the celebration of the Coast Path’s 10-year anniversary.
restaurant.
Beauty and history aside, the route’s versatility – comprising shorter three-, five- and seven-mile routes – also makes it perfect for both beginners and seasoned walkers. Don’t just take our word for it though: Rhys Roberts, Wales Coast Path Officer, describes the stretch as: “A longish walk, but it’s very flat for much of the way. Around five miles of it are along the massive beaches of Harlech and Morfa Dyffryn. They really are quite stunning – and the dunes behind them are very important for some rare wildlife.”
NWM 2022 Page 73
THE ROUTE
If the beauty of Harlech Castle leaves you spellbound and yearning for more Welsh history, then it’s worth becoming a Cadw member. With senior membership costing £42 and adult
Your journey starts at Harlech Castle — arguably the most incredible
membership £53 a year, a Cadw membership is not
setting for any of the North Wales castles. Overlooking the dunes,
only a great way to explore Wales’ rich past, but also
Harlech is steeped in history. In 1404 the Castle fell to the charismatic
a unique way to ensure its future. Because, as these
prince Owain Glyndŵr during the last major rebellion against English
awe-inspiring historic places continue to play such
rule. Together with nearby Machynlleth it became the centre of
a pivotal part in enriching the everyday lives of
Glyndŵr’s inspiring vision of an independent Wales.
everyday people, the need to care and protect them also continues to grow in importance.
He moved his main residence and court here and summoned his followers from all over the country to attend a great parliament. It may
And, without the contribution and support of our
well have been at Harlech Castle that he was formally crowned Prince of
Cadw members, that care and protection wouldn’t
Wales in the presence of envoys from Scotland, France and Spain.
be possible.
Entry nowadays is easier, with visitors and Cadw members welcome
These are the same members who not only enjoy
daily from 9:30am – 5pm.
the cultural benefits of our nation’s 130 historical sites — but help safeguard and protect them, too.
After exploring the town and medieval Castle dating back to the 1280s, head downhill to the coast via a long straight road, crossing Royal
The same members who see the inherent value in
St David’s Golf Club towards the dunes of Morfa Harlech. Greeted by
preserving the living link to our unique histories —
Harlech’s five-mile beach, turn left, walking along the beach for 1.5 miles
all of which help them understand their place in an
before traversing some steep steps.
ever-changing world.
After a mile, you’ll reach a small church at Llandanwg, walking another
The same members who help make Wales’ historic
mile to Pensarn Harbour. Staying on the Wales Coast Path, meander along
places something for us all to be proud of — and,
the river Artro, skirting Llanbedr airport and reaching the awe-inspiring
ultimately, something for us all to keep.
Mochras (Shell Island). Help us safeguard our heritage for the future: We’re now back on the beach by Morfa Dyffryn National Nature Reserve,
become a Cadw member at cadw.gov.wales today.
where you’ll spend the next 3.5 miles. Where the Wales Coast Path veers right through a small gate, continue up the lane and over the railway, crossing onto Ffordd Gors through four stone pillars. A few hundred yards on, follow the signed public footpath through the gate, heading diagonally up-field to a covered stone wall. Follow the wall over a small stream, through some woods and a gate, swaying left through the next field to reach Dyffryn Ardudwy Burial Chambers. Following a downhill stroll along a narrow path to the main road, the Neolithic site of Dyffryn Ardudwy awaits. n
Page 74 NWM 2022
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.
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Our championship greens are protected by Harlech Castle and you don’t have to pay a King’s ransom to play...
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Cardiff
...Links golf as it should be.
Abergele golf course is regarded by many as the most attractive course in Wales
s e l a W th r o N f l o G o t Welcome Your eyes are on the ball, focused on the fairway. You’re desperate not to be distracted by the salty breeze, whirling sea-gulls, and the rugged cliffs that fall away to the sea all around you. This is golf, North Wales-style!
It’s often said that North Wales offers the best value green
Imagine playing in the shadow of a great castle? You can at
fees in Europe. What’s the catch? There isn’t one. You’ll
Abergele, regarded by many as the most attractive course
sacrifice nothing in quality – North Wales is home to some
in Wales. Gwrych Castle looks down on this lovely course
world-class championship courses – you’ll find links,
between hills and the sea. North Wales golf includes smaller,
parkland, heathland and wind-in-your-hair clifftop courses.
nine-hole courses where you can turn up and play ¬– ideal if
Whatever your standard of golf you’ll find courses to enjoy in
you don’t have a whole day at your disposal.
North Wales. In fact North Wales has over 60 of them, many of them steeped in history.
There’s nothing pretentious or pompous about golf in North Wales. We’re talking about unspoiled courses at affordable
You could be playing in parklands in the Vales of Clwyd or
prices. You play at your own pace. Tee times are readily
Llangollen. Or battling the wind and marram grass of our
available, even at the weekends. The courses are never
links courses at Prestatyn, Llandudno, Aberdovey, Abersoch
over crowded, so expect a relaxed pace and few hold ups.
and Conwy. North Wales golf has its challenges!
Visit North Wales and you’ll find friendly welcoming clubs that appreciate your presence and offer great hospitality.
On Anglesey you’ll find two heathland courses at Bull Bay
So whether you’re coming with family or with your golfing
and Holyhead, as well as a links course at Rhosneigr and 18-
buddies, you can expect a variety of great quality courses
hole parklands at Henllys Hall by the coast near Beaumaris.
and excellent value for money. We believe that golf in North Wales is what the game should be about – challenge and conviviality, achievement and enjoyment, good competition and great fun. Why not book your tee time today or pick up one of the great value golf passes from Golf North Wales, which start from as little as just £90! n Whatever your standard of golf you’ll find courses to enjoy in North Wales so why not browse www.golfnorthwales.co.uk to find out more?
Llandudno’s Maesdu Golf Club is another premier North Wales course
NWM 2022 Page 77
allwch chi wneud gwahaniaeth i fywydau plant a phobl ifanc lleol yn sir y fflint? could you make a difference to the lives of local children and young people in flintshire? Mae yna blant yn Sir y Fflint angen cartref maeth. Lle diogel, lle i ddysgu, a lle i chwerthin. Lle llawn cariad. There are children in Flintshire who need a foster home. A safe place, a place to learn, and a place to laugh. A place to be loved. I ddarganfod mwy: www.maethucymru.siryfflint.gov.uk Discover more at: www.fosterwales.flintshire.gov.uk
Sir y Fflint
c w
Flintshire
ydweithio i adeiladu gwell dyfodol i blant lleol orking together to build better futures for local children
On the right track Gareth Ffowcs-Williams discusses why electric bikes are so well suited to North Wales…
Over the past two years electric bikes have really taken off and
When looking for an e-bike you need to make sure you get one
more and more people are realising the benefits an electrical
that is the correct size, feels comfortable and is designed to
assisted bike can bring, but there are still many people who are
do the sort of riding you want to do. There is no point getting
unaware of their capabilities and limitations.
a mountain bike if you plan to do all your riding on the road! Prices vary a lot depending on the parts on the bikes, the
Firstly allow me to dispel the myth that they do all the work for
choice of motor and the size of the battery. All these differences
you and are just for lazy people! All road legal e-bikes are pedal
can be a little overwhelming so seek advice when considering
assist, which means they will help you pedal, but they won’t
your options.
do the work for you. They have different levels of assistance which you can change while riding and which level you choose
There are some things you need to watch out for.
is based purely on how much help you want to get up the hills!
Manufacturers warranties usually last for two years and are
Obviously, we have a lot of hills around us, and sometimes quite
only for the original purchaser, which is something you need to
a bit of wind as well, and fundamentally this is why e-bikes are
factor in if looking at bikes on the second hand market. A new
proving so popular: they are helping people get out and about
battery or motor can be expensive. There are e-bike conversion
and exercising in terrain and locations that are simply not
kits available which will transform a non-electric bike into an
accessible for many people without the assistance.
e-bike by attaching a motor and battery to it. These can seem attractive as they are significantly cheaper than a purpose built
Electric bikes are definitely here to stay. They enable many of
e-bike. We have seen some bikes with these on which don’t
us to get outside in the fresh air and go to beautiful places. The
look too bad, but most look decidedly dodgy, as the systems are
assistance means we are able to talk to the people we are with
often fitted onto bikes which are not suitable or safe to take the
rather than panting at them. Getting out on a ride promotes the
added weight and power that the motor gives.
positive endorphins so we get a sense of achievement but still arrive home with enough energy to carry on with the rest of
There are many places, such as Beics Betws, which offer
the day, rather than needing to collapse into a heap on the floor
e-bikes for hire, so if you haven’t tried one yet, I strongly
and be carried to bed!
recommend you hire one for a day and see how good they are. I’m sure you wont be disappointed, but be warned, it can be addictive and you will have fewer excuses not to go out for a ride! n Gareth Ffowcs-Williams is the owner of We Cycle in Llandudno Junction – the largest bicycle showroom in North Wales. www.wecycle.co.uk
NWM 2022 Page 79
Luxurious Destination on the North Wales Coast… Deganwy Quay | Deganwy | Conwy 01492 564100 www.quayhotel.co.uk
One hour's drive; a million miles away The Quay Hotel & Spa, a unique wedding venue set on the idyllic Conwy Estuary with awe-inspiring views of the ancient Castle, makes a magical setting for an unforgettable wedding. Our dedicated wedding co-ordinators are on hand to discuss your wedding plans; so why not visit us to experience what makes The Quay Hotel & Spa the ideal choice for your picture-perfect day. For those who cant wait to be married, please enquire about our last minute availability offers for 2022.
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s e l a W th r o N
Where to stay in
The quaint cottage Located in the beautiful Welsh countryside, just a few
The contemporary apartment
miles away from the popular resort of Abersoch, Cilfach
This beautiful split-level apartment is located just yards
offers a perfect rural escape for the whole family. Cilfach
from the Victorian pier and promenade in Llandudno.
is set in a rural part of Gwynedd close to both Llanbedrog
This gorgeous ground-floor apartment sleeps up to
and Abersoch town centres, and within walking distance
four people in two bedrooms. The master bedroom has
of several beaches. Sleeping six across two double
a double bed and en suite bathroom, while the second
and one bunk bedroom, this traditional Welsh cottage
bedroom offers a choice of either one kingsize bed or
provides a perfect base to explore the countryside
two small singles. French doors lead into the private
and beaches found across the Llŷn Peninsula. There
outside seating area, and the shower room is just
is off-road parking for several cars and a conservatory
down the hall. The bright and airy lounge is beautifully
opening up over the garden to the rear. There are a
decorated and has a gas fire for those cosy evenings
fantastic selection of boutiques, local restaurants and
in. the kitchen diner can be found downstairs and has
bars all just a short journey from Cilfach. The nearby
everything that you need in order to have an absolutely
village of Llanbedrog offers some popular scenic walks
fabulous holiday.
with truly breathtaking views over Cardigan Bay.
www.northwalesholidaycottages.co.uk
www.walescottageholidays.co.uk
NWM 2021 Page 81
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
June’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st – April 20th) Obligations are a burden over your head. It’s common to put other people’s needs as an essential priority, but it’s time to get rid of what is creating stress and take care of yourself. If your life has been stressful for several months, take a break, let your hair down and smile again. Friends always ask you for advice on their relationships. It’s time to consider your relationships and life.
TAURUS (April 21st – May 21st) Scale back social plans. Instead of dining at expensive places, invite friends to your home for a delicious dinner. You can still enjoy yourself without spending a lot of money and as you wait for additional cash to come in, you could begin making plans for a trip with your loved ones. You have the chance to try again at something that you have failed before – take another go at it and be sure that it was returned to you to help you understand why. GEMINI (May 22nd – June 21st) Accept any opportunity to make money offered to you. Utilise your talents to make a difference in the world, and it could be the beginning of a successful business. The buds will soon appear when you nurture your ideas. The fruits of your efforts will begin to appear very quickly. You’re an outstanding professional and those at the top are beginning to notice you. Don’t be shocked if you are appointed to some critical department or committee.
LIBRA (September 24th – October 23rd) Make sure your thoughts and behaviour remain positive, and you’ll be able to change your mindset for the better. You think that other people should work harder and make financial contributions to your home. It’s essential to let people know that you’re not interested in paying their debts or clearing up their mess. An alternative source of income could be found on the 24th, but it will require you to take on new obligations. SCORPIO (October 24th – November 22nd) You and your mate might be going through difficult times, but you’ll do your best to be back on an equal footing. A domestic project you initiated a few months ago requires completion. You’re now ready to move forward and conclude complex jobs. You’re exhausted from keeping track of the pennies. The idea of borrowing money from a friend could strain your relationship. SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd – December 21st) Find activities that connect with your inner child in the middle of June. Are you dating? Participating in activities you’ve never attempted before will expose you to new people. If you’re looking for work, ideas to earn money or an opportunity to showcase your creativity, be confident, and you’ll get it. The key to success lies in your charismatic and warm personality.
CANCER (June 22nd – July 23rd) An intimate friendship is likely to grow with people who share your goals. A few financial mismanagements from the past will be resolved on the 18th and you’ll be determined to ensure an incident similar to this one can’t and won’t happen ever again. In addition, an agreement will be reached with your partner or family members to establish an updated and more prudent budget.
CAPRICORN (December 22nd – January 20th) The environment in your home is one of love and cooperation when you come together to support each other in achieving a mutually beneficial objective. Are you dating? If you’re in a relationship that has the potential to blossom, then it’ll develop organically and you’ll be able to tell from the outset that this is precisely how it should be. It is possible to spend extra cash this month to pay for home repairs.
LEO (July 24th – August 23rd) Cash may appear more accessible at the end of each month than the financial situation you had earlier. There’s excitement in the air. This could become too much if you aren’t careful and manage just one thing at a time. Be careful not to continue running ahead of your peers since they’ll not be able to keep pace with you. Be patient, stay away from unnecessary stress and take advantage of the moments of enjoyment and laughter.
AQUARIUS (January 21st – February 19th) Sincerity and honesty will open the way for a more intimate relationship. Are you not married? Don’t let your friends force you back into dating before you’re at your best. Enjoy your freedom and enjoy yourself. Mid-June is the ideal time to deal with financial issues. One method to stop yourself and your partner from spending your money in a way that isn’t necessary is to set up a reasonable budget.
VIRGO (August 24th – September 23rd) Disputes can erupt about joint finances or inheritance. It is a cause for concern that some people are obsessed with material matters and you’re inclined to leave an unpleasant situation. If you have a legitimate claim to a certain amount of money, get an expert to advocate on your behalf of you. A legal agreement can alleviate some of the burdens. Don’t let your partner make the crucial choices.
PISCES (February 20th – March 20th) You’re an affectionate and sensitive personality, but someone is profiting from it and it’s time to be alert to this. What are they trying to hide? Your boss shouldn’t continue to push you to do something without rewarding your efforts. You only have so much patience before you recognise that you must protect your interests. Make yourself heard, stand on your own and be confident in what is really suitable for you.
Page 82 NWM 2020
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All images used for illustrative purposes.
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