NOVEMBER 2021
! EE FR
MAGAZINE
What’s On? Your monthly guide to local events
Lest we forget
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INSIDE J Wildlife J Food & Drink J Homes & Interiors
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MAGAZINE We want to hear from you!
DEAR READER Remember, remember the fifth of November… Actually you don’t need to remember much this year because we have the details of all of the bonfire nights and firework displays taking place in North Wales – just turn to page 11 to see what’s on. November is also when we remember
Also make sure that you follow us on
those who selflessly sacrificed their
Facebook (@northwalesmag) where we
lives during battle. Llandudno played a
have lots of other competitions taking
huge part during the Second World War,
place, as well as some great scenic shots
and you can read all about the town’s
of North Wales that we simply can’t fit
fascinating wartime history on page 25.
inside these pages…
that you enter our competition on page 35 where we are giving away a family ticket for the opening night of Aladdin at Christmassy as going to the panto!
Kate Hamilton Founding Editor
J Advertise. If you own a business in North Wales and want to get your message in front of 25,000 local readers every month then drop us a line. Prices start from just £80. sales@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk
J
In this issue:
This edition of North Wales Magazine has something for everybody!
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Venue Cymru. After all, nothing feels as
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NWM 2021 Page 5
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Contents
MAGAZINE EDITOR
Kate Hamilton
11
PUBLISHER
Grant Hamilton ART DIRECTOR
Simon Marriott OFFICE MANAGER
Sian Roberts CONTRIBUTORS
29 08 The Big Picture
The beautiful Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall
Stephen Gregory Steve Goodier Cai Ross Pete Greensmith Siobhan Watson Bethany Birch Karen Bates Adrian Hughes Russell Grant John Waszek
11 What’s on?
The best events taking place in North Wales this November
15 You and your pet
39 Food & drink
How To Help Your Winter Wildlife
The regions wining, dining and culinary scene
17 Interview with…
Taekwondo athlete Jade Jones OBE
21 Paying our respects
Remembering Llandudno’s war effort
25 Days gone by
Reminiscing about childhood bonfire nights
29 Music to our ears
The North Wales International Music Festival returns
51 Homes & interiors
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.
61 In Business
Disclaimer: All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part (electronically or in print) without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content, and any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of North Wales Magazine. The publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in, or as a result of, any offer, competition, information or advertisement contained within the magazine. North Wales Magazine does not endorse any of the advertisements featured. All words and images remain the property of their respective owners and all copyrights are observed. North Wales Magazine is not associated with any newspaper group.
Get inspired by homes that are on the market
North Wales news and advice
65 Education
Learning in North Wales
71 Exquisite weddings
Real weddings at Talhenbont Hall
31 Town in Focus
73 Motoring
Discovering Barmouth
The drive of your life
35 Competition
74 Community News
Win a family ticket to the panto!
A roundup of regional happenings
39
CONTACT US editorial@northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales@northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@northwalesmagazine.co.uk whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk
Privacy Notice. You can read North Wales Magazine’s Privacy Notice in full at www.northwalesmagazine.com
77 Walking
The ascent of Carn Fadryn
81 Where to stay
The best places to stay in North Wales
82 Horoscopes
What does November have in store for you?
COVID-19 DISCLAIMER North Wales Magazine is produced in advance. While we take every care to ensure that our content is up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in regards to current COVID-19 restrictions. We absolutely do not encourage travel where local rules forbid it, so please check with both your local council, and the council of your destination, before planning any days out in order to ensure that your journey is legal and in line with current guidelines.
NWM 2021 Page 7
the
BIG MAGAZINE
picture
So beautiful is the Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall that it is one of the seven wonders of Wales (which are all in the North of the country, in case you were wondering!) At 240 feet high it is Britain’s tallest single-drop waterfall and, while there isn’t a charge for access to the falls, donations for upkeep of the site are gratefully received. Fed by water from the Berwyn Mountains, the waterfall is formed by the Afon Disgynfa falling in three stages into the Afon Rhaeadr below. There is a car park and café at the foot of the waterfall, making it a great place to explore the surrounding hills from, with many walks available. And, if you fancy coming back in the warmer months, there is a campsite situated just a stone’s throw away from this majestic waterfall.
Page 8 NWM 2020
NWM 2020 Page 9
Tachwedd / November 2021 Swyddfa Docynnau / Box Office: www.venuecymru.co.uk 01492 872000
Facebook: @venuecymrullandudno / Twitter: @venuecymru Insta: @venuecymru_theatrcolwyn Gift Vouchers available Money For Nothing: The Dire Straits Tribute 01.11.21, 7.30pm Public Service Broadcasting: Bright Magic tour 02.11.21, 7.30pm John Bishop: Warm Up 05.11.21, 8pm Sarah Millican: Bobby Dazzler 06.11.21, 8pm Rob Brydon: A Night of Song and Laughter 09.11.21, 7.30pm The Overtones 10.11.21, 7.30pm That’ll Be The Day: Christmas Show 11.11.21, 7.30pm The Dreamboys 13.11.21, 7.30pm The Australian Pink Floyd Show 16.11.21, 7.30pm Katherine Jenkins 17.11.21, 7.30pm Ocean Film Festival 19.11.21 / 7.30pm North Wales Wildlife Trust: The Lacey Lecture 20.11.21 / 7pm The Sensational 60’s Experience 20.11.21 / 7.30pm The Welsh National Page 10 NWM 2021 Opera: Madam Butterfly 30.11.21 / 7.30pm
n o s ’ What MAGAZINE
The biggest and best events taking place in North Wales this November...
Bonfires & Fireworks 5th Rhyl
The Showfield/Brookes Field, Rhuddlan Road, Rhyl, has a bonfire and fireworks display organised by North Wales Fire and Rescue Service. Bonfire lit at 7.30pm, followed by fireworks.
5th Hawarden friendly event with a bonfire, light show, music and
1st Anathemata, Mostyn, B Llandudno
food from the fire. From 6pm until late.
Anathemata is a display that interrogates the tradition of epic
Bonfire night at Hawarden Estate Farm Shop is a dog
poetry within a tetrad of 20th Century avant-garde artists;
5th Colwyn Bay
David Jones, Antonin Artaud, Sarah Kane and Pierre Guyotat. These four artists are presented alongside contemporary
Eirias Park, Colwyn Bay, hosts a bonfire and fireworks
artists Martin Bladh, Paul-Alexandre Islas, James Richards
organised by North Wales Fire and Rescue Service,
and Karolina Urbaniak through a display of manuscripts,
bonfire from 7.15pm and fireworks at 7.30pm.
drawings and videos. Exhibition now open. Mostyn.org
7th Llandudno Set alongside Llandudno Pier on the North Shore, the event starts at 6.20pm with entertainment on the promenade followed by fireworks. (Back up date 8th November, 5pm, if there is adverse weather on 7th)
4th to 6th Elf the Musical, Theatr Colwyn, Colwyn Bay Getting back to live theatre after lockdown, Llandudno Musical Productions is proud to present the festive favourite that is ‘Elf the Musical’! This
7th Wrexham
is the perfect family show to start getting ready for the festive period. Tickets from venuecymru.co.uk
Bryn y Gog Farm, Marchwiel has a bonfire, fireworks and fairground rides from 4pm. Bonfire lit at 7pm with fireworks to follow.
1st Money for Nothing, Venue Cymru, Llandudno
5th John Bishop, Venue Cymru, Llandudno Comedy superstar John Bishop is coming to Venue Cymru to warm up his brand-new show.
Money for Nothing was formed
John is very much looking
in 2000 as a tribute to one
forward to this new adventure,
of the world’s premier rock
this will be his eighth stand
bands – Dire Straits. The abundant energy and the
up show and it’s shaping up to
excellence and musicality of their performance makes Money
be his best yet! John can’t wait
For Nothing a “must see” for any rock enthusiast or Dire
to be back on the road again.
Straits fan. Tickets from venuecymru.co.uk
Tickets from venuecymru.co.uk
NWM 2021 Page 11
6th RGC v Merthyr Rugby, Colwyn Bay RGC is home at Parc Eirias against Merthyr. Kick off 2.30pm.
North Wales premier barn dance and ceilidh bands will be there to get your feet tappin’, as well as a local hog roast and of course plenty of Snowdon Craft beers! Tickets available online. www.barndanceinabrewery.eventbrite.co.uk
Free entry for Under 16’s. Tickets available on the day or in advance from Colwyn Bay Leisure Centre.
6th Kia Llandudno EV6 Launch Event Book your place at the exciting EV6 Launch! It has an impressive electric range that can get you from Llandudno to London (with charge left for sight-seeing). The team on Argyll Road Llandudno can’t wait to show customers the capability of Kia’s latest fully electric car. Book your place
B
now at llandudnokia.co.uk
6th & 7th Artist Gill Benjamin, Afonwen Craft & Antiques Centre Local artist Gill is at Afonwen this weekend.
17th Katherine Jenkins, Venue Cymru, Llandudno The biggest selling classical artist of the century, Katherine
B
Jenkins OBE, will return to Venue Cymru this November as
Gill paints various subjects, with lovely sea and
part of her UK tour. Katherine’s 2021 tour will feature songs
landscapes, as well as places of interest. Gill is
from her 14th studio album ‘Cinema Paradiso’.
happy to take commissions also.
Tickets from venuecymru.co.uk
Afonwen.co.uk
9th Rob Brydon – A Night of Song and Laughter, Venue Cymru, Llandudno
18th – 21st Llandudno Christmas Extravaganza The first Llandudno Christmas Extravaganza will take place from 18th-
Featuring a sensational live band, ‘A NIGHT OF
21st November. This free to enter family event will feature
SONGS AND LAUGHTER’ tells Rob’s personal
food & drink stalls, craft & gift stalls, fairground rides and
musical journey from South Wales to the West
lots of entertainment. Further details can be found on their
End and beyond. With a hugely entertaining and brilliantly unexpected selection of songs, Rob will regale audiences with hilarious tales from his distant and recent past. Tickets from venuecymru.co.uk
10th Sunny Side Crafts with Linda & Sandra, Afonwen Craft & Antiques Centre Visit Afonwen today to see beautiful crochet work, stitch work, handmade flowers and painted stools. Afonwen.co.uk
11th & 12th Eco Silver Jewellery by Sandra Roberts, Afonwen Craft & Antiques Centre Meet visiting artist Sandra at Afonwen. Sandra uses reclaimed silver from the jewellery industry to make her lovely pieces, where much of her inspiration comes from nature. Afonwen.co.uk
13th Barn Dance in a Brewery, Colwyn Bay
Facebook page.
19th Nightingale House Hospice Christmas Fair, Wrexham Bringing a delightful shopping experience with a unique collection of boutique owners, designers, and artisan makers, all under one roof for a fabulous day out of shopping. From 12pm-8pm at Rossett Hall, Wrexham.
20th Colwyn Bay Artisan Market Bringing you the best makers, bakers and creators plus a variety of entertainments and kids activities, you won’t want to miss the Colwyn Bay Artisan Market, 10am-4pm on Station Road.
20th Possible, Pontio, Bangor Shôn Dale-Jones’ new show Possible is a playful, honest and heartfelt piece of storytelling that blurs reality with a kaleidoscopic dreamscape of animation and film (by Bear Thompson), underscored with original music performed live
Snowdon Craft Beer invites
by John Biddle. It’s a show about love, creativity and finding
you to grab your partner by the hand and bring them to the
the courage to explore the past, in order to shape the future.
brilliant ‘Barn Dance in a Brewery’. Twmpathology, one of
Ticket information from pontio.co.uk
Page 12 NWM 2021
23rd The Crafty Sisters, Afonwen
27th Ballet Cymru: Giselle, Pontio, Bangor Critics’ Circle Award winning company, Ballet
Visit Afonwen today where you will find the Crafty Sisters!
Cymru, present an extraordinary new ballet
The ladies have some lovely handmade jewellery, plus various
based on the eternal story of Giselle, the young
stitchwork items and greetings cards.
girl who falls in love with the wrong
Afonwen.co.uk
person and pays a terrible price.
25th November Comedy Club, Pontio, Bangor
Ballet Cymru have put their own unique stamp on this tale of love and loss, bringing relevance,
A brilliant night of comedy in the Studio Theatre, with three
poignancy and grittiness to this
brilliant comedians. Tickets from pontio.co.uk
most romantic of ballets.
27th & 28th Beaumaris Artisan Christmas Market
Tickets from pontio.co.uk
and makers. They pride themselves
30th Welsh National Opera: Madam Butterfly, Venue Cymru, Llandudno
on the variety of produce and crafts
Madam Butterfly is a
Visit the annual 2-day Christmas market to find those unique and one of a kind gifts from local producers
on offer. 10am-4pm, David Hughes Community Centre.
27th Ruthin Artisan Market
powerful story of unrequited love, human pain and suffering which is magnificently intensified by Puccini’s glorious music, promising a night of drama and emotion. Inspired by Puccini’s fantasy landscape
Support local businesses and the local community at the
of exotic pleasures, Lindy Hume’s new production interprets
Artisan Market with crafts, food and drinks on offer at Ruthin
Butterfly’s famous story through a dystopian prism.
Gaol, 10am-4pm.
Tickets from venuecymru.co.uk
27th RGC v Pontypridd Rugby, Colwyn Bay
30th Cwmwl Tystion/Riot! Pontio, Bangor
Support RGC at Parc Eirias in a home game against Merthyr. Kick off 2.30pm. Free entry for Under 16’s. Tickets available on the day or in advance from Colwyn Bay Leisure Centre.
27th Jason Manford, Rhyl Pavilion He’s back! It’s been a busy few years for Jason since his last smash-hit stand up show but fans of his Absolute Radio show will know this nationally acclaimed comedian hasn’t changed a bit. ‘Like Me’ is Jason’s latest comic offering set to hit the road. Tickets from rhylpavilion.co.uk
Tomos Williams returns to Pontio with the second iteration of his Cwmwl Tystion project. Internationally renowned
28th St David’s Hospice Tree of Lights, Rhos on Sea Remember your loved ones this
musicians Soweto Kinch and Orphy Robinson join young Welsh vocalist Eady Crawford and the top-class rhythm section of Aidan Thorne and Mark O’Connor, alongside live visuals from Simon Proffitt for an immersive live performance. Tickets from pontio.co.uk
Christmas by dedicating a light on the St David’s Hospice, Rotary Tree
Please Note
of Lights. Tree lighting ceremony
All events listed are correct at the time of going to press. All
will be held at 4.30pm at the Cayley
events will be subject to current COVID safety measures, so
Promenade, Rhos on Sea. If you
please check that you are fully compliant before attending
would like to dedicate a light, full details can be found at
any event. We recommend that you check the event is still
stdavidshospice.org.uk
running before travelling.
NWM 2021 Page 13
You & Your
Pet
HOW TO HELP YOUR WINTER WILDLIFE As the golden leaves of autumn fall, it’s time to start thinking
is essential to having happy healthy birds.
about our wonderful winter wildlife. For many of us, our gardens have become a haven over the past few months, but
Creating A Safe Space
as we close our doors to the cold, let’s not forget about our little
The upkeep of a garden during the winter can send shivers
wildlife friends.
down your spine, the good news is, leaving it a little unkempt works for some of these small animals such as hedgehogs
What can we do to help the small inhabitants of our
and frogs, many have been spotted taking shelter under uncut
gardens get through the tough cold months?
foliage and herbaceous plants. Hedgehog houses are another
As winter approaches there are many simple and easy
great solution to prevent them taking shelter in areas of
things you can do to prepare and support life in the garden.
potential risk, creating a safe space.
These small actions could make a huge difference to these vulnerable creatures.
By creating a safe space in your garden, this will encourage these visitors to venture back year after year, knowing there
Help Wild Birds Thrive This Winter
is a place with food and shelter. It doesn’t take much and the
When the temperature drops, open water often freezes over,
results are extremely rewarding.
making it difficult for animals to find a fresh water source. Birds in particular need water to bathe daily and of course
For November our loyalty members can enjoy 15% off our Wild
drink. There are several ways to make water accessible to
Bird department in-store. Be sure to pop in and stock up on
wildlife, a simple solution if you don’t have a pond or bird bath
some essentials for the coming winter season and, as always,
is to fill a bin lid or a pot with water. A brilliant tip to stop the
if you have any questions regarding ‘Winter Wildlife’, don’t
water from freezing over is to add a small ball or an object that
hesitate to get in touch with a member of our team, you can
floats to keep the water moving e.g. a ping-pong ball.
pop into the store or get in touch via any of our social channels or website. And also check out our new podcast, search
As well as water, making sure there is a supply of food is
‘petplace’ on Apple or Spotify to listen to the full discussion
really important. High energy foods are the most valuable to
about “Winter Wildlife”.n
wild birds, particularly during winter. Peanut cakes, peanut butter and fat balls are ideal choices; they are economical, convenient to feed and an excellent source of energy at a time when natural bird food can be very hard to find. Sunflower hearts are another great option for feeding birds and universally loved by many species. They are easily fed from a hanging seed feeder and even if you don’t have a garden, window feeders are a great solution and mean you can watch wildlife from the comfort of the sofa! Good hygiene
Karen Bates is the category manager for the Wild Bird department. Karen has developed a wealth of knowledge within the wild bird and wildlife category from working at petplace and from having a keen interest in all things garden related. If you have any queries regarding your winter wildlife do get in touch with their resident oracle.
is also extremely important, keeping your bird feeders clean
NWM 2021 Page 15
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Wednesday 8 – Friday December ’ 01745 330000 | rhylpavilion.co.uk |
Bethany Birch joins Olympic Taekwondo athlete Jade Jones OBE as she takes a trip down memory lane at Ysgol Gwynedd…
FIGHTING TALK am going to get the gold at London’,” – and that’s exactly what she did!
Two time Olympic gold medalist, 2015 European Games
Both 2012 and 2016 were significant years for Jade, winning
champion and winner of the inaugural Youth Olympic Games
gold at London and then again at Rio were unforgettable
in 2010 are just some of the many achievements that North
experiences for her, both personally and professionally. The
Walian Olympic Taekwondo athlete Jade Jones OBE has
feeling of winning her first gold at the London Olympics was
humbly yet fiercely acquired in her 28 years.
simply unbeatable. “Nothing can ever compare,” says Jade. “It just gives you the best feeling ever, especially being at home…
Her passion for the martial arts sport was set alight at just
That’s every athlete’s dream – it was just magical.”
eight years old when her grandad took her under his wing. “I was a bit naughty and cheeky when I was younger, and my
Despite her recent loss at the 2020 (July 2021) Tokyo Summer
grandad basically took me down to the local sports centre as
Olympic Games, Jade has an inextinguishable fire inside to train
a kid and I just fell in love with Taekwondo,” recalls Jade.
her hardest and win gold at Paris in just three years time.
Back then the sports centre was known as the Flint Leisure
“I’ve got more passion than ever before to win gold at the next
Centre, but it was renamed the Jade Jones Leisure Centre in
Olympics,’’ she continues. “That loss in Tokyo… I don’t want to go
2012 to honour the fact that it was where the local Olympian
out like that. I’ve got a couple of years now to qualify and to get
trained throughout her teenage years. “I think growing up in
in better shape than ever before – both mentally and physically
North Wales definitely helped with my Taekwondo, as I was
– so I will try and win that and then that will probably be my
always active,” says Jade, with an obvious appreciation for
last Olympics.”
her hometown and local surroundings. Reflecting on her heartbreaking defeat against Kimia Alizadeh, Questioning Jade on the topic of schooling and education,
she says: “I think I got too caught up in the media to win that
she believes it would only be a good thing if Taekwondo was
[third Olympic Gold], rather than wanting to win it because I
introduced as part of the standard curriculum.
love the sport.” With her head in the game now more than ever, she looks for the good in the loss “It’ll almost feel even better if
“Any sport is good, but Taekwondo is great for both respect and discipline,” says Jade, who champions the sport and the skills that it teaches. “Just being able to defend yourself, as a younger kid, and especially as a young woman is amazing.” Switching to a different style of Taekwondo at the age of 14 was a huge turning point for Jade, as the style she was training in beforehand wasn’t offered at the Olympics. “Three years later, I won gold at the Youth Olympics,” Jade continues. “I remember standing on the podium thinking ‘I
QUESTIONING JADE ON THE TOPIC OF SCHOOLING AND EDUCATION, SHE BELIEVES IT WOULD ONLY BE A GOOD THING IF TAEKWONDO WAS INTRODUCED AS PART OF THE STANDARD CURRICULUM. NWM 2021 Page 17
MAGAZINE
THE LACK OF COMPETITIONS IN THE DIARY WAS DIFFICULT FOR JADE AND HER TRAINING DISCIPLINE, BUT SHE IS ALWAYS ONE TO SEE THE SILVER LININGS
I get the gold in Paris – if you’re always winning then you can
When motivation wavers Jade always remembers her ‘why’.
get a bit complacent.”
“Remembering back to when you were a kid and just loving Taekwondo, loving the kicks and the buzz of competing,” is
The past year and a half have been hard for all of us,
what she focuses on. It’s her pure love for the sport that keeps
and Jade is no exception, with the pandemic presenting
pushing her forward. “As you get older you realise it is the
particular challenges surrounding her training. “The
journey that’s important,” she adds.
pandemic was tough, I had to train in my garage… To just be training at home kicking a pad is obviously a lot different to
Growing up in Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire, Jade has always
actually fighting,” she explains. “That’s what makes you good
had a natural affiliation with nature and time spent outdoors.
– competing all the time.”
Surrounded by the mountains and the Welsh countryside is still where she considers ‘home’. While she now resides in
The lack of competitions in the diary was difficult for Jade
the hustle and bustle of Manchester, alongside her faithful
and her training discipline, but she is always one to see the
Taekwondo community, she’s the first to triumph the beauty
silver linings.
of her hometown and the importance of trading the fastpaced nature of the city for the slow-living lifestyle that she’s
“I think the pandemic has made me appreciate family and
greeted with on her frequents visit back to Denbighshire to
friends and life more,” she continues. “We’re so used to the
visit family.
perfect preparation, and the pandemic stripped athletes of this privilege –both mentally and physically. When you get
“My family have been amazing, they’re so supportive, it helps
to the top of your game, it’s all about mindset. If I’ve lost then
knowing that I’ve got them there,” adds Jade. “I love North
it’s generally my mind that’s let me down. Everyone’s fast and
Wales. I used to go cockling with my dad, going on the quad to
strong – it’s all about your mind.”
the beach and raking cockles in Bangor.’’
As a Dreams Ambassador she spent the morning of our
Like all of the best role models, Jade encompasses a sense
interview at Ysgol Gwynedd educating the pupils on the
of confidence and pride while still remaining wonderfully
importance of sleep, as well as hosting a ‘Q&A session’ about
humble and down to earth. She’s ruthlessly competitive,
her Taekwondo journey. Being back in the school that she
fiercely driven, infectiously passionate and refreshingly
attended as a child, before progressing to Flint High School,
modest. She’s your typical ‘girl next door’, with a list of
stirred up a cocktail of positive emotions for Jade – including
accreditations and achievements under her black belt –
nostalgia, joy, sentimentality, warmth and pride. Returning to
and a bunch of intimidatingly impressive moves up her
the place where she proudly presented medals from childhood
sleeve too. n
Taekwondo competitions during assemblies was also a clear reminder of just how far she’d come. There’s no denying that sleep plays an incredibly important role in her preparation as an athlete to ensure that she’s able to perform her best; hence why being nominated a Dreams Ambassador is so well aligned to her values and lifestyle. “I do have to make some compromises, although they don’t really feel like compromises as I love it, but I have to be strict with my diet to get down to the 57kg weight category and be strict with my sleep,” she explains.
Page 18 NWM 2021
Bethany Birch is a freelance writer based in Pwllheli on the Llŷn Peninsula. After graduating from her Journalism degree at Nottingham Trent University last summer, she has since pursued her dream of writing beside the sea.
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SOMETHING TO REMEMBER Opposite: Civil servants printed an in-house periodical, The Ormescliffe Gazette. Left: Soldiers at the Coast Artillery School on the Great Orme loading a naval gun.
As the nations’ thoughts turn to Remembrance Day and the sacrifices made, Adrian Hughes of the Home Front Museum reflects on Llandudno’s involvement during the Second World War.
Llandudno played host
and Welfare Officer, James Callaghan, who would become
to many thousands of
Labour prime minister in the 1970s.
evacuees during the Second World War
To many landladies the civil servants were known simply
and unlike in many
as ‘guinea pigs’ on account of the one Guinea a week they
other Welsh towns the
paid for board and lodgings. By autumn 1940 over 4,000
displaced were not
civil servants were calling Llandudno home and many
children, but adults.
brought their families with them. The Ormescliffe and
Plans were drawn
Crescent Hotels were converted into recreation centres with
up to move vital government
numerous facilities for the civil servants. Membership cost
departments out of London to the provinces if war came and
tuppence a week and was an ideal place for staff, a long
seaside resorts on the North Wales coast, with an excess of
way from home, to socialise and make new friends. Clubs
vacant accommodation, were obvious choices.
and societies were formed, sports tournaments arranged and theatrical groups established.
The Inland Revenue was sent to Llandudno. Seafront hotels were requisitioned for office accommodation days after
In September 1939 all places of amusement were closed,
war was declared, forcing hoteliers to put all the furniture
ordered to by a government fearing mass casualties if a
and chattels into storage. The Imperial Hotel became the headquarters of the exiled Inland Revenue, where senior officials including Sir William Diggines, the Chief Inspector of Taxes, had their offices. The first 500 staff from Somerset House arrived in February 1940 on specially chartered trains that brought not only personnel, but the hundreds of tons of files and paperwork necessary for a fully functioning government department. The man tasked with arranging living accommodation for the civil servants was the Billeting
TO MANY LANDLADIES THE CIVIL SERVANTS WERE KNOWN SIMPLY AS ‘GUINEA PIGS’ ON ACCOUNT OF THE ONE GUINEA A WEEK THEY PAID FOR BOARD AND LODGINGS. NWM 2021 Page 21
MAGAZINE
Tommy Handley, star of ITMA – ‘It’s That Man Again’
Civil servants printed an in-house periodical, The Ormescliffe Gazette.
POPULAR SHOWS BROADCAST FROM THIS VENUE INCLUDED ITMA – IT’S THAT MAN AGAIN – STARRING TOMMY HANDLEY AND TED KAVANAGH
theatre, cinema or sports stadium was struck by an enemy
of invasion from Germany. It became apparent that it would
bomb. Within two weeks this decision was reversed and
be impossible to continue to train personnel at the Royal
entertainment venues reopened – albeit without the gaily
Artillery’s Coast Artillery School at Shoeburyness on the
coloured external lighting that remained blacked out until
Thames Estuary due to a lack of space and increasing
November 1944. The only Llandudno venue closed for the
enemy activity. The school was forced to relocate, and Llys
duration of the war was the Pierhead Pavilion, which was
Helyg Drive on the Great Orme was the preferred location of
inaccessible anyway from May 1940 after timbers on the pier
Brigadier Bernard Court-Treatt, its commandant. The school
were removed for fear of the structure being used during a
became operational in September 1940 and offered courses
German invasion.
in gunnery, searchlight operation, wireless and radar. It is estimated that 20,000 cadets passed through the training
In line with moving principal institutions out of London, the
facility in the five years it was in Llandudno. Soldiers fired
BBC Variety Department relocated to Bristol in 1939 but when
at both static and moving seaborne targets. The permanent
the West Country city attracted the attention of Goering’s
target was moored off Ynys Seiriol (Puffin Island) and was an
bombers a new home was demanded, and with some urgency.
ex-workhorse of the merchant fleet.
In February 1941, they headed north on a special train from Bristol laden with comics, crooners, musicians, actors and
Meanwhile, high-speed motor torpedo boats (MTBs) and
technicians and took over the County Theatre in Bangor and
launches, towing targets mounted on floats, sped around
the Grand Theatre in Llandudno. One of the first broadcasts
Conwy Bay for gunners to shoot at. Made of canvas and wood,
from Llandudno featured Canadian-born organist Sandy
some of these screens were constructed by local builder
Macpherson, who devoted the entire programme to the
Frank Tyldesley at his Craig-y-don works. For realistic anti-
people of the town. Other popular shows broadcast from this
aircraft training, remote-controlled planes, known as ‘Queen
venue included ITMA – It’s That Man Again – starring Tommy
Bees’, took off from Tŷ Croes Artillery Camp on Anglesey and
Handley and Ted Kavanagh.
flew across Conwy Bay for the gunners to aim at. n
Shortly after the collapse of France in June 1940 and the evacuation of the British Expeditionary Force from Dunkirk, there was considerable expansion of coast artillery and new batteries were raised to counter the increased threat
A new book, Llandudno’s Military Heritage, published by Amberley and co-written by Adrian Hughes is available from all good bookshops now.
Page 22 NWM 2021
ad n h c r a m
Nadolig Fict aidd dydd iau 9 rhagfyr 12 hanner dydd - 8pm Dros 100 o stondinau’n gwerthu dewis o ddanteithion ac anrhegion y Nadolig; ochr yn ochr â diddanwyr stryd Fictoraidd a charwsél traddodiadol. o sgwÂr y frenhines i eglwys san silyn I gael rhagor o wybodaeth
events@wrexham.gov.uk
ian r o t vic
Christmas Market thursday 9 december 12 noon - 8pm
Over 100 stalls selling a selection of festive treats and gifts; alongside Victorian street entertainers and a traditional carousel from queens square to st giles’ church, wrexham For more information
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Burning question
Stephen Gregory reminisces about childhood bonfire nights, while considering if they still have a place in this modern world…
Light the blue touch paper and stand well back! Good advice, when you’re handling fireworks, but I’m pretty sure they weren’t so concerned with health and safety many centuries ago when the Chinese were first developing their expertise with rockets and sparklers and spinning wheels and candles which flared and fizzed and exploded into spectacular flames! We all still love fireworks, don’t we? Even in these modern days when we’re preoccupied with the safety of our children and our environment. The exhilarating whoosh of those rockets, their explosion into multi coloured sparks so high into the night sky, the crackle and bang and the smell! For me, as a small boy it was the smell of the sparklers which captured the thrill of it all, being outside in the chilly darkness of an autumnal night, when normally you would have been
YES, BONFIRE NIGHT IS BAD NEWS FOR OUR WILDLIFE, NOT AT ALL A CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION, AND FOR OUR PETS AS WELL
indoors in front of the television or upstairs in your dormitory at school… The perfume of the sparklers, which signified it was Bonfire Night and the world was bright and hot with
their precious piles from other children from other districts.
flames and loud with startling staccato fireworks!
They collected all manner of debris from derelict sites, palettes from the mills, and wooden spools and bobbins. Children,
Nowadays we’re a little more restrained, we’re concerned
even quite small ones, were outside late into the night to guard
about the effect of our fires and fireworks on our
the precious bonfires and keep them safe and growing each
environment. People share a communal bonfire, and the
evening. As weary adults would collect bright-eyed littluns,
adults follow the guidelines and advice to make sure
older ones were allowed their vigils on the nights before
everyone stays safe.
lighting the celebratory pyres.
All good… In the olden days, in the years after the war when
Me, I was at boarding school, a long way from home, ever
the world had endured far more terrible fires and explosions,
since I was eight years old and until I was 18. So, throughout
children were allowed to revel in their enjoyment of Bonfire
all those childhood years I never had a Bonfire Night at
Night. In the industrial towns and villages they would stay
home with my parents in the garden of our sweet suburban
outside all night, in the week before November 5th, guarding
house. Incidentally, never a birthday either, which fell in
NWM 2021 Page 25
MAGAZINE
sigh and we were ushered indoors and up to our dormitories, we were woken in the small hours by the clanging of bells. The whole building rang with the fire alarms, and we were all suddenly and urgently ordered out of our beds by the teachers who burst into the rooms. From the window, high above the dark and wintry world, I could see the flashing of blue and orange lights, and there was a fire engine in the school driveway. All of my friends were hurried downstairs – all except me, who was told to wait, alone at the top the stairs. Until a great burly man, in black overalls and an enormous yellow helmet, clambered up and up towards me and hoicked me across his shoulders – and he carried me downstairs and into the open air where all the other boys and the teachers burst into applause at the fireman’s heroism and my bravery. It was only a drill. I’d been chosen to be rescued, because I was the smallest boy in the school and it was easy for the fireman to enact his feat of strength and courage. March, during another school term… but that’s another story. So I remember a few times
Bonfires and fireworks, we still love them. My wife and I,
when our teachers organised us boys into
we’ve enjoyed them in different parts of the word… in south-
collecting branches and fallen timber from
east Asia, where wealthy families put on the most spectacular
the woodland behind the school and we built a modest bonfire on the edge of the football pitch. They provided a few fireworks as well, just enough to whet our appetites for more and more,
displays to mark Chinese New Year and to impress their neighbours, and in France for the celebration of Bastille Day on 14th July. Literally hours of fireworks, continuously and relentlessly, consuming vast amounts of money and
some sputtering sparklers and a flurry of rockets,
filling the air with a pall of smoke which lasts long into the
and Catherine wheels nailed onto the goal posts. I
following day, not to mention the misery it inflicts onto hapless
remember clearly and painfully, even then, long before
creatures for miles and miles around.
we were all so fervently protective of our wildlife, how it upset me to see a hedgehog emerging from the flames of the fire, how it scurried from the place it had sought
The perfume of an autumnal bonfire… consuming the leaves of last summer and its sweet memories. A few years ago I
for safety and shelter and then realised it was burning and
was earning some pocket money as a gardener, clearing the
scorching and collapsing around its ears. The hedgehog
steep, precipitous rockeries behind the Prince Llewelyn Hotel.
escaped, singed and spluttering but glad to be alive, hurrying
I was in my own quiet private world, high above the village
into the sanctuary of a nettle bed.
of Beddgelert. And I loved it. The work warmed me into a satisfying sweat, and through August and September and
And I remember, high in the smoke and the whirling flames,
October I saw the woodlands and streams below me change
there were moths which spun in the air like the sparks,
slowly as the seasons turned.
until they were consumed in the heat. Bats as well, which zigzagged around the fire and then flickered away into
On the afternoon of 5th November, just as the sky was
the surrounding darkness. A brown owl wafted close, close
getting darker and colder, I lit my bonfire. I sat with it,
enough to feel the heat on his face and his wondering eyes,
feeding the flames with leaves and brushwood, as dusk
and then he vanished into the woodland.
became twilight and then night. I watched as the first of the village fireworks rose into the sky and burst into
Yes, Bonfire Night is bad news for our wildlife, not at all a
brilliant rosettes of colour. A curious celebration, nowadays
cause for celebration, and for our pets as well. All of us who
controversial… but its sights and sounds and smells still
have cats or dogs will know how fearfully they react to the
evoke the lingering memories of childhood. n
scream and bang of fireworks. Our lovely boy Poppy, the softest and most loving of dogs, rescued in faraway Borneo and brought back here to North Wales, would tremble so much he could hardly stand, and so he would crawl onto the bed and lie there in abject bewilderment. Going back to my schooldays, I remember one year that our headmaster had a grand idea to make our Bonfire Night even more memorable. Long after the fire had collapsed with a
Page 26 NWM 2021
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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BBC NOW wind ©BBCNOW
Catrin & Seckou ©John Liston
y a l p c i s u m e Let th
This year’s North Wales International Music Festival is being staged as a hybrid event for the first time, after being held solely online last year because of the pandemic. The theme as NWIMF approaches its 50th anniversary in 2022 is ‘The Golden Journey’.
Osprey chicks hatched in a nest in
Six concerts took place in the festival’s traditional home, St Asaph Cathedral,
the Dyfi Valley in Mid Wales, the
in early October while others have
first time this had happened since
been recorded in Bangor, Caernarfon,
1604. The re-emergence of Ospreys
Cardiff and London. Highlights from
in Wales inspired the first track of
the St Asaph Cathedral concerts
Catrin and Seckou’s 2018 album, SOAR,
include the London Tango Quintet,
celebrating the remarkable affinities
resident orchestra NEW Sinfonia from
between the Welsh harp and the West
Wrexham with American pianist John
African kora, which resembles a cross
Frederick Hudson, chamber music
between a harp and a lute.
group Ensemble Cymru, Family Affair The London Tango Quintet, featuring
with renowned Welsh composer Brian Hughes and tenor Dafydd Jones, and harp virtuosa Catrin Finch performing
London Tango Quinte t
guitarist Craig Ogden, opened this year’s festival and the second opportunity to tune in from home to
with kora player Seckou Keita.
their truly magical performance will allow for more than Concert goers were enthralled by the Welsh premiere of a
foot-tapping and dancing shoulders! Acclaimed pianist Iwan
brand-new piano concerto by royal composer Paul Mealor,
Llewelyn Jones recorded a concert at Bangor University’s
which had been jointly commissioned by the festival.
Neuadd Powis. They have a new Steinway piano which makes for a beautiful sound in a wonderful setting. Professor
Professor Mealor also wrote the music for the ‘Wonders of
William Mathias, founder of NWIMF in 1972, was Head of
the Celtic Deep’ series currently showing on BBC One Wales.
Music at Bangor University from 1970 until 1988.
The music for the series is performed by the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, who have also recorded a concert
One of Wales’ leading exponents of traditional folk singing,
especially for NWIMF’s virtual festival from the Hoddinott
Gwenan Gibbard, will feature in a special concert recorded
Hall at the Wales Millennium Centre.
in the Sain Studios near Caernarfon. Gwenan has gathered together a collection of rarely-heard folk songs for the
The critically acclaimed duo of Catrin Finch and Seckou
concert.
Keita wowed the audience with a joyous fusion of Welsh and African music. Their performance at the Royal Albert Hall in
Choral concerts will feature the St Asaph Cathedral Choir
August was one of the highlights of this year’s Proms.
and the UK Gospel Choir. n
Catrin & Seckou met in 2012, a year after another connection
The North Wales International Music Festival is offering
between Wales and Senegal re-established itself. In 2011,
free online concerts from 15th November – 15th December
NWM 2021 Page 29
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th u o m r Ba Exploring
Steve Goodier takes a trip to Barmouth – southern Snowdonia’s most popular seaside resort boasting breathtaking views of Cardigan Bay.
Pretty Barmouth is a timeless resort that was much loved
I have fond memories of Barmouth from my childhood. It was
by The Victorians (who knew a thing or two about seaside
my parent’s preferred Welsh destination for a seaside day out
destinations), but it still has a place in the itinerary of the
or longer caravanning or camping weekend when my sister
modern day holidaymaker and traveller.
and I were young. It was an idyllic place for kids to be taken to with a superb beach, a small fair, some arcades, donkeys, swing
The town’s location has much to do with its popularity – it is
boats and lots of shops selling souvenirs and beach products.
situated on the West Coast of North Wales, and just falls within the boundaries of the south west corner of the Snowdonia
To be honest little has changed down the years since those days,
National Park. Barmouth lies between Cardigan Bay and the
and I still enjoy a day out in the area or just calling in for fish and
foothills of the awesome Rhinog Mountains, which are the
chips after a hike in the aforementioned Rhinog Mountains.
roughest and oldest range of summits in Wales. Walking in these hills demands stamina and good navigation skills if
With an ‘off-season’ population of less than 3,000, Barmouth’s
you venture into the main areas around Rhinog Fawr and
bars, restaurants and cafés soon get packed in summer when
Rhinog Fach (a little north of Barmouth and near Harlech) but
this number grows substantially, and cars and coach trips
rambling around the smaller hills that rise above the town
disgorge visitor’s intent on exploring not just the beach, but
itself can be great fun and you get some stunning views of
the old town too with its steep steps and slate roofed cottages
town, estuary and sea from them.
clinging to the hillsides. The harbour takes some beating as well – the town is sited at the mouth of The Afon Mawddach and a great evening stroll enjoyed by many is to walk across the spectacular Barmouth Bridge that spans the river and links it with The Fairbourne side. The bridge celebrated its 150th birthday in 2017 and there is an honesty toll for pedestrians and cyclists. Once on the Fairbourne side a path leads into Fairbourne itself. In my opinion you also get the best view of Barmouth (and its sheltered location) from the beaches of Fairbourne, and if you plan to be there as the sun goes down you get a truly spectacular sight. Inland from the estuary and the town, and rising above nearby Dolgellau, is one of Snowdonia’s most famous mountains, Cadair Idris. At 2,930ft/ 893 metres it was reputed that the giant Idris Gawr sat on its summit (the name means ‘Chair of Idris) watching for enemies and charting the stars. It’s a tough climb to the top but The Pony Track and Minffordd Paths are well walked and relatively easy to follow for experienced walkers. However, be warned, if you leave it late in the day and decide to stay overnight in the small hut
NWM 2021 Page 31
MAGAZINE
TO BE HONEST LITTLE HAS CHANGED DOWN THE YEARS SINCE THOSE DAYS, AND I STILL ENJOY A DAY OUT IN THE AREA OR JUST CALLING IN FOR FISH AND CHIPS AFTER A HIKE IN THE AFOREMENTIONED RHINOG MOUNTAINS near the summit legend has it that you will wake up either
and caravanning sites are well used (and often crowded) and
mad or a poet! It’s something I have done twice and I haven’t
when the weather settles and we get some days of ‘traditional’
become a poet – as for the other…
summer with blue skies and little wind, there can be few better destinations to be in.
But let’s return to Barmouth itself. You can’t look at the town without making mention of the glorious beach which seems
Barmouth boasts one or two famous people with Major Harold
to stretch north forever towards Dyffryn Ardudwy and
William ‘Bill’ Tilman CBE, DSO, MC and Bar (1898 – 1977)
Harlech. It’s ‘classic seaside territory’ with miles of golden
having lived in the town for many years. He was a prolific
sands perfect for beach games and sunbathing. For kids it is
mountaineer and exploratory sailor who wrote numerous
a Paradise of donkey rides, ice creams, old fashioned beach
books and was one of the earlier explorers of The Himalayan
attractions (such as swing boats and trampolines) and as
Mountains. He disappeared while sailing to The Falkland
much space to dig and build sand castles as you could ever
Islands in his eightieth year.
wish for! More recently Eastenders actress Charlie (Charlene) Brooks Back from the beach there is a maze of streets with small
hails from the town. There are literary connections here too.
shops to go browsing in and plenty of pubs, cafés, restaurants
J.R.R. Tolkien visited in the early 20th Century and was so
and fish and chip shops to satisfy the hungry and thirsty. But
smitten by what he saw he used the Old Town as a model for
away from shops, beaches and arcades there is still much to
the town of Hobbiton in ‘The Lord of The Rings’.
see with The RNLI Lifeboat Station and The Ty Gwyn House and Museum being worth a look.
An even earlier visitor to Barmouth was the prolific poet and traveller William Wordsworth who wrote the following about
The town is serviced by The Cambrian Railway line and
it: ‘with a fine sea view in front, the mountains behind, the
has its own station, and the Barmouth Ferry sails from the
glorious estuary running eight miles inland and Cadair Idris
harbour to Penrhyn Point where you can link up with the
within compass of a day’s walk, Barmouth can hold its own
historic Fairbourne Narrow Gauge Railway and enjoy a trip
against any rival’.
behind a miniature steam train. Another interesting historical fact about the town is that on The A496 links the town with Harlech to the north and
the 29th March 1895 the 4.5-acre rock and heather hillock
Dolgellau to the east, and undoubtedly the best approach is
of Dinas Oleu above Barmouth became the first property
westwards through Bontddu and Caerdeon where the final
acquired by the newly formed National Trust. It was donated
drive runs on an elevated section of the road past the bridge
to them by Mrs Fanny Talbot and is open to walk on to this
and the harbour – if the sun is shining on sparking blue
day with superb views of the town and coast. It is also a great
waters the area looks positively Mediterranean.
place to watch the sun set over the sea.
Barmouth grew around the ship building industry but today
Barmouth is timeless, and worth a visit at any time of the year,
relies heavily on tourists. However, its links with the sea remain
but particularly in the spring to autumn period – so it’s well
as the town has been the starting point for ‘The Barmouth to Fort
worth planning a 2022 visit now! n
William Three Peaks Race’ since 1977. The race involves sailing from Wales to Scotland via England and climbing the highest peaks in each country as you do so – Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis – this involves, as well as the sailing, 72 miles of running and 11,000ft of ascent and is not for the fainthearted! The next race takes place on July 9th 2022. In ‘season’ (from March to October) Barmouth’s many camping
Page 32 NWM 2021
Steve Goodier is an outdoor writer and photographer who specialises in North Wales. He has walked and explored all over the world and is the author of 11 walking books with a further two on Snowdonia due to be published shortly.
What to do Go for a walk There are some great walks in and around Barmouth, from the gentle promenade to the dizzying precipice walk. Those that are prepared to climb the steep surrounding hills will be rewarded with some of the most amazing views that North Wales has to offer.
Visit the beach Barmouth beach is, quite simply, what makes the town. Abermaw, as it is known, is west facing with a mixture of sand and some fine shingle and is a great place for a family day out. There is disabled access onto the vast stretch of sand, and the water is suitable for both swimming and watersports.
Go for a mooch The centre of Barmouth is a lovely place to have a mooch around, thanks to it’s picturesque location nestled between the sea and the mountains. There are over 60 shops in Barmouth, many of them independent and selling things you won’t find anywhere else, as well as galleries selling original art and prints by local artists. There is also a huge choice of cafés, pubs and restaurants for when you need that well deserved rest.
Go for a bike ride Barmouth is a great place to go for a pedal. The traffic-free trail from Barmouth to Dolgellau along the Mawddach Estuary is one of the most spectacular rides in Wales thanks to the amazing views. In addition Barmouth is situated on route 8 of the National Cycle Network ‘Lon Las Cymru’ which offers a 240mile cycling adventure through Wales.
Travel the Fairbourne Railway The Fairbourne Railway has been running from Fairbourne village to the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary, connecting with the ferry to Barmouth for over 100 years. It started as a two foot gauge horse-drawn tramway which was then converted to a 15 inch gauge railway in 1916. The line in 1986 was completely re built to a 12.25 inch gauge. You are able to start your journey at both Fairbourne and Barmouth Ferry stations during the summer months, but during the off peak season you can’t join the train at Barmouth ferry.
NWM 2021 Page 33
Win
COMPETITION North Wales Magazine has teamed up with Venue Cymru to offer this great prize for one lucky family! Read on for entry details, and remember to follow our Facebook page (@ northwalesmag) to ensure that you don’t miss out on any extra competitions taking place throughout the month. Good luck!
A family ticket to watch Aladdin The Venue Cymru panto is back, and we have got a family ticket for the opening night of Aladdin up for grabs! Poor Aladdin is in love with a Princess, but as a reluctant helper in the laundry run by his mother Widow Twankey his prospects are not looking good –that is until a mysterious magician arrives promising riches beyond his wildest dreams! Will Aladdin be able to thwart the wicked Abanazar and win the heart of the Princess? With tons of traditional panto slapstick and some fabulous musical numbers you will be singing for days afterwards, we promise a fun packed show suitable for everyone aged three to 103!
To Enter To be in with a chance of winning this fabulous prize, simply visit www.northwalesmagazine.com/win and enter your contact details on the form provided. Closing date Friday 26th November 2021.
T’s & c’s • Value - £75 • Family ticket covers two adults and two children • Ticket valid for opening night – Saturday 11th December at 7pm • Performance, date and time cannot be changed, nor the prize applied retrospectively • Tickets will be sent from the theatre via e-ticket no later than 24 hours before the performance
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) Notice We collect your information when you enter our competitions, and store this information on our systems. We will use this information to contact you if you are the competition winner, and to contact you occasionally with details of relevant offers and items which may be of interest to you. If you win the competition, your name and the town where you live may be printed in a future edition of North Wales Magazine. We will also share your information with the competition provider, and they may contact you with details of relevant offers. Please see www. northwalesmagazine.com for our full Privacy Notice.
NWM 2021 Page 35
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Range figures and CO2 results for the new MINI 3-Door Hatch. KWH (I/100km): Combined 46.3-47.9. CO2 emissions: 138-133g/km. Figures are for comparison purposes and may not reflect real-life driving results, which depend on a number of factors including the accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles and vehicle load. All figures were determined according to a new test (WLTP). The CO2 figures were translated back to the outgoing test (NEDC) and will be used to calculate vehicle tax on first registration. Only compare fuel consumption and CO2 figures with other cars tested to the same technical procedure.
Distilled and bottled at the Clwydian Range Distillery, nestled in the heart of the North Wales Countryside. Marmalade and Bay Leaf Gin The sweet tart taste of this wonderful fruit paired with the fragrant aroma and complex flavour of the dried bay leaf is like nothing else Lemon and Lime Gin A well balanced smooth citrus gin with light herbal characteristics. Predominantly Juniper in flavour with a zesty hint of Lemon and Lime Blackcurrant Gin Bold and Tangy Blackcurrant Gin with a hint of spice. Plum Crumble Gin Comforting, ripened Plums with a hint of soothing Vanilla.
WILDHORSEBREWING.CO.UK
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FOOD & DRINK INSIDE: wine recipes cocktail of the month
NWM 2020 Page 39
Award Winning Soft Cheese I’m Jackie Whittaker and I make a range of Award-Winning soft Artisan Cheeses all traditionally made in my own micro dairy in North Wales. I make my Artisan Cheeses the traditional way, by warming the pasteurised milk, cutting and hanging the curds over three days, then adding fresh flavours. Using creamy Jersey-Cross milk from our good friends down the road at Mostyn Dairies, I’m sure you will enjoy finding out which one is your favourite.
favourite flavour?
Jackie
Jackie@castellgwyn.com | 07368 998140
@castellgwyn
Try our de li c i
nge of chut ne s ra
Or
de
ys
ou
com
Which is your
Spread your favourite luxury cheese on crackers, artisan bread, use as a dip, on cheeseboards, picnics, blini’s or stir into pasta!
ro
te llgw yn.
W W W. C A S T E L L G W Y N . C O M
s ca nline at www.
Say
! e s e e h C Ever wondered how local artisan cheese is made? Jackie Whittaker from micro dairy Castell Gwyn explains…
The plan was always to build my own micro dairy in North Wales, by converting my garage in the back garden to make award-winning cheeses. The hard work really started before the conversion of my garage, as it had to be emptied. We had a lot of stuff – and I mean a lot. Once emptied, the work began and of course I wanted to make sure that the business was as environmentally friendly as possible. Therefore, it made sense to insulate the dairy with Welsh sheep wool to
from local Jersey-Cross cows make
become more sustainable.
delicious creamy cheese and adds real depth of favour. When making
The dairy required a small entrance room, where people could
the cheese you can really tell by the
get changed and wash their hands – now christened ‘the
creamy colour of the milk as well as
Wellie Room’ thanks to my builder. After incorporating drains,
the fat content, which gives it such
a new concrete floor in ‘dairy blue’, the ceiling with lights
a luxury taste and mouth feel. The milk is not homogenised,
came next, which made a huge difference, finally followed by
which means that it hasn’t been shaken, so naturally the
the white washable walls. It was finally complete.
cream rises to the top and for those old enough to remember on past freezing winter mornings, when the milkman
All the equipment from my cheese vat, draining table, sink,
delivered your morning milk, the blue tits would get to it first
stainless steel tables and all the other paraphernalia that
(robins never did) and peck the silver foil tops of milk bottles.
comes with cheese making has been bought second-hand,
The cream had a little lactose in it and was full of energy,
saving a small fortune. Having cleaned and scrubbed them all,
so this is what the little clever birds were after. This has
they look like new.
now become part of folklore with the introduction of semiskimmed and skimmed milk and the reduction of doorstop
Castell Gwyn’s fresh milk comes from our good friend’s
deliveries, which I miss.
Jersey-Cross cows just down the road at Mostyn Dairies in Holywell North Wales, which has been gently pasturised.
Depending on what cows eat and the time of year this helps
I also use local honey too, made a few miles away by Busy
to create the subtle flavour profiles in every fresh milk and
Bees in Dyserth. My soft cheeses have won Gold and Silver
cheese batch. The whole milk from Mostyn Dairy is nutritious,
at the International Cheese Awards (ICA), with flavours such
fresh from the farm and the reason it makes our cheese
as Cracked Black Pepper, Welsh Honey, Fresh Chives and
fabulous, with the whey given to some grateful local pigs,
Penderyn Whisky.
so zero waste! Cheese, like wine regions, has true terroir. And, talking of wines, our cheeses are ideal with a chilled
Buying local, collaborating with other businesses, and
Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay or a light red wine such as a
reducing transport miles is important to me. Using milk
Pinot Noir. Cheers! n
NWM 2021 Page 41
A collection of beautiful home accessories & gifts.
Colwyn Bay, Conwy, Wales, United Kingdom admin@stanleyandlottie.com You can also find us on Facebook: facebook.com/Stanley & Lottie Instagram: @stanley_and_lottie
www.stanleyandlottie.com
Whether it's some family fun, a festive treat, a special gift or a scenic steam-hauled train ride - there's something for everyone here at the F&WHR... Santa Trains from Caernarfon
Enjoy a festive train ride with Santa and his elves from Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu.
Santa's Grotto in Porthmadog
Bring the family to see Santa in his Christmas Grotto in Harbour Station.
Christmas Gifts
Our online shop stocks a wide range of souvenirs, railway items, books & DVDs. Station shops are open when trains run.
Seasonal Snowdonia Specials
Shrug off any Post-Christmas Blues with a scenic trip into Snowdonia - trains run daily 29th December to 1st January...
For more information, visit www.festrail.co.uk/christmas
FFESTINIOG & WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAYS Harbour Station, Porthmadog, LL49 9NF • St Helen's Road, Caernarfon, LL55 2PF facebook.com/festrail
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01766 516024
Food for thought
Keeping warm in November is a necessity. With any luck, by the time this magazine is printed the energy crisis will have improved, so it won’t be quite as expensive a necessity. Here are two seasonal ways to fill your tummy with some much-needed central heating...
RECIPES CHICKEN, LEEK & TARRAGON PIE
BLACKBERRY & APPLE CRUMBLE Serves 4
One of the great free treats of the season, ideal for crowbarring your kids away from their screens and getting them into nature, is to head into the North Wales countryside, strolling past hedgerows and go blackberry picking. I’m sure there are dozens of innovative, terribly clever things one can
Serves 4
do with a basket of fresh blackberries, but I can never get
Who doesn’t love a pie? It doesn’t matter how desperate
past this evergreen staple. Why mess with perfection?
the situation is, or how low one’s mood might be, rare is the problem that can’t be improved by the sudden arrival of a hot
J 120g plain flour
pie, fresh from the oven. This one is insultingly easy to make,
J 100g golden caster sugar
but that won’t diminish the joy factor when it is placed in the
J 100g soft butter
middle of the dinner table amid wafts of warm bonhomie.
J 3 apples, peeled and cored J 120g (approx) blackberries, fresh
J 1 slurp of olive oil
J 1 onion, finely chopped
J 2 sticks celery, chopped
from the hedge J 1 tsp ground cinnamon
J 1 leek, top-and-tailed and roughly chopped J 1 garlic clove, finely chopped
Preheat oven to 180˚C FAN. Mix
J 4 chicken breasts
J 200ml chicken stock
the flour and with two thirds of the
J 100ml double cream
J 50g butter
sugar in a large bowl and with your
J 2 tbsp dried tarragon
fingertips, rub in 70g of the butter into
J Puff pastry (buy a pre-rolled sheet for extra ease)
the mix until it is all incorporated and
J 1 beaten egg
everything looks like sawdust. Line a baking tray with baking paper, pour the crumble mix onto it evenly,
Preheat the oven to 180˚C FAN. Heat the oil in a pan and cook
then pop the tray in the oven for 15 minutes.
the chopped onion, celery and leek until golden. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the chicken pieces
Melt the rest of the butter in a pan and stir in the rest of
and brown in the pan for a couple of minutes, then pour in
the sugar. Once it’s all blended, chop the peeled apples into
the chicken stock. Boil, then drop the heat and leave for 10
chunks and stir them into the pan. Drop the heat and leave
minutes. Add the cream and the tarragon, then repeat the
to cook for three minutes. Then stir in the blackberries along
process, bringing to a boil then lowering the heat and leaving
with the cinnamon and leave to cook for about five minutes.
for 10 minutes. When the sauce has thickened, add salt, pepper and leave to cool.
Pour the fruit mix into a shallow dish. Remove the crumble mix from the oven and carefully scatter it all over the fruit.
Grease your favourite pie dish with the butter, including the
Put the dish into the oven and bake for ten minutes. Serve
rim, then pour in the chicken mix. Lower the puff pastry
with double cream or ice cream and perhaps even some
sheet over the dish, letting it hang over the sides. Trim it,
chopped mint.
but remember that the pastry will shrink when baked so leave some overhang. You can either cut a couple of slits in the middle to let the steam out, or you can use that porcelain blackbird nestled mysteriously amongst your eggcups! Brush the pastry with the beaten egg and bake for 40-45
Don’t fancy cooking? 01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk
minutes. Served with buttered vegetables and new potatoes.
NWM 2021 Page 43
Plastic-Free & Vegan online store
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MOSTYN Shop: The place to find unique cards and gifts for everyone! MOSTYN, 12 Vaughan Street, Llandudno LL30 1AB 01492 868191 Open 10.30 - 5 Tues - Sun Or visit our online shop www.mostyn.org/shop
OF THE
Month The Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is made by simply mixing sugar with Angostura bitters and water, adding whisky and then garnishing with an orange slice and a cocktail cherry. It may sound simple, but it is actually one of the six ‘original’ cocktails – meaning that you only need really to know how to make these six drinks in order to have mastered the art of cocktail making…
INGREDIENTS
INSTRUCTIONS
• 50ml whisky
• Put the sugar, bitters and water
• Ice
in a small tumbler
• 5ml 2:1 sugar syrup
• Mix until the sugar dissolves
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Fill your glass with ice and stir
• Orange slice
in the whisky
• Cocktail cherry
• Add a splash of soda water if you like and mix • Garnish with the orange and cherry
IN THE MIX
Of course, if you’d rather sit back and relax while somebody mixed your ideal cocktail for you, then why not visit Sheldon’s in Colwyn Bay? From a Margarita to a Mojito, it has quite the cocktail selection and is quickly becoming the place to go for cocktails in North Wales. 01492 339821 www.sheldonsbar.co.uk
NWM 2020 Page 45
LOVE CHRISTMAS AT HOME LLWYN Landscapes LTD Landscape Design, Construction & Maintenance Contractors
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Visit our award winning showrooms for inspirational ideas and advice for the most important rooms in your home. Displaying quality items from exclusive brands you can trust, all at competitive prices.
01745 582254 www.rnwilliams.co.uk Chester Street, St Asaph, LL17 0RE
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Wrap up in a warm and welcoming red It’s that time of year again, the nights are drawing in, the leaves are changing, falling and going crisp underfoot. The temperatures are ranging from comfortable to chilly and the wind and rain comes and goes. Cardigans, jumpers and fleeces start to creep into our everyday wear. Our thoughts start to drift to Christmas, or holidays in the sun, whichever it is that we find most distracting or productive, depending on who we are. For me, however, this is my favourite time of year as it is casserole season and more of my beer and wine purchases end up in food than happens in the summer. As well as all of these things my thoughts turn to a roaring fire and slipping into the warm embrace of a soothing red. Sometimes as big and bold as Tim, other times something a bit more spicy and warming. We have a wide variety of reds to choose from and we always struggle to pick which are our favourites. I prefer them big and bold, some prefer them as smooth and silky as Tim’s patter when guiding us through the tasting menu. For those in the big and bold camp like myself, here are some of our favourites from the shelves right now:
J The Drift Farm, Moveable Feast, Overberg Highlands, South Africa The nose shows a beguiling mixture of ripe mulberry, white pepper, framed in a touch of toasty, vanilla oak and just the faintest hint of minty caramel chocolate. The palate echos the blackcurrant, mulberry and dark cherry.
J Lake Breeze, ‘Bull Ant’ Shiraz, Langhorne Creek, Australia A stunning, cool-climate Shiraz with alluring aromas of plums and chocolate enveloped in a touch of earthy complexity. Rich, full bodied and full of vibrant, black fruits Since writing the last article we have a new member of staff
on the palate with a long, soft finish.
J De Lato, ‘Aurkitu’, Old vine Garnacha, Navarra, Spain
to introduce to you. We have a new four legged, tail wagging,
Bright red fruits and hints of spice and wild dry earthy
ever so cute furball called Albie (of course short for Albariño)
notes on the nose. The palate is rounded and soft but with
who has joined the team. He is taking his duties very
an energy, full of bright red fruits and with balanced, fresh
seriously indeed and giving out licks and attention in return
acidity cutting through.
for fuss from anyone.
J Alpha zeta, ‘A’, Amarone della Valpolicella This Amarone is deep and intense on the nose with aromas of dried cherries
So come on down, check out the latest additions to our stock
and blueberries and notes of spiced autumn fruit compote.
(and your favourites) and see if you can catch Albie.
On the palate, it is powerful, with a lovely balance of ripe
Iechyd da!
tannins and spiced, concentrated cherry fruit character. A touch of woodsmoke completes the long finish.
Tim, Nicole, Mark, Pete, Ant, Huw and Albie
The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room
Tim Watson and his team run the Grape to Glass
8b Rhos Parade, Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea, LL29 7RE
Wine Shop and Tasting Room in Rhos-on-Sea which,
Tel: 01492 545934
as well as offering wine from far reaching lands, also
www.thegrapetoglass.co.uk
stocks locally produced beers, wines and spirits
NWM NWM 2019 2020 Page Page 47 47
CALL TODAY TO GET YOUR FREE QUOTE
01492 550120
info@cvw.wales | www.conwyvalleywindows.co.uk The Roundabout, Glan Y Mor Road, Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno, LL30 3NL
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NWM 2020 Page 51
WINDOWS • DOORS • ORANGERIES • CONSERVATORIES • SOFFITS • FASCIAS • CLADDING
Wishing you
Merry Christmas and a happy New Year
VISIT OUR LARGE LIFESTYLE SHOWROOMS IN MOLD Monday - Friday: 9.00am - 5.00pm Saturday: 10.00am - 4.00pm
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MOLD: Bromfield Industrial Estate, Mold Flintshire CH7 1HA
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PROPERTY OF THE MONTH
Phase two now released at Copper Beeches A choice of nine stunning apartments, newly converted within a former community hospital, are now available. The listed building retains many original architectural features, and now combines the old with the new – bringing this long forgotten structure back to life. These stylish properties boast modern innovations while they retain a timeless presence. Stoutly constructed they stand within a courtyard setting on the outskirts of the popular former market town of Holywell, which is known as the ‘Lourdes of Wales’ because of its religious healing links and its renowned St Winifreds Well. The latest release, which is within two miles of the coast, offers a range of sizes and designs. With prices starting from just £145,000, many of the apartments boast far reaching views over the town towards the Dee Estuary. n Viewing at Copper Beeches is available by appointment. Please contact Peter Large’s Prestatyn branch on 01745 888100 for further information
NWM 2021 Page 53
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
RHOS ON SEA
RHOS ON SEA £185,000
£459,950
• Two Bedroom Third Floor Retirement Apartment • Superbly Located In Rhos On Sea Village • Light And Spacious Apartment • Enjoys Far Reaching Coastal Views
• Spacious Seven Bedroom Semi Detached House • 5 Reception Rooms, 7 Double Bedrooms & 5 Bathrooms • Off Road Parking & Garage • Situated Close To The Promenade & Rhos on Sea Village
EPC
F
OLD COLWYN
RHOS ON SEA £159,950
• Light & Spacious Two Bedroom Purpose Built First Floor Apartment • Quiet Position To The Rear • Centrally Located For The Local Amenities
website: www.fletcherpoole.com
£295,000
• Impressive Two Bedroom First Floor Apartment • IPart Of A Newly Built Well Maintained Development • IPrivate Roof Terrace With Panoramic Coastal Views
OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.00-5.30 SATURDAY 9.30-4.00
INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS
Page 54 NWM 2020
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
LLANDUDNO JUNCTION
DWYGYFYLCHI £265,000
£375,000
• Four bedroom end terrace, three storey town house • Enjoys a conservatory to the rear • Situated in a convenient & popular location • Distant countryside views to the front aspect / No chain
• Beautifully presented three bedroom detached home • Enjoys superb sea and mountain views • Good size balcony from one of the bedrooms • Currently run as a successful holiday let / NO chain
EPC
F
DEGANWY
CONWY £275,000
• Detached 2 bedroom cottage • Situated just outside the town walls • Light and well planned accommodation • Conservatory to rear / Parking & No chain
website: www.fletcherpoole.com
£475,000
• Immaculately presented four bedroom detached home • Enjoys far reaching countryside and mountain views • Located in a small executive cul de sac • Easy access to the village, beach and Llandudno
OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.00-5.30 SATURDAY 9.30-4.00
INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS VALUATION - If you are thinking of moving at anytime in the near future please do not hesitate to ask for a FREE SALES VALUATION www.fletcherpoole.com
NWM 2020 Page 55
£415,000 Denbigh
Rhyl • Detached house
• Four bedrooms
• Four reception rooms
• Two En suite
• Family bathroom
• Detached double garage
• Gas central heating
• uPVC Double glazing
• Detached House
£420,000 • Five Bedrooms, Two with En-suite
• Master Bedroom with En-suite & walk-in wardrobe • Open plan Kitchen/ Diner/ Living • Sought After Location
• Ample off road parking & Double garage
• Well maintained low maintenance rear garden
• EPC Rating C
£595,000
Prestatyn Office • Five Bedrooms
• Outstanding Unspoilt Views
• Three En-Suites
• Open-Plan Kitchen/Living/Dining
• Three En-Suites
• Private Rear Garden
• Off-Road Parking
• Gas Central Heating
£295,000 Ruthin
Mold • Three Storey Town House
• Three Double Bedrooms
• Two En-suites
• Open Plan Kitchen/Lounge/Dining Room
£399,950
• Stunning Detached Bungalow
• Three Double Bedrooms
• Features such as High Ceilings and Arched Windows
• Kitchen/ Diner
• Good Sized Lounge & Conservatory
• Modern Interior with outer shell of Historic Building
• Utility Room & WC
• Integral Garage
• Under Building Car Parking Area
• Off Road Parking and Landscaped Gardens
• EPC Rating E 44
• Far Reaching Views
Making property dreams come true throughout North Wales Conwy based Mainly Money Matters can help with: First Time Buyers | Home Movers | Remortgages | Help to Buy | Buy to let | Let to Buy | Right to Buy | Holiday Lets
In addition:
Life Insurance | Critical Illness Insurance | Income Protection | Buildings and Contents Insurance
Mainly Money Matters is a trading style of 163 Consulting Limited, who are an appointed representative of HL Partnerships Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Contact us for a FREE initial consultation
163 Consulting Limited is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 09011721. The registered company address is 60 Willclare Road, Birmingham, B26 2NT
07882 136015
siobhan@mainlymoneymatters.co.uk
www.mainlymoneymatters.co.uk
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The right start
Parenting is one of life’s biggest challenges with so much balancing to do. As a parent you may feel the pressures of supporting your children with their schoolwork, encouraging their sporting and musical interests, and preparing them for life as an adult. One of the vital lessons we can pass on to our children is how to understand and manage money, so they are more prepared to make financial decisions as an adult. A lack of understanding around personal finances, can lead to unwise decisions being made and ultimately sees many adults end up in debt. The world of social media that our young people now
using cash much less frequently, but making the connection
find themselves immersed in means that they are often
to value is helped immeasurably by understanding coins and
bombarded by slick advertising for the latest “must have”
notes and what they represent.
products. Pressure to make these purchases combined with the ever-increasing access to easy credit or ‘buy now,
Give them pocket money: In exchange for chores done around
pay later’ schemes, are tempting many towards instant
the house, pocket money is a good practical demonstration of
gratification.
the connection between work and reward.
Therefore, giving our children a grounding in personal finance
Encourage saving: Insist that a percentage of their pocket
will help them understand how money can work for them, and
money goes into savings; perhaps a piggybank for the very
help them to navigate their way past potential pitfalls.
young or helping older children to open a savings account
Tackling big issues with children and young people always
either online or via an app or passbook, in which they can see
needs to be done in an age-appropriate way and you will
their money grow.
know them best. Here are some starting points. Explaining the value of money: This is something you can start
The adult world is becoming an increasingly difficult place to
even with very young children and will become increasingly
navigate, especially for the younger generations. So, a basic
important as they get older and closer to needing to budget for
grounding in managing money can be one of the best gifts you
themselves. When you take them shopping, share with them
give to your youngsters. n
how much you spend on food and try to impart that money is a tool and enables you to purchase items. Explain that having
Mainly Money Matters Limited, is an appointed
£10 in your hand does not mean you can buy something worth
representative of HL Partnership Limited, which is
£10.01.
authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority
Explain where money comes from: Many parents will have memories of trying to explain to children that money doesn’t grow on trees and that to use your bank card there must be enough money in the account. Keep going with these conversations, keep explaining the concept that you need to work to have money to spend. Get them a piggybank: Start the savings habit early. We are all
Siobhan Watson is the North Wales based mortgage and protection advisor for Mainly Money Matters, a whole-ofmarket mortgage advice firm specialising in residential, buyto-let and holiday-let mortgages.
NWM 2021 Page 59
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
Business NEWS Law firm continues to grow in Conwy
Awards success for Williams Estates
The family run North Wales based agency Williams Estates received no fewer than six awards last
A North Wales law firm has added another lawyer
month, including the double GOLD
to its growing team as demand for legal services
awards for Best Sales Agent office
continues to rise. Emma Deering is the latest new face
in Wales and Best Estate Agency
at Lanyon Bowdler, which opened a permanent office
Group in Wales at the prestigious
in Conwy in 2019, and has more than doubled the
ESTAS Customer Service Awards
size of its team over the past 18 months. Emma is an
2021. Now in their 18th year the
experienced chartered legal executive, specialising
awards, which are powered by
in will writing and advising on inheritance tax, along
ESTAS own customer review
with the preparation of Lasting Powers of Attorney and
platform and are sponsored by
the administration of estates. She is a fully-accredited
Coadjute, recognise the best estate
member of Solicitors for the Elderly, an affiliate member
and letting agents for customer
of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP),
service based on ratings from
and has more than ten years’ experience in this field
clients who have been through
of law. “I joined Lanyon Bowdler this summer and it’s clear the firm’s reputation is
the whole moving experience
growing across North Wales,” she said. “All of the departments are very much in
with an agent. This year’s results
demand, and I am already working with a wide variety of clients assisting them
were calculated from over 200,000
with their wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney, amongst other legal services.
customer review ratings. Williams
Preparing a will is often something people put off, but it’s absolutely vital to ensure
Estates’ success in the 2021 awards
your wishes are taken care of, and clients always say they feel like a weight has
makes it an incredible 90th time
been taken off their shoulders once it is all arranged.”
they have collected the top awards for Wales.
Rydal Penrhos partners with North Wales Crusaders Rydal Penrhos is proud to have an association with the North Wales Crusaders, who have been busy forming links with local businesses and people to grow their presence in the area following their move from Wrexham to Parc Eirias in Colwyn Bay. Players, coaches and supporters
Contributed to the Club Award for all the fantastic work
descended on Rydal Penrhos for the Crusaders’ annual
he does off the field. The duo of Rob Massam and Tom
End of Season Awards ceremony on Saturday 16th October,
Johnson were crowned joint-winners of the Coach’s Player
which was held in the school’s fantastic Ferguson Centre.
of the Season. Rob also won the Try of the Year after his
One of the big winners from the evening was Jordan
memorable score against Barrow Raiders. Rydal Penrhos
Gibson, who took home the Players’ Player of the Season
has formed a successful working partnership with the
and Fans’ Player of the Season after a sensational series of
Crusaders after the rugby league side made their move,
performances to further enhance his growing reputation.
with the club holding events and making use of the first-
Alex Eckley won the Young Player of the Year Award, with
class facilities on offer during training weekends in the
Conrad Anderson presented with the Jacqui Walker Most
not-too-distant future.
NWM 2021 Page 61
Expert Focus Liz Cade is the Professional Lead and Principal Lecturer for Occupational Therapy at Wrexham Glyndŵr University. Here she explains what this fascinating course entails… How did you get into occupational therapy?
involved in extra-curricular activities and we really value
Both my mother and aunt were occupational therapists, so
those opportunities for building resilience, a sense of
I grew up immersed in the profession and understanding
belonging and identity. We have our Occupational Therapy
the value that occupational therapy can bring to individuals.
society, run through the SU, which students are encouraged
I’ve always had an interest in the allied health and enjoyed
in getting involved as a committee member or participating
working with people. It was inevitable I’d go into a health
in the many events that they run. We have an Occupational
care profession, but it was just deciding which one. There’s
Therapy week which is a UK wide event run by the Royal
quite a lot of creativity within occupational therapy and it
College of Occupational Therapists that happens in early
allows for a lot of autonomy, so it felt as if it was going to fit
November and we encourage students to run various events
with me and who I am as an individual.
to raise the profile of the profession. Students are expected to participate in an action-based project throughout
What can students expect from your course?
the three years where they volunteer within their local
We are all occupational beings, so we do things in our lives
communities and immerse themselves in projects and
that are linked to self-care, productivity, and leisure which
charitable organisations or support individuals.
helps us find meaning, purpose and structure. Occupational therapists help empower people who can no longer engage
What opportunities are open to students after they
in those everyday occupations because they’re facing
graduate?
difficulties or barriers such as physical illness, disability,
We are a commissioned programme with Health Education
mental health or learning disabilities. In occupational therapy
Improvement Wales who fund student training across our
students learn about the whole breadth of occupation and
allied health and nursing programmes. Students can opt
the impact this can have on our health and well-being, they
to receive additional bursary funding which places an
don’t just learn about the physical aspect of someone’s health
expectation on them to work in Wales for a minimum of two
or disability, but the person as a whole. The subject areas
years post qualification. Students typically secure posts as
cover anatomy, physiology and psychology initially. Students
a Band 5 occupational therapists within the NHS once they
learn how an individual functions and how they can engage
graduate but can equally move into employment in social
in their occupations and as the programme progresses, they
care and the independent or third sector. The profession
learn about what barriers they may face. They underpin
offers a diversity in roles across different areas of practice
their practice with the bio-psycho-social approach which
including acute hospital services, mental health, paediatrics,
involves thinking about how someone interacts with their
primary care, and community rehabilitation alongside more
environment and the context in which they live, work and
specialist areas of practice.
engage in. Our students must gain a minimum of 1000 hours of placement experience to qualify and register with the Health and Care Professions Council, our regulatory body.
What is your best advice for anyone wanting to pursue occupational therapy?
To really understand what occupational therapy is. It’s such How can students get a place on the programme?
a diverse profession and there are so many opportunities
The occupational therapy degree programme is
for students, graduates and practitioners. Throughout your
commissioned by Health Education Improvement Wales
career you can change and move across between different
(HEIW) offering individuals the opportunity to train and
areas of practice, as a career and a profession it offers so
qualify as an occupational therapist. We have two routes, a
much to so many people. The Royal College of Occupational
three-year full time and four-year part time programme, so
Therapist’s website can be used to look into the profession
you can apply for the one that fits you best.
and find career information. The University run open days and engagement events throughout the year where you can
What type of work are you involved with outside of the
chat to the tutor team to understand what is expected if
programme?
you wish to pursue a career in occupational therapy. Highly
There’s plenty of opportunities for our students to get
recommended! n
NWM 2021 Page 63
MAGAZINE
Page 64 NWM 2020
Learning by heart
Rydal Penrhos recognises the importance of the “whole
This also gives our parents peace of mind knowing their
child”, including social and emotional learning along with
children are eating the right things, being provided with
academics. And one good place to find opportunities to
multiple choices on a daily basis and learning all about the
support our pupils in this sense is by providing all the
benefits of a strong nutritional foundation that they can take
nutrients needed during meal times to keep them focused –
into higher education and later life.
both in and out of the classroom. Our menus are always being monitored and assessed by Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise is important
our incredible staff team, making tweaks and improvements
for all individuals, especially those within education, no matter
where needed. This is part of the school’s ongoing strategy
their age. These children are required to eat a variety of foods
to provide a well-rounded and exceptional education from
from each group to ensure optimal intake of all vitamins and
Pre-School right up until our Year 13 pupils are ready for the
minerals.
next stage of their respective journeys.
At the same time, they may face new challenges regarding
A healthy, balanced diet is a key component of this. As is
food choices and habits. Decisions about what to eat are
providing all the necessary tools needed for our pupils to
partly determined by what is provided in school, at home, the
explore more about how food impacts performance and
influences from friends and the information they gather from
overall mindset in pursuit of making the right choices when
social media, which is becoming a growing influence.
presented with them. Knowledge is power, after all.
School-aged children grow significantly, but at a slower rate,
Rydal Penrhos looks to provide specialist Food Studies
whilst being very physically active in general. As a result, their
and Nutrition lessons as part of the curriculum, which is
nutritional needs are high and critical. Additionally, genetic
yet another unique approach to providing our pupils with
background, gender, body size and shape are all important
a heightened sense of awareness. Something our pupils
determinants of nutrient requirements.
thoroughly enjoy judging by a recent survey conducted with Year 7 to see how they are transitioning and what each
This is something Rydal Penrhos realises is a top priority
child is liking most about the senior site. Almost every pupil
and we work closely with catering partners Holroyd Howe on
named Food and Nutrition as one of their top subjects, with
producing a balanced menu throughout the week, something
the lunches also coming in for significant praise from the
that’s proven a big hit with pupils and staff alike.
group. n
Of course, for our pupils, it’s just eating delicious and varied dishes with friends. But to staff, it’s feeding bright young minds and enabling them to progress both academically and during their extra-curricular activities. It might sound like a small thing. However, it makes a significant difference and is
John Waszek is the Principal of Rydal Penrhos
further reflected in our pupils’ development across all areas and consistently exceptional examination results at both A Level and GCSE.
NWM 2021 Page 65
Ymunwch â ni yn un o’n MAGAZINE
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 66 NWM 2021
EDUCATION NEWS Opportunity to become a Children’s Nurse There is now an opportunity to study for a BN (Hons) Degree at Wrexham Glyndŵr University to become a Children’s Nurse. The BN (Hons) with Registered Children’s Nurse is a brand new programme developed to meet the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) (2018) Future Nurse standards. The course consists of 50 per cent clinical practice and 50 per cent theory. “There is a range of experience amongst the staff here that students will be able to draw upon, and this course opens up a real career pathway to becoming a children’s nurse,” commented programme leader Karen Griffiths. “The curriculum is very much person-centred and there is a blended learning approach.”
St Davids offers exceptional pastoral care St David’s College has, since it’s inception in 1965, placed enormous value in focusing on the individual and supporting them to realise the potential of their own gifts. Two-way communication between staff and pupils is key. Pupils must feel comfortable enough to speak up about anything that is concerning them. Staff strive to get to know pupils as well as possible and make themselves available. An open dialogue between pupils and staff is hugely important, because every
November Open Events at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s colleges have announced their first on-site Open Events in nearly two years. Coleg Llandrillo, Coleg Menai and Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor have thousands of options to suit your needs and to help you fulfil your potential, including the widest choice of full-time, parttime, apprenticeships & degree courses in North Wales. Upcoming open events are:
J Coleg Llandrillo: Rhos-on-Sea Campus: Monday 15th November, 5.30pm – 7.30pm
J Rhyl Campus: Tuesday 16th November, 5.30pm – 7.30pm
J Coleg Menai: Llangefni Campus: Wednesday 24th November, 4.30pm – 7pm Bangor/Parc Menai Campus: Thursday 25th November, 4.30pm – 7pm
J Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor: Dolgellau Campus: Tuesday 23rd November, 4.30pm – 7pm Pwllheli Campus: Wednesday 1st December, 4.30pm – 7pm
J Coleg Glynllifon: Saturday 27th November, 10am - 4pm
child feels safe in the knowledge that they are a valued member of the community, that is where their true gifts can be found, nurtured, and given the freedom to flourish.
Rydal Penrhos scholarship for talented pupil Every academic year, Rydal Penrhos also offers scholarship premiums to children with ‘exceptional talent’. These are open to pupils already within the school as well as to those joining and are based on testing and recommendations from teaching staff who are constantly monitoring their development. Another example of this was confirmed just before the half-term break, with Executive Principal John Waszek presenting Year 12 pupil Sophie Madden with an Art scholarship in recognition of her outstanding progress under the guidance of Mark Sherrington, the school’s Head of Art, and other teaching staff. “What sets Sophie apart is her technical skill with paint and drawing materials,” said Mr Sherrington. “The speed at which she is improving is breathtaking and I am certain this is because she has been prepared to read around the subject and investigate how other artists work. As a teacher, she is a fantastic pupil because she always listens, responds and reacts to being challenged. I am genuinely excited to have such a talented painter in the studio for the next two years.”
NWM 2020 Page 67
MAGAZINE
Page 68 NWM 2021
Team spirit Rydal Penrhos has a long-standing tradition of sporting success throughout its history, as Maria McLean reports. The school has produced a wealth of international-calibre
Rydal Penrhos is delighted to host local clubs and teams who
athletes over the years, who all built their early foundations as
train with us on a weekly basis. This also includes Welsh
pupils before going on to achieve great things.
youth rugby, cricket, netball and hockey squads who hold residential training camps with us. The school’s incredible
Whether it’s Wilf Wooller –widely regarding as one of the
New Field sporting venue – which has its own pavilion –
greatest all-around sportsmen the country’s ever produced –
regularly hosts Cricket Wales youth matches and has seen
or the Prince of Centres Bleddyn Williams, Rydal Penrhos is
iconic figures such as Andrew Flintoff attend.
proud of its sporting heritage which is continuing right up to the present day.
Rydal Penrhos has a vast array of facilities, including a Sports Hall and Fitness Suite that can be used for netball, basketball and
This was no more evident than during the summer,
indoor cricket nets, with the astroturf surface providing a floodlit
with Georgia Wilson securing two bronze medals at the
training area for pupils and clubs across the region to utilise.
Paralympic Games and Vicky Thornley also representing Team GB en route to securing fourth in the women’s single
The school also has its own outdoor cricket nets area, no
sculls rowing event having previously won a silver medal at
fewer than five immaculate rugby pitches, seven outdoor
the Rio Olympics.
tennis courts, two squash courts, four Eton Fives courts and a dedicated short game golf area for anyone wishing to hone
All this comes from exceptional coaching delivered by
their bunker, chipping or putting skills.
the school’s staff team, who are constantly monitoring the progress of our aspiring athletes and developing programmes
If that wasn’t enough, Rydal Penrhos has an RYA accredited
to enhance conditioning and overall performance in pursuit of
Sailing and Water-Sports Centre as part of our campus and
reaching their respective goals.
this is available to visiting groups. Our instructors can put together taster sessions or a day on the water for our more
Not only this, but our pupils benefit from first-class facilities
qualified visitors, which has been part of the school’s history
to give them another major boost as they look to follow in the
for more than 60 years and something pupils absolutely love
footsteps of those who’ve been so incredibly successful in
all through the academic year. n
years gone by. The sporting facilities at Rydal Penrhos are available for These are not only used by pupils during school time, but
evening and weekend hire and during all school holidays.
NWM 2021 Page 69
Volunteers Needed Citizens Advice is a dynamic, innovative, professional organisation that gives advice to communities on their rights and responsibilities. Gain new skills, increase your confidence and improve your employment opportunities. Free training provided and expenses paid.
Volunteer roles include: Initial assessors and General advisers For role descriptions and an application pack, please contact Julie:
07775 917 825 julie.pierce@dcab.co.uk
Abbeyfield Colwyn Bay With two accommodations in Rhos-on-Sea with close proximity to the seafront, and one in Colwyn Bay we can offer safe and secure accommodation in a sheltered environment for the elderly We are very proud of our three houses which are decorated to a high standard with well-established gardens and conservatories. We aim to provide a peaceful and friendly atmosphere where you will be in the company of like-minded people. • Home Cooked Lunch • High Tea • Breakfast Provisions • All Bills included • Community Alarm Service • Washing and ironing done weekly • Room cleaned weekly 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
Images courtesy of Loveclic
TYING THE KNOT Talhenbont Hall on the Llŷn Peninsula is a fabulous place for an autumn wedding, as this lucky couple discovered…
Elen and Stephen finally got to tie the knot at Talhenbont Hall in October after having to postpone their wedding due to Covid. The couple opted for a sumptuous, rich autumnal colour palette which worked perfectly in the Hall & Coach House. Elen and Stephen took exclusivity of the whole Estate for the weekend, enjoying a meal at Dylan’s in Criccieth the night before the wedding, returning to the Hall for drinks by the grand fireplace.
Dress by True Bride
Elen looked stunning in her dress by True Bride, while the bridesmaids wore deep plum dresses. The florals were truly breathtaking, provided by award winning florist Springbank Flowers. The ceremony took place in the Grade II Listed Coach House – and the aisle certainly had the ‘wow’ factor! The drinks reception was served in the Main Hall with fabulous canapés provided by Cheeky Chilli.
Make up and hair by Moncrieffe
Then it was back to the Coach House for the Wedding Breakfast, a delicious three course meal which included Welsh Lamb as the main. A magnificent chocolate cake was provided by Cariad Cakes by Pippa. The evening entertainment was provided by The 1965 featuring the fabulous
Florals by Springbank Flowers
vocalist Elin Fflur. The following day the couple enjoyed a hog roast and drinks in the Hall. An absolutely magical wedding from start to finish! n Talhenbont Hall www.talhenbonthall.co.uk
NWM 2021 Page 71
Llandudno Kia
Friday 5th November 3pm, 5pm or 6pm
Book your spot now at
www.llandudnokia.co.uk LLANDUDNO KIA Argyll Road, Llandudno, Conwy, LL30 1DF
|
www.llandudnokia.co.uk
Tel: 01492 875991 Email: info@llandudnokia.co.uk
NORTH WALES MOTOR COMPANY We are delighted to announce that North Wales Honda has opened a second showroom in Llandudno and welcomed the Kia brand into our family. With the expansion from one Global brand to two major brands we are delighted to now offer our customers the broadest range of cars of any independent family run business in North Wales. Our award-winning friendly team of experts are ready to guide you through our range of petrol, hybrid, electric and diesel cars. Our compact economical cars are now the Hybrid Jazz and nippy petrol Picanto and Rio. If you need something with a bit more space and range, we have the Civic, Stonic and Ceed. Small SUVs are the exciting new self-charging Hybrid HR-V and Hybrid or all electric Niro. Larger vehicles with more space and pace are the, X Ceed, Pro Ceed and Ceed Sports wagon. If you need space and height the award-winning CR-V, Sportage and Sorento tick all the boxes. With 17 models across our two brands, and a host of pure Electric cars complimented with Hybrid variants I feel we have solutions for all of your motoring needs. With so much activity, great news, it’s the same TEAM. Adrian still has a firm hand on quality control and customer satisfaction across the two brands and Erin will keep you moving with a larger team of aftersales experts and we have added more technicians into our workshop. With so much activity we have invested heavily in what we believe will be the best workshop in North Wales, on Argyll Road. During Covid we purchased the former Peugeot site and set about refurbishing possibly the oldest car workshop in North Wales, soon to become the most modern. With two MOT ramps and eight service ramps, a full body shop, tyre and parts department, we will satisfy all your needs. Please browse our stock from the comfort of your own home, with our www.northwaleshonda.co.uk and www.llandudnokia.co.uk websites. You can reserve a car subject to test drive for only £99. To book a service or MOT simply email info@nwmco.co.uk or call 01492875991 and follow the menu for sales or service for either brand. We may have got bigger, but I promise that we will not compromise on quality or our level of service. The motor industry is under going the biggest change in technology for over 100 years, and we are here to help and guide you at North Wales Motor Company, Llandudno. David Paveley Managing Director North Wales Motor Company Ltd.
Community
News
Thursd ay 9th Decem be 2021 r
Marchnad Nadolig Fictoraidd Wrecsam 2021 – 12pm tan 8pm
Wrexham’s Victorian Christmas Market 2021 – 12noon – 8pm
Mae Marchnad Nadolig Fictoraidd Wrecsam bellach yn
Wrexham’s Victorian Christmas Market has become one of
un o’r digwyddiadau y mae disgwyl mawr amdano yng
the most eagerly awaited events in the town’s calendar and
nghalendr y dref, ac mae’n denu miloedd o ymwelwyr
successfully attracts thousands of shoppers year after year.
flwyddyn ar ôl blwyddyn. Bydd thema Fictoraidd i’r
2021 will once again see a Victorian theme to the market and
farchnad unwaith eto eleni, a bydd dros 100 o stondinau’n
visitors will find over 100 stalls from Queens Square right up
disgwyl yr ymwelwyr, o Sgwâr y Frenhines yr holl ffordd at
to and inside St Giles’ Church.
ac y tu mewn i Eglwys San Silyn. Stalls this year will be selling a selection of festive gifts and Bydd y stondinau eleni yn gwerthu dewis da o anrhegion a
treats alongside Victorian street entertainers and traditional
danteithion Nadolig ac mi fydd yna hefyd ddiddanwyr stryd
rides and side stalls. There will be all sorts of hot, freshly
Fictoraidd, ffair fach draddodiadol a stondinau bach eraill. Mi
prepared food to try including German sausages, festive
fydd yna bob mathau o fwydydd poeth, o selsig Almaenaidd
mince pies, mulled wine and hot chestnuts.
a mins peis i win poeth a chnau castan wedi’u rhostio. What makes this market really special is that it spills over Ond yr hyn sy’n gwneud y farchnad yn un arbennig iawn
into the beautiful parish church of St Giles – a real haven
ydi’r ffaith ei bod hi’n parhau y tu mewn i eglwys hardd
of warmth on a cold winter’s evening. Inside there are
San Silyn – sy’n hafan o gynhesrwydd ar noson oer o
more stalls and refreshments, music and carols and many
aeaf. Y tu mewn mi fydd yna fwy o stondinau a lluniaeth,
of the thousands of visitors are so captivated by their
cerddoriaeth a charolau, ac fe gewch chi’ch hudo gan yr
surroundings that they take an opportunity to just sit and
eglwys wrth i chi eistedd i lawr a mwynhau hwyl yr ŵyl.
soak up the atmosphere for a while.
Tom Grennan announces Rhyl Events Arena Show Tom Grennan has had an extraordinary year playing to huge crowds at Reading, Leeds Latitude & TRNSMT festivals as well as a massive sold out 15-date UK tour to support his album Evering Road which he described as a “thank you note” following a breakup back in March. It was flanked by the singles ‘This Is The Place’, ‘Oh Please’, ‘Little Bit Of Love’ ‘Amen’ and ‘Something Better’, and went on to earn Grennan his first UK Number One album. The show at The Events Arena in Rhyl follows the highly successful Tom Jones concert earlier this year and is again delivered by award winning promoters Orchard Live. “We’re really excited about returning to Rhyl after such an amazing and successful night with Sir Tom Jones back in September, this is the first announcement of a series of shows we will be bringing to Rhyl next summer!’’ commented Pablo Janczur form Orchard Live. Tickets for the show, which will take place on Sunday 10th July 2022, are available from Rhyl Pavilion box office.
Page 74 NWM 2021
Military veteran shares experience of living with PTSD An Army veteran who suffers from PTSD after serving in Iraq has shared his story of how taking action against the MOD helped turn his life around. Andrew Preston says talking to law firm, Lanyon Bowdler, which has offices in Conwy, about making a legal claim against his former employer was a major turning point in his life. He tells the story how PTSD affected him and his loved ones, and
MOSTYN opens seasonal showcase
discusses the progress he has made, in the latest episode
MOSTYN Gallery Shop’s new seasonal showcase, ‘Gifts
of the The Legal Lounge podcast. “I felt strongly that I
from Wales and the Borders’, is now open and runs until
had to do something to make the MOD accept its failings
the 2nd February. Having selected some of the very
specifically in my case, and more generally for other soldiers
best craftspeople and artists working in Wales and the
who had suffered similarly,” he said. “I remember walking
Borders, they will be offering an eclectic range of gifts
into Lanyon Bowdler in Oswestry to ask if they did this kind
and treasures, including woodwork, knitwear, jewellery,
of negligence case, and it was a difficult but really important
glassware, original artworks, limited edition prints and a
step to take.” With the support of legal specialists at Lanyon
beautiful mix of hand-crafted contemporary items to suit
Bowdler, Andrew built a case against the MOD, resulting in
every budget. MOSTYN is proud to support hundreds of
a financial settlement and support package which changed
independent makers in their retail spaces, and any income
his life. “It was a very cathartic experience,” he said. “I was
generated by the gallery shop is invested back into their
taking a stand against an employer who had not done what
exhibition and community programmes. What better
was expected of them. Yes it was difficult to bear your soul
reason to treat yourself?
in front of people, but I am so glad we did it and it was a great relief when we won the case.” To listen to the podcast, search for The Legal Lounge on Apple Podcasts.
Mynydd Sleddog looking to grow Junior Academy Mynydd Sleddog Adventures is Wales’ first and only outdoor activity provider, specialising in husky rides and sled dog adventures with their team of racing sled dogs. With 20 years experience of training and racing sled dogs in the UK and abroad, they pride themselves on providing awesome adventures for anyone who loves the wild outdoors and, of course, sled dogs. This autumn Mynydd launched the Wales Junior Sleddog Sports Academy, which so far has proven to be hugely successful. They are working with 20 super young people who receive fortnightly tuition and coaching in two classifications of Sleddog Sports; Dryland Rig and Canicross, and are hoping to inspire them to compete in the British National Championship Sleddog Sports Event being held in February 2022. Due to the overwhelming interest in the Academy they are now taking bookings for their Spring Junior Academy, which will be an intensive programme during the February half term break, so if you know a young person who loves dogs, loves sports and being outdoors, why not treat them to a place on the next Academy?
NWM 2021 Page 75
Walking
world
THE ASCENT OF CARN FADRYN
The lovely Llŷn Peninsula feels very remote in many parts with a few towns and several villages and hamlets. Apart from a limited number of major roads most of the driving takes place on narrow
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
lanes that have a certain romance about them and make you slow walking destination the Llŷn Peninsula is superb with a mixture
J Distance: 4.0 miles/6.43 kilometres J Time: Allow around 3 – 3.5 hours J Start: Use the free car park for Carn Fadryn
of stunning coastal walks and plenty to do inland as well. Interest
(more of a large lay-by) near the hamlet of
away from the coast is centred around the several distinct hills
Garnfadryn which is about 5.5 miles south
that are scattered around the area and which offer stunning views
of Nefyn
down which fits in nicely with the aura of the place perfectly. As a
from their summits. This month’s walk climbs to the 1,217 ft./371 metre summit of Carn Fadryn which is one of the most striking of the Llŷn Peninsula’s hills and visible from many parts of the region. Carn Fadryn looks very like a volcanic cone and has a five-hectare Iron Age hill fort on the summit. Carn Fadryn overlooks the village
J Grid Ref: SH 277345 J Nearest postcode: LL53 8TG J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer 253 – Llŷn Peninsula West
J What to expect: This walk uses a combination
of Garnfadryn and although the climb to the summit is steep and a
of field paths and tracks which are fairly
bit rough it’s well worth the effort for the all-round panorama from
clear throughout. There are some fairly steep
the top. This walk is a full-blown hill route and you should wear
ascents and descents on the route and the final
boots and carry waterproofs, a hat and gloves and make sure you
pull up to the summit of Carn Fadryn is rough
choose a day of settled weather for the outing. You should also carry
as is the descent. As this is a full-blown hill
a map and compass. There appears to have been several phases to
walk full hill gear is required as well a good
the building of the hill fort on Carn Fadryn’s summit with the first
pair of walking boots plus a map and compass.
period dating from about 300 BC when the summit and an area of
Take walking sticks in summer as some of the
about 12 acres were enclosed. This works was reinforced during a
paths can be a little overgrown. Avoid in bad
later second period dating from around 100 BC. During the second building periods a larger area to the north end of the summit was enclosed and this covered an area of around 26 acres. A third fort appeared on the summit during Medieval times and is thought to be the legendary ‘castle of the sons of Owain’. It is possible this third fortification dates from around the 1180’s. Once you have climbed to the top it’s easy to see why this was such a popular destination for
weather.
J Dogs: OK on leads J Suitable for: Experienced hill walkers who don’t mind steep ascents and some rough going
J Refreshments: Best heading for Nefyn or Pwllheli
hill forts for on a clear day the view takes in Anglesey, Snowdonia, a lot of Cardigan Bay and (on a very clear day) even the Wicklow Mountains in Ireland. As a military position it would have been very easy to defend
NWM 2021 Page 77
3
MAGAZINE
WALK DETAILS 5
START
2
4
From the parking area (with your back to Carn Fadryn) go right down the lane. Follow it and when it bends left go ahead taking a lane signposted for a ‘Dead End’. Continue
START/ FINISH
to the lane end and a fork of two tracks. Points of interest on this section
J The Llŷn Peninsula extends 30 miles/50 km into the Irish Sea south west of the Isle of Anglesey. It is very popular with tourists and water sports enthusiasts
2 Take the right hand track and follow this under the slopes of Carn Fadryn. Pass through a gate and continue on the track beyond. At a left fork and a house stay ahead on a rougher
ght https://openstreetmap.org track. Follow this past a fork left to another house (Pen y Gorgl) ntributors, under an open licence
on your left. Continue ahead to leave the track half left (just
before the ruins of a building and well before a gate) taking a rougher track left of the ruins. Drop to a stile in a fence corner. 3 Cross the stile and pass through a wall gap to follow an overgrown sunken path to reach an open field via a wall gap.
Llandu
dno Ca
4 Leave the right of way to go right and reach a stile in a wall. Cross the stile and take the rising hillside path beyond. Soon join a better path at a junction and go right. Climb steeply up
Follow the faint path at the top right of the field keeping a
the slopes of Carn Fadryn. Continue rising on the main path
wall right. At the end of this field cross a stile (or go through
passing cairns. Follow the path to the summit of Carn Fadryn.
a gate next to it). Continue over the next field keeping a wall
The trig point is on a rocky outcrop.
ble Ca
r
right. Cross a stile in a fence and continue over the next field with the wall right and a caravan site ahead half left. At the
Points of interest on this section
end of this field climb steps and cross a stile. Continue across
J The 1,217 ft./371 metre summit of Carn Fadryn is one of the
a fourth field keeping the wall right. In a short distance cross
most striking of the Llŷn Peninsulas hills and visible from
a stile right to a plantation. Go left to follow the plantation edge
many parts of the region. There is an Iron Age hill fort on the
on a narrow rough path. As the plantation ends and you reach
top
open ground cross a stile to a marshy area of a field. Go ahead to cross a small bridge. Take a path across the field ahead
5 Re-trace your steps back down the hill side. When the
keeping to the left side to cross a stile to another field. Go ahead
path forks left to drop back to the stile stay right leaving your
over this aiming slightly half left to pick up a track. Take this to
outbound route. Continue to descend by a wall and follow the
dip to a hollow and cross a stream near a small rock face by a
wall down to reach a gate left. Pass through this to descend an
solitary tree. Rise beyond this heading well right of the corner
enclosed track. Continue on this as it becomes surfaced picking
at the top of the field following the path as best you can to go
up a house drive. Descend this to a lane and go right back to
through a gate right of a gate. Follow the direction of the yellow
the parking area.
arrow to rise next to a wall right. When the angle eases cross the brow of the slope. Descend with a wall right to a marker post. Go half left to cross the next field dipping to reach another arrow. Follow the direction on this to pass through a gate in a field corner. Climb beyond to a grassy col between Carn Fadryn and Garn Bach. Pass over the col to reach a wall corner near a marker post and a gate.
Page 78 NWM 2021
A WORD OF CAUTION Walking in the outdoors can be a strenuous activity and it is up to you to ensure that you are fit and healthy enough to undertake the route described and to approach the venture with caution and care. You should wear appropriate footwear and suitable clothing, take along food and drink plus carry the relevant map and a compass and be able to use it. The details given here are believed to be correct at the time of going to press. However, neither North Wales Magazine nor the author can accept responsibility for inaccuracies encountered. You also must ensure that travelling to any location does not breach any current lockdown restrictions.
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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
November’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st – April 20th) November has an intense beginning for you. It’s possible you’ll get an unexpected bill on the 4th, when the New Moon disrupts your cash flow. If you’re looking for work, seek opportunities that pay on a commission basis. You’ll easily outperform the competition. Close relationships can be a source of irritation in the middle weeks of November.
LIBRA (September 24th – October 23rd) Salary negotiations could be stressful at the start of November. The New Moon on the 4th will make it difficult to get the compensation you deserve. Instead of committing to a long-term contract, it might be best to sign on for a couple of months, then renegotiate the terms of the deal early next year. The Lunar Eclipse on the 19th puts strain on an intimate relationship.
TAURUS (April 21st – May 21st) The New Moon on the 4th pressures you to make a commitment or walk away from a union. An intense desire for freedom may prompt you to go solo. Don’t overestimate your importance at work towards the middle of the month. On the 19th, a Lunar Eclipse will tempt you to change your image. This could do more harm than good.
SCORPIO (October 24th – November 22nd) Resist the temptation to undergo a radical makeover at the beginning of November. Although the New Moon on the 4th will make you yearn for a different look, you could be terrifically disappointed with the results. The Lunar Eclipse on the 19th could mark the end of a close relationship that is no longer working for you.
GEMINI (May 22nd – June 21st) On the 4th, the New Moon warns against accepting a job that seems too good to be true. It’s better to hold out for a position at an established company with a good reputation. A Lunar Eclipse on the 19th brings the end to a secretive situation that has been making you miserable. Turning your back on this part of your life will be a relief.
SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd – December 21st) The New Moon on the 4th could push you into the background, despite a desire to command the spotlight. Attending to background tasks and administrative work is critical to your wellbeing.. A Lunar Eclipse on the 19th demonstrates the need to take good care of your body. Replace sugar, fat and alcohol with lean protein, fresh produce and whole grains.
CANCER (June 22nd – July 23rd) The opening days of the month can emphasise the need for fun, romance and adventure. The New Moon on the 4th could make you irritated. Until you change your priorities, you’ll remain anxious and stressed. On the 19th, the Lunar Eclipse will prompt you to leave an organisation or friendship that no longer reflects your values. LEO (July 24th – August 23rd) Family matters will inspire a big change on or around the 4th, due to a conflicted New Moon. Alter your approach to work so that you can spend more quality time with your nearest and dearest. The middle of the month finds you facing off with your best friend or romantic partner. Be honest when they ask for more than you can deliver. VIRGO (August 24th – September 23rd) Traffic tie-ups and electronic breakdowns could wreak havoc in your life on the 4th, due to a tense New Moon. The middle of November warns against overindulging in food and drink. Practicing moderation will boost your productivity, helping you attract a good work opportunity. On the 19th, the Lunar Eclipse could mark a shocking end to a legal matter.
Page 82 NWM 2020
CAPRICORN (December 22nd – January 20th) Working on a group project could be frustrating at the start of the month. The New Moon on the 4th could throw some technical glitches into a teleconference. The middle of November warns against engaging in retail therapy. If you want to fill an emotional void, pour your energy into realising a dream you’ve had since childhood. AQUARIUS (January 21st – February 19th) The New Moon on the 4th brings your attention to career matters. If an exciting opportunity falls through, don’t despair. A bigger and better job will arrive. Your job is to stay positive and imagine yourself doing the work you love. A Lunar Eclipse on the 19th brings an end to an upsetting family matter. PISCES (February 20th – March 20th) It may be necessary to cancel a trip or academic program near the 4th, due to a challenging New Moon. Instead of dwelling on your disappointment, fill your time with a writing or learning project that stimulates your intellect. The Lunar Eclipse on the 19th could deliver shocking news about someone you have always admired.
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