North Wales Magazine - April 2021

APRIL 2021

!

EE FR

MAGAZINE

The Cormorant THE INSPIRATION BEHIND THIS HAUNTING TALE

Pedal power

A mother & daughter’s two wheeled adventure

Wild Swimming WHERE TO TAKE THE PLUNGE IN NORTH WALES INSIDE J Walking J Food & Drink J Homes & Property

MAGAZINE We want to hear from you!

DEAR READER It turns out that it really is the simple things in life that matter most. With the ‘stay local’ restriction being lifted just in time for Easter, it’s the little things that we’re all looking forward to…

Walking along the prom while having an

But, in order to enjoy all of the above

ice cream, hiking up a local hill, having a

simple pleasures, we need one thing –

picnic on the beach, meandering down

decent weather! So come on everybody,

country lanes and enjoying fish and chips

and do a little sun dance please so that we

at a local beauty spot are all that seem to

can enjoy North Wales in all it’s glory this

be on peoples agendas this month!

April – with a couple of our best friends to boot…

And it’s just going to get better. Six people from two households (and I children) are now able to meet up outside up. BBQ anyone?

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

J Advertise. If you own a business in North Wales and want to get your message in front of 20,000 local readers every month then drop us a line. Prices start from just £75. sales@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

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In this issue:

Front cover image courtesy of Bethany Birch

Now that the ‘stay local’ restriction has been lifted we are all free to enjoy more that beautiful North Wales has to offer!

Cato Crane Auctioneers

CELEBRATING 36 YEARS OF HELPFUL SERVICE AND SUCCESSFUL SELLING

Email: info@catocrane.co.uk & sell@lowerpercent.co.uk

J Keep in touch. Send in your contributions, letters, photos and press releases and become part of the North Wales Magazine family. editorial@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Subscribe. If you want to ensure that you receive each and every copy of North Wales Magazine then why not subscribe? All you pay for is the post and packaging. subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

All together now!

believe that that figure doesn’t include in order to enjoy that long overdue catch

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

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NWM 2021 Page 5

NWM

Contents

MAGAZINE EDITOR

Kate Hamilton

11

PUBLISHER

Grant Hamilton SALES MANAGER

Scott Lawson ART DIRECTOR

Simon Marriott OFFICE MANAGER

Sian Roberts CONTRIBUTORS

55

08 The Big Picture Beautiful Borth-y-Gest

11 Making a splash

An introduction to wild swimming

15 You and your pet

Bethany Birch Stephen Gregory Sam Dugon Steve Goodier Cai Ross Pete Greensmith Sally Ann Harding Siobhan Watson Meurig Davies Russell Grant CONTACT US editorial@northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales@northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@northwalesmagazine.co.uk whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

What to feed your dog…

17 Green Fingers

01492 472052 2nd Floor, 23A Abergele Road, Colwyn Bay, LL29 7RS

Potter around your local garden centre

19 Flying high

37 Homes & property

first novel

market

22 A family affair

49 In Business

Stephen Gregory reminisces on writing his

A mother and daughter explore North Wales on two wheels

Get inspired by homes that are on the

North Wales business news and advice

55 Education

25 Food & drink

Getting to grips with online learning

The regions wining, dining and culinary scene

58 Where to stay Holidaying at home

61 Walking

Exploring Benllech

64 Community News

A roundup of regional happenings

66 Horoscopes

22

What does April have in store for you?

North Wales Magazine is an independent, regional monthly magazine produced by KSG Publishing. It is available to pick up from a wide range of independent outlets throughout Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham, Gwynedd and the Isle of Anglesey.

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

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

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

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

MAGAZINE

BIG picture

Beautiful Borth-y-Gest can be found just a stone’s throw from the harbour town of Porthmadog. This pretty little village offers breathtaking views across the estuary towards Harlech, making it a fabulous place to stop for an ice cream while you take in the view. It is possible to walk all the way to Criccieth from Borth-y-Gest, along the coastal path and then along majestic Black Rock Sands. Alternatively, when the tide is right out, you can walk along the beach taking in some delightful coves along the way. Just watch out though, because the tide comes in pretty quickly!

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TAKING THE PLUNGE Bethany Birch explores the benefits of cold water swimming in one of the most beautiful spots in North Wales…

With seawater temperatures along the North Welsh coast averaging at around 9.5°C during April, the proposal of a cold water swim is likely to be far from tempting. A stark contrast from the warmer waters that we’re far more familiar with throughout the summer months, making an August dip may feel almost balmy in comparison.

So why are so many braving the cold waters and heading to our local lakes and oceans now more than ever? Offering a plethora of benefits, cold water therapy has convinced plenty to brave the cold waters this winter. Alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression, boosting the immune system and easing chronic pain conditions, cold water exposure promises plenty of positives.

Long-standing sea swimmer, Karen Harvey, has experienced the benefits of cold water exposure first hand. Living in

And, with a wealth of rivers, lakes, waterfalls as well as

Pwllheli, Karen has been heading to the beach for a salty swim

open sea, North Wales poses as the perfect place to give

for 22 years. “I’ve been swimming almost daily through the

cold water swimming a try. Whether it be inland, nestled in

last two winters, bar storms, and have absolutely loved it,” says

the mountains or looping through our villages, or the shores

Karen. “The biggest thrill of all is swimming when there is

of coves and coastal inlets, there are bodies of water just

snow on the mountains.”

tempting you to join them all across North Wales – we’re truly spoilt for choice!

WITH SEAWATER TEMPERATURES ALONG THE NORTH WELSH COAST AVERAGING AT AROUND 9.5°C DURING APRIL, THE PROPOSAL OF A COLD WATER SWIM IS LIKELY TO BE FAR FROM TEMPTING

Drawn to the area after holidaying here with her family, she is now proud to call North Wales home. After all, with its soaring peaks and impeccable coastline, what’s not to love?

The main difference that Karen has noticed since swimming through the winters is the improvement of her chronic pain condition and hypermobility. Diagnosed with fibromyalgia in 2000, Karen has suffered from chronic muscular and skeletal pain, fatigue and other problems for decades.

“Since committing to swimming through the winter months I have felt stronger and have gradually been able to manage

NWM 2021 Page 11

MAGAZINE

my pain better,” explains Karen, who has always had a

Providing brave participants with a natural high due to the

natural affiliation with the ocean due to growing up in

endorphins released is a perk that keeps Ollie returning to

Pembrokeshire. “And I have even been able to reduce my

the water.

pain medication under medical supervision over the last four months! Going swimming has always been a great joy. It has

“I always feel so much better for it afterwards, it makes you

helped me to cope with the worry of being a carer for my

feel alive and exhilarated,” he explains. “I return home feeling

husband, Tony, who also has a number of health problems.”

refreshed and energised. The cold water has a unique ability to wash away any worries or stresses and forces you to be

In fact, wild swimming offers Karen a sense of escapism

completely present, focusing entirely on your body and breath.”

while simultaneously grounding her. During the uncertainty and isolation of the past year, her sea swims have provided

With a background of surf instructing in Abersoch, Ollie has

Karen with a slice of serenity, a bit of ‘me time’ and respite

a deep love for the ocean. Time spent in, or beside, the sea

from the chaos of the world.

provides him with a sense of contentment and connection that is hard to find elsewhere. “I find myself craving being in the

Oliver Devaney is another recent cold water swimming

water – whatever the weather. The benefits are addictive!”

convert, and he also testifies for the mental benefits that it gifts. Oliver moved to Pwllheli last year after dreaming

Getting in amongst the waves a few times a week satisfies

of living beside the sea after many family holidays spent

Ollie’s sea swim cravings and provides him with the well-

exploring the Llŷn coastline. Struggling with anxiety and

valued benefits. “Some weeks I go in daily, other’s it’s a little

depression in the past, he credits his cold water dips for

less. It mainly depends on the conditions.”

improving his mental wellbeing.

As a result, he’s keen to explore more of North Wales and its “It’s a mental battle to get in the water,” explains Ollie. “I may

beautiful waters once permitted – the likes of Llyn Dinas and

not always want to get in, but those are the days I often need

the Watkins Path waterfalls are both on Ollie’s wild swimming

it most. It takes commitment, self-discipline, and mental

bucket list.

resilience to shed free of the apprehension, breathe through the initial shock and allow yourself to embrace the sensation

Despite the array of benefits of cold water therapy, it’s also

of the cold water.”

important to be responsible and safe while in the water. If

DRAWN TO THE AREA AFTER HOLIDAYING HERE WITH HER FAMILY, SHE IS NOW PROUD TO CALL NORTH WALES HOME. AFTER ALL, WITH ITS SOARING PEAKS AND IMPECCABLE COASTLINE, WHAT’S NOT TO LOVE? Page 12 NWM 2021

you’re inexperienced then it’s vital to be conscious of what is known as ‘cold water shock’. This can cause you to take a sharp intake of breath and can increase your heart rate and blood pressure; so enter the water slowly and be sure to regulate your breathing before swimming. It’s also best to familiarise yourself with your chosen swimming location, and to stay in your depth as cold water can cause problems such

followed by a hot chocolate, before taking a lukewarm shower.

as ‘swim failure’.

Whereas Ollie enjoys warming up under his Dryrobe before heading home to enjoy a cup of coffee.

You should also be aware of something called ‘after drop’.

Upon exiting the water the blood begins to circulate through

So, whether it be a sea swim at Newborough Beach or

the body and cool blood returns from your limbs to your

Colwyn Bay, a chilly dip in the pools of Snowdonia, a magical

core, consequently dropping your core temperature. Karen’s

dunk at Fairy Glen or a refreshing plunge in the falls around

favoured post-swim ritual consists of a stroll across the beach

Beddgelert, North Wales has you covered for any of your wild and cold swimming cravings. Just make sure that you take the plunge safely… n

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.

NWM 2021 Page 13

You & Your

Pet

SHOULD I BE FEEDING RAW? The popularity in raw feeding has changed over recent years

Shinier Coat and Healthy Skin

and you can see a huge uptake in new customers switching

With just the right quantities of meat, bone and offal a raw

over from processed foods to raw feeding. So, why has there

feeding diet gives your dog a glossy coat and may help to

been this new found support for raw feeding? Maybe to

improve any skin complaints.

answer that question we need to take a look at what raw feeding is and how it can benefit your dog.

We are not saying that this diet is suitable for all dogs due to it’s naturally high protein content, but you can see why there

A raw feeding diet will typically consist of muscle meat, bones

has been a shift in popularity, moving away from kibble which

either whole or ground, organ meats such as livers and kidneys

can contain high levels of artificial flavourings and processed

and optional vegetables and fruit, such as blueberries and kale.

fillers to a more natural, easily digestible raw diet.

Seems pretty basic really, and that’s the point, it is what it is

If you think this type of feed would benefit your dog then it

and that is a raw feed. So I am sure you are asking if this is all

is recommended to do a straight switch after a 12 hour fast,

that is in the feed, what are the possible benefits to my dog?

and move them on to an exclusively raw diet. Do not worry

Well, some of the potential benefits can be:

too much if after a couple of meals your dog turns their nose up at it, they could quite simply be full due to the nature of

Better Digestion

the feed not having any fillers in it and just being a higher

Just like humans, raw, natural food is generally easier for dogs

quality raw feed.

to digest. There is no added sugar, fillers or derivatives that can be found in some of the more processed pet foods, that can

If you require any more information or advice on h ow to

often cause our pets digestive issues.

transition over to raw feed or you wish to know about the ranges we stock, do pop into one of our stores and one of the

More Manageable Poos

team will be more than happy to help. For all our petplace

Raw Food is a 100% natural feed, which means it will not only

plus+ customers will are running 10% off raw feeds for all of

benefit your dogs stomach and overall health, but due to there

April so do pop in and stock up. n

being no mysterious added fillers for your dog to digest there is less mess out the other end! The result is a smaller and firmer poo, meaning something easier for you to dispose of.

Stronger Teeth and Better Dental Hygiene Our raw meaty chews are a great natural addition to your pet’s routine dental care. They are a tasty, healthy choice to help clean their teeth, provide hours of entertainment and also helps to freshen their breath.

Meurig Davies is the buyer for PetPlace’s dog and cat feed departments. He has worked in every part of the company over the last 21 years and has developed a wealth of knowledge. If you have any queries regarding moving on to raw feeding don’t hesitate to get in touch with their resident oracle.

NWM 2021 Page 15

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If you fancy making a day of your visit now that restrictions have eased, it also has a lovely food offering in both locations, with Conwy opening a lovely new terrace shortly in Lavender Tearooms. Both sites have ice cream parlours – with no less than 48 flavours of ice cream! – and North Wales Garden World in Kinmel Bay has the Rose Tearooms to make sure you’re truly refreshed.

And, when it’s time to sit back and appreciate all of your hard gardening work, then there is no better place to relax than in a luxurious patio suite. Garden World has a premium rattan range for sale this spring, from large family dining sets to a cosy table set for two – a must for every garden!

Circular dining set £1,999

Round table with chairs £599 (umbrella sold separately)

It’s pretty safe to say that spring is being hotly anticipated this year! And now that garden centres are open once again, we can all potter around our gardens until our heart’s content – ensuring that they really are the oasis that they are meant to be.

North Wales Garden World has locations in both Kinmel Bay and Conwy, and both branches (pun intended!) have the best plants from award-winning UK nurseries; including some home grown in Conwy. They sell everything at the lowest price around – promising to beat supermarkets, other garden centres and even Amazon when it comes to cost.

L-shaped sofa set £749 NWM 2021 Page 17

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Part of the Original Cottages family

Taking

flight

When Stephen Gregory penned his first novel, The Cormorant, right here in North Wales he had no idea of the adventures that this bird would take him on…

Sixty years ago I was a squeaky little boy at boarding school,

doodled on my inky schoolboy jotter, and still bringing me luck

only eight years old, and doodling an image of a cormorant on

and adventures decades later.

my jotter.

In my twenties, I taught English in a language school in Not just the image, of a cormorant looking oddly satanic with

Algeria. I remember being homesick, late at night in my dingy

wings outspread and beak half open, but its Latin name

rooms in a dark side-street of Algiers, and expressing my

underneath – phalacrocorax carbo – like a spell or a charm or

yearning to be home by writing a poem about the cormorants

the password into a secret world.

on Colwyn Bay pier. A few years later I had my first short story published, in the Illustrated London News, a wintry little

I didn’t realise then, of course, that the cormorant would rear

piece entitled The Cormorant, about a man and his bird on a

its sleek, black head later in my life, and take me to some

storm-lashed beach. And when I mustered my courage to quit

unlikely and wonderful places.

school-teaching in my thirties and go feral in Snowdonia and write a novel, what else could I possibly choose as the focus of

Cormorants aren’t rare birds, and I don’t think they’re

my writing?

endangered. In fact they’re pretty successful, surviving and thriving worldwide. Locked down here in Caernarfon, I can

I was renting a caravan in Nantlle, on the edge of the lake.

go for my daily walks across the river Seiont and along the

It was the summer of 1984, and I was making some pocket

beaches of the Foryd estuary, and I’ll see cormorants every day

money as a gardener at the Prince Llewelyn Hotel in

– swimming low in the water and then diving for their fishy

Beddgelert. In the evenings I filled a notepad with ideas and

prey, or else perched on the ribs of a wreck and drying their

the outline of a book, and in the bitterly cold months of winter,

wings in a fluttering breeze.

shivering in a cottage in Rhyd-ddu, I wrote the first draft of my first novel, working title The Cormorant.

Air and water, two different elements. It’s the cormorant’s mastery of both that caught my boyish imagination all those

I wrote in the mornings, with a crackling log fire in the

years ago, and which still intrigues me. I watch their powerful,

living-room, with coffee and chocolate biscuits, and every

purposeful flight, as they beat downriver, from Llyn Padarn to

afternoon I would walk the quaggy banks of Llyn yr Gadair

the estuary of the river Seiont – and then I see them fishing,

– where I watched the cormorants fishing. The cottage, the

and I imagine them underwater, beaded with silvery bubbles,

fireside, the oppressive gloom of the mountains as the winter

twisting and turning in pursuit of their prey.

evenings grew darker… a solitary young writer tapping on his typewriter. And then into all of this I added another character,

Phalacrocorax carbo, the cormorant – a kind of talisman,

the bird which became part of the writer’s life.

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MAGAZINE

An odd little book, The Cormorant – unsettling and darkly disturbing, and yet full of the light and vigour of a winter in Snowdonia: a novel set entirely in the mountain village of Rhyd-ddu and the abandoned slate quarries of Nantlle, along the exhilarating seashore beneath the towers of

AN ODD LITTLE BOOK, THE CORMORANT – UNSETTLING AND DARKLY DISTURBING, AND YET FULL OF THE LIGHT AND VIGOUR OF A WINTER IN SNOWDONIA

Caernarfon Castle.

I called my cormorant Archie. And over the subsequent years and decades, he’s taken me to places I would otherwise

where I’d set the book: in the village of Rhyd-ddu, in the

never have thought of visiting, and I’ve seen his brothers and

town square of Caernarfon with a crowd of local extras. The

cousins in many different parts of the world.

natural history crew from BBC Bristol, who’d recently shot the groundbreaking Supersense series, borrowed three young

The book, accepted by the first publisher to read it, won the

cormorants from the Little Orme in Llandudno and gently

Somerset Maugham in 1986, a prize intended to allow young

returned them when all the shooting was done. Ralph Fiennes

writers to broaden their experiences by travelling. I spent

would go on to Hollywood stardom – a few months after

a year in South America, just me and my backpack, jolting

filming with three pesky seabirds in a Snowdonian village

across the Andes in rickety buses, sitting high on the top

and flinging himself into the waves under Colwyn Bay pier, he

of truckloads of potatoes and watermelons, surging up the

was on location with Steven Spielberg in Schindler’s List, and

tributaries of the Amazon in a narrow canoe.

soon after that he was Oscar-nominated for his leading role in The English Patient.

And there was Archie. He always seemed to be there, the bird I’d watched and written about in faraway Snowdonia. He

Archie, my talisman… Since my long ago schooldays when

was fishing on Lake Titicaca. He was fluttering on the shores

I was doodling him on my jotter, until he would become my

of the Galapagos Islands. He was sunning himself, wings

daily, constant companion in the foothills of Snowdonia and

outspread, in the rainforests of Peru.

along the wintry beaches.

And then he was in Hollywood. A few years later, the book

And of course he’s still here today. This afternoon I’ll

was picked up by the film director William Friedkin, infamous

be standing on the footbridge across the river Seiont at

for The Exorcist and a double Oscar-winner for The French

Caernarfon, and he’ll go beating overhead, strong and

Connection. My wife and I spent a year in Hollywood, where

purposeful in the cold air. And when I stroll along the estuary

I was working on a movie screenplay with Friedkin in his

of the Foryd, where the tides of the Menai Strait flow into the

office at Paramount Pictures – and in the evenings we’d stroll

open sea, he’ll be there, equally at home in the water.

from our apartment on Ocean Boulevard and watch the sunset

Archie, my cormorant, a creature of two elements – the sky

from Santa Monica pier. And there was Archie – perched on

and the sea. Bringing me luck and adventures… n

the stanchions of the pier, flapping his wings and croaking at me, and then he was beating away to his fishing grounds, where the Californian sun was setting at Malibu.

And back to Wales. It’s always good to be back in North Wales, however distant and exotic the places you’ve been visiting. The Cormorant was made into a television drama for BBC Screen 2, and the main character was played by a young, floppy-haired actor called Ralph Fiennes. BBC Wales did all the filming on location in Snowdonia, exactly

Page 20 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 by Parthian Books is its 10th publication – and this is Stephen’s 30th article for North Wales magazine!

The Melting Pot is a celebration of the diverse recipes contributed by members of the minority ethnic community in Wales.

Discover more about the most celebrated Welsh painter of the twentieth century. This superbly illustrated new book contains some paintings and illustrations published for the first time.

The Melting Pot by Maggie Ogunbanwo, Publication 18 March 2021, HB, 160 pages, Size 150 x 150mm, ISBN 9781914079092, price £9.99.

Kyffin Williams by Qing Chao Ma, 276 pages, Size 250 x 250mm, 270 illustrations, ISBN 9781913134792, price £30.

Available now – Publication date 3 August 2021.

Order online www.graffeg.com or call 01554 824000 North Wales Magazine A5 landscape ad_148 x 210mm_20 March_P1.indd 1

02/03/2021 14:15

Winner of the Somerset Maugham Award

S T E P H E N G R E G O RY ‘An artful first novel, reminiscent of the tales of Poe . . . could become a classic’

‘An extraordinary novel – (set on the coast of north Wales) original, compelling, brilliant.’

The Library Journal

Publishers Weekly ‘A first-class terror story with a relentless focus’

The New York Times

THE

Free postage at parthianbooks.com with offer code C O R M O R A N T

The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct seen from the valley

m e d n a t In

(Credit: DronePics.Wales, Creative Commons CC BY-SA 4.0)

When plotting and planning on how best to bring her dear mum back out of her shell, outdoor enthuiast Sam Dugon could think of no better way than to cycle across North Wales – together.

It was in the autumn of 2020 that I had the idea to take my

never ventured that far north was absurd to me,

mum, who hadn’t ridden a bike in over 20 years, across the

and it had to change.

breadth of North Wales on a bikepacking and campervan adventure. Why you ask? I’ve been trying for a number of

As part of the icons range, Islabikes were looking

years to help get my mum back outside and exploring again.

to promote the new eJimi, its first electric

Having suffered multiple family grievances and battling

mountain bike, and with that in mind I sent over

cancer, all while bringing up teenage me as a single parent, it’s

my idea. Fast forward a couple of months with the bike

safe to say that her confidence, along with her adventurous

ready and waiting, all we needed now was for the firebreak

and inquisitive spirit, had taken a hit.

lockdown to come to an end. The date was in the books, November 9th, the first day of freedom again, would be our

As her daughter I like to think that I know my mum better

start date.

than anyone. We’ve always had a very close relationship, and after my dad/her partner died, that relationship only got closer.

The route would see us start off in Llangollen, visiting the

I know how her mood and outlook on life changes when she

breathtaking Pontcysyllte aqueduct before heading over to

is outside embracing every culture and new lands she comes

Bala where we’d stay the night in a quaint little Welsh cottage

across. Having tried to push her to do more of this I knew it

hidden away in the hills behind the town.

wasn’t going to happen until I made it happen.

As we set off it was clear to see that my mum loved the So why North Wales? When planning trips, many people

electric motor system on the e-bike and that whizzing along

instantly look somewhere warmer, with a culture they’ve not

the canal path fron Llangollen was her new favourite thing, so

experienced yet. It’s true that the pandemic has made people

much so that I struggled to keep up on my normal ‘acoustic’

rediscover the amount of adventure actually lays in their

bicycle while trying to film her. My mum had gotten so into the

metaphorical backyard, but that wasn’t the only reason we

ride that she didn’t realise when we had finally arrived at the

stayed close to home for this trip. My mum, born in Swansea,

aqueduct, which led to a lovely little surprise when she turned

had never been to North Wales. As a mountain biker myself

around and saw the amazing feat of 19th Century engineering.

with a profound love of the region, the fact that my mum had In the afternoon we headed towards Bala, as she’d never seen a bothy before I thought I’d try my luck at getting her up towards the Llyn Arenig Fawr reservoir and the Arenig Fawr bothy that sits next to it. However, the gravel climb up to the reservoir began to push her limits. Struggling to get to literal grips with riding over loose terrain and getting stressed over the steep nature of the climb we decided to head to our cottage for the night instead.

The original plan for day two was to ride from the western tip of lake Bala over to Bronaber over the mountain road, but with

Page 22 NWM 2021

THE ROUTE WOULD SEE US START OFF IN LLANGOLLEN, VISITING THE BREATHTAKING PONTCYSYLLTE AQUEDUCT BEFORE HEADING OVER TO BALA

the weather against us, we drove to a lower point of

place my mum had wanted to visit for over 40 years since

the road to cycle some segments that weren’t in the

watching the cult classic “The Prisoner” TV series with my

clouds. Again however, I had seemingly picked one

dad. But, by some naive planning on my side, the place was

of the steepest parts to get started on and so followed

closed due to Covid-19 and wasn’t due to re-open for another

the biggest stress induced breakdown from my mum

couple of weeks. To say my mum was devastated would be an

that I had ever seen. After finding my mums limits, and

understatement.

pushing them a bit more, we we headed further towards Bronaber where it flattened out a little. After spending the

Instead, we headed towards Porthmadog and cycled around

next hour cycling and filming alongside Afon Gain in the wind

the coastline, stopping in Criccieth for some warming hot

and rain we went back to our vans and continued West, but

chocolates and a cheeky bit of cake. Whipping out her

not before being astounded by the Trawsfynydd power plant.

trusty binoculars, my mum enjoyed sitting by the beach looking across the Bae Ceredigion to the hills and coastline

Too intrigued to just drive past we pulled in and got the bikes

of Llandanwg. We took the long way back to the vans in

out where, to our surprise, not only was there a lake side

Porthmadog with a nice long descent leading us straight back

cycle route, but that the Sustrans Cycle Route 82 also skirted

into town, and while the trip may have only been three days

around this astounding structure.

long, it felt like a much-needed week long adventure.

We arrived in at our hotel in Harlech just as the sun had set,

Seeing my mum become more confident during the journey,

where we found out that not only were we the only guests,

both in herself and on the bike, was the best thing after

but the first ones since the lockdown firebreak had eased.

watching her struggle for so long. To show her that the

It was very strange staying at hotels and eating out straight

confident version of herself, as well as her adventurous and

out of lockdown, it was eerily quiet, but with everyone

inquisitive sides, was still there made me, as her daughter

coming together to support one another and recognising the

and friend, prouder than I could have ever imagined. n

strange times we’re in, there was this unspoken sense of commeradery between the local businesses and communities.

Just one of many reasons why I absolutely love Wales.

The next morning we took a whistle stop tour around Harlech town where we came across Ffordd Pen Llech, once the worlds steepest street before New Zealand got wind of the news. Still, the worlds 2nd steepest street still seemed like a good challenge for me and I grabbed my bike out of the van and went for it.

Sam Dugon an award-winning photographer, writer and aspiring filmmaker based on the foothills of the Black Mountains. Spending most of her time outdoors, Sam loves to photograph an array of action sports, document people’s stories and capture the natural landscapes that she finds herself in.

After our Harlech tour we headed towards Portmeirion, a

NWM 2021 Page 23

FOOD & DRINK INSIDE: wine recipes cocktail of the month

NWM 2020 Page 25

OF THE

Month

Amaretto Sour If the past 12 months have left something of a sour taste in your mouth then this could well be the drink for you! Fear not however as the Amaretto Sour is far tastier than it sounds, so drink up and toast to happier times ahead…

INGREDIENTS 25ml Amaretto / 25ml bourbon Half a fresh lemon / 2 dashes of sugar syrup 1 dash egg white / Ice / 2 brandied cherries INSTRUCTIONS 1. Add the Amaretto, bourbon, 25ml of freshly squeezed lemon juice, sugar syrup and the egg white to a shaker and dry-shake (no ice) for 15 seconds 2. Add some ice and shake again until the mix is well chilled 3. Strain into a tumbler over fresh ice 4. Garnish with a lemon twist and two skewered brandied cherries

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 27

Largest bicycle showroom in North Wales.

Huge range of Electric Bikes from world leading brands covering all disciplines Our large range of children and adult bikes be them Electric, Folding, Hybrids, BMX, Hardtails, Full-Suspension, Gravel, Cyclocross, or Road means that we will undoubtedly have a bike to suit every need.

Clothing for all disciplines, huge stock of components both current and historical, bike racks, lights and all other accessories to meet any riding need.

01492 593811 sales@wecycle.co.uk

www.wecycle.co.uk

Open seven days a week 9am until 6pm, serving everything from grills, sandwiches, afternoon teas, lunches.

Why not choose something off our cake table or luxury Belgian chocolate counter.

Gift Shop – Range of gifts for the house or presents for all occasions.

• Takeout • Outdoor Seating • Highchairs Available • Serves Alcohol

The home of magical Milkshakes with hundreds of mixes to choose from.

See what we are all about on Salty Cow Milkshake Bar - the flavour is now in your hands.

Rhos-on-Sea Promenade

01492 544358 / contact@coastrhos.co.uk Find us on Coast Café Bar and Grill Rhos-on-Sea Promenade

www.facebook.com/saltycowmilkshake Rhos Promenade LL28 4EN Colwyn Bay

MAGAZINE

Food for thought

I have to admit to feeling a bit blue about the continuing restrictions that we will still be living under over Easter. Back at Christmas, when it was becoming clearer by the day that the big family reunions we’d all hoped for weren’t going to happen, I kept saying to everyone, “Don’t worry; think how amazing Easter is going to be!!” Close…but no cigar!

I have always thought that Easter Sunday had the edge over Christmas when it came to the big feast, for many reasons. Simply, the food is better and you are not duty-bound to make five times too much of it. It’s set during spring too, so the weather is a huge improvement – though a few years ago, we did have a White Easter, which in truth was

Cai Ross is co-owner

the best of both worlds.

and Maitre d’ of the award-winning

With any luck, we’ll be gifted a gloriously sunny spring weekend this Easter and

Paysanne Bistro in

perhaps we’ll be able to have one couple over to have an alfresco lunch in the garden.

Deganwy, which has

After the last three months, frankly, that sounds as genuinely exciting as one of the

been serving French

party scenes from The Great Gatsby.

country-style food to the fine people of North

There are dozens of brilliant local butchers around North Wales who will help you

Wales since 1988. He

pick out a fantastic cut of something or other to make your first group meal of the year

also writes for Calibre

a memorable success – even if that group is a bit smaller than we’d have liked. Don’t

Magazine, BBC Good

worry; think how amazing summer’s going to be! n

Food, HeyUGuys.com and The North Wales Weekly News

NWM 2021 Page 29

MAGAZINE

RECIPES OKONOMIYAKI Serves 4

One thing I’ve rediscovered that has provided a lifeline of tranquil, meditative headspace is the work of Studio Ghibli from Japan: wondrous handdrawn animated films that have the effect of lifting you out of yourself and floating you away. They also feature an awful lot of rather delicious looking food, and curiosity led me to try making some.

This is a recipe for okonomiyaki, which is a sort of savoury pancake and it was an absolute revelation!

EASTER EGGS IN TOAST Serves 2

For the Batter: J 4 bacon slices sliced (rind removed) J 85g plain flour J 2 tbsp cornflour J 120ml chicken stock J 3 eggs J ¼ white cabbage, finely shredded J 1-2 spring onion, chopped J 70g tinned sweetcorn J 1 tbsp vegetable oil for cooking J Japanese mayonnaise

J 12 quail’s eggs

(they have it in Tesco)

J 4 slices of toast

J Okonomiyaki sauce: (2 tbsp tomato ketchup, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1

J Mayonnaise

tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp honey mixed together) J 1 tsp dried seaweed flakes

J Salt & pepper First fry the bacon until crispy, then set it aside. Then fry the cabbage until golden and keep with the bacon.

Boil the quail’s eggs and peel them. You can do this the

Make the batter by first mixing the eggs and chicken stock in a small mixing

previous night, keep them

bowl. In a separate large mixing bowl mix the plain flour and cornflour, then

covered in the fridge then reheat

stir in the egg/stock mixture until it’s all silky smooth.

them in the morning if you like.

Make the toast. Butter two sides

Now add the bacon and shredded cabbage, the sweetcorn and half of the

and spread mayonnaise over

spring onion into the batter mixture and stir everything together.

them. Season with lots of salt and pepper.

Pour the oil into a large frying pan and bring it to a medium heat. Take a big spoonful of the mix and place it in the middle of the pan. The mix will run out

Cut a window in the other two

to the edge of the pan, but use a spatula to keep bringing the mix back to the

slices and fashion crosses out of

middle, aiming to make a circular pancake. Cook for a few minutes, then turn

the removed pieces (agnostics

over and repeat until both sides are lightly browned. Keep the pancakes in a

can skip this part if they like).

warm oven while you make more.

Place the second slice on top of the buttered slice. Cut the eggs

Drizzle with the mayonnaise, then the okonmiyaki sauce and scatter with the

in half and arrange them in the

rest of the spring onions and the dried seaweed.

window, placing the cross on top to finish. Bring to the one you love with a mug of tea while they’re still in bed.

Page 30 NWM 2021

Don’t fancy cooking?

01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk

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Llandudno

Raise your glass

Fabulous fizz In the words of Eddie and Patsy (I am not Absolutely Fabulous so won’t compete with them) Bolly Sweetie Darling! Well not quite Bolly for us, as we prefer to choose our fizz based on character and personality rather than name. We have always carried a range of fizz, from a Pignoletto Frizzante (you may remember this was my Christmas day morning drink from two years ago), through Cava and Prosecco to Champagne. We even carry local sparkling Pefriog (blanc and rose) from Gwinllan Conwy.

Our own Ab Fab Tim (I’ll leave you to choose if he is Eddie or Patsy) has always wanted a balance, a fizz

delicate aromas of green apple with subtle floral notes of

for all occasions. Which is why occasionally we will get an

acacia. Fruity and floral flavours carries the delicate bubbles

interesting sparkling red to push some boundaries.

across the palate through to a light, fresh finish.

There is so much fizz on offer these days that it can be an

‘Divina’ Cava, Pere Ventura, SPAIN

everyday drink for us all, but with the ability to stretch price

Pere Ventura Family Estates have a view to producing the

and quality if needed. Personally, I like nothing better than a

finest estate Cavas in the heartland of this multi-regional DO,

chilled bottle of fizz, in the garden on a summer’s afternoon with

Sant Sadurni d’Anoia. This is a smart, fresh Cava, fizzing with

a grazing platter of meats, cheeses and fruits. It’s also my go to

green apple, honeycomb and a squeeze of lemon. Delish!

welcome drink for when friends arrive for a visit (remember when people could stay over? Soon they will come again…).

‘Wines of Anarchy’, Trebbiano, Pet Nat Frizzante Organic, ITALY

We challenged Tim to order in some new fizz, in the hope we

Sparkling Trebbiano from Abruzzo in central Italy, enjoyably

all have good times on the horizon and a perfect excuse to

perfumed with almonds and white flowers, with flavours of

break them out. As always he didn’t disappoint and we have

honey and roasted hazelnut. Perfect with sharing platters,

some stunners on offer:

tapas, cheese and charcuterie boards. Awesome with Mexican

Bole Bianco, Spumante Brut, Romagna DOC, ITALY

food, especially tacos!

Lively sparkling wine from Emilia-Romagna, brimming with green apples, Conference pears and lemon zest, the nose a delightful blend of jasmine blossom, elderflower and citrus.

‘Nuria Claverol’, Brut Reserva Pinot Noir ROSÉ Cava, SPAIN Red fruit aromas, touches of ripe cherry, strawberry and ripe

Sparklehorse, Ken Forrester Wines, SOUTH AFRICA

plum. It is fresh with fine, elegant bubbles. This is the perfect

Traditional Method, or known in South Africa (Cap Classique)

cava for an aperitif. Its rosé structure means it can accompany

this creamy and delicate Chenin Blanc fizz is bubbling with

all kinds of dishes: stews, fried food, pasta, smoked foods.

apple, pear and quince notes. We all love a bit of Sparklehorse!

Fizz isn’t just to celebrate, or for Eddie and Patsy. With tasty

Prapian Estate, Asolo, Prosecco Superiore Brut, ITALY

great value fizz you can enjoy it whatever the occasion. Right

The new Prosecco on the block. Beautifully fresh offering

simply to treat yourself… n

now the most important reason for indulging however is

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 33 33

CALL TODAY TODAY CALL TO GET GET YOUR YOUR FREE FREE QUOTE QUOTE TO

01492 550120

info@cvw.wales | www.conwyvalleywindows.co.uk The Roundabout, Glan Y Mor Road, Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno, LL30 3NL

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HOMES & INTERIORS

NWM 2020 Page 37

ar N keti ow n g O Su pe it n e

Willow Fields

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www.sgestates.co.uk

New Home

News

Home living rethink as show homes get busy Pure Homes, the North Wales headquartered housebuilder, has seen steady growth in demand for its properties over the past few months as everyone starts to focus on future plans. Current developments for quality homes are located at Denbigh, Llanfair DC and St Asaph with plans for Chester, Ruabon, Prestatyn and Frodsham.

Livingstone Place in St Asaph offers luxury properties in a great new community a few minutes walk into the centre which combine two- to five-bedroom homes of exceptional quality. The Ashley house type affords a separate annex for growing families or extended support bubbles.

Luxmore Mews within the development offers a

SG Estates supports local community

fantastic range of three- and four-bedroom town houses with gardens. The last remaining apart-

SG Estates, the award-winning North Wales housebuilder, is celebrating

ment offers glorious views. Both developments

its 17th year providing stunning new-build homes in the region. During

in Denbigh and Llanfair DC are surrounded by

this time the housebuilder has been proud to support many good causes,

open countryside and include bungalows that

and is always on the lookout for ways that it can help its local community.

are ready to move into – ideal for downsizers or

Due to the continued schooling restrictions, and the move to online

individuals looking for their own space. All Pure

learning and digital training, the impact on underprivileged children is

Homes combine quality, bespoke interiors with

undeniable. With this in mind, SG Estates recently donated two laptops to

the latest building technology, contemporary

Ysgol Dinas Bran, which were gratefully received by the deputy head. SG

kitchens and modern amenities. As we see the

Estates is extremely proud to be able to support its local community, and

weather improving, blue skies at last and the

is looking forward to sponsoring a book signing at the school later on in

opportunity to get out and about more, Pure’s

the year. The housebuilder is also delighted to welcome Daniel Andrews

show homes are well worth a visit. Don’t forget

to the SG Estates team. Having worked his way up through Anwyl Homes

the government’s on-going Help to Buy (Wales)

from a trainee at 17 to a senior quantity surveyor, he joins SG Estates as

scheme, and the Land Transaction Tax (stamp

the commercial manager, being responsible for calculating and managing

duty) holiday until July. A useful guide to all this,

the costs relating to projects, from creating initial estimates to finalising

plus hints and tips on moving and what you can

the complete budget requirements. Daniel is looking forward to settling

expect in your new home are on the Pure Homes

in and further developing his knowledge and experience working on SG

website.

Estates award-winning homes.

www.pure-homes.co.uk

www.sgestates.co.uk

2020 Page 39 NWM 2021

GARDEN BUILDINGS SUNROOM | GYM | OFFICE | LUXURY LIVING SPACE | MUSIC STUDIO

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CALL TODAY TO GET YOUR FREE QUOTE ON 01492 550390

info@cvw.wales | www.conwyvalleywindows.co.uk The Roundabout, Glan Y Mor Road, Penrhyn Bay, Llandudno, LL30 3NL

www.tppuk.com

Llanynghenedl, Anglesey

An attractive and spacious dormer bungalow which is situated in a pleasant semi-rural setting.

Offers in the Region of £349,950

For more details chat with Matthew Griffen: 01407 760 500 or email: holyhead@tppuk.com

Llangristiolus, Anglesey

Individually designed property with spacious, comfortable living accommodation.

Breath-taking countryside views and Snowdonia Mountain Range.

£585,000

For more details chat with Amy Williams: 01248 751 000 or email: llangefni@tppuk.com

For more information on any of our properties please contact your local office or see more at our web site Am fwy o wybodaeth fe allwch gysylltu gyda’r swyddfa leol neu ewch ar ein gwefan am ragor o fanylion

A selection of the best property in North Wales

Y Felinheli, Gwynedd

Truly breath-taking Panoramic Views Over Menai Strait / Golygfeydd Panoramig dros Y Fenai sy'n cymryd eich anadl

£495,000

For more details chat with Julia Goodwin: 01248 355 333 or email: bangor@tppuk.com

Caernarfon, Gwynedd

Waterfront location. 3 reception rooms, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. Large garden. Slipway with winch. Access to Menai Strait and pebbled beach.

£560,000

For more details chat with Kelvin Frazer: 01248 677 775 or email: caernarfon@tppuk.com

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

PABO LANE

EGLWYSBACH £620,000

£999,999

• Situated on the outskirts of Eglwysbach in the beautiful and sought after Conwy valley • Unique detached five bedroom barn conversion • Two 4 star established holiday cottages with indoor swimming pool • The gardens and grounds extend to 7 acres to include a 1.5 acre paddock

• A beautifully presented and elegant detached period home built circa 1899 • Occupies a good size plot with beautifully landscaped gardens.

• Upvc double glazing and oil fired central heating.

• Driveway parking. Garage and second garage/workshop with development potential.

EPC

F

LLANDUDNO

GLAN CONWY £395,000

• A deceptively spacious four bedroom modern family home situated at the head of a quiet cul de sac • Far reaching views over the mountains, estuary, Conwy, Deganwy and the Gt. Orme.

• Extended and immaculately presented accommodation • Driveway parking, garage, front and rear gardens laid to lawns, seating and mature trees and shrubs.

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

OVERS OVER £280,000 • A simply stunning two bedroom ground floor apartment situated in the beautiful Bodlondeb Castle • Once a Gentleman’s Residence; the property was converted to an exceptionally high standard in 2007 • Retaining the original charm and character, yet with modern living in mind.

• Two allocated parking spaces, communal gardens and cycle store.

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

INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS

Page 42 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

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

LLANDUDNO

COLWYN BAY £349,950

£249,995

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EPC

F

OLD COLWYN

OLD COLWYN £359,950

£139,950 • Two Bedroom Ground Floor Apartment • Light & Spacious Accommodation • Enclosed Courtyard Garden t o The Rear

• Beautifully Presented Spacious Five Bedroom Detached House • Situated In A Sought After Location • Off Road Parking & Garage

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 43

£159,950 Ruthin Road Gwernymynydd

Bodfari

Ref: WE000592

Ref: WM837

£295,000

• End terraced house

• Lovely views

• Stunning Character Property

• Dating Back To Circa 1850

• Close to popular Dinorben restaurant

• Two bedrooms

• Many Original Features

• Sun Terrace

• Village location

• EPC rating TBC

• Garden, Garage & Two Driveways

• Village Location

£289,950

St. Asaph Ref: WR9266 • 3 Bedroom Detached House

• Driveway & Garage

• Hall & Ground floor shower Room

• Lounge Diner

• Rear sun lounge

• Rear garden with field view

£325,000

£375,000 Denbigh

Gwaenysgor Ref: WP8748

Ref: WE6650

• Two Bedroom Cottage + Two Bedroomed Holiday Cottage

• Detached House

• Favourable Area

• Spectacular Views To The Rear

• New Kitchen

• Large Plot

• Four Bedrooms

• EPC D 62

• Sought After Village Location

• Easy Access to the A55 Expressway

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

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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

MAGAZINE

SUBSCRIBE to the only monthly magazine for the region for just £2.99 per month and never miss an issue again!

Email subscribe@northwalesmagazine.co.uk for more information

Generation Rent to Generation Buy One of the goals of the Budget announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, on Wednesday 3rd March was to turn Generation Rent into Generation Buy. He announced a new low-deposit mortgage guarantee scheme, which will provide government backed mortgages for 95% of the value of the property, meaning it could be possible to buy a home with a 5% deposit.

In response to the economic impact of the coronavirus

At the time of writing the interest rates for these mortgage

pandemic many mortgage lenders became more cautious

products are yet to be released, but in the small print of the

which led to a significant reduction in the number of 95% loan-

budget announcement the government have told mortgage

to-value products, to the point where they were quite scarce.

lenders that there must be a five-year fixed rate deal so borrowers can have stability of monthly payments for the

The mortgage guarantee scheme announced in the budget

medium term.

aims to encourage banks and building societies to return to offering mortgages to those with 5% deposits and will

If you have a 5% deposit ready and are hoping that this

be open for applications in April 2021 and will run until

scheme will be able to help you purchase a home this year,

the end of 2022. To date many of the country’s largest

then I would recommend that you contact an independent

mortgage lenders have already said they will be offering

and whole of market mortgage advisor to discuss your

these mortgages including Lloyds Banking Group, Natwest,

circumstances. A mortgage advisor will be able to have a

Santander, Barclays and HSBC.

discussion with you and check that you meet the eligibility criteria for the scheme, work out how much you may be

Both first-time buyers and home movers will be able to

able to borrow based on your income and outgoings, and

access the scheme for residential property purchases up

then make a recommendation on the best mortgage deal

to a maximum value of £600,000. The property can be a

available for your circumstances.

n

previously owned home or a new-build property. These will be standard residential mortgages, so are not available for second homes or for buy-to-let properties. Any mortgages taken out through the scheme must be taken out on a repayment basis, which means that the monthly repayments consist of repaying the capital amount borrowed as well as the accrued interest, so that the amount borrowed decreases throughout the term and by the end of the loan term has been fully repaid. There will not be an option to borrow on an interest only basis for these mortgages. All applicants will be credit checked by the bank or building society and will also

Siobhan Watson is the North Wales based mortgage and protection advisor for Mainly Money Matters, an independent and whole-ofmarket mortgage advice firm specialising in residential, buy-to-let and holiday-let mortgages.

need to meet their rules on affordability.

NWM 2021 Page 47

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:

• • • • • • • • •

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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

NWM 2021 Page 49

MAGAZINE

Business NEWS North Wales Growth Vision receives first tranche of funding Work is set to begin on the

is a significant milestone, and a positive first step after an

landmark Growth Vision for

unprecedented 12 months,” commented portfolio director

North Wales after the first

Alwen Williams (pictured). “We’re investing in projects that

round of funding from the

will ultimately create thousands of jobs and have an effect

Welsh and UK Governments

on the lives of many families, businesses and organisations

was received. The North Wales Economic Ambition Board

across multiple sectors. This is a pivotal time and – together

can now move forward in laying foundations for the

with the Welsh and UK governments – we will do all we can to

programmes that make up the North Wales Growth Deal,

help lead the region to a brighter future.” Economy and North

covering agri-food and tourism, energy, land and property,

Wales minister Ken Skates is also delighted to see progress

digital, and innovation in high-value manufacturing.

made since the Deal was signed in December. “I’m pleased that

Driven by the Board’s Portfolio Management Office, based

today we’re able to announce another significant milestone as

in Llandudno Junction, the initial £16m injection sets the

the first tranche of funding is released,” he said. “This is good

wheels in motion and comes after years of hard work and

news for the region after a difficult year with many challenges

collaboration at a regional and national level, with partners

ahead. The Growth Deal will be pivotal in the region’s recovery

including both governments, the private sector, colleges, and

from the pandemic as it has the potential to unlock £1bn

universities. This is the first tranche from a £240m overall

investment and create thousands of jobs.”

contribution – £120m each from both governments. “This

www.northwaleseab.co.uk

Premier Inn coming to Porthmadog This Triton Construction has secured a contract to deliver

for Premier Inn valued

a new 80-bed Premier Inn hotel in Porthmadog. The £5.4

in excess of £50million.

million instruction through Liberty Properties includes

We know the brand

the design and build of the hotel on the former site of Ty

and its commitment to

Moelwyn Tax Office, as well as external services, roads,

build quality intimately

yards and car parking. The Porthmadog contract follows

and look forward to

an instruction with Swangate Developments to deliver a

supporting further pipeline projects in the UK.” Previous

new 63-bed Premier Inn hotel in St Davids, Pembrokeshire,

completions include a new 80-bedroom hotel in Skegness,

which is now under construction. Premier Inn is the UK’s

a new 80-bedroom hotel in Holyhead, a 33-bedroom

largest hotel chain with over 800 locations and more than

extension in Warrington, a 33 bed extension in Liverpool

72,000 rooms. Triton has a long-standing association

North, a 31-bedroom extension in Wigan and a 21-bedroom

with the chain as a number one framework contractor for

extension in Nottingham. The Triton Group continues

Whitbread. “We are pleased to maintain a strong working

to develop its relationship with Costa Coffee and has

partnership with Whitbread and it’s delivery partners,”

undertaken contracts with Stay City and is invested in a

said Paul Halloran, director at Triton Construction. “Over

continued relationship with Travelodge.

the last seven years we have delivered 37 turnkey projects

www.tritonconstruction.co.uk

Page 50 NWM 2021

Law firm celebrates two years in North Wales A law firm is celebrating two years of opening its base in North Wales – with lawyers reporting increased activity across a whole range of sectors. Lanyon Bowdler opened its Conwy office in May 2019, and Edward Nutting (pictured), head of the firm’s North Wales team, said the past 12 months had been their busiest ever period. “We have doubled the number of new matters on our books in North Wales since this time last year, during what has been an extremely challenging year for everyone,” he explained. “I would like to pay tribute to our team of staff who have all worked so hard and been so dedicated to serving their clients in such important times. It is testament to the firm’s growing reputation in North Wales that we have started working with so many new clients over the past year. We have been extremely busy across all areas, but particularly in residential property, private client, corporate and commercial property, dispute resolution and employment law. The residential property market in North Wales has been as active as many of us can remember, and our team of conveyancing solicitors have gone above and beyond to help hundreds of properties exchange hands. We have recruited new lawyers in many areas to ensure we can meet demand, and we are looking forward to continuing to grow over the coming months and years.” www.lblaw.co.uk

Cufflink secures investment

New showroom for spa company

Data Privacy and Cyber Security specialist company Cufflink has successfully secured more than £500,000

A North Wales leisure company is planning

in equity and grant funding. Based at M-SParc Science

to unveil a new hot tub showroom in

Park in Anglesey, Cufflink is developing a safe and

the coming weeks. UK Leisure Living is

secure app to help people control how their personal

set to recruit staff and open a satellite

data is used; helping them be both safer and wiser

base in Flintshire this April. Managing

when it comes to managing personal data online.

director Gareth Jones has taken on four

The six-figure seed equity funding round was led

employees since January and plans to add two more

by the Development Bank of Wales and complements

to oversee operations in North East Wales, as well as

further important investment by a group of London-

another apprentice in the future. Gareth says the new

based angel investors. Additional grant funding came

sales centre and showroom on Deeside Industrial Estate

from Innovate UK – the UK government’s innovation

will meet demand in the area and serve customers from

agency – which was secured in collaboration with

Cheshire, Manchester, Wirral and beyond, when it is safe

Bangor University. “We’re delighted to have secured

to do so. “We have had a very busy start to 2021 and that

our first equity investment and very much look

looks set to continue into the summer season as sales are

forward to continuing to grow and develop alongside

already up 100% on this time last year, which was also

the Development Bank of Wales and our Angel co-

very busy,” he said. “People are anticipating we will all

investors,” commented Cufflink CEO, Billy Williams.

be at home in the UK rather than on holiday abroad, so

Meanwhile, Michael Bakewell of the tech venture

they are again investing in their homes and gardens. Last

investment team at the Development Bank of Wales

spring we experienced a huge rise in sales because of

said: “Cufflink is a really exciting cyber security

the Coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdowns

firm with an exceptionally promising future. As a

but, like most industries, we were not ready for what lay

long-term equity partner, we are delighted to be co-

ahead – it was completely unchartered territory. This time

investing alongside Angel investors and continuing our

we are completely prepared, we have UK and USA hot tubs

collaborative work with Innovate UK, Bangor University

in stock and hundreds more on order that come in every

and M-SParc. Our collective impact is making a real

two weeks. We are looking forward to an exciting period

difference and we’re looking forward to supporting

for UK Leisure Living as the group grows across the broad

Cufflink on their journey.”

range of services it offers. We hope the extra sales from

developmentbank.wales

the Deeside showroom will help create further local jobs in the future.” www.ukleisureliving.co.uk

NWM 2021 Page 51

Expert Focus Steff Owens is the programme leader for sound technology at Wrexham Glyndwr University.

Here she shares what she loves about teaching this unusual course…

since I was a teenager. I’m currently the drummer in a band called Seazoo and we were nominated for the Welsh Music Prize in 2018. I have also recently worked as an engineer on Gwyl 2021, an online multi-festival broadcast hosted by the BBC. We also have an excellent relationship with FOCUS Wales (a multivenue showcase festival held annually in Wrexham). Our students have the opportunity to work on the live gigs we How did you get into sound technology?

host for Focus throughout the year and an opportunity to run

I’ve been a musician all my working life and I’m a drummer so

virtual showcase during the festival itself – this gives them

I’ve played in lots of bands. I studied a music technology degree

invaluable experience recording major artists and working on

and realised I enjoyed being in the university setting and the

a large scale virtual event.

research element of it. I started off teaching the drums and have taught since I was 21 alongside being a musician.

What opportunities are open to students after they graduate?

There are so many job opportunities sound technology can

What can students expect from your course?

lead to. Many of our students have gone on to become live

In sound technology, we learn the technical and practical

sound engineers, events managers and sound engineers in

skills necessary to produce content for broadcast for various

film and TV. The gaming industry is huge and there lots of

mediums and for live events. What we’re trying to do is

potential opportunities for audio engineers in that area. Some

prepare students for a career in the creative industries so

of our graduates have gone on to work for BBC, ITV or run

we are geared towards giving students loads of practical

their own companies. In fact, one of our former students is

experience and opportunities. We’ve got a TV studio and

the co-founder of FOCUS Wales. It’s also important that our

recording studio so most of our modules are based around

students learn a variety of skills along the way. Nowadays, I

learning the skills that are required to operate those studios

think you need to know a bit of everything within the creative

and produce professional level material.

industries to increase your potential for employment, so that’s what we try and give our students.

How can students get a place on the programme?

You can apply though UCAS but one of the best ways is to

What is your best advice for anyone wanting to pursue

get in touch with us through the website and have a chat

sound technology?

with one of the members of staff. Most of the people who join

If people are interested in pursuing a TV, sound technology

our course chat with us through the virtual open days and

or media production degree my advice would be that

events. An applicant’s enthusiasm is really important to us, not

your journey isn’t just about your studies. You need to

necessarily their experience – hopefully, we’ll be able to teach

take advantage of all the extra opportunities we are able

them everything they need to know. For people who have

to provide you with and also look for extra opportunities

been out of education for a while or who are intimidated at

yourself. If you want to be a sound tech try and get

jumping in at a degree level we offer a foundation year to help

experience at your local venues and get your foot on the

prepare them for the course.

ladder. Every bit of experience you can get helps, however small. When you study on the course, you’re beginning to

What type of work are you involved with outside of the

network with people who are going into the same industry

programme?

as you. You can begin to build your network of people who

All of the staff that work in my department are industry

you will go on to work with in the future and who will

professionals. I play in a number of bands and have done

hopefully help you throughout your career.

n

NWM 2021 Page 53

MAGAZINE

Page 54 NWM 2020

Learning by heart “It’s important to talk, it’s important to remember, it’s important

seeing friends, being lonely and feeling scared with so

to take what we’ve learnt and move forwards.”

much uncertainty across the world. New words were also acquired to pupils’ vocabulary such as lockdown,

Last month marked one year since Rydal Penrhos, and every

social distancing and coronavirus, with the online

other school in the nation, was forced into the first educational

learning provision coming with improved resilience and

lockdown as COVID-19 concerns gripped the country. It was an

independence, becoming brilliant on their iPads and using

incredibly uncertain time for all involved, with the pandemic

Microsoft Teams every day during live lessons.

becoming an ever-growing presence within day-to-day life.

Next term, Rydal Penrhos Prep School classes will be The school’s teaching staff were forced to adapt into a

working together on a multi-subject project to look at how

thorough online learning provision that ensured a minimal

we have changed over the past year. At the Senior School, a

loss of learning, with pupils and parents also adjusting to

minute’s silence was held at 12pm on Tuesday 23rd March

what has fast become a “new normal”. However, with all

to remember those who have sadly died of COVID-19 and to

pupils now back on-site following the introduction of Years

reflect on the personal impact each pupil has experienced

7-9 on Monday 22nd March, we lent our support to a national

over the last 12 months.

remembrance campaign to reflect on the past year and remember those who’ve been lost to COVID-19.

We are enormously proud of the way the Rydal Penrhos community has come together to support each other through

The whole school decided to join in with the yellow heart

a difficult time. Not only with a fierce determination to keep

movement marking ‘one year on’ from the first lockdown

improving from an academic standpoint, but also doing

which is taking place across the country.

everything in their power to keep up spirits and maintain

A number of yellow hearts were created and placed on the

healthy wellbeing.

school gates at both Prep and Senior sites to mark the first anniversary of the first lockdown – an idea which came from

With cases falling and vaccine rollouts transpiring at a rapid

the Yellow Hearts to Remember Covid-19 support group’s

rate, there is now some light at the end of the tunnel. Everyone

#LoveForTheLost campaign.

involved in education deserves an enormous pat on the back for everything they’ve accomplished in the most difficult of

The group was formed by a community of families bereaved

circumstances over the last year, which has been matched

during the pandemic to ensure their loved ones are

by a fierce will and determination from pupils and family

recognised and remembered as more than just a statistic.

members to make the very best of a bad situation. n

During the week, teaching staff at the Prep School held informal discussions to encourage pupils to discuss all of their memories over the past year, including the good times such as being with their families, learning new games and playing more in the garden.

Of course, this is also tinged with sad memories for pupils

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

young and old, which include people being sick, not

NWM 2021 Page 55

MAGAZINE

EDUCATION NEWS St David’s College boosts online engagement

Rydal Penrhos students impress judges A group of Year 12 pupils at Rydal Penrhos emerged victorious from a major economics and business competition. Suhas Shekar, Simeon Murphy-Thomas, Juan Rajagopal, Damisola Animashaun and Patrick Burke shot to victory in the final stages of the Enterprise Challenge set by Lancaster University School of Management. The competition narrowed from a large first field of contenders down to a group of 20 of some of the

A real challenge that has arisen from moving all St David’s College teaching online has been keeping the pupils engaged. Holding the attention of young enquiring minds is something that the teachers throughout St David’s College have achieved in the lockdown

top schools in the country, and it consisted of several rounds where the individual teams needed to present their ideas for a new enterprise, fully costed, that had to meet with some of the UN Sustainability Goals. The Rydal Penrhos team decided to think about the school’s links to Uganda to create a system of implementation of solar panels on Ugandan schools. Judged by lecturers at the Lancaster University School of Management alongside entrepreneurs in residence, the Year 12 boys were delighted to eventually be announced overall winners. rydalpenrhos.com

with great success. Year 5 and 6 teachers Miss Emily Fielden and

Wrexham Glyndwr University to offer online football courses

Mrs Anna George have pulled together and have been working

Wrexham Glyndwr University has

hard to promote engagement in

forged a partnership with a leading

their online classes. “We’ve been

football and sports science coaching

using break out rooms as well,”

organisation to offer cutting edge

explained Mrs George. “We send

training online. The university’s

the kids out in to the rooms to do

Football Coaching and the Performance

group work together. It gives them

Specialist degree has led to the official

something different to normal

collaboration and agreement with

lessons and helps keep things

the globally acclaimed International

fresh. Sometimes, when we come

Soccer Science and Performance

back to check how they’re doing, the kids aren’t talking about the topic, they’re just having a chat with their friends – this is great! Not every single second in a classroom is about structured learning, some of it is about being with your friends and socialising.

We’re trying to recreate that but in the virtual world.” www.stdavidscollege.co.uk

Page 56 NWM 2021

Federation (ISSPF). The ISSPF is an online coach education platform which offers students and coaches from youth to elite level coaches the opportunity to enhance both the scientific aspects of performance coaching as well as your current knowledge. The partnership aims to provide bespoke online soccer training resources delivered by leading soccer professionals from around the world. Sara Hilton (pictured), programme leader of the BSc Football Coaching and Performance Specialist degree at Glyndwr, is “delighted” to formalise this link with the ISSPF. “This is a fantastic initiative, and I am excited that Wrexham Glyndwr University can contribute to the applied soccer education revolution here in the North Wales region,” she said www.glyndwr.ac.uk

NWM 2020 Page 57

Where to stay in

s e l a W North

Now that self-contained holiday accommodation has been given the red light for Welsh residents, it’s time to book that much-needed break…

The coastal cottage Llety Cricieth is a gorgeous cottage situated within close proximity to the beach and village of Criccieth. Suitable for a family of four, this charming cottage boasts both sea views and countryside landscapes. It has been finished to a very high standard throughout, and the large rear garden is equipped with a charcoal BBQ and table and chairs, as well

The beachside retreat

as a large shed for storing all of your bikes, kayaks and golf

Spend summer-long breaks on sandy beaches and get

clubs. The sandy bay of Criccieth is just half a mile from this

cosy in the countryside on colder nights, with a range

beautiful property, and public footpaths surround the house

of glorious destinations to choose from, you’ll find your

which are also suitable for cycling. Half a mile down the

perfect home-from-home with Darwin Escapes. Enjoy

road you can find the Rabbit Farm for horse riding, and both

spectacular facilities, including indoor heated swimming

Porthmadog and Pwllheli golf courses are just a mile away. . .

pools, entertainment programmes, award-winning

www.bestofwales.co.uk

restaurants and spas where you can relax and unwind – all on your doorstep. With its huge range of holiday lodges and static caravans for sale, you’re sure to find your perfect holiday home at a Darwin Escapes location.

Discover complete holiday freedom with open-plan living areas, optional decking to soak up the scenery, and fitted kitchens for those perfect home cooked meals. Your homefrom-home has everything you need for a perfect getaway, every time. No booking. No packing. Just get up and go!

And with fabulous finance options available, owning your dream holiday home with Darwin Escapes is easier than you think! www.darwinescapes.co.uk

Page 58 NWM 2021

The brand new hotel

a desk, flat-screen TV, and en suite bathroom. There are a

Adventure Parc Snowdonia is opening the doors to the

number of suites, wheelchair-accessible, dog-friendly and

stunning new Hilton Garden Inn Snowdonia this spring. With

family rooms available. The hotel’s lagoon-side restaurant,

unparalleled views across the parc’s magnificent inland surf

Zephyr’s Bar & Grill, will serve up locally sourced food and

lagoon to the mountains-and-forests beyond, the 106-bedroom

drink from some of the best producers in North Wales, with

hotel – a first for the Hilton Garden Inn brand in Wales – is

tables looking out across the waves of the lagoon. There

going to be a little bit special. Guest facilities include a 24-

is a landscaped outdoor dining terrace, as well as private

hour welcome desk, room service, a guest-exclusive fitness

indoor and outdoor events spaces. And, just in case we

centre and free WiFi throughout the property. Bedrooms

hit any more Covid-shaped bumps in the road, Adventure

come with far-reaching views from floor-to-ceiling windows,

Parc Snowdonia has a ‘No Quibble Refunds’ policy in place.

The policy protects your booking if you are forced to change your plans due to illness or quarantine requirements, as well as any Covid-related closures. www.adventureparcsnowdonia.com

The country escape Swallows Nest is a wonderfully idyllic base for your next escape to the country. Nestled into the surrounding woodland in a wonderfully rural setting, this gorgeous, two-bedroom, conversion is within walking distance of the picturesque Llyn Helyg (Willow Lake), and just a few minutes from the peaceful villages of Dyserth and Gorsedd. There is plenty to see and do in the area, from walking the Offa’s Dyke Path to horse riding on the beach at Talacre or exploring the historic castles at Denbigh, Rhuddlan and Flint. The spacious master bedroom has a king size bed, a modern luxury feel and en suite shower room.

The second bedroom has twin single beds and lies opposite the bathroom. The lovely living space is all open plan with lots of natural light, and the cottage boasts a private garden area to boot. www.northwalesholidaycottages.co.uk

NWM 2021 Page 59

Independent Boarding & Day School for ages 9-19

ISA Awards 2020 Finalist

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SDC_265x160_Ad_NWTimes_OpenDayFeb21_v3.indd 1

12/02/2021 09:47:51

Abbeyfield Colwyn Bay Are you tired of living alone and shopping and preparing meals for one?

Abbeyfield Colwyn Bay Society offer safe secure accommodation in a sheltered environment for the elderly and we are very proud of our three houses which are decorated to a high standard with well established gardens.

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 We can help arrange a visit to any of our houses whilst adhering to Covid-19 policies to see if the prospect of communal living is for you.

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

Walking

world

EXPLORING BENLLECH

The island of Anglesey is a gem of a place for the outdoor

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

enthusiast and offers a variety of activities including fishing,

J Distance: 5.84 miles/9.39 kilometres J Time: Allow 3.5 hours J Start: Use the pay and display car park

swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding and general boating.

However, it is the walker who is truly blessed in this unique place as he or she can choose from a stunning array of routes both long and short, and they can opt for an inland outing or a coastal hike and be enchanted either way. Or you can combine the seaside with a country stroll and get the best of both worlds in one single excursion. This is exactly what this charming walk does and it makes excellent use of The Anglesey Coast Path that runs for 118 miles/200 km around the edge of the island. The route starts at the

near the Wendon café on Bennlech seafront overlooking the bay

J Grid Ref: SH 522824 J Nearest postcode: LL74 8QE J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance Survey OL Explorer 263 – Anglesey East

J What to expect: This is a challenging outing

pretty seaside village of Bennlech on the east coast of Anglesey.

with lots of ups and downs particularly on

As villages go Bennlech is large and much loved by generations

the coastal section at the beginning. Children

of holiday makers who flock to its wide sandy bay to build sand

should be well supervised on the cliff paths

castles, paddle in the clear waters of the sea or just simply

that the walk follows. There is some lane

sunbathe. Located on the A5025 about eight miles from the Menai

walking and the stretch from Traeth Bychan to

Straits, Bennlech is the fourth largest settlement on the island and

the A5025 can be busy with cars (some towing

boasts a population of just under four thousand which increases

boats) and is narrow so take care. Some of the

dramatically when the summer visitors arrive. As a starting place

footpaths on the return can be a bit overgrown

for a walk it is a great location and our route takes a rollercoaster

in summer so take along a walking pole.

way along cliff tops above the sea (with a small diversion to avoid

J Avoid the route at high tide – check www.

collapsed cliffs) to eventually reach the lovely Traeth Bychan.

From here our way heads inland using pretty country lanes and a collection of field paths to make a wide loop and return again to Bennlech where you can spend the rest of your day on the beach or

tidetime.org/europe/united-kingdom/bennlech

J Suitable for: Fit regular walkers of all ages J Dogs: OK on leads J Refreshments: Bennlech has cafés, a pub,

at a café (or both). Make sure you choose a day of clear skies and

restaurants and some shops. There is small

bright sun to get the very best out of this magnificent walk and

café at the car park for Traeth Bychan on the

be sure to take plenty of photographs to relive your outing all over

route.

again afterwards! The route is best avoided at high tide.

NWM 2021 Page 61

rth y Dwfr

r Fudr Gwte

MAGAZINE

WALK DETAILS

Porth Swtan or Church Bay

by holidaymakers and water sport

Coast view

4

Gadlys

enthusiasts and can be very busy on sunny summer days

Swtan

3

START

4 Exit the car park to go left

From the car park go left along the sea front keeping the sea on your right. At the end of the

and climb the lane to the A5025

promenade, as the road starts to rise up (facing

at a staggered crossroads. Cross

Ffordd Cynlass), go right following the coast path

the A5025 half left to take the

down steps to continue by a stream and curve

lane signposted ‘Marian Glas’.

2

left following a rocky path to climb steps and

Pass through the village using the

continue above the sea winding a way below

pavement to reach a lane junction

caravans. Stay ahead on the coast path eventually

left (by a white house) signposted for ‘Tyn y Gongl’ and ‘unsuitable for

passing through a gate to a caravan site. Follow START/ FINISH

the path diversion (due to coastal erosion) and go

continuing to pass a junction right.

right and almost immediately right again to rise through the caravans on an access track. As the track bends right go ahead to rise up between

motor vehicles’. Go left on this lane

5

Stay ahead on the lane and after a short rise reach a footpath right facing the house of Plas Llanfair.

caravans and pass a marker post. Rise up steps to a surfaced track and go right on it to curve left uphill. At

Take the footpath over a stile to cross an access track and take

a barrier right follow the arrow to curve left. Pass through

the enclosed path ahead. Before you reach power lines go left

a kissing gate to go ahead on a tarmac track to a road – the

taking a marked path through a kissing gate and continue past

A5025. Go right using the pavement to reach a footpath right

houses to curve right and left at a stile and pass a caravan site

down a track.

(don’t go into the caravan site). Cross a stile to continue over the

Great Orme

https://openstreetmap.org/copyright Llandud

no Cab

le Car

https://openstreetmap.org

Copyright OpenStreetMap and contributors, under an open licence

next field crossing an access track in the middle of it. Continue

Points of interest on this section

to cross a stile in a hedge line, cross a small bridge and then go

J The Anglesey Coast Path runs for 118 miles/200 km around

over another stile. Go ahead when the path splits to reach a field.

the edge of the island

Head down the right side of this field descending by a hedge line and passing through overgrown ground to cross a stile and

2 Take the footpath and follow the track to stay ahead at

follow a board walk through marshy ground. Carefully cross a

a junction left. At the next junction (by Alellfryn) stay on the

bridge over a beck to rise up the left side of the next field and

tarmac track to curve left and then right. At the end of the

pass through a kissing gate. Rise up steps to go left at a footpath

tarmac follow the path ahead to pass a white house and head for

sign and walk past a house. At the house entrance turn right

the sea. At a path junction overlooking the sea go left downhill

down the access track to reach a road.

following the coast path again as it rises up and down above house. Pass in front of this and curve left following the path to

5 Cross half right to take a footpath for Pant y Saer Caravan Park. Follow the access track and just before the track rises to

reach Penrhyn Point (marked by a few rocks below the path)

a farmhouse take a marked path through a kissing gate left.

overlooking the cove of Traeth Bychan.

Cross a field to pass through a kissing gate at the bottom. Cross

the sea. Soon descend gradually to cut right before a white

the next field towards houses and in the left field corner rise 3 Continue on the coast path keeping the sea right to pass below holiday chalets and reach an access road. Follow the

up steps to a road. Go right continuing to a junction with the

arrow to go ahead up the access road. When the track bends

as you can. Continue along the road to a junction by a hair salon

left go right taking a marked footpath. Pass through a gate to

facing the Breeze Hill Inn. Go left down Bay View Road. When

take the access track ahead. At a junction go left through a gate

the main road turns right continue ahead down a road towards

to go immediately right. By the side of a large white house go

the sea. After the last house right at the bottom of the slope take

left to walk down the side of field towards a rocky cove. At the

a marked footpath right. Stay right when the path forks and at

next marker cut right to descend to the beach. Go left along the

a path junction (by a bench) go left descending steps to car park

beach and at the end up the bay continue on the coast path up

and start. n

A5025. Go right using the pavement and cross over left as soon

steps. Pass through a kissing gate to descend the next field to pass through two gates on either side of a bridge. Climb the next field passing through bushes. At the field top go right through a kissing gate and drop down steps through woods. Continue to a car park and café above Traeth Bychan.

Points of interest on this section

J Traeth Bychan is a very popular hidden beach much loved

Page 62 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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MAGAZINE

Community

News

Local author releases new cookbook North Wales author Maggie Ogunbanwo’s fantastic new book

Colwyn Bay Artisan Market set to return

brings together a

The first Artisan Market

collection of delicious

of 2021 is set to take

recipes from around the

place in Colwyn Bay on

globe and encompasses

Saturday 17th April. With over 50 incredible

classic dishes from,

artisans showcasing their crafts it’s going to

among others, Syria,

be an extravaganza of a market and a fabulous

Bali, Jamaica, and

day out for all the family! There’ll be tasty

Nigeria. The Melting

street food from ‘Anglesey Hog Roasts’ and

Pot celebrates the

‘Halloumination’ with many new local crafters

contributions and

joining us, including ‘Goats Of Llandudno’ and

diversity of the Welsh BAME community and the cultural

‘Orme Crafts’, alongside favourite regulars such

importance of dishes and culinary influences which have

as ‘Scarlett Angel Confectionary’, ‘Blighty Booch

been passed down through the generations, featuring the

Conwy Kombucha’, ‘Mr Teapot Man’ and ‘Just Moo

fascinating stories behind them alongside the recipes.

Soaps’ to name a few. And resident grocer and

Maggie, whose roots are in Nigeria, lives in North Wales,

deli ‘Llandudno Food Renaissance’ and ethical

surrounded by the beautiful Snowdonia National Park. Her

butcher ‘Snowdonia Farm Shop & Butchery’ will

business, Maggie’s An African Twist To Your Everyday

be back, so there’ll be plenty to get your teeth

Dish, operates from the former Red Lion pub in the village

stuck into between 10am and 4pm on the day.

of Penygroes – now Maggie’s home, and a church. Maggie

Meanwhile, Tuesday 13th April sees the welcome

describes herself as an instinctive cook and says her

return of the Colwyn Bay Local Market, and it’s

influences flow from her mam and nain – and are extended

kicking off with ‘Foodie Tuesday’ – a market

through her contact with food traditions in many areas,

that has a special focus on street food. There’ll

including India, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean. As

be hot takeaway food including halloumi fries

well as her passion for food and cooking, Maggie is committed

and crépes with cakes, meats, veg and cheese

to supporting quality local producers.

alongside the regular local traders.

www.graffeg.com

www.theartisanmarketcompany.co.uk

Clarke Contractors makes glamping pods a reality Clarke Contractors is a born and bred North Wales business that gets involved in a wide range of both Rainwater Harvesting and Wastewater Treatment System projects. The company is proud that everything it does has a positive effect for the environment and helps towards the protection of this beautiful part of Wales. Clarke Contractors is currently involved with supplying and installing a sizeable Wastewater Installation System for an exciting new project at Maes Sied, Bodfari, where sisters Liz and Rosie Jones have made a significant investment in establishing “Y Cuddfan” – a beautiful micro development of two luxurious glamping pods that can accommodate up to six people each and will also be joined shortly by a sauna-spa pod and a private hot tub for each pod. The Wastewater System being installed means that the pods have been located in an optimum position without having to worry about finding a route to a mains sewage connection. In the near future there are plans to install a Rainwater Harvesting System to capture a natural and free source of water to allow the pods to become truly self-contained in regard to all water supply, including toilet flushing facilities and wastewater treatment, meaning that the pods will be as green as green can be. info@clarkecontractors.co.uk

Page 64 NWM 2021

Potential holiday headache for parents COVID-19 restrictions are bringing even more confusion and uncertainty to separated parents who are preparing to take a child on an overseas holiday this summer.

Specialists at North Wales law firm Lanyon Bowdler say everyone who has legal Parental Responsibility for a child needs to give permission for them to be taken abroad – and the process is even more important during the pandemic. Caroline Yorke, a family law solicitor based at Lanyon Bowdler’s Conwy office, said issues surrounding COVID-19 safety and quarantine were complicating matters for many parents. “It is considered good practice to inform other Parental Responsibility holders of basic travel information, even if you have a court order which sometimes can mean you don’t need their consent – in which case we would recommend obtaining advice to check the legal details,” she said. “However, the pandemic means a serious practical consideration is now whether the child will be required to quarantine on their return. That will depend on which country they have visited, and it means parents need to consider whether they should go somewhere which isn’t on a quarantine list – it’s another potential source of conflict between separated parents. Parents are understandably going to have concerns about overseas travel and we would encourage sensitivity. The emphasis must be on finding a solution that might not necessarily include what you want, but ensures the holiday is not characterised by conflict for the child.” www.lblaw.co.uk

National Trust Cymru celebrates blossom With this spring likely to be the most anticipated in living

memory, National Trust Cymru is inviting people wherever they live to emulate Japan’s Hanami – the ancient tradition of viewing and celebrating blossom – with its #GwleddYGwanwyn #BlossomWatch campaign.

To celebrate the beginning of #GwleddYGwanwyn #BlossomWatch, National Trust Cymru will plant ten sakura Cherry trees at Penrhyn Castle and Garden as part of the UKJapan Sakura Cherry Tree Project. The project will see 1,000 cherry trees being planted in parks and schools across Wales, with 65 sakura trees planted at different locations around Bangor, which includes Penrhyn Castle. “We’re very grateful to be selected as one of the locations for the project, the trees will bring great benefits for nature at Penrhyn Castle and for those who visit,” said Gethin Crump, head gardener at Penrhyn Castle.

“The trees arrived in February and are currently healing in, a process of temporarily planting the bare roots in organic matter while they are quarantined to ensure they don’t carry any exotic pests or diseases. We will be planting them at the end of March on ‘Cherry corner’ which is at the beginning of the castle drive.

We have chosen to plant them here as it is outside our normal pay barrier, which means more visitors and the local community can enjoy them and benefit from this space whilst the Castle’s grounds are open to the public. Although they may not bloom this year, they will be an attraction in spring and early summer for years to come, and will provide open space, nature and beauty to everyone which has become more important than ever over the past year.” www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blossom-watch

NWM 2021 Page 65

MAGAZINE

IN THE

STARS...

While everyone remembers Russell Grant from his Breakfast TV appearances in the 1980’s, most people don’t realise that Russell was the first astrologer in over 300 years to present a horoscope forecast to a member of the Royal Family (HRH Queen Mother). Now dubbed the “Royal Astrologer” Russell has appeared on numerous television shows, including Strictly Come Dancing. He divides his time between London and his North Wales home near Portmeirion. www.russellgrant.com

April’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st – April 20th) Railing against cancelled plans will be a waste of valuable energy in early April. Instead of trying to put things back on track, move in a different direction. On the 12th, the New Moon will find you adopting a fashionable look that turns heads. The Full Moon on the 26th could put strain on an intimate relationship. Resist the urge to put so much emphasis on the physical part of your union.

LIBRA (September 24th – October 23rd) A close relationship will be a profound source of pleasure at the start of April. If you’re single, you could meet someone special through a cultural, religious, or educational organisation. The New Moon on the 12th is ideal for signing a contract, exchanging vows, or entering a creative collaboration. Your finances could pick up during the second half of the month, thanks to an inheritance.

TAURUS (April 21st – May 21st) Solitude is bliss during the opening days of the month. Take this opportunity to daydream, develop creative projects and connect with your spiritual side. The New Moon on the 12th will heighten your intuition; pay careful attention to your dreams. On the 26th, the Full Moon warns against making whimsical demands on your partner, or a breakup could be imminent.

SCORPIO (October 24th – November 22nd) Pouring your energy into a fitness regimen will be a great use of your time at the beginning of the month. Having an outlet for your restless energy will be good for you. A demanding but rewarding job will be offered to you near the 12th, thanks to an upbeat New Moon. Not only will you enjoy your duties, but the perks will be great, too.

GEMINI (May 22nd – June 21st) Your social side will be in full evidence at the start of April. It’s important to keep in continual, even if you can’t meet with loved ones personally.

Video conferences and online chats will keep your spirits high and creativity flowing. On the 12th, you may decide to join a support group or artists’ collective, thanks to the outgoing New Moon.

CANCER (June 22nd – July 23rd) Occupying the spotlight will be a good use of your charisma at the start of the month. It’s a great time to go on auditions and job interviews. The New Moon on the 12th could drop a fabulous career opportunity in your lap; don’t hesitate to accept a leadership role. On the 26th, the Full Moon will prompt you to abandon a romance or creative project that no longer thrills you.

LEO (July 24th – August 23rd) April begins with a powerful desire to expand your horizons. Scheduling a long-distance trip or enrolling in an advanced course will fill you with excitement. On the 12th, the New Moon could prompt you to embark on a spiritual journey. Don’t despair of a career path dries up on the 26th; the Full Moon will connect you with bigger and better professional opportunities.

VIRGO (August 24th – September 23rd) Passions will be running high at the beginning of the month. If you’re in love, you’ll want to spend every second with your amour. Are you single?

You could meet someone special through a competition. The New Moon on the 12th could attract a financial windfall. Use this money to buy a car, computer, or electronic device that makes life easier.

Page 66 NWM 2020

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd – December 21st) Love, romance and adventure will characterise the first half of April. Put responsibility on the back burner and take a few risks; you could use a few thrills. On the 12th, the New Moon will urge you to start a creative project that speaks to your heart. The Full Moon on the 26th may bring a shocking secret to light; brace yourself.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd – January 20th) Sticking close to home will make you feel grounded at the beginning of April. Resist the temptation to work overtime during this period; your nearest and dearest need you more. The New Moon on the 12th could prompt you to launch a renovation project. By the time the Full Moon rises on the 26th, you may grow tired of a social group and leave its ranks.

AQUARIUS (January 21st – February 19th) Don’t be so quick to turn a casual romance into a serious commitment at the start of the month. It’s best to develop this relationship slowly.

The more you know each other, the stronger your bond will become. The New Moon on the 12th could prompt you take a class or begin a writing project; exercising your intellect will be the priority.

PISCES (February 20th – March 20th) Opportunities to increase your income will abound at the beginning of April. If you’d like to start your own business, the New Moon on the 12th is an ideal time to do so. You could get some start-up cash from a generous relative. Don’t let peer pressure prompt you to take an undesirable path during the middle of the month; it’s critical to listen to your heart.

Cae Mair

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All images used for illustrative purposes

Cariad Morse Code Collection...

While methods of communication may change, the message of love remains constant which is celebrated in this classic collection. Spelling out the Welsh word Cariad, meaning love, beloved or sweetheart in Morse Code, the long-distance communication first used in the 19th century. This unique collection make for a precious gift with a timeless message of love. Whether together or apart, the language of love binds us all.

www.clogau.co.uk