North Wales Magazine - March 2020

MARCH 2020

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MAGAZINE

The biggest events taking place this year

INSIDE J Town in Focus J Homes & Property J Food & Drink

What’ s on?

You

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MAGAZINE

DEAR READER Finally, it’s March – the month I’ve been waiting for! Not only does March herald the official start of spring, but it also sees the clocks go forward by an hour – resulting in lighter nights and warmer days – and happier magazine editors!

So it makes perfect sense to celebrate this

fabulous places to enjoy some quality time

upturn in weather and get out and about to

with your mum, or children – or both! Sunday

see what North Wales has to offer – although

lunch maybe the traditional way to celebrate

I warn you now, you won’t be able to fit it all in

but a brisk walk along a beautiful beach

during March alone!

results in less clearing up!

To kick off the month, Cadw is opening many

And, if you time the walk with the first ice

of its sites free of charge in order to celebrate

cream of the season, then it’s bound to be a

St David’s Day on Sunday 1st March. This

Mother’s Day to remember…

is an opportunity well worth taking up as you get to explore our rich heritage while enjoying the better weather to boot.

Later on in the month and Mother’s Day comes round again, and there are some

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

J

In this issue...

There has never been more going on in North Wales!

We want to hear from you!

J Are you organising or taking part in an event that should be covered in our what’s on listings? Then make sure you tell us! whatson@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Keep in touch. Send in your contributions, letters, photos and press releases and become part of the North Wales Magazine family. editorial@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Subscribe. If you want to ensure that you receive each and every copy of North Wales Magazine then why not subscribe? All you pay for is the post and packaging. subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Advertise. If you own a business in North Wales and want to get your message in front of 25,000 local readers every month then drop us a line. Prices start from just £75. sales@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

Front cover image courtesy of Orchard www.thinkorchard.com

NWM 2020 Page 5

MAGAZINE

Page 6 NWM 2020

Contents

MAGAZINE

EDITOR

Kate Hamilton

09 What’s On

PUBLISHER

Your guide to events taking place this March

Grant Hamilton

16 The Big Picture The beautiful Afon Glaslyn

19 Interview with…

SALES MANAGER

Scott Lawson

19

ART DIRECTOR

Simon Marriott

Welsh soprano Elin Pritchard

OFFICE MANAGER

Sian Roberts

23 The last laugh

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER

The North Walian comedy scene

Nigel Smith

27 Town in Focus

CONTRIBUTORS

Exploring the seaside town of Rhyl

33 The biggest and the best…

27

Events taking place in 2020

33

37 Food & Drink The local wining, dining and culinary scene

49 Homes & Interiors

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

Get inspired by local homes that are on the market

65 Walking

whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

Moel Ffamau & Foel Fenlli

68 Community news A roundup of regional happenings

Steve Goodier Lowri Llewelyn Stephen Gregory Cai Ross Pete Greensmith Sally Ann Harding Julian Hughes John Crane Sion Bashar Russell Grant

49

71 In my opinion Our expert columnists share their thoughts

81 Competition Two amazing prizes to win this month!

82 Horoscopes What does March have in store for you?

65

01492 472052 2nd Floor, 23A Abergele Road, Colwyn Bay, LL29 7RS North Wales Magazine is an independent, regional monthly magazine produced by KSG Publishing. It is available to pick up from a wide range of independent outlets throughout Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham, Gwynedd and the Isle of Anglesey.

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part (electronically or in print) without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content, and any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of North Wales Magazine. The publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in, or as a result of, any offer, competition, information or advertisement contained within the magazine. North Wales Magazine does not endorse any of the advertisements featured.

All words and images remain the property of their respective owners and all copyrights are observed. North Wales Magazine is not associated with any newspaper group.

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

NWM 2020 Page 7

KIN

Cwmni Dawns Cenedlaethol Cymru National Dance Company Wales

Mawrth 17 Mawrth Tuesday 17 March 7.30pm 12+ Theatr Bryn Terfel Theatr Clwyd, Ă ine Flanagan Productions + Seiriol Davies

MilkyPeaks 21 + 22 Ebrill, 7.30pm 21 + 22 April, 7.30pm Theatr Bryn Terfel 14+

Georgia Ruth + Rhodri Brooks Sadwrn 28 Mawrth Saturday 28 March 7.30pm Theatr Bryn Terfel

Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Pumed Symffoni Sibelius Sibelius Fifth Symphony

Theatr Bryn Terfel Gwener 3 Ebrill, 7.30pm Friday 3 April, 7.30pm August 012

20-21 Mawrth 20-21 March Stiwdio | Studio

The Oresteia Iau 30 Ebrill Thursday 30 April 7pm Stiwdio | Studio

Connie Orff Theatr Bryn Terfel Gwener 27 Mawrth, 7.30pm Friday 27 March, 7.30pm

O 2 Ebrill From 2 April

SINEMA CINEMA

1st

What’s on this...

MARCH

Anglesey Half Marathon & 10k, Menai Bridge Both races have one of the most incredible start lines in the country - a completely closed road Menai Suspension Bridge.

Flowing downhill through Menai Bridge town centre and along the winding closed roads to Beaumaris, the route is flanked by breathtaking views of the Snowdonia National Park and the Menai Straits. The route then returns to the finish line in the centre of Menai Bridge. See www.alwaysaimhighevents.com for all race information 4th

Clwb Comedi / Comedy Club, Galeri Caernarfon Featuring Ignacio Lopez, Saskia Preston and MC Dan Nightingale. 8pm start.

Tickets from www.galericaernarfon.com 4th-7th

Welsh National Opera, Venue Cymru, Llandudno The opportunity to experience an exhilarating new production of an operatic rarity, along with the chance to see two of opera’s most enduring masterpieces - Les vepres siciliennes, The Marriage of Figaro and Carmen. For 1st

Celebration of Wales – Free Entry to CADW sites

further information about tickets, multi buy packages and opera breaks, visit www.venuecymru.co.uk

To commemorate St David’s Day, a number of historic sites across Wales that normally charge for admission will open their

5th

doors for free on 1st March – including Beaumaris, Caernarfon,

Kinmel Wedding Fayre, Abergele

Conwy, Criccieth, Denbigh, and Harlech castles. For opening

The Kinmel in Abergele is hosting a wedding fayre between 5.30

times and further details, visit www.cadw.gov.wales

and 8pm this evening. Come along to meet some suppliers and pick up a complimentary copy of Exquisite Weddings magazine.

1st

Bala Lake Railway Celebrate St David’s Day with a free ride on the Bala Lake Railway for all residents of North Wales – just bring proof of address. And if you don’t live in North Wales you can still travel at less than half price (Adults £5, Children £2). Further details available from www.bala-lake-railway.co.uk 1st

St Davids Day Dragon Egg Hunt, Holyhead Fun for all the family at

6th

Holyhead Breakwater

Menopause the Musical 2, Rhyl Pavilion

Country Park, 10am-12.30pm

Starring Cheryl Ferguson (EastEnders), Nicole Barber-Lane (Hollyoaks), Rebecca Wheatley (Casualty), and Nicki French

1st

St. David’s Day Celebration, Rhug Estate, Corwen

(Eurovision), it’s a brand-new show, Cruising Through Menopause. In the hysterical sequel to the smash-hit Menopause The Musical®, fast forward five years to catch up

Enjoy Welsh favourites on a special St David’s Day menu served

with the same four characters for tales of their lives, loves and

throughout the day at the Rhug Estate Bistro. Call 01490 411100

losses as they set off on the high seas. 7.30pm, tickets from

or email emilydavies@rhug.co.uk to book

www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

NWM 2020 Page 9

MAGAZINE

What’s on this...

MARCH

6th

Jay Gatling’s ‘Are You Watching Closely’, Wigfair Hall, St Asaph

7th

Ghost Hunt, Ruthin Gaol Ghost Hunting at Ruthin Gaol in Denbighshire is not for the feint hearted. With the building being used to torment and hold the cruellest of criminals, a ghost hunt at Ruthin Gaol

An unforgettable evening of mystery, illusion and skill.

is sure to excite even the most experienced ghost hunter!

Conjuror Jay Gatling will be presenting his parlour show

9pm-2am. Tickets and further information available from

with guest act Erwyd the Gentlemen Juggler. A performance

www.haunted-houses.co.uk

guaranteed to amaze, amuse and entertain one and all. 8pm start. Tickets including a buffet available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/gatlingmagic

7th

Llyfr Glas Nebo, Pontio, Bangor Stage adaptation of Manon Steffan Ros’ post-apocalyptic phenomenon. Due to a high demand for tickets, an extra

7th

North Wales Print Fair 2020, Mostyn Gallery, Llandudno

performance has been added in Theatr Bryn Terfel, 8pm.

Tickets available from www.pontio.co.uk 8th

Over 45 printmakers

Llangollen Canal Walk

from across the

Shake off those Winter blues and stride into Spring

UK will present work for sale in Mostyn gallery’s beautiful

with Ty Gobaith’s sponsored 10 mile walk along the

Edwardian spaces. A fantastic opportunity for shoppers to buy

Llangollen Canal. Taking in the beautiful local scenery and

affordable and original art. 10.30am-5pm.

incorporating the World Heritage Site of the Pontcysyllte

Free admission. www.mostyn.org

Aqueduct this walk makes a fabulous day out. Walk for the stunning views, the fresh air or why not take time

7th

Only Fools and 3 Courses, Ramada Plaza, Wrexham

out to remember a loved one. Open to all ages and dogs (on a lead) welcome. 10am-3pm. More information at www.hopehouse.org.uk

Join us for the Dinner event of the year, which combines fine food and Comedy action, served up Only

8th

Antiques & Collector’s Fair, Beaumaris

Fools and Horses style. Marlene & Boycie are hosting a Gala

Held in the The Bulkeley Hotel, visitors receive a 10% discount

Dinner, but will things go to plan with Del, Rodney and Uncle

voucher to enjoy delicious refreshments in the hotel’s coffee

Albert on the guest list. 7pm. Tickets include dinner and show.

lounge. 10am-4pm, admission free. Further details from

For further information and to book phone 01978 291400 or

www.antiques-atlas.com

email events@ramadaplazawrexham.co.uk 9th-14th

Music fans are invited to the

We Will Rock You, Venue Cymru, Llandudno

biggest party of the year as the

The worldwide

unstoppable Magic of Motown

smash hit musical

show steams into town! Seen

by Queen and Ben

by over a million people, it’s no

Elton returns to the

surprise that the show is one

UK and is coming

of the biggest success stories in British theatre history, even

to Venue Cymru. The multi-million-pound show dazzles all the

performing for Her Majesty the Queen, as special guests

senses in breath-taking style. Guaranteed to blow your mind,

at the Royal Variety Performance. 7.30pm, tickets from

this musical phenomenon is not to be missed! Further details

www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

and tickets available from www.venuecymru.co.uk

7th

The Magic of Motown, Rhyl Pavilion

Page 10 NWM 2020

EXPLORE OUTDOORS

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14th

MAGAZINE

Craft & Gift Market, Kinmel Bay Showcasing a wide range of artisan and local craft stalls.

What’s on this...

MARCH

Free entry to the public. 10.30-4pm at Sunnyvale Caravan Park. For further details, contact 07710 420185 or email phoenixeventswales@gmail.com 14th

St David’s Hospice Snowdonia Trail Series - Aberfalls 7k The St David’s Hospice Snowdonia Trail Series is a new bespoke running and walking event encouraging all to discover North Wales through a unique outdoor experience and raise funds for the local charity. For more information or to register, please visit the St David’s Hospice website www.stdavidshospice.org.uk or call 01492 873664

12th

March Comedy Club, Pontio, Bangor

17th – 22nd

Coral Tour Championship 2020, Venue Cymru, Llandudno

A brilliant night of comedy in the Studio Theatre, with three brilliant comedians – Tom Ward, Joe Jacobs, Abigoliah Schamamun. 8pm. Tickets from www.pontio.co.uk

Snooker fans will have the chance to see the world’s leading eight players on the one-year ranking list as Llandudno

12th

Curry & Quiz night, Rhug Estate, Corwen

stages a tournament for the sixth consecutive year. Further details and tickets from www.venuecymru.co.uk

Combine answering general knowledge questions with eating a delicious homemade curry. £18 per person. Booking

18th

Ben Fogle, Tales from the Wilderness, Venue Cymru, Llandudno

essential. Call 01490 411100 or email emilydavies@rhug.co.uk 13th

Wales U20s v Scotland U20s Rugby, Colwyn Bay

Thrilling tales from a modern

Wales U20s play the final game of this seasons U20s

day explorer. From crossing

Six Nations campaign, and it is a chance to see the next

Antarctica to conquering Everest,

generation of Wales players in action at Colwyn Bay Stadiwm

Ben will take the audience on

Zip World. Kick off 7.35pm. Tickets available from www.

an inspiring adventure. 7.30pm.

venuecymru.co.uk

Tickets available from www.venuecymru.co.uk

13th

Murder Mystery Dinner, The Celtic Royal Hotel, Caernarfon

18th

A night of live-action Agatha Christie-inspired 1950s Murder

Memory Teddy Bears by Margaret Rose Sutherland, Afonwen

Mystery. The sleepy village of Pokeingham-Softly-on-the-

Margaret makes lovely Mohair teddy bears, which can be

Wold gathers for an important announcement from local

dressed with clothes made from your own material, such as

squire, Lord Pokeingham. But events take a dark turn

your own babies or childrens clothes to preserve precious

and famous amateur sleuth Miss Mapletree is called in

memories. Find Margaret at Afonwen Craft & Antiques

to investigate a murder. Tickets are limited and include

Centre. www.afonwen.co.uk

a welcome drink, threecourse meal followed by coffee and live actors

The Carpenters Story, Rhyl Pavilion

murder mystery. 7pm

This highly acclaimed production continues to captivate

start. For bookings or

audiences across the UK with its spectacular celebration of

more information please

the classic songbook that made The Carpenters a legend in

contact 01286 674477

the world of popular music, selling over 100 million albums

or email functions@

and singles. Featuring all of the Carpenters hit songs.

celtic-royal.co.uk

Page 12 NWM 2020

20th

7.30pm, tickets from www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

20th-21st

Chwarae, Pontio, Bangor A brand new theatre show for families.

Chwarae is a sensory feast featuring live music, stunning moves and was developed collaboratively with families from North Wales. For ages 4+. For show times and further information, visit www.pontio.co.uk 21st

Craft & Gift Market, St Asaph Showcasing a wide range of artisan and local craft stalls.

Free entry to the public. 10.30-4pm at Ysgol Glan Clwyd.

21st

For further details, please contact 07710 420185 or email

Thank Abba for the Music, Rhyl Pavilion

phoenixeventswales@gmail.com

Grab your platforms and flares for a journey back in time to when ABBA dominated the charts and ruled the

21st

Fancy Dress Walk, Llandudno

airwaves! Thank ABBA for The Music is a two-hour theatre spectacular that captures all of the magic and

As part of National B&B Week, join a

excitement of one of pop history’s most successful and

walk up the Great Orme to raise funds

entertaining live bands. Featuring all of ABBA’s greatest

for The Family Holiday Association. Walk

hits. 7.30pm, tickets from www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

starts 12pm from the Rock Circle in Happy Valley. For further information, please contact 01492 875551 22nd 21st

Food Fair, Alyn Waters Country Park, Wrexham

Mother’s Day Train, Llangollen Railway

Hosted by Ground Work North Wales, the event starts at 11am

Why not treat the special women

with free entry for browsers & shoppers. To book a stall

in your life on Mothers Day and

space email marketing@groundworknorthwales.org.uk or

take afternoon tea aboard an

call 01978 757524

authentic steam train. 1.30pm departure. Further details and to book visit www.llangollenrailway.co.uk

21st

25th

The Floyd Effect, Theatr Colwyn, Colwyn Bay

Farmers Market, RSPB Conwy Food that tastes real, direct from the

Sit back and enjoy The Floyd Effect tribute band as they take you on a journey through

producers. Wander the stalls to buy

the music of Pink Floyd. Unless you were

your fresh vegetables, local meats, cheeses, jams, pickles and lots more!

there the first time around, it was never

9am-1pm. Free entry

as real as this. 7.30pm. Tickets from £20, available from www.venuecymru.co.uk 25th

22nd

Mother’s Day Cream Tea, Gwrych Castle, Abergele

Six Nations Dinner with Nigel Owens MBE, Quay Hotel, Deganwy A special dinner with Welsh

Following cream tea, guests are encouraged to explore the

International rugby union

most recently restored part of Gwrych Castle – the Formal

referee Nigel Owens MBE in

Gardens. During which time

support of Ty Gobaith Children’s Hospice. Hosted by former

volunteer gardeners will be on

BBC Radio Cymru presenter Andrew “Tommo” Thomas, the

hand to answer any of your

dinner will be held just over a week after the finale of the

green fingered questions. 11am-

2020 Six Nations. 7.30pm-11pm. For all ticket enquiries,

4pm, admission via EventBrite

please email enquiries@theeventsroom.co.uk or call the ticket

booking only

line on 0845 108 5690.

NWM 2020 Page 13

MAGAZINE

What’s on this...

MARCH

27th

The Bon Jovi Experience, Rhyl Pavilion Endorsed by Jon Bon Jovi himself, the official tribute band to Bon Jovi perform all over the world to sell-out crowds. As the world’s leading tribute, The Bon Jovi Experience are often copied but never equalled, performing all the hits you know and love including, “Livin’ On a Prayer”, “Always”, “It’s My Life”, “You Give Love a Bad Name”, and many, many more. 7.30pm, tickets from www.rhylpavilion.co.uk 27th

James Wilton Dance: The Storm, Holyhead One of Europe’s most in demand dance companies present The Storm, a whirlwind of lightning fast, athleticism, where acrobatics, break-dancing, martial arts and contact work fuse to form dance that will blow audiences away. 7.30pm, Ucheldre Centre. Tickets from www.ucheldre.org 26th – 28th

28th

Presented by Llandudno Muscial Production, Avenue Q is the

March for Veterans, Llandudno

hilarious story of a recent college graduate who is trying to

March for Veterans is a ten-mile walk,

Avenue Q, Theatr Colwyn, Colwyn Bay make his way in the world, meeting friends, finding love and

in aid of Blind Veterans UK, taking

losing it again! He meets some lively characters along the

in the beautiful scenery of Llandudno. Starting at the Blind

way! A puppet filled world that is reflective of life’s struggles,

Veterans UK Llandudno Centre, you’ll head for the Promenade

they realise that life isn’t as simple as they dreamt it would

and along to the Cenotaph before making your way up and

be! Evening performances 7.30pm, Saturday Matinee 2.30pm.

around the Great Orme. 10.30am start. To register, please visit

Tickets available from www.theatrcolwyn.co.uk

www.blindveterans.org.uk

26th

Conwy Seed Fair, Conwy

28th

Real Ale Train, Llangollen

Plant stalls, seeds, home produce and local

Step onboard and soak up the atmosphere whilst travelling

crafts in the High Street and Lancaster

behind a vintage steam engine. Sit back and enjoy a selection

Square. Includes over 50 varieties of seed

of locally brewed ales. 6.30pm departure. Further details and

potato for sale. 9am to 4pm. Free entry

to book visit www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

27th

28th

Charlotte will be holding another of her

On her third album, Mai, Welsh

Paint your own Piece workshops, where

Music Prize winner Georgia Ruth

you bring along a small piece of your

returns to her roots. Relaxed

own furniture and learn how to paint. Please phone Charlotte

cabaret style event. 7.30pm, Theatr

on 07803 313278 or email countrycommissions@gmail.com

Bryn Terfel. www.pontio.co.uk

Furniture Painting Workshop, Afonwen

27th

Kiri Pritchard-McLean, Williams Aston Hall, Wrexham

Georgia Ruth with Rhodri Brooks, Pontio, Bangor

29th

Wigfair Hall Wedding Fayre, St Asaph Come along to Wigfair Hall in St Asaph between 11am and 4pm

Join Kiri Pritchard-McLean, multi

today to meet some of the best wedding suppliers that North

award-winning comedian, for her 2020

Wales has to offer. And, to help you plan your big day, you can

Empathy Pains show. Kiri has appeared

even pick up a free copy of Exquisite Weddings magazine…

on Have I Got News for You, Live at the Apollo, 8 out of 10 Cats, Frankie Boyle’s New World Order and Would I Lie To You, among others. 7.30pm, tickets from www.allgigs.co.uk

Page 14 NWM 2020

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

MAGAZINE

Page 16 NWM 2020

The Big Picture The Afon Glaslyn is located the north west of the region and, while it’s not particularly important in terms of its length (it’s only 16 miles long, give or take), it is one of Gwynedd’s primary rivers, having massively affected the landscape in which it flows. The river begins its journey in Llyn Glaslyn, a lake found on the eastern slopes of Snowdon. The Afon Glaslyn then passes through Llyn Llydaw on it’s way to the Glaslyn Estuary. It is joined by Nant Cynnyd before entering the picturesque Llyn Gwynant. The river then flows through Llyn Dinas before entering the delightful village of Beddgelert, where is joined by the Afon Colwyn which drains the south western slopes of Snowdon. The river then flows down the Pass of Aberglaslyn. Heavy rain in the hills can change the Afon Glaslyn from a peaceful river to a raging torrent – as last month’s weather proved all too well…

NWM 2020 Page 17

Back to her

roots

An international singing star from Rhyl who has played some of opera’s greatest soprano roles is returning to North Wales to play a leading part in a new production of Carmen.

Welsh soprano Elin Pritchard, who was born in St Asaph

a very special place for me. It’s been a slow but steady

and grew up in Rhyl, will make her Welsh National Opera

career and I now feel it’s the right time to be singing for

(WNO) debut when she assumes the role of Micaëla in the

WNO. In the last couple of years, my career has become

company’s Spring Season production of Carmen at Venue

much more established. Everything seems to be falling

Cymru this month.

into place and has come at the right time which is exciting,” explains Elin.

Conducted by WNO Associate Conductor Harry Ogg, the production will see the former Ysgol Dewi Sant pupil

“Singing was part of the ritual of going to school. We went

reprise one of her earliest operatic roles.

to church every Sunday and back then, being Welsh, we were brought up in and amongst music,” she said. “Music

“Any opera singer dreams of working for their national

was huge and that’s how it should be because it brings

company and it’s something I’ve been itching to do,” said

out creativity in every young child.I was number four –

36-year-old, who now travels the world as a professional

the baby of the family – and was the quiet one. My eldest

opera singer working alongside some of the best-known

sister Lowri was the actress, my third sister Eirian was

singing stars and orchestras.

the one with the best voice and my second sister Mair also sang – they were all performers. I was just a quiet,

“I trained in Cardiff and was able to watch so many

timid teenager who loved singing by the piano but didn’t

rehearsals and performances while studying. Wales is

have any confidence back then to sing in front of people.”

NWM 2020 Page 19

MAGAZINE

When she was 17, Elin’s parents paid for singing lessons with Nigel Shaw, a tutor based in Llandudno, who she credits with “changing everything”.

“He taught me classical music and trained my voice in the classical style,” she said.

“Nigel worked on my voice and really

The Grange Festival which she will

invested in me as a young singer. If he

perform at again this June in the title

hadn’t done that I would not be where I am

role for Puccini’s Manon Lescaut.

today. He was inspirational.”

“I’m a bit of a stage animal and I always Elin watched her first opera at the age

tend to sing my best when I’m 100% in

of 16 - WNO’s production of Mozart’s

character,” she said. “I worked at Opera

The Marriage of Figaro in Llandudno

Holland Park for four consecutive

– describing it as a “mind-blowing”

summers. They plucked me out of

experience. She went on to study a BMus in Music at the

National Opera Studio and gave me small roles at the

Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in Cardiff where

house and each year I went up the ladder and sang more

she enjoyed regular trips to WNO performances at the New

prominent roles. They put faith in me as a performer. I had

Theatre and the Millennium Centre.

amazing opportunities with them which gave me exposure down in London and as a performing artist.

Following the course, she completed a post-graduate diploma in performance before undertaking a Master of

“Another huge deal for me was the Buxton Festival Opera.

Opera and Master of Music at the Alexander Gibson Opera

I had a chance to sing Lucia in Lucia di Lammermoor in

School at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

2015 which is an enormous role in the opera world and

It was while in her first year of study in Scotland she

demanding both physically and vocally. I just think it was a

was cast as an understudy for Micaëla in a production

turning point in my career and secured me an agent which

of Carmen by Scottish Opera, Scotland’s national opera

helped with my development.”

company.

Elin hopes her performance – and her meteoric success “That was my first professional job and still being a student

will inspire other young singers to chase their dreams and

it was quite amazing,” she said.

try out opera.

Elin’s major break came when she was cast as Violetta in a

“I was never the popular singer or the star of college or

touring production of La Traviata which she undertook on

school. I was never the one who they said would be the

behalf of Scottish Opera while also studying at the National

opera singer,” she said. “My parents never pushed me or

Opera Studio in London which she describes as a finishing

any one of us. They allowed us to find out for ourselves

school for opera singers.

what we wanted to do. Their support, love and guidance has been paramount to my singing. I think there is an opera

“I was really fortunate and managed to get work and keep

out there for everybody. You need to find the opera you’re

afloat while my voice developed at a steady and healthy

going to enjoy.

pace,” she said. “It’s a hard industry for young singers, especially sopranos, and when I think back to how it’s all

“If you’re interested in music and performance, come and

happened for me I feel very lucky. There was always a tiny,

watch an opera – you’ll be pleasantly surprised at what you

slow trickle of work coming in. I was a dedicated, hard-

see. The age of the standing opera singer is gone – it’s an

working singer. Whenever I’ve gone to a job I was always

art form in its own right. We are actors on stage, but we are

prepared and committed.”

singing actors.”

Other prestigious roles followed including four consecutive summers with Opera Holland Park and regular roles with The Danish National Opera, Scottish Opera and Opera North. She has also worked for English National Opera, Mid Wales Opera, Finnish National Opera and more recently

Page 20 NWM 2020

n

Jo Davies’ vibrant new production of Bizet’s Carmen returns to Venue Cymru on Thursday 5th March. To book tickets call the Venue Cymru box office on 01492 872000.

THEIR C ON T I N UE S

U20s SIX NATIONS 2020 STADIWM ZIP WORLD, BAE COLWYN

CYMRU D20 v YR ALBAN 13.03.20 CG 19.35

OEDOLION £10 / D16 £5 VENUECYMRU.CO.UK

WRU.WALES/TICKETS

Lowri Llewelyn explores the North Wales comedy scene

Roo Stalin travelled from Manchester to perform at the Rhyl Comedy Club

North Wales is renowned for many things – its rocky landscapes and sweeping coastlines, countless castles and even the world’s first Jedi church. But as a hub of standup comedy, well, not so much.

The odd comedy heavyweight might drop into the likes of

Wales. What there is quite a

Wrexham’s Glyndŵr University and Llandudno’s Venue

lot of, although that’s quite

Cymru every now and again, but look a little harder and

limited, is pro and semi-pro

you’ll find a regular and more intimate standup circuit

comedy – big names, people

spanning the region.

who are very experienced.

Dave Rothni e is compere of Stand-up at the Seasid e in Colwyn Bay

We started Rhyl so that Tonight we’re at the bi-monthly Rhyl Comedy Club, based at

people who didn’t have

the Rhyl Little Theatre. The venue may indeed be little, but

experience could try it in front of an audience.”

the audience receives a big welcome from its producers and are invited to get comfortable on this miserable night.

Oh God, I think. Novices. Tonight is the Post Brexit Comedy Special, with seven comedians ‘lined up to help you jump on

“The North Wales comedy scene is quite compact,” explains

the last freedom moped out of nowhere city’.

co-producer Sarah Lloyd. “In terms of levels, this is what we call grassroots comedy, and there’s very little of it in North

It might seem risky to invest a precious Friday night in unknown comedians, but I’m surprised by the quality of the

NORTH WALES IS RENOWNED FOR MANY THINGS – ITS ROCKY LANDSCAPES AND SWEEPING COASTLINES, COUNTLESS CASTLES AND EVEN THE WORLD’S FIRST JEDI CHURCH. BUT AS A HUB OF STANDUP COMEDY, WELL, NOT SO MUCH.

acts. Local George Mogel is a particular highlight, drawing on his most intimate secrets and leaving me thoroughly humbled.

I ask him what the appeal of live standup is. “It’s a direct communication with the audience – it’s a way to talk about my life and my point of view to people that may not normally hear it. It’s easier to talk about some stuff when you’re funny. If you’re going to be deadly serious for most of it then people are going to switch off, but if you tell a few jokes, people are going to pay more attention.”

George has travelled from just down the road tonight, but the lineup represents the length and breadth of the UK, from

NWM 2020 Page 23

The bi-monthly Rhyl Comedy Club, based at the Rhyl Little Theatre, specialises in grassroots comedy

MAGAZINE

yl Comedy

of the Rh -producer h Lloyd, co

Club

Sara

Rachel, from Rhyl, says: “There have been some really good acts. It’s my grandma’s birthday on Saturday, so we wanted to do something to celebrate.”

For me, the strongest comedy tonight is that borne of life’s misfortunes, the acts who look to themselves as well the world around them for inspiration.

Rhyl seems to be the unlikeliest of places to have a standup comedy scene, so I wonder what events I’ve overlooked. For Liverpool to the West Country. One of those is Roo Stalin from

starters, Sarah and her partner’s second project includes

Manchester.

Stand Up For Denbigh at Theatr Twm O’r Nant. Other monthly comedy events take place at the likes of Theatr Clwyd in

We all know women are woefully under represented in

Mold, The Station in Colwyn Bay (aptly named Stand-up at the

comedy, so I’m pleased to at least see producer Sarah

Seaside), the Llangollen Comedy Club and Bangor’s Pontio.

and Roo on the lineup. Like George, Roo draws on her vulnerabilities by touching on the theme of mental health.

In fact, Bangor offers a double-whammy, with a bimonthly

Speaking to her at the back of the room following her

comedy club at Blue Sky, a gorgeous little venue. In

set, I note there’s a bum of every seat despite Storm Ciara

Caernarfon, you’ll find bimonthly events at Galeri. And for the

beginning to rage outside. Why have all these people

most dedicated among us, why not take a little jaunt down to

dragged themselves out of the house instead of curling

the bright lights of Machynlleth for its annual comedy festival,

up with a Netflix special at home. “I think the problem

this year taking place in May.

with Netflix, or even TV comedy, is that it can be quite homogenous, so you’re more likely to see alternative comedy

Aside from its rawness and intimacy, a night of grassroots

at a club level. Somewhere like this, where it’s quite new

comedy costs a fraction of what a touring comedian would

comics, there’s a very raw talent and energy that you might

cost. Tonight’s show has set the audience back just £5 each.

not see on Netflix-type stages,” says Roo. Not every act is going to tickle your funny bone, but the For me, TV comedy just cannot compare to the rush of live

beauty of art is its subjectivity. Every household name started

standup – some jokes will fall flat, but squirming in our seats

out on the grassroots circuit, and by giving less established

is all part of the experience.

acts a chance, you’ll discover a wealth of untapped talent. If we want the arts to flourish at a time of woeful underfunding, it’s

This isn’t Roo’s first visit to the Rhyl Little Theatre. “This is

essential we support new names by dragging our bums over

my third time here – I love it, it’s one of my favourite gigs to

to those seats. n

do.The audience is always really warm.”

The venue may be a little chilly, but warm indeed they are.

Page 24 NWM 2020

Find the Rhyl Comedy Club on Facebook for more information

MAGAZINE

es g n e l chal r fo & s t l u ad n e r d l i ch

4 levels 80 targets 21 challenges

against the clock we are here at

BOOK YOUR CHALLENGE ONLINE: Page 26 NWM 2020

NINJATAGRHYL.CO.UK

EXPLORING

Rhyl

TOWN IN FOCUS

There is more to Rhyl than meets the eye, as Steve Goodier explains‌ During my childhood Rhyl was a regular destination for

It would be true to say that most north west children born in

our family. My parents owned a series of static caravans

the sixties and early seventies have very fond memories of

on various sites surrounding the town and we spent lots of

days spent around Rhyl. Certainly my sister and I both do! But

weekends at them so got to know the area really well. In the

during the late 1980s and early 90s, Rhyl, like most Welsh

winter, when the caravan sites were closed, my mum and dad

and British seaside resorts, went into a gradual decline. There

took us on twice monthly day trips to both Rhyl and Prestatyn

were various reasons for this, but one of the chief ones was

so the connection continued. When I passed my driving test

the increase in the availability of cheap flights to the likes of

and got my own car I would take girlfriends for trips out to

Spain where the weather was guaranteed much more than

Rhyl and we would enjoy the beaches, the arcades and the old

it was on the North Wales coast. Many of the seafront B&B’s

fair and make a good long day of it. So, it would be fair to say,

were turned into flats and the famous Ocean Beach fairground

Rhyl and I go back a long way.

closed in 2007. And, for a while, things looked bleak for Rhyl.

For kids who spent their childhoods in the towns of Cheshire

However, the town has re-invented itself and its future looks

and Merseyside a trip to the seaside meant a visit to Rhyl for

much brighter and prosperous now.

most of them, and the town gained quite a reputation for being a lively and bustling traditional beach resort.

From 2013 onwards a programme of regeneration started

NWM 2020 Page 27

MAGAZINE

What to do

KFest

Pavilion Theatre

for three days on Friday 31st July.

K-FEST returns to Rhyl Events Arena

This award-winning 1,031-seat theatre has been designed

Following the theme from last year,

to accommodate a variety of productions from all genres.

Friday 31st July will feature the Dance

The Pavilion has hosted a broad range of shows – recent

acts, Saturday 1st August will be the Indie / Dance Classics

productions have included Mrs Brown’s Boys, Chicago, Little

day and Sunday 2nd August will be a day for family fun.

Mix, Olly Murs and John Bishop to name but a few. Besides

So, bring your friends along to a day that will feature

large-scale productions, the Pavilion Theatre is committed

Tribute acts and lots of kids activities to keep the family

to facilitating theatre and dance in the community as well as

entertained. Tickets are available from www.k-fest.co.uk

school productions.

White Rose Shopping Centre

Rhyl Miniature Railway Delighting visitors for over 100 years, the Rhyl Miniature

The White Rose Shopping Centre is right in the centre of

Railway offers a train ride on what is now Britain’s oldest

Rhyl, reached from the High Street entrance or the centre

miniature line

car park. The centre has a range of national and local retailers, including New Look, Boots, Iceland, B&M and Poundland – as well as a furnishings shop, newsagent and phone accessories store. There are phone shops, travel agents, bakers and a bookshop, plus many more well known retailers.

SC2 SC2 is a great family day out that is suitable for all ages and abilities. Slides include the Anaconda, which is the fastest flume in the park – the highspeed wave ride zooms through complete darkness and out of a snake’s gaping jaws. Or race your friends and family on the Speedster, a three-lane slide which takes you straight

Ninja Tag Active

back into the water – and you’re ready to start again! Grab a

This fantastic indoor multi-level play area is a cross

rubber ring and speed down the Boomerang one your own

between Total Wipeout and Ninja Warrior, all in one

or in pairs…

exciting experience. With over 80 targets across four

SeaQuarium

levels, this timed activity zones test your skill, your fitness – and your bravery. The aim of Ninja TAG is to find the

SeaQuarium Rhyl features species from around the world on

computer-controlled tags and collect the points on your

show in nine different zones, plus an outdoor Sea Lion Cove

wristband sensor within the 20-minute time slots. This

where you can meet the delightful harbour seals in their

challenge requires both mental and physical ability, skill

33,000-gallon pool

and strategy…

which was aimed at bringing the tourists back, as well as

coast of Wales and has a permanent population of around

encouraging businesses to open up and thus create more

25,000. It is easy to get to as the A55 coastal expressway

jobs. The regeneration project was funded by the Welsh

runs close to the town and is connected to it by the A548. The

Government, European Union funding, Denbighshire County

town’s general road network is good, and it is well serviced

Council and some private investment. And, let’s face it, Rhyl

by both buses and trains. Rhyl developed around the mouth of

still had plenty going for it and deserved any modernisation

the Afon Clwyd and to the west of it is Kinmel Bay with Towyn

that came its way. So, let’s not dwell too much on the past but

beyond this. Prestatyn lies east and to the south you will find

instead let’s look at all that Rhyl has to offer to the modern-day

Rhuddlan with its impressive castle ruins.

visitor who comes for a day trip or a weekend stay.

The town has three good sandy beaches with the most Geographically Rhyl is located in Flintshire on the north east

Page 28 NWM 2020

popular being the Seaside Award winning Central Beach.

Where to stay Ty’n Rhyl This period Country House is set in its own grounds, and located approximately a half mile from the seafront. All of the well-appointed double en suite rooms are tastefully decorated and comfortably furnished.

Central Beach can get very busy in the summer months but

Travelodge

all three of the beaches have lifeguards in season and zoned

This new hotel features rooms each with a comfy king

swimming areas. They are the beaches I knew and loved as a

size Travelodge Dreamer bed. Its on-site café/bar serves

child and still offer the chance to indulge in all the traditional

unlimited breakfast and tasty evening meals.

sand-based activities most people associate with the seaside.

Westminster Hotel

The Marine Lake is west of the town centre and has always

Located just 50 metres from Rhyl’s promenade and sandy

been popular and once housed a fair of its own and a zoo.

beach, the Westminster Hotel is opposite the White Rose

This 12-hectare manmade lake has been in existence since

shopping centre, and near to a selection of restaurants

1895 and has always been used for water sports. It makes a

and the major attractions.

pleasant place to walk or just relax and there is a playground for children. The only original attraction that remains at

Roseview B&B

Marine Lake is the 15-inch narrow gauge miniature railway

Centrally situated in the North Wales seaside town of

(which has been re-opened) that runs for a mile around the

Rhyl, the Roseview B&B is just three minutes’ walk from

edge of the water.

the promenade and Rhyl railway and bus stations

It is based at the Museum and Railway Centre.

Walking the length of Rhyl seafront from Splash Point in the

reputation and the ‘prom’ as a whole is a pleasure to stroll

east to the harbour in the west has always been popular and

along now and it is popular both summer and winter.

is enjoyed by runners and cyclists as well as pedestrians.

It makes for a lengthy walk but can be tailored to suit the

There are modern hotels appearing and the updated 250 ft/76

individual however energetic they feel. At the harbour itself,

metre Skytower is now a light beacon. Other planned work

as well as a colourful collection of boats, you will find the

will involve revitalising the run of arcades and food outlets

impressive Pont y Ddraig which is a pedestrian and cycle

facing the promenade and all in all, Rhyl’s future is looking

bridge that spans the harbour area.

very rosy.

The promenade has seen much regeneration work with

Rhyl has several Grade II listed buildings including St.

many projects still being worked on. A typical example of this

Thomas’s Church in Bath Street, the Midland Bank building,

is The Drift Park area of the seafront which is a stunning

Sussex Street Baptist Church, the Royal Alexandra Hospital,

example of what can be achieved in bringing the old up to

the Town Hall, the railway station and the Foryd Harbour

modern day standards. To be fair, the entire promenade has

Bridge (built in 1932) which links Rhyl with Kimmel Bay.

benefited from the regeneration work and has a more modern and aesthetically pleasing appearance to it than it once did.

For shoppers the town centre is quite large and well laid out

The Rhyl Children’s Village theme Park is gaining quite a

and there is much to be said for spending a few hours around

NWM 2020 Page 29

MAGAZINE

Eating and drinking The Sun Verge

the retail outlets and the rest of the day on the seafront. There are plenty of pubs and food outlets and more than enough

The Sun Verge is a warm and friendly pub based on

things to do to keep all age groups of a family happy for the

the seafront. This pub and carvery is a mere hop, skip

duration of their stay.

and a jump away from the beach, so is the perfect place to warm yourself up after a seaside paddle…

Notable people who were born in the town (or have called it home) include comedian Lee Evans, actress Nerys Hughes, musician Steve Strange, broadcaster Carol Vordeman (who went to school there) and Ruth Ellis (the last woman to be hanged in England).

Rhyl never deserved to go into decline and anyone who can remember the glory days of hundreds of tourists on the beaches and numerous coaches arriving on sunny days would surely agree with that sentiment. Alas, it has become

1891

the lot of many UK holiday resorts to suffer a similar fate.

Located on the first floor of the Rhyl Pavilion on

But Rhyl has not sat down and taken it – instead it has fought

East Parade, 1891 was last year voted as one of the

back, and in doing so has set a shining example of what a

top restaurants in The Times’ national newspaper

2020 seaside resort should aspire to be like. Rhyl is becoming

“30 best places to eat by the sea”. With the seaside

a great success story and is turning into a fine example of

sunset views stretching from Llandudno all the way

what can be done to turn around ailing fortunes when some

up the North Wales coast, taste-bud tingling delights

forward-thinking people encourage investment into an area.

of the new summer menu and their thriving social evenings, it would be hard to find another restaurant

Whatever your reason for coming to the town make sure you

experience in the country like 1891 in Rhyl.

do in 2020. n

Barratts at Ty’n Rhyl Barratts at Ty’n Rhyl is a renowned restaurant situated away from the tourist area, yet still close to all the major attractions that Rhyl has to offer.

This well-appointed restaurant has a reputation for quality, home cooked cuisine.

The Submariner Cookhouse + Pub With a wide-ranging menu at great prices, The Submariner has something for everyone

Page 30 NWM 2020

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

SUBSCRIBE to the only monthly magazine for the region for just ÂŁ2.99 per month and never miss an issue again!

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MAGAZINE

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FREE ADMISSION

edition MAGAZINE

no.8

sat 18 apr 2020 t a t a e s e your

tak

e m e g d u j

i i i v y a d nt

’ ’ s y gb

u R h s l We r Day Out e p u S

kets u16 ticom fr

10

Page 32 NWM 2020

ospreys dragons scarlets cardiff blues

Simply

the best There are some huge events taking place in North Wales this year – here is a selection of the biggest and the best…

North Wales will be hosting a wide range of stars from both the sporting and music arenas in 2020. Little Mix, Westlife, Stereophonics and Lionel Richie are all set to perform in the region this year – while sports fans will be rewarded with thrilling performances from the world of

RUGBY FANS WILL BE THE FIRST TO BENEFIT, WHEN THE WALES U20S LOOK TO CONTINUE THEIR WINNING FORM AT STADIWM ZIP WORLD ON 13TH MARCH

cricket, rugby, snooker and rallying.

Rugby fans will be the first to benefit, when the Wales U20s look to continue their winning form at Stadiwm Zip World on 13th March.

The young team is set to play Scotland in the Six Nations Championship at 7.35pm in Colwyn Bay. And, with tickets starting from just £10 for adults and £5 for U16s this is the perfect opportunity to see some great rugby – and witness Wales’ future stars in the making!

The Wales U20s is set to play Scotland in the Six Nations Championship in Colwyn Bay

NWM 2020 Page 33

MAGAZINE

LEFT: The 2020 Coral Tour Championship runs from March 17th – 22nd at Venue Cymru ABOVE: Lionel Richie has sold more than 100 million albums worldwide

The next major event to hit North Wales is the 2020 Coral

their forthcoming new album ‘Spectrum’.

Tour Championship which runs from March 17th – 22nd at Venue Cymru in Llandudno.

Then, just a week later, Little Mix will also be bringing their unmissable live show to Colwyn Bay as the group is set to

Ronnie O’Sullivan won the event in 2019, beating Neil Robertson

perform at Stadiwm Zip World on 11th July. Speaking about

13-11 in the final. The Coral Tour Championship was added to

the Summer 2020 tour coming to Stadiwm Zip World, Pablo

World Snooker’s calendar for the first time in 2019, televised by

Janczur, Orchard Live director said: “Little Mix are one of the

ITV4. The event featured the leading eight players from the one

biggest names in music and have been getting rave reviews for

year ranking list, competing for total prize money of £375,000

their current shows. Their last show in 2017 at the venue was

and a top prize of £150,000.

absolutely incredible and we can’t wait to have them back in 2020!”

This follows in the series incorporating the Coral World Grand Prix, which is for the leading 32 players on the one year list,

Then, later on in the month, one of Britain’s best live bands,

and the Coral Players Championship which is for the top 16.

Stereophonics, will be performing in Bangor on Saturday 25th July. The legendary rock band is returning to their Welsh

The winner of next season’s Coral Cup, awarded to the player

homeland with a huge outdoor show at Park Y Faenol.

who wins the most money across the three Coral Series events, will receive an extra £100,000 bonus. The first round losers

Over the past two decades Stereophonics has played at some

in the three Coral Series events will receive the relevant prize

of the biggest venues to fans all across the globe, achieving

money – but that money will not count towards their ranking

seven number 1 albums, ten top-10 albums, 23 Platinum

tally. Nail biting stuff indeed.

Sales Awards, 5 BRIT nominations and 1 BRIT Award win.

Headlining arenas and festivals to legions of dedicated

Moving into the world of music, and international superstar

fans, and with 8.5 million albums sold in the UK alone,

Lionel Richie has announced that he’ll be returning to North

Stereophonics stand as undeniable giants of the current

Wales on Thursday 4th June at the Racecourse Ground

music scene – and are hoping for plenty of sun when they

Wrexham. Richie has sold more than 100 million albums

play in Bangor this summer!

worldwide, as well as being the recipient of an Oscar®, a Golden Globe®, four Grammy Awards®, the distinction of MusicCares

Moving back into the world of sport, and Glamorgan CCC

Person of the Year in 2016, and Kennedy Center Honoree in 2017.

return to Colwyn Bay for a four-day Specsavers County Championship match against a star-studded Nottinghamshire

Then, on Sunday 5th July, Westlife will perform at Stadiwm Zip

side from Sunday, 23rd August.

World in Colwyn Bay as part of their Stadiums in the Summer Tour. The global pop kings will perform all of their greatest

Glamorgan has staged Championship matches at Colwyn Bay

hits including ‘Swear It Again’, ‘Flying Without Wings’ and ‘You

since the 1960s, in fact, history was made here in 2000, with

Raise Me Up’ – as well as sensational up-tempo new songs from

Steve James scoring Glamorgan’s first-ever triple hundred,

Page 34 NWM 2020

BELOW: Little Mix will be bringing their live show to Stadiwm Zip World on 11th July RIGHT: This year’s eagerlyanticipated Wales Rally GB takes place between 29th October and 1st November

Stereophonics will be performing in Bangor on Saturday 25th July

with his feat coming during the match against Sussex.

In 2004 Glamorgan clinched the Totesport League title in Colwyn Bay – which is the furthest home ground from Glamorgan’s headquarters at 180 miles from Sophia Gardens Cardiff.

And to round off this impressive events calendar, top class motor sport returns to North Wales in the autumn with the region once again hosting Britain’s round of the globetrotting FIA World Rally Championship (WRC).

Adding to the excitement, this year’s eagerly-anticipated Wales Rally GB (29th October to 1st November) is staged over half-term, providing families with some spectacular high-speed thrills.

To book tickets:

The full competitive route will be revealed later in the

Lionel Richie

spring, but the organisers have already confirmed that the

www.ticketmaster.co.uk

rally’s headquarters will be back in Deeside. Admission, once again, will be free of charge giving fans a great

Specsavers County Championship

chance to meet the sport’s top stars and see the latest

www.glamorgancricket.com/colwyn-bay

generation of superfast cars being prepared for the speed tests set in the legendary forests of north and mid Wales.

Stereophonics www.myticket.co.uk

Local hero Elfyn Evans won the high-octane event in 2017 and he’ll be one of the favourites for further home success

Wales Rally GB

in the autumn. Over the winter, the Welshman signed up

www.walesrallygb.com

for the world championship winning Toyota team and he has wasted no time making a major impression for his

Wales U20s

new employers.

wru.wales/tickets/

Fans fired-up by Elfyn’s success will be able to buy tickets

Little Mix, Westlife and the 2020 Coral Tour

to this year’s Wales Rally GB when the 2020 competitive

Championship can all be booked via the Venue

route is announced in a couple of months’ time. For now,

Cymru box office. Call 01492 872000 or visit

they are strongly advised to ink the autumn dates into

venuecymru.co.uk for further information

their 2020 diaries. n

NWM 2020 Page 35

MIWTINI!

STARTING A

BUSINESS Join the ENTERPRISE HUB for: Co-working office space Community to network and collaborate Business advice Educational workshops and social events

O H , A N D W E F O R G OT TO M E N T I O N T H E B E S T B I T . . .

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WW W.HWBMENTER.WALES 0 1248 85 8 0 7 0 / P O S T@ HW BM E N TE R .WA LE S

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FOOD & DRINK INSIDE: recipes wine cocktail of the month

NWM 2020 Page 37

OF THE

Month

INGREDIENTS • 30ml Calvados • 15ml Dry Vermouth • 10ml Lemon Juice • 5 ml Gomme • Champagne • 1 Slice Apple • Ice

Parisian Spring Punch Since March marks the official start of spring, you really ought to celebrate with a drink that is bound to put a spring in your step!

Celebrate with a Parisian Spring Punch, a tall, refreshing cocktail that might just make your dreams of warm evenings in cosmopolitan cities feel a little bit closer…

How to mix Fill a shaker with ice cubes. Add the Calvados, Dry Vermouth, lemon juice and Gomme. Shake and strain into a tall glass filled with crushed ice. Top up with Champagne. Garnish with apple.

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 39

Hamdden Conwy Leisure Mae ein haelodau’n mwynhau mynediad at:

Our members enjoy access to:

Saith Ystafell Ffitrwydd

Seven Fitness Suites

Pedwar Pwll Nofio

Four swimming pools

Dros 150 o ddosbarthiadau ffitrwydd yr wythnos

Over 150 exercise classes each week

Cyrtiau tennis dan do ac awyr agored gyda llifoleuadau

Indoor and outdoor floodlit tennis courts Squash, badminton, and table tennis

Sboncen, badminton, a thennis bwrdd, Traciau Athletau

Various membership packages and pay-as-you-go options available

Mae ystod o becynnau aelodaeth ac opsiynau talu wrth fynd ar gael

New junior membership for 11-15 year olds

Aelodaeth iau newydd ar gyfer plant rhwng 11 a 15 oed

State of the art gym equipment

Offer campfa o’r radd flaenaf

Friendly, qualified, experienced staff Exercise programming and classes to suit all ages and abilities

Rhaglenni a dosbarthiadau ymarfer corff sy’n addas ar gyfer bob oedran a gallu

Am ragor o wybodaeth

ymwelwch â’ch Canolfan Hamdden leol, neu anfonwch e-bost atom ar hamdden.leisure@conwy.gov.uk

For more information

please visit your local Leisure Centre, or email us at hamdden.leisure@conwy.gov.uk

Food for thought

It is one of the many ironies of existence

sign by the entrance of their cave. But then,

that the punishments we were threatened

just as the oppressing gloom of winter is

with as children have become something to

about to get too much, Nature’s alarm clock

look forward to and covet, now that we have

goes off in the form of snowdrops, daffodils

become parents ourselves. “Right, that’s it!

and slightly longer evenings, and suddenly,

You are going to bed at 8pm!” Back in 1983

like a dozing bear catching the scent of

that would have meant missing Hardcastle &

fresh berries in his nostrils, we wake up,

McCormick on TV or something similar, and it

wipe the sleep out of our eyes and forge

would have destroyed the whole week.

ahead into a fresh New Year.

Now, the very possibility of being able to go

My taste in food also changes around March

to bed at 8pm is so outlandishly unrealistic,

time, skewing towards lighter, fresher

it’s heartbreaking to even imagine such a

fare. By now, I’ll have eaten so many hearty

Cai Ross is co-owner

luxurious treat. “That’s it, go to your bedroom

casseroles and rich game that I won’t even

and Maitre d’ of

and read!?” Oh to have someone shout that at

want to hear the word ‘Venison’ (or indeed

the award-winning

me and mean it. What bliss.

‘hearty’) for at least another 80 months.

Paysanne Bistro in Deganwy, which has

It hasn’t helped that we made the fatal

North Wales flings off its own deluxe duvet

been serving French

mistake of splashing out on a posh, goose-

and comes magnificently alive in the spring.

country-style food to

down duvet for the winter. That and the

Now is the perfect time to go walking around

the fine people of North

discombobulatingly deep sleeps I’ve enjoyed

the heather in Gors Maen Llwyd, or spotting

Wales since 1988. He

during Dry January, meant that most

guillemots on South Stack Cliffs, or ambling

also writes for Calibre

mornings I have had to physically spatula

around the Great Orme in Llandudno among

Magazine, BBC Good

myself out of my indescribably warm bed in

the goats and the butterflies. It’s like taking in

Food, HeyUGuys.com

order to face the day.

a lungful of the freshest air, having spent three

and The North Wales

months breathing through a woollen scarf.

Weekly News

Grizzly Bears have often displayed great wisdom at this time of year, napping away

Here are a couple of refreshing, super-light

for weeks on end with a ‘Do Not Disturb’

recipes to put a little spring in your step…n

NWM 2020 Page 41

MAGAZINE

RECIPES ASPARAGUS WITH POACHED EGG AND HOLLANDAISE SAUCE Serves 2 J 150g organic British asparagus J 2 large free-range eggs (plus the yolks of four more for the sauce) J 4 large free-range egg yolks J 250g cold unsalted butter J 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar J Juice of half a lemon There are any number of ways to serve asparagus, but I always come back to this classic pairing – the added bonus of a soft poached egg.

This is a three-pan job. Bring water to a rolling boil in two of them while you make the hollandaise sauce.

LETTUCE & MINT SOUP Serves 4/6 J 2 round lettuce (not Iceberg lettuce) J 1 medium sized onion (chopped) J 350g diced, peeled potatoes J 900ml vegetable stock J 75g butter J 1 bunch fresh mint J Salt, sugar and freshly ground pepper Fry the onions in the butter, until soft but not browned, add the diced potatoes and continue slowly for five minutes or so. Add

Put the egg yolks and butter into a mixing bowl set above a saucepan of lightly boiling water. Heat very gently – it’s very important that the heat isn’t too high or it will scramble the eggs. Whisk the sauce constantly – adding the vinegar once all the butter has melted – until you have a nice, thick sauce.

Once the butter has melted, turn up the heat to medium-low and whisk vigorously until it thickens.

If it begins to steam, take it off the heat, but don’t stop whisking.

At this point, drop the asparagus into one pan and poach two eggs in the other. Four minutes in each pan should do the trick.

Stir the lemon juice into the sauce and season to your taste. Then plate up, dividing the drained asparagus between two of you. Top with a poached egg, then ladle the hollandaise sauce over it. Devour immediately.

the stock and simmer until cooked.

Meanwhile, remove the stalks from the lettuce and chop roughly, remove the stalks from the mint leaves, add a little sugar and chop. Add this lot to the soup and bring to a simmer for a few minutes. Liquidise or blend to your liking and season to taste. Serve it hot or cold, with a little cream swirled into each bowl.

Page 42 NWM 2020

Don’t fancy cooking?

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Raise your glass

Dathlu’r lleol a’r Gymraeg/ Celebrate local and Welsh March is the month in which we

Isle of Anglesey and their

celebrate Saint David’s Day, the

flavoured gins are subtly

patron saint of Wales, and which

infused with local fruits.

falls on 1st March – the date of Saint David’s death in 589 AD.

Our area also boasts lots of craft breweries, they make

Traditional festivities include

some amazing beers, and

wearing daffodils and leeks,

supply local bars, restaurants

recognised symbols of Wales and

and tap rooms with some

Saint David respectively and eating

beers from a wide spectrum

traditional Welsh food, including

of flavours and styles. The

cawl and Welsh rarebit. We are

magic hands of the Black Cloak

now fortunate that alongside these

Brewery and Taproom pull off

more traditional offerings, we can

some crazy creations of their

celebrate with some amazing local

own, and some collaborations,

produce in the wine, spirits and

while curating a great selection

beer sector.

of others on the pump and in cans. Wild Horse Brewery in Llandudno, Conwy Brewery in

Gwinllan Conwy is an important part of this offer. We are lucky as a wine seller to be able to have on our shelves unique,

Llysfaen, Snowdon Craft Beer in Colwyn Bay, Pollys in Mold,

award winning wines which are grown and produced just

Purple Moose in Porthmadog, Denbeigh Brewery, Cwrw Llyn,

three miles from our shop. White, red, rose, sparkling white

Hafod, the list goes on and on.

and rose means there is something for everyone. As well as the wine there is of course their tours and tastings (which can be

The range of styles that they are able to offer is extensive, the

had with a tasting platter of local produce).

genius of flavour combinations that shouldn’t work (Birthday Cake IPA for instance) alongside classics Coffee Porter (Mr

There are of course several vineyards in North Wales and

Mills from Heartland coffee and Wild Horse). There really is

they are producing some wonderful wines and they are also

something for everyone (though still waiting for a low/alcohol

worth checking out. But there is also a growing number of

free local – anyone taking the challenge?).

people producing spirits across North Wales also. If you like Gin there are some wonderful gins from plain and pure from

Now more than ever with the great combination of local

Foragers (who have the foraging rights for botanicals on

produce (local raised meats, diary, local grown vegetables,

Snowdon), Phure in Conwy, through Pant-Y-Foel who make a

cheeses, pies, beers, sprits, wines, chocolate etc etc) we are able

range of flavoured gins and Aber Falls with a wide spectrum of

to celebrate our national Saint with wonderful food and drink.

standard and flavoured gins.

So even if you missed 1st March, why not try something local to celebrate at some point this month.

One of my favourites is from Llanfairpwll distillery (who are based in Gaerwen but from Llanfair-pwllgwyngyll-gogery-

Diwrnod hapus St Davids

chwyrn-drobwll-llan-tysilio-gogo-goch – but for those of us still learning Welsh LlanfairPwll is easier). They distil on the

Tim

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 45 45

MAGAZINE

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

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

Call today for a free, no obligation quote

01492 543 317 info@conwyvalleywindows.co.uk

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

Page 46 NWM 2020

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

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

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

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

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

- I. Urbat NWM 2020 Page 47

MAGAZINE

Page 48 NWM 2020

HOMES & INTERIORS

NWM 2020 Page 49

WINDOWS • DOORS • ORANGERIES • CONSERVATORIES • SOFFITS • FASCIAS • CLADDING

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MOLD: Bromfield Industrial Estate, Mold Flintshire CH7 1HA

www.snowdoniawindows.co.uk

Property of the month

No.1 Pine Court is a lovely five-bedroom family home which offers tastefully presented accommodation.

The front elevation does not give a hint of the size or layout that this spacious chalet style house provides.

Situated on the corner of a small cul-de-sac of individually styled properties, within a large private plot and located in a sought after area of Upper Colwyn Bay, the property is located within walking distance to the well-regarded local primary school and the popular Pen y Bryn fully licensed pub and restaurant.

The spacious accommodation features solid oak flooring, log burning stove, large fitted kitchen/ dining room, replacement boiler and space saving & stylish radiators. The layout also offers the possibility of providing a ground floor suite for a dependant relative or teenager.

Externally there is a block paved driveway with space for 4 cars, plus an over size double integral garage and private lawned gardens to front and sides and a rear block paved terrace/patio.

For more information No.1 Pine Court is currently on the market with Anthony Flint Estate Agents for ÂŁ445,000. Visit www.anthonyflint.co.uk

n

NWM 2020 Page 51

Ein Pobl, Eich Tîm Our People, Your Team

CYFREITHWYR•SOLICITORS

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Our specialist corporate, commercial property, dispute resolution and employment lawyers provide support to help you grow and protect your business, giving you a solid foundation to build upon

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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

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

TYN Y GROES

LLANDUDNO JUNCTION £385,000

£385,000

• Immaculately presented detached 5 bedroom family home • This stunning home enjoys breathtaking & far reaching views • Built in 2013 to a high specification • Driveway parking, double garage, beautifully landscaped rear garden with a variety of seating areas

• Spacious Well planned detached 4 bedroom Home • Spectacular panoramic views, sitting in approximately 1 1/4 acres • Off road parking, 2 single garages & car port • Good size garden at the rear enjoying stunning views

EPC

F

LLANRHOS

LLANDUDNO £265,000

£325,000 • Well presented 6/7 bedroom semi-detached home situated close to the heart of the town centre.

• The property retains lovely period features, good size rooms with high ceilings & original tiled floors.

• Part upvc double glazing and gas central heating.

• Driveway parking and low maintenance rear garden with outhouse storage.

• Immaculately presented & extended 2 bedroom bungalow • Situated in a convenient & sought after location • The property has been refurbished & extended creating a light & well planned home • Driveway parking, garage, front & south facing rear gardens

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

INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS

Page 54 NWM 2020

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

The Selling & Letting Agents

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

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

PENRHYN BAY

RHOS ON SEA £329,950

£269,950

• Five Bedroom Semi Detached House • Retaining a Wealth of Character Features • Off Road Parking & Garage • Situated in a Sought After Area

• Impressive Four Bedroom Semi Detached House • Refurbished to a High Standard To Create Light & Spacious Accommodation • Situated in a Sought After Location • No chain

EPC

F

COLWYN BAY

UPPER COLWYN BAY £199,950

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

• Superb Development Opportunity • Planning Granted For a three/Four Bedroom House • Situated in a Sought After Location • Planning Reference 0/46621 / No Chain

£495,000

• Impressive Four Bedroom Detached House • Occupies A Good Size Corner Plot • Designed By The Renowned Architect Sydney Colwyn Foulkes • Retains A Wealth Of Original Features

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

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

NWM 2020 Page 55

Offers in the region of (O.I.R.O)

Clos Bodrhyddan, Rhyl Ref: WR8963

£269,950 Bodfari

£279,000

Ref: WE6592

• Detached modern family home

• Four double bedrooms

• Unique detached converted chapel

• Picturesque views

• Two reception rooms

• Open plan kitchen/diner

• Three double bedrooms

• Stunningly presented

• Beautifully presented throughout

• Master bedroom with en-suite

• Well maintained gardens with raised gazebo and patio

• Large enclosed garden with garage and parking

• EPC rating B-83

• Feature multi-fuel burner

• Simply must be viewed

• EPC rating G-17

£385,000

Clocaenog Ref: RN1691

• 3 Bedroom Character Property

• Set in approx. 0.4 acres

• No chain

• Stunning views of Moel Famau

• Modern fitted kitchen

• Exposed beams and log burner

• Detached garage with studio above

• EPC rating E-41

£379,950

Tanrallt Road, Gwespyr Ref: WP3991

£520,000

Cilcain Road, Pantymwtn Ref: WM523

• 5 bedroom house

• One bedroom annex

• 4 bedroom architect designed detached house

• Stunning views

• Village location

• Spectacular open plan living room/kitchen/dining room

• Immaculate condition

• uPVC double glazing throughout

• Private rear garden with land

• Large games room

• Ready to move into

• EPC rating E-47

• Underfloor heating

• EPC rating C-80

• Far reaching views

• Ample off road parking

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MARCH

INSIDE OUT North Wales Magazine brings you the latest products from the world of interiors

Moroccan Sun

Dining Al Fresco

Add a touch of the exotic with the

The Morsø Forno cabin is made for those who love to cook outdoors whatever the

lovely colourful range of Moroccan

weather. The beautifully crafted cabin is an elegant garden structure incorporating

style egg shaped lanterns from the

internal bench seats and dining tables and also benefits from external cushioned

Gift Company, North Wales and Conwy

bar seats with shelving for added convenience and blinds along two sides. With

Garden World. At just £25 they make a

two cooking preparation tables it perfectly frames the cast iron Morsø Forno

lovely gift – or a treat for yourself!

outdoor oven and insulated flue system. So versatile – perfect for pizzas, juicy

www.giftcompany.com

steaks, smoked salmon or delicious lamb steaks – the award winning Morsø Forno will become the centre of your outdoor entertaining! www.rnwilliams.co.uk

Anyone for tea?

The Grosvenor six-person Spring Song Bone china tea set is a great way to splash a little colour to your afternoon tea with friends.

The gorgeous green leaf and white flower with a gilt trim is available at the Afonwen Centre for £45. More vintage tea sets with various patterns and designs are available starting at £39. www.afonwen.co.uk

NWM 2020 Page 59

MAGAZINE

Elegant extensions Snowdonia Windows & Doors is proud to offer bespoke orangeries and garden rooms, garage doors, roofline products and replacement solid conservatory roofs. The orangeries are elegant extensions to a home with light flooding down from the lantern roof and through tall windows. They are more

Picture perfect A Jack Woodhams original, this gorgeous shot was captured during January 2020 using a Canon 5D Mark III. It is available in various sizes and can be hung in any room of the house for a great conversation starter. Prices start from just ÂŁ14, there is free shipping within the UK and 10% off orders over ÂŁ100. www.jackwoodhams.com

A bit on the side This unique, statement sideboard with a distinctive curved shape is available from MY Furniture.

The exterior is finished in an extremely strong toughened mirror to the sides, while the top is made of polished marble. Three drawers with soft close runners and two spacious cupboard areas with height adjustable glass shelves complete this impressive sideboard package. www.my-furniture.co.uk

Page 60 NWM 2020

substantial than conservatories as they have side elevations constructed from traditional building materials, which will become a stunning edition to your home. www.snowdoniawindows.co.uk

Fires and Fireplaces The Fireplace Specialist You Can Trust...

CHOOSE FROM OUR STUNNING FIREPLACE SELECTION AT OUR LARGE SHOWROOM AND ENHANCE YOUR HOME

• Home surveys and made to measure bespoke service • Quality installation from start to finish - No outside contractors • Plasterwork, gas runs, load bearing lintels, chimney cowls, all rubbish removed from site Call: 01492 536353 or Visit our showroom at:

Unit 1, Falcon Estate, Eagles Farm Road, Mochdre Business Park, Mochdre, LL28 5HF Mon – Fri: 10.00 - 5.00 and Sat 10.00 - 4.00 Sunday CLOSED • Customer car park • Wheelchair friendly

Page 62 NWM 2020

Where to stay in North Wales The great British staycation is here to, well, stay! So whether you already live in North Wales and are just looking for a weekend break, or if you are visiting from afar, here are a few ideas of where to stay…

Cwt Bach, Abergele

This is North Wales at its best. This one-bedroom romantic get-away in situated in the heart of the countryside. Boasting its own private garden with a hot tub and far-reaching views, just five miles from the coast, it really is the perfect get away for couples. www.walescottageholidays.co.uk

St Vincent House, Llandudno This stunning Victorian townhouse offers a luxury

boutique experience in a convenient setting, just a few minutes walk from all that this popular tourist destination has to offer. This eight-bedroom townhouse is laid out over three floors, sleeping 16 in style… www.northwalesholidaycottages.co.uk

2 Bryn Hyfryd, Llanbedrog

This newly renovated three-bedroom holiday home in Llanbedrog village offers a seamless blend of traditional features with contemporary styling. A sumptuous interior and sleek exterior make this a perfect sophisticated seaside escape for all seasons. www.abersochholidayhomes.co.uk

Swn y Mor, Deganwy

If you are looking to holiday with your dog, look no further!

This three-bedroom property sleeps eight, and is ideal for families. Located just yards from Deganwy beach and within walking distance to a range of cafés, bars and restaurants, it’s the games room with Xbox that will appeal to the kids! www.northwalesholidaycottages.co.uk

NWM 2020 Page 63

A once in a lifetime adventure Take a once in a lifetime adventure in 2020 and travel on the Snowdon Mountain Railway. The railway is due to open again on the 20th of March with trains initially travelling to Clogwyn ž up the mountain, where the open station offers spectacular views to the valleys below. The summit service is due to commence by May and will run until the end of October (weather permitting).

Book online at snowdonrailway.co.uk Snowdon Mountain Railway, Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4TT

Walking

world

MOEL FFAMAU AND FOEL FENLLI

This energetic walk takes in the two highest summits in the Clwydian

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW J Distance: 4.7 miles/7.56 kilometres J Time: Allow 3.5 hours J Start: Coed Moel Ffamau car park south

range of hills that run roughly along the border between Denbighshire

west of the A494 Mold to Ruthin Road.

and Flintshire. The Clwydian hills offer superb high-level walking

The car park is to be found on the minor

on mostly good paths and give stunning views in all directions.

road signposted for Moel Ffamau Country

For todays route we climb to the tops of Moel Ffamau (1,821 ft/555

Park just after Loggerheads (if coming from

metres) and Foel Fenlli (1,677 ft/511 metres) in a superb circuit that

Mold) or after Llanferres (if coming from

takes in atmospheric forests and bare open hillsides high above the

Ruthin). There are toilets near the car park

surrounding valleys. Below you, towns such as Ruthin and Denbigh look tiny and a long way away and the network of farmers fields that surround them make pretty patterns in the landscape.

J Grid Ref: SJ 171610 J Nearest postcode: CH7 5SH J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer 265 – Clwydian Range (Prestatyn,

On the summit of Moel Ffamau you will find the remains of the Jubilee Tower which was originally designed to look like an Egyptian obelisk.

Mold and Ruthin)

J What to expect: This is high-level hill

It was built to commemorate the golden jubilee of King George III in

walk to two remote summits where the

1810 and was designed by Thomas Harrison of Chester. The tower

weather can change rapidly. You should

was never completed due to lack of funds and in 1862 a violent storm

choose a day of settle weather for the

brought much of it down. The remaining upper structure was pulled

outing and avoid the route in inclement

down for safety reasons and that left just the base which you see

conditions. Paths are generally good and

today. On a clear day much of North Wales and North West England

straightforward to follow but can be rough.

can be seen from the tower remains where you will find viewfinders

There are plenty of steep ascents and

to help you identify what you see. The tower remains are a Grade II

descents throughout the walk. Full hill

listed building.

walking gear is required along with good walking boots.

Moel Ffamau is very popular and you will usually find yourself sharing the summit with lots of other walkers. In contrast, Foel Fenlli is a much quieter top but with equally stunning views. The remains of an Iron Age hill fort are to be found on the summit and this has impressive

J Suitable for: Experienced walkers with hill walking experience

J Dogs: OK on leads J Refreshments: There is a cafĂŠ and pub at

ramparts that have to be crossed to get to the highest point. The

nearby Loggerheads and Bwlch Penbarra

whole Clwydian Hills range is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

(on the route) has a small refreshments hut (open weekends mostly). Both Mold and

As this is a full-blown hill walk you should choose a day of settled

Ruthin have lots of facilities.

weather and wear walking boots and appropriate clothing before attempting it.

NWM 2020 Page 65

2

MAGAZINE

WALK DETAILS START/ FINISH

3

START From the car park head left of the

4

children’s play area to take the sign-posted path for the arboretum, pass an information board and reach the start of the coloured marked trails. Go ahead on

5

a good track following the red, yellow and purple (more a deep blue) routes and enter the forest. Climb steeply passing marker posts and arrows. Stay ahead at a crossing track shortly and

J Bwlch Penbarra - this is a wild mountain pass at the end of

rise to go left at a track junction by a marker post. Continue

an unclassified road between Tafarn-y-Gelyn and Llanbedr-

to rise in the woods. Rise to a track crossroads where the red

Dyffryn-Clwyd. The pass sits at 1,181 ft/360 metres and has a

route goes left. Here go straight ahead following the Yellow and

car park and snack bar. It is often referred to as ‘Windy Gap’

Dark Blue/purple routes. Climb steadily in the trees and cross a

because of the strong winds you get here.

path where the Yellow route goes left. Stay ahead following the dark Blue/Purple route to rise to a point where the trees thin a

4) Exit the car park via a path to reach the road. Cross over and

bit and the angle eases. Continue to climb on the obvious track

take a path to curve left and then right into another car park.

and pass through thicker woods again. Continue to climb out of

Walk to the end of the car park which is a wider area between

the trees into open ground. Continue following the track past

a gate left and one right. Take the footpath right of a gate

odd marker posts. Drop down slightly to curve left and then

ahead and pass between two posts. Rise up the path and pass

right as the track rises steeply again. Stay ahead on the main

through a kissing gate. Rise in trees to soon curve right and

track ignoring turnings right or left to pass through a kissing

pass through a fence gap. Climb beyond to exit the trees and

gate as the slope eases. Walk to the Jubilee Tower remains on

continue to cross a stile to the open hillside. Take a steep uphill

the summit of Moel Ffamau and climb into them.

path and follow the fence left to soon cut half right away from it.

Climb steeply to soon curve left back to the fence again. Follow

Points of interest on this section

it for a while to continue ahead up steps as the fence bends left.

J The Jubilee Tower remains – the Tower was originally

Climb through fort ramparts and at the top of the steps cut left

designed to look like an Egyptian obelisk. It was built to

following the path along the ramparts. As the angle eases curve

commemorate the golden jubilee of King George III in 1810

right away from the ramparts to reach the cairn on the summit

but was never completed due to lack of funds. In 1862 a

of Foel Fenlli.

violent storm brought much of it down. The remaining upper structure was pulled down for safety reasons and that left

Points of interest on this section

just the base which you see today.

J Foel Fenlli Hillfort – this is believed to have been in use in the Iron Age and has impressive ramparts.

2) Exit the Jubilee Tower remains on the south side and take a good path to the right of the one you used to get the summit area

5) Re-trace your steps back down the hill to the stile. Here

in the first place – this is signposted for ‘Offa’s Dyke National

leave your outbound route to follow a path half left and curve

Trail’ and for ‘Bwlch Penbarra 1.5 miles’ and ‘Chepstow 157 miles’.

around the hillside with Bwlch Penbarra down right. The path

Follow the good wide track to descend from the summit. Pick up

is narrow and a little exposed and when it becomes grassy it

a wall for a while but soon cut half right away from it and follow

drops right. Follow it downhill and when the angle eases cut

the dark blue/purple arrows to stay ahead on the good track.

right to go right of a pond and pass a gate to reach the second

Continue downhill to reach a path junction by a bench, a purple

car park at Bwlch Penbarra again. Go straight across the car

sign for ‘keeping dogs on a lead’ and a marker post.

park to pass through a gate left of a gate. Take the descending forest track beyond. Follow this to pass by a barrier and rise to

Points of interest on this section

a road. Go right and as you approach toilets cut left to the access

J Offa’s Dyke National Trail – this runs for 177 miles/284 km

lane for to take a path left of the toilets. Drop down steps, cross

from Prestatyn in North Wales to Chepstow in the south. For much of its way it closely follows the Welsh/English border.

3) Cut half right passing the bench and descending the main track (Offa’s Dyke National Trail). As you descend the path curves left. Continue on the track to pass by a barrier and enter a carpark at Bwlch Penbarra.

Points of interest on this section

Page 66 NWM 2020

a bridge and return to the car park at the start. n 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.

MAGAZINE

Community

News

Employment law update Businesses across North Wales will be updated on the latest changes in employment law at a series of events being held this spring. Employment law seminars are hosted by law firm Lanyon Bowdler every spring and autumn to ensure people running companies and those involved in the management and welfare of

On the move

employees are kept fully up to date with the very latest legislation.

Do you want to help your local school while getting fit at

Lanyon Bowdler will be holding the seminars at Porth

the same time? Well County Borough Council might just

Eirias, Colwyn Bay, on Friday 20th March between

be able to help… Members of Llandudno Junction and

12.30pm and 2.30pm. The seminars are free to attend,

Colwyn Bay Leisure Centres and Llandudno Swim Centre

but there is a small charge for HR professionals, and

are being invited to “Move It” in the name of their local

anyone wishing to attend is being asked to book a

school. Members contribute “MOVES” by tracking their

place well in advance. Charlotte Morris, one of Lanyon

physical activity using the MyWellness App. Activity can be

Bowdler’s specialist employment solicitors, will be

tracked on the gym equipment or by exercising outdoors. If

presenting the seminar. “These are always popular

a centre hits the targets set by Technogym as a site, then

events when we can update people on recent changes

Technogym will donate exercise equipment to whichever

and what they mean for them and their business,” she

local primary schools Conwy Council have named as

explained.

beneficiaries. Will the members hit their target? Can you

“We will be providing key pointers for employers

help them do it? Watch this space!

in relation to managing sickness absence and

www.technogym.com

highlighting important principles arising from reported cases decided since our autumn updates.”

To book a place at the seminars, visit www.eventbrite. co.uk and search employment seminars in Colwyn Bay. For more information, email info@lblaw.co.uk or call 0800 652 3371

Page 68 NWM 2020

A walk on the wildside Mike Potts of Rhos-on-Sea has written a book detailing his 30-year career filming wildlife all over the world, mainly for the BBC Natural History Unit. “In my early childhood in the West Midlands I developed an interest in natural history, particularly birds,” explained Mike. “I spent many weekends ringing them for migration studies, to see how far they travelled and how long they lived. This eventually led to a job in North Wales, working for the then Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food, studying and ringing Oystercatchers on the Bury Inlet in South Wales. When the MAFF project came to an end I was fortunate to be able to stay in North Wales working in oyster cultivation, firstly with the White Fish Authority then Seed Oysters UK. Over several years I had developed a strong interest in filming wildlife and l was fortunate to secure a contract to make a short film for the RSPB Film Unit called ‘Silver Meadows’. This eventually led to a post of staff cameraman and I spent four years with the unit making films about British birds. In 1982 I left the RSPB to become freelance and went to Borneo for a year to make a film called ‘Siaru - The Tidal Forest’ about the wildlife of mangrove forests.” The book, ‘Untangling the Knot, Belugas and Bears’, is out now and is available from Whittles Publishing. www.whittlespublishing.com

Creative carving Talented chainsaw sculptor Paul Morris is busy carving his latest masterpiece – a five-foot tall gorilla. The giant ape will take pride of place among a magnificent menagerie of wooden wild creatures at the Pendine Park care organisation in Wrexham where Paul works as part of the gardening and maintenance team. The leafy 11-acre grounds on the outskirts of the town are already home to a grizzly bear, giant squirrels, owls and hawks. Paul, 56, wanted to add a bit of colour to brighten up the lives of the residents. “I see a piece of wood and can just spot the subject staring back at me, in this case, a gorilla for Mario and Gill,” he said. “I started out carving owls, squirrels and the like from wood that would otherwise go to waste.

I think it gives residents something to look at and brightens up the garden. I then carved the big bear in memory of Mario’s late father who many years ago travelled the world as a bear and lion trainer in the circus.” The bear now stands on display at the rear Highfield House Care Home and is in a place where residents can see it whenever they look out at the gardens.

Welsh Art in London As part of the ‘Wales Week in London’ the London Welsh Centre will be hosting an exhibition of Contemporary Welsh Art. Attending will be Russ Chester from Porthmadog, who has been invited to the exhibition as one of a select group of Welsh artists. “To many people a landscape painting can often be perceived as a ‘still life’, but to sit or stand in the landscape for many hours you become aware of the constant movement of trees, grasses, clouds, light, shadows and reflections,” explains Russ, who is currently working towards his first major solo exhibition in Oriel Mon. “It’s my wish to emulate that movement using brushwork, fingers, palette knife or anything else to hand, and to let people see how paint can be used.”

The London Welsh Centre is the Welsh cultural hub in London and therefore provides the perfect space for such a great opportunity for anyone interested in Welsh art. All sales of artwork will be commission-free, so the buyer knows that every artist is getting the full benefit for their hard work.

NWM 2020 Page 69

WHERE EVERY PUPIL MATTERS

MAGAZINE

RYDAL PENRHOS PRE-SCHOOL NOW ACCEPTING CHILDREN AGED TWO Wrap around care included • Weekly Forest School sessions • 2-4 year-olds At Rydal Penrhos Pre-School, young children will explore, investigate and question so that they learn while their curiosity and imagination is given full reign.

OPEN MORNING Saturday 2nd May 10am-12.30pm For more information contact admissions@rydalpenrhos.com or call 01492 530381

www.rydalpenrhos.com/pre-school

Page 70 NWM 2020

Learning by heart After school enrichment is important to the whole community

instantly have a captive audience as this is something they

including parents, pupils and educators in so many ways.

have chosen to do and focus a portion of their time on.

Extending learning activities beyond the normal classroom

You have a group that wants to be there. They want to learn,

timeslots provides an environment for pupils to further grow academically, allows a schedule that aligns with parents’ work schedules,

they want to extend. So having after school activities allows our pupils to delve into the many very different interests they have and extend their learning.

and can offer activities that go beyond the school curriculum.

Whether it be academic sessions, One enormous benefit is you

sporting activities, performing

are supplementing education

arts development or groups such

and you are doing that through

as the Combined Cadet Force,

offering activities that are

enrichment opportunities allow pupils to build friendships, learn

interesting to the pupils and of

additional skills outside of their

interest to the families.

comfort zone and engage with the It allows you, as a school, to develop

community to boost the school’s profile.

children’s skills and interest levels in things that you don’t have time to do during the school day.

This is something that is particularly evident here at Rydal Penrhos, where our prep and senior school pupils participate

I think most schools will say it is a priority of theirs to develop

in a wealth of community projects throughout the academic

the whole child, but often times between the time slot when

year at various venues, in addition to raising thousands for

you look at priorities, those kind of interest-laden things

regional and national causes alongside our Friends of Rydal

might get pushed to the bottom.

Penrhos parent group.

I think a very healthy after school activities program can help

This gives each pupil a great sense of pride and

schools with their philosophy, vision or mission to develop the

accomplishment that they have improved the local community

whole child.

or contributed to an extremely worthy cause, which also boosts confidence and self-esteem, which can make a

It also provides children with multiple opportunities to be

successful transition into a classroom environment.

engaged in after school programs that are recreational as well as educational.

Being in school doesn’t necessarily just equate to studying hard and getting good results. This is, of course, of paramount

As Rydal Penrhos Senior School head, part of my role is

importance and how a good education establishment is

developing the whole child in whatever capacity that may be.

judged. However, igniting their passions and enhancing their

We support art, music, physical and outdoor education, and

experiences not only looks very favourable on a university

we have a strong enrichment programme because I believe

application, but can also make the difference between a

that is important in the development of children.

healthy mind set and strong wellbeing which is equally as important in today’s day and age.

Seeing happy pupils that are learning, developing and growing to supplement what we are doing at school as part of important

Learning does not end in the classroom, and having a strong

childhood development is extremely heart-warming.

enrichment programme could even develop into a possible career path in their years to come. n

Enrichment options also gives our pupils the opportunity to tap into their interests.

As a teacher, your pupils have to be there during a typical school day, but if they are participating in an enrichment or extra-curricular option of their choosing it enables you to

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

NWM 2020 Page 71

MAGAZINE

EDUCATION NEWS Design engineer gains new qualification

Netball success for Rydal Penrhos

A Preparatory School netball side are celebrating after scooping a high-profile regional tournament win. The Rydal Penrhos

A design engineer is coupling more

U11 side competed at the Urdd Conwy Championships in a

than a decade of his industrial

field of 16 other sides

experience with the expertise at

on Wednesday 4th

Wrexham Glyndwr University to gain

February, with a place

a new qualification via a Degree Apprenticeship. James

in the prestigious

Bonner, from Great Sutton near Ellesmere Port, works at

national finals at stake.

iCAM Engineering in Connah’s Quay as a Design Engineer.

They began their

Since the launch of Engineering Degree Apprenticeships

quest for the crown

at Glyndwr in May 2019, has been studying at Glyndwr

with a convincing 8-0

one day a week to work towards a BEng in Industrial

victory over Ysgol y

Engineering Design.

Plas Llanelian, before

“I have actually been working in my industry since I was

continuing their exceptional start with a 7-0 win against Ysgol

16,” he said. “I started off as a welder, and worked up to

Llandrillo yn Rhos. A sterner test awaited them in their next

the job I am doing now as a design engineer, and then last

outing against Ysgol Glan Morfa, which saw two sides come

year I was asked by the company I work at ‘do you want

away with a share of the spoils in a dramatic 4-4 draw. The

to do a degree apprenticeship?’ For me, straight away,

talented squad returned to winning ways in fine style during

the answer was yes – getting a qualification like this is

their next outing, which resulted in a clinical 7-0 success over

something I have always wanted to do.” Developing his

Ysgol Craig y Don, before rounding off the group stages with

university work alongside his family life and his career in

a tremendous 6-0 victory against Ysgol Llanddulas. Their

industry means that James has found himself developing

outstanding performance during the preliminary stage saw

a structured approach to his studies – and he is using

Rydal Penrhos qualify for the semi-finals and a test against

Glyndwr’s newly-opened social learning spaces, such

Ysgol San Sior, which they overcame in stylish fashion that

as the Study and the Gallery, to their full advantage –

eventually came with a 7-0 win to book their place in the

even first thing in the morning. “For lots of us on Degree

final. Once again, it was Ysgol Glan Morfa that stood in their

Apprenticeships, because we are all working, that makes

way, but the Rydal Penrhos side turned in another incredible

a difference. I’m not here to mess about, I’m here to get a

performance to come away with a 5-1 triumph and secure the

degree. It all fits together, and I know I am doing it for my

crown. The U11 squad will now take their place at the Urdd

family as well as for myself!”

National Netball Finals later this year and look to add to Rydal

www.glyndwr.ac.uk

Penrhos’ incredible recent success in the competition. rydalpenrhos.com

Coleg Cambria improvements ahead of schedule The £21million redevelopment of Coleg Cambria Yale will transform education in Wrexham. The Grove Park Road site is due to be finished in July and open this September in time for the 2020/21 academic year. Improved facilities include a new-look kitchen and restaurant, a sports complex, cutting-edge study spaces, IT suites and a 200-seat conference hall. Bodelwyddan-based Wynne Construction is ahead of schedule and much of the 96,000 sq ft building has been completed already, including the concrete flooring.

Vertical insulation cladding is in the process of being covered with rain-screen cladding to finish and waterproof

Page 72 NWM 2020

external walls, all classroom and office walls are constructed, and electrical and mechanical works are underway.

“The revamped Yale site will impact on learners in Wrexham for generations to come,” said Cambria chief executive Yana Williams. “Coleg Cambria has invested tens of millions in new buildings across north east Wales making it an exciting time for the college, and while the facilities are important this commitment to providing highquality, modern and innovative study environments shows our students, their families and the local community they are our number one priority.” www.cambria.ac.uk

diwrnod agored.

6 Mehefin

open day.

6 June

Archebwch nawr / Book now 01978 293439 wgu.ac.uk/openday NWM 2020 Page 73

You & Your

Pet

QUICK AND EASY WAYS TO DEAL WITH FLEAS Fleas are a nuisance, there is no other way of describing them.

Flea Powders

They are tiny little blood-sucking parasites that are very

Flea powders are only active for the few days that they remain

common and can be hard to avoid. They can make your pet

on the coat and only kill adult fleas, not the larvae. For these

uncomfortable, sore and itchy leading to excessive licking or

reasons they don’t have a long-term effect, so are not the best

scratching, which can be one of the first signs your pet has

choice for full treatment.

fleas. Cats are good at grooming themselves so this can make it difficult to spot.

Flea Collars Flea collars have two basic functions, to repel fleas from your

Fleas can pose a much greater health risk if not treated

pet and to kill existing fleas your pet may have. Some collars

quickly. Infestations can cause anaemia due to blood loss

can cause irritation to your pet, so this method of treatment

and can be fatal, especially for younger or weaker pets. The

should only be used if it’s a high-quality and safe product

best way to deal with fleas is pre-emptively. Flea and tick

recommended by your vet.

preventatives kill fleas that come in contact with your pet, preventing your pet from bringing them home in the first

Flea Shampoo

place. There are several options that we provide in store and

Flea shampoo is effective for less than a day and will only kill

online from flea collars to liquid applicants and tablets.

fleas on your pet’s coat at the time of bathing. It doesn’t provide a long term solution and doesn’t prevent fleas from redeveloping.

Flea Combs Flea combs can be used on dogs, cats and other small animals

By using any of these preventatives, you can stop those pesky

to groom and remove fleas, lice and eggs. It’s the first step to

fleas in their tracks. However, it is important to not just treat

take when fleas are suspected, and they usually come with

your pet when it comes to fleas, but to treat the whole house.

a flea test paper to help you determine whether your pet has

Flea eggs, larvae and pupae may have spread across your

fleas.

home ready to re-infect your pets after treatment. This is why it is vital to vacuum a household with pets regularly and pay

Spot on Flea Treatment

particular attention to your pet’s favourite spots. Washing

Spot On products are applied directly to the skin at the nape

your pet’s blankets and bedding frequently will also help to

of the neck. The treatment is carried around the body through

stop the spreading of fleas.

the natural oils in their skin. This form of treatment has become a very popular and effective method of flea control.

For any more help or advice regarding flea treatment, do pop in to store and ask one of the team.n

Tablets and Injections Flea medication can also be administered in tablet or injection form and is a good option if you find it difficult to give your pet spot on treatment. It prevents the development of eggs into fleas, eliminating a potential infestation.

There are a few other short term options available which may

Sion Bashar is the store manager at petplace in Abergele. Having worked for petplace for five years he has a wealth of knowledge – and a genuine love for all things pet related. Be sure to pop in and say ’Hi’.

not be as reliable as other forms of preventative treatments.:

NWM 2020 Page 75

Cato Crane Auctioneers MAGAZINE

CELEBRATING 34 YEARS OF HELPFUL SERVICE AND SUCCESSFUL SELLING

High Quality Pictures Always in High Demand

Harold Harvey ‘St. ives Harbour’. Signed and Dated 1923 - £7,000-£10,000

High Quality Pictures Always in High Demand

• Free Pre-Sale Valuation at the Sale Room • Very Prompt and Courteous Service • Valuations for Probate and Sale • Valuations for Insurance • Weekly Collections and Furniture Auctions • Monthly Antiques and Fine Art Auctions • Specialist Book and Toy Auctions • International Advertising and Buyers • Specialist Removals with In-House Experienced Team • Removal of Low Value Items • Secure Insured Storage Facilities • Removals Arranged to All Parts of the UK • Live Internet Auctions

Our main offices and two auction rooms are located in Stanhope Street, opposite the Liverpool Marina. There is free on-road parking. Visits to clients in Wirral, Chester and North Wales are made every week. Evening and weekend visits to clients homes can be made by prior arrangement.

To book your appointments simply call John Crane personally on either 01766 771777 or mobile 07836 209995 Cato Crane Auctioneers Liverpool Auction Rooms 6 Stanhope Street Liverpool, L8 5RF

Wirral Valuation Office 48 The Mount Heswall Wirral CH60 4RD

Chester and North Wales Tel: 01244 680055 Wirral Tel: 0151 342 2321

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

www.catocrane.co.uk

Telephone Soon For Home Visit Appraisals

Page 76 NWM 2019 2020

All Things

Auctioneering

Large Wardrobes Contain Exciting Discoveries

Valuable Napoleonic Bone Boat C1810 for Restoration

High Price for Cameo Vases

1945 and Still Drinkable ?

Wardrobes come in all shapes and sizes and qualities. They

London. I am no wine expert but storing a good bottle of wine

hold our clothes, old and new, and with those clothes the

upright in a box in a centrally-heated house for 75 years was

memories of the times and occasions when we wore them and

probably not the best method or place.

now maybe they are out of fashion and redundant, or possibly you could even call any that are pre 1990 vintage!

If it had been stored correctly it could easily made £7,000 at auction but the dried cork and colour of the Sauternes made

When clients downsize or relocate it is the time for us to

us believe it had probably ‘gone off’ but it still made over

empty the wardrobes of their contents and some of these old

£600 including premiums. I just hope that it was not a very

wardrobes occasionally hold small or large surprises.

expensive bottle of vinegar!

Recently we were sorting out the contents of a property in

Do you still give lavish dinner parties every Saturday night for

Wirral where the owner collected model boats and had a fairly

friends and relations? Well, I don’t either!

mixed or, I would say, random collection.

I do remember the days in the 1960s when the formal dinner Many of these model boats had been stored on top of a

party at home or at the amazing French Restaurant with a

wardrobe for maybe 40 years as there was plenty of gathered

resident live pianist at the Adelphi Hotel in Liverpool, with an

dust. Great discoveries surface when least expected.

extensive list of fine wines was the order of the day for your Saturday night’s enjoyment.

I mentioned in my last article that Napoleonic prisoners of war brought back to Britain in the early years of the 19th Century

Fine china and fine cut drinking glasses by firms such as

also brought with them great skills, and miniature man-o-war

Royal Briefly or Stuart Crystal were produced to hold carefully

bone boat building was one of them.

selected wines for each course. However, mahogany dining tables, fine china dinner services and finely cut glasses are

These model boats were built from mutton or beef bones found

now no longer required or overly desirable.

in the prisoners broth. The prisoners used their own hair for the fine rigging. These skills turned into a small prison

With the exception of some rare and well-designed pieces of

industry and the craftsman were supplied with the raw

cut glass they, together with decanters and vases, are simply

materials to speed up production. It would take several months

not wanted by most people. Auction rooms are full of these

to produce one finished first rater three-deck 100-gun example.

items with auctioneers trying to find people to bid a sensible amount!

The prisoners sold them to supplement their rations. Dartmoor held 8,000 Napoleonic prisoners in 1810. Nowadays these boats

The Irish handmade lead-glass Waterford drinking glasses and

are extremely rare with most being in museums.

decanters, however, are rising in price in the sale rooms as the quality of these pieces is still exceptional. If you happen to have

Despite being in less than good condition a bidder last week

a Thomas Webb cameo glass vase sitting on your mantlepiece

was prepared to part with just under £4,800 to own our

you are in the money!

discovery and to spend several months in the restoration process.

This decorative glassware is of exceptional quality and was made by overlaying the base coloured glass with generally a

Another wardrobe in across the border in Wirral contained a

white layer of glass and then cutting the top layer away to leave

1945 bottle of wine from the Chateau D’Equem – it bore a label

a raised pattern of foliage and leaves – a similar technique to

stating that it had come from the cellars of the Savoy Hotel in

cutting cameo brooches from shells.

n

John Crane runs Cato Crane Auctioneers which offers a free pre-sale valuation service at its busy Valuation Office in Wirral. It also offers a home visit valuation service throughout North Wales, which is ideal if you would like advice on a few objects. Cato Crane’s selling commission rates are competitive, and a rate of 8% (or lower for very high value items) is available to clients in North Wales during March 2020.

You can call Cato Crane’s head office in Liverpool on 0151 709 5559 or their office in Wirral on 0151 342 2321 for further information or, alternatively you can ring John directly on 07836 209995 if you would like any auctioneering advice. You can also follow Cato Crane on Twitter and Instagram. www.catocrane.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 77 NWM 2020 Page 77

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Three places to visit in March

Getting back

to Nature

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

Credit: Ian Kirk

Caernarfon Bay The beaches between Morfa Dinlle and Trefor are well worth a visit. Mostly shingle, the beach sweeps in an arc around the bay, with the impressive backdrop of Yr Eifl at the western end. The beaches attract lots of gulls in late winter, especially if a cold snap brings Iceland or Glaucous Gulls from the Arctic edge. On a calm

First flight of the butterflies

day, scan the sea for grebes and

The first warm days will encourage butterflies to take to the wing. At this stage in the

divers, especially Great Northern

year, it’s only those species that overwinter as adults, tucked away in a dark corner of your

Divers, which can number 50-

garden shed, a hole in a tree or the cleft in a rock. Look out for Commas, Peacocks, Red

60 as they gather here before

Admirals and Small Tortoiseshells searching for nectar on any early flowers – so leave the

heading to Iceland to nest.

Dandelions alone! The North Wales coast is at the northern edge of the Brimstone’s range in Britain – they’re bright yellow so easy to spot, and are reputedly the reason that butterflies

Coed Cilygroeslwyd, near Ruthin

got their English name.

This is one of the oldest nature

Look, a Rook!

reserves managed by the North Credit: Axel Mauruszat

Wales Wildlife Trust, acquired in

Our resident birds are starting to nest, so it’s time to put away

1964, and it’s a gem. It’s a mixed

the hedge trimmer and chainsaw until the autumn. Most birds

woodland of oak and ash, but also

are discreet about their nests, not wanting to draw attention to

contains the only yew woodland

themselves. But a few build their nests of sticks before the leaves

in Denbighshire. And in spring

hide them away, so they’re easy to spot. Single nests are likely to be Magpies or Carrion

it’s one of the few places to see

Crows, but Rooks nest in colonies. These crows are all black save for the bare white

genuine Wild Daffodils in the

skin around the base of the bill. This is the first year that they are properly protected by

region. Not the beefy cultivated

law in Wales, a response to the 60% decline over the last quarter of a Century.

variety, but the smaller, paler

Credit: Richard Bartz

flower with paper-thin petals.

Look out for Primroses, Wood Anenome and Dog Violets too.

Llŷn coast Credit: Steffan Berndtsson

Incoming from Africa

Bees love Butterburs

One of the first plants to flower in spring, especially in damp fields, ditches and alongside streams, is the Butterbur. It’s not showy, but the tiny pink flowers on the end of spikes up the stem are loved by bees early in the spring when there are few other sources of nectar. Its English name comes from its large heart-shaped leaves that were used by country people to wrap butter in the farm dairy. In the Middle Ages, it was used to treat the plague, and an extract from Butterbur is common is used in complementary medicine to treat headaches.

March sees the first summer migrants arrive. Birds such as Chiffchaff, Blackcap and Ring Ouzel are early arrivals because they spend winter around the Mediterranean and so it’s a short route home. But later in the month, others arrive from south of the Sahara Desert, an altogether more hazardous journey. Look out for Sand Martins sweeping low over lakes hunting for insects emerging from the water, and Wheatears in the mountains, where they’re joined by Stonechats that move uphill from the coast.

Walk along the stunning coastline before the summer tourist season. Look for Choughs pairing up for the breeding season in their Welsh stronghold and the emblem of this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. And look in the grass for Oil Beetles.

There are three different species, and invertebrate charity Buglife is asking for help to find out where they live. You don’t have to identify it – just snap a photo and submit it using the survey form on the buglife.org.uk website.

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

NWM 2020 Page 79

OPEN DAY 7th March

10am-12:30

HP - Wrexham - A1.pdf

1

12/12/2019

14:27

Discover new adventures, great food, a World Heritage Site, two National Trust properties, a thriving town centre and make memories by visiting Wrexham County in 2020. To plan your visit and see our new itineraries visit

www.thisiswrexham.co.uk

@thisiswrexham

Win

COMPETITIONS North Wales Magazine has two amazing prizes to give away this March! Read on for entry details, and remember to follow us on Facebook (@northwalesmag) to ensure that you don’t miss out on any extra competitions that are taking place throughout the month. Good luck!

A Clean Box How are the New Year goals going? Ditched them along with Dry Jan? If you want to be a happier, healthier you in 2020 then treat yourself to a Clean Box from The Clean Life, a new health and wellness brand for women.

These boxes are packed full of new active wear to get you back in the gym / outdoors, independent beauty / skincare products, healthy snacks and drinks, recipes, exercise / self care tips and a few extra goodies once every three months. Every company they work with is a small, independent business and everything is sustainably sourced, made, biodegradable or recyclable, including the packaging. www.thecleanlife.co.uk

A Colour Consultation Colour can have a huge impact on how we look, how we feel, and how others perceive us – so why not enter this competition for a two-hour colour consultation worth £125 with professional colour and style consultant, Sonia Williams. Sonia knows how wearing colours that harmonise with your own skin tone and hair and eye colour can be transformational. A colour consultation takes up to two hours, and once she’s done a fair bit of testing with different colours (looking at depth, tone and clarity) Sonia will put together a wallet of 42 colour swatches designed to bring out your best.

07826 526747

To Enter In order to enter, all you need to do is email your name and address to us at competition@northwalesmagazine.co.uk by Friday 27th March, making sure that you put the name of the competition that you are entering in the subject line. Of course, you could always enter both – good luck!

EACH COMPETITION NEEDS TO BE ENTERED SEPERATELY

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

NWM 2020 Page 81

MAGAZINE

IN THE

STARS...

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

He divides his time between London and his North Wales home near Portmeirion. www.russellgrant.com

March’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st – April 20th) Flattery will get you nowhere as March gets off the starting blocks.

When talking with an employer or other professionals, it’s best to be honest, even if it means challenging their ideas. A stimulating conversation on the 4th marks the beginning of a fruitful friendship. Your moneymaking potential soars on the 5th so use this opportunity to enjoy more creature comforts.

TAURUS (April 21st – May 21st) Don’t make an enemy out of a respected expert on the 3rd; it’s important to stay in this professional’s good books. A unique piece of clothing or jewellery is worth purchasing on the 8th; you’ll cherish this item for years.

On the 9th, the Full Moon could prompt you to abandon an unrewarding romance or creative project.

GEMINI (May 22nd – June 21st) It will be necessary to cancel a trip or make alternative travel arrangements on the 4th; try to be flexible. The 8th is ideal for showcasing your creative work. Submit an article for publication, display your paintings at a gallery or upload some musical contributions to social media. On the 9th, a challenged Full Moon could bring a secret to light.

CANCER (June 22nd – July 23rd) Don’t let a morose friend or romantic partner steal your sunshine on the 3rd.

By maintaining a positive attitude, you’ll attract some lucky opportunities.

Planning a relaxing vacation at a seaside location would be a good idea around the 8th; you’ll enjoy some time away from your usual surroundings.

The Full Moon on the 9th could trigger an argument.

LIBRA (September 24th – October 23rd) Don’t let friends or family intimidate your romantic partner on the 3rd; it’s important to side with your lover. It will be necessary to rethink a creative project on the 4th; try not to grumble too much. Money from a dividend, partnership or other type of financial settlement will arrive on the 5th, allowing you to indulge your love of creature comforts.

SCORPIO (October 24th – November 22nd) You’ll be prompted to change the way you deal with a stubborn relative as March gets underway; old ways and means simply aren’t working any longer. Love is in the air on the 5th; this is a great time to find a partner or enjoy a rendezvous with your amour. A surprise gift makes your heart sing on the 8th; it’s nice to know you are held in such high regard.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd – December 21st) Avoid social media like the plague at the start of March; it’s easy to make sarcastic jokes that you will come to regret in times to come. Spending time with family will be deeply satisfying on the 8th. It will also be good for attending a reunion or meeting with a favourite relative. On the 9th, the Full Moon will prompt you to take responsibility for someone else’s mistakes.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd – January 20th) Don’t be too hard on a relative at the start of March; just because you don’t agree with their choices doesn’t mean you should criticise them. It may be necessary to return an expensive item that you purchase on the 4th; so best to hang on to your receipts. Falling in love at first sight is a distinct possibility on the 8th. If you are already in a relationship, arrange a lovely surprise for your partner.

LEO (July 24th – August 23rd) You’ll have to rethink the terms of a partnership on the 4th; be as flexible as possible. This relationship is worth preserving. A n intriguing opportunity will come your way on the 5th; you’re the perfect person for this energising new role. Presenting something beautiful and unusual to the public will get an enthusiastic reception on the 8th; this is no time to copy old formulas.

AQUARIUS (January 21st – February 19th) It will be difficult to get your message across on the 4th; wait until the middle of the month to make an important request. Domestic pursuits bring tremendous pleasure on the 5th; this is a great time to add some decorative touches to your home. Hosting a family reunion could also be on the cards.

The Full Moon on the 9th might shed light on a financial shortage so be ready to juggle your budget.

VIRGO (August 24th – September 23rd) An old health issue could flare up at the start of March; don’t put medical matters on a back burner. Getting a professional opinion will be helpful. A loving partnership gives you the courage to take a creative risk on the 8th.

The Full Moon on the 9th urges you to forgive someone who hurt you long ago; holding this grudge is robbing you of inner peace and happiness.

PISCES (February 20th – March 20th) Avoid spending money at the start of the month; they really won’t bring much pleasure. Your personal power will be at an all-time high on the 8th so take this opportunity to ask for favours and promote your interests. On the 9th, the Full Moon will cause you to look at a relationship in a whole new light. Stop putting your romantic partner on a pedestal; it isn’t helping your union.

Page 82 NWM 2020

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