North Wales Magazine - October 2019

OCTOBER 2019

!

EE FR

MAGAZINE

What’s o

Your mo n? guide to nthly l eventsocal

Meet Adam Hender...

Is this local musician the next big thing?

A step back in time

EXPLORE DOLBADARN CASTLE’S RICH HISTORY

It’s fright night!

THE 10 BEST WAYS TO ENTERTAIN THE KIDS THIS HALLOWEEN INSIDE J EVENTS J Food & Drink J Homes & Interiors

MAGAZINE

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Page 2 NWM 2019

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Everybody needs good neighbours! And if you live in an LL postcode you can get a whopping 30% off surf and adrenaline activities until 31st March 2020!

Find out more, and check our T&Cs at adventureparcsnowdonia.com/special-offers NWM 2019 Page 3

MAGAZINE

THE MAGIC IS JUST BEGINNING...

Our new Olive Tree Coffee Rooms are now open from 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday, 10.30am-4.30pm Sundays; to give plenty of time for sampling our delicious breakfast menu (9am-11.30pm) and £3 afternoon tea and cake deal (3pm-4.30pm). Please call 01492 580665 for all reservations and enquiries.

Christmas Is Just Round The Corner Come in and celebrate the start of the Festive Season with our brand new Christmas displays

Page 4 NWM 2019 Snowdonia Nurseries & Garden Centre, Glan Conwy 01492 580703 www.snowdonianurseries.co.uk

MAGAZINE

DEAR READER It’s October – which means Halloween and all things scary. But, what I find really frightening, is that it’s only 12 weeks until Christmas…

How did that even happen? It seems like only

simply bursting with entertainment – both

yesterday that I was sweltering at Black Rock

regular and seasonal.

Sands at Easter – the summer seems to have passed us by unnoticed somehow. Or is it just

On the plus side, I am now pleased to say that

me? Did everyone else manage to make the

those doubtful friends who dared question

best of what North Wales has to offer during

what North Wales has to offer are now

the summer months? Because, let’s face it,

regular visitors to the area. And yes, they

I don’t think that there is another region in

always read North Wales Magazine prior to

the UK that can come close to matching the

their visit to ensure that they get the most out

activities and days out that we have to offer.

of their trip!

When I first launched North Wales Magazine in 2017, a couple of my friends wanted to know what I would actually write about… As it turns out, it’s a massive struggle trying to fit everything in, as our wonderful region is

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

J

In this issue...

There are plenty of ways to get your seasonal thrills and spills this October

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 credit: © Shutterstock

NWM 2019 Page 5

MAGAZINE

Page 6 NWM 2019

Contents

MAGAZINE

EDITOR

09 What’s On

Kate Hamilton

Your guide to local events taking place this October

PUBLISHER

Grant Hamilton

16 The Big Picture

SALES MANAGER

The amazing Mount Snowdon

19 Interview with…

Scott Lawson

19

MARKETING MANAGER

Local musician Adam Hender

Carly Redgers

23 Top 10…

ART DIRECTOR

Simon Marriott

Spooky Halloween activities

CONTRIBUTORS

29 Autumn in North Wales Who knew autumn had this much history?

31 Wales Rally GB North Wales is proud to host this exciting event

23 31

35 Taking your time To explore Dolbadarn Castle

41 Food & Drink

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

The local wining, dining and culinary scene

57 Homes & Property

whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

Get inspired by local homes and interiors

71 Walking The ascent of Yr Eifl

Steve Goodier Cai Ross Sally Ann Harding Frankie Hobro Caroline Roberts Julian Hughes Ali Hough Russell Grant John Crane Stephen Gregory Pete Greensmith Meurig Davies

41

75 Community News A roundup of regional happenings

79 Competitions Two amazing prizes to win!

81 In my opinion…

Our expert columnists share their thoughts

98 Horoscopes What does October have in store for you?

71

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 2019 Page 7

All month

Harvest at Erddig Enjoy autumn with apple talks, cider press demonstrations, music and demonstrations at Erddig. During half term, Erddig invites families to take part in apple dipping and toasting

What’s on this...

October

marshmallows on a campfire

4th

Weaving with Trevor Blackburn Trevor will be making his woven scarves, in beautiful 1st-9th

New Art Exhibition at Ffin y Parc Gallery

different yarns, to include silk, Alpaca and more at the Afonwen Craft Centre

Stop by this quaint art gallery in Llanrwst to marvel

4th-6th

at work by Welsh artists

Victorian Weekend

David Grosvenor, Mike Jones

The Ffestiniog Railway has been running passenger

and Carl Chapple RCA

trains since the Victorian times – what better way to show them off than to have a weekend dedicated to that wonderful era?

1st-13th

Journey Through Doubtful Frontages 1930’s Exhibition

4th-6th

The Ucheldre Centre in Holyhead will display a large body

Llechwedd Autumn Fair

of work produced over a lifetime by local artist and Holyhead

Collaborating with the Wales Rally GB, Llechwedd will host their

resident Mary Edwards. Now in her 80s Mary Edwards

first ever Autumn Food and Crafts Fair from 8am. Featuring

will showcase pieces in pen and ink, watercolour, collage –

local food and craft stands, as well as live music from up and

produced using her own images

coming local band Yr Oria on the Saturday evening 5th

2nd-3rd

Eco Silver Jewellery by Sandra Roberts

The World-Famous Elvis Show Starring Chris Connor

Sandra makes beautiful Eco silver jewellery, which she

The world’s No1 Elvis performer, Chris Connor, who has been

cuts hammers and twists to create her unique pieces.

voted by a worldwide fan poll as ‘The Best Elvis Performer in

Stop by the Afonwen Craft Centre to watch her in action

the World’ will take stage at the Rhyl Pavilion. Come sing along and dance to hits like ‘All Shook Up’, ‘Jailhouse Rock’ and ‘Blue Suede Shoes’

3rd-6th

Wales Rally GB

5th

Drivers from the ceremonial start in Liverpool will race to the

Denbigh Plum Fest

North Wales coast and then into the forests of Snowdonia.

Celebrating Wales’ only native plum, the

Plan out your route to cheer them on by visiting

festival attracts more than 6,000 visitors to

www.walesrallygb.com

Denbigh’s town hall. Stallholders will produce items like cider, breads, cakes and more using the protected plum as an ingredient

NWM 2019 Page 9

MAGAZINE

October 5th

6th

Voted ‘The Best Girls Night

Take part or support runners on a scenic

Out in the UK’, book your seats

run from city centre to Penrhyn Castle

now at the William Aston Hall

Estate, Garth Pier and Menai Strait, taking

for a fun filled evening that

in the beautiful North Wales coastline,

will leave you giggling and

Anglesey and Snowdonia

Dreamboys

Bangor 10K and Half Marathon

wanting more 11th 6th

Tosca

North Wales Autism Conference The fourth North Wales Annual Autism Conference will be held

Tosca is an opera in three acts by

at Venue Cymru and is a great opportunity for individuals with an

Giacomo Puccini to an Italian libretto

Autism Spectrum Condition, their families and all professionals

by Luigi Illica and Giuseppe Giacosa.

to network and access credible information from educators,

It premiered at the Teatro Costanzi

researchers and specialists working in the field of Autism

in Rome on 14 January 1900 and will play at the Rhyl Pavilion

11th

The Illegal Eagles The World’s Official No.1 Eagles tribute returns to Venue 9th

Diversity: Born Ready Celebrating their 10th Anniversary, the dance

Cymru for another outstanding show promising more of their trademark musical prowess, acute attention to detail, and incredible showmanship. Show starts at 7:30pm

troupe is back at Venue Cymru to show off their amazing routines. Fun for the whole family

12th

Aled Jones and Russel Watson The dynamic musical duo will perform at the Tweedmill Shopping Outlet for one day only. VIP meet and greet tickets

10th

available

In aid of the Ty Gobaith

12th

Maesdu Golf Day Children’s Hospice, the

Lulu: Still on Fire

Maesdu Golf Club will be

A singer, songwriter, actress, national treasure are all

hosting a special golf day.

labels that have been attributed to Lulu. Her powerhouse

Teams of four will be put

performances have ensured a loyal following of fans who come

together to enjoy 18 holes, tea,

out year after year to witness a legend at work. Supported by a

coffee, bacon rolls and a two-course evening meal with raffle,

four-piece band, Lulu will have you sitting, standing, dancing,

auction and prize presentation. Contact Hope House on 01691

singing, laughing and listening to an amazing story that started

671999 to book your tickets

in 1948. Tickets start at £34.50 at the Rhyl Pavilion

Page 10 NWM 2019

FOOD & D RINK | C ONSES S IONS | EVENTS

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Take a stroll and enjoy the beautiful views of Llandudno and the Irish Sea.

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MAGAZINE

October 12th

17th

Join the St David’s Hospice to celebrate 20 years of care at

Theatr Colwyn invite you to sing along to experience the

the 1920’s themed ball at the Quay Hotel. The night sets to be

friendships, romances and adventures of a group of high

a spectacular event, with breath-taking views, fabulous food,

school kids in the 1950s. Featuring the classic songs Summer

an auction with great prizes, live music and a DJ. Contact the

Lovin’, You’re the One That I Want and Hopelessly Devoted.

charity for more information

Film starts at 2pm

12th

18th

Joia! is a bold, innovative and colourful

Galeri Caernarfon invites you to listen to the ‘country’s

collection of songs sung in Welsh combined

leading musical satirist’ explain his semi-serious solutions to

with distinct pop and Latin American

problems in the World

St. David’s Hospice 20th Anniversary Ball

Carwyn Ellis & Rio 18

Grease Sing-along – Dementia Friendly Film

Mitch Ben: 10 Songs to save the World

flavours drawn from Bossa Nova, Cumbia, Samba and Tropicalismo styles. This is

19th

the first solo release for Carwyn Ellis under his own name.

Woodland Tales with Grandad

Carwyn will perform at the Theatr Bryn Terfel at 8pm

Pontio Bangor is hosting this family show with an important environmental message. Tickets are £6.50

13th

Wedding Fayre Celebration Events is excited to bring to you the largest

19th

wedding fayre in the North Wales area! With over 60

Real Ale Train

exhibitors under one roof, all on hand to help Brides &

Enjoy an assortment of ales while riding

Grooms to be plan their ‘big’ day. Fayre runs from 11am-4pm,

the Llangollen Rail taking in the spectacular

entry is free

scenery from 6:30-9:30pm

19th

Deiniol Arts & Crafts Fayre Stiwdio 9 and the Deiniol Centre are proud to be hosting an all new Arts and Crafts Fayre featuring a wide range of talented, established artisans all under one roof for a very special day. With a vast array of shops, stalls and entertainment we guarantee something for all the family. Come along and see some of the finest contemporary arts and crafts North Wales has to offer 19th-20th

Llangollen Food Festival Named in the Top 10 Food Festivals in Britain by The Independent, the Llangollen Pavilion will hold chef 15th-16th

Local Artist Gill Benjamin

demonstrations, workshops and showcase some of the best local

Gill will be at the Afonwen Centre for two days to display his

dishes, produce and drinks from

stunning paintings. Stop by to say hello

the area

Page 12 NWM 2019

21st

24th

Relive the concert of concerts as if you were there in this brand-

The multi award-winning masterpiece

new immersive event like no other. Rebel Vision’s cutting-edge

starring Gareth Bale, Kieron Self and Richard

cinematic technology will transport you to Havana where rock

Tunley will take stage at Theatr Colwyn for

history was made as The Rolling Stones performed to half a

one night. Tickets are £16.20, show starts at

million fans in a spectacular and iconic record -breaking event.

7:30pm

The Rolling Stones: Havana Moon Screening

ART

Prepare to be amazed at Venue Cymru at 7:30pm 24th

Michael Starring Ben

21st

Swan Lake

As the largest touring tribute to Michael Jackson in

The Russian Ballet and Opera House proudly presents Swan

the UK today, this award- winning production features an

Lake, a spellbinding, lavish, full-production touring ballet at

incredible live band, stunning costumes, iconic dance routines

Venue Cymru. Ballet starts at 7:30pm

and of course, the inimitable Ben. The show promises to create the most authentic, lively and powerful re-creation of the iconic superstar you will ever experience. Show starts at

21st-22nd

7:30pm at Venue Cymru

Romeo & Juliet Witness the extraordinary adaption of Shakespeare’s masterpiece on stage at Theatr Clwyd. Performance starts at 7:30pm

22nd

The Nutcracker Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to your local theatre for a dazzling

24th-26th

production of the most

Thomas at Llangollen Railway

famous ballet in the

Everyone’s favourite tank engine returns to Llangollen

world! The Russian

Railway offering rides from Llangollen to Carrog

Ballet and Opera House classic will perform

24th-1st of Nov

their magic at Venue

Spooks in the Woods

Cymru at 7:30pm

Gypsy Wood Family Park is opening its doors for Spooktacular fun. Creep through the dark woods, ride on Woody’s haunted train and watch out for scary characters along the way

25th-26th

Oktoberfest

22nd-23rd

Eye of the Storm

Cyclone Events presents Oktoberfest Wrexham Bavarian Beer Festival

Set in the Welsh Valleys, this original musical play is

returning to Wrexham town centre for two days. Enjoy

guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings. Tickets are £10-14 at

Bavarian food, German music and lots of lederhosen

the Pontio Bangor 23rd

25th-31st

An Evening with Max Boyce at The Quay Hotel

Zip World Fear Fforest

Max Boyce will take stage during a very special Rugby World

Experience fearful adventure, frights and fun at Zip World

Cup Gala Dinner in aid of the Ty Gobaith Children’s Hospice.

Fforest in Betws y Coed. Twist and turn through the trees

The evening will commence at 7.30pm and will include a

on the Fforest Coaster, enter the Zombie-infested lair, feast

sumptuous two-course dinner, charitable raffle and auction.

on a menu of horrors and enjoy pumpkin carving and scary

The dress code is Black Tie

storytelling

NWM 2019 Page 13

MAGAZINE

October

28th

Ben Phillips: Ben vs Elliot Social Media recognised prankster, Ben Phillips, is heading out on tour once again, but this time there’s a twist as he goes head to head with his brother. Show starts at 7:30pm 28th

Stand up at Seaside The popular stand up show is back on tonight with the best acts from the UK circuit. This month features Susan Murray, David Ward and George Ridgen, with local MC Dave Rothnie plus audience joke competition with prizes. Show starts at 8pm. To book tickets contact dcrothni@gmail.com or text on 07903 682303

29th

Red Sparrow Writers at RSPB Conwy

26th-27th

Halloween Horrors

RSPB will be hosting a pop-up exhibition of fun fantasy

Visit the Rhyl Miniature Railroad for two days of spooky fun

illustrations, storytelling and fun activities with Kim

and games. The Halloween event starts at 10:30am on both

Vertue, Remy Dean and Zel Cariad. Bring the kids

days

during half term for family friendly activities and workshops. Booking is essential

26th

The Snow Queen The timeless tale is brought to life with illusion and puppetry at the Rhyl Pavilion. Tickets are £14.50, show starts at 2pm and 5pm

30th-31st

26th

The Welsh Highland Railway will take you on a spooky

Porth Eirias 10K and Fun Run

Halloween Train journey from Caernarfon. All aboard… if you dare!

Enjoy the North Wales coastline and take part in this fun and friendly run. Dress up in a wacky or scary Halloween costume during the run which starts at 9:15am 27th

Gwledd Conwy Feast One of Wales’ biggest festivals returns for a weekend celebration of food, music and art. The programme includes

31st

live music, street food, demonstration kitchens, wine tasting

Halloween Costume Party

and more

The North Wales Rock & Roll Jive Club invites you to a Spooktacular evening of dance, music and lots of scary

27th

Ghost Train Brave yourself for a spooky

costumes. Professional dancers will be on-hand to teach you the basics. The party will take places at the Comrades Club in Conwy from 8-11pm. Entry is £5

ride aboard the Llangollen Rail between 6:30-8:30pm.

Listen to scary stories in an eerily decorated carriage as it creeks through Dee Valley

Page 14 NWM 2019

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

Page 16 NWM 2019

MAGAZINE

The Big Picture October is the last month of the year that you can get the train to the top of Snowdon – from the beginning of November to the middle of March you’ll have to get your walking boots on if you want to reach the summit of this glorious mountain. But, for the rest of this month, trains are still departing daily (weather permitting) from Llanberis station. So, why not let the train take the strain in order to climb the 1,085 metres to the summit of Yr Wyddfa? It is, after all, a journey that has already been experienced by some 12 million travellers since 1896.

NWM 2019 Page 17

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Seaside superstar

on the rise Carly Redgers went to meet Adam Hender – the Llandudno musician to watch out for…

21-year-old Llandudno singer, Adam Hender, possesses a

How did you get your start?

voice that carries the stories of a young man with true soul

There was an open mic night in a pub called the Cross Keys

and sensitivity, whose experience defies his years.

in Llandudno near where I lived every Thursday night. I was only 14 so I wasn’t technically old enough, but I knew the

A former pupil at Ysgol John Bright, Adam is the first artist to

guy who ran it and he would let me play as long as I left as

be unveiled by Bristol record label 3tone Records, whose co-

soon as I was done. That’s where I built up my confidence

founder, Dean Roberts, is also from North Wales.

in performing. Then when I was old enough, I started doing other open mics in places like Conwy, and the Alex

Dean said he hopes that Adam can do for Wales what Lewis

in Penmaemawr and got some festival slots around North

Capaldi has done for Scotland, and feels strongly that fans at

Wales. I just kept learning the craft and working hard to get

home in North Wales are going to love him. Dean adds that he

better at it.

believes Adam can follow all the great Welsh superstars and become an ambassador for us around the World.

How would you describe your music style?

It’s pop music, but each song has its own feeling and What inspired you to pursue music?

atmosphere so I wouldn’t want to be too narrow about it. I

I’ve always loved music and since I was little, all the family on

always want a bit of kick to the music, and hopefully people

every occasion would be signing so it’s always been part of

will find an emotional connection with the lyrics.

my life. We loved going on the karaoke and when I found out I could sing well I learnt to play the guitar and started writing

Who do you admire in the music industry?

songs. I’ve always felt music is part of me and inevitable in my

I’ve always really admired John Mayer, you can see when he’s

life – not specifically to get riches and fame but I’ve always

playing that he’s doing it for him. Watching him, it’s like he’s

done my best and worked hard at it. It’s what I’ve always done

the only one there and you get pulled into his world. I think Ed

and I see myself doing it forever.

Sheeran is brilliant. He’s incredibly successful but he hasn’t

NWM 2019 Page 19

MAGAZINE

let the industry change him at all, and he’s married a girl

loads more recorded and I hope there will be many more

from home. He wears what he wants, there’s no smoke and

proud moments to come!

mirrors with him – I really admire that. It shows you don’t have to pretend to be something you’re not to be successful

Who would you like to perform for in an intimate venue

and that’s important to me. There’s also a guy called Rhys

setting?

Lewis who I’ve just discovered on Instagram who’s got some

Oh, I might have to think about that one. Right, I got it. The cast

great songs and he seems genuine. I’m looking forward to

of Friends, in Central Perk! It’s one of my favourite TV shows

hearing more from him.

and probably the most famous coffee shop in the world, so that would be very cool. And Jim Carrey would have to be there,

When not performing, where do you like to go out in North

I’ve watched his movies a million times over and it’s pretty

Wales to listen to live music?

hard not to love that guy, he’s an incredible person.

There are events around summer like Headstock in Llandudno which is a great couple of weeks in the sun

Who would you most like to perform with?

listening to music. Right across North Wales, there are always

It’s hard to pick any one person as there’s so many! I’d have to

music nights. I tend to go over to Conwy to the open mic at

go back to the people I admire. I’ve always loved John Mayer

the Blue Bell on a Sunday, it feels like home; it’s nostalgic. I’ve

so it would have to be him, his solos are wow. And to play with

always searched for music and I was constantly practising in

Ed Sheeran would be an honour. Or Cardi B! Can you imagine

the music department at school. The irony is I failed music in

her singing with me on One Chance? Julia Michaels’ voice and

the end!

song writing stands out to me as well and I feel like we’d work well together.

Favourite spot to write music?

If I’m writing alone, I like writing at home. Some of my best

What advice would you give to an aspiring musician?

lyrics were written sat in the garden. I like being in the studio

If you can believe it, you can achieve it. If I was going to give

too, it’s nice to have a couple of heads together working on

my younger self some advice, it would be that you just have to

music and bouncing ideas around.

persevere; the world always needs more great music! We’re all different so everyone has something to offer... everyone’s

Proudest moment?

mind is individually special and your music can be too. n

I’d have to say getting signed to my label 3tone. It was a shock to the system in a really good way. I drove all the way from North Wales in my beat up Corsa and played some songs for the guys there, and that was that! It was a real moment and it felt like I could really get going from there. I’ve progressed a lot from when I signed, we’ve got two songs released and

Page 20 NWM 2019

Adam’s hit single ‘One Chance’ is available on Spotify, YouTube and Google Music. For more information and a list of places to watch Adam live, visit @AdamHenderMusic on Facebook

Autumn

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Beautifully refurbished three storey holiday home in the heart of Abersoch with high ceilings, spacious bedrooms and views of St Tudwal's Islands.

Located in lower Llanbedrog with sea views, a well presented interior and enclosed rear garden, Wendon is the perfect family escape.

Tastefully decorated, this delightful bungalow is just a short walk from the harbour, beaches and village centre with wonderful rear garden and decking area.

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Take a look at our full collection www.abersochholidayhomes.co.uk T: 01758 740992 | E: info@abersochholidayhomes.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 21

MAGAZINE

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Top

Spookfests

We’re here to help you out with a roundup of the best Halloween activities out there, featuring crafty costume contests, face painting adventures, creative pumpkin carving displays and scare-your-socksoff haunted woodland adventures. These Halloween adventures are the ultimate way to get excited about the most spooktacular time of year…

e

Zip World Ffear Fforest

North Wales’ biggest scare-fest returns to Betws y Coed. Face your fears as you’re immersed into the spooky circus-themed world, and escape the clowns on the frightful adventures by nightfall. Come face-to-face with your worst fears as you enter The Nets. This trampoline-style treetop extravaganza will see you escaping the hoard of runaway clowns, as they chase you from chamber to chamber. But maybe first, you’ll want to try your chances on the Cursed Coaster. Ascend 365m through the dark forest on your own cart, creeping further and further from civilisation on this rollercoasterstyle experience. Hold your nerve as you’re faced with the undead circus-dwellers that have long since been forgotten, before making your escape back down the mountain, twisting and turning along the gravity-fuelled track. Speed back down at 45mph for a quick exit, or silently and stealthily return, using the breaks provided. Both Cursed Coaster and The Nets are included in your Night Pass, available at just £25 per person. Just bring warm clothes, a tough nerve, and leave your fear of clowns at home... www.zipworld.co.uk

e

Pirate Fun at Anglesey Sea Zoo

Having a scary time thinking of how to entertain the kids this October half term? Then bring the kids to Anglesey Sea Zoo over Halloween for some spooky fun. Follow the treasure map through the shipwreck and past the fish forest to find the bounty. Take part in fun games, a colouring-in competition, trick or treat and meet Pirate Barti Ddu! www.angleseyseazoo.co.uk

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e

SpookWood at GreenWood Family Park

If you like spooky fun or just plain fun, you’ll have a blast at GreenWood’s Halloween adventure, SpookWood! From Saturday the 19th of October, Snowdonia’s award-winning eco adventure park will be brimming with Halloween fun for the whole family. Get creative with creepy crafts – make lanterns, monstrous masks, pom pom creatures or create your own broomstick. Keep your eyes peeled for witches and other spooky creatures in the trees or become one yourself with freaky face painting. For a Spooktacular treat, head down to the Forest Theatre for our daily Halloween themed shows. Come along to the Park dressed in your spookiest costumes and take on our Monster Hunt! Look for the creatures hidden around the Park to earn yourself a chocolate reward. And, on Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th October, the Magical Lantern Forest Parade takes place. An evening full of spooky surprises, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. www.greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk

e

Halloween Spooktacular Can you solve the Curse of Gwrych and save the Castle?

Starting at 4pm and through until 9pm, there are spooktacular goings on at Gwrych Castle this Halloween. Admission by pre-booked ticket only, please check their Facebook page for details of parking arrangements as spaces are limited and there will be a small additional charge.Scare you to Come!

Cost is £6 for adults, £3 for children and under 3’s are free. www.gwrychcastle.co.uk

e

Free Entry to Glasfryn Parc on Halloween

The Entrance to Conwy Falls is via a turnstile for which a small fee is charged. This is in the car park for Conwy Falls Café located on the A5 at its junction with the B4406 near Bro Garmon. The café is licensed and was designed by Sir William Clough Ellis of Portmerion fame and is open seven days of the week. Beyond the turnstile a descending path takes you down to the falls which are located in a Site of Special Scientific Interest as the River Conwy passes through a dramatic rocky gorge were salmon are seen leaping frequently. The main falls drop around 50 ft/15 metres and are best seen from a rough viewing area above them. The falls and surrounding area cover around 10 acres which has extensive and very attractive native woodland. www.glasfryn.co.uk

Page 24 NWM 2019

e Halloween Train at Llangollen Spooky storytelling on the eerily decorated train as it creeks through the dark and creepy Dee Valley, dare you ride? Who knows what frights will await you at Carrog… Step off the train at Carrog and walk into the mist and lights of the scary stories and things that go bump. Will you make it back in the dark or will the ghouls of the night take you to a station lost in time? Bar available on board for a bit of Dutch Courage! Shockingly scary story and light show at Carrog Station where things really will go bump in the night… but leave any little terrors under three years of age at home. www.llangollen-railway.co.uk

e Spooky Crafts at the Ruthin Craft Centre If you prefer a slightly more relaxed Halloween, then visit the Ruthin Craft this October half term to be inspired by the exhibitions and get making with their team of talented makers. On the 30th October children aged five and over are invited to print, cut, stick, collage and stitch something ghostly during Craft Club. Then, on 2nd November, join Charles Gershom and David Setter for a free family experimental photography class. Join either group for a day of making, not just for children but grownups too, whether you’re a mum, dad, grandparent or carer this workshop covers all ages and levels. ruthincraftcentre.org.uk

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e

Halloween Fun with Cadw Cadw sites in North Wales are packed full of Halloween fun this half term. Spooktacular trails with prizes, make your own masks and scary friends and Halloween crafts are all happening – along with creepy castle tours with haunting tales. Visit the Cadw website to find out what’s on offer at Criccieth, Beaumaris, Conwy, Plas Mawr, Denbigh and Rhuddlan Castle’s this Halloween. Or if you’re feeling particularly brave how about a display and demonstration of medieval surgery procedures and surgical implements at Harlech Castle? These family friendly audience participation shows, include spooky storytelling and face painting… and real life vampires! www.gov.wales/Cadw

NANTCOL Halloween Hunt at Llanberis Lake Railway Dare you ride the Llanberis Lake ghostly train through the Witches Woods to seek out the spirits and spooks? Put on your scariest costume and book tickets for a train ride between the 27th-30th of October and enjoy a train ride to remember…

The Adventure Parc Snowdonia Halloween Drive-In

www.lake-railway.co.uk

e

Get your Halloween thrills and chills kicked off early with a drive in movie marathon, kids’ party and aerial zombie assault at Adventure Parc Snowdonia on 25th and 26th October. The award-winning adventure hub will be screening a weekend of classic Halloween horror at their fab drive in cinema with fearsome films suitable for scaredy cats young and old. Spooky movie munchies, including freshly baked pizza, will be delivered direct to your car. Kids’ Halloween party with pumpkin carving, themed crafts and treats will be free entry for families attending the family movies. And zombie runners can get their thrills with a fearsome chase around a terrifying aerial zombie assault course at Adrenaline Indoors. Drive-in movies include Annabelle comes home, Scary Movie 1 & 2, Hotel Transylvania and Hocus Pocus. www.adventureparcsnowdonia.com

Page 26 NWM 2019

NWM 2019 Page 27

Calan Gaeaf: Ysbrydion Castell Penrhyn MAGAZINE

19 a 20 Hydref a 26 Hydref i 3 Tachwedd 11am-4pm Ewch ar daith i chwilio am straeon yr ysbrydion go iawn sydd wedi eu gweld a’u clywed yn ymlwybro o amgylch coridorau tywyll y castell.

Neu beth am greu pypedau cysgod i adrodd eich stori ysbrydion eich hun?

Calan Gaeaf: The ghosts of Penrhyn Castle 19 & 20 October and 26 October to 3 November 11am-4pm This Calan Gaeaf (Halloween) join us on a hunt for the ‘real’ ghosts that roam the castle corridors as you follow our family-friendly silhouette trail. You can also have a go at making your own shadow puppet crafts to create a spooky story at home. What was that noise? Mwahha-ha-ha!

Page 28 NWM 2019

Celebrating ‘Calan Gaeaf’ in North Wales Did you know that, as well as being the predecessor to All Hallows Eve and Halloween, ‘Calan Gaeaf’ signals the first day of winter in the Celtic calendar?

Like many other similar traditions around the world, in Wales, the Celtic tribes believed that it was at this time of year that spirits roamed the lands, congregating around churches and clearings in the woods. Calan Gaeaf was also an important chance to celebrate the bounty of the Harvest, or ‘Cynheaf’, and prepare for colder months ahead.

This October, Penrhyn Castle near Bangor, is using these ancient traditions as inspiration for a whole host of events looking at how nature prepares for the cold snap – as well as a few ghostly goings-on!

Throughout autumn you can kick up the fallen leaves and take a stroll around the garden on a sensory adventure through the autumn colour. Using sensory pathway techniques you can travel around the garden meeting characters and animals that live around the castle who will make you smell, touch and think about how we connect with nature and the changing seasons.

During half term, you can also visit the castle to hear about the real ghost stories that visitors and staff have experienced on a spooky, family-friendly, silhouette trail.

“It’s great to be able to look back at this local Welsh tradition and connect with nature at this time of year,” explains Amy Underwood-Thompson, events assistant at Penrhyn Castle.

“It’s a natural thing for us to prepare for winter and it’s really interesting to experience that same drive in nature, in the garden and our lives today.

“But just like the old Celtic tradition, you couldn’t have Calan Gaeaf without the odd scare too! The spirits will be walking the corridors of the castle this year as we look at the ‘real’ ghost stories of Penrhyn on our silhouette trail – the stories that people have told us over the years about bumps in the nights, strange sightings and spooky goings-on!”

Penrhyn’s Autumn Garden Trail

Whether it’s ghoulish frights or enjoying the autumn colour

10.30am - 4pm 29th September – 3rd November

and connecting with nature, Penrhyn Castle has something for

Ghosts of Penrhyn Castle trail

everyone this autumn. n

11am - 4pm 26th October – 3rd November

NWM 2019 Page 29

See Snowdon by train this autumn

We’ll be running to Snowdon summit until Sunday 27th October 2019 (weather permitting). Then the railway and Hafod Eryri will close for winter.

Book in advance at:

snowdonrailway.co.uk 01286 870 223

Snowdon Mountain Railway, Llanberis, Gwynedd LL55 4TT

New fo r 2019!

Magical Lantern

Forest Parade Gorymdaith Goedwi g

Spook Wood Stand out shows!

Freaky Face Painting

Creepy Crafts Monster hunt

Arswydfa

Halloween fun for the whole family!

Hudlusern

19th October 3rd November

Book tickets online for our Spooktacular evening event!

greenwoodfamilypark.co.uk

Centre stage Wales Rally GB comes to North Wales once again this month – and it’s promising to be more exciting than ever before…

Take a deep breath: the thrilling title tussle for 2019 FIA

reigning world champion Sébastien Ogier (FRA), Jari-Matti

World Rally Championship is roaring into the region as the

Latvala (FIN), Elfyn Evans (GBR) and Petter Solberg (NOR).

protagonists rev up for Wales Rally GB (3rd – 6th October), round 12 of this year’s rousing 14-round World Rally

Ogier took a record fifth Wales Rally GB win 12 months

Championship.

ago, Latvala won in 2011, local hero Evans made his own history when winning in 2017 while the ebullient Solberg,

With just three rounds remaining on the calendar, the battle

a four-time winner between 2002 and 2005, is making an

for both drivers’ and manufacturers’ honours is reaching

emotional farewell on a rally he adores. To mark the special

fever pitch – so spectators are in for a four-day treat when

occasion, Petter is joined on the entry list by his older

the world’s best drivers and the sport’s speediest-ever cars

brother Henning and 18-year-old son Oliver, one of the sport’s

lock horns in the legendary Welsh forests.

hottest prospects.

All the top stars will be in action in an incredible entry

Adding to the excitement all the major protagonists are split

featuring no fewer than four previous event winners:

between the four major manufacturer teams, guaranteeing

NWM 2019 Page 31

MAGAZINE

fierce competition amongst the pace-setters. Moreover, all four teams are fielding the latest generation of World Rally Cars, the fastest machines ever unleashed in the forests.

Ogier, now lining up for Citroën, is locked in a titanic threeway scrap to retain his crown – the Frenchman currently trails Toyota’s series leader Ott Tänak to just 17 points with a maximum 90 points still available. Belgian ace Thierry Neuville is also in the fray for the Drivers’ title and is simultaneously spearheading Hyundai’s dual with Toyota for top place among the competing motor manufacturers.

While eyes around the globe will be focused on the two

afternoon, the first of 22 competitive speed tests – all run

title fights, local hopes rest with Evans who lives locally in

against-the-clock – is staged under the floodlights at the

Dolgellau and Kris Meeke who hails from just across the

Oulton Park race circuit near Chester later that evening.

Irish Sea in Northern Ireland.

Three days in the famous Welsh forests follow swiftly thereafter with the battle-weary winners crowned back in

The Welshman missed the previous three rounds through

Llandudno on Sunday.

injury but returns just in time for his home event. “I can’t tell you how good it is to be back,” he says. “Missing those rallies

For those not ready to venture out to catch the cars and

has been a nightmare, but that’s done now and I’m only

stars in their natural habitat flying through the great Welsh

looking forward. And I’m really looking forward to being back

outdoors, there’s the less extreme option of a family-friendly

in the car at home.”

Saturday evening test on Colwyn Bay’s recently refurbished promenade.

What’s more Evans has a brand new Fiesta for his first WRC outing since his fourth place in Italy in the summer. “There’s

Adult tickets cost just £15 if purchased in advance (£20 on

no difference in the performance of the cars,” he admits, “but

the gate) and accompanied children aged 15 and under are

there’s always something special about a brand new car –

offered free admission. Preparing visitors for the awesome

and it’s another demonstration of the support the team has

wheel-spinning WRC thrills to come after sunset, the day

given me. I’m really grateful for that. They’re expecting a win

also includes supercar and classic rally car displays plus

in return – I’ll see what I can do!”

eye-catching stunt displays in the skies above the bay courtesy of the world famous Red Bull Matador Aerobatic

New for this year the teams are all based in heart of

Team. It’s not to be missed!

n

Llandudno creating a real motor sport festival atmosphere in the resort… as well as generating substantial economic

While entry to the Ceremonial Start in Liverpool and

benefit to those in the vicinity.

Service Park in Llandudno is totally free of charge, a wide selection of tickets for all 22 competitive special stages

After a high-profile Ceremonial Start outside the Three

are still on sale. Full details can be found at

Graces on Liverpool’s historic Pier Head on Thursday

www.walesrallygb.com

Page 32 NWM 2019

DEFFRO CHWEDLAU A CHREADURIAID MYTHS & MONSTERS AWAKEN DIGWYDDIAD CYFAREDDOL I’R TEULU CYFAN DAW GOLEUNI AR STRAEON SYDD WEDI BOD YN LLECHU YN Y TYWYLLWCH ERS CANRIFOEDD

PENNOD I - 7PM 16 TACHWEDD - Stryd Mostyn, Llandudno Noson o berfformio ymdeithiol a gwyllt

PENNOD II - 7PM 14 RHAGFYR - Gerddi’r North Western, Llandudno Noson o wrando ar straeon anhygoel yn cael eu hadrodd drwy daflunio goleuadau

A CAPTIVATING EVENT FOR ALL THE FAMILY STORIES THAT HAVE LURKED IN THE DARKNESS FOR CENTURIES ARE NOW COMING TO LIGHT

CHAPTER I - 7PM 16 NOVEMBER - Mostyn Street, Llandudno An evening of fiery processional performance

CHAPTER II - 7PM 14 DECEMBER - North Western Gardens, Llandudno Spectacular story telling through light projection

WWW.CONWY.GOV.UK/DIGWYDDIADAU

/DIGWYDDIADAUCONWY /EVENTSCONWY

@DIGWYDDIADCONWY @EVENTSCONWY

WWW.CONWY.GOV.UK/EVENTS

DIGWYDDIADEVENT

@DIGWYDDIADAUCONWY @EVENTSCONWY

NWM 2019 Page 33

y Bike hire (including e-bikes/ trailers and tag-alongs) y Boat Hire y Fishing y Walking routes y Osprey photography hide y Adventure playground y Zorbs y Party room facilities

Summer activities for children

y Mountain biking sessions y Orienteering y Wild Wednesday (RSPB) y Introduction into fly fishing courses follow us on facebook to keep up-to-date

@LlynBrenig

www.llyn-brenig.co.uk Cerrigydrudion, Conwy, Wales, LL21 9TT, 01490 420 463

GOING BACK IN TIME

There’s so much to do on a visit to Llanberis that you could easily run out of time to visit Dolbadarn Castle. But, says Stephen Gregory, it’s worth making the time to go back in time…

It’s October, and a beautiful day in Llanberis. You’re spoilt

Ist’s mighty castles of Caernarfon and Harlech and Conwy and

for choice! Take a trip on the uniquely wonderful mountain-

Beaumaris. But it pre-dates them. And it feels utterly different.

railway, all the way to the summit of Snowdon and back

It’s properly Welsh, one of the truly native Welsh castles, built

down again. Enjoy a cruise on Lake Padarn. You might even

by Llywelyn ap Iorwerth in the early 13th Century, when he

have the stamina and courage to have a dip in the lagoons.

was securing his stronghold in Snowdonia and establishing

Why not plunge into the shivery icy-black water and then

his right to be overlord of Wales.

warm up with a barbeque under the rowan and silver birch of the picnic spots? Then, in the afternoon, you can visit the

In building Dolbadarn Castle, and also Castell y Bere and

awesome caverns of ‘electric mountain’ and marvel at the

Dolwyddelan, Llewelyn would dominate the mountain passes

vast, grimly-grey scars of the slate quarries. If you still have

and create a bastion against any claims from the English

the energy to tackle some more physical challenges, there’s

king Henry III. He would become known forever in history as

mountain biking and rock-climbing to be done, more than

Prince Llywelyn the Great.

enough opportunities to test your mettle ...

But after his death in 1240, there followed a power struggle Surely there’s enough to do in and around Llanberis, without

among the succeeding princes, a bitter wrangle between

mooching around the ruins of Dolbadarn Castle?

Llywelyn ap Gruffudd and his brothers Owain and Dafydd.

Llywelyn prevailed. To secure his supremacy he imprisoned

Well, here’s my advice. Make the time. Go and see Dolbadarn

his younger brother Dafydd for many months. And he

Castle. No excuses! And no mooching! It’s a truly atmospheric

imprisoned his older brother Owain for 22 years.

site, with a dramatic history.

22 years! If indeed you’ve followed my excellent advice and The castle stands aloof and alone at the head of Llyn Padarn,

taken a stroll through the woodland to the remaining tower of

guarding the entrance into the pass of Llanberis. Straightaway

Dolbadarn Castle, you’re standing in the very building where

you’re drawn back in time, away from the reality of the

the unfortunate Owain was a prisoner. Imagine! Owain ap

modern world, by the sign at the entrance: no drones, no

Gruffudd, also known as Owain Goch or Owain the Red, spent

smoking. So, leave behind your hi-tech gadgetry, stub out

more than two decades within the eight-foot thick walls of

your cigarette, step inside and feel yourself lured into a long-

this tower, looking out and over the lake and the mountains

ago world…

from its uppermost chamber.

Dolbadarn Castle is a World Heritage site, along with Edward

So Llywelyn had won the status he craved. By 1267 he had

NWM 2019 Page 35

MAGAZINE

Yes, Dolbadarn Castle is different, stubbornly different from those big swanky English castles you’ve visited at the seaside.

From the carefully-restored battlements of Caernarfon and Conwy and Harlech and Beaumaris, you can smell the fish ‘n’ been officially recognized by King Henry III as the overlord of

chips in town, you can hear the maddeningly repetitive jingle

Wales, in the Treaty of Montgomery. He must have relished

of the ice-cream van, you can feel the buffeting of the seagulls’

his achievement and the brutality of the power he wielded

wings as they swoop and wail around you.

over his brothers, unaware of the greater turmoil which lay in the years ahead…

Not so at Dolbadarn. Stand at the top of its lonely tower and what do you hear? The croak of a raven, resounding from the

Yes, as everyone knows in North Wales, because of the

bare crags. The slither of slate, disturbed by a ghostly footstep

overwhelming presence of the English castles which loom

in the abandoned quarries. And the wind, always the wind,

over the landscape, Llywelyn would find himself pitted against

which carries the whisper of a tumultuous history.

a more formidable foe than his own brothers.

Think of the brothers ap Gruffudd, who wrangled and fought He refused to pay homage to King Edward Ist. As the English

over this land… of Llywelyn the Last, who would defy the might

forces marched into North Wales, as they crossed the Menai

of the English and pay for his defiance with his life… of Dafydd,

strait in order to harvest and steal the crops which grew

who would be so cruelly punished for his resistance to King

on the lush fields of Anglesey, the native Welsh rallied and

Edward… and, perhaps most poignantly of all, as you stand in

fought. Still Llywelyn refused to bow to King Edward. Still he

the tower of Dolbadarn Castle, think of Owain, who spent 22

would not speak the words of an oath of allegiance.

melancholy years, day and night, within these very walls.

At last and inevitably, in bitter fighting, the castles of

So now you can return to modern-day Llanberis village. Enjoy

Dolwyddelan and Castell y Bere were taken by the English.

a well-earned pint in a choice of pubs. Slurp an ice cream.

Finally, in 1282, Dolbadarn castle succumbed to English forces

Buy homemade honey and original water colours and quirky

led by the Earl of Pembroke.

hand-thrown pottery in the high-street shops. You can smoke a cigarette. You might even find a place to launch your drone

And by December of that year, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd was dead.

into the realm of the ravens.

He was ambushed by English soldiers, killed in action, and

You’ve been back in time. You’ve been to a quiet place, and

his head was carried hundreds of miles to be displayed on a

listened to its story in the wind from the lake. A place worth

pike at the Tower of London. The following year, his younger

making the time to visit – a story worth hearing and re-telling. n

brother Dafydd was captured and taken to Shrewsbury to be hanged, drawn and quartered.

So ended the rule of the native Welsh princes.

Dolbadarn Castle was looted. Much of its original fabric was carted towards the coast and built into King Edward’s spanking new castle at Caernarfon. Today you see the empty shell of it, grimly defiant after 800 years of wind and rain and harsh Snowdonian winters.

Page 36 NWM 2019

Stephen Gregory’s new book, an anthology of short stories entitled ON DARK WINGS, is now out in the USA from Valancourt Books. It features 14 of his stories, many of them previously published in the Illustrated London News and the London Evening Standard, as well as a Christmas ghost story he wrote especially for North Wales Magazine. Search for ON DARK WINGS at www.valancourtbooks.com to order your copy, postage free!

Myddelton College “Learning to thrive in the 21st Century”

Visit us on our Open Day 19th October 2019 from 10 am Ages 7-18

Glasfryn.qxp_Layout 1 24/05/2019 08:37 Page 2

Tel: 01745 472 201 www.myddeltoncollege.com

Come along for a great day out for all the family on the Llyn Peninsula whatever the weather!

Choose from Indoor & Outdoor Activities – Go-Karting, Segways to Ten-Pin Bowling, Soft Play & lots more….

Or try your hand at Wakeboarding, Kayaking or StandUp Paddle-boarding in our Waterpark, surrounded by the beautiful mountains of Snowdonia!

WWW.GLASFRYN.CO.UK

• 01766

810000

Y FFOR, PWLLHELI, GWYNEDD. LL53 6PG

NWM 2019 Page 37

BUY A LUXURY HOLIDAY HOME DURING OCTOBER OR NOVEMBER AND

Purchasing your very own Darwin Escapes holiday home has never been easier – or more affordable. With a number of options available, you can buy the holiday home of your dreams and start enjoying days full of fun, adventure, and relaxation.

Terms and conditions: Offer available on selected 12ft wide or larger caravans and lodges. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other discount, offer or part exchange allowance. New purchases only. Holiday home purchases must be paid in full or have finance arranged by 15/11/19 to qualify for the offer. Break departure must leave before 10th December 2019 and includes two night bed and breakfast for 2 adults in a three star New York hotel, including flights from Manchester or Liverpool.

All holiday breaks subject to availability, if availability is nil, then the equivalent holiday vouchers will be given. Free site fees offer available on selected models.

ENJOY A WONDERFUL 2 NIGHT STAY IN NEW YORK ON US! Buy your holiday home between the 1st of October and the 15th of November 2019 and enjoy a fantastic trip to New York for 2 adults in October, November or up to the 10th of December. Perfect for an exciting break or Christmas shopping with a difference.

FREE SITE FEES

2021 UNTIL MARCH

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR EXCLUSIVE RESORT TOUR, VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR FREEPHONE:

www.darwinescapes.co.uk

0800 717 707

Aberconwy Resort & Spa Aberconwy Park, Conwy LL32 8GA

New Pines Holiday Home Park Dyserth Road, Nr Dyserth, Denbighshire LL18 4DY

Seaview Holiday Home Park Gwespyr, Nr. Holywell, Flintshire CH8 9JS

Talacre Beach Resort Station Road, Talacre, Flintshire CH8 9RD

WRU double-sided pendant

#30YearsofClogau

CYMRU AM BYTH Support your nation with the stunning Welsh Rugby Union pendant.

As an official Welsh Rugby Union jewellery licensee, we are honoured to launch this double-sided pendant to celebrate the Rugby World Cup. This wonderful piece is engraved with the iconic Welsh Rugby Union logo, while the reverse proudly displays the Welsh dragon.

www.clogau.co.uk Visit your nearest Clogau boutique

Bangor | Broughton | Llandudno

FOOD & DRINK INSIDE: recipes wine cocktail of the month

NWM 2019 Page 41

Locally Produced When a local chef cooks with local produce, the results can only be outstanding…

Having had the honour to cook for Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, in a short few months, chef Chris Jones has turned up the heat in the kitchen at the quaint Groes Inn – a historic pub, restaurant and Inn which was built in 1573.

Chris grew up in Conwy and has spent most of his career working locally and producing dishes using the finest Welsh ingredients around. Chris worked for three years in the famous village of Portmeirion before a short stint in the Channel Islands.

Chris is happy to be back in North Wales and prides himself on using local produce, supporting farmers when possible and creating memorable dishes like the Haunch of Venison, served with bourguignon sauce, potato gratin and roast shallots. He also makes a tasty Sunday roast!

Chris finds enjoyment in training junior chefs, making sure the pride in food and the pride of North Wales is handed down to the next generation of chefs – just as it was handed down to him from his mentors. We sent Carly Redgers to have a chat with the culinary mastermind…

NWM 2019 Page 43

MAGAZINE

How did you get your start in cooking?

I got my start in cooking from the early age of 13. Both my grandmother and mother inspired me to experiment in the kitchen Who do you admire in the culinary world?

Massimo Bottara What is your biggest accomplishment to date?

Cooking for Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla What is your signature dish?

Slow braised Ox cheek, red peppers and shallot pearl barley, baby vegetables, Ox jus What makes Welsh cuisine so special?

Welsh cuisine has a lot to offer, from Welsh Lamb to Welsh black beef – local produce is key in North Wales!

Which local suppliers do you work with?

We work closely with the catering butchers Williams of Flint Who would you like to cook for?

The Queen!

a bright, airy conservatory, and a heart-warming, snug and welcoming pub with cosy log fires.

On a night off, where do you like to dine?

At home with my beautiful family

Its menus feature a range of freshly prepared seasonal dishes that have been made using fine, locally sourced ingredients,

What advice do you have for a cooking enthusiast?

and it also offers a selection of pub classics and fresh, tasty

Don’t be scared to try new things!

daily specials where Chris can really show off those North Walian ingredients to their very best. n

And the new things that Chris tries on the menu compliment the history of The Groes Inn perfectly. The Groes is the first

The Groes Inn is located on Llanrwst Road in Conwy and is

licensed house in Wales – and today it is all about the food.

open Monday through Sunday from 11am-11pm. Visit www.

The inn has two dining areas: a handsome restaurant with

groesinn.com for more information

Page 44 NWM 2019

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With a selection of luxury new and pre-loved holiday homes and lodges to choose from, we are sure to have one to suit you.

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email us on opendays@parkleisure.co.uk | visit us at www.parkleisure.co.uk/brynteg Find us at: Brynteg Coastal & Country Retreat, Llanrug, Near Caernarfon, Gwynedd, LL55 4RF Terms & Conditions apply: Visit www.parkleisure.co.uk/terms-and-conditions

NWM 2019 Page 45

Pre-loved BK Linear at Brynteg

C H R I S T M A S PA R T Y N I G H T S

R A Z Z L E DA Z Z L E BALL 2019

P R O S E C C O C O C K TA I L 3 COURSE MEAL A LARGE GLASS OF WINE L I V E E N T E RTA I N M E N T DANCING, DJ PHOTOBOOTH

DECEMBER T H U R S D AY 5 TH F R I D AY 6 TH S AT U R D AY 7 TH T H U R S D AY 1 2 TH F R I D AY 1 3 TH S AT U R D AY 1 4 TH W E D N E S D AY 1 8 TH T H U R S D AY 1 9 TH S AT U R D AY 2 1 ST

The Quay Hotel and Spa, Deganwy Quay,

www.quayhotel.co.uk 01492 564 100

Deganwy, Conwy LL31 9DJ

Quay Hotel & Spa @quayhotelandspa

P R I C E S ; W E D N E S D AY & T H U R S D AY £ 4 0

F R I D AY & S AT U R D AY £43 PER PERSON

WHY NOT STAY THE NIGHT B&B FROM £99 PER ROOM

OF THE

Month

INGREDIENTS 1 oz. (30ml) Light Rum 1 oz. (30ml) Dark Rum 1/2 oz. (15ml) Apricot

It’s October – the scariest month of them all! But, let’s face it, it’s just not fair

Brandy

to let the kids be the only ones filling their boots with inappropriate goodies…

1/2 oz. (15ml)

Welcome then The Zombie – a cocktail made of fruit juices, liqueurs and

Overproof Rum

various rums. Legend has it that The Zombie was first created in 1930’s

2 1/2 oz. (75ml)

America by Donn Beach, the “founding father” of tiki culture, in order to help a

Orange Juice

hungover customer get through a business meeting. Need we say more?

ZOMBIE CLASSIC METHOD In an ice-filled shaker combine all of the above ingredients except the grenadine and overproof rum. Shake well to mix.

Strain the mixture over ice in an appropriately scary serving glass before adding grenadine and gently layering overproof rum on top using the back of a bar spoon.

Garnish with orange, mint leaves and a cherry.

IN THE MIX

Of course, if you’d rather sit back and relax while somebody mixed your ideal cocktail for you, then why not visit Sheldon’s in Colwyn Bay? From a Margarita to a Mojito, it has quite the cocktail selection and is quickly becoming the place to go for cocktails in North Wales.

01492 339821 www.sheldonsbar.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 47

Christmas Party Menu 3 Course £20.95 / 2 Course £15.95

Served 2nd – 23rd December

To Start Cream of Tomato and Sweet Basil Soup with Crème Fraiche and Chive Croute Prawn and Smoked Salmon Parcel with Dill and Citrus Dressing, Granary Fritter Field Mushroom on Pesto Ciabatta with Stilton, Spinach and Seed Mustard Rarebit House Paté, Winter Berry Compote and Toasted Bloomer Iced Melon Pearls, Citrus Sorbet and Spiced Pineapple and Ginger Salsa

Main Course Roast Beef, Giant Yorkshire Pudding with Seasonal Vegetables and Natural Gravy Roasted Turkey Crown with all the Trimmings and Yorkshire Pudding Homemade Goats Cheese and Mediterranean Vegetable Lasagne with Crusty Garlic Bread Pan Fried Chicken Breast with Pancetta and Garlic Dauphin Potatoes, Wilted Greens Seafood Gratin with Welsh Cheddar and Caramelised Leek Crust with Buttered New Potatoes Butternut Squash, Spinach and Chickpea Dahl with Mushroom Pilau and Homemade Coriander Flatbread Roasted Beef Fillet Medallions Glazed with Dijon, Honey and Brie, with Caramelised Chantenay Carrots and Sweet Potato Galette (£5.00 supplement)

Desserts Selection of Desserts from Today’s Menu Selection of Coffees and Liqueur Coffees from our Menu £10.00 non refundable deposit is required

01745 570482

new inn

newinndyserth

Food for thought

Autumn tends to upset some people. The clocks

could do something new for weeks on end

go back and it starts getting cold and damp,

and never repeat yourself. It’s exhausting!

it’s always dark et cetera, et cetera. I personally love it, especially nature’s firework display

Mercifully, autumn turns up like Graham

of colours as the leaves on the trees paint

Chapman in his army uniform telling us to

themselves bright copper, orange and brown.

stop being so silly. It’s back to work, back to

I used to live in Eglwysbach down the Conwy

school, back to reality. We are free from the

valley, and in the autumn I would deliberately

tyranny of unlimited options, as Karl Marx

drive home as slowly as legally possible just to

might have put it if he’d had to look after two

take in the sublime beauty of it all.

easily bored children for six weeks.

More than that though, a sense of normality

Food is autumn’s ace in the hole. You have

and Maitre d’ of

returns after the unhinged madness of

now abandoned the quest to drop a swimsuit

the award-winning

summer. As I write this, my children have just

size, so the salad and grilled fish season is

Paysanne Bistro in

gone back to school to start a new year. Lovely

over. Like bears preparing for hibernation we

Deganwy, which has

as it was to have them around seven days a

start to crave filling, tummy-warming, stodgy

been serving French

week, middle-age has made me a creature of

things that stave off the cold. It’s casserole

country-style food to

habit and I’m relieved beyond measure to get

time, toad in the hole, shepherd’s pie – all the

the fine people of North

my beloved routine back.

good stuff.

Wales since 1988. He

That’s one of the most infuriating things

Now’s the time to start picking and

Magazine, BBC Good

about the summer: everything seems feasible.

preserving things that will come out in the

Food, HeyUGuys.com

Being bathed in daylight until 10pm makes

winter. Now’s the time to gather all the kids

and The North Wales

us think that we can do anything – lose two

into the kitchen to help make a Christmas

Weekly News

stone and develop a washboard stomach; take

pudding months in advance (each making a

up marathon running; dine alfresco every

magic wish when it’s their turn to stir) – a

night, take the kids camping and start each

pudding that none of them will actually want

day with a swim in the ocean.

to eat on Christmas Day.

It doesn’t help that North Wales has recently

So here’s a nice easy mid-week dinner idea

become the land of a millions things to do,

that I nicked from Nigella. For me, pork is at

particularly if you’re the outdoor type who

its best at this time of year and this meal is

likes surfing, climbing, scaling trees or

like giving your tummy a knitted jumper and

bouncing on subterranean trampolines. You

a hot water bottle. n

Cai Ross is co-owner

also writes for Calibre

NWM 2019 Page 49

MAGAZINE

Recipes

RK CHOPS WITEH TENDERISED PO RD SAUC WHOLEGRAIN MUSTA

ve with ilar to the one we ser This sauce is very sim to try at nt which you might wa Bury Black Pudding, into the hi occ gn e , I turned som home too. Like Nigella ’t stand can you ily, fam rest of my sauce but if, like the ne e w sauce as is with som gnocchi, just serve the potatoes on the side.

Serves 4 ops ange British pork ch J 4 nice thick free-r J Olive oil J 250ml cider grain mustard J 2 tablespoons whole J 150ml double cream ping board ˚C FAN. Cover a chop Preheat the oven to 180 d give an ops ch the over one of with cling film. Fold it it much with a mallet, making it a good hammering ee and thr cess with the other thinner. Repeat this pro set them aside. pan and fry dium heat in a large Heat the oil over a me h side. Put e for five minutes eac the chops two at a tim with the eat rep a warm oven and the cooked chops in pan the e ap scr d an in the cider other two. Then pour . After a off s bit y sp cri the to get all with a wooden spoon rd, then the cream. sta mu the d ad minute, o the sauce the pork chop trays int Pour in any juices on to the sauce hi occ gn the d chops, ad and stir. Plate up the ce over sau occhi route). Pour the (if you’re taking the gn the by d nie pa immediately accom the chops and serve next recipe…

Page 50 NWM 2019

ÇAISE PETIT POIS À LA FRAN the Serve this along with

pork

Serves 4 ing onions J 1 bunch of large spr e tuc let m J 2 little ge pois J 450g Frozen petits , streaky bacon, ed ok J 2 thick slices sm cut into lardons J Olive oil remove little oil and reserve, Crisp the bacon in a ions, on ing spr the ts from the green tops and roo red sh d an trim , sh Wa . ole and keep the bulb wh d the ad n, tter in a heavy pa the lettuce. Melt the bu five for y ntl ge tuce and cook spring onions and let n pa the er Cov . son and sea minutes. Add the peas r in the Sti so. or tes nu mi e fiv and simmer gently for serve. d an con ba of ns do lar

Don’t fancy cooking?

01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk

North Wales best kept secret Caravans from only £14,995

Discover Tan Rallt Holiday Park, a hidden gem in North Wales, just 5 minutes from A55 and the beach. Tan Rallt is an ideal home away from home with all of the privacy and luxury desired to create your own perfect escape.

Call 01492 818 639 to book a viewing www.tanrallt.co.uk

Tan Rallt Holiday, Home Park, Rhyd-Y-Foel, Abergele, Conwy LL22 8EE,

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QP- NWCaravans - Sept copy.pdf

20/03/2019 18:56

1

21/08/2019

15:30

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co.uk

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Visit our showroom: Hand-picked pre-used caravans, awnings by top brands, and price busting accessories for those everyday essentials.

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NEW WEBSITE www.nwcal.co.uk

Bathrooms/Interiors/Ensuites/Wetrooms/Tiles

Global Tiles Ltd Unit 4 Falcon Estate, Mochdre Business Park, Colwyn Bay, LL28 5HF Tel: 01492541540 abbie@globaltiles.ltd.uk

/ www.facebook.com/global.tiles.limited

Raise your glass Spooky October

As October comes around thoughts turn to horror, scaring and all things frightening. So I thought, what’s the scariest conversations we have around wine in the shop?

Other than the inevitable: “I don’t know what I want, or where to start,â€? usually the scary chats are around natural/ organic wines, or wine from countries from less known producers. Last month we talked about a new range of organic wines that we had just got in (Calcerous). But that is just a small part of our expanding range of organic wines‌ So what is organic wine?

In layman’s terms, organic wine is simply stripping winemaking back to basics. Minimal intervention with the vines while growing, no chemicals or fertilisers, definitely no genetic modification, just natural organic methods as would have been in the early days of wine making.

The wine making process is also stripped back. This means,

Pete’s Organic October Challenge:

again, only organic materials can be used in the production.

Solara: Chardonnay/Feteasca Alba/Tamioasa

Minimal intervention and minimal additives are definitely

Romaneasca/Sauvignon Blanc - Romania

the standard here.

Blossoms: Pinot Noir – Adelaide Hills/Australia Pol Puesto: Chardonnay – Mendoza/Argentina

These organic wines tend to be less refined than other

Fabrizio Vella: Nero d’Avola - Sicily/Italy

wines so may have a cloudy appearance or contain a lot of

Jean Leon 3055: Pinot Noir Rose – Penedes/Spain

sediment in the bottle. One of the side effects of this is that the wines sometimes have an appearance and smell that can

Drop by for a taste and try them for yourselves!

be initially quite challenging.

I will openly admit that I find it challenging sometimes. Smell

In the interests of balance, I can also say that some of them

is a big factor in enjoyment of both food and drink for me.

could be the worst you have ever tasted.

Last week I tried a natural wine, and the initial smell was

But that’s the great thing about wine in general – your

around the slightly off cider level. However, once I got past

reaction is dependent upon your palate.

the odour it was brilliant – very tasty with a lovely creamy smooth aftertaste.

So as Halloween approaches, the evenings cool, the leaves turn and our desires change from chilled rose to warming

So this is the biggest challenge. Some of these wines need

reds, why not come on in and ask us about some organic

to rest a little and you need to have two or three sips before

wines? After all, what’s the worst that can happen?! You’re

you are comfortable and start to enjoy. But the rewards for

not scared are you?

perseverance are high, as some of these wines are very satisfying indeed!

Tim, Mark, Dave, Pete and Blu đ&#x;˜Š

The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room

Tim Watson and his team run the Grape to Glass

8b Rhos Parade, Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea, LL29 7RE

Wine Shop and Tasting Room in Rhos-on-Sea which,

Tel: 01492 545934

as well as offering wine from far reaching lands, also

www.thegrapetoglass.co.uk

stocks locally produced beers, wines and spirits

NWM 2019 Page 53

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

www.conwyvalleywindows.co.uk

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

Page 54 NWM 2019

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 2019 Page 55

Page 56 NWM 2019

HOMES & INTERIORS REDUCED TO CLEAR - 1/2 PRICE ON ALL STOCK RUGS

NWM 2019 Page 57

Property of the month

This stunning home in Upper Colwyn Bay was built in 2016.

room and walk in robe, a guest bedroom with en suite, two

Designed by Barry Richards of BR Architecture, this modern

further bedrooms and a family bathroom.

home is ideal for family living or as a great entertaining venue – or both!

Occupying a large mature garden plot, set down from the road with a sweeping block paved driveway, the property boasts

The outstanding design captures modern day living perfectly

a fabulous terrace running off the sunken living space, while

with under floor heating throughout, radiators to first floor,

established lawns and a mixture of trees provide privacy

expanses of glazing which flows through the atrium style

screening to the boundaries.

double height entrance hall and galleried landing. There is an impressive feeling of space with an open plan layout and an

If you are looking for a house with more than a bit of wow

amazing sunken curved living, kitchen and family room linking

factor, then look no further. n

off the dining area. In addition there is a more formal lounge, a music room and an L-shaped utility room which gives access to the double garage.

Running off the spacious light and airey galleried landing are

For more information 74A Pen Y Bryn Road in Upper Colwyn Bay is currently on the market with Anthony Flint Estate Agents. For more information visit www.anthonyflint.co.uk or call 01492 877418

four bedrooms: the large master suite with an en suite shower

NWM 2019 Page 59

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

PENRHYN BAY

RHOS ON SEA £229,950

£264,950

• Beautifully Presented Three Bedroom Detached House • Extended With An Open Plan Kitchen/Diner • Situated in a Sought After Location • Garage Has Been Converted Into a Garden Room • NO CHAIN

• Traditional Style Three Bedroom Semi Detached House • Well Planned Accommodation • Off Road Parking • Situated In A Sought After Location

EPC

F

RHOS ON SEA

RHOS ON SEA £449,950

£224,950 • Two Bedroom Ground Floor Apartment • Balcony To Front Aspect With Sea Views • Good Size Garage & Internal Bike Store

• Building Plot With Full Planning Permission For Nine x • Two Bedroom Luxury Apartments • Planning Application REF: 0/43893 • Located Close To All Local Amenities Of Rhos On Sea

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

INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS

Page 60 NWM 2019

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

The Selling & Letting Agents

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

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

LLANDUDNO JUNCTION

CRAIG Y DON £275,000

£245,000

• 3 bedroom semi-detached house close to all amenities and only a short walk to the promenade • Well maintained & beautifully presented • Off Road Parking and good size rear graden • This is a property that is well worth viewing to appreciate the size & layout

• An immaculately presented modern detached four bedroom home • The current owners have made many upgrades to the property • Driveway parking for two vehicles and garage. Front and rear gardens.

• FREEHOLD

EPC

F

DEGANWY

DEGANWY £260,000

£415,000 • A Well maintained four bedroom detached family home situated in a highly desirable location • Enjoying superb far reaching views over the mountains, estuary and Conwy castle.

• Large plot with a fantastic south facing rear garden, gated driveway, car port, workshop & garage • Upvc double glazing and oil fired central heating.

• Well presented & modernised 3 bedroom semi-detached home • Situated on a sought after road close to the village centre, & enjoying lovely views • Upvc double glazing & gas central heating • Driveway parking, front, side & rear gardens

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

Cysgod y Graig, Clawddnewydd Ref: RN1463

£625,000

£465,995

Denbigh Road, Nannerch Ref: WM530

• Five bedroom detached family home

• 6.5 acres of varied land

• Set in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

• High spec kitchen & bathroom

• Original character features

• Separate coach house

• Private gated grounds of 1.3 acres

• Character features

• Popular village location

• Ten minutes from Ruthin

• Double garage with annex above

• Ample off-road parking

• Attractive lawned gardens

• EPC F-33

• Stunning countryside views

• EPC D-65

£335,000

Maes y Gog, Rhyl Ref: WR9004

• 4 bedroom detached house

• Modern high specification kitchen

• Beautifully presented throughout

• Mood lighting and ZON sound system

• Landscaped rear garden

• Lounge and cinema room

• Single garage and off-road parking

• EPC C-76

£400,000

The Green, Denbigh Ref: WE6403

£339,950

Ty Llan, Llanasa Ref: WM241

• Five bedroom detached family home

• Kitchen/diner with large pantry

• Beautifully landscaped gardens

• Off road parking for multiple vehicles

• Four reception rooms

• Three bathrooms

• Well presented throughout

• Large master bedroom

• Ample off-road parking

• Double garage

• Elevated living room

• Popular village location

• Gardens to front and rear

• EPC E-54

• Short distance to Prestatyn and the A55 • EPC D-66

MAGAZINE

www.anthonyflint.co.uk

ORME LODGE, 16a NORTH PARADE, LLANDUDNO PROMENADE, LL30 2LP

Price ÂŁ695,000 A truly unique opportunity to acquire a Grade II Listed Promenade Victorian Gentleman's Residence, dating from 1889, one of only two on this iconic sweeping sea front crescent shaped terrace and the only property with a swimming pool and four car garage. This substantial property does require considerable renovation, but offers immense potential for a new owner to develop a bespoke town house, situated in a stunning beachside location with panoramic views over the fabulous Bay of Llandudno.

Page 64 NWM 2019

Regents House, 125 Mostyn Street, Llandudno T: 01492 877418 E: llandudno@anthonyflint.co.uk

Rentals, Llandudno T: 01492 877419 E: rentals@anthonyflint.co.uk

www.anthonyflint.co.uk

35 ROCKFIELD DRIVE, DEGANWY, CONWY, LL30 1PF

Price ÂŁ395,000 Impressive detached chalet style bungalow with beautiful coastline views, extensively modernised and improved to high quality specification. Feature glass roofed orangery, dining room, kitchen, utility, integral garage, ground floor shower room and bedroom. First floor has spacious master bedroom, en suite and second bedroom. Private block paved drive with ample parking, enclosed rear garden, wooden decked area, lawn and garden shed. Double glazing and gas central heating.

Regents House, 125 Mostyn Street, Llandudno T: 01492 877418 E: llandudno@anthonyflint.co.uk

Rentals, Llandudno T: 01492 877419 NWM 2019 Page 65 E: rentals@anthonyflint.co.uk

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

Steaming ahead Tapping into design

Rangemaster has launched the NEXUS Steam; the only range cooker in the UK market with a dedicated steam oven cavity. Steam cooking retains foods’ moisture,

Axbridge by Booth & Co. is an exclusive Victorian-

flavour and nutritional value, making it one of the

inspired tap collection ready to add a spot of class to the

healthiest ways to cook. The NEXUS Steam uses pure

bathroom. Part of the VADO family, Booth & Co. combines

steam injection to rapidly heat its cavity. The technology

time-honoured British craftsmanship with outstanding

allows the user to control the temperature to within a

product performance to reflect decades of superior British

single degree for precise and flexible cooking. It also

design and engineering. Integrating innovative technology

prevents the transfer of flavours, allowing the end

into traditional forms, each item of brassware is as time-

user to cook multiple foods at once. The steam cavity,

honoured on the outside as it is pioneering within.

which sits on the appliance’s right-hand side, comes

Tailored to complement traditional and contemporary

complete with a deep, stainless steel perforated baking

interiors, the distinct Axbridge collection is available in two

tray, a standard baking tray and a non-telescopic wire

lustrous colours; polished chrome or bright nickel, each

shelf. The flexibility and functionality of the NEXUS

featuring their own unique ceramic accents, with a choice of

Steam make it the ideal model for family cooking and

cross and lever handles.

entertaining with ease.

www.vado.com

www.rangemaster.co.uk

Standing out This copper umbrella stand is made from water resistant iron in the shape of an upside down umbrella finished in a rich brushed copper colouring.

Perfect for any hallway or porch, this large umbrella stand can fit all your umbrellas and sits on a sturdy three-footed base with a drip tray to catch droplets from those wet umbrellas. Available from Dibor, this stylish stand is just available for just £34. www.dibor.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 67

MAGAZINE

Easy does it Easy Bathrooms has introduced a brand-new collection of bathroom furniture Inspired by Italian design. The

Wood works

Callerton range of vanity units offers a luxurious selection of

Rustic Grains is the latest addition to Amtico’s

contemporary designer bathroom vanities. They incorporate

Signature flooring collection. Inspired by nature, the

the appearance of high-end materials, including curved

range follows the pronounced textures and defined

gloss wood and a slim porcelain tile worktop, while offering

features of salvaged, reclaimed woods. In the right

an affordable option. These pieces are designed to impress,

conditions, wood exposed to the elements matures

available with a choice of sizes and finishes. The style of

to create unparalleled colours and textures. Three

these bathroom vanity units is incredibly on-trend, with clean

distinctive colourways in the Rustic Grains range

curves and a slim worktop available in white marble, grey

bring out the silvers and greys that come as a result

marble or Italian slate, while the unit is presented in gloss

of winter weathering. Considered age markings

white, light grey or titanium grey, giving a bespoke feel to the

give this palette a truly reclaimed feel, with the

overall bathroom design.

practicality of a modern floor.

www.easybathrooms.com

www.amtico.com

Hotting up The latest heating range from Hudson Reed now includes a wide variety of innovative and designer-inspired radiators, heated towel rails and accessories, as well as a number of new models that perfectly blend form with function and are ideal for any room in the home – not just the bathroom. The new CEYLON designer radiator boasts a high gloss black finish, and is also available in high gloss white, making it a perfect choice for monochromatic room schemes. If used in a bathroom, the chrome towel rail adds to its functionality and standing at 180cm high, Ceylon makes a bold design statement, especially with its square, angular form. www.hudsonreed.co.uk

Page 68 NWM 2019

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

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Walking

world

THE ASCENT OF YR EIFL

Located on the north coast of the dramatic Llŷn Peninsula, the triple peaked Yr Eifl massif is a well known sight for car drivers and walkers in the area as well as those who use the beaches of Nefyn, Morfa Nefyn and the like. The massif forms part of the often neglected mountain range known as The Rivals, and these offer remote and often trackless walking in impressive situations with

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW J Distance: 3.0 miles/4.82 kilometres J Time: Allow 2.5 - 3 hours J Start: A large car park on a narrow minor road north of the villages of Llithfaen and above Nant Gwrtheyrn

J Grid Ref: SH 352440 J Nearest postcode: LL53 6NU J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer 254 – Lleyn Peninsula East

J What to expect: Despite only being short

stunning sea views. However, of all the summits in this range, Yr Eifl

this walk is a full blown mountain outing

is probably the one that sees the most ascents. Of the three summits

and requires good boots and full hill

the highest and most straightforward to climb is the central one and

walking gear. There is a lot of steep ascent

this is the top most people call ‘Yr Eifl’ although its correct title is

and descent involved and some of the

Garn Ganol and it rises to an impressive 1,841 ft/561 metres above the

paths are rough and rugged and require

sea and the Welsh Language and Heritage Centre at Nant Gwrtheyrn

care. The initial approach track is good

far below. Our route uses tracks and hill paths to make a circuit of

and wide but beyond that things get far

this top. It’s a route requiring full hill walking gear and good boots

more serious. The summit of Yr Eifl is lofty

as well as an ability to read a map and use a compass in mountain

and exposed and should be avoided in bad

terrain. The rewards for making the climb are dramatic views of

weather and high winds. The route should

Anglesey, the sea and the mountains of Snowdonia. The name Yr

not be undertaken in mist as some of the

Eifl means ‘the forks’ and it is obvious to see why when you view

paths are difficult to follow. Choose a good

this collection of summits from a distance. Of the other two peaks in

day of clear weather and this outing will

the group the most northerly is also the pointiest and rises to 1,457 ft/444 metres and is situated above a communications mast. This top is called Garn For and its ascent is rough and very exposed in places. The final top is quite famous as being an impressive Iron Age hill fort that has lots of hut remains in it. This is Tre’r Ceiri and it rises to 1,591 ft/485 metres and its name means ‘town of the giants’.

live long in your memory.

J Suitable for: Experienced walkers only who are used to steep and rough terrain in remote locations

J Refreshments: There is a shop at Llithfaen and a café at Nant Gwrtheyrn

It is well worth returning on another day to explore this fort and its ancient ruins as we don’t take it in on this route.

NWM 2019 Page 71

2 MAGAZINE

WALK DETAILS 3

START Exit the car park heading right of the standing stones to reach the lane. Go right to walk to a signpost and path junction. Go 4

left on a track sign posted ‘Wales Coast Path’. Head up the good track aiming between the two summits ahead. Climb steadily on the track with good sea views left. Climb to a gate left and

START/ FINISH

5

join a wall for a while. As the wall veers away left continue ahead on the track. When the angle levels cross over the col between the two summits you have been aiming for. Continue to pass a gap in a fence left to reach a signpost and path junction right.

and its summit area contains an extensive Iron Age hillfort.

Its name means ‘town of the giants’.

J The quarried distinct summit to your north west (with the Points of interest on this section

mast on its slopes) is Garn For and granite from its quarries

J From the car park a very steep winding road takes you to

has been used to pave Lancashire’s towns and villages as

the old Victorian village of Nant Gwrtheyrn which is now

well as for making curling stones for the Olympic Games.

the home to the National Welsh Language and Heritage Centre. It’s worth a visit and there is a café there for

3) Take the path on the opposite side of the summit cairn and

refreshments.

trig from where you arrived and head southerly towards a

J The Wales Coast Path opened in May 2012. It runs for a

second wind shelter. Cut left before you reach it and take a

mammoth 870 miles/1,400 km and links Queensferry in the

vague path that passes through a small scree field. The path

north to Chepstow in the south of the country

improves and cuts right before another rock outcrop. Descend the improving path which winds a rough way down through

2) Go right leaving the good track to take a path between

rock and heather with the village of Llithfaen in the distance.

two telegraph poles that is signposted for ‘Circular Route’.

Continue downhill to a path junction left near a little rock

Follow the rising path through heather up the hillside. When

outcrop. Here go right towards the sea. As the path descends

the angle steepens continue on the clear path and higher

the car park comes into view and the path heads towards it.

up pass through rock outcrops heading for scree and rock

Continue downhill and as the ground levels reach a marker

slopes above. When you reach the foot of the scree and rock

post and a crossroad of paths.

cut left with the path to continue through them. Soon a short section of heather is followed by a second rock

4) Go ahead following a good path to bend right to a dip and a

band. Here a small cairn marks the route

path crossroads. Go left on a vague path and follow it carefully

across a rocky scrambley section which

towards a coniferous plantation ahead. As the path gets more

requires care (especially if the rock is

indistinct continue towards the trees to reach a path crossing

wet). Once through this section the

over the one you are on. Go right on this rising up to cross a

path improves and passes through

little track and then stay left at a small fork in the path. After a

more rocks and over another

few paces go left towards a group of standing stones by a wall

rocky scramble. After this the path

– there is no path but the going is easy as the heather is low.

steepens and you continue over a

Continue to reach the three standing stones which are polished

further rocky section after which the

slate and form a topography viewfinder.

angle eases as the upper reaches of Yr Eifl are reached. The path gets a bit vague but should be followed over the summit area to the big cairn wind shelter and trig point on the top (there is a number 4 on top it). The best views are to be had from climbing into the cairn itself.

Points of interest on this section

J This summit is known as Garn Ganol and is the highest point on the Yr Eifl massif at 1,841 ft/561 metres. The views all around are stunning.

J The distinctive summit to the south east of you is Tre’r Ceiri

Page 72 NWM 2019

5) Go right to walk with the wall on your left and follow a descending path to reach a lane at the signpost and track where you began the walk. Go right to follow the lane to go left back into the car park. 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.

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Lanyon Bowdler recruits Welsh speaker

Business expert launches self-help guide

A Welsh-speaking legal expert is delighted to join a growing firm which has recently opened a new office in North Wales.

Dewi Jones, of Bangor, has joined Lanyon Bowdler’s new office in Conwy and will A new self-help guide from a leading business expert

be working with people across the North

offers 60-second tips on how to cope with the demands of

Wales region to advise on Wills, Lasting

modern working life. Meee in a Work Minute follows the

Powers of Attorney and other legal

successful Meee in a Minute, which has already sold up

arrangements. Having previously worked

to 20,000 copies since being released last autumn. Based

in Chester and Manchester, Dewi said he

in North Wales, the Meee (My Education Employment

was delighted to be back in North Wales.

Enterprise) programme has helped transform the lives of

“It’s great to be joining the Lanyon Bowdler

more than 20,000 people in the last five years via a series

team in Conwy and helping to develop the

of career clinics, think tanks and workshops. Founder

firm’s private client department across

Sid Madge, from Deganwy, has given talks to some of the

the region,” he said. “I enjoy private client

world’s leading companies, but also visited schools, prisons

work as I like dealing with people and

and community groups to help combat mental health

enjoy building strong relationships with

issues, improve wellbeing and mindfulness, and explore

clients. I’m delighted to have returned

better ways to cope with the stresses and strains of an

home to North Wales and I’m looking

increasingly challenging professional landscape. Sid will

forward to providing a high quality service

unveil the new title at a free event in St David’s Park Hotel,

to people in the area.” Dewi said one of his

Ewloe, on Monday 7th October, from 8.30am to 11am. As well

key priorities was to raise awareness of

as the launch and a book signing there will be networking,

the importance of writing a Will. For more

refreshments and a one-hour workshop.

advice, give Dewi a call on 01492 557070 or

www.meee.global

email dewi.jones@lblaw.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 75

MAGAZINE

New autumn parade in Llandudno In

Volunteers needed for Blind Veterans UK

an

Military charity Blind Veterans UK needs volunteers to give a few moments of their time in order to make a veterans day less lonely. Many of the charity’s members don’t have anyone to talk to, and feel isolated as exciting new autumn event, taking place at 7pm on Saturday

a result. You can change this by becoming

16th November, visitors drawn to Mostyn Street, Llandudno

one of their wonderful volunteers. You

will become mesmerised by a procession of mythical monsters,

can help in one of many ways – whether

Vikings and an unlikely troupe left over from a Victorian circus.

it’s becoming a home visitor, helping with

As part of this autumn’s new Winter Light season in Llandudno,

social outings or even driving a mini bus.

award-winning outdoor arts company Walk the Plank are

These brave ex-Service men and women are

creating a new early evening theatrical procession which has

often struggling alone with the challenges

participation and community engagement at its heart. A winter

of sight loss and, by volunteering at a

procession that will enthral everyone, the unfolding mystery of

time that’s convenient for you, you could

long lost legends will come to life in a parade that also features a

help transform a blind veteran’s life and

Victorian ring master and a group of circus performers, left over

give back to someone who’s given so

from the good old days, accompanied by monsters and a gang

much. To find out more about the charity’s

of monster catchers – determined to tame these wild, unruly

volunteering opportunities, please contact

beasts. With music, special effects and performance expect the

the local volunteering representative

unexpected in this unique procession, designed to bring a unique

Gemma Farquhar on 07395 601763 or

new spectacle to Llandudno’s autumn programme of events.

email her directly on

www.conwy.gov.uk/events

gemma.farquhar@blindveterans.org.uk

Pure hands over keys to first-time buyers First-time buyers Emma and Paul are moving into their first home, a brand new Clarence style three-bedroom house. These are the first keys to be handed over at Pure’s stunning new development of 75 homes at Cae Topyn in Denbigh.

Cae Topyn is the latest development of high quality homes for Pure located off the old Ruthin Road on the outskirts of this picturesque town. With breath taking views of the surrounding Clwydian Range, Cae Topyn presents an exclusive range of two-, three- and four-bedroom homes which present modern and spacious accommodation to suite any potential purchaser, together with the ultimate in contemporary design for which it is well known. Site plans for homes and gardens, details of the models available and the kitchen, bathroom and fittings choices at Cae Topyn are available by visiting the show home. www.pureresidentialandcommercial.co.uk

Page 76 NWM 2019

Ein Pobl, Eich Tîm Our People, Your Team

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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

Rydym ni’n cynnig ystod eang o wasanaethau cyfreithiol, sy’n cynnwys:

Offering a wide range of legal services including:

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Commercial & Residential Property Agriculture Wills, Trusts & Probate Family Law Employment Corporate & Commercial Disputes Motoring Offences Personal Injury & Medical Negligence

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NWM 2019 Page 77

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Win Two VIP show tickets to the Greatest Songmen at Rhyl Pavilion Portmeirion Sensational Welsh brother duo Richard & Adam are returning after wowing the nation with their extraordinary harmonies on Britain’s Got Talent.

Having performed to over 14 million people around the world they return for their much-anticipated UK tour, bringing their remarkable talent to the Rhyl Pavilion Theatre on the 24th of November. Join Richard & Adam for ‘The Greatest Songmen’, where the boys will captivate you with a night of world-class music, including A Million Dreams, Volare and The Impossible Dream, performed by the duo with flawless technique and robust clarity. These VIP tickets, which are worth £93, include reserved seats in the front rows, a pre show drink and the chance to meet Richard and Adam. www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

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

Win a ten-player voucher to Adventure Paintball This great prize includes entry, equipment and 100 paintballs per competitor – worth £130. Set in extensive woodland outside Abergele, Adventure Paintball is currently running an autumn discount for all groups that pre-book, so there has never been a better time to challenge your friends and family. The organiser of a group of 12 players goes free – and this package includes equipment, entry and 300 paintballs. There are further discounts for a corporate team building day out. Minimum age 12 years. www.adventurepaintball.co.uk

To Enter Full terms and conditions for each competition can be found at www.northwalesmagazine.com/win but, in order to enter, all you need to do is email your name and address to us at competition@northwalesmagazine.co.uk by Friday 25th October, 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!

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 2019 Page 79

MAGAZINE

An exceptional academic and enriching education on the stunning North Wales coast

PRE-SCHOOL AT RYDAL PENRHOS Outstanding Pre-School provision for 2-4 year olds • Wrap Around Care included Coastal and Forest School schemes to enhance early development At Rydal Penrhos Pre-School, young children will explore, investigate and question so that they learn while their curiosity and imagination are given full reign Find out more on our new website

www.rydalpenrhos.com For more information contact 01492 530155 or email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com

Page 80 NWM 2019

#RPInspires

Learning by heart Image, social strata, beauty, personality; for many teens, this is

and how they are

all being defined by their latest Instagram photo or the number

used. Examine your

of friends they have on Facebook.

own use of social media and note whether any of the

While cyberbullying and predators get the focus of our concern,

above hidden dangers ring true

the angst that arises upon simply opening up the latest social

for you.

networking site increases stress and anxiety for teens who,

J Have a conversation with your entire family about social

by the way, have recently been identified as the most stressed

media. Take turns discussing what you like and dislike

people.

about social media without judgment. Repeat what you heard your teen say to ensure that you understand them

A recent study reveals that high school students who spend the

correctly. Try to repeat their thoughts and concerns from

most time on social media are at a greater risk for behaviours

your teen’s perspective – not yours. When teens feel like

such as eating problems, alcohol and drug abuse, depression,

you understand them, they will be much more open to the

smoking and absenteeism from school.

conversation. Use this opportunity to raise the issue of whether social media can potentially distort either their or

Despite the stress and anxiety that may be associated with it, social media is here to stay. To tell your teen they cannot log

someone else’s realistic picture of life and happiness.

J Acknowledge the feelings that they have regarding how

on is as archaic as telling Ren in “Footloose” that he could not

much they have to accomplish in a day. Add social media

listen to rock and roll. Through some basic education on the

to that conversation so you can help them set realistic time

hidden dangers of social media, our teens can maintain their FB friendships without adding anxiety to an already stressful period of development.

parameters on their engagement.

J Talk to your teen about how multi-tasking increases stress in the brain. Understand social media is important to your child and help them set up a schedule for homework, social

Teens feel a tremendous amount of pressure to present the perfect brand of themselves in every post. The stress produced from constantly trying to project an unrealistic and unachievable perception of perfection within your social network causes stress and anxiety and the constant juggling of these different media platforms to accomplish this pursuit can lead to depression.

media, and family time so they can focus on one thing at a time.

J Remove the temptation at night. Keep phones and computers out of your child’s bedrooms. If they tell you it is “just charging,” let it charge in your room.

J Finally, if your teen feels social media is stressing them out help them plan a social networking detox. Find something else to replace time spent on social media sites, and join

Not only are the ones posting the beautified images of

them in the activity.

themselves caught up in this rat race, those viewing these perfect profiles are left wondering why they don’t feel as happy

Social networking is not all bad. These sites can enable teens

as everyone else looks on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. They

to keep up with friends they may not see every day and can

can’t help but to feel inadequate as they view page after page of

decrease feelings of isolation. Creating a profile or home page

these perfectly Photoshopped lives.

can foster creative expression. Social networking can allow teens the opportunity to discuss school assignments.

While the act of simply being on social media sites can trigger

While clearly there are dangers when teens become over

stress in our brain, teens magnify the impact of the stress by

invested in these sites, not allowing them to engage on these

engaging on these sites while also watching TV, doing their

media sites is unrealistic for teens today. The key is to educate

homework and checking their email at the same time.

and create boundaries around their use. n

While being a good multi-tasker used to be a badge of honour to be highlighted, we now know that multi-tasking triggers significant stress in our brain.

There are plenty of solutions to help your child:

J Educate yourself as to what the latest social media sites are,

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 2019 Page 81

MAGAZINE

Rydal Penrhos pupil gains golfing title A Golf Academy star at Rydal Penrhos has added to his list of impressive accolades with a prestigious national title.

Charley Simpson, a Year 9 pupil at the school, travelled to Clyne Golf Club in the pursuit of a major tournament victory at the Welsh U14 Open Championship, which took place on August 22 and 23. The sports scholar and Golf Wales Academy member produced a fine effort throughout his first round in testing conditions, coming up with a series of impressive strokes to put him in the final group heading into the crucial second round. With conditions far better

Open Championship and Welsh Boys’ title at a special

during day two, Charley demonstrated nerves of steel to

ceremony following the competition, and this is the latest

fire in a one-under-par overall round to seal the title by

in a series of outstanding successes for the Rhos on Sea

a convincing six strokes. This included a stunning 24-

Golf Club junior captain, who has brought his game on

foot putt for birdie on the final hole, and he responded

considerably since joining Rydal Penrhos’ thriving Golf

well to three bogeys during the round by immediately

Academy provision.

securing birdies. Charley formally received his Welsh

rydalpenrhos.com

EDUCATION NEWS Glyndwr helps build career prospects A construction management student at Wrexham Glyndwr University has put his learning to the test on a major project providing a Flintshire community with a state-of-the-art new school. Joe Hackney, from Cefn y Bedd, combines his studies at Glyndwr with a role as an assistant site manager for leading construction firm Wynne Construction. His most recent project has been working on Ysgol Penyffordd, a newly-constructed school which will serve the Flintshire village and which will welcome its first pupils this month after it was completed earlier this summer. Joe is now working for Wynne three days a week during term time, and spending two days on his studies.

“I’m an assistant manager – that means it’s my role to help out with the running of the entire construction site,” he explains. “I do a lot of paperwork, liaise with labourers, liaise with clients and contractors, and of course there is a lot of health and safety work on construction sites too.

That means keeping on top of things and making sure that everyone on site is working safely.” www.glyndwr.ac.uk

Page 82 NWM 2019

Myddelton College named leader in education technology It’s not just pupils at Denbigh’s Myddelton College who have been working hard to gain qualifications this summer, a record number of the teaching staff have achieved high-level, global recognition from Microsoft. The school, which has been named as one of 50 leading schools in the UK for education technology, now has six staff who have achieved Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert status. Senior Deputy Head (Pastoral) and Head of 21st Century Learning at the college Stuart Ayres explained that the status was awarded to teachers who are leading their field in the use of educational technology and sharing their expertise on a global stage. “Being named in the Edtech 50 this summer after just three years in operation was a tremendous achievement and it’s due to the way all of our teaching staff have embraced technology for education,” he said. “The MIEE status shows real sector leading practice, and while you may expect one or two enthusiasts in a school to achieve this level, to have 20 per cent of teaching staff recognised in this way is really quite unprecedented.” Myddelton College was founded in 2016 as a Microsoft Showcase School with pupils and staff using Microsoft software in all years, across the curriculum. www.myddeltoncollege.com

diwrnodau agored. israddedig

12 Hydref 9 Tachwedd

open days. undergraduate

12 October 9 November

Archebwch nawr / Book now

01978 293439 wgu.ac.uk/openday

You & Your

Pet

PROTECT YOUR BEST FRIEND THIS FIREWORK SEASON Did you know, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty

Products - Calming agents come in many forms; diffusers

to Animals (RSPCA) estimates that 45 per cent of dogs show

work over larger areas and can help keep a continuous flow

signs of fear around fireworks?

throughout your house. Sprays work well on bedding and bandanas, or you can even put a little on your fingers and

Levels of stress can differ in all animals, but dogs tend to

gently rub under their chin and top of their chest. Wipes and

come to mind first when it comes to fireworks. They can also

shampoos can also help and can be quickly applied, the more

become worse as they get older, so we wanted to share some

natural the better.

tips. The following advice is aimed at canines, but can help cats and even small animals in your home too.

Switch Up Your Walk - If your routine is to usually go out at night, consider tiring your dog out before dusk. A few hours

October to January is prime time for celebration and, with

of exercise should make them keen on staying in and curling

Halloween and Bonfire Night popularity ever-increasing,

up for the night.

fireworks and party noise is becoming larger and larger.

While fireworks are great fun for humans, these events can

Feed Early - Feeding them early could work well to get any

be stressful for our pets who are, in fact, our most vulnerable

last bathroom trips out of the way before the night settles in.

family members.

Background TV/Music - According to the ‘Scottish Society Helpful Tips

for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’, dogs like to listen to a

Instincts - Your pet’s natural instinct is to flee from loud noises

variety of genres, but classical music can lower heart rates

and light. So, close all the windows, draw the curtains and shut

and stress significantly.

any doors that lead outside. This will work wonders to dull the effect of fireworks and not overload your pet’s senses.

If your pet is showing symptoms of anxiety, it is best to address these promptly and properly. Anxiety can get worse

Plan Ahead - Starting to plan for fireworks in October is

over time if not treated.

strongly recommended. There are a variety of solutions out there for cats and dogs, and they can take up to 4-8 weeks to

You can find our full range of anxiety products in store at

take full effect so don’t leave it too late to look for a remedy.

petplace but, for any advice, feel free to contact us on 01745 823188 and we’ll do our best to help keep your best friend

ID Tags - It is a legal requirement for dogs to wear a collar that

safe and happy. n

displays the owners name, number and address. Make sure collars stay on just in case you have an escape artist in the family!

Meurig Davies is the Buyer for the Dog Safe Space - Create a cosy enclosed space in the quietest room

& Cat departments at petplace. He has

you have. Plenty of blankets, toys and treats will help your pet

worked in every part of the company over

associate a positive experience within the safe place you’ve

the last 21 years and, as a passionate pet

made. Bonfire Night and bedtime in general can be made

parent to Libby his Labrador, he knows

easier by crate training. Trained far enough in advance, the

how important it is to be prepared for this

crate will act as a den for your dog – simply line with a dog

time of the year.

mattress and cover with a blanket.

NWM 2019 Page 85

OPEN DAYS SUNDAY, 13 OCTOBER SUNDAY, 27 OCTOBER SATURDAY, 9 NOVEMBER

01248 383561/382005 openday@bangor.ac.uk Wrexham campus (Health Sciences) also open. Contact us on: 01248 383924 (Radiography) or 01248 383931 (Nursing & Midwifery).

The

Wedding planner MARRIED LIFE… You’ve both survived one of the biggest days of your lives and now you’ve returned from honeymoon with the

Anniversary Traditional Modern

honeymoon glow, but what lies ahead? Well, you spend the

Year Gift Gift

next few months fitting into your married roles and for

1st Paper Clocks

some, as mentioned in last month’s column, settling into a

2nd Cotton China

new name. You reminisce about the day with your friends

3rd Leather Crystal/Glass

and family and have the pictures to share where you laugh

4th

about all the memories from the day, which are all etched in

5th Wood Silverware

your minds.

6th Sugar Iron

Fruit & Flowers

Linen/Appliances

7th

Copper/Wool

Desk Set

Then before you know it your first anniversary comes

8th

Bronze/Pottery

Linen and Lace

around quicker than you’d planned and all those thoughts

9th

Willow/Copper Leather

about your wedding disappear momentarily as the

10th

Tin/Aluminium Diamond

following questions pop into your head, how are we going to

11th Steel Jewellery

celebrate? What do I buy as a gift? What is the meaning of

12th Silk Pearls

each anniversary year? How do I choose a meaningful gift

13th

where sentiment is more than monetary value?

14th Ivory Gold Jewellery

Lace

Textiles/Fur

15th Crystal Watches

Don’t worry I’ll talk you through some ideas…

20th China Platinum 25th Silver Silver

To help you out here’s a handy little table which you can cut

30th

out and keep, which lists all the anniversaries lying ahead,

35th Coral Jade

you can thank me later!

40th Ruby Ruby

Pearl/Ivory

Diamond

45th Sapphire Sapphire

As paper is your first traditional anniversary gift here’s a

50th Gold Gold

little idea which you can set up on your wedding day but

55th Emerald Emerald

open together on your first anniversary. If you have some

60th Diamond Diamond

small paper gift tags and a jar which can be sealed, you

65th

can ask your guests to leave their advice and well wishes

70th Platinum Platinum

on the tags before placing them in the jar and sealing it.

80th Oak Oak

Then you need to hide the jar, because believe me you’ll be

85th Wine Wine

tempted to peek inside it, but you need to wait until your first

90th Stone Stone

Blue Sapphire

Blue Sapphire

anniversary.

Then to mark one year, take the jar out and open it. Trust

could be a new wallet, fruit and wood could be trees you

me you may need some tissues when reading some of the

plant somewhere special, and sugar could be a chocolate

messages either because they’re so funny you will not be

making experience. Whatever you decide to buy or do, n

able to stop laughing and because of the heartfelt nature of the messages some of your guests will also write too.

Caroline Roberts runs Events by Caroline Remember your anniversary is to celebrate your commitment

Louise, an event management company that

and love for one another and the most meaningful presents

specialises in wedding planning. She also

do not always have to cost the earth. The paper jar one can

owns Bella, the Prosecco Van and provides

be put into place for a couple of pounds and then for future

happiness in a glass! For more information

anniversaries think outside the box. Cotton could be a cotton

please visit www.eventsbycarolinelouise.com

embroidered message on a scatter pillow for the bed, leather

NWM 2019 Page 87

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Three places to visit in October

Getting back

to Nature

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

Aberglaslyn Gorge, near Beddgelert You are spoilt for choice with woodlands to visit in North Wales, and as autumn arrives, the leaves turn our valleys into a kaleidoscope of reds, yellows and browns. One of my favourites this month is Bwlch Aberglaslyn, where the river tumbles out of Beddgelert before slowing

Beetlemania

into Porthmadog. Look for treehugging lichens, fungi on rotting

You’ve probably seen amazing film of dung beetles in Africa rolling animal manure up hillsides and sand dunes. But did you know we have dung beetles in North

Credit: Julian Hughes

timber and Redpolls feeding in the treetops. It’s a narrow riverside

Wales too? One to look for is the Dor Beetle, which feeds on the dung of herbivores, so look

path, so be sure you’re nimble

where there are ponies. They’re not as black as you think. Look closely and you’ll see an

enough before setting out.

electric blue sheen, especially underneath. After October, the adults will die, but this year’s Bardsey island

eggs are in the soil, waiting to become next year’s beetles.

Credit: Daniel Wisniok

It’s rutting, deer…

Keen birdwatchers will head for Ynys Enlli, off the tip of Pen

The commonest deer in North Wales is the Fallow

Llŷn, where Bardsey Bird & Field

Deer, which graze in fields or open spaces with

Observatory has been monitoring

parkland or woodland nearby. October is the rutting

migrating birds for decades. Many

season, when stags lock antlers and emit a deep

of our summer migrants headed

groan: the winner will dominate the herd and sire next

south in September, but now it’s

year’s fawns. It’s a medium-size animal, introduced to

time to find the rarer visitors,

Britain by the Romans, but these died out and more came with the Normans. There

birds that originate in Russia

are populations in Coed-y-brenin and around Abergele, but they are shy creatures,

or North America, arriving on

best seen on a quiet morning walk.

autumn gales. You can stay at the Credit: Josef Stuefer

Observatory and participate in the

Credit: Ian Kirk

observatory’s scientific work.

NWWT Coed-y-felin, Flintshire This ancient oak and ash woodland near Mold is a great place for a walk, and to feel a sense of history, for this woodland

Earth Star, not Death Star

Goosed around Anglesey

On the mudflats and saltmarsh in the Menai Strait and around Anglesey, October sees the arrival of Brent Geese from the north. There are two types, Darkbellied birds that come from Siberia and a greater number of Pale-bellied birds that have spent summer in the high Arctic of eastern Canada. The Anglesey wintering population is shared with Ireland, having crossed the Greenland icecap and stopped in Iceland on the way here. Listen for their guttural ‘rhut’ chatter, and please don’t disturb them as they need to feed when they get here.

Not the terrestrial twin of the Star Wars superweapon, but they do ‘explode’: they are nicknamed the “shotgun fungus” by some mycologists. There are 64 species in the Earthstar family, some of which occur in North Wales woodlands. The fruiting body of these fungi is revealed in damp weather as the outercasing unfurls, appearing as ‘petals’ that fan around the central sac of spores. This allows rain to hit the sac, releasing lightweight spores into the air to germinate.

once provided timber for the nearby coal villages. Look for the planted sycamores, beech and sweet chestnut trees, the prickly seed pods of the latter now lying among the leaves. Look for some amazing fungi too, including earthstars, and listen out for roving flocks of tits and goldcrests.

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 2019 Page 89

Harbour Station, Porthmadog, LL49 9NF

01766 516024

festrail.co.uk

facebook.com/festrail

Sea life

The perils of palm oil Virtually everyone has heard of palm oil, but few people

up on beaches across the UK from

know the ways in which this greasy gremlin can affect our

Norfolk and Cornwall to right up here

marine environment.

in North Wales. These globules have been blamed for the death of seabirds such as gannets

Palm oil is an edible vegetable oil derived from the fruit of

and for dead fish washing up on beaches and experts warn

Maripa palm trees, primarily the African oil palm. It sounds

that they pose a severe threat to both humans and animals,

innocent enough but, when the stats are stacked up, this grease

as well as marine life. So if you come across any on the beach

is a heavyweight!

please beware!

Although native to West Africa, palm oil trees are mainly grown

While the palm oil itself is not hazardous to humans or animals,

on enormous plantations in Indonesia and Malaysia, which

it is often contaminated with fuel waste, diesel oil and other

produce 86% of the world’s supply. A staggering 66 million

toxic products, as it harbours many germs and diseases

tonnes of palm oil are produced every year!

through the bacteria which collect and grow on it. The most common threat is to dogs, and many pooches have become

These massive oil palm plantations have caused rich ecosystems

seriously ill or died after licking or eating it, as it has a laxative

to become “green deserts” in tropical regions, destroying

effect and can cause sickness, diarrhoea, dehydration and, in

rainforests and peatlands which are home to an array of

extreme cases, pancreatitis and blockages in the gut.

endangered species including orangutans, rhinos and tigers.

In addition, the burning of forests to make way for oil palms

If you think your dog may have eaten any of this gloopy stuff,

pollutes the environment, and contributes around 8% of global

experts advise that you get them to as vet as soon as possible.

annual deforestation – so is a major contributor to greenhouse

People should also keep their distance, and if you do come into

gas emissions.

contact with it, wash it off using normal soap or shower gel and water and wash your clothes.

Palm oil is used in an enormous variety of foods and toiletry products. In fact it is in almost everything – around 50% of the

And what of the palm oil problem? Boycotting the stuff

packaged products we find in our supermarkets, from pizza,

completely is virtually impossible – take it from someone who

doughnuts and chocolate, to deodorant, shampoo, toothpaste

has resolutely tried and failed! And deliberately confusing

and lipstick.

labelling makes it harder still. But as consumers we can ensure that we purchase products made with sustainable palm oil. We

It is also a critical component in fuels, and almost half the palm

can also petition companies and pile on the pressure to switch

oil currently imported into the European Union is used to

over to palm oil production that does not compromise some of

make biodiesel.

the most precious ecosystems on earth, and to change the laws that allow ships to dump it at sea.

But what has this got to do with the sea? Well, palm oil is a useful cleaning agent, so it is used by large ships to clean

The good news is that in 2012 the British Government set a

out their fuel tanks at sea. And incredibly, it is perfectly legal

commitment for 100% of the palm oil used in the UK to be from

for ships to dump palm oil into the ocean when they swill out

sustainable sources and by 2016 75% of our palm oil imports

their holds anywhere in the world, as long as they are at least

were sustainable. This is great progress but there is much more

12 miles offshore!

to be done to reach 100%! n

The resultant fatty lumps are rather appropriately referred to as ‘oil bergs’ and they can weigh up to a quarter of a tonne. These massifs can be carried for thousands of miles in the ocean currents then washed up onto the shore, either in large chunks, or broken down into smaller pea-sized pieces, where they can wreak environmental havoc.

Frankie Hobro is the owner and director of Anglesey Sea Zoo. She has always been a passionate advocate for conservation, and has a long history working on hands-on conservation projects with critically endangered species in difficult conditions abroad

This summer vast numbers of these oil bergs were washed

NWM 2019 Page 91

Cato Crane Auctioneers MAGAZINE

CELEBRATING 34 YEARS OF HELPFUL SERVICE AND SUCCESSFUL SELLING

David Shepherd - ‘WW11 Aerial Combat’ 42” x 36” - Sold for £16,000.00

Antoine Bouvard - ‘A Venetian Canal’ 14’’ x 18’’ £1,500-£2,000

‘Are You Sleeping on a Fortune’ ? Thinking of Selling ? Good Animal Pictures Currently In 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 92 NWM 2019

All Things

Auctioneering Maritime toy prices are very buoyant and not sinking!

This month’s article has a certain maritime flavour to it, and a

also lived in Thurstaston where he built a mansion called

mystery object.

‘Dawpool’. The name is also now used for one of the launches at the Dee Sailing Club to this day.

The name of Sutcliffe Models of Horsforth Near Leeds may not be familiar to many people outside the toy-collecting world.

Ismay was a great benefactor to the area and funded the building of a new school in 1906. Ismay’s wife was presented

The metal pressing company started in 1885 and in the early

with a gold key to commemorate the day and Thomas Ismay

years of the twentieth century started to make all-metal toys,

received an elaborate Silver Gilt key with his initials in the

mainly boats. Model dumper trucks and cranes were also

design. Some years ago we successfully offered both keys by

produced but model boats were their speciality.

auction at our auction rooms in Liverpool.

During a recent removal of a large collection of small model

Objects which were the former property of famous people

metal ships, called waterline models, we discovered a Sutcliffe

carry a premium.

clockwork model ‘Valiant’ battleship in it original box. The first one was produced in 1928 with a re-issue in 1981 which

We sold a pair of Beatle Ringo Starr’s suede stage boots two

this one is.

years ago for over £8,000!

Some collectors like to modify their models, so look carefully

Getting back to maritime objects I am reminded of an

at this one and compare it to the box illustration and see if you

occasion some ten years ago when I discovered in a

can spot the modification and suggest why this should be?

property on Merseyside the cigarette box which sat on Captain Smith’s Home desk. Captain Smith was master of

These models in good condition bring several hundred pounds

the Titanic and went down with his ship. His cigar box

at auction.

made £25,000.00 at our auction and was featured on over 2,000,000 websites worldwide. I was interviewed live by

Sutcliffe closed for good in 1981 despite continuing to

the BBC World Service as I was getting into bed on the

manufacture metal dust pans and brushes, bread tins and oil

night following the auction. Such is the power of internet

cans for the utilitarian domestic market. If you have a Sutcliffe

advertising and reporting.

bread tin please let me know!

Generally, shipping and railway memorabilia prices are Many readers will be familiar with the pretty village of

starting to rise again now after a sluggish ten year lull. Don’t

Thurstaston in Wirral; it has an ancient manor house over

forget to telephone me for home visits throughout North Wales

1,000 years old. Thomas Ismay, the founder of the White Star

and I will be very pleased to see you... In the meantime happy

Shipping Line of Titanic fame whose offices were in Liverpool

antique hunting to you all! 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 October 2019.

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 93 NWM 2019 Page 93

Products Available:CUSHIONS WATER PROOF SPORTS BAGS BUNTING APRONS OVEN GLOVES DECORATIONS KEY RINGS C

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Lyn has been lovingly making handmade gifts, decorations, bags and a wide range of other items for over 5 years since moving to live in North Wales. Lyn is mainly self-taught after initially learning basic skills at school.

Lyn has gained experience in many skilled crafts including crochet, knitting and card making before finally finding her passion which is sewing. After moving to Cilcain Village, near Mold, Lyn attended a local sewing class to refresh and enhance her skills, before making gifts for family and friends. This grew rapidly when people began to see the beautiful and unique gifts and ideas that Lyn creates, until it became the all consuming passion that is it today.

All the above items can be personalized with embroidery or applique Shop Address Clwyd Street, Ruthin, LL15 1HH Mobile:07872 435107

www.lovinglymadebylyn.co.uk

For the love of all things

vintage...

Confessions of a modern day magpie Who’s Tatty’s Pretty Boy Then?

It never fails to surprise me what

as styling, can be worked to

wonderful and extraordinary

great effect in the simplest of

items get brought into us at

ways – for Tatty, it’s all about

TDHQ, and this week has been

bringing the outside, in. A

no exception. I have always

beautiful glazed earthenware

had a penchant for high quality

vase filled with cascading

taxidermy, the bird variety in

peacock plumes or maybe a

particular, so when a vivid green

collection of fossils, or mounted

South American parrot flew in

Coral placed into a bookshelf.

through the doors (well kind of, it looked so alive), Tatty was in

For the more bold wanting to

rapture. Encased in a distinctive

achieve the Balmoral Estate

ebonised and gold banded glass

look (Tatty does love her tweed

box, I knew it could only have

– all the gear no idea). At the

been by the noted Victorian

TDHQ showroom we have a

taxidermist, James Hutchings of

resplendent Victorian Stag

Aberystwyth – and I was right.

antler to rival the Monarch of the Glen, which has been

With an enchanting provenance,

converted into the most

the parrot was a beloved family

spectacular chandelier. What

pet belonging to a little girl in

the heck! Why not go the whole

Llandudno during the early 20th

hog? We even have an 19th

Century, and yes... the parrot was

Century Oak Bavarian gun

of course named Polly. So much

cabinet, covered in wild boar

loved that when Polly finally fell off her perch for the very last

tusks, if you can prise it away from Alex and his workshop,

time. The faithful, feathered, friend was promptly boxed up

where it has become somewhat of a recurrent backdrop for

by the little girl’s mother and despatched to James Hutchings

the filming of Salvage Hunters “The Restorers”.

of Aberystwyth, one of the finest taxidermists in Britain, to be preserved and admired for eternity.

So, do come along now dahlings… If you have anything out of the extraordinary with a natural history interest, or a piece of

Now I understand that taxidermy isn’t for everyone. But

taxidermy that you want to move on, then Tatty needs you!

for me with a strong interest in combining natural history with interior design, just the right piece of taxidermy is

Please do get in touch.

a decorators dream and Polly the Parrot ticks all the right boxes. Natural history as part of an design concept or used

Tatty is constantly searching for new stock and would love to hear from you if you have any of the

Tatty x

Ali Hough (Tatty) is a dealer in fine

following for sale: fine vintage, decorative antiques,

vintage and antiques. Based at: Tatty

vintage textiles/quilts or Welsh blankets.

HQ, No. 12 Ivy Street, Colwyn Bay. For all

You can catch Tatty on Insta @tattydivine.co.uk

enquiries please contact 07940 730421

or Twitter @tatty_divine

or email sales@tattydivine.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 95

The

Last laugh The calling sign of the Yellowhammer bird is ‘a little bit of bread and no cheese’, making Yellowhammer the perfect title for the UK government’s disaster dossier about the consequences of a no-deal Brexit.

a ‘Brexit aisle’. Where are the catering packs of candles, the camp stoves and the machine guns? Of course, they’re in the middle aisle of Lidl next to the ski jackets, but they’re not specifically labelled ‘Brexit.’

Maybe the supermarkets have calculated that because the big

I’ve been writing this column for two years and have so

day coincides with Halloween there should be enough edible

far studiously avoided the ‘B’-word, mainly because it’s

eyes, pumpkins and fake blood to see us all through when the

so divisive. But also because it’s depressing and

ports are closed and the whole of Kent turns into one massive

my brief is to attempt to entertain with distractions from normal life, rather than

angry traffic jam as people realised what they really voted for.

the grim reality of it.

Hard though it is in these testing times, But now the time is right to tackle it head-on, because as everyone likes to say, the clock is ticking

we should resist the urge to stockpile.

People who buy things in advance ruin it for everyone else. There’s a tax on

down to the Apocalypse, and

impulsive behaviour in this country.

I’m yet to sort out when I’m going

Book a train in advance and you can

to do the Ultimate Big Shop – the

travel to Glasgow for 36p, but decide on

pre-Brexit dash to the supermarket to ensure my family has sufficient

the day and a single fare will cost you about 10 grand.

medicine, food and booze to see us through Armageddon. Or failing that, the half-term holidays.

Instead of stockpiling, we should do the Brexit equivalent of a Boxing Day dip where we all turn up at the supermarket on 30th

Stockpiling for Brexit is going to hit fever pitch over the coming weeks, as people start hoarding. You may already have started, you may know someone

October with our trollies, then race round and see what we can grab. Then at the end if anyone’s missed out, we can share. That will bring us together as a nation.

who has a lock-up garage full of custard.

But few people will admit to it. Stockpilers are by nature

If you’re reading this and already mentally driving to

secretive because they are trying to gain an advantage.

Asda with a shopping list the size of a toilet roll and an empty

They’re like that person at school who claimed not to have

skip attached to the back of your car, just relax and remember

revised for any of their exams only to suspiciously end up

two things. One – nothing will probably happen anyway and

getting straight ‘A’s.

two, it’s all relative. Last week, there was a report on the news featuring a man from Surrey who had stockpiled lemongrass.

Karen, one of the mums up at the school gate, is definitely

Why lemongrass? “Well because when Brexit comes you

doing it. How do I know? Well her daughter has just started at

could end up going to the shops not knowing if you’ll be able

high school and Karen was happy tell everyone in June how

to get lemongrass.” We’ve been surviving like that in Colwyn

she’d already ironed all the name tags into her new gym kit,

Bay for years and nobody seems that bothered.

n

so don’t tell me she hasn’t also squirrelled away enough tins of mackerel to see her clan the next ice age.

Dave Rothnie is resident The supermarkets are missing a trick here. I was in Tesco

compere of Stand-up at the

the other day and noticed their Christmas aisle is fully

Seaside, an acclaimed comedy

stocked – 100 days before the big day. At the time of writing,

night that takes place on the

we are 45 days away from crashing out of the European

final Saturday of every month

Union but no major supermarket has got round to preparing

at The Station in Colwyn Bay.

NWM 2019 Page 97

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

October’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st – April 20th) You’ll be coming into your own on the 13th, thanks to an empowering Full Moon. Take this opportunity to command the spotlight. Promote your agenda, challenge rivals and satisfy your urges. In the past, people have accused you of being selfish, implying this was a character flaw. That’s not the case in mid-October, when you’ve earned the right to satisfy your needs.

LIBRA (September 24th – October 23rd) The Full Moon on the 13th is a great time to strike a compromise with your best friend, romantic partner or business associate. Instead of clinging stubbornly to a particular point, be willing to negotiate. You can back down from your position without losing respect. If you’ve been collaborating on an original project, you’ll bring this work to its satisfying conclusion.

TAURUS (April 21st – May 21st) Hidden information will come to light on the 13th, due to a revelatory Full Moon. Now that you understand a loved one’s past, it will be easier to achieve intimacy. Do your best to ease their fears and encourage their dreams. The New Moon on the 28th will pave the way to a partnership. This alliance won’t be entirely easy. It will be difficult to satisfy your unusual tastes and sensibilities.

SCORPIO (October 24th – November 22nd) You’ll see the results of a health regimen on the 13th, thanks to a gratifying Full Moon. Your efforts to eat well, be more active and get more reset will pay off handsomely. Give yourself a handsome reward for your diligence and sacrifice. If you’ve been working on a cutting-edge project, you’ll bring it to a successful conclusion in mid-October.

GEMINI (May 22nd – June 21st) The Full Moon on the 13th is an ideal time to attend a social gathering. If you’re single, you will meet someone who makes your pulse pound. Throw caution to the wind and get romantically involved; you won’t be sorry. If you’re already in a serious relationship, your amour will enjoy showing you off. On the 28th, the New Moon will mark a difficult work assignment.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd – December 21st) After a long period of drudgery, you’ll be able to relax and have some fun on the 13th. That’s when an uplifting Full Moon invites you to come out and play. If you’ve been yearning for romance, you’ll find it with a wild rebel. The two of you share a love of adventure; lots of far-flung trips are in the cards for you both.

CANCER (June 22nd – July 23rd) The Full Moon on the 13th trains the spotlight firmly on you. You’ll enjoy showcasing your talent and working before the public. Instead of trying to blend in with the crowd, emphasise your differences. This will allow you to land the creative assignments you enjoy. On the 28th, the New Moon could mark the beginning of a passionate romance.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd - January 20th) Home, family and real estate command your attention on the 13th. That’s when a stimulating Full Moon draws your attention to domestic life. On the 28th, the New Moon pushes you into an unfamiliar environment. You’ll feel like a fish out of water in this group. Fight your instinct to flee the scene. It’s much better to stay and make new friends.

LEO (July 24th – August 23rd) Taking an ethical stance will be rewarded on the 13th, thanks to a satisfying Full Moon. You may prevail in a legal matter or vanquish an immoral enemy. Give yourself a reward for putting personal interest aside for the sake of principle. The New Moon on the 28th will mark a professional opportunity that shakes up your domestic life. This job will require you to move far from home.

AQUARIUS (January 21st – February 19th) The Full Moon on the 13th invites you to clear your desk and finish tasks.

The middle of the month is the ideal time to process paperwork, tackle correspondence and pay bills. Fill the pantry, clean the bathroom and clear out clutter. These tasks will be time consuming but satisfying. Signing official paperwork will be especially fortunate for you at this time.

VIRGO (August 24th – September 23rd) On the 13th, an enriching Full Moon will put more money in your bank account. An inheritance, refund or settlement will allow you to make some extensive home improvements. If you’ve always wanted to buy your own place, you’ll be finally able to do so. A course of study could be overwhelming on the 28th, thanks to a tense New Moon.

PISCES (February 20th – March 20th) Don’t hesitate to ask for what is rightfully yours on the 13th, when the Full Moon sheds lights on your material needs. Demand payment for services rendered, ask for a loan to be repaid or indulge in a luxury purchase. The New Moon on the 28th invites you to expand your horizons. The thought of earning an advanced degree is daunting.

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NWM 2019 Page 99

MAGAZINE

Page 100 NWM 2019