North Wales Magazine - September 2019

SEPTEMBER 2019

!

EE FR

MAGAZINE

Food for thought

It’s food festival season!

Adrenaline rush THE REGIONS MOST THRILLING ACTIVITIES

Ten of the best...

WATERFALLS IN NORTH WALES

INSIDE J Food & Drink J Competitions J Homes & Interiors

MAGAZINE

AT ADVENTURE PARC SNOWDONIA

THE UK’S BEST ADVENTURE DESTINATION JUST GOT EVEN BETTER… Already home to a stupendous world-first inland surf lagoon, Adventure Parc Snowdonia in North Wales has now launched a brand-new adventure offer. It’s the most hotly anticipated UK adventure launch of the year, and we’ve got a feeling you’re going to want to be part of it….

The parc’s magnificent inland waves have been joined by a whole bucketload of high-thrills challenges at ADRENALINE INDOORS – a huge new indoor adventure facility which sits on the shores of the inland lagoon.

One of the UK’s flagship adventure destinations – and the perfect way to keep the kids active and entertained this summer – it’s right here, in beautiful North Wales. Totally weather-proof, whatever the British summer throws at us. Book now to be one of the first to try!

OUR ADVENTURES Featuring six brand-new adventures, Adrenaline Indoors will test your wits, your nerve, your stamina and your agility. The question is… which one will you try first?

NOW OPEN INDOOR ADVENTURE CLIMB

Clip & climb routes + racer walls, with a stairway to heaven and leap of faith.

Age 5+, from £12

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FREE PARKING & ENTRY, DELICIOUS FOOD & DRINK, FUN FOR ALL THE FAMILY THE CAVES

“JUST FANTASTIC. BEST FAMILY THING WE HAVE DONE FOR YEARS.”

All the thrills and skills of caving in a remarkable system of tunnels and caves.

Age 5+, from £12

High-rise kicks and thrills on outdoor climbing walls and ‘freefall’ jumps.

Age 7+, from £30

BOOK YOUR TICKETS NOW

OUTDOOR ROCK & DROP

adventureparcsnowdonia.com | 01492 353 123

“JUST FANTASTIC. BEST FAMILY THING WE HAVE DONE FOR YEARS.”

AERIAL ASSAULT & SLIDES

Awesome parkour ninja trail with extreme slides, bag jumps and aerial assault.

Age 9+, from £12

ZIP LINE

The only zip on earth where you can race surfers and waves as you fly over an inland lagoon.

Age 7+, from £18

FOR THE BEST ADVENTURES, COME RAIN OR SHINE SOFT PLAY CAFÉ

Soft sensory play that will keep the smalls happy whilst you relax. Babies under 1 go free.

Under 10s only. £5 entry.

Adrenaline Indoors is a brand-new adventure experience packed full of some seriously exhilarating challenges suitable for the whole family. It’s a place where you can zip over world-first waves, fly down the UK’s only kicker slide, conquer awesome indoor & outdoor climbing walls and explore a record-breaking artificial caving system. Sound like fun? That’s just the beginning…

NWM 2019 Page 3

MAGAZINE

LUXURY OUTDOOR LIVING

Our new Olive Tree Coffee Rooms are now open from 9am-5pm Monday to Saturday, 10.00am-4.00pm Sundays; to give plenty of time for sampling our delicious breakfast menu (9am-11.30am).

Please call 01492 580665 for all reservations and enquiries.

Complete your garden with a quality furniture set and/or a Weber Barbecue Our experts are always on hand to find the perfect combination for each individual customer and there is something for everyone. Beat the Spring/Summer crowds and make the most of some fantastic early season deals, ensuring that every precious heatwave is appreciated to the full. Alongside our Weber range, we stock a variety of garden furniture suites from three fantastic companies: 4Seasons, Hartman and Lifestyle Garden.

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

MAGAZINE

DEAR READER It’s a funny old month, September. Half of me is oh-so-sad to see the back of summer (it officially comes to an end on September 23rd) – yet the other half is glad to get back into that all-important routine that September brings back into our lives.

The kids are back at school and most

bull by the horns and get out and about in

people are back off their holidays. We

our beautiful region.

have at least three good months before the Christmas festivities start to take over, and

Luckily for us, North Wales is now a year-

we can knuckle down and get some work

round destination, and there is so much to

done, pick up on the DIY, get back to the

do whatever season we are in. So, whether

gym and rethink our drink intake… There

you fancy indulging at a food festival,

isn’t really a good excuse to have a G&T on

exploring historical buildings, going to the

a Tuesday evening if the sun isn’t shining

theatre or really getting your adrenaline

after all!

pumping at one of our amazing attractions then it’s time to get out –and get stuck in.

But with this ‘serious’ season of autumn comes a new sense of adventure. It’s all too easy to hang out it our PJ’s while binge watching Netflix, and so we must take the

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

J

In this issue...

From historical tours to food festivals, with the odd thrill thrown in for good measure, there is plenty to do in North Wales this September…

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

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Contents

MAGAZINE

EDITOR

09 What’s On

Kate Hamilton

Your guide to local events taking place this September

PUBLISHER

Grant Hamilton

16 The Big Picture

SALES MANAGER

The spectacular Dinas Dinlle Beach

19 Exploring Ruthin

Scott Lawson

19

MARKETING MANAGER

The historic town is opening its doors…

Carly Redgers

24 Zero Waste

ART DIRECTOR

Simon Marriott

Shopping doesn’t have to mean plastic packaging

CONTRIBUTORS

27 Ten of the best…

Waterfalls to discover

33 Win! Luxury accommodation and concert tickets

27 37

34 History in the making How North Wales contributed to the war effort

37 How thrilling!

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

The most adventurous activities in the region

45 Food & Drink

whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

The local wining, dining and culinary scene

61 Homes & Property Get inspired by local homes and interiors

45

73 Walking Hike the circuit of Cwm Idwal

76 Community news A roundup of regional happenings

79 Crossword Put your general knowledge to the test

81 Competitions Two more amazing prizes to win!

83 In my opinion…

Our expert columnists share their thoughts

98 Horoscopes What does September have in store for you?

Steve Goodier Cai Ross Tim Watson Sally Ann Harding Frankie Hobro Caroline Roberts Julian Hughes Ali Hough Russell Grant John Crane Stephen Gregory Adrian Hughes

73

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

What’s on this...

September 1st

Summer BBQ

3rd

Come along and join Greyhound Mommas for a Summer BBQ

Comedy Club

which is taking place at 5 Heol Heddwch in Abergele. All

Join Theatr Clwyd for a great night with

proceeds raised at the event will be donated to Skylor Animal

three of stand-up’s rising stars at the monthly

Rescue. Entry is £2 each and will include a delicious burger

comedy club in association with The Celtic Arms. This

or hot dog plus refreshments. Well behaved dogs welcome to

September we bring you three of the hottest names in

attend

comedy with Simon Munnery (The Alternative Comedy Experience, Stewart Lee), Jack Gleadow and Nina Gilligan (MC). Laughter starts at 8pm

1st

Minis in the Mountains Minis in The Mountains is an enthusiast-led, not for

5th

profit, one day classic mini event set in the majestic

Dreamboys

Conwy Valley, North Wales. This year raising money

The Dreamboys are without a shadow of a doubt the UK’s

for our chosen charity: Hope House & Tŷ Gobaith.

most famous and successful show of its kind in history. Their

Organised by creators of adventure Life Out There &

breath-taking show spectacular has been perfectly created

our local mini club Mad Welsh Minis, we unite classic

for hen nights, birthday parties and girl’s nights out with all

mini enthusiasts from around the UK, whilst being

your friends. Fun starts at at Venue Cymru

immersed in breathtaking scenery rich in Welsh history. The event will take place from 11:30am-3:30pm at Adventure Parc Snowdonia

5th

The Number 1 Elton and The Rocket Band Introducing the Number One Elton tribute on the circuit today. Some tribute artists

1th

Beaumaris Food Festival

look like their idol, some sound like their idol but our Elton does both! Close your

As always this hugely

eyes and you won’t believe

popular event promises

your ears, open your eyes and

to be a wonderful weekend filled with food, drink and

you won’t believe them either!

entertainment. There will be over 100 exhibitors, ensuring

You simply won’t find a closer

that there is something for everyone, and with Local, National

tribute to Sir Elton John, nor

and International Food producers in attendance you’ll be sure

one endorsed by so many so close to the man himself. Show

to discover a taste of Wales and beyond! Festival starts at

starts at 7:30pm at the Rhyl Pavilion

10am, admission is £5 3rd

How to be Brave

5th

Wales’ award-winning new writing theatre company Dirty

Food & Wine Pairing Evening

Protest come to Theatr Clwyd with their new show How to Be

A wine lover’s perfect night out! The Quay Hotel and Spa

Brave written by Siân Owen. When Katie was little, she was

in Deganwy invites you to learn the art of pairing your

brave: climbing trees and riding bikes too fast. Now Katie’s a

favourite tipple with food flavours in a relaxed setting.

mum, she must be brave in a new way. Show starts at 7:45pm,

Evening runs from 6-9pm. To book, call 01492 564100

tickets start at £10

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MAGAZINE

September 5th-6th

Handmade Silver Eco Jewellery

12th-15th

The Good Life Experience A four-day celebration of the great outdoors, music, food, books, fresh ideas and creativity takes place at the historic Hawarden Estate. Now in its sixth year highlights will include campfire cooking by top chefs;

Sandra Roberts will be showcasing her unique handmade

music curated by BBC6 Music’s Cerys Matthews; a wide

jewellery, made from Eco silver at the Afonwen Centre

variety of have-a-go-workshops; talks and debates; wild adventures including fire walking, foraging

6th

Fizzy Friday 5K

and wild swimming; and an entire programme of activities for dogs including the world’s first dog diving

The Network She Foundation and Bella The Prosecco Van

championship! Visit www.HawardenEstate.co.uk for

invite you to run, jog or walk the 5K Llandudno Promenade

tickets and information

route, stopping off along the way for some fizzy light refreshment – and it is all in a good cause. Have a great fun night out with the girls and raise money for the Network She

13th

Foundation, supporting women and young girls in sport. 5K

Charlotte’s Country Commissions

starts at 5pm at Dylans

Paint your own piece workshop and bring your own small piece of furniture to the Afonwen Centre

6th-7th

One Small Step

13th

A galactic treat lands at Theatr

Conwy Honey Fair

Clwyd this month! Following

A 700-year old Royal Charter Fair,

5-star rave reviews and an

with local honey stalls, crafts,

international tour where it

plants, and Farmers’ Market stalls.

visited 20 countries and was

This will be the 30th year for

seen by more than 19,000 people, One Small Step is all set

the festival organized by Conwy

for another fast and furious trip to the moon. This Oxford

Beekeepers. Make a long weekend

Playhouse production, directed by Toby Hulse (Bath Time, Bed

of it, and stay in the World Heritage

Time, Tea Time), and written by David Hastings, recounts the

town of Conwy, with its many

race between the United States and the Soviet Union to send

attractions. Fair starts at 9am

the first man to the moon. Tickets are £6 © Rangoli

7th

One Night in Nashville A Country Night in Nashville recreates the scene of a buzzing Honky Tonk in downtown Nashville, perfectly capturing the energy and atmosphere of an evening in the home of country music.

Music starts at 7:30pm at Venue Cymru 13th-15th

LLAWN - Llandudno Arts Weekend 7th & 8th, 14th & 15th

Ruthin Open Doors

This annual festival features a mix of all kinds of exciting live art and performance, and this year brand- new mural

Take a walk around the historic town with a knowledgeable

trail will transform buildings around the town in fresh

guide and learn about lives and times past. Step inside to

and unexpected ways. Family-friendly, with participation

explore hidden secrets and get to know the locals. For more

encouraged, there’s free events throughout the weekend. For

information, visit www.opendoorsdenbighshire.org.uk

more information, visit www.llawn.org

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MAGAZINE

September

17th

Birds of Bodnant Walk Join Bodnant Garden bird watching expert for a guided walk of the garden, spotting the variety of birdlife among the woods, meadows and riverside. This event starts at 11am.

Book online to secure your place 18th

Colwyn Bay Floral Club The Colwyn Bay Floral Art Club welcomes National Demonstrator Andrew Lloyd. Andrew will be arranging flowers titled

14th

“September Song”. All of the

Boyzlife

arrangements will be raffled at

Boyzlife brings together Brian McFadden and Keith Duffy,

the end of the night. The club

two of the biggest boybands in history, Boyzone and Westlife,

meets at the Methodist Church at

to perform a whole host of their biggest chart hits. The

7:30pm, visitors welcome

unmissable Boyzlife show has already been performed for over 20,000 adoring fans since the pair came together in 2016.

Show starts at 7:30pm at the William Aston Hall in Wrexham

18th-19th

14th

Shortlisted for the Brighton Fringe Award for Excellence

Oktoberfest

Really Want to Hurt Me and following sold-out dates in London and Edinburgh

Llangollen Rail invite you to celebrate Oktoberfest in style at the

Fringe 2018, Really Want to Hurt Me now comes to Theatr

station with a live Oompha band, German beers, lagers, wines

Clwyd. This dark hit comedy from Flaming Theatre is

and lots of lovely food. Tickets are £5, fun begins at 6:30pm

about growing up gay in the ’80s and features dance sequences and a soundtrack of classics from Culture Club, Eurythmics, Tears for Fears, The Smiths, Kate Bush and more. Tickets priced from £10

15th

Ras Liwiau 5K Colour Run Hosted by Bespoke Fitness and Events; be prepared to look like a rainbow!

Celebrating healthiness, happiness, friendship and having the time of your life!! Hundreds of Colour Runners start the day in a white t-shirt, getting covered from head to toe in a rainbow of colours at each kilometer of the course. Run starts at the Rhyl Events Arena at 11am

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20th-21st

In Loyal Company A gripping and touching production, In Loyal Company is the remarkable story of a missing World War II soldier facing desperate odds. Show starts at 7:45pm at Theatr Clwyd, tickets start from £10 19th – 21st

Ara Deg Festival

21st

Composer, writer and Super Furry Animals frontman

Ultimate 90’s Anthems

Gruff Rhys will be bringing a leading musical line up of

The crazy ‘party in the theatre’ returns for a third year with

first class talent to his hometown of Bethesda this month

original artist of massive 90’s anthems! BABY D (Let Me Be

for the first Ara Deg festival. Aldous Harding (pictured)

Your Fantasy), will join Angie Brown (I’m Gonna Get You Baby),

headlines the first night of the festival, tickets for which

Kelly Llorenna (Set You Free) and Rozalla (Everybody’s Free),

are available from www.neuaddogwen.com

as well as DJ Kuta (Set You Free), MC Domino, Caroline Louise, John Spencer Percussionist plus the Inferno Dancers. Show starts at 7:30pm at the Rhyl Pavilion

20th

The Mersey Beatles

21st-22nd

The Mersey Beatles 2019 World Tour – a sensational 50th

Snowdonia 24

anniversary celebrations of the Fab Four’s legendary Abbey

Snowdonia’s brand-

Road album – is coming to the Rhyl Pavilion on Friday 20th

new individual or team

September at 7.30pm

entry 24-hour challenge.

Complete as many 10km laps as you can and do each one at your own pace. Take on the challenge by yourself and see how far you can go or enter as a relay team with each team member doing their own distance at their own pace. Sign up at www.breezeadventures.co.uk

20th

Ocean Film Festival World Tour The Ocean Film Festival features a carefully curated collection of short films delving into all aspects of the world’s oceans, from mind-boggling marine life to intrepid seafaring adventures. Audiences can expect extreme wave riding, incredible underwater cinematography and astounding footage of rarely explored corners of the world – all on the big screen at Venue Cymru starting at 7:30pm

NWM 2019 Page 13

MAGAZINE

September

27th Llŷn Guitar Festival Join John Jorgensen, Michael Chapman and more legends for the best intimate Guitar Festival in the

22nd

UK. Take part in a masterclass and enjoy great

Kinmel Hotel Wedding Fayre

music. Full Weekend tickets available. For more information, contact sian@oriel.org.uk

The Kinmel Hotel & Kinspa invite you to join Adrian and the events team for the 1st wedding fayre of the Autumn 2019 Wedding Fayre season

28th

Denbigh Beer Festival Denbigh Town Hall invite beer enthusiasts to stop by and try

23rd – 28th

Priscilla Queen of the Desert the Musical

a great assortment of local beer and ales. Fun starts at 12:30pm

The iconic musical is coming to the Rhyl Pavilion.

Starring Strictly Come Dancing winner Joe McFadden, PRISCILLA is the hilarious adventure of three friends who hop aboard a battered old bus bound for the outback to put on a show of a lifetime.

Their epic journey is a heart-warming story of self-discovery, sassiness and acceptance. With more glitter than ever before, this smash-hit show features a dazzling array of stunning costumes, fabulous feathers and non-stop parade dance-floor classics including Hot Stuff, I Will Survive, I Love The Nightlife and Finally

29th

Bangor Food Festival From 9am The High Street in Bangor will be full of stalls showcasing the best local Welsh produce, National and International Street Food, along with locally produced beers, ciders and spirits and a live music stage providing entertainment throughout the day. Free to attend 30th

Anniversary Encore Screening of National Theatre: One Man, Two Guvnors 27th

Justin Moorhouse

Featuring a Tony Award-winning performance from host of the The Late Late Show, James Corden, the hilarious West End

These days Justin’s not certain about anything apart from

and Broadway hit One Man, Two Guvnors returns to cinemas

his uncertainty – Brexit looms, it appears the Cold War is

to mark National Theatre Live’s 10th birthday. Broadcast

being rebooted and that’s before we begin to worry about

starts at 7pm at Theatr Colwyn

what’s happening in America…..closer to home he’s starting to feel redundant as a parent. One kid is leaving home, the dog is getting older and doesn’t need much walking, and the youngest kid hits thirteen and cancels the family subscription to The Beano. Performance starts at 7:30pm at Theatr Colwyn

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

MAGAZINE

The Big Picture Dinas Dinlle Beach is situated on the northern coast of the Llŷn Peninsula and offers spectacular views of both Snowdon and Anglesey depending on which way you’re facing. At high tide Dinas Dinlle is mainly pebble, but when the tide goes out then a wonderful sandy beach is revealed – making it an ideal spot to take the kids. There is plenty of history here too – Dinas Dinlle is home to an Iron Age fort where a huge roundhouse and Roman pottery were recently discovered, however archaeologists are facing a race against time to dig more before the site wears away due to coastal erosion.

Page 16 NWM 2019

NWM 2019 Page 17

Gallery 1 & 3

Basketry – function and ornament Gallery 2

Aelwyd

– Towards a contemporary Welsh interior

Ruthin Craft Centre 20 July – 13 October 2019

Ruthin Craft Centre Galleries / Retail Gallery / Studios / Learning / Café

Ruthin Craft Centre, The Centre for the Applied Arts, Park Road, Ruthin, Denbighshire, Wales UK, LL15 1BB. Tel: +44 (0)1824 704774 FREE admission. FREE on-site parking. Open daily 10.00am – 5.30pm. www.ruthincraftcentre.org.uk

Image 1: Alison Dickens / photo courtesy of the maker. Image 2: James and Tilla Waters / photo: Stephen Heaton

Opening

doors There is not one but two fascinating heritage weekends taking place in Ruthin this month. Ruthin Open Doors is a celebration of architecture and heritage, offering you the chance to open the doors to a host of historic and iconic buildings in and around Ruthin…

Brought to you by Ruthin and District Civic Association, Cadw

Great Assize, it seemed natural also to use it as a County Hall

and Denbighshire County Council, Ruthin Open Doors is

or a courthouse. As the building grew in prestige, a portico

part of a European wide programme that has been designed

complete with Doric columns was added to the front during

to celebrate local architecture and heritage. There are two

the 1860s. The court last sat here in 1974, but it continued as

weekends taking place under the programme this month,

a Magistrates’ Court until 1986; it was converted to a library

Ruthin Town on the 7th and 8th and Ruthin District on 14th

during the early 1990s.

and 15th September.

The next port of call is Ruthin Craft Centre, which was one Ruthin Open Doors will be opened at 10am on Saturday 7th

of four museums and galleries short-listed for the Art Fund

September, on the steps of the Old Courthouse in St Peter’s

Prize in 2009. Designed by the architects Sergison Bates with

Square by Ruthin Mayor, Gavin Harris. From there you can

funding from the Arts Council Wales Lottery Fund, the centre

take a walking tour with a knowledgeable guide, and learn

is located in its own landscape. It is a dynamic building of zinc

about times past.

and cast stone with undulating roofs to echo the surrounding Clwydian Range hills. This stunning contemporary building

Many of the tours and visits require pre-booking, which you

has three galleries displaying changing exhibition

can do by calling Ruthin Library in advance. It is therefore no

programmes throughout the year.

surprise that the library will be the main information point on the day – making it a great place to start this historical tour.

Of course, no tour of Ruthin is complete without a visit to the Gaol, which actually originated as a “house of correction” in

Ruthin Library actually has a past associated with crime and

1654. In 1774, the local magistrates built a new prison which

punishment; built in 1785 to house records of the Courts of

was extended in the 19th Century, and a four storey block,

NWM 2019 Page 19

Located on Ruthin’s Town Square, State of Distress is the place to go for unique and locally sourced crafts, gifts and homeware.

Not only do we sell local crafts we also hold workshops in many of the crafts we stock, from furniture painting workshops to paint-your-own-pottery (New for 2019) and our crafters host workshops based on their chosen crafts, there are workshops for all ages and fun to be had by all!

Do gs el W co m e

Supporting & stocking local crafts

QP

State of Distress, 14 St. Peter’s Square, Ruthin, LL15 1AA Lovingly Made FINAL HR.pdf 20/07/2018 09:41 T: 01824 308359 1E: info@stateofdistress.co.uk

Products Available:CUSHIONS WATER PROOF SPORTS BAGS BUNTING APRONS OVEN GLOVES DECORATIONS KEY RINGS BABY BLANKETS HEAD TOWELS NOTICE BOARDS AND SO MUCH MORE….

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

Left: Nantclwyd y Dre is thought to be the oldest dated timber-framed townhouse in Wales Below: Ruthin Craft Centre was designed with undulating roofs to echo the surrounding Clwydian Range hills

INFORMATION There are two weekends taking place under the programme this month, Ruthin Town on the 7th and 8th and Ruthin District on 14th and 15th September

modeled on London’s Pentonville Prison, was added in 1866.

It was used as a munitions factory from 1916, and it is now open as a visitor attraction and is home to Denbighshire Archives Service.

Meanwhile Nantclwyd y Dre on Castle Street has it’s own claim to fame, as it is thought to be the oldest dated timberframed townhouse in Wales. The wood for the cruck hall house was felled in Spring 1434 and 1435. Goronwy ap Madoc was granted the land on which the house was built, and it has been greatly extended since.

INFORMATION Some events, tours and visits require pre-booking,

Also on the Ruthin Town tour is St Peter’s Church and

which you can do by calling Ruthin Library in

Precinct in St Peter’s Square. The present building started

advance. It is worth noting that there is no free entry

life in 1310, and follows the local practice of having two naves,

to Nantclwyd y Dre or Ruthin Gaol without a pre-

as well as a chancel and tower. The timber roofs, decorated

booked place on a timed tour

with heraldry, badges and carved flowers were added during the 15th Century, but the spire only in 1854. The Old Cloisters, where the clergy used to live, date from 1310, and have a vaulted undercroft. The entrance gates were made by the Davies Brothers, who also made the gates for Chirk Castle.

Another building that is worth visiting is London House, which now home to a craft and gift shop called State of Distress. Over the years London House has been used for many things including a pub, watch makers, bakery, betting shop, hotel, off licence – and is now a lovely craft and gift shop. It is believed that the stone at the base of the windows of London House is the same stone that was used for both Ruthin Gaol and Erddig in Wrexham.

Moving on to Well Street and you’ll find the Wayfarer Wool

NANTCLWYD Y DRE ON CASTLE STREET HAS IT’S OWN CLAIM TO FAME, AS IT IS THOUGHT TO BE THE OLDEST DATED TIMBER-FRAMED TOWNHOUSE IN WALES. THE WOOD FOR THE CRUCK HALL HOUSE WAS FELLED IN SPRING 1434 AND 1435

NWM 2019 Page 21

MAGAZINE

Ruthin Gaol originated as a “house of correction” in 1654

RUTHIN PUB TOUR This short walking tour takes place on Saturday 7th September and lasts for around an hour. It will show where some of the original 60 pubs and inns of Ruthin were located and giving some of their history.

The tour will take in Well Street, Upper Clwyd Street and Clwyd Street, walking as far as Mwrog Street, returning to the starting point via Clwyd Street and around St Peter’s Square. On the way, see and hear stories about a number of Ruthin’s interesting and historic buildings.

St Peter’s Church dates back to 1310

Shop located in a black and white fronted timber framed

Another double-naved church in the district is St Cynfarch

property, which dates partly from the 1500’s. The building

and St Mary’s Church . This Grade II listed building features

was originally joined to the Cross Foxes Inn (later known

part of a rood screen, a mosaic of stained glass taken from

as the Wynnstay Arms) by an archway, and was used as a

the 1503 windows, monument to a 14th Century knight, and a

tack room, part of the stables and coach house of the former

large parish chest. Early 18th Century lychgate, 15th Century

coaching inn.

preaching cross (converted to a sundial), and ancient yew trees complete the historical package.

The Old Courthouse, built in the 1420s to dispense law and order in Ruthin, is another fine timber framed building that

There are plenty of other churches on the Ruthin District

has had a varied history. Used as a courthouse until the

route, which makes The Source at Ty Coch Barns really

1770’s, it was replaced by what is now the Library in Record

stand out from the crowd. Sympathetically restored by

Street. It was then used as commercial accommodation

Denbighshire County Council, The Source is housed in a

for several Ruthin businesses including Herbert Aldrich’s

restored 15th Century cruck frame barn –reputedly one of

Ironmongers. It was taken over and refurbished by the

the oldest buildings of its type in Wales. The barn is now

National Provincial bank in the 1920s, later becoming the

home to Bathing Beauty, a multi award winning artisan

NatWest bank which closed in the summer of 2017. It has

bath and body care company, and it also houses their onsite

been now been bought by Ruthin Town Council and will

Happiness Café and shop – making it a great place to stop

become a multi use hub in the centre of town.

and rejuvenate halfway through the Ruthin District tour.

On Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September Ruthin Open

The history of Ruthin and its surrounding district is nothing

Doors extends to the surrounding district. The first stop on

short of astounding, and it’s absolutely fantastic that all of

this historical route is St Dyfnog’s Church, a medieval parish

these historical venues have come together to create such a

church which sits on a holy place of worship since the 6th

unique programme. Whether you are local to Ruthin or just

Century – St Dyfnog’s Cell. The oldest part of the church as it

visiting the town, you’ll be amazed at what you can learn

now stands is the tower, which dates from the 13th Century;

during Ruthin Open Doors. n

the body of the church is from the 15th Century, and is of a pattern frequently found in this part of the country, the nave

For further information on Ruthin Open Doors please visit

being in two equal portions.

www.opendoorsdenbighshire.org.uk

Page 22 NWM 2019

Ruthin Gaol

Plas Newydd

Explore the cells of this Victorian Pentonville style prison and learn about the prisoners who stayed here!

Activities available for all ages.

Nantclwyd y Dre Explore Wales’ oldest timbered town house with its beautifully restored historic gardens, a hidden gem in the heart of Ruthin.

Open 26th March–30th September every day except Tuesday 10am–5pm Visit www.ruthingaol.co.uk for prices and further visiting information

Visit this extraordinary Gothicised home of the ‘Ladies of Llangollen’ and enjoy its spectacular historic gardens.

Open 7th April–29th September Opening days and times vary please visit www.nantclwydydre.co.uk for opening information and prices

Open 30th March–31st October every day 10.30am–5pm Visit www.plasnewyddllangollen.co.uk for prices and further visiting information

20 % off admission 20 % off admission 20 % off admission To Ruthin Gaol

To Plas Newydd

To Nantclwyd y Dre

Llangollen Valid until 30th September Single use only

Valid until 31st October Single use only

www.ruthingaol.co.uk

www.plasnewyddllangollen.co.uk

Valid until 29th September Single use only www.nantclwydydre.co.uk

Visit our website www.denbighshire.gov.uk/heritage for more information including upcoming events!

Follow us on Facebook @heritagedenbighshire

NWM 2019 Page 23

M AA GG AA ZZ II NN EE M

Waste not, want not According to a new Ellen MacArthur Foundation report launched at the World Economic Forum, new plastics will consume 20% of all oil production within 35 years, up from an estimated 5% today. Plastics production has increased twentyfold since 1964, reaching 311 million tonnes in 2014, the report says. It is expected to double again in the next 20 years and almost quadruple by 2050!

Owners of Ingrid’s Zero Waste shop, Brian & Linda Merritt,

Tell us a little more about the shop…

have devoted their lives to fight against this shocking

We have attempted to create a shop that considers every aspect

statistic by opening an eco-friendly, zero waste shop in the

of the environment and not just single use plastics. We buy local

heart of Llandudno. The shop not only reduces the use of

where possible and 90% of our stock is from the UK to avoid

single plastic, it also considers the environmental costs of all

excess carbon in its delivery. The only power we use in the shop

products and encourages guests to bring their own containers

is lights and a charger for the card reader and my phone which

when purchasing products. When possible, products are also

acts as a till. All our shop fittings and furniture are reclaimed,

sourced locally here in North Wales. We sent our writer, Carly

and our liquid refill station is a custom-built table made from

to have a chat with Brian…

old pallets. We sell plastic replacement bamboo products like toothbrushes and cotton buds as well as plastic-free cleaning

What inspired you to open Ingrid’s Zero Waste?

products like scourers and cloths. We sell stainless steel straws

The inspiration for this eco-friendly shop came from working

of various colours and sizes. Our tea is plastic free from the West

for companies who did not care much for the environment.

Country tea company. We have a liquid refill station that consists

We both felt like we were part of the problem so when the

of shampoo, conditioner, hand soap, washing up liquid, laundry

opportunity came up to open an environmentally conscious

liquid, fabric softener, and toilet cleaner. You can bring your own

shop, we jumped at the chance!

empty bottle or buy a glass bottle from us to fill. We also stock divine soaps and shampoo bars from You’re Gorgeous handmade

What is the story behind the name Ingrid?

soap of Glan Conwy.

The shop is named after Linda’s mum who, when she found out what we wanted to do loved the idea so much she offered

What feedback have you received from customers?

funds and advice. She didn’t know we named the shop after

We have had some wonderful feedback from customers on

her until a Skype call after we had sorted all the branding. She

our Facebook page (@ingridszerowaste). Two of my favourite

has been blushing ever since.

quotes were:

Page 24 NWM 2019

More eco-friendly shops Twenty Fifty (2050) J Fed up with

“Lovely little shop promoting an important message - let’s all try to produce less waste! :-) Bought a gorgeously scented shampoo bar which is half the price of solid shampoos in other shops! I will definitely be visiting here again.”

“A fantastic initiative offering a variety of truly environmentally-friendly products. Great prices and the option of bringing your own containers to fill with ecofriendly household cleaners and detergents. Love that Ingrid’s really takes into consideration all aspects of zero waste, including not having unnecessary lighting and electronics! Definitely worth a visit!” n Ingrid’s Zero Waste Shop is located at 3A Vaughan Street, Llandudno, LL30 1AB. Opening hours are daily from 10am-5:30pm

supermarket packaging, sisters Nicky and Laura went on a journey to reduce single use plastic in our homes. Finding it increasingly difficult to eliminate plastic from the weekly shop and after swapping ideas and discussing changes, Twenty Fifty was born. Newly opened in May, Twenty Fifty is a zero waste shop in Old Colwyn that sells food, groceries and household products without packaging. Nicky and Laura believe that the ‘old weigh and pay’ method not only helps tackle packaging problems but could save on both food wastage and pennies too. Twenty Fifty is located at 403 Abergele Road, Old Colwyn, LL29 9PR

Gift Shop at Anglesey Sea Zoo J Passionate about

beach cleansing and recycling, the team at Anglesey Sea Zoo have taken positive steps to make their venue and gift shop eco-friendlier. They compost over 85% of the waste produced on site and have introduced more recycled plastic in the packaging by working with stock suppliers and, most importantly, with supply chains to eliminate single use plastics. The Gift Shop at Anglesey Sea Zoo is located at Brynsiencyn, Llanfairpwll, LL61 6TQ

NWM 2019 Page 25

MAGAZINE

Beach front luxury on the Llyn Peninsula!

S TAY I N S T Y L E O N T H E L LŶ N

SANDALS, ABERSOCH This incredible property sits in theI most on the edge of the water S TAY N S T Yspectacular L E O N T H E Llocation LŶ N in Abersoch. Boasting private beach access, breathtaking views and outstanding accommodation including a fabulous master suite, it is truly exceptional.

14

6

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1 THE BOATHOUSE, LLANBEDROG

TIDE'S REACH COTTAGE, LLANBEDROG

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This beautifully renovated cottage is nestled into the headland and has Llanbedrog beach as its front garden making it a truly stunning place to stay.

With its unique beach side location and stylish decor, Tide’s Reach Cottage is one of the most desirable holiday homes on the Llyn Peninsula.

Beautifully converted and restyled, this former boathouse is uniquely located on the lapping shores of Llanbedrog’s National Trust beach

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2

Take a look at our full collection www.abersochholidayhomes.co.uk T:Page 01758 740992 | E: info@abersochholidayhomes.co.uk 26 NWM 2019

4

2

2

2

10

of the best…

waterfalls DYSERTH FALLS

e

Being a land of mountains, hills, rivers and lakes, North Wales has some great waterfalls to visit – here are a few suggestions…

Dyserth Falls are well signposted and located on the aptly named Waterfalls Road in Dyserth (near Prestatyn) next to The New Inn. A well placed free car park with toilets is to be found next to the falls and there is a small charge for visiting the waterfall itself. There is hardly any walking needed unless you want to climb some of the steps giving access to the countryside above the falls. Dyserth Falls are very impressive and fall about 70 ft/21 metres in a rocky chasm. They are formed when the River Ffyddion (which rises 4.5 miles/7.24 km to the east at Marian Mills) tumbles down a vertical drop in a noisy cascade. Dyserth Falls is a popular tourist attraction as the cascade is so easy to reach from the car park and there are often lots of people there on sunny summer’s days.

e

ABER FALLS Aber Falls is one of Snowdonia’s most visited waterfalls and one of the real majestic sights of the National Park overall. Known as Rhaeadr Fawr in Welsh, Aber Falls is located in the foothills of the mighty Carneddau Mountains at the end of a steep sided valley on the Coedydd Aber Nature Reserve. The falls form when the Afon Goch plunges around 120 ft/37 metres over a rocky escarpment. In winter the falls often freeze and ice climbers can be watched climbing up it. There is a car park near the village of Abergwyngregyn at the end of a lane and from here a walk of about a mile down a good track brings you to the falls.

You can get quite close to the cascading water and the area is always popular. Wear walking boots and take a picnic along!

NWM 2019 Page 27

MAGAZINE

e

LLANBERIS FALLS Llanberis Falls are also romantically called Ceunant Mawr Waterfall and are located above Llanberis. The name Ceunant Mawr translates as ‘the waterfall of the great ravine’ and Llanberis Falls certainly lives up to its name. After rain the impressive cascade foams and froths its way down a stunning tree lined gorge falling for around 100 ft/30 metres. The falls are well seen by users of The Snowdon Mountain Railway as it rises from Llanberis towards Snowdon summit. For those wishing to visit on foot a marked way leaves the town centre of Llanberis up Church Street. A steep climb of about three quarters of a mile brings you to a viewing area after you cross the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Further along the road another path takes you to the head of the falls but the best view (and the safest) is from the main viewing station.

e

SWALLOW FALLS Swallow Falls is among the most visited of Snowdonia’s tourist attractions and is accessed easily for a small fee via a turnstile. It is located two miles west of Betws-y-Coed and is facing the Swallow Falls Complex where there is an inn, a youth hostel and a campsite plus parking. There is also parking in a lay-by on the side of the A5 close to the falls entrance.

Swallow Falls (Rhaeadr Ewynnol in Welsh) lies on the river Llugwy and although it is in reality a series of cascades, it is still classed as the longest continuous waterfall in Wales. Steps lead steeply down to viewing platforms and there are safety rails in place.

It is possible to get right below the lower end of the falls and if there is a lot of water running the noise can be deafening.

e

CONWY FALLS 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.

Page 28 NWM 2019

e

e

THE GREY MARES TAIL The Grey Mares Tail is a dramatic waterfall hidden away in a gorge

amongst thick woodland near Gwydir Castle. There is a marked car park (easy to miss) through a gate at Coed Felin Blwm (the Lead Mill Wood) on the B5106 between the town of Llanrwst and the village of Trefriw.

The falls Welsh title is Rhaeadr y Parc Mawr. A good steep path climbs from the car park following a stream to reach the main waterfall. There is access from the minor lane above the falls too but the parking here is very limited. The Grey Mares tail actually consists of two waterfalls split by a rock that fall into a deep plunge pool beneath them. The stream below the falls eventually flows into the River Conwy. Surprisingly The Grey Mares Tail is a little visited waterfall but well worth the effort to find.

e

FAIRY FALLS

Approached on a marked walking route from the pleasant village of Trefriw in the Conwy Valley, Fairy Falls (Rhaeadr y Tylwyth Teg in Welsh) is approached through the wooded Fairy Glen above Trefriw Woollen Mill. The glen is very atmospheric and so are the series of waterfalls leading to the main fall in a tree-lined basin. Local children and visitors often leave small toy figures on the ground near the main falls for the fairies believed to inhabit the area. The falls are on the River Crafnant which flows from the popular Llyn Crafnant high above it. The main falls are around 25 ft/7.7 metres high and fall down an angled rock face. The Fairy Falls Inn in the village of Trefriw takes its name from Fairy falls and is a popular spot for a drink or some food after a walk to them.

NWM 2019 Page 29

MAGAZINE

e

CEUNANT CYNFAL FALLS The spectacular narrow wooded ravine of Ceunant Cynfal was much loved by The Victorians and a very popular day out for them. It has a series of pretty waterfalls but the main one, Rhaeadr Cynfal, is quite spectacular. To see it you’ll need to descend some slippery steps to a viewing platform. The rock above the fall is known at ‘Huw Llwyd’s Pulpit’ after an eccentric 17th Century wizard reputed to live there. The River Cynfal is not a long river but races swiftly over rocks as it gallops through a glacial gorge. This is a natural habitat for ferns and lush growth and the sound of crashing water amongst the foliage is very atmospheric.

Finding the way to the gorge is not easy but there is access from a lay-by on the A470 below Ffestiniog and in Ffestiniog itself.

e

NANTCOL FALLS

Here’s an unusual set of falls that deserve to be better known than they are. Nantcol Falls are a series of waterfalls set on the River Nantcol at the foot of Snowdonia’s most rugged and wild mountain range – The Rhinogs.

The falls are set amongst privately owned farmland and the best way to see them is to camp on the award winning Nantcol Waterfalls Campsite and use one of the marked walks that the site provides for campers to explore them from. It’s a bit of an unusual way of gaining access to a falls system but well worth the effort involved in bringing along a tent. The best route for those wishing to see Nantcol Falls is the ‘Riverside Walk’ which follows the river past the falls and returns on the ‘Woodland Walk’.

Nantcol Waterfalls Campsite is accessed off the A496 between Harlech and Barmouth.

e

THE TORRENT WALK A marked circular footpath gives access to the famous Torrent Walk from a signed parking area at the top of it near the village of Brithdir between the A494 and A470 just east of Dolgellau. It is quite a strenuous outing and the full round is a good 3 miles/4.82 km. The Torrent Walk is very popular and makes a circuit of the Afon Clywedog taking in numerous waterfalls and dramatic gorges. It descends (and re-ascends) 350ft/107 metres on good, but often rough paths. The walk was created in the late 1800’s by The Richards Family of the Caerynwch Estate and designed and engineered by Thomas Payne. It was much loved by The Victorian and Edwardians and makes a beautiful walk at anytime of the year. Some areas can be slippery so wear boots and take your time.

Page 30 NWM 2019

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NWM 2019 Page 31

MAGAZINE

Page 32 NWM 2019

Win

COMPETITION

The North Wales International Music Festival takes place between the 14th and 28th of September at St Asaph Cathedral. It is regarded as one of the cultural highlights of North Wales and primarily features classical music.

The Festival is centred around a common theme, linking all strands from the main concerts to educational and community outreach work. This year’s theme is ‘Mother Earth’ and the artists performing in this year’s festival include the Welsh National Opera, NEW Sinfonia, Japanese classical pianist Yu Kosuge, vocal group The Gesualdo Six, mezzo-soprano Rebecca Afonwy-Jones and composer Robat Arwyn.

The festival also features free schools and tots concerts, a piano masterclass with Yu Kosuge, an instrumental workshop for young students of all standards and a cross curricular education project based on folk songs – meaning that there really is something for everyone at this years festival…

A night’s accommodation at Palé Hall Hotel with afternoon tea, two tickets to a concert at the North Wales International Music Festival, a souvenir programme and drinks!

Palé Hall Hotel is an AA Five Red Star, Relais & Chateaux destination luxury country house hotel situated in the tranquil Dee Valley. It features 18 luxurious, individually styled bedrooms with sumptuous décor, each with a beautifully appointed bathroom.

Palé Hall is a destination for quiet retreat, comfort and culinary indulgence – Palé’s acclaimed three rosette fine dining restaurant features signature dishes from its own head chef, Gareth Stevenson.

The lucky pair will win a night’s accommodation in The Victoria Grand Room at Palé Hall, where Queen Victoria once laid her head, an indulgent afternoon tea and drinks. They will also get to attend a spectacular concert at the North Wales International Music Festival – making this a prize that the winner will never forget. www.nwimf.com www.palehall.co.uk

To Enter Full terms and conditions 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 Monday 16th September, making sure that you put the word “concert” in the subject line. Good luck! * Terms and conditions apply. The prize must be taken on the night offered. No alternative prizes are available

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 33

MAGAZINE

NEVER

Surrender This month marks the 80th anniversary of the outbreak of the Second World War – Adrian Hughes takes a look at how the Borough of Conwy contributed to the war

On 3rd September 3 1939, the day war the Second World War was declared, trains carrying evacuee children from Merseyside arrived in the borough of Conwy. Over 1,000 children and 248 adults disembarked, mainly from

Prototype ‘Hippo’ section under construction at Conwy Morfa (Courtesy of Conwy Archives Service)

the Shiel Road area of Liverpool. It was not just people that were relocated to the area during the war, but also paintings. In 1941, 32 important works of art from

Wars are very, very

Birkenhead’s Williamson Art Gallery were transferred to

expensive and to pay for

the council offices at Bodlondeb for safekeeping. These

the Second World War

included works by JMW Turner, John Constable and

the government needed

Thomas Gainsborough.

the help of the British people by investing in War Bonds and

In February 1940, the council was approached by the

Savings Certificates. While

Air Ministry regarding building a large, factory on

encouraged to invest year-round

fields at Pensarn, Llandudno Junction to manufacture

there was also an annual national

aircraft parts. Permission was granted and the works

savings week. Warship Week

leased to the Ratcliffe Engineering Company. Initially

took place in November 1941

concerned with the fabrication of spars for Beaufighter

with a target of £55,000, enough

aircraft, later in the war this expanded to include the

to buy the hull of a Royal Navy

manufacture of Halifax aircraft spars, bomb carriers

ship. Events took place including

and bomb release gear. At its peak Ratcliffes employed

a concert at the Palace Cinema

around 1,000 people. The workers were drawn from

featuring many stars from the

across North Wales with some travelling from as far as

BBC Variety Department that had

Flintshire and Anglesey, catching trains to get to Junction

been evacuated to Bangor and

to start their shifts. The factory operated a 3-shift system

Llandudno. The £55,000 target was smashed and by the

and functioned 24 hours a day. Externally the building

end of the week £125,300 was raised and HMS Erica – a

was painted in a green and brown disruptive camouflage

Flower class corvette – adopted. HMS Erica was sent to

pattern while an anti-aircraft gun and searchligh

the Mediterranean and was on escort duties until she

t

hit a sea mine in February 1943 and sank off the coast

installation was positioned in the grounds of the Marl

of Egypt with the loss of two crew. Ironically, by the time

Hotel – now the heavy side yard of Richard Williams

the Admiralty had presented the council with a special

Builders Merchants – to protect the works from the air.

‘Warship Week’ plaque, HMS Erica had already sunk!

Plaque given to the people of the Borough of Conwy in recognition of National Savings ‘Warship Week’, November 1941

Post-war the factory was acquired by the International Refrigerator Company and the manufacturing of white

In October 1942, land at Conwy Morfa was requisitioned

goods began, continuing until the close of the Hotpoint

for “very urgent war work” which was a “vital secret”.

in 1992.

The following month work started on building sections

Page 34 NWM 2019

Members of Llandudno Junction Railway Home Guard (Courtesy of Roy Mills)

David Lloyd George is welcomed to Ratcliffe Engineering by Thomas Ratcliffe (Courtesy of Jane Ratcliffe)

of a prototype floating harbour designed by Bangor born engineer, Hugh Iorys Hughes, for potential use in the invasion of mainland Europe. The Allies were convinced that they would not be able to get all the men, equipment and supplies ashore without such a system and Commodore John Hughes-Hallett, Naval Chief-of-Staff, remarked: “If we can’t capture a harbour, we must take one with us.”

Over 700 workers were employed at the site and quartered at convalescent homes in the area. Working conditions were poor, with little or no cover from the elements and men riveting and welding at great heights. The blackout simply had to be ignored.

Residents got used to the hammering and striking at this new ‘shipyard’ but, with the government mantra of “Careless Talk Costs Lives”, asked no questions.

Above: WW2conwybook Left: Announcement advising of arrival of evacuees

The first of the prototype sections was launched into the River Conwy in the spring 1943 and towed to south west Scotland for testing. Later in 1943, work started at Conwy Morfa building the now finalised artificial harbour codenamed ‘Mulberry’. These were assembled on the Normandy beaches and operational just four days after D-Day, 6 June 1944. The artificial harbour was an immense success. It is estimated that in the 10 months it was operational over 2.5 million troops, 50,000 vehicles and 6m tonnes of supplies were landed. n

Adrian Hughes is the author of “The Second World War in the Borough of Conwy” which is available from the Guildhall, Conwy, Conwy County Archives, Lloyd Street, Llandudno and Home Front Museum, New Street, Llandudno. It costs £5, which is donated in its entirety to the Royal British Legion and Citizens Advice Conwy.

NWM 2019 Page 35

Canyoning | Rock Climbing Kayaking & More 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

Come and join us for the best, most adrenaline fuelled outdoor adventure activities in North Wales.

£50 / £80 per adult (1 activity half-day, 2 activities full day)

We specialise in guided adventure activities in Snowdonia, and we offer Canyoning, Gorge Scrambling, Rock Climbing and Abseiling, Kayaking and Canoeing, the Underground Adventure and Guided Mountain days. Push yourself to the limit and experience a day of adventure you’ll never forget.

£30 / £50 per child (1 activity half-day, 2 activities full day)

Canyoning is a great all weather adventure, and our most popular activity.

Our kayak safari offers a calm and relaxing paddle on a flat estuary, and rock climbing is sure to test you, physically and mentally!

No experience or equipment required, minimum age 4+ (10+ for Canyoning and Canyon Xtreme). Most activities are located in the Blaenau Ffestiniog area.

Book online today!

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

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Gorge Walking and Canyoning in Wales

Whether you’re a family looking for adventure or an extreme adrenaline junkie, Canyon Wales is the place for you.

Set in the picturesque mountainous regions of Wales, our gorges and canyons offer nature’s own waterpark. Gorge Walking is ideal for all ages and a great way to bring friends and family of varying abilities together for an exciting adventure.

If you’re looking to push the boundaries of your comfort zone then Canyoning is for you! Scramble, slide, abseil and jump your way down a steep mountain river. All of our canyoning sessions are delivered by a team of the best canyon guides available, whose experience, qualifications and passion for Canyoning will guarantee you a 5* adventure.

Canyon Wales is the only centre in Wales to achieve UK Canyon Guide affiliation.

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0333 1234 303 ribride.co.uk

Seekers

North Wales has been dubbed “the adventure capital of Europe” – and looking at the thrilling activities that are on offer throughout the region it comes as no surprise. Are you ready for a slice of the action?

Glasfryn Parc Activity Centre offers junior and senior karting tracks

Above: Dragon Raiders Activity Park has launched Yamaha quad bike treks which are suitable for participants of aged six and up Cable Wakeboarding at Glasfryn Parc

In the air, on the water or even underground – it doesn’t

Academy’ site offering a range of courses for those that want

matter where you want to get your thrills because North

to learn about essential survival skills in the wild. However,

Wales has them all. One of the most popular ways to get your

2019 sees the launch of another adrenaline fuelled activity,

adrenaline up is to get behind the wheel – and obviously we

Yamaha quad bike treks which are suitable for participants

don’t mean on the A55…

of aged six and upwards, making them perfect for all the family to try.

If you’re looking for a four-wheeled family adventure and exhilarating fun then look no further than Dragon Raiders

Also offering some petrol-fuelled fun on the Llŷn Peninsula is

Activity Park. Located just outside Criccieth on the Llŷn

Glasfryn Parc Activity Centre. Situated close to Pwllheli and

Peninsula, Dragon Raiders Activity Park was set up 15

Abersoch, Glasfryn Parc has over 12 different activities to

years ago by owner Paul Good who is passionate about the

choose from, both indoor and outdoor, so it can certainly keep

outdoors and getting children and families outside to have fun

you entertained – whatever the weather!

whatever the weather.

Adrenaline seekers out there will be particularly interested The park offers Segway rally treks, paintball games and a

in Cable Wakeboarding at the Wakepark, which caters for

shooting gallery. It is also an approved ‘Bear Grylls Survival

both beginners and advanced riders alike, and the go karting

NWM 2019 Page 37

MAGAZINE

Velocity 2 is the world’s fastest zip line

offers great fun for all ages! Glasfryn Parc Activity Centre

Adventure Parc’s brand new zip line is the only one on earth

offers junior and senior karting tracks, as well as double karts

where you can race surfers and waves as you fly over a

accommodating children as young as three.

beautiful inland lagoon. But its new activities don’t stop there!

To really get the adrenaline pumping then why not race against your friends or family with over ten senior karts that

Adventure Parc Snowdonia has just launched a spectacular

can drive on the track at the same time?!

new weather-proof adventure facility – which is aptly named Adrenaline Indoors. This giant of adventure features one of

And if you want to take karting to a whole new level, then why

Europe’s longest artificial caving systems, indoor and outdoor

not try Zip World’s all new Quarry Karts experience – the UK’s

climbing and racer walls, leaps of faith, stunt jumps, possibly

only mountain kart adventure. Twist and turn your way along

the most extreme slides you will ever encounter, and the UK’s

the 3km slate track in the gravity-fuelled three-wheelers as

only kicker flight slide. There are also ‘freefall’ jumps for the

you take on chicanes, tunnels and raised banks. This is the

fearless, a netted aerial assault course and a ninja floor trail.

ultimate white-knuckled test of reflexes and driving skill – descend the mountain twice, testing the waters on your first

Adrenaline Indoors is an ideal destination for thrill seekers

run, and putting the skills you’ve learnt into practice on your

of all ages, with the climbing routes and racer walls suitable

second. Sharing a site with Velocity 2, the world’s fastest zip

for children aged just five and up, the ‘freefall’ jumps suitable

line, the Quarry Karts allow you to take on the track while

for seven-year-olds and the aerial assault courses for those

watching the zippers fly ahead – making for a totally unique

aged nine and over. But that doesn’t mean that the youngest

experience.

of adventurers have to miss out – Adventure Parc Snowdonia also has an onsite soft play centre that will keep the little ones

Another location where you can zip your way to another

happy while you relax with a cuppa.

adventure is Adventure Parc Snowdonia in the Conwy Valley.

Ninja TAG Rhyl is an indoor multilevel play area is a cross between Total Wipeout and Ninja Warrior

Left: Adventure Parc’s brand new zip line is the only one on earth where you can race surfers

Page 38 NWM 2019

Zip World’s all new Quarry Karts experience

Climb to new heights at Adventure Parc Snowdonia

Back on the coast, and another place where you can get your

a waterfall and scaling an airshaft. Meanwhile, the Hero

adrenaline rush indoors is at Ninja TAG Rhyl. This fantastic

Xtreme trip (14+) explores the world’s largest and deepest

indoor multi-level play area is a cross between Total Wipeout

slate mine via exhilarating traverses, climbs, abseils, ziplines

and Ninja Warrior, all in one exciting experience. With over

and includes eating lunch on the Xtreme picnic bench which

80 targets across four levels, this timed activity zones test

hangs off a sheer cliff face! Go Below’s Ultimate Xtreme trip

your skill, your fitness – and your bravery. The aim of Ninja

(18+) has an array of unique ‘bucket-list’ features such as

TAG is to find the computer-controlled tags and collect the

challenging climbs, the world’s only underground Freefall

points on your wristband sensor within the 20-minute time

jump and multiple zip lines – including the world’s longest

slots. This challenge requires both mental and physical ability,

and deepest underground zip ride: ‘Goliath’.

skill and strategy… The question is, who will you challenge?!

And, for a real test of endurance and stamina, the Mine to Of course, staying away from the elements doesn’t mean that

Mountain trip delves underground to the deepest accessible

you have to shy away from nature. Go Below Underground

point in the UK to the summit of Snowdon, the highest

Adventures is a family-owned business offering authentic

mountain in England and Wales, all in one epic day!

underground adventures in the heart of Snowdonia – literally!

However, if you’re looking for an exciting, adrenaline packed The Go Below Challenge trip (suitable for adventurers aged

adventure above ground then the Canyon Xtreme trip

ten plus) is an engaging mine exploration which includes

by Snowdonia Adventure Activities is for you. One of the

abseiling, traversing, ziplining, boating across a lake, climbing

most popular adventures, and one of the best activities in Snowdonia, Canyon Xtreme enables you to swim, slide, jump and scramble down the cascading mountain river. Push yourself to the limit and enjoy a fun and safe day out. Other thrilling activities available via Snowdonia Adventure Activities include canoeing, kayaking, abseiling, gorge scrambling and SUPing.

Meanwhile Canyon Wales, based in Snowdonia, has become Wales’ first affiliated Centre to the UK Canyon Guide Association. With a rapid increase in interest in the sport, UKCG was formed to provide a resource for canyoners all over the UK, and to provide training and information in the current best practices to recreational canyoners and professional guides alike.

Go Below Underground Adventures offers authentic underground adventures in the heart of Snowdonia – literally!

NWM 2019 Page 39

MAGAZINE

Canyon Wales offers canyoning and gorge walking for all levels from family friendly to extreme

Canyon Xtreme by Snowdonia Adventure Activities enables you to swim, slide, jump and scramble down the cascading mountain river

Further information J Adventure Parc Snowdonia adventureparcsnowdonia.com

J Canyon Wales

www.canyonwales.co.uk

J Dragon Raiders Activity Park www.dragonraiders.co.uk

J Glasfryn Parc Activity Centre www.glasfryn.co.uk

Canyon Wales is the first affiliated centre in Wales to be able to deliver this training by senior instructor, Richard Carpenter.

Canyoning is a relatively new sport in the UK but is growing rapidly. There are many beautiful canyons to explore in North Wales, making your way along the course of a river tackling obstacles and challenges along the way. These can include swimming, scrambling, abseiling, cliff jumping and for our more technical canyons, abseiling or zip lining into deep rock pools.

Canyon Wales offers canyoning and gorge walking for all levels from family friendly to extreme, and its training courses

J Go Below

www.go-below.co.uk

J Ninja TAG Rhyl

sc2rhyl.co.uk/tag-active

J RibRide

www.ribride.co.uk

J Snowdonia Adventure Activities

www.snowdoniaadventureactivities.co.uk

J Zip World

www.zipworld.co.uk

commence this month to prepare instructors and guides for the year ahead, with Level 1 Guide Training, Gorge & Ghyll Leader Assessment and a Technical Canyon Guide Course available.

Finally, for the adventurer who is looking for a super-fast experience, RibRide in Anglesey is operating a new class of RIB, VELOCITY. Ride VELOCITY, a 11.5m long and 900hp Yamaha speed boat which skims the waves giving you a rush of reaching velocity! VELOCITY trips take place from Menai Bridge and last 30 minutes on the water.

So, whatever way you want to get your thrills, then you can be sure that North Wales has the adrenaline box ticked! The question is, how many have you done? n

Page 40 NWM 2019

Ride VELOCITY, a 11.5m long and 900hp Yamaha speed boat, from Menai Bridge

Lore

BASED IN THE HEART OF THE RUGGED NORTH WALES LANDSCAPE, THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR SOME UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURES AND EXCITING ACTIVITIES FOR ALL. Enjoy an Adrenaline Adventure on the BRAND NEW QUAD BIKE TREK - Are you brave enough for boulder alley or mud mayhem? Grizzly 4WD quads come fully equipped with a winch as standard, so you’ll be able to pull yourself out of any tough spots!

Challenge your friends in our PAINTBALL PARK. Navigate the route of your choice for the SEGWAY X2 ADVENTURE. As an approved BEAR GRYLLS SURVIVAL ACADEMY site offering a range of different courses, no matter what you choose, you are guaranteed to have a brilliant experience at Dragon Raiders Activity Park.

Set in 100 acres of private woodland estate, close to Criccieth, North Wales – the treks offer a thrilling and exhilarating activity, tailored for those aged 6 and over.

The perfect choice for Stag & Hen parties / Corporate days out / Youth clubs / Birthdays / Special Occasions.

Please note - the minimum age to participate on the quad bikes is 6 years and upwards.

Segway and Paintball the minimum age to participate is 10 years and upwards.

BOOK YOUR ADVENTURE TODAY!

Call: 01766 523119

Email: enquiries@dragonraiders.co.uk Llanystumdwy, LL52 0LR (2 miles from Criccieth)

www.dragonraiders.co.uk

NWM 2019 Page 41

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Planning ahead

Looking after your money is a wise thing to do, however people tend to find investing a rather daunting prospect. But, says Kate Hamilton, if you get the right financial advice then it can actually be extremely easy…

“If people are going to invest their hard-earned money, then they deserve to deal with a real person face to face,” explains Tina Owen of Tina Owen Financial Planning Ltd. Her mantra to her clients is, “I don’t just look after your money – I look after you.”

And you can well believe it. Sat in her sunny office overlooking Queens Gardens in the heart of Colwyn Bay, Tina is one of the most approachable people that you are ever likely to meet. She makes her clients her business and, as a result, is approached for all sorts of advice – not just financial!

“I want people to know that when they come to see me, I want to make their lives as easy as possible. I work very closely with local solicitors and accountants to make sure that every single aspect of my clients’ finances and legal commitments are taken care of in the best possible way. I’m a local business, with local clients and find our Colwyn Bay office is an ideal central location for the people of North Wales.” But just how did Tina end up as the financial planner that puts people first?

“I started out with what was Midland Bank, now HSBC before becoming a Financial Adviser for Lloyds’s, a career that has so far spanned over 35 years,” she explains. “When Lloyds Banking group made the Financial Adviser role redundant in November 2014 and after many offers of employment I decided to set up on my own. I wanted to be able to look after my clients in my own way without the restrictions of a large corporate organisation. A lot of my former clients have since followed me. It’s amazing how loyal people are once they know that you genuinely have their best interests at heart. It makes me feel really valued.”

The majority of Tina’s clients are retired or just coming up to retirement and require help with the complicated retirement process and options available to them, many of them then stating they wished they’d met her earlier, which just goes to show it is never too early to start planning for the future.

“Most of my clients aren’t millionaires, they are everyday people, who simply don’t want to be left alone with their finances. I start at ground level ascertaining their tax position (you won’t believe the amount of people that overpay!) making sure that their investments and pension pots are best placed for their individual requirements. I simply want to improve their lives.”

Tina (left) and Heidi (right) are always on hand to make sure that everything goes as smoothly as possible

And she has the resources in place to put her promises into

So, if you want a friendly, confidential conversation with

practise. Tina Owen Financial Planning Limited is an Associate

somebody who simply wants to look after you while helping

Partner Practice of St. James’s Place Wealth Management

you grow your wealth, then Tina is the woman for the job.

– a FTSE 100 company, founded in 1991 who specialise in

After all, what have you got to lose? n

providing highly personalised face to face wealth management services to individuals, families, trustees and businesses.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as

One of the reasons I chose to work with St. James’s Place

well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.

was their distinctive approach to investment Management.

“St. James’s Place doesn’t use in house fund managers,”

*

explains Tina. “They have the flexibility to choose any

given by members of the St. James’s Place Partnership when

investment manager from any fund management firm

recommending any of the wealth management products and

anywhere in the world”. They also know that for an

services available from companies in the Group, more details

investment to be successful then clients must come first.”

of which are set out on the Group’s website at www.sjp.

St. James’s Place guarantees the suitability of the advice

co.uk/products.

Operating under the umbrella of such a well-respected firm also means that any advice that Tina gives is backed up by

Tina Owen Financial Planning Limited is an Appointed

the St. James’s Place Guarantee*, therefore providing that all-

Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place

important peace of mind.

Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of

“Every package that I propose is bespoke,” adds Tina, who is

advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products

working towards becoming a Chartered Financial Planner by

and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s

the end of the year. “What works for one client will not work

website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The title ‘Partner Practice’

for another. Even when the situation is identical, different

is the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place

clients have different objectives.”

representatives.

Tina prides herself on always being available for her clients, whatever the time of day. And, on the rare occasions that she

Tina Owen Financial Planning Limited

isn’t available, then her knowledgeable Practice Manager,

10 Carlton House, 68 Conway Road, Colwyn Bay, LL29 7LD

Heidi will always be on hand to help.

01492 530000

“Heidi and I are here to make sure that everything is as easy

tina.owen@sjpp.co.uk

as possible. Appointments take place at our office in Colwyn

www.tinaowenfp.co.uk

Bay where advice and consultation are without obligation.

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When I first visited Clogau St. David’s, I saw the gold in its raw form. Copper seams were interwoven with the gold seams, resulting in a pale rose-yellow tone, unlike anything I had seen or have seen since.

The beauty of the 1854 blend can be attributed to this unique and natural colour, and has been created to honour 165 years since gold was founded at Clogau as well as to celebrate our 30th anniversary.” – Ben S. Roberts, Managing Director.

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Seared fillet of mackerel, mackerel pâtÊ on toast, flavours of shallot and chervil served at Indulge Restaurant

FOOD & DRINK INSIDE: recipes wine cocktail of the month

NWM 2019 Page 45

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PART OF THE WALL-LAG GROUP OF COMPANIES

Eat your heart out The onset of autumn means that one thing is certain – there are more food festivals in North Wales than you can shake a homemade burger at…

Coronation Street actor and award-winning cheese-maker, Sean Wilson will be heading up the cookery theatre at the Mold Food & Drink Festival

Beaumaris Food Festival is set in a stunning location next to Beaumaris Castle and the Menai Straits

As the summer draws to a close, thoughts turn to making the

to go for the Mold Food & Drink Festival which takes place on

last of the light nights by wining and dining al fresco as much

the 21st and 22nd September. Now in its 14th year, the festival

as physically possible. And there is no better place to eat

delivers a jam-packed weekend with demonstrations from

outdoors than at one of the regions many food festivals.

celebrity and up-and-coming chefs. There will be a welcome return for the children’s cookery theatre giving little ones the

We kick off with Beaumaris Food Festival on 31st August and

chance to crack out the rolling pin and make their own dishes.

1st September – and this vibrant event certainly sets the pace of what we can expect for the rest of the year. Organised by

A varied music line-up will cater for all tastes throughout

Anglesey Events, Beaumaris Food Festival is set in a stunning

the day, and crowds can expect additional, surprising

location next to Beaumaris Castle and the Menai Straits – with

entertainment and activities including a visit from stilt

the picturesque Snowdonia Mountain range providing the

walking chefs who will be charming and delighting festival-

perfect backdrop.

goers. Heading up the cookery theatre will be Coronation Street actor and award-winning cheese-maker, Sean Wilson.

As always this hugely popular event promises to be a

He’ll be joined by a roster of talented chefs including some

wonderful weekend filled with food, drink and entertainment.

well-known local faces and top vegetarian chef Eddie

There will be over 100 exhibitors, ensuring that there is

Shepherd. Children’s admission to the festival is free this year

something for everyone, and there will be plenty to keep little

when tickets are booked online by Friday 20th September.

ones entertained too, including children’s cooking classes and a fantastic storyteller offering interactive sessions.

And as we head deeper into autumn the picturesque town of Llangollen will be transformed into the culinary capital of the

Admission is £5 per adult, or £7 for the weekend, and

UK – for one weekend only.

accompanied children go free. There is free parking and half price admission to Beaumaris Castle for festival goers to

Thousands of foodies will be making a bee-line for the annual

boot, but the main purpose of the Beaumaris Food Festival is

Llangollen Food Festival which has established itself as a

to raise money for the Canolfan Beaumaris – the festival has

major highlight in the gastronomic calendar.

raised £119,600 for local causes since it began in 2013.

This year’s event takes place on Saturday 19th and Sunday Once you have had time to digest Beaumaris, you’ll be raring

20th October, and will be held at the iconic pavilion which also

NWM 2019 Page 47

MAGAZINE

TV chef Chris ‘Foodgasm’ Roberts will be hosting outdoor cookery demonstrations at Llangollen Food Festival The Conwy Feast takes place from October 25th to 27th this year

The Food & Craft Festival at Portmeirion will enable visitors to sample some of the best food across North Wales

stages the Llangollen International Musical Festival. Among the stars of the festival will be TV chef Chris ‘Foodgasm’ Roberts who went from being a man who cooked on an oldfashioned spit roasting fire with his friends, without anyone watching, to overnight fame as a Facebook foodie with thousands of fans.

Meanwhile forest school and bushcraft experts James and Lea Kendall will be hosting interactive cooking workshops throughout this year’s event to reconnect parents and children with nature to boost their mental wellbeing. The

tickets to access just the main music marquee on Friday,

couple, who run the highly successful Woodland Classroom in

Saturday or Sunday.

Wrexham, will be unlocking the gastronomic secrets hidden in Wales’ hedgerows and forests and creating a range of

And what could be better to round off the year than food and

mouth-watering treats.

festive fun in a fairy-tale location? The Food & Craft Festival at Portmeirion will take place from 6th – 8th December, allowing

Moving back west, and the Conwy Feast (which takes place

attendees to sample some of the best food across North Wales,

from October 25th to 27th), has grown into one of North Wales’

enjoy authentic entertainment from local Welsh artists, and

biggest and most loved food festivals. It attracts over 150

support local artisans as they showcase their jewellery,

artisan and street food stalls-with the majority of producers

pottery, art and more.

coming from all over Wales. But the festival isn’t just about food, other attractions include the Feast Quayside Bar, displays

Set against the backdrop of the colourful Italianate village on

and demonstrations of traditional building techniques, digital

a private peninsula on the edge of Snowdonia, this annual

projections and a high-quality craft market, amongst many

Christmas event is a showcase of the best local food, drinks,

other things.

gifts and entertainment. Featuring more than 120 artisan stalls exhibiting the best Welsh produce, the festival is the perfect

A first this year will be an exhibition and mini market

chance for foodies to browse local food and crafts while

showcasing British wool. Conwy used to have an annual Wool

enjoying the festival atmosphere at Portmeirion village.

Market and the townsfolk are determined to bring it back.

Lucy Gawel of Patchwork Sheep will be showing people how

Enjoy local award-winning cheese, handmade pies, fudge and

they create stunning handmade sheeps wool rugs in the

Welsh liqueurs alongside Welsh wines, seafood, sausages,

traditional craft tent.

chocolates and, of course, warm Welsh cakes! In addition to local produce, the Portmeirion Christmas Food & Craft

For £28 (£25.20 if you buy online) a family of two adults and

Festival will have a full programme of entertainment including

three children can access everything in the core programme

musical entertainment and Santa’s Grotto. Portmeirion’s shops

including the acoustic stage music marquee and the daytime

and cafes are open during the festival, tickets for which are

music in the main stage music marquee. If it’s only the music

just £7, and include free parking and gift bag. So join in the

you want to hear, then you have the option to buy music

merriment and find the perfect present while you’re at it! n

Page 48 NWM 2019

21-22 September 2019

New Street Car Park Mold Sat Nav: CH7 1 NY

Celebrity Chefs

Award-winning Cheesemaker Sean Wilson

NEW ENTR PRICEY Adul

Vegetarian Chef & Author Eddie Shepherd

t: Child ren: £ £6 Under 1 (4-15) 4s fre (child e ren accom must be pani an ad ed by ult)

Top Food & Drink Exhibitors Live Music Free Children’s Activities & Cookery School Admission: 10am-5pm www.moldfoodfestival.co.uk

Live Music Saturday

5pm- 8pm Adult: £3 Children: £1 (4-15) Under 4s free

sC

We’re social @moldfoodfestival

M@moldfoodfest

mold_food_and_ NWM 2019 Page 49 drink_festival

A TREAT FOR YOUR TASTE BUDS NOT YOUR AVERAGE WINE BAR

We pay close attention to our food menu, we are no average wine bar.

Our Seasonal Menu has been carefully designed and implemented by our creative and skillful team here at Snooze; we have a passion for serving fresh and tasteful food using locally sourced produce to support local businesses.

THE MAIN BAR AREA

Themed after the ingenious works of controversial welsh poet Dylan Thomas, Snooze has strived to provide a touch of elegance and splendour to Victorian Llandudno’s scenic seaside views.

From our extensive selection of aromatic reds, crisp whites and divine bubbly to our traditional cask ales, ever changing draft lager and vast selection of premium whisky and spirits; at Snooze we strive to provide the perfect drink to suit your taste.

SNOOZE ROOMS

WITH OUR SNOOZE ROOMS, WE HAVE GONE THE EXTRA MILE TO ENSURE YOUR SNOOZE EXPERIENCE IS NOTHING SHORT OF EXCEPTIONAL. Snooze Rooms are tasteful, modern and spacious; each with their own 50 inch Flat Screen Smart TV, Wardrobes, Vanity Unit, Iron and Ironing Boards, Hairdryers, Full length Mirrors, Coffee Table and comfortable chairs to overlook gorgeous seaside and scenic views of the Promenade and Great Orme.

We have four luxurious Double/Twin bedrooms with a Continental and hearty Full Welsh Breakfast included in with your stay, as well as Complimentary Prosecco on arrival!

Each room has an en-suite, Free WiFi, King Size Beds, Duck Down Duvets as well as Complimentary Loose Leaf Herbal Tea and Joe Black Coffee.

+44 0 1492 868221 Snooze Wine Bar, 3 Church Walks, Llandudno LL30 2HD info@snoozewinebar.com

OF THE

Month

Based on the classic Kir Royale, this Prosecco cocktail has the double advantage of looking extremely pretty while being able to be thrown together in mere minutes. Of course, the traditional Kir Royale is the ultimate party tipple – and its Prosecco descendent is no different. So, break out the Crème de Cassis, invite a few friends round and let the good times roll…

Prosecco Royale Equipment - Flute, Bar Spoon Ingredients - 1 shot of Crème de Cassis, Prosecco Method - Pour the Crème de Cassis into the Flute, top with Prosecco and stir Garnish – Raspberry

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 51

Food for thought

I was pretty much born in a pub. I’m 70% sure that before I’d

understand the concept of

even arrived back home from the hospital, I’d made a post-

what a great pub does and

natal stop off at my parents’s local.

instead, put loudspeakers in and played club music loud

They eventually ended up buying a pub near Corwen on the

enough to make a bell-ringer’s

A5, but before then, the pub was where kids of my generation

ears bleed.

tended to end up on the weekend for a bit of a treat. This would usually entail the dads stood in a smoky room

The signs of a new pub

drinking Lees bitter in dimpled glass tankards and laughing

renaissance are very

uproariously, while the mums sat with us in another room

encouraging. There’s been a

as we all got stuck into either scampi or chicken in a basket

resettling since everything

(there may have been a third option but we were never made

was shaken up by drink-

aware of it).

driving laws and the smoking ban. The emergence of craft

A basket of fried food, a small bottle of coke and 10p to have

ales that have sprung up

a rack of pool in the games room was enough to make me

around North Wales like

feel like a king, and there was something about the bawdy,

snowdrops in springtime have

increasingly loud laughter coming from the dad’s section

refocussed everything back to

that made an eight year old pine to one day be old and tall

the two things that a good pub

Cai Ross is co-owner

enough to get into that room and finally learn what the jokes

needs – great beer and great

and Maitre d’ of

were all about.

conversations.

the award-winning

I’ve always believed that pubs are an absolutely vital part of

A bite of good food doesn’t

Deganwy, which has

society and have a huge part to play in the way we become

hurt either (note to publicans

been serving French

socialised. A great pub –invariably made great by the

everywhere: I would crawl

country-style food to

presence of a good landlord – is an absolutely level playing

across hot coals for some

the fine people of North

field, where the only valuable currency one can possess is

well made scampi in a

Wales since 1988. He

having the best stories and a good sense of humour. No one

basket, especially if you used

also writes for Calibre

stood around the bar of a good pub looks down or up.

monkfish like they did back in

Magazine, BBC Good

the ‘70s).

Food, HeyUGuys.com

Paysanne Bistro in

The ritual of being taken for your first pint with your dad

and The North Wales

(back then you’d have been about 15) was one of the great

What’s your favourite pub in

landmark ‘growing up’ moments in my life, up there with

North Wales? Do let us know.

buying my first shaving kit. So many people have told me

My dad recently came back

the same thing and can’t wait to do the same with their

from France and stopped into a pub in Ysceifiog and was so

kids one day.

impressed that he nearly sent for his things and moved back

Weekly News

home. France may have may things going for it, especially if For a while, it looked like we’d be denied the pleasure, with

you’re a food and wine buff, but no one does pubs like us.

pub closures at a rate of 350 a year robbing towns and villages of a vital part of their community. Not all pubs are

Anyway, August is over and we’re into the ‘Embers’, so while

wonderful, mind you, and I’m sure that many of the ones

Autumn is still a few weeks away yet, here are couple of easy

that no longer exist do so because they entirely failed to

recipes to enjoy as the weather cools slightly around you. n

NWM 2019 Page 53

MAGAZINE

Recipes ETTE HOMEMADE VINAIGR

SALADE PERIGEAUX

ipe that he an old Keith Floyd rec This is a variation on France. It ord region in southern cooked up in the Perig walnuts – a are n products of the utilises the best-know . me bli ple and su and ducks – and is sim

le to buy – ad dressings availab There are plenty of sal ng – but ssi dre lian wman’s Ita I’m a big fan of Paul Ne t having e and show-offy abou there’s something nic easy to y d this one is incredibl your own to hand an make.

Serves 4 wine vinegar J 2 tablespoons white gin olive oil vir d J 8 tablespoons goo rlic ga ed sh J 2 cloves cru d fresh herbs J 2 tablespoons mixe ives, chervil) (parsley, tarragon, ch grain mustard ole J 2 teaspoons of wh honey ny run of J 2 teaspoons und pepper gro ly sh fre of s J 10 twist J 7 twists of salt pretend that into a sealed jar. Now, Add the ingredients ixing machines sion of those paint-m you are a human ver t as you can for Q, and shake it as fas that they have in B& bottle and st cant into your fancie about 30 seconds. De h… use it with the next dis

Page 54 NWM 2019

Serves 2 undnut oil J Tablespoon of gro ast bre ck J 1 smoked du Mermaid Seafoods in m fro ne mi (I bought Llandudno) , about three days old J 1 loaf of white bread t halves J 1 handful of walnu ) see lettuce if you can Fri e us to J Salad (try te ret aig e vin J Your recently-mad the pan, then gently toast Heat the oil in a large . Tip wn bro ht lig d nice an croutons until they are te. pla them onto a separate d the at a jaunty angle. Ad Slice the duck breast ts. lnu wa the d ad n, then slices to the same pa d, so ke coo dy ea alr is ast The smoked duck bre r than ating through rathe this is really about he crisping up. dress leaves on two plates, Assemble some salad ide div and then carefully with your vinaigrette kle rin Sp . tes over both pla the duck and walnut d serve. over the croutons, an

Don’t fancy cooking?

01492 582079 @PaysanneDeganwy www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk

Lyons St Mary’s L u x u ry L o d g e Pa r k

QP- NWCaravans - Sept copy.pdf

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THE GLASS ONION CAFÉ C

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TO BOOK YOUR TABLE OR SECURE YOUR TICKET(S) PLEASE CONTACT RHIAN ON 01492 873664 OR VISIT OUR EVENTS PAGE AT WWW.STDAVIDSHOSPICE.ORG.UK DRESS CODE BLACK TIE

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A small friendly café, offering a place to meet, eat, relax & watch the world go by!!

Enjoy tasty home cooked food, prepared & created daily using fresh, locally sourced produce. We try to cater for a wide range of dietary

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For our 'Younger Guests' - choose a smaller portion from our menu - or make your own 'Picnic Plate': includes a drink, crisps & a ‘sweet treat’ (highchair & booster seat available) A warm welcome to all...including dogs in our outside eating area.

Outside Catering: from a platter of freshly made sandwiches to something more elaborate, we would love to assist you with any catering requirements you may have at your home, venue or office.

Pick up the ‘Keys’ to unlock & explore the ‘Denbigh Town Wall Walks’; The ‘Keys’ are available during opening hours.

Enjoy our 'Afternoon Teas' on Thursdays and Fridays join us for Evening Specials. Licensed to BYO!!

Further info: Glass Onion Café, Back Row, Denbigh, LL16 3TE. Tel: 07715545564, www.glassonioncafe.co.uk

REG CHARITY NO 1038543

Also find us on Tripadvisor & Facebook

Raise your glass Happy September! Oh how the months pass by so quickly. Soon it’ll be... (don’t say the C word yet).

For readers new, we’ve been retailing wines from around the world for nearly three years now (it’s our thrid birthday on the 1st of October), and recently obtained recognition as ‘Small business of the year 2019’ – something worth celebrating for sure!

We started out with just 200 wines originally, now; it’s dangerously close to 1,500 fantastic wines. We just LOVE wine and telling their stories‌đ&#x;˜Š More recently, we’ve started to import more diverse wines, promoting ‘natural’ wines especially – those that are expressive of their homeland, wines made by hand with minimal chemical intervention, and where the winemaking shows maximum respect for the environment.

We believe in the importance of ‘terroir’, indigenous grapes, diversity and organic viticulture. Above all, wines of character.

We champion small, independent winemakers, the hardy souls who put their love and life’s work into the bottle to deliver a unique and inspiring product.

Our range reflects the peculiarities and strengths of region –

Producer focus: Project Calcarius by Valentina Passalacqua, PUGLIA/ITALY

terroir – personality. Equally as important, our range reflects

The Calcarius project is in the awareness of the fundamental

the way we drink - with food, with friends, listening to music,

worth of the soil and the salt components and the synergistic

watching a sunset, smelling the sea air‌ because drinking

relationship with the Mediterranean climate choosing the

wine is primarily a reason for having fun. #taste #share

indigenous grapes of this piece of Puglia. The ‘Calcarius

#enjoy #educate

project’ vineyards take root in the Gargano area, in the community of Apricena where the calcareous soils bring

So, at The Grape to Glass, you’ll find extensive and highly

heaps of influence and character to the wines.

subjective tasting notes, personal blurbs labelled on each wine, cultural and culinary background digressions, and

We’ve brought over three whites, a red and a rosÊ‌. some

some quirky staff personalities to name a few.

in litre bottles, they’re that good! But why not try them for yourself?

We help you find a way to understand the wines that we import, evoke and stimulate your senses, and bring you

Iechyd da!

closer to the spirit of the wine itself. This month it’s all about ‘SEPTEMBER SLURPS’ on the tasting-counter‌

Tim and the team

The Grape to Glass Wine Shop and Tasting Room

Tim Watson runs The Grape to Glass Wine Shop

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

and Tasting Room in Rhos-on-Sea which, as well as

Tel: 01492 545934

offering wine from far reaching lands, also stocks

www.thegrapetoglass.co.uk

locally produced beers, wines and spirits

NWM 2019 Page 57

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 58 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 59

Parc Tirionfa in Rhuddlan has now launched with a luxurious range of 3 & 4 bedroom homes available to reserve. All our new homes are designed for active family living, with the flexibility of open-plan kitchen/dining rooms, beautifully proportioned bedrooms and luxurious en suite facilities for your master bedroom.

Page 60 NWM 2019

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

NWM 2019 Page 61

THE

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winning Developer Pure, Cae Topyn offers an exclusive range of two-, three- and four-bedroom properties to accommodate

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ideal tranquil location then Cae Topyn could just fit the bill.

Offering the ultimate in contemporary design, all of the 75 plots are expertly designed and include the two-bedroom Eton style houses and Balmoral style bungalows which are an ideal starter or retirement home. The Clarence and Ascot style houses present three bedrooms with an en suite, and the Terfel

For more information Pure’s Sandhurst style show home is now open to view at Cae Topyn seven days a week, from 10.30am – 4.30pm (6 days) and from 10.30am until 8pm every Thursday. Call 01745 535027 or 07591 151482 to book a viewing.

NWM 2019 Page 63

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

HENRYD

CONWY £725,000

• Five bedroom detached family home has to be viewed to fully appreciate the quality and space on offer.

• Tranquil and beautifully landscaped and maintained garden with a stream running along the bottom.

• Enviable features including superb quality finish, thoughtfully laid out and spacious accommodation.

• Fabulous location. An exceptional family home that delivers the wow factor.

EPC

£249,000 • A light, spacious, well planned 3 bedroom detached home with far reaching countryside & mountain views.

• Situated in a tucked away spot in the hamlet of Henryd, a five minute drive into Conwy Town.

• The extended accommodation, Upvc double glazing and oil fired central heating.

• Driveway parking, garage, gardens to front, side and rear.

F

LLECHWEDD

CONWY £169,950

£450,000 • An individually designed four bedroom detached bungalow situated within minutes drive of Conwy Town.

• Superb uninterrupted mountain & countryside views & offers spacious & well planned accommodation • Upvc double glazing and LPG gas central heating.

• Double garage; gated driveway allowing for ample off road parking; gardens to front, side and rear.

• A rare opportunity to acquire a two bedroom mid terrace cottage • Enjoying unrivalled countryside views • South facing rear aspect with access straight onto the mountain.

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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

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

PENRHYNSIDE

PENRHYN BAY £249,950

£229,950

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• Unique Development Opportunity • Two Bedroom Semi Detached Cottage With Planning Permission Granted For Two, Three Bedroom Houses • Enjoying Spectacular Far Reaching Coastal Views

EPC

F

LLANDUDNO

PENRHYN BAY £535,000

£164,950 • Three Bedroom End Terrace House • Well Planned Accommodation With Garage & Off Road Parking • Situated Close To the Promenade & Angel Bay

• Four Bedroom Detached Family Home • Situated In A Highly Desirable Location • Close To The Promenade • Enjoys Lovely Views To The Front Aspect

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

£575,000 Betws Yn Rhos, Abergele

Betws Gwerfil Goch, Corwen Ref: RN1616

£495,000

Ref: WE6512

• Stunning five-bedroom detached house

• 2.5 acres of woodland

• Link detached house

• Large gardens

• Idyllic location and beautiful gardens

• Private drive

• Double glazed and oil central heating

• Four bedrooms

• 3/4-acre garden

• EPC G-8

• Six reception rooms

• EPC F-21

• 1-acre paddock

• Additional land by separate negotiation

Bishopswood Road, Prestatyn Ref: WP7588

£725,000

• Panoramic views of the North Wales Coast

• Sought after address

• Immaculately presented

• Large plot tiered gardens

• Integral double garage

• Five bedrooms

• EPC C-78

£225,000

Lixwm, Holywell Ref: WM438

£239,950

North Drive, Rhyl Ref: WE6424

• 3 bedroom semi-detached home

• Fully renovated to a high standard

• 3 Bedroom detached house

• Well-presented throughout

• New oil central heating

• Detached garden room with power

• 2 reception rooms

• Open plan sitting room and fitted kitchen

• Off road parking

• Village location

• En-suite

• Enclosed gardens

• EPC D-65

• EPC D-63

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

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

Pure air

Basket case

As global leaders in food preservation, the next generation

Make the most of the end of summer with this beautiful

of Sub-Zero PRO Series is next in line to earn the energy

willow gardening tool basket from Dibor. The basket is

star rating for outstanding energy efficiency. Based on

complete with three gardening tools including a trowel,

ground-breaking technology developed by NASA the PRO 36

rake and fork – all of which are finished in a stainless

air purification system continuously filters odours, bacteria,

steel effect material fixed into a comfortable cork handle

viruses – scrubbing the air of the natural ethylene gas

securely positioned by an autumn brown elastic weave

that hastens spoilage. The robust stainless steel interior

keeping the tools in place. The generous sized storage

and exterior fits perfectly within both contemporary and

compartment to the bottom is lined with plastic, making it

traditional kitchen styles, and there is the option to have the

suitable to carry small things such as seeds, nails or string

unit either with or without the glass door.

around the garden. The basket can easily be mounted onto

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to wall with a nail and hook on, or simply have it on a side in the garage or shed keeping the essential tools in one place and at arm’s reach.

Take on me

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Schmidt Kitchens has something for every taste and budget, from classic to contemporary and everything in between. Its Take collection, with its integrated handle, features lacquered MDF door fronts and is shown here in a warm Tonka colour. It’s also available in 26 lacquer shades to suit your scheme, enabling you to be ultra creative with your chosen colour. Bringing a touch of natural organic beauty to the kitchen, the Arcos range – which is used in the alcove above the hob and sink – is a melamine fronted design shown here in Vintage Oak and also available in 30 colours. It adds a Nordic feel with its raw, stripped back look and is perfect for blending classic and contemporary style in one. www.homedesign.schmidt

NWM 2019 Page 69

MAGAZINE

Of the essence GROHE, the leading global supplier of sanitaryware,

Colour me happy

has launched its premium Essence Ceramics Collection.
Pared back to its essentials to deliver a simplistically striking aesthetic perfect for creating

Conceived, designed, engineered, manufactured, painted and

a home spa atmosphere, the new GROHE Essence

finished entirely in the UK, The Oxford Painted Bedroom

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Furniture collection is a modern interpretation of classic

organic forms with a slim and sculptured profile. This

British design, beautiful to behold and exceptionally well

latest range has been created to expose the beauty

made by the best craftsmen using the finest materials. The

of ceramics presented in its purest, most simplistic

collection is available in a wide choice of standard pieces with

form. The range comprises of three sizes of vanity

bespoke sizes available on request, and may be finished in

basins, a selection of toilets and, for the very first

a beautiful selection of contemporary colours with either a

time, a selection of bath tubs in three different styles:

painted or an Oak top.

back to wall, built-in and freestanding.

www.paintedfurnitureco.co.uk

www.grohe.co.uk

Warm as toast As the nights start drawing in, thoughts turn to snuggling up by a roaring fire. The Wychwood gas stove features a massive glass panel in the door to also give a superb view of the fire. The net input for the Wychwood models is 7.1Kw with a net output of 6.1Kw. Ultra realistic ceramic logs give the Wychwood a fabulous flame effect which can be enhanced further by fitting the optional black glass internal rear panel to reflect the flame effect. www.acrstoves.com

Page 70 NWM 2019

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

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THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW J Distance: 4.25 miles/6.83 kilometres J Time: Allow 3 hours J Start: Park at a lay-by on the south side of the A5 by Llyn Ogwen. This lay-by is

Walking

world

A CWM IDWAL CIRCUIT

approximately 0.4 miles/0.64 km east of Ogwen Cottage

J Grid Ref: SH 655602 J Nearest postcode: LL57 3LZ J Ordnance Survey Map: Ordnance Survey Explorer 17 – Snowdon and Conwy Valley.

J What to expect: The route begins with a walk besides Llyn Ogwen. At Ogwen Cottage and car park a small detour is made to visit Ogwen Falls after which rough mountain paths are joined and these take you up to Llyn Idwal. The walk

This walk takes you on a rough and challenging circuit of Cwm Idwal

around it and around Cwm Idwal is rugged

and the glacial Llyn Idwal that nestles in a hollow within it. The route

and strenuous and takes a clockwise

passes through dramatic mountain scenery and starts at Llyn Ogwen

course passing the climbers playground of

in the impressive Ogwen Valley. Cwm Idwal is surrounded by high

The Idwal Slabs. After this the paths rises

mountain country with the Carneddau summits to the north and the

quite high below the rock gully known

rugged Glyders and Y Garn to the south and the awesome outline of

as The Devils Kitchen and the way here

Tryfan to the east.

involves a tricky stream crossing which should not be attempted if it has been

Llyn Idwal covers 28 acres and has a pebble beach at one end where

raining heavily. The return route involves

you can paddle your feet on the way back but be warned, the water

a steep descent over more rough ground

is usually freezing cold. Cwm Idwal is a stunning glacially formed

and has scrambley sections with some

hanging valley and was Wales’s first National Nature Reserve and is

polished rock by a waterfall – this section

a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

of the walk requires care. Although the walk does not get to any summits it is still

In Cwm Idwal you will find the rock climbers playground of The Idwal

a tough mountain outing requiring good

Slabs where crowds of rock climbers gather to enjoy their sport on

strong boots and full hill walking gear. It

nice days – you can easily wile away an hour sitting and watching

should only be undertaken in good clear

them and marvelling at both their ability and their courage. At the

conditions and avoided completely in bad

head of the Cwm is the brooding rock gully known as The Devils Kitchen which we pass a bit below. The mountain and rock scenery are breathtaking throughout the walk but don’t underestimate the route because the mileage is relatively short. This is an outing that is really only for good clear weather and you should read the ‘what to expect’ section below carefully before setting out.

weather, mist or rain.

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

J Refreshments: There is a café at Ogwen Cottage and a snack bar by the car park adjoining it. Bethesda is only a few miles away and has shops, pubs, cafes and restaurants.

NWM 2019 Page 73

2 MAGAZINE START/ FINISH

WALK DETAILS

3

START Exit the lay-by to cross the road (The A5) and go left to head west beside Llyn Ogwen. As you reach Ogwen Cottage cross

5 4

The A5 again to pass the café and take the access road for The Youth Hostel. Shortly go right into a carpark (facing the snack bar), walk to the end of it and take a path beyond to descend to a viewpoint for Ogwen Falls taking care because of the steep

cross a stream. Continue beyond to reach a large stream across

drops to the falls.

the path. Cross this if it is dry but if the slabs are wet you will

https://openstreetmap.org/copyright

https://openstreetmap.org

Copyright OpenStreetMap and contributors, under an open licence

need to head up it a bit and cross higher up descending to

Points of interest on this section

re-join the path (if the stream is in flood do not attempt to cross

J Llyn Ogwen is a ribbon lake covering 78 acres and lies at an

at all). Once over continue on the high level path. Climb steps

altitude of 1,017 ft/310 metres. It is a shallow lake having a

and continue more levelly towards massive boulders ahead.

maximum depth of 10 ft/3.0 metres. Legend has it that after

As you reach them cut left and up to reach a path fork below

King Arthur’s last battle (the Battle of Camlann), Sir Bedivere

The Devils Kitchen gully. Go right at this point following the

cast the sword Excalibur into the lake where it was caught

path to make a rough descent down rocky slabs and steps with

by The Lady of the Lake.

some awkward scrambley bits. A small waterfall is passed on

J Ogwen Falls (Rhaeadr Ogwen) is the point where The River

polished rock and care is required here. When you reach the

Ogwen, emerging from Llyn Ogwen, tumbles over rocks

bottom of the stone slab steps continue on the path towards

before heading down The Nant Ffrancon Valley on its

Llyn Idwal. Follow the path over two slab bridges and continue

journey towards the sea.

to a path junction right.

2) Re-trace your steps back through the car park exiting it

Points of interest on this section

to go left past the snack bar. Beyond it go right taking a path

J The Devils Kitchen (Twll Du) is a gash in the rocks below the

to the left of steps. Rise up staying ahead at a junction almost

summit of Y Garn where a waterfall tumbles down a gorge.

immediately (your way is signposted ‘Llyn Idwal Path’. Shortly

It is reputed to have got its name as water from the falls was

pass through a gate, cross a bridge and continue to rise on

blown upwards by high winds and looked like smoke rising

the well made path. Follow this to curve right and continue to

up the gash.

reach the shores of Llyn Idwal.

5) Continue straight on with Llyn Idwal over right. Soon rise Points of interest on this section

again and continue more levelly above the lake. Descend again

J Llyn Idwal nestles in a hollow surrounded by Cwm Idwal.

and cross a few streams to curve right around a bay and pass

It covers 28 acres and the surrounding valley is a classic

through a kissing gate in a wall. Curve around the end of Llyn

ice formed hanging valley which was Wales’s first National

Idwal past the stony beach (the path is vaguer here). Follow the

Nature Reserve and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

improving path to pass through a gate, go right over a bridge and then left picking up your outbound route. Follow this back

3) Take the path up the left side of Llyn Idwal. Follow the

down the mountain track to the snack bar near Ogwen Cottage.

lake shore path to pass through a kissing gate and continue

Go right to The A5 and go Right back beside the A5 to the start

towards The Idwal Slabs ahead. As you near these start to rise

point using the sidewalk by the lake.

more steeply and as the angle eases again continue over odd streams and pass the head of the lake to pass a junction right

Points of interest on this section

and stay ahead to the foot of The Idwal Slabs.

J The mountains closely surrounding Cwm Idwal are Tryfan (3,010 ft/917.5 metres), Glyder Fach (3,261 ft/994 metres),

Points of interest on this section

Glyder Fawr (3,284 ft/1,001 metres) and Y Garn (3,107 ft/947

J The Idwal Slabs are much loved by rock climbers and

metres). n

you can pause here to watch them in action on the rocks.

Climbing routes are generally multi-pitch and range from lower grade to extreme grades with the longest covering 525 ft/160 metres.

4) Continue past The Idwal Slabs and start to climb steeply up steps. Follow the rough rising path to curve left and right and

Page 74 NWM 2019

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.

GUIDED WALKS IN THE VALE OF CLWYD The Vale of Clwyd is full of beauty, peace and wonderful scenery.

Find space to enjoy its Beautiful scenery, varied wildlife and interesting history.

Guided walks designed to enable you to experience all that it has to offer - including sheltered river valleys, low lying farmland, quiet woodland and beautiful hillsides with stunning views - all starting from the town of Ruthin.

Simon lives in and loves the Vale and is only too happy to share his enjoyment of it and passion for it with you.

Dates of Walks: St Saeran’s Walk – Tuesday 10th September (£15. 11-5pm. Moderate) Ruthin to Rhewl – Friday 13th September (£10. 11-2pm. Moderate-easy) Lady Bagot's Drive – Tuesday 17th September (£15. 11-5pm. Moderate with steep climbs) Lower Clwydian Walk – Monday 23rd September (£15. 11-5pm. Moderate with climbs) Llangynhafal and Hendrerwydd Walk – Saturday 28th September (£15. 11-5pm. Moderate) St Saeran’s Walk – Sunday 29th September (£15. 11-5pm. Moderate) Ruthin to Rhewl – Wednesday 2nd October (£10. 11-2pm. Moderate-easy) Lady Bagot's Drive – Friday 4th October (£15. 11-5pm. Moderate with steep climbs) Lower Clwydian Walk – Saturday 12th October (£15. 11-5pm. Moderate with climbs) Llangynhafal and Hendrerwydd Walk – Thursday 24th October (£15. 11-5pm. Moderate) Ruthin to Rhewl – Saturday 26th October (£10. 11-2pm. Moderate-easy) Lower Clwydian Walk – Saturday 2nd November (£15. 11-5pm. Moderate with climbs) St Saeran’s Walk – Sunday 10th November (£15. 11-5pm. Moderate)

ANY OF THESE WALKS CAN ALSO BE BOOKED PRIVATELY ON A CONVENIENT DATE For more information on each walk’s details, please see website.

Phone contact: 07840710655 Email: walksinthevaleofclwyd@gmail.com See Website for more detail: www.walksinthevaleofclwyd.com Booking by leaving a voice message on phone or by email. Please leave a way of contact, your name and which walk you would like to attend. Please cancel by the same method. If the walk is cancelled you will be contacted.

Payment by cash or cheque on the morning of the walk.

Meet for all walks at the top of town at 11am, outside the old black and white Tudor style building which was the old court house, under sign saying ‘THE OLD COURT HOUSE 1401’, by 2 benches. This building is next to the roundabout by St Peter's Square.

Bring: Waterproofs, Walking boots, packed lunch for St.Saeran's walk and Lower Clwydian walk. The Lady Bagot's Drive and Llangynhafal and Hendrerwydd walk do have stops at a pub/ cafe for lunch, but bring a packed lunch for these if you won't want to buy lunch, and also for the Ruthin to Rhewl walk if you think you'll need it.

Snacks and drinks for all walks.

All walks of a moderate difficulty, with some harder sections. Short walk easier. The longer walks are approximately 10 miles and take about 6 hours with a break. However times for completion of the walk will vary on the group’s ability. Reasonable fitness and walking sense is needed.

Simon Jones Walk Rest and Play

Snowdon Mountain Railway invests in future

Solicitors offers fixed fee appointments Legal Aid was scrapped for the majority of family matters in 2013, which has led to a big

Snowdon Mountain Railway has

rise in the number of people

begun a programme of replacement

representing themselves in

for its existing diesel locomotives

court. Indeed, six years on,

which began service in 1985. The

it has been reported that

123-year-old railway began looking

there has been a significant

into replacement locomotives five years

rise in judges having to deal

ago, after extensive market research

directly with ‘rowing parents’, with many hearings taking

and specification development, Clayton

place that could be avoided. So what can you do if you

Equipment Ltd, a UK based locomotive

have limited funds available? Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors in

manufacturer specialising in bespoke

Conwy offers fixed fee appointments where they can advise

hybrid battery-diesel locomotives for

regarding the court process and the likeliness of the court

use in tunnelling, metro and mining,

making certain directions and orders. “We can also help

has been chosen as the preferred

with the preparation of application forms and statements,

supplier. The two new locomotives will

and representation at certain hearings,” explains solicitor

be commissioned and ready for service

Gemma Tattersall (pictured). “In particular, many clients

for the start of the railways 2020 season

find a one-hour fixed fee appointment at the outset of any

in spring next year. “The existing diesel

proceedings extremely helpful and money well spent. Court

Locomotives have been the backbone of

proceedings should be a last resort and suitable mediation

Snowdon Mountain Railway since their

should always be explored – you can self-refer without

introduction in 1985,” commented Mike

the assistance of a solicitor. If you are on a tight budget, it

Robertshaw, senior engineering manager

may well be the case that you are entitled to Legally-Aided

at Snowdon Mountain Railway. “Investing

mediation sessions. Other alternatives to mediation include

in these two new hybrid locomotives is a

family therapy and separated parenting programmes.”

great opportunity for the railway to move

www.lblaw.co.uk

the fleet forward into the next generation.

The proposal offered by Clayton allows us to push Snowdon Mountain Railway into a new era of fuel efficiency, emission reductions and take a radical step forward for the business.” www.snowdonrailway.co.uk

Page 76 NWM 2019

New North Walian cocktail revealed A new cocktail is being launched in honour of two aristocratic women who scandalised 18th Century society when they eloped together from Ireland and settled in Llangollen. The concoction, called Ladies’ Dee-light, is being unveiled at the town’s popular food in memory of the Ladies of Llangollen, Lady Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby.

The new drink is the brainchild of two brothers whose micro bar business is taking North Wales by storm. Trained mixologists Gruff and Ieuan Jones have enjoyed rapid success since launching their mobile cocktail bar, Booze Brothers, just 12 months ago. They have just toasted the launch of their own product range and will be inviting people to try the cocktail for the first time at the Llangollen Food Festival in October. The event has now established itself as one of the highlights in the culinary calendar and is being held at the Llangollen Pavilion, less than a mile from the house, Plas Newydd, where Lady Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby lived. “We will be keeping the recipe secret until the new cocktail is launched at the food festival but we are keeping our fingers crossed it will be a hit,” commented Gruff. theboozebrothersbarservice.co.uk

St David’s Hospice delivers quality care across the region

Snowdon St David’s Hospice is fulfilling its vision to end the postcode lottery for terminally ill patients in north west Wales. The Llandudno-based charity merged with Hospice at Home – Gwynedd and Anglesey last year to form one integrated organisation delivering first-class palliative care across the region. With a rebranding

New coastal path App launched

exercise taking place, and with plans for a satellite hospice in Holyhead close to fruition, St David’s is close to

A new coastal path App for Wales has launched, making

realising its goal of cutting down travel times for people

it easier than ever to have a great family day out along

needing quality end-of-life care. “One message we want

the Wales Coast Path. The new augmented reality (AR)

to make clear is that Hospice at Home – Gwynedd and

app is free to use, and has been launched to encourage

Anglesey is now part of St David’s Hospice and all future

local families to get outdoors during the holidays and

donations made to St David’s Hospice will benefit the

to ensure the region’s fantastic views, glorious wildlife

whole organisation to ensure that the most appropriate

diversity, fascinating history and wondrous legends are

services are available for patients in their own local

brought to life using augmented reality, games and other

communities,” said chief executive Trystan Pritchard.

fun features.

“It is a crucial service and has not been replaced or

www.walescoastpath.gov.uk

closed down but re-established in a bigger, stronger organisation delivering palliative and end-of-life care to those who need it most in Gwynedd, Anglesey and Conwy. Our vision remains the same, and by joining forces and taking a more strategic approach to respite care in north west Wales we can make strides toward even better services.” www.stdavidshospice.org.uk

NWM 2019 Page 77

MAGAZINE

Page 78 NWM 2019

Puzzle corner

Down: 1 Jewel, 2 Grocer, 3 Cherub, 4 Mousse, 5 Amoeba, 6 Bonsai, 7 Ottawa, 8 Utter, 13 Print, 14 Odium, 15 Lease, 16 Malta, 17 Tithe, 18 Comet, 19 Loyal, 24 Exodus, 25 Peaked, 26 Rehash, 27 Misery, 28 Nephew, 29 Adonis, 30 Tsars, 31 Stags.

Across: 9 Earthworm, 10 Octet, 11 Encores, 12 Ensnare, 13 Problematical, 20 Hi-fi, 21 Allot, 22 Mayo, 23 Temperamental, 32 Stomach, 33 Support, 34 Rouse, 35 Surveying.

Across 9 Wiggler (9) 10 Eight singers (5) 11 Curtain calls (7) 12 Trap (7) 13 Debatable (13) 20 Equipment for the reproduction of very good sound (2-2) 21 Set apart (5) 22 Irish county (4) 23 Unpredictable (13) 32 Tolerate (7) 33 Sustain (7) 34 Awaken (5) 35 Appraising (9) Down 1 Gem (5) 2 Dealer in foodstuffs (6) 3 Winged child (6) 4 Sweet dessert (6) 5 Simple life form (6) 6 Dwarfed tree (6) 7 Capital of Canada (6) 8 Speak (5) 13 Publish (5) 14 Intense hatred (5) 15 Hire (5) 16 Island awarded the George Cross (5) 17 A tenth part (5) 18 Celestial body (5) 19 Faithful (5) 24 General escape (6) 25 Maxed (6) 26 Make over (6) 27 Wretchedness (6) 28 Son of one’s brother or sister (6) 29 Very handsome young man (6) 30 E.g. the Romanovs (5) 31 Male deer (5)

NWM 2019 Page 79

Win

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

A family ticket to see The Snow Queen at the Rhyl Pavilion

The Hans Christian Anderson classic has seen a magical new adaption by Robert Marsden. Starring Edele Lynch of B*Witched, enjoy a magical theatre experience for the whole family worth £53! The show, which is suitable for ages five plus, features Kay who is abducted to the Snow Queen’s frozen palace. His best friend Gerda sets out to rescue him… but will she reach the Snow Queen before it’s too late? T’sC’s apply. www.rhylpavilion.co.uk

A Luxury Foodie Sharing Platter Two lucky readers will each win a luxury foodie sharing platter worth £40! The Little Cheesemonger in Rhuddlan creates a taste explosion in boxes which they call their sharing platters. Containing a mix of cheese, dips, cured meats, antipasto and more. They can even do vegetarian a version. Ideal for a night in with a bottle of wine, or taking a box to party as a gift…

T’s&C’s apply. www.thelittlecheesemonger.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 27th September, 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.

WWW.NORTHWALESMAGAZINE.COM NWM 2019 Page 81

MAGAZINE

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

PREP & SENIOR SCHOOL OPEN AFTERNOON Friday 4 October (2.30-5.30pm)

Exceptional A-level and GCSE results • High academic value added Incredible extra-curricular provision • RYA Accredited Sailing Centre Coastal and Forest School for Prep pupils • Thriving Duke of Edinburgh Award programme

Year 7 and Sixth Form scholarships available for 2020 Find out more on our new website

www.rydalpenrhos.com For more information on our Open Afternoon contact 01492 530155 or email admissions@rydalpenrhos.com Page 82 NWM 2019

#RPInspires

Learning by heart

other forms of work that may have set caps on working hours or obligatory personal days, the life of a college or university student is more amorphous.

With no set schedule per se, it can be difficult to assign the appropriate amount of time to

Responsibilities piling up,

various activities and responsibilities. These

competing demands, lack of

commitments may come into direct conflict with one another, pulling a student’s attention and

time. Just reading this may

resources in a variety of directions. For example,

make your heart start to race a little. Does the word stress come

many students struggle to achieve a balance

to mind? Stress is a normal part

between their social and academic goals, and this

of the human experience, and in fact, can be useful − mild levels of stress

kind of goal conflict is often what makes students cite a lowered sense of wellbeing.

have the ability to motivate us to get our work done and even stimulate creativity.

Striving toward a school-life balance is a healthy coping mechanism for students seeking to better manage their stress.

Individuals, however, may vary in the amount of stress they can

For example, fitting in time to go to the gym or take a walk in

handle and in the methods they use to manage it. When stress

between classes is not only good for your physical health but

levels extend beyond a normal range and methods to cope with

will also boost your mood and make you feel that your energy is

it are ineffective, your health will begin to feel the negative

not all consumed by academic life.

effects.

Balance does not necessarily mean an even split, as true Unchecked levels of stress can lead to both physical and

balance between all the different components in life is elusive

psychological problems, including gastrointestinal issues,

for most individuals, whether they are students or not. A more

a weakened immune system, difficulties sleeping and an

realistic ‘balance’ may feel more like a satisfaction with how

increased risk of depression and anxiety.

much time and energy each activity takes up. While some of the contributors to school-related stress are part of the

While humans experience stress all throughout their lives,

larger higher education structure, there are strategies that

it can be heightened at certain stages of life. One of these

individuals can use to strive toward a more balanced student

particular periods of prolonged high stress is the pursuit of

life, such as:

higher education, such as college and university.

J Set a schedule: planning ahead and writing your activities out can help you keep track of your time and assess whether

This period in life is characterised by a variety of potential

your division of time is supportive of your ‘balance’ and well-

stressors including interpersonal relationships, worries about

being.

the future and expectations to achieve.

J Know your limits: monitor your stress levels and when you start to feel yourself passing your threshold, make time to

To exacerbate the problem, the demands of academic life

care for yourself. Caring for yourself could include activities

further compound the everyday stressors that students

like exercising, meditating or practicing positive self-talk.

experience. If left unaddressed, high levels of stress in an

J Be present: focusing on what is happening in the current

academic setting can lead to student burnout and overall

moment will help to avoid distractions from your future

impairment to academic functioning.

activities, allowing you to be more engaged with what is meaningful right now.

Preventing the negative impacts of stress requires ongoing

JAsk for help: knowing when to ask for help can be tricky,

efforts. Outside of a school context, stress management efforts

but don’t be afraid to rely on your support system should you

among adults are part of the pursuit of work-life balance, a

need a little extra boost.n

growing topic of conversation and research as workplaces increasingly try to support employees in managing their commitments across work, family, life and leisure.

Because students possess their own unique set of concerns, applying the idea of work-life balance to those in college or

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

graduate school introduces some distinct challenges. Unlike

NWM 2019 Page 83

MAGAZINE

A-level success for Rydal Penrhos pupil Imogen Camp, who hails from Colwyn Bay, enrolled at the Rydal Penrhos in 2003 and has spent the entirety of her education within the school community. This has seen her achieve a significant amount from an academic and extracurricular perspective, and this success concluded with no fewer than five A* grades when results were published last month. Imogen achieved A* in Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Physics – which confirmed her place at Queens’ College Cambridge, where she will be studying Natural Sciences. Imogen’s results were made even more extraordinary with the fact she scored 499 out of a possible 500 in her Chemistry and 497/500 in Physics. Imogen, who was selected to the Prefect team at the start of the 2018/19 academic year,

just 681 candidates worldwide that managed to secure the

also successfully attained a Gold Award from the British

outstanding feat.

(International) Biology Olympiad earlier this year, joining

www.rydalpenrhos.com

EDUCATION NEWS Wrexham Glyndwr student discovers applied theatre

Coleg Cambria maintains 99% pass rate Coleg Cambria maintained its position as the number one college in Wales with an outstanding overall A Level pass rate of 99%. Students at the Yale site in Wrexham and Deeside Sixth Form Centre contributed to another An actor who rekindled his love for the performing arts after visiting an open day at Wrexham Glyndwr University has discovered a love of applied theatre. Kenneth John Griffiths, from Plas Madoc, has played everything from a motorcyclist with a brain injury to a drug-dealing murderer as part of his studies – and discovered a love for applied theatre, a form of theatre where actors perform in nontraditional settings – often playing roles to help other professionals deal with scenarios they may encounter during their working life. Among the projects which Kenneth has lent his hand to have been a summer school for e-health app developers, a training session for North Wales GPs, and a large-scale crime scene event devised

by Glyndwr lecturers as a way to test the skills of policing and forensics students. Find out more about Wrexham Glyndwr University’s BA (Hons) In Theatre, Television and Performance at www.glyndwr.ac.uk

Page 84 NWM 2019

incredible year for the award-winning institution, with 26 subjects achieving 100% exam success. These included English, Chemistry, Psychology, Modern Foreign Languages, Economics and History. Cambria is also celebrating a 100% pass rate for grades A* to C in Art and Design, and the news that 58 learners secured an A* or A in Mathematics and Further Mathematics. Six students are off to study at Oxford or Cambridge universities, 11 will progress on to degrees in Medicine, Dentistry and Veterinary Science, and 34 learners received straight A*s and A grades. Meanwhile, AS students managed an overall pass rate of 92% and there was another outstanding performance in the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge, a near perfect 99.9%. “Our students and staff are simply amazing, their commitment and dedication to Cambria and setting high standards is what makes this the number one college in Wales,” commented chief executive David Jones (pictured).

diwrnodau agored. israddedig

7 Medi 12 Hydref

open days. undergraduate

7 September 12 October

Archebwch nawr / Book now

01978 293439 wgu.ac.uk/openday

The

Wedding planner

FROM MISS TO MRS… If you’re a regular reader of ‘The Wedding Planner’ you’ll

Now, I’m not saying this will happen to everyone getting

know I focus mainly on the lead up to the wedding, planning

married however, for those who have already started feeling

advice and tips, what to consider when finding suppliers

like this and your big day is coming up, or for those who have

and the latest bridal trends. However, this issue I thought

just got married, if this article makes you feel like you’re not

I’d mention briefly about the feelings once you’ve made the

alone, my job here is done. It will take time to adjust to a new

switch from Miss to Mrs. This also comes with a warning; I

name but, trust me, the adventure is just beginning! n

don’t mean to burst anyone’s bubble, but things are about to get real!

Dates for your diary this September

I was 31 when I got married to my amazing husband (Steve,

1st – Oriel House Wedding Fayre

that’s for you, now you have it in writing). Even though I

Meet Michelle and her team as well as over 20 wedding

surround myself with weddings more than the average

suppliers between 11am-3pm. There will be a bridal

person, because after all that’s my job, I was not prepared for

catwalk show, live music, canapés, demonstrations and on

the emotions which followed the words ‘I do’.

the day discounts and offers

For 31 years I was known as Caroline Naughton and then, just

8th – Tyn Dwr Hall Wedding Open Day

like that – after saying those two words, I was now Caroline

Llangollen’s Tyn Dwr Hall is hosting its wedding open day

Roberts. For some of you this will be an exciting time and

between 2pm-4pm this afternoon. No need to book, they’ll

you will love taking on a new name, changing your Facebook

have the fire roaring and a lovely warm welcome waiting

profile the morning after you get married, for the rest of you

for you.

don’t worry – you’re not alone! Yes, we could have doublebarrelled our names or Steve could have taken mine but, if I’m

15th – Château Rhianfa Open Day

honest, I didn’t think it would have affected me the way that it

Come along to Château Rhianfa in Anglesey at midday

did, I was always going to take his name.

today and meet with their wedding coordinators to discuss ideas for your big day…

I’ll be honest, it took me about two years to come to terms with my new name. I felt like I was losing my identity and it

29th – Quay Hotel Wedding Open Day

was upsetting. But along the way my husband supported me

Explore the beautiful grounds of the Quay Hotel and Spa

and even to this day I still secretly love receiving junk mail

in Deganwy with the events team and get tips on how to

addressed to Caroline Naughton.

start planning your special day. Free to attend, pop by anytime between 12pm-4pm

Along with changing my name I also experienced the natural ‘come down’ following my own big day. We booked our date two years in advance, which means two years of talking and focusing on the day itself and then, after it’s taken place and

Caroline Roberts runs Events by Caroline

you’ve been away on honeymoon, you feel like there’s a part

Louise, an event management company that

of you missing. You want to do it all over again, you dig out the

specialises in wedding planning. She also

photos and start crying because of how perfect the day was

owns Bella, the Prosecco Van and provides

and then you start panicking… “what happens if I forget how

happiness in a glass! For more information

amazing it was?” Yes, this was me!

please visit www.eventsbycarolinelouise.com

NWM 2019 Page 87

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www.llwynlandscapes.co.uk

Getting back

to Nature

Three places to visit in September Little Orme, Llandudno Angel Bay is the place to see Credit: H. Zell

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

Grey Seals hauled up on the rocky beach, but during an autumn gale, only a few will venture ashore. Hunker down on the cliffs at the northern

Conker time

end and watch passing

A uniquely British autumn past-time is to collect the fruit

seabirds, including Skuas,

beneath Horse Chestnut trees, thread a string through

Shearwaters and Auks. You’ll

a hole in the centre and do battle in the playground. The

need a good pair of binoculars,

game existed before the 1850s, when horse chestnuts were first deployed, but previously

ideally a telescope. Early

involved hazelnuts or snail shells (I presume/hope, without the snail inside). That is maybe

morning is best, following an

why we call it conkers, after conch, the French word for shell. The tree is not well-named

overnight northwesterly gale.

either, as it’s not a type of chestnut and the fruit are inedible to humans.

Uwchmynydd, Pen Llŷn

Rosehip heaven

The most westerly headland

Autumn is the season of mellow fruitfulness, according

in North Wales offers amazing

to poet John Keats, and there’s an abundance to collect

views, including across

if you take a walk with a suitable container. Last

Bardsey Sound to the island of

autumn, we added Rose Hips to our usual gathering of

20,000 saints. Choughs wheel

Blackberries, and made a delicious smooth jelly that

slowly over the short turf

tasted amazing on toast. The oval, glossy fruits of Dog Rose are the most obvious, but

on a gentle breeze, and you

around the coast look for the rounded hips of Beach Rose too. The description ‘hip’ is

might see flocks of small birds

unique to wild roses in the English language, indicating that it has been an important

migrating out to sea. The Wales

fruit to people for many centuries.

Coast Path is edged by bramble bushes, so take a container Credit: Gail Hampshire

Credit: Steve Stansfield

to collect some of the juiciest Blackberries I’ve ever found.

Dinas Brân, Llangollen People have been living on this hillside since at least the Iron Age, and perhaps they

Look for the Witch’s Hat

When the northwind doth blow

Storms in late August and September occur just as many of Britain’s larger seabirds are heading out to the ocean after a busy breeding season. Keen birdwatchers will dust off their telescopes and sit on a headland to monitor what flies past. Gannets and Manx Shearwaters will be common during a northwesterly, while Arctic winds can bring diminutive Little Auks close to land in North Wales as birds relocate clockwise after being blown into Liverpool Bay.

Autumn edibles don’t only come from trees, there are plenty of fungi coming up through the soil, but only collect them if you really know what’s safe to eat.

Waxcaps are a sign of an old grassland, unaltered with herbicides or reseeding.

Blackening Waxcap is easy to identify, as the conical ‘Witch’s Hat’ is deep orange when fresh, then starts to blacken from the edges as though singed by a flame.

The darkened fungi can remain standing for several weeks.

cleared the trees that created the grassland that is rich in Waxcap fungi. It’s pot luck what you see, as most waxcaps fruit on the surface for only a few days, but there’s always a Medieval castle to enjoy too.

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

VINTAGE WEEKEND 'HISTORY BROUGHT TO LIFE'

4th

October

6th

October

Victorian Railway Extravaganza Featuring our magnificent collection of beautifully restored original locomotives and carriages, with a supporting cast of costumed characters adding to the convivial atmosphere.

Come and enjoy a truly unique weekend as the Ffestiniog Railway turns back time to the 1890s (Further details will be added to our website as plans are finalised.)

RHEILFFORDD FFESTINIOG • FFESTINIOG RAILWAY www.festrail.co.uk 01766 516024 facebook.com/festrail

Sea life

Riveting Rockpools!

In September when our sea temperatures reach their warmest,

Rockpools are awash with

it’s the perfect time to head down to your local beach for some

colour and vitality, and the closer

riveting rockpool rootling!

you get the more you can get in on the action! Rockpool life is like a mini

We have some of the best British rockpooling territory here in

soap opera, with new events occurring at

North Wales and most beaches have at least some areas with

every high tide, deaths and dramas, and newcomers arriving

bountiful tidal pools.

and leaving again while other long-term inhabitants remain.

The wonderful thing about rockpooling is that it is accessible to

The most common rockpool residents which you are

all ages and abilities as a surprisingly enjoyable (and also rather

guaranteed to find include sea anemones, starfish, crabs,

addictive!) pastime. You can hit the beach in all weather and all

prawns and shrimps, sea snails and various kinds of molluscs

year round, as long as you ensure that you are suitably dressed

(shelled animals of all shapes and forms such as mussels,

for the conditions and take a few precautions.

limpets and cockles) sea urchins, and numerous kinds of small fish. Other finds include armoured chitons, amazing

On most beaches the best time to access rockpools is at

nudibranchs (also known as sea slugs) small cuttlefish, jellyfish

medium to low tide, which still allows several hours of foraging.

and even the occasional octopus!

However, please remember to check the tides times carefully as it can come in very quickly and cut you off, and when you

Remember to look under the seaweed to find the most elusive

get preoccupied it’s very easy to lose track of time. Make sure

critters and feel free to take things out and handle them gently

you have suitable footwear with good grip soles – beach shoes,

(but only when you know it is safe to do so!) However, please

Crocs or wellies are best.

be sure to put everything safely back where you found them before you leave.

Our rockpools have a particular life of their own, completely different from the open sea as they are isolated for many

Be aware, some creatures are best not handled! While nothing

hours and exposed to extreme conditions such as exceptional

found on our shores is life-threatening, some beasties can give

increases and decreases in temperature, salinity and

an unpleasant sting or nip! You may come across the lesser

sunlight. Life in a rockpool is on-the-edge stuff, and certain

weeverfish, the only venomous fish in our waters, which will

animals which are well adapted to the constantly changing

only sting if frightened or disturbed. Also avoid contact with the

environmental conditions thrive there and are commonly found,

snakelocks anemone and any jellyfish you may encounter.

while other creatures experience this for only a short time before swimming back off into the ocean during the next high

Another warning – rockpooling can become seriously addictive

tide. So each time you visit it’s like a marine version of a lucky

– and competitive! Whether it’s the sea air or the bewildering

dip!

variety of different critters which can be found, it’s amazing how time flies when you’re having fun furtling around. As

Here at Anglesey Sea Zoo we have our own natural rockpool on

an adult it brings out the inner child in you, so you may find

the beach at the bottom of our drive. We take groups of all ages

yourself jumping around in excitement and before you know it,

on Seashore Safaris to explore the strandline and delve in our

you’ll be competing with your hard-core rockpooling buddies to

rockpool all year round and it provides hours of amusement!

see who has caught the largest prawn or hermit crab!

It’s a great way to get outdoors to learn about creatures in their

Have fun! n

natural environment and to handle them and observe them up close before safely releasing them again, leaving them to swim off and remain undisturbed afterwards.

We also have an indoor touch pool area here, fed with water directly from the Menai Strait, so our visitors can get their fingers wet and experience some of our shoreline critters hands-on while indoors.

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

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

Milk Sold Here

All Things

Auctioneering Are Milk Related Antiques a New Area To Collect?

The transfers of John Sadler & Guy Green of Liverpool in 1756 changed the course of pottery and ceramic manufacturing forever. Transfers do make the headlines in the football world for a short while, but these transfers affected everyone for all time, including you and me!

Until 1756 all Pottery decoration was applied by hand onto the bisque fired Pottery Item. It was then dipped in glaze and fired again to acquire a hard shiny waterproof surface under which was the hand drawn pattern or decoration. It was labour intensive and a highly skilled and pricey process only afforded by the wealthy and prestigious citizens of the day.

Vintage Churn Makes Good Butter

Sadler and Green printed decorative sheets of thin tissue

Rare Underglaze Blue Pattern

paper from an engraved or etched plate of copper, usually using blue colouring but sometimes pink or brown or black which were then applied to the biscuit fired item then glazed

This cream jug was made about 1820/30 and the shape copies

and fired. It speeded up the decoration process of china and

a form used by silversmiths. The pattern is rare and depicts a

pottery manufacture from a handful to thousands of item a

shepherd shearing a sheep. The early deep cobalt blue colour

day, much to the irritation of the hand china painters who

was one I am familiar with and more than anything else the

became redundant.

weight and glaze were right ... so what is it worth then? I can hear you all asking... Will the sharp-eyed collector make a

It was possible now to produce political, Royalty and souvenir

fortune? The answer is probably not. The cream jug is cracked

wares as well as large dinner services in great numbers with

slightly which reduces the value greatly but it is still a rare

accurate underglaze decoration as it became known as, on each

item and no doubt will have pride of place on a shelf or in a

piece for the ever-growing industrial population. Some transfer

cabinet for visitors to admire forever!

printed patterns are extremely rare; most willow pattern is not!

Much of the famous Spode Factory’s early output is good and

All charity shop managers should come to talk with me for

sought by collectors still and achieves high prices at auctions.

an hour or so. We often auction items for hundreds of pounds bought at charity shops for very modest amounts. We are here

Scenes of rural life in transfer wares can by good and a recently

to help you!! Please follow us on Twitter @CatoCrane and follow

purchased piece was discovered, much to my surprise, in a

my discoveries around the region. Happy Underglaze and Milk-

charity shop near our office in Wales.

Related Hunting! 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 September 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

MAGAZINE

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01745 797 007 • info@stoneworkzltd.co.uk • www.stoneworkzltd.co.uk Page 60 NWM 2018

TRADE ONLY

For the love of all things

vintage...

Confessions of a modern day magpie Tatty’s Secret Garden Treasures One of my favourite books as a child was the story of The Secret Garden. The discovery of a mysterious and magical overgrown walled garden, kept under lock and key. I could actually visualise myself as Mary turning the key. I am still fascinated to this day whenever I see an old door within a stone wall… what could possibly lie beyond? I almost have to restrain myself from the temptation of attempting to scale the garden wall; such is my desire to find out.

This summer has seen a huge rise in the sales of antique garden furniture, cast iron urns, planters and garden statues.

The more timeworn and weathered, the better, we simply cannot buy enough. Think classic English country garden or, even better, National Trust property.

Antique garden furniture was built to last and the craftsmanship involved being of far greater than we expect from modern equivalents. The one name synonymous with antique garden furniture is the leading purveyor and highly desired “Coalbrookdale of Shropshire”. Sadly, so highly desired it has the reputation of being the most frequently stolen of all antiques (presuming you could lift it in the first place – it is so unbelievably heavy!)

Opulent in the 19th Century the Victorians loved their gardens and they also loved to decorate them with urns,

casting, which can then be left to naturally age outdoors or

gazebos, statues, chairs and tables (to name a few). The

be repainted.

problem we find with antique cast iron furniture is that over the generations, every start of the summer it receives an

In our showroom (TDHQ), there are many examples of

extra coating of fresh thick paint, leaving all the fine detail

antique garden furniture and statuary and we are as always

lost beneath. In extreme cases of over painting, where we

keen to hear of any garden or architectural antiques that

feel it beneficial to the originality of the piece, we have taken

maybe for sale, regardless of condition. n

the steps to have such pieces sandblasted by Problast in Llysfaen. Although a drastic prospect for the fainthearted

Always with fairies at the bottom of the garden…

the results can be quite staggering. Taking the furniture back to the original base metal reveals its original crisp

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

With the summer holidays finally over, I need a break. The kids are returning to school and my parenting skills have been stretched to breaking point. Physically, I’m shot too.

I’ve got a crick in my neck developed from weeks of trying to talk to children while driving. I’ve answered about 5,500 questions from my daughter who, despite her ninja-like expertise on the tablet, still hasn’t got around to using Google which, I repeatedly tell her, knows so much more than Daddy and doesn’t mind being asked the same question repeatedly – and doesn’t need coffee to function either.

But it’s not just the neck that hurts. One of my oldest friends

three words that while fine on an individual basis, do not

turned 50 during the holidays and to celebrate she invited us

belong together, a bit like ‘alcohol free beer.’

all – including children – camping.

I have a long and complicated relationship with camping.

Camping equipment has developed since my childhood

When I was a kid, we would go camping every summer for

holidays in the Peak District, and people argue that now you

our main holiday, and there were two criteria – it had to be

can enjoy the trappings of luxury by glamping. But there is

in Britain, and the weather had to be appalling. So we would

nothing luxurious about paying hotel prices not to stay in a

spend a fortnight listening to the sound of rain on canvas, with

hotel.

the occasional surge of excitement when we overheard our parents discussing the possibility of coming home early and

People who I love as friends and respect as individuals seem

cutting the holiday short.

to take leave of their senses, and seem engage in a deluded arms race to prove how sleeping under canvas can be just like

One year we actually came back from Devon a day early, but

home, provided you’ve got a deep enough understanding of

then I had to go off on scout camp for another tour of duty, this

fairy lights, bunting, Tupperware and gin. ‘All the gear and

time on the side of a mountain in freezing conditions.

no idea’ is one thing, but people who have all the gear and a desire to bake brownies in a bell tent are somehow harder to

So when I reached adulthood I felt like I’d done my time

deal with. Give me a room in a soul-less Travelodge any day.

under canvas, and would flinch whenever anyone invited me.

What used to really wind me up was that people interpreted

But, the thing is, the party was great. The kids stayed up and

my refusal as if I was too posh to pitch, and that I’d spent

didn’t get too scared by ‘daddy’s friends’, and we were all able

my teenage years racking up loyalty points at the Mandarin

to have the sort of unbridled fun that can only be achieved if

Oriental. I’m a veteran of 20 years under canvas, I would

everyone is in the same place. In fact, as we were saying our

protest but nobody believed me.

goodbyes, another friend said “I might do something similar for my 50th”. And it took me a full ten seconds before I said:

I managed to resist until I had kids and everyone suddenly

‘please don’t’. n

decided that the best way to have family fun was to pack up all of our worldly possessions and dump then in a waterlogged field. “The kids will love it,” was the mantra from my friends, the ‘it’ presumably being the experience of pretending to be

Dave Rothnie is resident

homeless. Camping with a young family is like taking all of

compere of Stand-up at the

your domestic arguments on a greatest hits tour.

Seaside, an acclaimed comedy night that takes place on the

I shudder at the mention of the words ‘family friendly festival’,

final Saturday of every month 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

September’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st – April 20th) An embarrassing secret will come to light on or around the 14th, due to a troubling Full Moon. A jealous colleague will shed light on a deception, putting you in an awkward position. Instead of getting defensive, admit your mistake. Ask forgiveness. Change your behaviour. People will forgive you when they realise you have genuinely turned over a new leaf.

LIBRA (September 24th – October 23rd) If you keep pushing yourself too hard, you’ll suffer health problems in mid-September. The Full Moon on the 14th invites you to take an extended break. Going on vacation will make you nervous at first. You’ll worry about job security after sleeping late and enjoying room service. Instead of giving in to your greatest fears, envision the outcome you want.

TAURUS (April 21st – May 21st) It will be difficult to reconcile your friends with a romantic partner on the 14th. That’s when a tense Full Moon will create a stir in your social circle. Lately, the people you’ve known for years have been upset by your absence at various parties and gatherings. They think a love affair has been commanding all your attention, and perhaps they are right.

SCORPIO (October 24th – November 22nd) Friends will conspire against you on the 14th, when the Full Moon invites you to enjoy private pleasures. It’s time to set healthier boundaries between you and your loved ones. Coming to other people’s rescue is becoming exhausting. You need to devote more energy to the activities you love.

Shopping at antique markets and communing with nature could be calling your name.

GEMINI (May 22nd – June 21st) Your relatives will be jealous of your career success in mid-September.

The Full Moon on the 14th finds you being celebrated by your work peers.

Although you’re thrilled to be recognised in such a public manner, your family is less excited. They’re resentful of how much time you spend on your job. Unless you shift focus, you’ll drive a permanent wedge between you and your kin.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd – December 21st) On the 14th, the Full Moon will shift your focus to family matters. It will be necessary to take time off work to cope with a real estate deal or domestic dispute. If your employer pressures you to put in long hours, you may decide to find another job. Don’t leave your position until you secure another one.

It’s much easier to find work when you’re already employed.

CANCER (June 22nd – July 23rd) A legal matter will be decided on or around the 14th, due to a tense Full Moon. You’ll be disappointed by the results. Instead of dwelling on this setback, make an exciting plan for the future. Doing something adventurous and exciting will give you something special to look forward to. People who have been trying to create problems for you will be crushed by your upbeat outlook.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd – January 20th) Surprising news will arrive in mid-September. The Full Moon on the 14th will shed light on a deception. Your outlook will change considerably after you learn the truth. Putting some distance between you and a manipulative relative will be necessary. You’re tired of being tricked into making loans, writing references and going to bat for someone who doesn’t deserve it.

LEO (July 24th – August 23rd) Arguments over an insurance refund, legal settlement or inheritance could erupt on the 14th, due to a contentious Full Moon. It will be necessary to hire a lawyer to represent your interests. Don’t respond to taunting messages from the other side. Keep a record of all the messages you receive. By refusing to get drawn into this drama, you will prevail financially.

AQUARIUS (January 21st – February 19th) The Full Moon on the 14th puts stress on your bank account. Fees may be deducted from your paycheque, leaving you with very little to show for your hard work. No matter how much you complain, you will not be able to recover the money. Treat this setback as a learning opportunity. Before signing a contract, show the document to a legal professional.

VIRGO (August 24th – September 23rd) The Full Moon on the 14th will fill you with a sense of urgency. Try as you might, you won’t be able to force people down a path they do not want to travel. Instead of putting more pressure on them, make a strategic retreat.

After coming together and discussing your hopes, dreams and fears, a temporary separation may be in order.

PISCES (February 20th – March 20th) You’re tired of being pushed around by a romantic or business partner. The Full Moon on the 14th demands you confront this bully. You’ve always been accommodating in relationships. There should be a limit to your generosity.

The next time you are commanded to do something unpleasant, put your foot down. If this alliance falls apart at the seams, so be it.

Page 98 NWM 2019

Cae Topyn Denbigh

SHOW HOME & SALES SUITE

NOW OPEN

An exclusive new development comprising 2, 3 & 4 bedroom luxury homes on the outskirts of Denbigh.

* subject to conditions.

All images used are for illustrative purposes.

Please check with our Sales Adviser in respect of individual properties.

Contact us for details today on

Sales suite open every day 10.30am - 4.30pm Late night opening on Thursdays 10.30am - 8.00pm

.....quality in the making! www.pureresidentialandcommercial.co.uk

or

0845 6036746 07551 151482

NWM 2019 Page 99 sales@purecommercial.co.uk

MAGAZINE

Page 100 NWM 2019