August gazette 2013 by jenna hopkins

Gazette & Diary Magazine

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Welcome...

Summertime - and the living is easy!

elcome to our August edition of the Gazette and Diary.

And it’s a very warm welcome indeed courtesy of the amazing July we have all just enjoyed. Week after week of golden sunshine and record temperatures has made us all giddy with the elusive joys only a generous slice of baking hot summer can bring. Monmouthshire was rendered unrecognizable as barbecues, bikinis, and paddling pools replaced the more traditional downpours and raincoats of recent years and the entire borough was transformed into something that, with a little imagination, was not a million miles away from a beautiful beach in the Bahamas. We trust all our readers are enjoying the sunshine and let’s hope it lasts at least until the end of August. Yet whatever the weather may be, it’s still summertime and the livin’ is easy, so why not sit back put your feet up and take some time to chill out in the company of this month’s Gazette and Diary. And what a jam packed edition we have lined up for you lucky folks. Amongst other things there’s a special not to be missed feature with some invaluable tips and advice for all brides-to-be and grooms- in-waiting, to ensure your

special wedding day is just that little bit more special. Also for all those parents and children looking forward to the start of a new school year come September we have our annual back to school education section that is always an A+ read! And that’s just the tip of the iceberg. So what are you waiting for? Get stuck in! Remember, If you have any stories or suggestions for forthcoming editions, please contact us by using the details in the contacts panel. ● Finally we would like to offer a HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of their beautiful baby boy. Hip! Hip! Hooray!

Jenna

in association with The Abergavenny Chronicle ADVERTISING: Jenna Hopkins ext 35 For information on how to advertise in the next issue, contact: advertising@tindlenews.co.uk or telephone 01873 852187 ext 35 GENERAL MANAGER: Mary Purcell DESIGNERS: Jackie Evans jackie@pemedia.co.uk

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When you have finished reading the Gazette & Diary Magazine please recycle it.

PUBLISHING: Published by the Abergavenny Chronicle, Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Gwent NP7 5AA Printed by Trinity Mirror plc

Inside...

Nick Ramsay AM

Assembly Member for Monmouth Hospitals - Schools - Transport Environment - Housing Write to: Nick Ramsay AM, Constituency Office, 16 Maryport Street, Usk, Monmouthshire, NP15 1AB E-mail: nicholas.ramsay@wales.gov.uk

For further information call: 01291 674 898 or 029 2089 8735

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Stepehn Fry voice over with WNO Youth Opera production

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Five minutes with Jamie Rednapp

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▲ Page 16

What’s in your kid’s lunchbox?

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01432 353 606 The Summer Issue • August / September 3

Gazette & Diary Magazine JAMIE REDKNAPP retired from football aged 31 and immediately embarked on a media career. His is now one of Sky Sports’ most-respected pundits. Here he discusses his work as a Beko/FA Cup ambassador, his future TV projects and his recent 40th birthday

at 31 and that’s not really a long enough career. But I can’t have too many complaints because since I’ve retired I’ve done A League of Their Own and the stuff for Sky. It’s filled a void in my life really. A lot of players retire and find it difficult to adjust, whereas it’s been pretty seamless for me. I’ve been really lucky. ■ DID YOU ALWAYS THINK YOU’D HAVE A MEDIA CAREER AFTER RETIRING? I didn’t have a clue to be honest. Some people I’ve spoken to have said they always knew they’d be a manager because they were students of the game. But I think it’s more difficult to be a manager now because of the money involved. Players care less about their clubs and more about the money and the moves. And that’s not an ex-player sounding bitter because I don’t begrudge the best players earning the money, they thoroughly deserve it, it’s just the players who do it for the money rather than for a love of it. I find that frustrating.

■ TELL US ABOUT THE BEKO/FA CUP CAMPAIGN I think with my family (Jamie is married to TV presenter Louise Redknapp and the couple have two sons), Beko thought I could help get kids involved with football. We all accept that we’re struggling at all levels to get the best athletes out there, so what they’re doing is trying to attract young people to play more and more sports, predominantly football, hence their involvement with the FA Cup. It’s something I’ve enjoyed doing actually. ■ WHAT HAS THE PROJECT INVOLVED FOR YOU? I’m going to St George’s Park to do some coaching with kids, and I went to a school in Bristol. They won a six-a-side tournament so I went down there to do some coaching and they were lovely kids . It’s something I’m very passionate about doing. I love taking my little boys’ football teams, so it’s an extension of doing that really.

■ YOU’VE ALSO SEEN THE OTHER SIDE OF IT, THE PRESSURE YOUR DAD HAS BEEN UNDER AT TIMES Yeah, that’s right. My dad said to me the other day: “You’ve got no grey hairs, what you got to worry about? You play golf, you’ve got a good life!”. ■ ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO THE NEW FOOTBALL SEASON? I am, yeah. Don’t get me wrong, I think it’s important to have the break, and from a pundit’s point of view it’s good to have a rest, but you never take your eyes off it, you’re always looking at who’s bought who, so you make sure when you start the season, you know what you’re on about. And I love all that anyway, I’m always glued to Sky Sports News.

■ YOU TOOK THE FA CUP WITH YOU TO BRISTOL Yeah, that was great. They were more interested in seeing the FA Cup than me! They were lovely kids and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I remember growing up all I ever wanted to do was play football. I remember that if we ever had anybody that was even slightly famous come down to the school, it meant so much to everyone. It’s something that’s very close to my heart, kids and sport, so I’ve enjoyed it.

■ YOU’VE GOT A NEW SERIES FOR SKY SPORTS COMING UP HAVEN’T YOU? Yeah, I’m looking forward to that. It’s on a Saturday evening, with a live audience - Sky have never done that before. We go on at 5.30pm, there’s a presenter and myself, sometimes there’ll be a guest, sometimes there won’t, and we talk through the game. I like the interaction with the fans. At the end of the day, we’re all here because of football fans.

■ PUNDITS ALWAYS DESCRIBE THE FA CUP AS MAGIC. DO YOU STILL THINK IT’S SPECIAL? I do, yeah. I think Wigan winning this year has helped, because everybody expected Manchester City to win it easily and comfortably. It doesn’t seem to be as big a thing as it was a few years ago, and that’s probably down to the importance of the Premier League and the Champions League. I would love to see the FA Cup get one of the four Champions League places, because then people would take it a lot more seriously.

■ IS A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN COMING BACK SOON? We’ve finished filming the series that comes on in August, I think. I’ve enjoyed A League of Their Own, I didn’t think I would when I started it, I thought I’d be completely out of my comfort zone.

■ IT IS A CHAMPIONS LEAGUE, SO IT SHOULD CONTAIN TEAMS THAT HAVE ACTUALLY WON SOMETHING Absolutely, and it would make teams put out their best sides for the FA Cup. But at the moment, we’re putting more importance on coming fourth in the league than we are on winning a trophy. ■ DOES THE CUP HAVE SPECIAL MEMORIES FOR YOU PERSONALLY? My dad (QPR manager, Harry Redknapp) won it. The year that Liverpool won it I was team captain, but I didn’t play, I was injured. I was actually looking at a photo of that earlier today; I lifted it as a non-playing captain. It was still a great occasion and I was proud to be involved. ■ DO YOU MISS PLAYING? It’s a good question. I do and I don’t. I loved it when I was playing, but the last couple of years, there was a lot of misery in terms of injuries and stuff like that, so I don’t miss that side of it. Of course I look back and wish I’d played longer; I retired

4 The Summer Issue • August / September

■ IT ALWAYS LOOKS AS IF MAKING IT IS A LAUGH It is a good laugh. The people you work with, they’re some of the funniest people in the world. The only problem is that sometimes, they make you feel completely unfunny!

MINUTES WITH JAMIE REDKNAPP

■ ARE YOU STILL COMPETITIVE? Yeah, very. Inevitably I think. Even with the kids at sports day, I’m desperate for them to win. I think it’s just how you are as a sportsman. When I play golf I want to win and I get the hump if I don’t. ■ YOU RECENTLY TURNED 40... Yeah - don’t remind me! It’s weird. I never remembered 30 really, but being 40, people start mentioning it and I was thinking, leave it out! But yeah, it was good, I went to New York with Louise and some friends. To be honest, I don’t feel any different. It hasn’t affected my golf, I’m still alright at that, so I’m not worried. Jamie and Official Home Appliance Partner of The FA Cup, Beko, are working together to bring football to families.

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The Summer Issue • August / September 5

Gazette & Diary Magazine

TOP TEN places to visit countdown 10. Lightwater Valley The Ultimate is Lightwater Valley’s leading attraction. Image © Lightwater Valley THIS last spot on the list was hard to pick; there are a number of theme parks in the UK which host some very good rides and attractions, such as Fantasy Island in Skegness, but I felt the Yorkshire’s Lightwater Valley deserved it most. The park has struggled just to remain open in the past decade but it must be credited for its resilience and determination to continue to add new rides. The most famous, of course, is The Ultimate, a bizarre steel hybrid coaster that stretches across the park on a 7 minute, 7,442-feet-long trip (it is the second longest coaster on the planet) through forests and over hills. More recently the park has focused on some stunning theming; the ageing Rat Ride was re-themed to Raptor Attack in 2010, and has been met with rave reviews, and a new pirate area was installed in 2011.

9. Paultons Park Cobra was the first step in a series of investments at Paultons Park. Image © Michael Miller PAULTONS Park is punching well above its historic weight in this list, but there is no doubt it deserves a place based on recent performance. Until 2006 the park was unheard of apart from those living nearby, but Paultons took the brave decision to invest in a major ride as it constructed Cobra, the UK’s first Gerstlauer Bobsled roller coaster. Rides of this type have been received very well over the world - they are not thrill rides by any means, but pack some pretty impressive speeds and forces into their small layouts. Cobra is no different and set a marker for the park. The next step came when Peppa Pig World was installed in 2011, featuring seven small rides and a number of other attractions based on the children’s television show. Attendance has sky-rocketed during the past year and has let Paultons Park establish itself on a national basis.

8. Oakwood Theme Park Oakwood’s natural beauty is only just eclipsed by the quality of its rides. Image © MGBS4 MANY people won’t have heard of Oakwood simply because of its location: it’s hidden away in the south west corner of Wales. This, unfortunately means that it garners only a fraction of the customers it should, and as a result the park has struggled at times. All the more the reason to visit! The incredible wooden roller coaster Megafobia is the fundamental key to the park’s success, being by far the most “airtime”-laden ride in the UK. Nearby, the huge Gerstlauer Eurofighter roller coaster Speed is one the biggest rides of its type in the world. Similarly, Drenched (formerly Hydro) stands out amongst all water rides considering its colossal 120 feet, near-vertical drop. Unlike many other parks in this list, Oakwood is a very pleasant place to be - the Welsh countryside is beautiful and the lack of marauding youths is always a plus.

6 The Summer Issue • August / September

7. Drayton Manor Apocalypse is one of the best drop towers in the world. Image © Matthew Wells DRAYTON Manor has the misfortune of being in the shadow of the nearby Alton Towers, athough this possibly helps rather than hinders its visitor numbers. In terms of roller coasters it should have a big advantage over Alton Towers in that there is no height limit imposed on it. However Shockwave, the stand up coaster, is rough and short, and G-Force, the high tech X-Car, is possibly the worst ride to be on. But the bad points end there! Drayton Manor uses the height advantage fantastically with Apocalypse, the 180-feet-tall drop tower, which is no doubt one of the finest in the world. Maelstrom, a Frisbee style ride is also full of thrills, as is Storm Force 10, an incredibly well themed water ride with three powerful drops. However, the recent rise in popularity has not been down to the addition thrill rides, but as with Paultons Park, due to the addition of major children’s attractions. Thomas Land (Thomas the Tank Engine, that is) was received very well in 2008 and last year Ben 10: Ultimate Mission was added too. It’s one area in which it can realistically surpass Alton Towers, and so far it’s doing it very well indeed.

Forest of Dean Autumn Half-Marathon And Autumn 5K fun

Speech House, Royal Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, GL16 7EL Date: Sunday 29th September Start: 10am Entry: £18 or £20 U/A Fun run £6 or £8 on the day Beautiful woodland course. Totally off road. Chip timed & officially measured. Mile marked & fully marshalled. Medals for all finishers. Free parking. Toilets, refreshments and baggage store. www.forestofdean-halfmarathon.co.uk

6. Chessington World of Adventures The Vampire roller coaster interacts with impressive theming. Image © Kevin Geraghty-Shewen CHESSINGTON World of Adventures was once one of the biggest and most up-todate theme parks in the country, but has since been eclipsed by the expansions of its sister parks, Thorpe Park and Alton Towers. However it remains a top quality theme park and recent additions show that it is really pushing to become a well-rounded attraction. The park aims to please families and younger children, and therefore doesn’t have a great number of big thrill rides, but this is perfectly justified. Dragon’s Fury, a fantastic Maurer spinner and Vampire, a classic Arrow suspended coaster still provide surprising thrills for their small statures. Chessington puts a big accent on nature; there is a fantastic zoo, the recently opened Wild Asia area of the park also holds a bird sanctuary, and plans have been revealed for a Rhino Rally style safari ride for 2013.

The Summer Issue • August / September 7

Gazette & Diary Magazine

5. Flamingo Land The beautiful namesake animals make up a part of the stunning Flamingoland Zoz. Image © Nick Fletcher LIKE certain other parks on this list, Flamingo Land is a late bloomer. In the nineties it was more of a large funfair, akin to Margate’s Dreamland or Blackpool Pleasure Beach, but of course without the coastal element. The rides were decent, but many of them only temporary. In 2002 a massive expansion began with the construction of Cliffhanger, the S&S combo drop tower. Since then five roller coasters have been added, including a pair of Vekomas ; Velocity, a booster bike, and Kumali, a suspended looping coaster, and Mumbo Jumbo, an S&S El Loco which briefly held the world record of steepest drop at an impressive 112 degrees. If recent rumours of a wooden roller coaster prove to be true we could certainly see an even greater rise for this Yorkshire park.

4. Thorpe Park

The monstrous Swarm makes its debut this March at Thorpe Park.Image © Neil Zone THORPE Park is on the rise. The level of commitment to investment from owner Merlin, has been unbelievable and unprecedented in the UK. It is now firmly established as one of the top 5 UK theme parks and has the potential to be even further up the list. With LEGOLAND Windsor and Chessington nearby, Merlin have focused the park solely on the teen and young adult market. This means the large-scale additions always hit the news and create a lot of interest. The latest installation, The Swarm, is set to open next month, and will become the UK’s first Bolliger & Mabillard Wing Rider coaster. The Surrey theme park has regularly been condemned for its lack of attention to detail when it comes to theming, but if the plans and construction are anything to go by then The Swarm will certainly right this.

THE CHEPSTOW SHOW HELD ON

SATURDAY 10th AUGUST 2013 at Chepstow

Racecourse NP16 6BE

Main Ring Driving Display Team, Curre & Llangibby Hounds, Showing Classes, Rockwood Dog Display, Grand Parade of Livestock, Vintage Display and much more! Entry prices Adults £8, U16 £4, OAP £6, family £20 & U5 free For further information please call Sarah Davies, General Show Secretary on

01291 672602

Email: chepstowshow@hotmail.co.uk www.chepstowshow.co.uk 8 The Summer Issue • August / September

3. LEGOLAND Windsor A wonderful scene of London in LEGOLAND Windsor’s Miniland. Image © Ashworth_Rich LEGOLAND is an often-overlooked park, mainly because it doesn’t attempt to cater to the adrenaline-junkies amongst us. Despite its very specific target market, the pre-teens, it still boasts visitor numbers heading towards 2 million. The LEGO brand continues to be a major draw, and rightly so. One of the most incredible parts of the park is the famous Miniland, a recreation of the most famous sights around the world made from nearly 40 million bricks. LEGOLAND Windsor also doesn’t shy away from investment; you may not often hear of the additions it installs, but almost every year there will be a new attraction of some sort. The sheer number of shows, rides and attractions, as well as the recently built hotel, make LEGOLAND Windsor stand out.

2. Alton Towers There’s no doubt that the coasters are the biggest draw at Alton Towers. Image © Phonnita Nakasint ALTON Towers is a one-of-a-kind sort of place, and many would claim it deserves an even loftier finish on this list. The stats don’t lie, however, but still the Staffordshire resort pulls in a hefty 2.5 million visitors a year. The main reason for its continuing popularity is simply the fact that it caters to everyone. It boasts the best collection of thrill coasters in the UK, as well as a variety of fun family rides and a plethora of smaller shows and attractions for the little ones. The primary reasons that Alton Towers doesn’t quite top this list are its out-of-the-way location and relatively high entry price. The range of attractions justifies this, but you can see why many people would go elsewhere when you have to dish out up to £42 per person just to get in through the gates (unless you’re using Theme Park Tourist’s Special Offer Watch, of course).

Wye Valley trout fishery under new management THIS trout fishery is set in the heart of the Wye Valley at the edge of the small village of Redbrook. Bigwell has been under new management since 1st May 2013. Gary Gray is the new proprietor and is a former client. The fishery has been significantly improved since Gary took the reins and returning anglers have been very complimentary. The venue itself comprises 3 main pools and a nursery pool. Main pool no. 1 is a crystal clear pool where stalking your prey is the order of the day. Pools 2 & 3 are slightly coloured though vision through the water is still very good - wear those polaroids! The fishery is stocked weekly with 2½-3Lb high quality trout maintaining a very healthy head of fish. Also stocked is a quantity of large trout 6-12Lbs, as sporting fish to be released, for our clients added pleasure. Competions are regularly held for great prizes, visit our facebook page for details! New or old clients; we look forward to welcoming you to a great days fishing! Facilities: ● Disabled anglers are welcome ● Toilets with Disabled facilites ● All day full English breakfast; Lunch time special; Sandwiches; Cold drinks. Complimentary beverages for clients; Bigwell Flyfishery, Tinmans Green, Redbrook, Monmouth, NP25 4NB 01600 772904 email: info@bigwellflyfishery.co.uk facebook.com/bigwellflyfishery web: bigwellflyfishery.co.uk

1. Blackpool Pleasure Beach Classic coasters such as Grand National add to the Pleasure Beach’s nostalgia. Image © Matthew Well SURPRISED? This historic amusement park has really dropped off the radar in recent years (or decades and been overshadowed by its Merlin-owned rivals. However, clearly it remains hugely popular with the British public due to its long history and being part of the entertainment and holiday district that is the Blackpool coast (charging only £5 for entry doesn’t hurt, either). It certainly needs a lick of paint here and there, and aside from the relocated Infusion, a Vekoma suspended looping coaster, there have been few additions of note in the past 12 years. However, Blackpool Pleasure Beach still has one of the largest collections of coasters in the world, including a record five wooden coasters, and many cannot resist that nostalgic funfair, seaside atmosphere. The centrepiece attraction is The Big One, a colossal 213-feet-tall Arrow hypercoaster, which remains the UK’s tallest ride 18 years after its debut. Many criticise the Pleasure Beach, and even more hope for a serious revival, but there’s no doubt it’ll be at near the top of the pile for years to come.

This trout fishery is set in the heart of the Wye Valley at the edge of the small village of Redbrook. Bigwell has been under new management since 1st May 2013. Gary Gray is the new proprietor and is a former client. The fishery has been significantly improved since Gary took the reins and returning anglers have been very complimentary. The venue itself comprises 3 main pools and a nursery pool. Main pool no. 1 is a crystal clear pool where stalking your prey is the order of the day. Pools 2 & 3 are slightly coloured though vision through the water is still very good - wear those polaroids! The fishery is stocked weekly with 2½-3Lb high quality trout maintaining a very healthy head of fish. Also stocked is a quantity of large trout 6-12Lbs, as sporting fish to be released, for our clients added pleasure.

Competions are regularly held for great prizes, visit our facebook page for details! New or old clients; we look forward to welcoming you to a great days fishing! Facilities: Disabled anglers are welcome, Toilets with Disabled facilites All day full English breakfast; Lunch time special; Sandwiches; Cold drinks. Complimentary beverages for clients.

Bigwell Flyfishery, Tinmans Green, Redbrook, Monmouth, NP25 4NB 01600 772904 email: info@bigwellflyfishery.co.uk facebook.com/bigwellflyfishery web: bigwellflyfishery.co.uk

The Summer Issue • August / September 9

Gazette & Diary Magazine

Summer gardens to visit RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey

THE jewel in the crown of RHS gardens, Wisley is worth a trip in the summer just to take in the two spectacular rose gardens, the Golden Jubilee Rose Garden and the Bowes-Lyon Rose Garden - the latter of which features colour-themed plantings of more than 4,000 roses and 5,000 herbaceous plants. The glasshouse showcases a world class plant collection and has three climatic zones recreating tropical, moist temperate and dry temperate habitats. Meanwhile, the children can explore the scarecrow trail (runs July 19 to August 18), finding more than 100 decorated scarecrows throughout the gardens, created by local WI groups.

topiary or punctuated with swathes of wavy grass. Set in a glorious landscape of Capability Brown parkland, complete with serpentine lake, Palladian bridges and mature oak trees, the award-winning Dutch designer Piet Oudolf, one of the leading figures in a movement known as 'new wave planting' and previous Chelsea gold medal winner, was brought in to help realise the dream. The high point for many visitors is a stunning perennial meadow in the centre of the walled garden, which becomes a riot of colour in summer with such rich gems as salvia, rudbeckia, phlomis, sedum, knautia and monarda, mixed with flowing ornamental grasses.

Scampston Walled Garden, Malton, North Yorkshire

IF you love contemporary design, innovative planting and a mixture of old intermingling with new, don't miss a visit to Scampston Walled Garden in Malton. The four-and-a-half acre 18th century garden, once a neglected kitchen garden occupied by Christmas trees and sheep, has been transformed into nine individual rooms separated by formal beech hedging, each room completely different from the other. Venturing from room to room, you'll find a sea of colour one minute, then the next, you'll find minimal green areas highlighted with INDIVIDUAL ROOMS: Scampston Walled Garden at Malton

JUBILEE Garden at Wisley

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Getting fruity on the allotment It's not only the humble potato or common carrot which can thrive on allotments - you can also grow a cornucopia of delicious soft fruits like summer berries and blackcurrants.

HAT'S more, fruit bushes and trees are long-lived. Gooseberries and blackcurrants can do well for 20 years, trees can produce for decades and raspberry canes can last more than 10 years. "Plot-holders are better off looking at soft fruit because it takes up less space than fruit trees and is easier to manage and pick," says Mike Thurlow, horticultural adviser to the National Allotment Society, "The root run of soft fruit isn't so expansive so it doesn't interfere with other crops or with neighbours' plots." Summer fruits are generally easier to care for than larger fruit trees. Many currants can be grown as bushes, while raspberries and blackberries need to be trained against a framework structure, usually a post and wire system. "Soft fruit can't be shoved away in a cold corner," Thurlow explains. "Full sun is needed to ripen the wood rather than the fruit because it is ripe wood which gives you the bountiful harvest the following year." If you are growing bushes or training trees, plan them as part of the structure of your allotment, as they are likely to be permanent fixtures. Most fruit trees are pollinated by insects so you'll need to avoid windy sites, and add plenty of organic matter to the soil, which needs to be welldrained. Strawberries, one of the nation's favourite summer fruits, should be placed in the sunniest border and should be moved around on a three-year cycle. Few allotments allow trees to be grown because they shade other plots and sometimes can't be moved when a new tenant arrives. So if you want to grow fruit trees, you may have to buy dwarf rootstocks to train, creating espaliers, cordons or fans in sunny. "Redcurrants, white currants and gooseberries can be fan-trained and turned into espaliers and cordons. It's a bit of fun. You could train them up the side of a shed or

make make a support from stakes and training wires," Thurlow explains. "Fruit which is trained takes up less room and is easier to manage because the fruit has air and light around it so there are likely to be fewer disease problems." Be warned that blackcurrants are big plants which will need plenty of room, each taking up around 1.5 square metres of ground so don't plant them too close together. "You'll often have fewer berries from two struggling plants than from one good one," Thurlow points out. Unless you live in a really mild area and your plot is sheltered, avoid trying to grow tender fruits such as figs, apricots and peaches on your allotment, as they will need so much protection. All soft fruits should be planted in a sheltered spot away from frost pockets. Choose late varieties to help avoid frost damage and make sure you net the fruits from the birds. A fruit cage is essential and should be allowed on allotments as it is classed as a temporary structure. Avoid planting soft fruit where it has been grown before as it can lead to replant disease, resulting in stunted growth. Buy stock which has been certified free of pests and disease to avoid the fatal viral disease. As for placing your plants, Thurlow advises

to keep all your fruit bushes together as a group in a south or west-facing spot where they will receive the maximum sun. "Put your raspberries at the back because they grow tall, then plant blackcurrants, white currants and gooseberries in front and strawberries right at the front," he advises. For success with strawberries, grow them in well-drained, moisture-retentive, humus-rich soil, adding lots of well-rotted compost or manure and a sprinkling of phosphate, and make sure they're in a sunny spot. Strawberries should be planted in late summer as they need a pe-

riod of cold to flower and fruit the following year. Plant the crown at soil level and keep the area well-weeded, or grow them through weed-suppressing horticultural plastic. Strawberries should not be watered from overhead, as moisture on the fruits can rot. Growing fruit on your allotment may take a little patience as many types will not bear fruit the same year they are planted (summer raspberries, blackberries and gooseberries will fruit in the second year and redcurrants in the third), but once established, they will not let you down.

Llanvihangel Court A TRULY MAGICAL PLACE. GARDENS OPEN: August 12th to 21st, from 2 until 5.30pm with guided tours at 3, 4 and 5 o’clock each afternoon. Tours for bigger groups can be booked privately throughout the year.

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The Summer Issue • August / September 11

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12 The Summer Issue • August / September

Living the American dream WNO Youth Opera presents Paul Bunyan at the Millennium Centre, Cardiff

WNO Youth Opera are celebrating Benjamin Britten’s centenary year with a new production of Paul Bunyan on 23 and 24 August at Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff. The production features more than a 100 singers, orchestral players, technical students, costume makers, dressers and wigs and make-up students all aged between 16 and 25. Only Boys Aloud are the Lumberjack Chorus and Stephen Fry is the voice of the larger than life character Paul Bunyan. This new production which is based on American folklore, features baseball playing trees, giants, dog and cat mascots and an array of unusual instruments including tea chests and a musical saw to portray Britten’s take on the American dream. Stephen Fry who has pre-recorded his role portrays Paul Bunyan via voiceover and visual projection. WNO Youth Opera provides an invaluable opportunity to those on the cusp of entering the theatre industry and to those who are still in school looking for experience to help them pursue vocal, instrumental or backstage careers. During the process they receive mentoring and support

from WNO staff as well as this year’s director Martin Constantine and conductor Alice Farnham. Elgan Llyr Thomas, from Llandudno, who takes the lead role of Inkslinger in Paul Bunyan was also involved in WNO Youth Opera’s production of The Calling of Maisy Day in 2008. Now studying a postgraduate vocal course at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and one of the first recipients of a Study Award from Bryn Terfel Foundation, Elgan recalls how his experiences with WNO Youth Opera have helped him to develop his ambition to become a singer. “The last time I was involved with WNO Youth Opera I was 17-years-old and absolutely terrified about the prospect of performing in an opera! I believe that my time with WNO Youth Opera those five years ago are what convinced me that opera was something I was interested in, and, with a little time and training, could make a career of. “I’m pleased that there are still so many young singers, still in school, who are experiencing it, whether they are looking to gain confidence, to explore their potential or to have a lot of fun. There is no better company to do these things with than WNO Youth Opera.” Also benefiting from WNO

STEPHEN FRY provides the voice of Paul Bunyan.

Youth Opera are those who aren’t visible on stage such as the orchestra, technical students, costume makers and wigs and make-up students. Taylor Bradley having previously been involved as a singer in The Rake’s Progress (2007) and The Tailor’s Daughter (2005) returns this year as a technical student. “This year I decided that I would apply for a technical placement as previously I have only been involved in the performing and singing side of WNO Youth Opera. I’m glad that I bit the bullet and tried something different because now I can appreciate the importance of all roles that combine to create a successful performance. This experience, like previous ones, will be hugely beneficial to me in my future career.” It has been WNO’s commitment to nurture, develop and support young talent via WNO Youth Opera for more than 10 years. Previous WNO Youth Opera members who have succeeded professionally are David Thaxton (awarded Olivier Award 2011 for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance in Passion) and Katy Treharne (The Phantom of the Opera) whilst numerous technical students and musicians have gone on to gain work with WNO and elsewhere in the industry.

The Summer Issue • August / September 13

How to take the As ChildLine launches a campaign to help children suffering from exam stress, Hannah Stephenson looks at how parents can help their children cope with the pressure.

T happens ever year - as exam pressure builds up, help agencies and counsellors receive more children and parents through their doors trying to find ways to alleviate their anxieties. Children's fears that they won't achieve what they see as vital grades can leave them feeling anxious, unable to sleep, eat or function normally. Such is the concern, that on May 6, ChildLine is launching an awareness campaign to let children and young people know that they can talk to the organisation if they are suffering from exam stress. According to the charity, 2011/12 saw a 47% increase in concerns about school and education and some 25 per cent of counselling relating to school and education was about exam pressures. Where exams were the issue, 66 per cent of counselling was conducted through online chat or email. Just under a third of these contacts took place in exam season between May and June 2011. Other bodies are also trying to help alleviate the situation. Counsellors at the University of Edinburgh are drafting in therapy pets to help stressed students cope with their exams. It is the first time the charity Canine Concern Scotland Trust has worked with a university. Typical symptoms children may present if suffering from exam stress include sleep problems, bed-wetting, reluctance to go to school and not eating. Some become withdrawn and spend more time on their own in their bedroom.

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Clinical psychologist Dr Rachel Andrew, who specialises in child and family psychology at a Lancashire practice, says that every May she sees an increased number of cases of children suffering from symptoms of exam stress and that the number of primary school children suffering from anxiety is also on the rise. "SATS tests are putting primary school children under pressure to perform because of league tables. We are seeing younger children, aged seven to 11, being more stressed out by exams. Children of those ages are much more aware of themselves in relation to their peer group and are aware of parental expectations and most of our referrals about anxiety come from seven- to 11year-olds, who are at a developmental stage and are very vulnerable and don't have control about their anxiety." She adds that such anxiety isn't always to do with pushy parents. "We see more mothers than fathers and often the mothers will be anxious that if their child doesn't achieve, it will affect their future lifestyles. These are mothers whose children are not necessarily high fliers and who have realistic expectations, but feel powerless to help. Andrew advises: "Don't underestimate the importance of reassuring your child that if they try hard and do their best, that's good enough for you whatever the outcome. Empathise that exam season is a hard time and don't be dismissive about how difficult it is. "Ask if they've any areas you can help them with and make sure they do things away from studying, such as trips out." There are also a number of relaxation CDs and downloads for children which can help with anxiety available from websites including www.relaxkids.com, which feature breathing exercises, relaxation and visualisation techniques, where younger children might visualise themselves as superheroes. She suggests that when dealing with older children, parents should talk to them about the physical symptoms of anxiety, based around adrenaline, visualising that adrenaline rush as excitement and a positive thing rather than anxiety. "It's your body's way of preparing yourself to do the very best you can do," she says. Encourage older children to let off steam by doing exercise, say going for a bike ride or a swim, in between studying, she advises, and keep the routine of mealtimes and bedtimes as steady as possible. Don't be afraid to talk to the school, either, she says.

stress out of exams "It might help if a teacher has a talk with your child about their expectations." There are also websites offering help for parents of anxious children including the emotional wellbeing charity Young Minds (www.youngminds.org.uk), which has a parent helpline on 0808 802 5544, and the NSPCC (www.nspcc.org.uk), which offers the following tips for parents: ● Don't place unnecessary pressure on your children to gain certain grades. They may feel they have failed if they don't achieve what they thought was expected of them. ● Encourage children to take regular breaks, eat snacks and exercise. ● Help them revise by leaving them the space and time to do so. Be relaxed about chores or untidiness and understand they might be moody. ● Allow your children to revise at night if that's what works best for them. How-

ever, make sure that they get enough sleep to keep their energy levels up in the day. ● Be supportive and help alleviate their worries by talking to them. ● Let them know that ChildLine has produced a series of revision tips to help beat exam stress. ● Be positive, help them put the whole thing into perspective. They can always take an exam again. ● Tell them exams don't have to be stressful and send them a link to ChildLine's new video clip on unusual way to beat exam stress to cheer them up. Tips for young people on how to beat exam stress can be found on the ChildLine website www.childline.org.uk/ explore/schoolcollege/pages/examstress.aspx together with details on how to contact ChildLine if they need to talk to/email one of its trained counsellors in confidence.

Join the garden gang ME SEEDS STARTER KIT SEED Pantry has launched a new children's seed starter kit to get the little ones interested in the garden during the school holidays. The pack contains seeds to grow cress, sunflowers, pumpkins and sweetcorn, as well as all the compost discs, pots and labels you need to get started. Priced £12.50, from www.seedpantry.co.uk Me Seeds Starter Kit, £12.50

MY FIRST FISKARS TOOLBOX FOR the younger child, My First Fiskars box set contains four colourful tools for young minds to play all year round. Designed with and for children, it aims to encourage imaginative play from digging in soil or sand and is a good way to introduce the youngest members of the family to the fun of being outdoors. Available nationwide in garden centres, DIY stores and online, RRP £34.99 (www.fiskars.co.uk) MY FIRST VEGETABLE GARDEN PATIO PLANTER Haxnicks has just launched a My First Vegetable Garden, a brightly coloured 75cm square patio planter to encourage children to grow herbs and vegetables in their own raised bed, which can double up as a sandpit if they become bored. Widely available from garden centres and online, priced

from £9.99.

NEW FOR SEPTEMBER 2014 A new Junior Section offering places for Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 ■

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Registrations now being taken Daily buses from in and around Brecon Limited places available!

For more information please contact: Mrs Margaret Stephens, Admissions Registrar on 01874 615440 or email admissions@christcollegebrecon.com The Summer Issue • August / September 15

Not sure what to give the kids for lunch? Take a look at this guide to give you some great lunch box ideas! SIMPLY pick one item from each of the five categories below, to make up a well balanced packed lunch. You can vary the portion sizes depending on the age and appetite of your child. ■ TUMMY FILLERS Growing kids need plenty of starchy foods to fill them up and give them energy. Nutritious meals packed with fibre, protein, carbohydrate and vitamins will also help your child's growing bones and give them a healthy dose of brain power for the afternoon ahead. These along with fruit and/or vegetables should form the main part of your child's lunch. Try some of these ideas: ■ SANDWICHES AND WRAPS Sliced or homemade bread - vary between wholemeal, granary, multi-grain and white. Bread roll, pitta bread, naan, chapatti, bagel, tortilla/wrap, oatcakes, crepe/pancake, potato cake, malt loaf, hot cross bun, scone. Meat - wafer thin cooked meats, cubed chicken/turkey breast with tomato and lettuce, ham and cheese, roast chicken & hummus, leftover cold meats (chicken, turkey, meatloaf, sausages etc) with salad, chicken and mashed avocado, cold BLT.

Fish - tuna mayo & sweetcorn, tuna salad, sardine and tomato, fish paste and cucumber. Veggie - grated cheese, cheese spread, cream cheese, Quorn slices and salad, cottage cheese with pineapple, cheese and grated carrot with a little mayo, veggie sausages, vegetarian pate with cucumber, cheese and coleslaw, egg salad/egg mayo, cheese and pickle, Marmite. Sweet - High-fruit jam/fruit spread, nutfree chocolate spread*, honey, treacle, lemon curd. ● Please note that some schools do not permit nuts and nut products to be brought in lunchboxes (due to pupils with nut allergies), so check with your school before including nut products. Read more about food allergies.

Whole fruits - satsuma, apple, banana, pear, peach, plum, grapes, strawberries (whatever is in season) Fruit salad pot - any combination of prepared fruit: strawberries, orange, melon, mango, pineapple, kiwi etc. Homemade fruit puree, smoothie or apple sauce (you can add strawberry, peach, etc) Fruit jelly made with fruit pieces and pure fruit juice. Tinned fruit pot (useful in the winter if you can't find ripe fresh fruit) - mandarins, pineapple, peaches, fruit salad, pears. Salad pot - any combination of prepared raw vegetables: cucumber, lettuce, pepper, celery, cherry tomatoes, carrot sticks, mangetout, slices of avocado sprinkled with a little lemon juice etc. or coleslaw. Find more 5-a-day ideas.

■ OTHER IDEAS Carbohydrate based salads such as pasta salad, rice salad, cous cous, potato salad, tabbouleh etc. Egg based foods such as quiche, mini quiche or frittata. Baked items such as savoury muffin, cheesy corn triangles, pizza slice, mini pasty, cheese and potato roll, croissant, samosa, pakora, spring roll etc*. ● These items can be high in saturated fat, so just opt for them occasionally.

■ GOOD FOR GROWING BONES Fruit yogurt, fromage frais or dairy-free alternative. Cold rice pudding or custard. Greek/plain yogurt. Cubes of cheese or pre-packed lunchbox sized cheese portion, cottage cheese with pineapple. Dips: hummus, tzatziki, raita, cream cheese and plain yogurt.

■ FIVE-A-DAY OPTIONS Any combination of the following, in a small pot or bag: raisins, sultanas, pumpkin/sunflower seeds, ready to eat dried apricots, dates or prunes.

■ SNACKS If you have energetic kids, you may like to add a snack to their lunchboxes to re-fuel their energy levels! Here are some of our favourites:

16 The Summer Issue • August / September

Savoury options - Hard boiled chicken's or quail's eggs, scotch/savoury egg, mini sausages, sausage roll, falafel etc. Small bag of lower salt (preferably baked or reduced fat) crisps, or a handful of crisps in a pot. Crackers, crisp bread, rice cakes, cheesy biscuits, savoury flapjack, savoury scone, bread sticks, unsalted popcorn. Sweet options - Muffin, cup cake, small piece of cake, biscuit or cookie, flapjack, shortbread, jam tart, cereal bar* ● Check cereal/flapjack bars for sugar content , as some can contain as much sugar as a bar of chocolate! ■ THIRST-QUENCHERS Steer clear of sugary drinks and go for one of these healthy options: Water Milk (whole, semi-skimmed, goats or soya) Milkshake Pure fruit juice or smoothie - preferably diluted. Occasional well diluted high-juice squash.

A decade of inspiring young people through sport Commitment of Welsh schools hailed by Sky Sports Living for Sport

CHOOLS in Wales are continuing to tap in to the power of sport to inspire young people to improve their lives, says Sky Sports and the Youth Sport Trust as they celebrate the Tenth Anniversary of Sky Sports Living for Sport. The initiative, which uses world class sport stars and sport skills to motivate young people, has seen a significant increase in Welsh schools taking part over the last decade. Thousands of pupils in secondary schools across the region have now benefited from using the power of sport to achieve their life goals. Sky Sports Living for Sport launched in partnership with the Youth Sport Trust in 2003, with participation in the initiative growing steadily over the years, to the extent that 30 secondary schools now run projects in Wales. Across the UK a third of all secondary schools are now registered for Sky Sports Living for Sport. John Steele, Chief Executive at the Youth Sport Trust said: “I have been moved by the many inspirational stories of success in schools across Wales. Over the last ten years we have seen so many young people find the self-belief and positive mentality to improve their lives through sport; it has been a privilege to witness their journeys. “On behalf of the Youth Sport Trust and Sky Sports Living for Sport I’d like to extend my sincere thanks to the hundreds of teachers across the re-

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gion who have believed in the power of sport and used Sky Sports Living for Sport to help change so many young lives.” Darren Campbell and Jessica Ennis lead a team of 74 world class Athlete Mentors who visit schools to inspire pupils and instil values such as selfbelief, determination, people skills and time management. Athlete Mentors for Wales include: Heather Knight and Thinus Delport. Registrations have just opened for schools wishing to participate in Sky Sports Living for Sport for the 2013/14 academic year. Schools can find out more and sign up now at www.skysport.com/livingforsport

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The best computer Prices in Abegavenny - Cwmbran - Pontypool The Summer Issue • August / September 17

Gazette Wedding Belles Planning your big day

Bill Child Formal Wear

Hereford’s leading specialist in men’s and boys’ formal wear to hire. Wedding, evening and highland wear. A superb selection of waistcoats, neckwear and accessories. All available to hire or buy. Guaranteed friendly professional advice Individual attention Top quality outfits and service No deposit. Easy parking

18 The Summer Issue • August / September

● Get plenty of rest the night before. Beauty sleep can not be under estimated. ● Give your nails an extra special manicure. Pretty hands and manicured fingernails are part of your whole ensemble. ● Use a mildly-abrasive sponge with body wash to exfoliate your skin while showering. This will really give your skin an extra glow.

Everything to dress men and boys from head to toe for every occasion Made to measure suits from £299 Come and see us at 17 King Street, Hereford Phone: 01432 344700 www.billchildformalwear.co.uk

FTER months of planning and preparation, your wedding day is finally here. The glory starts as soon as you put on your wedding dress. How you look and feel in your wedding dress sets the stage for the whole experience. You want to feel beautiful, elegant and fabulous. And we can help you do just that. Here are a few tips to looking and feeling your best in your wedding dress.

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● Don't stress! Make beauty appointments extra early so you have plenty of time to relax. Being calm, happy and having fun actually makes you more attractive. ● Break in your shoes a few weeks

before. You'll be so much more comfortable throughout your wedding day. ● When putting on your bridal gown, have someone help you. just to be sure you don't ruin your hair, make-up, or delicate areas of the dress. ● Finally, after you're all made up and ready to go, wear that dress like you're a celebrity.

The Summer Issue â&#x20AC;˘ August / September 19

Being asked to be the best man in a wedding is a great honour. We don’t get given with the title “best” very often in our lives. It shows that your friend or family member values your friendship and is asking for your help on one of the most important days of his life. So don’t just shuffle through your role . . . ● Six month before the wedding Discuss the wedding plans with the bride, groom and chief bridesmaid. Help to choose the ushers and explain their duties to them. ● Four months before the wedding Organise the stag party. Prepare your speech for the reception. Compile a list of close family members who should have special seating arrangements at the ceremony and share the infomation with the ushers. Visit the ceremony and the reception venues with the bride and groom to check on timings, parking arrangements etc. ● One week to go Check the groom has all the necessary documents for the ceremony and the honeymoon. Double check their passports and visas. Attend the wedding rehearsal. Liaise with the ushers on the final arrangements. Check for roadworks, diversions, carnivals etc taking place on the wedding day that

Make sure you are the best! may effect timings or the route. Arrange transport for the groom and self to ceremony. Arrange transport to and from the reception. Arrange going away car for the bride and groom from the reception if required. Make a note of details and availability of emergency taxi companies. Finalise speech. Have your hair cut. ● The day before Collect any hired clothing and accessories. Wash car if driving to the ceremony. Organise decorations for the going away car. ● On the day Check final arrangements for the ushers, buttonholes, order of service sheets and rings. Collect telemessages, cards and emails to be read at the reception. Keep the rings safe until the required time in the service. Help the groom get ready (so be ready before him). Ensure the groom gets to the church on time, which we advise is at least 20 minutes before the ceremony is due to start. ● At the church Check on the ushers. Sit on the right hand front pew with the groom.

Witness the signing of the register, if required. Ensure all fees are paid to the church or registrar. Escort the chief bridesmaid out of the church. Assist the photographer in organising the guests for the photographs. Ensure everyone has transportation to the reception venue.

● After the wedding Ensure the wedding presents are safely stored. Return any hired clothing and accessories.

● At the reception Stand in the receiving line and greet the guests. Announce the speeches and cake cutting, if there is no toastmaster. Read any cards, emails and telemessages. Give the third and final speech and reply on behalf of the bridesmaids. Dance with the chief bridesmaid once the bride and groom have completed their first dance. Decorate the going away car. Put any luggage required in the going away car. Make sure the bride and groom go and change on time and announce to the guests that they are about to depart. Take charge of the groom's wedding clothes, if required.

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20 The Summer Issue • August / September

Don’t forget a single thing ... Deciding to get married is the easy part - for a trouble free big day ● Your wedding day Try to eat breakfast, even if you make sure you get everything organised in advance think you aren't hungry. ● Twelve months or more before the wedding Announce your engagement. Choose your engagement ring. Determine the style and theme of your wedding, for example formal, semi-formal or informal. Make a list of what is important to you for a wedding this will help determine your budget. Discuss the wedding budget and who will pay for what. Decide on a wedding date and start searching wedding venues. Find a wedding officiant (the person who will marry you) and apply for the necessary licences. ● Nine months before the wedding Begin your search for: Bridal Gown Formal Suit Hire Photographer Videographer Live music, disco, entertainers or bands (if required) Caterer (if require) Florist Wedding transport Hair and beauty stylist Bridesmaid dresses Wedding cake Shoes and accessories Wedding lingerie Venue decoration/chair covers If you the vendor is available on your chosen date book them IMMEDIATELY! Compile a preliminary guest list. Visit wedding fayres and look through bridal magazines or search the internet to gain ideas and inspiration for your big day. Finalise your wedding colours, theme and style. Choose your bridesmaids, groomsmen, ushers, flower girl and ring bearer and ensure they are aware of what their duties are. Choose and purchase your wedding rings. Begin looking at honeymoon options and discuss where you both would like to go.

Choose your wedding cake. Decide on your wedding decorations including favours. ● Three months before the wedding Order your wedding cake. Finalise your guest list. Meet with your wedding officiant to discuss details of the ceremony. Choose gifts for your attendants and parents. Groom and male members of the wedding party to arrange for a suit fitting. Reconfirm honeymoon arrangements. Start writing your wedding vows, if you are doing them yourself. ● Two months before the wedding Send out your invitations. Meet with vendors to finalise arrangements. Schedule a hair and make-up trial with a consultant. Start making/buying wedding favours. Finalise music selections for the ceremony and reception. If changing your name, complete the proper documents. Meet with officiant to finalise ceremony details. Reserve room for wedding night if not already done so.

Have your hair and makeup done. Begin dressing two hours before ceremony is scheduled to begin. Take a deep breath, relax and most importantly enjoy your big day! ● Post wedding day If you are due to leave for honeymoon straight after the wedding day you need to ensure the following: Any formal attire such as suits that have been hired for the day are returned the next working day in good order to the vendor. (Perhaps delegate this task to the best man or a member of the wedding party) Ensure the venue is aware of any table decorations or chair covers that have been hired for the wedding from florists or venue decoration companies are stored safely for collection to ensure any refundable deposits are returned. Ensure thank you notes for any gifts or donations are sent out no later than three months after your wedding date.

● One month before the wedding Meet with your photographer and provide a list of required shots. Start working on your seating plan. Decide and confirm your wedding vows and ensure your officiant has been sent copies. Confirm all final payment amounts with your vendors as well as dates, times etc. Collect marriage licence. Confirm honeymoon reservations. Arrange for a final wedding dress fitting. ● Two weeks before the wedding Finalise seating chart. Confirm delivery time and locations with florist. Contact any guests you have not received an acceptance from.

● Six months before the wedding Start planning ceremony and reception music choices. Start looking at invitation designs. If you haven't already, purchase your wedding gown, veil and accessories. Finalise and order/purchase attire for your attendants. Sign up for your gift registry/honeymoon donation.

● One week before the wedding Collect wedding gown, bridesmaid, flower girl dresses and accessories. Give final guest numbers to venue/ receptions/caterer. Make sure the men have their final suit fitting. Reconfirm everything with vendors one last time.

● Four months before the wedding Contact your florist and finalise your arrangements. Order wedding stationery - invitations, envelopes, order of service etc. Book you wedding transport. Arrange accommodation for out of town guests (book blocks of hotel rooms).

● One day before Attend rehearsal (if you are having one). Have a manicure/pedicure. Confirm wedding day transportation. Reconfirm hair and make appointments for the wedding day. Confirm all duties required with the wedding party. Try to get an early night and relax!

The Summer Issue • August / September 21

22 The Summer Issue â&#x20AC;˘ August / September

Choosing the all important dress On your wedding day, you will no doubt want to be wearing the most fabulous, yet affordable dress that makes you the centre of attention, helps you feel wonderful and ensures all your guests are green with envy… all of which makes for a big shopping task!

EFORE you head for the high street and frantically look through rail after rail of dresses though, just take time to think through what you are looking for.

You can then calmly go shopping for your wedding dress knowing exactly what you want and will be able to get the shop assistants to help you too. Think about your venue Before you even begin to think about choosing a wedding dress, you need to consider where you are getting married. Is your venue traditional, trendy or downright relaxed (perhaps it’s on a beach). You need a dress style that will suit the venue there is no point buying an elaborate dress with a full skirt, enormous train and veil if you are planning on walking barefoot to the water’s edge for your ceremony for example.

Shiraz in Abergavenny

Think about the season Take into consideration the time of year you are getting married. For example, you might want to choose a lighter fabric for summer or a long‐sleeved style for winter (you want to be the centre of attention because you look beautiful, not because you’ve gone blue from the cold!) Think about your figure No matter what size or shape you are, there is a wedding dress to suit you that will fit and flatter in all the right places. All you need do before you shop is think about what dress styles usually suit you best. For example, do you look and feel fabulous in a slinky bias‐cut skirt? Do you feel comfortable in a strapless corset, or do you prefer a halterneck style for support? Use the shapes and styles you prefer as a starting point and discuss these with the shop assistant. Think about your skin colour Traditional wedding dresses come in all shades of white, cream and gold, so don’t think you have to opt for pure white – particularly if you are very pale. Choose a fabric colour that helps you glow – not look like a ghost! Note down your choices based on these considerations and you will be all set to go shopping. Wherever you choose to look, whether you want a couture, made‐to‐measure, off‐the‐peg or vintage‐style dress, thinking about these important aspects beforehand will really help. And a veil? Historically a veil was worn to protect the bride from evil spirits; nowadays it is simply considered a beautiful form of adornment. Today’s bride can choose any type of veil she desires, but it is important to understand that a veil is an accessory, and as such only one part of your overall look. You need to consider how it will work with your dress, face shape, body shape, hairstyle and wedding location. Round face - a round face is virtually as wide as it is long and looks full in appearance. When choosing a veil look for a style that will help make your face look longer and slimmer. It is preferable for your veil to reach at least shoulder length and for it to have some volume on the top of the head. Avoid veils with too much fullness at the sides of the face.

WHEN Marion Meek made some jewellery to help funds for her local church she had no idea it would be the start of a whole new career. Satisfied customers urged her to make more of her talent and her business began to grow. Marion has developed her ranges using semi-precious stones including Swarovski crystals and pearls for her jewellery and added tiara making to her skills. After several years of supplying her

creations to shops throughout Monmouthshire and Herefordshire, Marion launched Shiraz in Lewis Lane, Abergavenny, where she makes most of the jewellery herself. Marion is able to match the colours and sizes to her clients’ needs and bridal tiaras can be created to each bride’s individual requirements. Marion aims to offer unique, but affordable jewellery, along with a tempting array of accessories.

Square face - a square face is typically wide and angular looking. When choosing a veil look for a style that will soften your face and add length. It is preferable for your veil to reach at least shoulder length and for it to have some volume on the top of the head. Circular and cascading styles can help soften the angular nature of your jaw line. Oval Face - an oval face shape in slightly longer then it is wide, it is similar in appearance to an egg shape. As this face shape is well balanced, you are free to experiment with different veil styles. However, it is a good idea to avoid going extreme in either volume or width, to help maintain your proportions. Rectangle face - a rectangle face is longer then it is wide and it tends to appear narrow and angular. When choosing a veil look for a style that has width around the face, but no height at the top of the head.

The Summer Issue • August / September 23

Situated in the heart of the Welsh valleys, elevated high on Maesrudded Hill, with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside

SEASONS RESTAURANT

www.maesmanor.com Tel: 01495 220011 Fax: 01495 228217 E-Mail: info@maesmanor.com

PRIVATE DINING

Open daily for lunch & evening bookings The superb cuisine at Maes Manor has made our Seasons Restaurant one of the most popular dining venues in the area. The menus are a combination of classical and traditional British dishes which are changed seasonally.

SUNDAY LUNCH

£12.95 for 2 courses & £15.95 for 3 courses. Head chef Nigel Parker & his assistant Mandy have been serving their sumptuous Sunday lunches together at the manor for over ten years. The ever popular menu is now served weekly in either the Isllwyn suite with its fairy light ceiling & backdrop or the wood panelled Seasons restaurant. Booking is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.

Our cuisine is exceptional and we are the hosts of many social occasions through the Calendar Year. The Maes Manor is able to offer three rooms for private dining. If you require privacy for your special occasion we are sure to have the facilities to suit your requirements. Whether it be a large corporate event or an intimate family gathering. We can offer a varied selection of Menus and tailor-made packages to suite your event.

WEDDINGS

A SPECIAL PLACE, FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY Maes Manor is the perfect venue for holding a wedding reception. With our experience, quality of service, high food standards and overall value for money we guarantee that you and your guests will have a day to remember. Our 'one wedding per day' policy assures you of privacy and personal attention without being obtrusive. All the while our dedication and professionalism ensures that your special day will be filled with pure memories.

SPECIAL OFFER Two tickets and a nights stay in a standard double room B&B for just £79

Winter entertainment nights Comedy nights, Band nights , Party nights & tribute nights from January 2013 April 2013 - please call for details - Tickets start @ just £8 per person

so just £39.50 per person

24 The Summer Issue • August / September

Time for some cake? C

HOOSING the right cake to suit the style of the wedding is key, and the possibilities of cake decoration are more elaborate than ever. You could rethink the classic tiers of cake with a dessert table full of alternatives such as small individual cakes, cupcakes, cookies or macaroons. Or add some over-the-top details to your classic cake with these gorgeous designs that can mirror the theme of the wedding, style of gown, or floral arrangements.

Cheese cake - For the bride and groom who don't much like cake, a cheese cake is an option. This is not a dessert type cheesecake but an actual cake made of cheese - order from specialist shops.

Plan well in advance. Unless you already have a firm idea of the kind of cake you'd like, there will need to be time to look around at options, as well as booking the cake creator, allocating the funds, and finding any special decorative elements. So be sure to give yourself plenty of planning time. Cake makers who are in high demand are sometimes booked months in advance.

Finally you don’t have to go for the traditional flowers, leaves and trellistype icing. Why not go for a theme - if you are both sci-fi fans you could even go for a Star Wars cake!

For cake ideas read wedding magazines; look online, look at displays in specialist cake shops or look at old family photos if you want to uphold tradition. A tiered fruitcake with marzipan is still the most traditional choice. This standard type of wedding cake has a long history behind it, and is said to be modelled on London's Bride's Church. It’s very rich and not everyone likes the taste or formality of this type of cake. The tiers are supported on pillars or on a specialist cake stand. If fruitcake is not to your taste consider having a sponge cake instead but be aware that it will not keep as well as fruitcake. Cupcakes have become very popular in recent years, usually supported on a special tower shape stand. The icing can include many different types of symbols, initials, flowers, fruits, etc. While many bakers are happy to make this kind of cupcake, this style is also great for those on a budget as the cupcakes can be made easily in advance and iced by generous family members just prior to the wedding. Croquembouche is a high cone of profiteroles with a cascade of toffee or chocolate icing (to which can be added sugared/candied almonds, chocolate, flowers, ribbons, etc. These showstoppers are traditional at French weddings but do need an expert cake maker. Consider chocolate - for those on a budget both the croquembouche or a chocolate wedding cake could double as a dessert for your meal.

The Summer Issue • August / September 25

Choose your bouquet Wedding bouquets are a lot like wedding dresses. Every bride needs one, they come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they take a big bite out of your budget. But how do you find a bouquet that fits with your theme, consists of the blooms you'd like to use and still expresses your personality?

IRST, you need to decide if you want a formal, semiformal or casual bouquet. A good rule of thumb is to match the size of your bouquet to the length of your train or gown. Long-stemmed, formal bouquets go well with fuller, more elaborate gowns, and smaller, more casual bouquets are better coordinated with more informal dresses. These are the most popular types of bouquets: Cascade - Also known as fountain, shower or waterfall bouquets, cascade bouquets are rounded at the top with a stream of flowers flowing over the bride's hand for a cascading effect. Just about any type of flower can be used with this style, though large-petaled blooms like roses, calla lilies, lisianthus and orchids are very popular because they give the impression of abundance and drape more naturally. The cascade bouquet is one of the most formal and traditional types of bouquets. Nosegay - Nosegays consist of small, rounded, sparsely packed flowers. These bouquets frequently incorporate more green than other arrangements because they emphasize the flowers' petals and stems. You'll see a lot of irises, tulips, lilies and roses in nosegays. Ribbons can be used to trim these bouquets or to wrap around their stems. Nosegays can go casual or formal. Arm sheaf - An arm sheaf or presentation bouquet is made with long-stemmed flowers that the bride cradles alongside her inner arm. Orchids, long-stemmed roses, gladiolus, delphiniums and calla lilies are often used in these bouquets, which, despite the fact they've been around for more than a century, are still considered perfect for chic and modern ceremonies. Flower bracelet - Also known as wrist corsages, flower bracelets consist of small groupings of flowers, usually orchids or roses, and are attached to an elastic wristband. These bouquets are perfect for brides who'd rather not be encumbered with a bouquet they have to hold. Flower bracelets are stylish in the warm spring and summer months and look great when paired with casual, shorthemmed gowns. Shapely Arrangements - Not all bouquets work with every body type. It's important to keep your bouquet relative to your frame as you want your flowers to complement your dress, not obscure it. Go too small, however, and you'll look like you're carrying a child's posy instead of a once-in-a-lifetime arrangement! Taller women should stick to longer arrangements, like arm sheafs or cascade bouquets. Women of shorter stature, on the other hand, should hold onto more compact bouquets, and those with a larger frame will look best with fuller flower groupings. Meaningful Bouquets - You can pick flowers based on their appearance or choose ones infused with specific meanings. What sentiment best represents your union? Love? Use red roses. Fidelity? Twist in a little ivy. Passion? Incorporate yellow irises. Forgiveness? Go for white tulips. Whatever you're feeling, there's a specific bloom that signifies your sentiments, and even though the bulk of your wedding congregation will remain clueless, the day will be even more special if you're holding onto flowers blooming with symbolism. Personal Attachments - Your bouquet has style, shape and significance, but if you'd like to personalise it even more, add a few mementos. Family heirlooms, like earrings and brooches, can be pinned to the bouquet wrap. And you can wrap the bouquet with a special swatch of fabric, like a piece of your mother's wedding dress or a strip of the dress you wore on your first date with your fiancé. Of course, you can always go for style over meaning and match your bouquet to your wedding's theme. Shells and starfish make great accents for beach weddings.

26 The Summer Issue • August / September

The language of flowers Want to know what those blooms in your bouquet say about you? Amaryllis - splendid beauty, pride Arum lily - magnificent beauty Bluebell – constancy, forgive and forget Campanula - gratitude Carnation – woman’s love Cockscomb celosia – affectation, individuality Chrysanthemum – red – ‘I love you’ Daffodil – regard, chivalry Dahlia – good taste Forget-me-not – true love, ‘the key to my heart’ Freesia – friendship Garden Pink – pure love Gladiolus – strength of character Hyacinth – blue – constancy; white – unobtrusive loveliness Iris – yellow – flame of love Lilac – purple – first emotions of love; white – youthful innocence Longi Lily – pure and modest Lily of the valley – return of happiness Love lies bleeding – hopeless, not heartless Mimosa – sensitivity, secret love Narcissus – self-esteem, female ambition Orange blossom – bridal festivities, virginity, ‘your purity equals your loveliness’ Orchid – longevity, elegance Peony – bashfulness Ranunculus –’you are rich in attractions’ Rose – symbolises love and good fortune and the colours have meaning too: white – truth; white with pink blush – ‘only for thee’; bright pink – ‘meet me by moonlight’; single stem – simplicity; red and white – unity; red – eternal love Rudbeckia – justice Snowdrop – hope Solidago – encouragement Star of Bethlehem – purity Stock – lasting beauty Sunflower dwarf – adulation Sweet pea – departure, delicate pleasures Tuberose – dangerous pleasure Tulip – red – declaration of love; striped – beautiful eyes Veronica – fidelity Violet – faithfulness, modesty

Enjoy the ultimate getaway ! Must-haves: Airline tickets or e-ticket confirmation Passport/visas/driver's licence Credit cards (take only those you'll need) Hotel/theatre reservation confirmations Traveller's checks Two sets of photocopies of all of the above, plus a photocopy of related medical and/or trip insurance coverage and prescriptions (carry one set with you, leave one in the hotel room) Phone numbers for your doctor, house/cat sitter, and credit card companies (in case your cards are lost or stolen) Prescription medicine Contraception Travel locks and ID tags for luggage (inside and out) Camera ! Her Stash for a Week 1 pair jeans or khakis (for cold airports and the plane) 1 light jacket or pullover (take one that can be tied around the waist or stuffed in a backpack) 1 nice sundress 1 little black dress 1 cardigan (for chilly restaurants) 4 play shirts (T-shirts, tank tops, shortsleeve button-downs) 2 pairs shorts 2 swimsuits (bikini for the beach, onepiece for water sports) 1 swimsuit cover-up 1 pair walking shoes/sandals 1 pair evening shoes/sandals 1 evening purse Extra socks and underwear Bras (strapless and otherwise) Accessories (scarves and jewellery to "stretch" your wardrobe) ! His Stash for a Week 1 pair jeans or khakis 1 pair nice slacks 1 light jacket or pullover (take one that can be tied around the waist or stuffed

in a backpack) 4 play shirts (T-shirts or short-sleeve button-downs) 2 pairs shorts 2 polo or button-down short-sleeve shirts 1 sports jacket (for nicer restaurants) 1 swimsuit 1 pair walking shoes/sandals 1 pair lace-ups Extra socks and underwear ! Pack Here - Don't Buy There: Insect repellent (and anti-itch cream for the bugs that break through) Sunscreen and lip balm Sunglasses Sun hat or baseball cap Aloe vera Band-Aids Aspirin Antacid Antihistamine Diarrhea medicine Motion sickness medicine Tampons/pads (they can be hard to find outside the U.S. and are a non-negotiable must-have when you need them!) Paperback books (you can leave them in the hotel library once you've read) Deck of cards Canvas tote bag for beach or pool (also good for carrying souvenirs home) Guidebook Electrical converter/adaptor Travel-size toothpaste Toothbrushes Deodorant Cosmetics Make-up remover Cotton balls and swabs Comb/brush Hair gel/spray Nail file/clippers Shaving cream Razors Contact lens and re-wetting solution, storage case Hair accessories Shampoo and conditioner

Body lotion Hair dryer Shower cap Alarm clock ! Handy Extras: Extra pair of glasses/contacts Ziplock bags (all sizes; use for packing wet swimsuits or protecting camera and film when it rains) Earplugs Sewing kit Wet wipes Anti-bacterial liquid or lotion Small backpack(s) for day excursions and impromptu picnics

1 pair old sneakers or that can get wet or ruined (if you're travelling to the tropics or going in the water) 1 pair workout sneakers and 2-3 workout outfits if you plan on visiting the resort's gym or jogging on the beach Compact umbrella or rain ponchos ! Leave behind with family or friends: Your itinerary and hotel phone numbers Photocopies of your passport, credit cards, and traveller's check receipts.

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When it comes to packing for your honeymoon, you can never be too prepared, right? Not so! Pack too much, and an unwieldy bag will weigh you down. Take too little, and you end up buying what you didn't bring. The solution? Our bare-bones honeymoon packing checklist will keep you covered for emergencies and help you sail through your honeymoon with ease.

The Summer Issue • August / September 27

Are you up for a

BIG GREEN PROJECT? Get those jobs done with a little help from DIY guru Julia Gray. This week: how to make your home more environmentally friendly, if you have a reasonable amount of money to spend.

WITH winter on the horizon, making your home's central heating system as energy efficient as possible should be a priority. Replacing an old G-rated boiler (the least energy efficient) with a super-efficient Arated (condensing) boiler is expensive (typically £2,000 upwards), but could save you around £300 a year on running costs, according to the Energy Saving Trust. This is based on replacing the boiler and heating controls in a three-bed semi with gas central heating. If your home's windows aren't double or triple glazed (or have secondary glazing), the heating will be disappearing out of them. Again, replacing the windows is an expensive business, typically costing several thousand pounds, but it is worth doing if you can afford to, and you don't have to go for period imperfect windows - doubleglazed sashes offer the best of both worlds, for example. With listed buildings and homes on 'designated land', such as conservation areas, there are stricter rules about replacement windows (and doors),

so ask your local council. To make further savings on your energy bills, you may want to consider fitting energy-efficient glazing, such as Planitherm. This glass has a special coating that helps to retain radiated heat in the room and also captures the sun's energy to heat the room further. Your home's external walls are another big area of heat loss. Houses built from 1920 onwards usually have cavity walls and these can be injected with insulation (a job for the pros) to keep the heat in and cold out. Solid walls let through twice as much heat as cavity walls, but insulating them isn't as straightforward - it can be done internally or externally. Measures like these that make your home more energy efficient go a long way, but you can go further down the eco route. Have you considered generating your own electricity? This is typically done with a wind turbine or solar panels (a different type of solar panels can be used to heat your home's water). Domestic wind tur-

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28 The Summer Issue • August / September

bines only work well in certain locations, so solar panels are the best bet for many of us. If you're worried about the cost (usually many thousands of pounds) of having solar panels fitted, there are ways to cushion the financial blow, such as special loans and 'rent a roof' schemes. With the latter, you get the solar panels free of charge, but you have to give the company that provides and installs them the income you receive from the Government's Feed-In Tariffs scheme. This scheme pays you for both the electricity you generate and use at home and any surplus you supply to the national grid. Another Government scheme (although it isn't up and running for homeowners yet) is the Renewable Heat Incentive, which is expected to financially reward people who use renewable heat technologies at home. This should apply to heat pumps, which extract warmth from the air, ground or a water source and use it to heat the home. Then there's the Government's Green Deal, which may provide finance for energy-efficient home improvements such as insulation and double glazing. Go to www.decc.gov.uk to find out more. Big eco home improvements are often most cost-effective as part of a major renovation or build, rather than being retrofitted. With large projects, the world's your oyster in terms of making your home greener and cleaner. You could, for example, install a water-saving system for reusing 'grey' water, which includes used water from showers, baths and the washing machine. Systems like this aren't something most of will be able to retrofit to our homes, but they are the future. Product of the week The new Bosch PPR 250 power paint roller (£123.90, www.amazon.co.uk) makes painting a room quick and easy and it's a lot less messy than a conventional roller, as it doesn't splatter. Best of all, unlike some power rollers, you can use it with any sort of emulsion.

The power unit has two tubes - a short one that clips on to the side of the tin and dips into the paint and a really long one that's attached to the roller, which you can use with or without the extension pole. Once it's hooked up and switched on, you simply press the trigger, wait for the paint to reach the roller, and away you go - coverage is excellent. You can detach the roller head to clean it separately, and the tubes are washed out by pumping water through them in the same way as the paint (there's a tap attachment, but if it doesn't work with your taps, you can use buckets of water). It's best to clean it the same day as you use it, so start early and you'll be able to get a couple of coats done and the PPR 250 washed out. This is a great way to paint! How-to tip Opening a paint tin? Be careful to lift the lid off horizontally and away from the tin to prevent any dust and dirt on the lid from falling into the paint.

Do you have a plan for power cuts? A GOVERNMENT report, by Ofgem, has warned that Wales faces power cuts by the winter of 2015 as ageing power plants are shut down. Ministers have recently embraced new nuclear power plants as a way of closing the gap, but replacements will not be ready in time. The battle to keep our lights on is being exacerbated by the early shutdown of coal-fired power stations and the decommissioning of Britain’s older nuclear plants. Nine UK-based coal and oil fired plants with a combined generating capacity of 11.5 gigawatts are due to close by 2015, of which four are expected to cease generation next year. The shutdowns will lead to a 30 per cent cut in the UK’s electricity generating capacity. Tory energy and climate change spokesman Greg Clark said: 'Britain faces blackouts because the Government has put its head in the sand about Britain's energy policy for a decade.’ Energy regulator Ofgem say that consumers face massive rises in electricity bills as generators are forced to rely on expensive gas to fuel power stations. The cost of household energy has already rocketed by 140 per cent since 2004. Disruption to electricity

supplies is a very real threat to our safety at home and at work. Food stored in our fridges and freezers are at risk of spoiling, and the modern trend towards working from home with high speed internet connectivity is at risk. Local renewable energy company Green Park Power have been looking at solutions to this looming issue and have recently undertaken training to become Authorised installers of battery back-up systems. Andrew Green of Green Park Power told us ‘With a battery backed PV (solar panel) system you can be safe, be green and save money. These systems allow you to save excess energy produced in the day and use it through the night – reducing costly consumption from The Grid.’ Battery back-up systems can offer the household or business an independent supply of electricity through several hours of power outage, night or day, simply by using energy that might otherwise be lost. Green Park Power are able to design totally new systems or to upgrade existing PV systems giving customers peace of mind whilst dramatically reducing their electricity costs. For a free no obligation survey contact Green Park Power on 01873 269031 or email info @greenparkpower.co.uk

The Summer Issue • August / September 29

MDP LANDROVERS Raglan (

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For all you vehicle service and repair needs • • • • • • • • • •

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01291 691221

30 The Summer Issue • August / September

Hard to beat - the new BMW 5 series By Matt Kimberley

HIS might not be an all-new model, but there's no such thing as a minor refresh in the BMW 5 Series - it's the Munich-based firm's biggest seller globally, making it the most important car to come out of its factories. The biggest news for this latest model is on the inside, with an unbelievable array of gadgets and active safety installations now available either as standard or at an extra cost. More of that later. On the outside, things are more or less as they were, with a long, sloping bonnet that dips suddenly towards a low, trademark 'kidney grille'. Small tweaks here and there have neatened and sharpened what was until now a slightly tubby design, so its on-road presence is that little bit more imposing. We Brits will have plenty of model variants to choose from, although there are some xDrive four-wheel drive models that wouldn't sell well enough here for BMW to warrant re-engineering them for righthand drive. Sales of xDrive versions are picking up, though, and we'll get more choice on that front when an all-new 5 Series arrives in two to three years. The three trim levels are called SE, Modern and Luxury, with M Sport trim packages available to upgrade the higher lines. Not all grades will be available with every engine, though. The key standard equipment on all models includes the excellent iDrive interface, a huge colour widescreen display on the dashboard, digital dials that change style according to the active drivetrain mode, leather upholstery and Euro VI compatible engines. Even the diesels pass the test, having been fitted with BMW's BluePerformance NOx-reducing additive system. On the engine front there are six diesels and four petrols, ranging from a 518d with 141bhp and 119g/km to a mighty petrol V8 with more than 440bhp. At the car's exclusive launch we drove the 535i and 530d options, with the diesel likely to be the more popular of the two. It's a familiar unit to many current owners and excels at turning liquid diesel into formidably rapid forward motion, even in a car so relatively large. Sitting in the Luxury-trimmed test car, with its plush and supportive leather seats adjusted to fit, the driving position is absolutely perfect. A flick of the gear lever engages Drive at the other end of the eight-speed automatic gearbox, while the electronic handbrake releases automatically. It's a little slow to re-engage again when the time comes to park, but for setting off it's ideal. The gearbox is, under normal use, a per-

BWW 5 SERIES FACTS AT A GLANCE

GAZETTE MOTORING fect match for the car. Changes are smooth, there's no interruption to the power delivery and it will even disengage from the engine in an offthrottle efficiency-boosting process called decoupling. Its only failing is that under hard acceleration it changes up too late, allowing the diesel's power delivery to stall in every gear as the torque curve falls away. For brisk acceleration it's better to shift manually at around 3,500rpm using the paddles mounted behind the steering wheel. This 5 Series cruises quietly, with immense stability even above 100mph on the German autobahn. It munches the miles deceptively easily and high-mileage drivers will love it. The variable-rate steering adjusts to make holding a straight course in your lane child's play. Speaking of the steering, it's plain to see why the 5 Series is considered the driver's choice in the segment. It's no lightweight but it careers along winding, open roads in a way it has no right to. Large, wide tyres and confidence-inspiring suspension help with outright grip. There's simply far too much new technology to list here, but believe me it's worth getting hold of the brochure. Something that merits a special mention, though, is a set of systems that drives the car completely automatically in traffic jams, accelerating, braking and steering independently of the driver. It's a Marmite option if ever there was one, but you can't knock the capability. Importantly, the new 5 Series rides well, although not quite as well as its larger GT cousin. Small vibrations often shudder their way through the cabin but it's not too intrusive. Larger bumps are absorbed, but loudly so. Adaptive dampers, which some people have called an essential option, are still on the extras list. As any dealer will be happy to tell you, the 5 Series is more customisable than ever, from the looks to the leather and from the

suspension to the stereo. The basics are excellent enough though, and whatever configuration it's built into, yet again, it looks hard to beat.

Model: BMW 530d [Saloon] Luxury, circa £41,500 on the road Engine: 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel producing 254bhp and 398lb.ft Transmission: 8-speed automatic driving the rear wheels Performance: Top speed 155mph, 0-62mph in 5.8 seconds Fuel economy: 47.1mpg CO2 rating: 134g/km

BG LANDROVERS Here at BG Landrovers we offer more than just great servicing and repair deals on all Landrover models. Our customers tell us we provide higher standards of service and we save them money. • Servicing to manufacturers schedules • Repairs including ‘Land Rover Assured Used Warranty’ Scheme • Having your NEW LAND ROVER SERVICED BY US DOES NOT INVALIDATE THE WARRANTY • AUTOLOGIC advanced vehicle diagnostics • Competitive servicing and diagnostics on ALL makes of 4x4 & light commercials • Genuine Land Rover and original equipment parts always in stock • Wide range of accessories available • Convenient Saturday morning servicing • Courtesy cars (subject to availability) • Run by enthusiasts for enthusiasts

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The Summer Issue • August / September 31

Penpentre, Llanfaes, Brecon, Powys. LD3 8DL

Tel: 01874 623311 Tel: 01874 611421 Fax: 01874 610325

www.breconcarsales.co.uk

Brecon Car Sales is a family run business in the small town of Brecon. Established for 30 years we will endeavour to provide you with the best customer service within the market place. Although we specialise in Renaults we will service, MOT and carry out work on all makes and models. Our technicians are fully trained to Renault standards. We are a friendly garage and welcome all of our customers. Coffee is complimentary and provided to you while you wait. Transportation issues will gladly be addressed within the local area. Why not have a day out in Brecon while you’re up here?

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32 The Summer Issue • August / September

New limited edition Mazda MX-5 announced

MAZDA has launched a new special edition MX-5, limited to just 500 cars and called the Sport Graphite. Available only with the folding hard-top roof, which is painted Meteor Grey whichever of the four unique body colours is ordered, buyers have a choice of a 124bhp 1.8 petrol or a 158bhp 2.0-litre, with prices starting at £20,995 on the road. Every Sport Graphite model will have 17-inch dark gunmetal alloy wheels, black leather heated seats with unique grey stitching, a 5.8-inch TomTom navigation system with integrated Bluetooth, glossy dark grey 'fashion bars', the hard-top roof and door mirrors all in Meteor Grey, and limited edition badges throughout. The car also brings with it stainless steel scuff plates, body-coloured door handles, side, driver and passenger airbags, a CD radio with an auxiliary jack and six speakers, electric windows, electric adjustable mirrors with heating function and climate control. Keen drivers will want the 2.0-litre car not just for its extra power. It's fitted as standard with a limited-slip differential, cruise control and Bilstein suspension, all of which the 1.8 does without. Each Mazda dealer is offering the first buyer of the Mazda MX-5 'Sport Graphite', a signed limited copy graphite pencil drawing of the car. Drawn exclusively for Mazda by Scottish hyperrealist artist Paul Cadden, each drawing recreates photos or stills in amazing detail just using a graphite pencil. The 2013 Mazda MX-5 Sport Graphite is priced at £20,995 on the road

GAZETTE MOTORING

Special edition Audi A1 adds style and kit AUDI has added a colourful twist to its A1 models in the shape of the A1 S line Style Editions. The S line Style Edition upgrade includes metallic or pearl-effect paint finishes in a choice of Ice Silver, Phantom Black, Misano Red or Glacier White. Also included is a gloss black finish for the contrasting roof in threedoor versions, and a fully gloss black contrasting roof in Sportback models, both of which also feature gloss black door mirror housings. An additional

black styling package also brings a gloss finish for the single frame front grille surround and a matt black finish for the grille, fog light surrounds and number plate holder. Inside the A1 S line Style Edition, the air vents are finished in either Misano Red or Glacier White when these exterior colours are chosen, or in gloss black in conjunction with the Ice Silver and Phantom Black exterior options. Add to this the part-leather sports seats and three-spoke S

line sports steering wheel, plus the high level of equipment already fitted to S line models including powered windows and mirrors, a split/folding rear seat, air conditioning, the CD/tuner with SD card reader and Bluetooth mobile phone interface. Available with the 1.2 TFSI, 1.4 TFSI and the 1.6 TDI, the Style Editions add around £2,200-worth of design and technologyoriented options for a premium of £950 above the equivalent S line model. Prices will range from £18,125 OTR to £20,605.

Mercedes reveals most powerful S-Class ever FRESH from introducing its range-topping S-Class Mercedes Benz has followed up with a high performance version. The new S63 AMG is the most powerful high-performance saloon in the luxury segment, thanks to the 5.5-litre V8 twin turbocharged engine offering up 585 horsepower. Perhaps more impressive is that the S63 AMG is up to 100 kilograms lighter

than its predecessor, and combined with its efficient drivetrain offers combined fuel consumption of 27.4 to 27.9 mpg depending on the model. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph takes 4.0 to 4.4 seconds, depending on model variant, and the top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Making its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the S63 AMG will go on sale later in 2013.

The Summer Issue • August / September 33

Gazette & Diary Magazine

ABERGAVENNY

hed Property ■ Detached

■ Refurbished Throughout

■ Four Bedrooms

operty ■ Semi Detached Property

■ Two Double Bedrooms

■ Two Reception Rooms

en ■ Kitchen

om ■ Lounge/Dining Room

■ Fitted Kitchen, Bathroom

■ Groundd Floor Cloakroom

■ Kitchen

■ Enclosed South Facing Rear Garden

■ First Floor Bathroom

■ Ground Floor Wet Room

■ Gas Central Heating & Double

sed Gardens To Front & Rear ■ Enclosed

ng ■ Gas Central Heating

■ Glazing

■ Garagee & Driveway

■ Double Glazing

£139,950

C H AI

ABERGAVENNY

C N

H AI

PANDY

Detached tached Dormer Bungalow ■ Det ■ Fivee Bedroom ree Reception Rooms Three ■ Thr chen/Breakfast Room Kitchen/Breakfast ■ Kitc

£129,950

ABERGAVENNY

■ Recently Built Mid Terrace Property ■ 3 Bedrooms, Lounge ■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room ■ First Floor Family Bathroom

■ Three Bedrooms

£229,950

PENPERLLENI

H AI N

LLANFOIST

ghout ■ Refurbished Throughout

N O

H AI

■ Period Terraced Property

loor Flat ■ Second Floor oom ■ One Bedroom Dining Room ■ Lounge/Dining Kitchen Separate ■

■ Semi Detached Bungalow ng ■ Off Street Parking tchen ■ Sitting Room, Kitchen Corner Plot With h Front & Rear Gardens ■

■ Mid Terrace Property ■ 4 Bedrooms ■ Living Room om ■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room

■ Semi Detached Property ■ Three Bedrooms ■ Lounge, Kitchen ■ Garage & Driveway Providing Parking Facilities

£290,000

£125,000

£ £145,000

£134,950 950

£169,950

ABERGAVENNY

LLANELLY HILL

ABERGAVENNY

GILWERN

THE BRYN

N EW

C H AI N

IC E

£164,950

LLANFOIST

■ Well Presented Detached Family Home ■ 5 Bedrooms ■ 3 Reception Rooms ■ Modern Fitted Kitchen

Ground ound Floor Flat ■ Gro ■ Twoo Bedrooms en Plan Kitchen/Living Area Open ■ Ope ower/Wet Room Shower/Wet ■ Sho

ted End of Terrace Property ■ Bay Fronted ■ 2 Double Bedrooms Dining Room ■ Lounge/Dining ■ Kitchen

■ Well Presented Detached Property ■ Four Bedrooms ■ Two Receptions,, Two Bathrooms Land/woodland nd/woodland ■ Six Acres of Lan

hed Property ■ Well Presented Detached ■ Four Bedrooms ning Room ■ Impressive Lounge/Dining ■ Two Ensuite Bedroomss

■ Detached Property ■ 4 Bedrooms ■ 3 Reception Rooms ■ Refurbished Kitchen

£129,995

£ £475,000

£329,950 950

£294,950

LLANVIHANGEL CRUCORNEY

ABERGAVENNY

CLYDACH NORTH

ABERGAVENNY

■ Superbly Presented Detached Bungalow ■ Two double Bedrooms ■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room ■ Lounge, Bathroom

Extended ended Period Semi Detached Property ■ Ext ■ 5 Bedrooms 3 Reception Rooms ■ ted Kitchen/Breakfast Room Fitted ■ Fitt

C H O N

C H

AI N

£96,500

AI N

£325,000

■ Detached Property rooms, Three Reception Rooms ■ Four Bedrooms, nding Providing Parking Facilities ■ Hard standing cial/Residential Opportunity ■ Commercial/Residential

■ Semi Detached Property ■ Three Bedroomss ast Room ■ Kitchen/Breakfast ns,Driveway Parking ■ Enclosed Gardens,Driveway

■ Detached Stone Cottage ■ 3 Bedrooms, 3 Receptionn Rooms/Fitted Kitchen /Oil Central Heating ■ Workshop/Games Room/Oil g/Enclosed Gardens ■ Garage and Hardstanding/Enclosed

■ Link Detached Family Home ■ Three Bedrooms ■ Two Reception Rooms ■ Conservatory, Kitchen

£179,500

£ £124,950

£249,950 950

£179,950

CWMYOY

LLANGATTOCK LINGOED

LLANVIHANGEL CRUCORNEY

ABERGAVENNY

GOVILON

BWLCH

Wellll Presented Detached Property ■ We ■ 4 Bedrooms, Master En Suite ■ 2 Reception Rooms ted Kitchen Fitted ■ Fitt

£170,000 Of Offers fers Over

Fronted onted Linked Property ■ Stone Fro ms ■ 4 Bedrooms on Rooms ■ 2 Reception ■ Kitchen, Ground Floor Cloakroom

£339,950

ABERGAVENNY

erty ■ Detached Property ■ 3 Bedrooms oms ■ 2 Reception Rooms vatory ■ Kitchen,Conservatory

£255,000

■ Detached Property ■ 4 Bedrooms ■ Lounge/Dining Room ■ Kitchen

£ £219,950

ot ■ Rare Opportunity Building Plot ■ Semi Rural Location enny & Brecon ■ Ideally Situated for Abergavenny iew ■ Detailed Plans Available to View

£185,000 000

ABERGAVENNY

£150,000

LLANGATTOCK

■ End Of Terrace Property

■ Split Level Accommodation

bished Throughout ■ Refurbished

odern Property ■ Semi Detached Modern

■ Four Bedrooms

■ Two Bedrooms

■ Lounge

■ Two Reception Rooms

■ Lounge

■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room

en/Breakfast Room ■ Kitchen/Breakfast

■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room

■ Bathroom

■ First FFloor Bathroom

kroom ■ Ground Floor Cloakroom

■ UPVC Double Glazing

C Heating ■ Gas Central

■ First Floor Family Bathroom

■ Oil Central Heating

■ Doublee Glazing

■ Enclosed Gardens

H AI

roughout ■ Well Presented Throughout

£149,950

34 The Summer Issue • August / September

£134,950

■ Three Bedrooms

C H

AI N

■ Semi Detached Property

■ Semi Detached Property ■ 2 Double Bedrooms ■ 2 Reception Rooms ■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room

H AI

£325,000

C H AI N

£249,950

£219,950

ABERGAVENNY B ■ Two Bedrooms

ughout ■ Well Presented Throughout

■ Open Plan Kitchen/Living Room

ached Property ■ Extended Semi Detached

■ Updating & Modernisation Required

Ground nd Floor Apartment ■ Groun

■ Three Bedrooms

■ 4 Bedrooms

■ Two Reception Rooms

Bathroom oom ■ Bathro

en ■ Modern Fitted Kitchen

■ Kitchen

Master er En suite & Dressing Room ■ Maste

■ 2 Reception Rooms, Study

■ Ground Floor Bathroom

ated Parking ■ Allocated

m and Separate ■ First Floor Bathroom

■ Enclosed Garden To Rear

rb Communal Gardens ■ Superb

■ Shower Room

■ Offered With No Onward Chain

Offered ed With No Onward Chain ■ Offere

■ Attractive Gardens too Front and Rear

£129,950

£162,000

£184,950

TRILEY

THE BRYN

£210,000

ABERGAVENNY

H AI N

H AI C O N

Extremely remely Well Presented End Terraced Property ■ Extr edrooms, Lounge ■ 3 BBedrooms, chen/Breakfast Room Kitchen/Breakfast ■ Kitc st Floor Bathroom First ■ Firs

ABERGAVENNY

LLANFOIST N

ABERGAVENNY

■ Detached Dormer Property ■ 3 Bedrooms ■ Lounge/Dining Room ■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room

ABERGAVENNY

■ Mid Terrace Property N

ABERGAVENNY

■ Detached Double Fronted Stone Cottage ms ■ 2 Bedrooms Dining Room ■ Lounge/Dining ed Kitchen ■ Refurbished

■ Semi Detached Cottage ■ 3 Bedrooms ■ Lounge/Dining Room ■ Kitchen, Family Bathroom

Offers Over £150,000 £15 50,000 Offers

£169,950

GOVILON

■ Deceptively Spacious Detached Property ■ 3 Bedrooms to Groundd Floor st Room ■ Fitted Kitchen/Breakfast ■ 2 Reception Rooms

£ £189,995

£250,000 000

LLANVIHANGEL CRUCORNEY

£139,950

ABERGAVENNY

■ Superblyy Presented Detached Property

nted Period Property ■ Semi Detached Bay Fronted

shed & Updated by the Current Owners ■ Refurbished

■ Three Bedrooms

mately 5 Acres of Grounds & Gardens ■ Approximately

■ Lounge/Dining Room

Fi t Fl Floor Bathroom ■ First

D t hedd Stable St bl Block ■ Detached

■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room

■ Conservatory

ews Over Rolling Countryside ■ Open Views

■ First Floor Bathroom

■ Detached Stone Property

oms with En-Suite Facilities ■ 4 Bedrooms

■ Double Glazing

■ Two Bedrooms

itchen/Breakfast Room ■ Fitted Kitchen/Breakfast

ar ■ Parking Facilities To Rear

■ Open Plan Living/Kitchen Area

ption Rooms ■ 4 Reception

ont & Rear ■ Enclosed Gardens To Front

H AI N

■ Detached Property

■ First Floor Apartment ■ 2 Bedrooms, Living Room al appliances ■ Separate Kitchen with integral ns ■ Delightful Communal Gardens

■ Three Reception Rooms

■ Four Bedrooms

£395,000

ABERGAVENNY

PANDY

■ Midd Terrace Property ■ Twoo Bedrooms , Lounge kitchen/Breakfast chen/Breakfast Room ■ kitc First st Floor Bathroom ■ Firs

ABERGAVENNY

C H

AI N

ABERGAVENNY

C H O N

■ Detached Bungalow ■ 2 Bedrooms, Lounge ■ Refurbished Kitchen and Bathroom ■ Separate Utility Room

£179,950

ABERGAVENNY AI N

ABERGAVENNY

£650,000

aced Property ■ Mid Terraced ■ 2 Double Bedrooms ■ Lounge Dining Room ■ Kitchen/Dining

■ Semi Detached Bungalow ng ■ Off Street Parking itchen ■ Sitting Room, Kitchen ■ Corner Plot Withh Front & Rear Gardens

■ Victorian End Terrace Property ■ 2 Double Bedrooms ■ Lounge/Dining Room ■ Kitchen

■ End Terrace Property ■ 3 Bedrooms ■ Lounge/Dining Room ■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room

£ £145,000

£159,950 950

£139,995

ABERGAVENNY

■ Midd Terrace Property ■ Twoo Double Bedrooms ■ Twoo Reception Rooms uth Facing Rear Garden South ■ Sou

£179,950

£139,950

ABERGAVENNY

£195,000

■ Detached Bungalow ooms ■ 2/3 Bedrooms ption Rooms ■ 1/2 Reception tory ■ Conservatory

C H O N

C H

AI N C H O N

O N

■ Link Detached Property ■ 3 Bedrooms ■ 2 Reception Rooms ■ Kitchen

AI N

£134,950

ABERGAVENNY

AI N

£155,000 Of Offers fers Over

C H AI N

£199,950

ABERGAVENNY

■ Bay Fronted Endd of Terrace Property oms ■ 2 Double Bedrooms ■ Lounge/Dining Room ■ Kitchen

£175,000 £175 5,000 OFFERS OVER

£ £124,995

ABERGAVENNY

■ Ground Floor Flat ■ Two Bedrooms ing Area ■ Open Plan Kitchen/Living ■ Shower/Wet Room

■ Link Detached Property ■ 3 Bedrooms ■ 2 Reception Rooms ■ Conservatory

£96,500 500

£184,950

MARDY

■ Detached Property Situated In A Large Plot

Detached ched Period Property ■ Detac

w ■ Detached Bungalow

■ Situated Within Brecon Beacons National

■ Largee Corner Plot

■ Corner Plot

■ Park

edrooms ■ 2/3 Bedrooms

■ Three Bedrooms

ception Rooms ■ 2 Reception

■ Lounge

■ Two Reception Rooms

■ Scopee For Improvement

■ Bathroom

■ Kitchen

ched Double Garage Detached ■ Detac

■ Kitchen/Breakfast Room

■ First Floor Bathroom

way ■ Driveway

■ Garage & Drivewayy

■ Detached Double Garage

sed Gardens ■ Enclosed

■ Enclosed Gardens

£215,000

£239,950

The Summer Issue • August / September 35

Gazette & Diary Magazine

PROPERTIES OF THE MONTH Glan-Yr-Arw, Pantygelli, Abergavenny - £575,000 NESTLED in open countryside within the Brecon Beacons National Park this superbly presented detached property boasts four bedrooms, three reception rooms, kitchen/ breakfast room, family bathroom and two ensuites, parking for several vehicles, ¾ of an Acre of beautiful formal gardens, stunning views over open countryside and a large detached workshop. The property is also within minutes of the town of Abergavenny, local schools

and The Crown Inn making it an ideal family home. Offered with no

onward chain, Glan-YrArw must be viewed to fully appreciate.

St Annes Cottage, Grosmont - £350,000 SITUATED between the picturesque villages of Grosmont, Llanvihangel Crucorney and Cross Ash, St Annes Cottage is a beautifully refurbished stone cottage which has been extended by the current owners. The property comprises 3 bedrooms, 2 reception rooms, kitchen/room, family bathroom and a master en-suite. Outside of the property are delightful gardens, parking for several vehicles and a large detached garage. There are also many amenities in the local villages surround-

ing the cottage including Primary Schools, which makes this prop-

erty ideal for families and must be viewed to fully appreciate.

SEVACARE

THE CARING PROFESSIONALS Sevacare is one of the foremost providers of home support services in the UK. Our focus is entirely on enabling our Service Users to live as independently as possible in their own homes and improving their own lives. We are led by quality, not profit. We employ the best in the industry to ensure we provide the best possible level of care and support we can. To find out how we can help you please contact us.

Call the Abergavenny Branch on: 01873 856 298 Visit us at Baker Street Showroom, Baker Street,Abergavenny, NP7 5BB. Or visit www.sevacare.org.uk to enquire online

36 The Summer Issue • August / September

Proud to be a vet dentist I Dogs die in hot cars S

UMMER can be wonderful time for you and your dog to spend time outdoors exercising and having fun. However, it is important to understand that hot temperatures can be very dangerous, too, and you must keep your dog cool. The most common warm weather hazards include heat stroke, dehydration and sunburn - all of which can be prevented. Watch your dog for signs of illness, and call your vet right away if any problems arise. In order to keep your dog safe, here are some important things you need to know about summer time hazards and prevention. Cars Never leave your dog in the car unattended. Despite the many warnings about this, each summer brings numerous accounts of dogs that become sick or even die of heat stroke because they were left in a car. Even if it does not seem that hot outside, the temperature inside the car can rise to dangerous levels within minutes. If you absolutely must bring your dog with you on errands, make sure you bring another person who can stay in the running, air-conditioned car with your dog. Otherwise, do your dog a favor – leave her at home Outdoor Play Steer clear of long walks and strenuous exercise on hot, sunny days. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Not only is there a risk of heat stroke - dogs can get sunburns, too. Consider sunscreen for your dog (compare prices). If you are planning to spend time outdoors with your dog, find a shady spot and provide plenty of fresh, cool water. Try to take leisurely walks during the cooler times of the day, like the morning or evening hours. Remember to protect your dog's feet from getting scorched by hot pavement. Sunscreen for dogs can help protect your dog as well. Events It might be best to leave your dog at home when going to large outdoor festivals or parties. A large crowd can be overwhelming and it increases the chances of injury, dehydration and exhaustion. Plus, there's bound to be a lot of unhealthy or even toxic food and trash on the ground that your dog might try to eat. Also re-

member that fireworks and other loud noises can frighten dogs into running away or otherwise injuring themselves. If you do bring your dog to events, keep her close by and watch out for potential hazards.

Swimming and Water Activities Stay near your dog while playing or swimming in a lake, river or the ocean. Contrary to common belief, not all dogs are skilled swimmers. Also remember that even the most experienced swimmer can become a victim of an undertow, jellyfish or other hazard. Also, prevent your dog from drinking the water. Salt water can cause dehydration, vomiting and diarrhea. Water in lakes, ponds and rivers may contain parasites and bacteria that can infect your dog. Always provide plenty of fresh, clean water for drinking. If you bring your dog on a boat or canoe, a life jacket is just as important for your dog as it is for you. Falling or jumping overboard is always possible. Any dog that spends time near water should have her very own pet life vest. Parasites and Pests Spending time outdoors means more exposure to various parasites and pests. Always check your dog for ticks after spending time outside. Keep your dog on flea prevention to avoid flea-related issues. Because mosquitos carry heartworm disease, your dog must be on heartworm prevention if you live in an area where mosquitos are present. Also remember that an encounter with a skunk can be quite a hassle. More dangerous are snake bites, which commonly occur in spring and summer. Stings and bites from insects such as bees, wasps, scorpions and spiders are also risks Keeping Your Dog Safe Bottom line: keep an eye on your dog. Don't leave her unattended. It's important to always exercise common sense and proceed with caution to help keep your dog safe, regardless of the season. Summertime comes with its own set of hazards, so make sure you are familiar with the risks. Learn what warning signs mean trouble. When in doubt, call your vet right away. When all is said and done, it will be much easier for you and your dog to enjoy the summer.

have a confession. I like dentistry. Now the saying goes: dentists are failed doctors and doctors are failed vets. So why become a veterinary dentist? I admit it because dental good treatment is one of the most rewarding ways of improving a pet’s quality of life. They get better. Dogs and cats suffer from all the same oral and dental diseases as humans. They get bleeding gums all the time (85 per cent of dogs over three years old in fact), a sign of gingivitis that leads to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease is the disease of tissues that hold your tooth in its socket. Disease around your teeth loosens them; they get wobbly, and fall out. Dogs have 42 permanent teeth – the most I have had to remove due to irreversible periodontal disease is 38. The other four had already fallen out! And yes, pets cope well with no teeth and will still eat kibble and soft food because at least the tooth ache had gone. Dogs and cats suffer from tooth ache. However, they are very poor at complaining about it. Despite what most owners expect, pets do not rub their

jaw, point at the affected tooth and stare mournfully at you with tooth ache. Evolution has not carried our best friends that far, except in cartoons. Pets suffer in silence. Please do not give your dog bones because they break their teeth. I know some dogs chew bones for years and get away without injury just as my Uncle Tom smoked and drunk every day for 40 years but then died, quite unexpectedly at 49. So, if you teach you pet to give a paw why not “flip-his-lip” and get brushing. Pop over the Abbey Vets and I’ll teach you how to brush and together we’ll avoid that dreaded doggy breath. Ben Hynes, Vet Dentist (and proud of it)

“A caring, friendly, professional vets”

Puppy & Kitten Starter Packs..............................................£49.99 PetPlan nominated Practice & Vet of the Year 2013 British Dog Groomers’ Association Salon

24hr Onsite Nursing Care Appointments 0900 - 1830hrs (Mon - Fri) 0900 - 1230 (Sat)

www.abbeyvets.co.uk • Tel: 01873 852391 The Summer Issue • August / September 37

Fast Fuel Ltd

Your trusted local fuel supplier FAST FUEL LTD is an independent fuel distribution company offering fuel solutions, wherever you are, whenever you want. Since being under new management for the last three years, Fast Fuel has fast become the most trusted local independent supplier in the market, servicing domestic, agricultural and commercial customers throughout South Wales and the Forest of Dean. We specialise in supplying heating fuel and agricultural diesel. We also stock road diesel for our regular customers and premier paraffin. We stock 200 litre barrels and 25 litre containers, so we can match all our customers’ needs no matter how small. We also

supply tanks and can source all other accessories related to the sale of fuel. We know that our customers need fuel at all times and in all delivery amounts, which is why we have an emergency out-of-office service so you can get hold of one of us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We are happy to discuss pricing with our customers and to give advice on where we think market pricing is going. In this way, we can offer you the best advice on when to fill your tanks so that you can achieve the best savings possible. For further information, give us a call on 0800 093 8445. We look forward to helping you.

Innovation is the and sustainable W

ELSH farmers have been urged to be open to new ideas, new developments and new ways of working at the launch of an inaugural Royal Welsh Show exhibition featuring hi-tech innovations. The Tomorrow-Today exhibition, launched in the Green Pavilion by Wales’ Minister for Natural Resources and Food, Alun Davies, incorporated innovations intended to increase production whilst reducing farming’s negative impact on the environment. The minister said products and services that can help farm businesses deliver professionally run, profitable and sustainable farm businesses are key to the industry’s future success. Farming, like any other businesses, cannot stand still, he insisted. The exhibition, which is likely to become a regular feature at the show, is a collaboration between the Royal Welsh Agricultural Society and Farming Connect. It showcased everything

from new grass and clover varieties to GPS technology. Mr Davies said innovation was a key aim of Farming Connect and it constantly sought new ideas and technologies that would contribute to the development of a strong and vibrant farming industry in Wales. He toured the exhibition and met the exhibitors involved. He said incorporating daily seminars – Tomorrow’s Farming Forum - within the exhibition had added to its impact

At Fast Fuel, we take pride in our ability to deliver the fuel you need, when you need it, swiftly and efficiently. With depots in Ragan and the Forest of Dean, we are your trusted local independent fuel supplier giving the best coverage in the area.

wherever you are industrial

With the same high level of service for our domestic, commercial and agricultural customers, you can rely on Fast Fuel ‐ wherever you are.

domestic

0800 093 8445 01291 691 402 www.fast‐fuel.co.uk info@fast‐fuel.co.uk

FREE!

We are offering 20 litres of ISO 32 or 46 hydraulic oil with every 1000 litres of red diesel purchased during July and August.

Grangemill Industrial Estate, Raglan, Usk NP15 2BX 38 The Summer Issue • August / September

key to profitable farming in Wales Exhibitors included Patchwork GPS systems which offers farmers opportunities to save labour, fuel and materials; Agri Advisor, which specialises in mobile applications ‘apps’ to assist with ‘real time’ record keeping and aid management decisions, and E+V Technology, a company supplying objective carcass grading systems using Video Image Analysis. Nerys Llewellyn Jones, of Agri Advisor, said the exhibition had presented a tremendous opportunity for promoting the work of businesses like hers. “It’s an important platform for showcasing what we do, we couldn’t have had a better opportunity,’’ she said. A number of exhibitors won awards at the show including eCow, a company producing bolus technology designed to improve animal health. The business was awarded the Royal Welsh Show Award of Merit for a new innovation that shows the most potential for imIINNOVATOR: Wales’ Minister for Natural Resources and Food Alun Davies is pictured at the Tomorrow-Today exhibition proving agriculture in Wales. with Sam Mottram of award-winning eCow.

The Summer Issue • August / September 39

HCC stand takes top prize at Royal Welsh Show J

UDGES and visitors to the Royal Welsh Show 2013 have been impressed by the eye catching stand that is promoting mouth watering Welsh Lamb, Welsh Beef and pork. Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales’ (HCC) stands at Llanelwedd were named the best commercial trade stand in the non agricultural sector. Dai Davies, HCC’s Chairman, said “It is a great honour for us to win this award. We put in a huge amount of work to ensure that our stands are eye catching and attract people to taste the fantastic meat that we produce here in Wales or find out more about the work we do on behalf of our stakeholders. “We have some excellent chefs visiting our stand this week to host cooking demonstrations and show the public the versatility of Welsh Lamb, Welsh Beef and pork and the amazing flavours you can combine it with.” Among the chefs that will be cooking on the stand during the rest of the week are Ludovic Dieumegard (Tuesday), Masterchef finalists Dale Williams and Larkin Cen (Wednesday) and Sophie Wright (Thursday). The main HCC is stand is situated on Avenue M opposite HCC’s industry development stand, which is inviting stakeholders to say how they would improve efficiency in the Welsh red meat industry as well as TOP PRIZE: Royal Welsh Show President Wyn Jones presents the best commercial trade stand award to HCC Chairman Dai Davies hosting a carcase selection competition.

40 The Summer Issue • August / September

Phoenix Rebore Ltd cover all your machining needs PHOENIX REBORE LTD endeavours to offer quick turn-around service for all your machining needs on cylinder blocks, cylinder heads, con-rods, barrels and crankshafts etc and parts supply coupled with competitive prices. From the smallest aluminium car cylinder head through to commercial heads off the Cummins M11 and Caterpillar etc are 2nd nature to our service department. Cylinder blocks of all sizes can be re-bored or re-lined to suit any application. Parts can be supplied and fitted for most makes of engine, be it, car, commercial, industrial or agricultural. • Cylinder heads: Full pressure testing facilities on site, vacuum testing and ‘hot’ submersion tests carried out. Skimming on all types of head, both ‘cast’ and ‘aluminium versions. All other work carried out such as guide and seat fitting, valve machining and re-assembling etc. • Cylinder blocks: Pressure testing available on most size blocks and ‘decking’ carried out if required. Re-bores carried out on all blocks (if permissible) from around 2 inch bore size upwards. Re-lining carried out where applicable (including single cylinder barrels). Specialist work carried out such as the salvage of ‘porous’ Ford tractor blocks using tried and tested techniques. • Crankshafts: Re-grinding and lapping/polishing carried out on all sizes. Arrangements for specialist hardening where required can be made. • Con-Rods: Re-bushing and alignment checks carried out. • Outside Service: Some engines can be bored (or re-lined) at the customer’s premises in-situ. Subject to accessibility, advice on this available at all times Phoenix Rebore Ltd has the full back up of the Perkins franchise. Perkins Engines are the backbone of our parts business. Through the F.E.R (Federation of Engine Re-manufacturers) together with the diversity of manufacturers we have been involved with, we now have a large number of suppliers who are able to cover most parts requirements that may crop up. All the suppliers we use supply genuine and/or non-genuine parts built to OEM specifications with a full guarantee, in fact, many of parts are as supplied to the OEM’s. We are also proud to be a BTN turbo dealer who is able to boast the “most comprehensive range of turbos available”. BTN can also repair most turbos if there is a problem obtaining replacement units.

Phoenix Rebore Ltd ENGINE MACHINING SERVICES AND PARTS

Tel: 01432 342282 Fax:01432 353127 ‘ALL MAKES’, CAR, COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL CYLINDER HEADS: All machining and testing carried out CYLINDER BLOCKS: All boring and re-lining work carried out CRANKSHAFTS: Regrinding and lapping CON-RODS: Testing and re-bushing OUTSIDE WORK: In-situ re-boring and re-lining PARTS: All makes of engine parts supplied, new and service exchange 26 BEECH BUSINESS PARK, TILLINGTON ROAD, HEREFORD, HR4 9QJ

info@phoenixrebore.co.uk

www.phoenixrebore.co.uk

The Summer Issue • August / September 41

Gazette & Diary Magazine

The best of the bunch: Cosmos

THESE dainty annuals, with their feathery leaves and large, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink and white, are easy to grow from seed and make a great addition to the border. They fill in spaces where earlier summer blooms have faded and are also great for cutting. There are many varieties, some of which grow to around 1.8m (6ft) although the more common types in garden centres at this time of year grow to around 60cms (2ft). There are also perennial types, most notably the now-famous Cosmos atrosanguineus, a chocolate-scented, bronze-flowered type which is often grown in borders alongside deep red dahlias and sizzling orange crocosmias. Cosmos thrive in moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Deadhead them regularly to encourage further flowers, which can last until October. Good choices include Gazebo Mixed, with large blooms in velvet red, rose-pink and pure white, and Dazzler, which is carmine.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let your plants

T'S the same every year; the garden reaches its peak with borders bursting into bloom, patio plants beginning their dazzling displays, and fruits swelling in the vegetable garden - and then you go on holiday for two weeks... Of course, if you have friendly neighbours or family nearby who can water and deadhead your plants while you're away, then you don't have much to worry about. Their reward can be harvesting some of your vegetables and eating them when they are fresh, or treating themselves to a bunch of cut flowers from your plot. If they help themselves to crops that need regular

picking, like beans and courgettes, the plants should still be cropping well for when you return home too. But if you don't have such kindly helpers, how are your plants going to manage in your absence? Luckily, there are some measures you can take to help your plants survive for a while without you. If you have patio plants, water them well before you go away, maybe even dunking the pot into a bigger bucket of water so it soaks the compost completely from below, then put all the pots together (this encourages humidity) in a shady spot so there's less evap-

oration while you're away. If you have space, dig a small hole in the border soil in a shady spot and rest your hanging basket in the hole, watering it well so it is completely soaked. Some of the escaping water will moisten the soil underneath, helping keep your plants damp in your absence. If you haven't invested in automatic irrigation systems you can set up a temporary automatic watering system by submerging strips of capillary matting in a trug full of water and then running the end of the strips to your containers. The matting absorbs and holds water which can be drawn up by the soil in

In the garden: what to do this month l Prune larger-leaved evergreens including laurel. lRemove rose blooms as soon as they fade, cutting right back to a bid in a leaf axil to ensure the plant retains good shape and continues to flower later in the year. lPick flowers such as sweet peas and dahlias to encourage further flowering. lDivide overcrowded and congested clumps of rhizomatous iris, carefully lifting each clump and then dividing them into separate chunks with a sharp knife. Replant

21 years of excellence

42 The Summer Issue â&#x20AC;˘ August / September

immediately in a sunny site. lGive hardy geraniums a haircut with shears to help them stay compact. lCut lavender for drying, just before the buds open fully, and tie them in loose bunches, hanging them upside down in a well-ventilated, warm spot. lWhen the foliage of garlic starts to yellow, the bulbs should be ready for lifting. lRegularly remove side shoots from tomatoes. lKeep recently laid lawns well

watered at all times. lContinue to sow salad plants such as rocket, lamb's lettuce and claytonia. If you want baby leaves, don't thin them out, just snip off the leaves when they are a suitable size. lPrune summer-fruiting raspberries as soon as they finish cropping. lTop up water levels in ponds if necessary. lPeg down runners on strawberry plants to create new plants if you didn't do so earlier.

die while you are on holiday the pots. Set the system up a week before you go to ensure it's working. Alternatively, cover the soil surface with water-absorbing gel, watering it so that it swells and absorbs water. This provides a protective barrier to stop water evaporating from the compost and also gives the compost some moisture. The crystals will also soak up and hold moisture if it rains while you're away. Remove all open flowers from healthy bedding plants so they produce a flush of new blooms on your return and feed them with a liquid fertiliser, following the instructions on the packet. Don't be tempted to give them any extra feed. You can take the shears to some annuals, trimming off the old blooms to make way for new buds to develop, which should give you some colour on your return. You can also cover container plants greenhouse with shade netting to reduce water loss - but don't do this in the front garden or it will act as a message that you're away from home. Cut the grass and trim the edges be-

fore you go and it will survive quite happily without you. If it's long on your return, don't cut it short immediately or it will turn yellowy brown. Instead, raise the mower blades for the first cut and gradually lower them over the next two or three. Established borders should be all right without water for a week or two, as the roots of established plants will go deep into the soil for moisture. However, make sure you weed before you go, as weed seedling can soon take over. Give the area a good water and then mulch with organic matter to help retain the moisture. Hopefully, you will return from your break to find a garden not as tired as it might have been, and ready to be revived.

Good enough to eat: Hyssop YOU may have trouble finding this Mediterranean herb in a supermarket, but the blue, white or pink flowers are lovely in salads or drinks, while the leaves can be used fresh, dried or preserved in olive oil. This aromatic plant, which is a magnet for butterflies and bees, will thrive in a sunny spot against a south-facing wall and can be grown in any pot of 30cm (12in) diameter or more, with plenty of drainage and light, welldrained compost mixed with grit. When the flowers appear, feed regularly with comfrey fertiliser and deadhead the plant regularly to keep the hyssop flowering. Plants need to be protected in winter with horticultural fleece if temperatures fall below -5C (23F).

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The Summer Issue â&#x20AC;˘ August / September 43

Gazette & Diary Magazine

HETHER it's chopping, stirring, cracking an egg or simply tasting, kids love 'helping' in the kitchen. And it seems today's parents are allowing them to 'help' much younger than their own parents did. While most childrens' parents learnt to cook at an average age of 10, new research suggests many children are now learning from the age of six, trying everything from cooking an omelette, chopping an onion to making a white sauce. Research by BBC Good Food magazine also found that only 40 per cent of current parents think their cooking skills were better than their children's at the same age, and blame this on their own parents being less relaxed about letting them in the kitchen. BBC Good Food magazine editor Gillian Carter explains: "It's easy to forget that for years home-cooking was the preserve of the adult woman of the household, and often children were shooed out of the kitchen." However, half of today's parents view cooking as an essential life skill, with three quarters (of those questioned) saying it also means they spend quality time with their children. “Today cooking, inspired in part by television, is seen as an opportunity to spend time together doing something fun and practical," adds Carter. Children's cookery expert Annabel Karmel, who has just written the new book Kids in the Kitchen, says children can start mixing food, rolling out dough and cutting out pastry shapes from as young as three years. "It's like them using Play-Doh, except they don't eat that," she says.

Kids in the kitchen Today's 'Jamie Oliver generation' of children are learning to cook much younger than their parents did. Lisa Salmon looks at ideas for budding chefs. "It's a great way of bonding, and a fantastic way of learning, by counting and understanding time, in a fun way. It should always be fun." Because children have such a short attention span, she says parents should encourage them to make things that take no more than half an hour from start to finish, like Rice Krispie cakes, cupcakes or wraps. She also points out that if children are fussy eaters, cooking has the added benefit of getting them interested in food they might not otherwise have eaten. While parents, of course, need to be careful when children are using knives, Karmel says children as young as six or seven can be taught to use such utensils safely. "If you don't teach children to use knives,

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44 The Summer Issue • August / September

then one day they'll use one without any instruction and they'll cut themselves. Children aged six or seven are able to use sharp knives, as long as they're taught to use them properly and they're responsible. It's an important part of cooking. If you wrap them in cotton wool, one day they're going to experiment, and that's much more dangerous." She suggests children initially try simple cookery like grating cheese, making scrambled eggs, cracking eggs, using a sieve, kneading dough, squeezing oranges and whisking egg whites. "They could use the egg whites to make a meringue, or the orange juice to make

a smoothie," she says. Other suggestions include rubbing butter and flour together to make a crumble, crushing biscuits in a plastic bag to make a cheesecake base, and making their own tomato sauce for pasta, or their own pizzas. Another idea is to get kids to make chicken nuggets, by dipping chicken pieces in egg and flour and then in a mixture of crushed Rice Krispies and grated parmesan cheese, and then frying them. In the BBC Good Food magazine survey, 16% of parents felt the reason their generation learned to cook later was because cooking was previously regarded as a girl's task. However, Karmel says boys should be taught to cook just as much as girls - after all, many celebrity chefs are male and their TV shows are inspiring youngsters to cook. "The days when it was just girls in the kitchen have gone - there are so many male chefs now," says Karmel. "If you get a boy to cook something they really like to eat, like a chocolate brownie, they'll get engaged with cooking." She suggests that children take over the kitchen for a day, and make a meal for the family, pointing out that children love to be part of the adult world. Another idea is cooking birthday parties, where children make all the party food, like pizzas, during the party. "These things are good fun - just make them part of everyday life," says Karmel. "It's a life skill they need - otherwise when they leave home they'll be reliant on junk food and have a really bad diet. It will impact on their health if they can't cook." And you never know, if they do learn to cook, they could be the next Jamie Oliver. He started cooking at a young age in his parents' pub, and told BBC Good Food magazine: "My dad put me on the veg section - I was peeling first, then later chopping when I was safe with knives. "These days, my kids love cooking, especially the two older girls. We're always making bread and cakes together, and they now do all the salad dressings." ! KIDS in the Kitchen is part of a new Annabel Karmel's Favourites book series launching in Sainsbury's this month priced £4.99 for two books. For more information, visit www.annabelkarmel.com

Jackman keeps his claws in HIS X-Men alter ego may have a dark edge, but nobody has a bad word to say about Hugh Jackman. The Aussie star tells Shereen Low about bulking up to play Wolverine again - and why there are some things an actor shouldn't tell his wife. HE'S known as one of Hollywood's nicest guys, and it seems Hugh Jackman lives up to his reputation. Before The Wolverine started shooting, the Oscar-nominated actor threw a sushi party for the cast and crew in Sydney, so they could all get to know each other. The Australian star's generous gesture was to introduce his Japanese co-stars like Hiroyuki Sanada, who plays Yashida, and film newcomers Tao Okamoto (Mariko) and Rila Fukushima (Yukio), and welcome them into the fold. Sanada says it was a "great night". Jackman was also one of the reasons James Mangold decided to sign on as director. The Wolverine marks the pair's first reunion since 2001's Kate & Leopold. "I've got a great friendship with Hugh. I've worked with him once and love him dearly," says the Walk The Line film-maker. Jackman, 44, returns the praise: "Jim knows how to make a movie that's fun, has incredible action, and yet also delivers all the finer elements of character and storytelling. He pushed me to go deeper, angrier, heavier, more berserk in every way." Fortunately, there's no sign of Wolverine's darker side today. Jackman, sporting his full Wolverine beard, is suited and booted as he walks the red carpet at the film's UK premiere, hand in hand with wife Deborra-Lee Furness. Gracious and affable, he takes time to speak to journalists, sign autographs and have photos taken with fans. "England's in my blood. I come here and I pull out my British passport, which is good," says the actor, whose parents were born in England. "But it's also a difficult time to be here, being Australian, what with the Ashes, Wimbledon, Tour De France and the Olympics," he jokes. The father-of-two reprises his role as Logan and his clawed mutant alter ego Wolverine for the sequel, which is set mostly in Japan and comes four years after 2009's X-Men Origins: Wolverine. The latest instalment, based on Chris Claremont and Frank Miller's Volume One of the Marvel comic book series, follows the events of X-Men: The Last Stand. "This story takes The Wolverine into a world that is vastly different from any seen before in the X-Men series," says Jackman, who was also one of the film's producers. "It's visually different and the tone's different. There are a lot of battles in this story, but the greatest

battle of all is the one within Logan - between being a monster and becoming a human." His immortal alter ego's more "vulnerable" than ever, he reveals. "He's someone who's always marched to the beat of his own drum but at the beginning of our movie, Wolverine's probably more isolated than you've ever seen him. "He's disaffected with the world, because he was created as a weapon and he's rebelling against that, and he feels he's a danger to society. "He's struggling with identity, with his reason to exist, and now he faces the choice of whether to embrace his true nature or not." Jackman's quick to say this isn't a 'reboot' of the last film. The movie's been in the works since 2009, with Darren Aronofsky and former X-Men filmmaker Bryan Singer attached to direct at one point. "The reason it's called The Wolverine is because, I feel, this is the definitive movie about him. It doesn't matter if you haven't seen another X-Men or Wolverine movie," says Jackman. "This feels fresh, different, and I'm just really grateful to have the opportunity." Jackman had to bulk up before filming, after losing weight for his Oscar-nominated performance as Jean Valjean in Tom Hooper's Les Miserables. He relished the challenge. "I've always loved playing this character but I've always felt like I wish I had gone a little bit further physically with him," he says. "This script gave me an opportunity to go further emotionally, and I wanted to do the same physically. I started training and started a very strict diet far in advance, and I think the results have paid off - because when I look at the screen, I see Wolverine. "I think it's important for him to be lean, to see veins, to be vascular yet very strong obviously. I've always wanted people to look at the screen and go, 'Whoa!'" Even Mangold jokes: "There's no CGI there. And ladies, Hugh's hard work is on screen to see." Jackman even turned to pro wrestlerturned-actor Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson for tips. "I rang him up and said, 'Mate, what do I have to do?' and he gave me his diet. Let me tell you, it was brutal - and I only did half of what he does," he says, chuckling. "He gave me his training regime too and that was even crazier." He also had to learn new fighting styles, a variety of ninjitsu and other Japanese martial arts. "I've always portrayed Wolverine as a street fighter and a pub brawler. His style is not pretty - he just wants to take your head off in three seconds and move on," Jackman says. "I was training every day. I thought gym work was hard but training on the martial arts

floor is ten times harder." The work paid off, although the actor was left with an injury after filming an action sequence on board a bullet train. He's keeping rather tight-lipped about the details, but does reveal: "That was pretty hairy. My wife was a little nervous wondering why I was home at four o'clock in the afternoon and I, of course, played it down. "There are two things you don't ever tell your wife about - serious action sequences mistakes and love scenes," he adds with a wink.

Extra time

The Wolverine

• Though he had only five different outfits in the film, Hugh Jackman's wardrobe was made up of nearly 100 individual items of clothing. • Famke Janssen returns as Logan's love interest Jean Grey. "Our scenes are dream-like, beautiful, intimate, and perhaps a little disturbing," she hints. • Each main character underwent three weeks of physical training for their roles. • The film was shot in 80 days in Tokyo and Sydney. • Wolverine's nemesis The Silver Samurai was 13ft tall and made from more than 600 metal mechanical parts. • The Wolverine is in cinemas now.

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Gazette & Diary Magazine

August 2013 Tuesday

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