Gazette & THE
Diary Magazine
FRE E W
ith Aberg the av Chro enny nicle
The Abergavenny Chronicle’s monthly magazine Issue 80 December 2017 £1.50 where sold
December 2017 1
Free guttering with all fascia and soffit orders!!! Free scaffolding on single storey projects
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2 December 2017
Gazette and Diary Magazine THE festive fancy is upon us dear readers. But if the Christmas spirit has yet to put the tingle in your toes or burst the blood vessels in your nose then don’t worry. Pour yourself a large one and jump right into the pages of this month’s cracker of a Gazette and Diary. We’re positively swimming in all things Yuletide this month. If you want tinsel and tack then the bargain basement’s that way, but if you want a warm seasonal glow and the aroma of freshly chopped down christmas tree intoxicating your senses then step right up and unwrap our humble offerings. Like a stuffed, plucked and roasted turkey there’s a lot to enjoy on the plate we’ve served up for you this month folks. As Washington Irving once barked, “Christmas is the season for kindling the fire of hospitality.” In other words - hit the town and burn baby burn! But before you do let’s take a minute to reflect on our waistlines this Christmas. Even the most disciplined god-fearing soul can be transformed into a wild-eyed glutton
F A C T O R Y O U T L E T
carp ts south wales ltd
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm Saturday 9am - 2pm UNITS 2 & 3 NOBLE SQUARE INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, BRYNMAWR, GWENT, NP23 4BS (BEHIND BRYNMAWR RUGBY FIELD)
TEL:
01495 312830
during the festive season. So please remember kind people, Christmas is not a stocking stuffed with sugary goodness and saturated fat. It’s a little more than that. So no matter if you choose to stick a fairy on your tree or a star, the important thing is to give and give well, without any thought for what you might receive. We’ll see you in far off places, or 2018 as the less poetically bent amongst you night call it.
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December 2017 3
NANTYFFIN
CIDER MILL INN
Brecon Road, Crickhowell, Powys, NP8 1SG - 01873 810775 - WWW.CIDERMILL.CO.UK
Roast Dinners on Wednesday
Christmas parties 3 course £20
Christmas Opening Times
24th December 12pm – 4pm 25th December 12pm – 4pm (FULLY BOOKED) 26th December – 12pm – 4pm 27th December – CLOSED 28th December – CLOSED 29th December – 12pm – 9pm 30th December – 12pm – 9pm 31st December – 12pm – 4pm 1st – 4th January – CLOSED
view us on our web and Facebook for more info 1610240
4 December 2017
Online tool reveals the cost of Christmas Day through the decades
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new website, allowing Britons to compare the cost of their Christmas with decades gone by, has been launched. The tool looks at the cost of Christmas trees, a Christmas dinner and a lump of coal, as well as what the best-selling present was for each year since 1968. It aims to take Britons on a nostalgic journey as they compare how much Christmas cost for their parents and their grandparents with what it currently costs the average British family. The team at home interiors specialist, Hillarys has created the online tool in the lead up to the festive season. Cost of Christmas Past [www.hillarys.co.uk/static/the-cost-of-christmas-past/] allows users to select any year going back to 1968 in order to see just how much Christmas would have cost then. The tool will show them how much the typical Christmas dinner cost and how much families paid for a tree, as well what the best-selling present was that year. It also shows the cost of a lump of coal. Cost of Christmas Past reveals which years have been the most and least expensive for Christmas. For example, the best-selling toy in 1977 was POG at just 88p each, while in 2005 it was an Xbox 360, setting parents back £415.61. The price of the Christmas tree has changed drastically too; in 1975 a tree would’ve cost families £208 in today’s money, whereas this year is the best year to purchase a tree, where they’re being retailed as low as £19.99. Tanya Irons of www.Hillarys.co.uk, commented, “Christmas marks the time of year when we go all out; we want to have the best decorations, the best tree and provide the best feast for our loved ones. It’s interesting to see just how much costs have changed over the years, and try to predict how much we might all be spending in the years to come!”
Gazette and Diary Magazine THE
BELL INN
GLANGRWYNEY • NP8 1EH CHRISTMAS DAY MENU STARTERS • Salmon gravadlax served with brown toast and mixed leaves • Cornish crab and pea risotto • Mixed game terrine served with red onion marmalade and mixed leaves • Cream of Jerusalem artichoke and truffle oil soup served with homemade bread • Champagne sorbet MAINS • Traditional roast turkey served with chestnut stuffing, chipolatas wrapped in bacon, roast potatoes, Brussel sprouts and cranberry sauce. • Venison steak served with red cabbage, pome douche potatoes and raspberry & port jus • Pan fried fillet of salmon served with chorizo risotto • Supreme of Guinea fowl stuffing with chestnut mouse served with crispy pancetta mash potatoes and whole grain mustard creamed sauce • Crespella (crepes rolls stuffed with ricotta & spinach and served on a bed of basil tomato sauce and topped with wine cream sauce DESSERTS • Ginger panna cotta served with ginger compote • Lava cake • Cheese board • Christmas pudding served with brandy sauce • Choice of ice cream and sorbet • Mulled wine, Buck’s fizz, Mince pie + Coffee + Tea CHRISTMAS PARTY MENU STARTERS • Salmon gravadlax served with brown toast and mixed leaves • Cornish crab and pea risotto • Mixed game terrine served with red onion marmalade and mixed leaves • Cream of Jerusalem artichoke and truffle oil soup served with homemade bread MAINS • Traditional Roast Turkey served with chestnut stuffing, chipolatas wrapped in bacon, roast potatoes, Brussel sprouts and cranberry sauce. • Venison steak served with red cabbage, pome douche potatoes and raspberry & port jus • Pan fried fillet of Salmon served with Chorizo Risotto • Supreme of Guinea fowl stuffing with chestnut mouse served with crispy pancetta mash potatoes and wholegrain mustard creamed sauce • Crespella (crepes rolls stuffed with ricotta & spinach and served on a bed of basil tomato sauce and topped with wine cream sauce DESSERTS • Ginger Pannacotta served with Ginger Compote • Lava cake • Christmas Pudding served with Brandy Sauce • Choice of Ice Cream and Sorbet • Cheese Board • Mince Pie + Coffee + Tea 1604269
For Bookings Call: 01873 811115
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December 2017 5
Gazette and Diary Magazine TAURUS
Arts and Events
The ‘Ffli – where music takes centre stage
CRAFTS
A
2nd 3rd 9th 10th 16th 17th December
christmas shop high Quality, Fresh cut local christmas trees artisan businesses
RE all pubs with live music the same? Well, in most cases the music is an added extra, put on for special occasions or for something to talk over during your meal. In the Dragonffli music takes centre stage, it is what the pub does – and does so well that music fans now travel from all over the UK and even from across the Atlantic for gigs. When Nick Byrne took over the ‘Ffli – as it is known to music fans – there was a conscious decision to create a venue in Pontypool where music lovers of all ages could congregate and hear the very best up and coming local bands playing alongside outfits who had already made names for themselves. From the outset, ambitious Nick was keen to attract the very best acts, aiming to create a ‘TJs of the Valleys’ – following in the wake of the legendary Newport venue where the likes of Oasis, Green Day, Iron Maiden and The Stone Roses graced the stage. Now, three years on Nick can already boast a string of top drawer acts including Oregon’s Dan Reed Network, the million-selling Pink Slips, fronted by Grace McKagan, daughter of Guns N’ Roses bassist Duff McKagan who turned up at the Ffli to enjoy the gig; and this month legendary rockers, Wolfsbane will be headlining on the 22nd. The Ffli’s layout is as informal as its clientele, the stage room leads to a large bar area where, unlike many music venues, the drinks are reasonablypriced. On special occasions and parties, buffets are laid on and a large patio area to the front of the pub overlooks the green spaces beyond. The Dragonffli opens each week on Friday and Saturday evenings and concert-goers span the generations in an atmosphere both friendly and inclusive. The venue continues to hold many charity nights in support of local and national causes with December 23rd set aside for a Christmas special for the homeless. In addition to the big names, the Ffli regularly gives stage time to artists taking their first steps to performance. There are regular Open Mic nights – with December’s falling on the 15th – where anyone can get up and try out their new or old material safe in the knowledge that the reception will be positive and encouraging. As it goes from strength to strength, Pontypool’s Dragonffli looks set to enter its fourth year as a venue much admired by performers and music lovers alike.
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6 December 2017
Gazette and Diary Magazine
Raise a glass to Christmas
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AGLAN’S own organic approved craft brewery, the Untapped Brewing Company, is a great place to buy treats for Christmas! Brewer Owen Davies says: “We’ve had another great year, with more and more people coming to buy direct from our brewery shop to take advantage of special deals on our beers you won’t get anywhere else. The shop is open Monday to Saturday, and we’ll be open till late on Christmas Eve for last minute gifts!’ The brewery has won another Great Taste Award for their pale ale, Whoosh – their fourth in 3 years, and a gold medal from the Great Welsh Beer Festival for their strong winter beer, Ember. Owen added-‘Winning national awards is a fantastic boost for us, and shows again that Wales makes some of the best beers in Britain! Swing by the brewery and try them!’
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Gazette and Diary Magazine
Arts and Events
Get ready to make all your panto wishes come true with Aladdin
CLEARWELL CAVES CHRISTMAS FANTASY 2017
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ET ready for the ride of your life with RCT Theatres’ brand new traditional family panto for Christmas 2017 Aladdin, which can be seen at The Coliseum Theatre, Aberdare (Friday 1 – Sunday 10 December) and continues at The Park and Dare Theatre Treorchy ( Saturday 16 – Sunday 24 December). Gorgeous costumes, dazzling scenery and a fantastic cast are the magical ingredients in this lavish and vibrant traditional family panto which sees everyone’s favourite panto dame Frank Vickery back by popular demand and wearing some outrageous costumes as Widow Twankey. Also making a welcome return is Maxwell James as the loveable hero Aladdin with Lee Gilbert as evil Abanazar and Laura Clements as the gorgeous Princess Jasmin. With heaps of comedy, some truly magical special effects and tons of panto mayhem, this whirlwind adventure is the perfect festive treat the whole family can enjoy! Tickets cost £15.50 for adults, £12.50 for children and concessions. Also available is a family of four ticket costing £48. Make sure of the best seats in the house by booking early on 03000 040 444 or online at www.rct-theatres.co.uk.
Admission £12.00 per person Children 2 - 14 years will receive a present from Santa. Under 2 years Free (Baby gift from Santa optional £5.00) Online Booking ONLY Opening Times 1st December 23rd December: 10.00am 5.00pm Daily 24th December: 10.00am - 4.00pm also late night every Friday last entry 7.00pm (27th December 1st January Displays Only 10.00am - 4.00pm)
Clearwell Nr Coleford Telephone: 01594 832535 www.clearwellcaves.com
Rhagfyr 1 - 10 December Y Colisëwm, Aberdâr The Coliseum, Aberdare
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Rhagfyr 16 - 24 December Y Parc a’r Dâr, Treorci The Park & Dare, Treorchy
Hysgrifennu a’i chyfarwyddo gan Written and directed by Richard Tunley
Oedolion £15.50 Adults • Plant a Gostyngiadau £12.50 Children and Concessions Tocyn Teulu £48.00 Family Ticket • Grwpiau o 20+ £9.00 Groups of 20+
03000 040 444 rct-theatres.co.uk
A’R
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7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 CPark Hotel The C C CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR 2017 C
Cân AderynC Choir and High Tea C Tri Charity Event C C Blues Brothers & Disco
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Saturday 9th December 2.20pm - 6.30pm £10pp
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Including A Two Course Festive Dinner £20pp 7pm - Midnight - Thursday 14th December
Disco Party Nights
C C Christmas Day Lunch C C New Years Eve GalaC Buffet & Disco C C C Including A Two Course Festive Dinner £20pp T Tuesday S19th December & Thursday 21st December OLD OU 7pm - Midnight
Five Course Festive Lunch Menu £55 per Adult, £25 children under 12 Years and Under 4’s Free of charge
Sunday 31st December Arrival 7.30pm - Carriages 12.30am (Fancy Dress Optional) £20pp
£10.00 pp non refundable deposit is required upon booking Full payment must be received by 1st December A pre order form for dinner and wine will be sent out when booking
To make a booking or for more details: The Park Hotel, Pandy, Abergavenny NP7 8DS Telephone: 01873 890 271 Email:enquiries@theparkhotelwales.com www.theparkhotelwales.com 1617592
10 December 2017
Gazette and Diary Magazine
Experience Crickhowell’s charm C this Christmas RICKHOWELL’S unique atmosphere and creative spirit is relished more than ever during the winter months. Late night opening on December 7 will reflect this in a festive celebration that will see music and singing fill the air as families celebrate, friends catch up over a warming drink or and shoppers pick up gifts unavailable anywhere else. The town’s many independent retailers, cafes and pubs will all be offering a warm welcome. Who could resist having their gift purchases gift wrapped in Webbs, experiencing a taster session of Reflexology and Indian Head Massage at a discounted price with Truly Holistic or turkey rolls and mulled wine at Cashells? Christmas tree decorating at CRiC and a wonderful varied Christmas Fair in the Clarence Hall all guarantee to make this an evening to remember. Art, craft, gifts and food producers all under one roof in the Clarence Hall will offer great variety and a unique festive shopping opportunity for everything from jewellery, fused and blown glass, ceramics and textiles to traditionally smoked foods, fresh bread and cakes. The exhibitions in both the oriel CRiC gallery and the CRiC Studio both embrace the festive season. With refreshments in the Clarence Hall offered by the Rotary Club of Crickhowell, a Hog roast by The Vine Tree and coffees, teas, cakes, snacks, mulled drinks by Y Deli
Fach, a converted horse box, there will be plenty to tempt the taste buds. It will also be an opportunity to meet Odonells Bakehouse and Zero Waste, tenants in the newly converted Corn Exchange. Books, outdoor gear, vintage furniture and beautiful clothes are all on offer in the charming Crickhowell High Street, making it an ideal shopping opportunity or just a fun evening out for all, whatever the weather. Additional parking will be signposted on the day. This an ideal opportunity to come and enjoy a delightful evening out while getting a head start on your plans for memorable Christmas celebrations. Crickhowell Resource & Information Centre, Beaufort Street, Crickhowell, NP8 1BN www.visitcrickhowell.co.uk E: gallery@visitcrickhowell.co.uk T: 01873 811970
Organic Bronze Free Range Turkeys Welsh Free Range Geese Welsh Free Range Ducks Cashells Hampers
Open Sunday 9-12pm
Local Free Ran nge Bronze Turkeys Local Trad ditional Turkeys Local Boned & Rolled R Turkey Crown Game: Pheasant, Mallards & Partridge
Crickhowell 01873 810405 E.mail: mtcashell@bttconnect.com www.cashells.co.uk 1603490
ers h c t u B g n i n n KS Award WiR LOC D DRINK O AL FOODS AN
December 7th 2017
CENTRE FOR C
CRICKHOWELL
r i a F s a m t s i r h C
Taste the diffeerence
& late night shopping
Fun, Festivities & Gifts galore PLUS the CRiC Community Christmas Tree’ Decorating Competition
Yo our Cen ntre for Local Food & Drink Follow us o on Facebook for weeklly specials!
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Pengethley Garden d Centre Ross On W Wye ye • HR9 6LN
0 01989 7330 430 visitcrickhowell.co.uk
w .pengethleyfarrmshop.com www
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Porthmawr Country House
Welsh wedding venue of the year 2017, via Bridebook UK
Your home for your event
Exclusive use of the Mansion and three acre grounds for a three day wedding event. Stay with at least 32 of your guests and relax in the comfort and grandeur of this special location. A family business priding ourselves on helping your individual dreams come true. Completely bespoke; create your own look, feel and menu with our in house chefs and wedding planner. 7 years of 5 star reviews, hosting weddings of all sizes (see our Facebook page). No extra charge for civil weddings, with a choice of 5 different fully licensed areas for your ceremony. Nestled behind a twelve foot high castellated stonewall, this discreet and peaceful setting is protected from public gaze yet enjoys magnificent sunsets over the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains. Late booking and winter discounts available.
Contact Geoff or Beth on 01873 811592 | www.porthmawrcountryhouse.com Porthmawr Country House, Brecon Road, Crickhowell, Powys, NP8 1DE. 1617594
12 December 2017
Gazette and Diary Magazine
Vegan in the house?
Try this fab Christmas breakfast treat
PA Photo/Sphere/Mike English.
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EGANISM and indulgence are not things you'd necessarily associate with one another, but former Made In Chelsea star and influencer, Lucy Watson, is trying to change that. The 27-year-old, who grew up feeding the ducks on her parents' farm and became vegetarian aged six, switched to veganism two years ago - but got bored of being stuck in a cycle of just eating salads and soups. "I was a bit clueless about what I could eat," she admits, "and I did miss indulging myself." So to combat this she's put together her cookbook, Feed Me Vegan, to help make other people’s "journey to being vegan a little less daunting", and prove that "food can still be amazing, even if it's vegan". Think cruelty-free mac and cheese, banoffee pie, chocolate fudge cake, chilli, cheeseburgers and carbonara - yes really.
"This sounds silly, but I didn't really realise cows didn't produce milk naturally," says Lucy, on what triggered her shift to veganism. "I forgot the fact they had to have a baby, and one day it hit me: What happens to that baby? What happens to the calf? Because if we're using all the milk, the baby won't survive. Cutting out dairy, she says, wasn't a challenge in itself: "I don't miss the food at all, it would actually make me feel a bit sick if I ate it now." However, she does occasionally miss the ease of being able to walk into a restaurant - and order anything off the menu without having to go through the rigmarole of explaining veganism to a bemused waiter. But awareness has massively improved, even in the couple of years since she made the switch. And what about her boyfriend, model and fellow MIC alumni James Dunmore? He was a meat-eater, however, Lucy reveals, "The other day he was like, 'I'm going to go pescatarian', and to be fair, he's pretty much been pescatarian since. Before that he had chicken in his life, which was in our freezer." "Christmas is an interesting one, but it's just one day, it doesn't really matter so I'll just be eating a s***-load of vegetables,” said Lucy FRENCH TOAST WITH SPICED PLUMS “As the traditional way of making French toast is to dip bread into egg and milk, it might seem that it would be off-menu for vegans, but this alternative is surprisingly easy to create and just as scrummy," enthuses Lucy . "The spiced plums really do make it, though of course, you can have it with any topping of your choice!" Ingredients:(Serves 2) 200ml almond milk 2tbsp light brown soft sugar
2tbsp wholemeal flour 1tbsp nutritional yeast 1/2tsp ground cinnamon A pinch of salt 2tbsp vegan butter 4 thick slices day-old white bloomer bread, sliced about 2cm thick For the spiced plums: 3tbsp vegan butter 3tbsp light soft brown sugar 6 large ripe plums, pitted and quartered 1/4tsp ground ginger 1/4tsp ground cinnamon Method: • Put the butter and sugar in a non-stick frying pan over a high heat. When it begins to bubble, put the plums into the pan. Sprinkle over the spices and cook for four to five minutes until soft, stirring occasionally. The plums should be well coated with the glossy syrup. Remove from the heat. • Pour the milk into a bowl and add the sugar, flour, nutritional yeast, cinnamon and salt. Whisk well. • Put a large non-stick frying pan over a medium-high heat. Put the butter in the pan and wait until it begins to sizzle. Take each piece of bread and dip both sides into the milk mixture until soaked well. • Add the soaked bread slices to the pan and cook for three to four minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Put the plums back over the heat to warm through. • Serve the plums on the bread, making sure to use up all the spiced buttery syrup. Feed Me Vegan by Lucy Watson, photography Mike English, is published by Sphere, priced £16.99. Available now.
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December 2017 13
ROSS
A40 MONMOUTH Traffic lights Petrol Station Tunnels MILLBROOK GARDEN CENTRE
Beech Road REDBROOK Toll Gate House B4293
MITCHEL TROY
CHEPSTOW
TO RAGLAN
Millbrook Garden Centre MITCHEL TROY, MONMOUTH. NP25 4BD TEL: 01600 713770 Millbrook is a family run independent garden centre. Christmas trees on sale from 26th November. Freshly cut, potted and pot-grown. Low needle drop and traditional trees from 4ft to 10ft. ¥ Excellent variety of Winter interest plants, flowering or with berries ¥ We have a wide selection of quality outdoor furniture and are a main stockist of Weber barbecues. ¥ We also stock bagged logs, coal, kindling, firelighters and heat-logs
Come and visit us, weÕre bigger than you think!
www.millbrookshop.com 1603334
14 December 2017
Gazette and Diary Magazine
s hristma put a C family ot n y Wh to your greetingnd friends a enny Abergav in The ronicle Ch
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Buckland Hall Exclusively yours...
With thanks to Lewis Fackrell Photography.
If you have always dreamed of a beautiful, picturesque and exclusive country house wedding then Buckland Hall is the perfect wedding venue for you. Nestled amongst the stunning backdrop of the Brecon Beacons, Buckland Hall offers bags of charm, exquisite vegetarian cuisine and a true feel of enjoyment and relaxation. With its idyllic surroundings, personal service, and privacy, the exclusivity of Buckland Hall allows you to tailor-make your wedding exactly as you choose, offering you complete flexibility to have your dream wedding.
Wedding Open Evenings: Sun 17th December & Sun 14th January 4pm – 8pm We will be on hand to discuss your wedding plans and chat about our exclusive packages and availability. Complimentary glass of wine and nibbles for all attendees!
For further information please call us on 01874 730330 or email admin@bucklandhall.co.uk www.bucklandhallweddings.co.uk Buckland Hall, Bwlch, Brecon LD3 7JJ
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Merry Christmas .. W
HETHER it's chilled to perfection to mirror the wintry landscape, or warm as the glow from a roaring fire, the right spirit can evoke feelings of congeniality and happiness.To put you in the mix, here's how to spruce up your cocktail repertoire this season, with some spicy winter editions La Fleuriste French G&T Thanks to our insatiable thirst for gin, Aldi have expanded their gin palace with some exciting new releases such as La Fleuriste French Gin which contains 17 botanicals and spices and pairs well with their new premium tonic, Ridge Valley. Ingredients: 35ml La Fleuriste, 20cl Ridge Valley Tonic Water, large ice cubes. Method: Half fill a high ball glass with ice. Add the gin and tonic, stir slowly. Garnish: Sprig of rosemary to balance the herbal nature of the gin. Bombay Sapphire Spiced Apple Tea Some like it hot - and Bombay Sapphire have created a spicy twist on this party classic that's in perfect harmony with the gin's 10 exotic botanicals. Ingredients: 50ml Bombay Sapphire, 15ml Martini Bianco, 20ml fresh lemon juice, 3 thin slices of apple, 1 cinnamon stick; 3 cloves, 3 cardamom pods (broken), 1/4 vanilla bean, 1 black tea bag, 15ml honey, 150ml water, 50ml cloudy apple juice. Method: Add water, honey and apple to a pot and heat. Add spices and tea bag and allow to simmer for five minutes. Remove tea bag and add apple juice. Strain. Add Bombay Sapphire, Martini Rosso and fresh lemon juice and stir before serving. Serve in a large teacup. Garnish: Orange zest, spent apple slices and nutmeg sprinkle. Dakin Gingroni With the growing trend for spicy, bitter cocktails, Stone's Ginger Wine is the secret ingredient taking a back set in Thomas Dakin's remix of a classic.
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Merry Christmas • Domestic and Commercial Installers • Accredited for Solar PV and Batteries • Energy Saving and Storage solutions • Maintenance, improvement & repair • Local, friendly, practical and reliable • 10 Year Warranties as standard
Quality Fence panels, Feather edge, Pickets, Sheds, Pressure Treated Timber, Fire Wood Stakes Posts Rails Gates Stock Wire 1603983 Merry Christmas
01873 855431
1608705 1616754
Wishing all my customers a Merry Christmas 2017
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YOUR LOCAL OUTDOOR SPECIALIST Winter Lined Trousers
Down Jackets
Hats & Gloves Waterproof Clothing
Call us on 01873 269031
Visit us at www.greenparkpower.co.uk 16 December 2017
Hiking Boots 1617104
1608690
1608699
3 CROFT COURT (Off Broad Street) ROSS-ON-WYE – (01989) 565676
as ...from us to you
PA Photo/Aldi
Ingredients: 35ml Thomas Dakin Gin, 35ml Aperol, 35ml ginger wine. Method: Build all ingredients in a rocks glass over ice and stir a few times with an orange twist. Garnish: Orange twist. Poinsetta Punch With spruce tips cited as the hero ingredient in the special Winter Edition of Rock Rose Premium Scottish Gin, the original elements have been scaled down to allow the earthy and gentle citrusy notes from the spruce to shine. Ingredients: 35ml Rock Rose, 15ml lemon juice, 15ml gingerbread syrup, pomegranate juice to top up. Method: Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker then add ice and shake until cold. Strain over fresh ice in a highball glass. Top with pomegranate juice. Garnish: Berries (your choice). The Grey Goose French Coffee Why not perk up your palate (and spike up a seasonal favourite) with Grey Goose La Poire Vodka. A pear flavoured vodka that sounds scrumptious in this recipe, and cries out for a slice of pear and cinnamon coffee cake to enjoy alongside it. Ingredients: 35ml Grey Goose La Poire, 75ml warm speciality filter coffee, 15ml demerara sugar syrup, double cream. Method: Build all ingredients in a French coffee glass. Float double cream on top. Garnish: Ground nutmeg. Patron Winter Margarita With hints of aromatic ginger and festive spices, we love this winter twist on the classic tequila cocktail, made with Patron Silver Tequila. Ingredients: 50ml Patron Silver Tequila, 15ml Funkin Spiced Syrup, 15 ml fresh lime juice, 15ml agave nectar. Method: Pour the tequila, spiced syrup, lime juice and agave into a cocktail shaker over fresh ice cubes. Shake for 10 seconds and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish: A wheel of fresh cut ginger.
TAXIS TAXIS
Taxis
AIRPORT SERVICE • REASONABLE RATES QUALITY ASSURED • 6 SEATER GALAXY my TAKEWishing AWAY FOODall COLLECTION
customers Christmas Hope you hadaa Merry Merry Christmas & we
• Vinylux - Polish - Dry in 8 mins • Physique Ultima Fuse and Body Treatment • Individual eyelash extensions
Our success is due to a few things Our prices which are always competitive Our service which is second to none But, most of all I have the best customers! Thank you for all your loyal support over • Shellac Nails the last 9 years, and I hope you continue • Manicures, Pedicures, your support into 2012.
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07970 182283 NEW LOOK BEAUTY CARE 1608692
Waxing and many more Tel: 07970 182283 treatments available • Sunbeds • Wedding Makeup GIFT • Nail Art
Celebrity Spray Tan
VOUCHERS AVAILABLE
WISHING ALL MY CLIENTS OLD AND NEW A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS
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The Centre is set on a farm of 380 acres of pastureland. We are located near Abergavenny in South Wales. It’s run by centre manager Beccy Field. TriFec is on the sunny side of the valley and has magnificent views in all directions. Experience your riding lessons out over our gallops, along peaceful country lanes or up challenging bridle paths. We have a course of working hunter jumps and a BSJA show jumps cross country course. We hold a number of shows at TriFec including, showjumping, open shows, one day events and clear round jumping. Upper Triley FarmLlantilio PertholeyAbergavenny MonmouthshireNP7 8DFT/F 01873 890523 M: 07855 473176E: enquiries @trifec.comW: www.trifec.com
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Flexible appointment times - Open 6 days a week 10am - 3pm Monday & Tuesday - Late night Wednesdays, Thursday & Friday 9am - 6pm - Saturday 9am - 1pm 18 Nevill Street, Abergavenny. For more details call 01873 855688
No job too small 01873 812 686 or 07880 877 090
If you’re looking for horse riding lessons, to put your horse into livery, show jumping, training or schooling, this is the place to come.
JULIAN’S Julian’s Taxis wish you all a Happy New Year
Qualified Local Reliable
December 2017 17
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18 December 2017
Gazette and Diary Magazine
Choose the perfect tree for your home S
Thinkstock/PA
TRUGGLING to squeeze in a Christmas tree that's too tall and wide for the space in your home, leaving you reaching for the secateurs in an effort to cut it down to size? Bigger the better might seem like a good approach when it comes to choosing a Christmas tree, but squashed-in probably isn't the look you're really hoping for, so it's far better to give a little thought to what size and style of tree is going to be best. Here, David Mitchell, Christmas tree expert and buying manager for horticulture at Wyevale Garden Centres , talks us through seven things to consider when choosing your tree... How tall should you go? The first thing you need to consider is ceiling height, says David "A lot of people have no idea how tall their ceiling is, and when you imagine a tree in a certain space, it's easy to get over-ambitious as to what you can fit in there," he says. "You also have to remember that the stand is going to add perhaps another six inches to the overall height of the tree, and quite often you find that you are having to cut the top off, or something that compromises the shape of the tree. So measure the tree and make allowances for the stand." How wide can it really be? "A lot of the trees are coming through very wide. The Nordmann, by its very nature, is a wide variety with a wide skirt around the base." says David. "A lot of people want something that's big, bushy and deluxe, but as a general trend, we do want them slimmer and we try to accommodate that." What style of tree is it? If your space is very restricted and you want an extremely slim tree, Wyevale offers a Swedish style Nordmann, which costs slightly less than a traditional Nordmann - but there won't be as many of them and they sell out first. "Back in 2014, we recognised there was very much a trend for artificial trees at that time that were very stripped out and minimalist, following a Scandinavian approach, where you could see the light coming through between the branches. "We decided to do a version of that with our living trees, so we were selecting trees which had that layered effect, and prune in the field to get that shape and layered ef-
fect. Alternatively, the Fraser fir has a much more narrow profile, which has a more columnal figure and upright habit, with branches sweeping upwards rather than downwards. What sort of scent are you after? For many people, the fragrances of the festive season are part of the appeal, so think about whether you want your tree to be scented. You also have to consider whether you want something highly scented, which might steer you towards a Fraser fir. You can get artificial scents to put in the tree, but there's nothing like the real thing," notes David. Avoid clipping catastrophes If you are going to attempt to trim back your own tree, there are rules about pruning. "Ultimately, you have to cut where is necessary to make it fit the space, but there's a tidy way of doing it," says David. "If you cut any given branch half way down its length fairly unceremoniously, then it's going to look as if it's been cut off. "If you cut it in between the nodes, taking off individual 'fingers' of the tree, or find a natural break, that's always going to look better than if you cut it half way down. I wouldn't just take shears to it and cut it off. Look for a natural join. “There's no risk of damaging the tree but because it's such a centrepiece, it's worth spending a bit of time on it and pruning with a bit of finesse." If the only spot for your tree is by a radiator, you have to accept that it's going to dry out. This means it will need more water, if it's in a trough, and you're likely to see some areas going brown and a fair bit of needle-drop. Consider some alternatives If you simply don't have room for a proper tree, there are other alternatives, such as long dogwood-style twigs or other branches which you could put in a vase and decorate with baubles to give the room a festive air. Many garden centres also sell artificial thin trees which are almost like a standard, just with branches on the upper third of the tree. "There are a lot of artificial trees which have that stark white Betula jacquemontii (silver birch) look," says David. "It gives that stripped out, minimalistic effect. A real one in a pot would be OK indoors for a couple of weeks in December. You can decorate it and dress it up.
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How wallpaper is right on point
W A FABULOUS SELECTION OF CHRISTMAS GIFTS AND DECORATIONS AVAILABLE NOW!
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ALLS - like presents - look their best when well-wrapped. And there's now a huge choice of wallpapers out there, so they can shimmer, sparkle or stun with texture, pattern and colour. Papering a single feature wall, or a whole room, is also a 'fast' way to embrace a trend. After all, we're increasingly following home fashion just as closely we do clothes and a winning combination of cutting-edge digital technology and brilliant designs makes it possible to literally transform a setting with just a roll of paper. Here, three experts in the field reveal their wallpaper predictions for the year ahead... Create drama and personality "Wallpaper has observed tradition for too long and people are starting to acknowledge its potential in their homes," says Catherine Jacob, head of design at Murals Wallpaper. "Generally, patterns are becoming more daring, with large-scale dark florals, jungle prints and bright coloured geometrics enlivening the landscape of walls once dominated by a conventional neutral palette of paint." For 2018, she predicts large-scale images or repeat patterns will offer a punchy alternative to the small, ditsy patterns of yesteryear. Faux texture wallpapers are recognised as a brilliant way to change the character of a space, with brick for a rustic look or concrete for a chic industrial feel, or even wool for softer luxury. The craft/handmade movement is inspiring design, so look out for more free-flowing painterly styles, merging the look of artisan skills with digital-age technology." Play with pattern "These days, people can choose a look which totally reflects their personality and taste. Whether you prefer a bold colour palette with pops of bright colour, linear or geometric patterns, or shimmering metallics, there's literally something for everyone," says Paula Taylor, colour and trends specialist for Graham & Brown. "For 2018, we've identified key trends which form the backdrop to our new collections. We're focusing on raw beauty - tactility, texture and fresh white forms, which bring purity to a home - think weaves, cane work and wood grain with layered, natural finishes.We're also honing in on gentle, subdued shades, such as millennial pink, arctic blue and cool heather, as well as offering dramatic, dark backdrops.Vibrant tones of turquoise, parakeet green and fuchsia which will burst onto the scene next year, reflecting the desire for botanical opulence and luscious vegetation," Paula adds. Get involved with shimmer and texture "The trend for people to be brave with pattern and embrace colour will continue into 2018," promises Alex Whitecroft, head of design at I Want Wallpaper."The popularity of floral patterns endures and classic patterns are getting an update, with new printing techniques and a fresh focus on detail and larger-scale patterns. A pink/purple palette will be the top favourite. "The trend to bring the 'outdoors in', with the adoption of botanical and tropical looks, will evolve even further. There are so many fabulous ways to incorporate this look, from subtle embossed palm leaves to bold and bright tropical prints." "Industrial papers mimicking the look of natural materials will continue to be popular with metallics and designs incorporating sparkle and shine another hot trend
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Gazette and Diary Magazine
Bring the outside inside this Christmas As thoughts turn to making your home look festive, garden centre expert Alex Cawley gives us a crafty Christmas masterclass.
Mist the centrepiece regularly to keep the leaves looking their best throughout the festive season. If some of the flowers fade before Christmas, replace them with new ones just before the big day. While some people use hairspray to keep indoor decorations in place and to help retain their shine, don't do that with a candle centrepiece, as hairspray can be very flammable.
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as white viburnum, make sure the stalk is long enough to secure to the wreath easily. If you need to make the cutting smaller, snip off a little at a time, as you don't want to cut off so much that it becomes unmanageable. A novel idea is to use thin gold florists' wire all the way up to the flower, which not only gives it a little shine but makes the flower stem more bendable. Keep it fresh
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frame to secure the moss, then add Christmas tree or other clippings (all facing in the same direction) to create the base for your decoration. Use a pair of needle nose pliers to help you secure small decorations to the wire frame. Use real foliage Take a walk around your garden to find berries, leaves and flowers to add to your natural wreath. Ideal specimens include pyracantha, which often has berries on it, holly, the white foliage of eucalyptus, conifers, wax leaf privet and the winter flowers of viburnum. If the weather has been mild, you can use tight clumps of black berries from ivy. If you have to trim your Christmas tree, use offcuts from your Nordmann or Noble to create the frame or help fill in the gaps. Pine cones you may have gathered from a country walk can also be used, or you can buy them from gar-
den centres. Add other natural-looking additions Other items you may want to use include dried orange circles - which you can make yourself by cutting the orange into slices then placing them on a tray in a barely warm oven for a few hours, until they are dried but not completely shrivelled. You can buy cinnamon sticks, lotus flower heads, artificial berries and ribbon in neutral colours if going for a more natural look, with a simple church candle for the centrepiece; this can be placed on a glass candle holder, which will be hidden by the foliage of the centrepiece. Odd numbers are best Your centrepiece needs to be well balanced, so position the items at equal distances from each other and play around with them before deciding where to secure them. Odd numbers always work better, so do combinations of threes or fives for the best effect. Avoid big bows on flat centrepieces as they take the emphasis away from the rest of the decoration, unlike a wreath on a front door, where a big bow placed on the top can be the focal point and brings the whole thing together. Play with the order Start with the largest items, such as pine cones. It you want some focal points, wire together a lotus flower, cinnamon sticks and an orange slice to create a single addition. Use a long piece of wire to secure the items, and then push the wire through and fold it around the frame, making sure you fold the wire back up into the frame so you don't scratch your table. If you are using natural flowers such
Hannah Stephenson/PA.
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HE Christmas tree is up, the festive houseplants are blooming, and all you need now is a centrepiece to give your dining table some wow factor. Alex Cawley, plant area manager at Squire's Garden Centres, offers the following guide to help you make a gorgeous centrepiece using natural foliage and other garden materials... What you'll need To make the job easier, you can buy ready-made pine wreaths which will form the circular base for your candle centrepiece. Alternatively, buy a wire frame and fill it with moss (which you can buy from a garden centre or lift from your own lawn), wrapping florists' wire around the
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LIFE IS LOCAL
Claim Your Date DECEMBER
2 - Christmas Fayre, Pandy Village Hall 1pm – 4pm. Refreshments available. To book a table for £5 Tel 01873 892895 evenings only. 9 – Llanfoist Village Hall, Christmas Fayre and Table Top sale, 2pm. In aid of the Cemetery Chapel. All Welcome.
and so are we!
9 - Bicentenary Celebration of the Birth of Bahá’u’lláh, founder of the Bahá’í Faith: 2-5 pm Abergavenny Community Centre, Merthyr Road. Exhibition, Refreshments, Presentations. Free. All welcome.
Call 01873 852187 to see how your local paper can help your business
10 – Llanfoist Chapel of Peace Christmas Service 2pm. Mulled wine, mince pies and raffle. All Welcome. 15 – Pandy Village Hall, Once Upon a Time Theatre Company presents Cinderella, 7.30pm. Adults £7 Children £4. Tel: 01873 890509.
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16 – Pandy & Monnowside Ploughing Society Xmas Fun Bingo, Pandy Village Hall. New time 7 for 7.30pm. Light Refreshments. 01873 890591.
Professional artists from around the UK • Peter Howson, Scotland • Michael Barnfath, Derby • John Knapp Fisher, Wales • Graham McKean, Scotland • Chris Prosser, Wales
23 – Annual Christmas Whist Drive, 7.30 Llangynidr Village Hall. Usual prizes meat, bottles etc. Tel: 01874 730228 or 01873 730469. 31 – New Year's Eve Ceilidh with 'Stray Away' Llangynidr Village Hall 7.30pm. Bring food to share and own drink. Tickets £7. Tel: 01874 730469, 01874 730228.
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• Acrylics • Pencil/sketch/pen • Watercolours • Oil on board • Oils on canvas • Prints • Pastels Open Tuesday to Saturday 9.30am-5.30pm The Old Police Station, Baker Street, Abergavenny Mobile 07854 843017 Gallery 01873 856633
17 - Borough Theatre - Welcome to Christmas. The traditional Christmas celebration hosted by A4B and featuring the town’s amateur theatre compabnies
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Giant metal spiders and a floral pooch - enjoy the wonders of Northern Spain on a Fred Olsen cruise
But disaster almost struck later when we ordered a litre of local cider just to watch the waiter perform the local trick of holding the bottle above his head and pouring the contents into our glasses. "Bravo," we chorused as the golden liquid found its mark but then it was "oh no' as droplets also splashed over Jenny's new leather bag! Amazingly the ugly blotches all dried and disappeared in a couple of minutes. A magnificent sunset welcomed us as we again relaxed in our Observatory Lounge eyrie as Boudicca cast off to voyage eastwards to the busy port city of Santander. Just over an hour's drive from here, the jagged limestone peaks of the famous Picos de Europa mountain range rise up some 8000 feet from the coastal plain and they, we decided, were a sight not to be missed. And what an excellent optional tour choice it was as after leaving the coastal motorway, we wound our way for 23 kilometers ever higher through the narrow La Hermida Gorge crisscrossing its fast flowing river on narrow bridges amid towering peaks of jagged limestone. Then, like a train leaving a tunnel, we burst out into a tranquil alpine scene and found ourselves into the mountain village of Potes with narrow and colourful streets full of cafes and bars where tourists jostled with sturdy back packers and others sat around taking coffee and soaking up the sunshine. A hearty lunch followed a guided walk but then, alas, it was time to return to the ship where we dined alfresco and a la carte as Boudicca cast off and sailed a further 40 miles along the coast to the famous Basque region seaport of Bilbao. Again we woke to blue skies and were soon driving past the world's oldest transporter bridge, designed by a disciple of Eiffel, on our way to view a late 20th century marvel, namely the Guggenheim Museum. The sheer scale of what looked to me like a giant jumble of tin cans, only they were made of shining titanium, was simply breathtaking not to mention its two guardians, namely a huge metal spider and a random giant floral dog. There was no time to venture inside this cavernous masterpiece as we were off to tour the old town and sample some more pintos. But we left the coach on its return journey to pay our respects to the memory of Alberto Palacio who built that World Heritage listed transporter bridge. We walked across the top, accessed via lifts at either end, and returned on its car carrying gondola before walking back to Boudicca which later slipped out of Bilbao to begin her 800 mile voyage home across the Bay of Biscay. Again blessed with fine weather and a moderate breeze we spent the following day sun bathing, reading and strolling around the decks from where we spotted several pods of dolphins. Around late afternoon, a small migratory bird, which looked like a spotted flycatcher, fluttered onto the deck and hopped about a bit before taking off again. We were sailing home to autumn and the onset of winter so we hoped this little fellow made it to sunnier climes.
Chronicle travel writer Nigel Heath and his wife Jenny head off from Liverpool bound for Aviles, Santander and Bilbao
T
HE haunting notes of Fernando, the sorrowful song about a Spanish boy, came sobbing softly from a grand piano as we sailed down the Mersey from Liverpool towards the open sea. It seemed the perfect serenade for my wife Jenny and I who were sitting comfortably in the Observatory Lounge, nine decks above the bows of the Fred Olsen cruise ship MV Boudicca and bound for Northern Spain. Ahead loomed a ghostly forest of slender wind turbines silently helping to save the planet as a sturdy Isle of Mann ferry steadily ploughed her incoming course. It was a Friday afternoon and we were sailing to La Coruna, the first port of call on our cruise along the coast of Northern Spain also visiting Aviles, Santander and Getxo for Bilbao. But first we spent a day at sea familiarising ourselves with this classic 1973 built cruise ship, while hardier souls paced the windy decks and solitary gannets with their coal black wing tips, skimmed the white crested Atlantic waves. After a lunch of succulent prawns and stir fry from an ample buffet, where we could have ended up like a couple of beached whales, we enjoyed a piano concert of classical Spanish music. Later Boudicca's master captain Juha Sartela hosted his welcome cocktail party followed by a formal black tie dinner and show time.. The world's oldest lighthouse built by the Romans in the first century and a Unesco World Heritage site, was our first tour stop after arriving in La Coruna on Sunday afternoon. But it was our visit to the nearby Galithian town of Bettanzos and a traditional Cheese House, where our small party were welcomed by a piper in traditional costume and playing the bagpipes, that was the highlight of the afternoon. For he also played an accordion with much humour and great gusto, so rousing us to clap and cheer as we watched the light, creamy cheese of the region being made and were plied with tasty samples and local wine. Overnight, we sailed to Aviles in the principality of Asturias where nearby steel mills evidenced the fact that this is one of Spain's most important industrial centres. But coming out on deck and blinking in the sunshine, our attention was snatched by the massive white domed contours and stunning circular tower of the Oscar Niemeyer cultural centre on the far side of the quay. The great advantage of Aviles is that the ship docks close to the old quarter with its squares, narrow linking streets and medieval 14th and 15th century architecture . We stopped for coffee outside one of the many cafes and bars and were delighted when the proprietor suddenly appeared with a delicious plate of complimentary tapas, apparently a regional custom and known as pintos
Nigel Heath was a guest of Fred Olsen whose four classic cruise ships offering fine cuisine and excellent service will sail from Dover, Southampton, Newcastle, Liverpool and Rosyth to a host of destinations during 2018. For further information on Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, visit the website at www.fredolsencruises.com or call Reservations on 0800 0355 242 (Monday – Friday, 8am – 8pm; Saturday, 9am – 5pm; Sunday, 10am – 4pm).
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Raglan Arms @ Llandenny
Dining at the Raglan Arms you can be assured of delicious, classic British cuisine from an a la carte menu and specials board. Chose to dine in the cosy friendly atmosphere in the pub or enjoy the light airy conservatory overlooking the decking area. The conservatory has become a very popular venue for the smaller gathering where 18 can be comfortably seated or 25 for a buffet style occasion. Over 153 customers have voted the Raglan Arms 5 stars on TripAdvisor
“Wow, what a hidden gem. Menu absolutely superb. Lots of fresh fish. Everything cooked to perfection! Great hosts and service. This chef knows his trade! Can’t wait to go back!”
hristmas Day Lunch On Arrival Bucks Fizz
Spiced parsnip velouté, crispy shal lots Confit pork cheek apple and cider,
or
, curried crème fraiche
kumquat and ginger compote, brio
che, endive
Salt cod and spring onion arancini Butternut squash risotto with Jeru sale
, crayfish salad, lemon and dill aiol
or
i
m artichoke and pickled mushroo
m salad
V GF
Elderflower and lime sorbet Roast Wye Valley turkey crown, cran berry and chestnut seasoning, pigs in blankets, roast roots and potatoes, winter gree ns, turkey jus or Fillet of turbot, pink fur potatoes, spinach, chanterelles, champagne and vanilla velouté or Roast vegetable Wellington, wilte d greens, red pepper coulis V
Christmas pudding, brandy sauce or
Chocolate mousse, passion fruit parf or
ait, raspberry coulis
Spiced pear, pistachio cake, chocola te Per las blue cheese, smoked Caerphi
Arrival from 12.15pm Sit Down 12.45pm Service 13.00pm Please vacate by 4.30pm
sauce
lly, biscuits, grapes, chutney, cele
ry
Tea, filter coffee, festive sweet mea
ts
Terms and Conditions Apply
£70.00 per person £40 00 per child
To make a reservation or for more information please call us on
T: 01291 690800
www.raglanarms.co.uk info@raglanarms.co.uk Raglan Arms, Llandenny, Nr Raglan, Usk, Monmouthshire NP15 1DL 24 December 2017
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or
Enquire for menus for Festive Season
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Gazette and Diary Magazine
Transform your table for the festive season T HE festive season is almost upon us, which means it's time to step up to the table - and transform it into a stunning setting for the most important meal of the day (or of the year, really). Choose from a colour scheme of silver, gold or classic red and white (maybe with a dash of Highland tartan) for a Christmas table that will attract just as many compliments as the food. We've already scoped out the best buys on the high street; all you need to do is choose your favourites, and then pop on some carols and set the scene... Set a silver shimmer "Forget any minimalist tendencies and go all out with the glamour and sparkle this Christmas. Gold or silver are festive favourites, but this year, also consider introducing dark, moody tones," says Clare Harris, managing director at Talking Tables (talkingtables.co.uk). "A grey or even black tablecloth creates a dramatic backdrop, and shows off your table decorations more effectively than white. If you're going for a single colour, use a mix of textures and finishes. "A collection of beautiful mercury glass baubles moves a silver scheme from classic to contemporary, especially with the introduction of glittering disco balls. "Surprise your guests by taking your table scheme in new directions," she adds. "Clusters of paper honeycomb, and pom-pom decorations hung overhead, are a new approach to table decorating, which saves crucial table space and elevates the setting." TIP: Iridescent decorations are particularly effective at picking up the light and work beautifully with silver tones. Choose a variety of shapes and sizes, hang from the ceiling with clear wire and attach with removable sticky hooks. For a super-glamorous party-feel, hang a metallic foil curtain behind your table. Go for glittering gold "The Christmas table is an opportunity to go completely OTT and let your creative flair run wild. The whole day is about extravagance, indulgence and glamour, so I love to go a little crazy with the decorating," says Jenny Hurren, founder of Out There Interi-
ors (outthereinteriors.com). "The food is a beautiful sight in itself, but why not add some glitz and glamour to the proceedings and adorn the table with beautiful place settings, decorative touches and 'the decent' china? "My favourite is gold-painted twigs and foliage," adds Jenny. "Eucalyptus leaves look stunning with a touch of gold spray paint. Run a few sprigs along the middle of the table, intertwining them through glass stems, around dishes and bowls and dangle them off the end. Use small bunches of them tied with ribbon and a named luggage label as a truly personal place setting. "If you have the space, add a statement centre piece, such as a quirky gold pineapple, and team the whole look with fresh white linens and elegant glassware." TIP: Arrange a procession of candle holders of varying heights down the centre of the table. Clear glass holders, mirrored place mats and metallic table scatter will reflect the light and add glamour. Stay true to tradition "Always start with a theme and keep to one or two key colours, and then build up the setting. Have in mind the general look you want to achieve, for example classic red and white, rustic, opulent or minimal," says Danielle Tolson, co-founder of Tolly McRae (tollymcrae.co.uk), specialists in luxury table linen, among other things. "This year, I'll be using gold as the core theme, with dusky pink accents, and I'm going for an overall opulent effect. “More is more as far as I'm concerned, and our table will be crammed with flickering candles, sparkling cutlery and glasses. "For a centrepiece, a glass bowl filled with pine cones, baubles or even a foliage garland is effective. Alternatively, lightly spray fruit - pomegranates, pineapples and other exotic fruit - with gold paint and arrange in a clear glass bowl. Add a string of twinkling fairy lights." TIP: Fill miniature bottles with a special tipple and write each guest's name on it using a metallic Sharpie pen; these will serve as both a place card and a sweet favour.
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Gazette and Diary Magazine
Dip into a delicious Christmas selection pack from Wiltshire Farm Foods
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HE new Christmas menu at Wiltshire Farm Foods has arrived
“Our team of chefs have been busy creating a brand new, perfectly selected Christmas Menu. With customer favourites such as Roast Turkey and Christmas Pudding, plus introducing our delicious new Christmas Trifle and Christmas Cake, you can enjoy some seasonal flavours to get you feeling festive,� said a company spokesman.
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Gazette and Diary Magazine
“Order our Christmas Selection Pack TODAY and receive a FREE Christmas Tea Towel,” she added. “With seven tasty main meals and four delicious desserts, the Christmas selection pack is a great way to try the Christmas Menu for just £35.99. “Plus, as a little extra present from us, you’ll also receive a FREE Christmas tea towel worth £4.50 with every Christmas selection pack ordered. If you don’t fancy the selection pack, all the meals and desserts featured are also available to be ordered individually, so you can create your very own
RELAX IN COMFORT THIS WINTER
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*Christmas Selection Pack available to order from 16th October 2017 up to and including 2nd January 2018 or while stocks last. 1603784
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Motors
Gazette and Diary Magazine
Grandparents urged to live life in the ‘fastened’ lane ing a crackdown in the law earlier this year, stating that children must use a car seat until they are aged 12 or have grown above 135cm tall. Three in five of the grandparents surveyed admitted they weren’t aware of the changes to the law, with over half (55 per cent) saying this new knowledge would definitely change their behaviour. As a result, LV= has committed to working with its customers to raise awareness of the law. T he company is also calling on the Government to work in partnerships with manufacturers, schools and the authorities to raise awareness among both grandparents and parents to help them better understand the importance of using the appropriate child seats. LV= Managing Director of Car Insurance, Selwyn Fernandes, said: “Every day, many grandparents provide invaluable help to their families by providing childcare. “This will include countless car journeys and, in light of our new research we feel it’s
important to raise awareness of the law and help families understand the importance of it. “In doing so, we hope to clear up the confusion and ensure grandparents feel more confident that they are driving their grandchildren safely and legally.”
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EW research from leading insurer LV= reveals that almost three quarters of a million (700,000) British grandparents are driving their grandchildren around without following correct safety procedures. In a study to understand awareness of child safety rules among older generations, around one in seven (14 per cent) grandparents admitted they don’t always follow recommended car seat rules. With grandparents travelling, on average, an extra 216 miles a year to cater to their grandchildren, it means that over 151 million miles are driven each year where children are potentially at risk – equivalent to 6,074 roundtrips of the Earth. Added to this, two in five (39 per cent) grandparents wrongly think a seatbelt is just as safe as a car seat, and over a quarter (26 per cent) of those with a grandchild aged between six and nine feel it’s safe to drive without a car seat or booster seat. The research comes follow-
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Lee Jowitt AUTO REPAIRS
• Servicing • MOT’s • Tyres • Diagnostics
FULL RANGE OF VEHICLE REPAIRS We now also offer servicing and repairs for Hybrid Vehicles
TEL: 01873 859100
OPEN: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.30pm Sat 8.00am - 12.30pm
1571109
1608588
Conveniently located at the rear of Nevill Hall Hospital 73 Union Road Ind Est, Abergavenny, NP7 7RQ • Tel: 01873 859100 • Mob: 07591 521752 Email: ljowittautorepairs@yahoo.co.uk
December 2017 29
Gazette and Diary Magazine
PETS’ CORNER
‘Raisin’ a seasonal issue
M
The effects of raisin ingestion isn’t instant; it takes some days to see any negative changes. So after a week we did a blood test and thankfully her kidneys were fine!
EGAN is a very pretty miniature schnauzer. No one has told Megan that she is a little older these days and shouldn’t be getting up to the sort of mischief a puppy would be proud of say the experts at Abbey Vets! Megan’s owner turned her back for a moment and realised shortly afterwards that she had eaten rather a lot of raisins. Complete with their boxes! Not everyone knows that raisins (and grapes) are potentially very poisonous to dogs and cats, but Megan’s owner gave us a call and got her down to the practice straight away.
Take plenty of advice to make sure your pet fits your life Don’t be influenced by TV and social media
V
Nicola Embrey-Jones 07841 911 479
Dog Walking • Holiday Visits Dog Taxi Athlwys, Tywyn Allws, Govilon, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire NP7 9RT w: pawtopalm.co.uk e: info@pawtopalm.co.uk
1617126
HAPPY DAY PET SERVICES 07956 012828 01873 841085 E: michele_j66@hotmail.co.uk Dog Walking, Pet & House Sitting, Comfort visits. Pet transport for buyers & sellers plus transport for pet owners with mobility problems to vets etc., 1617113
With mince pies, puddings and seasonal cakes around at Christmas, we would urge any owner to act like Megan’s owner did as it could save a life!
The problem with raisins is that they can cause the death of kidney cells. Strangely, not every animal is sensitive to them, and the mechanism of why it is sometimes harmful is not fully understood. But in affected pets, kidney damage can be so bad that it can prove fatal if not quickly addressed. Megan was given an injection to make her vomit up the raisins (which made her feel very sorry for herself but she was ever so brave!) and then she was admitted to our Abergavenny branch for a drip. We thought it best to flush her kidneys through as she may have digested some of what she had eaten and we didn’t want to take any chances.
Visit our dedicated Small Animal Team
ETS are hoping a new online tool will help in the fight to reduce the number of pets being put up for adoption, as more than half of pet owners surveyed admitted they would spend more time researching their next pet. It comes as pets made famous by films and celebrities are turning up at rehoming centres, including Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, in increasing numbers. Dr Huw Stacey, vet and director of clinical services at Vets4Pets, who carried out a survey on pet ownership and rehoming, said: “The results from our survey clearly demonstrate that we’re, on the whole, a nation of animal lovers, however we still face a significant battle to reduce the seemingly increasing numbers of pets being put up for adoption. “When choosing a pet, it’s easy to be influenced by pets on social media, a film or TV show but with so many different pet types and breeds available, each with their own unique care requirements and characteristics, it can mean some pets are bought by owners who aren’t fully prepared for the level of responsibility or care required. “And once owners realise they’ve not made the right choice, rehoming centres are often the next step, which is why we’ve created an online tool in a bid to help owners make the right choice first time around.” In 2016, Battersea rehomed around 6,000 animals, an average of seven dogs and nine cats a day, but the centre has recently noticed a spike in certain dog breeds being abandoned. The research also lifted the lid on reasons why pets are rehomed, with a new job, moving house, splitting with a partner and pregnancy/children being the main points To help owners find their perfect pet, vets have suggested four key areas for potential pet owners to consider before bringing a pet home. “Every pet requires time, money, a suitable living environment and diet, and needs to fit in perfectly with their owner’s lifestyle,” added Dr Stacey. “This includes necessary aspects of responsible pet ownership, such as training, exercise, grooming, feeding and cleaning. “Reptiles or an independent cat might be happy to be left alone for most of the day, but a dog or a more sociable cat needs company or they will become bored and frustrated. “Few people realise that getting a pet is actually the cheapest part of owning one. Most pets will cost a significant amount of money over their lifetime, from food and toys, to insurance and veterinary care. “Owning a pet is a huge responsibility, which is why we highly recommend doing plenty of research before choosing your next pet, whether that’s through the internet, books or speaking to a vet.”
Pawfessional Touch The annual Petplan Veterinary Awards are open now for 2017! You can nominate your favourite members of our team if they have impressed you this year. Entries can be made online or you can pop in to any of our branches for an entry form.
Wishing all our clients and pets a Merry Christmas DON’T FORGET ABBEY EQUINE and a Happy New Year Experts in Equine Health Abbey Vets Abergavenny branch
1614110
30 December 2017
Wishing all my customers and pets a very Merry Christmas 101, Bailey Street, Brynmawr. NP23 4DN
01495 618377
1616762
St Arvans Chambers, Hereford Rd, Abergavenny NP7 5PR Tel: 01873 852391
Dog Grooming Services
CALL THE EXPERTS
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1579153
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1601820
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1570267
1573781
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1579206
DAMP CONTROL 1616746
FORD SPECIALISTS
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TIMBER CARE
CARPENTRY
SP Carpentry
• All your carpentry & joinery needs • Long Established Business Stuart Price
Ferret racing and talks at summer shows Pests that I can control include Rabbits, Moles, Rats, Mice, Squirrels, Crows, Magpies, Insects & many more. Also I can normally rid you of Wasps within 24 hours
01597 824562 07719 798796
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1603269
1617772
01873 561193 07784 230148
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1616817
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1608695
Member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen
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1617348
Raglan Ford
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1601790
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1571214
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December 2017 31
Saturday 9th December “Feeling It” Band & Dinner £30.95 per person
Christmas Day Lunch £75.00 per person Unders 12s - £35.00
Friday 15th December Dinner & Disco £28.95 per person
New Years Eve with “Black Rat Effect” Band
Saturday 16th December Dinner & Disco £28.95 per person Sunday 17th December Santa’s Sunday Lunch £19.95 per person (under 12 - £10.00) Lunch with a visit from Santa Friday 22nd December “Black Rat Effect” Band & Dinner £30.95 per person
NYE Gala Dinner £70.00 per person 3 Course Dinner, & 1/2 Bottle of Wine NYE Gourmet Buffet £59.00 per person Buffet, 1/2 Bottle of Wine Including Glass of Bubbly & Fireworks at Midnight and Disco
1590239
32 December 2017