THEATRE OF DREAMS: BEHIND THE SCENES AT OLD TRAFFORD
Page 6
KEEPING BUSY: WHAT’S ON OVER THE COMING WEEKS
Page 11
GOING NATURAL: ALTERNATE WAYS TO BEAT THE COLD
Page 25
Welcome to Autumn Living
AUTUMN is always a special part of the year and is, in my opinion, seriously underrated.
One of my favourite memories of being a child is walking through the woods and kicking the many fallen leaves.
I am sure I’m not alone on looking back at those moments with a warming nostalgia.
It’s also a time of celebration and families coming together.
Halloween, with its spooky costumes and pumpkin carving, is a popular event for both kids and adults alike.
And barely a week later we get to celebrate Bonfire Night.
With the amazing fireworks displays, bonfires, and the traditional burning of Guy Fawkes effigies – these festivities create a sense of community and excitement that is unique to the season.
And then we feel like the countdown to Christmas has begun – what’s not to love about all of that?
In this edition of our magazine the editorial staff have worked hard to feature as much as they can and we truly believe there is something for everybody.
For the people into fitness, we take a look at the benefits of taking up a new sport with squash suddenly making a revival.
For anyone looking to get out and about in the coming weeks we have an extensive entertainment guide which will leave you pencilling plenty in your calendar.
Potential holidaymakers can assess their options for hunting a bit of winter sun with our handy guide of the top ten locations.
The recipe for a slow cooker beef stew is an absolute classic and it is definitely going to become a staple in the Hepplestone household. You should definitely give it a go. And resident boy racer Josh Timlin gets behind the wheel of a Genesis and writes an extensive review.
We will soon be back for a Christmas edition of the magazine and we would like to hear from you about advertising or stories. Please get in touch.
Lauren
Hepplestone
Sales Manager
Page 8
We have a look at some winter getaways
Page 20
The benefits of being part of squash’s revival
Page 11
Our local entertainment guide for October and November
Sweet Sisters Cakery
Sweet Sisters Cakery
UPCOMING EVENTS
Thursday 26th - Sunday 29th September Barnsley International Market
Sunday 6th October Harvest Festival Market Monk Bretton Priory
Sunday 13th October
Barnsley Comic-Con
Saturday 19th October The Yorkshire Chocolate Festival
Thursday 24th - Sunday 27th October
Living North Christmas Fair Newcastle
Thursday 14th - Sunday 17th November
Living North Christmas Fair York
Tuesday 19th November
Castleford Lights switch on
Sunday 24th November
Pontefract Lights switch on
Thursday 5th - Sunday 8th December
Barnsley Christmas Market
Mayor wants more youngsters to join in mission
THE MAYOR of South Yorkshire Oliver Coppard is encouraging more youngsters from across the borough to get involved with his ambitions.
The Youth Combined Authority (YCA) is extending its membership and subsequently looking for people aged between 11 and 24 to join.
The YCA is a chance for young people to get involved in supporting the work and
priorities of the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority.
The mayor’s priorities include improving South Yorkshire’s economy, transport and active travel options.
There is also a green emphasis with the goal of plating planting 1.4 million trees.
Improving health outcomes for South Yorkshire’s residents remains high on the agenda.
Mr Coppard said: “It’s South Yorkshire’s young people who will live with the consequences of the decisions we make now.
“That’s why they need to be heard loud and clear as we develop our ideas and put our plans in place.
“I want South Yorkshire to be a place where our young people can stay near but go far.
“I look forward to working with the Youth
Combined Authority to make sure that vision becomes a reality.”
Above: APPEAL: Youngsters are being invited to join the YCA. They are pictured with mayor of South Yorkshire, Oliver Coppard.
Gee Vee Travel Coach Holidays and Tours
DAY EXCURSIONS WINTER 2024
OCTOBER
DECEMBER
1st
1st
NOVEMBER
7th
8th
9th
11th
Old Trafford trip from behind the scenes...
By Jack Tolson
AS a lifelong Barnsley fan watching the Reds lose 7-0 to Premier League giants Manchester United was hard to take – but the blow was softened somewhat by the fantastic facilities at Old Trafford.
I was privileged enough to help cover the game for the Chronicle from the press box and it’s fair to say the experience was as far away from a cold night at Oakwell as it could possibly have been.
Once you’ve eventually navigated your way into the car park the walk to the press box is something special.
Going through the Munich Tunnel pre-match offered an insight into the magnitude of the game ahead. Walking into the press box, the facilities were incredible. Having covered games at Wembley I wasn’t expecting them to match the home of English football but from the second you walk through the doors you’re met with staff who walk you through your journey there.
The food, a chicken curry with rice, was something a little different to the pie voucher you receive at Oakwell – but they even put the meat and potato pie on for reporters at half-time. Then we walked up to take our seats and the view was phenomenal. There wasn’t a pillar in the middle of the press box like at Barnsley, so thankfully we had a good view of the match.
It was a disappointing performance from Darrell Clarke’s men to say the least but getting to walk alongside the pitch at full-time for the post-match press conference helped ease any pain the scoreline had caused.
There’s often jokes that Old Trafford is falling down but from my experience it is far from doing that. Hopefully one day Barnsley will return and the scoreline may be a little different.
PITCHSIDE: Jack Tolson at Old Trafford. Below: The view from the press box, the pre-match meal and the ball used.
Now’s the time to book the winter getaway...
AS the days draw in... it is tempting to get a winter break booked as we all look to chase the sun.
With that in mind we have come up with ten locations where a bit of warmth is more or less guaranteed.
There may be some surprises...
Canary Islands (Spain): These volcanic islands offer warm temperatures, sunny skies, and beautiful beaches year-round.
Malta: This Mediterranean island boasts a mild climate, stunning beaches, and a rich history.
Cyprus: Another Mediterranean island, Cyprus offers sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and ancient ruins.
Madeira (Portugal): This volcanic island off the coast of Portugal is known for its lush vegetation, stunning scenery, and mild climate.
Dubai (United Arab Emirates): Dubai is a luxurious destination with world-class hotels, shopping malls, and attractions.
Fuerteventura (Spain): This Canary Island is known for its windsurfing and kitesurfing opportunities, as well as its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere.
Lanzarote (Spain): Another Canary Island, Lanzarote offers a volcanic landscape, unique attractions like Timanfaya National Park, and plenty of sun.
Tenerife (Spain): The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife offers a diverse landscape with mountains, beaches, and forests.
Cape Verde: This archipelago off the coast of West Africa offers stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and warm weather yearround.
Egypt: Egypt offers a combination of ancient history, stunning beaches, and warm weather. Popular destinations include Cairo, Hurghada, and Sharm El Sheikh.
Dubai.
PICK UP POINTS
Wath-upon-Dearne – bus stop on Church Road
Brampton – outside The Bulls Head
Wombwell – Summer Lane car park
Platts Common – Sammys (former WMC)
Hoyland Southgate – bus stop / behind Town Hall
Hoyland Common – opposite the Co-op Birdwell – Working Mens Club Worsborough – Ship Inn Vernon Road Barnsley Interchange Stands 23 / 24
£1 off
Senior / Child
Day Trips
October
Sat 5th
Sun 6th
Wed 9th
Fri 11th
Sat 12th
Sun 13th
Fri 18th
Sat 19th
Sun 20th
Wed 23rd
Thurs 24th
Sat 26th
Sat 26th
Sat 26th
Sun 27th
Tues 29th
Tues 29th
Wed 30th
Thurs 31st
1st
1st
2nd
3rd
9th
10th
11th
16th
16th
17th
21st Fri 22nd
Sat 23rd
Sat 23rd
Sun 24th
Wed 27th
Thurs 28th
Blackpool Skegness
Bury Market
Scarborough
Blackpool Illuminations
Llandudno
Whitby via Helmsley
Cotswolds
Blackpool Illuminations
Bury Market & Boundary Mills
Northumberland Coastal Tour & Holy Island
Bridlington
Beamish Museum
Durham
Blackpool Illuminations
Hull
The Deep Alton Towers
Liverpool £17.00
Chester
Chester Zoo
Whitby Goth Weekend
Whitby Goth Weekend
Blackpool Illuminations Vintage Tram
Tour & Blackpool
Blackpool Illuminations
National Memorial Arboretum & Lichfield
Whitby Christmas Market
Bakewell Christmas Market
Blackpool Illuminations
Castle Howard at Christmas
Harrogate – Knitting & Stitchng Show
NEC Motorcycle Show
Llandudno Christmas Market
Halifax Piece Hall & Hebden Bridge
Bury Market
York St. Nicholas Fayre
£17.00
£17.00
£19.00
£19.00
£34.00*
£21.00
£20.00
£19.00
£19.00
£21.00
£46.00*
£33.00*
£20.00
£19.00
£19.00
£17.00
£19.00
£20.00
£16.00
£20.00
£16.00
£19.00
£19.00
£20.00
£16.00
£16.00
£18.00
£16.00
£16.00
£16.00
£18.00
£18.00
£33.00*
£20.00
£19.00
£18.00
£18.00
£20.00
£45.00*
£32.00*
£19.00
£18.00
£18.00
£16.00
£19.00
December
Sun 1st
Sun 1st
Wed 4th
Sat 7th
7th
8th
8th
9th
11th
12th
13th
14th
14th
15th
15th Sun 15th Mon 16th Wed 18th Sat 21st
January
Sat 4th
Sat 4th
Sat 11th
Sat 11th
Wed 15th
Sat 18th
Sat 25th
Wed 29th
8th
9th
13th
15th
16th
19th
19th
20th
Bicester Shopping Village
Manchester Christmas Market
Chester Christmas Market
Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Markets
Durham Christmas Market
Beverley Festival of Christmas
Skipton Christmas Market
Harrogate Christmas Market
Chester Christmas Market
Blackpool Christmas Market
Manchester Christmas Market
Birmingham Christmas Market
Liverpool Christmas Markets
Stratford-upon-Avon Christmas Markets
Beamish Museum (Christmas Carols)
Durham
York St. Nicholas Fayre
Bury Market
Cadbury World
York
York McArthur Glen Designer Outlet
Chester
Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet
Bury Market
Liverpool
Birmingham / World’s Biggest Primark
Manchester Chinese New Year
£19.00
£21.00
£20.00
£20.00
£19.00
£17.00 £45.00*
Plenty to get excited about in coming weeks...
OCTOBER and November promise to provide a host of entertainment for people all across Barnsley.
The Civic will be entertaining the whole family, with a production of ‘There Was An Old Lady Who Swallowed A Fly’, featuring puppetry and animation on October 27, as well as a twist on a fairytale classic with ‘Little Red Riding Could’ on October 31.
Folk fans will be pleased to see Martin Simpson – who was nominated 23 times in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards – come to the Birdwell Venue for an intimate solo show on November 8.
The venue will also feature performances from tribute acts the UK Foo Fighters on October 26 and both the Smith Ltd and Transmission: The Sound Of Joy Division will perform on November 15.
Meanwhile the Lamproom will be putting together a whole host of productions throughout autumn, with celebrated London magicians coming to host ‘West End Magic’ on October 11, a musical interpretation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory running from October 14 to 19 and Sister Act hitting the stage between November 12 and 16.
UK Foo Fighters. Below: Sister Act. Bottom right: Martin Simpson.
Growing plans are now a reality thanks to volunteers’ efforts
VOLUNTEERS at Wentworth Woodhouse have turned the site’s Georgian green into a thriving community vegetable garden.
Hardworking volunteer gardeners and local community groups have spent the last eight months transforming the neglected space – and the stately home is soon to reap the results of their labours.
The Drying Green, a walled area tucked behind the East Front’s North Tower, was used for hanging bed linen out to dry and would have been used on every sunny day for centuries.
The trust decided to turn it into a garden where it could grow its own produce and eventually stage horticultural workshops for local community groups and schools, and secured initial funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
“It couldn’t have been done without hundreds of hours from our volunteers, though,” said the trust’s assistant gardener Helen Kelly.
“Members from our regular Monday to Thursday garden groups came forward to form the Poly Force Team.
“One of them, Steve Woodhouse, stepped up to lead the project and worked on the planning and design with me and our garden assistant Liam Coleman.
“In spring we secured a small amount of money to buy vegetable seedlings and thanks to generous discounts from Horsfields Nursery in Silkstone, B and Q at Cortonwood and Dobbies Garden Centre at Shelley, our money went a long way.
“We began a planting programme, our summer crops are in full-swing, we’ve got lots to come in the autumn and now we want to start growing from seed.
“We’re looking forward to teaching people how to grow their own food, which is rewarding in so many ways.
“It provides families with fresh and healthy food, helps with their finances and is really good for health and wellbeing.
“Research has proven that gardening can reduce symptoms of depression, stress and anxiety and increase positivity.
“We want this to be a welcoming, peaceful place where people can develop their friendship groups as well as their gardening skills.”
Merging Japanese and Scandi is now in vogue...
THE interior design scene is ever-evolving, reflecting the nation’s unique blend of tradition, innovation and global influences. As we approach 2025, we can expect to see a continuation of some established trends alongside the emergence of new ones. Here are some of the top interior design ideas to watch out for:
1. Biophilic Design:
The trend of incorporating nature into interior spaces is set to continue. Biophilic design, which aims to create a connection between humans and the natural world, will be a major focus. Expect to see more plants, natural materials, and organic shapes in homes and commercial spaces.
2. Dark Academia:
Drawing inspiration from classic literature and academia, the dark academia aesthetic has gained popularity in recent years. This trend celebrates traditional learning, intellectual pursuits and timeless elegance. Think rich, deep colours, vintage furniture and a focus on books and education.
3. Minimalist Maximalism:
This trend combines the simplicity of minimalism with the boldness of maximalism. It involves carefully curated collections of objects, often with a focus on a particular theme or colour palette. The key is to avoid clutter and create a sense of harmony amidst abundance.
4. Sustainable Design:
As environmental awareness continues to grow, sustainable design will remain a priority. This includes using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste and creating energy-efficient spaces. Look for more recycled materials and natural fibres.
5. Japandi:
A fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design, Japandi is characterised by clean
lines, natural materials, and a focus on simplicity and functionality. This trend offers a sense of calm and tranquility, making it perfect for creating a relaxing and inviting atmosphere.
6. Retro Revival:
Retro styles are making a comeback in 2025. Expect to see a resurgence of mid-century modern, Art Deco, and Victorian elements. Think bold colours, geometric patterns and vintage furniture pieces.
7. Neutrals with a Twist:
While neutral tones will continue to be popular, designers are adding a twist by incorporating unexpected accents. This could involve
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• salad boxes
• Cheesecakes
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An example of a Japandi-style room.
using textured fabrics, unique patterns, or statement pieces that break up the neutral palette.
8. Open-Plan Living:
The trend towards open-plan living is likely to persist. This design approach creates a sense of spaciousness and flow, making it ideal for modern lifestyles.
It also encourages social interaction and family bonding.
9. Smart Home Technology:
As technology advances, smart home features will become increasingly integrated into interior design.
Expect to see more automation, voice con-
trol, and energy-efficient systems in homes and commercial spaces.
10. Personalised Spaces:
In an era of mass production, personalised spaces will become even more important. This means creating interiors that reflect your unique style, interests and personality. Consider incorporating personal items, family heirlooms, or custom-made furniture. By embracing these trends, you can create a stylish and functional interior that is both timeless and contemporary. Remember, the best design is one that reflects your personal preferences and lifestyle.
Do you know any community heroes who deserve recognition?
The Love Where You Live category in the Proud of Barnsley awards honours those making remarkable contributions to their communities
Barnsley Council s Stronger Communities service proudly sponsors this category, it supports volunteers and community groups through Area Councils Ward Alliances and Area Teams
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There are six area councils in Barnsley, each made up of locally elected councillors who identify key local priorities like Environment and Health and Wellbeing and allocate funds to Barnsley-based charities and organisations to address these needs
Ward Alliances are groups of volunteers who work with councillors to improve their communities They create community plans based on their priorities and have access to a ward alliance fund to issue grants to community groups These typically range from £500-£1500
Over the past decade they have supported at least 60 000 volunteers to deliver community initiatives helping build stronger, healthier, and happier communities
The Area Team are the Barnsley Council staff based in the six communities that support the Ward Alliances Area Councils and promote volunteering and community collaboration
Whether you want to improve your wellbeing volunteer or access services we know the local area and people - we re ready to support you
Nominate someone deserving of the Love Where You Live award now! At barnsleychronicle com/proud-of-barnsley or email at proudofbarnsley@barnsley-chronicle co uk
Search Barnsley Area Team on Facebook to get involved with your community
• Children’s beds to superking
• Mattresses and bases sold separately
• Leather bed frames • Ottomans
• Duvets and pillows
• Mattress protectors
• Children’s bedding
Telephone: 01226 292292
Modern House, Summer Lane, Barnsley
Open 6 days: Monday to Friday: 8.30am – 3.30pm Saturday: 8.30am – 1.30pm
Slow cooker beef stew is the perfect recipe for autumn...
IT’S the time of year when a big hearty meal is called for.
Why don’t you follow our simple steps here to create a slow cooker beef stew that all the family can enjoy...
If you don’t have a slow cooker you can achieve the same result in the oven.
Serves: 4-6 servings
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 6-8 hours
Ingredients:
2 pounds beef cut into 2-inch cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
3 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon flour
2 tablespoons cold water
Instructions:
Brown the beef: Season the
beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute more.
Assemble the stew: Transfer the beef, vegetables, beef broth, red wine, and bay leaf to a slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Cook: Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the stew has thickened.
Thicken the stew: In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and cold water until smooth. Add the slurry to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.
Serve: Remove the bay leaf and serve the stew hot with crusty bread.
Extra tips:
For a richer flavour, use red
wine that you would enjoy drinking. You can add other vegetables to the stew, such as mushrooms, potatoes, or parsnips. Serve the stew with a side of
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mashed potatoes or a hearty salad.
For a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced chilli pepper. This hearty beef stew is the
perfect comfort food for a chilly autumn day.
The slow cooking process allows the flavours to develop and the beef to become incredibly tender. Enjoy!
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Board of the same old games?
IT might be a bit of a throwback in the age of computer games but families can have a lot of fun around the table playing a board game.
It also gets the little grey cells going.
With that in mind we have had a look at the top ten board games a family can play.
There will be some old classics in there that everyone remembers but others that might be worth asking Santa for...
Monopoly: A classic game of buying, selling, and trading property.
Cluedo: A murder mystery game where players must deduce who the killer is, where the crime took place, and what weapon was used.
Scrabble: A word game that is perfect for testing vocabulary and spelling skills.
Trivial Pursuit: A trivia game that covers a wide range of topics, including history, geography, science, and entertainment.
Catan: A strategy game where players build settlements, cities, and roads on a hexagonal island.
Ticket to Ride: A board game where players collect train cars and build routes across the United States or Europe.
Carcassonne: A tile-laying game where players score points by building cities, roads, and monasteries.
Pandemic: A cooperative game where players work together to stop a global pandemic.
Betrayal at House on the Hill: A horror-themed game where players must work together to escape a haunted house, but one of them is secretly a traitor.
Gloomhaven: A more complex dungeon-crawling game that offers a deep and rewarding experience.
THE BOOK VAULT
Open Monday to Saturday, 9.15am – 4.30pm
We stock all the latest titles, with a widerange of fiction and non-fiction. If you can’t find it in store, we can order it for you! Plus bookmarks, notebooks, greeting cards, with more jigsaws and other products arriving every week.
SIGNED BOOKS!
We have lots of signed and limited edition books in store. Recent highlights include the indie edition of Richard Osman’s We Solve Murders, signed limited editions from Bob Mortimer with The Hotel Avocado.
There are plenty of signed books from local writers such as Ian McMillan, Milly Johnson, and Matt Coyne. Plus - Benjamin Myers, Matt Haig, Elif Shafak, Pat Barker, Toshikazu Kawaguchi...
It will be our fifth birthday soon! Follow us on socials for news and updates.
You can also visit our dedicated Children’s area, a space to discover worlds of magic and wonder. Lots of books for all ages, jigsaws, and Orchard Toys including the new range of Peter Rabbit educational puzzles and games.
LOCAL PUBLICATIONS
As well as well-known local writers we have a range of local interest books. We recently restocked our Pen and Sword books on local heritage and history, including an expanded range of mining related titles. We also stock the Memories of Barnsley quarterly magazine.
You can also order, whether new, forthcoming or hard to find titles. To order and pre-order books, for store collection, post or local delivery, please contact us!
Supplier
Supplier
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How you can get involved in the squash revival
SQUASH is officially back.
Once seen as the sport of yuppies it’s set to reach a new audience with its introduction to the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. So now is the time to get ahead of the curve and get involved in the challenging sport.
Squash, a fast-paced racket sport played in a small court, offers a multitude of physical and mental health benefits.
Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out, squash can be a rewarding and enjoyable way to improve your overall well-being.
Physical Benefits:
Cardiovascular Health: Squash is a high-intensity workout that can significantly improve your cardiovascular health. It elevates your heart rate, strengthens your heart muscle, and improves blood circulation. Regular squash play can reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.
Weight Loss: Squash is a calorie-burning activity that can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight. The combination of intense physical exertion and frequent movements can help you shed pounds and improve your body composition.
Muscle Strength and Endurance: Squash engages various muscle groups, including your legs, core, arms, and shoulders. Regular play can help you build strength, improve muscle tone, and enhance your overall physical fitness.
Coordination and Agility: Squash requires quick reflexes, hand-eye coordination, and agility. Playing regularly can improve your athletic skills and make you more coordinated in other activities.
Bone Health: As a weight-bearing exercise, it helps to strengthen bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, especially as you age.
Stress Relief: Squash is a great way to relieve stress and improve your mental wellbeing. The physical exertion and focus required can help you clear your mind and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
Improved Mood: The release of endorphins during exercise can boost your mood and make you feel happier and more positive.
Enhanced Cognitive Function: Regular physical activity, including squash, has been shown to improve cognitive function and brain health.
It can help enhance memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills.
Increased Self-Esteem: As you improve your squash skills and fitness level, you’ll likely experience a boost in self-esteem and confidence. Achieving personal goals and overcoming challenges can have a positive impact on your self-worth.
Social Benefits: Squash is a social sport that can help you meet new people and make friends. Playing in a league or with a group can provide opportunities for socializing and
building relationships.
Getting Started:
If you’re new to squash, it’s important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts. Consider taking lessons from a qualified coach to learn proper technique and avoid injuries.
Squash is a versatile sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re looking to improve your physical health, reduce stress, or simply have fun, squash is a great option.
Mental Benefits:
Why there’s more to autumn gardening than blowing leaves about...
SEPTEMBER and October, with its crisp air and falling leaves, brings a unique set of tasks to the gardener.
While the growing season may be winding down, there’s still plenty to do to prepare your garden for winter and ensure it thrives in the coming year.
1. Get ready for the colder months:
Protect Tender Plants: If you have tender plants that can’t withstand frost, consider moving them indoors or to a sheltered spot. Alternatively, you can wrap them in bubble wrap or horticultural fleece for added protection.
Mulch Around Plants: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your plants to help retain moisture, insulate roots, and suppress weeds. Organic materials like wood chips, leaves, or straw are excellent choices.
Clear Gutters: Ensure your gutters are free of leaves and debris to prevent water damage during heavy rainfall or snow.
Store Garden Furniture: Move any outdoor furniture, such as tables and chairs, to a sheltered area to protect it from the elements.
Winterise Water Features: If you have a pond or water feature, prepare it for winter by removing any pumps, filters, and plants. Consider adding a de-icer to prevent the water from freezing solid.
2. Lawn Care:
Rake Leaves: Remove fallen leaves from your lawn to prevent them from smothering
Aerate Your Lawn: If your lawn is compacted, aerate it to improve drainage and allow oxygen to reach the roots.
Mow Your Lawn: Continue to mow your lawn on a regular basis, but gradually reduce the height of the blades as the season progresses.
3. Pruning and Cleaning:
Prune Roses: Prune your rose bushes to remove dead or diseased wood and shape the plant.
Clean Up Garden Debris: Remove any garden waste, such as dead leaves and twigs, to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering.
Winterise Climbing Plants: Tie up climbing plants to protect them from strong winds and heavy snow.
4. Planting and Sowing:
Plant Bulbs: October is a great time to plant spring-flowering bulbs, such as daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths.
Sow Hardy Annuals: If you want to enjoy flowers in the spring, sow hardy annual seeds directly into the ground.
Plant Trees and Shrubs: Consider planting trees and shrubs during the autumn months, as the cooler temperatures can help them establish themselves.
By completing these tasks, you can ensure that your garden is well-prepared for the winter months and ready to flourish in the spring.
Remember to check the weather forecast
7 Girl’s choice fruit (8,4)
8 It’ll increase reactions in a frenzy, merely (6)
9 Catty, but not beginning to get restless (5)
10 River ahead of one American emperor (8)
13 Yorkshire river to trickle soundly (4)
15 We are heartless – or used to be! (4)
16 Vocabulary of boy accepting defeat (8)
17 Recoiled when one’s in hut (5)
19 Former partner lied about being banished (6)
21 Grovel with each digit I peel off (3,6,3)
DOWN
1 Still verbally drawn at the end of the day (8)
2 Semi‑detach last of nasty sore (4)
3 Following CO, we go round cringing (8)
4 Little time for one little skirt (4)
5 Large union Picasso reformed (8)
6 Cheer up son audibly (4)
11 Yes, eight pieces can be viewed with this (8)
12 Skinhead knight inside, pretty dirty (8)
14 Wizard’s silly errors outside church (8)
17 Tinned meat charts returned (4)
18 March dream now odd (4) 20 Politician is about to find trouble makers (4)
Each pair of words has a missing word between them that acts as a link to both (eg FRONT - DOOR - MAT). The shaded squares of the six answers (reading downwards) will spell out a random word.
Using
5 letters Cargoes Chide, rebuke Junior soldier Perfect Warty amphibians
Most chilly Moulded (metal) (hyphenated) Vernacular 8 letters In quarantine
7 letters Fortress
7 Orchard fruit (8,4)
8 Biochemical catalyst (6)
9 Impatient (5)
10 Roman emperor, AD14‑37 (8)
13 Ely’s river (4)
15 (They) used to be (4)
16 Index of specialist words (8)
17 Jerked away (5)
19 Banished (6)
21 Abase yourself (3,6,3)
1 End of the day (8) 2 Painful, sore (4) 3 Crouching in fear (8) 4 Iconic small car (4) 5 Palatial (8) 6 Anchored float (4)
Advertiser’s announcement
YORKSHIRE Wildlings are back in October Half Term with our action-packed Halloween holiday camps!
Bring your sense of adventure, a packed lunch, and get ready to make new friends in our glorious ancient woodland. From building shelters to identifying bugs, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy footwear. We can’t wait to see you there and share this wonderful day of exploration and fun. Secure your spot today and let the adventures begin!
Get ready for a fun-filled day packed with thrilling activities such as:
• Den Building: Learn how to construct your own shelter using natural materials.
• Bug Hunting: Discover the fascinating world of insects and their habitats.
• Archery: Test your precision and level up your bow skills!
• Tightrope Walking: Give your coordination and balance skills a run for their money on the tightrope!
• Zip Lines: Experience the adrenaline rush as you soar through the trees on our zip lines.
• Crafts: Unleash your creativity with our fantastic craft projects!
NEW for October Half Term!
Overnight experience – stay overnight with your friends, for movies, popcorn and more!
Dark Skies Bonfire – come with your family to sit round our campfire, drinking hot chocolate, toasting s’mores and devouring hotdogs!
Come to our end of camp halloween disco on Thursday 31st Trick or treat around our woods, and have fun with spook activities, chilling games and a thrilling disco experience! Visit www.yorkshirewildlings.co.uk to have a fun filled half term!
OUR often damp and chilly climate can make colds a common occurrence.
While modern medicine offers effective treatments, many people turn to herbal remedies for natural relief. Here are some popular options:
Elderberry
Elderberry extract is a popular choice for cold prevention and treatment. Studies have shown that it can reduce the duration and severity of cold symptoms. Elderberry contains flavonoids, which have antiviral properties. You can find elderberry in lozenges, syrups, and capsules.
Echinacea
Echinacea is a native North American plant with immune-boosting properties. It is often used to prevent colds and shorten their duration. However, research on its effectiveness is mixed. Some studies have shown benefits, while others have not. Echinacea is available in capsules, tinctures and teas.
Garlic Garlic is a natural antibiotic that can help fight infections. It contains allicin, a compound that has antiviral properties. Some studies have shown that garlic can shorten the duration of colds. You can eat raw garlic or take garlic supplements.
Ginger Ginger is a root that has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including colds. It contains gingerol, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger can help relieve congestion and soothe a sore throat. You can add ginger to tea, soups or smoothies.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that plays a role in immune function. While it may not prevent colds, it can help shorten
their duration. Good sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, berries and kiwi. You can also take vitamin C supplements.
Honey Honey is a natural sweetener that can help soothe a sore throat. It also has antibacterial properties. Some studies have shown that honey can be as effective as over-the-counter cough suppressants. You can add honey to warm water or tea.
Other Herbal Remedies
In addition to the above, other herbal remedies that may be helpful for colds include:
Astragalus: A Chinese herb that has been used for centuries to boost the immune system.
Liquorice: A root that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
Peppermint: A herb that can help relieve congestion and soothe a sore throat.
Important Considerations
Before starting any new herbal remedy, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Quality and purity: Ensure that you purchase herbal remedies from reputable sources to guarantee quality and purity.
Dosage: Follow the recommended dosage instructions. Too much of a herbal remedy can be harmful.
Combination therapies: Some people may find that combining herbal remedies with other treatments, such as rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers, can provide more effective relief.
While herbal remedies can be a natural and effective way to treat colds, it is important to remember that they may not work for everyone.
Genesis
RANGE anxiety has always been the biggest gripe of mine with electric cars and, having spoken to many other people about why they won’t take the plunge into EV ownership, it seems it rings true for many.
Slow charge-ups, queues at charging points, woefully far-fetched range claims and realworld conditions mean very few regularly achieve 200 miles to a ‘full tank’ and, to be honest, it simply isn’t good enough.
So, when I decided to take my missus and two children on a trip to Wales which, from my house, is 165 miles away, I thought it’d be the perfect test for Genesis’ GV60.
However, before we get onto the nitty-gritty of long-range jaunts in EVs, the car is well worth mentioning given it continues Genesis’ purple patch and ascension up the motoring ladder. It is to Hyundai what Lexus is to Toyota – a premium arm of a resurgent brand
and it’s not hard to see why it’s gaining a legion of fans.
It’s an intriguing car, the GV60: although it shares its underpinnings with Hyundai’s futuristic Ioniq 5 and Kia’s EV6, it looks like nothing else on the road, it’s Bentley-like badge will induce gawps in traffic and its interior is – genuinely – up there with Europe’s best.
Swallowing a few nights’ worth of luggage, two children and two adults is a doddle; there’s ample legroom for all involved and the seats are exceptionally comfortable. The GV60 is just a nice place to be – there’s lashings of leather, a brilliant infotainment system and masses of safety equipment fitted as standard, while the ‘crystal ball’ gear selector is a nice – if chintzy – showpiece.
Buyers get a choice of three trim levels –Premium, Sport and Sport Plus – and this one is the first, which is rear-wheel drive only.
Power outputs range from 226bhp to 483bhp, while the range stretches up to a claimed 321 miles. In truth, this Premium model feels absolutely fine with ‘just’ 226bhp, meaning it’s plenty quick enough off the mark and –because it’s electric – a prod of the throttle whilst moving gives an instantaneous lunge.
Having set off from home with a 97 per cent charge, I stopped off near Wrexham – about 70 miles from my Elan Valley destination –with a comfortable 50 per cent left. I was mightily impressed by this and it far exceeded my pre-journey expectation, but a top-up on a fast charger over half an hour got me back up to 100 per cent.
Given my rural accommodation, I had preplanned this stop-off and I think that’s the key to travelling long distances in EVs to quell any range anxiety. I knew this one was there on my route, I knew there was a Tesla superchar-
ging station about 20 miles away and also a mid-speed charger about a mile away from where I was staying, so five minutes’ research was all it took to alleviate any concerns.
The roads around the Elan Valley are the best I’ve ever driven and although the GV60 is softly damped in favour of comfort and can’t ever be described as involving, it coped well with the snaking roads which cut through the beautiful scenery. For such a heavy car its brakes are superb, it handles well and has a turn of pace which is brisk without ever being eye-opening.
Having charged up the night before I left Wales and heading back to Yorkshire, I returned home – 165 miles away, don’t forget – again with 50 per cent battery. To me that’s a phenomenal return and proof that with a tiny bit of diligence, EVs – especially the GV60 –can easily do whatever you ask of them.
If you see Ian out and about and can spare a bit of change it could make all the difference.
COLLECTING: Fundraising hero Ian Lane was back out raising money for his beloved British Heart Foundation last week. Ian has raised more than £10,000 over the years with his bucket collections and sponsored walks. And he took advantage of the warm weather to collect for the charity outside of their shop on Market Street.
