FR EE CO
Garden Centre
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MAGAZINE
www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk
A Family Run, Independent Garden Centre… We are a family run, independent Garden Centre, Farm Shop and Restaurant combined, striving to offer our customers the best customer service possible. We offer quality gardening, home and outdoor living products alongside delicious, fresh, locally produced food and drink. Award winning… We focus on keeping our high standards consistent and have been awarded several accolades over the years as recognition. Over the past seven consecutive years we have been awarded ‘Best Garden Centre’ in Wales and the West by the Garden Centre Association alongside a series of other awards including customer service, plant area and restaurant titles.
Hello and welcome to our new edition of the Garden Centre Magazine. In this edition we have included many more informative and inspiring articles relating to all things home and garden related. Although the Autumn and Winter months are fast approaching, there is still so much time to enjoy your garden and make improvements to your home! There’s lots of planting and preparing to be done, please refer to our double page of annual garden tips of what to do in your garden month by month, along with many other editorials for you to read. You will also find details of local businesses within the magazine whose services cover most things home and garden related. We always welcome our reader’s feedback on our magazine, if you have any comments you’d like to share, we would love to hear them! Please email me direct: Jessica@yhgmedia.co.uk We hope you enjoy our new magazine. Kind regards and happy reading!
Jessica Leech
Garden Centre Magazine Magazine Editor
T. 0345 115 1478 E.info@yhgmedia.co.uk www.yhgmedia.co.uk YHG Ltd Unit 9 Neptune Court, Hallam Way, Whitehills, Blackpool FY4 5LZ Disclaimer: The information contained within The Garden Centre Magazine we believe to be correct at time of going to press. No responsibility can be accepted for any errors or omissions. The features in this publication are intended as guidelines only. DIY tasks can be dangerous and should not be undertaken without both the right equipment and skill. If you have any doubts, seek professional advice. Skill level and duration are given as approximate guides only. The businesses and products advertised in this publication are in no way endorsed by the Garden Centre. If you have any issues or complaints regarding the magazine please contact YHG Ltd.
Our History
The Old Railway Line Garden Centre was established by Mark and Christina Cleary in 1990 on the site of the old Brecon to Hereford Branch of the Midland Railway. The garden centre has continually grown since it was first established and has now become one of the UK’s premier, destination garden centres. Out of the steam a garden centre is born… In 1990 Mark and Christina started selling home grown bedding plants from a small 8x6ft greenhouse next to the entrance. Mark started to increase trade by attending local markets including Builth and Brecon. Garden Centre grows over the years… As the reputation and demand grew, several production and retail tunnels were added over the years. In 2000 we developed a new plant area and plans were already being produced for a new Coffee Shop which was built and opened in 2001. The existing poly tunnels were starting to show signs of wear and tear so in 2009 we developed a new retail space called Platform 1 which was the first permanent, insulated retail building to be built on site. 2012 redevelopment… In September 2011 the diggers moved in to build what was going to be the biggest project we had ever undertaken adding a new gift area, florist counter, farm shop, new till area, reception desk and offices as well as a brand new 150 cover restaurant. The future… As a company we are always looking to the future and investing in ways to improve our product offer and standards of customer service. Mark and Christina have a young family who are all showing a keen interest in various areas of the business, so the future of the Old Railway Line Garden Centre will carry on through the next generation of the family.
www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk
Plant Area Award Winning Our award-winning plant area, named ‘Best Planteria in the UK’ at the 2016 Garden Retail Awards. showcases an extensive range of roses, climbers, trees, hedging, perennials, herbs, vegetables and shrubs. Knowledgeable Staff Our friendly, knowledgeable and helpful staff are on hand 7 days a week to offer advice to help you choose the perfect plants for your garden. 2 Year Hardy Plant Guarantee We are committed to sourcing the best plants from suppliers we trust, guaranteeing all hardy, container grown plants for two years!
Farm Shop Our Farm Shop is packed with an abundance of delicious food and drinks for you to enjoy at home. Stocking locally produced food and drink from over 60 local and Welsh suppliers, we are the perfect stop to pick up your ingredients for a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner. You will find meats, freshly baked bread, fruit, vegetables, preserves, sweet treats, beers, wines and spirits from a wide variety of producers including W J George Butchers, Pant Mawr Cheeses, Peter Guthrie Honey, Three Choirs Vineyards and Wye Valley Brewery.
Dine @ The Old Railway Line
Our Railway Restaurant serves a variety of delicious, home-cooked food to order including breakfast, lunches, light bites, afternoon tea and our popular Railway Roast (Thursdays and Sundays). Breakfast Our Breakfast Menu has something for everyone, from Toasted Teacakes to our popular Gardener’s Brunch.
Lunch Ranging from Light to Large Bites, our lunch menu is packed with delicious, freshly prepared meals.
Afternoon Tea Our Afternoon Tea is the perfect treat to end a busy day. Come and relax in our restaurant while our staff provide you with the ultimate Afternoon Tea experience. Served from 2pm daily.
Railway Roast Choose from a selection of home roasted meats with roast potatoes, new potatoes, seasonal vegetables, homemade Yorkshire pudding and traditional gravy. Every Thursday & Sunday.
Children’s Menu Our Children’s Menu has a range of delicious food including fish and chips, chicken goujons and our popular Apprentice Gardener’s Lunch Box!
See our reviews on Tripadvisor
Or sit back and relax in our dog friendly Tea Room with one of our daily papers or free wi-fi whilst we freshly prepare your order. The perfect stop for delicious freshly baked cakes, hot drinks and light bites.
Garden Furniture & BBQs
The most important thing to remember about your garden is that it’s not all work and no play! Taking time to sit back, relax and enjoy the garden is just as important as all the weeding, mowing and planting! We stock a wide selection of garden furniture, barbecues, garden lighting, arches, garden ornaments and water features to add life and character to your garden. We stock leading brands such as Kettler and Weber which provide the premium quality we know our customers love.
Delivered to your Door…
For larger purchases or to make life easier use our local delivery service. We use our own van and delivery drivers to ensure high levels of quality customer service is carried out to your door.
Shop Online…
If you can’t visit browse our website to purchase items online for home delivery. We have a network of couriers we use to ship across the UK. Visit www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk for more information
Connect with us and keep up to date with all the very latest offers, news and seasonal information!
Gifts & Homeware
Gifts for All Occasions‌ Our gift area is full of various types of gifts suitable for all occasions and generations. You can spend hours browsing our comprehensive range of Yankee Candles, photo frames, books, toiletries, handbags and jewellery. We also have a fabulous collection of gifts for extra special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and new arrivals to the family. Make Your House a Home‌ We have a wide range of homeware products to add the finishing touches to your home. In store you can browse through throws, lamps and cushions for your living room or update your kitchenware for cooking and baking at home.
Railway Gift Cards We offer a wide selection of gift voucher and gift experience options including: Garden Centre Gift Cards Redeemable against any department within the Garden Centre including plants, garden sundries, pets, aquatics, outdoor living, gifts, homeware and farm shop. Railway Restaurant Gift Cards Redeemable against any purchase made in the Railway Restaurant or Tea Room Afternoon Tea Vouchers The perfect gift for a loved one to enjoy our popular Afternoon Tea experience in our Railway Restaurant or Tea Room National Garden Centre Gift Vouchers Accepted at over 2,000 leading garden centres, shops and nurseries across the UK.
www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk
Pets & Ponds
Pet & Wild Bird Care‌ Sometimes our best friends in the world are our pets. A happy pet quite often leads to a happy owner. We stock a wide range of pet care, wild bird care and wildlife products. Our pet department team has a love of pets in common and has the knowledge and experience to help you choose the care products you need to keep your pet healthy. Ponds & Aquatics‌ A pond is a fantastic feature for any garden. The sound of running water is the perfect background noise to relax in your outside space. We have the pumps, filters, liners, fish food, treatments and accessories you need to run a healthy and eye-catching pond. Ask a member of staff for any help and advice you need.
Events
Here at the Old Railway Line Garden Centre we like to keep things interesting with a wide range of events suitable for people of all ages and interests. Regular events, workshops and demonstrations include Wild Wednesday workshops for children, fun days and evening events like our enjoyable Quiz and Curry Nights. Wild Wednesdays Our Wild Wednesday event series offers a different workshop every Wednesday of the Powys School Holidays. Our 2018 events calendar is our best to date, including a wide variety of craft, activity and interactive sessions. We know it can be difficult to entertain your children during the school breaks, so we have taken care of Wednesdays for you! Be sure to book as soon as possible as spaces are limited and sell out quickly!
For more information about upcoming events visit www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk
Railway Reward Card
Join today for free @ the Welcome Desk One of the ways we reward our loyal customers is through our Railway Reward Card Scheme. Join for free and receive the following benefits when you visit us... Earn Points Whilst You Spend Earn one point for every £1 you spend which you can redeem against purchases in January, February, July and August. Birthday Tea & Cake Voucher Receive a voucher every year from us during the month of your birthday for a delicious slice of freshly baked cake and a tea or filter coffee free of charge! Exclusive Special Offers Take advantage of exclusive ‘Star Buy’ special offers exclusively available to you as a Reward Card Member. Preview Events Be invited to exclusive preview events which you can attend free of charge; like our popular annual Christmas Preview Evening!
Keep up to date with upcoming events, news and special offers via e-mail. Sign up free of charge next time you visit at the Welcome Desk! Opening Hours
Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5.30pm Sunday: 10.30am - 4.30pm (Browsing from 9.30am on Sunday)
Restaurant
Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm Sunday: 9.30am - 4.30pm (Last Food Orders 1/2 hour before close)
Telephone: 01497 847055 www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk Our Address: Old Railway Line Garden Centre, Three Cocks, Brecon, Powys LD3 0SG
Annual Garden Tips
January • Plant Garlic cloves in pots ready to transplant later • Order seed potatoes • Prepare ground for Asparagus • Plant Fruit trees and canes • Remove fallen leaves from the borders • Cut down and compost the annuals • Take hardwood cuttings of shrubs & fruit trees.
February • Remove fallen leaves from the borders • Cut down and compost the annuals • Take hardwood cuttings of shrubs & fruit trees • Continue planting bare-root Roses • Plant bare root Roses • Check the fruit stores for rotting fruit
April • Warm soil using cloches or polythene • If not already done, prune Raspberry canes to 6’’ • Plant fruit trees, fruit canes and fruit bushes • Prepare Strawberry beds • Tidy up the lawn. Re-sow patches that look bare.
May • Look out for late frosts • Build hanging baskets • Sow vegetables outside • Tie up soft fruit cordons • Sow Beans • Fertilise Roses and Shrubs • Treat wood with a stain • Protect blossoms from frost with Fleece • Water trees • Start thinning Grapes as required • Place straw around early Strawberries.
June
• Hoe weeds regularly • Thin out seedlings • Plant later season crops under glass • Water salad crops regularly • Feed crops with a liquid manure • Pick peas to encourage more flowers • Harvest early potatoes • Cut back excessive growth • Water soft fruit regularly • Prepare netting for trees • Check for parasites on trees • Pest alert: Inspect fruit bushes & trees for pests and diseases.
Jul y July in the garden is a time to sit back and take a look at what you have achieved over the last year. Fruit and vegetables are ripening fast, and the plants are flowering like mad. Keep all salad crops well watered in hot weather.
August • Grow & train vegetables, trim tomatoes, blanch celery, protect Cauliflowers. Harvest herbs, & dry excess for winter use • Feed plants with a quick acting fertilizer to keep them in top condition • Seeds to be sown: Spring Cabbage, Chicory, Winter Lettuce, Autumn Onion, Turnip • Stake and tie plants • Pinch out the tops of Chrysanthemums • Water and feed sweet peas • Take cuttings • Re-pot potted plants if required • Trim deciduous hedges.
September
Harvest Appl es
• Sow now: Spring Cabbages, Turnips for green tops, Winter Lettuces, Spinach, Land Cress and baby salad leaves • Harvest Apples, Pears, Plums and store Apples, wrapping them individually in newspaper • Collect seeds & beans for sowing next year • Pot up herbs to use in Winter in a cool light place • Take hardwood cuttings from fruit bushes • Dig up Strawberry runners and pot them up • Plant new Strawberry beds • Plant out Garlic in mild areas, or start Cloves in pots to transplant later • Protect autumn Raspberries and Blackberries with netting to protect them from birds • Lift and store onions and main crop Potatoes • Clear crops once they've finished & fork over.
October
• Prune climbing Roses and fruit canes • Mow lawns • Lay turf • Plant Cabbages • Order next years seeds • Prepare asparagus beds for spring planting • Cut back Asparagus foliage • Dig over unused vegetable plots and apply manure • Continue to lift Potatoes • Plant later season crops under cover • Remove Tomato leaves to expose unripe fruit • Pick and store herbs, collect seeds where possible • Water all crops where required.
Raspberries
Lay Turf
November
• Plant Garlic cloves • Plant early varieties of veg in the greenhouse • Prune cane fruits when they have finished fruiting • Take any hardwood cuttings from fruit bushes.
December
• Plant Garlic cloves in pots ready to transplant later • Broad Beans should be planted away from wind • Plant early varieties of veg in the greenhouse • Take any hardwood cuttings from fruit bushes • Prune Blackberry canes • Plant soft fruit canes.
Pl ant Earl y Veg
Annual Garden Tips
• Landscaping • Construction • Maintenance
From cutting grass to building a wall, we can do it all! 07756 701573
info@beaconsgroup.co.uk
www.beaconsgroup.co.uk
PEST CONTROL SPECIALISTS Domestic & Commercial
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Fleas Ants Bedbugs Moths Bird Proofing
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01873 830204
Garden Landscaping
Every family has their favourite room in the home, but when the warmer months arrive it doesn't take much to tempt the people of Britain outside. As soon as that first glimmer of sunshine arrives, the garden is the place to go and whether you have the smallest of backyards or a large, green space brimming with wildlife and plants, your garden can be designed and transformed to suit your every need this Summer. If outdoor dining is your idea of the perfect evening, consider having a patio installed and invest in some quality garden furniture to create a relaxed and inviting atmosphere for family occasions and entertaining friends. If you have young children at home, grass is the way to go, creating a comfortable and colourful area for lazy afternoons, picnics and play time. Consult your local landscape gardener to discuss soil quality, climate and design when installing grass for the first time.
Whether aesthetics or functionality are your priority, there are endless options available when it comes to flowers, plants and trees for your garden and there are professionals available to guide and assist you with what works best for both your space and your personal needs. For first time gardeners, consider lines of bamboo, creeping sedums, daphne or lavender for a low maintenance but beautiful injection of plant life. The more experienced, green fingered gardener might opt for petunia or gladioli to brighten up the area. Finishing touches such as a pond, water feature, birdhouse and garden lighting give a personal touch and really help to bring your garden together and with a professional landscaper on hand, you can go from overgrown to glorious in next to no time at all.
Driveways & Fencing Everyone knows that first impressions count and welcoming people to your home with a well presented driveway is the perfect place to start. Installing a durable and good looking driveway is a worthy investment for any homeowner and there are various options to choose from such as natural stone, paving slabs or tarmac to transform any stretch of concrete into a smart and stylish extension of your home. With various colours, patterns and styles available, specialist teams can help you to plan and design your driveway to not only compliment your property but to add value to it for years to come as well. If style is your strong suit, opt for geometric patterns, cool colours and block edges to create a bold statement or go subtle with pattern imprinted concrete. If accessibility is your priority, consult a local professional for advice on installing a drop kerb to improve access to
your existing driveway, protecting your wheels and tyres from unnecessary damage and have the pavement re-tarmacked to keep your street looking neat and tidy. When it comes to privacy and peace of mind, driveway fencing and gates are the way to go. From wood to wrought iron gates and metal to timber fences available you will have plenty to choose from when it comes to securing your space with strength and durability guaranteed. Always seek permission before undertaking work on a shared wall or driveway with your neighbours to avoid dispute and contact your local council before working on the kerb outside your house. Whether it's the parking space for your pride and joy or a welcome walkway to your front door, treat your driveway as the red carpet to your home make a lasting first impression.
MARTYN DAVIES Building & Groundwork Contractors
Mid-Wales based company offering construction services from New Builds to Retaining Walls, Extensions, Conversions including Refurbishments and Landscaping
T: 01982 551824 M: 07867 387 909
C. Ralph Fencing
Specialising in all aspects of Domestic Fencing
Tel: 07531 965741
email: c.ralphfencing@hotmail.co.uk
IAN The Electrician
Email: ianpoulson@hotmail.com Phone: 01982552128 Mobile: 07946352018 www.ianpoulson.co.uk
All Electrical Work Undertaken Full / Partial Rewires • Consumer Unit Upgrades Extra Lighting • Socket Points Condition Reports • Landlord Certificates • PAT Testing • Part P Registered & Accredited
• Commercial & Domestic • Fully Insured With a wealth of experience, you're in safe hands with Ian The Electrician! Call now on 07946 352018
Everyone knows that the British weather is typically unreliable, but one thing that you can rely on this year to keep you smiling throughout the supposedly hotter months is your local landscape gardener. Give them a call and see what can be done to get your garden looking ship shape so that you can sit out and make the most of that sunshine while it lasts. Your outdoor space isn't something only to be appreciated in the day time however; with a bit of creativity and a handy electrician by your side, you can light up your garden in style and enjoy it throughout the evening as well. After all, it would be a terrible shame to let darkness fall over your new favourite feature. Whether you opt for solar lamps to line the path to your pond or wall lighting for outdoor entertainment in the evening, a little illumination goes a long way when it comes to the garden. The possibilities are endless.
Highlight key design elements with uplighting or create an intimate atmosphere with fairy lights. Shine a spotlight on your seating area or bring new life to your fountain that only those up late enough will be lucky enough to see. Call on an electrician to figure out the most eco-friendly, efficient and effective use of light to bring life to your space at night, then sit back and enjoy the ambiance of the outdoors after sunset. An investment in garden lighting is an investment in your future self; for those nights when you want to turn off the television, grab yourself a blanket and indulge in a little bit of nature - whatever time of night it might be. Whether you spend them reading a book, enjoying a glass of wine or admiring the greenery, make the most of your evenings... Because you'll never see the stars if you don't leave the house.
As a nation of dog lovers, cat cuddlers and best buddies with bunnies, it's safe to say that the people of Britain are big on pets... and who can blame us? The topic of pet care is one that seems obvious, but for first time animal owners is not an area to be overlooked. The saying "a dog is for life, not just for Christmas" is a very true one and so it's important to brush up on your knowledge before taking your first step into pet parenthood. Regular visits to the vets are a must to ensure that your animal is healthy and happy and are beneficial in preventing any potential complications that may arise as your pet grows older. Your vet will also be on hand to provide useful advice and information when it comes to things such as vaccinations, travel and training. Following that, an occasional trip to your local groomers is highly recommended to keep your furry friend clean, comfortable and looking their best.
Once you've covered the basics of health care and grooming you can really get down to business with a bit of pampering. For the savvy animal lovers among us, the range of accessories is endless. Personalised name tags, bespoke beds and designer clothes are just the beginning; did you know that there are such things as luxury dog spas? Treat your pooch to an overnight stay including a range of treatments and therapies before a good old walk and evening of underfloor heating and room service. The ultimate puppy heaven! Whether you share your home with a handbag sized chihuahua or a perky parrot, every owner will tell you that it doesn't take long to fall in love with your animal companion. In loving and looking after them you'll have a friend for life, so spend a little time making them happy this year. They keep us smiling, after all.
Caring for all creatures‌great & small Honddu Veterinary Practice continues to provide the same professional, affordable and caring first class service it has always done for companion, equine and farm animals over a large area of South Wales. Our dedicated and talented team of veterinary surgeons, veterinary nurses and administration staff bring a wealth of experience to the practice, offering a wide range of services from Acupuncture and Behaviour consultations through to Worm egg counting and X-ray. Working from our RCVS accredited veterinary surgery in Brecon we are pleased to be able to provide a 24 hour service to all of our clients. With everyone at the practice committed to providing you with the very best in pet, horse and farm animal healthcare we look forward to welcoming you at the surgery soon.
T: 01874 611811 E: office@hondduvets.co.uk W: www.hondduvets.co.uk 26 Ffrwdgrech Estate, Brecon LD3 8LA
MUCKY PUPS Dog Grooming Service
Clipping - Trimming - Nail Clipping - Hand Striping Bath / Drying - Ear Cleaning & Plucking - Anal Glands
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Dogs groomed to customers own preference or to breed standard
Chil d Care
What's a nursery school? A nursery school is independent of any school for older children, although it may feed into a particular one. Because it's a separate school, it has its own head teacher and staff (trained teachers, nursery nurses and classroom assistants). A nursery school has to be registered with the Government regulatory bodies and is inspected every year. It will almost certainly offer a Government-approved early years curriculum. There are different types of nursery schools, including: • State Nursery Schools - funded by the local education authority and free. • Community Preschools - independently run on a not-for-profit basis (often by parents) and charge fees, although your child may be entitled to a free part-time place. • Private Nursery Schools - independently run and charge fees, although your child may be entitled to a free part-time place. Ages Covered Nursery schools and classes cater for preschool children up to five years. Most take children from three, but some include younger children. The child/staff ratio for children aged three to five in a nursery school or class is between 20 and 26 children to two
adults, where one of those adults is a qualified teacher and the other is a trained nursery nurse or classroom assistant. Pros • A nursery school or class will be registered and regularly inspected. • Your child will be taught by qualified teachers. • They'll have an appropriate and structured learning programme. • Your child will be among children the same age. • They may have contact with older school-age children • They may move directly to a linked school once he's old enough. Cons • You may need additional childcare as most nursery schools and classes operate school hours (around 9am to 3.30pm), with normal school holidays of around 13 weeks a year. • The staff won't be able to care for your child if he's ill. You may have to live within the catchment area for a particular school. • There may be a waiting list. • There may be fees involved, although your child may be entitled to a free part-time place. • Ratios of children to carers are much higher than in most other settings How to find a nursery school or class ChildcareLink A Government service that provides information and advice on childcare. Freephone: 0800 096 0296 Website: www.childcarelink.gov.uk This doesn't include Northern Ireland - try your local health and social services trusts instead.
Day Nursery
Open: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm
Tel: 01874 622337 email: teenytotsbrecon@googlemail.com www.teenytotsbrecon.co.uk Teeny Tots is a friendly nursery where we aim to achieve a homely atmosphere and promote good values, friendship and independence in all children
Bishops Meadow, Hay Road, Brecon, Powys LD3 9SW
Do You Have A Problem With Your Feet? Healthy and pain-free feet are vital to us all. An also concerned with the prevention of foot disorders. average day's work can involve seven and a half miles of walking on the 26 bones that make up each Nearly 4 million people in the UK are now diabetic foot. and this increases the risk of foot-health problems, so special care needs to be taken to avoid About half the population suffer from foot problems complications. that cause pain and discomfort and most can be treated successfully. The incidence of diabetes has increased hugely in recent years and now takes up 10% of the total NHS Chiropodists / Podiatrists deal with external budget, costing one and a half million pounds every treatments for problems such as bunions, corns, hour, or ÂŁ25,000 every minute. verruca, ingrowing toenails and callous. and are
CHIROPODIST / PODIATRIST Rosemary Byfleet HCPC Reg. Surgeries in Brecon & Llandrindod Wells
Tel: 01591 620362
GETHIN JONES LTD Gethin & Liz Jones: 01874 638821 or 07967 026 524
email: gethinjonesltd@hotmail.co.uk • Newbuild • Garden Buildings • Refurbishment Work • Garden Rooms • Conservatories • Bespoke Furniture • Orangeries • Fencing • External Work • Wallings • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Loft/Garage Conversions • Period Stone Work • Barn Conversions
Orangeries & Conservatories
Orangeries and conservatories have quite noticeable differences but are both similar in that they make a fantastic and luxurious addition to any home. First, let's focus on the differences. While most people know what a conservatory is, fewer know what an orangery is. The main difference between the two lies in the structure of the roof. An orangery has a glazed lantern roof which is smaller than the structure it rests upon. A conservatory roof, however, covers the entire footprint of the building; meaning an orangery has a much more shallow roof that uses significantly less glass, leading to a softer ambience within the room and a roof that can blend in more subtly with a variety of housing styles. An orangery roof also has a traditional hidden box-gutter which drains water through chutes into hoppers and downpipes instead of a typical gutter system.
While both buildings were traditionally used as an extension to the garden, the modern uses for them are endless. Whether you want to use it as a dining room, studio, kids playroom or lounge, the real fun comes when you transform and decorate it! From lighting fixtures to furniture and flooring, conservatories and orangeries have an endless variation of styles and uses to truly make your own. For those who want to keep it more traditional and use it as intended, creating an indoor garden has its own set of green-fingered decisions and intricacies to get wrapped up in. Whatever you decide on and how ever you decide to purpose it, either one will provide a lifetime of enjoyment and customisation options to keep you busy throughout the years!
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Home Improvements
Whether it means rethinking the colour scheme of your upstairs bathroom, or building that conservatory that you've been dreaming about for years, home improvement is a guaranteed way to breathe a bit of life and love back into your humble abode. They say that a clean house is a happy house, so a recently revamped one must be the happiest of them all! With the Internet by your side, inspiration for the home is only ever a click away and with a little help from the right interior design team, you can bring personality and character to any given space. Just like a fresh new hair cut or a bit of retail therapy, working on your house can really lift your spirits. The Summer months are best spent in the garden; entertaining guests, dining al fresco or simply enjoying a bit of family time over a nice bottle of wine, so having an inviting outdoor space is the perfect place to start. From decking to decoration, fountains to features and
hammocks to hanging baskets, the opportunities are endless when it comes to making your garden your own... And you don't always have to get your hands dirty! Have a chat with your local landscape gardener and see what ideas you can come up with, then sit back, relax and enjoy that wonderful British sunshine while it lasts. Not only does home improvement provide a sense of achievement but adds value to your property as well, making it the perfect investment in both your well being and your future. From grand designs to finishing touches, whatever you decide to undertake for your next project; put your thinking cap on, roll up your sleeves and above all, have fun. A house is never truly a home until it's been lived in, after all.
STAR PLUMBING
Steve Prothero Qualified Interior & Exterior Painter & Decorator
Specialising in high quality bathroom refits, ranging from full installations to all aspects of tiling.
Free Quotes with No Obligation email: steveprothero12@outlook.com Steve Prothero, Painter And Decorator
Home: 01874 665430 Mobile: 07986729696
Handmadekitchensat affordableprices Working within your budget
No job too small... Indoor & Garden, Taps Toilets Please call for a free quote: 07770 996 568
KITECRAFT
From classic Shaker to Luxury • PRICES INCLUDE FITTING • FREE CONSULTATION
Wearea family run small businesswith 30 yearsexperiencein making handcrafted kitchensand bedrooms
Your kitchen can be painted to your unique design and colour
Each kitchen or bedroom is a one-off design arrived at through deep consultation with our customer, right down to the last detail
Or choose from our exotic range of veneered finishes including inlay work
We specialise in solid wood - choose from oak, maple, ash or beech, or why not indulge in walnut Elegant curved designs can be created
Contact Richard & Robert Venner: Gorphwysfa, Defynnog, Brecon, Powys, LD3 8SB 01874 638028 (daytime) 01874 638017 (evening)
mob: 07772 917956
www.kitecraft.co.uk richardgvenner@gmail.com
Kitchen Design
Getting creative in the kitchen goes beyond crafting and cooking your favourite dishes. Everything from the layout of your worktops to the size and style of your cooker affects the way that you move around your space, prepare your ingredients and most importantly, bring them to life. Clever and effective kitchen design is key in ensuring that your cooking quarters provide the space and inspiration that you need, whether you're a master chef or a microwave master. The right kitchen specialist will see opportunity where you see only clutter and will have a keen eye for detail when it comes to space saving, storage and safety, so it's always advisable to call on a professional when it comes to redesigning your space. Whether it's a breakfast bar, feature lighting or handleless cabinets and drawers, there's nothing that can't be achieved to make your kitchen your own.
Accessories for the kitchen range from fixtures and fittings, shelving and storage to waste disposal and worktops and there are specialists available to have them fitted and fully functional in next to no time at all. Further than that, you can really bring a bit of personality to the space with oak wood, slate, ivory or chrome counters and stylistic kitchen equipment to match. The inclusion of large windows or doors will allow for light and air as needed and will make your kitchen feel more spacious. Everyone knows that the best food in the world comes well presented, so start as you mean to go on and make your kitchen stand out. They say that happiness is homemade, so make cooking in your home something to look forward to.
Sullivan Flooring is a family run company with over 25 years of experience in supplying and fitting quality flooring. We are based on the outskirts of Hay on Wye at a spacious location which accommodates our large range of products. We pride ourselves on providing a personal, friendly service. We have family values and always take care of our customers. We offer a range of great products to suit all budgets for both the domestic and the commercial market. We stock a wide range of carpets, vinyl and rugs from all major brands. We also supply bespoke blinds.
Tel: 01497 820077
Sullivan Flooring, 2 Glanwye Business Park, Hay on Wye, Hereford HR3 5EW
Email: enquiries@sullivanflooring.co.uk • www.sullivanflooring.co.uk
Pete’s Carpets
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Brian House is the Fylde Coast’s only children’s hospice and costs over £1.5 million a year to run, but only a small amount comes from the Government. Children at Brian House have life-limiting illness, and caring for a child with such complex needs is a demanding task.
Local businesses, schools and individuals
are a vital part of our fundraising team. Get in touch for details.
By using Brian House for respite during the day or night families can enjoy a break, knowing that their child is being taken care of in a very special and local ‘home from home’ environment.
DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL WORK UNDERTAKEN High powered truck mounted machine fast drying
Tel. 01253 359362
Ask for Peter Tel: 01874 711307 Mob: 07595 220242
Carpets & Flooring There are many choices available when it comes to selecting a carpet for your home or workplace. A range of colours, materials and designs are available enabling you to achieve just about any look that you want. Regardless of what type of carpet you choose, you will get a better wear if you choose carpet made from one type of fabric rather than a blend. The recommended blend is an 80/20 split. Of the many choices that you have to make when deciding on a carpet, the density is one of the most important. A higher density looks better, feels better and wears better. The more you spend on your carpet, the better the quality. The fabric that your carpet is made from is a personal preference. Nylon is the most common and has many benefits. It is stain resistant often with Teflon or Scotch Guard woven into the fibres. It is made to reduce the build up of static electricity, and it wears well. Purchasing carpet that has been treated with Teflon or Scotch Guard reduces this oil absorption.
No matter what type of carpet you want, to get the best looking carpet, splurge on a professional installation. They will be able to measure and fit your underlay and carpet. This will not only prevent you making any costly mistakes by measuring the carpet wrong, but will also prevent any mistakes when laying the carpet. Trying to do this yourself, could result in you cutting the carpet too short for the room required! Depending on where you have purchased your carpet from, they might have offers available for free fitting, if they don’t please do not hesitate to pay for this to be done, as a costly mistake could be made. An alternative to carpet is Karndean Designflooring. It’s comfortable and practical, it’s also easy to clean without the porous qualities of wood and some stones. Karndean comes in a wide variety of colours, thicknesses and appearances, such as wood flooring, stone tiles and iconic floors. As it comes as individual planks and tiles, Karndean offers a significant advantage to designing your own personalised floor.
Just vacuuming your carpets is not enough although it is a necessity. Carpet, no matter what type, holds everything inside of it from dust, hair, mites, odours and of course dirt and stains. If you smoke, have pets or children or if the carpet is in a high traffic area it should regularly be cleaned. Not only will cleaning your carpet make a noticeable difference, but it will significantly reduce the allergens, pollen and dust mites absorbed in your carpet. Each carpet will need to be cleaned differently depending on several things. For instance, you wouldn't want to handle a cheaply made carpet as often as you could a wool rug. Each time a carpet is cleaned it gets broken down a little and so it is important to know the quality of the carpets to be cleaned before actually doing it. Cleaning your carpet can be a very strenuous and time consuming task. Even if the room you wish to clean is small space, it is still a strenuous task. The drying time from a professional carpet cleaning company cleaning your carpet is much faster than if you were to do this yourself. This is because they use a minimal amount of moisture, which makes this the seemingly better choice to prevent any rooms in your house being out of use for a period of time.
No one likes the smell of pet odour in the home, carpet cleaning is essential if you own a pet. We all want our homes to be clean and sanitary. Our carpets tend to harbour a lot of soil. Even if our animal companions are perfect saints who never have accidents while indoors, they still leave a lot in our floors. Dirt tracked in from outside, hair and danders from their bodies are all something that will be buried into our carpets, which a normal hoover may not be able to remove successfully.
Carpets, Upholstery & Rugs all cleaned to the highest standard Friendly professional service Free Quotations
NOW SUPPLYING QUALITY RANGE OF LAMINATES • VINYL’S • ENGINEERED & REAL WOOD FLOORING’S & ACCESSORIES
Contact Richard 07791 233 085 cccs2901@gmail.com
ARE YOU UP FOR A CHALLENGE? WE ARE! Accountants need to change. Accountants need to be different! Businesses too need to change, and be prepared to acknowledge what will be required of them in the future. MAKING TAX DIGITAL, a new method of accounting for TAX and VAT that HMRC will be introducing in April 2019, will have an effect upon us all. At Mitchell Meredith we are prepared for these changes, and are ready to accept the challenge.
In fact we have recognised that the challenge can readily be turned into an opportunity. An opportunity to grow your business, be more profitable, and create the right balance in your life. Why not give us a call? We will share these exciting opportunities with you and take on the challenge together!
Mitchell Meredith are award winning accountants who have a reputation for providing a wide range of tailor made business solutions, giving quality clients the highest standard of continuity, efficiency and value for money. In so doing we aim specifically at providing our clients with the opportunity of maximising their profits and taking their business from 'good' to 'great'. Our service is based upon the concept of a Fixed Fee, which enables clients to accurately budget for our services whilst ensuring that they have ready access to us without running up additional costs. In our experience this has proved to be the best way of building a meaningful and productive relationship. With six offices across Wales in, Brecon, Cardiff, Llandrindod Wells, Llanidloes, Newtown and Merthyr Tydfil, we cover a vast area resulting in a whole host of different clients, meaning that whatever your business we'll be able to offer you a full range of services and provide sound business advice.
St David's House, 48 Free Street, Brecon, LD3 7BN
The Hawthorns, 6 North Road, Cardiff, CF10 3DU
01874622528
02921 303306
The Exchange, Plynlimon House, Temple Street, Longbridge Street, Llandrindod Wells, Llanidloes, LD1 5HG SY18 6EF 01597 824855
www.mitchellmeredith.co.uk Email: enquiries@mitchellmeredith.co.uk Twitter: @MitchMered Facebook: Mitchell Meredith Ltd
01686 414956
30 Shortbridge Street, Newtown, SY16 2LN
The Orbit Business Centre, Rhydycar Business Park, Merthyr Tydfil, CF48 1DL
01686 628748
01685 352739
PLANNING A FUNERAL Preparing for a funeral can be overwhelming. You may not know where to start or what to say and the first call that you make to the funeral director will often be the most difficult. That's where the professionals come in. There are funeral homes throughout the country with highly trained staff available to make your sombre occasion as stress free, smooth running and as personal to you and your family as possible in your time of need. Church, chapel or graveside services are a traditional option for the day, or you may opt for a private cremation, followed by a celebration of life style gathering at a venue of your choosing. Your funeral director will be on hand to advise and inform you throughout the entire process and will help you to come to an arrangement that is most comfortable for you, catering to any specific requests that you might have, such as music choices, readings or dress code.
Call your local florist or visit in person to discuss the options available to you when arranging a floral tribute for the day. Simple wreaths or bouquets are often the most fitting tribute to say goodbye to a loved one, or you may decide to have a bespoke arrangement prepared, incorporating a specific memorial object, name or word. Some people choose to commemorate their loved ones by dedicating a bench to them located in a garden of memory or perhaps a local park or beauty spot. From cars to catering to newspaper notices, there are professionals available to ease your grief and allow you to come to terms with your loss at your own pace while they take care of the details. Don't suffer in silence, but seek help and support when it comes to planning a personal, fitting send off for your loved one.
There are many other factors to add to the event of organising a funeral such as: • Flowers • Cars • Catering • Monument/ Head Stone • Wake / Venue • Wills & Probate / Legal Advice • Bereavement Counselling Be sure to seek professional advice and help for all your funeral requirements
IN TIME OF NEED
Doug Prosser & Grandsons FUNERAL DIRECTORS
“The Funeral Home of Brecon” - for Dignity and Excellence 24 hour attention in your time of bereavment
PRIVATE CHAPEL OF REST also MONUMENTAL MASONS Maelgwyn Funeral Home, Kensington,Brecon Tel: 01874 622755, 625644, 622325 dougprosser@live.co.uk
TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT EDITION PLEASE CALL: 0345 115 1478 email: info@yhgmedia.co.uk www.yhgmedia.co.uk
Dining Together Nothing brings people together quite like food. Whether it's a birthday celebration, Summer barbecue or simply a get together with family and friends, there's never a bad time to catch up with the people that you care about. Step aside from the kitchen and book a table at your favourite restaurant or head down to your local pub and enjoy some good food and quality time together. Many independent restaurants or pubs have dining offers such as two for one or half price meals on specific days, so dining out doesn't always have to be expensive. Lots of places also offer a dedicated children's menu and many have their own play area, meaning that the little ones can have fun with their friends whilst you catch up with yours.
Whilst planning ahead is generally advised, last minute, impromptu barbecues are often the most fun and there's something quite exciting about making a few phone calls, lighting up the grill and waiting for your guests to arrive within the hour. For those nights that you just don't want to end, carefully planned garden lighting will allow you to make the most of your outdoor space long after the sun has gone down and transition nicely from a day of sunshine into a cosy evening around the fire pit.
DROVERS ARMS BRECON
Dining together doesn't always have to mean dining out, however. Invest in some quality garden furniture, a good barbecue and a Chiminea for the evenings and you'll be set for the perfect Summer at home. Dining al fresco is the ultimate way to enjoy a nice evening after a long day at work and the combination of fresh air, good company and a good glass of wine or two makes for a much better dining experience than simply eating in front of the TV.
Lovely, warm, comfortable and friendly. We are a country like pub situated in the heart of Llanfaes, Brecon, with a selection of food and drink.
Call 01874 938090 Newgate Street, Brecon LD3 8DN email: droversarmsllanfaes@gmail.com
QUALITY REGISTERED CHILDCARE
FUNDAYS at Esme‛s
Superb specialised setting Stunning out-door provisions for your children to enjoy Above average staff to child ratios, attention and time for your children guaranteed Highly Commended Home Setting for ages 0-2 Specialist Early Years Provision 3-4 Breakfast Club ages 3-11 After School Club ages 3-11 School Holiday Club ages 3-11
Transportation arranged within our scheduled routes A great place to go – A great place to grow
Setting in Llanfihangel Talyllyn Tel 01874 658 660 CHILDCARE.CO.UK
THE DUTCHESS CAFÉ BISTRO BRECON For opening hours and details of events, please visit The Dutchess Facebook page,
10-11 Bethel Square, Brecon LD3 7JP Telephone: 01874 625062
WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU TO THE DUTCHESS CAFÉ BISTRO IN BRECON. COME AND ENJOY……... A TRADITIONAL WELSH BREAKFAST, CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST, CREPES, BELGIAN WAFFLES, AFTERNOON TEAS, A GENEROUS LUNCH MENU, PICNIC BENCHES, PLATTERS, DELICIOUS CAKES, COFFEES AND A WIDE SELECTION OF TEAS, SMOOTHIES AND COLD DRINKS. COMMUNITY CAFÉ EVENINGS - WORLD FOOD EVENINGS - GUEST CHEF EVENTS - HIGH WINE EVENINGS BOOK US FOR YOUR PARTY - TAKE AWAY FOOD AND DRINKS AVAILABLE FOR THOSE IN A HURRY!
J.T. CREDLAND GARDEN SERVICES SPECIALISING IN ALL ASPECTS OF LAWN, HEDGE AND TREE MAINTENANCE
• GRASS CUTTING & STRIMMING • HEDGE & SHRUB MAINTENANCE • FLOWER BED MAINTENANCE • HARD & SOFT LANDSCAPING • FENCE INSTALLATION & REPAIR • SHED & SUMMERHOUSE ERECTION • TURF LAYING • WOOD & COMPOSITE DECKING • PATH & PATIO LAYING • DRIVEWAY INSTALLATION • LAWN DRAINAGE • GUTTER & FASCIA CLEANING • ALL TREE SERVICES UNDERTAKEN • MINI DIGGER HIRE AVAILABLE
SERVING BOTH RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS FULLY INSURED - DBS CERTIFIED - REGISTERED WASTE CARRIER HIGHEST QUALITY OF WORK - FAST & FRIENDLY SERVICE - COMPETITIVE RATES
CONTACT 07778 172 493 FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTATION email: j.credland@yahoo.co.uk