It's Beautiful Christmas 2025 by dts media ltd

New year, new home.

With more than 135 years of property expertise across Shropshire, the Monks team is ready to help you make your move in 2026.

Find our prominent high street offices in Shrewsbury, Oswestry or Wem – we're open 7 days a week and available to call from 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday. We offer free valuations and a no-sale, no-fee promise.

Shrewsbury 01743 361 422

Oswestry 01691 674 567

Wem 01939 234 368

monks.co.uk

Ho ho ho! It’s our favourite time of year…Christmas! Did you know the first commercial Christmas card was sent in 1843, the same year A Christmas Carol was published? Proof that sharing festive cheer has always been timeless.

Inside, you’ll find our regular columnists, inspiring recipes, and thoughtful ways to make your celebrations sparkle. So, pour a mulled wine, get cosy, and have a magical Christmas.

The It’s Beautiful team, David, Tracy, Victoria and Aileen, would like to wish all readers, advertisers and contributors, a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Victoria

McKenna EDITOR

it’s Beautiful

7 Lower Brook Street, Oswestry, Shropshire, SY11 2HG Telephone: 07986 293294

Joint Managing Directors David Lee-Birch david@oswestrylife.co.uk

Tracy Leonard tracy@oswestrylife.co.uk

Editor Victoria Jane McKenna victoria@oswestrylife.co.uk

Production Designer Aileen Selkirk aileen@oswestrylife.co.uk

Advertising info@itsbeautiful.co.uk

Editorial info@itsbeautiful.co.uk

www.itsbeautiful.co.uk

Beautiful

DTS

Francesco Hair Salon Newport

Than a Salon - An Experience That Puts People First!

Step inside Francesco Hair Salon in Newport, and you’ll instantly feel it. The buzz of creativity, the warmth of genuine connection, and a passion for hair! Established in 2002, our vibrant salon on St. Mary’s Street, Newport has become a cornerstone of the local community, offering not just beautiful hair, but an experience that uplifts and empowers.

We believe that great hair starts with great energy. Our team of experienced stylists brings positivity, respect and teamwork to everything we do. A relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where guests feel heard, valued and completely at home. Whether you’re popping in for a quick trim or a full transformation, our mission is simple; to make every visit a tailor-made experience you’ll remember.

Our salon is home to a team of Wella Colour Experts, cutting and styling specialists, hair extension experts and skilled barbers, all dedicated to helping you look and feel your absolute best! We also offer bespoke wedding hair and occasion styling.

If you’re struggling with hair loss, thinning, or scalp concerns, you’re not alone, and we’re here to help. Our in-salon Hair & Scalp Expert offers discreet and personalised consultations to assess your scalp health and recommend tailored treatments. Using advanced products and techniques, we help guests restore confidence and maintain healthier, happier hair.

Looking for a fun and luxurious way to spend an afternoon with friends? Don’t miss our Bottomless Blow Dry events, the ultimate pamper session with a playful twist! Enjoy unlimited cocktails, wine and beer while our stylists treat you to a luxury blow dry and head massage. Expect laughter, games, and a fabulous goody bag to take home. Perfect for birthdays, hen parties or just because, we offer flexible booking options so you can plan your Bottomless Blow Dry when it suits you.

We’re proud to share that in only Alex’s second year since taking over as Salon Director, Francesco Hair Salon Newport was named an awardwinning salon at the Francesco Hair

Business Awards 2025, placing third in the prestigious Salon Year category. A true testament to our team’s passion, dedication, and commitment to hair!

Whether you’re after expert colour, a fresh cut, or a complete style makeover, Francesco Hair Salon Newport is ready to welcome you. Our passionate team combines professional excellence with genuine care, ensuring that every guest leaves not only looking amazing, but feeling amazing too.

Francesco Hair Salon, St. Mary’s Street, Newport, Shropshire Call 01952 825821

Book online: francescohair.salon/ salons/newport

The team celebrate at the Annual Salon Business Awards

SEQUINS

Above, left to right: The Very Collection Sequin Wide Leg Trousers £50, www.very.co.uk

Dark Brown Sequin

Midi Skirt £39.99, www.newlook.com

Burgundy Faux Fur Coat £59.99, www.newlook.com

Right: Chiffon Pussybow

Neck Blouse £27.99, www.newlook.com

BOWS

Left, from top: Lune in Burgundy £38, www.schuh.co.uk

Shola Sequin Bow

Jacket Black £75, www.monsoon.co.uk

Bow Dress £56, ww.marksandspencer.com

Just Credit Union – all wrapped up this Christmas

Just Credit Union is a not-for-profit financial co-operative, owned by and run for its members and provides a safe home for savings with affordable and low-cost loans. It supports people in the community who may not have access to more traditional banking methods. Credit Unions operate to serve their members, not make profit.

Fair and Responsible

Christmas is fast approaching and Just Credit Union recognises the demand on the household purse. It can be easy to fall into debt over the Christmas period and so planned borrowing can be a way to budget and manage your ﬁnances.

If you choose to borrow from Just CU, it’s always based on affordability plus they set up a savings account, to provide a rainy-day fund or savings pot for next Christmas. Loans are available from £300*. Their website provides online access to fair and responsible loans plus you can check what your repayments will be and apply for the most appropriate service for you.

Saving is a core value of the credit union and every member saves regularly. Saving small amounts can soon add up to help you when needed most or to enjoy life’s special moments. Anyone who lives or works in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin,

Fair & Responsible

Herefordshire, Wye Valley, Malvern Hills, Worcester, Wyre Forest, Stafford, Newcastle Under Lyme, South Staffordshire, or Stoke-onTrent is eligible to join.

*Terms and conditions apply.

Just Credit Union Branch, Unit 3, Southwater Square, Southwater Way, Telford, TF3 4JG

T: 01952 252325

E: info@justcreditunion.org

Learn more: https://justcreditunion.org/

Dancing Does Keep You Young

As we get older, movement takes on new meaning. Dancing, in particular, becomes one of the most powerful ways to keep the spirit and the body vibrant.

Physically, dancing keeps us young. It strengthens muscles, improves balance, and boosts coordination, all essential for maintaining independence and confidence as the years go.

Mentally, it’s one of the best ways to keep the mind sharp. Studies show that dancing stimulates multiple areas of the brain at once, memory, focus, creativity, and even emotional regulation.

Emotionally, dance reconnects us, and perhaps most importantly, socially, dance keeps us connected.

So, as we get older, dancing isn’t just an activity. It’s an act of celebration, of movement, memory, and the enduring rhythm of life.

Confidence at Christmas

Christmas often brings with it a swirl of emotions, such as joy, nostalgia, excitement, and sometimes a quiet undercurrent of self-doubt. Amid the sparkle and song, we can feel an invisible pressure to be merry, to look our best, to have everything “just right.” But true confidence at Christmas doesn’t come from perfection, rather it comes from presence.

Yet, beneath the tinsel and the to-do lists lies a rarer treasure: confidence. Not the chest-thumping kind that struts about quoting motivational slogans, but the subtle, steady sort that hums quietly under the heart.

Confidence, you see, is a kind of grace. It’s the calm assurance that you, yes, even with your slightly singed mince pies (sorry) and lopsided bows (just can’t get it quite straight) are enough. It’s knowing that connection means more than coordination, that warmth outshines symmetry, and that a genuine laugh will always out glitter a polished performance.

Confidence isn’t loud or showy but it’s calm, grounded, and real. It’s the quiet knowing that you are enough, even if the turkey burns, the wrapping

paper runs out, or the plans don’t unfold exactly as imagined. It’s showing up as yourself but not the polished version you think everyone wants to see, but the honest, human one who sometimes gets tired, emotional, or messy.

At Christmas, confidence looks like giving your authentic self as a gift. It’s saying no when you need rest, yes when something sparks joy, and thank you truly when kindness comes your way. It’s choosing connection over comparison, laughter over logistics, and meaning over material.

So, this Christmas, wear your confidence not like armour, but like a soft scarf, like something that keeps you warm, not hidden. Let your light shine, not because you’re trying to impress anyone, but because you have something beautiful within you that deserves to glow.

Because the truth is, confidence isn’t about having it all together. It’s about trusting that whatever the season brings, you’ll meet it with heart.

So, this Christmas, wrap yourself not in sequins or self-doubt, but in self-assurance. Be the person who toasts with joy, not perfection. Wear your confidence lightly — like a good Christmas jumper: a little bright, a little bold, and completely unapologetic. After all, the most beautiful thing you can bring to the table besides the gravy, is your unfiltered, unpolished, utterly authentic self.

Merry Christmas

Every Tuesday in Shrewsbury - Dance Fitness and Beginner Ballet

Sian Brennan-Todd: Presenter and Host. For info visit www.sianbrennantodd.com, Instagram @sianbrennantodd or LinkedIn

@sianbrennantodd

Face the facts

How to choose the right cleanser for your skin type.

Cleansing balms

Cleansing balms use plant and seed oils, such as rosehip seed oil, starﬂower oil, jojoba oil and sweet almond oil,f to gently cleanse your skin and boost hydration. You apply a small amount to dry skin, massage it in and then wipe it off with a damp cloth. Balms are effective at removing makeup and daily grime without stripping the skin of its essential oils. As an added bonus, you can use a cleansing balm as a weekly facial mask; leave it to sink in for 10 minutes before wiping it away.

Best for: Dry and mature skin. Fragrance-free versions are great for sensitive skin. Try: Beauty Pie Plantastic Apricot Butter Cleansing Balm Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm

Cream cleansers

Cream cleansers can be removed with water or with a damp muslin cloth. Most are gentle, moisturising and effective at removing makeup. Look for one with added moisturising ingredients, such as rosehip oil or cocoa butter.

Best for: Dry, mature and sensitive skin. Try: Sukin Rosehip Nourishing Cream Cleanser

Liz Earle Cleanse & Polish Hot Cloth Cleanser

Micellar cleansers

These use tiny oil molecules to cleanse your face. You don’t need to rinse a micellar cleanser off, but if you’re wearing makeup or sunscreen, you’ll want to use the cleanser with a cotton or microﬁbre cloth. Micellar water is very gentle so unlikely to cause irritation, but it’s not as effective at cleansing as other options. So, if you wear a lot of makeup, it’s best to use it as part of a double cleansing method.

Best for: Most skin types, including sensitive skin. Try:

Garnier Micellar Water Facial Cleanser for Sensitive Skin

Bubble Magic Melt Micellar Milk

Gel and foam cleansers

These facial washes can be removed with water alone. They’re very good at washing away every trace of makeup, sweat and grime, and can help unblock pores to leave your skin feeling clean and fresh. However, some can also strip your skin of natural oils, so they aren’t ideal for older, drier or sensitive skin.

Best for: Younger, oily or acne-prone skin. Try: Caudalie Vinopure Pore Purifying Gel Cleanser CeraVe Foaming Cleanser for Normal to Oily Skin

Heartleys by Katie - A New Chapter for a Shropshire Favourite

After more than a decade of inspiring children through cooking, Katie, founder of the beloved Katie’s Kids Kitchen, is entering an exciting new chapter with the opening of Heartleys by Katie, a beautiful new family-friendly destination in Shrewsbury.

Katie first began her journey in 2010, opening her children’s cookery school in Shrewsbury Market Hall. The small but lively space quickly became a local success, attracting children from across the county who were eager to learn and play in the kitchen. As demand grew, Katie moved to a larger premises at St Julian’s Friars, allowing her to host more classes and create a warm, nurturing environment where young chefs could build skills, confidence, and creativity.

Katie’s passion for teaching children to cook was inspired by her own experiences as a parent. “Cooking with my children showed me how much it builds confidence, independence, and curiosity,” she says. “It’s about far more than food, it’s about life skills, teamwork, and joy.”

In 2014, Katie expanded her vision by opening a children’s nursery in Shrewsbury, a setting that blended outdoor play among fruit trees with a curriculum rooted in practical life skills. The nursery quickly became a beloved part of the local community, offering families a warm and natureinspired environment where children could grow and thrive.

After 11 successful years, Katie stepped away from the nursery in March this year, leaving it in the capable hands of her business partners. She now continues her mission to inspire young families through her latest venture, Heartleys by Katie.

Located at Heartleys Business Centre, Shrewsbury, Heartleys brings all of Katie’s passions together under one roof:

The Cookery SChool

A bright, creative space offering:

• Little Sprinkles classes for children aged 2–5

• After-School Cookery for ages 5+

• Holiday Workshops including themed events

The roSe Tea room

Designed by Katie herself, this charming tearoom offers homemade treats, luxury drinks, and afternoon tea. Available for family gatherings and celebrations with 48 hours’ notice. All allergens and dietary needs can be catered for.

The ForeST Nook & eNChaNTed GardeN

Two beautiful indoor spaces that encourage calm play, imagination, and mindfulness. A sanctuary for children and families alike.

“Katie’s Kids Kitchen has always been about connection,” Katie explains. “Heartleys by Katie is everything I’ve dreamed of bringing together…a place for families to connect, for children to discover the joy of cooking, and for everyone to take a moment to slow down and enjoy something homemade.”

Heartleys by Katie is open daily, with all play sessions and classes available to book online.

For further information, call Katie on 07971 499359, email heartleysbykatie@gmail.com or visit www.heartleysbykatie.co.uk.

TESCAPE TO GLANSEVIN MANSION:

ucked into the serene Towy Valley on the edge of the Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, Glansevin Mansion is a hidden gem where history, elegance, and nature meet. Steeped in history, with roots reaching back beyond the Napoleonic era to at least Tudor times, this Grade II-listed Georgian home oﬀers timeless charm and modern comfort in equal measure.

Ideal for weddings, celebrations, corporate retreats or weekends away, Glansevin sits on ﬁve acres of private grounds complete with a newly refurbished outdoor pool, sauna, and sweeping countryside views. Inside, the mansion oﬀers

reﬁned elegance with spacious reception rooms, a grand dining hall for up to 75 guests, and cozy nooks warmed by burning ﬁres.

Licensed for weddings, Glansevin invites couples to marry beneath a 900-year-old oak tree or in the glow of a stately ﬁreplace. With the freedom to selfcater and style the mansion to your taste, your event becomes truly your own.

Whether exploring waterfalls and castles nearby or simply relaxing under Welsh skies, a stay at Glansevin is a rare chance to unwind in a setting that feels both intimate and majestic. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s a place to remember.

12A Salop Road, Oswestry. Next door to NFU. 2 hours Free parking available on Sainsburys car park!

Tis the Season…to Slow Down

by Jenna Ward, Personal Growth Coach and Reiki Practitioner.

It’s an interesting thing that we humans do. We are a part of nature - indeed we are nature, we are mere mammals - yet we regularly and consistently separate ourselves from it.

This time of year is an extreme example. As winter sets in and nature draws inward. The trees have dropped their leaves, letting go of what isn’t needed in order to reserve their energy through winter, so that they can come back strong in spring. Squirrels are settling in, having scampered about, diligently collecting food stores for winter. For those mammals not hibernating, there is a reduction in activity and periods of long sleep. Humans on the other hand. We are planning Christmas parties, shopping trips, lavish dinners, work nights out, friend nights out, family get-togethers. It’s madness!

While nature is calling for us to draw inward - giving us shorter days, longer nights, more sleepiness, cooler temperatures - inviting us to slow down, let go of what’s not necessary and take time for rest in order to restore, ready for re-emergence and the buzz of spring, we humans are resisting, pushing against nature and pushing ourselves into doing even more. I don’t know about you, but I want to go and hide under my duvet with a hot water bottle just thinking about it.

Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love the festive season! I love the lights, the cheesy movies, the music, a Christmas fair, getting dressed up and gathering with all my good vibe people. I get it. It’s an exciting time of year; there’s a lot going on and opportunities for fun everywhere.

It can also feel as though there’s a lot of pressure. Pressure to attend, pressure to invite, pressure to buy, to give, to be available.

Ask yourself, where is this pressure coming from? Have people said that they expect these things of you or is it a belief you have. Perhaps have a conversation. Maybe you’re all thinking the same thing “I hope they cancel so I can stay home in my pj’s”

Consider saying no. Just that. One word. I heard it said once that “‘no’ is a sentence”. I loved it when I heard it, I still love it now. It’s empowering, taking ownership of your ‘no’, and I invite you to do that this festive season. Decide what you really want to do. Whether that’s speciﬁc events or no events. Whether you want to say no to the work’s Christmas doo so you can be rested and fully ramped for your best friend’s annual party or if you want to close your door and not re-emerge until spring. Whatever you want to do with your precious time. State it. Be bold. This is your permission slip.

For me, I’ll be picking a few of my favourite things to enjoy: wreath making, dinner out with friends, a Christmas fair or two. The rest of my winter will be movies, crafts, baking and hot chocolate, candles, books, snuggly blankets and naps.

This is your invitation to buck the trend this season and go rogue. Get rebellious and just say ‘no’ to all the en mass calendar ﬁlling. Get clear on what’s in and what’s out. Gift yourself time out (top tip - don’t ﬁll it with ‘doing’). Hunker down, get cosy and get your winter on.

Happy hibernation fellow beings of nature.

Santa is Coming to Oswestry

From Sunday 30th November to Christmas Eve

Park Hall Stadium

Burma Road, Whittington, Oswestry SY11 4AS

CHRISTMAS AT THE GLOBE

Where festive fun, laughter and a touch of nostalgia come together.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and nowhere captures the spirit of Christmas quite like The Globe Bingo Hall! This December, the club is transforming into a winter wonderland filled with laughter, music, delicious food, and plenty of bingo magic. The decorations are up, the lights are twinkling, and the festive atmosphere is one you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re a lifelong player or stepping through our doors for the first time, there’s something truly special about celebrating Christmas the Globe way –where memories are made, prizes are won, and the festive cheer never stops. Every visit feels like coming home to friends, family, and fun.

festive cheer. Enjoy live entertainment, a free festive meal of turkey & stuffing bap with roast potatoes, and a welcome drink for just £10. Choose from the afternoon session (10:30am) with £350 in prizes, or the evening session (from 4:30pm) with £900 to be won – or join both for double the fun! Bring your friends, family and neighbours for a true Christmas celebration filled with laughter and excitement.

Our Christmas Gift to You

Every Thursday evening in December (excluding Christmas Day), The Globe is gifting players free main bingo! All nine house prizes pay £100 each, making it the perfect way to relax, play, and soak up the festive spirit surrounded by friendly faces.

Sunday 7th December – The Big Christmas Get Together

Start the season in style from 10:30am with bingo, a welcome drink, a two-course Christmas dinner and live entertainment from Santa himself – all for just £15. With a £500 Last House prize and festive fun throughout the day, it’s the perfect way to begin your celebrations and share the joy of the season with others.

Friday 12th December – Christmas Party Time!

One! night evening

Get ready for an unforgettable day and night of

Sunday 21st December –The Big One! We’re wrapping up the year with our biggest night of the season. From just £15, play over £6,000 in prize money and enjoy an evening full of excitement, laughter and festive fun. It’s the perfect finale to a magical month of celebrations.

Friday 12th December – Christmas Party Time!

Get ready for an unforgettable day and night of

Sunday 21st December –The Big One! We’re wrapping up the year with our biggest night of the season. From just £15, play for over £6,000 in prize money and enjoy an evening full of excitement, laughter and festive fun. It’s the perfect finale to a magical month of celebrations.

At The Globe, Christmas isn’t just about prizes – it’s about people. It’s about catching up with friends, making new ones and sharing the joy that makes this club so special.

The festive season can be stressful for pets. With a little thought, you can make them feel happier and more secure at this busy time.

Give them privacy Dogs and cats might want to beat a retreat, especially if there are crackers and other scary noises. Make sure they have a comfortable place they can hide if they want to, preferably with a toy or two. You might want to move the cage containing a small furry pet to a quieter part of the house, as they’re often sensitive to high-frequency sounds we can’t hear.

Introduce people gradually If you have many visitors, don’t stress your dog or cat out by confronting them with a big group of people all at once. Let your pet take their own time to get to know guests.

Look out for pet visitors Don’t let visiting dogs near small furries; they will probably find the experience terrifying. If you’re visiting someone else’s home, consider taking your dog’s bed, which will have a familiar smell, along with a toy or chew.

Decorate carefully Small furries won’t appreciate tinsel around their cage and they could hurt themselves nibbling on fairy lights or electrical cables. Glass baubles could break and injure your cat or dog, and remember chocolate is toxic for dogs – chocolate decorations can easily be eaten if they fall off the Christmas tree or are hanging on low branches.

Leaton Forest christmas tree barn

Come and Choose your

Perfect Christmas Tree

From 22nd of November

Mon - Wed 10am - 5pm |

Thur - Fri 10am - 6pm | Sat - Sun 9am - 5pm

Freshly Harvested Real Christmas Trees

For enquires or further information please email us at trees@leatonforest.co.uk

Leaton Forest Firewood

Locally Grown, Traditionally

Seasoned Firewood

Barrow Bags - Premium grade: £50, B grade: £45

Bulk Bags - Premium grade: £150, B grade: £125

Kindling - £8

Free Local Delivery

To order, email us at trees@leatonforest.co.uk or order through our website: www.leatonforest.co.uk/ firewood-log-sales

From ShropShire to

London - and back again!

What’s more fulfilling as a corporate lawyer: working on multi-millionpound corporate deals in London or helping businesses grow in Shropshire?

The answer is clear for Gráinne Walters, head of the corporate law team at Lanyon Bowdler, who spent eight years working in the city before moving back to Shropshire - as she explains in an interview for the firm’s Legal Lounge podcast.

How did you start out in law?

I grew up in County Monaghan, Ireland, and studied business and law at University College Dublin, before going to Bristol where I completed my Legal Practice Course. I then landed my training contract with Lanyon Bowdler, which was actually my first experience of working for a law firm.

What made you decide to move to London?

During my training contract, I fell in love with Shropshire but also fell in love with the man who became my husband. He’s a Shropshire lad but lived in London and was visiting his parents when we met, so we ended up moving to London together and I spent eight years working in the city.

did, and I was keen to work with the senior partners so I could learn as much as possible from them.

There was a steady flow of junior lawyers coming into the firm all the time, so there was a natural amount of supervision, mentoring and management as my career progressed, which I enjoyed. During this time, I got married and had my first child, so life was certainly very hectic with lots of juggling to manage childcare with the long hours.

So how did you end up back in Shropshire?

Our People, Your Team

We were visiting my husband’s parents one weekend and during a wine tasting event at Tanners, who should we bump into but David Battisby, the managing partner of Lanyon Bowdler at the time!

Here to Help

What was living and working as a lawyer in London like?

We continue to offer meetings via telephone and video and where necessary we are able to offer face to face appointments, please use our letterbox when dropping off documents.

while I was in London, so it was an exciting time when I rejoined in 2014 and I’ve never looked back.

Do any big corporate deals stand out in your career?

Legal services including:

• Agriculture

• Business Law

I moved down to London in my mid-twenties, and it was a brilliant experience - very much a case of work hard, play hard. I was part of a large corporate team and as I got more experienced I was working on bigger ticket clients and leading transactions.

• Family Law

• Clinical Negligence

I’m hugely ambitious and love what I do. I was not shy of work and the long days - I always wanted more work and to be the best at what I

• Court of Protection

• Disputes

We got chatting and then a couple of weeks later he called my office in London to see if I would be interested in a more formal conversation about career progression back in Shropshire, which ended up with me rejoining Lanyon Bowdler as a partner.

Was family an important factor in moving to Shropshire?

• Education

• Employment Law

• Motoring & Crime

• Personal Injury

Absolutely - we always knew we didn’t want to raise our children in London, and Shropshire was a natural place for us to return to and grow our family.

• Property & Planning

• Wills, Trusts & Probate

Lanyon Bowdler had expanded

As a transactional lawyer, every completion meeting is a career highlight for me - that may sound cheesy but it’s true. Just seeing a deal through, from heads of terms, due diligence and warranty negotiations to that final handshake is hugely rewarding and energising. You might think the big deals in London would stand out, but actually the deals here in Shropshire with owner-manager businesses who are passionate about what they do are the ones I enjoy working on the most. They are incredible businesspeople, and whilst I support them on the legal side, I learn and am inspired by them - their strategic thinking, their style of management, their leadership, their entrepreneurship and ambitions. I think that’s what makes me a better business lawyer and mentor to our younger team members.

What’s your favourite thing to do in Shropshire at Christmas?

Christmas is my favourite time of year, and Shrewsbury is just magical at Christmas time. A stroll through town with its festive lights and popping into all the lovely gift shops is my favourite way to spend a lazy Christmas afternoon.

Grainne Walters and Beth Heath

The Tax Treatment of Christmas Gifts and Parties

As the festive season approaches, many businesses like to thank their staff and clients with gifts or a Christmas party. But before the tinsel goes up, it’s worth understanding how these gestures are treated for tax purposes.

Staff Christmas parties

The good news is that HMRC offers an annual exemption for staff events, provided certain conditions are met. The total cost must not exceed £150 per head (including VAT, food, drink, entertainment and transport). The event must be open to all employees (or all employees at a particular location), and it must be an annual function such as a Christmas or summer party.

If the cost exceeds £150 per head — even by £1 — the entire amount becomes a taxable beneﬁt for employees, so it’s worth keeping a close eye on costs.

Gifts for employees

Small festive gifts can fall within the trivial beneﬁts exemption, provided each gift costs £50 or less, is not cash or a cash voucher, and is not a reward for work or performance. Typical examples include a bottle of wine, a box of chocolates, or a supermarket gift card.

Anything exceeding this limit or given as part of a reward scheme will count as a taxable beneﬁt and must be reported via PAYE or a P11D.

Client gifts

Client gifts are usually not tax-deductible, unless they are inexpensive (up to £50 per recipient), carry a clear business logo, and are not food, drink or tobacco. Branded diaries or calendars often qualify.

With some careful planning, festive generosity can remain both tax-eﬃcient and spirit-lifting. A little foresight ensures your goodwill gestures bring joy to recipients without an unwelcome tax hangover in the new year.

Interiors

by Stephanie Dhillon

The 12 Days of Christmas

Inspired by the nostalgic Christmas carol, The 12 days of Christmas, here is a collection of products for your home that either embody or echo motifs depicted in each line. Everything from partridges to geese and drum shaped pendant lighting to vintage milk churns. It’s a unique way of setting up and decorating your home for Christmas.

Clockwise From Bottom Left: Christmas MatchesPartridge in a Pear Tree £8.95 from Annabel James www.annabeljames.co.uk

Mother and Baby Geese

Wall Hook £30 from Beautiful brass www.beautifulbrass.com

Gold Metal Bird Garland £20 from Heavenly Homes and Gardens www. heavelyhomesandgardens.co.uk

Tufted Cotton Bath MatWhite Dove £19.95 from Rex London www.rexlondon.com

Large Antique Gold Metal Ring

Display Tray £90 from Click Style www.clickstyle.co.uk

Black, Gold and Silver Polka Dot Hen Decoration £12.50 from the Raj Tent Club www.rajtentclub.com

Clockwise From Top Left: Industville Rift Slatted Wooden Drum Pendant Light £129 from Industville www.industville.co.uk

Blue Disco Poster £13.95 from Desenio www.desenio.com

Galvanised Milk Churn £39.99 from Ivyline www.ivylinegb.co.uk

Piper bench in Lander Ochre £950 from Sweetpea & Willow www.sweetpeaandwillow.com

Ten Lords A Leaping - Red Amber Candle £16.50 from Victoria Eggs www.victoriaeggs.com

Silver Metal Swan Hook £5.95 from Melody Maison www.melodymaison.co.uk

your dream kitchen in time for

At QA, we design, build, and fit stunning bespoke kitchens with a fast 4-6 week lead time. Based in Shrewsbury, we’re ready to transform your space.

Come and visit one of our 7 showrooms, our stunning fitted kitchen displays showcase a range of styles, from the latest contemporary kitchens to traditional designs with a modern look. If you are thinking of remodelling your kitchen, a QA Showroom is the best place to look for inspiration. Book your free design consultation today!

We Design

Supply We Install

A Riverside Residence Unlike Any Other in Shrewsbury

Live in luxury at Old Coleham Court, where riverside living meets exceptional design. These stunning new apartments are now fully complete — ready for you to move in and experience a new standard of space, light, and elegance.

Step inside and discover homes that redefine modern luxury. Every room has been crafted to maximise natural light, space, and comfort. With dimensions up to 160% larger than the average UK apartment, Old Coleham Court offers generous living areas and premium finishes that elevate everyday living.

Space to Breathe and Live

From the moment you arrive, Old Coleham Court makes an impression. Its graceful curved façade and glamorous lobby with oversized tilework set a tone of understated luxury that’s rare in Shrewsbury.

Inside, each apartment is designed for openness and ease. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the rooms with light, while wide hallways and deep storage keep your home feeling calm and uncluttered. Bathrooms are lavishly spacious, creating private sanctuaries for relaxation, and the thoughtful bedroom-to-bathroom ratio ensures comfort whether you’re hosting or enjoying quiet time at home.

Luxury You Can Measure

Old Coleham Court isn’t just beautiful — it’s impressively large. With an average apartment size of 92 sqm, these homes are 160% bigger than the UK’s typical new-build flat. The two-bedroom apartments average 99 sqm, offering remarkable room to live, entertain, and unwind. Why compromise on space when you can enjoy so much more?

Elegant and Functional Design

Every detail at Old Coleham Court has been carefully considered. Each apartment features bespoke kitchens with stone worktops, custom cabinetry, and high-spec appliances for effortless cooking and entertaining.

Fitted wardrobes and generous storage ensure your home stays beautifully organised, while select apartments offer the opportunity to add personal touches — from flooring finishes to electric blinds — showcased in the new Marketing Suite and Show Home.

The Luxury of Indoor-Outdoor Living

At the heart of Old Coleham Court lies a tranquil open-air courtyard, spanning over 360 square metres. Planted with olive trees and lush greenery, it provides a private oasis of calm and natural beauty.

Four exclusive apartments open directly onto this space, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience that brings light and serenity to everyday life.

Experience True Comfort and Style — Ready to Move In Now

Old Coleham Court is now complete and ready for immediate occupation. Each apartment combines elegance, space, and modern convenience to create a lifestyle that feels effortlessly luxurious.

This beautiful development is now occupied, with over 50% of homes are already sold, and parking spaces are allocated on a first-come, firstserved basis — so now is the perfect time to secure your new riverside home in one of Shrewsbury’s most desirable locations.

Book Your Viewing Today

The show home is open by appointment.

Call Sharon on 01743 40 31 31 Email sharon@syhomes.co.uk

Visit www.syhomes.co.uk

Come and see for yourself what true comfort and style look like at Old Coleham Court, Shrewsbury — where luxury living is now complete.

Monday-Friday 10am-4pm Saturday 9am-2pm Sunday closed

Where Dreams come to life

Interiors

by Stephanie Dhillon

Light Up

There are endless designs for pendants, sconces, table lamps and floor standing lights out there and although lighting is a necessary function in our spaces, it’s also important to remember lighting can just be a statement piece on its own. Here are some lighting options with striking patterns, interesting shapes and eye-catching colours.

Left: Black & Gold Floor lamp £145 from Click style www.clickstyle.co.uk

Right: Industville Ribbed Maribo Pendant Light £119 from Industville www.industville.co.uk

Below: Pooky Doorstop Rechargeable Lamp

£100 from Pooky www.pooky.com

Above: Jules Medium Coloured Glass Swan Wall Light £285 from Glow Lighting www.glowlighting.co.uk

Below: Two Arm Rope Wall Light, Bronze £525 from Besselink & Jones www.besselink.com

Above: Black & Brass Dome Triple Pendant £175 from Cox & Cox www.coxandcox.co.uk

Right: Etherea Twin Wall Light in Antique Brass £245 from Oka www.oka.com

Right: Asteria Table Lamp | Forest Green £279 from Black by Design wwwblack-by-design.co.uk

Left: Three Ariane Glass Pendants £325 from Cox & Cox www.coxandcox.co.uk

Right: Pooky Heraldic Print Ikat on Double Insignia Rechargeable Wall Light £148 from Pooky www.pooky.com

Right: Tao Pendant Matt Black and Smoked Glass £84 from Dar Lighting Group www.darlighting.co.uk

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CLAIM UP TO £7,500 TOWARDS THE COST OF A NEW HEAT PUMP ON THE BUS SCHEME

0% VAT on all battery storage systems ORDERS NOW BEING TAKEN FOR

When then the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like sinking your feet into a warm carpet in your living room. At Shropshire Carpets, the family-run independent retailer based in Shrewsbury, the team understands how the right ﬂooring isn’t simply a decorative choice, but a comfort and performance decision, especially when the colder weather arrives.

Why carpet makes sense in colder months

Hard ﬂoors like tile, laminate or stone can leave a room feeling unwelcoming, especially in the colder weather. Carpet, by contrast, offers a range of advantages:

Warmth & insulation: Carpet ﬁbres trap air and provide a natural thermal cushion, meaning less heat loss through the ﬂoor and a cosier overall feel.

Acoustic comfort: Carpet helps absorb sound, reducing echo, footsteps and the hollow feeling that harder ﬂoors sometimes create.

Safety and comfort for all ages: With shorter days, the risk of slips and stumbles increases. Carpet offers extra grip underfoot, and a softer surface if there is a misstep.

Energy eﬃciency: By creating a warmer ﬂoor surface, carpet helps with less heat loss. That means comfort plus cost-effectiveness.

A one-stop ﬂooring solution for your home

Shropshire Carpets is more than just a carpet shop. Holding a wide range of stock of premium carpets, you’ll see samples from brands including Axminster, Abingdon, Cavalier, Cormar, Furlong and Victoria Carpets. They also carry bleach-cleanable ranges, wool and wool-mix carpets, roll stock, remnants and underlays.

Shropshire Carpets – Offering You Smart Flooring Solutions

You won’t even need to deal with multiple suppliers or installers if you want different types of ﬂooring because Shropshire Carpets offer the full package: carpets, underlays, vinyls, door bars, adhesives and ﬂoor cleaning products.

On a budget? For those looking for costeffective solutions, the shop has a large selection of remnants in varying widths and a wide choice of vinyls in stock, letting customers take advantage of immediate availability and lower cost-options.

If you’re worried about ﬁtting, Shropshire Carpets offer measuring, installation, full ﬁtting services, and advice tailored to your home, budget and lifestyle.

As a family-run independent retailer, their focus is honest advice and strong customer relationships and that’s reﬂected in their 5-star reviews:

“I cannot recommend these guys highly enough. After hitting a problem caused by my dog (having an accident and needing surgery), Richie and Luke went above and beyond to ensure my carpets were down in time for moving day.” – Sorrel, Shrewsbury

So, if you’re looking to refresh your home this autumn or winter, to bring warmth, comfort and style back into your living space, then Shropshire Carpets stands out as the local expert ready to deliver. Choosing the right ﬂooring is about more than just aesthetics, it’s about how you live, feel and how your home supports you.

To experience the difference for yourself, pop into their showroom at Unit A, Arrowpoint Retail Park, Brixton Way, Shrewsbury, SY1 3GB, and ask about their carpet-and-underlay bundles, talk through the ﬁtting options, and explore what’s in stock for an immediate transformation that your feet will thank you for all year round.

Call 01743 469740 or email info@shropshirecarpets.co.uk

Our services

• Tree removal

• sTorm damaged Trees

• Tree felling

• Tree pruning

• sTump grinding

• garden clearance

• hedge Trimming

• fencing

Spiced Turkey Broth with fragrant dumplings

INGREDIENTS

For the broth

• 1 onion, peeled and sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

• 1 leek, sliced

• 3 celery sticks, sliced

• Olive oil

• A few fresh tarragon sprigs

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme

• 1 tbsp ’nduja paste (optional)

• 125ml white wine

• 500ml turkey or chicken stock

• 1 head of cavolo nero, leaves stripped from the stems

For the dumplings

• 1 shallot, peeled and ﬁnely diced

• 30g butter

• 1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 100g shredded suet

• 100g self-raising ﬂour

• 100g fresh breadcrumbs

• Zest of 1 unwaxed lemon

• A handful of chopped fresh basil leaves

• A pinch of chilli ﬂakes

• 2 medium free-range eggs, beaten

METHOD

Thoroughly tasty and warming – this spicy broth with a hint of heat is good, hearty feel-good food.

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160 °C, gas 4.

2. In a casserole dish, sweat the onion, garlic, leek and celery in some olive oil for 10 minutes until soft. Add the tarragon sprigs, chopped thyme and ’nduja paste, if using. Pour in the wine and boil off the alcohol for a few minutes before adding the stock. Simmer gently for another 10 minutes.

3. Meanwhile make the dumplings. In a frying pan, sweat the shallot in the butter until soft, then stir in the garlic and thyme and season. Mix this with the suet, ﬂour, breadcrumbs, lemon zest, basil leaves and chilli ﬂakes. When cool enough, add the eggs. Mix together well. Roll into balls the size of pickled onions. Don’t roll them too tightly to keep them light.

4. Drop the dumplings into the hot stock, add the torn cavolo nero and put the casserole dish (no lid) in the oven for around 25 minutes. Serve immediately.

Recipe extracted from Matt Tebbutt’s Pub Food by Matt Tebbutt, published by Quadrille, priced £26, with photography by Chris Terry. (Quadrille, £26), Photography © Chris Terry.

Serves 4 | Preparation time 25 minutes | Cooking time 35 minutes

Serves 6-8 Preparation time 20-25 minutes, plus proving Cooking time 45-60 minutes

Stollen with honey butter

A ﬁrm favourite at Christmas time, this delicious stollen has all the classic Yuletide ﬂavours – marzipan, cranberries and clementines.

INGREDIENTS

For the stollen

• 100g unsalted butter, cubed

• 300g strong white ﬂour, plus extra for dusting

• 1⁄2 tsp salt

• 150ml whole milk, plus extra to glaze

• 60g caster sugar

• 1 x 7g sachet dried yeast

• 3 clementines, zested

• 100g dried cranberries, chopped

• 50g pecan nuts, chopped

• 60g dark chocolate chunks

• 200g marzipan, rolled into a long log

For the honey butter

• 100g unsalted butter, room temperature

• 60g clear honey

• 2 tsp icing sugar

METHOD

1. To make the loaf, rub the butter into the ﬂour and salt in a large mixing bowl to make a breadcrumb consistency.

2. Heat the milk in a small pan to blood temperature (37°C), add the sugar and the yeast and mix well. Then add the grated clementine zest, cranberries, pecans and chocolate to the breadcrumb mix. Make a well in the centre and add the warmed milk. Mix to a soft dough.

3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes on a lightly ﬂoured surface before rolling it into a rectangle of 30 x 15cm. Roll the marzipan to a length that will ﬁt the loaf and lay it down one edge. Roll the dough over to encase the marzipan – you can brush the edges with a little water to help them seal. Arrange on a baking tray lined with greaseproof paper, cover and leave to prove for 30 minutes in a warm place.

4. Preheat the oven to 160°C, fan 140°C, gas 3. Brush the loaf with milk to glaze and bake for 45-60 minutes. Remove from the oven, cover with a clean tea towel and allow to cool a bit before slicing.

5. To make the honey butter, beat the butter until soft in a bowl, add the honey and icing sugar, and beat again until soft and smooth. To serve, slice the loaf and spread with the honey butter.

Recipe extracted from Matt Tebbutt’s Pub Food by Matt Tebbutt, published by Quadrille, priced £26, with photography by Chris Terry. (Quadrille, £26), Photography © Chris Terry.

Zesty Tiramisu

Serves 8 • Preparation time 30 minutes • Cooking time none

The literal meaning of tiramisu in Italian is ‘pick me up’. Here, we serve up the iconic triﬂe with a twist. Because the traditional Italian cream ﬁlling can sometimes be tricky, this adaptation means that even novice cooks don’t have anything to worry about!

INGREDIENTS

For the coffee soak

• 3 tbsp instant coffee granules

• 2 tbsp golden caster sugar

• 300ml boiling water

• 4 tbsp Kahlua, or other coffee liqueur (optional) For the tiramisu

• 500g mascarpone, or cream cheese

• 300ml double cream

• 120g golden caster sugar

• Finely grated zest and juice of 2 oranges, plus more zest to serve

• Finely grated zest and juice of 2 lemons

• 300g sponge ﬁngers

• 2 tbsp cocoa powder

METHOD

1. Prepare the coffee soak. Put the coffee granules and sugar into a jug or a bowl. Pour in the measured boiling water and stir until the coffee and sugar dissolve, then set aside to cool down. Once it’s cool, pour the coffee liqueur in, if using, then mix.

2. Put the mascarpone or cream cheese in a large mixing bowl with the cream, sugar, and the orange and lemon zest and juice. Use a whisk to beat until smooth. Use a tablespoon to take out 8 spoons of the cream and set aside, to serve with the ﬁnished dish.

3. Get a large dish, measuring about 30 × 20cm. Dip half the sponge ﬁngers one at a time in the coffee soak for about 5 seconds, arranging them in the dish in a single layer as they are done.

4. Spoon in half the mascarpone cream and spread it evenly over the sponge ﬁngers.

5. Now repeat with another layer of coffee-soaked sponge ﬁngers, followed by the remaining mascarpone cream.

6. Cover the tiramisu and put it in the fridge until you are ready to serve. Before serving, dust the cocoa powder liberally all over.

7. Grate some orange zest over the tiramisu, then serve it with a bowl of the reserved cream on the side.

Recipe extracted from Speedy Weeknight Meals by Jon Watts, published by Bloomsbury Publishing, priced £20, with photography by Jonathan Gregson.

Boucle Check Jacket (7-15yrs) from £22, Matching Skirt from £14, www.matalan.co.uk

Dressing up time!

With plenty of parties to go to and kids discos, there’s an excuse to find a couple of outfits for the little ones this Christmas! Bows, reindeers and festive jumpers are all you need.

Clockwise, from top left: Red MG Doodle Xmas Cardigan £29, www.riverisland.com

Puffball Skirt (6-16 Yrs) £20, www.marksandspencer.com

Bow Cardigan from £12, www.matalan.co.uk

Laffy Ballerina in Burgundy £26.00, www.schuh.co.uk

Clockwise, from right: Patchwork Knit £9, www.primark.com

Check Reindeer Shirt from £8, direct.asda.com

Edit Turn-up Jeans £10, www.primark.com

Edit Chelsea Boot £15, www.primark.com

The Enduring Value of the Humanities: Why Ellesmere College Champions

Latin and the Arts

In an era increasingly dominated by STEM subjects and vocational education, the humanities can seem like a vanishing luxury. Across the UK, many schools are scaling back or entirely dropping subjects like Latin, Classical Studies, History, Philosophy, and Literature. Yet at Ellesmere College, the humanities not only remain a cornerstone of the curriculum, they are celebrated for the profound value they bring to a young person’s education.

At their core, the humanities are about understanding the human experience. They foster critical thinking, cultural literacy, ethical reflection and the ability to communicate with precision and empathy. In a world that often prizes speed and utility, the humanities invite students to slow down and ask, “What does it mean to be human?” Ellesmere College recognises that question as foundational not optional.

Latin, for example, may be seen by some as a “dead language,” but at Ellesmere it’s very much alive in the minds of students who study it. Latin forms the basis of much of the English language and many European tongues. A solid grasp of Latin strengthens vocabulary, hones logical thinking through complex grammar and builds a deeper appreciation for literature, history and law. It opens the door to the classical world, its myths, philosophies and political ideas that still shape our society today.

Offering Latin from Year 5, when many schools have dropped it is not just a nod to tradition. It’s a deliberate choice that reflects the College’s commitment to a wellrounded education. By maintaining a robust humanities curriculum, Ellesmere ensures that its students are not only academically capable but also culturally grounded and intellectually agile.

Beyond Latin, Ellesmere College encourages exploration across the humanities spectrum: English literature that challenges students to consider

multiple perspectives; History that traces the arc of human progress and failure; Religious Studies and Philosophy that spark debates about morality, truth and belief. These subjects teach students to question assumptions, argue respectfully and understand complexity, skills that are as valuable in the boardroom as they are in everyday life.

There is also a broader benefit: the humanities cultivate empathy. In reading a Shakespearean tragedy or a modern novel about migration, students put themselves in someone else’s shoes. In studying ancient civilisations, they learn humility about our own time. At Ellesmere, this emotional intelligence is nurtured alongside academic rigour. It is part of preparing students not just for exams, but for life.

Crucially, the College recognises that the value of education cannot be measured solely in future earnings or job placement rates. It lies in developing a sense of purpose, character and curiosity. While science and technology will undoubtedly shape the future, it is the humanities that ask whether we’re shaping it wisely, ethically and for the good of all.

Ellesmere College’s dedication to the humanities is also a statement of confidence in its students. It assumes they are capable of tackling big ideas, wrestling with ambiguity and engaging with the complexity of the world. That trust is empowering, and it shows. Students leave Ellesmere not only with strong exam results but also with the ability to think independently and contribute meaningfully to society.

In keeping these disciplines alive and vibrant, Ellesmere College stands apart. At a time when other schools are narrowing their focus, Ellesmere remains committed to breadth and depth, to nurturing minds as well as equipping them. The humanities are not an academic afterthought here, they are a vital part of what makes an Ellesmere education distinctive and enduring.

OPEN EVENT

WEDNESDAY 11TH FEBRUARY 2026

5:00PM - 7:00PM

A great opportunity to see everything North Shropshire College has to offer. Explore our facilities and have the opportunity to speak to tutors and the Student Services team who will answer any questions you may have. Book online

or scan the QR