Can we actually say summer is here? Traditionally, 1 May signals the start of summer. Although we don’t crown a May Queen in Oswestry, we do celebrate the warmer weather moving in with our favourite annual outdoor events. With two bank holidays this month, we can’t wait to step out for a coffee in town, sit under a tree in Cae Glas park and have our r t ice crea o t e u er.
Let’s make the best of the sunny days and enjoy our market town to the max!
Victoria Jane McKenna EDITOR
Delivered to 7,000 homes in and around Oswestry every month
Joint Managing Directors David Lee-Birch david@oswestrylife.co.uk
Tracy Leonard tracy@oswestrylife.co.uk
Editor Victoria McKenna victoria@oswestrylife.co.uk
Production Designer Aileen Selkirk aileen@oswestrylife.co.uk
Regular contributors Graham Mitchell, Dr Paul Middleton, Lindsey Pierce, Stephanie Dhillon, Claire Arnold, Jenna Ward, Michael Hudson, Bex Syrett
Accounts and Distribution info@oswestrylife.co.uk
Advertising info@oswestrylife.co.uk
Hope House turning cake into care for local children and families
Hope House Children’s Hospices is cooking the most delicious campaign of the year with the community being encouraged to get involved and help turn cake into care
With kind sponsorship from Henllan Bakery the charity has launched 2026’s et’s Eat ake, which will run from 18-2 ay.
ast year more than 120 coffee mornings, ake sales, and afternoon teas hosted raise more than 1 ,000 and supporters are now eing urged you to get gather lo ed ones and colleagues to host their own tasty e ent.
Hope House fundraiser ethan oung said, et’s get together this ay and whether you fake it or ake it, turn cake into care for local children and families li ing with a life-threatening condition.
E eryone who takes part in et’s Eat ake week will ha e the support of their local fundraiser who will e on hand with promotional materials and tips to ensure your cake sale is a sweet success.
For more information and to sign up for your free fundraising pack please isit hopehouse.org.uk cake
Locally Made Gin Returns
Spring has returned to The Shropshire Distillery — and with it, the muchanticipated arrival of this year’s Limited Edition Apple & Honey Gin. The 2026 release continues the distillery’s use of Hilltop Honey, incorporating their prized Blossom Honey to an already beloved seasonal gin.
Emma and areth lynn, founders of he hropshire istillery, said, ur Apple Honey in has ecome one of the highlights of our year. orking with Hilltop Honey again felt like the natural choice. heir lossom honey adds a smooth, golden richness that perfectly complements the crispness of the apples, and we couldn’t e happier with how this year’s release has turned out. If you’ e een waiting for it, now’s the time it won’t e around for long. he imited Edition Apple Honey in is a aila le now, while stocks last, at www.theshropshiredistillery.co.uk and directly from the distillery in Ellesmere, where you can also ha e your hropshire istillery ottles refilled with a discount!
Derwen College staff al on fire to raise over £800
Five members of staff from Derwen o ege took on a er undrai ing challenge at Whittington Castle, raising more than £800 for Derwen Charity, which supports young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
ustine radey, laire Edge, ue ake, Cath Cyples and Katie Hindle walked arefoot across hot em ers during a professionally organised firewalk at the castle on aturday 28 arch.
The funds raised will help Derwen harity to pro ide extra opportunities, skills and experiences that support young people with E to uild confidence and work towards ecoming more independent adults.
Firewalk participant Cath Cyples said the challenge pushed her in unexpected ways.
It’s really weird to descri e I felt nothing the first time, she said. he second time was more painful ecause I didn’t focus as much, ut I did it twice. It was challenging, ut really empowering.
onnor arker, whose younger sister Amy is a student at Derwen ollege, supported the fundraising on the day y running a tom ola stall. onnor is taking on the ondon arathon this year after securing a charity place through erwen harity and is aiming to raise 2,000.
he e ent supported six local charities and attracted hundreds of spectators.
Community News
Henllan Staff
Trusted Local Dealership Begins Exciting New Chapter
A well-established dealership group serving communities across Wrexham, Oswestry and Newtown has
Welcome to Flaunt!
Steve’s intention to continue to run the business with the same ethos.
Commenting on the acquisition, te e said, hen I was first introduced to Nigel and given the opportunity to become more involved with Arthur’s, I was immediately drawn to the strong reputation the business enjoys among its customers, as well as the dedication and professionalism of its team.
“Having worked in the motor industry for o er twenty-fi e years, I’ve seen how it continues to evolve every day. To now be given the opportunity to lead Arthur’s into its next chapter is something I’m genuinely excited about. I hope to build on the legacy left by Nigel and, before him, his father, and to grow the usiness in a way that re ects
business Steve has openly invited
A few words from Nigel Williams. “After 46 years leading the business, it
has been an honour to serve so many loyal and longstanding customers. Their trust and support over the decades have been the foundation of everything we achieved. I have also been fortunate to work with an exceptional team, including many employees who have been with the business for a great number of years. Their dedication, professionalism and commitment to our customers have played a huge part in building the reputation Arthurs Motor Group enjoys today. As I hand the business over to Steve Drew, I do so with complete confidence in his leadership and in the continued success of the business under his stewardship.”
The business will continue operating across its three locations, with a renewed focus on strengthening customer relationships and supporting the local community. Extended workshop opening hours and in particular a Saturday morning service, have already been introduced to offer greater exi ility for working families and local businesses.
At Flaunt, we’re passionate about creating beautiful hair in a calm, luxurious setting. Our team specialises in precision cutting and soft, seamless colour, from natural- balayage to delicately placed highlights. If you’re looking to add a little more length or volume, we also offer premium hair extensions. Every look is designed to feel effortless, wearable, and perfectly suited to you.
Trained by some of the world’s leading hair brands, our team takes real pride in the little details. We’re all about creating a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere while delivering a high standard of professional service, so you can unwind and enjoy the experience.
From precision cutting, bespoke colour and bridal styling, every service at Flaunt is designed with care and attention to detail. Working alongside premium haircare brands including Wella, Great Lengths and Beauty Works extensions, alongside professional treatments that will restore, strengthen and enhance your hair, leaving you looking and feeling your absolute best.
Follow us on socials:
Nigel Williams and Steve Drew
all the major brands such as Abingdon, Alternati e ooring, Associated ea er, Axminster, rintons, rockway, a alier, ormar, rucial rading, Furlong, enthouse, ictoria, lster, estex.
Tyres from £25
Part worn & Repairs
Wheel Alignment
New tyres supplied and fitted at competitive prices
Trusted Family Business
Unit 6b, Mile Oak Industrial Estate, Oswestry SY10 8RG
Hello Spring
Spend local Eat local Spend local Enjoy local
AJ Shropshire Cleaning Services
Oswestry-based cleaning business offering relia le domestic and o ce cleans, specialising in deep cleans and end of tenancy ser ices. checked and insured. Friendly, professional ser ice. 07 98 801100. Follow our Face ook page
Amber’s Cleaning Services
omestic and ommercial rofessional leaning er ices with competiti e rates. ne off deep cleans End of enancy cleans. aily eekly Fortnightly clean. ces and uilding sites el 079 022129
The Claypit
swestry’s I space for you to meet and make with clay. isco er weekly classes, weekend experiences, family sessions and pop-up e ents. em ership also a aila le. ook www.claypit.co.uk email rachel claypit.co.uk
Clean & Gleam
i e your o en a little with lean leam rofessional o en cleaning ser ices co ering swestry surrounding areas. 07866 472083 07791 6 9 www.face ook.com cleanandgleamo ens
Covent Garden Fruit Market
uality fresh fruit eg daily - ocally made read, cakes, honey and free range eggs plus home made preser es. pen 6 days a week, from 7.30am - pm English alls, swestry 01691 6 9 16 co entgarden1964 outlook.com
Dogz Dinnerz
Foods and supplies for all your pets at the est prices.
swestry Indoor arket Hall, swestry el 07368 104980 Email dog dinner yahoo.com
Herd Milk
aste the difference elicious, whole milk and yoghurt, fresh from our grassfed cows. ry a milkshake or gra a coffee and a cookie. tockists of elton heese (made with our milk). hittington d, 11 4 ictoria herdmilk.co.uk
Happy House Moves
atering for all your remo al needs. o o too ig or small from Full house to mall item mo es. shop pick-ups and skip runs. o ering all areas. 079 1 186186 happyhousemo es gmail.com
Hikari Head Spa
uxury apanese head spa and facial treatments in swestry, focused on scalp health, relaxation, and glowing skin. ri ate, tran uil treatment space for ultimate self-care. el 07 3 242976 hikarheadspa outlook.com
J&I Carpets
er 30 rolls of carpet in stock any roll ends half price inyls, , linds and urtains.
A family usiness est. 1982. ictoria oad, swestry www. andicarpets.co.uk 01691 6 6843
Micky Finn Quality Fish
Highest uality Fresh from Fleetwood E E morning If you ha e not en oyed your fish we will refund. owis arket Hall swestry ednesday and aturday 7.30-12 Ian 07966 201696 Erin 07742 248269
Nu U Beauty
elay the signs of ageing. pecialist in A I non-surgical face lift, icroderma rasion ollagen ift. er 20yrs eauty experience. Facials are my passion. www.nuu eauty.com el 07 06 07826
Obertelli Play Therapy
eli ering therapy to children and young people. uper ision and therapeutic consultation a aila le. lease contact for a free initial en uiry on 07974 06910 or inao ertelli aol.com
Oswestry Hoover Hub
ales, ser icing repairs of acuum cleaners. ew nearly new acuums and carpet cleaners from 40. tocking hark, Henry, ax, tech, issell more. Full acuum ser ice ust 1 (parts extra). 33 eg treet. elephone 07920 0 246
Park Hall Reflexology Studio ell eing maintenance for ody, mind ner ous system regulation. all erry on 07301 947720
Perfect Pasties
Award-winning cial ornish pasties, paired with Hundred House offee and smoothies. Additional seating upstairs and a child-friendly space. Independent and og friendly, at 6 illow treet in swestry. Follow our Face ook page for updates
Pippo’s Bakery
ele rating 10 happy years designing and aking espoke cele ration cakes and cupcakes for your special occasion. Always uni ue, always yum ontact us at pippos akery gmail.com or ia Face ook.com pippos akery
Siop Cwlwm
“Y Gorau o’r Gororau”
elsh hop situated at 33 ailey treet and online. elsh ooks, cards, music, homeware gifts ro a ly the only elsh shop outside ales www.siopcwlwm.co.uk el 01691 680401
Simla Tandoori Restaurant
roudly ser ing the est Indian cuisine since 1976 to the local community 42, eatrice t, swestry. 01691 6 9880 www.simla-oswestry.co.uk
Sun City
tand-ups, ie-downs and Infrared un eds. pen 7 days a week
A mem er of he un ed Association. elephone 01691 66111
www.suncity-oswestry.co.uk
Events
An Enriching Summer of Events at Woodhill Park Estate
“Shropshire is giving the Cotswolds a run for its money,” says Syrie Johnson, owner of Woodhill Park Estate near Oswestry. “Shrewsbury is repeatedly named one of the top places to live by the Times, Telegraph and Sunday Times. Now it’s Shropshire’s time to ine.
Since opening its doors with charity events in aid of the British Red Cross, Horatio’s Garden and Shropshire Rural Support, Woodhill Park Estate has hosted many cultural events, including large scale productions of As You Like It and Macbeth. Now however, the estate is turning its attention to luxury weddings, with the aim of attracting Americans as well as local couples.
a fire pit offers a spot to gather round the ames.
The grade 2 listed Georgian house has form - frequent past visitors include John F Kennedy, Jacqueline and o y ennedy.
The secluded estate of 156 acres was owned by Lord Harlech, who was best friends with JFK since they were at LSE together. JFK, Jacqueline Kennedy and Bobby Kennedy often visited and locals remember them attending church nearby and Jackie in her headscarf riding the local bridlepaths. Many years after JFK’s assassination, Lord Harlech proposed to ackie ennedy.
The south-facing Jasmine Courtyard, with its pale pink cherry trees, white Camellias, lavender and fragrant lilies, could almost be in Provence. Guests can enjoy a Champagne Tower surrounded by heritage varieties of espaliered fruit, scented Jasmine and white Madame Alfred Carriere roses. Lady’s Mantle spills out from the borders while
The Jasmine Courtyard Room, with its rustic beams and glittering chandeliers, affords an atmospheric location to host drinks parties for up to 135 guests, or seated wedding receptions for up to 70. A large marquee can be accommodated in the parkland or in the meadows, which are being planted with wild owers. he alled arden, Amphitheatre and Glasshouse, planted with 3400 bulbs, offer unique locations for parties or receptions.
From weddings to wellbeing, Woodhill Park Estate invites visitors to soak up the beauty of the seasons with their Calendar of Happenings, including theatre, oral arts, retreats and fashion e ents.
On 30 April Woodhill Park Estate will launch Through the Seasons by Charlie Gray, winner of Channel 4’s Handcuffed. As well as copies of the book, Ridley London’s summer dress collection will be available. There will e fi and canap s, cake y the Orchid Kitchen and live music by 2 i e Entertainment.
A number of photography courses capitalise on the beautiful surroundings. On 5 and 6 May, Andrea Gilpin returns with a course for Florists, Makers and Growers. Gilpin’s work appears in Vogue, the Guardian and Country Living. And on 16 May, author Brad Carr will
teach a course on Photography for indfulness.
Woodhill Park hosts a Pride and Prejudice Open Garden on 10 May, featuring an authentic Regency literary lunch with The Villager Bookclub, with talks by authors Holly Kirby and Dr Lucy Andrew and bespoke chocolate by Lefevre. There will be Regency dancing and music, “promenading” by the Jane Austen Society, as well as crafts, croquet and card games. Stalls will include ulfi Fa rics, Holistic eauty and antique oil landscapes. Georgian costume optional
Over the summer there will be a number of open gardens with workshops by the Historical Herbologist, and on 27 June the Duke’s Theatre Company returns with omeo and uliet.
July will be a Month of Flowers, featuring The Importance of Being Earnest by Shrewsbury High School on 4 uly, with oral art workshops by Floragami and Flower Farm apers, and oristry workshops y Peach and Peony on 4 and 5 July. On 11 July Nicola Watters will give a oral painting workshop and a Victorian weekend is planned for cto er.
“And for those American couples who want to tie the knot here,” concludes Syrie Johnson, “We can offer clay pigeon shooting, riding, yoga, sound baths and wine tasting. Who needs the Cotswolds when you ha e the eauty of hropshire
Above: The grade 2 listed Georgian house
Left: The extensive parkland of the secluded 156 acre estate
Inside Adrenaline Sporting Events’ Expanding Race Series
Ready for a new challenge? Or maybe you love being part of the cheering crowd?
The Adrenaline running calendar has never looked busier and this year Alan has already brought a new Ultra to the table which sold out in just 70 minutes of opening he ltra completed in Fe ruary and is a first for Adrenaline and possibly for some of the entrants!
‘Castle2Castle’, is an Ultra of 32 miles, starting at owis astle and finishing at hirk astle. tay tuned for the 2027 date ecause this is going to e a popular one. here hasn’t een an o cial 10k in Ellesmere for some time now and Alan explained why this area appealed so much to fulfil. It’s such great countryside around Ellesmere and I felt like our runners were missing out by not experiencing a route there and the town itself will get to experience the atmosphere and fun of it all. his one starts in the centre, goes out into the countryside and through Ellesmere ollege grounds. hat in itself will be something to see as the runners approach it, uite the experience.
Now, if you’ve always wanted to take part in one of the Adrenaline events but don’t consider yourself a runner or someone who could meet the time allowance for the organised runs, there’s something just for you and it’s open to those to who lo e walking.
New to 2026, Alan has launched two virtual challenges where you take part on your time . ou go at your pace, and the best part is if you want to, you can even complete it across multiple days because it’s all a out the ourney and taking in the local landmarks.
‘Oswestry Landmarks Round’ and ‘Chirk Landmarks Round’ have been designed to take you through the heritage of the areas. he swestry trail co ers 16.3 miles while hirk co ers 14 miles. oth finish at an Adrenaline partner caf ( hrooma in swestry and a Wylfa in Chirk), where you can enjoy a free coffee and cake as part of your reward for completing the challenge. eople ha e already started tra elling to the area to complete the Oswestry Landmarks Round because it’s so different. ome ha e run it, whilst others ha e hiked. e
just want everyone to enjoy it and hopefully it will open the events side up to those who like a gentler pace as well as the seasoned trail runner, Alan explained. ou’ll get a buff, coffee and cake and a sew on badge once you complete the trail and it’s only 10 to enter. e’ e had entrants sew their badges onto their backpacks and umpers which is great to see.
As well as the new additions this year, the running programme we’ve come to love is on track for the season:
24 May – Newtown 10K
21 June – Lake Vyrnwy 10K
12 July – Chirk 10K
23 Aug – Ellesmere 10K (New)
13 Sept – Lake Vyrnwy Half Marathon (Sold Out)
11 Oct – Oswestry 10K
6 Dec – Shropshire Santa Run 5K
For those keen on the Talks hosted by Adrenaline with sporting personalities, lympic o sleigh athlete, Adele icoll from Welshpool will be with Alan in Welshpool Town Hall on Friday 8 ay and tickets are a aila le to purchase now.
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.adrenalinesportingevents.co.uk
A
LINEN
touch of
Linen can be mistaken for being boring however, it’s anything but. Not only is it breathable but it’s uber stylish because pieces tend to have clean lines which are so versatile. Here’s an introduction to this understated fabric.
Opening times: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm & Saturday 9am to 4pm
You are in safe hands with J & I Carpets when it comes to your flooring requirements.
• We have 3 NICF Master Fitters, which is the highest industry standard a fitter can achieve. Installers with this status will have successfully completed an advanced level of assessment by NICF who are a registered body.
• We have a wide variety of flooring products such as Carpets, Vinyl, Luxury Vinyl Tiles, Laminate, Oak Engineered, Solid oak flooring, and safety flooring
• Over 32 Rolls of Carpet in store, and 6 Vinyl Rolls plus many ranges to choose from to order in.
44 1982 - 2026
Hi
Minutes with the MP
By Helen Morgan – MP for North Shropshire
I’ve been following proposals for a new train service out of Wrexham, travelling through Shropshire and the Midlands to London, with real interest. re ita i ed nort out ink t at na gi e our corner o t e countr a direct route to t e ca ita ee ike t e ort o in e t ent we e waited ear to ee.
For too long, rail improvements have skipped past North Shropshire, leaving our communities dependent on cars or poor, often non-existent public transport. So yes, the WSMR proposal is good. It’s ambitious, forward thinking, and exciting. But without a meaningful connection for Oswestry, the service won’t work for North Shropshire.
Oswestry is one of the largest towns in the county - bigger than many places with established rail linksyet there’s no station, no platforms, no reliable way to tap into a mainline ser ice and its enefits. o owen, just a few miles away, is set to be one of the proposed stops, and that’s welcome. But it highlights a long-standing imbalance.
A town of Oswestry’s size shouldn’t be left watching opportunity roll past down the line. If we’re serious about unlocking the economic and social potential of this region, reconnecting Oswestry to the railway isn’t optional - it’s essential.
A restored Oswestry to Gobowen link would do more than make commuting easier. It would widen the net for employers struggling to attract staff. It would give young people access to a broader range of colleges, apprenticeships, and universities without needing a car or an expensive, convoluted journey.
And it would show investors that Oswestry is open, accessible, and worth backing. Regeneration doesn’t happen by accident. It happens when infrastructure, opportunity, and ambition align.
The WSMR service could be one of the most transformative rail developments our area has seen in a generation. But for Oswestry - and North Shropshire - to truly enefit, that missing link to o owen must finally e put ack where it elongs.
It’s time to reconnect Oswestry. Only then can this new railway deliver on its promise.
Remodelling Service
Our jewellery always has huge sentimental value. Wedding rings, 21st birthday gifts and inherited items from beloved relatives are all “special”…they all hold unique memories, tell stories and evoke strong emotions. With many precious metals now trading at all-time highs it’s tempting to sell or scrap those items that no longer fit, complement your other jewellery or suit the current trend. Many are choosing to liquidate the value in these items, but if selling these sentimental pieces is too painful or just feels “wrong”, there is an alternative.
Not many realize the true potential or possibilities of the old junk or broken items in their jewellery box – it’s not only VALUABLE but very RECYCLABLE! Very few jewellers have the capacity to do this. As a workshop, we’ve always offered this service. We can REMODEL your GOLD, SILVER or PLATINUM into a new wedding ring, bangle or even mini bar of bullion! So don’t scrap your old or unwanted items, REMODEL them and preserve all the sentiment and memories forever. Please call, or email, to book an appointment to discuss your options…we’re here to help!
We’re green! Unlike many, the jewellery trade has always recycled their material. The finished article, a “new” 18ct wedding ring, manufactured from 12 g of “scrap”! S MITHFIELD STREET SY11 2EG T ELEPHONE (01691) 238297
Crafting timeless jewellery since 1996
Today most jewellery is made by machine, and traditional skills are in obvious decline. In the UK most of the jewellery stocked by the multiples and many independent jewellers is largely imported, with the staff being little more than well trained salespeople. Unfortunately, this approach, while very commercially viable, provides a rather prescriptive, sterile and generic shopping experience and cannot accommodate bespoke commissions or even entertain requests for simple handmade items.
As we approach the wedding season, we’re frequently presented with engagement rings that re uire shaped or fitted wedding rings. ings with a simple curve or cut out are easily made from traditional wedding ring “blanks” but, sometimes, a more complex shape is required to complement the engagement ring.
Fitted options
anufacturing these fitted pieces (as illustrated above) often requires a different approach as traditional manufacturing techniques are incompatible with creating the shapes and profiles necessary for perfect compati ility.
The Perfect Fit
Most shaped wedding rings will start life as a carved wax. he wax (a type of hea y candle wax) will e car ed to match your specification and complement your engagement ring. he wax will e car ed to the correct shape, width, profile and finger-si e. hen
complete, this will provide you with an accurate model of the piece…a sample that can be handled and iewed with your engagement ring for appro al.
At this stage modifications and ad ustments of the model are easily accommodated…if an element of the design requires some change or improvement, the wax can e fine-tuned to suit.
Finishing
Once approved, the wax will be cast in your chosen precious metal. entrifugal or acuum casting machines are usually used to eliminate porosity (air u les).
The rough casting is then hallmarked and hand finished to ensure a awless result. he finished piece is usually available for delivery within 4 weeks. e’ll always offer to refinish (clean, polish and, when necessary, rhodium plate) your engagement ring to ensure both rings look perfect for your “Big Day”!
Few retailers offer this service and even fewer have the knowledge, skills or facilities to allow their customers to design their own wedding ring. ith our espoke fitting ser ice, we’ll tailor your wedding ring for a perfect match, e ery time.
ith o er 2 years of experience, we lend traditional craftsmanship with modern design to create personal and timeless pieces. hether you’re after a classic style or something completely different, we’ll work closely with you to bring your ideas to life –let’s create something beautiful together!
e’re here to help. For further information a out our espoke fitting ser ice, or to ook an informal appointment to discuss your requirements, please call or email one of our friendly team – they’ll be delighted to pro ide further practical and impartial ad ice.
For more information isit www.ringworkshop. co.uk or call 01691 238 297.
Paws for thought
What should you consider?
ake t e rig t c oice and our c i d r t et can eco e a e t riend o ering an i ortant e on in taking re on i i it .
An important factor in the kind of pet you acquire is the time you and your child have available. Your child might lose interest.
Find out what your child is looking for. For example, is it entertainment or something to cuddle?
Consider life span. Meanwhile, allergies might make you think twice about a furry friend. Assess how much space you have available – rabbits and guinea pigs, for instance, need large enclosures.
Another important consideration is cost.
BRINGING YOU THE VERY BEST IN RAW, APPROPRIATE FOOD FOR YOUR CARNIVOROUS ANIMALS
Whether you are already a seasoned raw feeder or interested in switching your animals to a raw diet then we have everything you need and much more.
As well as our large range of top quality raw minces, chunks and bones we also supply air dried chews and natural treats as well as herbal supplements to complement a natural diet.
SOME OF THE BENEFITS OF RAW FEEDING:
■ Less Sensitivities ■ Great for allergy sufferers
■ Smaller less odorous poop ■ Clean teeth & breath
■ Shiny healthy coat
What makes a ood rst pet
Fish are inexpensive and relaxing to watch.
Hamsters take up little space and are cheap. On the downside, they are short-lived and nocturnal, so might not be active during the day.
Guinea pigs are furry and enjoy being handled. They should be kept with at least one other.
Rabbits should also be kept with another bunny and can be shy with humans. But they’re relatively longlived – up to 12 years.
Gerbils are friendly, active animals, suitable for a child who will enjoy watching their antics. They need to be kept with another gerbil.
Cats are independent and low maintenance. But some people are allergic.
Dogs can make lovely friends for children. However, they are costly and need regular walks.
Heart at Home Mobile Vets provides professional, stress-free veterinary care for all your pets, from the comfort of their own home
With over 20 years’ experience in companion and exotic pets, we care for your pets where they’re happiest — at home
Can you believe the Simla have been serving their delicious, Indian cuisine to the Oswestry community for 50 years? If you’re a local who’s enjoyed the food here over the years, you will know how committed George and his team have been to deliver authentic food in the most comfortable of surroundings. And now it’s time to celebrate this milestone.
George has quite the story to tell, but he’s clear about one thing, “We’re very grateful to everyone past and present who’ve supported us.”
Although the Simla opened its doors in 1976, it wasn’t an easy ride to get to that day. George came to England as a young boy and grew up in Wellington, Telford. It was in 1969 that he first experienced working weekends in an Indian restaurant
(the Shiraz), during his school days.
As George’s mother passed when he was a young boy, his uncle raised him and it was his uncle who ‘found’ the Simla in Oswestry, which at that point in 1975, the building was owned by the Co-op and had been a large menswear shop. The toilets in the restaurant were originally the changing rooms for the shop!
George recalls the day they opened. “We didn’t really need publicity because people had heard we were opening and there was a queue waiting outside to come in! swestry didn’t ha e a restaurant like us so it was a new experience. e also had a Businessman’s lunch and people would queue down the street, it was amazing.”
George and his business partners o cially opened the swestry imla
Of course, there have been ups and downs along the way as with any business but George attributes his drive to keep going, to his wife and family and the community who keep coming back.
in 1976 and traded for 25 years before parting ways. Within that time, they also opened the Llangollen Simla.
George with family and staff
But George felt his passions lay with the Oswestry restaurant and he stayed to take over as sole owner in 2001. Of course, there have been ups and downs along the way as with any business but George attributes his drive to keep going, to his wife and family and the community who keep coming back.
That’s why George is adamant he will always give back to the community who supported him, through supporting local charities.
To celebrate 50 years, the Simla are hosting a charity event where all proceeds will go to local charities. On Thursday 25 June, there will be an evening of celebration with a threecourse banquet, live entertainment and a ra e.
George is keen to make sure all customers know how grateful he is to those who’ve been through the doors over the years. “The Simla has given me and my family our life and the ability to raise a family and for that, we’re very grateful. A lot have become friends and we are so thankful for all the support.
“I also want to thank my family and staff - for them to know how grateful I am for them, their support and contribution to the Simla over the years.”
To book your place at the charity evening, call 01691 659880.
Above, and right: Looks have changed over the years since George started up in the 70s
Below right: George and Julie at Buckingham Palace, celebrating George receiving the British Empire Medal NOW AND THEN
& Drink
Baked nectarines coconut and
Sweet, succulent and juicy
South African nectarines take the starring role in this effortless yet impressivelooking dessert.
Serves 6
Preparation time 20-25 minutes
Cooking time 25 minutes
INGREDIENTS
6 South African nectarines
50g white chocolate, finely chopped
50g amaretti biscuits, chopped finely
25g shredded coconut, or desiccated coconut
30g unsalted butter, softened
1 egg yolk, lightly beaten
To serve, thick cream or crème fraîche
METHOD
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan 160°C, gas mark 4.
2. Cut the nectarines in half and remove the stones. Using a small, sharp knife, cut away the centres to make a shallow cavity approximately 3cm across, then finely chop the cut-away centres and reserve.
3. Combine the chopped white chocolate, amaretti iscuits, coconut and reser ed nectarine esh in a bowl, then stir in the softened butter and egg yolk and combine well.
4. Place the nectarines, cut side up, in a roasting pan and divide the coconut mixture among the cavities, mounding it slightly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the nectarines are soft and the filling is light golden.
6. Serve the stuffed nectarines, hot or warm, with a dollop of thick cream or crème fraîche.
When we opened our doors, we dared to believe Oswestry could fall in love with the real India — its forgotten recipes, layered spices, and stories told through food. You believed it too.
When we opened our doors, we dared to believe Oswestry could fall in love with the real India — its forgotten recipes, layered spices, and stories told through food. You believed it too.
This award belongs to every table you shared with us, every dish you savoured, and every kind word you carried beyond our door.
When we opened our doors, we dared to believe Oswestry could fall in love with the real India — its forgotten recipes, layered spices, and stories told through food. You believed it too.
This award belongs to every table you shared with us, every dish you savoured, and every kind word you carried beyond our door.
Chef Asghar · Morni.
This award belongs to every table you shared with us, every dish you savoured, and every kind word you carried beyond our door.
Chef Asghar · Morni.
Chef Asghar · Morni.
18a
18a
18a
Oswald Rd, Oswestry SY11 1RE morni.co.uk
Oswald Rd, Oswestry SY11 1RE morni.co.uk
Oswald Rd, Oswestry SY11 1RE morni.co.uk
Food for Thought
by Bex Syrett
I’ve just emptied my food waste into my compost bin, where lots of lovely compost is created, ready to go on the garden to grow more vegetables.
New rules in England have come into effect so councils must collect food waste ensuring it doesn’t end up in the general rubbish bin. Food waste ending up in landfill sites, can create huge amounts of methane, creating unnecessary greenhouse gases.
nfortunately, hropshire ouncil can’t afford to ring this new ruling into effect, so here are some ideas on how to keep your food waste to a minimum:
Spring onions and leeks – rather than cut the green top off and use ust the white part, use all of the spring onion or leek. If you think the top half is too fi rous then use it in soups, which can be blitzed.
Milk – did you know that you can freeze milk? Freeze on or before its use by date or best before date and freeze only for a month. Once defrosted you can use it as you would, fresh milk. If it does separate then cook with it custard, a white sauce or use in a smoothie.
Pasta and rice – portion control is important when cooking these as it’s easy to cook too much and end up chucking lots away. Here’s a general guide for an adult serving:
tandard ser ing of dry pasta 7 g 100g (a out 2.6 3. o ) per person for a main meal. ighter meal or starter 0g 60g is su cient, for hungrier appetites or fresh pasta, 100g 1 0g is typical.
A common, easy-to-remem er rule of thum for dry pasta is 80g per adult. A child’s portion would e closer to 30-40g depending on their age.
y name is ex and I work at s osh, which is all about preventing food waste either through a share table or cooking delicious food in our café. We open Wednesdays and Fridays from 10.30am till 1 pm. e look forward to seeing you there.
OF
THE MONTH APRIL 2026
he nd e tart rom
AVAILABLE ON BBC IPLAYER
or t e econd ont running we re ig ig ting a a ca e roduction ro a de ut director. ike a t ont c oice cra er ti a ai a e on i a er T e nd e tart ro ow ow uc can e ac ie ed wit a re trained inti ate a roac . T i ont a o i ed under t e radar on re ea e aking it re ence on i a er a great o ortunit to catc u anew. tarring odie omer, this sur i al story follows a new mother na igating a ooded, near-future ritain. After intense continued rainfall triggers en ironmental collapse, she’s forced to ee ondon with her new orn, finding old rules and norms no longer apply. irector ahalia elo keeps things tightly focused, fa ouring mood and realism rather than I riddled disaster-mo ie spectacle. omer deli ers a uietly compelling performance, capturing both vulnerability and resilience with minimal dialogue. The slightly dreamlike structure won’t work for e eryone, ut the emotional core is strong enough to carry it through. It’s another reminder that ritish films often work est when they keep things small thoughtful, human and uietly hopeful.
by Michael Hudson
Oswestry Cinema News
CHILDREN’S BOOKS EDITOR’S CHOICE
Best Books about Feelings
When kids start experiencing big emotions, things need explaining so these books will help you along the way.
The Colour Monster by Anna Llenas
Gently explore feelings with the help of some fuzzy little monsters. Sold over 3 million worldwide.
Owl Babies by Martin Waddell & Patrick Benson
Great for children with separation anxiety. Loved by teachers.
The Invisible String by Patrice Karst Easy for children to understand, delivering the message that connections between people don’t just go away. Good for parents concerned about separation anxiety, loss, and grief.
All available from good book shops.
Light of Love
By Dave Andrews
he candle ickers etween our eyes as randy ames of r pes u ette dies down, tangled threads of lo e lie all around and wreathes of silence end our strife foreshadowing a lonely life
edne da nig t i nig t t e we tr i ociet wi now e u e enting t e aona cine a c edu e wit regu ar creening on t e r t and t ird edne da o t e ont .
I see our rief as to show recent films you might ha e missed, films that perhaps ha e gone under the radar, independent films picked for their punch and their stories, and the odd classic you won’t ha e seen for ages, says F chairman James Bond.
e also want to make sure our film nights contri ute financially to making aona a successful cinema and help it to prosper.
his month the F is due to show the stylish thriller lack ag ( ay 6) and the comedy-drama itchen rigade ( ay 20). ut it’s not ust ednesdays. aona’s roster of films is a eautiful and aried mix running hursday to unday. heck out the F and aona films (and ook tickets through) http www.maonacinema.com - and spread the word to help our cinema here in swestry ourish.
POETRY
Oswestry Community Games
Sunday 7 June 2026, 11am-4pm,
Cae Glas Park
Our thirteenth Oswestry Community Games includes Guest of Honour Nick Beighton and Bartells providing the music. We expect around 30 local organisations to contribute to the fun in the park, and around 1000 people of all ages to visit. Oswestry Badminton Club and Shropshire Mental Health Support Wellbeing Bus are two new organisations, and we very much welcome them, as we do all our visitors.
Our grateful thanks go to Oswestry BID, Oswestry Town Council, Perspective Finance Group, DRE Accountants, Bunning Gas, Oswestry Sports Forum and Mary Hignett Fund for their generous financial support and partnerships to
help make this happen. Oswestry Life is our media partner so many thanks to David Birch and his team for their support.
James Manford, Event and Community Lead said, “We are delighted that Oswestry Town Council has again provided free use of Cae Glas Park and this is a free event for visitors. Our guest of honour this year will be Shropshire’s Nick Beighton whose chosen charity to raise funds on the day is “Climbing Out” which pro ides fully funded fi e-day outdoor activity programmes aimed at re uilding confidence, self-esteem and motivation for people facing life-changing in ury, illness or trauma. his charity fits well with our day, as it
is all about improving people’s health and well eing and hopefully finding a new acti ity to take up and en oy.
“We have 20 local clubs and organisations signed up at the time of writing this press release but expecting around 30 by 7 June. Border Counties School of ymnastics are confirmed to pro ide the finale performance.
Although we are past our deadline for signing up, if your club or organisation has overlooked previous promotions and would like to take part this year, there is no charge for taking part, please get in touch with James on oswestrycommunitygames@gmail.com and leave a message asap!
www.adrenalinesportingevents.co.uk
www.adrenalinesportingevents.co.uk
Nick Beighton
for one day only at each venue
Sunday 24th May
from 10.30 to 4.00pm at OSWESTRY MEMORIAL HALL
mithfield treet, swestry 11 2E
Monday 25th May from 10.30 to 4.00pm at the SWEENEY HOTEL
orda, swestry 10 9E
JEWELLERY AND COIN ROADSHOW
Tuesday 26th May
from 10.30 to 4.00pm at the MACDONALD HILL VALLEY
arporley oad, hitchurch 13 4HA
Friday 5th June from 10.30 to 4.00pm at the MACDONALD PORTAL HOTEL
SPA AND GOLF RESORT
Cobblers Cross Lane, Tarporley CW6 0DJ
A very lucky couple called at one of our recent roadshow events with a couple of old gold chains and a silver charm bracelet and a bag of old silver British coins.We paid them over £1600 just for the coins alone. They turned out to be pre 1947 silver coins that were normal currency a few years ago and are now highly collected.
We asked them for their permission to pass on this story to help other people realise what they may be sitting on and they were only too pleased to allow us to let everyone know that they might be sitting on a goldmine and not even know it!
Like most people, who can only dream of winning the pools or the lottery, a lot of normal households have a hidden treasure of old gold jewellery, silver jewellery, teapots, trophies, trays and old objets d’art.
Why not get a free valuation from our experts at one of our roadshows.There is no queuing and our experts will give you a one on one appraisal of the value of your treasured possessions in a private area, where there are no prying eyes, watching the process evolve.
If you like the valuation our expert will make you the same offer in cash which you can accept or decline at no cost to yourself.
The whole process of Valuation is free of charge and very private, so you have nothing to lose and a lot to gain.
for one day only at each venue
WE WILL BUY YOUR GOLD & SILVER FOR CASH
SIMPLY BRING US YOUR UNWANTED GOLD JEWELLERY EVEN IF IT’S BROKEN OR HAS NO HALLMARK AND WE WILL BUY IT FROM YOU!
Sunday 24th May at OSWESTRY MEMORIAL HALL mithfield treet, swestry 11 2E
Monday 25th May at the SWEENEY HOTEL orda, swestry 10 9E
Tuesday 26th May at the MACDONALD HILL VALLEY arporley oad, hitchurch 13 4HA
Friday 5th June at the MACDONALD PORTAL HOTEL SPA AND GOLF RESORT o lers ross ane, arporley 6 0
ALL EVENTS FROM 10.30 TO 4.00PM
Live Music
at the Holly & Ebenezer, Cefn Mawr LL14 3AE. MAY 2026
Your venue for live entertainment with a wide selection of well-priced beers.
Mr C Karaoke every Friday 7pm till late raises the roof, come along, sing your song, and enjoy the free shots!
The Steve Daniels Disco every Sunday evening from 8pm till late. Well worth coming along to see and hear this gi ed DJ, a winner of the converted Carlsberg DJ Awards.
Open MIC Ist and 3rd Wednesday of month 8pm. If bands would like to play at the Holly or Ebenezer, come and show us your stu .
Jazz & Blues on the 2nd Wednesday of month, 8pm.
In the Ebenezer:
FRIDAY 29 MAY 7PM
COUNTRY & LES CARLTON
SUNDAY 31 MAY 12 NOON NORTHERN SOUL TRAIN
In the Holly Bush:
SATURDAY 2 MAY 5PM CANE TOADS
FRIDAY 8 MAY 7PM MR C & ANDY PEARSON
SATURDAY 9 MAY 5PM SONS OF SAINTS
FRIDAY 15 MAY 7PM MR C & ELLIE BEDWELL
SATURDAY 16 MAY 6:30PM EL 19
SATURDAY 23 MAY 5PM WILD CANDY
SATURDAY 30 MAY 5PM DROOGS
In the George Edwards Hall, Cefn Mawr(MAELOR ABC BOXING SHOWS)
SATURDAY 9 MAY 11AM BOXING TOURNAMENT
Focus on Aston Locks
through the lens of Graham Mitchell
The Montgomery Canal from Queens Head is always a popular walk. As we move into May, exploring the Aston Locks Nature Reserves is a real treat. Flowers, birds and insects mean that I have plenty to photograph
Exceptional Facilities at North Shropshire College
Located in the heart of Oswestry, North Shropshire College offers a range of brandnew, industry-standard facilities designed to give learners practical experience in professional environments. These modern spaces support students across a variety of courses, helping them develop skills, confidence, and career-ready knowledge.
Gym QB
Gym QB is a state-of-the-art fitness space equipped with the latest equipment for strength, cardio, and functional training. The facility is primarily used by students studying Sport and Uniformed Protective Services, giving them the opportunity to develop their physical performance while learning about fitness, training techniques, and wellbeing in a professional environment.
The gym is also used for student enrichment activities, encouraging learners to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle alongside their studies.
Salon QB
Salon QB is a contemporary training salon fitted with professional hair and beauty equipment. Students studying Hair and Beauty courses gain hands-on experience delivering treatments in a realistic salon environment.
Working with professional tools allows learners to develop technical ability, customer service skills, and confidence, helping to prepare them for careers within the hair and beauty industry.
Business Suite QB
Business Suite QB is a modern professional workspace designed to mirror a real corporate environment. Students studying Business courses use this space to develop practical skills in enterprise, administration, finance, and communication.
Learning in a professional-style environment helps students understand how businesses operate while building confidence in teamwork and organisation.
Bistro QB
Bistro QB is a stylish training restaurant run by our Professional Cookery learners. Featuring brand-new kitchen equipment and modern dining facilities, the bistro allows students to prepare and serve high-quality dishes while gaining valuable real-world hospitality experience.
Refectory
The college Refectory is a welcoming social space where students can relax and connect between lessons. It proudly serves Costa Coffee, offering a range of drinks, snacks, and refreshments throughout the day.
Together, these brand-new facilities at North Shropshire College create an inspiring environment where students can gain practical experience and develop the skills needed for their future careers.
North Shropshire College is committed to providing learners with an environment that reflects the standards of modern industry. These new facilities ensure students not only gain valuable qualifications, but also the practical experience and confidence needed to succeed in their chosen careers. By studying in the centre of Oswestry with access to professional spaces and equipment, learners are fully supported to develop their skills, explore their ambitions, and take the next step towards a successful future.
Apply today and be that one step closer to studying at university or stepping into employment hlnsc.ac.uk
Gym QB
A state-of-the-art fitness space featuring brandnew equipment, designed to support strength, cardio and functional training. Gym QB offers a modern, motivating environment where learners develop skills in health, fitness and wellbeing using industry-standard facilities.
Refectory
A vibrant dining space featuring a Costa Coffee outlet serving drinks, hot food and sandwiches. With brand-new facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, the Refectory is the perfect place for students, staff and visitors to relax, refuel and socialise.
Salon QB
A contemporary training salon fitted with the latest professional equipment. Salon QB provides hands-on experience in a realistic industry environment, delivering high-quality hair and beauty treatments while building confidence and career-ready skills.
Business Suite QB
A modern professional workspace, Business Suite QB mirrors a real corporate environment, enabling learners to develop enterprise, finance and administrative skills within a polished, industry-standard setting.
Bistro QB
A stylish restaurant operated by our professionally trained cookery learners. Featuring brand-new kitchen equipment and dining facilities, Bistro QB offers freshly prepared, highquality dishes while giving students invaluable real-world hospitality experience.
Are you struggling with
Back & Neck Pain?
Sports Injuries? Joint & Muscle Pain? Headaches?
Womens Health Issues? Grumpy Babies & Children? Sleep, Stress or Nutrition Concerns?
We can Help
Claire Arnold Registered
Osteopath & Lifestyle Medicine
Practitioner
Hands-on Cranial & Structural Osteopathic Care & Lifestyle Medicine Advice to support your family’s optimal health
Call 07792 367507
Based at Oswestry Herbarium & Massage Centre, 15 Albion Hill themeadowsosteopathclinic-clairearnoldosteopath.com
Trinity Clinic
Chiropractic & Massage
Walk your sport!
Just because you’ve slowed up a bit there’s no reason to give up your favourite sport!
Walking Tennis – adapted with softer balls and adjusted rules mean you can still play your favourite game, contact Oswestry Borders U3A. oswestrybordersu3a.wordpress.com/walkingtennis. Meetings are held at Oswestry Senior Citizens Club Lorne Street on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month 2-4pm.
Walking Football – the Senior Saints meet at Thursday evening 7.30–9.30pm at the stadium in Park Hall. With smaller pitches and plenty of breaks walking football is for anyone over 55 with men’s and mixed teams. Contact niallbroe@tnsfc. co.uk.
Walking Hockey A little further afield at elford and Wrekin Hockey Club, Church Street, St eorges, elford, F2 9 . eekly on a uesday from 1.45pm. No need to book, all ages welcome.
Back to Netball – Telford Langley School. Contact ruth.hughes@englandnetball.co.uk
Nordic Walking athy Fort A with ore ision is a walking and outdoors fitness group offering a wide variety of sessions in the beautiful Shropshire countryside. walx.co.uk/groups/cathy-fort or call 07974 745775.
Don’t fancy the sport side of it? Walking has huge enefits for your physical and mental health with improvement in muscle tone, heart health, immune function and mood being just some of them. Luckily we have some fabulous terrain to explore from hills, woods, meadows and canals to our town streets and green spaces – pop into the library or tourist information centre in the market for routes.
Join the Amblers – Another Borders U3A group meeting on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month for 2 uite at or 4 more hilly mile walks respectively.
eep in mind that to impro e your fitness and urn calories when walking you need to keep up the pace – The NHS Active 10 App (download to your phone) allows you to track how far and fast you have walked; gives you goals to work towards and rewards your progress!
Have a happy healthy month!
Includes:
• 2 regular exams
• 2 hygiene appointments
• 10% discount off treatment
Orthotics, we dedicate ourselves to assessing your individual needs and providing tailored orthotic solutions designed to elevate your
of
Discover how our expert team can guide you on the path to a pain-free and
Samuel Owen, Senior Audiologist: BEng (Hons), RHAD, CECHAA MSHAA, ABPI
Rethinking the ‘Gym-Goer’
What does someone who goes to the gym look like?
The honest answer: nothing in particular. I recently overheard someone say, “He doesn’t even look like he goes to the gym,” and it made me pause. Are we expecting to see a bodybuilder, veins protruding, weights clanging, shouting between reps? That stereotype is loud and recognisable, but it’s also narrow, and for most people who train regularly, far from the truth.
Too often, we lose sight of why we go to the gym in the first place our health. ot ust physical, ut mental, and e en spiritual. es, our odies may change with consistent training, ut those outward changes are only part of the story. e cannot isi ly measure growing confidence, yet a disciplined gym routine doesn’t ust uild muscle, it also uilds a ack one the a ility to show up, push through di culties, recognise your limits, and sometimes say no. eople go to the gym for many different reasons. For some, it’s a out ecoming igger and stronger. For others, it’s a out mo ing without pain, impro ing mental
health, or simply feeling more comforta le in their own skin. All of these moti ations are alid. he gym isn’t one-si e-fits-all it’s a facility people use in ways that suit them.
hat’s why di ersity in the gym matters. A good gym isn’t filled with one type of person, ut a mix, eginners alongside experienced lifters. eople at different stages of life, with different ody types and goals. em ers and coaches, each with their own expertise, creating an en ironment that rings out the est in one another.
A good gym reaks stereotypes and makes people feel welcome. At oach House Fitness, we’ e worked hard to uild a space where people feel seen, not udged. o, what does someone who goes to the gym look like Any ody, e ery ody, may e e en you.
Liam - PT & Fitness Instructor
Health with Dr Paul Middleton
Spring forward: Fall back daylight saving advice
Have you ever had jet lag? Well even if you have not ad a ong au ig t and our ig t a e een own to a e an e ect ou are u ect to t e recent da ig t a ing w ic rang orward our c ock . t ig t ur ri e ou to ear t at e en t i our c ange i a ociated wit ore eart attack troke and oor e e o concentration and ore road traffic accident a we a ore inor in ection . e u an are er ti e de endent t e r t o our interna c ock do not ike to e di tur ed.
Now, there is not a lot you can do about the twiceyearly clock changes in the UK except to be aware your concentration level might be affected. This effect is termed “social jet lag”. What about its big rother proper et lag Any ight o er 2-3 hours will likely cause some symptoms the longer the ight, and particularly going east, the more likely an effect.
The symptoms include the obvious tiredness and insomnia but also bowel changes, anxiety, headaches and mood changes. It is thought it takes about a day to adjust to each time zone crossed. This has the potential to ruin a weeks holiday after a 6-hour ight. So, what can you do about this?
Advice can be divided in to before, during and after the journey. Before: if travelling west try going to bed an hour later for a few days. If eastwards then an hour earlier. Plan to sleep on the aircraft if it is night time at your destination – perhaps an eye mask and ear plugs plus a neck pillow. uring the ight make sure you stay hydrated and avoid too much alcohol. alk around at times and consider ight socks. After the ight try and get into the local time one as soon as possible. Set an alarm to avoid over-sleeping and try to get some daylight exposure.
Most of all have a good holiday!
We’re here so your loved one can stay home, where they want to be. Where things are safe and familiar and they have the best chance to live a full and meaningful life.
Whether it’s everyday companionship or everyday errands, Live-in Care or Home Care visits, our highly-trained Care Experts will give your loved one the support they need to live in the place they feel best: home. See how we can support you.
The Power of Surrender
by Jenna Ward, Life Coach and Reiki Practitioner.
I had plans for spring. With renewed inspiration, motivation and energy after a break away, I was ready to hit the ground running - organising workshops and courses, moving forward with purpose. Instead, I got ton i iti and ent r t week back in bed.
Initially I was frustrated. I don’t like being out of action at the best of times, but resting was the opposite of what I wanted. But resistance was futile. At some point I had to accept it. Accept that the week wasn’t going to look like I’d hoped, allow myself to be as I was, to feel how I felt and to rest. This is surrender - acceptance. There isn’t a great deal in life
that we can truly control, beyond the choices we make. When things don’t go as we want or planned, we can choose to stay stuck in frustration, wishing things were different. Or we can choose to accept that they aren’t; that things simply are how they are, whether it’s what we want or not. We can choose to resist, push back, focus on wanting things to be different. Or we can choose to surrender to how they are, accept what is and allow it to unfold without fighting it.
Whichever we choose, won’t change the circumstances but it will change our experience. Resistance is exhausting, draining energy that could be used elsewhere. Think of a river. It doesn’t try to push the rock out of its way it ows around it. e can try to push at the boulder, or we can find another way forward.
Surrender isn’t about giving up.
We can choose to resist, push back, focus on wanting things to be different. Or we can choose to surrender to how they are, accept what is and allow it to unfold without fighting it.
Surrender is choosing to accept, freeing your energy and attention, to see new possibilities, to adapt and move forward.
This is the power of surrender.
Helping clients surrender and find their way forward is some of the most powerful work I do. If you’d like support, contact: jennawardcoaching@gmail.com, or for what’s coming up: linktr.ee/ jennawardcoaching
Helen Davies is a family law solicitor at Lanyon Bowdler in Oswestry, joining the team in November last year to help people work through some of the most challenging times in their lives.
Here she gives us a bit more insight into her role and shares what she loves about working in Oswestry.
How do you help people in your job?
Whether it’s a divorce, child arrangements or other family disputes, my role is really to provide clarity and support when things feel overwhelming. I help people through the legal process, explain their options, and help them reach solutions that work for them and their families.
What’s the best thing about your job?
I love that it’s not just about the law, it’s about helping people mo e forward with confidence and a sense of control over their future.
Where is your favourite lunch spot in Oswestry?
My go-to lunch spot is Square One. Their coffee and katsu curry street bowls are hard to beat. It’s a great spot for a quick tasty lunch and a bit of a break in the middle of the day.
If you could change one thing about Oswestry, what would it be?
Oswestry has so much charm, independent shops, beautiful surroundings and a strong sense of community, that rather than change anything, if I could add to that, it would probably be to bring even more life into the town centre, especially on quieter days. More family friendly events, pop-ups or activities would make it an even more vibrant place for locals and visitors.
Describe your perfect Sunday.
My perfect Sunday would start slowly, no alarms although my little one normally decides when it’s time to begin the day. If the weather is dry and bright (even if it’s not particularly warm), a trip over to the North Wales coast is always a winner. There’s something about the sea air that makes everything feel better, whatever the season.
Helen Davies
RETIREMENT PLANNING MADE SIMPLE
Cyber Security and Anti-Virus Solutions
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Microsoft 365 / Google Workspace
Website and Email Hosting
Website Management
Help and Support
Endpoint Management
Secure Data Erasure Services
Bespoke IT Support and Services
Business IT Consultancy
Network Installation and Cabling
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THE RETIREMENT QUESTION PEOPLE FORGET TO ASK
When people think about retirement, one of the questions we hear most often is: ‘Can I afford to retire?’
It’s an important question to ask – but in our experience, it’s not the only one that really matters.
The more valuable question can sometimes be ‘how long can I afford to stay retired?’.
We often meet people who have done a good job of saving. They’ve built up pensions, paid off mortgages, and reached the point where retirement feels within sight. But what’s less clear is how those savings translate into a reliable income over the years ahead.
That’s where careful planning can make all the difference.
Retirement today isn’t a single moment – it’s a phase of life that can evolve over many years. Your spending may change, markets will move and the cost of living won’t stand still. A plan that looks comfortable now also needs to continue working in the background, year after year.
That’s why focusing purely on the size of your pension can be misleading. What really matters is the income it can provide sustainably, and how that income might adapt over time.
For some, it makes sense to secure a level of guaranteed income to cover essential costs, pro iding peace of mind. For others, exi ility is key – adjusting withdrawals as circumstances change. Or in most cases, it’s a combination of both.
The aim isn’t to restrict your spending either. A well-structured plan should gi e you the confidence to en oy your retirement, knowing that your finances are designed to support you not just now, but in the years ahead.
If you’re approaching retirement, or have already taken that step, it can be reassuring to understand how your plan stands up over the longer term. To arrange a free consultation call Belgrave Wincham on 01691 886554.
This guide is for information purposes and does not constitute financial advice, which should be based on your individual circumstances. The value of pensions and any income from them can fall as well as rise. You may not get back the full amount invested.
Belgrave Wincham Limited is an appointed representative of ValidPath Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under
Belgrave Wincham Ltd registered in England and Wales (number 12167416), at 7 Edison Court, Ellice Way, Wrexham, LL13 7YT.
Q&A
with GHP Legal’s
Victoria Wilson
Widowed Mum’s house was in Dad’s name. How do we deal with Mum’s Will?
Q: Our Mum died a few weeks ago and my sister and I were planning to administer her Will ourselves ecau e we are t e o e ene ciarie . owe er we have just discovered that the house was in Dad’s sole name and he died over thirty years ago when we were oung. e don t know w at a ened regarding ro ate w en ad died we t ink u just took over everything as it was likely in joint na e . n act we don t e en know i ad e t a i . ow do we go a out getting ro ate or u i ?
A: It is likely that the house would have passed into your father’s estate when he died, and then passed on to your mother, either through a Will or through the line of intestacy if he didn’t lea e a ill. o, the first thing you need to do is establish whether your father left a Will and whether Probate was applied for after he died. You can do this by searching the England and Wales Probate Records to check if a ‘Grant of Representation’ was applied for. This Grant includes probate and letters of administration.
If you have already checked with Land Registry and established that the property was in sole ownership and that probate was not applied for and granted on his estate, you will need to apply for probate for your father before applying for probate on your mother’s estate. Applying for a Grant of Letters of Administration will enable you to legally move the house into your mother’s name and then you will need to go through the process again to pass it to the eneficiaries. ou will also need to calculate the value of both estates to determine IHT liabilities.
Whilst you were hoping to get probate without using a solicitor, in cases such as this where the property was not transferred after the first death, it may e eneficial to seek advice from a solicitor.
This question has been answered by Victoria Wilson, a Partner with GHP Legal. If you would like to speak to someone about this or any other legal matter, please visit our website www.ghplegal. com and use the contact us form, or call us on: Wrexham 01978 291456, Llangollen 01978 860313, Oswestry 01691 659194
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Toy story
Clearing kids’ clutter is a great deal easier when you have plenty of storage. We’ve chosen some pieces that are as goodlooking as they are practical.
A decorative piece in itself, this cute-as-can-be little basket could also be used for storing small bits and pieces. Rattan mushroom house, £19.95, Rex London. www.rexlondon.com
Design your own modular storage system, such as this unit that comes complete with cupboard, toy box and fabric panels. Children’s bedroom storage, £1,015.50, Shelved. www.shelved.co.uk
You can throw anything into this capacious basket; its neutral style will complement any room. Berber storage log basket, £37, BasketBasket. www.basketbasket.co.uk
Handmade from 100% organic jute, these baskets come in two sizes, suitable for storing smaller toys. Watermelon tulip basket, £26, The Braided Rug Company. www.braided-rug.co.uk
Keep it simple with a plain white chest that can store everything from dolls to board games, and that doubles as a seat. It has handles and soft-close hinges, too. Lola toy box, £39, Noa & Nani. www.noaandnani.co.uk
Ready for a refresh?
Not sure what you need – a walk-in shower, bath, or wet room? Let us help you decide.
ou re nding our current at roo arder to u e w et er it te ing o er t e ide o t e at or worr ing a out i ing ou re not a one. o e reac a tage w ere t e know t e need o et ing a er ut t e re un ure w et er t at ean a wa k in ower a wa k in at or a u wet roo .
Walk-in showers are ideal if you still have good mobility but want something safer and easier to use. They feature low-level trays, slip-resistant surfaces, and optional extras like grab rails and fold-down seats, giving you peace of mind and a more relaxing experience.
If you enjoy a long soak, a walk-in bath might be a better choice. These easy-access tubs include a door and a comfortable moulded seat, so there’s no need to lower yourself down. Many models come with hydrotherapy jets to ease aches and pains, as well as uick-fill and uickdrain systems.
For those with more complex mobility needs, a wet room offers complete level access, with no steps or trays. ith stylish, slip-resistant ooring and an open-plan layout, they’re ideal for wheelchair users or anyone who needs carer support.
Choosing the right option can feel overwhelming and so can choosing the right company. AHM Installations is a
family-run business with over 26 years’ experience. We’re proud to be a Which? Trusted Trader and have hundreds of 5-star reviews on Trustpilot. We offer free, no-obligation quotes, complete with a personalised design pack and visual plans to help you picture your new bathroom.
One of our friendly surveyors will visit your home, listen to your concerns, and guide you through the options.
a our cu to er care tea on or re ue t our ree roc ure toda .
Our qualified and friendly team can create a tailored solution for you.
FREE home survey and quotation.
Full design and installation service.
VAT free for those with a long-term illness or disability.
Tailored solutions for arthritis, mobility issues and chronic pain.
‘Bath out, shower in’ service in as little as two days.
Walk-in baths, wetrooms, bidets and toilet lifters also available.
Specialists in accessible bathing.
“The finished bathroom is wonderful,” Mrs Childs, Trustpilot, September 2025
POWERWALL EXPANSION PACKS NOW AVAILABLE
CLAIM UP TO £7,500 TOWARDS THE COST OF NEW HEAT PUMP ON THE BUS SCHEME 0% VAT on all battery storage systems
Need hire equipment ? We have you covered whether it's home improvement projects or commercial site work give us a call. Check out our website to view our full hire fleet & sales items.
Morgans Windows, Doors & Conservatories are a part of the Morgans Group which has been established for nearly 70 years and is an independent, family business. We pride ourselves on customer care, quality & professionalism.
We have been proud members of Checkatrade for many years and this is where our customers can provide honest feedback on how they feel we did from start to finish. Our business has grown organically through recommendations and positive word of mouth from homeowners that we have worked with over Shropshire, North & Mid Wales and heshire o er the past decade. e typically serve up to a 30-mile radius and are eager to help regardless of the size of your home impro ement pro ect.
We offer a full range of services as follows:
Full range of different styles of windows
Composite doors
Full range of different styles of garage doors
Conservatories
Warm Roofs
Roof Lanterns
Decorative Glass
Replacement Glass utters, so ts and fascia
e ha e the largest team of fitters in the area who all have a wealth of experience & are highly skilled . . appro ed installers. If you decide to choose Morgans for your home improvements you can rest-assured that all our products carry manufacturers warranties and we guarantee our workmanship for 10 years for extra peace of mind.
Our showroom displays a large number of products that we have to offer, all of which are available to browse at your leisure to help you isualise what would est suit your home. ou
will e greeted y our friendly, dedicated o ce team who will endeavour to assist you every step of the way. e aim to get uotes out to you in a very timely manner and will be readily a aila le if you ha e any further uestions.
In order to pro ide you with an accurate uote, we would organise a site sur ey at a time convenient for yourselves between Monday –Friday, 7.30am- pm.
Whilst you can browse an extensive range of composite doors in our showroom, you can also peruse the full range and design your own door from the comfort of your home as we have a ‘Design your Door’ opportunity on our website www.morgansdoorsandwindows.com
Should you have panes of glass that have either blown or broken, we also can provide and install replacement glass too, so do not hesitate to get in touch should you need assistance with something like this.
Feel free to get in touch either through our website, visit us on the Mile End Business Park, swestry, 10 8 or call the team on 01691 674088.
We are experts in bathroom installation, offering a full service to help you realise your dream bathroom. From site survey to design, supply and installation, we can take care of it all; our ‘on site’ services include, plumbing, plastering, electrics, tiling and flooring, making the whole process seamless. Our team are dedicated in providing our customers with a first class, personal service combining meticulous workmanship with structured project management from start to finish and our skill and expertise means that we will deliver on our promise to provide you with the best solution available to meet your expectations and budget.
Interiors
by Stephanie Dhillon
BARLEY THERE
Inspired by both the tones and textures of barley and wheat this is a scheme that combines soft creams and beiges with artisanal accessories creating a soothing minimalist i e with tactile pieces. hink ra a, seagrass and rattan textures, wo en fa rics and plant motifs.
Clockwise from left: Multi Jute Pouffe £95 from the Braided Ru Company www.braided-rug.co.uk, Crown Uno Taupe Bedroom Furniture from £500 from Crown mperial www.crown imperial.co.uk, Rattan Handle £10.95 from Home Luxe Co www.homeluxeco.com, Madison Neutral Betsy Jute loral Cushion £ 2.99 from daals www. daals.co.uk, Varanasi Traditional Hand Tufted Wool Ru £129.99 from daals www.daals.co.uk
Clockwise from above: Antique Cream-washed rattan Pyramid Table Lamp £105 from Click Style www.clickstyle.co.uk, Palladian Beige Field Tile £58.96 from Hyperion Tiles www.hyperiontiles.co.uk, Natural Linen Eye Pillow with Floral Design £19 from Helen Round www.helenround.com, Braided Jute Oval Doormat £22 from Cox & Cox www.coxandcox.co.uk, Hemp Rope Woven Wreath £20.99 from Gisela Graham London www.giselagraham.co.uk, Saffron neutral Beige and White Rope Garden Chair £129.99 from Laura James www.laurajames.co.uk
Versatile, Spacious Property
The Old Forge Knockin, Oswestry
This impressive detached home offering deceptively spacious and versatile accommodation with an abundance of character which has been modernised whilst retaining many of its original features. Formerly a successful bed and breakfast business this unique o e o er great e i i it o i ing er ect or toda odern i e t e a growing a i work ro o e dependent relative or those who love to entertain. he accommodation rie y comprises large in iting reception hall, lounge with feature fireplace, dining room, sitting room, home o ce edroom, utility room, 2 ground oor edrooms, one ensuite, athroom and 3 further edrooms each with ensuite shower rooms on the first oor. I 7 ,000. For iewings call onks on 01691 674 67 or email sales.oswestry monks.co.uk
New Home
lot 31 ingfisher ay, orda c u i e N N our edroo detac ed o e tucked away in a peaceful cul-de-sac in the charming i age o orda o e o er t oug t u de igned acco odation er ect or odern a i i ing. it u t one o t i de ign a ai a e ear iewing i e entia to u a reciate it t e ace and ua it ni . e ect our c oice o ooring car et and u ur in . T e dua a ect ounge i rig t and in iting wit provision for a wood-burning stove and French doors. The impressive kitchen/dining room comes with integrated appliances. There is also a breakfast bar and a dining/ sitting area with French doors leading out to the garden. Asking rice 4 0,000. For iewings call Hayley ackson on 073 9 393 122 or email hayley. ackson exp.uk.com
Moving
made simple. But don’t just take our word for it...
The best estate agent in town.
Nothing was too much trouble, often ringing multiple times a week to get updates.
The team work so hard and would hands down recommend them to anyone looking to sell their home.
– S. Butler
I can 100% recommend the team at Monks, Oswestry - they were superb!
From start to finish they worked hard to sell our property, kept in touch and were always easy to contact.
Friendly and professional too.
– J. Nicholson
Bringing people & property together
Whether you’re buying, selling or renting, we’re here to make your move simple from start to finish with 130 years’ combined local expertise.
Find your local MONKS office in Oswestry, Shrewsbury, or Wem. We're available to call 7 days a week. Our phone lines are open 8am to 8pm, Monday to Friday. We offer free valuations and a no sale, no charge promise.
LLANFYLLIN
NO ONWARD CHAIN!! Situated on the outskirts of lanfyllin, this impressi e fi e- edroom detached home offers spacious, ersatile li ing ideal for modern family life. En oying stunning countryside iews, it com ines pri acy with con enient access to local amenities, creating a perfect alance of rural tran uillity and e eryday practicality in a highly desira le setting.
PARK HALL
ocated in the popular area of ark Hall near hittington, this detached home offers spacious li ing in a peaceful semi-rural setting. ositioned on a generous plot with large front and rear gardens, and set ack from the road, it is ideal for families or those seeking pri acy and excellent outdoor space
LLANRHAEADR
I H A HAI ocated in lanrhaeadr m ochnant, Hafan orlan is a charming semidetached home set in eautiful elsh countryside. ffering a peaceful lifestyle while remaining close to local amenities, it pro ides a practical and comforta le li ing space, ideal for those seeking tran uillity in a scenic illage setting.
Town and country Oswestry is very much a family- run business. With our teams combined local knowledge, we offer the highest level of service but with friendly local twist and welcome a visit to the Oswestry office to meet our great team. We aim to simplify your property journey. From your initial valuation appointment right the way through to our after sales service and support, we will guide you through the process at every step.
MEIFOD
ocated in the pictures ue illage of eifod, this rade II listed detached home ( uilt 1870) lends historic charm with modern li ing. ffering four edrooms and three reception rooms across 2,626 s ft, it pro ides generous space for family life. urrounded y countryside, it’s ideal for those seeking character, comfort, and a peaceful illage lifestyle.
LLANSILLIN
his modern detached home in lansillin offers four dou le edrooms, including one en suite, alongside a spacious lounge, kitchen reakfast room, dining room, and family athroom. ith ample off-road parking and a peaceful illage setting, it’s ideal for those seeking a comforta le, well-designed home in the countryside.
OSWESTRY
his two- edroom semi-detached home on a in ane offers excellent potential and re uires some modernisation. A lank can as for uyers, it is con eniently located near schools, shops, and community facilities. Ideal for first-time uyers or in estors, the property pro ides a great opportunity to create a personalised home in a popular area.
MORDA
ituated etween swestry and orda, this charming semi-detached cottage com ines character with modern li ing. ffering potential for an annexe, it’s ideal for multi-generational use or guests. ith parking for up to three ehicles and a pleasant setting, this ersatile home is perfect for uyers seeking space, charm, and con enience.
OSWESTRY
I H A HAI his extended semidetached ungalow on ridgeman oad offers four edrooms and exi le li ing space, ideal for families or home working. on eniently located close to amenities and leisure facilities, it com ines comfort and practicality, making it a great opportunity in the popular town of Oswestry.
OSWESTRY
I H HAI his one- edroom apartment on swald oad offers an excellent opportunity for first-time uyers or in estors. entrally located, it is close to shops, caf s, and essential ser ices. ffering comforta le li ing in a i rant town, it pro ides con enience, community, and strong rental or lifestyle appeal.
VALID FOR APPRAISALS BOOKED BEFORE JULY 2026
VALID FOR APPRAISALS BOOKED BEFORE JULY 2026
£125,000
Detached Family Home
Weston Road, Morda Town and Country are pleased to present in the well sought after location of Morda, this delightful detached house on Weston Road which offers a perfect blend of comfort and space for family living. With four well-proportioned bedrooms and large family kitchen/ dining room, upon entering, you are welcomed into a spacious reception room. The layout of the house promotes a warm and inviting atmosphere with great space for families. Situated in a great location on t e edge o t e de e o ent t i o e ene t from the tranquillity of suburban life while remaining within easy reach of local amenities and transport links. Whether you are a growing family or simply seeking a serene environment, this property presents an excellent opportunity to establish your roots in a welcoming community.
OIRO £315,000. For viewings call Town & Country on 01691 679 631 or email sales@townandcountry oswestry.com
Home with Stunning Views
Pentre Ucha, Meifod
A charming detached country home offering an edge of village location with beautiful elevated gardens allowing you to appreciate the stunning views over the open countryside. Pentre Ucha has been upgraded and well maintained by the current owners and offers versatile accommodation to include: entrance porch, open plan kitc en dining i ing roo ground oor ower roo and rear a . To t e r t oor are t ree dou e edroo family bathroom, and separate access into the fourth edroo o e office. terna t ere are two e arate parking areas, front courtyard and tiered gardens.
OIRO £380,000. For viewings call Roger Parry & Partners on 01691 655 334 or email oswestry@ rogerparry.net
Powys Gardens to Visit this Spring
With the welcome arrival of Spring bulbs and blossoms, our gardens are beginning to green up nicely in harmony with the burgeoning hedgerows. What better way to celebrate the joys of the new season than to plan a garden visit with friends and family?
Here in North Powys, we have several open-byarrangement gardens catering for small groups of 5-25 people. These are just perfect for informal private visits, where you can enjoy wandering at your leisure and sample the delicious tea and cake in tranquil surroundings. Eve’s Garden, Llansantffraid (SY22 6TB), Glan Yr Afon, Llangedwyn (SY10 9LQ), The Malthouse, Llandrinio (SY22 6SG), Rock Mill, Abermule (SY15 6NN) and Vicarage Farm, Llangynog (SY10 0HG) are all listed in the owys lea et and ooka le online. harges a erage around £10 pp including refreshments, with all proceeds enefitting the many charities supported y the ational Garden Scheme.
If you have never visited the glorious internationally acclaimed RHS partner gardens at The Dingle near Welshpool (SY21 9JD), we urge you to do so. On Sat 9 - Sun 10 May they will be open for the NGS from 9am-
5pm (£3.50 pp). 4.5 acres of rhododendrons, azaleas and acers tumble down the slopes towards the lake: a veritable festival of colour!
Another extraordinary garden can be found about a mile outside Llanfyllin, perched on a hill with glorious views towards the Berwyn Mountains. Bachie Uchaf (SY22 5NF) is open Sat 23 - Sun 24 May from 12-5pm (£6 pp) with homemade teas in aid of Lingen Davies. Words cannot do justice to how special and lovingly created this oasis of calm amid rolling farmland indeed is. Let your senses be assaulted by the acres of specimen trees and shrubs jostling in explosive and vibrant colour, with a cascading stream as the backdrop. The retired owners are on hand to relate how they created the garden from a once muddy ravine. Make this wonderful garden your Bank Holiday treat.
Bachie Uchaf, Llanfyllin
Looking to enhance your home’s exterior? Dwyer Construction offers high quality paving, patios, driveways, fencing, and general building & maintenance to homeowners across Shropshire, Mid & North Wales, and Cheshire. With over 25 years of experience, we provide reliable, professional, and affordable services to make your home look its best.
Looking to enhance your home’s exterior? Dwyer Construction offers high quality paving, patios, driveways, fencing, and general building & maintenance to homeowners across Shropshire, Mid & North Wales, and Cheshire. With over 25 years of experience, we provide reliable, professional, and affordable services to make your home look its best.
Looking to enhance your home’s exterior? Dwyer Construction offers high quality paving, patios, driveways, fencing, and general building and maintenance to homeowners across Shropshire, Mid North Wales, and Cheshire. With over 25 years experience, we provide reliable, professional, and affordable service to make your home look its best.
Over 25 Years of Expertise
Skilled craftsmanship you can trust.
Over 25 Years of Expertise
Quality Materials & Workmanship
Skilled craftsmanship you can trust.
Ensuring durability, quality and style
Quality Materials & Workmanship
Friendly, Reliable, & Affordable
Ensuring durability, quality and style
Professional service with a personal touch
Friendly, Reliable, & Affordable
Professional service with a personal touch
Serving Shropshire, Mid & North Wales, Cheshire & Beyond!
Serving Shropshire, Mid & North Wales, Cheshire & Beyond!
Ed Baker Services
www.dwyerconstruction.co.uk call Terry on 07815 524945
www.dwyerconstruction.co.uk
www.dwyerconstruction.co.uk
When the Allotment Gets Serious (Sort Of…)
May feels like the month where things properly get underway. After a lot of planning, a bit of guessing, and the “will it / won’t it frost?” headache of April, suddenly everything is go, go, go!
This time last year, I was just going to visit some potential plots. Now, a year on, it’s crazy to think we’re busy getting started in earnest.
The biggest job this month is continuing to plant out. All those seeds that have been carefully nurtured (well… despite tipping a few over!) in the greenhouse and on the windowsills are finally ready to face the real world. The brassicas russels sprouts, cauli ower and cabbage are being moved into their beds, where they’ll hopefully thrive without being completely devoured by slugs.
by Lindsey Pierce
This month also feels like the moment to be a bit more adventurous. We’re planting pumpkins, going for a mix of varieties and trying something a bit different by training them around an archway. In my head, this will look wonderfully Instagram-worthy, with pumpkins hanging neatly overhead. In reality… we’ll see. Either way, it feels like a fun experiment and something the twins are particularly excited about. These are also seeds I’ve saved from pumpkins we had last year.
Sweetcorn is also going in. We’re trying both traditional sweetcorn and a popping corn variety, which I’m irrationally excited about. Whether we end up with a successful crop or just a handful of slightly questionable cobs remains to be seen, but it’s all part of the learning. The early potatoes, which went in
not too long ago, are starting to show signs of life too.
Finally, in our main experiment of the year, I’m ambitiously (perhaps overly so) trying tomatillos; small, green, citrus-tart fruits that make the best tangy salsa. They need a lot of warmth, so we’ll see how they get on in the greenhouse.
There’s still plenty of trial and error, of course, but May feels hopeful.
May in the garden
by Graham Mitchell
May is one of the busiest periods in the gardening calendar. With the risk of late frosts diminishing, longer daylight our and war ing oi garden egin to ouri . owe er it remains a challenging month, requiring careful judgement to determine the appropriate time to plant outdoors.
Planting is the primary focus at this time of year. Hardy and tender vegetables such as courgettes, runner beans, and sweetcorn can now be sown directly outside. For those who prefer to start plants indoors, this is the time to begin hardening them off by gradually acclimatising them to outdoor conditions. It is important to remain vigilant, as sudden cold spells can still occur and potentially damage young plants. Keeping protective materials such as cloches and horticultural eece readily a aila le is ad isa le.
Attention should also e gi en to ower eds. As with vegetables, indoor-grown seedlings must be hardened off before planting out. Hanging baskets should be prepared if not already completed, and the use of waterretaining granules is recommended to help maintain moisture levels throughout the summer months. Regular deadheading of spring- owering plants, including pansies and primroses, will encourage continued blooming and maintain a neat appearance.
As growth accelerates, ongoing maintenance becomes essential. Climbing plants will require tying in, and taller varieties may need additional support. This is also an opportune time to inspect and repair fences, trellises, and other structures before they become obscured by new growth. Garden pests such as aphids, slugs, and snails become increasingly active, making regular monitoring and early intervention important.
Weeds will also thrive under these favourable conditions, competing with cultivated plants for nutrients and space. Prompt removal is key to preventing their spread, while mulching can help suppress growth and retain soil moisture.
Finally, as temperatures rise, consistent watering— preferably during the early morning or evening—will promote healthy growth. With regular care and attention, your garden will provide an impressive display throughout the summer.
Rain and roses
Bridging Architecture
& Ecology: The New Standard for the Modern Garden
The great British garden is facing a quiet crisis. After another season of waterlogged lawns and increasingly unpredictable weather, the traditional approach to landscaping, heavily reliant on manicured turf, high-maintenance borders, and impermeable paving is failing modern homeowners. Today, true luxury in landscape design isn’t about g ting nature to kee t ing ri tine it a out engineering a ace t at work harmoniously with it.
At tuart Francis Ecological andscapes, our philosophy is ature. efined . e believe that a high-end garden should not just be a static visual backdrop, but that it must function as a living, climate-resilient ecosystem.
A truly sophisticated, timeless space is achieved through the deliberate juxtaposition of human engineering and wild, natural movement. Picture the striking visual contrast of a razor-sharp, heavy-gauge mild steel retaining wall or a meticulously crafted dry-stone terrace, effortlessly softened by a sweeping matrix of drought-tolerant plants.
This resilient tapestry of foliage and bloom does more than just blur the stark lines of the architecture. By carefully curating a community of climate-adapted species, the planting scheme thrives with no irrigation once established. It delivers year-round structural interest and essential ecological enefits, seamlessly integrating the uilt en ironment with the surrounding natural landscape to create a beautiful, low-maintenance sanctuary.
However, the real engineering happens beneath the surface. As Ecological Contractors, we approach your land as a complete hydrological system. Instead of watching rainfall run off your patio to overwhelm the drains, we integrate Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), discreetly channelling that water into beautiful, purpose-built rain gardens or natural swales. Furthermore, by using advanced, low-nutrient mineral substrates rather than traditional rich compost, we naturally suppress aggressive weeds. Bridging high-end construction with ecological science allows us to build smarter. The result is an exclusive private sanctuary that demands far less of your weekend for maintenance, survives summer hosepipe bans, and grows richer and more resilient year after year.
Ready to rethink your landscape? Spring is the perfect time to plan your project. Contact Stuart at 07896 532275 or visit www.professional-gardener.co.uk to book your ecological consultation today.
The 3 Pillars of a Resilient Garden:
1Smart Water Management:
Replacing standard paving with permeable surfaces and natural rain gardens keeps heavy downpours on-site, preventing waterlogging and nourishing plants naturally.
2 Biodiversity & Balance:
Expertly mixing native species, like woodland foxgloves, with climateresilient non-native plants creates a robust, selfsustaining ecosystem. This approach extends the foraging season for pollinators while naturally suppressing aggressive weeds.
3StructuralHardscaping:
Using locally sourced stone and solid steel architecture creates crisp architectural lines that perfectly frame wilder, low-maintenance planting.
Above: Seamless water management within a mature landscape. Top, right: Local pollinators thriving on climate-adapted Verbena. Bottom, right: Resilient woodland tapestry of Digitalis and Carex
Installation & Maintenance of Digital Aerials, Satellite Dishes & Digital Solutions
Call Brian for a free quote with no obligation 01691 690680 07944 990
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Competitive Rates Based on North Wales Border with Instructors Nationally Call Us For Information, Advice, or a Quote James - 07970575588 office@warwicktraining.co.uk www.warwicktraining.co.uk
PUZZL E P AGE
CRYPTIC CROSSWORD
Across
1. Beginner without fault? (6)
4. Song a grim lad mixed (8)
9. Hamill, say, with a film to promote (6)
10. Essay about an undergarment is a farce! (8)
12. A city, when lied about (3,5)
13. Girl cross seeing second wing (6)
15. It’s unlikely to cut everything (4)
16. One matter being discussed (2,5)
20. It’s gruesome when a taxi cuts a horse in half (7)
21. He might start with beer (4)
25. Irritable baby’s last diaper (6)
26. Composer butchers composition! (8)
28. Dig confused with a mine, it’s thought (8)
29. Um, a band making mistakes (6)
30. Fast lute performance refined (8)
31. Sly local man ending visit (4,2)
Down
1. Mention a different name (8)
2. Exact fit, it’s agreed (4,4)
3. Cool outsiders always smart (6)
5. Casual affair youth conceals (4)
6. Starving bird skinned mouse! (8)
7. Georgia, shot, expressed surprised (6)
8. Meanly treated amateurs (6)
11. A poet first with an assassin (7)
14. Cor, this agitated a bird! (7)
17. “Stone perhaps broken,” I added (8)
18. Let Maria weave fabric (8)
19. Pathogen changing shape (8)
22. Fool’s not back to give aid (6)
23. Bother, a girl turned south! (6)
24. Urn? It disturbed a rodent (6)
27. A list of people ahead of you (4)
KEYS
1. In bingo, what number is referred to as “key of the door”?
2. Francis Scott Key is best remembered for writing a poem called Defence of Fort M’Henry that was later set to a tune to become which famous song?
3. An allen key is used to turn a screw or bolt that has a recess of what shape? a) triangle; b) pentagon; or c) hexagon?
4. Featuring a key on its front cover, what is the title of the third novel in E. L. James’ Fifty Shades series?
5. Each labelled with the letter “F” and then a number, how many function keys are there on a standard PC keyboard?
6. In which well-known 1962 film does the title character own an island called Crab Key?
7. Singer Alicia Keys featured on the 2009 hit single Empire State of Mind by which rapper?
8. If there are 88 keys in total on a standard piano, how many of these are black?
9. In the lyrics of the song Brand New Key by Melanie, what does the singer have a “brand new pair of”?
10. Together with his daughter Lucy, which famous person wrote a series of children’s books that started with 2007’s George’s Secret Key to the Universe?
SOLUTION S crossword Across: 1 Novice, 4 Madrigal, 9 Market, 10 Travesty, 12 New Delhi, 13 Annexe, 15 Tall, 16 At issue, 20 Macabre, 21 Male, 25 Snappy, 26 Schubert, 28 Imagined, 29 Erring, 30 Tasteful, 31 Call on. Down: 1 Nominate, 2 Very well, 3 Clever, 5 Airy, 6 Ravenous, 7 Gasped, 8 Laymen, 11 Whitman, 14 Ostrich, 17 Sapphire, 18 Material, 19 Heptagon, 22 Assist, 23 Harass, 24 Nutria, 27 Menu. quiz 1. 21, 2. The Star-Spangled Banner (the national anthem of the United States), 3. c) hexagon, 4. Fifty Shades Feed, 5. 12, 6. Dr. No, 7. Jay-Z, 8. 36, 9. Roller skates, 10. Stephen Hawking
