Essentials Mag February 2020 Garden Village/Borras/Acton

February 2020

Your monthly local community magazine

MAG

essentials

EE

FR

www.essentialsmag.co.uk Delivered by hand to 4,900 homes and businesses in Garden Village, Borras, Acton, Little Acton, Pandy and surrounding area

Welcome... to your latest edition of EssentialsMAG There’s a bit of a ‘waste reduction’ theme going on in this edition. We’ve all seen the headlines about the environmental problems caused by our current levels of consumption and waste, which as we know are unsustainable. Read our simple ten-step guide to show you how to cut down on your gas and electricity usage at home. Making a few small changes can have a big impact on the amount of energy consumed and save you money too.

If you’re looking for a way to impress your loved one this Valentine’s, try baking them our shortbread heart biscuits - this month’s delicious recipe kindly supplied by Lewis’s Farm Shop in Eyton.

And finally, don’t forget our community information comes from you! So do keep sending us your stories and events to help us spread the word about local news in the area.

All the best, Vicky Heathfield

Cover Image: Shrove Tuesday 25th February

March Deadlines: Editorial - 14 February Advertising - 21 February

We’ve got the local area covered!

Delivered by hand to 4,900 homes and businesses - more than any other magazine in our area.

Copies of this magazine can be picked-up at the following locations: Co-op 175 Chester Road, Garden Village Wrexham LL12 8DW Co-op Borras Park Road, Wrexham LL12 7TH You can also read our magazines online at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk @EssentialsMagWrexham @EssentialsMAG1

It’s your mag too!

Got any comments?

Let’s have them!

EssentialsMAG is published by Essentials Mag Limited. The views expressed in articles and advertisements published in this edition of EssentialsMAG do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

Editorial - vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk Advertising - advertising@essentialsmag.co.uk

The reproduction of any material is forbidden without the written permission consent of the publishers. Whilst every effort is taken to ensure accuracy in the publication, we cannot accept any responsibility for any error or omissions that may have occurred, or any consequence arising from use of this publication. All facts and figures are correct at time of going to press.

www.essentialsmag.co.uk

© EssentialsMAG Limited 2020.

Call us on: 01978 855 459

thomas andrews & partners Solicitors

Carol McGuire has specialised in all areas of Family Law, including: DIVORCE; SEPARATION; ISSUES RELATING TO CHILDREN and FINANCIAL REMEDY for over 30 years.

Carol welcomes you to the brand-new offices of Thomas Andrews & Partners at First Floor, Suite 7, Church Street, Wrexham LL13 8LS, which are just around the corner from her old premises, next to St. Giles Parish Church.

Call today and arrange an appointment.

Telephone 01978 291506.

Carol McGuire, Thomas Andrews & Partners, First Floor, Suite 7 Church Street, Wrexham LL13 8LS T: 01978 291506 / E: carolinem@thomasandrews.co.uk / www.thomasandrews.co.uk

We can make your business a household name!

Low-cost, local, effective advertising EssentialsMAG publish three monthly lifestyle magazines which are hand delivered to 13,600 homes and businesses in and around Wrexham. Our coverage includes: MAGAZINE A: MAGAZINE B: MAGAZINE C:

Rossett | Marford | Gresford | Pulford | Burton | Golly | Eccleston Holt | Farndon | Bangor on Dee | Overton | Penley | Marchwiel | Cross Lanes Garden Village | Borras | Little Acton | Acton | Pandy

from

from

from

from

£32

£56

£96

£160

+VAT per issue

+VAT per issue

+VAT per issue

+VAT per issue

Eighth page 63 x 44mm

Quarter page 63 x 90mm

Half page 128 x 90mm

Full page 148 x 210mm +3mm bleed

Prices are PER magazine, PER month.

For more information call us on: 01978 855459, or email: advertising@essentialsmag.co.uk This publication is printed on FSC® certified paper.

When you have finished reading it please put it in your paper recycling bin.

Spark Joy in Your Life

By EssentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KENNEY Congratulations, you’ve survived January!

Still, winter and the short days are not quite over yet. Winter months can feel long and dull, so here are a few tips on how to keep your spirits up, spice up the days and bring authentic joy into your life.

Listen to your heart’s desires A good starting point is to reflect on the question: ‘When do I feel most alive?’

When you’ve figured that out, see if you can treat yourself and do that exact thing.

Choose happiness Some people chase happiness and other people choose it. Be the one that chooses it.

Set a positive goal to let today be more enjoyable than you thought it was going to be.

Laugh Do you know that saying: ‘blessed are they who are able to laugh at themselves, for they will never cease to be amused.’ There is something great about not taking ourselves too seriously.

Love someone People who give time and attention to their most important relationships experience more happiness. Think about who you would like to spend more time with and have more fun with them.

Practice gratitude Say out loud three things you are grateful for every day. Gratitude is often referred to as the shortcut to joy. The more grateful you are, the happier you feel.

Or as simply as the Spice Girls put in their ‘Spice Up Your Life’ song: When you're feelin' sad and low; We will take you where you gotta go.

Smilin', dancin', everything is free; All you need is positivity!

Spice up your life ;o) EssentialsMAG motivation contributor is Sasha Kenney, Wellbeing Coach, World Record holder, business owner and Motivational Speaker. sasha@fitphilosophy.co.uk

YOUR FRIENDLY LOCAL INDEPENDENT FLORIST

THE HOME SELECTION SERVICE homestyle-carpets.co.uk

Make Your Valentine’s Day Special with

FREE home estimates

FREE

professional fitting

FREE quality underlay

FREE

grippers & door plates

Old carpets uplifted & furniture moved Disposal and door trimming arranged if required We will beat any like for like written quotation

CARPETS • LAMINATE FLOORING • ARTIFICIAL GRASS VINYLS • ENGINEERED & SOLID WOOD FLOORING

Regent House of Flowers Order Online - Call in Our Shop - Order by Phone

Regent House of Flowers 13 Yorke Street, Wrexham LL13 8LW

Open 7 days a week Daytime, Evening & Weekend Appointments Available

www.regenthouseofflowers.co.uk

CALL DAN EVANS FOR A FREE HOME ESTIMATE WREXHAM 01978 799033 · CHESTER 01244 408966

01978 357356

Could You Provide a Loving Home for a Local Child?

Fostering is where individuals provide a caring and secure environment in their own home for other people's children and young people. Fostering can be done on a full or part-time basis and ranges from day or weekend care to a few months or even on a long-term basis. Fostering a child offers you many opportunities to make a difference in a child's life by helping to provide health, education and emotional support.

Wrexham Fostering Service are looking for potential foster carers who are committed to children and young people of all ages. It’s so important to keep children in their local area to ensure continuity with friends and schools.

Help us to keep local children safe in Wrexham by providing a loving, secure home.

What support will I get?

As a foster carer, you will be provided with: • • • • • •

Training packages to assist you throughout the process.

Allowances to cover the cost of fostering.

Full support and guidance.

Equipment and household resources.

Professional qualifications. QCF Level 3 in Health and Social Care.

Professional fees.

Fostering is essential Cllr Andrew Atkinson, Lead Member for Children’s Services said, “Fostering is an essential part of how we look after children in Wrexham. People might think that they don’t have the time or the resources to be able to foster, but we want to show people that it could be well within their capabilities. Being a foster carer is by no means easy, but with the contribution of just some time and effort you could make an immeasurable difference to the life of a child in care.”

If you would like more information on how you can become a Foster Carer for Wrexham, please call our Free Phone number: 01978 295316 to speak to the Recruitment Officer.

Or emal: fostering@wrexham.gov.uk.

your perfect

10% off with this advert* Free 3D Design | Complete Bathrooms | Quality Guaranteed | Tile Sampling With leading bathroom brands to suit every project, style and budget, you can get what is right for you.

We also offer a FREE 3D design and planning service, so you can see your new bathroom before it’s fitted.

Be inspired, go online @bathroomshowroom

Unit A, Rivulet Road, Wrexham LL13 8DT Tel: 01978 318820 Monday-Friday: 7:30am - 5pm, Saturday: 8am - 12pm

bathrooms.com

*Terms and Conditions: Discount applies to orders placed with The Bathroom Showroom Wrexham inclusive. This offer ends on 31/01/2020 inclusive. Discount only applies to products selected from the current Bathroom Brochure and Tile Brochure from The Bathroom Showroom Wrexham. Discount may only be used at point of purchase in the Bathroom Showroom at the City Plumbing Wrexham.

One per customer. The Bathroom Showroom accepts no obligation of stock availability. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer, voucher, discount or promotion.

Imagery used is for representation purposes only. This offer can only be redeemed by showing this advert at the Bathroom Showroom located at Unit A, Rivulet Road, Wrexham LL13 8DT. Discount is not available for online or telephone orders. All sales are subject to the Bathroom Showroom sale terms.

Planning.

Action.

Satisfaction.

EXTENSIONS • RENOVATIONS REFURBISHMENTS • NEW BUILDS We undertake all aspects of construction work and services and provide a professional and dependable service you can rely on.

“TWEC Developments built our house extension. They finished on time, on budget and we are so happy with the final result. We would thoroughly recommend them.”

- VICKY HEATHFIELD

TWEC DEVELOPMENTS LTD 01691 577 999 • info@twecdevelopments.co.uk www.twecdevelopments.co.uk

SMART REPAIR FOR

SCRATCHES, SCUFFS, & SCRAPES We fix a range of bodywork damage using our extensive smart techniques and knowledge. Our convenient mobile service means we come out to you - saving you time and money!

AUTO COSMETIC REPAIRS SERVING WREXHAM & CHESTER SINCE 2004

01978 364510 07939 010706

Pack Your Bags for a Great Adventure...

By EssentialsMAG travel contributor Anita Kelsey at DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

Canada in the Winter I appreciate that we are all starting to look forward to daffodil buds pushing through the frost to hail the beginning of Spring but, having just returned from an amazing visit to the Canadian Rockies, I felt I had to share the experience before we put Winter behind us and turn our faces to the sunshine.

The Canadian Rockies in Winter is a spectacular sight - frozen lakes, crisp white snow and cosy log fires make it an ideal romantic break.

Calgary is the gateway airport and whilst the city is worth seeing, the best part at this time of year is the Rockies, some 90 miles away, where the stunning town of Banff nestles amongst snowy mountains. With accommodation ranging from simple chalets to the 5-star Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, there is plenty of choice. Bars and restaurants line Banff Avenue with their welcoming wine bar-style menus and relaxed atmospheres.

Regardless of whether you ski or not, there is so much to experience in this winter wonderland. A walk through Johnston Canyon (with ice cleats strapped to my shoes) was a leisurely but invigorating experience. It took around 30 minutes to reach the lower falls and a further - rather more energetic - 30 minutes to get to the upper falls. A hot chocolate break is mandatory after such exertion!

You can book a 90-minute snowshoe walk from Lake Louise (one of the most photographed places in the Rockies). The gondola ride to the top of the mountain has breath-taking views and our guide was informative and interesting as she regaled us with tales of avalanche control and mountain wildlife.

Learning to ski or snowboard is easy in Banff or Lake Louise. Ski Big 3 can organise group or individual lessons on nursery slopes just to help you get familiar with moving on the snow and then, after that, just practise and enjoy! A great way of easing the inevitable aches of the day is to plunge into Banff Upper Hot Springs. This soothing natural pool is fed from Sulphur Mountain and reaches around 40 degrees.

Food and drink is a major feature and there are many special and delicious delights to be had. For a hearty big breakfast try The Keg (inside the Caribou Lodge) or The Poppy Brasserie with a full-service buffet including a Pancake station (with unlimited maple syrup of course!) and a smoothie bar for a more healthy approach. The Banff Avenue Brewing Company is great for high quality beers and massive portions of pub food.

Another must-visit is The Park Distillery, renowned for their own specialist Vodka and Gin: pair either of these with their rotisserie speciality and you have a winner!

Castello Ristorante in the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is highly recommended - the lobster ravioli and arancini was to die for!

For a delicious fondue experience try Walliser Stube, a speciality restaurant in The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel.

This restaurant is well-established and full of character. If you have not tried fondue before - or remember it as being ‘the thing’

“FROZEN LAKES, CRISP WHITE SNOW AND COSY LOG FIRES”

in the seventies - it is time to try their amazing Mushroom and Shallot fondue with truffle, followed by the Toblerone fondue for dessert! Add a shot of Frangelico for extra heavenly moments!

Other random but equally exciting must-do’s include dog sledding. This a really fabulous experience and if, like me, you are crazy about dogs, you will want to choose a company who respect and treat their animals well such as Snowy Owl Tours - a family-run business that operates a professional and safe service.

If you want a longer experience, travel through the Icefield Parkway into Jasper where you can board The Canadian Train to Vancouver. This overnight journey will keep you warm, cosy and well fed on board and then, when you wake up in your snug cabin, you will be in Vancouver - a bustling scenic, friendly city on the Pacific coast.

I could go on...and on...and on…but maybe another time!

Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises. For details contact: Tel: 01978 853885, www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE Now also in Heswall, Tel: 0151 363 6115

Time Difference: -7 hours Currency: Canadian Dollars Flying Time: 9 hours Top Tips: Take the transfer coach from Calgary to Banff rather than drive. It is a regular service geared up for icy weather.

British Citizens require an Eta visa to enter Canada www.canada.ca Thermal underwear is essential - even if it is a romantic break!

Gardening Tips and Advice February - Spring is in Sight This month there are signs of the approaching spring, with bulbs appearing and wildlife waking up as light levels and temperatures increase. There's plenty to do indoors this month to prepare for the season ahead. Outdoors, as the garden comes to life again, it's time to prune shrubs and climbers, such as Wisteria as well as evergreen hedges.

1.

Prepare vegetable seed beds, and sow some vegetables under cover.

2.

Chit potato tubers.

3.

Protect blossom on apricots, nectarines and peaches.

4.

Net fruit and vegetable crops to keep the birds off.

5.

Prune winter-flowering shrubs that have finished flowering.

6.

Divide bulbs such as snowdrops, and plant those that need planting 'in the green'.

7.

Prune Wisteria.

8.

Prune hardy evergreen hedges and renovate overgrown deciduous hedges.

9.

Prune conservatory climbers such as bougainvillea.

10.

Cut back deciduous grasses left uncut over the winter, remove dead grass from evergreen grasses.

Information provided by: www.rhs.org.uk

Stay warm this winter with AW AW are your local breakdown and repair specialists, covering all areas of domestic and commercial heating gas, oil, biomass, ground source heat pumps, underfloor heating, solid fuel, catering and air source heat pumps.

RAPID RESPONSE BY OUR DEDICATED BREAKDOWN ENGINEERS

Call 01978 806 075 or info@awrenewables.co.uk www.awrenewables.co.uk

Restaurant Review Bollicini

By EssentialsMAG food critic SALLY ANGLESEA Restaurant: Bollicini Address: Rufus Court, Northgate Street, Chester CH1 2HJ Contact: Tel: 01244 329 932 / www.bollicini.co.uk Cost for three course meal, for two people, without drinks: £60 - £75 Italian is a language I have always wanted to learn - it‘s so sexy and passionate and allows you to make eccentric hand gestures without being questioned. I have discovered, however, that by simply stating an array of pasta types whilst wildly gesticulating and intermittently shouting ‘ayyy’, you can convince people of your Italian speaking ability. As long as they’re not Italian. Or particularly intelligent.

Tucked away down a cobbled side street, Bollicini in Chester is one Italian restaurant that seems to naturally project authenticity.

My friend, Claudia, and I were met with a charming welcome as we arrived on a busy Friday evening. Nadia, our attentive and friendly waitress, was quick to bring us their concise and classy cocktail list, featuring the Italian Aperitif Classico, Negroni, and Bollicini’s own Limoncello-based creation: ‘Sophia Loren’. Despite being tempted, we decided to swerve these more complex creations, in favour of two large G&Ts, and after spending an unacceptable period of time deliberating over calamari or caprese, we finally made our decision...

Calamari. It had to be done. If you are an avid reader of my restaurant reviews (hi, Mum) you may have noticed that this particular squid on the block is one I struggle to resist -

and when it’s on offer in an Italian joint, well, I simply must partake.

Bollicini aren’t making waves in terms of innovation when it comes to the crispy classic but they are doing it very well.

A hearty mound of crisp, black pepper studded squid rings was served alongside a fresh green salad and a tangy tartare sauce.

The batter was crisp and well-seasoned, if not slightly over-salted at points; and the squid itself was soft, and fresh. As I say, it won’t be going down in my personal culinary history as a most memorable calamari experience, but as far as hefty helpings of crispy coated, succulent squid go, it was pretty darn delicious.

The salmon tartare was a less traditional choice but proved itself to be a wise one.

Rosy chunks of raw salmon were held within a light mustard dressing. Delicate flecks of fragrant, fresh dill and vibrant bursts of crunchy, sweet red pepper added both flavour and texture to the dish, whilst a cheffy smear of creamy wholegrain mustard sauce was the perfect accompaniment to the mellow fish. The crisp crostini it was served alongside was the most Italian element of the dish, but despite the starter’s deviation from traditional Italian flavours, it was a beautifully conceived dish that was executed with simplicity and flair.

For more foodie fanaticism and photos, follow Sally on Instagram: @gingernutsaboutfood

Bollicini Review Ratings: FOOD: 8/10 SERVICE: 8/10 ATMOSPHERE: 9/10 OVERALL: 25/30

Bollicini speaks my language. Or perhaps they were just reciting names of different pastas...who knows. The point is, this chic restaurant in the heart of Chester is producing plates of passion that will momentarily have you lost in daydreams of sun kissed olive trees and seaside spaghetti.

Bold, fresh flavours delivered authentically and without complication - Bollicini captures the essence of Italy and serves it up to you with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkling of Parmigiano Reggiano.

For full details of our three-course extravaganza, including a risotto that had me questioning every assumption I’d ever made about truffle with shellfish, head over to essentialsmag.co.uk.

In the meantime, well, all that’s really left to say is... ‘spaghetti tagliatelle penne orecchiette, ayyy. Capisce?’

For more delicious detail, read the full restaurant review at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/restaurantreview

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Lewis’s Farm Shop Shortbread Hearts INGREDIENTS

MAKES 18 BISCUITS

200g unsalted butter 100g caster sugar 300g plain flour

TO DECORATE 300g royal icing sugar Red and pink sprinkles You will need a heart shaped cookie cutter

METHOD Preheat the oven to 180°C / 160°C fan / gas mark 4.

Grease a baking tray and line it with non-stick baking paper.

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together using an electric mixer or wooden spoon. Sift the flour into the bowl and gently mix all the ingredients together.

Once the ingredients are thoroughly combined, use your hands to form a soft ball of dough. Refrigerate the dough for 15 minutes before gently rolling it out on a lightly floured surface.

Cut out biscuits using a heart-shaped cookie cutter and place them on the baking tray. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.

Allow to cool on a wire rack before decorating the shortbread with icing (mix the royal icing sugar with water to form a paste) and sprinkles.

Trying out our recipe?

Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham

This delicious recipe was kindly supplied by Lewis’s Farm Shop.

Make Valentine’s Day extra special with these melt-in-the-mouth Shortbread Hearts. Debbie Jones shares this easy recipe from the kitchen of Lewis’s Farm Shop where she and her fellow bakers expertly produce delicious sweet and savoury treats!

Lewis’s Farm Shop, Brook Cottage, Eyton, Wrexham LL13 0SW T: 01978 780852 www.lewisfarmshop.com

Moving to a Circular Economy

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF In December I attended the launch of a key consultation by the Welsh Government on their plans to move towards a ‘Circular Economy.’ This involves reducing raw materials consumed and waste generated and keeping resources within the system through repair, reuse and recycling. The reason we must do this is incredibly simple – our current levels of consumption are unsustainable.

• We’d need 2.5 planet Earths to enable every person in the world to consume as many resources as the average person in Wales!

• Many people in other countries use fewer resources, but globally we’re still consuming 1.7 times as much as our planet can absorb and regenerate.

• Whether we wish to believe it or not, this cannot possibly continue; either we change voluntarily or change will be forced upon us by ecological and societal collapse.

While individual actions are an essential part of the solution, most of us couldn’t simply reduce our own consumption by 60%. This is why the kind of far reaching approach proposed in this consultation is needed, including: • Increasing recycling rates to 100%.

• Reducing waste generated.

• Reducing raw material usage (especially those with a high carbon footprint) and using more recycled materials.

• Investment in infrastructure to support reuse, repair and remanufacture.

• Supporting community initiatives.

• Using government levers such as legislation, taxation and purchasing.

Wales aims to be a world leader in the transition to sustainable levels of consumption, and to only take a “fair share” of global resources. Our household recycling rates are already the best in the UK and the third best in the world (increasing from just 5.2% in 1998/99 to 60.7% in 2018/19). This shows the progress we can make and the ambition is now for Wales to become a zero-waste nation by 2050.

It’s impossible to overstate the scale of the challenge we currently face. I believe we still have time to act, but this window is closing extremely rapidly and every delay makes things even more difficult.

Achieving this kind of transition successfully is critical for all our futures, so I’d urge you to have your say on the proposals and contribute your own ideas.

The consultation runs until 3 April 2020 and can be found at: https://gov.wales/circular-economystrategy

EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com

A.D.G. ALPINE WINDOWS • DOORS • CONSERVATORIES

The Area’s Most Experienced Double Glazing Company

Telephone Jim Hough T. 01978

M. 07738

853027 985375

uPVC Double Glazed Windows & Doors WINDOW & DOOR REPAIRS We specialise in double glazing repairs to ensure your double glazing windows and doors last for longer

Call us on: 01978 720311 www.adgwindows.co.uk Alpine House, Old Mold Road, Gwersyllt, Wrexham LL11 4AP

Boiler Installations / Replacements Complete Bathroom Installations Boiler Service and Breakdown 221986

www.totalheatsolutions.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Financial News with Hadlow Edwards Retirement on your Mind – Do something now that your future self will thank you for. We are reminded almost daily that it is important to make provisions for our ‘golden years’. So why do we find it so hard to be disciplined and save accordingly? Frustratingly, our brains may trick us into saving less and spending more. To be a successful saver, it is critical to overcome our psychological biases. The three greatest risks are: Present Bias Have you ever delayed a work project until the last moment? Had plans to tidy the kitchen turn into an afternoon glued to catch-up TV? That’s present bias at play. Present bias inclines us to value immediate gratification over future rewards. For example, choosing a shopping binge over a savings account. Many experts say that present bias is one of the biggest challenges in saving for retirement.

Present bias is scientifically accounted for. One part of our brain is associated with emotional decision making, whilst the other part supports abstract reasoning. The emotional part of our brain responds to instant gratification - when faced with the choice of a doughnut now or fruit later, this part of your brain pushes you towards the doughnut.

To overcome present bias, imagine a picture of your future self. Detailing your goals and aspirations helps the mind envisage the bigger picture. Creating and monitoring a financial plan is the key to your ideal retirement.

Loss Aversion Bias Loss aversion is a preference for avoiding losses over acquiring gains. We are hard-wired to be loss-averse: it enabled our ancestors to survive when resources were scarce. But when it comes to investing, loss aversion can lead to an overlyconservative strategy. Over a lifetime, it could

Warren Hadlow

Medwyn Edwards

cost you thousands of pounds. The fear of losing money can result in a reliance on cash. While it’s natural to try to avoid loss, letting that fear loom large over your financial decisions could actually lead to the very thing you’re fearful of. As a chartered financial Practice, we will help you build an investment plan that caters to your risk tolerance.

Anchoring Bias Another financial challenge we face is anchoring bias. This is where we rely too heavily, or ‘anchor’, on one piece of information. For example, when buying a car, you may become focused on the condition of the paintwork. This fixation anchors your mind to the car’s exterior, making you oblivious to other issues. When planning for retirement, most people anchor on a retirement date, but state pension age, life-expectancy and future spending needs are just as important.

Workplace pensions can also reinforce anchoring bias. Many employees assume that the minimum contribution rate under auto-enrolment is the ‘correct’ rate. In reality, those paying the minimum are probably not saving enough for the retirement they hope for.

By understanding and overcoming our ingrained biases, we may be able to improve the chances of a financially secure future.

The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.

An investment in equities does not provide the security of capital associated with a deposit account with a bank or building society.

Contributed by Warren Hadlow & Medwyn Edwards, Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited.

Telephone: 01978 311 611 - e-mail: hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The 'St. James's Place Partnership' and the titles 'Partner' and 'Partner Practice' are marketing terms used to describe St. James's Place representatives.

PRinciPal PaRtneR PRactice oF st. James's Place WealtH management

• RetiRement Planning • moRtgages • tax Planning • investment Planning • sPecialist insuRance

at Hadlow edwards we offer a distinctive approach to our clients and their financial affairs.

You get all the benefits of personal attention and years of experience from an approachable, friendly team of professionals. We take care of the details and take away the frustration of financial planning.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

HADLOW EDWARDS WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD chartered Financial Planners

Telephone: 01978 311 611 email: hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

How to Combat Overtiredness

By Infant Sleep Consultant RHIAN MILLS Are you struggling with the little people of your household refusing bedtime? Does your child wake multiple times during the night? The culprit could be overtiredness, and your saviour ironically could be more sleep - the saying sleep breeds sleep is true!

Don’t be tempted to keep your child up longer to tire them out in order to make them sleep better at night – this is a myth!

When a child becomes overtired the light and lively environment tells the brain to wake up. Consequently, wakeful and energising hormones are released including cortisol, this is like a shot of adrenaline! The body now goes past the tired stage and feels wired. You may relate to this yourself – when you feel like you’ve gone ‘past’ tired – what is known as a second wind.

A child who is overtired is going to find it more difficult to settle to sleep – they will do all they can to resist it. After all, they have the cortisol to fight now! More night wakings are also seen. As well as this overtiredness is the main cause of early rising, increases the likelihood of parasomnias such as night terrors and sleep walking, and can cause behaviour during the day to deteriorate as the brain becomes more irrational.

So, what are the causes of overtiredness?

The first is not using the correct wakeful window for your child. What is a wakeful window? It’s the period of time that

your little one is awake between sleeps.

For example, a child who has one nap a day will have two wakeful windows – one either side of that nap. The maximum wakeful window will vary depending on the child’s age.

The second cause of overtiredness is little ones not getting sufficient naps during the day. Again, the ideal total daytime sleep varies dependent on age.

The third culprit is going to bed too late – this is easily done; remember the cortisol and the second wind? You might be watching your child and thinking ‘no, they’re not tired yet’ when actually they are past it.

To combat overtiredness: • Know how much daytime sleep your little one needs and make sure naps are sensibly spaced during the day.

• Make sure your little one’s wakeful windows are appropriate for their age.

• Put them to bed up to an hour earlier than usual for a week or two – this will give them a chance to catch up on sleep and you shouldn’t find that they wake any earlier the following morning.

To book a FREE call with Rhian please visit: https://restedmama.appointlet.com

EssentialsMAG Infant Sleep Consultant is Rhian Mills, from Rested Mama restedmama@gmail.com, Tel: 07530 015704

Vintage & Collectables

Time for a clear out?

HOUSE CLEARANCES GARAGE CLEARANCES & SINGLE ITEMS BOUGHT FOR CASH contact: Tina Evans tinaevans45@hotmail.com

01978 421107 07840 392555

PLUMBING, HEATING & BATHROOMS

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

Foundry Road, Wrexham LL13 7AB (next to St. Giles Church) FREE PARKING OUTSIDE

Tel: 01978 357238 / 01978 264456

F C SP OR O AL EC U R L U IA L S L O AT FF ES ER T S

E: wrexhamplumbers@btconnect.com

We have a full range of Bathroom Suites & Wall Panels on display OPEN TO PUBLIC & TRADE

Ready For Your

Best Ever Clean?

NEW LEATHER RESTORATION - call us for details Locally based, call Steve on:

0800 170 14 20 www.zerodrytime.com @zerodrytimewrexham

Honest and reliable service, with excellent results

Working with the British Weather

By EssentialsMAG fitness contributor LEE EASON For me, this time of year is the hardest to stay motivated; the gyms are full of New Year’s resolutioners, so it can be busy and often dispiriting for people there. Don’t worry, you’re not on your own! Following a simple plan can keep you ticking over during the months of dark nights and unpredictable weather. The plan for now is sacrifice and realistic goals. As I write this, a storm is on its way, so, for the next few days, cycling outside is too risky.

I like to get into the garage and hook my bike up to my turbo trainer, which s a stationary device you can attach to your road bike in order to cycle indoors.

To make it more enjoyable there are interactive training platforms which you can use; I use one called Zwift. This helps to keep my goals realistic and consistent and using an online platform can be really engaging and fun. I know that Alf Jones have turbo trainers available and with Zwift they offer a 30 day trial, so you can have a test period prior to committing.

Another key point during the colder months is ensuring that you are hydrated enough. It is easy to forget to keep up your fluids, as you naturally don’t feel the need to drink when your core temperature is cooler than in the summer months.

This can have a negative effect on sleep, digestion and overall mood.

As a guide, two litres a day is a good amount to aim for and if you’re exercising, you should be drinking about 500 millilitres two hours before your workout, and half of that amount afterwards.

Your body is 60% water, so water is vital to keep it working efficiently.

Next month, a special guest will be joining me, to share their personal experiences, which will be inspirational to say the least.

“Only in the darkness can you see the stars.”

Running is also available on Zwift if you have a treadmill, so it really does cover you for all forms of exercise. All ages and abilities are catered for, including womenonly groups. Please send me an email if you would like any more information about the app.

As I have mentioned before, Joe Wicks’ HIIT workouts are great and accessible, if running or cycling isn’t your thing.

EssentialsMAG fitness contributor is Lee Eason leeeason@hotmail.co.uk

Little Scholars Day Nursery The Centre for the Child, Glyndŵr University, Mold Road, Wrexham LL11 2AW

For information about places please contact CATRIN or BECCA

Tel: 01978 314912 littlescholars@activechildcare.co.uk

“Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury.

Play is a necessity.”

KAY REDFIELD JAMISON

Why not pay us a visit and see what we have to offer you and your child...

• • • •

Purpose built nursery Dedicated and passionate practitioners Registered to deliver EE and the Childcare Offer Open to the general public as well as students and staff at Glyndwr University • Holiday Club provision for ages 4‐12 also available

Call today to arrange a visit ‐ 01978 314912 www.activechildcare.co.uk ALSO AT: ROSSETT HOUSE NURSERY, LLAY ROAD, ROSSETT, WREXHAM LL12 0HT. TEL: 01244 571872

Lewis’s Farm Shop The Home of Real Food The award-winning Lewis’s Farm Shop is situated in the picturesque hamlet of Eyton, near Wrexham. The farm shop has long since acquired a reputation for offering a hearty serving of locally sourced and freshly prepared produce of the highest quality.

Mark Lewis is a champion butcher and has won several awards for his range of sausages and home cured black bacon. From the farm shop’s in-house butchery, Mark prepares the freshest cuts of meat sourced from local farms. In the kitchen, a friendly team of bakers make cakes, quiches and pies using quality ingredients and traditional techniques. Both the butchery and kitchen can be seen from the farm shop, so customers can see exactly how the produce is prepared.

A well-stocked deli offers a vast selection of homemade produce, cooked meats and local Welsh and English cheeses. All other produce available in store is sourced as locally as possible and from British artisan food producers.

Lewis’s Farm Shop is a family run business that prides itself on offering a wide variety of produce and a helpful service. The team upholds traditional values, which are reflected in the fair pricing of wholesome food and artisan goods. For ease, there is plenty of free car parking spaces outside the farm shop.

Customers can purchase everything they need to create delicious meals, including fine cuts of meat, seasonal vegetables, a great choice of condiments and delectable desserts.

Mark has created a gluten-free range of sausages and burgers and, for those seeking healthier options, he provides leaner cuts and syn-free meats.

For Valentine’s Day, Lewis’s Farm Shop is offering 10% off all steaks from 13th to 16th February.

If you want a special dessert or a treat for a romantic afternoon tea, you’ll find a great choice of delicious cakes, scones and tarts, all freshly prepared in the farm shop kitchen.

When you visit the idyllically situated Lewis’s Farm Shop, you will enjoy great quality produce, excellent value and a very warm welcome.

Opening Times: Tuesday to Saturday: 9.30am - 5.00pm / Sunday: 10.00am - 4.00pm Lewis’s Farm Shop, Brook Cottage, Eyton, Wrexham LL13 0SW Tel: 01978 780852, www.lewisfarmshop.com

10% Off Steaks

h

h

Sunday: 10.00am - 4.00pm

Id Va e f le or al nt in e’ s

13th - 16th February

OPENING TIMES Tue to Sat: 9.30am - 5.00pm

Lewis’s Farm Shop

Brook Cottage, Eyton, Wrexham LL13 0SW T: 01978 780852

se A rv ir ic co e& n re pa i

r

#yourlocalfarmshop

BALMUIR GARAGE We believe QUALITY, SERVICE and PRICE can go together Servicing and mechanical repairs for all makes and models of cars and light vans • MOT Testing Station for cars and light vans • Exhausts, clutches and brakes • Cam belts • 4-wheel alignment • Courtesy cars available

20% DISCOUNT OFF MOTs MOT = £45 on production of this voucher

DON’T FORGET WE DO TYRES

www.balmuirgarage.co.uk

01978 852412

info@balmuirgarage.co.uk 3 Chester Road, Gresford (behind Texaco service station)

lewisfarmshop.com

Essentials Mag Mailbox

Doggy Bizz Nizz Hello! My name is Karen and I run DoggyBizzNizz which is a friendly, Bespoke Pet Services professional, reliable and quality Pet Care Service based in Wrexham.

Pet Sitting•Dog Walking I've been a Registered Mental Nurse Pet Taxi•Small Animal Boarding for 27 years but dreamed of running my own business looking after animals!

I have a passion for animals, particularly dogs and decided to turn my dreams into business reality - thus DoggyBizzNizz was created in July 2017.

DoggBizzNizz

I have an adorable deaf French Bulldog, Onslow, and I love animals of all kinds. Aside from having dogs all my life, I have also owned cockatiels, rabbits, gerbils, hamsters, tropical fish, cats and chickens! I’m originally from Chester but have lived in Wrexham for over 11 years. DoggyBizzNizz is a family business with my partner Marlon and my two sons helping out at busy times but this year I hope to recruit and employ more help!

Whether you are out at work, have appointments, going on holiday or out for the day, we will take care of your precious pets! Our services are for all domestic pets - dogs, cats, small animals, fish, birds & reptiles and includes pet sitting in your home, daily visits, dog walking, puppy & senior dog care and pet taxi/chaperone service. We can take care of your poultry and we also offer home boarding for rabbits, rats and other small animals!

We are fully insured and have enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks (formerly known as CRB checks) We are trained in First Aid & CPR for Pets and are the only Registered Nurse led pet care service in Chester & North Wales!

Please visit our website to see our full range of services: www.DoggyBizzNizz.com In future editions of EssentialsMAG I hope to contribute advice and information on domestic pets and pet care... so watch this space!

Karen Volger Tel: 07488 270386

If you have a comment about any local news/information please email: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

DoggBizzNizz Bespoke Pet Services Pet Sitting•Dog Walking Pet Taxi•Small Animal Boarding www.DoggyBizzNizz.com www.facebook.com/doggybizznizz Mobile: 07488 270386 E-mail: karen@doggybizznizz.com

WREXHAM

Gresford Man & Van Garden Waste Disposal • Skip Runs Shed Clearance • Deliveries: Local & Distant Heavy Lifting Help • Furniture Disposal Other Services on Request FOR A FREE QUOTE PLEASE CONTACT RICH ON:

07891 200 990 / richejones1976@gmail.com

HALF PRICE 2ND MONTH - QUOTE CODE W01 24 hour access Professionally insulated CCTV security Illuminated sites

Thinking of a New Kitchen This Year?

To book your free design appointment call Paul Mansell on:

01691 664 252

www.psmkitchens.co.uk Visit our website to see our latest ranges and projects

10 Simple Steps to Save Gas and Electricity at Home With a big chunk of family budgets being spent on energy bills, it makes sense to look for ways to reduce the amount of gas and electricity you use. Here are 10 simple energy saving tips that will help you save gas and electricity at home Don’t boil water in a pan Use your kettle, and then pour it into the pan – it uses far less energy than heating from cold, and just use enough water to cover what you’re cooking.

Opt for a shower, not a bath According to the Energy Saving Trust, if everyone in a family of four swapped one bath a week for a five-minute shower, it could save up to £20 a year on their gas bill.

And if you spend a minute less in the shower, then you could save an additional £7 per person every year.

Remember your just-boiled kettle How many times have you boiled the kettle and walked away, only to come back five minutes later to boil it again? Another good way to save energy is to only fill the kettle with the amount of water you need.

Wash at 30 Today’s washing detergents are very effective at 30 degrees, so try to avoid washing laundry on a higher setting. Wait until you have a full load too – that saves on water as well as energy. Use an eco-wash setting if you can.

Compare energy suppliers Don’t sit back accept what you’re paying for your energy. Dig out your latest energy bill and visit a price comparison website such as www.uswitch.com and shop around for the best money-saving deals.

Turn down your thermostat Turning your heating down by just one degree could save up to £80 a year. Also, check whether heat could be leaving your home through gaps. Seal cracks in floors and skirting boards, line your letterbox and block an unused chimney to reduce your heating bills by up to £35 a year. Thick curtains, draught excluders or draughtproofing kits will help keep the heat in.

Use energy-saving light bulbs Changing all your light bulbs to LED bulbs could cut your energy usage by 20%.

Make life easy for your fridge Clean around the back, as dusty coils can make it work harder. Don’t overfill your fridge and try not to leave the door open.

Be smart about the washing up You can save around £25 a year by washing up in a bowl rather than using a running tap. If you use a dishwasher, fill it completely before you put it on.

Monitor your usage Installing a Smart Meter lets you track your consumption with accurate and real time information. Keeping a watchful eye on your consumption levels can help you decide if and when you have to change the way you use energy.

For more information visit: https://energysavingtrust.org.uk

Local Properties For Sale Call now to book your FREE market appraisal Telephone: 01978 312123

Churchlea, Rhosrobin, LL11 4RB Four Bedroom Detached Home

Northleigh Grove, Rhosddu, LL11 2HQ Three Bedroom Detached Bungalow

Large Master Bedroom with Dressing Room and Walk in Wardrobe.

Large Ensuite to Master Bedroom.

'Jack n Jill' Ensuite to Bedrooms 2 & 3.

Conservatory to Rear.

Cul-de-sac Location.

EPC Rating TBC.

Through Lounge Diner / Breakfast Kitchen.

Upvc Double Glazed Windows.

Gas Central Heating.

Conservatory.

Driveway & Garage / Cul-de-sac Location.

Energy Efficiency Rating 65 Band D. NO ONWARD CHAIN.

£290,000

£190,000

St Mellion Crescent, The Fairways, LL13 9GZ Four Bedroom Detached Family Home

Westwood Drive, The Fairways, LL13 9GE Four Bedroom Detached Family Home

Gas Central Heating.

UPVC Double Glazing.

Lounge with Box Bay Window.

En-suite to Master Bedroom.

Single Garage.

Spacious Rear Garden.

EPC Rating TBC.

Two En-Suites.

Conservatory to Rear.

Study & Utility Room.

Attractive Rear Garden.

Off Road Parking & Garage/Cul-de-sac Location.

Gas Central Heating / UPVC Double Glazing.

Energy Performance Rating D'68.

£260,000

£330,000

41 King Street, Wrexham LL11 1HR www.whitegates.co.uk

Your Community Noticeboard First Floor Office to Let Bridge House Station Road, Rossett For further details please contact Glyn Roberts on 01244 579018

Zumba with Sian Gresford Memorial Hall Monday 6:30 - 7:15pm Wednesday 9:10 - 9:55am Rossett Village Hall Wednesday 6:30 - 7:15pm St. Margaret’s Church Hall Friday 9:30 - 10:15am Zumba is a fun, dance based fitness workout. For more information contact your licensed Zumba instructor Sian on : 07708 149517 or Facebook Zumba with Sian Gresford and Rossett.

RHOS ORPHEUS MALE CHOIR Open Rehearsal at Ty Pawb, Wrexham Wednesday 12 February at 7.30pm Why not come along?

Transport available from: Burton / Rossett / Marford / Gresford Holt / Farndon.

Call Richard 07528 259087.

TUESDAYS Wrexham Rugby Club 9:30am / 12:00pm 5:15pm / 7:15pm Wrexham Rugby Club, Bryn Estyn Lane, LL13 9TY Telephone Karen: 07749 787671

This is your local community noticeboard... promote your event or class here.

Free-of-charge to charities and not-for-profit groups and organisations.

Email: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

COME AND SEE THE BABY LAMBS! Saturday 29th February & Sunday 1st March 10am - 12 noon The Bungalow, Darland Lane, Lavister, Rossett Refreshments available & cake stall For more information call 01244 570242 All proceeds to Christ Church, Rossett

FRENCH WITH NATHALIE French tuition given by a Native French Speaker.

Would you like to improve your French conversation?

Do you need support for your French homework, GCSE, A-Level?

For a holiday?

Tuition given one-to-one, or in groups, at yours, or at mine.

Please give me a call for more information: 07802 422 252 À bientôt... merci!

NORTH WALES WILDLIFE TRUST Wednesday 12th February Gresford Memorial Trust LL12 8PS RSPCA and WILDLIFE Hear about the work that the RSPCA does with our local wildlife Wildlife Officer Dave Milborrow All welcome Refreshments. Donations welcome

RSPCA How Littering Affects Animals

The RSCPA receive more than 5,000 calls a year regarding litter. Unfortunately, wildlife is the main victim when it comes to these situations - wild birds in particular. Many injured wild animals are never found, so it’s estimated that the actual figure of animals injured by litter is much higher.

Everyday objects can become hazards Protecting animals from harmful rubbish is easy – dispose of your rubbish responsibly.

Balloons - Balloon releases threaten wildlife, even balloons marked as degradable may take a number of weeks to degrade, but it only takes a second for an animal to swallow a balloon.

Chinese lanterns - Also known as sky lanterns, can seriously injure animals.

Glass - Broken glass can cause serious injury and animals can get trapped in jars.

Be sure to clean and recycle glass to help prevent injuries.

Containers and cans - Animals looking for food can get trapped in cans or injured by sharp edges. To help prevent this clean and empty containers, pinch cans shut and cut cans in half and recycle where possible.

Elastic bands - These can wrap around small animals and beaks of birds. If swallowed they can cause choking. Reuse bands when possible or cut them open before putting in a bin.

Fishing tackle - Fishing litter is responsible for the injury of thousands of wild animals every year with animals getting entangled in line and hooks which can pierce skin or be swallowed. By fishing responsibly, you can avoid accidental harm to the local wildlife and environment.

Plastic bags - Animals can climb inside plastic bags and suffocate, or eat them and choke. Simply tying a knot in the top of plastic bags before recycling can help prevent deaths.

If you've found a wild animal injured by litter report it today Call the RSPCA 24-hour cruelty line to report cruelty, neglect or an animal in distress Tel: 0300 1234 999 For more information visit: www.rspca.org.uk

Transform your home with bespoke fitted furniture

At Reflections we specialise in the bespoke design, manufacture and fitting of high quality bedroom, kitchen, offices and bathroom furniture.

Tel: 01978 265 381

www.reflections-wrexham.co.uk

Unit 2, Fairfield, Barkers Lane, Borras LL13 9TP Showroom open: Monday - Friday 9am to 4:30pm with evenings and weekends by appointment

Person Centred Care • 24 Hour Care • EMH & Residen琀al Care • Specialist Care for Demen琀a • Day Care • Intermediate Care • Respite

Bay Tree House Wrexham (01978) 365 818 Cherry Tree Care Home Coedpoeth (01978) 759 925

info@orchardcaregroup.co.uk orchardcaregroup.co.uk

Puzzle Page...

Just For Fun Crossword Across 1 7 8 9 10 11 13 15 17 21 22 23 24 25

Water ice (6) Portable device to keep the rain off (8) Key on a computer keyboard (3) Swimming costume (6) Couple (4) Rustic (5) Eg shrimp or crab (7) Form of an element (7) Send someone to a medical specialist; allude to (5) Endure (4) Raised (6) Not bright; darken (3) Unexpected and inappropriate (8) Predatory marine fish (pl) (6)

Down 1 2 3 4 5 6 12 14 16 18 19 20

Long-haired breed of dog (6) Thief (6) Cloak (5) Compels (7) Water based aircraft (8) Having an absence of pigment in the skin (6) Earlier in time (8) Leather pouch (7) Observing (6) Livestock food (6) Poems; sounds alike (6) Clock pointers (5)

If you want to find out the answers they will be published in next month’s edition.

Here are the answers from January:

Classic Sudoku

NATURAL WONDERLAND Sea View Cabin from £799 per person

7-Night Norwegian Fjords Cruise Sail Date: 10th April 2021 Ship: Iona Secure your next P&O Cruises holiday by the 2nd March to receive: • 5% low deposit on applicable Select Price and Early Saver holidays • Extra on-board spending money (sea view cabins and above) • Plus Extra guests sail from £99pp

Itinerary: • • • • • • • •

Southampton, UK Stavanger, Norway Olden, Norway Innvikfjorden (cruise-by),Norway Nordfjord (cruise-by), Norway Alesund, Norway Haugesund, Norway Southampton, UK

Tel: 01978 853886 email: sales@delmarworld.co.uk 54-56 Chester Road, GRESFORD LL12 8NE

www.delmarworld.com

EXCLUSIVELY AT