Essentials Mag May 2018 Garden Village

Your monthly insight into local living

www.essentialsmag.co.uk Delivered FREE covering: Garden Village, Borras, Little Acton and surrounding areas

May 2018

MAG

essentials

Welcome... to your latest edition of EssentialsMAG By the time you read this we would have enjoyed our first Bank Holiday in May. It’s always a bonus (for those of us lucky enough) to be given two extra days off in one month. If you are looking for an idea for a day out then we can suggest The Runway Visitor’s Park at Manchester Airport where you can enjoy a 180 degree view of the aeroplanes coming in and taking off from raised platforms. Great fun for big and little kids alike! They serve nice coffee there too!

And of course, who can forget the Royal Wedding on the 19th May being held at Windsor Castle.

Kensington Palace revealed Harry and Meghan are to have a lemon drizzle and elderflower wedding cake, so we have found a super recipe for you to bake your own.

Whatever you are up to this May, we hope you have a great month. If you are holding an event, or have something the local community would be interested in, then as always, please do get in touch.

All the best, Vicky Heathfield It’s your mag too!

Got any comments?

Let’s have them!

Call us on: 01978 855 459 or email: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

Cover Photo: Family of ducks on the park lake

We hand deliver EssentialsMAG to 4,900 homes and businesses in Borras, Garden Village, Little Acton and surrounding areas.

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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.

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. © EssentialsMAG Limited 2018.

When you have finished reading this publication please recycle it.

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essentials at a glance...

Invest in yourself Ideas on how to get the best out of ourselves

Another great adventure Croatia - it really does have something for everyone

Holiday Home

An Idyllic Getaway full of Romance & Charm

Rossett Court is a large Victoria detached house situated in the heart of Rossett.

This charming holiday home can accommodate up to 12 people, and is the perfect place to escape and relax.

How to get the most out of Google David Hughes shares his top tips on how to find information easily online

Elderflower and lemon drizzle cake Try Harry & Meghan’s wedding cake recipe (well... maybe!)

140 years in business Read all about J. Johnson & Son who have been basket weaving for six generations

For enquiries please contact: Richard on 07580 077 099

Rossett Court, Chester Road, Rossett LL12 0HN

Facebook: @rossettcourt

Why and How to Invest in Yourself

By EssentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KENNEY You can’t afford not to. Trust me.

You want to be looking after no. 1. And I don’t mean it in a selfish way. Quite the opposite. More in line with the “on board of a flight” thinking; when you are on an aeroplane and the flight attendant announces: “In case of loss of pressure apply your own oxygen mask first before you help anyone else.”

In other words, it is our responsibility to look after ourselves, to take the time to develop our gifts and talents, so that we can get the best out of ourselves and others.

Read books and attend workshops Expand your knowledge and skills in your personal life and / or work. Stimulate your imagination, increase your general knowledge, relax, tap into the mind of great thinkers... Most great people do.

You may like to try some of these ideas: Take care of your health Eat right each day, fuelling your body with nutrients. Do something every day to get moving and get your heart rate up, even, if it’s just a short walk. Exercise gives you the energy to take on the day with confidence and gusto.

Work on your bucket list If you don’t have a bucket list, then it is time to start one. Your bucket list is meant to be a list of everything you want to achieve, do, see, feel and experience in your life. Your list may be on-going, but you can start by writing 20 things down. Then each month or so, make sure you’re knocking out at least, one of the items on your list.

Challenge yourself Our human nature is such that we tend to shy away from things we consider to be difficult, even if we know those activities are good for us. However, do not forget that the confidence and reward we reap from getting out of our comfort zone are immense.

So, go out there, be bold, be brave and have a great month. Look after yourself - as Marie Forleo puts it: “The world needs that special gift only you’ve got.” Nurture it.

EssentialsMAG motivation contributor is Sasha Kenney from Fit Philosophy sasha@fitphilosophy.co.uk Tel: 07841 261582

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Essentials Mag Mailbox

New Essentials Mag Hello Vicky, I am resorting to an email to record just how pleased I was when I found in my mail today - your little, high quality magazine covering my area of Wrexham (Box Lane), giving local details of events and services which facts are invariably helpful to everybody.

Well done you and your staff, very well done!

Sincerely, Mr B Mills

Mum’s the word Dear Vicky, Thank you for my first copy of Essentials Magazine which I found on the mat when I came in from the garden this afternoon.

My sister, who lives in Worthenbury, has been receiving a copy of Essentials Mag for a long time and I have read it after her, wishing that we could have it delivered to our area as I enjoyed it so much!I Reading 'Mum's Advice to Warm your Heart' got me thinking back to when I was a youngster and reminded me of some of the silliest things I have heard mothers say, by far the silliest being 'do you want a good hiding?'. I can't think any mother received an affirmative answer to that one! My mother often used to say 'are you listening to me?' when it was blatantly obvious I wasn't as I hadn't answered her! Unfortunately, as the years passed, I found myself saying some of the same silly things to my two boys that my mother had said to me!

Yours sincerely, Mrs M Jones

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

Active Childcare operates award­winning children's day nurseries in Wrexham.

Our team of talented, caring and dedicated staff provide a wealth of interesting and fun activities designed to promote children's development and enjoyment both indoors and in the lovely spacious outdoor areas. www.activechildcare.co.uk

We offer full and part­time places for children from 6 weeks old to school age.

Nurseries open 07:30am to 6:00pm, Monday­Friday.

Rossett House Nursery Llay Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0HT

For information about places please contact LYNSEY

Tel: 01244 571872

info@rossetthousenursery.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

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

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Pack Your Bags for a Great Adventure...

By EssentialsMAG travel contributor Adele McKeown at DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

Croatia - The Pearl of The Adriatic Adele McKeown finds that this wonderful country has a lot more to offer more than being the back drop to King’s Landing!

People often ask me where is popular this year and, for the last few years, Croatia has topped the list for travellers wanting a break that is not too far from home.

With over 150 Blue Flag beaches, medieval walled cities, churches, forests, waterfalls and National Parks, Croatia has so much to offer, and as it is not in the Euro zone, it still offers fantastic value for money when you are there.

Croatia really does have something for everyone: whether it’s a relaxing week in the sun enjoying fabulous food such as the famous Kvarner Bay scampi and swimming in the crystal clear waters; a city break in Dubrovnik, Split or both - perfect for fans of Game of Thrones fans who want to see locations where many scenes from the hit series were filmed! Or perhaps a walking tour of the stunning Krka National Park (it’s pronounced “Kirka”).

Cavtat is a great base for a beach and city combination It’s pretty harbour - often compared to the French Riviera - has a lovely atmosphere and it’s the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail while you watch the stunning sunsets. It also offers gentle coastal walks and, if you take the steeper path to the Racic Mausoleum, you will be rewarded with the most stunning views.

A short trip of around 40 minutes by boat will take you to the UNESCO heritage listed walled city of Dubrovnik: possibly the most famous medieval walled city in Europe and which George Bernard Shaw described as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”.

Another great option is the Split Riviera.

Spilt is an interesting city with a blend of architectural styles - including a Roman Emperor’s villa dating back to 295 AD - and a bustling port with great ferry connections to the surrounding islands.

Another UNESCO walled city worth a visit is Trogir. Often described as a mini Dubrovnik, the old town is pedestrianised and offers some great boutique shopping as well as a good choice of bars and restaurants.

A ferry will take you to Hvar - officially the sunniest Island of the Adriatic. Famous for its glamourous Jet-Set parties, music festivals and great bar scene, Hvar is the place to see and be seen! It is at its most popular during July and August co, if you prefer a quieter pace of life, avoid these months and visit during the spring or autumn.

One of the best ways to see this beautiful country is from the water and, with

“CROATIA REALLY DOES HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE”

dramatic coastlines and over 1,000 islands, there is so much to see! A great way to do this on a casual cruise but don’t expect fine dining and cabarets: this is superrelaxed so leave your dinner jacket and ball gowns at home! These small motor cruisers can get you to all the best spots, including tiny ports and hidden coves.

Most cruisers accommodate around 40 guests and around eight crew members and, although cabins are much smaller than most hotel rooms, you still have the luxury of air-conditioning, en suite facilities and WiFi. So if you can travel light, love swimming and snorkelling and like something a little more adventurous, this could be a perfect option.

These cruises are very popular - especially during June and September - so It’s a good idea to plan ahead.

Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises. For details contact: Tel: 0845 504 0054, www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE

Time Difference: 1 hour ahead of GMT Currency: £1 = 8.5 Croatian Kuna Flying Time: Dubrovnik is 2hr 50 mins Top Tips: Dubrovnik can be very busy especially when cruise ships visit. Evenings are quieter.

Take beach shoes: the water is fabulous for swimming but can be stony underfoot.

Visit Vis Island now as its going to get very popular - it’s in the new Mamma Mia movie! Its beach at Stiniva Bay was voted best beach in Europe by Conde Nast Traveller.

Let’s Talk About Skin Needling

By EssentialsMAG skincare contributor LAURA RANSOME Let’s get down to the nitty gritty… we’ve all heard of the term ‘micro needling’, indeed a lot of clinics and salons still provide microneedling for skin rejuvenation using traditional ‘derma roller’ devices.

Technology has thankfully moved forward with the invention of the medical ‘Microneedling Pen’, which is a much more advanced and effective method for skin rejuvenation.

Both Microneedling Pen and Microneedling Rollers are forms of microneedling used to stimulate the production of new collagen by needling the skin. Microneedling causes micro-injuries to the epidermis, which signals the body to produce collagen to remodel the damaged area, which in effect rejuvenates the skin making your skin look younger and fresher and effective treats an array of common skin concerns such as acne scarring, lines, wrinkles and uneven skin texture.

So what happens at the treatment?

The Meso ME Technician will use an 18 point plastic needle cartridge and hyaluronic skin infusions on the area selected. Treatment takes up to an hour and the redness should dissipate within a couple of hours.

And after?

After treatment your skin feels smoother and more plumped within 24 hour, results are seen within the first two weeks and continue to improve the more sessions you have. Collagen produced at the first session lasts up to two years and that's why it's important to have regular topups around every 8 to 12 weeks.

Treatments are available for both men and women.

EssentialsMAG skincare contributor is Laura Ransome from Clinic No 8 laura@clinicno8.com Tel: 07850 421897

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Welcome from Maes-y-Pant

by Chairman Trevor Britton

If nothing else, I think that we are very lucky in Wrexham that we have so many excellent green spaces – and long may it continue even in these straightened times. Many of you will be aware of the Council owned Green Flag sites throughout the Borough but you may not be aware that there is another Green Flag site, a community owned woodland, on your doorstep in Gresford, called Maes-y-Pant.

The 70 acre site is mainly woodland. It’s mostly pine, but we are gradually converting to broad-leafed woodland, although this will take many years. However it is not just woods.

There is also a wildflower field (with some heritage apple trees) and a viewpoint across the valley and the Deeside plain, with the outline of the Liverpool on the horizon. We’ve also added some attractions, including carvings of Stan the Quarryman at the entrance, Gwyddion, the witch of the woods, a woodland gym and children’s play area made from pine trees cleared from the site. You can find out more about us at www.maes-y-pant.com We’d welcome people from north Wrexham to visit us. Our main entrance is on Pant Lane, Gresford. There is not a post code but the cul-de-sac next door has the postcode of LL12 8HU, if you rely on your sat-nav.

There is a small car park at the main entrance. Dog owners are welcome but must clear up mess their dogs leave. This is something that local people feel strongly about. Helpfully, there are bins at each of the entrances. We’d like to have bins on site as well, but we are totally self–supporting so this is a financial step too far, certainly at present. We therefore rely on visitors to use the bins on their way out.

There is a Friends Group that helps support Maes-y-Pant. Application forms can be found on our website www.maes-y-pant.com and we only ask £10 for annual membership or £15 for a family membership, although you can give more, of course. Friends are kept upto-date with what’s going on by email and have an opportunity to influence how we run the site. Volunteers meet regularly to undertake various tasks on the second Sunday of each month. We meet at the main entrance on Pant Lane at 10am and work up an appetite for tea and cake by 1pm. We would like to see you there.

So, that’s us. Hope to see you some time and here’s wishing Vicky and the Essentials magazine success as it expands into new areas.

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Trying out our recipe?

Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham

A ROYAL FEAST The wedding of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry is drawing closer and Kensington Palace has revealed the couple is to have a lemon and elderflower wedding cake.

The recipe for the royal wedding cake will no doubt be bespoke and kept secret, but you can create your own lemon and elderflower drizzle cake if you want to have a taste of what the couple will experience on the day. This recipe could be ideal if you are hosting a Royal Wedding Party on May 19th.

This delicious recipe was created by www.belvoirfruitfarms.co.uk

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Elderflower and Lemon Drizzle Cake INGREDIENTS 225g/8oz butter, softened 225g/8oz caster sugar 4 large eggs 225g/8oz self-raising flour, sifted zest and juice 1 lemon 100ml/4fl oz Elderflower Cordial 30ml/2tbsp granulated sugar

METHOD Preheat the oven to 180°C/fan 160°C/Gas Mark 4. Grease a 20cm round, deep, loose-based tin and line with baking parchment.

Place the butter, sugar and lemon zest in a large bowl. Use an electric whisk to beat the butter and sugar together until they are pale and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs, whisking well between additions and adding 2 tbsp of the flour with the last egg – this will prevent curdling.

Sift over the remaining flour, then gently fold in with a metal spoon along with 2 tbsp hot water. Spoon into the prepared tin, level the surface and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until it is shrinking away from the sides of the tin. A fine skewer inserted in the centre should come out clean. Cool in the tin for 5 mins.

For the drizzle Squeeze the lemon juice, then sieve to remove the bits, and stir in the cordial.

Use a fine skewer to prick the cake all over. Pour over the syrup, then sprinkle over the sugar - it should sink in but leave a crunchy crust. Leave to cool completely before removing the cake from the tin. Serve in wedges.

Getting the Most From Google

By EssentialsMAG tech contributor DAVID HUGHES I’m sure you Google almost every day. Yes, “Google” really is a verb now! That’s how common it is. Whilst there are plenty of other search engines on the internet, Google is by far the most commonly used.

But I’m willing to bet that there are a few things you didn’t know Google could do.

Here are a few of my favourite tricks: Search Exact Phrases: By putting your search term in quotation marks, the results will match that specific phrase. Useful if you’re trying to finding a famous quote, a song lyric, or even just a multi-word title like “Monty Python”.

Eliminate Words: You can use the minus sign to remove words from your search.

For example, if you’re looking for an image of a jaguar (the big cat), you might want to search jaguar -car to remove all references to that nice new Jaguar F-Type.

Site-specific Searches: By using the prefix site: followed by a website address, you limit your search to just that website. For example, site:bbc.co.uk owls will limit your search for owls to the BBC website.

Related Sites: Found a website that you really like? Try using the related: prefix to find similar ones. For example, if you can’t find that perfect place on Airbnb, try using related:airbnb.com to return a list of other holiday rental websites.

Meanings: You can use the prefix DEFINE: to find the meanings of specific words and phrases, including acronyms and slang.

For example, still not completely sure what LOL means? Google DEFINE: LOL to get the answer.

File Types: By using filetype: followed by a file extension, you can limit the search to specific file types. This can be especially useful when you’re searching for printable resources. For example, bricklaying filetype:pdf will return only PDFs about bricklaying.

A few more random tools and tricks: • Tip calculator - you can even split the bill!

• 20 min timer - or whatever time you need, will start a countdown timer.

• 4*123 - or any calculation will return a result (* is multiply and / is divide).

• $5 in £ - or any currency conversion.

• Translate bonjour into English - or any phrase in over 100 languages.

• Flip a coin - you can probably see where this one’s going.

• Atari Breakout then click on “Images” (thank me later!).

Google is a brilliant resource. Hopefully this article will save you a little bit of time when you’re looking for information online.

EssentialsMAG tech contributor is David Hughes a freelance web developer Tel: 07595 303418 www.davidhughes.co

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Everyday Life, Admirable People

This month’s spotlight is on J. Johnson & Son J. Johnson & Son must be one of the oldest family-run businesses in Wrexham. Spanning six generations, the Johnson family have been weaving baskets on-site in their shop on Station Road, Bangor-on-Dee for a staggering 140 years. The business is now run by brother and sister Julie and Robert Johnson and the same traditional weaving methods used by their ancestors still apply today and have changed very little.

Here, Julie Johnson shares the story of her fascinating family history and business.

Tell me a little bit about what you do?

We are a family-run business producing a vast array of wicker basketwork products.

All are hand-made on-site in our shop using traditional methods which have changed very little in hundreds of years.

How did it all begin?

James Johnson (my great, great, great, grandfather) and his brother Charlie earned a living coracle fishing, catching salmon in the river at Bangor-on-Dee. When the catch was poor they would cut a bundle of willows growing alongside the river, take them home and make baskets which they would sell to make money.

Coracle fishing was a very efficient way of catching fish and the authorities were

concerned about reducing stocks in the river. Permits to fish became increasingly difficult to obtain, so the two brothers had to rely more on basket making for a source of income. One of James' sons (also named James) was seriously wounded in the 1914-1918 war. Part of his rehabilitation was basket making. He became interested in the craft and on leaving hospital served a two year apprenticeship with a firm of basket makers in Leeds. He moved back to Bangor-on-Dee to work with his father and they decided to plant their own willow bed rather than rely on the haphazard growths alongside the river. The traditional methods of basket making have been passed down the Johnson family from generation to generation for 140 years.

“TO LEARN THE TRADE TAKES AROUND FOUR YEARS.”

WIN! Win your very own Handmade Hamper from J. Johnson & Son by answering the question on the next page.

Can you tell me about any memorable projects you’ve worked on?

We’ve had so many interesting projects over the years; the Duke of Westminster ordered two huge log baskets which you could stand up in! We regularly make items for Chirk Castle, Erddig Hall, Theatre Clwyd, and Chester Zoo to name a but a few.

We’ve even fixed the inside of a bearskin hat for one of The Queen's Guard's. Our customer’s come from far and wide and have a multitude of different requests.

What do you find most satisfying about what you do?

Basket weaving is one of very few genuinely ‘green’ manufacturing processes remaining today. All our products are made entirely from sustainable materials. On top of making our own products we also run workshops here at the shop teaching people how to basket weave. These courses are great fun, the students learn a new skill and go home at the end of the day with a little basket they made themselves to treasure. It’s very rewarding sharing our knowledge and tradition.

A two hour workshop costs £20 for adults (including tea and biscuits!) and £15 for children aged between 5-18 years.

And the most challenging...

I guess it is surviving and keeping the tradition going. Luckily my children and nephew’s are happy to get involved with the business. To learn the trade takes around four years and all members of our family have been taught the old tradition.

We still grow all our own willow nearby, and the harvesting is done in April. We only have a six week window to harvest when the sap is in the willow, and once picked it has to be stored in large baths of water until it is ready to be used. Each piece has to peeled by hand so it’s quite laborious!

And finally, how can people contact you?

Please pop into our shop to see our weavers at work - J. Johnson & Son, Station Road, Bangor on Dee, Wrexham LL13 0AB. Tel: 01978 780417.

Email: info@jjohnsonandson.co.uk For more information we also have a website: www.jjohnsonandson.co.uk

Win a Handmade Hamper and 2 Bottles of Wine from J Johnson & Son Competition Time...

WIN!

HOW TO ENTER: For your chance to win this Handmade Hamper & Wine

by J. Johnson & Son please answer the following question:

WHICH MONTH DO J. JOHNSON & SON HARVEST THEIR WILLOW? (The answer can be found on the previous page).

ALL ENTRIES TO BE MADE VIA OUR WEBSITE:

www.essentialsmag.co.uk/prize The competition will close on Thursday 31st May 2018 at 8pm when one lucky winner will be picked at random. Terms & conditions apply. Good luck!

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Financial News with Hadlow Edwards THE OLD BREWERY Well, we have done it! After 15 years or thereabouts in Regent Street - we have moved all of 75 metres to our new HQ at The Old Brewery and the place is looking great.

Our stained glass windows and turrets all add up to helping the building have Grade 2 'listed' status - and having twice the space for our expanding team is a complete joy.

A bit of background on the building and brewery - then a few promises!

In the early 1880's two German chaps (Levinstein and Isler) arrived in Wrexham and missing their traditional lager set about brewing the very first pilsner lager in the UK. They built the listed building we today occupy and created deep cellars for storage which they cooled with water from the River Gwenfro. It was not a great success (warm beer = not good) until they introduced mechanical refrigeration with the help of an Acrefair chap called Graesser, and Wrexham Lager was born.

There were 19 breweries in the Wrexham area at this time - all brewing ales. They proved a difficult customer base to convert! The company struggled to persuade enough people to buy their lager and the original company had folded by 1892.

Graesser decided to relaunch. Second time around, he looked for an export opportunity and there is evidence of Wrexham Lager being drunk by British soldiers in Khartoum and on the White Star shipping line (which included of course The Titanic) partly because it travelled so well.

Warren Hadlow

Medwyn Edwards

The brand survived both World Wars - until the export market was effectively lost around 1949, and the company changed hands. By the early 1990's and lots of mergers later the 'big boys' got involved and by 2002 the last bottle was produced. The beer had lasted 120 years.

The factory - all except where we are today was demolished in 2002/3. (We do have some old photographs of the early days and much later era, but if you have any we could see we would be very grateful as we build up our album).

Today the public have WXM Lager back on the taps - made using the same ingredients as the original (gleaned of course from the t'internet).

And the promises: 1) We will not be going into the brewing trade!

2) We are very proud to be bringing back to life one of Wrexham's most iconic buildings.

3) We will continue to offer financial advice to all of our existing and new personal and corporate clients here in The Old Brewery or in your home or office as you prefer.

4) We assure you of a warm welcome. Our growing group of 10 advisers and our 20 strong management and support team would simply love to hear from you.

If you would like to know more about us - and how we work with our existing clients with their investment, pension, mortgage and insurance planning needs, please do get in touch. Here's to the next 120 years!

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 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 title `Partner Practice' is the marketing term 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 Fax: 01978 311 633 email: hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

Self Help Ear Care Advice

By EssentialsMAG ear care contributor PAM HUGHES "Don't put anything in your ear which is smaller than your elbow!"

Ear wax is a substance produced and stored in the outer ear. It is slightly acidic and therefore offers natural protection from infection. It migrates from the ear independently as the ear is a self-cleaning organ, however, some people might experience problems with ear wax from time to time. The causes could be simply due to small anatomy, the use of hearing aids, poking, prodding, water, diet... the list is endless! The problems can range from a reduction in hearing, pain, itchiness, trauma, infection and/or dizziness.

Self help ear care advice: • No poking or prodding with foreign objects such as cotton buds, hair grips, pens, the arms of glasses etc...

• Avoid water in the ears by using ear plugs for showering or hair washing.

If you're a keen swimmer then treat yourself to a good pair of swimming plugs.

• Apply 2-3 drops of olive oil once a month to aid the self-cleaning ability of the ears (olive oil is now available in a spray, which I am reliably informed is much easier to apply and is less time consuming than drops).

• Regular cleaning and servicing of hearing aids is important for your ear's health. The local audiology department offer a great service for maintaining your NHS hearing aids and are always willing to teach you how to do it for yourself. There are also community based drop-in sessions run by the Hearing Aid Volunteer Service.

In Acton Community Centre this happens on the 4th Friday of every month between 09:45 - 11:45am.

If you do experience issues with ear wax then please seek medical advice as trying to remove ear wax can cause trauma to the ear canal.

There are various methods available to remove ear wax and these include instrumentation, irrigation (previously known as ear syringing) and micro suction.

Irrigation is not suitable for all, for example if you have a current ear infection, perforation or you have had ear surgery (except grommets) then you might want to consider an alternative treatment.

Ear Care Solutions are based at The Plassey, Eyton, and we would be happy to offer treatment at a discounted rate to reader's of ESSENTIALS MAGAZINE.

EssentialsMAG fear care contributor is Pam Hughes from Ear Care Solutions www.earcaresolutions.co.uk Tel: 07946 231051

W

PLUMBING, HEATING & BATHROOMS

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

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

We have a full range of Bathroom Suites & Wall Panels on display

Tel: 01978 357238 / 01978 264456

OPEN TO PUBLIC & TRADE

E: wrexhamplumbers@btconnect.com

DO YOU NEED A REGULAR WINDOW CLEANER?

We also clean gutters, uPVC, conservatory roofs and more!

Call Andrew Atkinson AA Cleaning Services

WE ALWAYS CLEAN THE FRAMES, SILLS AND DOORS

mint fencing

07914 211631 for a no-obligation quote

Knighton 01547 528383 Knighton@dre.co.uk Oswestry 01691 654353 tax@dre.co.uk

Shrewsbury 01743 241581 Shrewsbury@dre.co.uk Ludlow 01584 875715 Ludlow@dre.co.uk

Call us today for a FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION

Fencing |Decking |Gates All types of groundwork undertaken Replace your damaged or old loose fitting fence panels. Made-to-measure.

07720 315 885 01978 823 750

Wrexham 01978 310600 Wrexham@dre.co.uk

We are able to provide assistance with: • • • • • •

Old fencing debris disposed of. Registered waste carrier.

Call Steve: Evenings:

Newtown 01686 626534 Newtown@dre.co.uk

• •

Self assessment Accounts preparation VAT Returns Limited company audits Tax planning HMRC enquiry investigations Venture capital Business & fault reviews

• Divorce & separation agreements • Corporate sales and purchases • Business planning • Financial service

Visit our website at www.dre.co.uk

Do you Want to Learn Skills, Make New Friends and Help the Community?

Gwersyllt Men’s Sheds (GMS) are looking for new people to join their ranks.

GMS is an organisation with a two-fold approach help people learn, share or develop skills whilst also using these skills to help the local community.

A little about the Men’s Sheds network Gwersyllt Men’s Sheds is part of the worldwide network of Men’s Sheds. Men’s Sheds began in Australia when armed forces veterans joined together to combat a feeling of social isolation after leaving the forces whether due to injury, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or finishing their years of service.

It soon became a useful tool for others as well, such as the unemployed, those with long-term illness, those recently bereaved and those recently retired. They all found that learning, sharing or developing new skills in a friendly environment that also helped the local community, resulted in improving their self-belief, self-esteem and self-confidence, ultimately helping to improve the lives of their members and their local community.

What we do One of the hardest questions to answer is what does the Men’s Sheds network do?

It’s actually easier to say what we don’t do. Why? Well, Men’s sheds across Britain does almost everything. It’s about enthusiasts getting together and socialising. In Britain, we do everything from giving talks, gardening, and woodworking to creating craft projects. There’s even a Men’s Shed devoted to ‘pimping’ ukuleles!

Come and say hello Every Thursday from midday, our Chair, Stephen Matthias is at Ty Pawb’s Community Thursday. You can find him in Gallery 2; have a chat with him about what you like to do.

Join us to help the community, learn or make new friends If you would like to join us, or find out more information you can find out when we meet on our Facebook Group Page (type “Gwersyllt Men’s shed” in the FB search bar) or you can call us on 01978 721339.

WREXHAM 01978 291345 Imperial Buildings, King St, Wrexham LL11 1HE

CHESTER 01244 403900 33 Lower Bridge St, Chester CH1 1RS

TOWN AND COUNTRY ARE DELIGHTED TO PRESENT TO THE MARKET THIS TRULY IMPRESSIVE FOUR BEDROOM DETACHED FAMILY HOME BENEFITTING FROM A PRIVATE POSITION.

RHOSNESSNEY LODGE IS AN IMPOSING FOUR BEDROOM DETACHED FAMILY HOME. THE PROPERTY IS POSITIONED ON A SUBSTANTIAL PLOT WITHIN A POPULAR RESIDENTIAL AREA.

RHOSNESNI LANE £425,000

HOLT ROAD £325,000

A SPACIOUS AND WELL PRESENTED FOUR BEDROOM DETACHED HOME LOCATED WITHIN A SOUGHT AFTER DEVELOPMENT OF KENSINGTON GROVE.

THIS PROPERTY IS AN IDEAL HOME FOR GROWING FAMILIES - AN EXCELLENT FIVE DOUBLE BEDROOM DETACHED PROPERTY. THE PROPERTY PROVIDES SPACIOUS LIVING

BOX LANE £335,000

DEAN CLOSE £325,000

THREE BEDROOM SEMI DETACHED PROPERTY LOCATED ON THE CHESTER SIDE OF WREXHAM WITHIN THE POPULAR AREA OF GARDEN VILLAGE CLOSE TO MANY AMENITIES.

THREE BEDROOM SEMI DETACHED PROPERTY LOCATED ON THE CHESTER SIDE OF WREXHAM AND IS CLOSE TO MANY AMENITIES INCLUDING SCHOOLS, SHOPS AND TRANSPORT LINKS.

FFORDD ESTYN £167,500

FFORDD ALMER £145,000

www.townandcountryestateagents.com • info@townandcountryestateagents.com

OFFICES IN WREXHAM AND CHESTER

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1%

In

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D

In

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Instruct us to sell your home and be amazed at our level of service:

Established in 2013, our young, vibrant and refreshing team offer the Wrexham and Chester property market a new and exciting way of selling and letting homes. We will bring a breath of fresh air to the home buying process and also manage your rental portfolio with a smile and a professionalism that will set us apart from the more traditional estate agents. Our experienced, professional and friendly staff, combined with extensive local knowledge ensure that we provide a service which is second to none.

For a fresh approach to selling your property contact Olivegrove on:

01978 750234

or email us at info@olivegroveuk.co.uk

www.olivegroveuk.co.uk

Let us pick the perfect tenant to rent your property We understand that letting your property can be a worrying experience, and with this in mind our most important consideration is providing you the Landlord with the best possible service and the right tenant for your property. We never forget that the property is your most important asset and we can confidently assure you that by instructing us to act as your Letting and Management Agents your asset will be in professional and caring hands.

9.6% including VAT FULLY MANAGED

ÂŁ285 including VAT TENANT FINDER / LET ONLY

For a fresh approach to renting your property contact Olivegrove on:

01978 750234

or email us at info@olivegroveuk.co.uk

www.olivegroveuk.co.uk

Tomorrow’s Kind of Estate Agent

whitegates

Call Whitegates Wrexham for a FREE market appraisal on 01978 312123

01978 312123 41 King Street, Wrexham LL11 1HR wrexham@whitegates.co.uk www.whitegates.co.uk

whitegates

Whitegates Properties For Sale

whitegates

Local Properties for Sale

Little Acton Drive, LL12 Three Bedroom Semi Detached House Extended to Rear Double Garage Ample Driveway Conservatory to Rear UPVC Double Glazing EPC Rating 55 Band D

£200,000

Ffordd Cynan, Borras, LL12 3 Bedroom Semi Detached Bungalow

Master Bedroom With En Suite Immaculately Presented Modern Fitted Dining Kitchen Extension To Rear Energy Efficiency Rating 55 Band D Cul De Sac location No Onward Chain

£190,000

LLandegla, LL11 4 Bedroom Detached Family Sized House

Delightful Rural Outlook Double Garage & Ample Off Road Parking UPVC Double Glazed As Stated & Oil Central Heating 2 Separate Reception Rooms No Onward Chain Energy Efficiency Rating 22 Band E

£280,000

Camberley Drive, Wrexham, LL12 Detached Bungalow

Three Bedrooms Two Reception Rooms Detached Garage Garden To Front & Rear UPVC Double Glazing & Gas Central Heating Energy Performance Rating D'61 No Onward Chain

£190,000

Please get in touch if you'd like to view any of these properties or to discuss rentals as investments.

01978 312123 41 King Street, Wrexham LL11 1HR wrexham@whitegates.co.uk www.whitegates.co.uk

whitegates

Great Day Out - Watch the Planes Take-off at Runway Visitors Park Located at the end of the busy Manchester Airport runway, the Runway Visitor Park is a unique visitor attraction creating a fun and educational experience for all ages.

Get the best seat in the airport with a clear 180 degree view over the airfield from the raised viewing mounds to watch some of the 600 daily aircraft movements!

Photo credit: © Runway Visitor Park

But to get the full Runway Visitor Park experience you can book a tour of the unique aircraft permanently situated at the park - including the Concorde Classic tour, where you have the chance to discover the flagship supersonic airliner of the BA fleet - the Concorde G-BOAC situated in the middle of the impressive Concorde Conference Centre. Tours start from £13.50 per person. To guarantee your place on a tour you are advised to book your place in advance. Call: 0800 042 0213, or you can book online on the website: http://book.manchesterairport.co.uk/manweb.nsf/content/runwayvisitorpark However, if you just want to come and watch the aircraft come and go then entrance to the park is free - you only pay to park your car. The Runway Visitor Park also has a state-of-theart children’s play area and if you wish to take home a souvenir then visit the Aviation Shop before you leave.

Concorde Restaurant and Coffee House - There is catering to suit everyone’s needs, from visitors looking for a coffee and a quick bite to eat, to those who want to enjoy a sit down hot meal. Picnic tables are available to enjoy your food outside, but please do not feed the birds, as they are a hazard to aircraft!

Entrance Fee - Entrance to the park is free for visitors who get here by foot, bicycle or on public transport. Car and motorbike parking charges are as follows: £5 up to 2 hours / £10 from 2 to 4 hours / £12 for all stays over 4 hours.

Opening Times - January - February 8am - 4pm / March - May 8am - 6pm / June - August 8am - 8pm / September - October 8am - 5pm / November - December 8am - 4pm.

Access - Many areas of the venue are accessible with step free access, although there are steps up to all aircraft displays. Guide and assistance dogs are welcome (other dogs are not permitted due to the proximity of the runways).

The Runway Visitor Park, Sunbank Lane, Altrincham WA15 8XQ

News from Wrexham County Council

Local Development Plan 2013 - 2028 The LDP will be placed on DEPOSIT for full public consultation between 9th April and 31st May 2018 Wrexham County Borough Council is in the process of preparing the Local Development Plan (LDP) which will replace the current adopted Unitary Development Plan.

The Deposit Local Development Plan sets out the Council's proposed planning policy up to the year 2028, identifying what can be built and where. Based on all the information gathered and responses to the previous stages of consultation the plan sets out: • A strategy, objectives and key policies, • Policies to promote and control development, • Allocations of land for housing, employment and other uses including Gypsy and Traveller sites, • Policies and proposals to protect sensitive areas, including a Green Wedge, and • Maps showing the Plans proposals and constraints.

On 28 March 2018 the Council approved, the Deposit LDP, together with the supporting documents including the Sustainability Appraisal Report for public consultation.

The consultation will run from 9th April to 5pm on the 31st May 2018. Any representations received following the end of the consultation will not be considered.

If you would like to know more about the LDP, the consultation and how to comment please visit the LDP website www.wrexham.gov.uk/ldp

EssentialsMAG Noticeboard EATON HALL GARDENS OPEN DAY - Sunday 27th May, 10.30am to 5pm Adults £8 / Children £2 / Family £18 (Cash only - no card payment) Entrance via Eccleston/Aldford/Belgrave (Raising funds for local charities)

with

Slimming World

· · · ·

Contact Karen on 07749 787671.

Group meet on Tuesday at: 09:30am / 12:00pm 17:15pm / 19:15pm Wrexham Rugby Club Bryn Estyn Lane

slimmingworld.co.uk

Wrexham Wings Model Club are looking for people in and around Wrexham who enjoy building model aeroplanes, railways and anything else of a military persuasion. This is a voluntary club and we are looking for new members.

We aim to meet the last Thursday of every month at the RAFA Wings Club, Ruthin Road, Wrexham. For more details please see our Facebook page: @WrexhamWingsMC or email: wrexhamwingsmc@gmail.com for details.

Become a household name... Advertise your event or class here for only £10.

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

Email: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

RSPCA - What's the Difference Between Frogs and Toads?

The common frog and the common toad are found throughout Britain. But, what's the difference between frogs and toads?

Both frogs and toads eat a lot of beetles, bugs and woodlice and the frogs will eat a large number of slugs and snails, whereas toads favour ants.

Common frogs: • Have smooth, moist skin which is not slimy • Have special glands to keep the skin moist and supple - this helps them to 'breathe' through their skin as well as their lungs so that they can stay underwater for a long time • Are mottled shades of green, yellow or brown • Have brown patch behind the eye • Move in springy leaps lay spawn in clumps.

Helping frogs and toads in Spring Pond owners may find large amounts of frogspawn at this time of year and it can make the water look overcrowded but it's nothing to worry about.

Common toads: • Have a dry warty skin which means they can't 'breathe' through their skin as well as frogs, but they can survive on land in drier place • Are usually grey-brown • Crawl rather than hop • Lay long, double row, strings of eggs.

Each spring, toads may be seen migrating in large groups and over distances of a kilometre or more to return to their pond to breed. At this time, toads are vulnerable when crossing roads, with many being squashed by cars. People can help by carefully carrying the toads across the road; many areas organise toad patrols.

Don't be surprised if frogs or toads are found in greenhouses. They are attracted there by the warm, moist conditions and will live in a greenhouse quite happily, eating the insects and other small creatures that live there too.

For more information visit: www.rspca.org.uk

A

A

Affordable Accountancy PROVIDING

AFFORDABLE ACCOUNTANCY & BOOKKEEPING SERVICES

All Things Trees is one of only three Arboricultural Association Approved Contractors in North Wales • • • •

SERVICES: • Tax Returns • Bookkeeping • VAT • Payroll & CIS • Sole Traders • Partnerships & Ltd

Tree felling Crown shaping and reduction High hedge reduction All garden trees, large and small

Fixed rate packages available, or call for a free quotation

A local business established 2006

R

Contact Ian Atkinson 01978 852520 • 07880 555547 ian@allthingstrees.co.uk www.allthingstrees.co.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

Call Vicky

01978 469488 / 07968 799710 vicky@affordable-accountancy.co.uk www.affordable-accountancy.co.uk

Puzzle Page...

Just For Fun Crossword Across 1 9 10 11 12 13 16 18 21 22 23 24

Great upheavals (11) Adult insect stage (5) Type of viper (3) Protective garment (5) Consumed (5) Shows (8) Sample for medical testing (8) Implied (5) Settle for sleep (of birds) (5) Of recent origin (3) Appear suddenly (3,2) Serving to enlighten; instructive (11)

Down 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 14 15 17 19 20

Speech; where you live (7) Shine like a star (7) Deep pit (6) Worship; venerate (5) Praise highly (5) Stealthy (11) Dogmatic (11) Sign of the zodiac (7) Pungent gas (7) Marionette (6) Intimidated and weakened (5) Theme for a discussion (5)

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

Here are the answers from April:

Classic Sudoku

YOUR LOCAL AWARD WINNING TRAVEL SPECIALISTS

(from left to right)

ADELE

Worldwide including ‘Premier Aussie’ award specialist, Far East, Indian Ocean and South America

ANITA

Finalist in the national Canada Specialist awards and New Zealand & River Cruise

HOWARD

One of the UK’s leading USA specialists

MAIR

At Delmar since 1996. Our ‘behind the scenes’ Operations Manager

DANIELLE

Europe, Cruise and USA

ANN

Our CEO.The UK’s top Canada specialist (twice), South Africa and luxury cruise

KATIE

Europe, Cruise and USA

SAMANTHA

Joined in 2017 as a top cruise specialist. Responsible for our Cheshire & North Wales Cruise Club

For long-haul, tailor-made and cruise all our travel specialists above are available by appointment - but ‘walk-in’ enquiries are always welcome. Free customer parking.

Delmar has been helping people “Get it right with the best advice” since 1964

Tel: 01978 853886

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

www.delmarworld.com