Essentials Mag October 2018 Garden Village

October 2018

Your monthly insight into local living

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

Welcome... to your latest edition of EssentialsMAG I always find it fascinating meeting new people and finding out what they do for a living, or how they fill their time. Our area is brimming with talented, hard-working folk. Hopefully, at some point, many of you readers would have seen an advert or poster in one of our magazines and picked up the telephone to join a class, meeting, event, or bought from one of our lovely local advertisers, some of whom have been with EssentialsMAG for over 14 years!

You cannot deny the power of word-of-mouth and recommendation when it comes to buying services and products. And to ‘shop local’ not only supports the small businesses in our communities, it makes a big difference to our regional economy as well.

More importantly, as this saying implies: “When you buy from a small business an actual person does a little happy dance!”

Have a great October!

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: Autumn maple leaf

We hand deliver EssentialsMAG to 4,900 homes and businesses in Borras, Garden Village, Little Acton and surrounding area. @EssentialsMagWrexham @EssentialsMAG1

Copies of this magazine are available for collection at the following locations: Co-op 175 Chester Road, Wrexham LL12 8DW Co-op Borras Park Road, Wrexham LL12 7TH 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.

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Cravings As the nights are drawing in Helen Conway shares her advice on how to stave-off unhealthy food cravings

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Be alert!

Read the RSPCA’s seasonal advice for caring for animals this autumn

Food for thought If you have a glut of blackberries try our delicious orchard crumble recipe

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How to Get What You Want

By EssentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KENNEY You might think the title is a bit far-fetched, or you might believe that you can actually get anything you want. Whichever side of the fence you are sitting on, there are indisputably some characteristics that all those people who succeed in achieving their goals have in common. Getting what you want is actually very simple. If you Google the title, over five trillion results will appear; most of them simple, step-by-step instructions on how to get what you want. But there is a catch. Getting what you want might be simple, but it is not easy. There are three fundamental steps: 1. What do you want? This one is pretty obvious; if you are not sure what you want, how could you possibly aim for it? Make your goal clear in your head as well as on paper. Be as specific as possible. For example, rather than saying “I want to lose weight”, your goal should be “I want to lose 5 kg by January the 15th”.

2. Commit fully. Getting what you want usually comes with a price tag. Are you willing to pay the price? If so, commit fully. Focus. Sit down and make a plan. The more detailed the plan, the more likely you are to succeed.

3. Do it! Sounds easy, but we all know it isn’t. This is mainly because you are never going to feel like it. Face it, nobody ever feels like waking up an hour early to go for a run. That is why we have a so called ‘5 second rule’; a great tool to trick your mind into doing things.

As soon as you get the idea that you have to take positive action (for example getting dressed for the gym), count backwards from 5 and once you get to 0, do it! This way your brain won’t have a chance to change your mind.

Boom. You got it!

And as you are on your way to reaching the stars, don’t forget what Confucius said: “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” Ditto.

Have a great month!

EssentialsMAG motivation contributor is Sasha Kenney, Wellbeing Coach, World Record holder, business owner and Motivational Speaker. sasha@fitphilosophy.co.uk

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Vets4Pets Helps Homeless Community

by Vaccinating Dogs Our pets are more than ‘just a dog’ – they’re family, life-long companions and for many, the bond between human and pet is very special. For homeless people this bond with an animal is even more profound. Their dog can be a source of companionship, safety, sanity and love which is vitally important whilst living on the streets. For many homeless people, their dogs are their closest companions, they provide unconditional love through difficult times and can help to ease the loneliness of living on the streets.

Sadly however, life on the streets makes it difficult to access fundamental vet care, such as vaccinations, to ensure the health and vitality of their dog. Unvaccinated dogs can pick up fatal infections and diseases, especially whilst living on the streets, which is why vaccinating pets is so important. Veterinary bills can be costly at the best of times, but when you’re living on the streets it can be completely out of reach.

The team at Vets4Pets Wrexham Plas Coch care deeply about pets and are aware of the growing problem of homelessness in the local area, so wanted to help the situation using skills and facilities available to them. For the last six months Vets4Pets Plas Coch have been providing vaccination courses and microchipping to the pets of homeless people in the local area, free of charge. Now, a number of dogs have been vaccinated against parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis and leptospirosis .The team have also been treating illnesses and diseases for these dogs. Recently they treated a dog suffering from mange whose fur was falling out, but due to the treatment provided he has made a full recovery.

This is a fantastic achievement in providing vital veterinary care to local homeless people and their pets, but the team won’t stop there. Local Vet and practice owner, Rebecca, was inspired to help after meeting a number of homeless people and their pets a few months ago. Rebecca realised how a simple pet health check, advice and reassurance from a veterinary professional could make such a difference.

Rebecca, along with her team, continue to support the local homeless community and plan to offer this service for the foreseeable future. If you would like to contribute toward the efforts of Vets4Pets Plas Coch, please bring the following items to the surgery: Dog food, blankets, leads, which will then be distributed as needed.

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Call today and arrange an appointment to gain some FREE ADVICE. 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

Pack Your Bags for a Great Adventure...

By EssentialsMAG travel contributor Howard Davies at DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

Fly-Drive USA (part 1) A successful ‘fly-drive’ holiday should be far more than just joining up the dots. Often the highlights are the unexpected; the hospitality and finding experiences that complement one’s personal lifestyle and interests.

My latest road-trip took me on a clockwise loop from Salt Lake City. The following covers the first half of the journey and will resume from Deadwood in next month’s EssentialsMAG. A straight 2½ hour drive north took us to Lava Hot Springs. Whilst we had overnighted prior to the drive the anticipation of soaking in several hot springs after a long transatlantic flight was truly justified and a sound night’s sleep followed! This allowed for an early start the next morning to Jackson where we had pre-booked a float trip in Teton National Park ($80/£61 per person) which we also toured by car the following day. Other options included white water rafting and horse riding - the nearest I managed was sitting in a full saddle bar stool at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar! Having already purchased our ‘America the Beautiful’ National Park Passes we continued north into Yellowstone and spent two full days touring this amazing, and surprisingly varied, National Park. This annual pass covered me, the car and up to three adults for unlimited admissions to all of America’s 58 National Parks and over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including National Monuments. Passes should be purchased at the first qualifying park or

monument you visit as well as at many official visitor’s centers.

Reminders that you are standing on an active volcano are constant with endless bubbling mud pools and springs, plus the ever dependable Old Faithful Geyser erupting as if it was a theme park attraction. The highlight has to be the wildlife - deer, several bears spotted at a safe distance, a number of bison that, less so, actually brushed past our car!

Turning east, through the majestic Shoshone National Forest we stayed in Cody. The Buffalo Bill Museum stands proudly in the middle of town and contains five separate themed areas. This provided an informative backdrop for the rest of our trip and should not be missed. Seeing memorabilia from the old TV series “Bonanza” brought back some memories!

Cody also boasts a seasonal nightly rodeo.

This is the ‘real deal’ and not a staged tourist event.

Another scenic drive through Bighorn National Forest continues the heritage of Mr Cody with a stay in Buffalo. The genuine hospitality began with a few beers in the Occidental Bar which was in full swing with the weekly bluegrass jam night. Whether you were a local or a visitor it didn’t matter

“REMINDERS YOU ARE STANDING ON AN ACTIVE VOLCANO ARE CONSTANT”

- it was all about having a good time! Dinner followed at this historic hotel’s Virginian restaurant. If you have never had Bison steak then this is the place to try it!

An extra night in Buffalo allows for a side trip to Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument – site of Custer’s last stand.

The geological wonder featured in the film ‘Close Encounters of the Third Kind’ is real and can be visited at Devil’s Tower National Monument. This eerie monolith stands alone and is visible from over 12 miles away. Guided tours around its base are available and take 1½ hours. Our guide recounted the true story of George Hopkins, the only person to ever parachute onto the top of in 1941 for a $50 bet. Unfortunately he hadn’t considered the remaining 867 feet to the ground. He was stuck up there for almost a week!

Some great memories and the trip is only half way through. See you in Deadwood next month!

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: -7 hours Currency: £1 = approximately US$1.30 Flying Time: 12+ hours Top Tips: The America the Beautiful pass will save you money compared with paying park admissions individually.

Take some re-sealable plastic bags to fill from the hotel’s ice machine each day.

Be wary of altitude as well as bears! Gift shops actually sell small oxygen canisters and rent out bear spray deterrent!

Ian Lucas MP for Wrexham The first column I wrote for EssentialsMAG - back in June - focused on the community’s efforts to keep Gresford Health Centre open and I’m pleased to be able to report positive developments on this front. The Health Board has turned down a proposal from the GPs running the Gresford practice to close and transfer services to Rossett Surgery and Llay Health Centre.

This is, first and foremost, good news as a village as important as Gresford should not have been left without a GPs’ practice. Both myself and Wrexham’s Assembly Member, Lesley Griffiths, made this point to the Health Board – both in writing and in face-to-face meetings – on behalf of the many constituents who contacted us about this matter.

Our message was clear and it just shows what can be achieved when a community unites together behind a particular cause.

So what happens next?

Well, while the health board’s decision to refuse the GPs’ proposal is a step in the right direction there is still more hard work to be done in what is a complex process. The GPs intend to appeal the decision so we need to see what comes from that.

Whatever the outcome, you can be rest assured that I will remain firm in my belief that Gresford should have a functioning health centre open for doctors’ appointments. If the GPs currently providing a service there no longer wish to, then the Health Board must ensure other GPs are sought.

I’d like to say a huge ‘thank you’ to everyone who helped make this year’s Wrexham Singing Streets choir festival such a wonderful event. I had billed this year’s festival as the ‘biggest and best yet’ – and you certainly helped ensure it was.

We’re now into our third year of organising the event, which involves choirs performing at various locations around Wrexham town centre, and we have a small army of valued partners, sponsors, volunteers and choirs who return year after year. The streets really do come alive to the sound of music on Singing Streets day and that is the aim – it’s a showcase for the town and the talent we have here. People flock into the town from the immediate surrounding areas and also from further afield.

The hope is that they will continue to come back, which is good news for the town centre and good news for Wrexham.

Tel: 01978 355743 ian.lucas.mp@parliament.uk

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Gardening Tips and Advice October - The Autumn Chill Sets in Although we had some warmer days over September, the autumn is now definitely here for real, and it feels colder. It's a beautiful time of year, with the trees changing colour.

Sometimes it may seem pointless raking, when the wind blows even more leaves onto the lawn, but just think of all the lovely leafmould you can make! It's also time to start preparing for early frosts.

1.

Divide established rhubarb crowns to create new plants.

2.

Cut back perennials that have died down.

3.

Divide herbaceous perennials.

4.

Move tender plants, including aquatic ones, into a greenhouse or conservatory.

5.

Plant out spring cabbages.

6.

Harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts.

7.

Prune climbing roses.

8.

Finish collecting seeds from the garden to sow next year.

9.

Last chance to mow lawns and trim hedges in mild areas.

10. Renovate old lawns or create new grass areas by laying turf.

Information provided by: www.rhs.org.uk

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EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Orchard Crumble

INGREDIENTS

SERVES 5 - 6

400g apple, peeled, cored and cut into small pieces 400g stoned plum, cut into chunky wedges 2 tbsp sugar, any type 300g figs, woody stalks trimmed, quartered 300g blackberry or brambles, washed well cream, custard or ice cream, to serve

FOR THE TOPPING 140g plain flour 140g wholemeal flour 175g butter, cut into small pieces 100g soft brown sugar

METHOD First make the topping. Put the flours in a bowl with a pinch of salt, then rub in the butter with your fingertips to form crumbs. Stir in the sugar with a fork, and chill until needed.

Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/ gas 4.

Tip the apples, plums and sugar into a big saucepan with 50ml water and cook, stirring, for about 5 minutes, until the apples are soft and juicy. Stir in the figs and blackberries, and tip into a baking dish.

Scatter over the crumble and bake for 45-55 minutes until the topping is golden and the fruit is bubbling.

Serve with cream, custard or ice cream.

Trying out our recipe?

Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham

This delicious recipe was created By Sarah Cook, ©BBC Goodfood www.bbcgoodfood.com

Local Police Advice Keeping North Wales Safe Dating and Romance Fraud What is dating and romance fraud?

Many dating websites and chat rooms operate legitimately in the UK. However, some people using them may try to scam you. These fraudsters lower your defences by building an online relationship with you.

Many people, both men and women, have lost huge amounts of money to online dating scammers.

How can I protect myself from this kind of fraud?

• Be wary of giving out personal information on a website or chat room.

Scammers will quickly interact with you, often showing you glamorous photos of themselves and gaining your trust. But there is no guarantee that the photos are actually of the person you are communicating with. They will make conversation more personal to draw information from you, but will never really give you any verifiable information about themselves.

• Scammers will normally try to steer you away from communicating on a legitimate dating website that could be monitored by staff. Their preference is to communicate via email, text and possibly phone, rather than through the dating website or chat room where you met.

• A scammer will use a variety of scenarios

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•

•

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that play on your emotions to convince you to part with your money. For example, they may claim to have an ill relative with medical bills, or that they are stranded in a country they don’t want to be in and need money to get home.

These are all scams.

Never send money to a person you have never met or to anyone you don’t actually know and trust.

Scammers will sometimes tell you to keep your online relationship a secret.

Never agree to this. This is a ploy to get you not to tell your family and friends, who will see the scam for what it is.

The scammer may ask you to accept money from them into your own bank account. They will come up with a convincing story as to why they can’t use their own bank account, such as that it is a discharge fee from their current job, is for medical care or to pay for essential goods. The circumstances may appear to be genuine, but you may be committing a criminal offence of money laundering.

Remember to always consider your personal safety if you arrange to meet someone through a dating website

GetSafeOnline have further comprehensive and free advice on safe online dating on their website: www.getsafeonline.org.

CONTACT NUMBERS Wrexham Police Station, Wrexham LL12 7BW CALL 101 which is a 24 hour number for non emergency calls.

For example: threatening & abusive behaviour, drunk & rowdy groups, drug related anti-social behaviour.

In emergency always remember to call 999

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Essentials Mag Mailbox

Great Pilgrimage 90 - The Biggest Membership Event for a Generation Dear Vicky, In August 2018, 90 years after the Legion's original pilgrimage, 1113 Legion Branches and their representatives participated in the Great Pilgrimage 90, visiting cemeteries and marching along the same route that the 1928 pilgrims marched. They represented their communities and an entire generation that served while defending their country. The Standard Bearer's and Wreath Carriers paraded to the Menin Gate in Ypres, Belgium.

This photographs shows father and son who represented the Gresford RBL and the community of Gresford at the Great Pilgrimage 90.

STANDARD BEARER - Sergeant Rob Jones - 1st Battalion Welsh Guards WREATH CARRIER - Mr. Adrian Jones - Gresford RBL Club's Secretary Mary Jones, Gresford RBL

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

PLUMBING, HEATING & BATHROOMS

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Tel: 01978 357238 / 01978 264456 E: wrexhamplumbers@btconnect.com

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

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

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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?

Call to arrange a visit today.

How to Stave-off Cravings

By EssentialsMAG fitness contributor HELEN CONWAY It's been an astounding Summer - almost unending sunshine, making it very easy to get out and about, and stay active. But Autumn is definitely in the air. The mornings are darker and the nights (and days), are cooling down. And it's easy to start to slow down, to want to cosy up. And to start to crave those comfort foods.

So, what can you do to stave-off those cravings?

Keep drinking plenty of water. Even when it's cooler, water is vital for good function.

Ironically, dehydration can cause you to crave salty snacks, dehydrating you further.

Grab a glass of water before opening that bags of crisps and see if the craving passes.

Eat your veggies. A lack of carbs can cause your cravings for sugary snacks to rocket. But to maintain a healthy aspect, chose to satisfy yourself with sweet potatoes, green veggies, pulses and beans. Packed with nutrients and colour, the energy provided by these complex carbs will last longer than that from simple carbs such as donuts, chocolate and biscuits, meaning it will take longer for those cravings to return.

Wait. Research suggests that most cravings subside after about 15 minutes, so wait and see if by changing the task you're working on, or practicing a short breath meditation will refocus your mind, and the craving may pass. If you still feel the need for a snack, keep it healthy by reaching for some nuts, dark berries or dark chocolate. But keep those snacks small and nutritious.

Stay in control of those season changing cravings and you will maintain good energy levels, healthy weight, and as the year progresses and the weather gets even colder, you'll be more likely to continue on this healthy pattern than dive under the covers with a packet of biscuits.

EssentialsMAG fitness contributor is Helen Conway from Bodywork Pilates www.bodywork-pilates.co.uk Tel: 01978 512401

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Making Tax Digital - Important Changes for Business Owners You may have heard of the government’s proposals to introduce a quarterly reporting framework from April 2018 namely Making Tax Digital (MTD). These proposals were initially announced in 2015 and following feedback from stakeholders and consultations with a number of institutions the government announced in the latter part of 2017 that these proposals were being significantly curtailed.

The government have now confirmed that from April 2019 HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) will be “Making Tax Digital.” Initially, this will only apply to VAT registered businesses whose turnover is above the VAT registration threshold (currently £85,000).

The original provisions of MTD are still on the horizon, but the government have sensibly taken steps to delay this to ensure businesses have the necessary time to implement the changes to the way they keep their business records. HMRC have confirmed that the original provisions applying to Income Tax and Corporation Tax will not be implemented until April 2020 at the earliest.

The revised MTD provisions will mean that affected businesses will report VAT return figures on a quarterly basis to HMRC. Whilst this does not appear on the face of it to be any different from what you are currently doing, the way in which you keep your records and submit your VAT returns will change significantly from this date. This is a legal requirement and therefore is compulsory for all of those who will fall within the scope of MTD. What does this mean for your business?

The overall objective of MTD is to ensure that every affected business not entitled to an exemption is keeping digital records and ensuring that these records are used to submit the VAT return figures initially.

How we can help?

We have experienced a number of changes in the industry over the years and although this is a significant overhaul of the tax and VAT system, DRE & Co have thoroughly reviewed the legislation regarding MTD so we are confident that we would be able to assist you into the new era of digital accounting and reporting to HMRC. Contact us Please do contact us at our Wrexham office if you feel that our expertise might be of benefit to you and your business going forward. Tel: 01978 310600, or visit our website: www.dre.co.uk

Do you want more business?

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Local Birds & Wildlife

By Rev. Hugh Linn At this time of year millions of birds are on the move. By mid-October most of our Swallows and other summer visitors have left for distant wintering grounds. Some of our summering Swallows spend the winter in southern Africa.

Other migrants such as Chiffchaffs however, are quite likely to be around well into October.

Some of them will spend the winter around the Mediterranean while others continue their journey south of the Sahara. In recent years, probably due to climate change, increasing numbers of these little warblers are spending the winter in Great Britain.

Another warbler species frequently found in gardens throughout the winter is the Blackcap.

It used to be thought that having bred here during the summer they then avoided the hassle of migration by simply staying put and changing their diet from insects to foodstuff provided on bird feeders. However, ringing returns suggest that our wintering Blackcaps belong to a different population and are actually migrants from central and eastern Europe.

Jay

Painted Lady

In October, there will be plenty of new arrivals. Redwings, Fieldfares and Bramblings come from Scandinavia and northern Europe. Whoopers from Iceland and Bewick's Swans from Siberia congregate in their thousands on the Wildfowl Trust's reserves at Martin Mere, Welney and Slimbridge. Both species have been recorded locally around the Dee floods.

Migration, however, is not the only strategy employed by birds to cope with winter weather. Members of the Crow family are known for their intelligence and resourcefulness.

Recently we have seen evidence of this from Magpies caching food in our garden. In the Autumn Jays, our most colourful corvids, stockpile enormous quantities of acorns to which they return when the weather is bad and other food becomes difficult to obtain.

In the insect world hibernation is the favourite winter survival technique. Although commonly found sleeping in houses and other buildings there is a growing tendency for Red Admirals to migrate as well. Painted Ladies, however, are migratory and their annual flights to and from northern Europe to North Africa must rate as one of nature's most amazing achievements.

P

EX YO C U IN LU R VI SIV TE E

#HydraFacialNation World Tour

Red Carpet Event

Thursday 11th October 2018, 10am - 8pm

Do you dream of having glowing skin all year round? If so, then treat yourself to a HydraFacial at the forthcoming Pure Perfection Clinic Red Carpet Event.

Just £30 will secure your place at this ‘Invitation Only’ event where you will enjoy first class hospitality from our staff and experience an amazing HydraFacial treatment that will leave your skin with an immediate and lasting glow. You will also be given the opportunity to take advantage of some exclusive Red Carpet course offers, only available on the day.

So don’t miss out, book your place today.

RSVP to: 01244 917966

R

Chester Road, Rossett LL12 0HW hello@pureperfectionclinic.com www.pureperfectionclinic.com

An alternative to block paving, asphalt, or tarmac.

Specialist in resin driveways, paving, groundworks & more..

Your new permeable resin drive can be designed to suit your requirements and colour scheme.

R E S I N D R I V E WAY S - PAV I N G - G R O U N D W O R K S

Resin bound paving fixes together small stones with high-tech resin to form a firm, attractive surface. It creates many small gaps allowing water to drain through.

Environmentally Friendly / Reduced Flood Risk / Choice of Colours Firm Surface / Attractive Finish / Easy Maintenance

contact@rockwoodpaving.com | 01978 508610 www.rockwoodpaving.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Financial News with Hadlow Edwards The cost of delay Planning for retirement is just one area in which, with the benefit of hindsight, many people wish they’d taken action earlier. How often in life do we look back and wish we had done things differently? According to a study

by Prudential*, two in five pensioners regret retirement-planning mistakes which have left them struggling financially. Nearly one in five say that they didn’t save enough for retirement, and 15% regret not starting to save earlier in their working lives. Pension contributions attract tax relief on the way in and they accumulate capital gains free of tax once inside. When you access your pension savings, the first 25% is normally tax-free.

While you cannot currently draw on the funds until your 55th birthday, this does protect your pot against the temptation to tap into it until then.

Getting off the mark How much pension income you need in retirement will be determined by a number of factors, including your health, your living expenses and your desired lifestyle.

Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. However, as stated in June 2018 by the Office for National Statistics, the average earnings in the UK are £28,028 per annum; so a pension income of around £20,000 may be on average the minimum requirement.

Therefore, even if you qualify for the full single-tier State Pension of £8,546 a year, you would be looking to find at least £12,000 a year from your other pensions.

Warren Hadlow

Medwyn Edwards

Playing catch-up The sooner we start, the more choices we have later. The power of compound returns, or gains on gains, means that 10 or 20 years can make a big difference. However, you should never think that it’s too late to start saving, or that you can’t catch up. There are significant opportunities to make up lost ground if you have the available means and allowances.

You can put as much as you want into your defined contribution pension, but you’ll only get tax relief on pension contributions up to £40,000 each year, or 100% of your earnings if lower. Pension providers generally claim tax relief for you (called ‘relief at source’) at a rate of 20% and add it to your pension pot, which actually creates a 25% uplift in the sum; therefore £80 becomes £100. Higher rate taxpayers can claim an extra 20% via their annual tax return; a £40,000 contribution could effectively cost a higher rate taxpayer just £24,000.

In any case, the fact remains that the best way to secure a comfortable retirement is to save as much as possible as early as possible in your working life, and take financial advice.

The longer you delay saving, the harder it will be to build the kind of fund that will see you through retirement. * ‘Regrets? They’ve got a few - but pensioners are happy in retirement’ - Prudential, April 2016

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

email: hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

C.H. BUILDERS LTD Specialising in New Build & Extensions LOFT & BARN CONVERSIONS • ROOFING • POINTING • WALLING • STONEWORK DECKING • REPAIRS • UPVC WINDOWS & DOORS • FACIAS & SOFITS • MINI DIGGER & DRIVER

TEL: A

01244 752304 / M: 07968 237086

www.chbuildersltd.co.uk e: craig.chb@gmail.com G

Quality Blinds & Shutters At Reasonable Prices

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

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

A local business established 2006 Contact Ian Atkinson 01978 852520 • 07880 555547 ian@allthingstrees.co.uk www.allthingstrees.co.uk

DROP IN OR BOOK A HOME VISIT LOCAL FAMILY MANUFACTURING BUSINESS

DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE IN-STORE

GFS FACTORY SHOWROOM, Clwyd Court 2, Rhosddu Industrial Estate, Wrexham, LL11 4YL 01978 266025 | enquiries@gfsblinds.co.uk | gfsblinds.co.uk

TRADE & PUBLIC WELCOME

Tomorrow’s Kind of Estate Agent For generations now we've been proud to be recognised Tomorrow's Kind of Estate agent. Our proven combination of a modern approach and traditional values is why we’re trusted by the thousands of people who move home with us each year.

We're proud of our reputation, and remember, our 'No Sale, No Fee' promise means you’ve got nothing to lose. So get in touch today.

Get Your FREE Instant Online Property Valuation Now:

www.whitegates.co.uk

Local Properties For Sale Please get in touch if you'd like to view any of these properties, or to discuss rentals as investments. Telephone: 01978 312123

Daleside Avenue, Borras, LL12 7TQ Two Double Bedroom Detached Bungalow

Immaculately Presented Landscaped Rear Garden UPVC Double Glazed Gas Central Heating Garden to Front & Rear / Garage Driveway Cul De Sac Location Energy Performance Rating D'57

£195,000

Park Avenue, Wrexham, LL12 7AH Bay Fronted Three Bedroom Semi Detached House Conservatory to Rear Approximately 120 Foot Rear Garden UPVC Double Glazing Family Sized Bathroom Gas Central Heating Two Reception Rooms / Breakfast Room Excellent Condition Through-Out

£270,000

Ffordd Garmonydd, Wrexham, LL12 8JE Four Bedroom Detached House

Extended Four Bedroom Detached House Fitted Kitchen & Utility Room Three Reception Rooms UPVC Double Glazing Gas Central Heating Convenient Location

£230,000

Westwood Drive, The Fairways, LL13 9GE Four Bedroom Detached House Four Bedrooms Two En-Suites Conservatory to Rear Attractive Rear Garden Off Road Parking & Garage Gas Central Heating UPVC Double Glazing

£325,000

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

Great Day Out - Caernarfon Castle, a Brute of a Fortress!

Caernarfon Castle’s pumped-up appearance is unashamedly musclebound and intimidating. Picking a fight with this massive structure would have been a daunting prospect. By throwing his weight around in stone, King Edward I created what is surely one of the most impressive of Wales’s castles.

Most castles are happy with round towers, not Caernarfon! Polygonal towers were the order of the day, with the Eagle Tower being the most impressive of these.

You will also note the colour-coded stones carefully arranged in bands. The site of this great castle wasn’t chosen by accident. It had previously been the location of a Norman motte and bailey castle and before that a Roman fort stood nearby. The lure of water and easy access to the sea made the banks of the River Seiont an ideal spot for Edward’s monster in masonry.

Along with Harlech Castle, Conwy Castle and Beaumaris Castle, this monument has been part of the Castles and Town Walls of Edward 1 World Heritage Site since 1986.

Whilst you're visiting this formidable fortress, don't miss the opportunity to see the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum, which is housed in two of the castle’s towers. In it you will discover the history of over 300 years of service by Wales’s oldest infantry. Entry to the museum is free once visitors have paid for admission to the castle.

Entrance fee: Adult £9.50 / Family £27.50 (2 adults & up to 3 children under 16) / Disabled & companion free / Student and children under 16 £5.70 / Senior Citizen £7.60 / Children under 5 free / Cadw members free / Assistance dogs only.

Opening times: 1 September - 31 October 2018 open daily 9.30am - 5.00pm / 1 November 2018 - 28 February 2019 Mon to Sat 10.00am - 4.00pm, Sun 11.00am - 4.00pm.

Accessibility: Access to castle entrance is via two sets of steps, or via a purpose built access ramp, which enable access from kerb side at street level to main entrance.

Wheelchair access is accessible throughout the lower level. Visitor toilets accessible via two flights of metal steps. They are inaccessible for wheelchair users.

Castle Ditch, Caernarfon, Gwynedd, LL55 2AY Tel: 01286 677617, email: CaernarfonCastle@wales.gsi.gov.uk www.cadw.gov.wales/daysout/caernarfon-castle

NEW Boilers from £870

+ VAT

Price includes up to 10 year guarantee, fitting and parts

Boiler installations/replacements • Complete bathroom installations • Boiler service & breakdown

Telephone Jim Hough:

01978 853027 07738 985375 221986

info@totalheatsolutions.co.uk www.totalheatsolutions.co.uk

Heard Building

NEW BUILD • EXTENSIONS • REFURBISHMENTS

Call Nick Heard 01978 852001 or 07720 080141 email: nick@heardbuilding.co.uk

www.heardbuilding.co.uk

formerly known as

EssentialsMAG Noticeboard

FRENCH TUITION Experienced French Teacher and GCSE Examiner Keystage 3, GCSE and ‘A’ Level exam preparation including grammar and conversation Based in Holt Contact: 07985 964001

TUESDAYS Wrexham Rugby Club 9:30am / 12:00pm 5:15pm / 7:15pm

Wrexham Rugby Club, Bryn Estyn Lane, LL13 9TY Telephone Karen: 07749 787671

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

Grove Park Theatre

presents two exceptional one-act plays commemorating the Great War

Hero by MICHAEL J LYNCH

Our Friends, The Enemy by ALEX GWYTHER

Thurs 25th October – Sat 3rd November 2018 Evenings at 7.30pm Matinée, Saturday 27th at 2.00pm Tickets: £10.00. 16 and Under: £5.50 Thursday 25th, Friday 26th & Saturday 27th (Matinée): Tickets: £8.00 Students (+ID): £5.00

Box Office:01978 351091 www.groveparktheatre.co.uk Two amateur productions presented by arrangement with Samuel French Limited

Hill Street, Wrexham LL11 1SN

Self-Catering Holiday House

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

The whole house is available to hire and can accommodate up to 10 people from just one night upwards. The perfect place for visiting friends and family to stay.

M R M IST Y M YST E RY

By Martin Clare DARLAND SCHOOL ROSSETT - NOVEMBER 1ST - 3RD - 7.30PM

Tickets £6 inc refresments www.darlandtheatre.com

For enquiries please contact: Richard on 07583 065 633

Rossett Court, Chester Road, Rossett LL12 0HN

Facebook: @rossettcourt

RSPCA - Seasonal Advice for Autumn

As temperatures drop and it gets dark earlier, The RSPCA receive many calls about the welfare of pets and wildlife.

Check out their top tips to keeping animals safe and warm in autumn.

Keeping safe in the dark Always wear reflective clothing to make yourself visible when walking near roads in the dark. And don't forget your pets!

Fit your dog and cat with a reflective collar - but make sure only a quick release collar is used for a cat.

Watch out! Animals on the roads The RSPCA see more injured wild animals coming into their care, who have been involved in road traffic accidents, as the nights grow longer.

Road traffic accidents involving deer are especially common during the rut, which can occur from mid-July to December (depending on the species).

Take note of warning signs, drive with extreme caution (especially early morning and evening) and report collisions with deer to the police.

Fireworks and bonfires during the festive season Build bonfires as close to time of lighting as possible, and check them thoroughly for animals before lighting, this can help save the lives of hedgehogs and other small animals. Loud fireworks can be terrifying for animals.

Bat alert!

Bats look for suitable hibernation sites around October. Pipistrelles are the most likely to roost in buildings during winter.

Bats and their roosts are protected by law in the UK - so you must not disturb or harm them in any way.

Find out more about bats and the law on www.bats.org.uk.

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

ENHANCE YOUR NATURAL BEAUTY

Clinic No 8 is based in the picturesque surroundings of The Plassey Barn and provides a range of non-surgical aesthetic treatments for both men and women. Treatments are performed by Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, Laura Ransome, RGN who is a fully qualified and insured medical professional.

Semi Permanent makeup is carried out by Teresa Greenhalgh trained by Finishing Touches Group.

SEMI PERMANENT MAKEUP

DERMAL FILLER INJECTIONS

ANTI-WRINKLE INJECTIONS

CHEMICAL PEEL

Aesthetics Semi Permanent Makeup

The Plassey Barn Eyton, Wrexham, LL13 0SP

07850 421897 laura@clinicno8.com www.clinicno8.co.uk

e I an EC R: le C SP OFFE p E! ee N D fO ts e o pe ric ar P C e O th T W for

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Dry Carpet Cleaning!

et

AL

2-

4-

1

Just Imagine...

No 8 Clinic

0800 170 14 20

Locally based, call Steve on:

www.zerodrytime.com @zerodrytimewrexham

d

“no soggy carpets or wet dog smell”

No fuss, no heating on, or windows open. We leave your carpets clean, fresh ready for immediate use.

Puzzle Page...

Just For Fun Crossword Across 1 3 9 10 11 12 13 15 17 18 20 21 22 23

Salver (4) Coal containers (8) Admits formally to a post (7) Suffuse with colour (5) Game of chance (5) Portended a certain outcome (7) Books (6) Fleet of ships (6) Entrap (7) Anxiety (5) Settle for sleep (of birds) (5) Encroach (7) Keep under control (8) Part of a camera (4)

Down 1

Problem-solving method (5,3,5) 2 Detailed assessment of accounts (5) 4 Relaxed and informal (6) 5 Reckless; ready to react violently (7-5) 6 Country in West Africa (7) 7 Loyalty in the face of trouble (13) 8 Teacher (12) 14 Thick (7) 16 Third sign of the zodiac (6) 19 Spirit in a bottle (5)

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

Here are the answers from September:

Classic Sudoku

Don’t miss out...

OCTOBER IS NATIONAL CRUISE MONTH! WIN Lunch for Two on a 5-Star Celebrity Cruises’ Ship!

No purchase necessary. See website/visit Delmar World for terms & conditions and how to enter - GOOD LUCK!

October is officially designated ‘National Cruise Month’ and is celebrated by the UK’s leading Ocean-cruise, River-cruise and Expedition-cruise operators. Enjoy some very special offers and discounts only available through appointed cruise specialists. www.perfectcruises.co.uk

Following our amazing Cruise Show in Chester last month we have received some additional exclusive offers … just for you!

For your perfect cruise talk to a specialist today

Tel: 0845 504 0054 www.perfectcruises.co.uk

54-56 Chester Road, GRESFORD LL12 8NE

Perfect Cruises. Available in-store exclusively at Delmar World in Gresford. Award winning and proudly local since 1964.