EssentialsMAG April 2023 – South Wrexham Magazine

Welcome...

Cover Image: Cute Easter Bunny!

May Deadlines:

Editorial - 7th April

Advertising - 14th April

Welcome to our April issue, and fingers crossed for some good weather over the Easter weekend, which is relatively early – Friday 7th to Monday 9th – this year. But why does Easter, like the proverbial bunny, hop around so much? In a nutshell, it’s because Easter falls on the first Sunday following the full moon on or after the spring equinox, which is assumed to be 21st March.

Aside from Easter, there’s plenty going on this month – including Ramadan, which finishes on the 21st and St. George’s Day is on the 23rd

On a final note, don’t forget April Fool’s Day –and hands up who remembers the infamous Swiss spaghetti harvest, the remote islands of San Serriffe, and Big Ben being rebranded Digital Dave?

Whatever you’re up to this month, have fun!

All the best, Vicky Heathfield

Fun fact: the rarest date for Easter is 24th March, which last occurred in 1940 and won’t happen again until 2391 – and no, this isn’t an April Fool’s joke!

EMAIL: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

CALL: 01978 855459

www.essentialsmag.co.uk

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Wrexham Business and Community Awards

10th November 2023 marks the inaugural Wrexham Business and Community Awards (WBCA), established to recognise the wonderful work taking place every day within our businesses and local community. The awards will be for everyone. They represent an opportunity to shine and celebrate, have fun and be proud of achievements. Through 12 awards categories, the WBCA will recognise businesses, groups and individuals that have made a real difference.

WBCA founding members are a small group of local like-minded professionals with a common goal to celebrate all that Wrexham has to offer. They felt it was high time to acknowledge the amazing work that goes on within businesses and the community, all of which contributes to making Wrexham a great place to live and work.

Alex Lovén from Net World Sports explains his reasons for being keen on the formation of the WBCA: “I want people growing up in Wrexham to be able to dream big about what can be achieved here – and for those dreams to be able to come true. I moved the business to Wrexham eight years ago and it was the best decision I could have taken. It’s not so long ago that you might not have put ‘Wrexham’ and ‘dreams’ in the same sentence, but that is no longer the case. It has always been a proud place and now it has even more to shout about and celebrate. Much like Wrexham, the Net World story is one where everything is hard-earned and so much the sweeter for it.”

Alex continues, “Forget the Met Gala, think Net Gala. We are super excited to showcase our newly-opened, cutting-edge facility for the awards night. Plans for the event are already underway. We promise a spectacle of an evening for an audience of up to 600, some special guests and a few surprises, where 12 worthy winners will be announced on the night.”

There is so much to celebrate locally – whether it’s the largest multinational organisation that has chosen Wrexham as its base, or the start-up sole trader, breathing new life into our borough. It could be a community leader or charity worker, who are making a real difference to peoples’ everyday lives, or the schools and colleges that inspire and empower our workforce of the future to reach for the stars, dream and achieve.

For details please email: info@wrexhambca.co.uk. Website is coming soon.

Corporate 5-a-Side Tournament

Wrexham AFC are inviting local businesses to enter their Corporate 5-a-Side Tournament, offering the chance to play on the hallowed Racecourse Ground turf this summer. The tournament, sponsored by Net World Sports, will take place on Friday 12th May, and will also feature an evening twocourse hot buffet with a guest speaker. Following the format of a round-robin tournament on the Racecourse Ground pitch, the tournament draw will be made live by Wrexham AFC manager, Phil Parkinson.

There is a maximum of 10 per team – eight players, a manager and assistant manager –with a cost of £850 (+ VAT) per team. For more information, or to book your team, please contact: 5aside@wrexhamafc.co.uk.

Keeping Older People Connected

For people who live in rural communities, community transport services provide a lifeline, allowing a freedom and level of independence which would otherwise, be out of reach. The Rainbow Foundation have been addressing this need for more than 27 years and today, have a fleet of three minibuses which provide transport links to and from their Penley, Chirk and Marchwiel Care Hubs. The charity – which operates across South Wrexham – believes that there is more that can be done and are striving to connect even more people in rural communities with local services and attractions.

Volunteer Coordinator, Rebecca Griffiths, told us: “The reality is that many older people who live in rural communities are becoming more and more isolated as public transport services continue to be cut. The Rainbow Foundation has launched a new weekly transport service to Stans Superstore in St Martins, leaving the Penley Rainbow Centre at 11:30am each Monday morning. The service will collect from the Cocoa Rooms in Overton at 11:45am before travelling on to Stans Superstore in St Martins. The service will leave Stans at 2pm, returning to the Rainbow Centre via the Cocoa Rooms. This gives anyone who would like to come along around two hours to shop or enjoy some lunch.”

The Stans Transport service costs £4 for a return journey to St Martins. Places are limited so please contact The Rainbow Foundation on 01948 830730 to book a place.

What is ChatGPT?

By EssentialsMAG tech contributor DAVID HUGHES

David types: “Explain ChatGPT to someone who isn’t technical”

ChatGPT responds: “Sure! I'd be happy to explain what ChatGPT is in a way that is easy to understand for someone who isn't technical. ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence (AI) program that is designed to chat with people like you and me, just like a human would. It's called "GPT" because it's built on a type of AI algorithm called a "Generative Pre-trained Transformer," which basically means that it's really good at understanding and generating human-like language. The more people talk to ChatGPT, the more it learns and the better it gets at understanding and generating language. So, it's kind of like having a conversation with a friend who is always learning and improving!”

David types: Why is it important?

ChatGPT responds: “Firstly, it allows for more efficient communication between humans and machines. With ChatGPT, people can communicate with computers and other digital devices using natural language, which makes it easier for them to get the information and assistance they need. Secondly, ChatGPT has the potential to help people in many different areas, from customer service to healthcare. For example, businesses can use ChatGPT to provide 24/7 customer support, and healthcare providers can use it to answer patient questions and provide information about medical conditions and treatments.”

David types: Could it be dangerous?

ChatGPT responds: “Like any technology, ChatGPT could potentially be dangerous if used inappropriately or if it falls into the wrong hands. However, it's important to note that ChatGPT is designed to be used in a safe and ethical manner, and there are measures in place to prevent it from being used for malicious purposes.”

David actually writes a paragraph in his own article: The above is snippets from an exchange I had with ChatGPT. You can try it for yourself at chat.openai.com. Some are seeing ChatGPT, and other products like it, as the start of the next generation of the internet; a step towards a more intelligent web, focused on human communication and interaction. It has Google a little shaken, as it also has the potential to take the place of standard search engines and disrupt the highly-lucrative online advertising market.

There can be no doubt that AI is making waves at the moment. There are still many questions to answer with this technology becoming mainstream. ChatGPT passed 100 million users in just two months; a feat that took Facebook over four years. The thing is, it seems very capable of answering them.

EssentialsMAG tech contributor is David Hughes a freelance web developer Tel: 07595 303418

www.davidhughes.co

Ear Care Solutions Celebrates Milestone

Located within the rural countryside at The Plassey on the outskirts of Eyton, near Wrexham, Ear Care Solutions has been serving the people of North Wales, Cheshire, Mold, Flintshire and Shropshire for the past eight years.

Pam Hughes, Director of Ear Care Solutions, is thrilled to celebrate the milestone and has this to say, “I am delighted to have weathered the Covid storm in order to continue to provide a highly professional ear wax removal and comprehensive, fully insured Primary Ear Care service, no matter the age or general wellness of the client,” says Pam.

“We offer a FREE, no obligation consultation and assessment to ensure our clients are suitable for, and fully comfortable with, the treatment plan before we commence,” Pam continues.

Through a wealth of experience and qualifications, and 20 years’ experience within the community, schools and hospital ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) departments, Pam’s knowledge and professionalism has led to the majority of her new appointments originating from word of mouth recommendations from previous clients, who were delighted with their experience.

What is ear wax?

Within the ear lies a number of hair follicles and glands which produce the natural oil, ‘Cerumen’. Cerumen protects the skin within the ear from germs and water, and usually

passes through the ears harmlessly. However, too much Cerumen can build up and then block the ears. This waxy material within the ear can feel uncomfortable, itchy and painful – and cause loss of hearing, earache, pain, tinnitus and even dizziness or vertigo. It is, therefore, beneficial to seek help quickly.

The solution

Since GP surgeries rarely offer an ear wax removal service nowadays, Ear Care Solutions provides the answer for anyone suffering from a build up of ear wax –in either, or both, ears.

“We adopt best practice with our clients and advise them on preparation before they attend for treatment. This includes avoiding poking or prodding their ears which pushes the wax further into the ear canal, nor letting water into the ears, as this increases the chance of infection,” says Pam.

Using the latest irrigation system by Albert Waeschle, a leading quality manufacturer of medical equipment since the 1950s, Ear Care Solutions adopts a water jet ear wax removal system rather than micro-suction, or the old fashioned syringe system.

Please get in touch if you need help with your ear care, or wish to book your free, no obligation consultation.

By Pam Hughes from Ear Care Solutions pam@earcaresolutions.co.uk www.earcaresolutions.co.uk Tel: 07946

231051

Changing Your Utility Provider?

By JESS HART, Utility Warehouse

We all have experience of how complicated and time consuming changing our utility provider can be – whether that be for broadband, electricity, water or mobile phone. Do you feel you understand enough to recognise when you are getting a good deal, or would you rather remain with the same provider to keep life simple?

If you find the prospect of changing your provider daunting, that’s where I come in. I’m Jess from Utility Warehouse and I’m here to help you in any way I can.

The economy

Over the past 12 months or so, we have all watched the news with dread as energy bills have rocketed and we have seen multiple increases in costs across the board. There is now a very real potential for residents to fall into debt or even, overpay, their bills. The latter scenario means that energy suppliers are seeing some accounts in credit, sometimes to the tune of hundreds of pounds, as residents increase their credit card bills to overpay their utilities, in order to save themselves from potential debt.

What is the solution?

In this fast-paced world, here at Utility Warehouse, we believe it is vital to provide a reassuring person for our customers to be able to speak to – whenever they want to.

As a Utility Warehouse advisor, I can take the time to explain your bills to you, provide help and advice and get to know you, in order to provide the best possible service for you and your individual needs.

I am also able to help you switch mobiles, set up broadband routers, pop around for a coffee or have a chat over the phone if you prefer.

I take pride in supporting my customers when they need me – before, during and after the switch process.

Here are just a couple of reviews from some of my happy clients and there are plenty more on my web page too!

“The wonderful Jess made setting up my DD so easy and had a laugh in the process. Can’t fault the service.”

“I spoke with Jess and she was wonderful – so good to speak to a real person and one who has time to explain things. Thanks again.”

So if you need a helping hand with your utility bills and simply want to find out if I can help, give me a call.

There is no obligation to switch providers.

By Jess Hart from Utility Warehouse jess@utilitywarehousepartner.co.uk Tel: 0208 1238614

Dates for your Diary

SAT 1 APRIL

Krafty Kidz

Gresford Community Library, Vicarage Lane, Gresford LL12 8EU

Drop in with the children on the first Saturday of every month for a fun craft activity and storytime.

10:30am - 12pm Free

MON 3 APRIL

Charity Coffee Morning

The Alyn Pub, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0HE

Easter coffee morning in aid of Nightingale House Hospice. Cake stall, raffle and pop-up shop.

10am - 12pm

£5.00 (includes drink & cake)

MON 3 APRIL

Wellies in the Woods

Alyn Waters Country Park, Mold Rd, Gwersyllt, Wrexham LL11 4AG

Groundwork North Wales brings you wildlife exploration, creativity with nature and getting active. Activities include natural art and craft, games, species identification and much more. No booking required. Suitable for children ages 3 - 8.

10am - 1pm Free

Tel: 01978 757524

TUE 4 APRIL

Easter Scavenger Hunt

Minera Lead Mines, Minera, Wrexham LL11 3DU

Explore the Country Park and create an Easter wreath. Booking essential. Refreshments available.

1pm - 3pm Free

Tel: 01978 757524

TUE 4, 11, 18, 25 APRIL

Exercise Class for the over 60s

Burton & Rossett Village Hall, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0HE

Designed to help improve your flexibility, fitness, balance & strength. Fun, gentle exercises which can be performed seated or standing.

2:45pm - 3:30pm

£4.50

Tel: 07779 830399 (Lucy)

8 - 10 APRIL

Taste Cheshire Food and Drink Festival

Chester Racecourse, New Crane Street, Chester CH1 4JD

Over 100 exhibitors of food, drink, and lifestyle, plus free cooking classes.

10am - 5pm

From £8.00

http://bit.ly/40kRGxp

SUN 9 APRIL

Easter Family Fun Day

Ramada Plaza, Ellice Way, Wrexham LL13 7YH

Easter Family Fun DayEaster egg hunt, face painting, disco, arts and crafts, bouncy castle. Buffet and drinks included.

12pm - 4pm

£10.00 child 2-6

£15.00 adult/child over 6

Tel: 01978 291400

WED 12 APRIL

Active Wrexham

Wrexham Museum, County Buildings, Regent Street, Wrexham LL11 1RB

Speed bounce and long jump challenges on our forecourt. Pop by and see who will win! No need to book, just turn up!

11am - 2pm Free

12 - 14 APRIL

Play 'A Convenient Murder'

Darland High School, Chester Road, Rossett LL12 0DL

Darland Community Theatre present a thriller, ‘A Convenient Murder'.

Booking is essential.

7:30pm

£6.00 (incl. glass of wine)

Tel: 01978 720272

FRI 14 APRIL

Ancient Woodland

Flora and Fauna

Blackwood Business Park car park, Ash Road South, Wrexham Ind. Estate LL13 9UG

Join North Wales Wildlife Trust to learn about the wonderful flowers and animals which live in ancient woodlands of Erlas Black Wood.

10am - 12pm

Free (donations welcome)

Tel: 07940 008799

FRI 14 APRIL

Tŷ Pawb Comedy Night

Tŷ Pawb, Market Street, Wrexham LL13 8BB

An evening of stand-up comedy from some of the UK’s best touring comedians!

7:30pm

£10.00

http://bit.ly/3ncdn4k

SAT 15 APRIL

Together in Wrecsam

Tŷ Pawb, Market Street, Wrexham LL13 8BB

A day of celebrationbringing together the diverse local community of cultures, dance, music, food, arts and crafts.

10am - 5pm Free

www.typawb.wales

TUE 18 APRIL

The Friends of Wrexham Museum monthly talk

Wrexham Museum, Regent Street LL11 1RB

'The Cook at Erddig... friend or foe?' by Jill Burton

7pm

£3.00

asandra66@hotmail.co.uk

WED 19 APRIL

Pulford & Poulton Local History Group talk

Pulford Village Hall, off Burganey Court, Pulford, Chester CH4 9ES

‘The Huxley Hoard’ by Rob Philpott

7:30pm

£3.00 members/£5.00 non www.pplhg.org.uk

THUR 20 APRIL

Dodleston Local History Group talk

Dodleston Village Hall, Pulford Lane, Dodleston, Chester CH4 9NN

‘The Sinking of HMS Thetis’ by Derek Arnold

7:30pm

£3.00

Tel: 07966 436073

22 - 29 APRIL

Wrexham Carnival of Words

Wrexham

Wrexham's Carnival of Words offers a delightful array of literature, poetry and entertainment events at a number of different venues around the city.

For full itinerary visit: wrexhamcarnivalofwords.com

SUN 30 APRIL

Gresford Spring Fair and Artisan Market

Gresford Trust Memorial, High Street, Gresford, LL12 8PS

Spring Fair featuring great food and craft producers from the region - plus some extra fun for everyone!

12pm - 4pm Free

For a comprehensive list of local events, shows, groups and classes please visit: essentialsmag.co.uk/whatson Share

While every effort has been made to ensure all the details are correct at the time of going to print, it is advisable to check details with the venue concerned.

Acton Park Primary School

Girls’ Football Team

This year marks the first year that we have had a girls' football team, but this is not slowing them down. The team are already Active Wrexham Champions and will be representing Wrexham County in May in a competition in Newport. They have continued to add to their trophy cabinet by winning the Flintshire and Wrexham Urdd tournament and in May will be representing these counties in Aberystwyth.

New Pitch and Goals

On the 21st April, we will officially open our new football pitch and goals. This will be marked with a game for pupils who have represented the school this year in football tournaments. The former Wrexham Football Club captain, Robbie Evans, will be our referee for this exciting day, with former Wrexham players and representatives from Wrexham Football Club women’s team attending.

Eisteddfod

The children have been busy taking part in Eisteddfod competitions. They created amazing artwork, perfect photographs and beautiful bakes, to name just a few competitions they could enter. On each day, the children celebrated in the hall and took part in staged competitions, such as dancing, poetry recitals and Welsh recitations.

On the final day, the winning pupil was announced and presented with the Eisteddfod Chair, whilst the winning House was named as Dyfrdwy who accepted the Eisteddfod Cup.

Dino Discovery

Jurassic Live Wrexham visited school this term to help our Nursery and Reception children learn all about different dinosaurs. The children completed this project by creating a Dinosaur Museum to share their learning with their parents and carers. The museum showcased fossil formations, 2D shaped dinosaur creations, dinosaur fact files, and even dinosaur poo, to name but a few exhibitions on offer. The children were excellent museum tour guides sharing their knowledge. It was rawrsome!

100-Year Centenary

This year marks 100 years since the opening of our school. We will mark the day on the 18th April, with further celebrations taking place before the summer holidays in July. If you have any past links with the school and would like to be involved with these celebrations, please contact the school.

Acton Park Primary School

Box Lane, Wrexham LL12 8BT

www.actonpark-pri.wrexham.sch.uk

Luxury Cruising Above and beyond

By DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

Whilst most cruise lines purport to offer luxury, true luxury cruising is a step up from what I would call mainstream cruising because of a few subtle differences:

• Smaller ships with greater crew- and space-to-passenger ratios

• Much greater emphasis on dining experiences with several types of speciality restaurant often included in the price

• Larger cabins, usually with a balcony and extra amenities. Many also include:

• Alcoholic drinks including fine wines, champagne, cocktails, branded spirits, teas and coffees and soft drinks.

• Gratuities

• Shore excursions.

The atmosphere on board is very relaxed and the evening dress code is smart/casual. Because of the smaller size of the ships, the itineraries are often more unusual as they can dock in ports the larger ships cannot.

As I write, my colleague, Howard, is onboard Oceania’s Riviera sailing towards Charleston, South Carolina. Howard has a wide range of cruising experiences, so I asked him for a candid opinion of Oceania. He told me: “Oceania proudly claims to offer the best cuisine at sea and, after six days of testing out most of the dining venues on the newly refurbished Riviera, I find it hard to disagree.

With seven dining venues, the quality is equally matched by the choice. Riviera provides all the finer virtues of a traditional cruise ship but without the imposition of strict formality. So there is no requirement for dinner suits, and first, or second-sitting. Instead, they reflect a more modern approach with a smart/casual dinner dress code and open seating - enabling you to dine when you want, and with who you want. The only exceptions are the speciality restaurants require pre-booking.”

Howard continues, “And for those of us who relish a more sophisticated environment, there are no rock climbing walls, no pool parties, no water slides and no children’s clubs! Oceania is for people who enjoy being pampered and appreciate a high standard of personal service in comfortable and uncrowded surroundings. Oceania also offers some of the most imaginative itineraries with a number of sailings that include overnight stops in key ports. The perfect combination of exploration and pampering!”

See our advert featuring extraordinary Oceania Cruise offers newly released for an opportunity to experience Luxury Cruising at an incredible price.

Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises.

Tel: 01978 853 886, www.delmarworld.com

54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE

Wrexham Tourism News

By JOE BICKERTON, Tourism Manager, Wrexham County Borough Council

The arrival of Spring was heralded with the traditional St David’s Day parade in the City Centre and here in Wrexham, we’re looking forward to another busy visitor season. March, sadly reminds me of the position we were in three years ago, when we effectively had to ask people to stay away and hospitality businesses – along with many others – endured such a difficult period. However, this area of Wales in particular has bounced back strongly, with interest in Wrexham coming from a number of angles thanks, in part, to the international exposure which the ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ docu-series has presentedalong with our rich heritage-led attractions, events, great hospitality and the great exposure from being runners-up in the 2025 UK City of Culture race.

More and more so, within the new Visitor Information Centre on Chester Street (open Mon-Sat, 9-5pm), we are greeting more overseas visitors here on vacation. And as a result, our local accommodation providers are hopefully feeling the benefit.

The Centre had its official opening on 1st March and is home to a large selection of locally based food and drink produce, Welsh souvenirs, crafts and of course, plenty of local guides, information and monthly pop-up events celebrating local food!

by Penderyn Whiskey and Gemma from the Little Cheesemonger (Prestatyn).

This month, we have the return of the popular Wrexham Carnival of Words –a nationally acclaimed literary festival featuring celebrated local and national authors. One book entitled ‘Wrexham Revealed’ by Wrexham-based David Ebsworth is a guidebook written specifically for visitors wanting to take self-guided tours of our areas rich, fascinating history.

Finally, as regards local tourism activity –we are really excited to be working with VOX Magazine and EssentialsMAG to bring you a brand-new comprehensive tourism brochure for Wrexham County this summer. For the first time, we’ll be writing this with the aim of not only attracting day visitors to our local attractions and events, but also showcasing the best of our County for overseas holidaymakers heading to North Wales.

For locals and businesses with an interest in learning more about Wrexham – our new free, online Tourism Ambassador Scheme will be launching in May, with the opportunity to become an accredited ‘ambassador’ business with awards and recognition for those who take part.

More details next month!

The next event (tickets released soon) will take place in early May hosted

By Joe Bickerton, Tourism Manager at Wrexham County Borough Council T. 01978 292015 www.thisiswrexham.co.uk

Gardening Tips and Advice

April - Sunshine and Showers

Spring is finally in evidence as daffodils and flowering trees start to bloom. Expect the inevitable April showers this month but with sunny days too, when you can turn your attention to the lawn. It's an exciting month, with indoor-sown seeds well into growth, and it's also time to start sowing outdoors. Just watch out for frosts.

TOP 10 JOBS TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS MONTH

Keep weeds under control

Protect fruit blossom from late frosts

Tie in climbing and rambling roses

Sow hardy annuals, herbs and wild flower seeds outdoors

Start to feed citrus plants

Increase the water given to houseplants

Feed hungry shrubs and roses

Sow new lawns or repair bare patches

Prune fig trees

Divide bamboos and waterlilies

King Charles III Coronation Plans

As Prince of Wales, Charles has been preparing for this moment for most of his life, under the tutelage and guidance of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. He will be recorded in history as the longest ever heir apparent, and the oldest to ever accede to the British throne at the age of 73.

On 8th September 2022, Queen Elizabeth passed away and King Charles III became the new monarch. Coronation plans have been laid out for many years, under the codename ‘Operation Golden Orb’.

Saturday 6th May 2023

The Coronation Service

The Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort will take place on the morning of Saturday, 6th May at Westminster Abbey. Their Majesties will arrive at the Abbey in procession from Buckingham Palace, known as ‘The King’s Procession’.

The Coronation is a solemn religious service, as well as an occasion for celebration. The Service, conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury, will reflect the Monarch’s role today and look towards the future, while being rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry.

Sunday 7th May 2023

The Coronation Concert

On Sunday, 7th May, a special Coronation Concert will take place at Windsor Castle. Produced, staged and broadcast live by the BBC, the Coronation Concert will bring global music icons, contemporary stars, choirs and orchestras together in celebration of the historic occasion.

The concert will be attended by a public audience including volunteers from The King and The Queen Consort’s charity affiliations. Through a national ballot, several thousand members of the public will be selected to receive free tickets.

The centrepiece of the Coronation Concert, ‘Lighting up the Nation’, will see the country join together in celebration as iconic locations across the United Kingdom are lit up using projections, lasers, drone displays and illuminations.

Sunday 7th May 2023

The Coronation Big Lunch

Neighbours and communities across the United Kingdom are invited to share food and fun together at Coronation Big Lunches on Sunday 7th May, in a nationwide act of celebration and friendship. Free downloadable resources will be available online at: CoronationBigLunch.com, to help people and communities start their Coronation Big Lunch planning.

Monday 8th May 2023 - Bank Holiday

The Big Help Out

Monday 8th May is a special Bank Holiday that gives everyone the opportunity to join in with their communities and good causes through Big Help Out activities. The Big Help Out will encourage people to try volunteering and join the work being undertaken to support their local areas, and create a lasting volunteering legacy from the Coronation Weekend.

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Smoked Mackerel Kedgeree

INGREDIENTS

1 tbsp sunflower oil

1 onion, chopped

1½ tbsp curry powder

200g long grain rice

1 cinnamon stick

2 eggs

2 tomatoes, chopped

300g smoked mackerel fillets, skin removed and flaked

3 tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley

Lemon wedges, to serve

METHOD

SERVES 4

Heat the oil in a wide shallow pan over a medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 5 minutes, then add the curry powder, rice and cinnamon stick. Stir for 1 minute.

Pour in enough water to come 2.5cm above the surface of the rice. Season and bring to the boil, then cover and reduce to a slow simmer. Cook for 12–15 minutes, until the rice is tender.

Meanwhile, bring a small pan of water to the boil, then add the eggs. Cook for 7 minutes, remove and put the eggs in a bowl of cold water. When cool enough to handle, peel and quarter.

Discard the cinnamon stick. Stir in the eggs, tomatoes, mackerel and parsley. Serve with lemon to squeeze over.

This easy Smoked Mackerel Kedgeree is a mildly spiced rice dish with flakes of soft smoked mackerel, and topped with quartered hard-boiled eggs. It is traditionally served for breakfast but makes the perfect lunch or speedy supper.

Seasonal Treats in April

There’s no denying spring is here, and although there’s not an overabundance of local produce, what we’ve got is pretty special. Here are four of the best…

English asparagus

There’s asparagus, and then there’s English asparagus. With a short but sweet season that starts officially on April 23 (St George’s Day) and runs through to the end of June, nothing else compares. Asparagus is best enjoyed fresh, as its sugars swiftly convert into tough starch once it’s picked, so English has the advantage over imports not only in food miles but also in flavour and tenderness. Before cooking, thoroughly wash to flush out any grit, chop off the woody ends, then either boil or steam, or roast drizzled in olive oil at 220°C for 10-20 minutes.

Jersey Royals

Always a harbinger of spring, Jersey Royals will be available towards the end of the month. Grown only in Jersey, they are fertilized with seaweed which adds tons of flavour, before being carefully hand-lifted. To eat, keep it simple – those thin, tasty skins can be left on after a gentle wash, and their waxy texture makes them perfect for boiling, steaming or frying (although if you’re feeling adventurous, they also make magnificent dauphinoise)

Mackerel

A real treat - mackerel are one of the cheapest fish you can buy, and one of the healthiest and most sustainable, too – rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, which have been shown to help prevent heart disease and lower high blood pressure.

The classic way to cook them is pan-frying – add a splash of oil to the pan, and when it’s smoking hot, place the fillets skin-side down and cook until the skin is crisp and golden. Take the pan off the heat, flip the fillets over and leave to cook through for a couple more minutes.

Wild things: dandelions

Yes, they’re weeds, and yes, they’re everywhere – including your garden. But did you know dandelions are actually rather good to eat? Part of the same family as endives, they pack a similarly punchy, earthy flavour and are a great source of vitamins A, B, C, E and K. Enjoy their slightly bitter, peppery raw taste in a salad, or sauteed or steamed for a nutritious and milder serving of greens. You can also eat the flowers raw – they look beautiful in a salad – or fried in a thin batter to make fritters. It’s worth noting, however, that the French call them “pissenlit”, as they have a mild diuretic effect, so it’s best not to eat them too close to bedtime!

April’s Shopping List

Asparagus, Beetroot, Broccoli, Brown crab, Cabbages, Cauliflowers, Cucumber, Jersey new potatoes, Jerusalem artichoke, Kale, Leeks, Lettuce, Mackerel, Radishes, Rhubarb, Wild salmon, Spring greens, Spring onions, Turnips, Watercress

The Benefits of Eating Fish

BY SAMANTHA GRIFFITHS

Most of us need more fish in our diet, especially oily fish. Fish is packed full of ‘good’ fats, such as omega-3s, and provides protein, vitamin A, and vitamin D. Eating fish regularly has been linked to good brain health, and a reduced risk of heart disease.

Why are Omega-3s so good?

Omega-3s are a family of fats that are great for your health. It has been suggested that omega-3s may protect the heart and blood vessels, help maintain good memory, and even prevent and treat depression. Omega3s are considered ‘essential’ fatty acids as our body cannot make them, meaning we need to get them from our diet.

What is considered an ‘oily’ fish?

Oily fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamin D, and other vitamins and minerals. Oily fish includes herring (kippers), pilchards, salmon, sardines, trout, and mackerel. These can be fresh, frozen, or tinned. Some fish have edible bones, for example, tinned salmon, and these are a rich source of calcium.

How much fish should I be eating?

In the UK, it is recommended that adults eat at least two portions of fish each week, one of which should be oily. A portion is around 140g of fresh fish, or one small tin of tinned fish (there is different advice for children and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding). As well as oily fish, you could include white fish, such as cod, haddock, and plaice.

They provide protein, are low in fat, and some can be a source of omega-3 fatty acids, such as seabass. Shellfish, such as prawns, mussels, and crab, are low in fat and are a good source of selenium, zinc, iodine, and copper.

Isn’t fish expensive?

With the price of everything going up in the supermarket, frozen fish and tinned fish are a cheaper option. Smoked fish is always cheaper too, but be aware that it’s often high in salt.

What if I choose not to eat fish?

If you’re allergic to fish, or choose not to eat it, you can still get some omega-3s from other sources, such as nuts and seeds, vegetable oils, soya, and soya products.

What about sustainability?

When choosing fish, it’s a good idea to eat a range of different kinds, from sustainable sources - so there is enough fish for everyone, both now, and in the future.

PLEASE NOTE: If you have a long-term illness and want to make any dietary changes always discuss these with your GP or a Registered Dietitian first.

EssentialsMAG nutrition contributor is Samantha Griffiths

A Shop Window to the World

By JULIE GREGORY

It does not matter how large or small a business is, it needs a website. A website is the business’s opportunity to promote its products or services in the way it wants to present itself; to share information and even sell its products online. A website is the perfect tool to establish the credibility of, and gain trust for, the business.

As with social media, some businesses are filled with trepidation knowing that they need to have a website but not knowing where to start – or how much it will cost. Free platforms such as Go Daddy, Wix, SquareSpace etc, can be a simple solution to get a small, or start up business online quickly and cheaply using pre-prepared templates for pages and layouts. But they are limited in terms of functionality, ie. how many pages a site can have.

Creating a website can be fun as it allows the business to create its own worldwide shopfront! It is the chance for a business to tell everybody about the people involved in the business – where their experience lies, what they do and how they do it (hence, establishing credibility and building trust).

Visiting a website is the first step most people take when looking for a specific product or service, whether that be within their local area if applicable, or further afield if shopping online and geography is not as critical.

That all important first impression becomes even more relevant if the business is competing in the larger arena such as nationally or internationally where a brand really does have to work hard to stand out from its competition.

More people than ever are used to visiting websites to research their subject. That could be anything from keeping up with the latest breaking news to choosing a new bathroom. In fact, more than 80% of the UK population buy at least some purchases online. However, we haven’t stopped visiting shops yet, with 88% of us researching a product online before heading to the shop to actually make the purchase.

Ultimately, every business should promote itself online and the first step is to make sure its website promotes the brand in the right way, in an ever increasing competitive world.

Introducing Bowen Therapy

By GAYLE WHITTAKER

In Pain? Try ‘rolling’ it away with Bowen Therapy. Do you suffer from aches and pains? Back ache; frozen shoulder, neck restriction, tennis elbow; sore knees, Plantar Fasciitis; trigger finger or headaches?

Have you considered trying Bowen Therapy?

The answer is probably ‘no’ because most people have never heard of it.

What is Bowen Therapy?

Bowen Therapy - also known as The Bowen Technique - is a gentle remedial therapy that’s applied to particular areas of the body using rolling type moves in a specific order.

The moves work on the fascia, the layer of connective tissue under our skin which connects to our muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments and organs. The result is that aches, pains and the symptoms of many conditions we live with can melt away.

However, the effect of the Bowen move goes beyond the physical structure of our bodies. Bowen can also help to calm and balance our nervous systems, our breathing and our hormones amongst other things.

That’s why, in the days after a Bowen Therapy treatment, you might

not only see a reduction in aches and pains, but you

might also find that you’re calmer, feel less stressed, are sleeping better and generally feel back on top of things.

Bowen moves are tiny, very gentle rolls made with my fingers and thumbs. But don’t be fooled! The moves may be tiny but they can have a huge impact.

Time after time my clients are blown away by the effects of Bowen Therapy and ask how such a gentle therapy can have such amazing results. The answer is simpleBowen works on the basis that our bodies know how they should be functioning and how they should be aligned. The Bowen treatment enables the brain to review each area of the body as I work on it, and begin realignment so it can return to its natural state and function more effectively.

Bowen is ideal for anyone with aches and pains but it is also great for sports players, gym goers, runners etc, helping to keep the body aligned so you can perform your sport at your best.

Please feel free to contact me for a free and confidential chat if you’d like to understand more.

By Gayle Whittaker, Bowen Therapist and Reflexologist, The Universal Therapist Tel: 07766

701479

Ear Wax Removal & Hearing Aids

Focusing on the Big Picture

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF

The climate emergency has the potential to bring us together - we share the same home and all have a vested interest in its ongoing ability to support life. Unfortunately, we currently seem to be experiencing increased division and polarisation in our society.

The Welsh Government recently published the findings of its Roads Review. Its recommendations were welcomed by many and praised as “world-leading”. However, it has also generated significant opposition.

Whilst our views on the review may differ, most of us can hopefully agree that:

• We need to reduce carbon emissions/ air pollution

• This is unlikely to be achievable without significant “modal shift” from cars towards public transport and active travel

Whether we like it or not, scientific evidence indicates this is one of the things we need to do. The review’s recommendation that future road investment should support modal shift and reduce carbon emissions therefore seems reasonable. Deputy Climate Change Minister, Lee Waters’ assertion that we can’t tackle the climate crisis by continuing to do the same things is correct.

Characterisation of the review as an attack on motorists is neither accurate nor helpful; many of us who drive also

use public transport, walk and cycle and will potentially benefit from reallocation of resources. We’re not being told to never use cars; we’re being asked to try to reduce journeys or use other forms of transport where possible. If we’re successful, then when we do have to drive we should enjoy decreased congestion.

It’s been highlighted that many planned improvements to public transport have yet to happen. This is true, but funding these whilst continuing to spend just as much on roads is unlikely to be affordable. The roads review isn’t proposing stopping all spending on roads - some road schemes are still going ahead, whilst others may do so in amended form. It’s simply saying that road schemes should only proceed if this can be shown to be consistent with tackling the climate crisis and achieving net zero.

Polling suggests most of us agree that we need to do more to tackle the climate and ecological emergency. An element of division seems to creep in when it comes to our willingness to accept what meeting this aspiration actually involves. The solutions won’t necessarily be easy or comfortable, but we need to try to avoid creating division and focus on why taking real action is in everyone’s interest.

Professional Interior & Exterior Plastering

Whether you’re looking for a quick repair for some cracks, or a total redecoration complete with floor screeding, existing render removal and coving, you won’t find better than J P Plastering.

Overton Litter Pickers

By TED and WEN LUNT

We are litter pickers for Keep Wales Tidy in and round Overton. We are shocked by the amount of toxic polluting litter waste we pick up every week, which is only getting worse. The amount of litter being thrown is out of control, and we want to see more done to stop the litter throwers.

Between 2020 to 2023 we picked up over 1,000 red bags full of items thrown from vehicles. This, on average, mean 150,000 people have thrown a piece of litter in the Overton area during this time.

It is against the law to throw litter out of your car, or drop it in the street. But we are seeing a total disregard for this law.

We are picking up hundreds of sweet wrappers and crisp bags (made from nonbiodegradable material which can take take 50+ years to break down). Plastic bottles, beer bottles, cans, wine and spirit bottles.

E-cigarette vapour cases are now everywhere! We are also finding many other items, including human urine in plastic bottles which if not picked up, will be there for years - it’s disgusting, plus damaging our environment.

If you want to see more done to stop people from throwing litter from their vehicles, please write to your local MP, and the Welsh Assembly, as so much more could be done.

It takes a second to throw litter, but it takes hours and a lot of effort to pick it up. Take your litter home and put it in your recycle bin provided by your council.

Picking up litter doesn’t solve the problem, it just hides it until the next lot arrives.

with Hadlow Edwards

What does your mortgage future look like?

The last year has seen cost of living at the centre of many discussions. Mortgage costs are no exception here and we have seen both rate increases and reductions over this time.

Homeowners who might have been on a “tracker deal” (following the Bank of England Base Rate or their current lenders Standard Variable Rate) will have seen their monthly repayments steadily increase, almost every month.

However, our clients are still thinking and talking about moving home, extending, or modernising the interior. We are also still helping many young people buy their first home.

What are the next steps?

Understanding your options when considering a new mortgage is key to getting the right deal for you and your future. We continually meet mortgage borrowers who are looking at the next step. We sit down and work out what you can do now and in the future. This will allow you to then either view properties in confidence of what you can afford or to meet builders and architects safe with the knowledge of what your affordable budget is.

Reviewing your current mortgage rate, the same way you review other household finances, could also be beneficial. If you have not reviewed your mortgage deal in the last 18-24 months, we could help reassess your affordability and the feasibility of reducing your

mortgage term with the aim to be mortgage-free earlier than planned.

Those who are wanting to help their loved ones onto the property ladder can benefit from joint meetings and are a great way of finding out and understanding what options are available for all parties, especially with the term “bank of Mum and Dad” being referred to more now than ever!

Looking forward to your new home? Looking for your first home is an exciting step in the adulthood journey. My advice to first time buyers is to discuss your mortgage options before you begin viewing properties with a mortgage consultant who is able to look at a wide

By Jon Peatfield of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk Tel: 01978 311 611 www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

range of mortgage lenders to get the very best deal that’s out there for you. Don’t restrict yourself to just looking at banks or a single lender’s options - each lender is different in their approach as to how much they will let you borrow. We can help match you to the right lender and review your budget planning moving forward to ensure you are comfortable with your future costs.

If you would like to know more about your options, then please do not hesitate to call 01978 311611 or email jonathan.peatfield@sjpp.co.uk

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

Lesley Griffiths MS Member of the Senedd for Wrexham

Regular readers of my column will be aware I meet frequently with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) representatives, enabling me to raise any local issues and ensure the authorities are aware of patients’ day-to-day experiences.

Having met the North Wales Health Board’s new Associate Director of Primary Care back in November, I arranged a follow-up meeting to further discuss local GP services.

The improvement programme at the three managed practices in Wrexham (Hillcrest Medical Centre, Borras Park Surgery and Beechley Road Surgery) which began at the beginning of October is continuing.

Health Inspectorate Wales recently visited Hillcrest and the result of the inspection was good. At the present time, Hillcrest has no agency workers and a new salaried, full-time GP started there at the beginning of February. The new GP is a Dermatology specialist and will also take on Dermatology cases from the other two managed practices.

An internal audit was recently carried out at Strathmore Medical Practice and I will be advised of the outcome of this in due course. Unfortunately, constituents have recently highlighted issues at St George’s Surgery. I raised these concerns with the Associate Director and she will visit the practice herself to look at these in more detail. In the meantime, the Health Board is liaising with the GPs at the practice to try to resolve the issues raised.

The Health Board Panel will also be looking at Alyn Family Doctors’ request to close

Gresford Surgery. I will continue to monitor the situation and keep constituents updated.

British Heart Foundation (BHF) Cymru is Wales’ leading heart charity. Around 340,000 people in Wales are living with the daily burden of heart and circulatory disease and the charity helps fund life-saving research to improve diagnosis, treatment and to ultimately help save lives.

I recently visited Wrexham’s BHF store on Egerton Street to meet the management team and volunteers who donate their time to help the daily running of the shop. There is a real community spirit at the busy shop and it was good to find out more about their work and general fundraising challenges. All the purchases in Wrexham are helping support world-leading medical research, which is happening right here in Wales’ universities.

Volunteering at your local British Heart Foundation offers an opportunity to learn new life skills and gain valuable experiences. To find out more, visit www.bhf.org.uk

If you’re a constituent in Wrexham and there is an issue I could help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Talwyd costau’r cyhoeddiad hwn gan Gomisiwn y Senedd, o gronfeydd cyhoeddus / The costs of this publication have been met by the Senedd Commission from public funds.

Legal Advice

What to do if you suspect an elderly vulnerable person is being abused

Domestic abuse is a term commonly associated with ‘battered wives’, but in a Crime Survey conducted in 2020, the Office for National Statistics established that one in 50 people aged 75+ in England and Wales had been subjected to domestic abuse in the previous 12 months.

Domestic abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, or economic, but there are specific age-related differences in the type of abuse affecting older victims in particular, as well as an increased danger of victims being male.

Vulnerable older people with care and support needs can be at greater risk of abuse, particularly in the form of neglect, and research suggests that almost half a million over-65s will experience some form of abuse or neglect, whether that is in a care home setting or in their own home.

Economic abuse is potentially the greatest risk for older people, who are often reliant upon their abuser for care and support. In addition they may have to hand over the handling of their financial affairs to

someone else, due to mental or physical incapacity or both.

In the current economic climate, there is sadly a growing trend of financial abuse. This may involve a family member who is abusing their power of attorney, or it could be a stranger using persuasive power to get a vulnerable older person to part with a large amount of their money in a scam.

If you are a victim of domestic abuse, or you think someone you know is suffering abuse, you need to speak out. If you are worried about voicing concern to someone involved in social welfare, then contact a solicitor who specialises in domestic abuse.

A solicitor can put an application in to the Court of Protection for the revocation of a Lasting Power of Attorney, or the suspension, discharge, replacement or variation of a deputyship. They can also contact the Police, Adult Social Care, or the Office of the Public Guardian, and request that the local authority place the abuse victim into safekeeping. Finally, a solicitor can help to put together a compensation claim for a domestic abuse victim’s pain and suffering. Look out for a law firm that has Solicitors for the Elderly.

This article has been written by Elzbeth Kenny, Senior Solicitor at GHP Legal. Tel: 01978 291456

To get in touch please use the ‘Contact us’ form on the website: ghplegal.com

We are still extremely busy and, whilst our colleagues are well equipped to work remotely, due to current circumstances work may be interrupted – however cases are still ongoing and will be prioritised by urgency and need. Stay safe and thank you for your support.

Useful Numbers

Just For Fun

Crossword

ACROSS

1 Bend over on itself (4)

3 Pamphlet (8)

9 Cosmetic liquids (7)

10 Short treatise (5)

11 Roe (anag) (3)

12 Detection technology (5)

13 Walk heavily and firmly (5)

15 Mountain cry (5)

17 Rejuvenate (5)

18 Violate a law of God (3)

19 Deprive of weapons (5)

20 Tell a story (7)

21 Sanctity (8)

22 Small particles of stone (4)

DOWN

1 Continue a stroke in tennis (6,7)

2 Machine for shaping wood or metal (5)

4 World's largest country (6)

5 Butterfly larvae (12)

6 Without help (7)

7 Amusement (13)

8 Female fellow national (12)

14 Game played on a sloping board (7)

16 Activities a person engages in (6)

18 Ringo ___ : one of the Beatles (5)

Classic Sudoku

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

Here are the answers from March: