Essentials Mag February 2017 Bangor

MAG FEBRUARY 2017 • DELIVERED FREE

YOUR MONTHLY INSIGHT INTO LOC AL LIVING COVERING BANGOR ON DEE, OVERTON, CROSS LANES AND SURROUNDING AREA S

essentials Text

MAG

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AT A GLANCE Text

CHEST MOUNTED CAMERAS

For all frontline Police

NEVER FORGOTTEN 2nd Lt. Duncan Mackenzie

ESSENTIALS PROPERTY SECTION

A good start for 2017

THERE BE DRAGONS

Colossal dragon sculpture heading for Wrexham

THREE DAY EXTRAVAGANZA St. David’s Day weekend celebration in town centre

Follow us on @EssentialsJill for online editions of the magazine and up-to-date news

IT’S YOUR MAG TOO! Got any comments?

Let’s have them!

Call us on 01244 571602 or send an email to

jill@essentialsmag.co.uk

essentialsMAG www.essentialsmag.co.uk DISCLAIMER

The opinions and views expressed in articles and advertisements published in this issue of essentialsMAG are not necessarily the views held by the editors All facts and figures are correct at time of going to press Whilst every effort is taken to ensure accuracy in this publication, we cannot accept any responsibility for any error or omissions that may have occurred Registration No. 08947483 Printed by EWS Colourprint www.ewsprint.co.uk 01244 545 829 Design & Layout by Victoria Lee www.victorialee.uk.com 01978 855 459 Front cover image of sunset over Chirk

by Tristan Hartey

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Welcome

editor’s LETTER

Telephone 01244 571602 email jill@essentialsmag.co.uk Is it just me or does it feel like there are roadworks everywhere?

Victoria Lee - Designer

I'm not sure if that's a good thing or not, whereas on the one hand it feels like I'm always in queues of traffic, on the other hand it must be good if repairs are being fixed, and infrastructure is being invested in, as this tells me there is money available and it is being spent.

It is quite annoying though when everywhere seems to have roadworks at the same time!Perhaps the traffic jams are to do with the new Aldi that is now open in Wrexham, in the rush to have a nosey at the new store. Seems odd to think that the Ambulance service used to live there now that the store is open. Feels like Aldi has always been there. It's strange how once something is replaced you forget what used to be in its place and how quickly this happens. A sign of the ever changing world we live in, I guess.

If you're in business January isn't a great month if you need to do tax returns and pay tax, but once it's done at least you're off the hook for another year!

I'm sure we're in for a lively year all round as Brexit unfolds, Donald Trump settles into his new role and other eu countries have elections this year too. Interesting times!

Anyway I hope your year has got off to a great start, and I hope you haven't given up on your New Years resolutions yet either. I'm a poor example by not setting myself any, but I am back at the gym and my goals to finally sort the garden out this year are firmly in the back of my mind.

Best wishes to Terry Davies who has been ill and having a break from his motoring articles whilst he concentrates on getting better. I'm sure we're all missing him.

February is with us already so just two more months before Spring. I don't like to wish time away so forgive me for wishing a couple of months away just to get to Spring.

All the best, Jill

www.facebook.com/EssentialsRossett twitter.com/EssentialsJill

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North Wales Police

Body Worn Cameras for All Every front line police officer in North Wales will soon be wearing chest mounted video cameras – a first for Wales.

North Wales Police have taken just delivery of 301 extra body worn video kits and 50 docking stations and they’re being rolled out across the region. They have been paid for out of the budget of North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones, with a cost of £163,000 for the technology.

Body worn video cameras were first introduced in North Wales in 2015, with 120 kits being deployed across the region which meant only a third of response officers had access to the cameras. The arrival of the additional devices means the force will be the first in Wales to give the technology to all its police officers and police community support officers while on front line duty, including members of the specialist firearms and rural crime teams.

The Police and Crime Commissioner Arfon Jones says: “It’s expected that the extra kits will result in a 12 per cent increase in the number of successful prosecutions in domestic abuse cases, a surge in the number of guilty pleas generally and a reduction in the number of complaints against officers.

Mr Jones added: “I promised in my manifesto that I would supply all front line officers with body worn video and today’s the day. I’m very, very happy that we’ve found the money to be able to do this. It’s going to help victims of crime, help us arrest more offenders and improve the quality of life of vulnerable people.

It’s been shown that the introduction of body worn video equipment improves the success rate in domestic violence cases by 12 per cent. That’s massive.

“I look forward to seeing more and more offenders appearing in court and less survivors having to put up with a poor quality of life. I would expect there to be more guilty pleas and that’s a good thing. It avoids survivors of domestic violence having to give evidence in court. It saves money and it’s obviously better for the perpetrator because the earlier they plead guilty, the more reasonable the sentence will be for them.”

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Not Just for Girls

Penley Netball Team Think that Netball is just for school girls? Think again!

Penley Back to Netball was originally set up in 2016 through a 10 week programme funded by Wrexham Council. When the funding ended the group decided to carry on the sessions and run independently with qualified sports coach Sarah at the helm. Since then they have played several friendly matches against The Netcrackers and Whitchurch Back to Netball clubs and are excited to see the group grow each week with more and more ladies finding their way Back to Netball.

Back to Netball sessions are aimed at ladies aged 14+ who either haven’t played netball before or haven’t played for several years. Sessions are a great way of getting fit, having fun and making new friends. Don’t worry if you can’t remember the rules, these will all be explained by our coach Sarah. Sessions cover the basics of the game including passing, footwork and shooting. Sessions finish with a friendly game to put the skills you have learnt into practice.

You don’t need any special kit, just clothes that you feel comfortable exercising in and trainers (no netball skirt required!) but make sure you bring some water! From losing weight, developing the body’s cardiovascular system and improving muscle tone, taking part in Back to Netball is great for you in so many ways without really feeling like you’re exercising.

“I absolutely love Penley Back to Netball, I was really nervous before going as I haven’t played since school but everyone’s so friendly and made me feel really welcome” Claire, 34, busy mum of 2 boys. A friend convinced me to attend and I’m so pleased I did. All the ladies were extremely welcoming and it is a really light hearted environment” - Charlotte, Back to Netball Participant All sessions run in term time on a Wednesday evening at the Maelor School Sports Hall between 6-7pm and are £5 per session. For further details please visit our Facebook page: www.facebook.com/penleynetball or Twitter twitter.com/B2NPenley.

Welcome Back to Netball!

A

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Finance News with Hadlow Edwards

The Perfect Fit Moving into a retirement community is a decision that demands a great deal of careful consideration. There are plenty of reasons to think about downsizing but whatever the motivation, it can still be difficult to leave somewhere that’s been your home for many years.

“What we hear most commonly from our clients, once they have settled into their new home, is that they wish they’d made the move sooner,” says Craig Percy, Chief Operating Officer of LifeCare Residences, a founding member of the Associated Retirement Community Operators. “The upheaval of leaving a family home is a process best undertaken while the mind and body are in a fit enough state to make the transition as smooth as possible.”

When selecting a retirement community, people understandably tend to gravitate to an area in which they already have an established network of friends and family.

But the venue should also resonate with the individual’s vision of an ideal retirement.

Percy believes there may be no better way to gauge the character of a retirement community than by talking to the residents.

“They can be the best ambassadors but, equally, the most honest critics,” he says.

“Residents are often drawn by the opportunity to live amongst likeminded people in a thriving

Warren Hadlow

Medwyn Edwards

community, which is why a varied programme of social opportunities and activities is a fundamental part of any retirement neighbourhood,” says Percy.

It’s also worth considering whether a retirement community has care facilities – even if care is not required at outset – so as to avoid a further move when it might be much more difficult.

It is also important to distinguish the level and nature of the care packages available, as these can vary widely “You should meet with key staff to ensure you have confidence in their knowledge, experience and qualifications – and that you like them,” says Percy.

But perhaps most importantly, being fully aware of costs and affordability is essential.

“A transparent financial structure is paramount – buyers have the right to understand exactly what they are paying for, the outgoings, and any additional costs involved, including any event fees.”

Downsizing can make sense, both in terms of improving your quality of life and freeing up capital, but it’s only one of the options available to help finance later-life care.

Speaking to a financial adviser can help you explore the options that are best suited to your individual circumstances.

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

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Investment Planning

Mortgages

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Telephone: 01978 311 611 Fax: 01978 311 633 email: hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

Text Viv Lavis Jones

Text Bangor on Dee History One of the fiercest storms experienced in North Wales occurred in January 1899 when the land for miles around was flooded and many farmers lost livestock.

The River Dee began to rise very rapidly one day and by the following morning the village itself was flooded on account of the bulwark below the bridge bursting and the houses that were on a low level were quickly engulfed. The roads became impassable and the farmers and market gardeners that attended Wrexham markets had some narrow escapes when returning home late at night.

The storm of 1899

One dealer, as she was returning home at night mistook the road and ended up with her horse and cart in the hedge and it was with great difficulty that she managed to get the horse into shallow water. The Postman who took the letters from Worthenbury to Wrexham made the journey on horse back and the water was half way up the horse's girth.

By the third day he could not pass the flood at all and on the fourth day he had to make the journey by train. It had been arranged to bury a child in Bangor churchyard but the water around the house was eighteen inches deep and the grave in the churchyard, which had been dug the day before, had become filled by the continual rain overnight. It was impossible to bury the body and the funeral had to be postponed.

The Police Officer stationed in Bangor whose wife was ill had to carry the doctor on his back through the flood to reach the staircase in the house. After that the Doctor was seen making his rounds by coracle. Very few houses escaped damage and pigs, sheep and fowls were seen floating down stream in great numbers. The water rose to half the height of the post office counter and the stock of a Draper's shop was ruined. A jury summoned to hold an inquest on an elderly man had great difficulty in reaching the house and planks had to be laid from the Red Lion where the inquest was to be held to enable the jury to attend. It was stated in a press report that the body, which had been laid out before the flood came, was found on the fourth day floating in the cottage in water.

On the third day, it being a Sunday, hundreds of sightseers visited the area to see the village surrounded by a vast inland sea and the unusual appearance of seagulls - a rare sight in these parts. From the ridge overlooking Bangor people using binoculars could discern the policeman and the doctor using coracles to make their rounds. Instead of gawping at the sight and making pitying remarks it would have been more helpful if someone had passed a hat around and invited contributions towards repairing the damage.

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Wrexham News

People’s Market Market Traders take up Temporary Location

Traders from the People's Market have moved to temporary accommodation whilst works are carried out to transform the current market hall and first floor car park into a new arts and markets facility.

RKM Wools has joined The Cafe in the Corner, Rings "n" Things Jewellery, Wrexham Jewellery Repairs, Gemini Blinds, Kendricks Newsagents and Dexterity Ink Tattoo Artist in the South Mall of the People's Market and all will continue to trade throughout the construction period.

Five traders, Sweet Sensations - the confectionery stall, Esme's baby, infant and children's wear, Little B’s Haberdashery, Guardians of the Garden ornaments and Antiques and bric-a-brac, have re-located and are now trading from the Butcher's Market.

Wrexham Vacs is moving into 10a High Street and Piccolinos story telling will continue at Oriel Wrecsam and within the Butcher's Market throughout the coming year.

The £4.5 million scheme will see work carried out to provide two Galleries, one to national standards for the display of exhibitions, a number of performance spaces that will be flexible in use, market stalls, the Oriel Wrecsam shop, learning and education space and a food court. Other features include a Shepherd's Hut workshop space, new furniture, seating and signage within the building.

Cllr Hugh Jones, Lead member for Communities and Partnerships, said:

"It is great that work is starting on this key investment into the town centre and I am very pleased that traders are happy with the arrangements we have put in place for them to continue to trade during the construction period. I know it has caused them some disruption but I am confident the end result will meet their expectations when the development is completed. We will be keeping them informed of progress as the works take place over the next twelve months."

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Gone But Not Forgotten

2nd Lt. Duncan Mackenzie

Recently a ceremony took place beside a grave in Bangor on Dee churchyard. 2nd Lt. Duncan Mackenzie of the Black Watch was wounded in 1916, receiving a head wound on the Somme. He returned to the UK and convalesced in the Wrexham Area. He died on January 4th 1917 and was buried in Bangor-on-Dee Cemetery. His gravestone is an official War Graves Commission headstone.

The grave, in a far corner of Bangor churchyard, has been neglected and there has been no evidence that any members of his family have been to visit in the last twenty years.

However, he has not been totally forgotten! Local resident Morag Moreton, who lives adjacent to the Churchyard, has assiduously placed a poppy on Lt. MacKenzie’s grave every year on Remembrance Day and wreath every Christmas.

As the 100th anniversary of his death approached Morag decided to contact his Regiment to see if the anniversary could receive recognition. Her request was passed to Wrexham’s Royal British Legion Membership Support Officer, Adrian Leslie who, in the absence of a Royal British Legion branch in Bangor, contacted Overton Branch who agreed to attend a commemoration at the graveside.

Approaching 11.00am on the morning of the 4th a small group, comprising Mo and Gerry Moreton and friend and three members of Overton Branch, together with Adrian Leslie, gathered at the graveside and Overton Branch Chairman, David Burton, laid a Poppy Wreath on the grave and intoned the Legion’s exhortation:“They shall not grow old as we that are left grow old, Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, We will remember them!”

Essentials Mag

Property Section

A Steady Start to 2017’

Rightmove data for the turn of the year shows a steady start to 2017’s housing market. The monthly increase in the price of property coming to market at 0.4% (+£1,086) is very similar to the 0.5% rise recorded in the same period 12 months ago. Early indicators of housing demand also appear robust, with Rightmove traffic compared to a year ago up by 5% since Boxing Day, which is traditionally when movers start to search en masse. This increase in search activity is notable given that a year ago market activity was buoyed by the November announcement that second-home stamp duty would apply from April 2016. With this year having no such dynamic there is a new year opportunity for first-time buyers to fill the void left by buy-to-let purchasers.

New Year Opportunity for First-Time-Buyers

With markedly fewer buy-to-let purchasers than this time a year ago, the number of sales agreed in the typical first-time-buyer sector of two bedrooms and fewer was down 13.2% in December compared to the same month in 2015. As a result, available stock for sale in this sector is up 1.9% compared to last year, offering more choice for first-time buyers. This contrasts with the same period a year ago, when available stock fell by 18% as active buy-tolet purchasers reduced choice and limited buyers’ ability to negotiate.

Miles Shipside, Rightmove director and housing market analyst comments: “Those planning to buy their first home in 2017 have more choice of properties and less competition from other buyers than their counterparts a year ago. It’s a possible learning point for aspiring first-time buyers that a year ago buy-to-let purchasers acted more quickly and closed deals at a faster rate, appearing not to take a Christmas break. Admittedly they had the financial incentive of a deadline to motivate them, but first-time buyers still have time to act and currently have the incentive of stronger negotiating power to try and mitigate the upwards trajectory of property prices.”

Shipside advises: “Some sellers of first-time-buyer properties may be being over-optimistic with their pricing, giving an opportunity for budget-strapped first-time buyers to negotiate, especially if they act now while there’s still more choice available.”

......................................................................................................................................................................

Information provided by www.rightmove.co.uk

BREXIT... TRUMP Well... 2016 was certainly full of surprises!

Maybe another surprise of 2016 was that you were unable to sell your property.

As we enter 2017 maybe it’s time for a fresh start, a new approach...

As a multi-award winning Estate and Letting Agency we will offer you a no obligation, honest and straight forward critique of what needs to be done to get your property sold.

Why not give us a call on:

01978 340030 / 01244 402960 Wrexham Office:

Chester Office:

Elwy House, 15-15A King Street, Wrexham LL11 1HF

64 Lower Bridge Street, Chester, Cheshire CH1 1RU

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Selling Houses...

Only Doing it Better!

whitegates

There's always a market to do something better, and selling and managing the rental of houses is no different. With so many agents to choose from it can be daunting as a customer to work out who will give you the service you are looking for, and how estate agents differ when they all look the same just with different names.

Most people think that agents just need to put a house on rightmove and wait for it to sell these days.

Don't underestimate the photography, knowing the customers' expectations and situation, understanding the local area, and having visited the house so it can be thoroughly and positively portrayed in all potential calls. Having dared to undertake some market research from past and present customer recently Whitegates are pleased to find that they are keeping their customer’s happy, and comments range from: “My house had been on the market for two years with my first agents, and with Whitegates it sold in a matter of weeks” “They managed to get the offer price increased by £2,000 which offset their fees”

“The first person who viewed the property put in an offer which we accepted - it was only on the market for a few days!”

More importantly the words, 'helpful', 'professional', 'friendly', and 'straightforward', were reinforced time and time again by the local people surveyed.

Often the main bug bare for customers once having instructed an agent to represent them is the lack of communication going forward. It is the norm for most agents to say they will do this and fail, whereas it is confirmed that Whitegates deliver in this area.

The fact that Whitegates care enough to invest in the time to consult their customers in their mission to care about getting it right, should surely convince you to use them.And the fact that it is the local people that have identified Whitegates' niche in the market for offering a personal and comprehensive service and keeping their customers informed each step of the way.

And therefore selling houses, and simply doing it better!

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

whitegates

whitegates Whitegates Rental Investment Properties for Sale

Hightown Road, Wrexham, LL13 2 Bedroom End Terrace House

2 Reception Rooms.

First Floor Bathroom.

No Onward Chain.

Close to Eagles Meadow Modernisation & Updating Required.

Energy Efficiency Rating 29 Band F Estimated Rental £500 PCM

£70,000

Watery Road, Wrexham, LL13 Two Bedroom Mid Terrace House Gas Central Heating Double Glazing Installed First Floor Bathroom 2 Reception Rooms Rear Garden Convenient Location No Onward Chain EPC Rating 51 Band E Estimated Rental £525 PCM

£99,950

Stockwell Grove, Wrexham, LL13 2 Bedroom First Floor Apartment Gas Central Heating UPVC Double Glazing Spacious Rooms Popular Location No Onward Chain EPC Rating C 71 Service and leasehold costs £102.16 PA Estimated Rental £500 PCM

£89,950

Park Street, Rhosddu, LL11 End Terraced Property

Well Presented Property Lounge, Dining Room & Kitchen Two Bedrooms & Bathroom Garden to Front and Rear Ideal First Time Buy or Investment Property EPC Rating – E Estimated Rental £500 PCM

£95,500

Charles Street, Brymbo, LL11 Mews Three Bedroom House

St Margaret Way, Acton, LL12 4 Bedroom HMO Property

£118,950

£165,000 guide

Mews Three Bedroom House Downstairs WC Lounge and Kitchen Three Bedrooms Garden to Rear Three Car Parking Spaces Energy Performance Rating B'81 Estimated Rental £595 PCM

4 Bedroom HMO Property Excellent Standard Throughout Gas Central Heating Garage to Rear UPVC Double Glazing Energy Performance Rating 72 Band C Generating Approximately £1400 PCM

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

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

whitegates

Wrexham News

Future of REME in Wrexham From Leader of Wrexham Council, Cllr Mark Pritchard As part of the British “Army 2020 Refine” strategy, we have heard that the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineer (REME) unit based at the Barracks in Hightown, Wrexham might be relocating from Wrexham to Keynsham, Bristol by 2019. A written statement was published by Sir Michael Fallon, Secretary of State for Defence on 15th December 2016, and whilst this does not mention Wrexham specifically, I am led to believe that REME might be moving out of Wrexham.

This has come as a real shock for me as Leader of Wrexham Council and I wanted to let the public know of this news as soon as possible. We are a town with a strong and proud military heritage. We have always worked very closely with our partners at the barracks in Wrexham and we will be hugely saddened to lose this connection if this comes to pass. Armed Forces are part of our culture and part of our heritage in Wrexham. We pride ourselves on the positive work that we have undertaken in Wrexham as part of our Armed Forces Community Covenant.

Our Armed Forces Champion Cllr David Griffiths has said:

“I am deeply saddened to hear of this and that we might well be losing REME from Wrexham. REME is a huge asset for the town and they would be greatly missed. We will continue to work closely with them through this potential time of change, and our Armed Forces Covenant work will of course continue to support veterans and their families in Wrexham.

I do hope that an Armed Forces presence in Wrexham will not be lost.”

Through this proposed time of change Wrexham Council will continue to work closely with 101 Battalion REME and the British Army to best support them in any way we can.

An e-petition urging the UK Government to retain an Armed Forces presence in Wrexham has been created, and I will invite Wrexham residents to sign this as soon as it is published. In the meantime, I urge residents to contact me at Army2020Refine@wrexham.gov.uk with their thoughts on this proposal.

R

Holiday Cottage Short-term Rental House Lovely 3 bedroom detached cottage with off road parking available for short term holiday rentals.

Holiday Home Coming soon...!

Lovely 3 bedroom, fully furnished detached cottage with off road parking available for short term holiday rentals.

Five minutes from centre of Wrexham in convenient established residential area.

Accommodates 6 guests 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms Character cottage with log burner

Perfect if family or friends are coming to see you and you haven't the space to put them up.

From 1 day upwards.

Great weekend base and for visiting LLangollen, Wrexham, Chester and Snowdonia Contact Richard on 07580 077099 to discuss availability and for more information

Outskirts of Wrexham Rental from 1 day upwards

Rossett Court was built in 1897 and used to be a small hotel as well as the village butchers shop in its time.

It is currently being renovated and will be restored to its former life in the tourism industry as a holiday house later this year, hopefully early Spring.

Rossett Court is a large Victorian detached house and will accommodate parties or families of up to 10 people for short breaks and holidays. The house will be available to rent as a whole as a self catering, fully furnished venue. All bedrooms will have their own bathroom, the dining room will cater for large dining parties with the centre piece of the room being the grand dining table, and the lounge will feature a wood burning stove. The house will be sympathetically restored, re-painted and re-furnished from top to toe.

Ideal for holidays, weekend breaks, family occasions, even as a venue for mini workshops, and training courses.

For enquiries please contact: Richard on 07580 077 099 www.rossettcourt.co.uk

Rossett Court, Chester Road, Rossett LL12 0HN

Text Gardening Tips

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

1.

Prepare vegetable seed beds, and sow some vegetables under cover

3.

Protect blossom on apricots, nectarines and peaches

2.

4.

Chit potato tubers

Net fruit and vegetable crops to keep the birds off

5.

Prune winter-flowering shrubs that have finished flowering

7.

Prune Wisteria

6.

8.

9.

Divide bulbs such as snowdrops, and plant those that need planting 'in the green' Prune hardy evergreen hedges and renovate overgrown deciduous hedges Prune conservatory climbers such as bougainvillea

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

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g n ri sp l ti n u it a w t ’ n o d E: IC V R SE R TE WIN

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Police Advice I’d like to start off this month sadly returning to the problem of Dog Fouling once again in some areas of Marchwiel and Cross Lanes that have been brought to our attention recently. I can’t stress enough that it is your responsibility as a dog owner to pick up the mess after your dog. Why should we have to clean up after YOU when you are not doing it yourself. It’s not only disgusting but also harmful, so if you use the streets of any village, do the decent thing and don’t leave your dog mess behind. You know who you are and we will too, and sooner than you think, as we will be watching. The Enforcement Officers will be visiting the surrounding villages and they will make you pay, so think on and be prepared for the consequences of your actions, or not in this case.

On a different note there have been reports of registration plates stolen in the North Wales area recently. The plates are then usually used to conceal the identity of a vehicle to commit crime. Vehicle registration plates are at risk of being stolen, and to assist, we now have ‘Number Plate Security Kits’ which are tamperproof kits - available at £1.50 each, plus postage where applicable).

Contact the OWL team for more information at watch@owlcymru.org or telephone 01352 708118.

Also to make you aware persons have tried to gain access into properties in the Wrexham area saying they were working for the Council and are there to check the water supply. We would urge residents to check their ID before letting anyone into their homes. Council employees will always carry ID. If you are unsure please call Wrexham Council on 01978 298993 before letting anyone in.

One other thing to make you aware of is that doorstep fish sellers operate in the Wrexham and surrounding areas. Trading Standards are advising people not to be pressurised by sellers who are cold calling and selling door to door. If you are approached you should report the indicants to the Police on 101 or Trading Standards on 03454 040506.

The fish may not be worth the price you pay and there could be issues with labelling and the quality of the fish. The best place to buy fish is from a reputable fishmonger at an established shop or stall or from a regular rounds man. You are taking a risk by buying on the doorstep from an unknown trader as this fish may be of poor quality or be unfit to eat.

Please pass this information to family, friends, neighbours and anyone else who may be vulnerable. For general consumer advice ring Citizen’s Advice Service on 03454 040506.

CONTACT NUMBERS PCSO 0151 Lynne Maurice Blackberry 07854 352 815 PCSO 3020 Mike Simister Mobile 07880 156956 Overton, Hanmer, Bettisfield, Horeseman’s, Green & Penley CALL 101 which is a 24 hour number for non emergency calls ie. threatening and abusive behaviour, drunk and rowdy groups, drug related anti-social behaviour.

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EMERGENCY

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www.awrenewables.co.uk Tel: 01978 806075 • 07860 563827 We will beat any like for like written quotation

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CARPET & BED WAREHOUSE Brighton Double Bed Package was £299 now £199 Includes open coil 13.5 gage mattress system and headboard as seen

Hamilton James Double Bed Package was £1000 now £699 includes 1000 pocket sprung mattress

Wrexhams largest selection of roll ends 50% off selected roll ends

WE ARE OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK: Mon- Fri: 9-5pm / Sat: 9-4pm / Closed on Sunday The Carpet & Bed Warehouse Wrexham, 36 - 39 Chester Street, Wrexham LL13 8AH Telephone: 01978 291500 www.thecarpetwarehousewrexham.co.uk

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Essentials NOTICEBOARD

Singing for a Healthier Life

1st Monday of the month with Ruth More. Entry is ÂŁ2.50 per person and includes Tea/Coffee and biscuits.

Singing daily for at least 10 minutes reduces stress, clears sinuses, improves posture and can even help you to live longer.

Venue: Penley Rainbow Centre 06/02/2017 1.30pm-3pm This is event is suitable for 18+

Contact Geraldine Vaughn on 01948830730 or email admin@penleyrainbowcentre.co.uk

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A Taste of Tai Chi/ Beginner Qi Gong Class Thursday evenings 7.30-9pm Penley Rainbow Centre Friday 10-11am Bangor on Dee Village Hall ÂŁ5 per session Contact Linda 07599813077

Holiday Cottage Short-term Rental House Outskirts of Wrexham Rental from 1 day upwards Please call Richard 07580 077 099

Zumba Gold This is a low impact dance fitness program for the active older adult.

Tues 9.45am: Kenyon Hall Holt Thurs 9.45am: Bangor On Dee Hall Thurs 11.30am: Rossett Hall Classes start in September Call Maritza on: 0750 137 3426 livezumba@yahoo.co.uk

Quiltfest 2017 Royal International Pavilion Abbey Road, Llangollen 8th - 19th February Open daily 10am - 4pm Museum and Art Gallery Parade Street, Llangollen 1st - 28th February Open daily 10am - 4pm

Quiz Night

www.quiltfest.org.uk

Friday 3rd March at 7.30pm Tallarn Green Village Hall Quiz Master Brian Felstead Teams of 4 Entrance ÂŁ5 per head, includes refreshments To reserve a table, please call 01948 830249 !

3rd - 5th March

Wrexham St’David’s Day Weekend A brand new three day extravaganza celebrating St David’s Day and Welsh culture will arrive in Wrexham town centre in March.

Created by the organisers of the annual FOCUS Wales Music Festival Wrexham Council – the three day ‘Wrexham St David’s Weekend’ will take over the High Street in the heart of the town centre between Friday 3 and Sunday 5 March 2017.

Over the three days the event will celebrate Welsh culture and honour the national patron saint with a fun packed and high profile outdoor show.

The ‘Wrexham St David’s Day Weekend’ will feature the best up and coming bands, performing in both Welsh and English from around Wales, as well as choirs, bespoke food stalls selling high quality Welsh fayre and entertainment for all the family.

Free entry

The free to attend event will close down Wrexham’s High Street to vehicles from 7.30am on the Friday until 12am Monday morning, creating a street party atmosphere throughout the weekend.

Alcohol will not be made available as part of the event itself. Local businesses including pubs and bars will be open as usual throughout the weekend.

More information, including show times and line-ups for each day visit: www.focuswales.com

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Wrexham News

Dog Foulers Beware "Don't be Foul, Pick up the Poo"- Dog Foulers Beware Wrexham Council has pledged to continue to crackdown on those who refuse to pick up after their dog fouls. Reports of dog fouling hotspots are being received from across the county borough and now a Senior Councillor warns offenders "Don't be Foul, Pick up the Poo."

Enforcement officers will continue to work throughout the county borough out of hours, particularly in areas where dog fouling is brought to their attention, and residents are asked to continue to report the issue by emailing contact: us@wrexham.gov.uk with details of where it is happening and at what time of day. The information will be treated confidentially.

Kingdom, on the Council's behalf, will patrol as many of the reported areas as possible including out of hours in many cases which will either deter or catch those who still refuse to pick up after their dog has fouled.

Cllr David A Bithell, Lead Member for Environment and Transport, said:

"This is our no-nonsense message to dog foulers. Not picking up after your dog has fouled is socially and environmentally unacceptable and we will be looking for those responsible at all hours of the day. Those who are caught will be fined for their irresponsible behaviour.”

“Dog fouling is one of the most emotive issues that residents bring to my attention and I am pleased that the enforcement action Kingdom officers has been taking on behalf of the Council is being welcomed by residents, responsible dog owners and councillors. We intend to continue our no nonsense and zero tolerance approach of fining offenders and will be making even more efforts to fine those responsible."

Last month (December) enforcement officers issued eight £75.00 fines to irresponsible dog owners.

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Call Peter Claybrook 01978 860288 / 07976 835887 greenvalleysolutions@btconnect.com greenvalleysolutions.co.uk

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Tel: 01978 265 381 www.reflections-wrexham.co.uk Unit 2, Fairfield, Barkers Lane, Borras LL13 9TP Showroom open: Monday - Friday 9am to 4:30pm with evenings and weekends by appointment

Colossal Dragon Sculpture

Heading to Wrexham

An enormous Dragon sculpture is to descend on Wrexham this spring – with a day of special activities announced to coincide with its arrival.

To celebrate the 2017 Wales Year of Legends on Saturday 1 April, CADW – the Welsh Government’s historic environment service – will install the colossal Dragon on the Wrexham Museum forecourt.

The impressive Dragon, with its reptile like black and red scales, will be keeping watch for the day, with an outreached claw ready to capture any brave passers by.

Throughout the day visitors to Wrexham Museum will be able to enjoy plenty of activities – including sampling your very own Dragon Pie and a Dragon Egg Hunt. Also be sure to greet the Dragon Keeper to gain your ride on Hemlock to feel as though you are flying your very own dragon! The breathtaking display will be installed at Wrexham Museum to coincide with ‘Dragonfest’, a celebration of all things linked with the Welsh Dragon.

Ahead of the Dragon’s arrival on April 1, throughout February and March dragon hunters will have the chance to win prizes by finding a rare ‘Golden Dragon Ticket’. In total there will be three golden tickets hidden in special Dragonfest Chocolate Bars – which will be on sale in different outlets across the County from early February. Those lucky enough to find the tickets will be in with chance to win some fantastic prizes from Surf Snowdonia, £200 worth of High Street shopping vouchers and a VIP day at Bangor on Dee races.

Dragonfest will arrive at the Wrexham Museum on Saturday 1st April between 11am and 4pm. Entry to the event is free.

For more information contact: museum@wrexham.gov.uk or 01978 297460.

01978 853 886 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford LL12 8NE www.delmarworld.com

Essentials Mailbox

WORTHENBURY W.I. held their January meeting in the newly refurbished Village Hall.

President Doreen Manning Members enjoyed a festive drink, and she welcomed for several new Members. The Speaker was local historian Alistir Williams who spoke on "Who is Jones". The Committee served teas, and Sandra Manley prepared a discussion paper for Members to decide on how to vote for the resolution to be put forward to the National AGM in June at the Echo Arena in Liverpool. The next meeting is on Tuesday14th February and is a Photography Workshop - bring your digital camera, mobile phone or tablet, and find out how to make the best of your photos.

Not a Member? come along and give us a try, just pay a visitors fee.

Doreen

Independent candidate for Overton District My name is John McCusker and I am standing as an Independent candidate for Overton district in the Wrexham Council Elections in May. I have lived in Overton for 24 years with my wife and four children and also own a property in Hanmer for the last ten years. I am concerned about the WHOLE area and want to make a difference helping local people with local issues. I intend to be fully hands on attending all Council meetings to focus on scrutiny but will try and solve smaller issues locally rather than hand them on up the line.

I have already had meetings with the Leader of the Council and challenged the ongoing bus issues and will strongly challenge any development plans within the area. I am concerned about a lack of facilities for our youths and feel more could be done locally to assist the elderly, lonely and less able within the area.

I am a retired businessman and will dedicate ALL my time to the position not as an ‘add on’ to my current employment. I have been a school Governor at St. Mary’s for over 20 years half of which as Chair. I am also Chair of Overton Recreational Club, a member of the committee for ‘Overton Protection and Preservation Society’ and the voice of Overton fete amongst many other things. I also presented the traffic calming meeting and am passionate about all I do. I am standing as an independent as I don’t want to be influenced by any political party. In all the roles over the years I have never received a penny payment but done them willingly for the sake of the community. If elected I will receive a small salary and expenses. I fully intend to spend some of this on local good causes in the area.

Now is the time for change so please support me.

Thank you. John McCusker 01978 710875. John.mccusker01@btinternet.com

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

Wrexham News

Motoring News Notification of Road Works Motorists are advised that the following works are due to be undertaken by the North and Mid Wales Trunk Road Agency on the A483.

Resurfacing works are to be undertaken by NMWTRA between junctions 5 and 6 (Mold Road and Gresford Roundabout), scheduled to commence from Monday 6th February which will take approximately 8 weeks. These works will require 24 hour lane restrictions. Motorists are being advised that delays are likely while the works are undertaken and should allow extra time for their journey.

Further information about the works is available on www.traffic-wales.com

Newly-installed machines at town centre council owned car parks in Wrexham are now able to Chip and Pin card payments.

New Car Park Machines Now Taking Cards

The new machines were in operation and able to take cash payments at the start of January. With all necessary systems now in place, the machines can now accept credit and debit card payments.

The new machines are installed at:

• • • • • • • •

St. Giles Market Street Crescent Road St. Georges Crescent Library Waterworld The Guildhall Ruabon Car Park (due to be installed end of January)

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25 High Street, Whitchurch, Shropshire, SY13 1PS Tel: 01948 662463

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High Street, Malpas, Cheshire, SY14 8NN Tel: 01948 860480

*T&Câ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s apply. Select Products Only. Sold as an agent for Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation charges may apply Exclusions and Radius Apply. Prices correct at time of print but can be subject to change. See in store for full details. Images for illustration purposes only. Copyright Euronics 2016. October E&OE 2016. Saving compared to a higher price charged for 28 days in the last six months unless otherwise stated.

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