EssentialsMAG February 2023 Bangor on Dee/Overton/Garden Village/Borras

Welcome...

Cover Image: Branches of blossoming cherry

March Deadlines: Editorial - 10th March Advertising - 17th March

After the New Year celebrations and settling back into a routine, February has always felt, to me, like an opportunity to pause for a while and draw breath. Yes, it’s cold and wet, and the days are still too short and dark but, it’s no coincidence that this month is named for the Latin word ‘februum’ which means ‘purification’.

There’s a sense of optimism in the air; that Spring is just around the corner and everything will get brighter and warmer - and we can embrace life again feeling refreshed and re-invigorated.

Of course, this month also means Black History Month, Valentine’s Day, Half Term, Pancake Day, and Random Acts of Kindness Day (on the 17th).

If previous years are anything to go by, February will disappear in the blink of an eye. So whatever this month has in store for you, I send you my warmest wishes.

PS: A new year is time for change - I hope you like our new colour palette!

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Financial Adviser... to Children’s Author

In early 2018, John Williams decided that the 30 years he had spent as an Independent Financial Adviser was just about enough. A change was needed. By September, he had enrolled as a full-time History student at Wrexham Glyndŵr University and went on to gain a BA (Hons) degree in 2021. During his time as a student, Wrexham-born John also put time aside to draft a short story for children.

Aimed at young readers aged from six to nine, John’s story is called ‘Adventures with Raymond and Bonnie: The Deserted Cottage’.

Here is a bit more about the story: Living in rural Billsborough County, a young robin called Raymond and his best friend Bonnie, a blue tit, get into all sorts of adventures but they stick together and lean on each other’s strengths. The little chums always have fun together but on one particular winter’s day, their normally safe and peaceful environment is threatened by the arrival of two suspiciouslooking strangers with less than friendly intentions. Who are these intruders and what, exactly, do they want? Far from being fun, this turns out to be a very challenging day that the little feathered friends will never forget...

John is planning a sequel featuring the young feathered pals who just can’t resist an opportunity to help others.

For more information, and to order your copy, please go to: www.troubador.co.uk/bookshop/young-children/adventures-with-raymond-and-bonnie

Hope House Shop Needs Volunteers

A new Hope House children’s hospice shop opened in Wrexham last month, with the charity asking for potential volunteers and/or those with donations to come forward.

Angela Whelan, Head of Retail, said: “We are delighted to be able to open our new Wrexham shop at Island Green. We receive generous support from people in the area, which enables us to provide care for local children and families at our hospices. Our shops play a vital role in generating much-needed funds to support families in our community; support that is more important than ever during these difficult times.”

If you would like to volunteer, please either pop into the Island Green shop, or contact volunteer@hopehouse.org.uk or call Di Murr on: 01691 679679

Get Help if You’re Worried About Debt

After the expense of Christmas and New Year, a lot of people are forced to tighten their belts in January. Many of us rely on credit to pay for Christmas, and feel pressure to spend more than we can afford – which can leave us with a worrying financial hangover.

This year, the cost of living crisis is already putting households under pressure, and anyone struggling with debt is being urged to seek help.

There are various charities and Government-backed services offering support, including:

Step Change (stepchange.org)

A UK debt charity offering free impartial advice.

National Debtline (nationaldebtline.org)

Another UK charity dedicated to providing free, impartial debt advice.

Money Helper (moneyhelper.org.uk/en)

A UK Government-backed initiative that combines support from the Money Advice Service, the Pensions Advisory Service and Pension Wise.

Citizen’s Advice (citizensadvice.org.uk/debt-and-money/help-with-debt/)

You can also find useful information on the national Citizen’s Advice website. Wrexham residents can also call Citizen’s Advice on 0300 330 1178

Last October, Wrexham Council set up a cross-party working group to support people through the cost of living crisis.

Councillor David A Bithell, who chairs the group, says: “January can be a difficult time, and if you’re struggling with debt, it’s really important to reach out and get help. Charities like Step Change and National Debtline provide free impartial advice, and can help you get back on track. They won’t judge you or make you feel bad about your situation – they’ll listen and help you find ways to manage your debts. If you’re worried about money, please don’t sweep it under the carpet or bottle it up. Reach out and ask for help.”

You can find more information on the cost of living on Wrexham Council’s website (wrexham.gov.uk/services/help-cost-living) including grants and benefits, help with household bills, and how to look after your health and wellbeing.

The laughter-packed Half Term stage show, Cartoon Circus Live, combines the comedy of pantomime with the thrill of the circus. The one-hour family show features some of Britain's funniest clowns, award winning international circus artists, traditional slapstick comedy, illusions, the amazing girl in the spinning bottle, magic, a huge giant dancing bear, cartoon characters, an acrobatic human slinky, puppets, prizes and surprises!

Cartoon Circus Live will be performing for one day only at Wrexham’s Stiwt Theatre on 21st February at 1:30pm. Tickets are £8.50 and can be booked online via: www.stiwt.com or contact the Stiwt Box Office on: 01978 841300

February

1. Simply read this magazine from cover-to-cover and find the panda hiding in this magazine. 2. Go to: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/panda and complete the competition entry form. 3. Closing date: Tuesday 14th February 2023. The first entrant drawn at random, wins.

usual EssentialsMAG competition terms and conditions apply.

Wrexham Flower Club

By JUDITH DOLBEN, Chair of Wrexham Flower Club

What is a Flower Club?

A Flower Club is a group of individuals with an interest in all varieties of flowers and foliage and the desire to use the items to best advantage to beautify home environments and public places.

If you have ever wandered into a National Trust property, or place of worship, undoubtedly, there will be floral arrangements on display, suitable for the season and occasion. These will have been created by floral art enthusiasts, probably members of a nearby Flower Club, who understand how flowers enhance an area, which colours complement others, and how they create an image or mood.

National occasions, even Royal weddings, use the services of noted Flower Clubs to decorate the buildings visited. (I could tell you more but, individuals involved were sworn to secrecy and cameras confiscated!)

Flower Club members have the opportunity to learn about blooms, their origins and characteristics, and experiment with new designs. There are certain agreed principles that Flower Arrangers follow, and within The National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies (NAFAS), examination qualifications follow set local area, national and international standards.

Flower Clubs hold regular meetings, often including demonstrations to enjoy, and hands-on workshops to develop their skills.

Social outings are organised to gardens and displays across the country - even across the world! And members have the opportunity to compete in local agricultural shows and garden festivals.

Each Flower Club is a member of NAFAS and enjoy the expertise of those officers who regulate the organisation. Published quarterly is a magazine called ‘The Flower Arranger’, which is the most useful source of ideas and unusual mechanics to enhance the skills of all enthusiasts.

All flower arrangers are united by a love of flowers. We have friendships formed in our clubs and enjoy socialising in such groups.

Wrexham Flower Club Wrexham Flower Club started in November 1960 and meets regularly each month, currently at Capel Y Groes Church Hall, Bodhyfryd, Wrexham, LL12 7AG. The club is managed by a small committee of volunteers who arrange the annual programme and all activities. Our new season starts on February 15th at 7.00pm New members are always welcomed as flower arranging speaks a universal language. Annual membership is available, or as an individual guest entrance.

Wrexham Flower Club meet every third Wednesday of the month. Visitors are welcome. For more information contact Judith Dolben on: 01978 357 356

Dates for your Diary

WED 1, 8, 15 FEBRUARY

Xplore! Family Science Club

Xplore! Science Discovery Centre, Henblas Street, Wrexham LL13 8AE

Come and enjoy some family fun doing awesome science experiments.

Suggested age 7-11 years. 4pm - 5pm £5.00 child/Free adult http://bit.ly/3CZODl5

FRI 3 FEBRUARY

Wrexham Birdwatchers

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, Gresford Trust, off High Street, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8PS

Wrexham Birdwatchers’ January meeting, an illustrated talk on ‘seabirds’. All welcome.

7:30pm Tel: 01978 855266 (Trevor)

SAT 4 FEBRUARY

Plant-Based Pop-up Market

Queen's Square, Wrexham LL11 1AT

Wrexham’s first PlantBased Pop-up. A host of stalls offering a variety of plant-based treats, hot food, gifts and more. 10am - 4pm Free

MON 6, 13, 20, 27 FEBRUARY

Walking Football for the over 60+ Colliers Park, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8PW

Walking football is great for keeping active, getting fresh air and improving strength and flexibility. 4pm - 5pm £3.00 per session Tel: 07747 431607 (Ruth)

7 FEBRUARY - 5 MARCH

Gaia at Chester Cathedral Chester Cathedral, St Werburgh Street, Chester CH1 2DY

Gaia is a touring artwork by UK artist Luke Jerram. Measuring seven metres in diameter, Gaia provides the opportunity to see our planet floating in three dimensions.

9:30am - 5pm Free (donations welcome) chestercathedral.com/gaia

WED 8 FEBRUARY

Darland Divas WI

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

Talk by Lisa Scully, licenced Menopause Champion with Menopause Experts Group. Non members welcome.

7:30pm Tel: 07708 005361 (Linda)

FRI 10 FEBRUARY

Tŷ Pawb Comedy Night

Tŷ Pawb, Market Street, Wrexham LL13 8BB

Popular and brilliant comedy night filled with guaranteed laughs. Food court will be open before the show starts and bar open throughout the event.

7:30pm £10.00 (16+ only) typawb.wales/whatson

SAT 11 FEBRUARY

Wrexham Games Day

Tŷ Pawb, Market Street, Wrexham LL13 8BB

Free event for all to attend, there will be video games, tabletop games, cosplay and much more! 10am - 4pm Free typawb.wales/whatson

SUN 12 FEBRUARY

Village Bakery Wrexham Half Marathon

Starting on Bridge Road North and finishing at 'The Club House' Oak Road on Wrexham Industrial Estate, this classic race is popular with some of the fastest runners in the region as well as those tackling the distance for the first time.

10am - 4pm https://bit.ly/3GXj8cr

WED 15 FEBRUARY

Wrexham Flower Club

Capel Y Groes (Chapel Cross), 10 Stryt Holt, Wrexham LL12 7AG

Wrexham Flower Club meet every third Wednesday of the month. New members welcome as flower arranging speaks a universal language.

7pm Tel: 01978 357 356 (Judith)

WED 15 FEBRUARY

Pulford & Poulton Local History Group

Pulford Village Hall, St Mary's Church, Pulford CH4 9EU

A talk “Queen Victoria’s visit to North Wales” by Jill Burton. Visitors welcome.

7:30pm £3.00 members/£5 non pplhg.org.uk

16, 17, 18 FEBRUARY

Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs Panto

Village Hall, Pulford Lane, Dodleston CH4 9NN

Dodleston Youth Players present a traditional pantomime with all the usual fun and antics!

7:30pm (& 2pm Saturday) £8.00 adults/£5.00 children Chapel Stores, Dodleston

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.

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

17, 18, 19, 20 FEBRUARY

Aladdin Panto

William Aston Hall, Glyndŵr University, Wrexham LL11 2AW

Multi-talented cast and dancers will take you away on your own magic carpet in this unforgettable show.

7:15pm £12.00 williamastonwrexham.com

FRI 17 FEBRUARY

Masquerade Dinner

Rossett Hall Hotel, Chester Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0DE

Three-course dinner with dancing ‘til late. 7pm £40.00 everbrightgrouphotels.com

SAT 18 FEBRUARY

Wrexham Cars & Coffee

Demon Tweeks, 75 Ash Road South, Wrexham LL13 9UG

Cars and Coffee sees motoring enthusiasts meet up, chat and network. 8:30am - 11:30am Free

SUN 19 FEBRUARY

Wedding Expo

Llay Miners Welfare Institute, Llay New Road, Llay, Wrexham LL12 0TH

Enjoy glass of fizz on arrival and meet a selection of fantastic local suppliers!

12pm - 3pm Free

TUE 21 FEBRUARY

Cartoon Circus Live!

Stiwt Theatre, Broad St, Rhosllanerchrugog, Wrexham LL14 1RB

One-hour Half Term family show features some of Britain's funniest clowns and award winning international circus artists. 1:30pm £8.50 Tel: 01978 841300

Share your events with us - it’s FREE! Let us know your events taking place next month so we can feature them. essentialsmag.co.uk /whatson

Teenagers & Bach Flower remedies

By MELANIE BURGESS

Teenage years have always been tricky to negotiate. An emotional rollercoaster where our young people go through so many changes both physically and mentally, trying to work out who they are and where they fit into the world. Bach Flower remedies can help with those emotional difficulties for all those involved.

Which remedies can help?

Rescue Remedy - The most well known of remedies that every household, or handbag should have for emotional emergencies. It contains Rock Rose for extreme, rooted to the spot fear, something our teens may face in school or before exams. Rock Rose helps to bring the fear to a manageable level. It also contains Cherry Plum for the feeling of losing control, which helps bring the irrational thoughts and those ‘about to explode’ feelings under control.

Aspen can help anxieties with unknown origin, e.g. “I don’t know what is going to happen in school today but I am worried.” Or for known fears Mimulus could help, e.g. “I have PE today and the bully I am scared of will be there.”

Teenagers often struggle with mood swings and can’t explain why they feel angry or frustrated. Holly will help so they feel less ‘prickly’.

Does your teenager hide their anxieties and pretend everything is ok?

Perhaps they are afraid of what others may think, so keep it to themselves? Agrimony can help them to share their feelings and realise that they are not alone.

Teen years are full of change. Not only do teenagers have to cope with external changes such as changing lessons, teachers, schools and friends, they are also dealing with a myriad of hormonal and physical changes. Walnut will help them to feel more settled and to cope with change more easily.

Are they very self-critical, hard on themselves, feel like they aren’t good enough, have feelings of unfounded guilt or blame themselves for things? Then Pine is the necessary remedy.

There are so many more emotions our teens will experience, but there is a Bach Flower remedy for all of them.

And don’t forget the rest of the family, the remedies are for everyone.

For more details, contact Melanie Burgess at Daisy Holistics Tel: 07970 758811

E: daisyholistics@gmail.com

Facebook: @daisyholistics

Gardening Tips and Advice February - Spring is in Sight

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

TOP 10 JOBS TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS

MONTH

Prepare vegetable seed beds and sow some vegetables under cover

Protect blossom on apricots, nectarines and peaches

Net fruit and vegetable crops to keep the birds off

Prune winter-flowering shrubs that have finished flowering

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

Prune Wisteria

Prune hardy evergreen hedges and renovate overgrown deciduous hedges

Prune conservatory climbers such as Bougainvillea

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

Living the Good Life!

By ESTHER EVANS, Penley Grower’s Association

Would you like regular access to free, fresh organic produce? Are you looking for ways to combat the rising cost of living this year? Then look no further - Penley Grower’s Association have an opportunity for you do exactly that.

Over the past twelve months, our members have been busy developing plots to grow an amazing array of vegetables, fruits and herbs. And the best part - it’s all free!

There is no better feeling of satisfaction than taking home a basket of delicious home-grown produce to cook for tea or to fill up your freezer.

How much time does it take?

Surprisingly, working on a plot for just one hour a week can reap benefits. Most of our members enjoy being out in the fresh air so much, they visit more frequently.

We took on a plot last year and there was a lot of weeding and digging to do at first. But now the beds are established, it’s quite easy to maintain and there is always something new growing, even through the winter months.

Can it actually save me money?

I’m certainly not an expert grower, but last Summer I started harvesting a couple of baskets of produce every week from our plot. To buy the equivalent amount of organic vegetables from the supermarket would be very expensive, especially in the current climate of rising food prices.

We enjoyed fresh beetroot, broad beans, spinach, courgettes, potatoes, green beans, strawberries and tomatoes to name a few. Honestly, if I can do it… anyone can!

Are there other benefits?

Our growers also benefit by keeping healthy and active, eating organically (we don’t use any chemicals or pesticides on our site) and learning something new. We are a friendly bunch of people who like to help one another, so it’s the perfect way to improve your lifestyle, this coming year.

Growing your own food is good for the environment too, because it will reduce your personal carbon footprint compared to shop-bought alternatives – and you will limit the packaging used.

Get the kids involved

It’s no secret that children love the magic of gardening. Get the children involved in the planting and watering and visit the plot together to check-in on their little projects. Learning about different varieties of fruit and veg is a wonderful way of helping children to understand where their food comes from.

How do I start?

You can rent a full plot or if you want to try it out first, why not rent half a plot? A full plot is £75 per year and we ask for a one off deposit of £20.

Location: Penley

Interested? Contact John on: 07753 101115

Beguiling Japan

By DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

Spend a little time in Japan and you’ll soon start thinking: “Why don’t we do things this way at home?”

The trains run on time, there isn’t a scrap of litter to be seen and simple activities such as bathing and drinking tea have been elevated to high culture.

Then there’s the food! Who could fail to be impressed by the huge range of dishes on offer? Slices of sashimi served fresh from the sea, steaming winter stews, bento box picnics beneath the cherry blossom and exquisite kaiseki banquets.

The geography is staggering. Japan stretches over 3,000 kms from quasiSiberian snowscapes of Hokkaido to the subtropical beaches and mangrove forests of Okinawa. This diversity is fascinating but also daunting when considering your first visit to Japan.

There are different experiences to be had depending on the time of year. The most famous perhaps, is Spring for the Cherry Blossom bloom and Geisha dance shows.

Autumn’s vibrant colours is an equally beautiful time, particularly in Kamikochi National Park and Summer is great for enjoying the festivals, fireworks and the best of the temperatures in the Alps and beaches.

In winter, the snow monkeys of Yudanaka Onsen are a sight as are the red-crowed cranes during the mating season. The Sumo tournament in Tokyo is unforgettable and of course, skiing in Hokkaido has the best and most reliable powder conditions.

My advice would be to combine a broad sweep of some of the country’s most exciting and diverse destinations starting with the exciting and busy city of Tokyo, where the ultra modern and traditional combine to give an endless choice of new things to discover. Experience bathing in hot springs in the foothills of Mount Fuji in Hakone National Park. Visit the alpine town of Takayama famous for it’s Sake production and enjoy a private audience with a Geisha in the great city of Kyoto.

Whether you are fascinated by Japanese History, Samurai, Pop culture, Japanese Gardens, Festivals or the art of Zen, it is easy to learn and immerse yourself in this nourishing culture in a short time of being there. The Japanese themselves are some of the most charming, gracious, hospitable hosts you’ll ever meet - which explains why our clients are so keen to return.

Heating System

By CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF PLUMBING & HEATING ENGINEERING

Our homes may be heated by a variety of different heating systems, powered by a range of fuel sources, but there are a number of common steps we can take to improve their efficiency.

Have the boiler serviced annually

Regular maintenance ensures boilers work at their peak efficiency and should ensure they run effectively and safely for the year to come. It also helps extend the boiler’s life, reducing the risk of an expensive break down. Ask your engineer about the use of chemical inhibitors in your system to help maintain efficiency.

Replace an old boiler

Although initially costly, if your boiler is reaching the end of its working life, replacing it with a more efficient model can save money on your heating bills. Modern boilers are highly efficient, and with the introduction of Boiler Plus building regulation, are becoming even more so.

Upgrade the controls

Controls allow you to heat your home when it is occupied and only the parts of your house that are in use. New ‘smart’ controls enable you to adjust it, via a mobile app. These systems can also actively monitor your home for movement, going into a lower temperature ‘sleep’ mode if it considers the property to be empty, or that the occupants are asleep in bed. Many also gain information from outside temperatures and weather forecasts, adjusting the heating accordingly.

By using standard thermostatic controls effectively, you could save hundreds on your heating and hot water bills.

Insulate your home

Adequately insulating your attic is essential, otherwise your home will lose around a quarter its heat through the roof space. Blocking up gaps around windows, doors and chimneys will also help save on energy bills and keep your home warm.

Heat wisely

It makes sense to turn the radiators down in rooms you are not using to save energy. However, it is false economy to turn off the central heating and use electric fan heaters instead as it will cost much more to heat each room than it will using a central heating system. Fan heaters are a fire hazard if left unattended, or placed too close to flammables such as curtains. If you want to heat only a couple of rooms in your home, it is far cheaper and safer to invest in thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) and use your central heating system.

Who to call:

• Gas: www.gassaferegister.co.uk

• Oil: www.oftec.org.uk

• Biomass or solid fuel: www.hetas.co.uk

• Make sure any engineer working on a boiler is Gas Safe Registered

• Check your tradesperson has the correct registrations and accreditations to work on your boiler.

Wedding CeremoniesWhich Type Shall I Have?

By LINSEY JONES

When planning your wedding, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the perfect wedding ceremony for you both. This can be quite a minefield, as there are now so many different options, but there’s a perfect wedding ceremony style for everyone. From classic and timeless religious and civil ceremonies, to something more modern, meaningful and unique celebrant-led ceremonies.

So what are the differences between them all ?

A faith-based ceremony is a beautiful way for a religious couple to have a spiritual experience and a sense of significance and purpose during their ceremony in their place of worship, aligning with their faith.

A civil ceremony is a perfect choice for non-religious couples, as it provides some flexibility for where it is held and also for choices of readings and music, as long as there are no religious connotations.

Celebrant-led weddings can be led by a Humanist or Independent celebrant and can be held anywhere at all. Anything can be included into the ceremony, which can range from unity rituals, religious/nonreligious readings, a themed ceremony (Harry Potter, Rock Stars, Woodland, Festival, etc) and the scripts are freshly written for each couple.

An Independent celebrant is not affiliated to any organisation or faith, so religious

elements, traditions, prayers, etc, can also be included, if the couple felt they wanted to do this.

Currently, Celebrants in England and Wales do not have the legal authority to marry a couple, as they do in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Consultations are ongoing and if the law is changed the officiant will be licensed (celebrant, registrar, faith ministers), rather than the venue.

Until this law is passed, which is hopefully over the next year or so, if a couple want to be legally married but have a celebrant ceremony, then they can have an appointment with the Registrar, make legal declarations and sign the register. Then they can have their celebrant ceremony wherever they choose and include any content they feel reflects them as a couple.

We are all individuals and each relationship is different - so therefore each ceremony should reflect the couple’s beliefs and values - whatever they may be. If you would like more information about celebrant-led ceremonies please get in touch.

I

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Rhubarb & Strawberry Crumble

This timeless pud is a great way to make the most of pretty seasonal rhubarb in spring, with the tangy fruit balanced by the oaty crumble topping. Best served with plenty of vanilla ice cream!

INGREDIENTS

140g plain flour

50g ground almond

100g golden caster sugar

100g butter, chopped 25g flaked almond

For the fruit layer

85g golden caster sugar 1 heaped tbsp cornflour 450g strawberry, hulled and halved if large 450g rhubarb, cut into chunky lengths Vanilla ice cream, to serve (optional)

METHOD

Heat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5. To make the crumble, mix the flour, ground almonds and sugar in a bowl, then rub in the butter as though you are making pastry. Tip the mixture onto a large baking tray and spread out evenly. Create little clumps in the mixture by pinching it together with your fingers, then bake for 10 minutes.

Meanwhile, make the fruit layer. Mix the sugar and cornflour together in a large bowl, then toss in the berries and rhubarb until well coated. Tip the mixture into a pan and cook over a gentle heat, stirring until the fruit softens a little and any released juices thicken.

Tip the fruit mixture into an ovenproof dish, scraping in all the thickened juices. Add the flaked almonds to the crumble mixture, then scatter over the top.

Bake for 20 minutes until the fruit is tender and the crumble golden.

Leave to cool slightly, then serve warm with vanilla ice cream, if you like.

SERVES 4

Seasonal Treats in February

Bring some cheer to meal times in the depths of winter with these home-grown seasonal superstars…

Cauliflower

With a mild flavour when properly cooked – overboiling should be a criminal offencecauliflower can easily take on the taste of any ingredients it’s used with. There is, of course, the comforting classic of cauliflower cheese – steam cook then drain before generously covering in Cheddar cheese sauce and baking until the cheese is bubbling and turning golden. Its meaty texture also makes cauliflower a perfect replacement for vegetarian dishes – cut into 5cm-thick steaks, steam until just tender, then add to a hot frying pan and sear in butter before roasting for 10 minutes until caramelised.

Forced rhubarb

When there isn’t much fresh produce around, forced rhubarb brings a touch of brightness to winter menus. It is traditionally grown in almost complete darkness in heated sheds inside the fabled Yorkshire Rhubarb Triangle (nine square miles between Rothwell, Morley and Wakefield) and hand-picked between January and March by candlelight.

Forced rhubarb’s eccentric cultivation results in pretty pink stalks that need no peeling, as they are far more tender than the outdoor-grown version, and they keep their shape better when cooked, too – and without a hint of stringiness. To prep, simply trim and remove the toxic leaves before cooking or freezing.

Jerusalem artichoke

Jerusalem artichoke is a small, lumpy tuber that’s no relation to its rather more gorgeous globe namesake. But what it lacks in the looks department it more than makes up for in taste. With a nutty, earthy flavour, it can be used both raw and cooked, but you do need to cook or serve it fast once you’ve trimmed and sliced it, as otherwise it starts to oxidise and lose its depth of flavour. It goes well with earthy fish, or white meat like chicken or pork. Try it sliced and fried in butter, spiralised in a crunchy salad, or roasted.

Wild things: rabbit

At this time of year gamekeepers will keep local butchers busy with a steady stream of wild rabbits as they battle to keep them from munching through young crops. They are usually sold skinned and portioned, and their lean, gamey meat makes for a marvellous slow-cooked stew. Add carrots, smoked bacon, leek, mushrooms, beef or chicken stock and red wine for a tasty lapin au vin.

February Shopping List

Shooting Star Cancer Support

By ZARINA KAGAN

We are a small, local charity, formed in the 1990s in order to construct an outpatient oncology department within the Wrexham Maelor Hospital.

We raised over £2 million for the build and the Unit continues to provide an excellent level of care and treatment for the people of Wrexham.

Since completing this work we have concentrated on a support role and purchased some major pieces of equipment and many other smaller items for the consultants and departments, all of whom do such terrific work with cancer patients in the Maelor Hospital.

We recently purchased an Intraoral Scanner for the Department of Oral health and Rehabilitation.

Dr. Gareth Brock, the Consultant says: “We are incredibly grateful to Shooting Star which has kindly funded this exciting new development, bringing a much improved patient experience and state-ofthe-art technology to help our cancer patients.”

“It is already making a difference to the time our patients have to wait to have this investigation. Thank you Shooting Star for kindly funding this equipment”, says Miss Bramara Guruwadarayarhalli, Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

Visit our website for a full list of recently funded items by the charity.

Who are we?

We are volunteer trustees who administer the charity which raises money to support the clinicians and the patients being treated in the Shooting Star Unit in Wrexham Maelor Hospital. We fund capital projects that are needed to ease the patient journey where the required equipment may be a low priority for the hospital trust as a whole given the current NHS financial difficulties.

Donations

Donations can also be made via the post, or our website. Please make cheques payable to: ‘Shooting Star Cancer Support’, and send to: Shooting Star Cancer Support, c/o MD Coxey & Co Ltd, 25 Grosvenor Road, Wrexham, LL11 1BT

An Outpatient Hysteroscopy Fluid Management System was recently purchased for the Obstetric and Gynaecology department. www.shootingstarcancersupport.co.uk Email: info@shootingstarcancersupport.co.uk Charity Number: 1079693

Writing a WillFive Myths Busted

By SIMON DAVIES, LLB (Hons)

30 million adults in Britain currently don’t have a Will – that’s over 60% of the population. A Will is the only way to make sure your money, property, possessions and investments (known as your estate) go to the people you care about. Sadly, there are many myths surrounding Will writing that can put people off, so I’ve cleared up five of the most common misconceptions:

“Everything will go to my partner”

No, that’s not always the case. If you're married with children, your spouse doesn't automatically inherit everything. Instead, they'll receive your personal possessions, the first £270,000 and half of the rest. The concept of ‘common law marriage’ is a myth and has no legal basis. If you die without a Will and are unmarried, or have not entered into a civil partnership, then the rules of intestacy are not on your side. These rules mean your estate would be distributed to surviving relatives according to a strict hierarchy.

“It’s

too complicated”

No matter how complex you think your circumstances are, a professional Will writer will be able to advise you every step of the way and handle all the complicated bits like actually writing the Will and dealing with HM Land Registry. They have a wellrehearsed process to follow and will ask all the right questions, making sure your wishes are recorded correctly, giving you the reassurance that the right people and organisations will benefit.

“I don’t have enough money or assets to make it worthwhile”

You may not be rich, you may not own your own home, but you almost definitely have something. Even items that have no real monetary value but are quite sentimental to you. Chances are you’d want to make sure the assets you do have end up in the right hands.

“My debts will die with me”

If only! Unfortunately, it’s not true. When you die with debts outstanding, they will need to be paid from your estate. However, your Will can include specific gifts that will be at less risk of being used to pay debts. You can also protect assets by putting them in a Trust.

“I have a Will – I don’t need a new one”

The best advice is to review your Will every three to five years, or earlier if there has been a change in your circumstances, such as: marriage, divorce, new children or grandchildren, death of a beneficiary, or even coming into some money.

Making a Will is a relative easy and quick process and there is no reason to delay.

Please contact me so I can guide you through the process.

For information on writing a Will, contact Simon Davies at Armour Wills

Tel: 07845 019999

E: simon@armourwills.co.uk www.armourwills.co.uk

Together Stronger

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF

Last month I focused on individual actions, but there are also lots of opportunities to work with others on environmental issues. There are numerous groups nationally and locally campaigning on a wide range of issues in different ways. Working with others can help us create a bigger impact and you’ll hopefully find a group whose focus and approach is right for you.

There’s been some controversy around the tactics of groups such as Extinction Rebellion (XR), Insulate Britain and Just Stop Oil. Their actions have certainly helped increase public awareness of the climate emergency, yet the UK government still isn’t doing anywhere near enough to tackle it.

However, it’s unfair to attribute this lack of progress to these groups’ tactics, as those trying to achieve similar aims through alternative means have been equally unsuccessful. David Attenborough isn’t generally criticised for failing to prevent climate change through his speeches and TV programmes.

The blame for our current situation rests primarily with politicians refusing to act and those, such as the fossil fuel industry, lobbying against the necessary action.

XR recently made the headlines with their “We Quit” announcement. They acknowledged that some of their tactics (along with the government and media responses) have created

a barrier to participation for many people. By shifting away from actions that disrupt the public, XR hopes to create increased opportunities to work alongside other groups.

In response to those who say ‘I agree with your cause, but not your tactics’, XR is saying ‘we’ve listened and we’re stopping the stuff you don’t like - will you now stand alongside us to demand climate action?’ They’re removing a common excuse for sitting on the sidelines in an effort to encourage more of us to become active (either through XR or other groups).

More information (including FAQs) can be found on their website: www.extinctionrebellion.uk

At the other end of the spectrum, are groups such as the RSPB and wildlife trusts and those campaigning on specific issues such as Plastic Free Wrexham. I’m not going to argue in favour of any particular focus or approach - it’s about finding the best fit for your own interests, expertise and level of commitment. However, the more of us that join campaigns, the more likely our politicians are to listen. Individual actions are an important part of the solution, but working with others can enable us to achieve far more.

EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com

How Can Using Tax Allowances Help Strengthen Your Financial Future?

By WARREN HADLOW, Director of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Ltd

With so many other aspects of our lives changing on an almost daily basis, it’s good to know that you can do something practical to help your short- and long-term financial wellbeing.

Making the most of your personal allowances before each tax-year end can help strengthen your financial future. Here are the main allowances that you could make the most of:

ISA allowance for 2022/23: £20,000

Put away as much as you can afford, and you won’t pay Income Tax or Capital Gains Tax on the interest you earn. You can also contribute up to £9,000 to a Junior ISA for your children and grandchildren which could get them off to a great start in their adult life.

Pension allowance for 2022/23: £40,000 or 100% of your earned income (whichever is lower)

Thinking about retirement at a young age can be put on the back burner but making use of the pensions allowances sooner rather than later can have a big impact later in life. You can also carry forward unused allowances from three previous tax years.

Gifting allowance for 2022/2023: £3,000

Gifting money to loved ones each year can reduce the overall value of your estate when it comes to calculating Inheritance Tax (IHT). And you can carry over unused last tax year’s allowance too, meaning you can give away up to £6,000. You could even give away more, as the amount becomes IHT exempt if you survive for seven years.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) allowance for 2022/23: £12,300

If you are planning on selling investments or assets, the CGT allowance is how much you can make before you start paying tax. In the 2023/24 tax year, this allowance drops to £6,000.

If you would like to know which personal allowances are available and relevant to you, get in contact and we can help you strengthen your finances for the future.

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

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances.

By Warren Hadlow of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited

hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk

Tel: 01978 311 611 www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

Lesley Griffiths MS Member of the Senedd for Wrexham

Regular readers of this column will be aware I meet frequently with Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) representatives, enabling me to raise any local issues and ensuring the authorities are aware of patients’ dayto-day experiences. Before Christmas, I met with BCUHB’s new Associate Director of Primary Care. The specific focus of the meeting was on local GP services and I understand a team has begun an improvement programme at the three managed practices in Wrexham (Hillcrest Medical Centre, Borras Park Surgery and Forge Road Surgery). This substantial piece of work is expected to take six months to complete.

I was also pleased to hear Health Board representatives will be meeting with partners and Practice Managers from all other practices in Wrexham to discuss concerns raised by patients, to look at all correspondence they receive and how this is managed.

These meetings have been taking place over recent weeks and I will meet with the Associate Director for an update in the near future.

After discussing GP services in Wrexham more generally, I arranged a visit to Alyn Family Doctors at Llay Health Centre with Mark Polin, the Chairman of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board.

Staff at the practice were very pleased to spend some time with Mr Polin talking over

a variety of concerns, including the current premises. Conversations between Alyn Family Doctors and the Health Board will continue and I am hopeful positive solutions will be attained that will ultimately benefit the patients. I will, as always, keep constituents updated.

The impact National Lottery funding has in Wrexham cannot be overstated. It provides a valuable lifeline to local groups and organisations that ultimately work to make a positive difference to the lives of local people.

I recently met with The National Lottery Community Fund’s Local Funding Officer, Catriona Learmont, to find out more about the extraordinary causes it supports in the local area, as well as its future plans. Since 2017, 96 projects in the Wrexham constituency have shared a total of £4m and although the number of applications coming from Wrexham is healthy, I hope even more local causes will benefit in future.

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.

Tel: 01978 355743 Lesley.Griffiths@senedd.wales www.lesleygriffiths.co.uk

Facebook & Twitter: @lesley4wrexham

Legal Advice

Online no-fault divorce may not be as simple as you think!

The advent of the new no-fault divorce which came into force last year brought a flurry of online applications, not least because couples believed that by not having to ‘prove’ the reason for wanting a divorce, they could deal with the process themselves and save money without engaging the help of a solicitor.

However, as is often the case with ‘new systems’, users are now recognising ‘operational glitches’, the most prominent one being the realisation that they cannot deal with financial and children issues in the same online process.

On discovering this, some couples decide to ‘sort matters out’ between themselves, without any formal legal agreements. By doing so they are, however, only thinking about their circumstances today, without giving thought to the dangers that could lie ahead.

What, for example, will happen if one or both parties’ circumstances change in the future? Or if they form new relationships and gain new families? Where will their loyalties lie then, if they have only made an informal arrangement relying on each other to simply ‘keep their word’?

All this demonstrates the importance of separating couples being fully aware that just getting a divorce (decree absolute) does not necessarily mean the end of any further claims concerning money or property being made by their ex-husband/ex-wife.

In England and Wales, even if you get a divorce, your ex-husband or ex-wife can apply to the court at any time – even after your death – for financial provision to be made by you, and, if necessary, from your Estate after you die.

The only true way to prevent nasty surprises happening when your ex-spouse contacts you 20 or 30 years after the divorce wanting half your pension, is to take proper legal advice at the outset - and that means legal advice appertaining specifically to your particular circumstances, and then ‘sealing the deal’ with a formal legal agreement through the Court.

In respect of children, the same applies, in so much as what may start out as an amicable agreement for care and financial arrangements could go badly wrong due to future unforeseen circumstances. Far better to stay safe by seeking proper legal advice before agreeing to anything!

This article has been written by Sean Rolinson, 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

ANIMAL CARE

Blakemere Veterinary 01691 622 201

Borras Park Veterinary 01978 310 131

Daleside Veterinary 01978 311 881

Farndon Kennels & Cattery 01829 270 198

Gatehouse Veterinary 01244 570 364

Lightwood Boarding Kennels 01978 710 487 Park Lane Kennels 01978 852 914

Rhyd Broughton Veterinary 01978 720 362 RSPCA 0300 1234 999 Vets4Pets 01978 352 499

COUNCILS

Cheshire West & Chester 0300 123 8 123 Wrexham 01978 292 000

DOCTORS

Borras Park Surgery 01978 801 960

Hanmer Doctors Surgery 01948 830 223 Overton Surgery 01978 780 804 Overton Medical Practice 01978 710 666 Strathmore Medical Practice 01978 352 055 NHS Direct 111

DENTISTS

Bridge End Dental Practice 01978 762 030 Maelor Dental Care 01978 780 943 Wrexham Dental Centre 0300 085 9666

OPTICIANS

Gresford Eyecare 01978 855 828

HOSPITALS

Countess of Chester 01244 365 000 Wrexham Maelor 01978 291 100

LEISURE CENTRES

Gwyn Evans 01978 269 540 Northgate Arena 01244 380444 Plas Madoc 01978 821 600

LOCAL FACILITIES

3C Pest Control 01948 838 111

Adult Social Services 01978 292 066

Citizens Advice 0300 330 1178

Foodbank - Chester 0151 355 7730

Foodbank - Wrexham 07538 547971

Recycling Centre - Chester 01244 372 764

Recycling Centre - Tattenhall 01829 771 337

Recycling Centre - Whitchurch 0345 678 9007 Recycling Centre - Wrexham 01978 292 000 Samaritans 116 123

LOCAL SERVICES

Environment Agency

03708 506 506

Fire & Rescue - North Wales 01745 535 250

Natural Resources Wales 0300 065 3000 Severn Trent Water 0800 783 4444 Welsh Water 0800 052 0130

LIBRARIES

Chester Library at Storyhouse 01244 409 113 Gresford Library 01978 852 627 Overton Library 01978 710 557 Wrexham Library 01978 292 090

SCHOOLS & NURSERIES

Abbey Gate College 01244 332 077 Acorns Playgroup Rhosddu 07516 254623

Acton Park Primary School 01978 318 950 Alexandra School 01978 315 120

All Saints’ Primary School 01978 852 342

Bangor-on-Dee Childcare 01978 780 757

Barkers Lane Primary School 01978 357 754

Bishop Heber High School 01948 860 571

Borderbrook Primary School 01948 770 676 Borras Park CP School 01978 346 890

Bronington VA Primary School 01948 780 283 Darland High School 01244 570 588 Eyton Primary School 01978 823 392 Farndon Primary School 01244 981 280 Garden Village Playgroup 01978 363600 Holt Primary School 01829 270 021 Holt Under 5’s Playgroup 07496 231 275 Madras Primary School 01978 710 419 Overton Playgroup 01978 710 688 Rhosddu School 01978 318 830 Rhosnesni High School 01978 340 840

Shocklach Primary School 01829 250 285

St. Chad’s School 01948 830 238 St. Mary’s School Overton 01978 710 370 St. Paul's VA Primary School 01978 661 556

The King’s School 01244 689 500

The Maelor School 01948 830 291

The Queen’s School 01244 312 078

Wat’s Dyke School 01978 355 731

Ysgol Bryn Alyn 01978 720 700

Ysgol Deiniol Primary School 01978 353 760

Ysgol Plas Coch 01978 311 198

Ysgol Rhosymedre 01978 812 510 Ysgol Sant Dunawd 01978 780 757

TRAVEL

National Rail Enquiries 03457 48 49 50 Traveline 0871 200 22 33

Bangor-on-Dee Art Group

invite you to a Coffee Morning

at Bangor-on-Dee Village Hall on Saturday 4th March 2023

10am until noon

Lots of Artworks, Paintings and original hand-made greeting cards on display

There will be a prize raffle, a cake stall and a book stall

Come in, relax and chat with friends over a cup of tea or coffee and a cake of your choice from an array of delicious home-made cakes while you take a look at the latest art works by members of the Art Group.

£2 entrance fee includes your tea or coffee and a delicious cake

Some paintings will be on sale as will various original hand-made greeting cards

ACROSS 1 In an inactive way; with no particular purpose (4)

Formed a mental concept of (8)

Prompts (7)

Word of farewell (5)

Five lines on which music is written (5)

Existing at the beginning (7)

Frankly (6)

Set of instructions (6)

Strut about (7)

Tortilla topped with cheese (5)

Relay device (5)

Secures; ties in place (7)

Went beyond a quota (8)

Heavenly body (4)

DOWN

Untrustworthy (13)

Assumed proposition (5)

Group of mountains (6)

Courtesy (12)

Less quiet (7)

Betrayer (6-7)

Ability to acquire and apply knowledge (12)

Flexible (7)

Cold dessert (6)

Divided into two (5)

If you want to find out the answers they will be published in next month’s edition. Here are the answers from January:

Classic Sudoku