EssentialsMAG January 2025 – South Wrexham Magazine
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Welcome...
Happy New Year and welcome to the January 2025 edition of Essentials!
The start of a new year often brings talk of resolutions, but here at EssentialsMAG, we’re embracing the idea of new beginnings without the pressure. It’s a time to reflect, refresh, and set intentions that feel meaningful and achievable. Whether it’s picking up a new hobby, reconnecting with old friends, or simply making space for more joy in your day, I hope this edition inspires you to make January your own.
I’m also thrilled to announce the return of a muchloved competition: Find the Mice! - back by popular demand! Hidden within the pages of this month’s magazine are five tiny mice - your job is to find them! Once you’ve spotted all five, send us your answers for a chance to win a fabulous prize. Details on how to enter are on page 6.
We always love hearing from you, so if you have a community event, story, or feedback, please do get in touch.
Here’s to a bright and hopeful start to the year ahead. Let’s make 2025 a year to remember.
EssentialsMAGYour go-to magazine for Wrexham and the bordering Cheshire villages
We’ve got the local area covered!
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Also available at 30+ pick-up points across the region
February copy deadlines: Editorial - 10 January Advertising - 15 January
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Local News
Be Part of the Show!
In October, Darland Community Theatre presented a successful mix of sketches and a short play, ‘Autumnal Allsorts’, at Darland High School, Rossett. Their next production is planned for April (details to be confirmed). The group is always on the lookout for new members, whether for acting or backstage roles. For more information, visit www.darlandtheatre.com and complete the enquiry form.
Coffee Pod Recycling
Wrexham Council has expanded its recycling options by adding used coffee pods to the list of items accepted at its recycling centres, thanks to a partnership with Podback, the national pod recycling service. Residents can now recycle their aluminium and plastic coffee, tea, and hot chocolate pods at the Bryn Lane, Brymbo, and Plas Madoc recycling centres. Pods should be emptied loose into the clearly marked Podback containers, for either aluminium or plastic. Bags and other packaging should not be included.
It’s important to separate plastic and aluminium pods, as they are processed at different recycling facilities. All pods collected through Podback are recycled in the UK. The pods are shredded to separate the coffee grounds from the materials. The aluminium and plastic are repurposed into new products, such as packaging, car parts, and building materials. Meanwhile, the coffee grounds undergo anaerobic digestion to produce renewable energy (biogas) and soil improvers.
Residents are encouraged to store their used pods at home until they are ready to take them to one of the recycling centres. For more information, visit the council’s website.
Share Your News
Tell us your news! Deadline for February issue is 10th January. Email: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk
Free Travel Cards
Residents of Wrexham aged 60 or over, or those who are eligible disabled persons, can apply for a concessionary travel card for free travel on most bus services and some train services in Wales. Applications are made online via the Transport for Wales (TfW) website.
But if you need help, visit Contact Wrexham at Wrexham Library. Staff can assist with online applications and even take your photo, removing the need to provide a passportstyle photo. Paper applications are available, but online submissions are quicker. For full details, visit: https://portal.tfw.wales/en
Can You Find The EssentialsMAG Mice?
Hidden throughout this magazine are five mice, just like the one here (but smaller), waiting for you to find them!
WIN £25
Find the five hidden mice for a chance to win £25!
HOW TO ENTER:
1. Read this magazine cover-to-cover and find the five hidden mice.
2. Visit: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/mice and complete the competition form with your answers.
3. Closing date: Friday 31 January 2025 at 4pm The first correct entry drawn at random will win. The usual EssentialsMAG competition terms and conditions apply.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
By EssentialsMAG tech contributor DAVID HUGHES
Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is a term that’s been around for decades, but more recently it has come to the fore in almost every industry, and started to become much more “mainstream” — you may remember my article on ChatGPT last year. From powering virtual assistants, to personalised product recommendations online, AI affects more aspects of daily life than you may realise. But what is AI, really?
In its simplest form, AI is a field of computer science focused on creating machines that can “think” or at least act intelligently. This doesn’t mean machines have consciousness; rather, AI is about enabling computers to process information, learn from it, and make decisions based on data. AI encompasses various techniques, including machine learning, where systems learn patterns from data, and natural language processing, which helps computers understand human language.
Take a smart assistant like Siri or Alexa. When you ask a question, the device’s AI processes your words, identifies the meaning, and selects a response based on what it has gleaned from billions of previous interactions. This means you can phrase your question however you like, and are not forced to ask a very specific question in order to get a response.
AI is woven into daily routines, often quietly running in the background. When you use a search engine like Google,
AI is predicting the best results based on past searches and general popularity.
Facebook and Instagram also rely on AI to populate their “feeds” - the posts and information their users see. Algorithms decide which posts appear at the top of the feeds based on what they have liked or engaged with in the past, meaning their experience is highly curated.
AI goes beyond entertainment and personal devices. In healthcare, AI is helping doctors diagnose diseases earlier and more accurately by analysing huge amounts of data and looking for trends that would otherwise take years to discover.
There are, of course, ethical concerns around AI. From copyright infringement to data privacy, to job automation and the potential for it to replace humans in the world of work. There can be no doubt that as AI becomes more prevalent in our day-to-day lives, there are questions to be answered and issues to be resolved.
It will be interesting to watch the inevitable progression of AI and how it impacts our lives, but perhaps also sobering to realise that it has been there, working away in the background, for some time already.
EssentialsMAG tech contributor is David Hughes a freelance web developer Tel: 07595 303418 www.davidhughes.co
Treatments for Glowing Skin
By BECKY MURPHY
Hi, I’m Becky Murphy, the founder of BM Skincare, and I’m passionate about helping people achieve healthier, more radiant skin through professional skincare treatments. From my home-based salon in Llay, I provide a calm and private environment where you can enjoy treatments tailored to your individual skin needs.
I specialise in Facials and advanced skincare treatments, including Dermaplaning, Microneedling, Microdermabrasion, and Chemical Peels. These treatments are designed to address a range of skin concerns, from improving texture and reducing fine lines to targeting acne scars and promoting a glowing and youthful complexion. Whether you’re looking to refresh your skin or address specific issues, I’ll work with you to create a personalised treatment plan that delivers real results.
Looking after your skin
Skincare is about more than just aesthetics; it’s also a vital part of overall health. Your skin is your body’s largest organ, and regular care helps to protect it from environmental damage, premature ageing, and other concerns. Treatments like microneedling can stimulate the natural production of collagen and elastin, while dermaplaning and chemical peels exfoliate away dead skin cells. All these treatments improve skin health and allow better absorption of skincare products for that extra boost.
Confidence building I believe in the power of professional skincare to transform not just how your skin looks, but how you feel about yourself. That’s why I take the time to understand your unique goals and concerns. Every treatment is customised to ensure you get the best possible outcome, with noticeable improvements you’ll love.
In my salon, I use only high-quality products and techniques to ensure your skin gets the care it deserves. I stay up-to-date with the latest advancements and training in skincare, so you can feel confident that you’re receiving treatments backed by the most effective technologies and methods.
If you’re ready to invest in your skin or want to learn more about the benefits of my treatments, I’d love to hear from you.
Visit my website at www.bmskincare.co.uk to explore what I offer and book an appointment.
Let me help you achieve the glowing, healthy skin you deserve - I look forward to welcoming you to my salon soon!
Becky x
By Becky Murphy from BM Skincare
T. 07766
376556
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Dates for your Diary
WED 1 JANUARY 2025
Chester & Wrexham
Charity Heritage Bus
Running Day
Chester & Wrexham
A large selection of vintage vehicles will be running a free service between Wrexham and Chester. The route will follow the current Arriva number 1 route.
9:30am - 6:30pm Free (donations welcome)
1 - 4 JANUARY
Performance:
Dick Whittington Panto Grove Park Theatre, Hill St, Wrexham LL11 1SN
Latest performance by Wrexham’s oldest theatre. Dick Whittington - full of laughs, songs, and cheesy jokes! Not suitable for children under 3 years old. groveparktheatre.co.uk
2ND & 4TH THURSDAY
Gresford Retirement Club
Gresford Trust, off High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS
Held on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each monthjoin for engaging talks, day trips and lovely social events! Come along and make new friends. All are welcome.
2pm
Tel: 01978 852956 (Christine)
EVERY TUE & WED
Pulford Bridge Club
Beginners’ Lessons
Pulford Village Hall, St Mary's Church, Pulford Ct, Chester CH4 9EU
Weekly friendly beginners
(or improvers) Bridge lessons - a fun game that makes you think and connects you with others. All welcome.
1:30pm - 3:30pm (TBC)
Tel: 01829 771204 (Margaret)
Tel: 07796 000180 (George)
9, 16, 23, 30 JANUARY
Walking Netball
Rhosnesni High School, Rhosnesni Lane, Wrexham LL13 9ET
Walking Netball is a slower version of the game; it’s netball but at a walking pace. Designed so that anyone can play regardless of age or fitness. New members always welcome.
6pm
£5.00 per session
Tel: 07832 027791 (Belinda)
FRI 10 JANUARY
Karaoke with MC Croak-M at The Holly Bush
The Ebenezer Gallery, Crane Ln, Cefn-Mawr, Wrexham LL14 3AB
Come down to The Holly Bush Inn for Karaoke every Friday 8pm
10 & 11 JANUARY
Nightingale House
Christmas Tree Collection Collection only
A team of volunteers will collect and recycle your real Christmas tree in return for a donation towards patient care at Nightingale House Hospice. Register online or call to book in your collection. Bookings will close on Monday 6th January at 11:59pm. Remove all decorations from your tree. Trees will be recycled in environmentally friendly ways, with some transformed into garden mulch, animal bedding, or even a post-Christmas treat for local farm animals like alpacas and goats.
Rossett Hall Hotel, Chester Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0DE
Rossett Hall Hotel provides the perfect setting for your Wedding. Complimentary canapés and arrival drink. View the beautiful hotel and meet with local suppliers. 12pm - 3pm
Free
www.rossetthallhotel.co.uk
For a comprehensive list of local events, scan the QR code:
SUN 12 JANUARY
New Year
Celebration Concert
St Dunawd's Church, Bangor-on-Dee, Wrexham LL13 0BU
Lleisiau Clywedog & Centurion Rhos New Year celebration concert.
4pm - 6pm
£10.00 (cash only on the door) Under 16s free
WED 15 JANUARY
Oddfellows Coffee and Chat
The Lemon Tree, 29 Rhosddu Road, Wrexham LL11 2LP
‘Coffee and Chat’ group to meet likeminded people.
10:30am - 12pm
£ as per menu
Tel: 01244 675757 (Caroline)
SAT 18 JANUARY
Winter 5k & 10k Trail
Alyn Waters Country Park, Mold Rd, Gwersyllt, Wrexham LL11 4AG
5k and 10k fully marked and marshalled trail courses.
9:15am
https://bit.ly/49BeL4O
SAT 18 JANUARY
Coffee Morning
Church House, The Green, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8RG
Friendly coffee morning! Enjoy a warm cup of coffee, and great company. All welcome.
See your favourite moments from the smash hit BBC TV series, Steptoe & Son, being performed for you live on stage.
7:30pm
£24.50 www.storyhouse.com
TUE 21 JANUARY
The Friends of Wrexham Museum Lecture
Wrexham Memorial Hall, Bodhyfryd, Wrexham LL12 7AG
The Friends of Wrexham Museum will be having a lecture by Peter Evans on 'The Holy Dee River'. Car parking in the Waterworld car park - charge applies. 7pm
£3.00 (visitors) asandra66@hotmail.co.uk
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.
Holt Flower Club monthly flower demonstration with Vivid “Splendour of Vivid”. Come along and share your passion for flowers with us.
7:30pm
£7.00 (visitors)
Tel: 07857 896496 (Christine)
THUR 23 JANUARY
Holt Local History Society Holt Community Centre, Chapel Street, Holt, Wrexham LL13 9DJ
Talk by Mike Royden, "The Poor Law and Workhouse" in West Cheshire and the Welsh Welsh Borderland.
7:30pm
£5.00 (visitors)
Tel: 01829 270562 (Brian)
SUN 26 JANUARY
Cricket Coaching Sessions for Women & Girls
Darland High School, Chester Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0DL
These popular cricket coaching sessions are for women and girls of High School age or above.
3:20pm - 4:10pm
£4.00 (first session free) justineparry8@gmail.com
Blended Families and Writing a Will
By RAY WEBB
Stepfamilies and blended families are an increasingly common feature of modern society, bringing both rewards and unique complexities. When creating a Will in this context, it is crucial to consider the family dynamics and potential challenges that may arise. Careful planning ensures your wishes are respected and helps minimise conflicts, creating a legacy that supports all members of your family. Key points to keep in mind:
Define your family
Clearly define who you consider to be your family members in your Will. This can include your partner or spouse, stepchildren, biological children, and any other individuals you wish to include as beneficiaries. Be specific to avoid confusion or disputes over entitlements.
Address fairness and equality
In blended families, the perception of fairness can vary greatly. While you may strive for equal treatment, it is worth considering that fairness does not always mean dividing assets equally. Reflect on the needs and circumstances of each beneficiary and ensure your Will communicates your intentions clearly to minimise potential misunderstandings.
Guardianship for minor stepchildren
If you have minor stepchildren for whom you are the primary caregiver, discuss and plan for their future care in your Will. Designate a guardian to ensure their wellbeing in the event of your passing.
Update beneficiary designations
Ensure beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other financial assets are kept up to date. These designations often override instructions in your Will, so it is essential they align with your current wishes.
Consider separate and joint property
If you and your spouse have both separate and joint property, specify how these assets should be distributed. Some assets may be intended solely for your biological children, while others may be shared among all family members.
Review and update regularly
Life circumstances change, so it is vital to review and update your Will periodically, particularly after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of additional children.
A well-structured Will, alongside clear communication and professional guidance, can help ensure that your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are provided for in a way that reflects your intentions and the dynamics of your unique family structure.
Feel free to give me a call - I’d be happy to discuss how I can assist you.
By Ray Webb Wills & Estate Planning LLP
T. 01244 911014 www.rwills.com
Real Intelligence (not Artificial!)
By DELMAR WORLD in Gresford
We have recently launched our amazing new website: www.delmarworld.com, which, amongst many other features, includes blogs on destinations that the Delmar Specialists have travelled to.
This made me reflect upon how many businesses are reducing face-to-face services and replacing them using AI, Artificial Intelligence. Whilst this may save businesses time and money, I believe it takes away the all-important personal contact that builds relationships and helps clients make the right choices.
At Delmar World, our team have travelled to their specialist areas - usually multiple times - and so they can make personal recommendations based on first-hand knowledge.
The value that this adds to a client’s holiday is immeasurable, ensuring that their experience is all that they hoped for and giving them the peace of mind that everything is in place for their big trip. This knowledge and expertise will be on display at our Travel Show Event on Sunday 12th January at the DoubleTree Hilton in Chester, where all our team will be present.
There will be a series of Talks on “bucket list” destinations, including one from our Australasia Specialist, Lizzy Watts. Lizzy recently spent almost a month “down under” and she will be focusing on some of the less known attractions in that part of the world.
Our USA expert, Howard Davies, will be hosting a stand and, with many years of travel experience across the States, his knowledge is second to none when it comes to planning the perfect USA itinerary.
The rest of our well-travelled team will also be there to give you inspiration in choosing your next holiday.
You can sign up for free entry to our Travel Show using the QR code in our advert orif you prefer to speak to a real person!call: 01978 853886.
I look forward to seeing you at the DoubleTree Hilton, Chester on Sunday 12th January!
Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises. Tel: 01978 853 886, www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE
Wrexham Tourism News
By JOE BICKERTON, Tourism Manager, Wrexham County Borough Council
Happy New Year everyone and welcome to our 2025 ‘Year of Croeso’ here in Wales! 2025 promises to be another exciting one for Wrexham, as we gear up for another busy year for tourism as we prepare to welcome, amongst other events, the National Eisteddfod this summer.
First off though is our Wrexham meets Nth America food challenge which launches on 13th January and runs for three weeks. Hospitality venues across the County will be serving up a special dish or drink that has Nth American influences and we want you to visit and help us rate them! As part of this challenge, mystery shoppers will be out and about and we want you to perhaps try somewhere new this month and to share your pictures by tagging: #thisiswrexham2025 or #dymawrecsam2025
For a full list of those participating (and their dishes), visit: www.thisiswrexham.co.uk after 10th January!
This month our tourism partnership –This is Wrexham - are also relaunching their membership for hospitality businesses anywhere within Wrexham County! If you run a business that is primarily a visitor attraction, accommodation provider, restaurant/eatery (dine in with a 4+ hygiene rating) or focus primarily on tourism, joining our partnership for 2025 means you’re in good
company. This is Wrexham is run by hospitality businesses to support our tourism industry. We are the main outward visitor marketing organisation for Wrexham and are supported by Visit Wales and Wrexham Council. Have a look at joining us via: www.thisiswrexham.co.uk/membership
One business that we’re celebrating this month is the new Rackery Farm Shop on the Straight Mile in Llay. Having diversified their farm in the last few years, the Jones’ have built a new quality farm shop that celebrates Wrexham produce and hosts a great café inside! If you’re able to, pop up and give them your support this month and I’m sure it’ll become another firm favourite as it develops further this year.
Finally, don’t forget – the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct will be closed through January and February as the Canal & River Trust carry out annual maintenance work, however you can still explore the whole 11-miles of our World Heritage Site canal on foot between the Shropshire border and Llangollen (Horseshoe Falls) this winter.
Whilst visiting, the Chapel Tea Rooms on Station Road is a must for some lunch, or if you’re at the other end of the canal, Caffi Wylfa in Chirk is also a firm favourite alongside the many independent businesses on the main High Street - plus Chirk railway station is only a short train ride from Wrexham General!
By Joe Bickerton, Tourism Manager at Wrexham County
Borough Council T. 01978 292015
www.thisiswrexham.co.uk
Gardening Tips and Advice
January - Often the Coldest Month
January might be the middle of winter but as the days lengthen, the garden starts to grow. Now is a great time to plan for the coming gardening year and to order seeds and plants. Enjoy the fresh air on dry sunny days, and check your winter protection, stakes, ties and supports are still working after any severe weather. Also put out food for birds and leave some garden areas uncut, a little longer, to provide shelter for wildlife in your garden.
TOP 10 JOBS TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS MONTH
1. Recycle your Christmas tree by shredding it for mulch.
2. Clean pots and greenhouses ready for spring.
3. Dig over any vacant plots that have not been dug already.
4. Disperse worm casts in lawns.
5. Inspect stored tubers of Dahlia, Begonia and Canna for rots or drying out.
6. Prune apple and pear trees.
7. Start forcing rhubarb.
8. Plan your vegetable crop rotations for the coming season.
9. Keep putting out food and water for hungry birds.
10. Make a polythene shelter for outdoor peaches and nectarines, to protect against peach leaf curl.
OSCAR'S AT ROSSETT HALL HOTEL
Mac ‘n’ Cheese with Bacon
There’s nothing like a comforting bowl of mac ‘n’ cheese to warm you up on a chilly January day. This classic recipe is the ultimate winter pick-me-up, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with crispy bacon. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cosy weekend treat, this dish is guaranteed to bring a little joy to your table when the days are cold and grey.
INGREDIENTS:
100g butter, plus extra for greasing
100g plain flour
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1.2 litre full-fat milk
75ml double cream
1 bay leaf
400g mature cheddar, grated
Pinch freshly grated nutmeg
500g dried macaroni
100g smoked bacon lardons or smoked pancetta cubes
60g white breadcrumbs
50g Parmesan, grated
Salt and pepper for seasoning
PREP: 10 minutes SERVES: 4
COOK: 40 minutes
METHOD:
Preheat the oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas 6. Grease a 35cm x 20cm ovenproof dish.
Melt the butter in a large saucepan over a low heat. Stir in the plain flour and cook for 1 minute. Add the mustard, take the pan off the heat and gradually whisk in the milk and cream. Add the bay leaf.
Put the pan back over the heat, stirring constantly, until it boils and thickens. Take the pan off the heat again, remove the bay leaf and add the cheddar. Stir until the cheese has melted. Season with lots of black pepper and some nutmeg.
Bring a large pan of salted water to the boil and stir in the macaroni. Cook for 10 minutes, or until ‘al dente’, drain well and add to the sauce.
Fry the bacon in a frying pan until crisp. Stir into the macaroni cheese and pour the mixture into the ovenproof dish.
Mix the breadcrumbs with the Parmesan and scatter over the top.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until goldenbrown and bubbling.
Serve immediately.
Seasonal Treats in January
Keep the cold and dark at bay with flavourrich ingredients that are in season now…
Mussels
Rope-grown and in peak, plump condition, British and Irish mussels are a real treat on dark January evenings. They’re very easy to cook but need to be eaten the day you buy them and they do require a wee bit of prep. First, wash in a bowl of cold water and pull off the “beards” – the brown hairy stuff dangling from the shell’s hinge. Give any that are open a good tap and if they don’t shut, discard – they are dead and not safe to eat.
Next, heat a large pan, add the mussels and a little water or white wine, then put the lid on and steam for a couple of minutes until all the shells have opened. Serve as they are or with a sauce – tomatoes with chilli are just the job on a cold night.
Swede
Swede is actually a brassica – a lumpen cross between the cabbage and the turnip, but with a sweet, earthy flavour that works beautifully with dairy. Also known in Scotland as ‘neeps’, it’s a stalwart of Burns Night, served as a coarsely mashed supporting act for the haggis. Alternatively, cut into chunks or chips, toss in olive oil and minced garlic then roast, topped with parmesan, until golden and simply irresistible.
Seville Oranges
Home-made marmalade is a cut above the supermarket versions. The key is to use Seville oranges, whose season runs from the end of December to mid-February and whose aromatic rind is vital for the tangy, bitter-sweet flavour. To ensure your marmalade is up to Paddington Bear sandwich standards, soak the sliced peel overnight, cook with golden granulated sugar for a rich, caramel taste, and use a sugar thermometer so you know when it’s reached the setting point of 104.5°C.
Venison
High in protein and taste, venison is a great choice for January roasts or casseroles. To keep it tender, slow cooking is a must. Try diced venison in beef stock in a crockpot on low with mushrooms, chopped smoked streaky bacon, baby carrots and finely diced onion or leek, then either use as a pie filling or serve with seasonal veg – home-made dumplings or swede chips are a great accompaniment, too.
When the Christmas season is over, the decorations have been taken down and the festivities are finished, we can sometimes be left with a sense of emptiness and even sadness. The new year can be a difficult transition for some and can affect our mental wellbeing. January can be challenging for many reasons such as returning to work or school, the cold weather and financial worries. It is important to realise the impact these things can have on our mood and motivation.
With the start of a new year there can also be pressure to reflect and set new goals, which can bring feelings of pressure and self-doubt.
If you decide to set a new year resolution, remember to be kind to yourself if you don’t meet them. Remember:
• It’s okay to set goals, if you want to, but it’s also okay if you don’t meet them.
• It’s okay to prioritise your mental health.
• It’s okay to make time for self-care.
Taking care of your mental health can be challenging but here are some strategies to prioritise self-care and well-being:
Acknowledge and accept your feelings
It’s okay to feel down or have low energy in January. There are biological reasons why many people feel low and lack energy during January and there is nothing ‘wrong’ with having these feelings. Many people will be going through the same or similar feelings.
Get as much daylight as possible
Lack of daylight is partly why people suffer from “The January Blues”. Not getting enough sunlight and Vitamin D has been shown to decrease our happiness and leaves us feeling down. The NHS recommends considering taking a daily supplement of 10 micrograms of vitamin D during the Winter months.
Keep fit and stay active
Exercise has numerous mental health benefits. Engage in activities that you enjoy, such as walking, yoga, or dancing. Regular exercise has been proven to reduce stress, help improve self-esteem levels and relieve depressive tendencies, as exercise releases endorphins which gives your body a positive feeling of happiness.
Get
enough sleep
Prioritise a regular sleep schedule and ensure you are getting enough rest. Adequate sleep is essential for your emotional well-being.
Connect with others
Humans are social beings, and maintaining social connections is vital for our mental health. Reach out to friends and family and consider joining clubs or classes that interest you. Social interaction can offer support and a sense of belonging.
Tel: 0333 332 3260
www.alynfamilydoctors.co.uk
www.facebook.com/alynfamilydoctors
Acton Park Primary School
Happy, Respectful, Inspired Achievers
Acton Park Primary School is a friendly, caring and nurturing school with a ‘family feel’, catering for children aged from 3 - 11 years. To find out more about our school, or to arrange a visit, please contact us.
offer wrap around childcare for all our pupils, including those of nursery age. We are open from 7:45am to 5:30pm during term time. We also offer childcare during the school holidays.
&
The Physio & Therapy Clinic is an established and independent clinic with a team of highly specialised and experienced physiotherapists and hand therapists. We treat a broad range of conditions - sports injuries, dizziness, women’s health and general musculoskeletal physiotherapy - using a variety of treatment techniques.
The Physio & Therapy Clinic, Gwenfro, Unit 10, Wrexham Technology Park, Wrexham LL13 7YP Tel: 01978 312 407 / Email: info@thephysioclinic.org.uk
www.thephysioclinic.org.uk
CREATE TRUE CONFIDENCE FROM WITHIN
YOUR PRO-AGEING JOURNEY
with Amanda Azzopardi
Have you ever thought about how you want to age?
Throughout your ageing journey, various hormonal stages affect bone strength, joints, and skin health. We lose collagen, fat, and bone density, leading to issues like hair loss, pelvic floor dysfunction, and joint pain. From pregnancy to menopause, hormones impact our ageing, but you can take control of your journey!
With extensive experience and a genuine approach to client care, Amanda Azzopardi stands as a leading provider of aesthetic treatments.
BEFORE AFTER
ENABLE EMPOWERMENT THROUGH THE PRO-AGEING PROCESS
» Full facial rejuvenation
» Anti wrinkle treatment
» Thread lift procedures
» Skin boosting treatments
» Dermal filler treatment
» Polynucleotides
» Resurfacing peels
» Preventing skin cancer with skin care
» IV nutrition therapy
» Intimate vaginal rejuvenation
» Spider leg veins
» Hair restoration
» Weight management/ gut health
HMRC Wants a Slice of Your Pension Pie
By WARREN HADLOW
It’s been a few months since the Autumn Budget was released and some of the upcoming changes have already raised a lot of commentary.
One of the changes which has certainly raised some eyebrows is the proposal that, from April 2027, any funds that are left to your family within your pension (with the exception of your spouse on first death) will form part of your estate and will therefore be subject to Inheritance Tax (IHT) where certain limits are exceeded. This is a big change. Currently, pension funds are NOT included within the calculations for IHT at all.
Here's a couple of examples that may help explain the impact this change might have:
1. Fred is single, aged 70, and has no children
He is leaving all of his assets to his nieces and nephews; his house, savings, and investments total £375,000. His situation means that the first £325,000 of this total is tax free and his estate has to pay 40% IHT (£20,000) on the £50,000 difference. He also has a pension pot which has £200,000 in it.
If Fred passes away in 2025, his pension pot goes to his loved ones tax-free under the current rules and his nieces and nephews only see the estate pay the £20,000 IHT bill.
If Fred passes away in October 2027, his pension pot of £200,000 is included in his estate and HMRC take 40% of this as well. So his family would see the estate pay an additional £80,000 in IHT; a total bill of £100,000.
2. Wilma lost her husband many years ago, is aged 90, and has children and grandchildren
She has built up significant value in her home, investments, and savings which
are now worth £1million. She leaves the £1million and her £400,000 pension to her children and grandchildren.
If Wilma passes away in 2025, her situation means that she has a £1 million IHT allowance (using her own and her late husband’s allowances) and there is no IHT to be paid on her estate or her pension.
If Wilma passes away in late 2027, the pension pot which was outside of her estate in 2025 is now included and subject to 40% IHT. The family would see the estate hit with an IHT bill of £160,000.
These examples show that your family circumstances can, of course, make a difference. Having children and a home can mean your allowances are more generous and, if you are fortunate enough to be worth over £2 million, your allowances are reduced for anything above this value.
There is certainly a lot to consider and we would be happy to discuss your current position and what you can do to reduce your IHT bill in a no obligation chat.
The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select, and the value can therefore go down as well as up. You may get back less than you invested.
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
Tel: 01978 311 611 www.hadlowedwards.co.uk
Business Advice Learning Hub
By VICKY HEATHFIELD
How to set SMART goals for your business
Setting goals is essential for business success, but vague objectives like “increase sales” or “improve marketing” can often fall flat. This is where the SMART framework comes in. By creating goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, you can focus your efforts and set yourself up for success. Here’s how:
Be specific
Define your goal clearly and avoid ambiguity. Consider the “who”, “what”, “where”, and “why” of your objective. For example, instead of saying, “I want to grow my business”, specify, “I want to increase website traffic by 20% over the next three months.” A clear goal makes it easier to plan your next steps.
Make it measurable
To track progress, ensure your goal includes measurable criteria. Numbers, percentages, or time frames help you monitor success. For example, rather than saying, “I want to improve customer satisfaction,” aim for something measurable like, “Increase positive online reviews by 15% in the next six months.”
Ensure it’s achievable
While ambitious goals can be motivating, they should also be realistic. Think about your resources, budget, and capacity. For instance, instead of aiming to double your revenue overnight, focus on manageable steps like boosting monthly sales by 10%.
Keep it relevant
Your goals should align with your broader business strategy. Ask yourself, “How does this goal contribute to my long-term vision?” If your priority is building brand awareness, focus on actions like increasing social media reach or investing in PR campaigns. This ensures your efforts stay aligned with your priorities.
Set a timeframe
Every goal needs a deadline. A time-bound objective creates urgency and keeps you accountable. For example, instead of saying, “I’ll grow my email list,” specify, “I will add 500 new subscribers by the end of March.” A clear deadline drives action.
Putting it all together
An example of a SMART goal could be: “Increase Instagram followers by 25% (from 1,000 to 1,250) within three months by posting three times a week and engaging with followers daily.” Using the SMART framework ensures your business goals are clear, focused, and achievable.
Whether you’re starting a new business, working for yourself or managing a team, EssentialsMAG Learning Hub is home to a growing collection of jargon-free marketing and business resources. Visit: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/learning-hub
By Vicky Heathfield, Editor of EssentialsMAG
vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk
www.essentialsmag.co.uk
Tel: 01978 855459
Build Habits, Not Pressure
By HELEN CONWAY
The excitement of setting New Year’s resolutions can fade pretty quickly, some statistics suggesting before the end of January, leaving many people struggling to maintain momentum.
However, with the right strategies, you can keep your goals alive and ensure long-term success.
Start small and build gradually
One of the most effective ways to sustain momentum is by starting with small, manageable, specific steps. Overambitious goals can feel overwhelming and lead to burnout. Instead, focus on gradual progress. For example, if your resolution is to get fitter, begin with a workout or class once or twice a week. Book your workout in your diary and treat it as an important appointment.
Track your progress
Regularly monitoring your achievements can keep you motivated. Use a journal, an app, or even a simple checklist to record milestones and successes. Seeing tangible evidence of your progress can be incredibly rewarding and inspire you to continue.
Stay flexible
Life can be unpredictable, and rigid plans often falter when unexpected challenges arise. Be prepared to adapt your resolutions if necessary.
For instance, if a busy schedule disrupts your exercise routine, shift to shorter, more convenient workouts. Flexibility ensures you stay on track, even if your approach changes.
Celebrate small wins
Recognising and rewarding yourself for small victories is key to maintaining motivation. Each step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your ultimate goal.
By starting small, tracking progress, staying adaptable, and celebrating achievements, you can keep the momentum going and turn your resolutions into lasting habits.
But remember. You are not a puppy.
So if one of your resolutions is to lose weight, don’t undo your efforts by rewarding yourself with food!
Bodywork-Pilates was established in 2002. They offer the very best in pilates, yoga and holistic fitness, with over 20 classes a week to choose from in and around Wrexham and Chester.
Lesley Griffiths MS Member of the Senedd for Wrexham
Happy New Year! I wish EssentialsMAG readers a happy and healthy 2025.
In the run up to Christmas, I visited Tesco in Wrexham to support the company’s annual Winter Food Collection. For more than a decade, Tesco has been working closely with anti-poverty charity Trussell, helping provide food to local communities. Everything donated locally was delivered to Wrexham Foodbank to help those facing hardship over the festive period.
Sadly, demand at this time of year increases significantly. While we would prefer to live in a world where foodbanks do not exist, there is no doubt they provide an invaluable lifeline to people and these collections are always greatly appreciated and generously supported.
Teams4U is a charity that is close to my heart and each year it organises its Christmas Shoebox Appeal. The initiative, which was started in Wrexham by Teams4U founder, Dave Cooke over 30 years ago, provides gifts to vulnerable children and families who are unlikely to receive any presents at Christmas.
People are asked to find an old shoebox, fill it with useful gifts and Teams4U deliver the packages to some of the most disadvantaged children in Eastern Europe, many of whom have fled the war in Ukraine. Any gifts donated that cannot travel abroad for whatever reason are given to local schools. Andrew Ranger MP and I visited the warehouse in Llay in late November to offer our donations. I’m grateful to everyone who
took part and the positive impact it has on the lives of vulnerable children cannot be overstated.
Congratulations to Wrexham author Samantha Maxwell on the success of her latest book, ‘Disabling Ableism’. The book, which is Samantha’s second, is a general study of disability in the eyes of society. Her first book, ‘CP Isn’t Me’, was published in 2022 and is a part autobiographical, part factual account which shares Samantha’s own personal experiences of living with mild cerebral palsy. I first met Samantha last year and helped arrange for her books to be stocked at the Senedd shop in Cardiff Bay. More recently, Andrew Ranger MP and I caught up with Samantha at one of her book signing sessions at Bellis Brothers Farm Shop in Holt, Wrexham.
Samantha is a prolific author and a true inspiration and I am already looking forward to her third book, which is due out later this year!
If you’re a constituent in Wrexham and there is an issue I could help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Welcome to your January colouring adventure! Grab your crayons, felt tips, or pencils, and let your imagination run wild. Have fun, and get creative!
Please share your colouring creations with us with us on Facebook:
@EssentialsMag Wrexham
What’s your favourite colour?
Little Scholars Day Nursery
The Centre for the Child, Wrexham University, Mold Road, Wrexham LL11 2AW
For information about places please contact KIM or BECCA
Tel: 01978 314912 littlescholars@activechildcare.co.uk Why not pay us a visit and
““Life is playfulness… We need to play so that we can rediscover the magic all around us
”
- FLORA COLAO
• Purpose built nursery
• Dedicated and passionate practitioners
• Registered to deliver EE and the Childcare Offer
• Open to the general public as well as students and staff at GlyndŴr University
• Holiday Club provision for ages 4‐12 also available
Directory of Advertisers
Puzzle Page...
Just For Fun
Crossword
ACROSS
1 Access illegally (4)
3 Deserving blame (8)
9 Novice driver (7)
10 Parody (5)
11 Cut of pork (3)
12 Germaine ___ : Australian author (5)
13 Lucid (5)
15 Elongated cephalopod (5)
17 Game fish (5)
18 Ant and ___ : British presenting duo (3)
19 You usually do this whilst asleep (5)
20 Experienced serviceman (7)
21 Compliant; submissive (8)
22 Mace (anag) (4)
DOWN
1 Unenthusiastically (4-9)
2 Assertion (5)
4 Not ready to eat (of fruit) (6)
5 Person studying after a first degree (12)
6 Business deal makers (7)
7 Fizz (13)
8 Not familiar with or used to (12)
14 Unit of sound in a language (7)
16 Not level (6)
18 Style of Greek architecture (5)
If you’d like to know the answers, they will be published in next month’s edition.
Here are the answers from December:
Classic Sudoku
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Give us a call to find out how we can make your windows and doors more energyefficient and maybe help to lower your energy costs in the winter. Plus, for a limited time only, any window orders will receive a free upgrade to ‘Ultimate Glass’ - call for details. T&Cs apply.
SHOWROOM ADDRESS
Unit 5 Moreton Business Park, Gledrid, Nr. Oswestry, Shropshire, LL14 5DG
