EssentialsMAG November 2022 Bangor on Dee/Overton/Garden Village/Borras

Welcome...

Welcome to our November issue!

November is usually when I reflect on the year that’s coming to a close, and re-read some of my past magazine introductions. We’ve had to deal with some seismic changes recently, and with each passing month there seems to be a new crisis to wrap our brains around. The rise in the cost of living, the death of our beloved monarch, turbulence within the government - when will it end?

Anxiety and fear are the normal reactions, and I’m happy to share my coping strategies with you, which include limiting my news intake, watching out for my inner critic, practising gratitude, and making time to have fun with my family and friends.

November is also the time when we commemorate the fallen, on Armistice Day and Remembrance Sunday which, this year, is on 13th November. The Royal British Legion states, as we continue to emerge from a long period of great difficulty, we should still take this opportunity to reinforce our admiration of the unfailing sense of duty displayed by the Armed Forces, and commemorate those who gave their lives in our service. Do support them if you are able.

EMAIL: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

01978 855459

Cover Image: Poppy field at sunset

December Deadlines: Editorial - 11th November Advertising - 15th November

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EssentialsMAG is published by Essentials MAG Limited, a local independent publishing company. All content within the publication is copyright of Essentials MAG Limited.

publishers cannot accept responsibility for views or opinions expressed by contributors or for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers. All dates, times, URLs and phone numbers are understood to be correct at the time of submission to print.

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School Reunion

Were you a pupil at the Wrexham Convent Grammar School?

The Wrexham Convent Grammar School closed 50 years ago, in 1972, and ex-pupils are being sought for a celebration reunion.

The reunion will be held on Saturday, 26th November at 7:30pm at the Holt Lodge Hotel. The cost is £22.00 per person including a buffet and photographer’s services. Each attendee will get a 7”x5” photo which is included in the cost.

If you would like to attend please contact Vonnie Bamber as soon as possible: vonniebamber@outlook.com

Gold Award

Xplore! Science Discovery Centre has received the Gold Award from Visit Wales. The Gold Award is given to attractions that have achieved excellence in their facilities and customer service under Visit Wales’ Visitor Attraction Quality Assurance Service. The inspectors commended Xplore! on its range of exhibits and displays, its interactive science show and the range of products available in the shop and café.

Xplore! Science Discovery Centre is located at: 17 Henblas Street, Wrexham, LL13 8AE For opening times and prices visit their website: xplorescience.co.uk

Open Your Heart

Local guitar teacher records Wrexham’s own Christmas single. Dale Irving from Pick Up and Play Guitar Tuition, based in Borras, has recorded a Christmas song for Wrexham, featuring over 40 local kids.

Dale told us: “This year I’ve written and recorded an original Christmas song called “Open Your Heart”. It features primary school children, mainly from Borras Park Primary School, and it sounds fantastic!”

All proceeds from the sale of the single will go to Nightingale House Hospice.

To purchase and download a copy, visit: https://daleirving.bandcamp.com

5k Your Way

People living with and beyond cancer in the Wrexham area are being encouraged to get active as part of the 5k Your Way, Move Against Cancer initiative. Physical activity has been shown to have a number of important benefits for people living with cancer. The initiative invites those living with and beyond cancer, their families and friends to walk, jog, run, cheer or volunteer at Erddig Parkrun on the last Saturday of every month and then socialise over a drink and cake in the café afterwards.

For further information visit: @erdiggwrexham5kyourway Facebook page, or website: 5kyourway.org

Gareth James - Cancer Treatment in Europe

On 26th November, Rossett Village Hall is hosting 'Gaztonbury', a live music event to support Marford resident, Gareth James, who was diagnosed with stage four bowel cancer at the age of 47 years. Doors will open at 7:30pm and there will be live music from Rhythm Train - one of the finest cover bands in the North West - playing their eclectic mix of Motown, funk, 80’s and pop music.

During the evening there will be a personal message from comedian Alfie Moore, from ‘It’s a Fair Cop’, and an auction with a selection of raffle prizes up for grabs - all donated by local businesses. Food will be available to purchase, and Beech Avenue Brewery will be serving their traditional cask ales, as well as Wrexham Lager, wine and spirits.

Tickets are £15.00 per person and can be purchased from: www.gaztonbury.com

All monies raised will be used for Gareth to have curative treatment abroad. For more details about why this event

happening, please visit the Just Giving page: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/bowelcancercyclist

Musicians

Dates for your Diary

WED 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 NOV

Watercolour Class

St Margaret’s Church, Chester Road, Garden Village LL11 2SH Painting class with demonstrations and instructions. All welcome. 9:30am £5.00

Tel: 01978 351013

THUR 3 NOVEMBER

B.I.R.D. Shopping & Lifestyle Evening

Grosvenor Pulford Hotel & Spa, Wrexham Road, Pulford CH4 9DG

Join us for an evening of fabulous shopping and lifestyle choices just for you. Gift stalls, beauty treatments and more. 6pm - 9pm £5.00 (cash only)

Tel: 07703 203684

3 - 5 NOVEMBER

Darland Community Theatre

Darland High School, Chester Road, Rossett LL12 0DL

Your local drama group will perform a new comedy, called 'Building Bridges', by Colin Calvert.

7:30pm £6.00 darlandtheatre.com

FRI 4 NOVEMBER

Llay Bonfire Bonanza

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

6:30pm

Adults £5.00 / Kids £2.00

SAT 5 NOVEMBER

Farndon Firework Display

Farndon Community Club, Sibbersfield Lane, Farndon CH3 6NX

5:30pm Free (donations welcome)

SAT 5 NOVEMBER

Chester Fireworks Chester Racecourse, Chester CH1 2LY 5pm From £7.00 chester-races.com

SUN 6 NOVEMBER

Wrexham Fireworks

Penyllan Farm Fisheries, Marchwiel LL13 0PF 4pm £5.00 (cash only)

SUN 6 NOVEMBER

Gresford Fireworks

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, High Street, Gresford, LL12 8PS 6:30pm

11 - 13 NOVEMBER

Poppy Display

St Deiniol, Worthenbury, Wrexham LL13 0AW

Wonderful display of remembrance poppies. 10am - 3pm daily Tel: 01978 781111

SAT 12 NOVEMBER

Charity Afternoon

Pulford Village Hall, Pulford CH4 9EU Tea, coffee, cakes, games, stalls and attractions. 12:00pm - 4:00pm Free Tel: 01244 571622

WED 16 NOVEMBER

Wrexham Flower Club

Capel Y Groes, 10 Stryt Holt, Wrexham LL12 7AG Come and develop your flower arranging skills. 7pm £10.00 @Wrexham Flower Club

WED 16 NOVEMBER

Pulford & Poulton Local History Group

Pulford Village Hall, Pulford CH4 9EU “Update on the Poulton Dig” by Dr Kevin Cootes.

7:30pm £3.00 members / £5.00 non pplhg.org.uk

THUR 17 NOVEMBER

An Evening of Magic

Overton Village Hall, Overton LL13 0EE

Overton on Dee WI present 'An Evening of Magic' with award winning professional magician, Jack Dent.

7pm £4.00

Tel: 01978 710451

18 - 19 NOVEMBER

Overton Amateur Dramatic Society

Overton Village Hall, Overton LL13 0EE

''Fawlty Towers'' a play performed by Overton Amateur Dramatic Society.

7pm £8.00 on the door p.hellingman@btinternet.com

19 - 20 NOVEMBER

Art Exhibition and Sale

Pulford Village Hall, Pulford CH4 9EU

Art Exhibition and Sale by Pulford Painters Art Group. Refreshments available. Free parking adjacent to the hall. Disabled parking, access and facilities. Pulford Painters Art Group meet every Wednesday morning between 9.00am and 12.30pm.

11am - 5pm Free

Tel: 01244 630137

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.

TUE 22 NOVEMBER

Garden Village WI

St. John’s Church Hall, Herbert Jennings Avenue LL12 7YF

Come and join us for our monthly meeting where we will be painting a gin/wine glass for you to take home.

7:00pm gardenvillagewi@gmail.com

WED 23 NOVEMBER

Dodleston History Group

Village Hall, Pulford Lane, Dodleston CH4 9NN

"The Curious Origins of our Christmas Traditions", a talk given by Ken Pye. 7:30pm £3.00 Tel: 01244 660102

FRI 25 NOVEMBER

Overton Winter Fair

Overton Village Hall, Overton LL13 0EE

Local makers, bakers and creators. Come and do some early Christmas shopping!

4pm - 8pm Free

SAT 26 NOVEMBER

Gaztonbury - Charity Music Event

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

A live music event to support local man, Gareth James, who was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer. 7:30pm £15.00 gaztonbury.com

TUE 29 NOVEMBER

Madras Community Choir Concert

St Mary Magdalene Church, Penley LL13 0LU Madras Community Choir Concert with Christmas theme.

7:00pm £6.00 on the door Tel: 01948 830258

SUN 4 DECEMBER

Gresford Artisan Market

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, Gresford, LL12 8PS

Featuring great food and craft producers from around the region. 10:30am - 2pm

Meditation

For Children

By SARAH GRIFFITHS

For many of us, winter can feel like a sad and stressful time. With the warmth and excitement of summer feeling like a distant memory, a feeling of dread or worry may be looming with the reality of the change in season. This year, constant negativity in the news and money worries may be adding to the pressure. Our children will be excited about Christmas and Halloween but may also be struggling with worries after a new school year with harder work and stresses of the morning rush.

Every Monday in DragonFly Kids, a meditation and mindfulness group for children aged 7-11 in Gresford, we learn skills to help with any anxieties, stresses, and worries. The children love the strategies and use them to stay calm and relaxed so they can deal with challenges more easily.

Breathing is one of the most important things we do for our body so, by using our breath intentionally, we help alleviate stress. Here are a couple we use:

Four-Four-Four-Breath

Sit in a quiet place… close your eyes… Breathe slowly in through your nose for four seconds, hold the breath in your body for four seconds, then gently breathe out through the mouth for four seconds. Do this four times, make sure your shoulders are relaxed. If you wanted to relax deeper, put some calming music on in the background.

Lion’s Breath

This is one of the children’s favourites… Sit in a quiet place. Put your arms out in front of you, take a deep breath in through your nose and clench your fists, now breathe out through the mouth quickly, stick your tongue out, unclench your fists and look in between your eyebrows. Do this five times and at the end you may feel tingly all over. This breath helps to change your energy, its amazing!

This is fun!

Chocolate Meditation

Choose a chocolate, preferably with a wrapper. Put some calming music on and take your time to unwrap the chocolate. Try to use all your senses. What does it feel, sound, smell and eventually taste like. Really take time to allow the chocolate to melt on your tongue and notice how different the chocolate tastes when you use all your senses. This meditation helps to train the mind to focus but also enjoy every little part. Which is why our taste buds are there.

DragonFly Kids Meditation class is held every Monday at 4pm at Gresford Trust Memorial Hall. If you’d like to learn more, or bring your children along to a session, contact Sarah on the details below. For more details, contact Sarah Griffiths at DragonFly Kids Meditation Class

Tel: 07841 533666

Feeling Stressed? ‘Pump Up Vagus’

By GAYLE WHITTAKER

Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed? Out of balance? Do you feel you need space to stop and just be? It could be you need your Vagus Nerve stimulating!

The Vagus Nerve is one of the most important parts of our nervous system in terms of the impact it has on our physical and emotional health and wellbeing. Stimulating the Vagus Nerve puts the body into a ‘rest and digest’ position, inducing a state of calm both mentally and physically.

The Vagus Nerve is the longest cranial nerve in the body and runs from the brain stem down to the abdomen. It is responsible for the regulation of several functions including our digestion, heart rate and respiratory rate, as well as our blood pressure and certain reflex actions, such as coughing, sneezing, swallowing, and vomiting.

One of its most important roles is balancing our fight or flight response. This is activated when we are under stress. In our modern world this is often over stimulated due to the stresses of our daily lives, and so our bodies and minds can live in a constant state of fight or flight.

Stress is a known contributory factor to chronic illness. A Swedish study involving more than 140,000 people published in the British Medical Journal in 2019, found that stress-related disorders were associated with a subsequent risk of life-threatening infections.

Reflexology stimulates the Vagus Nerve to induce calm. As a reflexologist I work on the top and base of the foot, directly along the reflexes which correspond with the Vagus Nerve to stimulate the nerve into action.

While we might think we can cope living in a state of, sometimes, almost constant stress, we may not realise the impact this could have on our long-term health. Reflexology is one option open to you to help bring balance to your mind and body, possibly contributing to better long-term health.

By Gayle Whittaker, Reflexologist, The

Therapist

When to Use a Minor Injury Unit

If you have a minor injury, such as a cut that needs stitches, a suspected broken bone, a sprain or minor burn, you can get help from an NHS Minor Injury Unit (MIU).

MIUs are nurse-led and are there to treat injuries that need attention but are not critical or life-threatening. They’re located in convenient places and you can be seen much more quickly than at an Accident and Emergency Dept. (A&E).

No appointment is needed at a Minor Injury Unit, just walk in and you’ll be seen by nursing staff in a calm, relaxed setting.

An example of conditions that can be treated at a MIU include:

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MIUs treat children as well as adults.

Many A&E departments will pass you on to the nearest MIU if your condition isn’t serious enough for A&E – so you can save considerable time if you go straight there.

Local Minor Injury Units can be found at:

Mold Community Hospital Ashgrove, Mold, Flintshire CH7 1XG Tel: 03000 850 006

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 8am - 6pm Saturday and Sunday: Closed

Oswestry Health Centre Thomas Savin Road, off Gobowen Road, Oswestry, Shropshire SY11 1GA Tel: 01691 663600

Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 8:30am - 6pm Saturday and Sunday: 8:30am - 1pm

If you're not sure what to do NHS 111 can help if you need urgent medical help or you're not sure what to do. They will ask questions about your symptoms so you get the help you need.

Visit: www.111.nhs.uk or call 111. It’s available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Life-threatening emergencies

Call 999 in a medical or mental health emergency. This is when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk.

Gardening Tips and Advice November - Winter is on its Way

Leaves are falling rapidly, and wind and rain are on the increase. Tender plants will need protecting from frost, gales and freezing rains. Move plants into the greenhouse, or into a sheltered spot, but if you can't, it is worth wrapping plants or pots. Remember winter can be a tough time for birds in terms of water and food, so keep supplies well topped up.

TOP 10 JOBS TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS MONTH

1. Clear up fallen leaves - especially from lawns, ponds and beds.

2. Raise containers onto pot feet to prevent waterlogging.

3. Plant tulip bulbs for a spring display next year.

4. Prune roses to prevent wind-rock.

5. Plant out winter bedding.

6. Cover brassicas with netting if pigeons are a problem.

7. Insulate outdoor containers from frost - bubblewrap works well.

8. Stop winter moth damage to fruit trees using grease bands around the trunks.

Put out bird food to encourage winter birds into the garden.

Use a seasonal bonfire - where this is allowed - to dispose of excess debris unfit for composting.

Bringing the World to You

By DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

After all the problems of the last couple of years, many of our clients seized the opportunity to travel as soon as they were able to. But others have been a little wary about seeing the world again because of the hassle attached to the pandemic restrictions in some countries.

Happily, for most people, these are now a thing of the past and so, to inform and inspire you all to pack your cases and enjoy holidays to the full again, we have put together a fantastic Travel Show, featuring a wide range of holiday ideas with something to suit all tastes and budgets.

The venue will be the Doubletree Hilton in Chester on Sunday 15th January 2023 and admittance is free.

There will be big name Cruise companies such as Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and Fred Olsen; ultra-luxury cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas, Oceania and Silversea; as well as lesser-known smaller sailing ships such as Clipper Cruises.

River cruising will be represented by the likes of Scenic and Uniworld with amazing European itineraries plus exotic destinations such as the Amazon and the Ganges.

Popular holiday destinations such as Japan, South Africa, Canada, USA, Australia and New Zealand will be represented by specialist Tour Operators with exciting fly-drive and touring holidays to tempt you.

And, of course, Europe will feature strongly: we have fabulous suggestions for top-quality hotels stays; some little gems off the beaten track; or perhaps you would relish the chance to take lessons in how to cook the Italian way in a boutique family-owned hotel in Tuscany!

In addition to all the information stands, we will be featuring a Talk Travel series which will consist of in-depth presentations on bucket list destinations. For example, specialist company Inside Japan will be revealing the many wonderful things to do and see in that incredible country. There will also be a detailed insight into the awe-inspiring Galapagos Islands - with more presentations to be confirmed!

I do hope you will join us at the Travel Show on Sunday 15th January 2023 and I look forward to seeing you there.

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Mushroom Stroganoff

With earthy mushrooms, this creamy stroganoff recipe is packed with flavour. A comforting winter dinner, using cheap ingredients and it’s quick to make too!

INGREDIENTS

2 tsp olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

1 tbsp sweet paprika

2 garlic cloves, crushed 300g mixed mushrooms, chopped 150ml low-sodium beef or vegetable stock

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, or vegetarian alternative

3 tbsp half-fat soured cream

Small bunch of parsley, roughly chopped 250g pouch cooked wild rice

METHOD

Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan and soften the onion for about five minutes.

Add the paprika and garlic, then cook for 1 minute more. Add the mushrooms and cook on a high heat, stirring often, for about 5 minutes.

Pour in the stock and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to the boil, bubble for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens, then turn off the heat and stir through the soured cream and most of the parsley. Make sure the pan is not on the heat or the sauce may split.

Heat the wild rice following pack instructions, then stir through the remaining chopped parsley and serve with the stroganoff.

Toddlers and Bach Flower Remedies

By MELANIE BURGESS

The early years of childhood are a time of awe and wonder; a time to discover, learn and grow. Being a parent of a toddler brings such joy but it also brings with it many challenges! Young children are dealing with the frustrations of communication, tantrums, anxieties, clinginess and overtiredness, growing independence and strength of character, to name but a few. Bach Flower Remedies are a gentle and natural way to help your toddler, and you, adjust from being irritable and grouchy to more content.

Which Bach Flower Remedies can help?

Anxiety in toddlers is often rooted in fear or nervousness. Mimulus is the remedy for known fears or anxieties such as new situations or loud noises, Aspen is the remedy for unknown fears. Or it may be that a child’s anxiety comes from a lack of confidence, in which case Larch will help.

Tantrums are more often than not caused by anger or frustration. Toddlers like to explore, and when they are stopped from doing something that they want to do, they unsurprisingly feel frustrated and cross. Holly is the remedy to help turn feelings of anger, frustration, jealousy or rage into acceptance and calmness.

Nightmares are distressing - your little one waking up in a panic, frightened and upset. Rock Rose is the remedy for panic, Star of Bethlehem is for trauma.

Both are found in Rescue Remedy which works wonders for acute times of fear. Either would work well in combination with Aspen or Mimulus to help calm the panic and aid a restful sleep.

Then there are the remedies that can help Mums and Dads with their challenges. Pine is for those feelings of ‘Mum or Dad guilt’ where you feel you aren’t doing a good job, or doing the wrong thing. Larch to give you a boost of confidence in your abilities as a parent, Hornbeam or Olive to help with the tiredness, Elm for the moments you feel overwhelmed by your responsibilities or Red Chestnut if you worry excessively about your little one.

These are just some of the remedies that could help - all of which can either be taken on their own, or in combination.

You could request a treatment bottle with your own choice of remedies, or book a consultation for a more in-depth chat about what you need.

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

E: daisyholistics@gmail.com Facebook: @daisyholistics

Self Assessment Tax Returns

By RACHEL COLES

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) uses Self Assessment to collect Income Tax. Self Assessment tax returns need to be filed by individuals, such as the self employed and sole traders who have earned more than £1,000. A tax return is also needed if you are a partner in a business partnership.

If your income is purely from your wage or a pension, you will generally not be required to complete a tax return unless you are also in receipt of additional untaxed income such as monies gained from rental properties; tips and commissions; income from savings, investments and dividends and some COVID-19 grants or support payments. These all need to be reported in a tax return.

It is vital that your return reflects your records accurately so that you don’t pay too much, or too little, tax.

We understand it can be tempting to try and manage your tax return yourself to keep costs down. Unfortunately, you may then come to realise that you simply ‘don’t know what you don’t know’ ie. what you can and cannot claim for - and that could be a problem as it may result in you paying more tax than you need to.

We feel that your time is better spent running and building your business or portfolio rather than trying to manage your own tax return. After all, that is what we, as chartered accountants, are here for.

Please remember that the onus is on you, as the taxpayer, to make sure your tax return is completed and submitted on time.

Dependent upon your circumstances, paper tax returns need to be filed by midnight on 31st October and online tax returns by midnight on 31st January.

You then need to pay any tax you owe by midnight on 31st January.

Here at Haswells, we understand tax returns can be a headache, but that is why we are here – to help you navigate the information that needs to be filed including the ‘how’ and the ‘when’.

Please don’t let your tax return give you a headache – just call us if you have any queries.

Celebrating Life and Honouring Memories

By JONES FAMILY FUNERAL DIRECTORS

Searching for the right funeral directors can seem daunting, especially when you are grieving. But planning a funeral service or memorial becomes easier when you turn to Jones Family Funeral Directors. We are a mother and daughter run establishment, offering a complete bespoke and personalised service.

Jayne Jones is our Funeral Director with 18 years’ experience working in the funeral industry. She has a Foundation Certificate and a Diploma in Funeral Service.

Natalie, who is the daughter of Jayne, is our Funeral Arranger/Admin, and has experience of working with families in previous compassionate roles.

We’re here to help Funeral arrangements will be one of the first steps taken following the loss of a loved one. They can be made prior to the registration of the death, but it is sometimes best to wait until the registration is finalised or the coroner’s findings are complete. Arrangements can be made at our office in Chester Street in Wrexham. We will guide you every step of the way.

Everything is taken care of It is with our caring family approach that we are able to cater for all your needs through a very difficult time. We can arrange every aspect of the funeral, including the choice of coffin and time in the chapel of rest.

We have all the facilities to ensure that every funeral is carried out as a respectful tribute to that person’s life. You will be cared for with the utmost dignity, respect and tradition. We understand the unfortunate loss of a loved one can be daunting, but we will be here with you every step of the way, including after the funeral where we will offer the family an aftercare service for the first month.

EssentialsMAG readers get a 10% discount at time of booking when they show this page and advert.

The Hidden Cost of Christmas

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF

People often criticise China for being the biggest source of global carbon emissions. Whilst their total emissions are by far the highest, Chinese emissions per head are around half those of the USA. A significant contributor to China’s total emissions are exports, many of which come here.

In 2021, the UK imported £654bn of goods and services and our exports were £636bn. Whilst the trade deficit (the difference between imports and exports) was relatively small, there were bigger differences for goods and services; the UK had a surplus of £136bn on services, but a deficit of £154bn on goods, so far more goods came into our country than went out.

The reason this matters from an environmental perspective is that it can make some emissions statistics misleading. The UK government focuses on ‘territorial emissions’ when measuring progress against carbon reduction targets. There are a number of exclusions from territorial emissions - two of the most significant being international flights (which we take more of than any other country) and imported goods. So, as we import far more goods than we export, our emissions figures are effectively understated. Whilst we export more services than we import, the level of emissions associated with services is generally much lower than for goods.

Claims that the UK is doing better than other countries on reducing emissions tend to be based on territorial emissions. If we factor in things like imported goods, the UK has still made improvements, but they are far more modest than the territorial emissions figures suggest. The sector where the UK has made really good progress is decarbonising energy production. However, when it comes to our consumption emissions, many of these have effectively been outsourced rather than actually reduced.

The key thing to remember is that whenever we buy goods manufactured in another country, we’re contributing to the emissions created there. Rather than complaining about emissions from other countries, or even using them as an excuse for not reducing UK emissions further, we need to recognise our own role in creating them.

Black Friday and Christmas normally generate a big upsurge in UK consumer spending. This year many of us may already be cutting back due to the cost of living crisis. However, if we’re lucky enough to still have disposable income, we should consider whether we can help reduce emissions both here and overseas by choosing to consume less.

EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com

News with Hadlow Edwards

Looking ahead in an economic storm

We live in a time where world events and news surround us every day. We have access to social media platforms, radio, and TV programmes each with differing views, which can lead to confusion and uncertainty.

Not only are we left to determine how much we can trust the information we receive through the media, but financial education in schools has only been introduced in the last decade, meaning people who are old enough to manage their finances have had to seek out their own financial education to try and understand it.

One of the topics that people come to me to try and understand is pensions and their advantages.

If you are self-employed, there is no specific pension scheme, but there are personal pension options available.

Determining the level of pension contribution can be tricky, so seeking advice from a financial adviser could help get the balance right.

If you are employed, your employer must automatically enrol you in a workplace pension scheme (Auto Enrolment), provided you are between the ages of 22 and state pension age, earn over £10,000 a year, and usually work in the UK.

The Auto Enrolment Pension Scheme was introduced by the government in 2012 whereby employers are required to contribute a minimum level, currently 3% of a person’s relevant earnings, into their employee’s pensions, alongside the employee’s contribution of 5%.

By Richard Hadlow Powell of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk

Is a pension worth thinking about for a person just starting in their employed life? Let’s use an example*…

A 20-year-old starting out in their career will need to contribute £167.40 per month into their pension until they retire at age 67 to reach a pension pot of £500,000 when they do retire.

A 50-year-old with the same goal to reach a pension pot of £500,000 when they retire at 67 will need to contribute £1,431 per month for the rest of their career.

It’s certainly less daunting to start saving for retirement earlier rather than later, even if it does seem like a lifetime away. And that’s not to say that it’s not too late to start thinking about retirement goals even at the age of 50.

If you would like help and advice on how you could reach your retirement goals, please do not hesitate to contact us.

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.

*Based on a starting point of £0, pension pot growth of 6% per annum, and an inflation rate of 2.5% for the entire time the person is contributing to their pension. These figures are only examples and are not guaranteed - they are not minimum or maximum amounts. What you will get back depends on how your investment grows and on the tax treatment of the investment. You could get back more or less than this.

Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The 'St. James's Place Partnership' and the titles 'Partner' and 'Partner Practice' are marketing terms used to describe St. James's Place representatives.

The

Community Roadshows

Each year it is estimated that up to £3.5 billion of state benefits in the UK go unclaimed by older people.

Following the success of our previous roadshow, which took place during the summer and raised £1,000's in unclaimed benefits for those who attended, The Rainbow Foundation's Community Agents team has once again joined forces with Wrexham Council's Welfare Rights team to support older people to claim the benefits they are entitled to, to help with the rising cost of living as winter approaches.

Jane Bellis, Community Agent said:

“As the cost of living continues to rise, we are seeing more people contact the Community Agent team for advice and help to claim benefits, manage their bills and access wider support to maintain good health and wellbeing during these challenging times. There is no need to book, just come along and make sure that you are getting all the support that you are entitled to.”

The remaining community roadshows are taking place on:

• Monday 31st October in Overton at the Parish Rooms from 9:30am – 12:30pm.

• Wednesday 9th November in Horseman’s Green at the Community Hall from 9:30am – 12:30pm.

About the Rainbow Foundation

The Rainbow Foundation, previously The Rainbow Centre, has been tackling loneliness and isolation whilst promoting good health and wellbeing for more than 27 years. Our mission is to help older people to regain their sense of worth, and to provide access to support, services and facilities that can empower people of all ages to retain as much independence as possible.

To find out more about The Rainbow Foundation, please visit: www.therainbowfoundation.org.uk or call them on: 01948 830242.

Lesley Griffiths MS Member of the Senedd for Wrexham

Readers will be aware we recently marked the 88th anniversary of the Gresford Colliery disaster. On 22nd September, 1934, the Wrexham community experienced one of its darkest days as 266 men and boys tragically lost their lives. To ensure their names are never forgotten, a Memorial Wall was unveiled at the Miners Rescue Station on Maesgwyn Road by Wrexham AFC manager, Phil Parkinson. Goalkeepers Rob Lainton and Christian Dibble also revealed a detailed plan of the mines and the Rhos Orpheus Male Choir sang a selection of miners’ songs. Thank you to Wrexham Warehouse Project and North Wales Miners Association Trust for arranging such a special event.

I was pleased to welcome Wales' First Minister, Mark Drakeford, to Wrexham once again as the guest speaker at AVOW's (Association of Voluntary Organisations in Wrexham) AGM. During his speech, the First Minister praised all the local organisations and volunteers who stepped up so admirably during the pandemic. Challenging times lie ahead as the costof-living crisis escalates but AVOW's strong values and rich human resources mean it will continue to provide an outstanding and invaluable service to the people of Wrexham.

I met so many brilliant food and drink producers showcasing their excellent products and I’m grateful to the organisers for putting on such an enjoyable and successful event.

I invited North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner, Andy Dunbobbin, to The Venture in Caia Park. I am a proud patron of the children’s centre. It plays such an invaluable role in the community, with around 2,000 children using its services every year.

This month, Wales will play in a World Cup for the first time in 64 years. To celebrate this momentous occasion, a festival for football lovers is taking place in Wrexham from 11th – 13th November. ‘Wal Goch Festival’ has the backing of the Football Association of Wales and will feature special guests and a host of activities taking place throughout the city. I have been in regular contact with the organisers and I look forward to taking part. This will be a fantastic event for Wrexham and something all football fans will enjoy. Follow @gwylwalgoch on social media for all the latest updates.

It was lovely to see so many people supporting Wrexham Feast. Thousands of people attended the food and drink festival that took place on Waterworld car park and I am pleased to hear it looks set to return in 2023.

Tel: 01978 355743

Lesley.Griffiths@senedd.wales www.lesleygriffiths.co.uk Facebook & Twitter: @lesley4wrexham

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.

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

National

Enquiries 03457 48 49 50