Essentials Mag Month 2020 Bangor on Dee/Overton/Garden Village/Borras

September 2020

Your monthly local community magazine

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Find the 5 little EssentialsMAG mice hidden in this magazine for a chance to WIN ÂŁ25!

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Welcome...

Welcome to our September issue!

Life during the COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for parents and children alike. By the time most of you read this, the summer holidays will be over and most children will be going back to school. September can be a time of change for many families - from little ones starting school for the first time, to teenagers moving up to high school, college or university.

But this year that change is even greater than normal as some children may not have been in a classroom since the lockdown begun in March.

Returning to school during the COVID-19 pandemic may not feel like normal - at least for a while.

Classrooms will look a little different, with one-way systems in place and other social distance measures to adhere to. But whatever form school takes, it will require everyone's support to make sure that it is healthy, safe and equitable for students, teachers, staff and families.

Learning is life’s greatest adventure. Whatever is happening in your family this month, we wish you all the best.

Stay safe and look after one another.

Cover Image: Back to school

October Deadlines: Editorial - 11th Sept Advertising - 18th Sept

We’ve got the local area covered!

Delivered by hand to 7,600 homes and businesses more than any other magazine in our area.

Garden Village, Borras, Pandy, Acton, Bangor-on-Dee, Overton, Penley, Hanmer, Marchwiel, Tallarn Green, Cross Lanes, Worthenbury, Pentre Maelor Also available at 40+ pick-up points across the region.

You can also read our magazines online at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk

@EssentialsMagWrexham @EssentialsMAG1

All the best, Vicky Heathfield

EssentialsMAG is published by Essentials Mag Limited. The views expressed in articles and advertisements published in this edition of EssentialsMAG do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher.

EMAIL: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk CALL: 01978 855459

The reproduction of any material is forbidden without the written permission consent of the publishers. Whilst every effort is taken to ensure accuracy in the publication, we cannot accept any responsibility for any error or omissions that may have occurred, or any consequence arising from use of this publication. All facts and figures are correct at time of going to press.

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© EssentialsMAG Limited 2020.

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Can You Find the EssentialsMAG Mice?

Hidden throughout this magazine are five other mice, (just like the one here, but smaller) for you to find.

Find the five other mice for a chance of winning £25!

WIN!

HOW TO ENTER THE COMPETITION: 1. Simply read this magazine from cover-to-cover and find the other five little mice hiding amongst the adverts.

2. Go to: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/mice and complete the competition form with your answers.

3. Closing date: 30th September 2020.

The first correct answer drawn at random wins.

The usual EssentialsMAG competition terms and conditions apply.

This publication is printed on FSC® certified paper.

When you have finished reading it please put it in your paper recycling bin.

Local News Village Bakery Creates 50 New Jobs A local family firm has created 50 new jobs and is forging ahead with the building of a new super bakery since being hit by a devastating fire a year ago. The blaze on August 19 last year completely destroyed the Village Bakery’s flagship bakery on Wrexham Industrial Estate, thankfully no one was hurt in the fire.

Far from being floored the company is now “stronger than ever” with ambitious plans for future growth. The new 140,000 sq ft bakery in Ash Road is more than three times the size of the one it’s replacing and the shell of the building is now complete. The company will be kitting it out with the very latest equipment and say it will be the most modern bakery in Europe when it’s up and running next year. It will include a new Baking Academy to train the next generation of bakers and a cutting-edge new product development kitchen, twice the size of the original one, to ensure the Village Bakery stays ahead of the competition.

Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme Thinking of making the switch to an electric car?

The good news is the UK’s Office for Low Emission Vehicles (OLEV) provide a number of government electric car grants to help an individual or business purchase an electric vehicle or install charging points.

The UK Government is pushing for electric car chargers to be installed in newly built homes and a huge expansion of public charging infrastructure for when you are out on the road. However support is also available for EV drivers who want to install a car charger at home.

The Electric Vehicle Homecharge Scheme, often shortened to EVHS, is designed to help plug-in vehicle owners offset some of the upfront costs they face. If you have a home with off-street parking suitable for an electric car charger, and an eligible electric vehicle, you could get £350 off the cost of buying and installing an electric charger.

There are some rules around the types of electric car and electric car charger that qualify for the grant, such as using an approved installer. Fore more details please visit the government website: www.gov.uk/government/collections/government-grants-for-low-emission-vehicles

Share your news with us, submit an article at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/article

Over 70s Can Once Again Donate Blood Following the First Minister’s announcement that Welsh Government’s shielding guidance has been paused, the Welsh Blood Service is pleased to announce existing donors aged 70 or older, are once again able to donate.

Up until August 16, existing donors aged 70 or over had been temporarily deferred by the Welsh Blood Service in line with Welsh Government shielding guidance.

To be eligible as a donor over the age of 70, existing donors must have registered and made at least one donation before their 66th birthday and then continued to make donations at least once every two years. Donors can then continue to donate indefinitely providing they remain fit and healthy and satisfy the standard donation criteria.

If you are interested in making a blood donation appointment, please visit: www.welshblood.org.uk or call 0800 252 266.

Bangor on Dee Foodbank Collection Volunteers will be collecting items for Wrexham Foodbank in the village of Bangor on Dee on Thursday September 24th. If you are able to donate any items please leave them on your doorstep by 2pm. Urgently needed food items are: UHT milk, tinned meat (ham/corned beef), tinned vegetables coffee (100g or larger), pasta and rice.

St Dunawd’s Church, Bangor on Dee and Saints Deiniol and Marcella Marchwiel Churches are now open for worship on Sundays.

Marchwiel 9.45am / Bangor 11am.

Eyton Church has a service on the first Sunday of the month at 10am.

Take 1 minute to self-report daily, even if you are well

Local News Nightingale House Hospice Referrals Patient’s family praise hospice after new direct admissions service gave them a lifeline.

The family of a patient who received care in a Wrexham hospice has praised staff after a brand-new referrals and admissions service, introduced because of COVID-19, gave them a lifeline for their loved-one’s care. Gareth Valentine Jnr of Rhosllanerchrugog said his late father, Gareth Valentine Snr, age 60 was experiencing difficulties at home due to his life-limiting illness, so he rang the advice line.

“I spoke to the nurse in charge and they gave me help and guidance over the telephone and reassured me. After chatting through the options it was decided that dad should be admitted to Nightingale House and the wheels were put in motion immediately.” Gareth said: “The staff have been incredibly helpful, ensuring that my father's needs came first.

I just want to say a massive thank you to them all for everything they have been doing during these exceptional times."

Cath Evans is the Admissions and Discharge Facilitator at Nightingale House Hospice and said; “It was becoming difficult for patients and their families to access care quickly due to the restrictions placed on all of us working in health at the moment. Patients and their families don’t need a doctor’s referral to ring us as we can follow up the detailed paperwork with district nurses and GP practices after the call. We are finding that it takes the stress off patients and their families who are under tremendous strain anyway.”

“At the hospice we pride ourselves on our nurturing approach to patient care and are really pleased that we have been able to help Gareth and his family during this difficult time.

This is a new service we are trialling, and there will be lessons learnt along the way, but our aim is to try and support as many people as possible who need our services.”

Admissions and referrals can be made directly on: 01978 316800.

Wrexham Country Market - Available for local collection/delivery with appropriate COVID-19 procedures: Jams (blackberry, blackberry and apple, blackcurrant, damson, plum, raspberry, raspberry and apple, rhubarb and ginger, strawberry, strawberry and gooseberry). Marmalade (Seville orange, red grapefruit).

Chutneys (apple, courgette, mango, runner bean, damson).

To order please phone: 07854 215040 / 07523 385048.

Price list on Wrexham Country Markets Facebook Page

Share your news with us, submit an article at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/article

Marchwiel Church Yard During September works will be underway edging and resurfacing some of the paths in the church yard. The Church apologise for any inconvenience this may cause, but look forward to seeing the improvements.

The church has employed help for grass cutting at the front and back of the church building. Help is needed to cut the long grass on the east side, with the aid of strimmers, and any other assistance in ground maintenance, no matter how small, would be appreciated. If you have some free time on you hands the church would welcome any voluntary help offered, either working alone or keeping at social distance. Please contact Heather (Church warden) on 01978 780738.

Marchwiel Church Fund Raising 2020 Due to COVID-19 we have been unable to have a church open day, which normally takes place in July and at this time of the year we are usually organising a grand rafe and the Michaelmas Fayre, which has been postponed. Instead there will be a Gift Day offering an opportunity to make donations in aid of church funds on Sunday 27th September between 11am -4pm. If you would like to support your church through this difďŹ cult period please come along and drop off your gift donation using the one way system. There will be no record books available to view or any other services provided, but by then you will be able to see the new paths.

Alternately if you feel that you are unable to come at this time you can send your donation by post to: Rev. Sue Huyton co / Marchwiel church, The Rectory, 8 Ludlow Road Bangor on Dee Wrexham LL13 0JG. Cheques made payable to: Marchwiel Church. For enquiries please contact the church wardens on 01978 780738 and 01978 356432.

Proposed Changes Along the A483 Members of the public are being urged to have their say on proposed changes along the A483 in Wrexham. The Welsh Government has said changes need to be introduced to address congestion at the junctions along the A483 and the impact this is having on the economy of Wrexham and wider North Wales region. Public exhibitions, complying with COVID-19 regulations, will be held at the Ramada Hotel, Wrexham on September 23 and 24. Full details on the preferred options and the consultation are available online at: https://gov.wales/a483-junctions-3-6-improvements

Share your news with us, submit an article at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/article

Let’s Get Juicy...!

By EssentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KENNEY Sometimes all it takes to lift up the mood or kick of your wellbeing journey is a good old juice (especially during these hot days).

It’s so simple, yet so effective.

Green Juice for Beginners This green juice is perfect for beginners because is made with simple ingredients and tastes so good too.

Why are green juices so good for you?

One of the best ways to stay fit and healthy, increase energy levels, lose weight and improve the condition of our skin is by increasing the amount of nutrients that we get in our diet.

Ingredients • 1 banana • ½ apple • A handful of spinach • 3 large spoons of Greek yoghurt (or lactose-free option ;o) • A big splash of water Method Blend all ingredients together in a blender until smooth.

While we may love our fruits and veggies, it isn’t always realistic to get what we need simply by eating them every day, and that is why we love smoothies and juicing.

Green juice = more fruits, veggies, and nutrients into my body!

It’s healthy. These recipes are packed with tons of fruits and veggies.

It makes you feel good. Hello glowy skin and happy tummy.

It makes you make healthier choices throughout the day!

It might make you crave fruits and veggies more. (before juicing, I wasn’t a huge fan of cucumbers, but now? Gimme!)

Here are a few suggestions:

Digestive Aid Green Juice This vegan juice is the perfect antidote to constipation, packed with antiinflammatory ingredients like ginger and fennel.

Ingredients • 1 celery stick • 2 handfuls of fresh kale (40g) • 1/4 fennel • piece of ginger root (about 1cm) • 2 pears Method Blend all ingredients together in a blender until smooth.

Happy juicing ya all! Stay well! Sasha.

EssentialsMAG motivation contributor is Sasha Kenney, Wellbeing Coach, Director of Hoola Nation, World Record holder and Motivational Speaker. sasha@hoolanation.co.uk

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Overton Playcentre Latest News Now we are in September I thought it would be a good time to catch up with a few childcare reminders to welcome you back into Childcare Settings after the COVID lockdown! Sending your little ones to a childcare setting in normal times can be a stressful and difficult thing to do, and is especially so in this unprecedented situation. But please be reassured that all Childcare Settings are doing as much as we can to ensure we are minimising risk while giving your children the high-quality love and care they need.

Here at Overton Playcentre we update our risk assessment weekly as per the guidelines and all staff are involved (and in some cases, the children are keen too!) in that process. All Childcare Settings are conscious that it is important to work together with parents and staff to ensure safety whilst not affecting our care. If your child attends two settings – such as a school and wrap around, then that communication becomes even more important. For instance, I work closely with St Mary’s School in Overton to ensure that we are providing as minimal risk as we can in our wrap around.

Childcare Offer – Free Childcare!

If your child has started nursery school this September then you could be eligible to apply for the Childcare Offer. This gives you free wrap around care up to 17.5 hours per week and 9 weeks of 30 hours free in the holidays in a setting registered for the offer! Both parents need to be working the equivalent of 16.5 hours at National Minimum Wage. There are some exceptions to this, so do go on the website

and check out your eligibility. Simply Google: ‘Wrexham Childcare Offer’ and it will take you through to the Flintshire website as they are running it for Wrexham.

The Scheme does take a while to register, but do not be put off as it is a really good scheme providing free Childcare if you are eligible.

The C-CAS and the Rainbow scheme that were in operation during lockdown finish as the schools go back. There are different schemes which settings can access in some cases for respite, so please do speak to your setting about the possibilities.

Finally, I would just like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported our childcare settings during this time and continue to support us during the next stage of recovery. I wish all those settings reopening for the first time in September and others like Overton Playcentre, who have remained open in some capacity for key workers and vulnerable children as well as Holiday Club the very best for the next school year ahead!

We look forward to welcoming your children through our doors and working together to give them the very best highquality childcare ensuring happy children making fun memories with us!

Take care, Rachel Harris, Overton Playcentre

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Bangor On Dee Village Hall Latest News A MESSAGE FROM THE TRUSTEES & MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE We all hope you have stayed safe and well during these difficult times. After five months, the Welsh Government recently amended its guidance so that community centres and village halls can reopen. We have been discussing our reopening plans for some time and now want to make you all aware of the decisions we have made.

We realise that it is essential that all those using the Hall are confident that they are in a COVID safe environment, and to ensure this, we will be agreeing with the leaders of the various organisations the procedures which they and we together will put in place. A set of ‘special conditions’ has been added to the normal terms and conditions which all groups will be asked to agree to abide by.

We recognise that we will all be feeling our way through this new way of operating and have decided that, for the first few weeks, only our 14 regular groups will be able to use the Hall. We also recognise that some of the groups will not want to return to the Hall so soon and it is clearly their decision as to when they feel confident to do that.

We are fortunate that the first group to return is Slimming World because, as a national organisation, it has very clear guidelines which have been issued to Diane, the local consultant. She has also been provided with the necessary PPE, disinfectants and sanitisers.

Working with Diane, we believe, will quickly develop a routine which we can then follow with other groups and we hope that by communicating the procedures to others we will in turn give them the confidence to return.

The Sit and Sew group is planning to be back for their all-day Tuesday sessions in September and we hope that others will follow soon after.

To ensure that we have a smooth and trouble-free restart, we have made the difficult decision not to accept private hire bookings until we are confident that we have put in place procedures which will ensure that we do nothing which threatens the continued use of the Hall as well as the health and safety of its users, our near neighbours and indeed all of you.

We’d love to invite you back to the Hall for our Monthly Coffee Mornings, but sadly we think that will not be possible for some time yet!

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Gone Phishing

By EssentialsMAG tech contributor DAVID HUGHES It has been a while since I last covered a cyber security topic, but a recent news story and personal experience over the last few weeks have helped to bring it to the fore again, and in a very particular form: phishing. The term ‘phishing’, pronounced ‘fishing’, was coined in the 1990s by hackers who adapted the then-common ‘phone phreaking’ (hence the use of ‘ph’) to steal AOL account information by duping account holders into revealing their password.

The technique is, unfortunately, a common occurrence as Twitter found out to its cost in July. Using a form of phishing called spear phishing - the targeting of a specific individual using personal information known about them - three people managed to gain access to the Twitter accounts of, amongst others, a former President.

As I have been working from home since March, I have had the misfortune of receiving cold calls from would-be scammers on a daily basis. The format is always the same: They introduce themselves politely as a representative of my internet provider (although they are never correct). Without waiting for a response, they tell me there is unusual activity on my home router and that I’m not getting my full connection speed: “But don’t worry, sir. I can help you fix it.”

To be honest, they’ve rarely got this far with me. I usually hang up shortly after the word “Hello…”, but last week I decided

to see where it would go. The caller seemed almost shocked that I engaged in friendly banter, as they led me through some steps to find out what exactly was going on with my router.

I pretended to follow along with their instructions, telling them what I could see on my screen, until they got to the point where they asked me to read out my IP address. Had I have done this, they are potentially only a couple of steps away from gaining access to my computer.

At this point, I politely asked them to remind me who they worked for… they spluttered, and said a different name than when they first introduced themselves.

Whoops! Then the line went dead.

There are two points from this article I want you to remember: If Twitter can be duped by a phishing attack, anyone can; and... don’t take the bait.

Phishing is hard to guard against, as it preys on the one thing technology can do very little about - human weakness. Your internet, energy, cable or satellite provider, bank, building society or insurance company, are extremely unlikely to call you about a technical fault or ‘issue’ with your online account, so just put the phone down and think nothing more of it.

EssentialsMAG tech contributor is David Hughes a freelance web developer Tel: 07595 303418 www.davidhughes.co

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Sarah Atherton MP Member of Parliament for Wrexham RETURN TO NURSING Following the outbreak of coronavirus, and seeing the overwhelming response by our community, volunteers and healthcare professionals, I signed up to return to the frontline to offer my hand of support at this time of national crisis. Whether it was making face masks, printing 3D visors, or delivering food parcels to the vulnerable, our community has come together and I have never been prouder to represent our fantastic local area.

Before my current role I trained and served as a district nurse, and am well acquainted with the daily responsibilities and pressures that nurses face. When the pandemic began I could not in good conscience sit back and watch coronavirus devastate our community and let former colleagues take on that burden alone. I felt it only right to utilise my skills as a former nurse, to help the community I was elected to represent.

In the hospital I was joined by a group of hardworking, resilient, and selfless doctors and nurses, some of whom had also answered the call to join the frontline. Despite being faced with the biggest health crisis of a generation and being under unfathomable pressure, their attitude and dedication towards the people they cared for was just how I remembered it all those years ago. Perhaps most familiar was the dedication and comradery amongst the nurses, doctors, porters and hospital staff.

I have now returned full-time to my parliamentary duties, but when I walk past houses and shops with rainbows proudly displayed in the windows, I think back to my colleagues still on the ward, volunteers making face masks, and our community rallying around those encountering difficulties, and I am filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I am immensely proud to have played a small part in the battle against coronavirus, and to have worked alongside some of the fantastic men and women at the Maelor.

Whilst it is easy to get caught up in the negativity in the news, the last few months have showcased our resilience as a nation and reinforced our community spirit.

I’d like to thank everyone across Wrexham and the whole of the UK for the part they played in defeating this virus.

The crisis is by no means over, but I am confident that we will overcome whatever obstacles come our way.

Tel: 020 7217 4885 / 01978 291742 sarah.atherton.mp@parliament.uk www.sarahatherton.org.uk

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Pack Your Bags for a Great Adventure...

By EssentialsMAG travel contributor Ann Anglesea at DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

Let’s Talk Travel...

In the light of the current COVID pandemic, we asked our clients to tell us what concerns they have about taking their next holiday. This is what they told us: Health risk and the journey...?

The all-too-familiar social distancing, protective screens and mask wearing are mandatory in airports with enhanced and regular cleaning throughout the building.

Limited numbers of people are allowed in security and any areas where crowds would normally gather, so allow more time to move through. Most airports only allow ticketed passengers into the airport building.

and cruise ships in particular have hospital grade filtration air conditioning systems.

Evening entertainment, spas and swimming pool areas are open but with added precautionary measures.

Important to know: Depending on your destination, there will be Border Control requirements around COVID and health safety. This will usually involve Passenger Locator Forms (to be submitted prior to travel) and/or COVID tests on arrival. For further information go to: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

Financial loss...?

Most tour operators have moved their balance due dates nearer to the departure date to give passengers a better chance to assess the impact of COVID-19 on their holiday arrangements. If the tour operator cancels the holiday, you are entitled to a full refund and, in many instances, booking conditions have been relaxed to give you more flexibility than before. This is particularly attractive if you are planning ahead to get something in place for 2021.

Holiday experience reduced...?

Many are concerned that the balance of safety measures will have a negative impact on their overall holiday enjoyment; however, many of these changes should not be intrusive.

Hotels and ships adhere to a high level of continuous cleanliness, focusing on highly used public areas as well as telephones, door handles, lift buttons, etc. Social distancing is made easier by reduced capacity; table service replaces buffets;

Travel insurance...?

There are a few insurance companies offering some COVID-19 cover but the level varies. We are aware of most of them and can direct clients to the best for them.

Risk of quarantine...?

ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents) are lobbying for the Government to give more advanced warning of changes to quarantine restrictions in order to avoid as in the recent case of Spain - the ensuing chaos and loss of confidence to travel. This is a work in progress and we are constantly being updated through ABTA and the FCO.

“A GOOD INDEPENDENT TRAVEL AGENT IS WORTH THEIR WEIGHT IN GOLD!”

However, if you are planning to travel in the next couple of months, do consider your position should your destination change from being on the safe-to-travel ‘green list’ to the ‘red list’.

The travel industry is striving to make good decisions to protect their customers and staff and keep everyone safe. For those of us who are keen to travel, we must abide by the new rules to ensure our safety but also trust that our holiday will still be fun and enjoyable.

A good independent travel agent will always add value to your holiday but, in the current situation, they are worth their weight in gold: so get in touch… and let’s Talk Travel™!

Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises. For details contact: Tel: 01978 853 886, www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE Now also in Heswall, Tel: 0151 363 6115

Gardening Tips and Advice September - Progressing into Autumn September is generally a cooler, gustier month than August and the days are noticeably shorter. While there's not as much to do in the ornamental garden at this time of the year, if you have a fruit or vegetable patch, you'll be busy reaping the rewards of harvest. It's also time to start planting spring-owering bulbs for next year and you can collect seeds for next summer's colour too. Make the most of the remaining warmth while you can!

1.

Divide herbaceous perennials

2.

Pick autumn raspberries

3.

Collect and sow seed from perennials and hardy annuals

4.

Dig up remaining potatoes before slug damage spoils them

5.

Net ponds before leaf fall gets underway

6.

Keep up with watering of new plants, using rain or grey water if possible

7.

Start to reduce the frequency of houseplant watering

8.

Clean out cold frames and greenhouses so that they are ready for the autumn

9.

Cover leafy vegetable crops with bird-proof netting

10.

Plant spring owering bulbs

Information provided by: www.rhs.org.uk

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The Diary of a Chainsaw Sculptor

By Award-Winning Sculptor SIMON O’ROURKE Wood or bronze? Is a longer lasting sculpture a better sculpture?

People have often asked me “why make a sculpture from something that will eventually degrade and return to nature?”

A bronze sculpture is first created in clay or wax, or other materials. That sculpture is then used to create a mould, and the molten bronze is poured into the mould.

A bronze statue will last for thousands of years of course, as we have seen from ancient bronze sculptures still in existence today. ‘Dancing Girl’ from Mohenjedaro is the oldest known bronze sculpture in the world dating back 2500 years.

Wood, on the other hand, is a material that will eventually rot away and break down over the years.

Why make something that will rot?

Environmental artists the world over operate at the opposite end of the scale, with artists like Andy Goldsworthy creating artworks from nature that are gone in a short space of time, captured only by the photographs taken. This momentary art is a powerful medium for drawing the attention to the natural world and its inherent beauty.

Wood has been used as a material for sculpture for thousands of years, and depending on the species, and how it is looked after, can also last well. However, unlike bronze, it will weather, and begin to wear away over time.

Weathering wood reveals much more of the character and growth patterns that form during the time the tree is growing.

I love to see the process of weathering, and the transformation of the freshly shaped timber to ancient looking textures and cracks, revealing the shapes of growth and the natural progression of decay.

For me, there is something warm about wood that captures a moment in history, the timeline of the tree, from seed to sculpture. I feel this compliments my artwork, as I love to capture a moment in time, a scene from a story, and leave the viewer feeling like they have momentarily been part of a bigger picture.

The process of decay for me captures an essence of the fragility of life. Although some of my sculptures will eventually outlive me, their inevitable return to the earth to become part of the perpetual circle of life, is for me, a humbling experience.

For more details please visit Simon’s website: www.treecarving.co.uk Tel: 07886 881815 @simonorourketreecarving

Capturing Life. Creating Art.

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EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Mini Blackberry Bakewells Few things sum up British summertime better than a scramble through a blackberry bush clutching an empty Tupperware box. And provided you’re not trespassing on private property, blackberry picking is a great way of sourcing a cheap summer pud. These multitudinous tiny seeds are a great source of vitamins A, B, C, E, antioxidants and dietary fibre. Plus, around 10 blackberries count towards one of your five-a-day.

INGREDIENTS

MAKES 12

375g pack shortcrust pastry 1 tbsp plain flour, plus extra for dusting 100g butter, at room temperature 100g caster sugar 1 large egg 100g ground almond 150g punnet blackberry 25g toasted flaked almond Clotted cream, to serve (optional)

METHOD Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. Roll out the pastry on a lightly floured surface and stamp out 12 circles with an 8-9cm cutter. Use to line the holes of a bun tin. Chill while you make the filling.

To make the filling, beat together the butter, caster sugar, egg, ground almonds and flour. Divide the filling between the tarts, pushing in the blackberries as you go. Scatter over the flaked almonds and bake for 15-20 minutes until lightly golden.

Remove from the tins and serve warm or cool, with a dollop of clotted cream if you’re feeling indulgent.

Trying out our recipe?

Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham

Cool as a Cucumber

By PAULA VAUGHAN WILLIAMS

Hello dear reader, I am excited to be asked back. I hope you are keeping well and things are improving slowly for you.

I wonder if any of you have started growing your own fruits and vegetables, or starting to share your own produce amongst your neighbours, family and friends. I’d love to hear from you and #goodnews Today I’m going to talk about cucumbers; something people think is very boring to look at and to eat, however they are so good for you and can be grown in your garden all year through.

No doubt when you see a cucumber people either think garnish on a buffet, sandwiches at cricket matches or recently more popular the spa day experience.

Putting cucumbers on your eyes as part of relaxation, or reduce eye swelling. It’s served as a detox refreshing drink with a slice of lemon too. Cucumbers can offer you so much more!

Firstly two fun facts: Cucumbers are mentioned in the bible.

(Numbers 11:5) Take a look for yourself it really is in there. They are actually a fruit and not a vegetable!

Cucumbers keep you hydrated as they contain about 95% of water. They naturally flush out the toxins in the body too. A great way to cleanse

your kidneys. Also cucumbers can support weight loss and help keep you feeling revitalised during these hotter months.

Drinking cucumber water can also help prevent bad breath. No wonder the health spas love them!

We all know we need vitamins and minerals, as part of our calorie controlled diet. These green fruits contain Vitamin B, C and K, together with potassium and magnesium.

The silica contained in them can assist with longer hair and nail growth. A great #healthysnack during the day.

So, what is there not to love about cucumbers, they also benefit you by helping prevent joint pain. Remember last time I mentioned they helped my mum with her arthritis as part of a juice I made for her.

Please do some research on these amazing ‘fruits’ to help towards your wellbeing.

Consider making your own spa detoxifying drink or just put them on your eyes for a cool fresh look.

I look forward to speaking with you again soon and remember always consult with your doctor before making any major changes to your diet.

Eat more fruit and vegetables. love, Paula x

By Paula Vaughan Williams from Pure Vegetable Wellbeing Tel: 07501 713236 purevegetablewellbeing@gmail.com

n t ew pe en N O tm ur m in O roo po p ow r A Sh rio P By

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Financial News with Hadlow Edwards To start with this month - a question if I may.

Who has ever had someone walk over to them and during the course of conversation ask: “So John, what do you do?”

How many of us reply - I’m an engineer/a builder/a beautician, just on auto pilot. But that’s not what you do is it? That’s what you are.

You could reply - “I make metal into interesting things/I create lovely homes for my clients or I help my clients look great and feel good.”

Now THAT IS what you do.

It’s amazing if you tell people what you do rather than what you are, and they look quite shocked sometimes!

This got me thinking. So... from now on anyone who asks what I do, I will reply “I help my clients make good decisions with their financial planning to give them peace of mind.”

This is exactly what we ‘do’.

We work to understand where you are now and identify any concerns or anxieties. We talk about your ambitions and goals (hands up if you have a target value for your pension pot in five or ten years time?). We put proper plans in place with you to reach those goals. And this gives you peace of mind.

Here’s an idea to ponder sitting in the sunshine. Two more questions: • What two/three things could we help you make simpler?

• What two/three things do you not want to deal with alone anymore?

Making things more simple. Now that’s a plan right there.

Letting us help you get something sorted with your finances that has bugged you for ages.

We really are cooking on gas.

The last four or five months has given all of us chance to take a bit of an ‘inward’ look. Some things became a lot more complicated. Some a lot more simple. I know which I preferred.

From the above - you now know what we actually do.

If you would like to drop us a line or give us a call we would love to hear from you.

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.

Contributed by Warren Hadlow Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited.

Telephone: 01978 311 611 hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk

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at Hadlow edwards we offer a distinctive approach to our clients and their financial affairs.

You get all the benefits of personal attention and years of experience from an approachable, friendly team of professionals. We take care of the details and take away the frustration of financial planning.

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

HADLOW EDWARDS WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD chartered Financial Planners

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

Legal Advice Questions & Answers

By EssentialsMAG legal advice contributor CAROL McGUIRE No Fault Divorce For a lengthy period of time, resolution have done their utmost to try and make the Government understand the need to change the way in which people can divorce, as clearly Unreasonable Behaviour Petitions and Adultery Petitions can actually make the relationship far worse. The Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill has now passed through the House of Commons and will return to the House of Lords to consider amendment before receiving the Royal Assent. However, the scheme will not operate from the date of that Assent because there are a number of practical changes that need to be made such as the Court structure; the need for forms and new precedent and of course the training upon such. Therefore it is unlikely to become available until the autumn of 2021 or even possibly the beginning of 2022.

When the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill comes into force then couples seeking a no fault divorce will be able to apply to the Court and there will no longer be a need for giving reasons as to such divorce. Often, the contents of an Unreasonable Behaviour Petition or the filing of an Adultery Petition can result in the parties becoming extremely argumentative and bearing grudges. This could have a massive effect on any children that they may have and the whole idea of this Act is to deal with matters as constructively and amicably as possible.

It is thought that there will be a reflection period of 26 weeks which means that the divorce will not progress as quickly as it might do now. This might be difficult because when the parties have agreed to a divorce, they naturally want to do it as quickly as possible and they also want to live separate and apart.

It will however give a good length of time to try and resolve the financial issues hopefully as amicably as the divorce. Naturally there are going to be a lot of small issues but relaxing the law will hopefully reduce the animosity between the parties.

Whilst at this point in time we are not allowed by the Government to see people face to face due to the COVID Virus, we are still working in our offices and we are offering telephone appointments.

Tel: 01978 291506.

EssentialsMAG legal advice contributor is Carol McGuire of Thomas Andrews, First Floor Suite, 5-7 Church Street, Wrexham LL13 8LS Tel: 01978 291 506

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Feet on the Ground

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF The nineteenth century American philosopher Henry David Thoreau once said “Thank God men cannot fly, and lay waste the sky as well as the earth.” I’ll let you decide how prescient this was, but in recent years there has been increasing concern about the environmental impact of flying. We’ve even seen the term ‘flygskam’, a Swedish expression which translates as ‘flight shame’, entering our vocabulary.

International flying is something in which Britain can legitimately claim to be world beating. In 2018 British people took more international flights than any other nationality 126.2 million international air passengers were British, with Americans second (111.5 million) and Chinese third (97 million). The UK’s population of 67.9 million is just 0.87% of the global total of 7.8 billion, yet we accounted for 8.6% (roughly one in 12) of all international flights!

Some might argue that there’s too much focus on air travel, given that (pre pandemic) it accounted for only around 2.5% of global carbon emissions. However, the key problem with aviation is the significant future growth that is anticipated; in 2018 the International Air Transport Association predicted that air passenger numbers would double to 8.2 billion by 2037. As emissions from other sectors such as power generation reduce, rising emissions from aviation will become a much larger proportion of the total. We’re currently some way off commercially viable electric or hydrogen powered planes, or any other technological fixes that might offset this projected increase in flights.

So does this mean we shouldn’t fly?

Flying less and reducing our meat and dairy consumption are the two things that are likely to have the biggest impact on our individual carbon footprint. However, personal circumstances such as having family abroad can mean that flying less is more difficult for some of us. To put it into perspective, according to BBC Reality Check, an economy-class return flight from London to New York equates to 11% of the average annual emissions for someone in the UK (and that’s roughly the same as the total annual emissions of an average person in Ghana).

Flying less is definitely one of the best things we can do for the environment, but I’d suggest that reducing our overall environmental impact is the most important issue, rather than fixating on any individual element.

EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com

Little Scholars Day Nursery The Centre for the Child, Glyndŵr University, Mold Road, Wrexham LL11 2AW

For information about places please contact CATRIN or BECCA

Tel: 01978 314912 littlescholars@activechildcare.co.uk

“We didn’t realise we were making memories, we just knew we were having fun.”

- WINNIE-THE-POOH

Why not pay us a visit and see what we have to offer you and your child...

• • • •

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 Glyndwr University • Holiday Club provision for ages 4‐12 also available

Call today to arrange a visit ‐ 01978 314912 www.activechildcare.co.uk ALSO AT: ROSSETT HOUSE NURSERY, LLAY ROAD, ROSSETT, WREXHAM LL12 0HT. TEL: 01244 571872

Shooting Star Cancer Support The independent cancer charity founded 20 years ago to fundraise for the building of the Shooting Star Unit at the Wrexham Maelor Hospital, and since then has funded vital equipment needed in the Unit to enhance the patient care.

Our Local Cancer Services Urgently Need Your Support Press articles almost daily report the threat to cancer patients of delays in treatments and diagnostic due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Our charity is supporting a major project, now under serious planning, to double the size of the Shooting Star Unit, providing more space for chemotherapy, together with treatment rooms and a larger patient and family waiting area. This urgent project has also been delayed by lockdown.

Your donations all help to make a real difference!

Medical equipment and innovations We expect requests from clinicians to fund more items such as the Sentimag equipment, which enables them to detect cancers so small that they cannot be detected as a lump.

A tremendous beneďŹ t to the patients.

Your support will help ensure The Shooting Star Unit remains at the forefront of medical innovation and technological advancements by helping us provide the very best in cutting edge technology and equipment for Cancer Care. Thank you.

To donate please visit: www.shootingstarcancersupport.co.uk

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EssentialsMAG Book Club

Betty

by TIFFANY MCDANIEL

Agent Running in the Field

by JOHN LE CARRÉ

Look Up!

by NATHAN BRYON

An intricate coming of age tale, Betty charts the path of a young woman who, growing up amidst racism and poverty, discovers the power of storytelling.

A heartbreaking yet magical story, Betty is a punch-in-the-gut of a novel - full of the crushing cruelty of human nature and the redemptive power of words.

Promising to address “the division and rage at the heart of our modern world”, John Le Carré’s 25th novel Agent Running in the Field is a chilling portrait of our time.

Heartbreaking and darkly humorous, told to us with unflagging tension by the greatest chronicler of our age - the work of a writer at the height of his powers.

This joyous, life-affirming picture book introduces the lovable Rocket, a spaceobsessed girl who wants everybody to be as excited as her about an impending meteor shower. Bursting with eye-popping, vivid illustrations and a passion about space and the natural world, Look Up! is a book that all budding young astronauts will love.

The Lazarus Strategy: How to Age Well and Wisely

by DR NORMAN LAZARUS We are all living longer. The World Health Organisation predicts that by 2050 there will be two billion people over 60 with 434 million of those over 80 years of age. But there's a catch: the quality of those extra years of life is shockingly poor. The Lazarus Strategy is a part how-to and part manifesto on the art of healthy ageing to guide readers along the path to a more active, productive, independent future and a medication-free life.

LET’S TALK TRAVEL

®

How to Talk Travel® Call into the office, we are open: Monday to Friday: 10am - 4pm Saturdays: by appointment only Alternatively we are working from home by telephone or online via Zoom* *See our website for details and Talk Travel® appointment reservations Our offices adhere to all current guidelines in terms of social distancing for staff and customer safety

Tel: 01978 853 886 • email: sales@delmarworld.co.uk • www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford LL12 8NE

What our customers have said about us during the last few months: "Staff are informative and engaging. We wouldn't go anywhere else for specialist travel advice."

"Always excellent customer service and advice."

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"As ever, the service is impeccable."

Stamp Duty: A Holiday Everyone Can Enjoy

By Property Consultant CHARLES LAWSON With the property market having experienced a prolonged period of uncertainty, it’s great to be able to talk about some positive news. Although people have been buying, selling, renting and moving during lockdown, the recent announcement by the Government regarding Stamp Duty is sure to be welcomed by both the property industry and buyers themselves.

Stamp Duty is a tax payable to the Government by people buying properties.

In July, UK Chancellor, Rishi Sunak, announced a temporary Stamp Duty ‘holiday’. The holiday on paying Stamp Duty Land Tax applies to properties that are valued at up to £500,000 in England and Northern Ireland. In Wales, Finance Minister Rebecca Evans has outlined an equivalent incentive, with the starting threshold for Land Transaction Tax increasing from £180,000 to £250,000.

House prices reportedly fell for four months in a row during the lockdown period, which could have done lasting damage to the market.

These tax thresholds have been raised until March 2021, to boost the property market and help out buyers, who may be struggling due to the economic impact of COVID-19.

The difference in threshold between England and Wales is explained by the difference in average house prices – £248,000 in England compared to £162,000 in Wales. For first-time buyers, the average price paid is £208,000 in England and £139,000 in Wales.

It’s estimated that 90% of people buying a home this year will pay no Stamp Duty at all, as a direct result of the scheme.

More expensive properties that exceed the threshold will only pay tax on the excess amount.

If you’re buying a property – or even thinking of buying one – Forge Property Consultants can offer you advice on how to enjoy the benefits of the incentive scheme. Forge’s property experts have been monitoring the housing market during lockdown and welcome the changes to the rules.

As Charles Lawson, director at Forge, explains, “This legislation can help house buyers save a great deal of money and they need to be aware of the assistance available. It’s designed to rejuvenate the market, allowing people who wouldn’t perhaps have been able to switch homes to do so, and get the market moving again.”

EssentialsMAG property Consultant is Charles Lawson, from Forge Property Consultants www.forgeproperty.co.uk charles.lawson@forgeproperty.co.uk Tel: 01691 610317 / 07873 388119

Moving home?

Need a survey?

For RICS Home Buyers Surveys and Building Surveys, reports issued in 10 days, contact the Forge team Charles Lawson MRICS, FAAV, RICS REGISTERED VALUER

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Useful Numbers ANIMAL CARE Blakemere Veterinary Borras Park Veterinary Daleside Veterinary Farndon Kennels & Cattery Gatehouse Veterinary Lightwood Boarding Kennels Park Lane Kennels Rhyd Broughton Veterinary RSPCA Vets4Pets

01691 622 201 01978 310 131 01978 311 881 01829 270 198 01244 570 364 01978 710 487 01978 852 914 01978 720 362 0300 1234 999 01978 352 499

COUNCILS Cheshire West & Chester Wrexham

0300 123 8 123 01978 292 000

DOCTORS Borras Park Surgery Hanmer Doctors Surgery Overton Surgery Overton Medical Practice Strathmore Medical Practice NHS Direct

01978 801 960 01948 830 223 01978 780 804 01978 710 666 01978 352 055 111

DENTISTS Bridge End Dental Practice Maelor Dental Care Wrexham Dental Centre OPTICIANS Gresford Eyecare

01978 762 030 01978 780 943 0300 085 9666

01978 855 828

HOSPITALS Countess of Chester Wrexham Maelor

01244 365 000 01978 291 100

LEISURE CENTRES Gwyn Evans Northgate Arena Plas Madoc

01978 269 540 01244 380444 01978 821 600

LOCAL FACILITIES Adult Social Services Citizens Advice Foodbank - Chester Foodbank - Wrexham Recycling Centre - Chester Recycling Centre - Tattenhall Recycling Centre - Whitchurch Recycling Centre - Wrexham Relate Samaritans

01978 292 066 0300 330 1178 0151 355 7730 07538 547971 01244 372 764 01829 771 337 0345 678 9007 01978 292 000 01978 265 028 116 123

In an EMERGENCY always dial 999 For your local POLICE STATION in a NON EMERGENCY dial 101

LOCAL SERVICES Air Ambulance - North West Air Ambulance - Wales Fire & Rescue - Cheshire Fire & Rescue - North Wales Environment Agency National Grid Natural Resources Wales Severn Trent Water Welsh Water

0800 587 4570 0300 0152 999 01606 868 700 01745 535 250 03708 506 506 01926 653000 0300 065 3000 0800 783 4444 0800 052 0130

LIBRARIES Chester Library at Storyhouse Gresford Library Overton Library Wrexham Library

01244 409 113 01978 852 627 01978 710 557 01978 292 090

SCHOOLS & NURSERIES Abbey Gate College Acton Park Primary School Alexandra School All Saints’ Primary School Bangor-on-Dee Childcare Barkers Lane Primary School Bishop Heber High School Borderbrook Primary School Borras Park CP School Darland High School Eyton Primary School Farndon Primary School Garden Village Playgroup Holt Primary School Holt Under 5’s Playgroup Madras Primary School Overton Playgroup Rhosddu School Rhosnesni High School Shocklach Primary School St. Chad’s School St. Mary’s School The King’s School The Maelor School The Queen’s School Wat’s Dyke School Ysgol Deiniol Primary School Ysgol Plas Coch Ysgol Rhosymedre Ysgol Sant Dunawd

01244 332 077 01978 318 950 01978 315 120 01978 852 342 01978 780 757 01978 357 754 01948 860 571 01948 770 676 01978 346 890 01244 570 588 01978 823 392 01244 981 280 01978 363600 01829 270 021 07496 231 275 01978 710 419 01978 710 688 01978 318 830 01978 340 840 01829 250 285 01948 830 238 01978 710 370 01244 689 500 01948 830 291 01244 312 078 01978 355 731 01978 353 760 01978 311 198 01978 812 510 01978 780 757

TRAVEL National Rail Enquiries Traveline

03457 48 49 50 0871 200 22 33

Nick’s Odd Jobs & That!

•Lawn Cutting & Weeding •Hedge Trimming / Fencing •Painting / Decorating •Repairs / All Odd Jobs Any job considered

FREE ESTIMATES

07960 608084

nick58103@gmail.com

We remove and control all pests Rats • Mice • Squirrels • Moles Rabbits • Fleas • Bedbugs • Wasps Ants • Carpet Beetles • Cockroaches Flies • Moths • Beetles • Spiders and many more!

01948 838 111

PLUMBING, HEATING & BATHROOMS

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

Foundry Road, Wrexham LL13 7AB (next to St. Giles Church) FREE PARKING OUTSIDE

Tel: 01978 357238 / 01978 264456 E: wrexhamplumbers@btconnect.com

“a business built on recommendation”

Multi-make Servicing & Repairs at competitive rates

New & Used Car Sales we can find the make and model you require

Four Wheel Laser Alignment MOT’s • Repairs • Service • Tyres • Exhausts Recovery • Bosch Trained Technicians Courtesy Cars Available • Specialist in the supply of low mileage vehicles up to three years old

Tel: 01978 710 435 www.trottingmaregarage.co.uk Trotting Mare Garage, Knolton Nr. Overton on Dee, Wrexham LL13 0LE

We have a full range of Bathroom Suites & Wall Panels on display OPEN TO PUBLIC & TRADE

Puzzle Page...

Just For Fun Crossword ACROSS 1 4 7 8 9 11 15 17 19 20 21 22

Small cluster (5) Combined metals (7) Tool used for digging (5) Male comedian (8) Apart from (5) Rousing (8) Tape diva (anag) (8) ___ at the Museum: film (5) British soldiers (historical) (8) Unreliable (5) Putting away items (7) Passageway (5)

DOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 10 12 13 14 16 18

Uncertainty about something (9) Domestic implement (7) Requests to God (7) Reach (6) Argue against (6) Finished (5) Dear (9) Coloured bands of light (7) Optical illusions (7) Close-fitting necklace (6) Colouring cloth (6) Small island (5)

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

Here are the answers from August:

Classic Sudoku

FAMILY RUN BUSINESS

TRADING FOR OVER 30 YEARS

ONE OF SHROPSHIRE ’S LEADING INSTALLERS

*+ $)/* *0- .#*2-**( !*- *0- "- / 0/0() *!! -.

If it’s WINDOWS, DOORS, CONSERVATORIES or a NEW LIVING SPACE you desire, we offer both quality and large choice to suit all budgets.

We believe our stunning indoor showroom is the biggest and best in the area showcasing everything we do, so it’s definitely worth a visit to view the finest array of options under one roof.

Visit your local showroom or call us to arrange your no-obligation quote SHOWROOM ADDRESS Unit 5 Moreton Business Park, Gledrid, Nr Oswestry, Shropshire, LL14 5DG

OPENING HOURS Mon - Fri - 9am to 5pm Saturday 9am - 1pm

www.premierwindowsoswestr y.co.uk

01691 7 73993

Principal Partner Practice of St. James's Place Wealth Management at Hadlow edwards we offer a distinctive approach to our clients and their financial affairs. You get all the benefits of personal attention and years of experience from an approachable, friendly team of professionals. We take care of the details and take away the frustration of financial planning.

• • • • •

RetiRement Planning moRtgages tax Planning investment Planning sPecialist insuRance

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage HADLOW EDWARDS WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD Chartered Financial Planners

Telephone: 01978 311 611 email: hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk www.hadlowedwards.co.uk The Partner Practice 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 at www.sjp.co.uk/products. The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the title ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.