Essentials Mag December 2018 Bangor/Holt

December 2018

Your monthly insight into local living

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www.essentialsmag.co.uk Hand delivered to 4,300 homes and businesses in Holt, Farndon, Bangor on Dee, Overton, Penley, Cross Lanes and surrounding area

Welcome... to your latest edition of EssentialsMAG ‘Tis the season to be jolly and to shop! As we draw to the close of 2018, we are spoilt with a choice of seasonal markets and fairs in the Wrexham/Chester area. These are great places to explore and discover those unique gifts that are individually handmade by talented and innovative local makers and designers.

Handmade gifts are the best! They are often better for the environment and our local economy.

As the nights get longer and the temperatures continue to drop, charities are reminding the public to keep a vigilant eye out for vulnerable homeless people this winter. If you have concerns about someone sleeping rough read our article explaining how to contact the local authority or outreach services making them aware of those people who might need help.

Wishing you a peaceful Christmas and a happy New Year - from all of us at EssentialsMAG.

All the best, Vicky Heathfield It’s your mag too!

Got any comments?

Let’s have them!

Call us on: 01978 855 459 or email: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

Cover Photo: Merry Christmas everyone!

We hand deliver EssentialsMAG to 4,300 homes and businesses in Holt, Farndon, Overton, Bangor on Dee and surrounding area. @EssentialsMagWrexham @EssentialsMAG1

Copies of this magazine are available for collection at the following locations: The Corner Shop, 10 High Street, Overton-on-Dee J. Johnson & Son, Station Road, Bangor-on-Dee SPAR, Castle Street, Holt E. Chadwick, Farndon 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.

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. © EssentialsMAG Limited 2018.

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Prices are PER magazine, PER month + VAT For more information call us on: 01978 855459, or email: advertising@essentialsmag.co.uk EssentialsMAG publish three monthly lifestyle magazines which are delivered by hand to 13,600 homes and businesses in and around Wrexham. Our coverage includes: MAGAZINE A: MAGAZINE B: MAGAZINE C:

Rossett / Marford / Gresford / Pulford / Burton / Golly / Eccleston Holt / Farndon / Bangor on Dee / Overton / Penley / Marchwiel / Cross Lanes Garden Village / Borras / Little Acton / Acton / Pandy

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Taking Time Out to Reflect on The Year By essentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KeNNeY

Are you already thinking about new years plans, wishes and wants? Put your foot on the brake my friend! We are all for starting a fresh new year and dreaming big, but all this is much more meaningful when you remember the bends in the road behind you.

So, set aside a block of time, pure yourself a nice warm cuppa and reflect on your year.

Honour the past year by celebrating your joys, mourning your losses or just shaking your head at the wonder of it all.

Here are a few good year-end reflection questions to help you on the way: 1.

What was the single best thing that happened this past year?

2.

What was the single most challenging thing that happened?

3.

Pick three words to describe this past year.

4.

What was the most fun you had all year?

5.

What was your biggest regret of the year?

6.

What was the biggest thing you learned this past year?

7.

Who were your most valuable relationships with?

8.

What was the nicest thing someone did for you this year?

9.

What was the nicest thing you did for someone else?

10. If you could travel back to the beginning of the year, what advice would you give to yourself?

Isn't it amazing another year has passed? And here we go again; the earth will orbit once more. Take your lessons, bring your passions and let’s spin again. Only this time stronger and wiser.

Wishing you all the very best, much love and plenty of joy.

Sasha

essentialsMAG motivation contributor is Sasha Kenney, Wellbeing Coach, World record holder, business owner and Motivational Speaker. sasha@fitphilosophy.co.uk

Assessment Day Friday 18 January 2019 For pupils aged 4-7 Discovering the world

King’s Juniors

Discover a world of learning and opportunity at King’s.

A caring approach, small class sizes and individualised learning ensures each pupil is known and cared for at King’s.

They join a tradition of academic excellence, with access to an array of extra-curricular opportunities and purpose-built facilities. All of this enables pupils to develop their potential within a truly nurturing and supportive environment.

For pupils aged 7-11 Igniting curiosity

Vibrant, nurturing environment for girls and boys To attend our assessment day, please register your interest:

01244 689 553 admissions@kingschester.co.uk www.kingschester.co.uk

K ing’s Seniors

Entrance E xams Friday 18 January 2019

At King’s, we celebrate the individual.

Best GCSE and A Level results in Chester for 2018

Through a love of learning and a thirst for new experiences, our students discover the con dence to celebrate their own, individual potential.

To attend our entrance exams, please register your interest:

They achieve outstanding outcomes, at a school they love.

admissions@kingschester.co.uk www.kingschester.co.uk

01244 689 553

News from Wrexham County Council

Looking After Rough Sleepers in Cold Weather We know a lot of people become concerned for rough sleepers when the weather turns harsher and colder. And a lot of people want to know what we do to ensure there’s proper shelter in place for homeless service users, and support from the right services. That’s why we have our Severe Weather Emergency Protocol – or SWEP. What is the SWEP, and how does it work?

The SWEP is triggered whenever we spot below zero temperatures are on the way.

Once the SWEP is triggered, our outreach workers will do everything they can to get the message out to known service users who are sleeping rough, or visit areas where we know people are sleeping rough.

Our housing options team will then try to accommodate all those rough sleepers who ask for help by directing them to Tŷ Nos, the night shelter run by Clwyd Alyn. even if they can’t stay at Tŷ Nos – for example, if all of the beds are already full – staff there will advise them where else they can go and arrange transport if necessary. We’d then get in touch with service users the following morning to offer further assessments and support.

How can I help?

If you have concerns about someone sleeping rough, you can visit the StreetLink website, www.streetlink.org.uk, or download their app. StreetLink allows users to alert agencies of people who might be sleeping rough, just by providing a few key details, which are then sent to local authorities or outreach services. Alternatively, you can also get in touch with our housing options team during office hours on 01978 292947, or the out-of-hours homelessness service on 01978 264240. Any one of these options will make our teams of aware of those people who might need our help. even if the SWEP hasn’t been activated, Tŷ Nos will provide support and items such as gloves, blankets, sleeping bags to all those who approach the shelter for help.

If you want to donate, items such as sleeping bags and blankets can be donated at The Wrexham Foyer, Crescent Road, Wrexham, LL13 8HF. Photograph ©Shutterstock.com

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Pack Your Bags for a Great Adventure...

By essentialsMAG travel contributor Ann Anglesea at DeLMAr WOrLD in Gresford

Discover the Magic of Lapland It's a storybook setting - snowy branches going by in a blur; huskies working as one and Dasher, Dancer, Prancer and Blitzen speeding through the glistening snow.

Visiting Lapland is an experience not to be missed, for all ages, creating memories to treasure forever. In the depths of the Arctic Circle lies the magic of Santa and all of his helpers preparing for Christmas Day. Christmas is a very busy time for Santa, but he will let a few very lucky families visit him at his home in rovaniemi, the capital of Finnish Lapland.

Visiting Father Christmas in his office, which he likes to call his ‘grotto’ as he prepares for his big journey around the World, is probably the most exciting place in the world for children. Here you will find him and red nosed rudolph stocking up on mince pies and carrots ready to travel over the rugged fells and through the freshly fallen snow; wrapped up warm in his royal red robe ready to brace the icy cold weather.

Christmas is Santa’s favourite time of the year because when he meets his visitors he gets to sing a carol or two (he is a keen singer!) and share a few of his favourite tales.

Whilst Father Christmas’s elves are busy wrapping up all the presents in the elf House, you could be taking an unforgettable husky ride along the frozen

lakes, taking in the breath-taking post card perfect views of the Finnish countryside.

An exhilarating snowmobile ride across the snowy arctic terrain to a remote hamlet is also a wonderful experience. Step inside one of Santa’s holiday Igloos and enjoy a warming glass of Mrs Claus’s hot berry juice to set you up for a fun day of tobogganing and games with Wendy Wood and other special elves. The secret to this delicious hot berry juice is due to the berries being from Lapland- home to the world’s most delicious rare berries.

Be adventures and try cloudberries, crowberries and lingonberries…. rudolph’s favourite!

There is no such thing as Uber drivers in Lapland - reindeer is the best mode of transport. With the same number of reindeers to people - you will never be waiting long for a sleigh ride! Sit back and enjoy the scenery.

Santa enjoys to the traditional Finnish town of Saariselka on his days off, where he enjoys taking husky rides in the breathtaking Urho Kekkonen National Park. With temperatures reaching -40 degrees be sure to wrap up warm. This is a great opportunity to grab a hot chocolate or even a punchy glass of mulled wine to warm up your paws.

“PrOBABLY THe MOST exCITING PLACe IN THe WOrLD FOr CHILDreN”

Woody the elf loves working in rovaniemi because after a long day in the toy factory, he loves to watch the iconic star-filled skies over Lapland at Abisko National Park, in the hope of seeing the Northern Lights.

This is a great place for viewing the Lights because the prevailing winds disperse the clouds before they get the chance to spoil the view. The crystal-clear skies provide a perfect canvas for the swirling ribbons of light… be sure to keep an eye out for rudolph’s red nose glistening in the sky too!

And after a long day of bucket list activities, head back to your log cabin and snuggle up in front of the open fire ready for another day of amazing experiences.

Time Difference: +2 hours Currency: Euro (or chocolate coins!)

Flying Time: 5.5 hours Top Tips: Did you know…. The cold weather in Lapland drains your batteries so make sure you pack extra batteries Be sure to send Santa your Christmas Wish List: Santa’s Post Office Tähtikuja 196930 Rovaniemi Finland

Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises. For details contact: Tel: 0845 504 0054, www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE MERRY CHRISTMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR from all the Delmar Team!

Kids Competition!

DESIGN YOUR OWN WINDOW BLIND (worth £250) We are thrilled to announce our latest kids competition.

Are your little one’s budding artists, or do they dream of becoming an interior designer?

EssentialsMAG and GFS Blinds are giving TWO children the opportunity to design their own window blind.

The winners will receive a roller blind up to 180x150cm in size featuring their own design, so, you can show it off every time a guest comes around! GFS will install the blind for you.

How do I enter? To enter and for more details, simply download the competition form on our website (www.essentialsmag.co.uk/winablind) and get drawing. We’re looking for a small print/pattern that can be repeated across the blind, rather than one large picture that takes up the full blind. Good luck!

“But I can’t draw!” you say. No worries – the winning designs can be recreated by a professional illustrator, if required, before they go to print, so we’re really just looking for fun and unique ideas.

Closing date for entries: 31st January 2019.

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Gardening Tips and Advice December - Winter Frost As we approach the shortest day of the year in December you will need work to keep you warm outside, such as digging and tree pruning. Check your winter protection and if you have a greenhouse make sure the heater is working. Hopefully there are not too many jobs left to do this year so you will have time for some ďŹ reside garden planning.

1.

Check your winter protection structures are still securely in place.

2.

Check that greenhouse heaters are working.

3.

Insulate outdoor taps and prevent ponds from freezing.

4.

Prune open-grown apples and pears (but not those trained against walls).

5.

Take hardwood cuttings.

6.

Keep mice away from stored produce.

7.

reduce watering of houseplants.

8.

Prune acers, birches and vines before Christmas to avoid bleeding.

9.

Harvest leeks, parsnips, winter cabbage, sprouts and remaining root crops.

10.

Deciduous trees and shrubs can still be planted and transplanted.

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restaurant review Allium Bar & Grill By essentialsMAG food critic SALLY ANGLeSeA Restaurant: Allium Bar & Grill by Mark Ellis Address: Lynedale House, High Street, Tattenhall CH3 9Px Contact: Tel: 01829 771 477, www.theallium.co.uk Cost for three course meal, for two people, without drinks: £50 - £60 ‘Allium by Mark Ellis’ is set within a beautifully restored 19th century townhouse and by contrast, serves up a tantalising selection of BBQ classics. This two-tone, or perhaps I should say ‘layered’, approach is further projected through the design of the restaurant’s interior - homely gingham booths, wide bay windows and softly coloured surroundings welcome you in, whilst vintage chandeliers, ornamental stag heads and writing on the literal wall awaken you to a trendier edge. The combination works, like onion and garlic; gin and tonic; Christmas and weight gain – one complements the other.

Having trained with local Michelin star Head Chef, Simon radley, Mark worked as senior sous chef at Chester Grosvenor for a number of years, before moving on to work alongside Gordon ramsey (although he doesn’t seem to have inherited his intrinsic ability to intersperse every other word with fu…nky language). From there, he’s held the title of Head Chef in a number of highly regarded restaurants, including Peckforton Castle, and I was about to see why…

My friend, Claire, and I visited The Allium on a bustling Friday evening. The bar was lively, the atmosphere was energised and very quickly, our glasses were clinking. Priced at a very reasonable £24, we had swiftly ordered a bottle of prosecco, which Selena, our wonderful waitress, recommended we pair with black currant liqueur. Selflessly, we agreed (well, we didn’t want to hurt her feelings…) and two bottles of prosecco later, Claire and I concurred it had been a very wise *hic* recommendation.

The food menu is satisfyingly simple, with each dish labelled distinctly and without pretension: ‘Pig’, ‘Beef’, ‘Hake’, ‘Dirty’…I’ll let you discover for yourself what the latter means! With stomachs rumbling, we went straight in for some ‘Jumbo Shrimp’ and as an overflowing bowl of deep fried, golden king prawns arrived, I immediately knew this was about to become the second wise decision of the evening. Crispy, light, slightly salted batter surrounded fresh, rose-striped tiger prawns which, importantly but increasingly rarely, had been immaculately cleaned. They were perfectly cooked and judging by both their texture and taste, had evidently been prepared from fresh rather than frozen. They were served with a homemade bird’s eye chili mayonnaise, which was slightly fiery and

For more foodie fanaticism and photos, follow Sally on Instagram: @gingernutsaboutfood

Name Review Ratings: FOOD: 8/10 SerVICe: 9/10 ATMOSPHere: 9/10 OVerALL: 26/30

hugely flavoursome. This creamy condiment was the ideal partner for a juicy jumbo prawn and we happily doused our battered beauties in lashings of the stuff. At £5, the price was almost as delicious as the dish itself, and as a starter, the small portion was the perfect size. If you’d prefer to share, or you just have an admirable appetite, there is also a large option available.

Upon Mark’s recommendation (who, despite rustling up culinary wonders in the kitchen all evening, still found the time to pop out and see us), we then opted for ‘Zucchini’ and ‘T.S.F. (Tattanhall Southern Fried) Chicken Wings’. The slightly spiced, crispy T.S.F coating on the chicken wings soon had them taking flight straight from the bowl and into my mouth.

I ripped moist meat from those bones like an absolute savage and I’m not sorry about it…

Read Sally’s full review of The Allium at www.essentialsmag.co.uk/restaurantreview

To read the full review visit: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/restaurantreview

DINING | BAR | SOCIAL | ROOMS Our vision is to bring you the very best food using local and international produce to recreate the soul food of the deep south, imaginative modern interpretations of classic BBQ and grill classics in comfortable and informal surroundings.

If you would like to extend your visit, why not stay in one of our stunning boutique bedrooms- truly a home away from home.

Allium Bar and Grill Lynedale House, High Street, Tattenhall, Cheshire, CH3 9PX Tel: 01829 771 477, Email: info@theallium.co.uk, www.theallium.co.uk

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EssentialsMAG Tasty recipe

Christmas Pudding Strudel

INGREDIENTS

SERVES 6

250g/9oz leftover Christmas pudding, crumbled 250g tub mascarpone 2 tbsp Baileys 4 sheets filo pastry 25g melted butter Icing sugar, for dusting Cream or custard, to serve

METHOD Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6.

Mix the pudding, Mascarpone and Baileys.

Lay out a sheet of filo on a large flat baking tray, brush with some melted butter and lay another sheet on top. repeat with more butter and filo until you have 4 layers.

Place the filling in a log in the centre and brush the border with butter. roll up to enclose the filling, then brush with the remaining butter.

Can be chilled for 1 day until ready to bake.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, dust with icing sugar and serve warm with cream or custard.

Trying out our recipe?

Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham

This delicious recipe was created by www.bbcgoodfood.com

ADVerTISING FeATUre

Financial News with Hadlow Edwards Are you making it up?

Yet again I find myself asking - ‘where did that year go to’? A mild winter, a lovely spring, fantastic summer (well until August anyway!) then all of a sudden the clocks go back, the heating goes on and my rather fetching knee length shorts are a distant memory.

We had a busy one. Our team has grown and along with it the clients we look after. New offices (The Old Brewery) since the Spring and it already feels like we have been here for ages.

Thank you for continuing to read and comment back to us on our articles. Some much more serious ones to come in the New Year - please do let us know if there are any particular topics or areas you would like us to cover.

For now, with absolutely no guarantees of accuracy - a few Christmas and money odds and ends as follows: Under the heading of ‘How Much?’ - how about the present everyone must have this year? Hand cut ice cubes. Available in the US at present for just £250 equivalent - for a bag of just 50 cubes! Now I like a G&T but!

Or... the fan of Sharon Stone who bid $50,000 at a charity auction for... a kiss. Good cause.

Great kiss. I hope.

Here’s one that makes you think (and is true!).

Globally, gambling now has a bigger turnover than movies, spectator sports, cruise ships and the recorded music industry - added together.

Warren Hadlow

Medwyn edwards

Then there’s some very odd Christmas traditions around world such as: • In Germany you hang a Green Pickle on the tree. Whoever spots it first - will have a year of good luck. (Unless you are one of those people supporting global bookmakers above I guess!).

• In Iceland they have the ‘Yule Cat’ that legend has it stalks around the place devouring people who haven’t worked hard in the previous year. Hmm...!

• In Japan a famous fried chicken brand (there are others available) launched in 1974 an advertising campaign suggesting chicken was THe choice for Christmas dinner in the West. every restaurant will already be fully booked for this year- and Christmas Day is not even a national holiday of course.

• In Sweden this year it is anticipated that 40% of the country will sit down at 3pm on Christmas Day to watch... this year’s Donald Duck Cartoon Christmas Special. Started in 1958 and it grows in popularity every year.

Now you couldn’t make that up!

Wherever you are, whatever you are watching or doing - we hope it’s with friends, family and loved ones.

Our best wishes for a peaceful Christmas and great 2019.

The whole team at Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management. xx

Contributed by Warren Hadlow & Medwyn Edwards, Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited.

Telephone: 01978 311 611 - e-mail: hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products The title `Partner Practice' is the marketing term used to describe St. James's Place representatives.

PRinciPal PaRtneR PRactice oF st. James's Place WealtH management

• RetiRement Planning • moRtgages • tax Planning • investment Planning • sPecialist insuRance

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

News from Wrexham County Council

Free Parking Dates for the Christmas Period Christmas is approaching and we’re reminding you of the free parking days you can look forward to in Wrexham town centre. Our events Team has been really busy arranging all the usual Christmas events with the added attraction of a Christmas Village this year, and to make sure everyone benefits we are able to offer free parking for most of these events.

Free parking is on offer at the times stated below in all town centre council owned car parks. This includes Tŷ Pawb.

Small Business Saturday Come along on December 1 and support local businesses on Small Business Saturday, a national event that we in Wrexham have taken part in for several years. Parking will be free after 10am.

Victorian Market and Late night shopping The very popular Victorian Market takes place on 6 December and parking will be free after 4pm. This event will once again see Queen’s Square to St Giles Church festooned with stalls selling a selection of festive treats and gifts alongside entertainment and a traditional carousel. A very popular event which sees thousands throughout the day descend on the town centre.

The December 6 event also marks the start of free parking for late night shopping which will continue on December 13 and 20 when shops are encouraged to stay open late.

Christmas Village A new event for shoppers and visitors this year and a very exciting addition for the festive season. A three-day winter wonderland is planned. We’ll have more information about this soon. The Christmas Village takes place on December 14, 15 and 16 and parking will be free after 10am.

Christmas shopping week The final days before Christmas will see parking free after 10am between December 17 and 24. Don’t miss the opportunity to bag last minute bargains and take advantage of all that’s on offer in the town centre.

Self-Catering Holiday House

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Essentials Mag Mailbox

Bangor on Dee Village Hall Latest News This year we want to tell you about the renewal of the hall floor. Over the last couple of years, we had noticed ridges and bumps in the floor which were getting progressively worse. expert advice led us to conclude that renewing the floor was the only solution and we established that the project would cost over £10,000. The Association of Voluntary Organisations in Wrexham (AVOW) provided information on possible sources of grant support and we decided to apply to the National Lottery Awards. As part of our submission we were able to provide letters of support from hall users and many individual residents. We also collected more than 250 signatures supporting the project. Then on 7th September we received the £10,000 grant!

We awarded a contract to Croft and Croft Ltd of Farndon who took responsibility for the total project, and the work was completed it on 2nd November. We were able to keep the inconvenience to our regular users to a minimum, and the hall was back in use on the 3rd November for our monthly coffee morning and all our regular, well supported activities, clubs and classes. The Hall is available at just £10 an hour including all its equipment, including children’s tables and chairs for your special events like birthdays, Christenings etc... Contact Viv on 780622 for information.

Roy Jones

Friars Field fourth annual Scarecrow Competition and Dog Show On the 15th September, we held our fourth annual Scarecrow Competition and Dog Show. The local Community turned up in their masses to enjoy lots of fun and games.

We would like to thank all the volunteers who helped organise the event and who helped on the day. We would also like to say a massive thank you to all the local businesses for their tremendous support. The community helped us raise a MASSIVE £1558.00 towards the up keep of Friars Field Community Garden. A provisional date has been booked for next year’s Community Day, September 14th 2019. See you there!

Joanna Payton

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

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Resin bound paving fixes together small stones with high-tech resin to form a firm, attractive surface. It creates many small gaps allowing water to drain through.

Environmentally Friendly / Reduced Flood Risk / Choice of Colours Firm Surface / Attractive Finish / Easy Maintenance

contact@rockwoodpaving.com | 01978 508610 www.rockwoodpaving.com

A Sight for Sore eyes Your Local Independent Opticians Gresford Eyecare is your local independent opticians with over 30 years experience. Our friendly experienced Optometrist and staff pride ourselves on providing professional eye care and supplying quality eyewear. Being independent allows us to devote as much time as necessary to each individual patient and put their needs first.

We are WeCS accredited which means we are able to offer eye health examinations which are a part of the Welsh eyecare scheme. We are private and NHS registered and welcome all, we are also a member of the college of Optometrists. Our consulting room is on the ground floor and we have disabled access and easy free parking.

Your eyesight deserves the highest standards of professional care. regular eye examinations are important to keep your vision in the best possible condition at all times and is also a valuable preventive health check detecting conditions such as Diabetes Glaucoma Blood pressure problems Thyroid disorder tumours blood disorders and Neurological conditions.

Our services include: • Private & NHS examinations • WeCS Accredited • Visual Field Screening • Contact Lens Fitting • Pre/Post Cataract Screening • early Detection of Glaucoma & Diabetes We have a wide range of sunglasses prescription or non prescription many which can be used for different sporting activities.

Our opening hours are: Monday-Friday: 9am - 5.30pm / Saturday: 9am - 5pm.

Late appointments available on clinic days.

To make an appointment call in, tel: 01978 855828, or email gresford.eyecare@gmail.com.

Gresford eyecare, 17 Chester road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NB.

Treat your loved one to a Gift Voucher this Christmas, with our exclusive offers at Pure Perfection Clinic Purchase a £25 voucher and receive £30 to spend

Purchase a £40 voucher and receive £50 to spend

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Reserve your vouchers and get them gift wrapped ready for collection, call: 01244 917266 Vouchers are valid for six months

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“a business built on recommendation”

Chester Road Rossett LL12 0HW T. 01244 917966

Quality Blinds & Shutters At Reasonable Prices

DROP IN

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

OR BOOK A HOME VISIT LOCAL FAMILY MANUFACTURING BUSINESS

DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE IN-STORE

GFS FACTORY SHOWROOM, Clwyd Court 2, Rhosddu Industrial Estate, Wrexham, LL11 4YL 01978 266025 | enquiries@gfsblinds.co.uk | gfsblinds.co.uk

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

TRADE & PUBLIC WELCOME

Ian Lucas MP for Wrexham Post Offices play a vital role in the heart of our communities, stretching from the town centre to the various villages and districts around Wrexham. However, the way some branches are being run is changing – and this causes me concern.

More and more Crown branches are being turned into franchises run by WH Smith. What we’re seeing here is a system which benefits a big business, while at the same time unfairly discriminating against popular smaller businesses.

There are examples of this happening in Wrexham.

Three years ago, the Post Office made the decision to move our Crown Post Office from Henblas Street, closing recently refurbished town centre premises, to an upstairs site in WH Smith’s in Hope Street. This new site was accessible for the disabled only by a service lift at the back of the ground floor. I opposed the decision, and arranged a demonstration with disabled constituents but, unfortunately, our protests were ignored and the change took place.

Now, having had the Post Office refurbish part of their shop at public expense, WH Smith will take over the Crown Post Office entirely, including all staff, in the new year. This means that a big, private business is taking over many larger Post Offices, including our own.

This raises many questions.

One is why should a big business like WH Smith have better terms, like the ability to deal with passports, which sub-post masters, like Avi Bungar from Hightown Post Office, whom I visited recently, cannot have?

Unlike the Hope Street shop, Avi’s business runs from the ground floor and has excellent disabled access. I know he is not allowed to deal with passports because the Post Office refused him the terms to do so when I asked. I oppose the privatisation, but, if it happens, we must have fair competition between all businesses, not a sweetheart deal for an ailing big firm which discriminates against a small business like Avi’s.

I hold regular advice surgeries throughout the Wrexham area and also meet constituents at my office on a weekly basis. The next advice surgery will be held at the Expresso Cafe, Unit 4, Dodds Lane, Gwersyllt, on Friday, December 14 (3pm-4pm). Please call or email me if you would like to book an appointment to see me. If you can't make it on December 14, I would be happy to see you another time. Please feel free to get in touch.

Tel: 01978 355743 ian.lucas.mp@parliament.uk

Stay warm this winter with AW AW are your local breakdown and repair specialists, covering all areas of domestic and commercial heating gas, oil, biomass, ground source heat pumps, underfloor heating, solid fuel, catering and air source heat pumps.

RAPID RESPONSE BY OUR DEDICATED BREAKDOWN ENGINEERS

Call 01978 806 075 or info@awrenewables.co.uk www.awrenewables.co.uk

Great Day Out - Submerge Yourself in the Merseyside Maritime Museum Take a trip down Merseyside’s maritime memory lane, with the Dock’s Maritime Museum. Home to original artifacts from the ill-fated Titanic, grand reconstructions of ocean liners from bygone times.

Liverpool’s heritage is rooted in its maritime history. Once one of the biggest sea ports in the world, the city owes its success to its seafaring past.

The Merseyside Maritime Museum takes you on a trip through time, from the Titanic, to the lives lost on rMS Lusitania, and the history of the Albert Dock, itself. The Merseyside Maritime Museum is also home to the International Slavery Museum, which highlights the importance of slavery, both contemporary and historically, and acts as a beacon of awareness for the legacy of the slave trade.

Entrance fee: Free!

Opening Times: Open daily from 10am-5pm.

Quayside Café: Located on the ground floor, the Café offers great views looking out over the royal Albert Dock, with seating inside and outside on the Colonnades. You can choose from a selection of light bites including soup and pastries, alongside a selection of freshlymade sandwiches, cakes and biscuits, snacks and hot and cold drinks.

Maritime Dining Room: Situated on the top floor of Merseyside Maritime Museum, the Maritime Dining room offers modern, locally-sourced food, all freshly-made by a team of talented in-house chefs. You can enjoy a fantastic range of dishes while admiring stunning views of the royal Albert Dock and Liverpool waterfront. Our afternoon tea and Sunday roasts are particularly popular. To book please call 0151 478 4056.

Accessibility: There are two ramped accesses and a lift to all floors. There is access to every floor but due to evacuation procedures we have restrictions for the number of wheelchair users on each floor at any one time. Adapted toilet facilities available.

Merseyside Maritime Museum, Royal Albert Dock, Liverpool L3 4AQ Telephone: 0151 478 4499 www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/maritime

R

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Our friendly experienced Optometrist and staff pride ourselves on providing professional eye care and supplying quality eyewear.

• PRIVATE & NHS EXAMINATIONS • WECS ACCREDITED • VISUAL FIELD SCREENING • CONTACT LENS FITTING • PRE/POST CATARACT SCREENING • EARLY DETECTION OF GLAUCOMA & DIABETES

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At Reflections we specialise in the bespoke design, manufacture and fitting of high quality bedroom, kitchen, offices and bathroom furniture.

17 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NB Tel: 01978 855828, email: gresford.eyecare@gmail.com www.gresfordeyecare.co.uk

North Wales Firewood

Supplying firewood products in North Wales

All manufactured and installed by our own highly skilled craftsmen.

Free no pressure, no obligation consultations.

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FREE LOCAL DELIVERY

Trade enquiries are welcomed

We stock a range of quality firewood products, from single bags to a range of dumpy Bags All woods are sourced from sustainable woodlands.

www.northwalesfirewood.co.uk

Call today on: 07971 340559

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

Tomorrow’s Kind of Estate Agent For generations now we've been proud to be recognised Tomorrow's Kind of Estate agent. Our proven combination of a modern approach and traditional values is why we’re trusted by the thousands of people who move home with us each year.

We're proud of our reputation, and remember, our 'No Sale, No Fee' promise means you’ve got nothing to lose. So get in touch today.

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Local Properties For Sale Please get in touch if you'd like to view any of these properties, or to discuss rentals as investments. Telephone: 01978 312123

Stablegates, Johnstown, LL14 2SX Detached Four Bedroom Family House Master Bedroom with En-Suite Double Width Driveway & Garage Additional Ground Floor WC Conservatory To Rear 4 Bedroom Detached House No Onward Chain

£210,000

Gwalia, Nant Parc, LL14 Two Bedroom Semi Detached Bungalow Gas Combi Central Heating UPVC Double Glazing Modern Kitchen and Bathroom Conservatory to Rear No Onward Chain EPC Rating TBC

£142,000

Worsley Avenue, Johnstown, LL14 Three Bedroom Semi Detached House Extended Kitchen Additional Downstairs WC Two Reception Rooms Driveway & Garage UPVC Double Glazing Installed Gas Combi Central Heating Energy Performance Rating D'68

£162,000

Bellsway, Marchwiel, LL13 0SH Three Bedroom Detached House

Additional Downstairs WC Modern Kitchen / Diner Well Presented Single Garage / Drive To Front Attractive Garden To Rear Energy Performance Rating F'36 Entrance Hall UPVC double glazed entrance

£210,000

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

EssentialsMAG Noticeboard

H

FRENCH TUITION Experienced French Teacher and GCSE Examiner Keystage 3, GCSE and ‘A’ Level exam preparation including grammar and conversation Based in Holt Contact: 07985 964001

Overton WI Christmas Fun and Games Catholic Church Hall Thursday 13th December 7.30pm Mulled Wine and Mince Pies All welcome. Visitors £4 Come and join the fun !

local, trustworthy, priced correctly

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01244 570 235 07722 042 201

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work covered: Grass Cutting Hedge Cutting Tree Removal Strimming Patio Cleaning General Painting Fencing Waste Removal Man and a Van Soft Landscaping

CHRISTMAS SERVICES IN PENLEY CHURCH

Friday 21 December 7pm Carols by Candlelight followed by mulled wine and mince pies Sunday 23 December 9am Morning Worship

Monday 24 December 4pm Crib service Monday 24 December 9pm Christmas Eucharist

Sunday 30 December 11am Group service in Bettisfield Church EvEryonE vEry WElCoME!

Worthenbury W.I. Christmas meal is at The Egerton Arms, on Tuesday 11th December Come to our meeting on Tuesday 8th January at 7:15pm, when Vanessa Nuttall will talk about "My Life in Ambridge creating sound effects for Radio 4" Not a member? Come for a taster evening, everyone welcome.

Tallarn Green Methodist Church

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS

Village Carol Service Sunday 16th December at 6:30p.m.

Christmas Eve Family Crib/Christingle Service at 5pm Christmas Eve Communion at 11:15pm

Become a household name... Advertise your event or class here for only £10.

Free of charge to charities and not-for-profit groups and organisations. email: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

HOLIDAY HOME FOR RENT

Playa Flamenca, Costa Blanca, Spain

A fabulous, luxury ground-floor bungalow apartment with one twin, one double bedroom and one bathroom in gated community.

The property has a large conservatory which opens onto beautiful manicured gardens and impressive swimming pool.

Please contact John or Lynette on 01978 780 416 j.bell460@btinternet.com for further details

RSPCA - Have an Animal Friendly Christmas We all love Christmas! But, whilst we're busy getting wrapped up in the festive fun, we may forget to think about the effect Christmas can have on our pets and other animals too.

Christmas is great! There are presents, fantastic food and we get to spend time with family and friends. But, did you know that Christmas food can be hazardous for your pets?

Festive food can be poisonous to pets Festive food is delicious to us but to our pets much of it is highly toxic and dangerous. Take a look at the list below to ensure you're not giving treats that can make your pet unwell: • • • • • •

Chocolate Mince pies Christmas pudding Onion gravy Alcohol Bones from carcasses are a dangerous choking hazard.

What Christmas food can pets eat?

Skinless and boneless white meat such as turkey is okay for dogs and cats, but be careful that it's not covered in fat, salt or gravy. It's best to keep to your pets eating their appropriate food.

Helping pets feel calm at Christmas • Try to keep food, exercise, bed and toilet break routines the same as consistency can help pets feel more secure.

• If you have guests coming over, let your pet meet people at their own pace.

• Give them somewhere cosy and quiet to retreat to, away from all the excitement, where they won’t be disturbed by anyone. Leave toys there to help them associate the area with positive experiences.

• For cats, you can also give some hideyholes to retreat to in case they feel unsure. Try on top of wardrobes or under furniture – even cardboard boxes can make good hiding places.

• Christmas is a busy time and there’s a lot to do and people to see, be careful about leaving your pet alone for any period which might cause them distress.

• If you’re spending Christmas day with friends or family and your dog is coming with you, take something which smells familiar, like their bed, to help them feel secure. Take some of their toys and chews to help keep them entertained.

For more information visit: www.rspca.org.uk

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Puzzle Page...

Just For Fun Crossword Across 1 3 9 10 11 12 13 15 17 18 19 20 21 22

Sweet dessert (4) Relating to time (8) Love; genre of fiction (7) Move from one place to another (5) Top (anag) (3) Question intensely (5) Armature of an electric motor (5) Managed (5) Our planet (5) Rocky peak (3) Expect; think that (5) __ Bedingfield: musician (7) Ability to meet liabilities (8) Grain that grows into a new plant (4)

Down 1 2 4 5 6 7

Period of the Paleozoic era (13) Tidily kept (5) Small hole (6) Person studying after a first degree (12) Dried grapes (7) The __ / __ : Fairy tale by Hans Christian Andersen (6,7) 8 Perform below expectation (12) 14 Pertaining to warfare (7) 16 Meal eaten in the fresh air (6) 18 Sense experience (5)

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

Here are the answers from November:

Classic Sudoku

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WESTERN FRONT TOUR

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3 or 4 nights hotel, with continental breakfast Convenient local joining points Travel by luxury coach Includes visit to the Western Front in Belgium and France, including Ypres, the Somme and Arras 4 days from ÂŁ340 per person

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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.

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

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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.