Essentials Mag March 2018 Bangor

Your monthly insight into local living

www.essentialsmag.co.uk Delivered FREE covering: Bangor on Dee, Overton, Cross Lanes and surrounding areas

March 2018

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Welcome... to your latest edition of EssentialsMAG There’s a great community spirit in Wrexham. I recently saw a news clipping in The Times explaining how an anonymous person had been tying woolly jumpers to lampposts in and around the town centre, each bearing a poignant message: “I’m not lost, please take me.” As far as I know, the benefactor still remains a mystery.

Small acts of kindness, such as this, go a long way, especially when the weather is as cold as it has been.

By following different groups on Facebook I know there are many kind-hearted people asking after the homeless in town and enquiring where hot food and drinks can be purchased for them.

On Easter Monday, a fantastic community event is being held in Wrexham town centre called Dydd Llun Pawb, which translates to ‘Everybody’s Monday’. Commencing at 12:00pm with a big street carnival it looks set to be a fantastic event, showcasing the region’s many talents with art, stalls, food and music, finishing off with a big firework display. I hope to see you there!

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: Moon over chapel in Overton by Geraint Roberts

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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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essentials at a glance...

Are you stressed?

Our motivation contributor Sasha Kenney has some top tips on how to combat stress

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British classic This month’s delicious recipe is Toad in the Hole perfect for the whole family

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Dydd Llun Pawb A day-long carnival is coming to Wrexham on Easter Monday

Family friendly adventure Enjoy a day out at Bodelwyddan Castle and park with a range of fascinating things to do

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Stressed Much?

By EssentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KENNEY Sometimes stress can be a positive force, motivating you to perform well at your job interview or piano recital. But often if you experience stress over a prolonged period of time it's a negative force and could become chronic - unless you take action.

Here are some top tips to combat stress: Immediate stress relief: Deep breathing. Make your out breath longer than the breath you take in. Do this for 2 minutes; you will feel relaxed and your blood pressure will decrease.

Progressive muscle relaxation. Tense and relax different muscle groups in your body.

As your body relaxes, so will your mind.

Go for short walk. Walking briskly really does calm you down by sparking nerve cells in the brain that relax the senses.

Longer term remedies: Accept the things you can't change.

Changing a difficult situation isn't always possible. Try to concentrate on the things you do have control over.

Connect with people. A good support network of colleagues, friends and family can ease your work troubles and help you see things in a different way. Talking things through with a friend might also help you find solutions to your problems.

Avoid unhealthy habits. Don't rely on alcohol, smoking and caffeine as your ways of coping. Over the long term, these crutches won't solve your problems. They'll just create new ones. It might provide temporary relief, but it won't make the problems disappear. You need to tackle the cause of your stress.

Be active. Exercise won't make your stress disappear, but it will reduce some of the emotional intensity that you're feeling, clearing your thoughts and letting you to deal with your problems more calmly.

Do something bigger than yourself; Help other people. The evidence shows that people who help others, through activities such as volunteering or community work, become more resilient.

And don’t forget... while short term stress might be a good thing, it is important that you look after your long-term stress levels – for your health sake! And if you ever feel you need help, simply get in touch.

EssentialsMAG motivation contributor is Sasha Kenney from Fit Philosophy sasha@fitphilosophy.co.uk Tel: 07841 261582

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Dydd Llun Pawb - Easter Monday Full Day of Activities Planned

A day long carnival featuring live music, fairground stalls, food, drink, arts, crafts and more has been announced for Tŷ Pawb’s opening celebration, Dydd Llun Pawb.

Taking place on Easter Monday, 2nd April, from 12.00noon until late, Dydd Llun Pawb (Everybody’s Monday) brings back the Victorian Wrexham tradition of locals descending on the town for a day of festivities on the Monday following the annual Spring Market.

Inside Tŷ Pawb, as well as along Chester Street outside the new centre for arts, markets and the community, visitors will be able to enjoy a fairground stall with a Victorian twist, a host of arts, craft, food and drink stalls, a children’s playground from the organisers of Wrexham’s ‘Playday’, Techniquest Glyndwr’s StarDome Planetarium, and live music from artists including The Big Beat, Wrexham Community Choir, Baby Brave and the Black Park Accordion Club, with many more acts and activities to be announced soon! Tŷ Pawb staff members will be on hand to assist with navigating the new centre’s facilities.

Dydd Llun Pawb will kick off with a huge parade led by North Wales’ self-proclaimed ‘brass band with attitude’ Band Pres Llareggub Brass Band. The parade will also feature 6 giant sculptures, representing 6 different aspects of Wrexham’s history and community, and members of the town’s many Charities, youth and community groups, each celebrating their own special contributions to Wrexham. The parade will make its way through the town centre from the meeting point of Hope Street and High Street, past the Monday Market on Queen’s Square, and into Tŷ Pawb where the centre will be declared open!

The day will draw to a close with a firework display over the town centre.

Cllr Hugh Jones, Lead Member for Communities, Partnership, Public Protection and Community Safety, said, “We’re thrilled to announce the programme activities to the public. Tŷ Pawb will be a place the whole community can enjoy, a place to eat, drink, shop, study and relax, and we’re very much looking forward to opening its doors to show the people of Wrexham and further afield all that it has to offer.”

Dydd Llun Pawb is free to attend and open to all.

For all enquiries call 01978 292093 or email enquiries@typawb.wales

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Pack Your Bags for a Great Adventure...

By EssentialsMAG travel contributor Adele McKeown at DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

An Australian Adventure Whether it’s visiting family, a dream holiday or a combination of both, Australia has something for everyone and everyone’s trip is unique!

With stunning scenery, weird and wonderful wildlife, stunning beaches, colourful deserts and vivid green rainforests you truly are spoilt for choice.

A great place to start your adventure just as the founding fathers did - is Sydney.

History meets modernity in this stunning city and you should allow time to explore the city by foot and from the water. Travel like the locals and take a boat trip from Circular Quay to admire the spectacular Harbour Bridge and Opera House from the best vantage point.

For those who seek adventure, a Harbour Bridge climb is a once in a lifetime thrill, offering unparalleled views of this beautiful city whilst listening to a commentary about the Bridge’s fascinating history and tales of the people who built it. And for those who seek their thrills on water, a surfing lesson on Bondi beach is pretty special.

Although Canberra is the modern-day capital of Australia, it wasn’t the original.

In 1901, following the federation of Australia, Melbourne was given the title and remained the capital until 1913.

Recently voted one of the world’s most liveable cities, you only need to spend a few days here to see why so many people love it! Home to the Yarra Valley Wine region,

this area is heaven for lovers of fine food and wine (and more recently craft beers and ciders). Take a trip around the hidden laneways to discover local history, designers and craft chocolatiers and coffee along with elegant architecture.

For nature lovers a short trip will take you to Philip Island: nesting site of the beautiful blue penguins. These gorgeous little birds weigh only around 1kg and stand at around 33cm but can still dive to an impressive 73 meters. Every evening you can watch these incredible creatures waddling along the beach at dusk: it really is a very special experience!

Melbourne is also the start of one of Australia’s most iconic road trips: the Great Ocean Road. This Australian National Heritage-listed 243 km stretch of road along the south-eastern coast of Australia was built by returned soldiers between 1919 and 1932 and is the world's largest war memorial, dedicated to casualties of World War I. It winds along the coast and takes you through beautiful coastal townships such as Lorne and Apollo Bay as well as providing access to several prominent landmarks, including the famous Twelve Apostles limestone stack formations (although, due to sea erosion, only eight Apostles now remain).

“A HARBOuR BRIDGE CLIMB IS A ONCE IN A LIFETIME THRILL”

Time Difference: +11 hours (Sydney)

When people think of Australia they inevitably think of the Great Barrier Reef. This uNESCO site covers a vast 2,300 square km and is home to countless species of fish and over 600 types of coral.

Currency: Australian dollar

The area offers a wealth of things to suit all tastes and budgets from backpacker hotels in Cairns to uber-luxury resorts such as Qualia in the Whitsundays.

Flying Time: 21 hours from Manchester with Emirates via Dubai, or 17 hours direct from London.

The beach areas of Palm Cove and Port Douglas are great locations to explore both the Reef and the Rainforest: there really is something for everyone.

Top Tips: Book a wine tasting tour and try your hand at blending your own.

Of course, we have only touched the surface of this amazing country and it’s easier than ever to discover Australia, with regular flights from Manchester and a direct non-stop service due to start from London to Perth in March which will only take around 17 hours!

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

If cuddling a koala is on your bucket list, be aware this is now only possible in Queensland!

Travel like a local: take the ferry from Circular Quay to Manly Beach for around AUS$10.00.

Gardening Tips and Advice March - Spring Arrives Spring usually arrives by mid-March and the frequent sunny days provide the opportunity for an increasing range of gardening tasks. It's time to get busy preparing seed beds, sowing seed, cutting back winter shrubs and generally tidying up around the garden.

1.

Protect new spring shoots from slugs

2.

Plant shallots, onion sets and early potatoes

3.

Plant summer-owering bulbs

4.

Lift and divide overgrown clumps of perennials

5.

Top dress containers with fresh compost

6.

Mow the lawn on dry days (if needed)

7.

Cut back Cornus (dogwood) and Salix (willow) grown for colourful winter stems

8.

Hoe and mulch weeds to keep them under control early

9.

Start feeding ďŹ sh and using the pond fountain; remove pond heaters

10.

Prune bush and climbing roses

Information provided by: www.rhs.org.uk

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Whatever the size of your garden, there’s sure to be a Hayter mower that’s right for you.

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EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

ultimate Comfort Food Classic Toad in the Hole INGREDIENTS For the toad in the hole 225g/8oz plain flour 8 free-range eggs 1 tbsp wholegrain mustard 570ml/1 pint milk 75g/2¾oz beef dripping (or lard) 6 good quality sausages 200ml/7fl oz good quality beef stock salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the carrots and peas 50g/1¾oz butter pinch salt pinch sugar 1 bunch baby carrots, trimmed 300g/10½oz garden peas

METHOD Put the flour in a bowl and make a well in the centre. Whisk in the eggs and mustard and continue to whisk until just smooth. Gradually add the milk and a pinch of salt and whisk to a smooth batter. Place in the fridge for at least four hours, but preferably overnight.

Preheat the oven to 220C/200C Fan/Gas 7. Pour three-quarters of the beef dripping in a roasting tin and heat in the oven. Heat a frying pan and add the remaining dripping. When it’s melted, add the sausages and fry on each side until browned.

Remove the batter from the fridge and whisk once more to combine.

Put the sausages in the roasting tin and pour over the batter. Place in the oven for 30 minutes. Briefly open the oven door to allow the steam to escape and cook for a further 10 minutes.

Meanwhile for the vegetables, put the butter, salt, sugar and 200ml/7fl oz of water in a deep sauté pan. When the butter has melted add the carrots and cook for 3-4 minutes.

Bring a large pot of salted water to the boil, add the peas and cook for 2-3 minutes. Drain the peas and add a little butter.

Heat the beef stock and season with salt and pepper.

Cut a section of the toad in the hole and place on a plate, pour over the stock and serve the vegetables alongside.

Trying out our recipe?

Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham

This delicious recipe was created By James Martin, ©BBC Food www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes

Local Police Advice Keeping North Wales Safe Car Thieves For your information, car owners in Flintshire and Wrexham are seeing an increase in Car-Key Burglaries targeting high performance Audis, BMW’s and Volkswagen Golf Type R’s and GTI’s. Thieves will break into houses looking for car keys. They can also use wires and hooks to try and drag your keys through the letterbox. Keep your keys away from doors and windows, and tucked away out of sight.

Have your vehicles windows etched with its registration number or the last seven digits of the vehicle identification number (VIN). This can put criminals off, as it makes your car more difficult to sell. It also makes it easier for the police identify and/or return your vehicle if it is stolen.

Car key burglaries are often committed by criminals who are working to order and targeting certain types of vehicle, based on demand and value.

If you have cars of different values, please park the higher value car in your garage. If you can’t do this, please park the lower value car in front of the higher value car, as the thieves are more likely to target high value cars and will be deterred if they can’t easily drive such a car away from the scene.

All vehicle owners should be vigilant with their vehicle security and take simple crime prevention measures to deter thieves. These include keeping vehicle keys safe and out of sight both in the home and when you're out and about.

Should you note any suspicious activity involving your home or vehicle please call 101 and report it.

CONTACT NUMBERS PCSO 0151 Lynne Maurice Blackberry 07854 352 815 PCSO 3020 Mike Simister Mobile 07880 156956 Overton, Hanmer, Bettisfield, Horeseman’s, Green & Penley CALL 101 which is a 24 hour number for non emergency calls.

For example: threatening & abusive behaviour, drunk & rowdy groups, drug related anti-social behaviour.

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Springtime: Awakening Your Fitness Goals

By EssentialsMAG fitness contributor HELEN CONWAY Well, February left with a bang. But at least the promise of Spring is showing. Daffodils, Snowdrops and lighter evenings. Springtime is a time of awakening - and often we feel inclined to revamp those fitness and health goals that may have slipped in the cold, darker winter days. But if you want to get fit in Spring, follow some simple rules for long term results: Take an 80/20 approach. An occasional indulgence, or day off, creates balance. Commit to your goals 80% of the time and you won't feel overwhelmed or guilty.

Pick up the weight. Women can often shy away from weights because they think it will lead to a bulky physique, but what it will actually create is great body shape. And a higher muscle mass will burn more calories, even at rest.

Abs are made in the kitchen. If weight management is your goal, then your first approach should be your diet. And by diet we are talking about the way you fuel your body. Whole foods, good quality fats and mindful eating can all help you control the temptation to overeat.

Stay positive. Focus on the good things and try not to dwell on life's little irritations. A short morning meditation can start the day on a very positive note.

Don't overtrain. It can be tempting to overdo things when the weather starts to pick up.

But your body will thank you for rest days, so set a programme that you will be able to stick with.

Quality trumps quantity every time.

Don't make things too complicated and enjoy the coming season.

EssentialsMAG fitness contributor is Helen Conway EssentialsMAG fitness from Bodywork Pilates contributor is Helen Conway www.bodywork-pilates.co.uk from Bodywork Pilates Tel: 01978 512401 www.bodywork-pilates.co.uk

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Five Tips to Stay Cyber Secure

By EssentialsMAG tech contributor DAVID HuGHES The internet is a fantastic place, but just like in the ‘real world’, exploring it carries some risks. Here are my five tips to staying cyber secure.

Keep everything up-to-date It’s very important to keep the software on your computer, tablet or smartphone up-to-date. Their operating systems and the applications you download receive regular security updates, and installing these promptly will help to protect your devices from malware, spyware and viruses. If your computer has a firewall make sure this is turned on, and if you have anti-virus software installed, make sure you have the latest update.

song lyric. For example, “Working nine to five, what a way to make a living” becomes W925wawtmal! You can then vary this according to the site you’re using. For example, W925wawtmal-fb for Facebook and W925wawtmal-£ for banking.

Think before sharing Always be vigilant online. Never openly share passwords and only share personal information - address, date of birth, phone numbers - with trusted sources privately.

It’s also important to make sure your privacy settings are correct, especially on social media. Check within the settings that you are only sharing posts with the people you actually want to see them.

Look out for insecure sites Websites fall into two categories: secure and insecure. Insecure does not necessarily mean dangerous, but secure sites are far less likely to cause you problems. Secure sites are denoted by a padlock symbol in the address bar or tab bar of your device’s browser, or show as https (not http). This is especially important to check if you are submitting personal or payment information.

Take care on public Wi-Fi Public Wi-Fi networks (or ‘hotspots’) are not always secure, even if you have to log in to use them. Try not to use online banking services, fill out payment information or share personal information whilst using these networks.

Always use strong passwords When you create an online account, you will be required to create a password.

It is important that you use a different password for each website and that these passwords are not easily guessed.

A simple strategy is to use a favourite

If you have a topic you would like me to cover in a future article, please email hello@davidhughes.co

The online world is a wonderful place.

By following these simple tips, I hope you feel a little safer exploring it.

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

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Financial News with Hadlow Edwards Taxing times

Warren Hadlow

The run-up to the end of the tax year provides 'use it or lose it' opportunities to help secure your financial future. Over a decade since the financial crisis, the world is still a very uncertain place. Despite this, investors have enjoyed the benefits of a strong run by stock markets around the world.

But these are beyond our control; they cannot be allowed to prevent us from planning our financial futures. We will give ourselves the best chance of achieving our financial goals if we focus on what we can control: how and where we invest our money, how much tax we pay, the size of our retirement fund, and how much of our estate passes to our family free from Inheritance Tax (IHT).

Effective financial planning should be a yearround activity. Nevertheless, the months around tax year now provide us with an ideal opportunity to use reliefs and allowances that would otherwise be lost. Have a think about three areas and how you can benefit: ISA. Is yours working hard enough?

The substantial increase in the ISA allowance to £20,000 for each of us for this tax year was a very welcome step in encouraging individuals to invest for their future. As the end of the tax year approaches, individuals yet to use their ISA allowance, or those of you with accumulated ISA savings earning very low interest rate returns , need to carefully consider your options to ensure that you are maximising this valuable opportunity to generate taxefficient capital and income for the future.

Medwyn Edwards

Pensions. Much more flexible than they used to be. Are you getting your share of the tax rebates and reliefs available? For every 80p you contribute to a pension, the government automatically adds 20p in tax relief. Higher earners can claim extra tax relief through their annual tax return, meaning that a £1 pension contribution can effectively cost just 60p if an additional rate taxpayer is able to make the most of the reliefs available. Even if you do not pay tax there is an incentive to save towards your retirement.

Inheritance Tax. Don’t waste your gifting opportunities There are few more confusing – or unpopular – taxes than Inheritance Tax (IHT).

HM Treasury continues to see more funds than ever raised on estates. A little planning and effort can address this loss for your loved ones, but of course, only if you take action.

Legitimately protecting wealth from HMRC requires some knowledge and expertise to do it effectively. That’s why you should speak with a financial adviser to better understand how you can get maximum advantage for this year and the years to come.

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

An investment in a Stocks and Shares ISA will not provide the same security of capital associated with a Cash ISA. The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances.

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.

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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 Fax: 01978 311 633 email: hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

News from Wrexham County Council Car Parking Charges – Consultation To Begin Now that Council has agreed the budget for 2018/19 we are going to have a further period of consultation concerning the proposals to introduce car parking charges in three of our country parks and for disabled parking in council run car parks.

The proposals are to charge a daily charge of £1.00 for visitors to Nant Mill, Alyn Waters and Ty Mawr Country Parks together with the offer of a concessionary annual parking permit of £50.00.

Introduce disabled parking charges in line with non-disabled tariffs across all Wrexham County Borough Council-operated car parks where charges apply with, as a concession, disabled blue badge holders being allowed one additional hour beyond the time paid for.

This statutory consultation will run from the 01st March 2018 to the 29st March 2018.

Anyone wishing to respond to the consultation should do so in writing to: The Head of Environment and Planning, Environment Department, Abbey Road South, Wrexham Industrial Estate, LL13 9PW Or you can email your response to: parking@wrexham.gov.uk

Veterans Standard Given to Museum A standard representing the veterans of the D-Day landings will soon be preserved.

The standard for Wrexham’s Normandy Veterans Association was handed over by bearer Anthony Owens to Wrexham Museum earlier this week.

The standard is one of four – along with those for the Eighth Army, Burma Star and Korean Veterans Associations – which were the subject of a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2016 to ensure their preservation and permanent display at the Guildhall. It will now go to the People’s History Museum, Manchester, for preservation, mounting and framing in preparation for its permanent display in the Council Chamber.

Anthony Owens, Normandy Veterans Association Standard Bearer; Mel Salisbury, Performance, Partnership Support Officer; Cllr David Griffiths, Armed Forces Champion

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News from Wrexham County Council More Good News for Wrexham’s Town Centre We’ve recently been putting a lot of work into helping Wrexham’s town centre to be the vibrant and prosperous place it deserves to be. To help us achieve this, we can now announce that we’ve been able to secure £1m funding from the Welsh Government for the Town Centre Regeneration Fund for 2018/19.

This is on top of the £1m awarded through the same fund last year.

How the money will be used in Wrexham The funding will be provided in the form of interest free loans to support the acquisition of properties and land within Wrexham Town Centre. So, to put it simply, these loans will help people, businesses and organisations to purchase land and property in the town centre so that they can be used to their best potential.

This could include commercial, leisure, residential and mixed-use developments.

A good example is the development of Town Centre hotels. This is one of the key areas being considered as a good use for the funding. The funding will be especially useful for helping to develop properties which are currently under-utilised, however, it will also help contribute towards the wider regeneration of the Town Centre.

Another positive step for the town centre Lead Member for Economy – Economic Development and Regeneration, Cllr Terry Evans, said: “There is currently a lot of good work being carried out on Wrexham Town Centre and we want to ensure we are doing as much as we can as a council to support this.

“I am delighted that we’ve been able to secure this funding from the Welsh Government.

It’s another positive step in the right direction and will go a long to way in helping to support positive developments around the area.”

How to apply No matter where you live in the county borough, there are a number of ways the council may be able to help support you to develop land and properties for both commercial and residential use.

This includes a variety of loan schemes which can be used for purposes such as improvement schemes and bringing empty properties back into residential use.

If you’d like to find out what support may be available to you, contact 01978 298993 or email sion.wynne@wrexham.gov.uk

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

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

Essentials Mag Mailbox

Troll Hunters Tour Hi Vicky Having lost a few people recently, close friends and those I respected I am doing something pretty crazy to raise money for charities that battle what took them away.

I don't usually ask for charity donations unless it's a serious undertaking, and this is...

Over 12 days I'm cycling 1,600 miles (I'll let you work the math there) from deep in the arctic circle and the most Northerly ďŹ shing village in the World, to the southern coast of Norway. Norway is quite a hilly place... no back-up car, moose and mosquitoes will be a major risk! I'm aiming for ÂŁ1 per Mile, so I'm going early on my campaign. Please support me at the just giving page below and share the post....Thank you, Skol! www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/troll-hunters Best regards John Jorgensen

Art Exhibition by Whitewell Art Group Dear Vicky, I would like to tell your readers about a forthcoming art exhibition.

Art Exhibition by Whitewell Art Group Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th April 2018 10am - 5pm Whitewell Parish Hall, Whitewell, SY13 3AL Refreshments / catalogues available Proceeds to Cancer Research and the Whitewell Art Group.

Many thanks Sue Mottershead

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

www.totalheatsolutions.co.uk

NEW Boilers from £870 + VAT

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Prices include upto 10 years warranty, tting and parts.

Boiler installations/replacements • Complete bathroom installations Log burner installations • Boiler service and breakdown.

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Should I Extend the Lease on my Property or Buy the Freehold ?

By EssentialsMAG property contributor GAVIN FLOYD If you have held the lease on your apartment for over two years and the lease length was for over 21 years at commencement and your property is truly an apartment (rather than a bedsit for example), then you your are likely to be able to add 90 years to the balance of your existing lease by statute. By doing so, in addition to extending your tenure on the property, the more favourable extended lease could potentially increase the value of your property. In the case of a house that is held on a long lease then again you may be able to extend the lease by 50 years or alternatively purchase the freehold; in either case removing the obligation to pay a ground rent and once again, potentially increasing the value of your property.

Should you be considering a residential lease extension, or purchasing the freehold of your property, then you are advised to speak with a professional firm of valuers and a firm of solicitors, both of whom are familiar with this type of work. A copy of your lease will be required and following its reading through these advisers should be able to provide you with a quote to carry out the work on your behalf. The valuer will provide a valuation report with their opinion of the likely ‘best case‘ and ‘worst case’ scenarios to provide a guide as to how much premium should be paid to either extend the lease, or to purchase the freehold.

It is not unusual for a period of negotiation to commence between the landlord and the tenant following the preparation of the valuation report and both parties may engage their own valuer to handle those negotiations on their behalf. A valuer and a solicitor experienced with the relevant statute can prove to be very valuable to their client.

Should you wish to discuss these topics further do not hesitate to contact the author of this editorial, Gavin Floyd FRICS of DEESURVEYS Limited by either email at info@deesurveys.com or on 07917 046943.

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7 DAY SYDNEY, VINEYARDS & VIEWS SELF DRIVE Buy one get one FREE* Oz Whale Watching Tour Includes return fights / 3 nights at 4* Mercure Sydney including BridgeClimb & OZ Whale Watching Tour / 4 day Vineyards & Views self drive tour with ATS, including 3 nights accommodation, 4 day car hire and self drive kit - visit Hunter Valley and the Blue Mountains. *£1699 from Manchester 1st May – 30th June OFFER SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY

CALL US TODAY TO TALK TO AN EXPERT

Tel: 01978 853886 or email: sales@delmarworld.co.uk 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford LL12 8NE

To Move, or Not to Move? whitegates That is the Question!

Most of us reflect in the New Year and make plans for life changing goals, such as moving home, booking a holiday and considering career moves for the forthcoming year. As a result of these traditional New Year plans the team here at Whitegates Wrexham have been very busy valuing homes in January as people are inspired to take action.

From my experience, last year in and around Wrexham the market seemed strong and buoyant. This was especially true for starter homes and second move homes, despite a small interest rate rise, and of course Brexit looming. The professionals tell us there is currently a shortage of the supply of houses coming onto market, but are unsure if this will fuel the housing market, or if economic conditions will outweigh the traditional effects of supply and demand. However, from what I can gather, the North had more of a promising prediction for 2018 with Northern hot spots a possibility. Could this include Wrexham?

At best guess, we’re working on more of the same for 2018, and looking at a healthy housing market for sales of starter and second mover homes, and a strong and healthy rental market too. So, it’s a great time to consider a move while the market is active.

After 30 years of looking after the Wrexham housing market, Whitegates are confident we can help you. Throughout the year we manage between 70-100 houses for sale at any one time. That’s enough to know what’s going on in the market, but not too many to forget who you are and provide the personal service we pride ourselves on. And not forgetting rentals, we do that too (very well might I add!)

If you’d like to have an informal chat about your situation, or a valuation for your home, we would be delighted to talk to you, and it’s FREE. The same goes for landlords too.

We look forward to hearing from you and helping you realise your dreams for a great 2018.

Chris haMill & the teaM at Whitegates

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

whitegates

Whitegates Properties For Sale

whitegates

Local Properties in Wrexham & Chester for Sale

Drefechan, Penycae, Wrexham, LL14 Three Bedroom Detached Cottage

Sontley, Wrexham, LL13 Spacious Detached Bungalow

Grounds of Approximately 1.25 Acres Bathroom & Separate Shower Room Barn with Loose Boxes & Tack Rooms Stables, Timber Summer House Tranquil and Attractive Gardens Semi - Rural Location Energy Performance Rating - E'17

Two Bedrooms En-Suite to Master Bedroom Sun Lounge Oil Central Heating Rural Location, Large Carport & Garage Convenient Access to the Erddig Estate Energy Performance Rating 45 Band E

Greyfriars, Chester, CH1 1st Floor Apartment

The Wharf, Chester, CH1 Two Bedroom Ground Floor Apartment

£350,000

Georgian Style Period Features City Centre Location Two Parking Spaces Gas Central Heating Viewing Highly Recommended

£279,000

£315,000

Open Plan Living Accommodation Double Bedrooms Master Bedroom With En-Suite Views Overlooking the River Dee Secure Under Ground Parking Leasehold Property Energy Performance Rating E'51

£170,000

Please get in touch if you'd like to view any of these properties or to discuss rentals as investments.

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

whitegates

Great Day Out - A Family-Friendly Adventure at Bodelwyddan Castle Dating from Middle Ages, Bodelwyddan Castle and Park is an independent museum and visitor attraction with a range of fascinating things to see and do. Discover amazing Victorian history in the Inventions and Amusements interactive galleries, or become a museum adventurer and join in the many family-fun events they hold throughout the year.

The park at Bodelwyddan Castle, set in over 200 acres of grounds, features formal walled gardens and Welsh fruit orchard, an intriguing hedge maze, a beautiful woodland walk, replica First World War Trenches, picnic and play areas.

Fascinating history surrounds you at Bodelwyddan. Whether exploring the grand house and its stunning artworks or wandering the park, there's plenty to discover. They are committed to displaying the very best Welsh Art with collections of national significance on display. Discover works of regional significance to North Wales too.

The castle’s events programme is popular, with something throughout the year for all the family. Every time you visit or go to an event, you are supporting the work of their charity which is all about promoting learning, heritage, arts and the environment.

Art Cafe - Stop for a drink and a light snack in the cafe, or dine al fresco in the castle courtyard. Light meals are homemade using fresh ingredients.

Entrance charges: Adult: £7.50 / Child: £4.50 (4-16) / Concession: £6.50 / Family: £22.50 (2 adult / 2 children).

Opening Times: Monday - Friday: The house and garden are open to pre-booked educational groups only.

Saturday - Sunday: Grounds 10:30 - 16:00 / House 11:00 - 16:00 (last admission 15:30) Access: Bodelwyddan Castle offers wheelchair access to ground and first floors via a lift.

We provide a 'drop-off point' outside the main door. There are ground floor toilet facilities for disabled users at the box office and also within Caffi Celf.

Bodelwyddan Castle, Bodelwyddan, Denbighshire, LL18 5YA, T: 01745 584 060, E: enquiries@bodelwyddan-castle.co.uk, www.bodelwyddan-castle.co.uk

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EssentialsMAG Noticeboard Worthenbury W.I. Meeting on Tuesday13th March at 7.15pm. when Blue Badge Guide Stuart Shakeshaft will talk about "Chester uncovered" The monthly lunch will be held on Thursday 15th March. Why not come along and meet new friends.

Overton on Dee W.I. Please join us when Dr Geraint Owens from Wrexham talks about Feeding the Roofless.

Tallarn Green Methodist Church will hold Lenten Soup Lunches with a speaker at 12noon, on 7th / 14th / 21st March.

Good Friday service will be on Friday 30th March at 7pm.

Easter Sunday Service with Holy Communion at 10.45a.m. with Rev. Chris.Denny.

Youth Club meets each Friday during term time 6 - 8pm. All youngsters welcome.

Services are held in the evening at 6.30pm. on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Sunday. Mornings at 10.45am. on the 2nd & 4th Sunday.

Marchwiel Village Hall presents: ABBA Night with live group Saturday 21st April 2017 8 – 11.30 pm Tickets £10.00.

Obtain Mr Gary Sage 01978314344 Food included with bar available

Thursday,15th March.7.30pm Catholic Church Hall Non members £4 incl refreshments Competition: Interesting cutlery item OVERTON BOWLING CLUB

Please come and join us when the Green is opened on Saturday 24 March at 2pm.

‘Woods’ will be available for anyone new to the game to have a go and members will be available for advice and guidance. Looking forward to greeting both new and seasoned players of all ages For the coming season we have two teams entered in the Oswestry & District League playing in the Fourth and Sixth Divisions on Wednesday and Thursday evenings respectively.

On Friday afternoons we have two teams playing in the Veterans Division.

Overton’s first evening match is on Wednesday 11 April at 7:0pm

ENHANCE YOUR NATURAL BEAUTY

Clinic No 8 is based in the picturesque surroundings of The Plassey Barn and provides a range of non-surgical aesthetic treatments for both men and women. Treatments are performed by Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, Laura Ransome, RGN who is a fully qualified and insured medical professional.

Semi Permanent makeup is carried out by Teresa Greenhalgh trained by Finishing Touches Group.

SEMI PERMANENT MAKEUP

DERMAL FILLER INJECTIONS

ANTI-WRINKLE INJECTIONS

Aesthetics Semi Permanent Makeup

The Plassey Barn Eyton, Wrexham, LL13 0SP

07850 421897 laura@clinicno8.com www.clinicno8.co.uk

CHEMICAL PEEL

FOLLIES FEST

EVENTS Friday 16th February: A Night at the Movies with Dirty Dancing & Grease 3 Course Meal with entertainment - £34.95 per person

No 8 Clinic

THE ULTIMATE MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTE FRIDAY 29TH JUNE 2018 Tickets:

Sunday 11th March: Mother’s Day Lunch 3 Course Meal - £19.00 per person Friday 30th March - Friday 13th April: Easter Egg Hunt at Follies Park

Tickets:

SATURDAY 30TH JUNE 2018

Saturday 16th June: Alice in Wonderland Theatre Production at Follies Park

Friday 19th - Wednesday 31st October: Follies Fright Nights Friday 26th October: West End Horror Show 3 Course Meal with entertainment - £34.95 per person

Weston-Under-Redcastle, Shrewsbury, SY4 5UY Tel: 01948 841700 | enquiries@hawkstone.co.uk

Advance Purchase for 4: £99.00* Adult: £29.00 per person Child: £24.00 per person On the gate admission prices: £35.00 per adult & £30.00 per child

" Ê 9‡ , ÊÊUÊ* 1 Ê -/ , TRIBUTES:

Ê- , ÊUÊ ÊUÊ/ Ê/ /ÊUÊ // Ê 8

8Ê" ÊUÊ Ê 9Ê- 8ÊUÊ Ê Ê Ê "8ÊUÊ* " Ê ½ "

A NIGHT AT THE MUSICALS SUNDAY 1ST JULY 2018 Tickets:

Saturday 2nd September: Colour Run In Partnership with Hope House

On the gate admission prices: £30.00 per adult & £25.00 per child

FOLLIES FEST FAMILY DAY

Friday 27th April: Wham Tribute 3 Course Meal with entertainment - £34.95 per person

Friday 29th June - Sunday 1st July: Follies Fest

Advance Purchase for 4: £83.00* Adult: £25.00 per person Child: £20.00 per person

Advance Purchase for 4: £83.00* Adult: £25.00 per person Child: £20.00 per person On the gate admission prices: £30.00 per adult & £25.00 per child

For more information or to purchase tickets please visit: www.hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk/tickets *Advance Purchase for 4 tickets can be for any 4 people and are only available to purchase until Thursday 31st May 2018

RSPCA - What to do if you Find a Baby Bird Do you know if the baby bird you've found is a edgling or a nestling? Our handy guide will help you to understand if the baby bird needs help or is better off being left alone.

Please don't try to care for young birds yourself - they need specialist care to survive.

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

A Caring, Sharing Home

Abbeyfield provides sheltered housing and care homes for elderly people

SUPPORTED HOUSING

Live as independently as you’d like with support if needed.

RESIDENTIAL CARE HOMES

Providing high quality care for those who find it difficult to look after themselves.

INDEPENDENT LIVING Live in your own self­contained apartment with onsite support 24 hours a day.

CARE AT HOME

Tailored domiciliary care within the familiar surroundings of your own home.

Making time for older people

For more information visit our website: www.abbeyfield.com or contact your local Abbeyfield Wrexham Society at the details below:

ABBEYFIELD WREXHAM SOCIETY LTD 59 Beechley Road Wrexham LL13 7AU / 12 Box Lane, Acton, Wrexham LL12 8JU abbeyfieldwrexham@yahoo.co.uk. T. 01978 366516

Puzzle Page...

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

Capital of Bulgaria (5) Civilians trained as soldiers (7) Polite (5) Unwelcome (8) Tennis stroke (5) Streams of rain (8) Climbed (8) Nursemaid (5) Disease (8) Goodbye (Spanish) (5) Go forward (7) Give a solemn oath (5)

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

Suctioned (anag) (9) Eg daisies and roses (7) Streets (7) Free from ostentation (6) Expressions (6) Climbing shrubs (5) Star performer (9) Makes a choice (7) Preventing success; unfavourable (7) Long-haired variety of cat (6) Level plain without trees (6) Assisted (5)

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

Here are the answers from February:

Classic Sudoku

E

L

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Please keep my number, you might need it one day!

Our publications are more targeted, more community-focussed and more local than any other media in the area.

For details call Vicky on

01978 855459

T. 01978 851078 M. 07776 477396

vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

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