EssentialsMAG February 2021 Rossett/Marford/Gresford/Holt/Farndon

February 2021

Your monthly local community magazine

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www.essentialsmag.co.uk

Welcome...

Cover Image: Home Schooling © Switlana Sonyashna / Shutterstock.com

Welcome to our February issue!

A month into 2021 and anyone who had dreamt of a fresh start to the new year has had a pretty rude awakening. We’re all still in lockdown and some parts of the NHS are in the most dangerous situation anyone can remember. Schools are closed, with many parents facing the challenge of educating their children at home, at the same time as juggling full-time jobs.

However, our local communities have once again stepped up and come together to support one another - especially those in need. I am so proud to live and work in an area with such an amazing spirit.

Remember there’s help out there - if you are struggling and not receiving the necessary help with things like shopping, access to medication, etc, the Association of Voluntary Organisations in Wrexham (AVOW) can help. Please call: 01978 312556 or e-mail: COVID19@avow.org.

The light at the end of the tunnel is, of course, the vaccine rollout. Hang on in there and let’s look forward to brighter times ahead.

Stay safe and look after one another.

All the best, Vicky Heathfield EMAIL: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk CALL: 01978 855459

www.essentialsmag.co.uk

March Deadlines: Editorial - 12 February Advertising - 19 February

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Local News Unbeatable Eva 10-year-old Eva Williams from Marford has died, surrounded by her family, a year after being diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour. Eva was diagnosed with a high-grade DIPG on New Year's Day last year and had been undergoing radiotherapy treatment to shrink the tumour. Eva, her family and the wider community raised over £330,000 to access treatment in the United States that might have extended her life. However, efforts to join those medical trials were thwarted when international flight bans and travel restrictions were imposed due to the pandemic.

After Eva’s death her father, Paul Slapa, announced on their Go Fund Me page: “At the outset of this journey, Carran and I talked to Eva about what we would do if we had funds left over following treatment, and we all agreed that we would like to do something to support other families going through this horrific time. We don’t quite know what that looks like yet, but we have promised Eva that we will do something special in her name, and that she will have a legacy to help others – fitting given how caring she was. In time we will let you all know our intentions, but be assured that our fight against DIPG continues.”

All Saints’ Church Gresford We are delighted to announce that the Christmas Tree Festival has raised in total £3,000, which is to be distributed equally between Hope House Children’s Hospice and Nightingale House Hospice. This exceeded last year’s total, despite the difficulties imposed by the COVID pandemic and having to close the festival a day early to comply with lockdown restrictions. We are so grateful for the hard work of the church community and the amazing generosity and support of all local people, businesses and groups who were more than prepared to decorate their tree.

Above all, thank you to everyone who came to view the trees, see the lights and make your donations. We are truly sorry that some people who had planned to come and look at the trees on the final day could only look through closed gates - a decision not of our making!

We could not have done it without your help! Thank you so much!

Father Tudor Hughes and Church Council

Sunday Service on Zoom Crewe by Farndon Methodist Church holds regular Sunday services, as permitted by current rules at 4.30pm on Sundays, on Zoom. Thursday morning group ‘Butterflies’ continues, email: cbfmethodist@gmail.com for details.

For Family Futures Advice and mediation for splitting couples contact: familyfuturesatcbf@gmail.com. This service is free of charge although donations are invited.

Marford Zebra Crossing Gresford Community Council and Cllr Russ Gilmartin are aware that some residents have expressed concerns regarding the safety of the zebra crossing at the top of Marford Hill by the Red Lion Pub. An increase in foot traffic since the Co-op store opened may mean that action is needed to improve the safety for pedestrians. The Community Council does not have the legal power to take steps in relation to zebra crossings but, they can raise the issue with Wrexham Council and ask for improvements.

However, they need evidence to back-up their request.

They told us: “When Wrexham Council is consulted about road traffic issues, for example, road crossings, they look at incidents or accidents that have been reported to them or the police.”

Gresford Community Library We’re open as usual!

Despite everything, we’re still here, and open for ‘Order and Collect’.

Come and see us on: Tuesdays 2pm - 5pm Saturdays 10am - 1pm

Pizza Kits Being forced to temporary close due to the pandemic, owners of Cleopatra’s Coffee Shop & Bistro in Holt, Philippe Kalkwarf and his wife Helen Done, have created a new business to get their teeth into.

Philippe and Helen have developed a way to get ready rolled out pizza bases along with their delicious pizza sauce and cheese to customers’ houses using an overnight courier company.

For more details and to order the perfect pizza to cook at home, visit: www.wedoughit4u.co.uk

So, if you experience any issues with the Marford Hill crossing, please report it to North Wales Police using the reporting tool at: www.police.uk/101. You can also report it to the WCBC highways department by emailing contact-us@wrexham.gov.uk and please let the Community Council know too via the website or email: clerkgresford@gmail.com. In this way they can build up an official record of incidents which Share your news with us! will support any call for action to be taken to Submit an article at: improve the safety of this crossing. www.essentialsmag.co.uk/article

Local News 48,600 Shoeboxes of Joy Local charity Teams4U were delighted, despite the trying times we’re all living in, to send 48,600 shoebox gifts to brighten up children’s Christmas across Eastern Europe.

The charity wishes to thank everyone who kindly took part in their appeal this year whether through donating a box or donating to their “Sponsor-a-Box” scheme, each gift made a difference to the child or family who received it.

Dave Cooke, Founder of Teams4U told us: “These have been very hard times.This pandemic has pushed millions of people over the poverty line and made desperate situations distressingly worse. We are so humbled that in a time where a lot of us are struggling, we have witnessed incredible acts of generosity and kindness, enabling us to give so much joy to children.”

“Your kind gifts went to orphanages in Belarus, deprived communities and refugee families in Bosnia, and to marginalised communities in Moldova and Romania.”

Raul Gherle, organiser for Bihor county in Romania said: “I’ve distributed over 10,000 gifts into dozens of towns and received thousands of smiles from children I’ve never known. The joy hidden in these little colourful and sparkling gifts can only be told by the children who waited for them, with expectation and emotion in their hearts. One boy even told me he thought his gift came directly from heaven.”

For information on how to get involved in 2021 visit their website: www.teams4u.com.

Christmas Tree Collection The Christmas Tree Collection promoted in our January editions has raised over £10,000 for patient care at the Nightingale House Hospice. Community and Events Fundraiser, Samantha Amis, told us: “I just want to say a massive thank you for advertising our Christmas Tree Collection in EssentialsMAG. The collection has enabled us to raise over £10,000 for patient care – we could not have done this without the support of yourself and your readers!”

Calon FM Closes After 13 Years Wrexham’s community radio station Calon FM has aired its final broadcast. The station, which has been broadcasting since 2008, has had to close due to the withdrawal of support from Wrexham Glyndŵr University and is therefore unable to keep running.

Calon FM, a voluntary organisation based on Wrexham Glyndŵr University’s main campus, was run through grants, funding and sponsorship. With only one paid member of staff, the station relied on the hard work and dedication of volunteer broadcasters. Their community programming ranged from music and arts shows to Welsh and Polish language shows, broadcasting to a diverse range of people across the community. It also formed part of the university experience for some students studying related courses including radio production, broadcasting and journalism. The station won a Radio Academy Award in 2013 and a Community Radio Award in 2016.

Captain America Spotted A superhero has been roaming the streets of Wrexham in a bid to spread some joy this lockdown. Captain America was spotted taking a stroll around Gresford and Marford, hoping to make children smile as lockdown restrictions continue. Behind the mask is not Hollywood superstar Chris Evans, but local Gresford man, Damien Hughes.

“I was working on my outfits to go to Comicon but, due to the pandemic, they were languishing in the cupboard” said Damien,who works at the Brother in Ruabon.

“So, I posted on a local forum to see if people would like it if I walked around the villages dressed in my Captain America outfit to entertain the children and they loved it! I just thought why not? If me walking around in my outfit cheers people up and spreads joy, then it’s a good thing.”

Damien confirmed he would also like to dress up as Thor in the coming weeks.

Minimising Stress During lockdown, Cat Williams, mum-of-two from Holt, has launched a new online self-help course to empower people in the face of whatever life throws at them. The online course is aimed at people who might be living with feelings of overwhelm, anxiety or stress. It teaches people how to remain calm and empowered no matter what’s going on around them. For details and to enroll please visit: https://bit.ly/minimisestress

Share your news with us!

Submit an article at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/article

Try Something New and Different

By EssentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KENNEY If you are feeling a bit “blah”, you lack motivation and drive, this is a perfect time to reset, fire up your physical and mental health, and turn yourself around. You can do this simply by trying something new and different.

Why? When we try something new, such as learning a new skill, our brain and bodies are challenged. Once underused neurotransmitters or muscles are shocked and put to use.

Our bodies and brain thrive on the attention, and we feel better for it. Trying something new, especially things that we once were afraid of, helps us step outside our comfort zone.

Once outside our comfort zone we have the ability to see new possibilities and feel great.

Trying something new helps us break the monotony of routine and change our biorhythm - stimulating us intellectually, emotionally and physically.

What new things can you try?

• Try a new sport; tennis, lacrosse, badminton or hoola hooping.

• Take an on-line class on a subject unrelated to your career, community, or family - something you’ve always been interested in, but never made the time to pursue.

• Cook something at home you’ve never tried.

• Take up and master a hobby or craft you’ve always wanted to do but always found an excuse not to; perhaps sewing, woodworking, or a restoration project.

• Learn a new language.

• Photography and/or video; learn to edit.

• Meditate.

• Write a story, poem or an article; for yourself or submit it to a website or newspaper magazine.

So what will you try?

The next time someone asks you “What’s new?”

Be ready to answer them with passion and excitement.

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

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7.3 Million People Behind on Bills

By CITIZENS ADVICE, WREXHAM Many people have left the year 2020 significantly worse off than they entered it.

The pandemic and the lockdowns that came with it led to income losses for a significant number of households.

For some, this was because they were furloughed or made redundant, for others it was because they needed to shield or care for loved ones.

For many people income shocks came as a result of following the rules to keep us all safe. The result is that people are struggling to pay their bills.

We’re here to help If you, or anyone you know, is struggling financially with debts or money worries Citizens Advice is here to help and advise you on your options.

Citizens Advice provides free, confidential impartial advice. We are here to help in these uncertain times, please contact us if you require advice.

Citizens Advice Wrexham general advice line 01978 364 639 Leave a message with a brief description of the issue, your name and telephone number and you will receive a call back.

A further Wrexham Helpline number is: 0300 330 1178 National Citizens Advice Help Line: 0345 44 70 70 People can chat online to an advisor by visiting our Facebook page www.facebook.com/wrexham.cab.9 and send a private message Or Visit our website wrexhamcitizensadvice.com

Citizens Advice commissioned ICM unlimited to conduct a survey of a representative sample of 6,004 adults living in the UK. The survey took place between 12th and 25th November. The figure of 7.3 million people behind on bills was calculated by Citizens Advice on the basis that 14% of the weighted sample reported being behind on bills. This was multiplied by 52,673,433, the UK adult population, to arrive at a figure of 7.3 million people.

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Dodleston Local History Group

By EssentialsMAG history contributor BERNARD DENNIS, MBE An Historic Monument About four years ago, British Telecom decided Dodleston no longer needed a public telephone box and without warning, it was removed. This left an open and redundant space which was partially enclosed with an ancient curved sandstone wall at the junction of Church Road and Kinnerton Road.

The wing walls originally displayed directional signs for Chester to the left and Pulford to the right but these have since eroded away.

Dodleston Local History Group (DLHG) felt this now open area needed to have a focal point and historical documents showed this was the site of the village water pump from where water would have been drawn for domestic purposes. It ceased to be used by 1888 when mains water was introduced into the village.

A project to locate a suitable hand pump began and despite visits to many reclamation yards, nothing could be found that would suit the situation.

However, through good fortune a pump was offered by a local family that was original to their property and so the process began.

DLHG arranged for the pump to be repair welded, shot blasted, powder coated and Dodleston Parish Council agreed to carry out the installation on the original site.

During excavation work by builders to prepare the base, an ancient well was discovered and the depth was measured to be about five metres; water could be heard running so the well source was still functioning.

The pump was firmly bolted down on to a concrete base and the surrounding area paved with cobbles in a sympathetic and functional manner.

As a result of the sand blasting, this revealed that the pump was cast in Chester by the firm J & W Killon with a date of 1865.

The house in Dodleston where the pump came from is dated 1864. Although the pump is not original to the site, it is original to the village and not an import. It should be noted that the pump is purely for decoration and not connected to the underground water source. Health & Safety would have a field day if it were!

According to a trade directory of 1864, J & W Killon were based in Egerton Street, Chester, they are described as being “pumpmakers and wellsinkers.”

One extra thing to look for is the graffiti scratched into the top surface of the sandstone wall.

This must date back many decades and no doubt contributed to by various youths of the village.

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Be Kind to Yourself with Bach Flowers

By MELANIE BURGESS 2020 was a year full of challenges and we have entered 2021 with yet another lockdown, surrounded by more uncertainty, anxiety and concern which is taking its toll both emotionally and mentally. We each have our own circumstances to negotiate but one thing remains the same, we need to look after ourselves, and look after each other.

Emotionally, we can look after ourselves with Bach Flower Remedies.

I am fortunate to have discovered Bach Flower Remedies which I use to help me, and many others, to cope with the emotional challenges of day-to-day life, as well as the added layer of the current world crisis.

I previously talked about Rescue Remedy, a blend of five of Dr. Bach’s flower essences, used in emergency situations of stress or trauma, to help to ‘stick us back together’. Rescue Remedy is brilliant in times of difficulty, every household should have a bottle in their first aid kit and many people always keep a bottle with them, as do I. However, humans suffer from such a vast array of unwanted emotions, Rescue Remedy can’t be the answer to them all, and that is where all of the 38 remedies come in.

How do you know which remedies you need? You need to know the root cause of each of the unwanted emotions. For example, if you

say you feel stressed, what is causing the stress? Worry about catching the virus?

You feel you aren’t good enough? Worried about loved ones? Pinpoint the root of the emotions, then the appropriate remedies can be chosen. You can do this yourself, or in consultation with a Bach Flower therapist.

Which emotions can the remedies help with? All of them! There is a remedy for every negative emotion.

Mimulus will help to ease anxieties, fears and phobias and give you courage.

Red Chestnut will help if you are worried about your loved ones.

Star of Bethlehem will give you comfort and help with the sadness of not being able to see people, or the trauma of losing someone.

Larch will give you a boost of confidence if you doubt yourself.

White Chestnut to help heal the constant merry-go-round of unwanted thoughts. …….and so much more!

Bach Flower Remedies offer natural, emotional support in difficult times.

There is a light at the end of the tunnel of negative emotions.

For more details, contact Melanie Burgess at Daisy Holistics Tel: 07970 758811 E: daisyholistics@gmail.com

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Your Post-Vaccination Vacation

By EssentialsMAG travel contributor Ann Anglesea at DELMAR WORLD in Gresford Although our offices in Gresford and Heswall are currently closed due to lockdown restrictions, our team are busy working from home with client enquiries and Zoom appointments.

At present, most bookings are for 2022, with many people feeling that getting a holiday booked in advance - albeit 12-18 months away - is better than not having anything to look forward to at this point in the pandemic. Indeed, many tour operators have launched 2023 holiday programmes, recognising that, until everyone has had the vaccine, a longer time-frame is necessary.

That said, once the restrictions are lifted, we are set for a surge in last-minute summer holiday demand. Here are some suggestions if you want to get away as soon as possible but would prefer to stay closer to home this year: Great little UK breaks Sometimes all we need is a couple of nights away for boosting our spirits. We have some great offers for the UK from luxury to boutique accommodation.

Cruise from Liverpool with Fred Olsen This line is superb for more mature travellers. Liverpool is the ideal starting point for voyages to Scotland, Northern Europe and Scandinavia bringing you closer to the beautifully unspoilt landscapes of the Norwegian fjords and the Scottish lochs; the astonishing natural

wonders of Iceland and Greenland; and remote locations within the Arctic Circle.

Fred Olsen’s tempting range of Liverpool departures also includes cruises to gorgeous Atlantic Ocean islands such as the sun-kissed Canaries, the verdant Azores and fragrant Madeira; as well as journeys to scenic regions of France or Spain.

2021 & 2022 Cruises from Southampton with Royal Caribbean This is one of the best cruise lines for a family holiday experience. The innovative Quantum class ship Anthem of the Seas is returning to Southampton for Summer 2021. There are many exciting itineraries including Norwegian Fjords, Canary Islands, Mediterranean and the culture hotspots of Europe. With flexible booking conditions and excellent prices right now, this is a fabulous choice for multigenerational holidays. With a huge range of activities, accommodation and high quality dining on board, everyone will be happy.

Jersey This little island with a big spirit promises families and couples the perfect island break with a true holiday abroad feel but just a hop away. Free COVID-19 testing on arrival is just one of the policies in Jersey’s ‘Visit Safe Charter’, which was implemented earlier this year to safeguard both visitors and residents from the spread of coronavirus. This free testing regime is not to be underrated given that many other

“WE ARE SET FOR A SURGE IN LAST-MINUTE SUMMER HOLIDAY DEMAND”

destinations are requiring arrivals to present a negative COVID test result sourced themselves: a potentially costly undertaking.

Adventure, fun and responsible tourism – closer to home A new range of ‘Closer To Home’ tours introduced by Intrepid Travel aims to support local communities striving to recover from the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. twelve of the 14 Intrepid Retreats are based across the UK and Europe, with one in the Middle East and one in North Africa. They range from three to five days in duration and UK destinations include Scotland, Cornwall and Suffolk, plus walking and cycling trips in the Lake District and the Peak District.

Those abroad include remote locations in Greece, Croatia, Iceland, Portugal, Italy, Turkey, Morocco and Jordan.

The programme is based on accommodation ranging from small boutique properties to glamping. Small group tours are available and, as with all of our operators, Safe Travel Protocol is in place throughout.

Keep positive and safe…..We are here when you are ready!

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

BRHS - Burton Rossett Horticultural Society Gardening News

By EssentialsMAG gardening contributor CAROL EDWARDS Well, here we are in February at last, as I write this we have had a snowfall during the night and early morning. You could be forgiven for thinking that there is nothing to do in our gardens, however it’s surprising how much you can make a start with - of course most of them do need a heated greenhouse so that lets me out!

There is quite a lot of pruning you can do including clematis. Make sure you check any gardening articles on line on which type of clematis you have as there are certain types that are best left until the summer. I have a winter Jasmine in my garden which has grown quite a lot last year, so that is on my to do list.

Cornus, which is the shrub that has lovely coloured stems, needs to be cut right down now for it to re-grow and show itself off.

Of course, if you do have a heated greenhouse, there are a number of seeds to start growing now, or some can be grown outside under cloches such as beetroot, or the early peas called Twinkle and the early carrot Nantes. You can start early potatoes or chit them on a windowsill indoors. I find half egg boxes are ideal for this, it really means getting them to show sprouting and begin to grow. Windowsills can also be used to grow a pot of Basil which is tasty in Italian food such as Bolognese and Pizzas. The taste of fresh herbs is so much better than dried I think.

I think that I may grow pots of Begonias this year, they have such lovely bright colours.

These can be started off now as long as they are in a bright frost-free position. If you can get a minimum of 10°C you can start off Dahlias in pots as well.

So that is quite a lot of gardening that can be done at the moment, I hope I have given you enough to keep you busy.

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Local Birds & Wildlife

By Rev. Hugh Linn Thank you to those who have been in touch with much appreciated wildlife sightings. The COVID-19 lockdown period has had one positive result at least in leaving many of us spending time gazing out of our windows at wildlife activity round about us.

PINK FEET IN FLIGHT

My most memorable sighting occurred just after Christmas when driving along a quiet country road and hearing up on high, in the otherwise deserted sky, a chorus of “ink ink ink” calls which I recognised as coming from Pink-footed Geese.

Fortunately the road was deserted so I immediately stopped the car and gazed heavenwards and was amazed to see skein after TUFTED DUCK skein heading in the direction of the River Dee. I estimate that in all, the flock contained somewhere in the region of 2,000 birds. According to the Wildlife Trust over 400,000 Pinkfeet (which breed in Iceland) winter in the UK with the majority favouring East Anglia.

On 7th February last year there was a flock of 700 feeding in a Poulton field - the previous year a similar sized flock stopped off in the same field on the same date .

In January the Dee floods were once more spectacular if unwelcome. The fields near Holt provided a temporary home for a flock of 30 Goosanders. Last February's floods were more extensive and attracted a greater selection of assorted wildfowl to the fields alongside the B5102. These included more Goosanders as well as Pintails, Shelduck, Wigeons, Greylag Geese and Whooper Swans which, like the Pink-feet, are winter visitors from Iceland.

During the past winter Gresford Flash for some reason has hosted fewer duck varieties than in previous years. Two little flocks, however, have come and gone at intervals - 40 black and white Tufted Ducks and colourful large-beaked Shovelers. Normally resident Mallards have been down in numbers but they may have simply moved over to the village lake where there is a better chance of ready meals!

Last month I mentioned wintering Blackcaps. In our garden we are now visited by seven individuals (four males and three females). Although these attractive little birds have appeared regularly for many years we have never had as many. I wonder if any of our readers have also noticed increased numbers this winter?

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Legal Advice Questions & Answers

By EssentialsMAG legal advice contributor CAROL McGUIRE Financial Provision Within Divorce QUESTION: My Husband is a wealthy man but he has never been willing to discuss his finances with me in the 35 years of our marriage and I have no access to any paperwork.

I am thinking of divorcing him but I don’t know what to do in relation to our finances?

ANSWER: Before commencing proceedings, you need to secure some legal advice from a solicitor who specialises in divorce and issues of finance. You need to do this sooner, rather than later, due to the fact that you do not want your Husband disposing of assets to avoid claims brought by your good self.

A solicitor would first of all write a letter to him or his solicitors, requesting disclosure.

By disclosure, we mean that he has to produce paperwork to show his financial position.

So, if he was employed, we would need his last P60 and copies of his last three payslips.

If he is self-employed then we would need to see his last two years sets of account.

We would then ask for 12 months of Bank Statements for every Bank account he has opened, albeit in his sole name; jointly with another, or in the name of his business, or his Company/ies. He would be expected to produce a list of his savings, eg. produce copies of all passbooks; certificates; correspondence in relation to the same. If your husband has pensions then we would need the up-to-date current transfer value of all of them, as this is of special importance. We would also ask if he has any prospect of inheritances, because this is relevant, in as much as were you still together at the time such is received, then you would have benefitted from such. He also needs to produce a list of any other assets, eg. the surrender and maturity values of policies; ISA’s; Peps; Shares: securities/guilts etc.

As for the matrimonial home, we would need to find out in whose name(s) it is and if in his sole name, then we would register a restriction at the Land Registry to prevent your husband from trying to sell the same before we reach financial agreement. The same information would be sought of any other properties he/jointly with another/in his business name or if the property is owned by a Company.

Only when all of this is available can you be properly be advised as to what your entitlement is.

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

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Sarah Atherton MP Member of Parliament for Wrexham Whilst we’re being asked to stay at home to help control the spread of the virus in order to save lives, it is more important than ever that we take the time to look after our mental wellbeing. This means ensuring that we keep to a routine to the best of our ability and hold onto normality wherever possible. For many, this will mean staying in touch with loved ones in a safe way and keeping active through regular exercise.

During the first few months of the pandemic, many of us became well acquainted with ‘Zoom’ and ‘Microsoft Teams’, and I know this amazing technology has been a lifeline to many. I have been especially warmed to hear stories of care home residents using this video call technology to speak to family and friends during this difficult time, but I know we all long for the day we can meet again.

We have some wonderful green spaces on our doorstep that we can all enjoy, whether it be through walking, running or cycling. Whilst exercising, its vital we stay with our household and maintain a good distance from others, to keep everybody safe. We should also all ensure we do not travel far to exercise, and luckily here in Wrexham we are blessed with fantastic local parks and countryside for us all to enjoy.

I cannot express enough how much I sympathise with the anguish of those who are living alone, or who have been shielding during this dreadful pandemic. I know this has been a difficult time for us all. That is why I am so excited for the vaccine roll-out across the UK. This is the light at the end of the tunnel and will help to restore our freedoms to us all, and I will fight to ensure that our priority groups get the vaccine as soon as possible.

At this time of year the nights are still cold and dark but we know the days are getting increasingly brighter, it is a good metaphor for where we are in our national battle: coronavirus challenges still exist but with the roll-out of the vaccine, the end is in sight.

As always, if there is anything I can do to be of any assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Visit my website to sign-up to my monthly newsletter and for information and advice with regards to coronavirus: www.sarahatherton.org.uk

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

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Gresford Trust Newsdesk

By Jenny Dutton Dogs on Trust land Why should dogs be kept on a lead?

My dog is well trained and always comes back when called.

Whilst we appreciate that most dogs are well trained, there are a growing number of dogs that run free all over the grounds.

Unfortunately, this can lead to instances where dogs foul unnoticed on the grounds or sports pitches, leaving a health hazard for other members of the community.

walking requirements. Now that more outdoors sports will re-start when the current lockdown ends, we feel it is time to remind dog owners of the need to keep the grounds a safe place for all users.

Over recent weeks, the rise in dog fouling on the grounds has become a problem.

Not everyone using Trust land appreciates dogs running up to them and, on occasion, jumping up which can also cause distress.

The Trustees feel it is necessary to remind all dog owners of their duty to always keep their dog on a lead when on Trust land.

Gresford Trust 100 Club A big thank you to our members. Renewals are due on 1st February.

I always pick up after my dog, so I don’t think I need to worry about this.

We are grateful to all dog owners that clean up after their pets, however there are occasions where not all of the faeces can be picked up cleanly. Anything remaining can cause a potential serious health hazard, particularly to children.

Why have you changed your rules?

We haven’t made any changes to the dog rules - we have always asked for dogs to be on a lead and kept off the sports pitches.

Over the past few months, we recognised the need for people to use the grounds more regularly for exercising during COVID restrictions and we felt that it was not the time to impose further reminders of dog

WCBC Public Space Protection Order Dog owners are liable to a fine if they allow dogs on sports pitches or do not pick up and bin dog waste.

The Club supports the Trust in the running of the Memorial Hall and grounds. This has been particularly important this year as Trustees have been unable to offer a normal service to the village.

If you are not a member and would like to support this village facility you can download an application form: www.gresfordtrust.org/100-club Tel: 01978 856650 Email: contact@gresfordtrust.org

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Your Local Children’s Hospice

By Hope House and Ty Gobaith Children’s Hospices Life turned upside down for everyone in 2020, including Hope House & Ty Gobaith Children’s Hospices. Their 14 shops closed overnight and fundraising events were cancelled. The hospices ended the year with £1.25 million in lost income.

They have had to make sure both the hospice in Oswestry and that in Conwy are COVID safe. Initially they were faced with the unthinkable situation of a family not being able to be with their child in their last hours but thanks to the local community, the necessary PPE was sourced and this did not happen. PPE costs are however an extra strain on already stretched finances.

The hospices provide essential respite and end of life care for 750 families in North Wales, Shropshire and Cheshire with 48 of these families living in the Wrexham area.

Mums, dads, brothers and sisters are looked after as a family; meals are cooked, clothes are washed and siblings are supported. Families refer to Hope House & Ty Gobaith as a “lifeline”, they are essential to the whole family not just the child. Every day of every year, they continue to provide the expert care families rely on just to face tomorrow. Whatever the family needs, the care team will find a way.

Mum Martine, recalls the time with her daughter Mia, “She absolutely loved Hope House and I knew she was safe there. They felt like family. The nurses knew Mia was poorly, and how to care for her, but they still made things fun. It was all about giving her a good life and finding a way to do the things we wanted, such as riding a rocking horse. They would never say something was impossible. I dread to think what it would have been like if Hope House wasn’t there.”

2021 provides a new set of challenges, not least raising £6.5 million to run the two hospices in a pandemic. 80% of this amount usually comes from fundraising activities. The support from the community is key to keeping the lights on.

If you would like to make a donation, organise some fundraising or support local families through your business, please get in touch on 01691 671671.

Alternatively, their website is www.hopehouse.org.uk and contains more information about their events and services available to families with children faced with life threatening conditions.

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EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Cherry Shortbread Hearts MAKES 14-16 INGREDIENTS 100g icing sugar, plus extra for dusting 200g plain flour, plus extra for dusting 50g cornflour 50g ground almonds 250g pack cold butter, cut into cubes 50g glacé cherries, finely chopped ½ tsp almond extract 8 tbsp cherry jam, sieved

METHOD Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4.

Sift the icing sugar, flour and cornflour together into a bowl. Stir in the ground almonds and butter, then rub in the butter until smooth. Stir in the chopped glacé cherries and almond extract, and bring together to form a dough.

Roll out on a lightly floured surface, then stamp out biscuits using a heart shaped cutter. Keep re-rolling the trimmings until all the dough is used.

Carefully transfer the biscuits to baking trays lined with parchment and bake for just 8-10 minutes until just pale golden.

Using an upturned bottle top or similar, press gently into the centre of each biscuit to make a round indent.

Spoon in a little jam and return to the oven for 2 minutes.

Remove and cool on a wire rack, before dusting with icing sugar to serve

Trying out our recipe?

Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham

Simply Delicious!

Browse our collection of tasty lunch, dinner, dessert and cake recipes on our website:

www.essentialsmag.co.uk/recipes

Thinking of Moving Home?

By FRASER PURELL from Swetenhams Here we are in a new year and perhaps ready to start a new journey; buying your first home, selling to find a roomier home, adding to your portfolio or choosing a letting agent.

Whatever your reason, there is so much to consider when choosing your agent and how to navigate this new world we live in.

There are a few pitfalls and a range of options to choose from, each with both positives and negatives, but hopefully this can be a guide to offer advice.

Always do your research When looking for an estate agent, look at reviews such as Google, Yell, All Agent and Facebook. Don’t let old reviews help make the decision, as the last 12 months will show how an agent operates currently.

Ask what COVID procedures the agent has in place A brilliant agent will offer you reassurance before they visit your property. A good estate agent will have strict health & safety procedures, including a COVID specific policy and will follow local government guidelines to make sure they aren’t putting you at risk. They will wear masks and gloves, not just offer to. We hear every day about people breaking the rules so make sure you have a safe agent before opening your home to them and potential viewers.

Don’t let fee decide your agent If your only consideration is how much will your agent charge you? You’re missing the bigger picture. There’s an age old saying ‘buy cheap, buy twice’. This is your biggest purchase or investment, so make sure to look after it. A good estate agent will be up front about fees and will only charge one fee to sell. A ‘too good to be true’ fee normally means there are extras and no one wants a nasty shock at the end.

Rule of three Have three agents value your property a corporate, a local and recommended one.

All will offer differing levels of service and ideas but the value of your property is key.

Have a plan A good agent offers a journey; they will show you what to expect at each stage.

Offer a tailored marketing strategy and offer the best exposure. More than 80% of people start online so make sure your property has a huge online presence.

For more details, contact Fraser Purell at Swetenhams Tel: 01244 321321 Fraser.purell@swetenhams.co.uk

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Valentine's Day

BY JO YOUNG

Local Gresford Poet, Jo Young

Roses are red, violets are blue…..

Let’s scrub that and let’s speak plain And certainly this is not a year to be tame...

As I firmly believe that Valentine’s Day Should be a day for us all to play.

Yes, with our partners we love, value, respect and laugh We can be ourselves and be okay in being daft But what about those on their own They should not feel they have to atone.

Their loved ones might have passed away Now they must bear their grief and stay Couple might have separated or gone through a very raw divorce Not yet having the strength or courage to find new love that they want to source So together we must be united and spread the word and say This year, let’s ALL come together and share this Valentine’s Day.

Pictures of Wales

BY MRS EVERETT

Wales beloved land of song where many nations meet at each Eisteddfod, when in friendly rivalry, in song, music, dancing, they compete.

Land of craggy mountains and gently swelling hills curving silver rivers wearing creamy frothy frills.

Fields of patchwork quilting bordered by hedgerow and thicket pale primrose shyly peeping, the song of the Linnet.

Clean coastal towns, sandy and shingled bays white horses ride the wavelets, in the moon’s soft rays.

Wind swept valleys, deep cornices of snow, wild hungry cries as the gulls fly low.

Wales in every season is beautiful to see, and tho’ I’ve travelled ‘ore the World Wales is where I want to be.

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Expertise On Your Side

Alyn Family Doctors Latest News Despite the gloom of the second wave it has been an exciting time at Alyn Family Doctors.

We have been planning the delivery of a reliable, prompt and safe COVID-19 vaccination programme. We understand hopes are high that vaccination will prove a means for life returning to normality and want to assure you that General Practice is ideally placed to deliver this service. Indeed this is what we do on an annual basis with flu clinics. We are ready, willing and able to step up and scale this up.

The Flu vaccination programme we provided in Llay’s British Legion was warmly received with many praising the ample parking facilities, disabled access and plentiful space for social distancing procedures, it thus seemed the logical location for our COVID vaccination clinics.

PLEASE DON’T CONTACT THE SURGERY FOR YOUR VACCINE – you will be contacted directly by us or the Health Board. Two vaccinations are required and the second appointment will also be communicated to you.

Unfortunately there are scammers hoping to cash in on the vaccination programme – THE NHS WILL NEVER ASK YOU FOR BANK DETAILS OR PAYMENT.

We were thrilled to be one of five pilot GP practices in North Wales to begin vaccinating, receiving a small delivery of AstraZeneca vaccinations two weeks ahead of expected. The first clinic of over 100 patients >80yrs was held on the 7th January. The limiting factor has been vaccine supply, but we expect these quantities to rapidly increase and are planning forthwith. We aim to have vaccinated local care home residents as well as those >80yrs who are able to attend by the end of January. Visits will be arranged for those less able to attend but we kindly request that these are reserved for those who are truly housebound due to understandable constraints.

Rest assured our usual clinical commitments will continue alongside the vaccination programme. Doctors have been and will continue to be working extra days but, nevertheless, our capacity will be less than usual. Therefore we respectfully ask you to consider only getting in touch for urgent issues and consider use of alternative resources such as NHS 111, community pharmacy where appropriate.

We look forward to updating you again soon.

Tel: 0333 332 3260 www.alynfamilydoctors.co.uk www.facebook.com/alynfamilydoctors

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Financial News with Hadlow Edwards Bulbs, Cake, Drawing, Gin. It’s fair to say that I could not have foreseen writing this article a year or so ago! Over the last few months we have written a few times on the subjects of ‘getting organised’ and using this time to improve your financial planning or how to go about setting goals for your finances.

I have (I think) avoided writing about COVID but can’t any longer! First thing is – we are very much ‘open for business’. In fact we are very busy for which I am forever grateful.

Then this weekend I read an article that got me thinking.

In short it was about ‘things to do during lockdown’ recognising that there’s a long list of stuff we can’t do – some alternate ideas.

Some ideas caught my eye ranging from; planting bulbs (even I can manage that), joining a cake club (another tick), online Learn to Draw lessons (I am hopeless) and learning how to flavour gin (I enrolled and have a natural talent it appears).

You may or may not like some of these so, how about adding to your ‘to do list’ – having a chat with Warren, James, Mandy, Tom, Richard, Rhys or Jon over Zoom or even (wait for it) on the telephone - to find out what we do for our clients? We have had a very busy start to the year catching up with existing clients and meeting new ladies and gents who wish to spend 30 minutes or so chatting about their plans.

Would you like a simple guide through how to pay less tax, or a chat about if you are doing the right things with your pension? Have 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.

had enough of earning virtually no interest on your savings? Perhaps you are thinking about setting up your own business or maybe selling a business you have owned for years (that’s James’s area). You may have an elderly relative in need of advice or a son/daughter looking to take out their first mortgage?

Just two weeks into the new year, as I write, and we have already had over 100 meetings - all via Zoom or the telephone on each of the above, and a whole bunch of other topics.

Please do drop me a line if you would like to join in or give the office a call - you even only have to make one cup of tea!

To close, we also recognise that some folks are really struggling with this period of our lives (work concerns, home schooling, our elderly folks and of course the illness itself) and our thoughts go out to you too. Let’s hope we start to see this properly in retreat soon for everyone.

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

The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds you select and the value can therefore go down as well as up.

You may get back less than you invested.

Equities do not provide the security of capital which is characteristic of a deposit with a bank or building society.

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time. The value of any tax relief is generally dependent on individual circumstances.

Contributed by Warren Hadlow Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited.

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

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Lesley Griffiths MS Member of the Senedd for Wrexham The vast majority of us were more than happy to see the back of 2020 but, regretfully, the beginning of 2021 has proved to be equally challenging. The new, highly infectious variant of coronavirus quickly seized a firm foothold in our region and while there is no evidence to suggest the new strain causes more serious illness, it has added to the enormous pressure facing our NHS. Due to the rising number of cases, Wales was the first country to re-enter lockdown on 20 December. Although the move was not universally welcomed, I believe most will now agree it was the right course of action. At the time of writing, we know the lockdown will last at least six weeks, with the regulations due to be reviewed again on 29 January.

I am grateful to the majority of residents staying at home and following the guidelines but everyone has a part to play.

We are all weary of the restrictions but we must continue to keep our distance from each other, wash hands regularly and, if we have to go out, wear a face mask in public places. If we all do our bit, we can help keep Wrexham safe, help save lives and protect the NHS.

Centres have been established, including two in Wrexham, and doctors surgeries, mobile immunisation teams, pharmacies and the military have all come together to instigate the largest vaccination programme in our nation’s history.

With the situation constantly evolving, throughout the rollout I have kept constituents up-to-date with the latest information. I have also met with officials and the Chair of the local Health Board and worked to ensure the town and region receives its fair share of supplies. We are fast approaching the first key milestone and I am hopeful that by the middle of this month (February), all care home residents and staff, frontline health and social care staff, everyone over 70 and everyone who is clinically extremely vulnerable will have been offered vaccination. The next step will be to vaccinate everyone over 50 and all those who are at risk due to an underlying health condition by the spring.

We continue to live through uncertain times and if there is anything I can help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me via the details below.

While the start of 2021 has been tough, the COVID-19 vaccine rollout does give us reason to be optimistic. In recent weeks, with supplies of both the Pfizer and Oxford vaccines becoming more readily available, health boards across Wales have been able to accelerate the rollout. Vaccination

Talwyd costau’r cyhoeddiad hwn gan Gomisiwn y Senedd, o gronfeydd cyhoeddus / The costs of this publication have been met by the Senedd Commission from public funds.

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Giving Up is Sometimes Good

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF “The cost of a thing is the amount of life which is required to be exchanged for it.”

- HENRY DAVID THOREAU During February, people sometimes give things up for Lent. This prompted me to reflect on conversations around the climate crisis which focus on the things we’d need to give up and people’s unwillingness to do so. Whilst this isn’t necessarily intended to create opposition to action, it can be the result. Tackling the climate and ecological emergency will undoubtedly require sacrifices, but they may not be as great as we imagine and are also offset by huge benefits.

Some need to make bigger sacrifices than others - the richest 10% of the world’s population are responsible for around 50% of lifestyle consumption emissions, while the poorest 50% are responsible for just 10%. 70% of global emissions are produced by 20% of people. Emissions are massively skewed towards a small minority, which is likely to include many people reading this. New technologies may be able to deliver greater emission reductions in the future, but to make the real impact we need right now requires rapid changes in the behaviours of the highest resource consumers.

The sacrifices can be overestimated people sometimes suggest that solving the environmental crisis would require us to return to the stone age. If the top 10% cut their emissions to the level of the average

European, then even if the other 90% made no changes at all it would still reduce global emissions by one third!

This demonstrates how significant improvements could be made whilst maintaining a high standard of living.

The benefits are often ignored - obviously the primary benefit would be halting the sixth mass extinction and preventing total ecological collapse. However, there will also be more immediate benefits. We’ve witnessed how quickly air quality improved in many places during lockdown and the positive impact this had on people’s health and wellbeing. There are many other potential benefits, such as better insulated homes reducing heating costs. It’s important to consider these benefits alongside the sacrifices required.

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us the willingness of many people to make sacrifices to help others. When we forgo something in an effort to address the climate and ecological emergency we’re helping others in exactly the same way.

These others we’re helping include future generations, alongside the people and other living things already affected.

EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com

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EssentialsMAG Book Club

The Art of Rest

by CLAUDIA HAMMOND

Toksvig's Almanac 2021

by SANDI TOKSVIG

Much of value has been written about sleep, but rest is different; it is how we unwind, calm our minds and recharge our bodies.

The Art of Rest draws on ground-breaking research.

Hammond explains why rest matters, examines the science to establish what really works and offers a roadmap for a new, more restful and balanced life.

Let Sandi Toksvig guide you on an eclectic meander through the calendar, illuminating neglected corners of history to tell tales of the fascinating figures you didn't learn about at school. As witty and entertaining as it is instructive, Toksvig's Almanac is an essential companion to each day of the year.

Tomorrow Will Be A Good Day

by CAPTAIN TOM MOORE From the battlefields of Burma to the final astonishing lap of his garden as a centenarian to raise money for the NHS, this is the story of an incredible life of service from Captain Tom Moore.

He only wanted to help other people – and yet he has inspired a nation to believe anything is possible.

Great Family Days In - Over 75 Ideas

by CLAIRE BALKIND Great Family Days In has got you covered with over 75 tried and tested activities that make the most of spending quality time together. This is a one-stop shop for ideas, showing that you don't need fancy plans or money to keep your family entertained at home. These beautifully illustrated activities do not require any specific skills or hard to get resources making it easy to enjoy and relax into the process of creating and building memories together, whatever the outcome.

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The Senedd Elections Thursday 6th May 2021 The 2021 Senedd elections, to be held on 6th May, are already set to be historic - they are the first elections to be subject to laws made in Wales, and for the first time, 16 and 17-year-olds, as well as qualifying foreign citizens, will have the democratic right to vote.

However, the coronavirus pandemic has created significant challenges to maintain the safety and integrity of the election. So, an Elections Planning Group was set-up who have agreed on a number of measures on how best to protect the safety and wellbeing of all involved. These include: providing greater flexibility around postal and proxy voting; to ensure the safe operation of polling stations and count venues; to encourage vulnerable voters and others to applying for a postal vote; and ensuring coronavirus regulations do not inhibit voting.

Please Note: EssentialsMAG gave the Welsh Labour Party and Wales Green Party an opportunity to advertise their candidates here.

Hugh Jones Councillor for Rossett Covid-19 – Vaccination and Testing. Wrexham Council have been pressing BCUB/PHW since early December for site of the Vaccine Role out plan, which sadly, at the time of writing has not materialised, all that has been published is a wish list. This is a great shame as we have worked closely with the Health Board and PHW on publicity and management of the Trace and Protect. My description of what I have seen to date is shambolic. On the subject of testing I have been working with officers to establish a mobile testing unit, the aim is to visit communities such as Rossett, Gresford, Marford and others across Wrexham where the take up of testing has been low. This will help identify any hidden pockets of the virus.

Barton House, Darland Lane. I am working with residents to oppose applications that will lead to and increase in the number of houses above the 4 already approved and also any diminution in the onsite parking provision.

General state of rural lanes. We are seeing a deterioration in the condition of a n umber of our rural lanes due to a combination of factors, weather, the levels of flood water combined with changing temperatures and also the increased size of agricultural vehicles.

Unfortunately there is nothing that can be done about the size of the vehicles but we have been visiting farmers to tell them to clean up the road surfaces after they have been on the fields. I am also working to get those roads worst affected on to the list of work that will need to be carried out in the spring.

continually speed on roads such as Burton Road where there is direct access from driveways with no pavements. Also the speed through narrow lanes with an increasing number of walkers is also unacceptable. One aggressive drive told me he was entitled to do 60 mph on Llyndir Lane. Lanes are used by cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders and there is a responsibility to have consideration for other road users. Hopefully people will consider others when they are using our countryside.

Hedges: A reminder for residents to trim back hedges that are likely to cause problems on pavements and lanes where people cycle and walk, this needs to be done before March 1st which is the start of nesting season.

Thank You, To all our essential workers across a range of services who continue to keep us safe and care for vulnerable residents, to those who work in retail and a to teachers in our schools who continue to provide support for children of key workers. Thank you to those who have responded to the request to support our Village Hall Committee, we still have room for more.

The Council continues to work on an emergency and essential service only level which means it takes longer to get things done, so thank you for your patience.

Speeding Vehicles. This is a continuing subject in my emails, Chester Road and Burton Road to name but two areas. The Police have been active and issued a number of tickets and warnings. I find it difficult to understand why local drivers, many of whom are parents,

Tel: 07769 706999 hugh.jones@wrexham.gov.uk

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Russell Gilmartin Councillor for Marford & Hoseley A month behind, I know, but…Happy New Year! Starting a new year in lockdown has felt very strange but, it won’t be like this forever - positive change is undoubtedly on the horizon but in the meantime, we need to support and be kind to each other. We will come through this, together.

COVID At the time of writing this, we are in Tier 4, which as I’m sure you all know, means we must stay at home, leaving only if essential and/or to exercise. There has been some confusion about country parks in Wrexham. TO CLARIFY: they are open but the car parks have been closed in order to maintain government guidelines, which currently states you should not drive to exercise. The decision was made due to the excessive amount of people driving to country parks from various locations all across the UK. Amidst it all, I hope you’re managing to stay safe and sane. Thank you those that continue to go above and beyond to help those in our community who are shielding or are vulnerable. I’m sure I speak for everyone when I say, your efforts are very much appreciated and have not gone unnoticed.

Marford Hill As mentioned in the Community Council’s article, we are aware of the problems with the pedestrian crossing. I would also urge people to report any incidents or near misses regarding speeding on Marford Hill, as it will help us to present a more up to date insight into the on-going issues.

Dog Fouling This lovely topic has popped up again - it seems to have been on the increase during winter. Please pick up your dog’s mess and dispose of it in the correct way. Please do not dispose of it in the yellow grit bins as this grit is vital for the roads in some areas of the village during the winter months. Apparently, dog mess doesn’t help wheels or feet grip to the road in icy weather... and I’d rather us not have to test out that theory!

Hillock Lane At the time of writing this, no decision has been made yet on the proposed development, but I will be sure to update you as soon as I hear anything.

In addition to the above and as always, if you have any other issues, please feel free to contact me.

Tel: 07514 676175 russell.gilmartin@wrexham.gov.uk

Andrew Atkinson Councillor for Gresford The Gresford Humming Noise. A huge number of residents were in touch in the weeks running up to Christmas regarding a humming noise that was causing a nuisance and keeping many people up at night. Wrexham Council Public Protection officers have been outstanding and have been out numerous times in the middle of the night and early hours of the morning to determine the source of the noise and to monitor it.

an order like this and I state again there is nothing to suggest that this business has.

It is being investigated and I will continue to keep you all updated.

The noise was coming from a factory just off the Gresford roundabout and the good news is that, just before Christmas, Public Protection Officers served a notice that meant that the certain noisy machinery that was causing the problem could not be operated at night. This is a great result.

The factory may need a silencer part fitted to solve the problem for them permanently but without it they are not allowed to operate it at night. This is a great result and I must thank the Dickens family particularly for the help that they gave to the officers to enable monitoring from a local home and much more beyond. Thank you also to everyone else that made representations and got involved to help.

Speed Monitoring. The police are regularly monitoring speeds in various parts of the village as this still remains an issue. I’m working with them on this and grateful for their help.

The bad news is that a few residents say that they can still hear a noise and it’s coming from the same place but, I must state that there is no evidence of that and it could be from a neighbouring factory or somewhere else entirely and I’ve asked Public Protection to investigate again.

Chester Road Re-Surfacing. I’m really pleased that a large section of Chester Road is being re-surfaced and hopefully by the time you read this it’s finished! I’m glad that I’ve managed to get High Street on the list too and I’m pushing for a date for that.

Local Businesses. During lockdown many of our food businesses are still operating as takeaways and need our support such as the Pant yr Ochain and Fresh and Tasty.

Lots of residents get in touch with me to praise Rob and the team at Gresford Newsagents for the invaluable service that they offer and the help that they provide and I’d like to thank them for all they do to keep the village going!

Don’t be stuck! If you need anything during lockdown please let me know if I can help.

I’ve been informed that it would be a criminal offence for any business to defy Tel: 07914 211631 andrew.atkinson@wrexham.gov.uk

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Useful Numbers ANIMAL CARE Daleside Veterinary Farndon Kennels & Cattery Gatehouse Veterinary Green Lane Veterinary Park Lane Kennels Rhyd Broughton Veterinary RSPCA Vets4Pets

01978 311 881 01829 270 198 01244 570 364 01244 683 858 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 Alyn Family Doctors Farndon Village Surgery Marches Medical Practice Strathmore Medical Practice NHS Direct

03333 323 260 01829 771 588 01244 520 615 01978 352 055 111

DENTISTS Bridge End Dental Practice Chapel Cottage Dental Practice Rossett Dental Care Springfield Dental Care

01978 762 030 01978 854 745 01244 571 544 01978 851 300

OPTICIANS Gresford Eyecare

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 - Wales Fire & Rescue - Cheshire Fire & Rescue - North Wales Environment Agency National Grid Natural Resources Wales Severn Trent Water Welsh Water

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 Llay Library Overton Library Wrexham Library

01244 409 113 01978 852 627 01978 855 100 01978 710 557 01978 292 090

SCHOOLS & NURSERIES Abbey Gate College All Saints’ Primary School Benison Nursery School Bishop Heber High School Dandelions Day Nursery Darland High School Dodleston Pre-School Dodleston Primary School Eccleston Primary School Farndon Primary School Gresford Playgroup Holt Primary School Holt Under 5’s Playgroup Leaps and Bounds Pre-school Little Scholars Nursery Marford Playgroup Rhosnesni High School Rossett House Nursery St. Paul's VA Primary School St. Peters Primary School Shocklach Primary School The Catholic High School The Homestead Day Nursery The King’s School The Maelor School The Queen’s School The Rofft Primary School The Spinney Day Nursery

01244 332 077 01978 852 342 01244 676 199 01948 860 571 01829 272 277 01244 570 588 01244 661 611 01244 981 080 01244 981 000 01244 981 280 07523 398 880 01829 270 021 07496 231 275 01244 678 997 01978 314 912 07947 473857 01978 340 840 01244 571 872 01978 661 556 01244 570 594 01829 250 285 01244 981 600 01978 853 946 01244 689 500 01948 830 291 01244 312 078 01978 853 116 01244 577 948

TRAVEL National Rail Enquiries Traveline

03457 48 49 50 0871 200 22 33

Bay Tree House Wrexham (01978) 365 818 Cherry Tree Care Home Coedpoeth (01978) 759 925

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Puzzle Page...

Just For Fun Crossword ACROSS 1 4 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 18 20 21 22

Nasal (6) Shelter (6) Goal; intention (7) Short moral story (7) Indian lute (5) Choose to do something (5) Expressed clearly (5) Exceed (5) Wide-awake (5) Diminish (7) Beginning to exist (7) Not real or genuine (6) Colourless gas with formula C2H6 (6)

DOWN 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 13 14 15 16 17 19

Meal (6) Source of annoyance (8) Love affair (5) Deprived of food (7) Young sheep (4) Relatively limited (of an amount) (6) Substitute (11) And so on (2,6) Noisiest (7) Late time of life (3,3) Sculptured figure (6) Item of value (5) Writing fluids (4)

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

Here are the answers from January:

Classic Sudoku

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