Essentials Mag January 2019 Rossett/Marford/Gresford

January 2019

Your monthly insight into local living

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www.essentialsmag.co.uk Hand delivered to 4,400 homes and businesses in Rossett, Marford, Gresford, Pulford, Burton, Golly, Eccleston and surrounding area

Welcome... to your latest edition of EssentialsMAG Happy New Year everyone!

Did Santa Claus bring you everything you asked for?

Perhaps you were lucky to receive a new smartphone or tablet? If so, in this edition, David Hughes offers some information and guidance on how to use the thing!

Maybe you have entered the New Year setting yourself personal challenges for the year ahead?

Then you might like to read our motivation contributor Sasha Kenney’s piece on how to write your ‘bucket list’. A ‘bucket list’ is more than a New Year’s resolution, it forces us to think big, dream and remind us life is for living.

If you are thinking about booking a holiday soon Delmar World take us on a wonderful journey to Hong Kong, which is a very population stopover destination for long haul flights.

Whatever your plans are for the New Year, we wish you a healthy and happy one. As always, let us know your news and events - it’s your magazine too!

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: Welcome 2019!

We hand deliver EssentialsMAG to 4,400 homes and businesses in Rossett, Marford, Gresford and surrounding area. @EssentialsMagWrexham @EssentialsMAG1

Copies of this magazine are available for collection at the following locations: The Village Stores, Chester Road, Rossett LL12 0HW Co-op, Marford Hill, Marford LL12 8SL SPAR, 58 Chester Road, Gresford LL12 8NE You can read our magazines online at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk 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 2019.

thomas andrews & partners Solicitors

Carol McGuire has specialised in all areas of Family Law, including: DIVORCE; SEPARATION; ISSUES RELATING TO CHILDREN and FINANCIAL REMEDY for over 30 years.

Carol welcomes you to the brand-new offices of Thomas Andrews & Partners at First Floor, Suite 7, Church Street, Wrexham LL13 8LS, which are just around the corner from her old premises, next to St. Giles Parish Church.

Call today and arrange an appointment.

Telephone 01978 291506.

Carol McGuire, Thomas Andrews & Partners, First Floor, Suite 7 Church Street, Wrexham LL13 8LS T: 01978 291506 / E: carolinem@thomasandrews.co.uk / www.thomasandrews.co.uk

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Why Make a Bucket List?

By EssentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KENNEY Shopping list. To do list. Check list. We seem to surround ourselves with lists. Do we really need another list? Well, this one is different. It is bigger than any other list. It is the papa of all lists. This one frees all the inhibitions, forces us to think big and reminds us that life is for living.

There are different theories on why it’s called the “bucket list”, but the most plausible one goes back to the middle ages and practices of public hanging. One would have to stand on a bucket with a noose and when the bucket is kicked, the person would automatically strangle to death. So, having a bucket list is to focus on utilising life fully before it’s knocked off from under your feet!

Most famously in 1940, John Goddard, age 15, made a list of everything he wanted to achieve. There were 127 goals in all, including visiting every country in the world, milking a poisonous snake and visiting the Moon. This self-proclaimed “Worlds greatest goal achiever. Explorer.

Adventurer. Dreamer and Doer” put a tick by most of them, marking them as done.

The trend goes much wider; Bill Clinton, Jane Fonda and Cameron Diaz have spoken of having a list.

Maybe this is a good time to think of yours?

What might you want to think about when constructing your list?

• If you had no fear what would you do?

• If you would have no doubt where would you be?

• If money was no object where would you go?

• What would give you a sense of accomplishment?

• What would make you feel alive?

• What do you sometimes think about doing, but then find reasons not to?

Example • Go skydiving • Visit the Grand Canyon • Call Uncle Andrew and apologise • Row the Atlantic • Stay at the Ice Hotel • Tell Lynn you love her • Trek to Mount Everest base camp • Read the works of Shakespeare Anything goes. Your list can be as short or as long as you would like, mixing big and small goals, gentle ambitious to crazy dreams.

Whatever takes your fancy; from learning to fly to building profound close relationships... with aunty Sheila or the President. As Goddard puts it: “Life is a daily miracle.

It is meant to be lived fully and completely.”

So... what’s on your list?

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

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New Year.

New Tech.

By EssentialsMAG tech contributor DAVID HUGHES If you’ve been very lucky over the Christmas period, you might be starting 2019 with a new piece of technology.

Perhaps a smartphone, a new tablet, or if you were really good last year - a new computer? But sometimes the fun and excitement of a new device can wear off quickly if you’re not sure how it works or how to get the most out of it. So here’s a few tips on where you can find some more information and guidance.

The instructions: I know it seems obviously, but this really is the best place to start.

Most devices come with a quick start guide, which will give you a concise overview of how to set it up correctly. I’m the first to say that the instructions are only the manufacturer’s opinion on how to use something, but they really are a good starting point!

On-screen walkthroughs: If you have a new smartphone, tablet or computer, when you first switch it on, the software should walk you through the setup of the main features.

Don’t just skip past them; read each screen, as it will give you a good introduction to the device and its capabilities.

Online support: Generally these days, device manufacturers have excellent online resources available to you. Dedicated support websites provide setup instructions, video tutorials and more.

For example, support.apple.com covers every aspect of Apple’s devices, from the

basic setup of an iPhone to specific features like FaceTime and Apple Pay. YouTube: There are a number of websites that can be very useful for learning new things, but one of the best is YouTube. It’s not all gaudy pop music videos and gaming channels; it actually includes some excellent, free-to-view tutorials. For example, try searching for “Google Pixel basics” or “Getting started with a Google Pixel”, replacing Google Pixel with whatever device you have.

Face-to-face support: In my family, I’m the go-to ‘techy’, and I’m sure you can think of someone in your family who would be happy to help. But, if not, there are a few places you can go for tech support.

Again, Apple offer some excellent in-store support ranging from device setup to advanced photography and movie-making sessions via Today at Apple (apple.com/uk/today). Currys provide a wide range of support services via their Team Knowhow brand (teamknowhow.com). Wrexham Library also offers Computer Taster Sessions at various locations, plus signposting to additional support – search the wrexham.gov.uk website for more details.

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

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EssentialsMAG - How to Advertise Your Business in 2019 The beginning of a new year is traditionally a time to set resolutions for the year ahead, and there's no reason why that can't apply to your business as well. It’s never too early to start achieving your business goals for the year, and an effective way to do this is to plan a new advertising campaign. Advertising your business helps inform potential customers of your products and services, and why they should buy from you. Advertising can seem costly, but you should aim to spend around 8% of your overall income on marketing your business via advertising. To help ensure your advertising campaign is as effective as possible, EssentialsMAG has put together these useful steps: Decide who your customers are: This sounds obvious, but understanding who your customers are will ensure you create the right message in a way that appeals to them.

Unless you’re willing to spend a fortune advertising to EVERYONE, being able to target your advertising to the right customers is more effective.

Learn where to advertise your business: Different types of customers will use media in different ways. Knowing what kinds of media your customers engage with means you can advertise your business where customers are more likely to see and respond to it.

Create effective advertising copy: Lots of businesses make the mistake of telling people about how brilliant/cheap/exclusive/special their products and services are and then wonder why their advertising wasn’t effective. Instead create advertising that shows how your product or service will solve a problem faced by your customers. For example, rather than a dog grooming service advertising “open 9-5, qualified staff and friendly environment” instead, promote problems such as “Fido looking a little shaggy? Dog smell overpowering your home?” Connect the problem to how your services can help.

Measure how effective your advertising is: With tight budgets, it pays to keep tabs on how effective your advertising is being. Consider adding a reference code to ads, a dedicated phone number or a specific website URL so you can count the customers who contact you, or visit your site because of an advert.

This year, take your business to the next level - see how advertising locally in EssentialsMAG can make your business a household name. Ask us for our 2019 media rate card by contacting Vicky on: 01978 855459, or email: advertising@essentialsmag.co.uk

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Pack Your Bags for a Great Adventure...

By EssentialsMAG travel contributor Anita Kelsey at DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

48 Hours in Hong Kong Hong Kong is often visited as the start or end to a holiday or even a stopover break on a long haul flight. A typical stopover time would be two or three nights so if, like me, you only have a short time in the city, then good planning is essential.

Whilst you can certainly do a great deal in 48 hours, it could easily extend to a week with its numerous activities available. I was there in November and here are some of my favourite places and tips.

Pre-purchase a ‘Hong Kong Pass’ which will give you free entry to most of the main attractions, including the Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour, Peak Tram, Ocean Park, sky100, Aqua Luna Cruise and Star Ferries. With a bit of advance planning, you can take advantage of the full value of the Pass and, as it doesn’t have to be used on consecutive days, you can build in some R&R or maybe visit one of the surrounding islands.

Sky Terrace 428 - the highest viewing platform in Hong Kong with 360-degree panoramic views across the city. An exciting way to reach the top is on the steep funicular Peak Tram ride that takes 12 minutes each way. Pre-booking is recommended for these attractions but it is worth noting that you can fast-track the queue on the Tram if you have a Hong Kong Pass.

Aberdeen Fishing Village - home to several hundred traditional Junk Boats where you can take a sampan boat ride to see fishermen going about their daily business.

This area is also famous for its seafood restaurants.

It is impossible to visit Hong Kong without it involving some shopping! There is a market for almost any commodity from the Ladies Market - famous for fake designer gear - or the famous Stanley Market where bargaining for local crafts and souvenirs is expected. Temple Street Night Market has a great atmosphere with its food stalls and fortune tellers - this is also the place for electronic items and gadgets.

These markets are part of the buzz and atmosphere where you can take the opportunity to pick up a real bargain.

However, if Mall shopping is more your thing, then Causeway Bay is a good place to start with miles and miles of neon-lit fashion shopping.

I also spent a whole day on Lantau Island which I would recommend doing as an organised trip in order to fit everything in; although, if you enjoy going it alone, the public transport from Kowloon or Hong Kong Island is excellent.

I would not have missed the cable car up to Ngong Ping Village which is host to the Tian Tan Giant Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. As we ascended in the cable

“IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO VISIT HONG KONG WITHOUT IT INVOLVING SOME SHOPPING”

car, we had fantastic views of the airport built into the sea on top of landfill and, as we neared the top, the outline of the Giant Buddha came into view.

Time Difference: +8 hours Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HK$10 = £1)

After visiting the Giant Buddha and the Po Lin Buddhist Monastery, I travelled to Tai O Fishing Village. This is a classic example of a traditional Hong Kong fishing community, with much of the accommodation consisting of stilt houses.

Top Tips: Unlike the rest of China, no visa is required.

We took a boat ride around this tranquil and authentic setting - known as the “Venice of Hong Kong” watching the locals go about their daily business.

Make your way over to Kowloon for the laser and music display every night at 8pm.

We were also lucky enough to spot some of Hong Kong’s famous pink dolphins before strolling along the market stalls packed with a huge array of dried fish and shellfish.

Take a big bag to bring home all the shopping!

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

Flying Time: 12 hours

BRHS - Burton Rossett Horticultural Society Gardening News

By EssentialsMAG gardening contributor CAROL EDWARDS January can be a bleak month, however there are a number of things you can do in the garden, just wrap up warm and venture out. It is a good time to browse your gardening catalogues or look on-line, next year’s garden can be planned from the start of 2019.

We have started to develop a new seating area at the back of our garden, this will make a shady place to sit as nearer the house is in full sun and gets far too hot to sit for long.

Garlic can be planted in pots now, separate the bulbs before planting, this can be done until March. Rose bushes can be pruned now while they are dormant to just above a bud.

Ornamental grasses can be cut right down, and old stems of Sedum as well, be careful of the new growth though. If we have heavy snow brush it from hedges and conifers to prevent damage. Indoors reduce watering of your houseplants too.

Don’t forget our talk by Joe Swift in February on Thursday 28th at Darland School, doors are open at 700 and the talk begins at 730.

With the summer in mind start planning and growing for our major show on August 24th at Darland School, we are looking forward to seeing you all there, look out for us in our green t-shirts. If you have exhibited before we would like to see you again, and if you haven’t why not think about having a go and demonstrating your skills!

I have started to collect packets of annuals for sowing in the Spring, I am hoping this will give us a colourful garden next year, I have quite a few grasses and shrubs but would like to see more colour.

BRHS

Burton and Rossett Horticultural Society

Before I close on behalf of my colleagues we wish you all a very happy new year for 2019, and happy gardening.

DESIGNING FOR TATTON 2019 A talk by Jane Bingham and Penny Hearn, co-designers from The Cheshire Garden, and winners of a Silver-Gilt RHS Medal at Tatton Park 2017.

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7.30pm at St. Peter’s School, Chapel Lane £1 for Members and £2 for Non-Members including tea and biscuits. Full details at www.brhs.org.uk

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Local Birds & Wildlife

By Rev. Hugh Linn Now in its 40th year the Big Garden Birdwatch will be held again throughout the British Isles over the 27th-29th of January. This, the largest garden bird survey in the world, is organised by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.

Last year almost seven million birds covering 100 species were recorded. Throughout the UK the House Sparrow, despite having declined greatly over recent years, was still found to be the most common bird occurring in gardens with Starlings in 2nd place followed by Blue Tits and Blackbirds.

House Sparrow

There were some interesting regional differences.

In Wales Jackdaws appeared in tenth place whereas, in England that spot was occupied by Collared Doves and in Scotland by Coal Tits.

Collared Doves were first recorded breeding in Norfolk in 1955 having gradually spread from the Middle East across Europe during the two Peregrine Falcon previous decades. Bird populations tend to fluctuate for a variety of reasons. Greenfinches, for example, have declined by 60% since 1979, mainly due to the effects of trichomoniasis, a disease caused by avian parasites, whereas Peregrine falcons, once restricted to remote rural areas, are now increasingly moving into towns. Some years ago a pair nested on a building in the centre of Wrexham.

During winter months resident species are joined by migrants from northern Europe and Scandinavia such as Redwings and Fieldfares which will be recorded in a large number of gardens. In 2016 there was a huge invasion of Waxwings which appeared in considerable numbers in and around the Wrexham area. Recently Gresford Flash hosted 63 Goosanders as well as hundreds of wintering gulls. Yellow-legged Gulls originating from around the Mediterranean (now breeding in small numbers in the UK) have been seen recently on the Flash. Gulls have been voted Britain's least popular birds but they do have their fans.

Several gulls seen locally were fitted with identification rings providing valuable information about their wanderings. In July a juvenile Black-headed Gull seen in Gresford village was born in Poland.

Details of the Big Garden Birdwatch and how to participate can be obtained from the R.S.P.B. online at www.rspb.org.uk.

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Restaurant Review Lot 11

By EssentialsMAG food critic SALLY ANGLESEA Restaurant: LOT 11 Address: 11 Hill Street, Wrexham LL11 1SN Contact: Tel: 01978 361177, www.lot11wxm.co.uk Cost for one course brunch, for two people, with non-alcoholic drinks: £20 - £25 As a child, I was conned into believing that my parents were genuinely witty human beings.

They seemed to possess a kitbag of titivating characters and catchphrases that they would consistently draw on throughout my childhood. Granted, some of the gags quickly became tiresome, including Dad's inability to resist blurting our 'pardon you!' at the sound of a chair creaking, or his Tourette style instinct to always respond to 'thank you' with, 'no, no - thank me!' Nonetheless, they did have some strong chortle-inducing contenders.

Over the course of their years together, my parents have formed their own, more original sort of language, inspired by their memories together and the private jokes they've shared.

For example: • 'Minoo' means balloon because as a toddler, my brother was apparently a total idiot and thought that's what they were called.

• By the same token, 'sprite' means sprout because upon returning home from my first Girl Brownies session, in which you are placed within groups named after mythological creatures, I confidently announced myself as being a newly assigned 'Sprout'.

• And finally, 'baby cheeses' means Baby Jesus - and 'Lebanese' means lesbian because...well, because my parents are immature.

With this in mind, they were delighted to find 'shrooms', a longstanding Anglesea abbreviation, listed within the endlessly tempting Lot 11 menu. 'I knew it would catch on!'

Dad cried, as if he could now officially lay claim to the word and finally retire a happy man.

This coincidental use of an Ang abbrev wasn't the only comforting element of the 'cafe and hideout', however, and before even glancing at the menu, we were instantly made to feel at home within the relaxed and modern interior; which was made all the more welcoming by the toasty aromas of freshly brewed coffee beans and homemade cakes.

Lot 11 is a hot breakfast and brunch spot in the heart of Wrexham that prides itself upon using locally sourced ingredients as part of simple and satisfying plates of food, taken from a menu that caters to all dietary requirements.

Along with their regular menu, Lot 11 offer an equally tempting Vegan selection and they have gluten free bread available too - but before you immerse yourself within their

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

Lot 11 Review Ratings: FOOD: 8/10 SERVICE: 9/10 OVERALL: 25/30

ATMOSPHERE: 8/10

beautiful world of brunch, you may want to put some time aside for beverage deliberations. From English Breakfast to Fruits of Eden, if it's a good brew you're after, you'll be spoilt for choice. For those of you who prefer your morning mug a little livelier, they also offer a satisfying array of freshly brewed coffees. In addition to these warming staples, the list of thirst quenchers continues with juices, smoothies, milkshakes and after 11am, a wide selection of beer, wine and cocktails In an attempt to instantly lose a stone post-Christmas weight gain, I opted for green tea with a slice of fresh lemon. To congratulate myself on this health conscious choosing, I then proceeded to order the chocolate hazelnut milkshake, which, of course, was topped with lashings of sweet whipped cream and essentially, two halves of a chocolate bar.

Ridiculously, I ordered one to share between four of us and as a result, the waitress brought four straws...which, upon tasting the creamy dream, I promptly cut up into confetti and burnt. Once you visit Lot 11 and taste this obscenely delicious milkshake, you will fully understand and appreciate this reaction.

On to the food...

To read Sally’s full review of Lot 11 visit: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/restaurantreview

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LOT 11 - WREXHAM'S NEWEST & MOST EXCITING COFFEE EXPERIENCE OPEN FOR BREAKFAST // BRUNCH // TREATS Opening Hours: MONDAY - SATURDAY: 8.30-5.00 // SUNDAY: 10.00-2.30 ALSO AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE HIRE LOT 11 11 Hill Street, Wrexham LL11 1SN Tel: 01978 361177, Facebook.com/lot11wxm, www.lot11wxm.co.uk

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Bean & Barley Soup

INGREDIENTS

SERVES 4

2 tbsp vegetable oil 1 large onion, finely chopped 1 fennel bulb, quartered, cored and sliced 5 garlic cloves, crushed 400g can chickpea, drained and rinsed 2 x 400g cans chopped tomatoes 600ml vegetable stock 250g pearl barley 215g can butter beans, drained and rinsed 100g pack baby spinach leaves Grated parmesan, to serve

METHOD Heat the oil in a saucepan over a medium heat, add the onion, fennel and garlic, and cook until softened and just beginning to brown, about 10-12 minutes.

Mash half the chickpeas and add to the pan with the tomatoes, stock and barley.

Top up with a can of water and bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for 45 minutes, or until the barley is tender. Add another can of water if the liquid has significantly reduced.

Add the remaining chickpeas and the butter beans to the soup. After a few minutes, stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.

Season and serve scattered with Parmesan.

Trying out our recipe?

Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham

Low-fat, vegetarian and super-healthy, this filling one-pot lunch or dinner is packed with chickpeas, butter beans and pearl barley.

This delicious recipe was created by ŠBBC Good Food www.www.bbcgoodfood.com

Gresford Trust Newsdesk

By Jenny Dutton In the busy run-up to Christmas, club organisers still found time to hold fundraising events.

A Reindeer Run in aid of Nightingale House took place at the Trust on Sunday 25th November. Organised by Ady Jones of Taekwondo Academy, the ‘reindeer’ invited sponsorship to run for up to an hour or 10k.

Over £720 has been collected for Nightingale House so far, and two hampers with goodies from Marford Co-Op are to be raffled to raise further funds. Well done to all adults and children who took part.

St. Margaret’s Bowls Club held a ‘Triple Bowls’ indoor tournament in the main hall on the same day. The competition was held to raise funds for ‘Welsh Women’s Aid’ and competitors travelled from as far afield as Anglesey and Mid-Wales to enjoy a social event and raise £330 for the good cause.

QUESTION: What is the most popular mind sport? ANSWER: Chess.

Gresford Trust hosted the seventeenth Wrexham Quickplay Chess Tournament on Sunday 25th November, which is held annually in memory of Mike Evans, a popular member of the club.

Twenty-six players entered the tournament, which was won by Nathaniel Paul from the Newport (Shropshire) Chess Club who beat David Jameson (Colwyn Bay) in the last round to reach a score of 41/2 points from 5 games. Equal second were Mike McDonagh (Chester) and Dave Ashton (Pensby) with 4/5.

Father and son, Jixin and Jack Yang (Chester) shared the ‘Slow Starter’ prize for players scoring poorly in the first two rounds but then recovering to make a strong finish.

The organisers were Steve Richards and Jim McPhillips (arbiters), Brian Davies (refreshments) and Mike Hughes.

Wrexham Chess Club meets each Tuesday in the Blue Room at Gresford Memorial Hall. Contact Mike Hughes for more information: 01978 854676.

Now is a good time to join the Gresford Trust 100 Club. The annual fee of £12.00 is payable by cheque or BACS, with a monthly draw at Trust meetings and better odds than the National Lottery!

We wish you good luck in the 100 Club draw and a Happy New Year for 2019.

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Planning Proposal for 44 Houses on Vicarage Lane, Gresford www.vicaragelaneactiongroup.co.uk Dear resident, We would like to bring to your attention a planning proposal that has been submitted for 44 houses to be built on Vicarage Lane, Gresford. The proposed site is outside of the settlement limit, on Green Barrier land, within a Special Landscape area, and would entail the destruction of valuable Grade 3a agricultural land. If approved, it would represent a very worrying and dangerous precedent for the potential development of other greenfield sites around Gresford, Marford, and Rossett.

The development is forecast to generate between around 254 and 335 additional traffic movements per day on Vicarage Lane. This would be a large increase of between 26% and 35% on current traffic volumes. Residents are very worried that all the additional traffic would represent a danger to pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-vehicle road users, including the residents of Trewythen Hall care home. This is before adding in additional traffic generated by the construction of over 350 houses in Llay, which will exacerbate the already well known trend of Vicarage Lane being used as a rat run to Wrexham Industrial Estate. Moreover, it is proposed to install a one-way priority traffic management system on Vicarage Lane at the junction with Chester Road, which residents are concerned will cause congestion and increased traffic emissions from waiting vehicles.

Indeed, the development will adversely affect the local environment and ecology. The proposed plans would involve the removal of the majority of an important hedgerow that is protected under the Hedgerow Regulations 1997. Residents are also concerned about the loss of habitat for badgers and bats, and the destruction of field margin.

It scarcely bears mentioning the additional pressure a new housing development would put on Alyn Family Doctors. This is an issue of which everyone is already acutely aware.

Opposing this development is not only within the interests of the residents of Vicarage Lane, but also those of Gresford more widely as well as Marford and Rossett. To do otherwise risks jeopardising the rural setting of these villages by empowering developers to destroy agricultural land within the Green Barrier.

To view the proposed plans and to comment on the application, visit www.wrexham.gov.uk/plans and search for planning application case number P/2018/1063. Any comments must be submitted to WCBC Planning Department by 24th January 2019.

For more information please visit www.vicaragelaneactiongroup.co.uk

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Essentials Mag Mailbox

New Local Dog Walker I am a local Marford lady who is offering an afternoon dog walking service. If you are working or just unable to walk your dog yourself, I can collect your dog(s), walk them around the local streets and woods for either half an hour or a full hour and deliver them home again. I would start by getting to know your dog, with you present, until you and they are happy for me to start the walks. Any preliminary meetings would enable any concerns to be addressed before you make any decisions.

I was a qualified veterinary nurse, and as a volunteer dog walker at a local rescue centre I am experienced walking all types of dogs;big and small; calm and rumbustious.

I offer very competitive rates and can be reached on 01978 856126.

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

Financial News with Hadlow Edwards “I can see clearly now, the rain has gone…”

Whilst reading the Sunday papers it struck me just how many different “vehicles” for planning short or long term savings there now are. It didn’t always look like this.

Around 20 years ago, there were PEPs and TESSAs. A TESSA was essentially a bank account, which invariably offered a higher level of interest, which was in turn free from income tax. A PEP allowed you to invest in stocks and shares, but without deduction for income tax or capital gains tax. There were annual investment limits for both, and ok, maybe they were not completely straightforward but they were two distinct products, designed to encourage savers by their tax advantages.

In 1999 PEPs and TESSAs were replaced with the ISA (Individual Savings Account) and already confusion started to creep in. After all an ISA was an ISA wasn’t it? Yes, but have you got a cash ISA or a stocks and shares ISA, and if you have one, how much can you put into the other. It was rather easy to over fund the annual limits, particularly for clients who had fully funded their cash ISA limits and were moving into equity based ISAs, which in turn prompted curt letters from HMRC. Fast forward to 2017 and we now have a standard ISA, a Junior ISA, a Help to Buy ISA and introduced in April 2017 a Lifetime ISA of which there are Stock and Shares and cash versions of each. The annual limit is currently set at £20,000 for all except the Junior ISA

Warren Hadlow

Medwyn Edwards

at £4128 which can be made up of cash and/or stocks and shares. If you are a grandparent or parent, the Junior ISA is great for investing for children, and doesn’t use up any of your own allowance although the Lifetime ISA and the Help to Buy ISA do.

Do you then use the Lifetime ISA as a house deposit, which is the only way you can withdraw the funds without a penalty of 25% of the amount withdrawn before the age of 60 (effectively losing the government bonus) instead of Help to Buy ISA? If you are saving for retirement, do you use the new Lifetime ISA which to date is only offered by a limited number of providers, or do you use traditional pension products such as the Work Place Pension, other occupational schemes or a Personal Pension, or maybe a combination of them?

It does appear that successive government policy changes will make absolutely sure that you will need to be “on your toes” where your plan is concerned. That’s one thing that does not look set to change!

It also appears that it is going to rain for most of the weekends this summer!

If you would like to spend a little time understanding the various tax incentives available to suit your needs we will look forward to hearing from you.

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

The favourable tax treatment given to ISAs and JISAs may not be maintained in the future as they are subject to changes in legislation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HADLOW EDWARDS WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD chartered Financial Planners

Telephone: 01978 311 611

email: hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

Counselling Advice FAQ: Anxiety

By EssentialsMAG mental health & well-being contributor KIM PATEL QUESTION: I used to be able to go anywhere without second thought. I’m feeling really stressed and panicky when I find myself in public places like the supermarket. It’s getting so bad I’m avoiding ways of going out. What’s wrong with me?

ANSWER: The symptoms of anxiety are extremely unpleasant and can feel incredibly threatening and dangerous. For some people noticing their increased heart rate may feel like they are going to have a heart attack. And so when looked at in this way, it makes perfect sense that an individual would choose to avoid going to the supermarket. The important thing to remember is that you are not going mad, what you are experiencing is a super-sensitive danger-protection system.

There are both psychological and physical symptoms associated with anxiety and although they may vary from person to person they generally include: feeling restless or worried, having trouble concentrating or sleeping, dizziness or heart palpitations. It’s estimated that up to 5% of the UK population experience generalised anxiety disorder, with more women than men affected (but only slightly) and is most common in people aged 35 to 59.

The danger-protection system is known as the fight-flight response and has existed in us from when we were cave people. The fight-flight response evolved as a way to keep us alive and safe from potential threat. The symptoms that you experience in a state of anxiety is due to the activation of this fight-flight response - increased heart rate, increased breathing rate, sweaty palms, butterflies in the stomach, etc.

This primitive part of the brain is unable to differentiate between life-threatening events and more ordinary situations such as someone stealing your parking space, text messages or emails, when you’re struggling with bags of shopping and no-one opens the door for you. So the response is exactly the same regardless of the initial cause. This threat or danger-protection system response is influenced by your thoughts, bodily symptoms and sensations, behaviours and emotions. They can feed into each other and can amplify the feelings of anxiety. So although medication from your GP may help with some of those anxiety symptoms, it may also be helpful to see a counsellor or therapist so that you can look at how your emotions, behaviours and thoughts also contribute to your anxiety.

Learning new strategies can empower you to start making your world a little bit bigger again.

EssentialsMAG mental health & well-being contributor is Kim Patel from Ebb & Flow Counselling www.counsellinginwrexham.co.uk Tel: 07530 553 983

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Gresford Football Club A Tribute to Rattie

www.gresfordathletic.co.uk The Jonnie Ratcliffe Stand The new stand at Gresford Athletic FC was opened by Mr and Mrs Rob Ratcliffe on Saturday 24th November and was named 'The Jonnie Ratcliffe Stand' in honour of Jonnie who played a major part in the development of Gresford Athletic but left us far too early.

'Rattie' to most of us was a very talented player and big character who represented the youth section, then M and G, from under 10's right through the age groups and went on to play a major role in some of the most exciting first team squads we have seen.

Those who played with, or against Rattie knew what a great competitor he was. Quick, skillfull and with an eye for goal, he was part of a group of school mates who all burst into the first team in the late 90's after starting in the under 10's managed by Arthur PughJones. Crag, Wyn, little Phil and Toddy, just a few close friends who would be familiar to those who watched Gresford at that time. At the same time a number of other good mates from the village of similar age were representing Gresford Athletic, Duster, Hugh, Sutty, Newman, Haggis, Chal, a few Matts - Nics, Will and Davies, Gazz Will and Gazz Pugh to name a few who went through the age groups together with Rattie.

A lot of what is good about Gresford Athletic is down to the people involved from the senior players to our under 7's, the coaches, the committee members and those doing the teas and drinks and after match food.

We are all proud to be able to have called Rattie a friend and the naming of the stand in his honour is a fitting tribute and a great gesture by the club.

Graeme Suttcliffe

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Maes y Pant Latest News

by Chairman Trevor Britton

On behalf of the MyPAG directors, I’d like to wish all Essentials readers a Happy New Year. Traditionally it’s a time for making resolutions. I must admit, I never do, because I never keep them. One resolution I intend to keep is to maintain Maes y Pant as an attractive place for local people to visit. We have a couple of things planned.

One is to produce a wood stump carving near the children’s play area. Nathan Hughes, who helped build the play area, has promised to do this work early in the new year. Another is that we will be buying and planting saplings to plant around the play area. Our plan is to have each sapling dedicated to a child living locally. More details will follow. We’re able to fund this as a result of the donation from the Co-op Local Causes Funding Scheme, organised through Marford Hill Co-op. We called it ‘Trees for Kids’. A total of an incredible £3,500 plus was raised. Some of the land around the play area will be cleared before Christmas and then planning can begin.

Thank you to everyone who nominated us.

I’m looking forward rather than reviewing the old year. Our current focus is to encourage children to visit our site and feel at home there, so that they respect and appreciate in later life how important green spaces are. From our early beginnings we’ve tried to encourage groups, particularly where young children are involved and to this end two of our

Directors have been involved with the Rofft post school group. Each Wednesday, until the winter nights took over, a group has visited Maes y Pant and done various activities. The latest was to prepare Christmas decorations. I hope parents will forgive us if the children involved were more covered in paint than the decorations.

Linked to these activities, we’re aware how important it is to keep the site as tidy and free from dog mess as possible. Some of you have asked me why we have a number of sleepers stuck in the ground around the top part of the site. More than one person has asked whether they are to be carvings.

What a good idea! One for the future, but no - they mark off the boundary for dogs to be kept on a lead. We will start this restriction in January and will place notices announcing the date. It will only be a relatively small area and I hope it will help everybody.

Don’t forget to visit our website for more news on www.maes-y-pant.com. Have a successful, but whatever, a happy 2019.

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

Croeshowell, Burton, LL12 0LB Three Bedroom Detached Bungalow

Middle Road, Coedpoeth, LL11 3TW Spacious Four Bedroom Detached Bungalow

Master Bedroom With En-Suite UPVC Double Glazing Oil Central Heating Semi-Rural Location No Onward Chain Energy Performance Rating 73 Band C No Onward Chain

PANORAMIC Views Over The Nant Valley Parking & Detached Double Garage / Workshop Lounge With Archway To Dining Room Attractive & Tranquil Gardens Popular Village Location Gas Central Heating Energy Performance Rating E'45

Wesley Road, Bwlchgwyn, LL11 5UY Four Bedroom Detached Family Sized House

Drift Cottages, Chester Road, Lavister LL12 0DW Spacious Three Bedroom Terrace Cottage

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£300,000

Three Good Size Bedrooms Gas Central Heating / Double Glazed Windows Lounge With Multi Fuel Burner Refitted Kitchen Yard To Front And Rear No Chain Epc 67 D

£157,500

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

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AN IMPRESSIVE AND SPACIOUS SIX/SEVEN BEDROOM, THREE STOREY FAMILY HOME LOCATED WITHIN THE SOUGHT AFTER AREA OF BURTON.

AN INTRIGUING FIVE-BEDROOM DETACHED HOUSE OFFERING FLEXIBLE LIVING ACCOMMODATION WITH SLEEPING AND BATHROOM FACILITIES ON BOTH FLOORS.

BURTON £595,000

FARNDON £385,000

BEAUTIFULLY PRESENTED AND EXTENDED THREE BEDROOM SEMI-DETACHED HOME LOCATED WITHIN THE SOUGHT AFTER, RURAL HAMLET OF BURTON.

BEAUTIFUL TWO BEDROOM RAILWAY COTTAGE FULL OF CHARACTER AND SET WITHIN THE ROLLING COUNTRYSIDE YET CLOSE TO ALL AMENITIES.

BURTON £299,950

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NEW YEAR

Career Opportunities We are a fast-growing company and we are looking for great individuals to join the team…

If you’re looking for your next career move, come and talk to us. Let Alliance are a Tenant Referencing and Insurance business based in Pulford. We are always looking for brilliant people to join our team. This is a great opportunity to join a forward thinking dynamic business and help unlock the next stage of our growth spurt! We are proud to say we have seen unprecedented growth in the last few years, but we also know that without great people this would not be possible.

Our team and people operations will be the driver of our growth, and we're looking for like-minded people to help us deliver that.

What will you need to have to succeed with us…

• Bags of energy and enthusiasm • Initiative and lots of it • Want to work as part of a team • A faultless eye for detail • Your IT skills will be exceptional and have the ability to navigate all of the Microsoft Office packages.

• And join us in the belief that The Customer is Always Right..!

We have a family-company feel, but a big presence in our market. We are ambitious, progressive and open communication is shared across our business and input is encouraged from everyone at all levels.

In addition to a basic salary other benefits include: • Competitive salary • Pension • Bonus Scheme • Personal Health & Wellbeing scheme • Up to 25 days Holiday plus your Birthday day off!

• Cycle to work bike loan • Rental deposit loan • Discounts off popular high street shops • Eyecare vouchers • Complimentary fruit & Pizza Friday!

• Company social events To find out more, email jointheteam@letalliance.co.uk or visit the careers page on our website www.letalliance.co.uk.

Let Alliance, First Floor Dodleston House, Bell Meadow Business Park, Park Lane, Pulford, Chester, CH4 9EP LET ALLIANCE LTD IS AN APPOINTED REPRESENTATIVE OF ADVENT SOLUTIONS MANAGEMENT LTD WHO ARE AUTHORISED AND REGULATED BY THE FINANCIAL CONDUCT AUTHORITY, NO. 308751

T

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Hugh Jones Councillor for Rossett Holt Road/Harwoods Lane. The disgraceful recommendation of the Planning Officer to recommend approval of this application represents an abject failure on the part of the Case Planning Officer to adhere to current Local and National Planning Policies and a failure to provide appropriate professional judgement to the quasi-judicial process. Having looked at all the relevant papers it is very clear that a decision to recommend approval was, in my opinion, and that of experts in this field, made at the beginning of the process and not after due consideration of all the facts.

Road resurfacing. At long last Stringers Lane has been repaired and resurfaced and work is due to start in the new year on Darland Lane. In addition a number of potholes have been repaired, including very deep ones on Rosemary Lane.

Residents can report potholes on the WCBC web site.

Budgets. Once again we are faced with serious budget cuts, at least ÂŁ16 million over the next two financial years, this results from a poor settlement from the Welsh Government. As part of the cost cutting process we have removed the two remaining Executive Directors posts which completes a process over the past eight years when we have gone from seven to zero. It is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain services and further reviews of all departments are taking place. I still believe that efficiencies can be made in a number of departments particularly our Environment Department and I continue to press for an early implementation of a

recent report which shows that we can improve our services in this department.

Community Speedwatch. I am working with the Community Council to introduce this capability in Rossett, the Council is seeking to collaborate with neighbouring Community Councils to see if we can develop a cost effective scheme. I am constantly contacted by residents concerning the speed of vehicles on a number of roads and have asked our busy PCSO to see if she can help.

The Green. Thank you to all residents who have responded to the recent consultation about the proposed traffic improvement measures, a number of supportive submissions have been made, together with several detail suggestions. I will meet with officers early in the New Year to consider the way forward in the light of the submissions.

Thank you to all who contributed to making our Christmas Tree and Lighting up evening such a success, unfortunately I had to be in Cardiff and was disappointed to miss an excellent evening. This shows great community spirit and partnership working between community groups

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

Suite 4a, Rossett Business Village Llyndir Lane, Rossett LL12 0AY Tel: 01978 800186 email: wrexham@monopolybuysellrent.co.uk www.monopolybuysellrent.co.uk

SIMON EVANS

DAVID MORRIS

Managing Director

Lead Valuer

Monopoly Buy Sell Rent are your local estate agents with offices in Rossett Business Village

At the top of the page are our two most experienced valuers located in our Wrexham branch. Both live within the county - Simon in Cross Lanes, and David in Gresford. They both have vast knowledge of the Wrexham market. As your local estate agent we agreed the sale of 238 properties during 2018 compared to the national average of 96 sales per branch.*

If you are not already on the market with us, why not?

Historically, lots of new properties come to market in the New Year after a slightly quieter December with buyers then moving house in the Spring (average sales take 10-12 weeks to complete). Mortgage interest rates are still low and lending is easier than it’s been for many years with more first time buyers entering the market in 2018 than at any time in the last 10 years. If first time buyers buy at the bottom of the chain this obviously has a knock-on effect on the sale of more expensive properties higher up the chain.

Whether you are already on the market, or considering your options, if you would like some informal advice, please ring us for a free-of-charge, no-obligation property appraisal. *Figures based on National Estate Agents Association monthly statistics.

We charge You Less AND Offer You The Best

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For a free, no obligation market appraisal, please call Monopoly Buy Sell Rent on 01978 800186 www.monopolybuysellrent.co.uk

Russell Gilmartin Councillor for Marford & Hoseley Firstly, I’d like to wish you all a very happy and healthy 2019! I hope you enjoyed the festive period and are now looking forward to the new year ahead. Now, onto the serious stuff...

Vicarage Lane A planning application has been put in for a development of 44 new homes on Vicarage Lane and many residents have contacted me surrounding their views on the matter.

I would urge residents to look at the application on the Council’s website, where you can find out more information and voice any other concerns you may have too. The case number is p/2018/1063, which you will be asked to input online in order to access the application. The website allows you to add your comments about the application and will also inform you of the decision, once made.

Parking There has been an increase in people parking on yellow lines near the Rofft School. I am aware people have been given parking tickets in the past, as the area is often patrolled by parking enforcement officers. Not only is it inconsiderate to others but also dangerous for pedestrians; especially children crossing the road going to and from school.

Please be aware of this issue and endeavour to park elsewhere – unless you fancy a nice little new year parking ticket!

Street lights The few lights that were reported to me over the Christmas period have now been fixed.

If you do notice any lights that are not working, they can be logged through the interactive map on the Council’s website: www. wrexham.gov.uk/map/street_lighting In addition to the above; as always, if you have any other issues, please feel free to contact me.

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

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Call Nick Heard 01978 852001 or 07720 080141 email: nick@heardbuilding.co.uk

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Andrew Atkinson Councillor for Gresford Santa Run I certainly enjoyed myself as Santa once again on the sleigh around Pandy, Gresford, Marford and Rossett and I hope the kids did too! Thanks to Gresford Spar for donating sweets for the kids, Tracey Macloskey and Mike Kinder my trusty elves and Nick for the incredible generosity with the loan of the sleigh. Thanks also to James Drake my driver.

We raised around £370 for Gresford and Marford Playgroups so thanks to everyone that donated.

Gresford AFC Thanks to Gresford AFC for once again doing a fantastic senior citizens Christmas dinner at the Legion. It was a brilliant event and I’m grateful to all involved.

Potholes Our roads are in a pretty dreadful state again following all the recent bad weather. I’m logging all the potholes and road defects and pushing for as many lasting, proper repairs as I can get as opposed to just the quick reactive fills that we so often get.

Please keep emailing me the details of any potholes that you spot.

Speeding Cars Thanks to all the residents that have been in touch with me on this issue since my last column. As well as working to try and address this issue on the High Street that affects the safety of school children I’m also looking at what can be done on other roads such as Chester Road, Hillock Lane and others. It’s very difficult to get traffic calming measures with council budgets as they are, so I’m working with the Community Council too looking at any changes we can possibly make. It’s a very difficult issue to tackle as it is, but we will do all we can.

Vicarage Lane Planning Application I do not support this application at all, the biggest concern being highways issues.

I fully support the article on this in this month's magazine and hope you'll get your views in during the consultation it's very important.

Alyn Family Doctors I’ve been in touch with Mark Isherwood AM to ask for his help following the practice advertising on a poster that they were temporarily transferring services to Llay and Rossett surgeries for one day on Friday 14th December. Following the successful campaign to not allow the closure of our Gresford practice we need to keep a watchful eye on temporary closures that always involve our practice and see what support the partners need from the health board to address these issues.

Off Road Parking I’ve managed to deliver three new driveways for council properties in the Narrow Lane and Newtown area. This has taken a lot of work and I hope that this will help with getting a few more cars off the road in these areas. I have other properties on my list that I’m still working to get driveways for in future.

Tel: 07914 211631 andrew.atkinson@wrexham.gov.uk

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Call Vicky: 01978 855459 distribution@essentialsmag.co.uk essentialsmag.co.uk/leaflets

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ROSSETT VILLAGE FESTIVAL IS CHANGING!

We will be holding our yearly Open Meeting on: Tuesday 26th February 2019 at 7.30 in Rossett Village Hall, Station Road.

Invitation is open to all. We will be discussing and planning an exciting new format and exploring new options for this big event in the Rossett calendar, including the possibility of new ways to bring the people and businesses of the local area together to strengthen our community.

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Puzzle Page...

Just For Fun Crossword Across 1 3 9 10 11 12 13 15 17 18 20 21 22 23

In an inactive way; with no particular purpose (4) Formed a mental concept of (8) Prompts (7) Word of farewell (5) Five lines on which music is written (5) Existing at the beginning (7) Frankly (6) Set of instructions (6) Strut about (7) Tortilla topped with cheese (5) Relay device (5) Secures; ties in place (7) Went beyond a quota (8) Heavenly body (4)

Down 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 14 16 19

Untrustworthy (13) Assumed proposition (5) Group of mountains (6) Courtesy (12) Less quiet (7) Betrayer (6-7) Ability to acquire and apply knowledge (12) Flexible (7) Cold dessert (6) Divided into two (5)

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

Here are the answers from December:

Classic Sudoku

“Play is the highest expression of human development, for it alone is like free expression of what is in a child’s soul.” ­ FRIEDRICK FROBEL

We are registered to offer Early Education and combined 30 Hours Childcare Offer

Rossett House Nursery Llay Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0HT

For information about places please contact LYNSEY

Tel: 01244 571872

info@rossetthousenursery.co.uk

Little Scholars Day Nursery

The Centre for the Child, Glyndŵr University, Mold Road, Wrexham LL11 2AW

For information about places please contact CATRIN or BECCA

Tel: 01978 314912

littlescholars@activechildcare.co.uk

www.activechildcare.co.uk

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

Call to arrange a visit today.