Issuu

January 2022

Your monthly local community magazine

MAG

essentials

FR EE

★ Shop local ★ Eat local ★ Spend local ★ Enjoy local ★

www.essentialsmag.co.uk

Welcome... Welcome to our January issue! Hello 2022! For me, a new year means a new chapter and a fresh opportunity to make a positive difference. It’s also a time for planning new adventures and making some new memories. How life has changed. I read recently that one benefit of the pandemic is being more connected by technology, which means quality of life has been enhanced for many families and workers. For example, flexible working arrangements are becoming permanent meaning a better work-life balance. Accelerated technology advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) allow people to live smarter, safer and more productive lives. Here at EssentialsMAG we will continue to find new ways to help our advertisers’ businesses grow and flourish. Their success is our success. The more we can include in our two, monthly locally-targeted magazines, the more we can provide useful news, advice, information and services to our readers. For now, let us all strive to be better human beings. Whatever awaits you in 2022, from EssentialsMAG we wish you health and happiness. Happy New Year!

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

www.essentialsmag.co.uk

Cover Image: Winter ﬂowers

February Deadlines: Editorial - 7 January Advertising - 14 January

We’ve got the local area covered! Delivered by hand to 6,400 homes and businesses more than any other magazine in our area. Rossett, Marford, Gresford, Holt, Farndon, Churton, Aldford, Eccleston, Lavister, Poulton, Pulford, Dodleston, Burton and Golly. Also available at 25+ pick-up points across the region.

You can also read our magazines online at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk EssentialsMAG is published by Essentials MAG Limited, a local independent publishing company. All content within the publication is copyright of Essentials MAG Limited. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for views or opinions expressed by contributors or for the accuracy of claims made by the advertisers. All dates, times, URLs and phone numbers are understood to be correct at the time of submission to print. © EssentialsMAG Limited 2022.

ADVERTISING LEAFLET DELIVERY MAGAZINES

Is Your Business on Track for 2022? Advertise Your Local Business in Our Hyper-local Magazines Reach 14,000 homes every month in: Rossett, Marford, Gresford, Pulford, Dodleston, Eccleston, Holt, Farndon, Borras, Garden Village, Bangor-on-Dee, Marchwiel, Cross Lanes, Overton, Penley, Worthenbury and the surrounding area.

T: 01978 855 459

www.essentialsmag.co.uk

Local News #Wrecsam2025 Wrexham is the only region in Wales through to the long list of areas competing for the UK City of Culture 2025 title. The next stage of the UK City of Culture competition is in February when the long list will shrink from eight to three… but the ultimate goal is to progress even further and win this competition for Wrexham! Winning the competition would be a once in a lifetime opportunity for a transformational change, bringing investment, jobs, pride and an international audience to the town - as well as having a long lasting legacy once the year of hosting is ﬁnished. As part of our bid, a logo has been commissioned - one that represents everyone. The ‘colour splash’ represents coal dust as a nod to the industrial past, while the colours used are to represent the vibrancy and diversity of everyone who lives, works and plays in Wrexham. Hugh Jones, Lead Member for Communities, Place and Partnerships at Wrexham County Borough Council, told us: “The endless possibilities presented to Wrexham County if we succeed in winning the UK City of Culture title in 2025 are so exciting. Not only would we be able to deliver a year of world class events here in the County, but we’d also be able to open more avenues and creative opportunities for our community to tell their stories, recognise what makes us proud and undoubtedly provide more employment and prosperity whilst also raising our aspirations.” “We’re encouraging individuals to share their experiences of what they think is awesome about Wrexham by using the #tag #Wrecsam2025.” If you are a business, charity, community organisation or foundation operating within Wrexham County Borough and would like to know more, you can email wrecsam2025@wrexham.gov.uk to ﬁnd out how you can get involved and champion the bid to become the UK City of Culture in 2025. Keep following our social media and #Wrecsam2025 for more news and information.

Library Reduces Carbon Footprint Gresford Community Library (GCL) had a very busy month in December when the companies chosen to transform the energy profile came and did the work. New heating units were fitted, the loft space lagged to a depth of 300cm and solar panels were fitted on the roof. All this was completed in the space of a fortnight! Jan Jones from GCL told us: “Manufacturing the heating units, solar panels, etc, has itself created carbon but, going forward, every year, the function of these items redresses the balance, little by little. We’re going to buy our electricity from a company that is 80% green and renewable; eventually, we hope to move to a 100% renewable source.” So, what’s left to do? The six small windows high up in the main library are booked in for double-glazing in February, and they’re hoping the cavity wall insulation will be done soon . “Our builder has been in intensive care with COVID, but he’s on the mend now so, hopefully, removing the boiler and converting the boiler room to storage will go ahead soon too.” Said Jan. “We’re very grateful to the Lottery and the Welsh Government, and to all of you; we could not have succeeded without the help you gave us. Thank you!”

Great Taste Award

Nominations

Farmers from Llanarmon DC, near Llangollen, have won the prestigious 3 star Great Taste Award with their PGI Welsh Lamb Shoulder. Farmers Mike and Glenda Crawshaw and their son Llion sell their own Welsh lamb and Welsh Black beef direct from their farm.

Gresford Community Council have opened the nominations for the Community Spotlight Awards. Do you know someone that works hard in our community? A volunteer or enthusiastic individual that is always keen to help? Someone who goes out of their way to help others?

More than 14,000 products from 108 countries were entered in the 2021 Great Taste Awards, and their lamb product was named in the top 2% of entries. Dolwen's lamb is only one of 10 products in Wales to achieve this prestigious award in 2021, and the family were astounded at the success of their ﬁrst entry into any awards. For more information visit: dolwenlambandbeef.co.uk They are also on Facebook and Instagram.

If there is someone you would like recognised get in touch via email: clerkgresford@gmail.com

Share your news with us: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/article

What a Term! At St. Peter’s Primary School By ST. PETER’S SCHOOL, ROSSETT Way back in September we welcomed our new Nursery pupils into school and our Reception children moved into full time ‘big school’. The children came in with great excitement ready to start a new chapter in their lives and my goodness they did not stop! The Autumn term is always a wonderful time here at St. Peter’s as the children make the most of our amazing grounds and outdoor areas. Our Nursery children spent many sessions on our school allotment (or ‘farm’ as the little ones like to call it) harvesting the vegetables and fruits. They picked their own apples from our orchard and then made yummy apple pies with them to celebrate harvest. We are very lucky being able to spend time outdoors to develop our learning. The Reception children followed the topic of ‘People who Help’ and were able to

beneﬁt from visits by a doctor and nurse who talked about their very important jobs. One of the highlights of the topic was when PC Stuart and PC Sue came to school in their police car and set the siren off! The children also took part in a whole school Harvest celebration which gained some very positive comments on our social media sites and of course all the excitement and fun that comes with Christmas. What remains to say is how proud we are of all you new starters. The last few years have been difﬁcult for everyone, but the children have embraced their learning with enthusiasm and excitement, and we can’t wait to see what this term brings! If you would like to look around out school, please do not hesitate to call us to make an appointment on 01244 570594. www.stpeters-pri.wrexham.sch.uk @St-Peters-Primary-School-Rossett @stpetersrossett

01244 794102

January - Walk Your Dog Month By KAREN VOLGER Now that the festive season is over it’s time to start our new year resolutions! For those of us who decided 2022 was the perfect time to lose a few pounds or get a little ﬁtter and you have a dog then congratulations - January is ‘Walk Your Dog Month!’ The ‘Walk Your Dog Month’ initiative was created to highlight pet behavioural problems and help tackle pet obesity almost 12% of the dogs owned in the UK are overweight. The lack of mental stimulation and physical activity that a dog would gain from a walk can lead to destructive behaviours and contribute to many pet obesity related health problems including Diabetes, Joint Health and Heart Disease which, funnily enough, are the same obesity related health problems that happen to us too! When starting a new exercise plan, it’s better to start slowly. You could try by starting with two 10 minute walks a day for a week, and then increase to two-15 minute walks a day for the next week. Before you know it, you will be walking well into the brighter spring days! Now you’ve got the motivation to get out and about, here are a few safety essentials: • If you like gadgets, purchase a pedometer for yourself and a pet activity tracker for your pooch!

DoggyBizzNizz Bespok e Pet Services

Pet Sitting•Dog Wa lki

• Make sure you both keep warm, dry and comfortable! As it’s darker this time of year, wear a reflective jacket and use reflective harnesses or collars. Don’t forget your torch! • Take care on roads that have been gritted as the grit can burn paw pads. Ice and snow can also cause chapping or burns to their pads so it is a good idea to wash the dog’s paws when you get home and consider applying a balm or moisturiser. • Discourage your dog from drinking from puddles. Not only can the water be dirty and cause a tummy ache, it could also have antifreeze in it which is especially poisonous. • As well as exercise, make it a training month! Maybe your dog pulls too much on the lead, their recall could be better or you’ve always wanted them to walk to heel, then now is the perfect opportunity to address these issues! There are only positive benefits from participating with ‘Walk Your Dog Month! Stay safe and remember to always consult your Vet if you have any concerns about your pet!

EssentialsMAG pet care contributor is Karen Volger, from DoggyBizzNizz www.facebook.com/doggybizznizz Mobile: 07488 270386 e-mail: karen@doggybizznizz.com

ils

fo Dis r co us OA un t fo rd P et ’s a -A

Transform your home with bespoke fitted furniture

Mr Mack PAINTER & DECORATOR

& MAINTENANCE

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

Tel: 01978 265 381

www.reflections-wrexham.co.uk

    

Fully Qualiﬁed Experienced Fast & Efficient Trustworthy Affordable

Call Now For a Free No Obligation Quote!

07713 824669

Unit 2, Fairfield, Barkers Lane, Borras LL13 9TP Showroom open: Monday - Friday 9am to 4:30pm with evenings and weekends by appointment

Dysgwch Rhywbeth Newydd

Learn Something New

Mae Prifysgol Glyndŵr Wrecsam yn cynnig amrywiaeth o gyrsiau byr, o Greu Gemwaith i Droseddeg, Seicoleg i Farchnata Digidol.

Wrexham Glyndwr University o昀ers a variety of short courses, from Jewellery Making to Criminology, Psychology to Digital Marketing.

Dosbarthiadau dydd a nos ar gael.

Day and evening classes available.

Dewch o hyd i’ch cwrs per昀aith heddiw.

wgu.ac.uk/byr Find your perfect course today.

wgu.ac.uk/short

Dates for your Diary SATURDAY 1 JAN

SATURDAY 8 JAN

FRIDAY 21 JAN

Chester & Wrexham Charity Heritage Bus Running Day Chester - Wrexham

Maes Y Pant Volunteer Saturday Maes Y Pant, Pant Lane, Gresford LL12 8HB

Psychic Night Maesgwyn Hall, Mold Rd, Wrexham LL11 2AF

A large selection of heritage vehicles will be running a free service between Chester and Wrexham on New Year's Day every 15 minutes in both directions. The route will be following the current no. 1 bus service.

Maes Y Pant rely on volunteers to maintain the site so that it is safe and pleasant for everyone to enjoy. If you fancy some fresh air, good company and not too strenuous work, you might like to join. There are tasks suitable for all abilities. Under 18s to be accompanied by an adult.

9am - 6pm Free (donations welcome)

WEDNESDAY 5 JAN

Ballroom Dance Classes Stiwt Theatre, Broad St, Rhosllanerchrugog, Wrexham LL14 1RB Free beginners class with Mario - Latin and ballroom dance professional 7pm stiwt.com

THURSDAY 6 JAN

Walking Football Colliers Park, Gresford Walking Football for the over 60s, run by Gresford Community Agent, Ruth Thompson. With a football coach from Racecourse Foundation. Running until March. Pre-bookings only. 3pm - 4pm £2 a session (ﬁrst 3 free) 07747 431607

10am - 12:30pm Free maes-y-pant.com

WEDNESDAY 19 JAN

Pulford & Poulton Local History Group Meeting Pulford Village Hall, d Chester CH4 9EU celle

tc An evening of displays and even from our presentations archive. Refreshments included. 7:30pm £2 Members / £3 others pplhg.org.uk While every effort has been made to ensure all the details are correct at the time of going to print, it is advisable to check details with the venue concerned.

Psychic Night with Mediums Garry Fields and Jolene Jackson-Lockwood, at Maesgywn Hall. Tickets include three course meal. 7pm £40.00 jolenejacksonlockwood.co.uk

SATURDAY 29 JAN

Wrexham Artisan Market Queen's Square, Wrexham LL11 1AT Welcome to Wrexham's all new monthly Artisan Market. Showcasing a wide range of local independent businesses brings the best makes to Wrexham's Queen's square! 9am - 4pm Free

SUNDAY 6 FEB

Gresford Artisan Market Memorial Hall, Gresford Gresford’s regular Artisan Market featuring great food and craft producers from around the region. 9am - 12pm Free

For a comprehensive list of local events, shows, groups and classes please visit: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/WhatsOn

Share your events with us online - www.essentialsmag.co.uk/Events

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Guidance Free PCR Test ENGLAND & WALES www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test Or call 119 (7am to 11pm everyday)

Order Lateral Flow Test Kits

Vintage London Routemaster Buses for Hire ACROSS NORTH WALES & THE NORTH WEST

ENGLAND & WALES https://www.gov.uk/order-coronavirusrapid-lateral-ﬂow-tests Or from a pharmacy or collection point: https://maps.test-and-trace.nhs.uk/

COVID-19 Vaccinations ENGLAND COVID-19 vaccines can be booked online: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirusvaccination/book-coronavirus-vaccination/ WALES COVID-19 vaccine bookings are done through health boards, for information visit: https://bcuhb.nhs.wales/covid-19/covid19-vaccinations/

Have you ever wanted a trip on a vintage London bus? The sight of a gleaming red vintage Routemaster bus is guaranteed to turn heads, making it the perfect way to transport your guests or clients to any corporate or private event.

Moving home? Need a survey?

Whatever the occasion, we can help make your day unforgettable by providing the last word in memorable transport for you and your guests.

Weddings • Corporate hire A day at the races • Family days out Proms • Film and TV

For RICS Home Buyers Surveys and Building Surveys, reports issued in 10 days, contact the Forge team Charles Lawson MRICS, FAAV, RICS REGISTERED VALUER T. 01978 799 909 E. info@routemaster4hire.co.uk

www.routemaster4hire.co.uk

e admin@forgeproperty.co.uk t 01978 799059 / 07873 388119

forgeproperty.co.uk

New Normals By EssentialsMAG tech contributor DAVID HUGHES The world has changed considerably in the last two years, as we are all well aware. The news since the start of 2020 has been dominated by COVID-19 - and continues to be into another year. During the hardest times in 2020, many said we would not be able to return to normal, but rather that a ‘new normal’ would be reached. I’m not sure it will ever be clear-cut, but there are certainly a few new normals that have emerged, and a few involve technology. Contactless card payments. Whilst contactless payments were becoming mainstream for smaller value purchases prior to 2020, the last two years has seen two increases to the contactless limit in the UK: from £30 to £45 at the start of the pandemic, to the current limit of £100 introduced in October; surely covering the majority of day-to-day payments. Even more contactless. An extension to this is the ability to make payments in different ways. A few examples that I personally ﬁnd useful are: • Paying for petrol at the car. By downloading the company apps (Shell, Esso, etc), you can select which petrol station and pump number you are at, pay using your phone, then just drive away. • Paying a restaurant bill on a phone. Often, you don’t even need an app for this one. Just scan a QR code, say which table you are seated at, and pay via the browser.

• Paying for car parking without buying a physical ticket. I hate car park ticket machines! Apps like RingGo and PayByPhone allow you to pay for parking from your phone. They will even text reminders before the time expires and allow you to extend the stay. Home working. Until March 2020, I worked Monday to Friday in an ofﬁce near Manchester with 20 colleagues. Since then, I have been in the ofﬁce maybe 20 times. I know many people who have not yet been back. The rise and, more interestingly, the continuity of working from home for so many people can certainly be classed as a new normal. The technologies and services that have allowed for this change continue to see huge growth and investment; from Microsoft Teams - an application I had opened once before COVID, but is now by far my most used application - to Zoom, which saw a 2,000% increase in users during the lockdowns in 2020. These tech advances would likely have happened anyway, but the pandemic has hastened their uptake and commonality. There are few positives to take from the last couple of years, generally, but technology continues its development unabated.

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

St. Peter’s School

St. Peter’s Church in Wales Primary School in Rossett, for children aged 3 - 11 At St. Peter’s School we combine the traditions and expectations of a good standard of education, behaviour and self-discipline, with the latest curricular developments together with the development of skills and characteristics which will be needed in the future.

Applications now open Reception class applications for September 2022 open now. Please call: 01244 570594 to make an appointment to see our wonderful Foundation Phase facilities. stpeters-pri.wrexham.sch.uk St-Peters-Primary-School-Rossett

@stpetersrossett

Exclusive Jewellery Distinctively different and made in Chester Buy direct from the craftsmen who make it Visit our online shop at: www.erikirwin.co.uk

January Blues By FAYE JONES The festive period has, sadly, come to an end, and we are all now feeling the pinch in our wallets and the overwhelming sadness of the cold months with little to look forward to. Like most, I love the Christmas break; spending time with family enjoying good food and drink; and taking a welldeserved rest from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. So, naturally, when January hits, the dreaded gloom descends. Bank balances have taken a hit and are incredibly fragile, the possibility of living off beans on toast is ever so real, jeans are pinching to the point of a button explosion and the first day back in work is pending, or has already started taking your soul. If you fall into this category then fear not, you are not alone. January is notorious for being the most depressing month of the year, the weather is rubbish and very few people have money to be able to plan days out, so it never ends. Well folks, this is the time where creativity has got to be at its highest. In order to save some sanity, here are my top tips for trying to flip your January from a flop, to being on top: Consider taking up some form of exercise Exercise is a great way to help with that feeling of sadness. Through releasing happy endorphins your mind will feel energised, you will see a lift in your mood, and to top it off, you will find a decrease in your waist size.

An especially great selling point after eating a naughty amount of mince pies and turkey over Christmas. Give your house that spring clean it needs After Christmas, the amount of mess is unbelievable. The tree seems to leave a lasting presence through needles; decorations leave glitter trailing through the house and new presents seem to be placed in the most awkward of places. Use this month to spring clean your house; get rid of the old and have a fresh, gleaming home to enter the New Year. Make a list It may sound daft, but try and make a list of things you have learned from the previous year, all of the things you don’t want to take forward with you. Then make a new list of things you want to implement. You could even make a list of new things you want to try; new foods, new routines, new ﬁlms to watch, styles to try. Finally, Spring and lighter days are not far away! Until then, take care of yourself and remember to treasure the little wins and move your focus away from the negatives.

By Faye Jones, writer and busy mum from Wrexham fturner21@hotmail.com

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

Custom Made Bedrooms & Interiors

At Maple & Stone we design, build and install customised wardrobes and interiors that optimise your space and provide effective storage solutions. Choose from a range of styles, colours and finishes to achieve the dream furniture you have always wanted.

info@mapleandstone.co | 01978 661 559 | www.mapleandstone.co Unit 5, Abbey Road North, Wrexham Industrial Estate, Wrexham LL13 9RX

Security System & CCTV Installations We specialise in installing the latest surveillance technology. Our aim is to make your home, or business premises as safe and secure as possible.

Also specialists in Sky, Digital & Aerial installations

Grosvenor Communications

Your Local Drainage Experts

Camera Surveys & Drain Tracing • Excavation Repairs & Relining Complete Drainage Solutions - Over 30 Years’ Experience

BLOCKED DRAINS A ﬁxed-price domestic drain blockage removal service

CALL JAMES TODAY FOR A QUOTE

01244 579100 07968 113582

01978 437988 / 01244 911988 www.drainstoday.co.uk info@drainstoday.co.uk ALL MAJOR DEBIT & CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

Happy Holidays in 2022 Are Possible By DELMAR WORLD in Gresford Have the days of sticking a pin in a map when you can’t decide where to go on holiday disappeared? Has our sense of adventure been quashed by uncertainty of travel restrictions and red tape? Has our sense of fun, freedom and love of travel been conﬁscated and replaced by the “Can’t be bothered” Pixie?

And there is a silver lining to this unwelcome COVID cloud because we are seeing some excellent enticements from quality tour operators who want to reward early bookers. But quick action is crucial to beat the rise in prices that will inevitably ensue once demand increases and availability reduces.

As I write this, the arrival of a new variant called Omicron has just been announced but the implications of its effect on travel is, as yet, not clear. So much speculation but no real guidance - leads to many people feeling confused and disinclined to make holiday arrangements.

Insurance companies are now including COVID cover in their travel policies which gives reassurance regarding cancellation and curtailment. In addition, many tour operators are offering more ﬂexible booking conditions should COVID affect travel. And we always check this before booking so our clients are well informed of their options in advance.

That said, enquiries are still pouring in for travel in 2022 because, for many people, the pent-up desire to get away and have something to look forward to outweighs the possible hurdles of uncertainty. Having been a travel agent for many years, I know that, where there is uncertainty, people need reassurance, guidance and good advice to feel conﬁdent in planning “The Great Escape”. As the green shoots of recovery appear, our clients - and a surprisingly high number of previously internet bookers - are wanting our services, not just for our travel expertise but also because of our attention to detail when it comes to preparing for travel.

Of course, we never know what is round the corner, but there again, we never did before COVID! We can speculate on whether pre, or post-travel COVID tests will be required; passenger locator forms will be needed or vaccines will have an expiry date for foreign travel but, whilst we are hesitating, we are missing out on being able to look forward to quality, exciting holiday time with partners, family and friends. So, put that pin in the map today!

Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises. Tel: 01978 853 886, www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE

LET’S TALK TRAVEL

To make sure you can look forward to your holiday without stress, we oﬀer a FREE Pre-Departure Service to all our clients to make sure you comply with the COVID travel requirements and that you are fully informed and prepared before your holiday.

WHY USE DELMAR WORLD? We are an Independent Travel Agency - Established 1964 Cruise and Destination Specialists Winner of the Best Small Travel Agency in the North West & North Wales 2021 Talk Travel Appointment Service to make sure you get the best possible advise and guidance with a travel specialist best suited to your destination choice Zoom, telephone or face-to-face appointments available Pre-Departure Service to check your documents and give you peace of mind

Tel: 01978 853 886 • email: sales@delmarworld.co.uk • www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford LL12 8NE “Kerry thankfully completed and checked everything for us, sending the appropriate documents straight to our phones. Kerry also organised a mid-holiday PCR test at our hotel on the Dead Sea, which would have been difficult for us to do. All worked perfectly, thank you Kerry!” - A. HOWES

BRHS - Burton Rossett Horticultural Society Gardening News

By EssentialsMAG gardening contributor CAROL EDWARDS In January you may feel like snuggling indoors instead of gardening. But there are a number of things you can do. Firstly try and keep your garden tidy and cut down any perennials that have finished flowering. Some parts of the garden can be left however, to go a bit wild as this will help the wildlife to find cover to keep warm and can be sorted out when the weather improves. Remember to trim any grasses by tying them up and then shortening the stems, this is the best way to do it as you get a much more even trim. Birds will need feeding on a regular basis and water needs checking too, and don’t forget to remove old hellebore leaves as this will help to encourage new leaves in the spring. You can also dead head any winter pansies. Any plant protection needs to be checked to make sure that any damage can be repaired as well. If you are planning any early peas use a cloche to give them protection from the weather and any frost. If you are starting any sweet peas as well, they will need to have a greenhouse for this. Gooseberry bushes can be pruned now to encourage new growth. Rhubarb plants can be covered with a bucket to force them on, then the stems will turn pink and this has a delicate flavour which I much prefer to the later crop. You can plant amaryllis bulbs in pots now which will bring some much needed colour indoors through the winter. After Christmas try and shred your tree, if you have a shredder it can be added to your compost pile or you can use it as a mulch during the year. Or, failing that, check local websites to see if anyone offers a shredding service. If you have time, now is a good time to plan your garden for next year and also the veg plot too. As soon as the weather turns warmer you will reap the benefit. And I just have time to wish you a Happy New Year and Happy Gardening!

Information provided by: www.brhs.org.uk

mint fencing Fencing |Decking |Gates All types of groundwork undertaken Replace your damaged or old loose fitting fence panels. Made-to-measure. Old fencing debris disposed of. Registered waste carrier.

Call Steve: Evenings:

07720 315 885 01978 823 750

DEAN OLSEN Tree Surgeon

07802 609296 or 01978 761792 deanolsen06@aol.com

Tree Surgery Hedge Work Grass Cuts Garden Tidy Local Log Deliveries

Local Birds and Wildlife News By REVEREND HUGH LINN Compared with recent years, sightings of wintering wildfowl on Gresford Flash have been disappointingly few. Apart from a small number of Mallards and occasional sightings of the odd Canada Goose, there has been little to report other than a Heron, a couple of Cormorants and resident Coots and Moorhens. At the beginning of December, things took a turn for the better with the arrival of six Goosanders and three Shovelers. Goosanders belong to a family of ducks known as “Sawbills” on account of their distinctive long thin serrated beaks with a small hook at the end. They breed in northern areas of the UK and mainland Europe and move south for the winter. In recent years Goosanders & Shovelers have been regular visitors. In November 2018, 63 Goosanders were present and in January 2016 a ﬂock of 45 Shovelers. As usual in the winter months, Gresford and Rossett churchyards are attracting winter visitors. Redwings are migrants from Scandinavia and particularly fond of yew berries. On a recent visit to Rossett churchyard, I had good views of Redwings feeding alongside Fieldfares and Mistle Thrushes. Nuthatches, Long-tailed Tits and Goldcrests were also present. Nuthatches are agile climbers up and down tree trunks. When descending they are happy to travel upside down head ﬁrst. So far this winter we have yet to see Blackcaps at our garden feeders. The Blackcaps that winter with us have been increasing in numbers but are probably not the same birds that come here to breed in

GOOSANDERS

NUTHATCH

summer but migrants from central and eastern Europe. Some years ago, Greenﬁnches were regular visitors to garden feeders but, sadly, that is no longer so. They are victims of trichomoniasis, a lethal disease caused by a parasitic infection, and are now on the red list of endangered species.

Wrexham Birdwatchers Meetings Friday 7th January: indoor meeting “Why Birds Fly” (talk by Jeff Clarke) Saturday 8th January: Annual Dinner Saturday 22nd January: Field Outing to Pennington Flash (meet 9.30am) Details available from Trevor Britton Tel: 01978 855266

LAWN MOWERS &

GARDEN MACHINERY

WINTER SERVICING

REMEMBER: WE OFFER FREE * COLLECTION & DELIVERY Winter Servicing - book yours now! * Free collection & delivery conditions apply

CHESTER SMALL PLANT Brymau Three Estate, River Lane, Saltney, Chester CH4 8RQ

01244 674 447 info@chestersmallplant.co.uk

www.chestersmallplant.co.uk

A Fragrant Way to a Healthier Lifestyle By GAYLE WHITTAKER Have you heard of essential oils and do you really know what they do? Essential oils have become a bit “on trend” over the past decade, with lots of products claiming to aid with sleep, skin issues and even for your pets! However, the history of essential oils goes back thousands of years with plant remedies being used by many civilisations over the centuries to help cure illnesses and ailments. Today, the use of essential oils is called aromatherapy and the most common way for essential oils to be applied by a professional is through an aromatherapy massage or reflexology. Inhalation through mixing essential oils with water in an oil burner or room vaporiser is also popular, very effective and something you can easily do for yourself at home. However you use essential oils, the key is to ensure you buy a good quality oil. Oils are extracted from plants and flowers in a variety of ways, the most common being by steam distillation. But the way the plants are grown and the way the oil is extracted and, ultimately stored, will affect its quality and therefore the beneficial properties. Essential oils can be used to aid a number of modern day issues such as: • Stress and anxiety • Insomnia • PMT/menopause symptoms • Skincare • Boosting immunity • Aiding digestion • Lethargy and despondency

Whilst the oils are hugely beneficial themselves, when they are applied professionally either through reflexology or massage, they are part of a holistic approach to a client’s well-being and so the client benefits from two therapies in one. Visiting a professional aromatherapist is by far the best way to experience the true value of essential oils because they will make a blend bespoke to you, taking into account your physical and emotional needs. However, if you want to try some simple blends to help yourself at home you could try the following: Insomnia or Anxiety Add 8-10 drops of a good quality lavender oil to a warm bath about an hour before bedtime. Add 2-3 drops of lavender or chamomile oil to 5ml of sweet almond oil and massage into the soles of your feet at bedtime. PMT/Menopause Add 1 drop of geranium, 1 drop of bergamot and 2 drops of lavender to 10ml of sweet almond oil and massage onto your body (not face) as a moisturiser. If you would like to know more about how aromatherapy combined with reflexology might help you, please contact me. By Gayle Whittaker, Reflexologist at The Universal Therapist Tel: 07766 701479 www.theuniversaltherapist.co.uk

3 Av Si ail zes ab le

Surround yourself with beautiful and natural materials, the light scent of sap and the solid feel of wood, with our beautiful Barrel Sauna

Time to Relax!

Hurry! Only 3 Remaining!

CALL WILL FOR MORE DETAILS:

01978 780896 07838 167593

Prices from £2,950

localsaunas@mail.com

Delivered & Assembled

Nathan’s

TREE

SURGERY

WHAT WE DO * Tree Removal * Hedge Trimming * Tree Clearing * Stump Grinding Tree Prunning * * Woodchipping * New Fencing Supplied & Erected

24 Hour Call Out We are NPTC Qualiﬁed & Insured up to £5million

HAVING TROUBLE WITH TREES, BUSHES OR HEDGES ON YOUR PROPERTY CALL US TODAY:

01948 818743 / 07534 077755 1 Woodcroft, Lacon Street, Prees, Whitchurch SY13 2EL

treesurgeon67@yahoo.com

Your Local Independent Opticians - WITH OVER 30 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE

✁

ESSENTIALS MAG READERS GET

• PRIVATE & NHS EXAMINATIONS • WECS ACCREDITED • PRE/POST CATARACT SCREENING • FREE EYE EXAMINATIONS FOR OVER 60 • EARLY DETECTION OF GLAUCOMA & DIABETES • PROTECT YOUR EYES WITH TRANSITIONS

10% off

Complete Spectacles * TO BE REDEEMED AT TIME OF PURCHASE ONLY

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

MASK ON, FOG OFF Optifog, the Essilor solution that keeps your lenses fog-free even in extreme conditions, thanks to an integrated and immediate fog-repellent technology

Fog-Free Vision for a New Way of Life MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY

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

www.gresfordeyecare.co.uk

Ear Wax Removal & Hearing Aids

A very Happy New Year from The Team at

HOME OR CLINIC VISITS Are your ears feeling blocked? Do you have hearing loss or tinnitus? Microsuction ear wax removal and invisible hearing aids by qualified audiologist Olivia Austin. in partnership with

A stylish boutique salon, created over 10 years ago offering the following services: * Precision cutting * * Advanced colouring * * Brazilian Blow Dry Treatment * * Hair Extensions * * Wedding hair * * Hair -up * * The Nail Lounge Rossett *

Tel: 01978 316770 E: info@integratehearing.co.uk Schwarz Opticians, Charles Street, Wrexham LL13 8BT

ROSE FOOT CLINIC Home Visits Available

Rose Mathew S.A.C DIP RFHP (Registered Foot Health Practitioner)

Our Services • Toe Nail Cutting • Diabetic Feet • Thickened Nails • In Growing Toe Nails • Fungal Nail Infections

Station Road, Rossett, Wrexham

T: 01244 570071

www.thehairloungerossett.co.uk

Practitioner has been vaccinated

• Cracked Heels • Athletes Foot • Verruca • Corns

Call, text or email for an appointment

07397 274914 info@rosefootclinic.co.uk www.rosefootclinic.co.uk

The Balfour Trust for Rossett Do you run a local group that promotes healthy lifestyles, provides social welfare or promotes inclusive activities? The Balfour Trust may be able to help fund your next project. The Trustees are particularly keen to support groups ﬁnding creative ways to keep developing during the continuing pandemic. For further information please get in touch by email: m-t-r.rossett@pm.me or apply to: The Trustees of The Balfour Trust, c/o Mr. Mike Thompson, 13 Park View, Rossett, LL12 0DH. Application closing date: January 31st 2022.

• Both St. Peter's Play Scheme and the school have received funding for outdoor play and den building equipment. • Darland Science department are leading the development of an outdoor learning area for pupils. • Burton and Rossett Horticultural Society encourage younger members of the community to take part in gardening activities at their shows. • The Trust supports Rossett Cubs and Scouts with funding for tents and equipment, young leaders’ fees and camp activities. • Rossett swimming club now has 87 members. The Trust has paid for swimming teacher training resulting in three young adults recently reaching Level 3.

Reflexology NEED A DETOX?

SamanthaKateNutrition Online and in-person nutrition consultations, specialising in weight management, healthy eating, and sport performance If you would like a kick-start to better health, and some guidance in the right direction, please contact Samantha

www.samanthakatenutrition.com

07958 207711

Based in HOLT & TATTENHALL

Book a course of bespoke reflexology treatments using a blend of detoxifying essential oils

Call Gayle on: 07766 701479 www.theuniversaltherapist.co.uk

The Universal Therapist

Following in his Mother’s Footsteps by GARETH HUGHES When little Caitlin Armstrong walked through the doors of a new nursery she created a little bit of history, for she was the first child to enrol. She was only three at the time and little thought that 23 years on she would be back there again – but this time with her baby son. However, Caitlin – now Davies - had such happy memories of her time at the Rossett House Nursery that she had no hesitation in choosing it as the place for eight-monthold Finnley. She was living with her parents in nearby Trevalyn when she first attended the nursery, which was opened by Peter and Karen Graham. “It’s very convenient because Jake, who works on Deeside, drops him off in the morning and I can pick him up,” said Caitlin, who is a service manager with the Priority Adult Care Group. Rossett House is owned by Wrexhambased Active Childcare Ltd, which also runs the Little Scholars nursery on the Glyndŵr University campus, and is recognised by social and education bodies as one of the country’s top-rated nurseries. In 2007 it was named as the UK’s Nursery of the Year by the National Day Nursery Association and the nursery and its staff have picked up numerous awards over the years. Peter Graham and his wife Karen founded the company and are proud of Rossett House’s reputation for providing topquality care and first-class facilities.

Rebecca Mottram, Finley and Caitlin

In 2018 they sold it to Rebecca Mottram, who began working for them in 2000. But Peter remains as a consultant while Karen helps support staff development. Karen, who is Emeritus Professor of childhood studies at Glyndŵr University, is a former winner of the Care Forum Wales award for excellence in services for children and young people, and has contributed to Welsh Government research studies. “We set up originally because we wanted to provide high-quality childcare, and the awards we have received prove that we are achieving that,” said Peter. Rebecca, who has recently been involved in a Welsh Government consultation in designing the curriculum for the nonmaintained sector for children over three, said they were also pleased that so many of their staff remain with them so long that they are able to promote them from within. “We are delighted that Caitlin had such fond memories of her time at Rossett House that she wanted to bring Finnley here. It’s a nice compliment.” said Rebecca.

Traditional Carpenters & Restoration Specialists Timber Traditions specialise in traditional carpentry work and restoration projects

A.D.G. ALPINE WINDOWS • DOORS • CONSERVATORIES

The Area’s Most Experienced Double Glazing Company

uPVC Double Glazed Windows & Doors WINDOW & DOOR REPAIRS We specialise in double glazing repairs to ensure your double glazing windows and doors last for longer

RESTORATION OF PERIOD BUILDINGS & FEATURES CREATION OF NEW TIMBER FEATURES BESPOKE SERVICE CUSTOM-MADE FURNITURE ALL CARPENTRY & JOINERY WORK

01948 519549 M. 07786 635222 www.timbertraditions.co.uk

Call us on: 01978 720311 www.adgwindows.co.uk Alpine House, Old Mold Road, Gwersyllt, Wrexham LL11 4AP

Maes y Pant Latest News by Chair Ian Happs

It’s been a busy few months since my last article in EssentialsMAG. We’ve had three monthly volunteer sessions, which are now being held from 10am to 12.30pm on the second Saturday of the month. Up to 18 people have attended each time, and we’ve been able to achieve a lot with their help. The volunteers have cleared paths, tidied up the pond, repaired the steps to the viewpoint, planted trees and much more. We’re very grateful for all the help.

We’re looking forward to our new children’s play area being installed in the next few months, probably in March. We had another big boost to the project with the award of a grant of £10,000 from the Welsh Government Community Facilities Programme, we’re now just waiting for the materials and contractors. Many thanks to everyone who has supported our fundraising efforts.

After a long dry period over the summer and early autumn, the wildlife pond was getting very low on water. Once it had been tidied by the volunteers, we were delighted that Dwr Cymru came to the rescue and topped it up, using 450m of temporary pipeline! The level has stabilised and is still below full. Dwr Cymru have offered to do another top up if the winter weather doesn’t do it for us.

Storm Arwen caused a lot of damage to the trees in Maes y Pant. The wind strength and the unusual direction brought down more trees than any storm we have had since taking over the site in 2011. We were very grateful to Tree Hogs, who were able to help our volunteers to do the necessary work after the storm. Maes y Pant was closed for just 48 hours. Many thanks to all our visitors for their cooperation and understanding at that time.

The qualities of the site have been recognised by ‘Keep Wales Tidy’ and Maes y Pant has been given another Green Flag Award for 2021/22. The award is given ‘in recognition of its dedicated volunteer involvement, high environmental standards and commitment to delivering great quality green space.’ We’re delighted to have received this award every year since 2016.

The storm damage and other maintenance issues have had an impact on our funds, and we would welcome your support. If you are a regular visitor and you would like to support our work, you might like to become a Friend. There is no set fee, we just ask for donations. Please visit our website at: http://www.maes-ypant.com/become-a-friend.html

For more information please visit: www.maes-y-pant.com Registered charity no. 1169422. Company Limited by Guarantee no. 6221374

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Superhealthy Salmon Burgers This salmon burger recipe makes a beautiful, healthy New Year alternative to the classic beef version. Rich in Omega-3 these will become an absolute family favourite.

INGREDIENTS

SERVES 4

4 boneless, skinless salmon ﬁllets, cut into chunks 2 tbsp Thai red curry paste Thumb-size piece fresh root ginger, grated 1 tsp soy sauce 1 bunch coriander, half chopped, half leaves picked 1 tsp vegetable oil Lemon wedges, to serve FOR THE SALAD 2 carrots Half large or 1 small cucumber 2 tbsp white wine vinegar 1 tsp golden caster sugar

METHOD Tip the salmon into a food processor with the paste, ginger, soy and chopped coriander. Pulse until roughly minced. Tip out the mix and shape into 4 burgers. Heat the oil in a non-stick frying pan, then fry the burgers for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning until crisp and cooked through. Meanwhile, use a swivel peeler to peel strips of carrot and cucumber into a bowl. Toss with the vinegar and sugar until the sugar has dissolved, then toss through the coriander leaves. Divide the salad between 4 plates. Serve with the burgers and rice.

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

Sarah Atherton MP Member of Parliament for Wrexham First and foremost, I hope you had a restful Christmas and a happy New Year. I certainly enjoyed being in Wrexham over the Christmas period, getting involved with the festivities that took place across our community, from the Holt Gardeners Community Fair to the Victorian Market, and enjoying time with family and friends. As we enter the New Year, I am continuing my local healthcare campaign, drawing attention to the issues residents are facing accessing healthcare services. In recent months, many of you have been in contact to say that you have not been able to access GP appointments, have experienced hours of waiting at A&E, or have become frustrated by delays to routine surgery. Many of the stories I have heard are incredibly concerning. As such, it is important that the Welsh Government understands what residents in Wrexham are facing and acts now by investing in our local healthcare services, whilst also ensuring that these investments result in improvements on the frontline. As we recover from the pandemic, during which wait times have only increased across the health board, this is even more important. This is why I have launched this campaign and why I will continue to stand up for residents.

Building on the success of Xplore! and the Hope Street Church – two projects that have utilised town centre properties, bringing variation to the high street – the aim of this project is to draw new businesses into Wrexham. The project has been possible thanks to the UK Government’s ‘Community Renewal Fund’, through which Wrexham Council were awarded £219,000 at the end of last year. Finally, before Christmas, I had the honour of visiting the Festival of Angels at St Giles’ Church in Wrexham. The Festival, designed and organised by the Church's congregation, is a moving memorial to those that have lost their lives to Coronavirus in Wales. It really is a very thoughtful and wonderfully designed memorial, and it will continue into the New Year so I would urge everyone across Wrexham to visit. As ever, if there is anything I can do to assist, please do not hesitate to contact and sign up to my newsletter on my website, www.sarahatherton.org.uk.

In December, I welcomed the opening of Wrexham Council’s town centre regeneration fund, an exciting project that will allow the Council to link owners of empty town centre properties with businesses looking to open or expand. Tel: 020 7217 4885 / 01978 291742 sarah.atherton.mp@parliament.uk www.sarahatherton.org.uk

Not enough hours in the day? OUR SPECIALITIES:

Advertising / Logo / Branding Copywriting / Proofreading Creative Design / Artwork Marketing Consultancy PR / Social Media Website Design / SEO WE MAKE TIME FOR YOUR MARKETING Your local marketing expert with 30 years' experience specialising in marketing for start-up businesses and SMEs

I am the helping hand you need to take your business marketing to the next level

Call Julie - 07474 333004 julie@timeformarketing.org www.timeformarketing.org

Tel: 01978

367 830

YOUR FAMILY LAW EXPERTS Carol McGuire has specialised in all areas of Family Law, including: Divorce; Separation; Issues Relating to Children and Financial Remedy for over 30 years. Email: caroline.mcguire@cyril-jones.co.uk

www.cyril-jones.co.uk OFFICES IN WREXHAM AND SHOTTON

The River Alyn By ROSSETT AND GRESFORD FLY FISHERS’ CLUB Having provided a general description of the river’s history, some of its physical characteristics and the angling clubs pursuing their pastime, it is now appropriate to introduce readers to the chemical condition of the river. Over the recent months, media commentators have noted that our rivers and coastal waters have become polluted with raw, or only part treated, sewage. Horrific photos have been circulating, not only on social media, but in the more conservative broad sheets. Debates have been held in Parliament, both houses, and many MPs have received letters from worried constituents imploring them to resist the law makers from covering up the parlous conditions of the country’s water bodies. The discussions and public conversations to date have been concentrated on ‘the volumes of raw sewage being allowed into the sea and rivers and the fact that nobody ever seems to be financially penalised for this illegal act’. Most of these events are caused by sewage being released from CSOs – Combined Sewer Overflows. The Victorian municipal engineers realised that in order to improve public health, a piped sewerage system was essential. But, they combined rain-water runoff with the foul water coming from toilets and industry which at times of heavy rainfall, often became overloaded, backed up, and caused foul water flooding. Therefore, during heavy rainstorms, the combined foul and surface water inflow

were re-designed to by-pass the Sewage Works and flow through the CSOs. Unfortunately, some Water Companies have allowed this to happen, even when it is not raining. The effects on our rivers and coastal waters have been disastrous. Although the Alyn has not experienced a direct major pollution event for some time, the river is suffering from ‘diffuse’ pollution. It is overloaded with organic matter and fails the tests required under the standards set by the Water Framework Directive. The most likely sources of this condition are either from agricultural practices or from the 14 Sewage Works along the catchment. In addition, because the river dries up above Rhyd y Mwyn during the summer, the pollution becomes more concentrated and has a serious effect on the flora and fauna living in the river. To make matters worse, during high water levels in the winter, the banks suffer from being continually soaked with organic rich water which fertilises the invasive weeds. Wildflowers are almost completely absent from the banks of the lower reaches of the river, having been smothered by invasives.

Rossett and Gresford Fly Fishers’ Club was founded in 1906, making it one of the oldest (continuously functioning) fishing clubs in Wales. For membership details or to try a ‘taster session’ visit their website: rossettandgresfordflyfishing.co.uk

Lesley Grifﬁths MS Member of the Senedd for Wrexham Happy New Year to each and every EssentialsMAG reader. Tackling climate change is the biggest environmental challenge facing the world today, as highlighted during the COP26 summit that took place in Glasgow at the end of last year. As world leaders gathered to strike collaborative international goals, we know as individuals we can make small changes to our lives that will help protect the environment.

aims to work with schools to make it easier for pupils, parents and staff to travel safely to school by foot, bike or scooter. The charity, which works with schools and local authorities to help improve active travel routes within communities, recently launched its Active Journeys Programme. Participation is free and schools that sign up will receive support from a regional Active Journeys Ofﬁcer, as well as other additional beneﬁts.

As part of the #GrowingTogether NFU Cymru campaign, I was invited to plant a tree in Wrexham. Planting trees is a simple solution but the impact it could have in the ﬁght against climate change should not be underestimated. As trees grow, they capture the harmful CO2 out of the atmosphere, as well as help prevent ﬂooding and improve biodiversity.

Promoting active travel is something I am passionate about. Not only is it important in the ﬁght against climate change and reducing air pollution, it's also great for our physical health and wellbeing.

The trees for the #GrowingTogether initiative have been kindly supplied by Coed Cadw - The Woodland Trust in Wales, who are also working in partnership with the Welsh Government to offer every household in Wrexham and across the country the chance to plant their own tree. This new initiative is a relatively straightforward yet enjoyable way of engaging with the public, offering everyone the chance to make a difference. I fully support this project and will work to ensure many more trees are planted in Wrexham in the months ahead.

If there are any schools in Wrexham interested in making it easier for children and their families to walk or cycle to school, ultimately helping ensure their environment a healthier, happier place, I would encourage them to apply to Sustrans Cymru’s programme. As always, if there are any issues I can help you with, please do not hesitate to contact me via the details below.

I am also keen to raise awareness of Sustrans Cymru’s latest campaign, which

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.

Tel: 01978 355743 Lesley.Griffiths@senedd.wales www.lesleygriffiths.co.uk Facebook & Twitter: @lesley4wrexham

North Wales Firewood Ready to Burn Hot Air Dried Firewood

BUSHRA ALI SOLICITORS Expert Solicitors specialising in Family Law, Litigation, Immigration Law and Wills

WILLS

IMMIGRATION LAW

FAMILY LAW

LITIGATION

FREE LOCAL DELIVERY Trade enquiries are welcomed Our dried logs are easier to light and offer a cleaner burn with less soot and tar build up, producing more heat for a more efficient burn

Tel: 01978 350 304

www.northwalesfirewood.co.uk

Dalton House, 35 Chester Street, Wrexham, LL13 8AH reception@bushraalisolicitors.co.uk

Call today on: 07971 340559

www.bushraalisolicitors.co.uk

Personalised & Creative Gifts POLO SHIRTS & T-SHIRTS

To make it a personal present we're the people!

ADD YOUR LOGO/DESIGN, PERFECT FOR WORKWEAR, EVENTS, SPORTS CLUBS ETC.

12 Printed Tee or Polo’s = ONLY £99 Free origination from your design of your logo Full-colour, soft feel, long lasting print Sizes: XS to XXXL / More than 30 colours Any mix of colours & sizes - ask us for details Embroidered garment service also available

Ty Pawb, Market Street, Wrexham LL13 8BB

01978 423117

Proud to be part of the community in Ty Pawb, Wrexham

Alyn Family Doctors Latest News Happy New Year/ Blwyddyn newydd dda to all our patients. We hope that unlike Christmas 2020, many of you were able to safely spend time with loved ones this year. The emergence of the Omicron variant in late November did seem to feel a bit like “here we go again!” and we were faced yet again with the ominous prospect of this unwanted festive guest. At the time of writing, the Government is ramping up safety measures in the face of this new variant. This is deﬁnitely a sensible precaution at this time of year, which typically sees most viral illnesses at their annual peak. Omicron is shown to be the most mutated version of the virus so far, but what does this mean? As viruses replicate, errors in their genetic code inevitably form – think of these like spelling mistakes. Many of these will be harmful to the virus itself but some may emerge to make the virus more transmissible (infective between individuals). However, just because a virus is more transmissible, doesn’t infer that it causes more severe disease. In fact, early studies of Omicron suggest that less severe disease is likely to occur. We eagerly await more research on this. The good news is, as more people become vaccinated, the virus will be replicating less, thus enabling mutations to occur less frequently.

Many of you will have received your third booster vaccine already with us at the Llay legion. We have been incredibly busy with our workforce and army of volunteers to ensure they are given without delay. Concerningly viral mutations may develop to evade the protective immunity offered by vaccines but preliminary studies in early December showed the Pﬁzer vaccine was likely to be effective against omicron. We have received many enquiries about COVID passports. Unfortunately this is not something the surgery can help you with – passports need to be applied for online via https://gov.wales/get-your-nhs-covid-pass and photographic ID is required to complete this. Unfortunately the NHS app isn’t valid for use of the COVID passport if you live in Wales – your pass can be downloaded from the NHS UK website instead (registration required). You will have a barcode which can be downloaded to your phone which lasts 30 days before requiring renewal, this is subsequently updated every time you log in to this service. If you don’t have photographic ID or internet access you can ring 0300 303 5667 for a paper certiﬁcate.

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

The Kitchen of Your Dreams From a Firm You Can Trust To request a copy of our latest brochure please call Paul Mansell today on:

01691 664 252 www.psmkitchens.co.uk Visit our website to see our latest ranges and projects

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Financial News with Hadlow Edwards 22 - Two Little Ducks I hope our readers have all enjoyed a peaceful and fun Christmas (are we allowed to say that now?) and also that we can all look forward to 2022 with some optimism. Some will have plans as always for their homes, careers, family, travel and maybe even a plan for their ﬁnances. Others won’t - and some will play ‘wait and see’ as the year unfolds, I guess, when it comes to any of these areas. To try and narrow down a few ideas I thought I would write about a few topics that (I think) will very likely be ‘ever presents’ for the year ahead – I am sure you can add a few more. COVID – well, we almost had a few months of relative calm but the headlines today (I am writing in mid December) just don’t look great. 2022 could well see us have a third consecutive year of the pandemic causing very signiﬁcant concern. Let’s hope the monumental triple vaccine roll-out has the desired effect of keeping as many people as safe as possible.

PrinciPal Partner Practice of St. JameS'S Place Wealth management

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

Rising costs – we have written about inﬂation in the past – but don’t be mugged by this one as the year unfolds. If I posed the question – ‘What level is inﬂation expected to reach in early 2022?’ – the consensus seems to suggest prices will rise by 4% to maybe 4.5%. BUT – that’s the average increase across a whole ‘basketful’ of goods and services. The ‘basket’ last year saw electric cars, hand gel and (I promise) men’s lounge wear bottoms – added to the list whilst ‘gold chains’ were removed. If you were ‘Mr. Average’ you would have purchased one of everything. Problem is – I haven’t met Mr. Average yet. What’s my point? Fuel and power/energy costs – essentials for most - are spiralling upwards. Diesel has risen by c.25% since January 2021 from around 120p per litre to north of 150p.

Text Text

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.

The effect of rising prices on your savings in the medium term whilst interest rates for savers remain miserable – is very signiﬁcant. Even taking the ‘basketful of goods’ approach – you may well have to see your assets grow in value by perhaps 4% by the end of 2022 if they are to have the same purchasing power they have today as you read this article. Interest rates – well this is, of course, the perfect storm. You are keen to stop rising prices (mostly underpinned by a whopping surge in consumer demand) – you put interest rates up and ‘take money’ out of the public’s pocket. We spend less, demand falls, prices come down a bit. Simple? Well it would/could be – if it wasn’t for the very obvious fact that a LOT of businesses have been operating under real stress for the bulk of the last 20 months. Putting up the cost of Business borrowing right now signiﬁcantly – is not going to happen.

By Warren Hadlow of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk Tel: 01978 311 611 www.hadlowedwards.co.uk

A small increase or two perhaps – still leaving rates in the basement. So back to where I started today – some people will have a plan for their ﬁnances in 2022; other’s won’t. Our growing team at Hadlow Edwards is looking forward to helping our existing clients and new clients get the best from their plans. Please do drop us an email or call if you would like to arrange a meeting or simply a telephone chat.

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. An investment in equities will not provide the security of capital associated with a deposit account with a bank or building society.

HADLOW EDWARDS WEALTH MANAGEMENT LTD 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.

• retirement Planning • mortgageS • tax Planning • inveStment Planning • SPecialiSt inSurance

New Year’s Resolutions By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it” - ROBERT SWAN I’ve featured this quote before, but I think it’s worth revisiting as it’s such an important message. 2021 was sobering from an environmental standpoint, providing mounting evidence of how much impact climate change is already having at 1.2oC of warming. Two examples were the devastating ﬂooding in Europe and the unprecedented heatwave in Canada, where temperatures hit 49.6oC, completely obliterating previous records. Many climate scientists had not anticipated that we’d experience such severe impacts so soon. The 2021 IPCC report set out the threat in starker terms than ever before and said the evidence of human activity being the primary cause is now unequivocal. Whilst some positives came from COP26, it didn’t prove to be the game changer many hoped for. The long term picture ‘improved’ as a result of new pledges, but there remains a massive shortfall in the immediate actions necessary to translate promises into reality. There’s widespread agreement that what happens this decade is critical, so the question is what actually changed in the last year? The Glasgow Climate Pact identiﬁes that carbon emissions must fall by 45% from 2010 levels by

2030 for global warming to be restricted to 1.5°C. However, under existing pledges, emissions will actually be almost 14% higher (and that’s dependent on those pledges actually being delivered). 2021 saw the global response to the climate crisis continue to fall short of what’s required to tackle its escalating impacts. Reading this may feel depressing, but that’s not the intention - the point is to highlight that resolving this crisis requires all of us to play our part. Returning to the opening quote - an assumption that we can just sit back whilst others sort this out for us is misplaced. So what can we do in 2022? The ecological crisis won’t be solved by individual action alone, but our actions do matter. There have been attempts to shift blame onto individuals; most famously by BP, through their promotion of individual carbon footprints. However, this does not invalidate any focus on our own contribution - as Johan Rockstrom emphasised at COP, our own lifestyles need to be compatible with restricting global warming. So in 2022 I’m intending to provide more suggestions of actions we can all take and I hope you’ll ﬁnd more ways to play your part.

EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com

"Once you start sleeping on an Adjustable Bed you'll wonder how you ever slept well without one."

To speak to one of our experienced sales team, call us on:

0800 056 0734

mr g salisbury, wrexham

free local delivery delivered to room of choice old bed removed for £20

comprehensive 5 year manufacturers guarantee

prices start at just £699.99

We'll help you choose the Adjustable Bed to suit your needs. Our adjustables are made in Britain by skilled craftspeople using the finest materials and latest technology. We are proud to supply our customers with these truly life-enhancing products, which will bring benefits to numerous health issues, or the ultimate in relaxation.

North Wales Beds, Mold Road, Gwersyllt Wrexham LL11 4AF NEXT DOOR TO HEART RADIO WITH AMPLE FREE PARKING

Tel: 0800 056 0734 www.northwalesbeds.co.uk

r se A r v ir ic co e& n re pa i

% 10

s r fo ing e nt ok or ou Bo M isc d or D nce eks va e Ad f 6 W o

BUSINESS CLASS BY ROAD

BALMUIR GARAGE We believe QUALITY, SERVICE and PRICE can go together Servicing and mechanical repairs for all makes and models of cars and light vans • MOT Testing Station for cars and light vans • Exhausts, clutches and brakes • Cam belts • 4-wheel alignment • Courtesy cars available

20% DISCOUNT OFF MOTs MOT = £45 on production of this voucher

DON’T FORGET WE DO TYRES

www.balmuirgarage.co.uk

01978 852412

info@balmuirgarage.co.uk 3 Chester Road, Gresford (behind Texaco service station)

BASED IN ROSSETT

Welcome to Via S Class • Airport meet and greet • Special occasions and events • Business to Business Live quotations at:

www.viasclass.co.uk

07771 946165

Distributors Wanted TO DELIVER A QUARTERLY MAGAZINE AROUND CHESTER & WREXHAM Are you retired, a student, or just looking for something to do in your spare time, enjoying the fresh air and earning some money? Self employed, quarterly work with goods rates of pay.

Must have your own car and be 18+ To apply, please complete the form on our website:

www.ezpublishing.co.uk/distribute

Baker The Bear - a very

personal way to remember a special loved one. A personally crafted heart with a tiny amount of cremated remains embedded. To order email: fmeilack@memoria.org.uk

Hand poured soy candles and room mist sprays. Made in Gresford. Free local delivery.

fflamcandles.com

PLUMBING, HEATING & BATHROOMS

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

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

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

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

Rossett Village Festival 2022 As everyone is extremely well aware, the past couple of years have been especially challenging for all. This certainly isn’t any less true for the community of Rossett and the surrounding villages! Rossett Village Festival, created to adapt to the post-Foot and Mouth Disease ‘new normal’, has continued to change. 2021 saw the ﬁrst ever Virtual Festival with a series of locally produced videos celebrating the wide range of things that Rossett has to offer. We even had our always popular Dog Show go online and introduced Rossett’s Got Talent! We were also proud to be selected as a Local Community Cause for 2020 by our local Co-op stores! Grassroots Grants - now available One thing that hasn’t changed is that the Festival is giving grants to a wide range of local causes. In 2020 this evolved into running our own home delivered Foodbank when supermarket shelves were half empty, and providing one hot meal a week to many older residents who had suddenly lost their usual support networks.

In 2020: • £950 between Rossett Scouts, Marford Guides & Rossett Village Hall • £817 between our Foodbank & our hot meal delivery • £500 to PPE Hwb Wrecsam for frontline and essential workers’ PPE. In 2022, Rossett Village Festival recognises the need for reinforcing the resilience of our local community as we once again open up for grant applications. All grants must beneﬁt the Rossett community. To apply just email: rossettvillagefestival@gmail.com before Sunday 13th February. Open meeting Anyone and everyone interested in the Festival, or willing to help make a difference to village life, is welcome to our Open Meeting on: Tuesday 22nd February, starting at 7.30pm in Rossett Village Hall.

Beautiful, bespoke hand-crafted

GARDEN

Gresf漀d Pl愀最oup

ROOMS

DUCKS & DUCKLINGS AT ALL SAINTS' SCHOOL Relaxing Garden Room

Established 50 Years Offering high quality term-time childcare from ages 2½ - 4 Registered for Early Years & 30 hour Childcare Offer FOR MORE INFORMATION: gresfordplaygroup@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 07523 398880 (term time) www.gresfordplaygrouponline.co.uk CHARITY NO: 1180659

Garden Oﬃce

Garden Bar

Any size. Any shape. Any style. All our Garden Rooms are built to order allowing you to design the perfect outdoor space that best reflects your individual needs. Contact us today to create your perfect building

CHRIS JONES Working With Timber For 17 Years T: 07734

791536

C.H. BUILDERS LTD

Specialising in New Build & Extensions LOFT & BARN CONVERSIONS • ROOFING • POINTING • WALLING • STONEWORK DECKING • REPAIRS • UPVC WINDOWS & DOORS • FACIAS & SOFITS • MINI DIGGER & DRIVER

TEL:

01244 752304 / M: 07968 237086

www.chbuildersltd.co.uk e: craig.chb@gmail.com

When Can we Go on Holiday? In March 2020, amid the furlough scheme, the UK government made an amendment to the Working Time Regulations 1998 that obliged workers to take their full annual leave entitlement within each leave year, unless they were unable to do so due to sickness or statutory leave such as maternity leave. The new ruling, brought in to cater for the abnormal working conditions caused by the pandemic, allows a maximum four weeks’ annual leave to be carried over for up to two ﬁnancial years for reasons where it has not been ‘reasonably practicable’ to take it because of COVID. The regulations override any existing provision in an employment contract stating that carry over is not permitted. Acceptable reasons for carry over include situations where a worker was unable to take a break due to being ill, self-isolating or being asked to continue working to accommodate the demands of COVID. But what happens if you were not able to work because you were furloughed? Well, that will depend on whether or not you took holiday during the furlough period, and whilst your employer could argue that they expected you to take it then, you may not have been able to do

so because you were self-isolating, socially distancing or sick. Undoubtedly, all workers on furlough continued to accrue holidays whilst on furlough. And those who did take their holidays during that leave year should have received their correct holiday pay which was likely to be higher than the rate of pay covered by the various government grants. It is important to note that any leave carried forward must be taken as leave, and not worked with payment in lieu of leave. If you leave your job or are made redundant before taking accrued leave, your employer must not only pay you for any untaken leave in that ﬁnancial year, but also for leave carried over under the coronavirus exemption scheme. The two-year carry over for leave ends in 2022, so anyone with accrued leave should plan now when to take it. Your employer can force you to take leave and carried over leave at a speciﬁc time, but if they do, they must give you twice as much notice as the amount of holiday they want you to take and this notice requirement can only be waived by mutual agreement between the two of you.

This article has been written by Robert Williams, Partner with GHP Legal Tel: 01978 291456 To get in touch please use the ‘Contact us’ form on the website: ghplegal.com

We continue to provide our high levels of client service both in the ofﬁce and remotely. Appointments can be via Zoom, telephone, or in person by prior arrangement. Clients attending the ofﬁce by appointment will be required to wear a mask. Your lawyer will be wearing a face mask and/or face shield. These may be removed in rooms where social distancing is possible.

EssentialsMAG Book Club

The Man Who Died Twice by RICHARD OSMAN

Will by WILL SMITH

Vetman by NOEL FITZPATRICK

The second novel in the record-breaking, millioncopy bestselling Thursday Murder Club series. It's the following Thursday. Elizabeth has received a letter from an old colleague. He’s made a big mistake, and he needs her help. His story involves stolen diamonds, a violent mobster, and a very real threat to his life.

This memoir is the product of a profound journey of self-knowledge, a reckoning with all that your will can get you, and all that it can leave behind. Written with the help of Mark Manson, Will is the story of how one exceptional man mastered his own emotions, written in a way that can help everyone else do the same.

The nation's beloved Supervet pens his ﬁrst novel for young readers with the thrilling tale of a vet specialising in bionic animal care. Join Vetman, Imogen, Findlay and a whole cast of incredible bionic animals as they save animal companions everywhere from the evil plans of The Man With No Name!

Viz Annual 2022: The Copper's Torch by VIZ MAGAZINE The last 12 months have been the strangest anyone can remember; all our lives have been turned upside down. We were unable to meet and hold our loved ones. Our right to travel at home and abroad was suspended. The contestants on University Challenge had plastic screens between them. But it's comforting to know that amid all the turmoil, some things remained unchanged. And Viz Comic was one of them!

HSM Property Services Professional Interior & Exterior Plastering Services Whether you’re looking for a quick repair for some cracks, or a total redecoration complete with floor screeding, existing render removal and coving, you won’t find better than J P Plastering.

We are experienced tradesmen who can provide a variety of general maintenance and electrical services around your home or business, including:

• ELECTRICAL • PLASTERING • BATHROOMS • PAINTING • RENOVATIONS • KITCHENS • REPAIRS • TILING

Call us today for a free quotation:

07773 956658 sfuge@hsmps.co.uk www.hsmps.co.uk

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

Custom-Made Kitchens

At Maple & Stone, we handcraft bespoke kitchens to suit you, your lifestyle and property, creating the perfect space for dining and entertaining. Choose from a range of styles, colours and finishes, from traditional hand-painted shaker style to contemporary high gloss finishes - all perfectly designed for your unique living space. Contact us to arrange a design consultation in our new factory showroom.

info@mapleandstone.co | 01978 661 559 | www.mapleandstone.co Unit 5, Abbey Road North, Wrexham Industrial Estate, Wrexham LL13 9RX

Hugh Jones Councillor for Rossett The Hwb. The Community Council event explaining the plans was well attended and the response indicated overwhelming support from residents. There is currently a difference of opinion between the planning and the HWB surrounding the issue of car parking. I have made it clear that I would not support the taking of play area to facilitate car parking. I will be meeting residents on Tuesday 14th December and will update you on the results of that meeting in my next report. Darland/Gamford Lane flood relief scheme. The intention of the Council is to serve notice on the owner of the land that we will access the pond for drainage purposes, and this will take place in January 2022. The process to engage contractors is underway and I am anticipating a start date early in January. Potholes and road improvements. I am supporting a proposal going to the Executive Board that will extend the work on potholes to include surfaced improvement work to local unclassified roads. It is intended that further funds will be made available before the end of the current financial year.

Ballswood Quarry Extension. I am meeting with the MD of the company that owns the quarry to express the concerns that I have in respect of their planned extension, not limited to the increase in vehicle movements on the B5102, noise and pollution. I have placed an objection to the proposals on these grounds. Advent Boards. A sincere thanks to all residents who made the exciting range of Advent Boards that we see around the village, it really brings light into our community on these dark days. A483. Once again our residents are to be greatly inconvenienced in April 2022 when the Gresford Rossett section of the A483 is to be closed to remedy the consequences of the Welsh Government Contractors who failed to provide an even road surface. A redeeming factor is that as the work is to be Northbound it will not directly impact the residents of Rossett providing there is proper signage as opposed to the pathetic efforts during the recent road works. I have asked for Wrexham Highways and local councillors to have sight of the intended signs.

There is a signiﬁcant backlog of road works across the whole of the County Borough and I am keeping up the pressure on work to be done in Rossett. I have asked for work to be done on Harwoods Lane and Alyn Drive.

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

I U Garden & Groundwork We remove and control all pests

We undertake all types of Tree, Garden & Groundworks

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

Footings • Concreting • Excavation Drainage • Patios • Fencing • Grass Cutting

01948 838 111

ST. MARY’S ROAD, DODLESTON CH4 9NW

local, trustworthy, priced correctly

T. M.

01244 570 235 07722 042 201

sales@hashtaggardening.org.uk www.hashtaggardening.co.uk

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

CP4 FITNESS

Specialist in Outdoor Training & Home Visits

PERSONAL TRAINER

Fitness Packages for Individuals & Groups T: 07876 368646 www.cp4fitness.com E: pchris696@gmail.com

Independent Surveying SPECIALIST IN HOME BUYERS REPORTS & PROPERTY SURVEYS

Julie Grimes Building Surveyor BSC (Hons) PG Dip Surveying

07549 165475 jjindependentsurveying@outlook.com

07944 441071

Call Lee for a free estimate:

01978 253965 07760 395512 www.thepaintinganddecoratingcompany.co.uk Interior/exterior painting, wallpapering & artex Family-run business with 30 years experience

ds carifts s g ter pos

more than just words

www.artistig.co.uk

Gresford Man & Van FULLY LICENSED WASTE CARRIER

Garden Waste Disposal • Skip Runs Shed Clearance • Deliveries: Local & Distant Heavy Lifting Help • Furniture Disposal Other Services on Request FOR A FREE QUOTE PLEASE CONTACT RICH ON:

07891 200 990 / richejones1976@gmail.com

Jeremy Kent Councillor for Gresford A very Happy New Year to you and I hope 2022 will be a successful year for you and your family. 2021 certainly ended with a busy few months since coming into post at the end of October. I have been grateful to be able to see so many great events taking place in the village as well as spending some time getting out to deliver my thank you letters and contact cards to residents. I have received a wide range of emails and requests to deal with, covering a broad number of topics and I continue to raise these with the council to make sure that your concerns are dealt with. If you have any issues that you wish to raise, then please do not hesitate to get in touch. Trafﬁc Lights Early December saw the trafﬁc light saga come to an end and I am pleased to see the site now fully operational and the improvements in that area. Including a new push button crossing at the top of High Street which will greatly improve the safety of that corner and refreshed road markings making the road layout clearer.

Gresford Roundabout I have recently written to the council to restart discussions and work on making the Gresford roundabout clearer for drivers, following numerous reports of near misses. This is at an early stage, but I will keep you posted as things move forwards. Rural Broadband I have been working with council ofﬁcers regarding the Gigabit Voucher Scheme to see if this can be used to bring faster broadband to parts of the village that were not under the recent Virgin Media upgrades. Christmas Celebrations and Events Thank you to all those that supported the many festive events across the village, from carols around the tree to the Christmas Tree Festival at All Saints’ Church. The 24 homes and businesses that took part in the Living Advent Window light switch on; to those that came to see Santa on his Sleigh. It really was a magical time for the village! And I was pleased to play a part in it!

Storm Arwen and Storm Barra During the two recent storms there were a number of incidents that needed dealing with. I want to thank those that raised these with me. Thanks also to the council teams that removed trees and debris as quickly as they could. Thankfully it appears there was no serious damage or injury.

Tel: 07832 211085 Jeremy.Kent@wrexham.gov.uk

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 3C Pest Control Adult Social Services Citizens Advice Foodbank - Chester Foodbank - Wrexham Recycling Centre - Chester Recycling Centre - Tattenhall Recycling Centre - Whitchurch Recycling Centre - Wrexham Samaritans

01948 838 111 01978 292 066 0300 330 1178 0151 355 7730 07538 547971 01244 372 764 01829 771 337 0345 678 9007 01978 292 000 116 123

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 C E 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 662 990 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

Think of us as an estate agent for motorhomes and caravans!

MotorhomeDepot.com are Europe’s leading motorhome brokers - the easy and secure way to sell your motorhome! We get you the best possible price, with the least amount of effort and hassle. Payment is secure and your motorhome never leaves your driveway.

ALED WILLIAMS

01248 614028 www.motorhomedepot.com @motorhomedepotnorthwales

Puzzle Page... Just For Fun Crossword ACROSS 1 5 8 9 10 12 14 16 18 19 20 21

Collected or stored (8) Capital of the Ukraine (4) States to be the case (5) Passing around a town (of a road) (7) __ the pill: made palatable (7) Where you sleep (7) Letter (7) Small bunch of ﬂowers (7) Topmost (7) Metal spikes (5) Mediocre (2-2) Sailing vessel (8)

DOWN 1 2 3 4 6 7 11 12 13 14 15 17

Bite at persistently (4) Had a strong smell (6) Relaxed in manner (4-5) Selﬁshness (6) Conﬁne as a prisoner (6) Show to be correct (8) Continuous slide of musical notes (9) Air passage of the lungs (8) Customary practices (6) Believer in the occult (6) Eg from New Delhi (6) Russian sovereign (4)

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

ROSSETT HOUSE NURSERY Contact us today to arrange a visit ‐ 01244 571872 info@rossetthousenursery.co.uk Rossett House Nursery, Llay Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0HT

- UNKNOWN

“Not all classrooms have walls.”