Essentials Mag March 2020 Rossett/Marford/Gresford

March 2020

Your monthly local community magazine

MAG

essentials

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FR WIN! Tickets to CASTLE PARK LIVE See inside for details

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

Welcome...

Cover Image: Close-up of Bluebells

to your latest edition of EssentialsMAG

April Deadlines: Editorial - 13th March Advertising - 20th March

Spring has always been my favourite season. It’s a welcome sight when the blossom appears on the trees and the days start getting a bit longer. The Spring Equinox on 20th March is fast approaching, and not a moment too soon!

We’ve got the local area covered!

Delivered by hand to 4,400 homes and businesses - more than any other magazine in our area.

This month, our lovely friends at Woodland Classroom, who are local bush craft and outdoor learning educators, encourage us to step outside into nature and take our time to notice how much colour there is as everything starts to bloom with new life. It’s an interesting read, and great advice if you’re looking to improve your mental well-being.

Castle Park Live, which is a brand new festival happening down the road in Frodsham this June, have given us two adult tickets to give away. Take a look at the article and enter the competition via our website: www.essentialsmag.co.uk.

Whatever you are up to, have a great month!

All the best, Vicky Heathfield

Copies of this magazine can be picked-up at the following locations: Co-op, Chester Road, Rossett LL12 0HW Co-op, Marford Hill, Marford LL12 8SL Newsagents, Chester Road, Gresford LL12 8NE You can also read our magazines online at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk @EssentialsMagWrexham @EssentialsMAG1

It’s your mag too!

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Let’s have them!

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.

Editorial - vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk Advertising - advertising@essentialsmag.co.uk

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.

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© EssentialsMAG Limited 2020.

Call us on: 01978 855 459

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Low-cost, local, effective advertising EssentialsMAG publish three monthly lifestyle magazines which are hand delivered to 13,600 homes and businesses in and around Wrexham. Our coverage includes: MAGAZINE A: MAGAZINE B: MAGAZINE C:

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

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For more information call us on: 01978 855459, or email: advertising@essentialsmag.co.uk This publication is printed on FSC® certified paper.

When you have finished reading it please put it in your paper recycling bin.

The Secret Power of a Smile

By EssentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KENNEY Wouldn’t it be lovely to have a superpower? What would your superpower be? Flying?

Invisibility? Good news! If you are looking for your superpower, look no further. You’ve got one... it’s your smile. Smiling is your superpower. Smile is universal; from Papua New Guinea, past Wrexham and all the way to Hollywood, human beings use smiling to express joy and satisfaction.

But what makes it a superpower? Let’s explore…

You’re more attractive when you smile. People are naturally drawn to people who smile.

Research has proven that we find others more attractive, likable and even more competent, when they are wearing a smile. Furthermore, the research has proven the popular theory that smiling might cause others to perceive you as being younger than you actually are.

Smiling makes you feel better. It creates a sense of well-being. As a behavioural psychologist, Sarah Stevenson writes in her blog “Each time you smile you throw a little feel-good party in your brain.” The notorious party animals’ dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin start whooping it up when you smile. And a bonus: those endorphins serve as natural pain relievers and act as the body's own opiates.

How about this: Even chocolate, a well-known pleasure inducer cannot match the power of smile. British researchers have found that one smile can generate the same level of brain stimulation as 2,000 bars of chocolate!

A smile can change the world. Have you ever been in a sour mood and then someone has come along with a huge smile? How did this make you feel? When the person you are talking to or the people that surround you are smiling, you won’t be able to help but smile yourself! A smile is a contagious thing.

Smile at the world and the world will smile back at you. You will brighten the days of those around and make a difference in their lives… simply by smiling!

Use your superpower. Live a healthier, happier life and change the world.

One smile at a time.

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

Pulford & Poulton Local History Group

By EssentialsMAG history contributor MICHAEL NETHERCOTT

Chester and Wrexham Turnpike Trust In the 17th century many roads in Britain were poorly maintained with consequent slow movement of traffic. As a result, Acts of Parliament were passed to provide for the improvement of roads across the country by the formation of Turnpike Trusts. The Chester to Wrexham ‘Turnpike’ was introduced by Act of Parliament in 1761 “to enlarge the term and power of the act of repairing - to repair and widen the road from Chester to Wrexham through Pulford and a lane called Wrexham Lane and Dee Bridge”.

The Trust was thus formed and organised by Trustees, to levy charges at tollgates along the route, namely at: Two Mile House Gate; the Lavister Gate and Acton Smithy Gate.

The Trust also embraced some of the side roads and the collection of tolls from Rossett Bridge to Geggin Wen; Cefn y Bedd; Frith and Brymbo, areas supplying coal, lime and other minerals. Toll Gates and their Gatehouses were let annually to the highest bidder.

Local newspapers announced the introduction of these tolls.

Prior to the deployment of the Turnpike system, roads were often maintained by individual tenants who were held responsible to a limited degree for the maintenance of the road adjacent to their properties.

With the introduction of the railway from Chester through Wrexham by the Great Western Railway Company in 1846, much of the transportation of goods, particularly the heavier and bulky loads gradually transferred to the railways. By 1877 the toll system was no longer viable and the Chester and Wrexham Turnpike Trust was closed down. The final meeting of the Turnpike Trustees took place on 27 April 1878, the Toll Houses having been sold or demolished.

At their peak, Turnpike Trusts numbered over one thousand in England and Wales and made a big difference to the condition of the roads, but it was not until engineers like Thomas Telford and John Loudon McAdam that major advancement in road construction took place.

Cheshire County Council took over responsibility for the county’s roads in 1889.

Photograph: The site of the Lavister Tollgate, near the Gatehouse Veterinary Centre Acknowledgements: Gaenor Chaloner and James Harvey Reference: “Pulford and Poulton Through the Ages”

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Family Fun at Castle Park Live!

Castle Park Live is a brand new charming and imaginative one day festival set within the picturesque surroundings of Castle Park, Frodsham on Saturday 20th June 2020.

Castle Park Live promises to bring back the nostalgic experiences of a traditional funfair featuring a lighthouse helter skelter, chair-o-planes, ferris wheel, swing boats and more.

Adding to the day, will be exceptional live music tribute bands featuring Queen, Take That and Coldplay, plus more to be announced. The creative and interactive workshops such as circus skills, arts and crafts, moo music and puppet shows will keep everyone entertained with their captivating shows and engaging activities.

And if that wasn’t enough, there will be a wide array of international cuisines to sample alongside tasty cocktails, wines, craft beers and more!

Right in the heart of Frodsham, the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the live music and entertainment that Castle Park Live has to offer whilst enjoying a picnic on the lawn, tasty treat from a vintage food van or an ice-cold beverage from the bar.

WIN!

Win Two Adult Tickets to Castle Park Live 2020

For your chance to win Two Adult Tickets to Castle Park Live (worth ÂŁ33) please go to our website to complete the entry form:

www.essentialsmag.co.uk/castle This competition will close on Tuesday 31st March 2020 at 8pm when one lucky winner will be picked at random. Terms & conditions apply. Good luck!

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Pack Your Bags for a Great Adventure...

By EssentialsMAG travel contributor Anita Kelsey at DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

The Ultimate New Zealand Bucket List From the buzzing cities of Auckland and Wellington on the North Island, to the plethora of outdoor activities and hiking trails in the South – there is so much to see and do in New Zealand that will keep you coming back for more. Here's our must-do list for your first trip.

Go on a Milford Sound Cruise Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most iconic and frequented fjords, located on its South Island. It is home to rainforests, the Stirling and Bowen waterfalls and Mitre Peak. A cruise is the most popular way to discover Milford Sound, and trips often include a visit to the Underwater observatory, where visitors can observe rare black coral and other marine life.

Have an adventure in Queenstown Known as the adventure capital of New Zealand, Queenstown has plenty to excite travellers who want to step out of their comfort zone. Thrill seekers can jump off of Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, or enjoy jet-boating on the Shotover and Dart rivers. Adrenaline junkies can also enjoy jet boating, skydiving, white water rafting and other indoor thrills such as indoor sky diving, go-karting and simulation experiences. Skiers will enjoy the slopes of The Remarkables and Coroney Park in winter, while golfers are also catered for with many scenic golf courses on offer. If you'd prefer a more slow-paced adventure, why not take a winery tour, a boat cruise or indulge in a luxury spa treatment?

Explore Rotorua Rotorua is a renowned town on New Zealand's North Island that's well known for

its Maori culture and geothermal activity.

Here, you'll find hot springs and bubbling mud pools in Te Puia’s Whakarewarewa Valley. Many visitors enjoy eco-tours that combine hiking, white water rafting and ziplining, while discovering the Maori ways of life and regional conservational programmes in the area. Learn the history of a Maori village and native skills – from basket weaving to wood carving, and experience cultural performances. If you'd rather sit back and relax, the geothermal activity of the Rotorua Lakes mean that many hot springs are on offer that are totally free to use as spa pools.

Go whale watching in Kaikoura Whale watching is an absolute must if you visit the tranquil coastal town of Kaikoura on New Zealand's South Island. Boat trips, helicopter and plane rides allow visitors to get up close and personal with these majestic animals, with different tour operators offering a wealth of options.

Tour guides will also provide an insight into the geology of Kaikoura, and give visitors opportunities to spot other wildlife including fur seals, birds and dolphins.

This is a real must for any nature lover.

Explore New Zealand by camper van Getting on the road is the best way to explore New Zealand. You can get off the

“GETTING ON THE ROAD IS THE BEST WAY TO EXPLORE NEW ZEALAND”

beaten track, away from tourist crowds, meet the locals and soak up some breathtaking scenery. If you are hiring a camper van, make sure that it is well-equipped for your trip, is large enough and does everything you need it to do. If you've only got a short amount of time in New Zealand, drive the Auckland and Bay of Islands loop, where you can enjoy the beauty of the northern coast. Those who make the trip in summer can spend some time on the beach in Omapere. Keep an eye out for dolphins! Another longer route option is to drive from Auckland to Wellington. Stop off to explore the Hobbiton film set from Lord of the Rings, before heading down to the geothermal springs of Rotorua for some relaxing time in the hot mud pools.

Wine lovers can stop off at Martinborough vineyards, before finishing in lively Wellington where there's plenty of entertainment, shopping, nightlife and good food to enjoy.

Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises. For details contact: Tel: 01978 853 886, www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE Now also in Heswall, Tel: 0151 363 6115

Time Difference: +13 hours Currency: New Zealand Dollar Flying Time: 26 hours from Manchester Top Tips: Always have extra layers with you.

Savour the country’s seafood Indulge in the world-class wines of the country.

You don’t need a Visa to enter New Zealand as a visitor for up to 6 months, but you will need to get a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) before you travel.

BRHS - Burton Rossett Horticultural Society Gardening News

By EssentialsMAG gardening contributor CAROL EDWARDS As I write this my thoughts go out to the people who have been affected by the flooding this last few days and I wish them well. March is just the start of Spring really and the daffodils and crocus are popping up everywhere, and it is a cheerful sight. Lawns can be mowed now, but on a dry day - when we finally get one! You can tidy up the edges too, this will make the garden look much tidier and it will be good to look out of the window and see a nice lawn instead of a shaggy one. Paths will probably need a sweep as with all the mud and leaves they can get very slippery. Any containers will need top dressing with fresh compost to freshen them up, and deadhead winter pansies. Continue weeding to keep up with them, it’s surprising how quickly weeds take over.

Winter flowering jasmine can be pruned now, my Mahonia is due for a pruning, a careful one though as it has sharp thorns, it has lovely bright yellow flowers and is very cheering on a dark winters day. Our flower beds can be fed with a layer of compost or well rotted manure or pelleted chicken manure.

Bush or climbing roses can be pruned now and fed with a rose food and Cornus with it’s colourful stems can be cut back to the ground to allow fresh growth for next year.

Keep an eye out for slug damage and treat with natural nematodes, this method works well but needs topping up every six weeks or so. These days I take the coward’s way out and mostly grow things that I have seen slugs and snails dislike. These are things like penstemons, grasses and heathers and as there are many BRHS Burton and Rossett Horticultural Society varieties and colours and sizes you can vary your garden.

In March we have a talk by Anne Harrison about Propagation, this can save quite a lot of money and fill your garden with lots of plants, we look forward to seeing you there.

PROPAGATION We’re very pleased to welcome Anne Harrison, retired lecturer from Reaseheath College, to talk about propagation.

Wed. 18th March 2020 7.30pm at St. Peter’s School, Chapel Lane, Rossett £1 for Members and £2 for Non-Members including tea and biscuits. Full details at www.brhs.org.uk

Information provided by: www.brhs.org.uk

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EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Easy Fish Cakes SERVES A FAMILY OF 4 - 6

INGREDIENTS

450g potato, peeled, cut in half

1 x pack fish pie mix (cod, salmon, smoked

75g frozen sweetcorn, defrosted

haddock etc, weight around 320g-400g

Handful of grated cheddar cheese

depending on pack size)

1 large egg, beaten

3 spring onions, finely chopped

Flour, for dusting

100ml milk

Olive oil, for frying

METHOD Cook the potatoes in boiling water until just tender. Drain well and return to the pan on a low heat. Heat for another minute or two to evaporate excess liquid.

Mash the potato with a small knob of butter. Allow to cool.

Put the fish, spring onions and milk in a shallow dish, cover with cling film and cook in the microwave for 1 ½ - 2 minutes until just cooked. If you don’t have a microwave, put everything in a saucepan and gently cook until just opaque and cooked through.

Drain the fish and spring onions through a fine sieve. Gently mix through the potatoes, avoiding breaking up the fish too much, along with the sweetcorn, cheddar and a generous grind of black pepper. Form into 6 - 8 patties. The cooler the mash potato is when you do this, the easier it will be to form the patties as the mixture will be very soft when warm.

Pour the egg on one plate and scatter flour on the other. Dip the patties in egg and then flour and arrange on a sheet of baking paper on a tray. Put the patties in the fridge for at least half an hour to firm up if the patties feel very soft. At this point you can freeze the patties, wrapped individually. Defrost throughly before moving onto the next stage.

Heat a large frying pan with a generous glug of olive oil. When the oil is hot, carefully lower the fish cakes into the pan. Cook for 5 - 7 minutes or until golden brown underneath and then carefully flip them over. Fry for another 5 - 7 minutes or until golden on the bottom and heated all the way through.

Trying out our recipe?

Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham

This delicious recipe was created by ©BBC Goodfood www.bbcgoodfood.com

Gresford Trust Newsdesk

By Jenny Dutton All too often people who come to clubs run in the hall at Gresford Trust just view it as ‘Gresford Hall’ - not realising that the hall is part of a substantial area of land bounded by Clappers Lane, Chester Road and High St. with a number of buildings all held ‘in Trust’ for residents of Gresford, Marford, Hoseley and area.

In May 1949 this land and the red brick Constitutional Club was sold by the executors of Miss Allington-Hughes of Bryn Y Groes, Gresford to seven inhabitants of Gresford, with certain conditions attached, for £3,150.00. They were to be known as Trustees because they were entrusted with purchase of the land for the benefit of others, not themselves.

It is unclear where the purchase monies came from, though there’s reference to a soldiers’ ‘Welcome Home Fund’ but other monies were raised too. Conditions required the Trustees to apply to the Charity Commissioners to make over the purchase to the Official Trustee of Charity Lands, which meant that ‘The Gresford and District War Memorial Community Centre Trust’ became a registered charity and the residents became the Management Committee. Other conditions were attached to the purchase which are still adhered to today.

The current hall was erected in 1998, using money raised by the Trust from Sportalot, Foundation for Sports and Arts, Esmee Fairbourn Trust, Kellogg’s and Meritor, with support from Gresford Community Council. This building, Constitutional Club,

groundsman’s store, car parks and surrounding land owned by the community, is still ‘Run by the village, for the village’; managed by unpaid local volunteer Trustees. The Trust is a not-forprofit social enterprise with money invested for necessary repairs and replacement. Recently, Alex Merry stepped down as a Trustee - his finance experience was much appreciated. Thank you Alex for your valued contribution to Trust management.

The first 2020 ‘100 Club draw’ is Thursday 12th March at the Trust meeting. A big thank-you to volunteers who delivered over 2,000 leaflets advertising the Club and everyone who took out or renewed a subscription. It’s never too late if you want to join!

With the promise of Spring, gardening work will recommence on the flower beds.

If you are interested and have some time to offer please ring the office 01978 856650.

Jo will contact you with work-party news.

VE Day Celebration planning meeting at Gresford British Legion Club 8pm Monday 2nd March - please support.

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Hey Google…

By EssentialsMAG tech contributor DAVID HUGHES We have a Google Nest Mini. A small, round speaker that sits on the coffee table in the living room. It’s always listening for a specific command to kick into action: “Hey Google.” The Nest Mini is part of a growing number smart speakers in the technology marketplace: Amazon Echo (with the command, “Alexa”), the Apple HomePod (“Hey Siri”) and Portal from Facebook to name the main contenders.

Just as the term smart phone is becoming an increasingly inaccurate name to describe the devices many of us rely on each day, so smart speaker is somewhat of a misnomer. Whilst these devices are generally pretty good speakers - in the traditional sense of the term - they’re best functionality lies away from projecting sound into our ears.

(I’ll talk about the Nest Mini from now on, but know that what follows broadly applies to the other speakers too, just with their different commands.)

“Hey Google… ...what time is it in New York right now?” ...what is 200 grams in ounces?” ...turn on the living room lights.”

You get the idea. Ask the Nest Mini anything, and it will attempt to find an answer on the internet and give you a succinct response. Connect it to other devices like a smart bulb, and you can turn lights on and off without even getting up.

As you can imagine in my line of work, not much gets me excited about technology any more, but when I first used the Nest Mini to turn my living room lights on and off, even I felt like Jean-Luc Picard on the deck of the Enterprise!

Connecting online services to the Nest Mini makes it even more useful. From playing music via Spotify, to ordering an Uber.

From current travel times to the latest news and weather, this tiny “speaker” goes way beyond its remit.

I’ve picked up on all the positives in this article; it would be remiss of me not to at least mention the trade-offs. These devices are always on; always listening. The more you ask of them, the better they know you.

They know where you are. Of course, all these things are true of the latest smart phones, but somehow it becomes a little more creepy when your main interaction is in the form of a conversation with a (sometimes frighteningly) realistic voice.

Our privacy is taking a hit for convenience, fun and funny interactions, and a magical quality that makes you feel like you’re actually, finally living in the technological future we have always been promised.

“Hey Google… well played!”

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

The Nags Head LAVISTER, ROSSETT Village pub in the heart of Lavister with a lovely atmosphere, serving a range of real ales and delicious pub food at great prices.

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Shooting Star Cancer Support Your donations to Shooting Star Cancer Support has made a huge difference. Here are a few recent quotes from Clinicians and Clinical departments...

“Behind the scenes, the equipment provided by Shooting Star Cancer Support has profoundly influenced the investigation, treatment and follow-up of breast cancer in Wrexham. Thank you Shooting Star Support.

Shooting Star Cancer Support has furnished us with technology that has reduced mastectomy, reduced lymphoedema and reduced the need for cytotoxic chemotherapy.

The Sentimag equipment provided by Shooting Star Cancer Support allows us to find cancers so small they cannot be felt as a lump. These cancers are treated with smaller day case operations with a better cosmetic result. This has been a tremendous benefit to our patients.”

Mr. Cochrane - CONSULTANT BREAST SURGEON AT WREXHAM MAELOR HOSPITAL

“Encor equipment was funded by Shooting Star Cancer Support. It is a breast biopsy kit that can be used at the time of mammography to biopsy an abnormality more reliably than traditional methods. We have done ten procedures under anaesthetic as an outpatient.

These cases would otherwise have been required admission as a day case under a general anaesthetic. They proceeded without complications and produced excellent results for the patients with minimal scar.”

RADIOLOGY DEPARTMENT

“Shooting Star Cancer Support funded an endoscope cleaner/disinfector for the Outpatients department.This allowed a more rapid turnover of the equipment leading to a ‘one stop’ clinic for the diagnosis of many conditions, rather than having to do the same thing in the operating theatre.These improvements were noted in the Welsh Assembly government peer review. Thank you!”

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If you would like to help by making a donation please get in touch. www.shootingstarcancersupport.co.uk Email: info@shootingstarcancersupport.co.uk Charity Number: 1079693

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Local Birds & Wildlife

By Rev. Hugh Linn A noteworthy sighting of 20 Little Egrets on the flood plain near Holt was recorded by Neil Huxley on 29th January. Little Egrets have been seen there previously but not in such large numbers.

These small herons have been increasing as breeding birds in North Wales during recent decades. They are now well established in the RSPB's Burton Mere reserve on the Wirral.

This site also holds Great White Egrets, Cattle Egrets and Spoonbills. The northwards range expansion of these marshland species is thought to be influenced by global warming. Such birds, currently classified as rarities, may in time, become established in much the same way as our now widespread Collared Doves.

Collared Doves were first recorded in North Wales as recently as 1959. I remember almost furtively travelling to Anglesey in the mid '60s specially to see a pair in a secret site on condition that I kept the news to myself! Now I have to look no further than my back garden.

Little Egret

Collared Dove

One of the effects of a fairly warm winter has been early movements of migratory birds heading off to their northern breeding grounds. On 30th January a mixed flock of around 1,000 Fieldfares, Redwings and Starlings spent a couple of hours foraging for worms in the damp earth of a soggy field in Honkley.

Early in February a flock of some 500 Pink-footed Geese stopped off for a couple of days in the same Poulton field in which they broke their journey last year.

This month our winter visitors will be replaced by summer migrants. Soon we should be hearing our first Chiffchaffs, watching Sand Martins hawking for insects over Gresford Flash and welcoming our first Swallow.

As we go to print, the migrant Blackcap that joined us for Christmas is singing merrily and has been joined by a female. By the time this month's EssentialsMAG is published this little bird may have returned to continental Europe - or (who knows?) even become a Brexitter and stayed put in Rossett.

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The Diary of a Chainsaw Sculptor

By Award-Winning Sculptor SIMON O’ROURKE A Ghostly Tale…

I have completed many commissions that relate to, or are situated at historical properties, and I just love delving into the past to bring to life the people that lived there. Last year I won a commission in Marbury Park, near Northwich. The task was to create the Marbury Lady, a local ghost, said to wander the area.

Back in 1787, James Hugh Barry-Smith inherited Marbury Hall, now sadly demolished. He was a keen traveller, and on his journey through Egypt, met and fell in love with a beautiful Egyptian girl.

He promised her that on his return to England he would send for her and marry her. On his return, however, he discovered his family had arranged a marriage for him, and despite his protests, forced him to take the promised bride. Even though he hadn’t chosen his new wife, he found he fell in love with her and was happy. Then one night there was a knock at the door, and he was shocked to find the Egyptian girl on the doorstep. Pleased to see her, but knowing he couldn’t give her the relationship and life he had promised, he introduced her to his family as a servant looking for work. They continued their affair and bore several children, and on her request, he promised her that upon her death he would embalm her body and keep her at the Hall.

She died before him and he remained true to his promise, embalming her and placing her in a wooden chest at the foot of the stairs in the great Hall.

The chest remained in the Hall up until the early part of the 20th Century when her remains were buried in the grounds of Marbury Park. It is said her ghost wanders the grounds shrouded in mist!

It is an inspiring story, and I decided to create a sculpture with two sides. One depicting life, with the lady as an upright proud figure, the other depicting death, recoiling with a veiled face. My intention was to create it so the viewer could never see both sides at once. The dead oak tree destined to be sculpted was unlike any oak I had carved before, due to the unusually dark colour streaks inside it. This added to the atmospheric look and created effect!

This project was a great excuse for me to go to town on creating drapery, and I was really pleased with the result. There is a video now on YouTube of the process as a time-lapse, which you can find on my channel. Just search for Simon O’Rourke on YouTube!

To see more of Simon’s amazing work please visit his website: www.treecarving.co.uk

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Financial News with Hadlow Edwards When the Queen turned 93 on 21 April 2019, she served as a very public reminder of how much longer, as a society, we are living. In her own family, four generations are now all alive at the same time, from the Queen herself down to her latest greatgrandchild. An increasing number of families now find themselves in the same position, which has implications for financial planning.

As a nonagenarian, Her Majesty is far from alone. The number of people over 90 years old rose by 39% between 2007 and 2017, according to a report published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) in 2018.(1) A further ONS report states, by 2037, the UK’s 65 years and over age group could reach 24% of the whole population a marked increase in the 18.2% figure recorded in 2017. (2) Another key theme is how we manage our wealth against the backdrop of a growing generational wealth gap.

For those born after the Second World War and in the 1950s, the economy of their working years was benign and kind to them; but it was less so for those born in the 1980s and 1990s – the so-called ‘millennials’ – who are finding it harder to commence pension planning and to get onto the property ladder. It means many

Warren Hadlow

parents are having to support their children financially well into their adult lives.

While our children are struggling with their finances, our parents are living longer. This has led to an increase in the need for longterm care, which is likely to be financed from accumulated savings, selling the family home or with support from younger generations. A conundrum isn’t it?

Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management provides a range of advice on family oriented financial products and services, enabling families to work collaboratively to support each other across the generations.

Financial support need not be in the form of a handout; it can become an integral part of generational financial planning.

Whether you would like to help your children onto the housing ladder, contribute to a grandchild’s education or wedding, or help your parents with laterlife planning, careful consideration can ensure your wealth works harder for all your family without putting your own security and retirement comfort at risk.

Very often we work with more than one generation of the same family. If you would like to arrange a meeting without cost or obligation please do send us an email or call the office.

Contributed by Warren Hadlow Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited.

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

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Armchair Activism

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF Even if the increasing frequency of extreme weather puts us off going outdoors, there are still plenty of things we can do for the environment from the comfort of our sofa.

Change banks – for the avoidance of doubt, I’m not a financial advisor and so I’m not offering guidance. What I will say is that a little online research can quickly reveal which banks are the biggest investors in fossil fuels. More ethical alternatives are now available, who will invest our money in ways less harmful to the environment.

Community energy projects – if we’re lucky enough to have a bit of spare money, there are growing numbers of community energy projects offering shares. The recent offer from Chester Community Energy is fully subscribed, but there may be further opportunities to invest in local schemes.

Change energy suppliers – switch our electricity supplier to one where all the energy is generated from renewable sources such as hydro, wind and solar power. It may not be necessary to switch supplier, as our existing one may also offer a green tariff.

Online petitions – sign them or raise awareness and help increase support by sharing them via social media.

You can start your own petition using a site like 38 Degrees or change.org or the government’s petitions webpage https://petition.parliament.uk/

Make a donation – in addition to big names such as Friends of the Earth, Greenpeace, Extinction Rebellion (XR) and WWF, there are many others such as legal campaigners ClientEarth who need donations to support their work (including guitars from famous musicians). There are many local environmental groups we can also support.

Become a ‘remote rebel’ – many members of XR aren’t involved in direct action and it’s now possible to join online meetings and take on all kinds of support roles from home. Most other environmental groups haven’t embraced new technology to the same extent yet, but opportunities to support them online are increasing.

Tell politicians our views – last month I highlighted a big Welsh Government consultation that’s still active. We can also contact our Community and County Councillors, our Assembly Member or our MP. The Wrexham AM Lesley Griffiths is the Welsh Minister for Environment, Energy & Rural Affairs.

If the weather improves and we do fancy venturing outside, Lesley Griffiths and our local MPs Sarah Atherton and Simon Baynes all hold regular surgeries where we can talk with them.

EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com

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Wedding Showcase Day Sunday 19th April You are welcome to come along to our Hotel anytime between 11am and 3pm. On your arrival, you will be welcomed with a complimentary arrival drink and canapes for you to enjoy.

This is a great opportunity to view our beautiful hotel and grounds, with the function suites being fully dressed for a Civil Ceremony and a Wedding Breakfast. There will also be a handful of selected suppliers here on the day for you to talk to along with our professional and friendly Management Team.

For any further information please contact our Reception Team on 01244 571000 Rossett Hall Hotel, Chester Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0DE Email: reservations@rossetthallhotel.co.uk

Latest News From Rossett Community Council Electoral Boundaries Proposal The Local Democracy and Boundary Commission for Wales are conducting a review of the electoral arrangements for the County Borough of Wrexham. They have now produced a draft proposal report with recommendations for changes within the County. Their aim is to get each ward to a proposed county average of 1,834 electors per member (County Councillor).

Rossett and Burton were highlighted as an area requiring change as there are currently 2,617 electors represented by one councillor, so this is 43% over the proposed county average. Prior to the production of the draft proposal Wrexham County Borough Council, Rossett Community Council and the local Councillor all submitted a request to maintain the existing arrangements with no changes. Rossett Community Council also commented that any changes could have a detrimental effect on community ties.

The Commission have proposed to remove the electors from the Burton ward and add them to Llay to create Burton and Llay and leave Rossett as a stand alone ward (also including Trevalyn and parts of Lavister).

This would increase the number of electors in Llay but they have two councillors covering that area however, this proposal would put them 19% over the proposed average. They have produced a map of the proposed electoral area and it would move the majority of Station Road to Burton so Christ Church, the Village Hall, Presbyterian Church, doctors etc would become part of Burton ward which would become Burton and Llay, as would the area to the left of Chester Road between Llyndir Lane and the Pulford boundary.

The consultation period for this proposal closes on 6th April 2020 and Rossett Community Council are keen to inform local residents of the proposal to allow them the opportunity to submit views prior to the closing date.

There are a number of reasons why Rossett Community Council are against this proposal so they will therefore, be holding a Public Meeting on Thursday 12th March at 7.45pm at the Village Hall to share information with local residents. We hope as many people as possible will attend the meeting and also submit their comments.

Information will be shared via Rossett Community Council Facebook page, on the Rossett Community Council website and notice boards.

The full draft proposal report can be viewed at: https://ldbc.gov.wales/reviews/01-20/wrexham-draft-proposals

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Helpful Tips For Start-up Businesses

By EMMAJANE ALBERTINI There is no perfect formula for starting a business, it’s an exciting new experience but it can also be daunting, here are few helpful do’s and don’ts to help make the road a little less bumpy.

Don’t stop earning. Keep onto your day job as long as you can while starting your new business. New businesses usually take longer than you predict to turn a profit, on average breakeven happens after 12 months in the game.

Don’t go it alone. Everyone needs a support system when starting a new business, if you don’t have a family member or friend that you can bounce ideas off then consider joining a local networking group, this is also a great way to meet local business people who’s services you may need or who could become future clients.

Don’t let your passion dictate. Of course you need to have passion for your new business it’s your driving force, however don’t let it be the main source behind all your decisions. Always ensure that you are making a considered approach, having done your market research, contacted the experts and gained professional advice.

The more informed your decisions are the better and more prepared you will be. You will still need all that passion to drive your business forward.

Do keep it simple. It is so easy as an entrepreneur to getting over-excited and carried away, keep considering how your business is providing a solution and continuously think how to keep it as simple as possible for the user.

Do get legal. Ensure that you understand the rules and responsibilities which come with owning a business and anything industry specific. If you use a local accountants when starting up they will assist you with guidelines when dealing with Companies House and HMRC. Then if there are technicalities within your sector, always seek legal advice if you are unsure.

Do keep it professional. You are the face of your new business and the way that you conduct yourself is a representation of your offering, if you treat everyone on the basis that they are your next client then you can’t go wrong.

And remember - it’s a marathon, not a sprint.There are so many benefits to starting your own business, but if you are thinking that this is a get rich quick plan, it’s unlikely, however with time and effort you can build your own little empire.

Wishing you every success!

EssentialsMAG business contributor is Emmajane Albertini, from Home of Offices www.homeofoffices.co.uk emmajanealbertini@icloud.com Tel: 0800 124 4640

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To book your advertising space, or to ask for a copy of our Media Pack and more information about how we can help your business grow, please call Vicky on: 01978 855459, or visit: www.essentialsmag.co.uk

All Saints’ School, Gresford Latest News

Our school has received a defibrillator, which was kindly sponsored by Zoll. Children in Key Stage 2 were trained by St. John’s Cymru on how to use the equipment.

Our new Headteacher Mr Hatwood was officially handed the keys to the school during a lovely service led by Bishop Gregory and Father Tudor.

The children took part in a Rudolph Run around the school grounds and bought small Christmas teddies. We raised £1914.45 for Nightingale House Hospice.

Ysgol yr Holl Saint - All Saints’ School, School Hill, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8RW Tel: 01978852342, Email: mailbox@allsaints-pri.wrexham.sch.uk

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Homebuyers’ Reports Why are They Important?

By Property Consultant CHARLES LAWSON If you are about to buy a new home, you should have it thoroughly checked out by a qualified Chartered Surveyor first, to make sure you are not making an expensive mistake.

Your new home is likely to be one of the most significant purchases you ever make so you should make sure you know everything you can about the condition of the property before you enter into a contract to buy it. A RICS Homebuyer Report can reveal many issues that may not be clear to you but can be picked up by a qualified surveyor.

If a problem is disclosed and you still want to go ahead with the purchase you will be in stronger position to negotiate a fair price. If you are selling a home, a survey can help secure the agreed price or identify any remedial work you need to do before putting the house on the market.

There are three levels of HomeBuyer Reports: • Level 1 - Condition Report is suitable for conventional homes, built from common building materials and in apparently good condition. It details the building’s condition and lists potential issues and how serious they are and includes a risk summary, building control, planning issues and guarantees for your solicitor.

• Level 2 - Homebuyer Reports provide much more extensive information on the property’s condition and includes a valuation and advice on issues to investigate.

• Level 3 - Building Survey Report is recommended if you are buying an older property or one that is in poor condition or if you are planning major structural renovations or additions. It provides even greater detail than the Level 2 and reports on a very wide range of issues, including an outline of repair options.

Whichever level is right for you, a HomeBuyer’s Report is worth having to identify any number of potentially expensive pitfalls in a property, saving you money, time and stress.

EssentialsMAG property Consultant is Charles Lawson, from Forge Property Consultants www.forgeproperty.co.uk charles.lawson@forgeproperty.co.uk Tel: 01691 610317 / 07873 388119

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How to Make a Home Fire Escape Plan If a fire occurred in your home could you escape easily and raise the alarm? Your ability to get out of your home during a fire depends on advance warning from smoke alarms and advance planning.

Every household should have some sort of escape plan in place, just in case the worst was to happen. Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as one or two minutes to escape safely once the alarm sounds. Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan together, ensuring that all the children know the plan and what to do in the unlikely event of fire occurring. Hopefully you will never have to use it, but it’s important to prepare so there’s no delay if it’s ever put into action.

Here are some tips for helping you with your escape plan: • Fire alarms and smoke detectors play a very important role - the earlier a fire is detected the less risk there is to your life - do your smoke detectors work? Check them regularly.

• Identify your exits.

• Identify the secondary escape routes.

• Identify where your assembly point is.

• Keep doors closed this will help to slow smoke spread.

• In a fire you must stay low to the floor to avoid the smoke.

• Feel any closed door on the exit route before opening. If the door is warm, open it slowly, and close it quickly if heat or smoke rushes in.

• Passageways may be completely filled with dense smoke, so everyone should practice exiting on their hands and knees while blindfolded.

• Establish a rule that once you're out you stay out!

• Parents, guardians and responsible adults should be aware that children may not wake to the sound of a working smoke alarm, therefore your escape plan MUST account for waking and evacuating children.

• Make sure all the children know your address in case they have to telephone the emergency services.

• Teach your family about the dangers of playing with fire.

The more familiar you are with your escape plan, the less likely you will panic during a real emergency. And remember, in the event of a fire call 999.

EssentialsMAG health & safety contributor is Martin Griffith, from Action Health & Safety www.actonhealthandsafety.co.uk Tel: 07956 067812

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Hugh Jones Councillor for Rossett Bellis Bros The perverse decision by Welsh Government Ministers to overturn the overwhelming decision by Wrexham Council Planning Committee and grant approval for the destruction of our Green Barrier is a devastating blow to our community. Their report clearly shows all the evidence leads to a conclusion to reject the appeal, yet contrary to all local and national policies and contrary to their recently declared Climate Emergency, they have granted permission for uninsurable housing on land that floods. The work of the Rossett Focus Group on opposing this application and the LDP has been sterling and we are currently taking Counsels opinion to see if anything can be done. A judicial review would not overturn the decision.

Darland Lane I am in the process of arranging a residents meeting, together with the Community Council and have invited the Head of Environment to attend. The current Head was present at the residents meeting which I arranged eight years ago when his predecessor gave an assurance that the flooding issues would be resolved. Whilst many parts of the country have been more seriously affected, this is the third occasion in nine months when the risk to property has been severe. I will publicise the date ASAP. Newhaven Garage A number of residents have contacted me regarding the work being carried out adjacent to the footpath, I have had highways check this work and there is no encroachment on the public footpath.

Trevalyn Hall View I am continuing to seek a solution to the parking issues and am working through various internal objections from the Arboricultural Officer and others. One problem is the mixed council private land ownership which makes funding a problem, however I believe I have found a solution to that element. I will continue to seek a solution.

Boundary Review Looking further into the regulations it appears that the only solution would be to recommend Rosset becoming a two member ward. This is contrary to the views of both myself and WCBC as it increases the costs to the ratepayers of Wrexham. Once again, we find Cardiff imposing lunatic policies on local communities which smacks of ‘big brother knows best.'

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

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Andrew Atkinson Councillor for Gresford Doctors Surgery I'm due to meet with the Doctors very soon to discuss their plans going forward, I will update you immediately if there are any proposals.

Flooding on Chester Road At the time of writing, I've just met with the workers who have removed huge amounts of dirt that was blocking the soakaway and stopping the drainage. It was a big job but I'm hopeful it will have solved the problem - time will tell! Clappers Lane is an ongoing problem that alongside the Community Council I'm trying to get sorted, but there are many issues with the County Council on this one that are blocking progress. We will keep trying everything possible.

Virgin Media I'm working closely with Virgin and the Council to get complaints sorted ASAP and issues resolved for residents. I'm also getting a number of emails thanking and praising the workers, so I'm sharing that for balance!

High Street High Street is, in my opinion, the worst road surface in any residential area I've seen of late and I'm doing everything I possibly can to get it added to the capital programme and make sure it gets a proper re-surfacing job as soon as possible.

Vicarage Lane Planning Appeal We are still awaiting the inspector’s decision, but as a group we have done all that we can to make the case against development primarily on the grounds of highway safety.

Old Wrexham Road's planning refusal was upheld by the inspector and I hope in terms of consistency alone it will be the same for Vicarage Lane, as it is after all, the same piece of grass!

Bypass Closures I have a meeting coming up with the Chief OfďŹ cer for the Environment department to talk about bypass closures by the Highways Agency and how things can be improved for the village. I was assured by ofďŹ cers that diversions through the village would only happen in an emergency and not due to planned works. This has not been the case and is the reason I have organised the meeting.

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

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We provide a high quality personal and professional garden service including maintenance, design and construction to transform your garden • Garden Design • Patios and decking • Water features • Lawn mowing • Re-turfing and seeding • Hedge planting and cutting www.ajblandscapes.com

Your Community Noticeboard Think Globally, Act Locally Saturday 21 March 2020 Gresford Memorial Hall Come and tell us your ideas and priorities for action on the recently-announced CLIMATE EMERGENCY for Gresford and Marford.

Let your children have fun meeting hedgehogs, making hedgehog homes and bee houses and finding out about how they can help save our world, starting locally. The future of our world depends on each and every one of us and we can all do our bit. Come and find out how your family and community can make a difference and what we can do to link into the Community Council and Local Authority Climate Emergency actions.

Put this date in your diary NOW and watch for more information i n the next edition of EssentialsMAG

VE CELEBRATION Come and join us and step back in time at Gresford Methodist Church on Saturday May 2nd from midday Children's Games / Activities / Afternoon Tea and Entertainment all with a 1940s theme £2 per adult / children under 12 FREE suitable for all / 1940s dress encouraged More information Beryl Blackmore . blackbb1927@outlook.com

Spring Coffee Morning SATURDAY 28th MARCH, 10:30am - 12:00pm PULFORD VILLAGE HALL Stalls, Bring and Buy, raffle etc.

Entrance £5 to include refreshments.

All proceeds for Nightingale House Hospice Wrexham

ROSSETT FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE Drinks Get Together Wednesday 11th March 2pm at The Golden Lion, Rossett Our aim is to get people in our local community making new friends who they wouldn’t normally meet. Contact Jo: 07498 864564 or via Facebook

PULFORD & POULTON LOCAL HISTORY GROUP Wednesday 18th March “Hydro-electric Power in Chester” An illustrated talk by George Ablett in Pulford Village Hall at 7:30pm

GRESFORD ROYAL BRITISH LEGION Presents its Annual Easter BINGO SATURDAY 4th APRIL Doors Open: 7pm/Eyes Down: 7.30pm Entry Free Bar ‐ Raffle & Many Great Prizes Winning is not guaranteed but you will definitely have a fun night trying!

Come early to ensure a seat

Admission: Members £2 / non members £3 More information: Hon. Sec. Jenny Nethercott Tel: 01244 571040

ALL WELCOME

This is your local community noticeboard... promote your event or class here.

Free-of-charge to charities and not-for-profit groups and organisations.

Email: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

ROSSETT ART GROUP Members meet on most Mondays between 1pm and 4pm at Gresford Memorial Hall. We are a group of like‐minded people who enjoy painting. We mainly paint in watercolours but some members paint in other mediums.

We are not a tuition group; however members are always available to help if required. We have occasional demonstrators and DVD sessions.

We are currently seeking new members to join this well established art group. If are interested then please contact Dennis on 01978 852529.

JOIN OUR 100 CLUB Gresford Trust Monthly Draw. Only £12 per year.

Easy to set-up. Support the Trust.

Get in touch today! Contact: contact@gresfordtrust.org T: 01978 856650 Registered charity no. 524052

ANNUAL EASTER EGG EVENT IN PULFORD PARK We have decided not to hold the event this year as we plan to hold a 75th VE Day Anniversary on May 8th instead Many thanks Kate Fairhurst (Secretary to the Friends of Poulton and Pulford Community Park)

Your Community Noticeboard

WREXHAM COUNTRY MARKET ROSSETT 2020 4th April, 20th June, 19th September, 21st November PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH HALL STATION ROAD, ROSSETT 10am-12pm Tea Bar / Baking / Crafts / Jam / Marmalade / Chutneys / Seasonal Produce Orders any time 07854 215040 / 07977 581119 Email: WxmCountryMarket@gmail.com Facebook - Wrexham Country Markets Wingetts Auction Rooms, Holt Street, Wrexham, LL13 8DH First Friday of month from 6th March 9.30am - 12.30pm

MARFORD/GRESFORD & DISTRICT LUNCH CLUB WELCOME YOU TO ANY TUESDAY, AT GRESFORD METHODIST CHURCH Seated exercise at 11:45am followed by Soup and Sweet lunch, a good natter and a laugh.

Only £2 for lunch, £2 for seated exercise.

Starts 7th January. Call Beryl: 01978 855691.

VE BOOK FROM GRESFORD & MARFORD LUNCH CLUB I need your help please... if you would like to see your organisation in the book tell us something about your memories, words and photos connected to Gresford and Marford Get in touch ASAP. Beryl Blackmore blackbb1927@outlook.com

First Floor Office to Let Bridge House Station Road, Rossett For further details please contact Glyn Roberts on 01244 579018

Darland Community Theatre “The Great Mallard”

Darland Community Theatre is an amateur dramatic, community theatre group.

We perform twice a year on the stage at Darland School in Rossett LL12 0DL. Community theatre for Wrexham and Chester We have performed many different types of plays including, drama, mystery, whodunnit’s and comedy. Our performances are very well supported by our audience and we run each play for three evenings, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Tickets sell fast for each of our plays and the feedback we receive is very gratifying. We have a regular audience who come to see every play but also new people discover us each time we perform. Our plays are suitable for a family audience so anyone is welcome.

Our next play – ‘The Great Mallard’ by Martin Clare Darland School, Rossett, at 7.30pm on 16th, 17th and 18th April Tickets cost £6, the price includes a drink and interval refreshments. Additional drinks are also available to purchases before curtain up and during the interval.

Tickets can be bought via the website, www.darlandtheatre.com , or if you are unable to order online, by phoning 01978 720272.

We are always looking for new members If you’re interested in amateur, community theatre or you’ve every fancied having a go at acting then we’d love to hear from you. We are not expecting Oscar-worthy talent, just an enthusiasm and a willingness to have a go. Younger members (ideally 18+) would be very welcome as it would allow us to perform a more varied selection of plays.

Visit: www.darlandtheatre.com for more details.

We are a non-profit organisation so any funds raised through tickets sales goes back into the coffers of the theatre group to pay for equipment and set builds etc. We also regularly donate to the Darland School funds and other local charities and organisations.

Make Time for Spring The Spring Equinox is fast approaching, and not a moment too soon. On March 20th the sun will pass the celestial equator into the North Hemisphere. This means that there will be exactly 12 hours of day and 12 hours of night. In ancient times our ancestors would celebrate this celestial event with religious rituals, some of which can still be seen today.

Spring is all about rebirth and reawakening Animals give birth and we traditionally plant seeds and crops, bringing new life to nature. Although we now celebrate Spring with eggs at Easter, originally Druids would bury eggs in fields where crops grew to invite abundance to the soil.

The tradition of Spring cleaning invites in the light and renews the homestead, but our ancestors also spring cleaned their blood with herbs such as dandelion and burdock, believing it would wake up the body after a cold winter. No matter what your beliefs, Spring is a time for celebration and getting ready for the fruitfulness of the year ahead.

All signs point to wildlife emerging from hibernation and living freely during the warmer months. One thing that is noticeable in nature is how much colour there is as everything starts to bloom and pulse with new life.

Make a nature colour pallette When I’m out taking a mindful walk in Spring I look at the colours in nature and how varied they are. Did you know the human eye can detect more shades of green than any other colour, and what better place to find them than in nature itself! There are many more colours then green in nature when you look closely.

I recommend making your own Nature Colour Palette. Take a postcard-sized piece of card and cover it in sticky back plastic, then walk out into nature and SLOW DOWN, taking a mindful approach to exploring your local green space. As you find different colours and shades peel of the plastic and stick samples for you to refer back to. It really can become a work of art. Looking through nature at the variety of leaves and foliage, they may all appear the same shade, until you start looking more closely.

Next time you are out in nature, take time to be present and look more closely, see what colours you notice emerging from the undergrowth and bursting to life around you.

By LEA KENDALL, Counsellor & Woodland Activity Leader www.leakendall.com www.woodlandclassroom.com

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Puzzle Page...

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

Loose hood (4) Finding (8) Tell a story (7) Speed music is played at (5) Bitumen (3) Denise van __ : English actress (5) Abatement (5) Answer (5) Avoided by social custom (5) What you hear with (3) Killer whales (5) Concentrated on (7) Smiling contemptuously (8) Associate (4)

Down 1 2 4 5 6 7 8 14 16 18

Buildings (13) Electrician (5) Wildcat (6) Branch of astronomy (12) People in jail (7) Amiably (4-9) Troublemaker (6-6) Fiasco (7) Seabird (6) Supporting frame used by an artist (5)

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

Here are the answers from February:

Classic Sudoku

ROSSETT HOUSE NURSERY For information about places please contact LYNSEY Tel: 01244 571872 info@rossetthousenursery.co.uk Rossett House Nursery, Llay Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0HT

ABRAHAM MASLOW

“Almost all creativity involves purposeful play.”