Essentials Mag October 2020 Rossett/Marford/Gresford/Holt/Farndon

October 2020

Your monthly local community magazine

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www.essentialsmag.co.uk

Welcome...

Welcome to our October issue!

As 2020 continues to challenge us in many ways I am pleased to note some positive signs emerging from the business community in our region. While economists debate whether our recovery will be V-shaped, U-shaped or L-shaped, ordinary people like us have just been getting on with making the proverbial lemonade out of lemons!

Here at EssentialsMAG we have worked hard to ensure our distribution team could return to work safely, so that your magazine arrives on your doormat as usual. Many of you have told us how much you value the sense of continuity that our magazines provide, and for that we thank you.

As our front cover suggests, Autumn is a beautiful time of year – take a moment to appreciate the wonders of the changing season with the trees turning golden and the crisp morning air.

Cover Image: Beautiful colours of Autumn

November Deadlines: Editorial - 9th October Advertising - 16th October

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 40+ pick-up points across the region.

You can also read our magazines online at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk

...And don’t forget the clocks go back one hour on Sunday 25th October. @EssentialsMagWrexham

Have a great month. Stay safe and well.

All the best, Vicky Heathfield

@EssentialsMAG1

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.

EMAIL: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk CALL: 01978 855459

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.

www.essentialsmag.co.uk

© EssentialsMAG Limited 2020.

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Can You Find the EssentialsMAG Mice?

Hidden throughout this magazine are five other mice, (just like the one here, but smaller) for you to find.

Find the five other mice for a chance of winning £25!

WIN!

HOW TO ENTER THE COMPETITION: 1. Simply read this magazine from cover-to-cover and find the other five little mice hiding amongst the adverts.

2. Go to: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/mice and complete the competition form with your answers.

3. Closing date: 31st October 2020.

The first correct answer drawn at random wins.

The usual EssentialsMAG competition terms and conditions apply.

This publication is printed on FSC® certified paper.

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

Local News Hollywood Stars in Wrexham Takeover Bid

The deal - which will be detailed to members before any final decision is made - would see the purchase of the local club for a "nominal sum" but also an immediate investment of £2m for the purposes of taking it forward as a business and as a successful football team.

Approval from the members to the deal would see the Trust relinquish control of the running of the club.

NHS COVID-19 app Launches People living in Wales and England are being urged to download the government's contact-tracing app following its official release. The NHS COVID-19 app works by logging the amount of time you spend near other app users, and the distance between you, so it can alert you if someone you have been close to later tests positive for COVID-19 – even if you don’t know each other.

The app will advise you to self-isolate if you have been in close contact with a confirmed case. It will also enable you to check symptoms, book a test if needed and get your test results.

The app is available for smartphones only - not tablets, smartwatches or other devices. To get started, go to Android's Google Play or Apple's App Store and search for "NHS Covid-19".

Or visit you can visit: https://covid19.nhs.uk Everyone 16 and over is being ask to download the app.

Share your news with us, submit an article at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/article

© Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com

The fan-owned club's members have voted overwhelmingly for talks to proceed. A total of 1,223 Wrexham Supporters Trust members - over 95% of those asked - voted for the move.

© Featureflash Photo Agency / Shutterstock.com

Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney are interested in investing in Wrexham Football Club. Deadpool and Detective Pikachu star Reynolds and It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia's McElhenney will put forward their vision for the club to members at a special general meeting.

Refugee Kindness Incensed by the inequality between those struggling and those of us with treasures languishing unused in garages, a local resident placed an advert on the community Facebook pages requesting an item of furniture to be donated to refugees who had been relocated to the Wrexham area. Immediately, residents offered donations. It was clear that local people wanted to help and weren’t prepared to allow other families to suffer.

From one Facebook post, requesting assistance, @Refugee Kindness – North Wales was born. In less than a week, the Facebook group had 500 members and offers of help came flooding in. A month on from the inception, the group has nearly 1,000 members, including 12 Liaison Officers.

There can be no doubt, that in those few short weeks, as a result of the kindness of local people, lives have been changed and bridges have been built.

At present, in Wrexham, there are around 120 refugee or Asylum seeker families. Although Asylum seekers in the UK are provided with housing, furniture is sparse and financial support amounts to £5.39 per day. They are not allowed to work; therefore, that sum has to provide for food, clothing and hygiene products.

“I would love to thank each and everyone in this Facebook group for helping people who are in need. This means a lot for people like us. To make us feel we are still worth to live our life as everyone else and to have a place looks like a real home. Thank you …”

- By ANONYMOUS - Wrexham refugee (27/08/2020)

Wales’ Wild Animal Circus Ban RSPCA Cymru is celebrating news that the Wild Animals and Circuses (Wales) Bill has been given Royal Assent.

The law is set to come into force on 1 December. The legislation comes off the back of 14 years of campaigning by the RSPCA, since the relevant powers were devolved to Wales – and will make it an offence to perform or exhibit a wild animal in a travelling circus.

The Wild Animals in Circuses Act, which bans the use of wild animals in circuses in England, came into force in January 2020.

Share your news with us, submit an article at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/article

Local News

A Note From: Gresford Retirement Club To all the elderly residents of the Gresford and Rossett area and those further afield, I am letting you all know that you have not been forgotten in these very difficult COVID times and we will be reopening the club as soon as we possibly can. We are crossing our fingers for a meeting before Christmas, but must of course wait and see how things develop. The most important thing is for all of us to help eliminate this disease whilst keeping ourselves safe.

I know most of you have lived through more difficult times than these, particularly during the war, and that you are all very positive and supportive to both each other and your families. But please don’t forget that there is help out there when you need it from the wonderful volunteers in our community.

Please ask for help when you need it and take special care, particularly if you are living alone, we will all meet up again very soon.

With best wishes from the committee.

If you wish to speak to a committee member please call: 01978 852735

Best Dressed Window Competition Wrexham traders are being encouraged to enter The Best Dressed Window or Market Stall Competition, to bring a touch of autumnal cheer across all sectors in the town centre.

Usually centred around the retail sector, the Wrexham Council Town Centre Team is hoping that all businesses join in and make an extra special effort by dressing their windows too.

The theme for the windows is, quite simply… Autumn. The competition offers a bit of fun and opens on Thursday 1st October and will run until Saturday 31st October, During this time, members of the public will be asked to vote for a first, second and third place.

Members of the public will be able to pick up voting forms from each of the businesses taking part. The winners will be presented with an engraved trophy which hopefully will be displayed in their winning windows! The winners will be announced on Friday 6th November, with the prizes being presented by The Mayor of Wrexham.

If you would like to enter please contact 01978 292538 or email events@wrexham.gov.uk

Share your news with us, submit an article at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/article

Wrexham Science Discovery Xplore!

The opening date for the relaunch of a popular science and discovery centre in Wrexham has been unveiled.

Xplore!, (formerly Techniquest GlyndĹľr) specialises in science, technology, engineering, arts and maths (STEAM) activities. The centre, which has relocated to the former TJ Hughes building in Wrexham town centre, will unveil more than 100 new exhibits at its re-opening on Saturday 3 October.

Hello Vicky, My name's Beth Linton, I'm from Marford and I'm a romance author. I've always written around work and the school run, but lockdown gave me the push to submit my romance series to a publisher - and it was accepted! Since the acceptance letter things have moved fast: 'The Guardians' Trust: Ana' has now been released and I am presently featured in Author's Corner as part of the University of Chester's Virtual Reunion, 2020.

'The Guardians' Trust' romance series is set in North Wales and Chester, and the series features many places locals will be familiar with. The heroine of book one works at Chester Zoo, another works at the Maelor hospital, and one of the main settings is based on the National Trust's Erddig.

At a time when escaping into a book has never been so important, perhaps your readers might ďŹ nd that escaping into a romance with local links will brighten up the dark nights that insist on closing in...

Best wishes, Beth www.bethlinton.co.uk

Share your news with us, submit an article at: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/article

Grow Your Confidence

By EssentialsMAG motivation contributor SASHA KENNEY Do you ever doubt yourself or your abilities? How often do you ask yourself: “Am I good enough?” If you are feeling low at times, you are not alone. We all have moments of low self-confidence.

Sometimes these moments are short, other times they linger around like a bad smell.

And there are times when we just need to lift ourselves up in an instant, because we simply can’t afford to stay low. Here are three remedies that will lift your levels of self-confidence straight away: Visualisation “If you can imagine it, you can achieve it” said William Arthur Ward. Now, Arthur is a clever man. And this is not some ‘woo-woo’ thing that only ‘tree huggers’ can practice.

Try it out. Close your eyes and visualise yourself how you want to be. See yourself as a confident person, ready to take on the room. Practice this regularly for a longterm impact.

Power posing A power pose is a posture that you mentally associate with being powerful.

Social psychologist, Professor Amy Cuddy, suggests that power poses don't just change how others perceive you, but they immediately change your body chemistry (increase testosterone and decrease cortisol levels), so you instantly feel more powerful and confident.

A couple of power poses you can try: • The Wonder Woman Pose: with hands on hips and feet spread wide apart.

• The Victory Pose: with hands raised up and apart over the head resembling a giant V, and head held high and proud.

Self-talk Positive self-talk is not about narcissism, or deceiving ourselves into thinking things that are inaccurate. It’s more about showing yourself some self-compassion.

In terms of how impactful positive self-talk can be, the research unanimously confirms that it has a huge impact. From sports professionals to losing weight, from overcoming interview nerves to combatting depression: talking to yourself positively has a proactive roll-on effect in behaviour changes.

You can regularly use these three positive affirmations, to increase your self confidence: • I am capable and strong, I can get through this.

• I am a confident person.

• If I want to, I can.

So next time you ask yourself “Am I good enough?” The answer is: OF COURSE YOU ARE! With love, Sasha x EssentialsMAG motivation contributor is Sasha Kenney, Wellbeing Coach, Director of Hoola Nation, World Record holder and Motivational Speaker. sasha@hoolanation.co.uk

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Rossett Community Council Latest News HWB YR ORSEDD – Rossett Community Hub Back in 2018 Rossett Community Council consulted residents and groups within the village on the future use of the unused toilet block within the park. It was clear from the feedback received that there was strong support to redevelop the building as a community hub, a place for people to meet, somewhere that would provide: • A shared community space available to groups of different ages and interests to meet, socialise and take part in shared activities.

• Somewhere for families to go to meet up with friends and grab a coffee while the children use the park facilities.

• A place that brings people together, reduces isolation and helps them form new relationships and support networks.

The Community Council advertised for volunteers to progress the development of the Hub. These volunteers came together to form a project group which has been meeting regularly for over 12 months.

Progress to date has included: • The establishment of a community business, Hwb yr Orsedd Ltd. • The development of a business plan • Research and learning from similar projects elsewhere • The commissioning of building plans • Research in to potential sources of funding and engagement with funding bodies • Engagement with the Community Council and County Council re: planning etc...

The project group with valuable help from Social Business Wales, was making progress up until the pandemic outbreak in March when they suspended the project. The group started meeting again in July and is now at a critical stage of the project; to secure the necessary funding to proceed with the exciting and ambitious plans for the Hub. Support from the local Member of the Senedd, Lesley Griffiths, has recently been gained for the project and she has promised to help with accessing potential funding streams.

The building plans for the Hub will shortly be submitted for planning approval. This will then allow us to obtain accurate estimates for our funding bids.

We will also be asking for the views of the residents and groups on the more detailed proposals and plans for the hub. This input and feedback from the community is critical to the success of any funding bids.

We will be conducting further formal consultation with residents and community groups but we also welcome informal feedback, comments and ideas.

If you wish to contact us please email: hwbyrorsedd@gmail.com We are just a group of enthusiastic volunteers who believe the hub will bring huge benefits to our community, if you feel that you can help in any way, particularly with specialist skills and knowledge please get in touch.

The Nags Head LAVISTER, ROSSETT Lovely village pub in the heart of Lavister serving a range of real ales, delicious food and a great atmosphere.

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Embrace rich and bejewelled tones this autumn that feel ultra luxurious. Darker colours and heavier fabrics create a moody atmosphere, which is a different take on a classic cosy feel.

Abstract Skies Wall Art £120 www.next.co.uk

Pineapple Table Lamp £58 www.wayfair.co.uk

Midnight 12Pc Boxset £38 www.sainsburys.co.uk

Rosalyn 100cm Round Mirror - Antique Gold £259 www.johnlewis.com

Lilo Pedal Bin £29 www.made.com

Velvet Aunty Chair - Green £338 www.amara.com

Autumn Already!

The nights are drawing in and we are starting to think about Halloween and Bonfire Night and of course the run up to Christmas... It is a busy time and we must not forget that our pets still need our time and attention!

Here are my top five tips to help you this autumn: 1. Check your pet’s microchip details are up-to-date Make sure your pet microchip details are up to date so should your animal stray, they have a good chance of being reunited with you. Many pets will be terrified of the noise from fireworks or the excitement of trick or treaters at the door and could run away or try to hide in all the confusion.

2. Keep warm For dog owners, please never leave your pet outside unattended, especially whilst its cold. To keep your dog warm, you will also need to keep them dry. Puppies, senior dogs, and small breeds are most at risk of getting a chill or even frostbite or hypothermia. It might be prudent to invest in a dog coat or sweater!

3. Maintain parasite protection Remember fleas, worms and ticks are a year-round issue. A popular myth is that flea problems only happen during summer. This is a real misconception, as with the regular use of central heating and their resilient nature, fleas have become a year-round problem.

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4.Be aware of potential environmental toxins The wetter weather will bring out the mushrooms and toadstools. Poisonous toadstools can cause a variety of symptoms, ranging from vomiting and diarrhoea to neurological effects and organ damage. Try to prevent any problems by inspecting your garden before you let your pet out and check the environment when you walk your dog. Another problem is Lungworm dogs can get lungworm by eating larvae found in infected snails, slugs, or frogs.

5. Maintain your walks Your dog will really appreciate regular walks despite the cold/wet weather and the health benefits are clear for our animal companions as well as ourselves.

Get out there and enjoy the health and social benefits of walking. Your pet will enjoy it and I am sure you will too.

Remember to check and clean your dog’s feet after exercise as stones and plant material can get caught between toes and may cause irritation or trauma.

Always consult your Vet if you have any concerns about your pet!

Stay safe & healthy!

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

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What is network marketing?

This is a business model in which independent representatives form a network of distributors and sell a company’s products. The distributors are also encouraged to recruit other independent sales representatives in order to reach as many potential customers as possible. Ultimately, your success in network marketing is determined by the amount of effort you put in. It's all about building a network of people all buying or using the products or services you're selling. The company then pays you bonuses which increase with the size of your network. Excitement and enthusiasm will make all the necessary tasks much easier and more enjoyable - and you'll be able to maintain that excitement if you're working with a company you truly believe in, so find a product or service you're passionate about. If you have ever dreamed of starting your own business and creating a better work- life balance, then take a look at the possibilities of network marketing.

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Pack Your Bags for a Great Adventure...

By EssentialsMAG travel contributor Abbey Richardson at DELMAR WORLD in Gresford

Barbados has it all!

If you are looking for adventure, food, culture or relaxation Barbados has it covered!

Barbados combines award-winning beaches, luxurious resorts, and heavenly cuisine.

Away from the beaches there are traditional local towns, plus unique attractions.

There are two main beach areas in Barbados; firstly, the West Coast, which is often referred to as the ‘Platinum Coast’, and is renowned for its clear, calm waters. My favourite beach along this coast has to be Paynes Bay Beach, as it’s one of the West Coast’s best spots for swimming and snorkelling - you may even see a few turtles there. In contrast, the South Coast of Barbados has slightly rougher waters, as it’s a mixture of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, although it is still safe for swimming and water sports.

The South Coast is home to Saint Lawrence Gap - one of the best-known areas in the country. Saint Lawrence Gap features a 1.5km stretch of bars, hotels, restaurants and shops along a white, sandy beachfront. This area is great if you like to get out and about, whereas if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, the West Coast is for you.

On both coasts, you will find an abundance of high quality restaurants that range from fine dining to more local cuisine. The wide range of dining options on offer means that there is something to suit every taste and budget.

Inland, you can explore sugar cane fields and beautiful botanical gardens. I visited St Nicholas Abbey in the Saint Peter region, which is a plantation house built in 1658 and is one of only three genuine Jacobean mansions in the Western Hemisphere.

As well as being able to take a guided tour of the house, St Nicholas Abbey also has its very own rum distillery and a recently opened steam railway. This steam locomotive takes you on a journey through the plantation fields and mahogany woods, culminating in the expansive highland view of the east coast from Cherry Tree Hill.

There are many festivals to keep you entertained too, including Holetown Festival and Crop Over Festival, where you can shimmy away with the locals.

I was lucky enough to be invited to the Prime Minister’s house for a garden party, in celebration of the start of the Crop Over season. It was a magical night with musical influences of soul, jazz, spouge (a local Bajan pop), R&B and calypso.

“INLAND YOU CAN EXPLORE SUGAR CANE FIELDS AND BOTANICAL GARDENS”

Abbey Recommends….

Take a tour of the Mount Gay Distillery, which is believed to be the world’s oldest surviving producer of rum. You will enjoy a guided tour that will take you through the stages of the rum making process, which ideally, ends with a complimentary rum tasting!

Go to Fish Friday at Oistins! Every Friday after sunset, the coastal village of Oistins goes wild for fish. Locals celebrate the weekly catch by frying and grilling their freshly snared swordfish, mahi-mahi and flying fish along the waterfront.

TIME DIFFERENCE: -5 hours CURRENCY: US$ and Barbadian dollar FLYING TIME: 8 hours 30 minutes (approx) TOP TIPS: To get into the best restaurants you must book in advance.

Eat like a local at Oistins.

Go on a Catamaran Cruise. This was a highlight of my trip, we travelled from the South to the West Coast and got the opportunity to snorkel with the resident turtle population off the coast of Holetown.

Eat like a local and try the local cuisine such as Cou Cou, Conkies and Breadfruit - and don’t forget to try the Rum Punch!

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

Getting on one of the Reggae Buses is a great way to get around the Island quickly.

Go to local chattel houses to buy souvenirs.

BRHS - Burton Rossett Horticultural Society Gardening News

By EssentialsMAG gardening contributor CAROL EDWARDS Well here we are in October already - this is the time of year to start tidying up our gardens ready for the cold weather, and there are a number of jobs we can do. The lawn for example doesn’t need to be mowed as often, and I usually spike mine -with a fork to help moss from taking over during the wet weather, and the edges can be re-cut too. Dahlia tubers and gladioli corms should be lifted and stored in a frost-free area such as a shed to dry over winter. Any half hardy plants will need protecting from early frosts with fleece or put into a frost-free greenhouse.

Prune climbing and rambling roses when they have finished flowering, and tie in the stems, any rose leaves should be cleared-up to prevent black spot from over-wintering as well.

Also sweep up any other leaves as they provide a cosy home for slugs and snails! I have a large copper beech tree in my garden which makes quite a mess, I hope to invest in a lightweight leaf blower this year to make my life a bit easier. Of course now is the time of year when the leaves turn and give us an amazing show of reds and oranges which is very cheering especially on a dull day.

I have replanted part of our wild flower garden with foxgloves, and have saved some seeds from our poppies to put in too, I hope to grow some borage to add to the mix later. Much to my surprise our runner bean plants have started to flower again and I hope to get a few more beans before the weather gets too cold. The tomato plants grown in pots have been a bit late but are now ripening, they are a plum tomato which makes really good sauces and freezes well in containers.

Now is the time to plant garlic as well. This year I didn’t grow any cucumbers, but I have missed them so next year will make sure to grow some. At the start of the year I wasn’t well so decided to cut down on some things but am a lot better now and hope to be back to normal next year and grow more things.

It only remains for me to wish you all happy gardening and make sure you keep safe.

Information provided by: www.brhs.org.uk

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Local Birds & Wildlife

By Rev. Hugh Linn Last month, most of our summer visitors embarked on their migratory journeys to southern wintering grounds. A few days before their departure our House Martin nestlings were still being fed in their nests not only by their parents but also by half a dozen or so other adults, then, on September 5th, they all disappeared.

STARLING FLOCK

Following their departure, the empty nests have been occasionally re-occupied for use as overnight accommodation by later migrants on passage. At the same time as we had to say goodbye to our Martins the deciduous trees at the bottom of our garden were taken over as a temporary dormitory by a mixed flock of Crows, SOUTHERN HAWKER Rooks and Jackdaws. This has been the pattern for some years now and the roost will probably remain occupied nightly until the leaves have fallen and the bare trees no longer provide safe cover. The number of birds involved is considerable - well over 100 at a recent count.

At times the noise is deafening!

Starlings have also been forming local flocks. 166 individuals regularly spaced out on overhead wires near Borras were described by one observer as resembling plainsong musical notation. Numbers are steadily building up in the tall trees alongside the main road through Gresford village.

Huge flocks of wintering Starlings (known as murmurations) sometimes made up of more than 100,000 birds are amongst the most remarkable spectacles our natural world has to offer. The RSPB Reserve at Conwy contains one of these roosts and is well worth a visit on a clear winter's evening.

Kingfishers have recently been much in evidence on the River Alyn around Rossett.

A particularly obliging individual was observed posing on a post by the mill wheel but most of the sightings typically consist of little more than a brief blue flash accompanied by a high-pitched whistle.

On 30th August two Hobby Falcons were chasing migratory Swallows over Dodleston.

Dragonflies are also a favourite prey species for Hobbies. Colourful Southern Hawkers have been seen around a number of garden ponds throughout September and there have been further Red Kite sightings at several local sites.

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WREXHAM 26-30 Grosvenor Road, Wrexham LL11 1BU 01978 291456 wrexham@ghplegal.com

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Heard Building Contractors & Developers

Low Wood, Quarry Brow, Marford 4/5 bedroom luxury property in a generous plot with views coming to market soon!

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

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Have you ever wanted a trip on a vintage London bus?

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Expertise On Your Side

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Pumpkin Risotto SERVES 4 INGREDIENTS 1 small pumpkin - after peeling and scraping out the seeds, you need about 400g/14oz 1 tbsp olive oil, plus a drizzle for the pumpkin 2 garlic cloves 8 spring onions 25g butter 200g risotto rice 2 tsp ground cumin 1l hot vegetable stock, plus extra splash if needed 50g grated parmesan (or vegetarian alternative) Small handful coriander, roughly chopped

METHOD Heat oven to 180C/160C fan/ gas 4. Chop up the pumpkin into 1.5cm cubes.

Put it on a baking tray, drizzle over some oil, then roast for 30 minutes.

Put the garlic in a sandwich bag, then bash lightly with a rolling pin until crushed.

Cut up the spring onions.

Heat 1 tbsp oil with the butter in your pan over a medium heat. Add the spring onions and garlic. Once the onions are soft, but not getting brown, add the rice and cumin. Stir well to coat in the buttery mix for about 1 minute.

Now add half a cup of the stock, and stir every now and then until it has all disappeared into the rice. Carry on adding and stirring in a large splash of stock at a time, until you have used up all the stock – this will take about 20 minutes.

Check the rice is cooked. If it isn’t, add a splash more stock, and carry on cooking for a bit. Once the rice is soft enough to eat, gently stir in the grated cheese, chopped coriander and roasted pumpkin.

Trying out our recipe?

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PUMPKIN FACTS: Pumpkins are part of the squash family and they are usually large, round and vibrant orange with a slightly ribbed, tough and smooth outer skin. The nutritional profile of pumpkins is impressive... they are a great source of potassium (more than a medium banana!) and contain beta-carotene - which is a carotenoid that converts to vitamin A (responsible for potentially reducing certain disease risks). They also contain some minerals including calcium and magnesium, as well as vitamins E, C and some B vitamins. Pumpkin is low in calories and is a great source of dietary fibre. Plus 80g of pumpkin counts as one portion of your five-a-day.

Dodleston Local History Group

By EssentialsMAG history contributor BERNARD DENNIS, MBE “The Archers” - an everyday story of landed gentry!

In Rossett the beautiful Elizabethan manor house Trevalyn Hall can be seen as you leave the village towards Marford. This is a Grade II listed building and dates from 1576 when it was built by John Trevor.

Trevalyn Hall, was amongst many other things, the venue for one of the earliest social archery societies, founded in Wrexham in 1787 by Sir Foster Cunliffe, third baronet of Acton Park. This society became known as The Royal British Bowmen (RBB) and was the first to admit ladies into its membership. The records show that a Miss Boscawen hosted a meeting at Trevalyn Hall on 4 July 1822.

It received the Royal Patronage from the Prince of Wales (later King George IV) and many of the grand houses and estates in the locality would host archery meetings twice a month, usually between April through to October.

Estates such as Trevalyn Hall, Acton Park, Leeswood, Wynnstay, Bryn-y-pys, Iscoyd, Marchwiel, Gwersyllt, Erddig and Eaton Hall, to name just a few, would host very social but highly competitive archery meetings. At about 3pm at each meeting, the competing guests would be treated to a feast of cold meats, hot vegetables with common white wine and port being imbibed. Songs would be sung and a new one composed to suit the host and venue.

The words of one song give a clue to the volume of wine and port consumed and imply that the arrows didn't all meet their intended target; “At (such and such) the other day The clouds were in a passion His art no archer could compare Since grape shot came in fashion” The archery meetings continued during the summer months from 1787 to 1794 when the RBB was disbanded as many of the men were called to take up arms against Napoleon. It wasn't until 1819 that the RBB was revived and the meetings started again in earnest. The society closed in 1880 mainly due to the expense of holding the meetings and also a new, socially accepted sport was becoming the fashionable thing to be seen doing: this was Lawn Tennis.

Several prints exist of the RBB meetings.

One held at Gwersyllt in 1789; a coloured print of Erddig in 1822; Eaton Hall in 1832 which features a young Princess Victoria and her mother and an undated sketch at Acton Park, Wrexham.

RBB silver button (dated about 1790) found in Wrexham

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Gresford and District Community Library

Gresford Community Library – chugging along nicely, thanks to you. The ‘Order and Collect Service’ - designed to keep the virus at bay – has got off to a flying start!

How does it work?

It’s really easy. You can order the books you’d like by phone, by sending an email or by completing the online order form on our website – just fill it in and press ‘SUBMIT’.

You can put a note through our letterbox, leave a message on our phone – please give your name, library card and contact number. Some people are simply coming along to the library and telling us what they’d like; we’re putting their orders together, there and then.

Another great way is to browse online. Go to the Wrexham Library catalogue and log in using your library card number and PIN. (Don’t know your PIN? Get in touch – we can tell you what it is.) Once logged in, go to ‘Advanced Search’, which is at the top right of the screen. About halfway down the next screen you will see the heading ‘Additional Limits’ and there you will see ‘Library’ – we’re in this list. Choose Gresford and click ‘Advanced Search’.

Finally, select ‘Gresford’ from the list of libraries on the left of the next screen and choose ‘Include’ Bingo! You can look at our list of authors, also on the left, and see the books which are actually on our shelves.

Click ‘more’ to add to the list of authors.

Choose the book(s) you want, one-by-one, (‘Place Hold’); we’ll get them ready for you to collect next time we’re open.

Don’t forget - you can borrow from our extensive jigsaw library (not part of the online catalogue; send us an order form for these). We’re very happy to receive your donated jigsaws and books too.

New books for you and yours We’re adding lots of new stock to our shelves all the time. For the youngsters, we’ve recently added books by Chris Hoy and David Baddiel; we also have KS2 curriculum topic boxes help with the return to learning.

For the grownups, we’ve added the latest

by Elly Griffiths, Dilly Court and Mark Billington, among others. If there are books or authors you would like us to stock, please let us know.

Get in touch Phone: 01978 852627. Email: gresfordlibrary@hotmail.com Website: http://gresforddistrictcommunitylibrary.org.uk/ Facebook: @GresfordandDistrictCommunityLibrary Wrexham online catalogue:https://wales.ent.sirsidynix.net.uk/client/en_GB/wrexham_en/?

For the moment we are only open on Tuesday afternoons (2-5pm) and Saturday mornings (10am-1pm). You can return books any time we’re open. See you soon!!

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Gresford Community Council Latest News Once again special thanks to Ms Marion Williams and lake volunteers who turned out in September to tidy the lake and its surroundings. COVID- 19 protocols were followed, and two large skips provided by the Community Council filled. We are sure you will agree that, thanks to volunteer’s efforts, the lake continues to be a scenic focal point for all to enjoy.

Lighting The nights are drawing in and we will all benefit from the LED lighting installed by the Community Council. We hope you’ll agree the heritage lanterns positioned around Gresford Church are more in keeping with the location. If you notice any faulty lights then please report them to the Community Council Clerk with the number and location of the Column, and brief description of the issue. WCBC lights can be reported via their website or by telephoning 01978 298989. All columns are now numbered so you can identify which Council is responsible!

Playgrounds It is lovely to have the playgrounds reopened once again, and they have been busy!

Equipment was repainted during closure and looks much brighter. Please note the COVID guidance on the signs around the play areas and keep safe. Unfortunately, we’ve had reports of adults playing on the equipment and on the MUGA, but these are for children and young adults only!

Work will commence shortly on trees at Gresford Cemetery and Allington Park following the survey carried out this year. Unfortunately, we will lose some established trees due to disease but we intend to replace them.

Christmas will soon be upon us!

The Community Council is looking to see if it could provide some additional Christmas lighting around the main village area as well as the Christmas Tree, and possibly in Marford.

Do you have any thoughts for a suitable location? If so, please contact us via our website.

Community Agent Community Agent, Ruth Thompson continues to support older residents and is looking to set up a walking group for those who have been shielding due to COVID, in addition to her online coffee morning. She would also be pleased to hear from anyone interested in joining a ‘Men’s Shed’ group. If you or anyone you know would like to take part in new social activities, why not give her a call on 07747 431 607 for a chat?

Please have a look at our website and post a comment on any of the above items: http://www.gresford.org.uk/contact-us.html, or contact the Clerk. clerkgresford@gmail.com / Tel: 07470 631 184

We have a fantastic 1, 2 & 3 course Christmas Fayre menu available late November and throughout December - plus our special 4-course Christmas Day menu, all served and prepared to the highest standard using the best local ingredients.

Bookings Now Being Taken 01244 555 300 www.thegoldenlionrossett.co.uk THE GOLDEN LION, CHESTER ROAD, ROSSETT, WREXHAM LL12 0HN

Alyn Family Doctors Latest News This winter, protecting yourself and those around you is more important than ever, and flu can be very serious. People who are at high risk of COVID-19 are also those most at risk of complications from flu. Having a safe flu vaccine is one of the best ways of protecting yourself from catching or spreading flu.

This year, the eligibility criteria have been expanded.

The vaccine is available to: • All patients aged over 65 • All patients who have received shielding letters and their household contacts • Registered carers • Pregnant Women • Patients aged under 65 with the following health conditions: - Diabetes.

- A heart problem.

- A chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including asthma that requires regular steroid inhalers or tablets.

- Kidney disease (from stage 3).

- Lowered immunity due to disease or treatment.

- Liver disease.

- Had a stroke or mini stroke.

- A neurological condition.

- A problem with your spleen.

- Higher body fat (Body Mass Index of 40 or above).

- People with a learning disability.

If any apply to you, you are at increased risk of complications from flu even if you feel healthy, and it’s important you are vaccinated.

You can check your eligibility for an NHS flu vaccine at www.beatflu.org This year, we will be delivered our largest ever flu vaccination campaign. In order to safely vaccinate increased numbers whilst maintaining social distancing, we will be holding our clinics at the Llay Royal British Legion. There is plenty of car-parking space available, a nearby bus stop (Llay New Road) and a discount from Yellow Cars taxis for patients attending. The size, facilities and accessibility of the Royal British Legion allows us to operate a safe and efficient system. We will also be utilizing barcode scanners to reduce the amount of time needed for face-to-face interaction. All our staff have undertaken training on how to safely deliver the vaccine wearing PPE. We are hugely grateful to Llay Royal British Legion for their support for all of our communities during this difficult time.

Your safety is our top priority. Let’s #beatflu together this year.

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

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Financial News with Hadlow Edwards My Kingdom - for a house Some hints and tips this month - on ‘being prepared’ if you are perhaps thinking of buying your first home or looking to move house in the year or two ahead.

First off, what do we KNOW about the mortgage providers? In short, they are very cautious and to get the best of the available deals your application needs to be ‘squeaky clean’! You need at present realistically a 15% deposit. Mortgages above 85% of the purchase price are just not out there in our experience right now.

boosted from this source. Food for thought perhaps.

So, a good question (I can almost hear you asking it) - is ‘why are lenders so tough/cautious at the moment?’

Perhaps two reasons. First, they have perhaps learnt from lessons of the past. The 2008 banking crisis has strange similarities to the effects of COVID-19 this year on job security and lots of enforced changes.

You need a very strong credit score - no late payments on anything, no problem on your bank account and even the correct Electoral Role details has a bearing.

Second, there is much conjecture about what will happen to house prices in 2021 and beyond. The truth is, I don’t know (in fact the absolute truth is - nobody knows) - but the majority seem firmly of the opinion that residential property prices could be set to fall.

On top of the above, for the lenders ‘affordability’ is the key. If you have any personal loan debt outstanding or credit cards - do your best to clear them off.

They will likely have a big impact on what you can borrow against your earnings.

So my take on it is - if you are looking to get a foothold and buy or move to that house you just can’t resist, prepare your ground now.

Some of the deals available are astonishingly cheap on the face of it, but your application needs to meet tough criteria.

Preparing yourself to make a purchase (whether you are first timers or moving house) may involve the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’. In the last year or two parental support or help from grandparents, has become far more commonplace. It is thought now that ‘family funding’ stand-alone would be the 3rd or 4th biggest mortgage lender in the UK. We see lots of ‘intergenerational’ purchases - where loans are supported, affordability is helped and deposits are

Last tip to finish - speak really nicely to mum/dad/grandparents and take advice early as to just what you can do and what you can borrow with the right support.

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.

We would welcome the chance to talk through your plans so please do drop us a line or call the office for an initial meeting.

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

Contributed by Warren Hadlow Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited.

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

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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.

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Lesley Griffiths MS Member of the Senedd for Wrexham Dear Readers, it is a pleasure to have been asked to contribute to EssentialsMAG for the first time. My regular column will aim to keep you up-to-date with my work as Wrexham’s Member of the Senedd.

As you are all aware, for the majority of this year the coronavirus pandemic has dominated the agenda. First and foremost, we must remember all those who are sadly no longer with us. Tragically, the number of deaths in Wales from COVID-19 has exceeded 1,500 and I offer my sincerest condolences to the family and friends of those who have lost their lives.

Coronavirus has affected every aspect of our lives and has undoubtedly been the most formidable challenge I have faced since being elected to represent Wrexham in the Senedd.

It has transformed the way we work with virtual meetings becoming the norm. Wales was one of the first Parliaments in the world to meet virtually and bilingually. Welsh Government Ministers immediately resumed their duties on a virtual basis following lockdown measures.

Following Government advice, my constituency office remains closed for face-to-face meetings. However, my staff and I have worked remotely throughout this challenging period, offering advice and support to constituents in need. The number of constituents contacting me for assistance has increased significantly, understandably in these difficult times. If there is anything I can do to help, please contact me via the details below.

Government, I have helped coordinate the nation’s response to this deadly virus.

Coronavirus regulations are reviewed in Wales every three weeks, as set out by law. When making these extremely difficult judgements, the Welsh Government acts on the latest scientific evidence and its overriding aim is to protect the health and wellbeing of the nation.

We may be passed the peak of the pandemic but coronavirus has not gone away and people must remain vigilant.

During the summer, Wrexham experienced an increase in COVID-19 cases. Fortunately, after introducing proactive measures, the authorities contained the spread of the virus in the community. At the time of writing, the Welsh Government has been forced to reintroduce stricter lockdown measures in Caerphilly after a spike in cases. This serves as a stark warning to us all. If transmission rates rise dramatically, the Welsh Government will act.

I am grateful to everyone in Wrexham who has made sacrifices and followed the Welsh Government’s guidance. We must look after one another, continue to observe social distancing guidelines and practice good hand hygiene.

Best wishes, Lesley Griffiths, MS

Seven months have passed since lockdown measures were introduced, however, I fear we are only taking our first steps on what will be a long road to recovery.

As the Minister for Environment, Energy & Rural Affairs and a member of the Welsh

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

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Tilston Training: Teaching the Drivers of this Region for Almost 20 Years Tilston School of Motoring, as it was known, started delivering driving lessons to customers in Wrexham back in January 2001. Now trading as Tilston Training Ltd the family run company is still owned and run by the founder members husband and wife duo Steve and Samantha Tilston.

Steve and Samantha are both fully qualified DVSA approved Instructors and are both standards checked by the DVSA and have gained the highest Grade A rating. They have their very own unique customer Test Centre for all vocational tests, where you can be trained and sit your test in just a day!

Tilston Training offer all kinds of driver training, including: • Car / Car & Trailer • Minibus / Minibus & Trailer • 7.5 Tonne / 7.5 Tonne & Trailer • Caravan & Motorhome

Samantha continued: “Only a very few training providers in the country have their own test centre like ours where the examiner conducts the test from our premises. This makes the whole test process far less stressful and gives us one of the highest pass rates in the country.”

“Recently, we’ve refocused our efforts to the Driving Lessons and Driving Instructor Training side of our business.” Samantha told us. “Our Intensive Driver Training Courses for trailers through to minibuses has proved to be so successful - with one of the highest pass rates in the country we now offer these intensive courses to learner drivers too - but in our own unique way. So, for all those learners who are fed up with one lesson a week going on for months and months they will now have the chance to possibly pass in just a week, whilst being trained by their choice of male or female Grade A rated instructor.”

Tilston Training is looking for new instructors to join their team. Whether you’re already an Instructor wanting a new challenge, or you fancy a complete career change and the chance of earning up to £40,000+ pa, Tilston Training offer training packages to get you through the ADI qualification process. This includes training for part 1 (theory), part 2 (driving test) and part 3 (instructional test). After passing the instructor qualification process, the successful candidates will be offered a franchise with Tilston Training.

For details call Samantha on: 01978 851179.

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Gresford Trust Newsdesk

By Jenny Dutton We are now open for some exercise classes; Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, Hoola Hoop, Taekwondo and New Wave Dance, Exercise with Baby & Laughter Tots. Sadly we are still unable to host social meetings. All Clubs must provide ‘Risk Assessments’ and ‘Protocols’ for the safe use of the land, their players and members. Cricket is allowed but without access to the changing rooms, tennis courts and bowls greens have been in regular use. Gresford Athletic Football has returned to training, but adult matches remain banned at present.

Gresford Athletic Junior Football Club is making two appeals: All junior teams are eager to welcome new players and a plea for any parents with children in Year 2 (under 7s) who would like to get into coaching their child’s team. Interested? Please contact Michelle: gresfordjfc@outlook.com Trustees continue to monitor the financial interests of the charity and we are currently exploring leasing a small section of land adjacent to Balmuir Garage to aid with the upgrade of gas supplies to the village. C-19 has had a major impact on our cash flow, and it would be remiss of the Trustees not to explore every avenue for funding to ensure the facilities remain available for future generations.

Gresford Bowls Club - League matches have taken place in Gresford since 1927 when the East Denbighshire Amateur Bowling League (now Wrexham Bowling League) was formed. Gresford Village joined as founder members. C-19 brought this continuous run to an end when the League program was abandoned without a bowl being delivered. From June, as restrictions eased, social bowling returned to the greens on a limited basis.

Further concessions allowed the club to stage its long-established open competition; The Fields Cup on 30th August. This had originally been presented to the Club by Charles Dutton (father of Joy Lloyd, a keen bowler) of Fields Farm, Old Wrexham Road, in 1951. Entries received from a wide area were restricted to 32. Ultimately in a fiercely contested final, Paul Hallett of Llay BC narrowly overcame Andrew Armstrong of Cunliffe BC 21- 18.

Secretary, Chris Edwards was widely praised by competition participants and Dave Mathias, President of the Welsh Crown Green Bowling Association for his detailed planning which enabled the competition to take place, complying with current restrictions, thus achieving a notable success for the Club.

The competition was again sponsored by Wingetts Estate Agents, Wrexham.

Thankfully, anti-social behaviour reported last month has subsided, but isolated incidents still occur. We are grateful that our appeal for your co-operation has been heeded and look forward to reducing problems further.

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Maes y Pant Latest News

by Chairman Trevor Britton

In 2020 there have been two things that bring a sinking heart to most of us. One is COVID-19 and lockdowns, the other is the saga of Brexit continuing.

For MyPAG and for many local users of Maes y Pant, there is a third – ‘bikes in the quarry’. During lockdown when most sites locally were closed, our site had a larger number of visitors and a very much larger number of bikes than usual many from beyond our local area. This put pressures on the site and because of safety issues, not to mention environmental concerns, we put a ban on bikes until we could resolve them.

Since lockdown restrictions were eased for public spaces, the pressures on the site have eased but it had become clear to MyPAG that we had to have some clear rules if bikes were to be allowed back.

Bikes are permitted on site again but with provisos. Cycling on the main footpaths is allowed following a clockwise circular route from the main entrance. There should not be any bikes off the main circular paths except where trails have been made and signposted.

We have liaised with the local ‘biking community’ and thanks to their hard work, they have created two downhill trails and a circular track at the bottom of the trails. A smaller track for young riders is also planned. We have put temporary signs up to support this (although some have disappeared and or become weather damaged). Permanent signs are in preparation. These completed trails will be inspected initially by a professional bike track constructor and one of our directors will attend a training course and then inspect the trails monthly. Once made, we don’t want to see anybody with a spade adapting the trails!

We’ve worked hard to get to the position we have. We know that some people are upset by what we’ve agreed, but we felt the situation was getting out of control and the Directors are liable for visitor safety. Even so, we felt the site should be available for enjoyment by all age groups.

Looking at the bigger picture, we are about to start planning for our next five year woodland plan. If you have views on this then we would ask you to become a Friend of Maes y Pant and we will keep you informed via e-mail. Application forms can be found on our website: www.maes-y-pant.com. Click on the ‘About us’ tab.

For more information please visit: www.maes-y-pant.com

Heading for Extinction

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF The recent BBC documentary ‘Extinction: The Facts’ provided a harrowing overview of our impact on the natural world. If you didn’t see it, I’d strongly recommend that you catch it on BBC iPlayer.

The headline messages are shocking: • 1 million of the world’s 8 million species are threatened with extinction by 2100.

• Whilst extinction is something that happens naturally, human activity has accelerated it massively - the current rate of extinction is around 100 times the natural rate.

• This is being driven by climate change, pollution, destruction of natural habitats and direct exploitation such as overfishing.

• Loss of biodiversity presents a direct threat to all of us.

These aren’t the claims of ‘extremists’; they’re from the most authoritative sources available, such as the United Nations and the World Wildlife Fund.

The wildfires in the USA provide further evidence that the climate and ecological emergency isn’t somewhere in the future it’s happening right now.

Accepting that we can’t go on as we are and that we’ve all been doing things we shouldn’t isn’t easy. However, feeling guilty about what we did or didn’t do in the past won’t help - what matters are the actions we take now.

Here are some things we can do: • Ask your MP to support the CEE Bill this has the support of over 50 MPs from across most political parties. It proposes urgent action to address the climate and ecological emergency.

• Consume less - this is one of the easiest things we can do and it saves money.

The manufacture and distribution of products uses energy and other resources, whilst generating emissions and other pollution.

• Reduce meat and dairy consumption their production contributes more to climate change and the loss of wildlife habitats than plant-based alternatives.

• Create a mini wildlife sanctuary every living thing is part of one big interconnected ecosystem; plants and animals such as insects at the bottom of food chains are absolutely critical.

If we have a garden, we can help by not using chemicals and allowing natural life to flourish.

• Join or support a campaign - Extinction Rebellion and Friends of the Earth have local groups and there are many other local environmental campaigns.

Alternatively, make a donation to an organisation campaigning on this issue.

In the words of Robert Swan: “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it”.

EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com

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Legal Advice Questions & Answers

By EssentialsMAG legal advice contributor CAROL McGUIRE Marital Issues during the Lockdown period Sad though it is to say, but the Lockdown has placed couples in a worse situation than ever. They are spending more time together and problems that were overlooked before the Lockdown, have risen like the Phoenix from the Ashes.

What were minor irritations have magnified treble fold.

Prior to the Lockdown, most people had very busy lives and because of that, those irritations were overlooked, because we didn't have time to concentrate on them.

Now, with people not working or working from home, presents an entirely new scenario, the likes of which that no one has experienced before. People present in a totally different way and what may have been an extremely ‘laid back’ spouse has become the total opposite. It can even lead to physical violence as there is no other outlet. It's a very difficult position to be in and instead of hating one another more, concentration should be placed upon working things out together. Unfortunately, this doesn't always happen and bickering can lead to mental health issues, that no one would have ever thought about before.

In my practice, I replaced actual face-toface contact with telephone appointments, which seems to have worked well, because it's given people time to digest the advice given and to act upon it. Mediators have also been willing to do telephone appointments too. It keeps the client safe as well as our staff.

It doesn't stop us from taking any proceedings because paperwork can be approved over the Internet. In some ways it has helped the nervous client to take charge of issues that previously would have been shunned. It's amazing as to how personalities can change and maybe will remain long after the lockdown has been lifted. So, it can have positive effects on people.

The real issue is whether or not you can live with that person, knowing that he/she has a Jekyll and Hyde personality that you were never aware of before and which you are frightened of, should the current scenario continue, or indeed, replaced with another virus in the future. Separation and Divorce are of course the two options that need to be thought about, if you feel there is no turning back.

Whilst Boris Johnson has urged people back to work in offices, the First Minister of Wales is adopting a more cautious strategy. The common view is that if it is an emergency situation that you need help upon, then a meeting can take place, but with all the precautions possible i.e. sanitising gel; masks; screens and such like.

The point I seek to make is not to live in silence enduring something that is causing you enormous pain when solicitors are available to help, even if only by telephone.

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

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Clock Change

By Infant Sleep Consultant RHIAN MILLS There is definitely a hint of Autumn in the air - the nights are drawing in, and this means that the clock change is almost upon us. This one is usually a bit easier to navigate than the Spring clock change - darker nights make children naturally more primed for sleep at bedtime. But how do you manage bedtime with one more hour in the day?

Here are some options on how to approach this clock change: Do nothing, and just switch to the new time on the Sunday morning.

In my experience this works well with both of my children, it seems to have no effect on them. Say they usually wake at 7am, this will make it 6am. Sure, the day will pan out slightly different to usual as it has one more hour in it, but I bet you won’t even notice.

If your child is still of napping age, bring naps slightly earlier on the Sunday if you can see them getting sleepy. If you can tell they’re ready for bed a little earlier, then go ahead and do an early bed – it shouldn’t have much of an impact, and come the Monday you’ll be right on track again.

Gradually move your little one’s bedtime earlier by 15 minutes each night for the four days leading up to the change.

FOR EXAMPLE: if normal bedtime is 7pm, on the Wednesday put them to bed at 7.15pm, on the Thursday put them to bed at 7.30pm, on the Friday put them to bed at 7.45pm, and on the Saturday put them to bed at 8pm. Then when you wake on the Sunday everything will be back to normal.

Make the adjustment over two nights.

FOR EXAMPLE: if normal bedtime is 7pm, on the Friday put them to bed at 7.30pm, and on the Saturday put them to bed at 8pm. Then when you wake on the Sunday everything will be back to normal.

Put them to bed later by one hour on the Saturday night.

FOR EXAMPLE: if bedtime is usually 7pm, then delay bedtime until 8pm. Then when you wake on the Sunday everything will be back to normal. This can get tricky if your little one becomes overtired with the late bed - I’d recommend this option the least, but if you want to go with it then consider pushing nap(s) back slightly on the Saturday.

EssentialsMAG Infant Sleep Consultant is Rhian Mills, from Rested Mama restedmama@gmail.com, Tel: 07530 015704

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EssentialsMAG Book Club

The Testaments

by MARGARET ATWOOD

Pocket Wine 2021

by HUGH JOHNSON

Dragon Mountain

by KATIE TSANG

In this electrifying sequel to The Handmaid's Tale, Margaret Atwood answers the question that has tantalised readers for 33 years: What happened to Offred? The Testaments is devastating in its immediacy whilst remaining a timeless piece of faultless storytelling, finally revealing Atwood's vision of Gilead's future.

Hugh Johnson's Pocket Wine Book is the essential reference book for everyone who buys wine in shops, restaurants, or on the internet. Now in its 44th year, it has no rival as the comprehensive, annual guide, providing clear succinct facts and commentary on the wines, growers and wine regions of the whole world.

When 12-year-old Billy Chan finds out his parents are sending him to a summer camp in middle-ofnowhere China he doesn't know what to expect. But there he meets fellow campers Dylan, Charlotte and Ling-Fei and together they stumble upon an ageold secret: four powerful warrior dragons, hidden deep within the mountain.

Zero Negativity: The Power of Positive Thinking

by ANT MIDDLETON The former elite soldier offers the benefit of his experience on positive thinking in this invaluable self-help guide aimed at transforming negativity into a productive force. This book will not tell you who to be, where you should live, or what job you should do. That's up to you. What this book is for, however, is to give you the tools you need to become the best possible version of yourself, to own who and what you are, and to live your life with Zero Negativity.

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Hugh Jones Councillor for Rossett COVID-19. I write with some trepidation given the rapidly changing scenario, however at the time of writing Wrexham is experiencing the lowest rate of new cases in North Wales at just over two per day during the past seven days. This is mainly due to the excellent work of our Trace and Protect team, the Welsh Model of using local authorities appears to be more effective than across the border.

Village Hall. We had started to re-open the Village Hall and were planning an open day to show case all the good work that has been done. However, in the light of the impending announcements, we have decided to cancel the event. In the current crisis we are going to have to look for additional sources of funding, our small committee have been successful in securing a number of one-off grants for specific purposes that have enabled us to carry out some of the essential maintenance and compliance work.

However we are facing a financial crisis if the current restrictions continue or worsen and it will become necessary to look to something like crowdfunding to secure the future. As always we are in desperate need for Committee Members and supporters to help make what is a very real asset to our community even better.

Local Policing. Lisa, our local PCSO, continues to be very proactive in our community and we are grateful for her recent work in detecting drug activity. The police also continue to monitor speeding hotspots and the latest figures for the 20mph on holt road show three out of 14 speeding with 25mph being the highest.

Foodbank. I recently attended a training session for volunteers for the opening of the Foodbank in the Village Hall on a Thursday between 13:30 and 15:00. Again a great community spirit shown by the volunteers which is in addition to the excellent work already being carried out by another group of volunteers supporting those in our community who have fallen on difficult times. A very sincere thank you to all concerned.

Hedges. Now that we are at the end of the nesting season can I make another plea to hedge owners to ensure that they are not obstructing pavements and footpaths.

I have arranged with Streetscene to issue notices to a number of local landowners whose hedges are significantly impacting on our highways and also a thank you to all who have responded to ensure that residents can walk, ride and drive safely.

Litter. Yes I know it is a regular hobby horse but I do try to reflect on my mailbox and this has increased during recent restrictions due to increased outdoor activity. I know that some of the culprits are passing drivers, but so too are local children and young adults. The Community Council is looking to increase awareness by innovative and appropriate signage.

Tel: 07583 152703 hugh.jones@wrexham.gov.uk

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Andrew Atkinson Councillor for Gresford High Street. Great news! I’ve finally received confirmation that High Street will be resurfaced in this financial year. It’s taken a lot of chasing but we got there! I’m awaiting confirmation that it’s the whole stretch. Part of Chester Road will also be resurfaced. I get asked a lot about Vicarage Lane which is very bad but the part referred to is Marford ward and I know Cllr Gilmartin is constantly trying to get that sorted.

Virgin Media.The mind boggles that they were going to install a large box next to the fountain by the Plough pub, but thankfully they’ve listened and it’s not going to be sited there. IMAGE have put a lot of work into this area over the years and I appreciate their support in asking for this to be moved. I’m still getting regular complaints and I’m in constant contact with the council’s liaison officer following up on the standard of repairs.

Speeding Cars. I’m working with the Community Council looking at what measures can be brought in to tackle speeding issues in various parts of the village. We’ve been working on this for some time. Many residents favour a 20mph zone through the village akin to Rossett and ask why we can’t have this.

It comes down to Welsh Government funding and we are working to make the case for this.

I’d be interested in any views you’d like to share with me on this.

scheme, as each Council resident will be contacted and arrangements made to individually survey each property. This survey will then be used to produce a package of work tailored to that particular property.

Although the same items will be assessed on each survey, it is not unusual for the survey to identify differences at each property and on occasion that means that not all items will need attention. Where this occurs, the work package will be discussed with you at the time of survey and each resident will be made aware of any work they can expect to be carried out.

The time taken to undertake the work at each property will vary and will depend on what is needed. During the work you will notice an increase in activity and traffic in the work areas. Im assured that all disturbances will be kept to minimum and that the housing team ask for your patience and that you take additional care when moving around the area.

I will be monitoring things closely and working with the liaison officer.

Both WCBC and contractors staff will also be following enhanced protocols to help keep people safe during the current COVID-19 pandemic. Information regarding the measures in place and the actions you can take to assist them will be provided to you before the work starts.

External Works Scheme for Council Tenants.

The external works programme is starting in the Gresford area. The work will be focusing on the external garden areas of council homes. The scheme will be primarily looking at carrying out repairs and upgrades to fences, paths, steps and drainage together with storage within garden areas. You need not contact WCBC to be included in this

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

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

01978 311 881 01829 270 198 01244 570 364 01244 683 858 01978 852 914 01978 720 362 0300 1234 999 01978 352 499

COUNCILS Cheshire West & Chester Wrexham

0300 123 8 123 01978 292 000

DOCTORS Alyn Family Doctors Farndon Village Surgery Marches Medical Practice Strathmore Medical Practice NHS Direct

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

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

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

OPTICIANS Gresford Eyecare

01978 855 828

HOSPITALS Countess of Chester Wrexham Maelor

01244 365 000 01978 291 100

LEISURE CENTRES Gwyn Evans Northgate Arena Plas Madoc

01978 269 540 01244 380444 01978 821 600

LOCAL FACILITIES Adult Social Services Citizens Advice Foodbank - Chester Foodbank - Wrexham Recycling Centre - Chester Recycling Centre - Tattenhall Recycling Centre - Whitchurch Recycling Centre - Wrexham Relate Samaritans

01978 292 066 0300 330 1178 0151 355 7730 07538 547971 01244 372 764 01829 771 337 0345 678 9007 01978 292 000 01978 265 028 116 123

In an EMERGENCY always dial 999 For your local POLICE STATION in a NON EMERGENCY dial 101

LOCAL SERVICES Air Ambulance - North West Air Ambulance - Wales Fire & Rescue - Cheshire Fire & Rescue - North Wales Environment Agency National Grid Natural Resources Wales Severn Trent Water Welsh Water

0800 587 4570 0300 0152 999 01606 868 700 01745 535 250 03708 506 506 01926 653000 0300 065 3000 0800 783 4444 0800 052 0130

LIBRARIES Chester Library at Storyhouse Gresford Library Llay Library Overton Library Wrexham Library

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

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

01244 332 077 01978 852 342 01244 676 199 01948 860 571 01829 272 277 01244 570 588 01244 661 611 01244 981 080 01244 981 000 01244 981 280 07523 398 880 01829 270 021 07496 231 275 01244 678 997 01978 314 912 07947 473857 01978 340 840 01244 571 872 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

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BEFORE

AFTER

Puzzle Page...

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

Cloth worn around the waist (4) Costly metallic element (8) Arm exercise (5-2) Creative thoughts (5) Armature of an electric motor (5) Eg. from London (7) Acquires a new skill (6) Strong outdoor shoe (6) Bivalve molluscs (7) The reproduction of sound (5) Eg. taste or touch (5) Tennis officials (7) Christmas season (8) TV award (4)

DOWN 1

In a manner that exceeds what is necessary (13) 2 Piece of paper (5) 4 Drank with the tongue (6) 5 Reckless; ready to react violently (7-5) 6 Requiring (7) 7 Naughtily (13) 8 Separation; alienation (12) 14 Armoury (7) 16 Distributed (6) 19 Kind of wheat (5)

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

Here are the answers from September:

Classic Sudoku

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