EssentialsMAG October 2022 Rossett/Marford/Gresford/Holt/Farndon

Welcome to our October issue!

The Queen passed away last month at the age of 96 after 70 years on the throne. The long reign of Queen Elizabeth II was marked by her strong sense of duty and her determination to dedicate her life to her throne and to her people.

She encouraged the country to look to the timeless values which underpinned her own life; to remain resolute in the face of adversity; to embrace the new without betraying the principles of the past; and to display humility whenever possible.

The Queen's death has been a genuinely traumatic event, leaving many in this stoic country feeling anxious and unmoored.

It is worth reflecting on her advice to the UK 50 years ago, perhaps, on how one should face up to moments of unease. "Goodwill is better than resentment, tolerance is better than revenge, compassion is better than anger, above all a lively concern for the interests of others as well as our own," she said.

I would like to extend my heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and all those mourning her loss.

Welcome... EMAIL: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk

CALL: 01978 855459

www.essentialsmag.co.uk

Cover Image: Crisp, autumn morning November Deadlines: Editorial - 7th October Advertising - 14th October

We’ve got the local area covered! Delivered by hand to 6,400 homes and businessesmore than any other magazine in our area. Rossett, Marford, Gresford, Holt, Farndon, Churton, Aldford, Eccleston, Lavister, Poulton, Pulford, Dodleston, Burton and Golly.

Also available at 25+ pick-up points across the region.

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

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

Follow us today and stay updated locally

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty The Queen.

For over 70 years she has dedicated her life to service for her country and the Commonwealth, and been a figurehead of national unity and stability at a time of enormous change.

We would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and all those mourning her loss.

We join the nation at this sad time to remember her life of unwavering devotion, dignity and compassion.

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Photograph ©Alessia Pierdomenico

Heartfelt Gratitude and Admiration

By CAT WILLIAMS

A collective hush has been spread over the Nation these past couple of weeks, as we have absorbed and adjusted to the loss of Queen Elizabeth II and welcomed King Charles III.

It’s like somehow everything has changed, and yet, all must go on the same.

I have had many conversations with clients, friends and family as we have tried to express, understand and explain how we are feeling.

Several clients have shared with me that personal losses they’ve had in their lives have resurfaced.

We’ve known The Queen all our lives. She’s felt like everyone’s mum, everyone’s grandmother, but perhaps we didn’t fully realise this until she was no longer with us.

Admiration, respect and love for Her Majesty spanned the globe - she was the World’s most famous, most travelled and most photographed person. I’ve been contacted by friends overseas, in Canada and Australia - they wanted me to know that they feel the loss of their Queen too.

Personally, I feel The Queen represented a sense of stability amidst what can frequently feel like a chaotic world.

As a therapist, I know that our most basic human need is for certainty and safety. For 70 years, our Queen has been like the figurehead on a ship, no matter what ‘storms’ or ‘heavy seas’ we have passed through. She has been steadfast and sure in her dedication, loyalty and duty, and we have looked to her to be a calm, loving and steady presence.

As we grieve for Her Majesty, I, personally, feel heartfelt gratitude and admiration for the example she has set in so many ways. There may be troubled times in the future, and we can look to The Queen’s legacy for some guidance through these challenges. The stories shared by people who met her, up and down the country, have all picked out consistent qualities - that she was humorous, kind and put people at ease. That she loved animals and nature, was respectful, dedicated, and gracious to everyone.

Thank you, Your Majesty, for your life of service, and for the example you have set. As we grieve your passing, I feel we can honour you by facing the future with hope, dedication and respect for all - as we welcome your son, King Charles III. God save The King.

Cat Williams - Rapid Transformational Therapist,

Coach & Speaker

catstaycalm@gmail.com Tel: 07799 641347

IMAGE Gresford & Marford Scarecrow Trail

During August, the IMAGE Gresford and Marford Scarecrow Trail took place. Scarecrows could represent anything that happened during the Queen’s reign, covering all achievements between 1953-2022. As always, there were some very creative scarecrows!

After receiving lots of completed trail entry forms, three winners were picked: In first place - The Ellis family won a garden centre voucher for £25. Second and third were the Edwards family and S Bentley, who each won garden vouchers. The worthy winner of the Peoples Choice Award was The BFG - no 20.

Barbara Watson from IMAGE told us: “In light of the sad news regarding our Queen’s death, we are glad we celebrated ‘The Queen’s Reign’ this year, and many scarecrows reflected memories of Her Majesty - particularly poignant was one of the Queen at Balmoral with her beloved dogs.”

“We are grateful to Richard Edwards Plumbers and Paul Edwards Plumbing and Heating for their continued sponsorship of these prizes. Also, of course, to Marford Co-op, Gresford Spar, Gresford Newsagent and Gresford Community Library for selling the forms and collecting them in for us. And also to Delmar World for their continued support in printing hundreds of forms. Without this support from these local business the Scarecrow Trail would not be able to continue. Thank you to everyone who took part. We hope you all enjoyed it.”

Your Hall Needs You

Farndon War Memorial Hall desperately needs new committee members to help manage the hall. Sports clubs, social groups and day care for seniors meet in the hall regularly. It has also been adapted for wheelchair users, with an access ramp and disabled toilet facilities. New members are needed to join the committee to help run this valuable community village asset. If you would like more information, please contact Pat Van Beek on 01829 270067 or Barry Fish at: farndon@soundsfishy.co.uk.

The next committee meeting is in the hall on the 8th November at 7pm. All welcome.

Tip Top Production

Local community theatre company Tip Top Productions will bring their new production "Keeping Up Appearances" to Rossett and Burton Village Hall this November.

This Wrexham-based community theatre company, founded by Peter Swingler, over 30 years ago, perform at various local venues across the region, including Theatr Clwyd and The Stiwt.

‘Keeping Up Appearances’, is, as you’ve guest it, about the character Hyacinth Bucket - everyone’s favourite social climber, causing continuous mayhem!

Tickets are £10 and can be booked via: tiptopproductions.co.uk or by phoning the box office on: 01352 344101

Public Consultation

Public Consultation – Gamford House, Gamford Lane LL12 0EW

The views of residents and businesses in Rossett are being sought on the future of the site at Gamford House, Gamford Lane. In July 2021 the County Borough Council granted a Lawful Development Certificate for the previous uses of a Haulage Business, General Industry, Storage and Distribution and HGV Maintenance Depot.

An alternative to the resumption of these uses is being proposed. It is for the redevelopment of the site with nine carbon zero dwellings of the highest standards of design and quality. If realised, this would be a flagship development for the County Borough.

Details of the proposals and a Questionnaire can be found in the following link: www.gamfordhouse.co.uk

Your views can be recorded here and posted to info@gamfordhouse.co.uk

Your views will be reported to Wrexham CBC and considered in the determination of any planning application for the proposals. The consultation will run until 21st October 2022.

Please use this opportunity to have your voice heard and thank you for your interest in the future of the site.

Using Tech to Stay Organised

By EssentialsMAG tech contributor DAVID HUGHES

The world seems to be back to its preCOVID busy-ness. School is back for another year, many people are back to work as normal, and our family life seems as hectic as it was before the pandemic. My family and I rely on technology to keep us organised, so in this article I want to talk about three apps we use on a daily basis. Full disclosure here: we are ingrained in the Apple ecosystem, but I will note Android equivalents as I go.

Calendar: The most important app of the lot. Sharing calendars via iCloud is essential in making sure we are all in the right place at the right time. We have a calendar called ‘Family’, which we all subscribe to, so when anyone adds an event it shows up on all our devices. To share a calendar from an iPhone, open the Calendar app, tap ‘Calendars’ at the bottom of the screen, then add people under the ‘Share with’ section.

On Android, Google Calendar is very similar.

Notes: From recipes to Christmas gift ideas; from school routines to holiday plans, Notes is a fantastic app for collecting and sharing important information. You can even lock notes that contain important information. A note can be shared by tapping the share icon in the top-right corner. You can invite people via email or iMessage initially, and then it will show up in their own Notes app.

Edits and additions made by others will be highlighted the next time you open the note.

On Android, Google Keep is very similar.

Reminders: The Reminders app is a really simple ‘to-do list’ tool. You can create multiple lists - shopping or DIY, for example, and add items to them. The power comes in being able to share these lists, so you can have one weekly shopping list on the go, for example, and not end up with everyone buying the same thing! Reminders lists can be shared by opening a list, then following the same steps as Notes above. You can even decide if the list can be onwardly shared with other people, or kept to just those you invite.

On Android, Google Tasks is somewhat similar, but the assignment of tasks is slightly different.

All three of the apps above are built-in to Apple devices when you buy them. There are some excellent third-party (but not always free) apps available on the App Store with even greater functionality.

Check out Fantastical, Evernote and Things, respectively.

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

wrap around care available

Holt Community Primary School is a small friendly school for children aged 3 to 11. To make an appointment to our Open Day call: 01829 270021, or e-mail: mailbox@holt-pri.wrexham.sch.uk

Visit our website: www.holtcpschool.com

The River Alyn

By ROSSETT AND GRESFORD FLY FISHERS’ CLUB

Just when you think things couldn’t get much worse, they often do.

It was optimistically reported last time that as the Covid virus seemed to be a spent force, we now had some freedom to visit the Alyn which would partially make up for the last two years of quarantine and lock downs. Being alongside running water can bring calm and contentment and the chance to see the flash of a kingfisher or the daring of a dipper as it steps fearlessly into the water in search of insects, are a bonus. But our optimism was short lived, as the heat built up to the highest level ever recorded in the UK.

Then, of course, the lack of rain locally has been most unusual as this area is not normally regarded as rain free! Despite heavy rain in many other areas of the country, the drought still hangs over us and our pretty little river is very low and ‘showing its bones’.

The bank-side vegetation, however, has flourished, and in many places runs a close second to a tropical rain forest. The Himalayan balsam stands way over our heads and now waits for passers-by to disturb the plant so it can shoot its deadly seeds, either into the fields or the river, which will carry them downstream to colour the banks of the Dee in later years.

When trout streams become too warm, fish become lethargic, reduce feeding and become easier targets for predators -

mink, otters and herons. The warmer water also holds less oxygen which further distresses the fish as they are forced to leave their normal safe havens and crowd together which increases their vulnerability. Anglers refrain from fishing in such conditions.

Rivers and streams provide the markers of our ecological health, so when weather conditions are as severe as they have been over the last couple of months, it has become obvious that we have an ecological health problem. It is accepted that the majority of our water bodies are suffering from organic pollution, mainly phosphates and nitrates.

The national newspapers, television and radio have all chosen to broadcast the latest areas of concern and the public have at last woken up to the fact that house waste eventually finds its way downhill and into our rivers – later to reappear in our water supply.

The Alyn is receiving considerable attention from all involved in safe-guarding its health which will be fully reported on later.

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

National Awareness Days

By JULIE GREGORY

Every month there are special dates to hang your marketing campaign onto. October sees the celebration of Black History here in the UK and internationally, The Big Draw takes place – drawing attention (forgive the pun!) to visual literacy and art education around the world.

More sobering are the dates set aside for Awareness Campaigns for health issues including Breast Cancer, Back Care, Cholesterol, Lupus, Dyslexia, ADHD and World Mental Health. Every single one is designed to promote awareness of the condition and educate those of us who may not be familiar with their effects.

Of course, the more lighthearted International Coffee Day makes its appearance on the first of the month, coupled with more food-related dates such as World Vegetarian Day, National Cheese Toastie Day (yes really), National Baking Week from 14th – 20th, National Curry Week and, far more important than any other foodie event, it’s Chocolate Week from 17th – 23rd! Mmm!

October is the time of year when apple trees bear their fruit and Apple Day takes place on 21st October here in the UK.

As children will now be firmly ensconced in the new school year, we celebrate World Teachers Day on 5th and October is National Bullying Prevention Month. International Walk to School Month and International School Library Month also last the duration of October.

The International Day of Older Persons is on 1st and The Children’s Trust Week here in the UK, together with National Adoption Week (17th-23rd) and Boycott Your Bed (the UK’s largest corporate sleepout event) all shine a light on raising awareness of how we can help others not as fortunate as ourselves.

As a nation of animal lovers, World Habitat Day on 3rd is closely followed by World Animal Day on 4th and then National Badger Day on 6th October, with National Black Cat Day on 27th – just in time for Halloween on 31st!

Here’s hoping we can all celebrate World Smile Day on 7th!

EssentialsMAG marketing contributor is Julie Gregory of Time For Marketing julie@timeformarketing.org Tel: 07474 333004

National and international awareness days underpin the marketing calendar for businesses and marketing professionals alike.

Dates for your Diary

SUN 2 OCTOBER

Gresford Artisan Market

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS

Gresford’s Artisan Market returns, featuring great food and craft producers from around the region.

10:30am - 2pm

Free

SUN 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 OCT

Wrexham Model Engineers Train Rides

Pant yr Orchain, Old Wrexham Road, Gresford LL12 8TY

Come and ride on model trains. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

12pm - 4pm

Free

SUN 2 OCTOBER

Chester Marathon

There will be road closures in Chester, Eccleston, Pulford, Lavister, Rossett, Commonwood, Holt, Farndon, Churton and Aldford. For the full map scan the QR code.

8am - 2pm

MON 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 OCT

Zumba Gold Chair

Kenyon Hall, Castle Street, Holt LL13 9YL

Zumba Gold Chair is a dance fitness programme for the older adults and people with mobility or balance problems.

11:30am - 12:15pm £5.00 per session Tel: 07501 373426 (Mari)

MON 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 OCT

DragonFly Kids Meditation Class

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS

Meditation and mindfulness can help children relax, be present and achieve higher levels of self confidence.

4pm - 5pm

Tel: 07841 533666 (Sarah)

WED 5, 12, 19, 26 OCTOBER

Pilates, Supported and Seated

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS

This class, seated on a chair, or using the chair for support, will enable you to build strength, stability, balance and confidence.

11am - 12pm

Tel: 01978 512401 (Helen)

WED 5, 12, 19, 26 OCTOBER

Gresford Luncheon Club

Gresford Luncheon Club meets every Wednesday visiting a local pub or eatery. The group is aimed at the over 50s but we welcome anybody who needs company and some fun and friendship.

12:30pm - 2pm blackbb1927@outlook.com

WED 5, 12, 19, 26 OCTOBER

Walking Football

Colliers Park, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8PW

Walking Football for the over 60s, with a Wrexham FC Foundation coach. Pre-bookings only.

4:30pm - 5:30pm Tel: 07747 431607 (Ruth)

WED 5, 12, 19, 26 OCTOBER THU 6, 13, 20, 27 OCTOBER

Learn to Dance!

Llay Miners Welfare Institute, Llay New Road, Llay, Wrexham LL12 0TH

Learn to dance with the champions, Adrian and Amanda Taylor. Ballroom and Latin American Dance. Weekly adult beginners classes. Tuesday classes also in Overton Village Hall.

11:30am (Wednesday)

7:30pm (Thursday) 8:00pm (Tuesday - Overton) £8.50 per person Tel: 07703 571304 (Adrian)

THU 6, 13, 20, 27 OCTOBER

Walking Netball

Rhosnesni High School, Rhosnesni Lane, Wrexham LL13 9ET

Walking Netball is a slower version of the game, designed so anyone can play regardless of age or fitness. Have some fun and make new friends! New members always welcome!

6pm £3.50 per session sheilageorge2@hotmail.com

FRI 7 OCTOBER

Wrexham Birdwatchers

Gresford Trust Memorial Hall, High Street, Gresford LL12 8PS

Wrexham Birdwatchers’

October meeting, “Inspiring Aliens” talk by Jeff Clarke. All welcome. 7:30pm Tel: 01978 855266 (Trevor)

THU 7, 14, 21, 28 OCTOBER

Tallarn Green Methodist Church Youth Club

Tallarn Green Methodist Church, Tallarn Green, Malpas SY14 7JH

Youth Club at Tallarn Green Methodist Church every Friday evening. Come and have some fun and make new friends. All welcome. 6pm

While every effort has been made to ensure all the details are correct at the time of going to print, it is advisable to check details with the venue concerned.

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

8 & 9 / 15 & 16 / 21-30 OCT

Halloween Picking Patch

Bolesworth Castle, Bolesworth Road, Tattenhall CH3 9HQ

Get into the autumn festivities, with pick your own pumpkins and Halloween Maize Maze £8.50 pickingpatch.com

WED 19 OCTOBER

Pulford & Poulton Local History Group

Pulford Village Hall, St Mary's Church, Pulford CH4 9EU

“A History of Hydro Generation in Chester” talk by Niall MacFadyen

7:30pm £2.00 members / £3.00 non pplhg.org.uk

SAT 22 OCTOBER

Rhos Orpheus Male Choir

Christ Church, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0GD Concert in aid of Nightingale House Hospice

7:30pm £10.00 richardhuxley@hotmail.com

THU 27 OCTOBER

'Christmas is Coming' Craft and Makers Market

Overton Village Hall, Pen-Y-Llan Street, Overton LL13 0EE

An abundance of local makers, bakers and creators. Come and do some early Christmas shopping!

2:30pm - 7:30pm Free

SUN 30 OCTOBER

Church Anniversary

Christ Church Rossett, Station Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0GD

Christ Church will celebrate 130 years and 120 years of the clock with a special service, followed by open church and refreshments.

10:30am

Share your events with us - it’s FREE! Let us know your events taking place next month so we can feature them. essentialsmag.co.uk /whatson

Shooting Star Cancer Support

Shooting Star Cancer support - funding invaluable new equipment for clinicians treating cancer patients in North Wales. The charity receives massive thanks from clinicians who realise the constant pressure across the entire NHS to fund equipment. Your valuable donations have funded several major items during and since Covid lockdown started.

The Maelor Hospital Emergency Department, the only avenue for cancer patients, or patients with related conditions, during lockdown, desperately needed a second Bladder Scanner.

This was funded and the team from the Unit thank you for your generosity.

Clinicians sent Shooting Star Cancer Support requests for equipment which was not able to be funded by the NHS. These were items of equipment which provided an improved patient experience and state of the art technology to help cancer patients across North Wales. www.shootingstarcancersupport.co.uk Charity Number: 1079693

Custom Made Bedrooms & Interiors

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

Society Gardening News

By EssentialsMAG gardening contributor CAROL EDWARDS

As I write this article, I feel I must say that I shall miss our Queen as she has always been there, and, as my birthday falls on the same day as hers, she has been quite special to me from a young age. The Queen was always interested in her gardens too, and in open spaces, such as Balmoral. When I was a small child, we lived in the South of England and could hear the canons fired for her birthday salute, which my Mum used to say was for my birthday too!

Back to my usual article, and to say that the summer, this year, has been hotter than usual, as you all know, and this has affected the trees quite badly. In fact, many have started to lose their leaves already.

However, there are quite a lot of gardening jobs to mention this month. Now is a good time to plant drifts of bulbs for next summer in the lawn such as daffodils, crocus and snakes-head fritillaries as the flowers of these add some colour to the garden.

Remember to rake up fallen leaves and fill bin-bags to rot down for compost next year too. Your lawn also needs spiking to help with drainage during the winter,

and the flower beds will benefit from a mulch of bark chippings or peat-free compost. If you have any pots with saucers, remove them and place pot feet instead to prevent water-logging.

Any shrubs that have grown too big for their position can be moved now to another spot and dahlias and canna lilies can be lifted and dried to be stored for next year. I have two shrubs that need to be moved so they can spread without overpowering the other plants. Any shrub roses that have grown too high can be reduced in height as well, to prevent wind rock.

Empty spent summer pots and hanging baskets and compost the contents. You can also take cuttings of herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Any half-hardy plants can be covered with fleece, or placed in a frost-free greenhouse for the winter. Also order bare root fruit trees and bushes for planting in late autumn or early spring.

I managed to visit the Annual Flower Show at Darland School this year and was much impressed by the fruit and vegetables, baking and flowers. It was good to see the Show back again, and the hard work that had gone into it.

Local Birds and Wildlife News

By REVEREND HUGH LINN

At this time of year many bird species are gathering in flocks. One September morning I counted over 60 House Sparrows feeding together on spilt grain in Burton, while in nearby fields hundreds of gulls followed ploughs as they turned up worms and other edible items. In our garden, a family group of up to 30 Longtailed Tits are visiting the feeders.

Starling flocks have been gathering on overhead wires around the Trevalyn area. Some of these birds will be local breeders, while others are migrants from further north, en-route for their wintering grounds. Later on, as we move into winter, enormous gatherings of Starlings, known as ‘murmurations’, involving thousands of birds, perform complicated aerial manoeuvres prior to retiring for the night in reed beds and copses. Pied Wagtails favour warm sheltered sites provided by human beings and have a fondness for railway stations. In recent years the Wrexham Maelor Hospital and Grosvenor Garden Centre have hosted Wagtail roosts. Corvids (members of the Crow family aka The Black Gang) also practise communal roosting. Over the years Rossett has hosted several of these gatherings. One in a wood close to my home is daily increasing in size and volume. North Wales has the distinction of hosting the largest Raven roost in the world in Anglesey's Newborough Forest. This roost once held 2,000 birds.

Throughout this month winter visitors are arriving. Redwings and Fieldfares are common garden visitors. Borras Quarry

is popular with wildfowl, and as a wintering site for Lapwings. One of the wildfowl species to be seen around our area in winter is the Pink-footed Goose. Last October a flock of about 500 was seen flying over Poulton. Most of our wintering Pinkfeet come from Iceland. It is estimated that the UK hosts some 360,000, of which 20,000 have been counted at Martin Mere, the Wildfowl Trust's reserve in Lancashire, which also hosts vast flocks of Whooper Swans. During previous winters Whoopers have been regular visitors to the Dee floods at Trevalyn.

Wrexham Birdwatchers October Meetings

Friday 7th “Inspiring Aliens” Talk by Jeff Clarke (7:30pm in Gresford Memorial Hall)

Sunday 12th Field Trip to Hilbre Island (Meet at Gresford Lakeside Car Park 9:30am). Details are available from Trevor Britton, phone 01978 855266.

CARRION CROW

PINK-FOOTED GOOSE

Osteoporosis and Low Bone Mass

By HELEN CONWAY

The term Osteoporosis (OP) was coined in 1994 by the World Health Organisation (WHO). It is a debilitating condition caused by the loss of bone mass density (BMD), making bones more susceptible to fracture. It is suggested that 30% of women over 50 will develop OP, with some research suggesting that figure is as high as 50%.

Men can also develop OP, but their risk is lower.

The likelihood of a woman suffering a hip fracture is greater than that of breast cancer and ovarian cancer combined, and almost 25% of hip fracture patients have to give up their homes for long term care. OP can lead to pain, deformity, disability and a loss of independence.

There are many risk factors including, but not limited to, family history, menopause, eating disorders, smoking and alcohol consumption, depression and stress, and being a Caucasian or Asian woman. There are also certain medical conditions that increase the risk of developing OP, including, but not limited to, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disorder, lupus, Crohn's disease and gastrointestinal malabsorption disorders.

But I don’t want to be all doom and gloom. BMD can be improved with the appropriate medication, correct nutrition, improved lifestyle and the right exercise, and one of the best exercises you can do for OP is Pilates.

But not all Pilates is the same. Certain exercises are totally inappropriate for the condition as they place pressure on vulnerable areas such as the neck, the spine and the hip, the three main osteoporotic fracture sites.

A measured programme, such as we teach, of balance, bone loading, lengthening, stability and impact will help to improve BMD, all of which can be addressed in both matwork and specialist Reformer classes. According to the Surgeon General, the optimal goal is at least 30 minutes activity a day.

If you have any concerns, please contact your medical health professional.

Bodywork-Pilates was established in 2002. They offer the very best in pilates, yoga and holistic fitness, with over 20 classes a week to choose from in and around Wrexham and Chester.

EssentialsMAG fitness contributor is Helen Conway from Bodywork-Pilates Ltd www.bodywork-pilates.co.uk Tel: 01978 512401

I’m sure you know that October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but did you know that 20th October is World Osteoporosis Day?

Eating Seasonally and Locally

BY SAMANTHA GRIFFITHS

To eat seasonally means to eat food that has been harvested when it is naturally ripe and ready to eat. This mainly refers to fruit and vegetables, but can also be extended to meat and fish. To eat seasonally and locally means to eat food that has naturally grown in your local area, or in the country you live in, rather than being flown or shipped in from overseas. Because fruits and vegetables are constantly available to us, it’s easy to forget about when and where they are grown.

Currently in the UK, seasonal foods include apples, blackberries, beetroot, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, pumpkins, squash, carrots, garlic, kale, leeks, onions, and parsnips. There are many benefits to eating seasonally:

The food is more nutritious (and tastier!)

When food has grown naturally (without artificial light or heat) it has a higher vitamin content than if it has been forced to ripen. When fruits and vegetables are freshly picked and eaten, their micronutrients and phytonutrients are preserved. Food that is picked overseas is often harvested too early, so that it’s ripe when it arrives in its intended country. When fruit and veg are travelling they lose flavour, freshness, and nutritional value.

It’s cheaper

Because seasonal fruits and vegetables are more abundantly available, they can be lower in price. If food is grown locally, there are less transport costs, and thus cheaper prices. It’s estimated that a basket of fruit and veg that is bought in season can be up to a third cheaper than the same basket bought out of season.

It’s better for the environment

Eating seasonal foods usually means there have been fewer artificial methods of growing, such as heating, lighting, and fertilisers. There is also the massive environmental cost of flying in foods that don’t naturally grow here, such as avocados, pineapples, mangos, bananas, (which can contribute to deforestation).

However, there are some exceptions. In winter, tomatoes grown in an artificially heated greenhouse in the UK are much more expensive to grow in comparison to tomatoes that have grown naturally in Spain and are then shipped over.

Although it is unrealistic to try and eat seasonally all of the time, small efforts to do so can increase your nutritional intake and even save you money.

PLEASE NOTE: If you have a long-term illness and want to make any dietary changes always discuss these with your GP or a Registered Dietitian first.

EssentialsMAG nutrition contributor is Samantha Griffiths of Samantha Kate Nutrition Tel: 07958 207711

samanthakatenutrition@outlook.com www.samanthakatenutrition.com

EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe

Leek, Bacon and Potato Soup

Leeks are related to garlic and onions but have a much subtler, sweeter and more sophisticated flavour. They are nutrient-dense, meaning that they’re low in calories yet high in vitamins and minerals. Leeks can be used to enrich soups or stews and they partner brilliantly with potato and with cheese to form tasty side-dishes and suppers.

INGREDIENTS

25g butter

3 rashers streaky bacon, chopped

1 onion, chopped

400g pack trimmed leek, sliced and well washed

3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

1.4l hot vegetable stock

142ml pot single cream

4 rashers streaky bacon, to serve

METHOD

Melt the butter in a large pan, then fry the bacon and onion, stirring until they start to turn golden. Tip in the leeks and potatoes, stir well, then cover and turn down the heat. Cook gently for 5 minutes, shaking the pan every now and then to make sure that the mixture doesn’t catch.

Pour in the stock, season well and bring to the boil. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

Leave to cool for a few minutes, then blend in a food processor in batches until smooth.

Return to the pan, pour in the cream and stir well. Taste and season if necessary.

Serve scattered with tasty crisp bacon and eat with toasted or warm crusty bread on the side.

Gresford Trust Newsdesk

Latest News

By IAN GIBSON, Chair, Gresford Trust

The Trust held its AGM on July 28th 2022, to receive reports from the Chair, Treasurer and Safeguarding Officer. The election of new Trustees for the coming year were confirmed and thanks were given to Phil Percival on his retirement from the role and Jayne Osborne who stood down as Secretary.

The following people were elected: Chair Ian Gibson, Vice Chair Richard Evans, Secretary Mark Perry, Treasurer Janet Holmes, Internal Auditor Richard Williams, Safeguarding Officer John Bell.

Village Representatives: Jayne Osborne, Phillip Jones, Gino Paletta, Steven Bland, Robert Grey, Mike James, Zianna Cruz, Val Shields

Thanks were also given to our Facilities Manager Jo Burke who has worked hard to help the Trust recover from the effects of the Covid pandemic. As a result of her work with Janet, our Treasurer, the Trust was able to report that the previous year had seen the Trust break even from a financial point of view.

Further points were raised by members of the public regarding the ongoing problems of anti-social behaviour especially how it was affecting Gresford Athletic FC. Comments in recent press articles had given the impression that the Trust were not supportive of GAFC.

Unfortunately, the responsibility for the security and upkeep of the stands lies with GAFC as charity law prohibits the Trust accepting any financial liability for the football club’s legal responsibilities. Sadly, there are other matters relating to GAFC and FAW regulations which are also causing some difficulties and are yet to be resolved.

Problems with car parking at peak times were raised and have subsequently been discussed at our August meeting. Parking spaces are limited especially close to the Hall. It would be a significant help if more able-bodied people could use the lower car parks leaving the top car park for those less able to walk up the drive.

It is also great to report that we have recently agreed an extension to the lease on Allington Park with Gresford Community Council. This agreement helps to guarantee that the park remains available for the community to enjoy. The Trust will benefit from the lease and the monies generated will be committed to the upkeep of the Memorial Hall.

We are continuing our work to improve the planting beds around the car park. If you are interested in volunteering to assist with some gardening, please get in touch via contact@gresfordtrust.org

The Farndon Soapbox Derby

A car in the shape of a giant cheese wedge, hay bales lining the road and a person running down the street dressed as the Child Catcher meant only one thing: the Soapbox Derby was in town! Last month, hundreds turned out to watch the wacky race in Farndon, which saw competitors navigate jumps and obstacles in homemade karts, with their support team running along behind them. Farndon High Street was transformed into a temporary race track, with 32 handmade unpowered vehicles racing down it - relying completely upon gravity to reach the finish line!

The crowds watched on as teams including Bouncy Bouncy Bits, Pandamonium and Last of the Summer Wine competed for the number one spot.

Besides the racing entertainment, families were also treated to off-track amusements. There were plenty of local eateries open and food and drink stalls on offer, too.

EssentialsMAG participated in the Junior division. Our 13 year old team mate/son was racing our little MAGnificents vancomplete with flashing lights and horn! We didn’t win, but it was a special moment being awarded our attendance medals by sporting hero, Eddie Edwards, also known

The event was a joint effort, organised by a team of local volunteers, residents and businesses who wanted to bring the local community together to share a family day full of fun, laughter and celebration. They certainly achieved that!

Over £20,000 was raised from the event through team sponsorship and donations. 90% of the money raised will go straight to fund the fantastic work done in the local community by the Hospice of the Good Shepherd. They support individuals and their families who have been diagnosed with a life-limiting illness. The remaining 10% will be given into the communities of Farndon and Holt to be re-invested in local worthy initiatives.

Well done to everyone involved - the organisers, sponsors, participating teams and, of course, the public who came along to cheer on the wonderful, wacky karts! Can we do it all again next year, please?

Photographs © Raymond Jones and May Lee

Sarah Atherton MP Member of Parliament for Wrexham

Before I discuss what I have been up to in Wrexham during Parliament’s summer recess, I wanted to touch on the deeply saddening news of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s passing.

The loss of our Queen, who never showed anything but decency, humility and kindness, has touched everybody’s hearts, not only in the UK but across the world. The Queen’s strong sense of duty, integrity and stability has been a beacon of light in all our lives for 70 years.

Indeed, one of Her Majesty’s last duties was to sign the Letter Patent which confirmed Wrexham’s city status from 1st September. Wrexham will forever be grateful to The Queen and the UK Government for recognising our city’s potential and contribution to our United Kingdom.

Over the summer, the main issue that constituents raised with me on the doorstep was the rising cost of living. Whilst Parliament was in recess, I raised constituents’ concerns with the Chancellor during a briefing on the current economic situation to ensure that Wrexham's interests are heard by the Government.

As Liz Truss’ former Parliamentary Private Secretary at the Foreign Office, I have seen our new Prime Minister in action first-hand, and I am confident that she has what it takes to meet the challenges that lie ahead.

The Prime Minister’s first major move was to announce a price cap – in place from 1st October – which will see the average household in Wrexham paying no more than £2,500 per year for their energy bills for the next two years, saving hardworking families £1,000 per year. I have created a cost-of-living section on my website where you can access resources and find out what support you may be eligible for.

Lastly, I am delighted to announce that my office has helped to facilitate £1,750 of funding for Llay Community Church of the Nazarene from the Arnold Clark Community Fund and the Benefact Trust. This funding will be used to support the church’s monthly community movie night and will provide new equipment to make the experience more enjoyable for the families that attend.

If you are a charity or community organisation in Wrexham and would like help in finding what support may be available to you, please contact my office.

As always, if you are a resident in Wrexham and need my assistance with any local or national issues, please contact me.

During the first week of her premiership, the Prime Minister announced a broad package of financial support to help people across the nation with rising energy bills. Tel: 020 7217 4885 / 01978 291742 sarah.atherton.mp@parliament.uk www.sarahatherton.org.uk

Alyn Family Doctors Latest News

New appointment system: KLINIK

In our recent columns, we informed patients that our appointment system would be changing in response to patient feedback and the changing environment of healthcare as we all adapt to living with Covid-19. The new system starts on Monday 3rd October.

How it works

All requests for an appointment will be screened by a system called Klinik.

Patients can either complete an online questionnaire at: alynfamilydoctors.co.uk in a similar way to our current eConsult system, or can telephone the surgery to be taken through the screening questions by one of our trained Patient Advisors.

On the basis of information confidentially provided by the patient, the Klinik system uses artificial intelligence to assign urgency to the appointment request in a safe and consistent way. Requests are then sent to the appropriate team in the surgery to be booked in, or directed to other services, such as self-care advice, community pharmacies or 999.

After triage, all patients will be offered a choice of a face-to-face or a telephone appointment (subject to any national restrictions in place at the time) and appointments will be available according to urgency for up to six to eight weeks in advance.

This means that all requests for an appointment will be treated in exactly the same way. You can also use the system to access self-care advice, send administrative requests securely to the practice and request Nurse and HCA appointments.

When it will operate

Online - The online form will initially be open from 8am 12.30pm. Our intention is to widen these hours in the future.

Telephone - Urgent requests: Between 8am – 9am and 5pm – 6pm, we ask that you only ring if you feel that your request is very urgent and you need to be seen that day. Please note that your enquiry will still go through the Klinik triage system and you may be allocated an appointment on another day. All other requests: 9am – 5pm.

It is likely that the new system will increase call waiting times throughout the day. Please use the online system if you are able to, and remember to use our call-back facility on the telephones to save you waiting on hold. The telephone system will telephone you back when we are ready to take your call.

Free Common Ailment Service

A reminder that you may visit a Pharmacist if you have a common ailment.

Tel: 0333 332 3260

www.alynfamilydoctors.co.uk

www.facebook.com/alynfamilydoctors

Lesley Griffiths MS Member of the Senedd for Wrexham

Health is a matter close to people’s hearts and constituents often contact me about their recent encounters.

I meet regularly with representatives of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, including the Chair and Chief Executive. These meetings enable me to raise any local issues and ensures the relevant authorities are aware of patients’ day-to-day experiences.

An important aspect of my job is to campaign to ensure Wrexham residents receive the best possible services and I was pleased to discover, at one of my latest meetings, the Wrexham Maelor Hospital is set to open a new dedicated outpatients building, following the purchase of Plas Gororau on the nearby Wrexham Technology Park.

The building has been bought with funding support from the Welsh Government. Moving outpatient services to the new location will enable the Health Board to expand the Emergency Department and clinical areas within the main hospital site. Plas Gororau has 212 car parking spaces and is expected to open early 2023.

I am also aware plans are also underway to address infrastructure issues at Wrexham Maelor Hospital. This is the first part of a commitment to redevelop the Hospital. Longer-term proposals are being drawn up and positive discussions have been held with Welsh Government. A full business case is expected to be submitted by the end of the year, with a view to start work in 2023.

I’m sure these latest updates will be welcomed and I will continue to work with the relevant bodies to ensure the proposals are implemented as efficiently as possible.

Since my last EssentialsMAG column, we experienced the sad passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

Throughout our lives, Her Majesty The Queen was an ever-present source of strength, stability and inspiration. Her peerless devotion to duty and unwavering selflessness during her historic 70 years of service is beyond compare and will never be replicated. The Senedd observed a period of national mourning and it was an honour to represent the people of Wrexham during this poignant and historic time.

An extraordinary session of the Senedd took place allowing members to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. Prior to attending the session, I represented the constituency at the Reading of the Proclamation at Cardiff Castle, which formally announced King Charles III as the new monarch in Wales.

I also signed the Senedd’s Book of Condolence on behalf of the people of Wrexham recognising Her Majesty’s decades of commitment and service, as well as being present when The King and Queen Consort visited the Senedd.

Tel: 01978 355743

Lesley.Griffiths@senedd.wales

www.lesleygriffiths.co.uk

Facebook & Twitter: @lesley4wrexham

Garolla garage doors are expertly made to measure in our own UK factories, they’re strong and solidly built. The electric Garolla door rolls up vertically, taking up only 8 inches inside your garage, maximising valuable space. Our expert local installers will

your new door and they’ll take away the old one too, so there’s no mess.

Give us a call today and we’ll come and measure up FREE of charge.

with Hadlow Edwards

Understanding vulnerability

53% of consumers in the UK have some characteristic of vulnerability during their lifetime which can put them at a financial disadvantage, according to the current figures from the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA)1.

The FCA outlines four vulnerability characteristics:

1. Poor health

2. Experiencing a negative life event

3. Having low financial resilience

4. Having low capability.

These categories encompass a wide range of specific issues, and the financial-advice industry is increasingly aware that there are many more that can make a person vulnerable, some of which go unnoticed by clients.

Some are easily identifiable, such as old age, bereavement, or long-term illness.

Others are less so – mental-health conditions, a relationship breakdown or issues caused by the menopause.

Vulnerabilities can also be divided into permanent ones, such as physical disabilities or life-limiting illnesses, and temporary ones, such as a lack of financial resilience or a divorce.

What’s more, it’s not only ‘negative’ life events that can make a person vulnerable. Although a person may be wealthy, they can still be vulnerable. Someone who wins the National Lottery can be just as vulnerable as someone on a low income.

From a financial perspective, vulnerability is potentially a huge disadvantage that can lead to the individual making poor decisions, often through a lack of mental capacity or being emotionally unable to think clearly or act with confidence.

This could mean missing out on financial advice benefits which can help them plan

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.

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

for their long-term future and can also make them more susceptible to fraud and scams.

Financial advisers have an important role to play - applying their expertise and knowledge to guide the vulnerable person in the right direction, whilst helping to keep them safe from fraudsters. Many are specially trained, and all good ones will be on the lookout for vulnerable characteristics.

They will adapt the way they communicate according to that person’s specific needs –for example, ensuring they’re accompanied by someone else at meetings and communicating as clearly as possible at a time and pace that suits the client.

Many people are reluctant to tell their financial adviser that they have a problem that could make them vulnerable. They might not realise the effect it could have on their decision-making or ability to manage their

finances, or they may be too ashamed to admit it. However, the more they know about your circumstances, the better they can support you with the best financial plan for you.

We can also offer help that goes beyond financial advice – such as referring you to a specialist to set up a power of attorney or helping to find the right long-term care.

Get in touch today to find out how we can help you plan for your future.

Advice relating to a power of attorney necessitates the referral to a service that is separate and distinct from those offered by St. James's Place and is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

1 Financial Lives, Financial Conduct Authority, October 2020 (based on a survey sample size of 16,190)

Inconvenient Truths

By EssentialsMAG environment contributor ROB RENOUF

The 2006 film “An Inconvenient Truth” played a key role in increasing global awareness of climate change. Its title encapsulated the problem in a way that remains as relevant now as it was then.

Tackling the climate crisis is all about facing up to inconvenient truths.

Back then, many people were still questioning whether climate change was the result of human activity. One reason for this was the fossil fuel industry’s active efforts to create doubt around the scientific evidence.

There’s now overwhelming evidence that the rapid increases in global temperatures we’re experiencing are primarily being driven by human activity. Denial that we’re causing climate change is no longer a credible position. Unfortunately, outright denial is increasingly being replaced by tactics intended to prevent action being taken at the required pace.

Tactics employed include:

• Downplaying the urgency and suggesting that action can and should be delayed - the scientific evidence is very clear about the catastrophic impacts of doing so (a prime example of an inconvenient truth).

• Creating complacency by overstating progress through manipulation of statistics.

• Blaming others and not acknowledging how much we’re contributing to the problem.

• Proposing ‘solutions’ reliant on technologies such as carbon capture which are currently nowhere near being able to deliver on the scale required.

• Claiming it’s already too late, so taking action now is pointless.

In recent years, I’ve had many conversations with environmental activists involved in high profile campaigns in the UK and other countries. Contrary to some media stereotypes, the majority of activists are thoughtful and better informed than most. Critics often attempt to ‘other’ these people and present them as somehow different to the rest of us and as posing a threat to ‘our way of life’. In my experience, the only real way in which they’re different from most other people is in their willingness to accept the inconvenient truths and to act on that knowledge.

One of the most important things we all can do is educate ourselves more about the causes of the climate and ecological emergency and the scale and pace of the actions required to tackle it.

We will never achieve a solution without being brave enough to face up to the inconvenient truths - doing so may prove uncomfortable, but the alternative is far worse.

EssentialsMAG environment contributor is Rob Renouf robsrenouf@gmail.com

Hugh Jones & Ross Shepherd Councillors for Rossett

Her Majesty The Queen. The death of Her Majesty The Queen has been marked by unprecedented responses from around the world. We share the nation’s grief and that of the Royal Family and pray for them. We have signed the Book of Condolence in the Parish Church and hope, that at an appropriate time in the future, the village will find a way of recognising an unparalleled life of service and devotion to our Country and Commonwealth.

Public footpaths. We have contacted Wrexham Council’s ‘Rights of Way’ Department about ensuring public footpaths around the village are easily accessible and safe to walk along. The team has ensured the footpath which runs along Roft View in Burton has been improved and that stiles on this route have, or will be, repaired.

Pot Holes. Street Scene officers have been busy in the village identifying and repairing potholes. This is an ongoing project together with refreshing road markings across the County Borough.

Rossett Show. It was a pleasure for Ross to present the trophies to this year’s winning exhibitors at the BRHS Flower Show. It was a wonderful event which has been part of Rossett life for many decades and is enjoyed by the village and beyond. Thanks go to the society for all their hard work and dedication, ensuring this is always an enjoyable day for our community.

Parking on pavements. We have been inundated with calls about inconsiderate parking on pavements throughout the

village. This causes numerous problems including making it difficult for pedestrians to pass safely especially prams and wheelchairs. It causes a hazard for drivers by blocking visibility. We have asked the PCSO to monitor.

Highways. The highways department has been working throughout the village ensuring roads have been swept and vegetation growing on the sides of kerbs etc have been removed. This will improve the appearance of various roads as winter approaches.

Christ Church. On Sunday October 30th Christ Church will celebrate 130 years and 120 years of the clock with a special service at 10:30am.

The Hwb. The planning application will be considered on October 3rd, Officers will recommend refusal on the grounds of no parking provision on site. We will recommend that the committee approves the application without parking, as we believe that this will protect the green space and conform to policies which discourage the use of cars.

Hugh: Tel: 07769 706999 hugh.jones@wrexham.gov.uk Ross: Tel: 07715 473776 ross.shepherd@wrexham.gov.uk

Beryl Blackmore Councillor for Marford & Hoseley

Hello, I feel I must share my sadness at the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Like many, she has been a major part of my life. Her common sense and warmth for everyone worldwide will be missed. We move on to a new reign with King Charles III. I, for one, am pleased he is able to take on the role, the feeling of warmth to him from across the UK is good to see.

Ward issues are very much about getting the trees and hedges cut back - no excuse that birds are nesting. The Council have said they are engaging with households asking them to cut back overhanging and dangerous foliage ASAP. I hope they do, it’s so frustrating to tell residents I have complained on their behalf, but then wait months for action.

Hudson Hill - I have asked for urgent action to be taken to clear this route, it’s shocking, not fit for anything but 4x wheel drives. Marford Park has been a delight all summer, children have been able to play without getting lost in the grass. Again, I have had to send a reminder to the Council about the footpath along The Rofft School. They promise they will update me on any progress to get the trees and hedges cut back. A resident has asked about getting Hayfield Drive tided up as it seems to have been missed over the years. I hope to get some action there. I attended an excellent Army Engagement event held at Glyndŵr University and would urge anyone who may like information on joining the Army to get in touch with the local team at 160th (Welsh) Brigade, Hightown Barracks, Wrexham LL13 8RD.

They also offer to visit young people in the schools, Guiding and Scouting. The presentation by the young people was amazing - an absolute credit to themselves and the training offered via the Army.

Marford and Gresford Caffi and Exercise Group which meets every Tuesday and is open mainly to over 50 year olds is super. Great fun, lots of tea and coffee after the exercise, with chats and putting the world to rights. Do please come from 10:20am onwards till midday. We hope to extend to opening a Whist Club on a Monday afternoon about 1:30pm onwards starting in October. I have had a lot of interest. What we do need are some tables for Whist - if you know of any please let me know. Both these take place in Gresford Methodist Church Hall.

At the Caffi on Tuesdays, I welcome anyone who wants a chat, to share Ward problems or offer a service and share a drink in the main hall. I am there until Midday. The above couldn’t be achieved without the support from friends in the community. We work as a team, sharing good and bad news to help each other through the day. We have trips out and we are even looking at some short breaks, certainly a touch of ‘The Good Life‘.

Tel: 07933 201731 beryl.blackmore@wrexham.gov.uk

Jeremy Kent Councillor for Gresford

September has proven to be a sombre month due to the passing of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II at the age of 96 years old. It is hard to comprehend the loss that is felt across the nation.

I was honoured to attend the Proclamation of King Charles III and also a remembrance service at St Giles Church to honour the late Queen. My thanks to all those that took time to sign the Book of Condolence that was established. May she rest in eternal peace.

As in every month that I write for EssentialsMAG, there have been a number of individual issues that have drawn my attention and have needed dealing with. Sometimes what would appear as “small” issues end up taking the most amount of time! Big or small, I’m here to help!

School Hill

I was pleased to see the one way directional arrows that I have requested be installed on School Hill. There were a number of reported issues of vehicles travelling the wrong way which was a safety hazard for the children and parents.

“Corner Plot”, Chester Road

Following my request via the Council, the site on Chester Road has seen some improvements and has been cut back in parts. Whilst I appreciate that there is more still to do and a longer term solution to be found, this is a delicate matter and any progress is positive.

Gresford Colliery Disaster Remembrance

September 22nd saw the 88th Anniversary of the Gresford Mining Disaster which took the lives of 266 local men when there was an explosion in the Dennis section of the mine. Still today, descendants of those that died attend the Memorial Service held in front of the old pit wheel on Bluebell Lane. It was an honour to be able to remember those that died in this disaster.

Litter Pickers

I was pleased to be able to join the local Beavers group who recently did some litter picking around the village - they did a fantastic job!

I now have all the equipment and supplies to be able to lend these out to groups or individuals who would like to help keep our area tidy. If you would like to use the equipment, please do get in touch!

As always, if you have anything you wish to raise with me, then please do not hesitate to contact me on Jeremy.Kent@wrexham.gov.uk or 07832 211085.

Tel: 07832 211085

Jeremy.Kent@wrexham.gov.uk

Useful Numbers

ANIMAL CARE

Daleside Veterinary 01978 311 881 Farndon Kennels & Cattery 01829 270 198

Gatehouse Veterinary 01244 570 364

Green Lane Veterinary 01244 683 858

Park Lane Kennels 01978 852 914 Rhyd Broughton Veterinary 01978 720 362 RSPCA 0300 1234 999

Vets4Pets 01978 352 499

COUNCILS

Cheshire West & Chester 0300 123 8 123

Wrexham 01978 292 000

DOCTORS

Alyn Family Doctors 03333 323 260

Farndon Village Surgery 01829 771 588

Marches Medical Practice 01244 520 615

Strathmore Medical Practice 01978 352 055 NHS Direct 111

DENTISTS

Bridge End Dental Practice 01978 762 030

Chapel Cottage Dental Practice 01978 854 745 Rossett Dental Care 01244 571 544 Springfield Dental Care 01978 851 300

OPTICIANS

Gresford Eyecare 01978 855 828

HOSPITALS

Countess of Chester 01244 365 000 Wrexham Maelor 01978 291 100

LEISURE CENTRES

Gwyn Evans 01978 269 540

Northgate Arena 01244 380444 Plas Madoc 01978 821 600

LOCAL FACILITIES

3C Pest Control 01948 838 111

Adult Social Services 01978 292 066

Citizens Advice 0300 330 1178

Foodbank - Chester 0151 355 7730

Foodbank - Wrexham 07538 547971

Recycling Centre - Chester 01244 372 764

Recycling Centre - Tattenhall 01829 771 337

Recycling Centre - Whitchurch 0345 678 9007

Recycling Centre - Wrexham 01978 292 000

Samaritans 116 123

LOCAL SERVICES

Air Ambulance - Wales 0300 0152 999

Fire & Rescue - Cheshire 01606 868 700

Fire & Rescue - North Wales 01745 535 250

Environment Agency 03708 506 506

Natural Resources Wales 0300 065 3000

Severn Trent Water 0800 783 4444

Welsh Water 0800 052 0130

LIBRARIES

Chester Library at Storyhouse 01244 409 113

Gresford Library 01978 852 627

Llay Library 01978 855 100

Overton Library 01978 710 557

Wrexham Library 01978 292 090

SCHOOLS & NURSERIES

Abbey Gate College 01244 332 077

All Saints’ Primary School 01978 852 342

Benison Nursery School 01244 676 199

Bishop Heber High School 01948 860 571

Dandelions Day Nursery 01829 272 277

Darland High School 01244 570 588

Dodleston Pre-School 01244 661 611

Dodleston C E Primary School 01244 662 990

Eccleston Primary School 01244 981 000

Farndon Primary School 01244 981 280

Gresford Playgroup 07523 398 880

Holt Primary School 01829 270 021

Holt Under 5’s Playgroup 07496 231 275

Leaps and Bounds Pre-school 01244 678 997

Little Scholars Nursery 01978 314 912

Marford Playgroup 07947 473857

Rhosnesni High School 01978 340 840

Rossett House Nursery 01244 571 872

St. Paul's VA Primary School 01978 661 556

St. Peters Primary School 01244 570 594

Shocklach Primary School 01829 250 285

The Catholic High School 01244 981 600

The Homestead Day Nursery 01978 853 946

The King’s School 01244 689 500

The Maelor School 01948 830 291

The Queen’s School 01244 312 078

The Rofft Primary School 01978 853 116

The Spinney Day Nursery 01244 577 948

Ysgol Bryn Alyn 01978 720 700

TRAVEL

National Rail Enquiries 03457 48 49 50 Traveline 0871 200 22 33

Puzzle

For Fun

Crossword

ACROSS

1 Asserts (5)

4 Fatty tissue (7)

7 Benefactor (5)

8 Person who inspires others (8)

9 Flat-bottomed vessels (5)

11 Abstinent from alcohol (8)

15 Imaginary (8)

17 Swagger (5)

19 Artificial water channel (8)

20 Currently in progress (5)

21 Got away (7)

22 Tall and thin (5)

DOWN

1 Track and field events (9)

2 Foes (7)

3 Underwriter (7)

4 __ Bocelli: Italian operatic singer (6)

5 More needy (6)

6 School of fish (5)

10 Sitting; seated (of a position) (9)

12 Digit (7)

13 Tar-like hydrocarbon (7)

14 Moon of the planet Jupiter (6)

16 Neither gas nor solid (6)

18 Bunches (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