SOUTH EDITION
October 2026
MAG
Your monthly local community magazine
FR EE
★ Shop local ★ Eat local ★ Spend local ★ Enjoy local ★
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Welcome... Welcome to our October issue! October is here, bringing with it that unmistakable feeling of autumn. It’s a lovely time of year to get out and enjoy everything happening locally. With autumn events, Halloween and half-term towards the end of the month, there’s plenty going on - and you’ll find lots of ideas inside this month’s magazine and on our online What’s On Calendar (www.essentialsmag.co.uk/whats-on). For me, October always feels like a bit of a turning point in the year. Summer suddenly seems a distant memory, routines are well and truly back in place, and there’s a small window to get organised before the Christmas whirlwind begins! And, of course, we get that glorious extra hour when the clocks go back at the end of the month - although I’m never quite as enthusiastic about how early it gets dark afterwards! Whatever you have planned this October, I hope you enjoy the month. There’s plenty to read, discover and get involved with in this month’s EssentialsMAG.
All the best, Vicky Heathfield EMAIL: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk CALL: 01978 855459
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EssentialsMAG Your go-to magazine for Wrexham and the bordering Cheshire villages.
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www.essentialsmag.co.uk ©EssentialsMAG Limited 2026. EssentialsMAG is published by EssentialsMAG Limited, a local independent publishing company. All content within the publication is copyright of EssentialsMAG 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.
Local News Have Your Say on Penley Hospital The future of Penley Hospital is currently under consultation, and local people are being urged to have their say before the 7 October deadline. The Rainbow Foundation is calling for support for its proposed Rainbow Pathway, a community-led model that would use Penley Hospital to help older people recover following illness or a hospital stay, rebuild their strength and confidence, and return home safely. The Foundation says more than 15,000 hospital bed days in Wrexham are currently occupied by people who are well enough to leave hospital but have nowhere suitable to continue their recovery. Longer hospital stays can lead to reduced mobility, loss of confidence and independence, while also placing additional pressure on hospital beds, families and carers. Under the Rainbow Pathway, Penley Hospital could provide rehabilitation and recovery support closer to home, alongside respite for carers, end-of-life care and other communitybased services. The Rainbow Foundation, an Ageing Well Centre of Excellence for Wales, already provides services supporting older people, carers and families across the area and believes its proposal could also save the Health Board around £800,000 a year. Anyone wishing to support the proposal is being encouraged to complete the Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board consultation. Previous consultation responses will not carry over, so people who responded before will need to do so again. Those supporting the Rainbow Pathway are being asked to select “None of these options” and write “Rainbow Foundation Pathway” in the alternative suggestion box. Have Your Say The Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board consultation closes on 7 October. To support the Rainbow Pathway, complete the consultation, select “None of these options” and write “Rainbow Foundation Pathway” in the alternative suggestion box. Scan the QR code to complete the consultation and have your say on the future of Penley Hospital. Responses from the first consultation won't carry over, so please take a few minutes to share your views again.
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Wrexham Stroke Club Still Going Strong The Wrexham and District Stroke and Social Club, formally recognised as the oldest Stroke Club in Wales, is still going strong more than 40 years after it was formed. The Club began in September 1984 after stroke survivors Eric Edwards, Eifion Roberts and George Smith recognised there was no organised support in the Wrexham area for people who had suffered a stroke and their families. With the involvement of Maelor Hospital physiotherapist Irene Kay and ambulance driver Bryn Williams, the Club was established to provide friendship, support and somewhere for people to meet. Today, the Club continues to offer a warm and welcoming environment for local stroke survivors, their families and carers. Meetings are held fortnightly on Wednesdays from 2pm-4pm at Bethel Presbyterian Church, Kenyon Avenue, Garden Village. Members enjoy a varied programme of activities, including guest speakers, games and quizzes, visiting choirs, day trips, meals out and a Christmas lunch. Most importantly, the meetings provide an opportunity to enjoy some company, share experiences and make new friends. New members are always very welcome. Anyone who has suffered a stroke is invited to come along with a family member or carer and find out more. For further details, contact Keith Samuels, Chairman, on 01978 840645 or Gwyndaf Owen, Secretary, on 01978 359373.
Wrexham New Museum Opens Wrexham’s exciting new Football Museum of Wales and Wrexham Museum is now open, welcoming visitors to come along and explore. Entry is free, with the museum open six days a week, Wednesday to Monday, 10am–5pm. It is closed on Tuesdays, with last admission 30 minutes before closing. Visitors can discover more about Wrexham’s history, stories and heritage, as well as the rich history of Welsh football. Address: County Buildings, Regent Street, Wrexham LL11 1RB
Share Your News! Deadline for the next issue is 12 October. Email your story to: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk
October 2026 | EssentialsMAG
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Can You Find The EssentialsMAG Mice? Hidden throughout this magazine are five mice, just like the one here (but smaller), waiting for you to find them!
WIN £25
Find the five hidden mice for a chance to win £25! (PLUS this cute felt mouse toy) HOW TO ENTER: 1. Read this magazine cover-to-cover and find the five hidden mice. 2. Visit: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/mice and complete the competition form with your answers. 3. Closing date: Tuesday 27 October 2026 at 12pm. The first correct entry drawn at random will win. The usual EssentialsMAG competition terms and conditions apply.
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01248 295015
Five Essential Phone Settings By DAVID HUGHES The Settings app is probably one of the least exciting parts of your phone. It’s also become significantly more complicated as phones themselves have become more capable, so once everything works, it’s tempting to leave it well alone. However, a few quick checks can make your phone easier to use and safer. Names vary between iPhone and Android, but most options can be found using the search box in the Settings app (which is easily missed!). Here’s my top five: Add your emergency details Most phones can display emergency information without being unlocked. This can include someone to contact and, if you choose, medical details such as allergies or known health conditions. On an iPhone, look for Medical ID; on Android, search for Emergency Information or Safety and Emergency. Tell your chosen contact that you have added them too. Make the screen easier to read If you find yourself squinting at messages, increase the text size rather than struggling. You can also make text bold, increase contrast or enlarge other items on screen. These features are usually under Display or Accessibility. But they are not only for people with accessibility needs; they can make any phone more comfortable to use. Review what your apps can access Apps may ask to use your location, camera, microphone, contacts or photos. Some need this to work, but others may have access left over from something you tried once and forgot about. Look under Privacy on an iPhone, or Permission Manager on many
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Android phones. Remove anything that no longer makes sense. Where available, ‘only while using the app’ is often a sensible middle ground. Changing this setting can also boost battery life a little. Make sure you can find a lost phone Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find Hub can locate a missing phone, make it ring, lock it or, as a last resort, erase it remotely. Both need to be set up before the phone disappears. Check that the feature is on and that you know your Apple or Google account password. You could sign in from another device now, simply to make sure you know where to look. Check updates and backups Software updates do more than add features; they can also fix security problems and faults. Turn on automatic updates for the phone and its apps, ideally while it is charging and connected to Wi-Fi. Finally, check when your phone was last backed up. Whether you use iCloud, Google or another service, make sure there is enough storage. Backing up can also make switching to a new phone easier, assuming you stay with the same type of operating system. Ten minutes or so in Settings today can make your phone more comfortable to use and give you more confidence when something unexpected happens.
EssentialsMAG tech contributor is David Hughes a freelance web developer www.davidhughes.co
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Your Everyday Body Checks By HELEN CONWAY We happily put our cars through an annual MOT, checking that everything is working as it should. But when did you last give your body the same attention? Too often fitness is measured by weight, appearance or how many workouts we manage each week. Yet as we get older, arguably more important measures are the simple physical abilities that allow us to live independently. So, this autumn, forget the bathroom scales and try a different kind of MOT. Can you balance on one leg? Single-leg balance is involved in something we do every day: walking. Each step requires us to briefly support our weight on one leg. Balance relies on a complex combination of strength, vision, sensation, coordination and our vestibular system. If you never challenge it, don't be surprised when it deteriorates. Can you stand up from a chair without using your hands? Getting out of a chair requires useful strength through the hips and legs. Try crossing your arms and standing up from a firm chair. Then sit back down slowly and with control. It's a wonderfully simple test of everyday strength. Can you carry something reasonably heavy? Shopping bags, suitcases, grandchildren, gardening supplies - life requires us to carry things. Maintaining strength in our hands, arms, shoulders and trunk helps us remain capable of doing so.
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Can you walk at a purposeful pace? Walking speed is increasingly recognised as a useful indicator of health and physical function as we age. You don't need to power-walk everywhere, but retaining the ability to comfortably increase your pace when necessary matters - crossing a road safely is a perfect example. Can you get down to the floor, and back up again? This requires an impressive combination of mobility, strength, balance and coordination. It can also be practised. There isn't one 'correct' way to get up; having several strategies is even better. None of these are pass-or-fail tests, and there's no need to panic if something feels difficult. Instead, think of them as information. Our physical abilities can change gradually, making decline surprisingly easy to miss. Testing the things that matter in everyday life gives us an opportunity to notice those changes, and do something about them. Your body doesn't need to perform impressive tricks. It needs to keep performing for life.
EssentialsMAG fitness contributor is Helen Conway from Bodywork-Pilates Ltd www.bodywork-pilates.co.uk Tel: 01978 512401
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October 2026 | EssentialsMAG
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Dates for your Diary SAT 3 OCTOBER
TUE 6 OCTOBER
WED 14 OCTOBER
Wrexham Country Market The Hwb Yr Orsedd, Rossett LL12 0DS
Bangor Isycoed Village Institute AGM Bangor-on-Dee Village Hall LL13 0BY
Darland Divas WI Rossett & Burton Village Hall, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0HE
All Bangor Isycoed residents, are welcome to attend the meeting.
Come along to Zumba Gold with Maritza. All welcome.
Sale of homemade cakes, jams, chutneys, marmalades, plants and crafts. 10am - 12pm
7:30pm
7:30pm £5.00 (incl refreshments)
SAT 3 OCTOBER
Wrexham Artisan Market Queen's Square, Wrexham LL11 1AT A wonderful mix of talented makers, bakers, artists and independent businesses. 10am - 4pm
WED 7 OCTOBER
FRI 16 OCTOBER
Ladies Pop-up Shop & Fashion Show Farndon Memorial Hall, Church Lane CH3 6QD
Quiz, Cheese & Wine Rossett & Burton Village Hall, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0HE
Pop-up Shop & Fashion Show with Farndon & District WI. Tickets cash only.
Tickets are £10 and include your quiz entry and cheese!
6:30pm £15.00 (Incl. prosecco/nibbles)
SAT 3 OCTOBER
A Taste of Nigeria - Food Festival Wrexham Memorial Hall, Bodhyfryd LL12 7AG Experience the colour, flavours and culture of Nigeria: dance, food & crafts. 2pm - 10pm Free
7pm £10.00 https://bit.ly/4h4uZrg
SAT 10 OCTOBER
FRI 16 OCTOBER
Indoor Car Boot Sale Eagles Meadow Car Park LL13 8DG
Murder at The Village Hall Overton Village Hall, Pen-Y-Llan Street, Overton LL13 0EE
Find bargains and help a great cause. Pitches £10. 6:30am - 12:30pm
Overton Amateur Dramatic Society’s latest play. 7pm £12.00 (Corner Shop, Overton)
SUN 4 OCTOBER
TUE 13 OCTOBER
Penley Church 125th Anniversary St Mary Magdalene Penley, Penley LL13 0LU
Wrexham National Trust Association Talk St John's Church Hall, Herbert Jennings Avenue LL12 7YF
Celebrate 125 years of Penley Church. Starting with a Harvest and Anniversary Service, followed by short talks and refreshments.
Talk: ‘The Lost Excavations of Moel Hiraddug’, by Dr Erin Lloyd James.
10am
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6:30pm £5.00 (non members)
SAT 17 OCTOBER
Artisan Vintage Flea Tŷ Pawb, Market Street, Wrexham LL13 8BB Hunt for vintage clothing, accessories, quirky collectables, artisan crafts and pre-loved clothing. 10am - 4pm
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, scan the QR code:
SAT 17 OCTOBER
Autumn Fayre All Saints’ Church, Gresford LL12 8DG Crafts, food, beauty, cards and gifts. Come and find something special. 10am - 4pm £5.00 (incl. refreshments) Children free
17 & 18 OCTOBER
Pulford Painters' Art Group - Exhibition & Sale Pulford Village Hall, off Burganey Court, Pulford, Chester CH4 9ES Enjoy an exhibition and sale of original artwork by Pulford Painters’ Art Group. 11am - 5pm (Saturday) 10am - 5pm (Sunday) Free
SAT 17 OCTOBER
Chirk Castle Dark Run Chirk Castle, Wrexham LL14 5AF Glow and light up the night as you complete a 2k or 4k sponsored run, jog, or walk. 6:10pm £15.00 adults/£10.00 child https://bit.ly/4hvVnuz
18 - 25 OCTOBER
WED 21 OCTOBER
Lexus Wrexham Open Wrexham Tennis & Padel Centre, Plas Coch Road, Wrexham LL11 2BW
Pulford & Poulton Local History Group Pulford Village Hall, off Burganey Court CH4 9ES
World class tennis returns to Wrexham with the biggest indoor women’s tennis tournament in the UK!
Talk on: ‘Liverpool Shipping Lines’, by David Hearn.
wrexhamopentennis.com
7:30pm £3.00 members/£5.00 non pplhg.org.uk
TUE 20 OCTOBER
26 - 28 OCTOBER
Holt Flower Club Wrexham Golf Club, Holt Rd, Wrexham LL13 9SB
Contradiction Darland High School, Rossett LL12 0DL
Flower demonstration with Sarah Tomlinson, theme: 'Sweet Treats'. All welcome.
Darland Community Theatre’s latest comedy play.
7pm £8.00 (visitors) Tel: 07857 896496 (Christine)
7:30pm £7.00 https://bit.ly/4AfwTxQ
FRI 30 OCTOBER TUE 20 OCTOBER
The Friends of Wrexham Museum Lecture & AGM Wrexham Memorial Hall, Wrexham LL12 7AG Talk on: 'The Welsh in America' by Robert Williams. 7pm £5.00 (non-members) asandra66@hotmail.co.uk
Brymbo Male Voice Choir St Dunawd's Church, Bangor-on-Dee, Wrexham LL13 0BU A concert by the amazing Brymbo Male Voice Choir. 7:30pm £10.00 01978 780974
SAT 31 OCTOBER WED 21 OCTOBER
BRHS AGM St. Peter’s Primary School, Rossett LL12 0EE BRHS Annual General Meeting, with refreshments. 7:30pm
Xplore! Halloween Party Xplore! 17 Henblas Street, Wrexham LL13 8AE Spooky science and family fun. Slime making, spooky games and Halloween disco. 4pm - 6:30pm
October 2026 | EssentialsMAG
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Murder, Mystery & Contradiction By DARLAND COMMUNITY THEATRE Following a string of well-received productions, we’re thrilled to announce our next show: Contradiction, a comedy murder mystery by local writer Andy Fox-Hutchings. Set at the Galimore Estate on the night of a funeral, the play throws a room full of guests into chaos when a body hits the floor, and two detectives must sift the lies from the truth. Expect wit, wine and a whodunit that keeps you guessing to the final curtain. On bringing the show to the stage, our director, Eileen Evans, said: “It’s a pleasure to direct a play that’s genuinely funny and fiendishly clever in equal measure. The cast has embraced every twist with relish. Audiences are in for a treat; just don’t trust a word any of the characters say!”
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Leading the ensemble is Dawn Adams as the formidable Maxine Galimore, a role she first played in the play’s debut at Chester Little Theatre in 2023. Dawn said: “Maxine is wicked and wonderful fun to play. I can’t wait for audiences to meet her again.” This production is a real team effort, with our members involved in every aspect, from acting and directing to building the set and making the tea. New members are always welcome, so if you’d like to get involved on stage or behind the scenes, you’re assured of a warm welcome. Contradiction runs from 26–28 October 2026 at Darland High School, Rossett. Tickets are £7.00 and available now – search “Contradiction” on TicketSource, or scan the QR code below.
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Alaska: Bears, Glaciers & Whales By SARAH, Cruise & Destination Specialist, Delmar World in Gresford There are some destinations that stay with you long after you return home, and Alaska is certainly one of them. I recently sailed from Seattle aboard Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth on a 10-night journey through Alaska and western Canada. It was a trip filled with extraordinary scenery, memorable wildlife encounters and experiences I had wanted to tick off my list for years.
returning to the ship each day feel like part of the experience rather than simply the journey between ports.
In Ketchikan, I watched black bears fishing for salmon in their natural habitat - a real pinch-me moment. Juneau brought one of the biggest highlights of the entire trip: a helicopter flight over the Alaskan wilderness before landing on a glacier for a husky sled ride. It was every bit as spectacular as it sounds.
Want to read more? Scan the QR code opposite to discover my full Alaska cruise review, including my three must-do excursions and more from life aboard Queen Elizabeth.
If Alaska is on your wish list, my advice is simple: go. The landscapes are bigger, the wildlife more exciting and the experiences more memorable than photographs can ever really convey.
Skagway offered a glimpse into Alaska’s Gold Rush history, while Sitka delivered more unforgettable wildlife, including sea otters, humpback whales and a brown bear with three cubs. Then came Glacier Bay. Surrounded by vast mountains, ice and immense glaciers, it was one of those places that makes you stop and simply take it all in. Life aboard Queen Elizabeth was a lovely contrast to the adventure ashore. Cunard’s traditional style, attentive service, afternoon tea and elegant public spaces made
Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises. Tel: 01978 853 886, www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE
Wrexham Tourism News By JOE BICKERTON, Tourism Manager, Wrexham County Borough Council October is shaping up to be another exciting month for tourism in Wrexham, with new openings, travel trade activity and plenty of work going on behind the scenes as we head into the autumn. One of the biggest milestones was the opening of the new Wrexham Museum and Football Museum for Wales on 25 September. It represents a major new addition to Wrexham city centre and our visitor offer, telling both the story of Wrexham and the wider story of Welsh football. We’re really looking forward to welcoming visitors through the doors and seeing the museum become an important part of the wider tourism experience in the city. Last month saw us welcoming a group of travel writers, content creators and travel trade representatives to Wrexham for a three-day familiarisation visit. We took them across the county, introducing them to some of our fantastic attractions, hospitality businesses and hidden gems. These visits are incredibly valuable – giving people who influence future trips and itineraries the chance to experience Wrexham first-hand and, hopefully, go away as enthusiastic ambassadors for the area. Hot off the press too is our new 2026/27 Wrexham Tourism Brochure. Packed with inspiration, attractions, places to stay and ideas for exploring the area, it’s another important tool for promoting the county to visitors and the travel trade. Look out for copies appearing across Wrexham and further afield over the coming weeks, or take a look online: https://tinyurl.com/23vcvvkh We’ve also been out and about in Chirk, working on a new
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film celebrating 225 years of the incredible Chirk Aqueduct. It’s a chance to tell the story of this remarkable feat of engineering, the people behind it and the communities that have grown around it over more than two centuries. The aqueduct remains one of the jewels within our UNESCO World Heritage Site, and we’re looking forward to sharing the finished film later this autumn. If all of that has inspired you to learn a little more about the place we call home, why not become a Wrexham Tourism Ambassador? The online scheme is a great way for residents, businesses and anyone working with visitors to discover more about Wrexham’s history, attractions and stories – and to build the confidence to recommend even more of the county to others. See; www.ambassador.wales/ambassadorcourses/wrexham-ambassador-course/ Meanwhile, our giant WRECSAM letters will soon be on the move again! They’ve spent the summer at Stori Brymbo – have you been to see them yet? If not, there’s still time before they head off to a new prime location for the autumn. It’s been brilliant seeing people seek them out, take photos and discover another part of the county along the way. And finally, we’re already beginning to look towards 2027, which will mark 10 years of This is Wrecsam, our official tourism partnership for the county. It’s quite a milestone, and plans are starting to take shape for a year of celebrations – including some big events and a few surprises along the way. There’s plenty more to come. Watch this space!
By Joe Bickerton, Tourism Manager at Wrexham County Borough Council T. 01978 292015 www.thisiswrexham.co.uk
Gardening Tips and Advice October - The Autumn Chill Sets In
Although we had some warmer days over September, the autumn is now definitely here for real, and it feels colder. It's a beautiful time of year with the trees changing colour. Sometimes it may seem pointless raking, when the wind blows even more leaves onto the lawn, but just think of all the lovely leaf-mould you can make! It's also time to start preparing for early frosts.
TOP 10 JOBS TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS MONTH
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1.
Divide established rhubarb crowns to create new plants
2.
Cut back perennials that have died down
3.
Divide herbaceous perennials
4.
Move tender plants, including aquatic ones, into a greenhouse or conservatory
5.
Plant out spring cabbages
6.
Harvest apples, pears, grapes and nuts
7.
Prune climbing roses
8.
Finish collecting seeds from the garden to sow next year
9.
Last chance to mow lawns and trim hedges in mild areas
10.
Renovate old lawns or create new grass areas by laying turf.
EssentialsMAG | October 2026
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October 2026 | EssentialsMAG
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School Admissions 2027: Key Dates As the new school year gets underway, it’s time for many parents and guardians to start thinking about their child’s next step in education. Whether your child is moving to secondary school, starting reception or becoming eligible for nursery or early education, there are some important dates to add to your diary. Secondary school If your child has just started Year 6 and will turn 11 during this academic year, it’s time to apply for their secondary school place for September 2027. For families in Wrexham, Cheshire East and Cheshire West & Chester, the key dates are: Applications opened: 1 September 2026 Closing date: 31 October 2026. Secondary schools will be holding open days, giving families the opportunity to visit, meet staff and get a feel for the schools before making their choices. Check your local council/school website for details. Reception If your child turns four during this academic year, you’ll also need to apply for their fulltime reception place for September 2027. Importantly, attending a nursery does not automatically guarantee a reception place - a separate application must be made. For Wrexham and neighbouring Cheshire authorities, the closing date for reception applications is: 15 January 2027. Application opening dates vary slightly, so check with your local authority.
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Nursery and early education If your child turns three during this academic year, they may also become eligible for nursery or funded early education. In Wrexham, children who reach their third birthday before 31 August 2027 can apply for a school nursery place. Applications open: 5 January 2027 Closing date: 15 February 2027. Wrexham also offers funded early education for eligible three-year-olds, with different application dates depending on your child’s birthday and the term in which they become eligible. Check Wrexham Council website. Arrangements for nursery and funded early education differ in Cheshire East and Cheshire West & Chester, so Cheshire families should check their own council’s website for eligibility, providers and application information. Don’t leave it too late Whichever side of the border you live on, it’s important to apply by the relevant deadline. Late applications can still be accepted, but on-time applications are considered first. Applying late could therefore, reduce your chances of securing a place at your preferred school. Parents and guardians should check their local authority website for full details, admissions policies and online applications. For Wrexham, visit Wrexham Council. For our Cheshire readers, visit Cheshire West & Chester Council or Cheshire East Council, depending on where you live.
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Eye Problem? Pop In! By GRESFORD EYECARE If something suddenly doesn’t feel quite right with your eyes, you might automatically think you need to make an appointment with your GP. But did you know that your local optometrist can often be the best first port of call? Gresford Eye Care provides the Wales General Ophthalmic Service (WGOS), previously known as the Welsh Eye Care Service (WECS). This NHS service is designed to make it quicker and easier for people experiencing an eye problem to receive specialist assessment and treatment. What problems can they help with? If you develop a red or painful eye, sudden changes to your vision, flashing lights, new floaters, double vision or have something in your eye, it’s important to get it checked rather than waiting to see if it improves. The team at Gresford Eyecare can examine your eyes thoroughly, identify what may be causing the problem and advise on the appropriate treatment or next step. Best of all, you don’t need to make an appointment. If you have a problem with your eye, simply pop into the practice on Chester Road. The team will assess how urgent your problem is and will do their best to fit you in around existing appointments. Treatment when you need it Optometrists providing NHS eye care in Wales can do much more than simply test your sight
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and prescribe glasses. Depending on the problem and the optometrist treating you, they may be able to provide or prescribe appropriate medication. Where a prescription is required, this can be taken to the pharmacy next door in Gresford, making the whole process particularly convenient. If your eye problem requires more specialist investigation or hospital treatment, the optometrist can also arrange the appropriate referral. Don’t ignore changes to your eyes Many eye problems are minor and straightforward to treat, but some symptoms can indicate something more serious. Getting them checked promptly can make a real difference. So, if you wake up with a sore or red eye, notice a sudden change in your vision or simply feel that something isn’t right, don’t wait for your next routine eye test. Just pop into Gresford Eyecare at 17 Chester Road, Gresford, LL12 8NB, and speak to the team. We’ll assess the problem and make sure you receive the right care, treatment or referral.
By Gresford Eyecare, 17 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NP Tel: 01978 855828 www.gresfordeyecare.co.uk
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www.natbalance.co.uk October 2026 | EssentialsMAG
25
Autumn Porchetta
A comforting centrepiece roast with crisp crackling that works beautifully with sweet roasted autumn vegetables, and a glossy cider-sage gravy. Perfect for a slow Sunday.
INGREDIENTS: 1.5 - 2kg boneless pork belly, skin on 2 tbsp fine sea salt 1 tbsp cracked black pepper 1 tbsp fennel seeds 2 tbsp chopped sage 1 tbsp chopped thyme 6 garlic cloves, grated Zest of 1 lemon 1 tbsp olive oil
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EssentialsMAG | October 2026
EssentialsMAG Tasty Recipe
SERVES: 6-8
PREP: 25 minutes
COOK: 3.5 hours
METHOD: Prep the pork Lay the pork belly skin‑side down. Mix salt, pepper, fennel seeds, sage, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, and olive oil. Spread evenly over the meat. Roll the pork belly and tie tightly with butcher’s string. Massage the skin with oil and season generously with sea salt. Roast low and slow Heat oven to 160°C (fan). Scatter roughly cut autumn vegetables in a roasting tray. Place the porchetta on top. Add 400ml water and 200ml cider to the tray. Cover the pork with a sheet of foil and tuck in around the edges. Roast for 3 hours, basting halfway. Crisp the crackling Increase oven to 220°C (fan). Roast for 25–30 minutes until the skin is blistered and crisp. Make the cider gravy Remove the porchetta and veg. Place the tray on the hob. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Add stock, cider, and sage leaves. Simmer until glossy and thick. Strain. Serve Slice the porchetta into thick rounds. Spoon over the cider‑roast veg. Finish with a drizzle of sage gravy.
Trying out our recipe? Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham
Recipe by ADAM GAUNT-EVANS Adam is a local chef and cookery teacher. Follow Adam’s cooking, news & events through instagram: @adam_gaunt_evans www.adamgauntevans.com
Seasonal Treats in October
October is that lovely in-between month when the harvest shifts and autumn really makes itself at home. The days get shorter, the jumpers come out, and our plates start to fill with richer, heartier flavours. Apples and pears This is peak apple season, with orchards full of Bramleys, Cox’s, and Russets. Perfect for crumbles, pies, or a batch of homemade cider, basically, all the cosy apple-flavoured treats we love at this time of year. Pears also come into their own now too. Conference and Comice are at their sweetest and juiciest, great eaten fresh, poached with spices, or sliced into a salad or pudding. Veggies Brussels sprouts start making an appearance this month. If you’re a fan, they’re too good to save for December. They’ve got that nutty flavour that works so well roasted or as a side. And here’s a little tip: microwave them! Six minutes on medium heat, and you get tender, tasty sprouts without the faff of boiling, plus no smelly kitchen!
Cabbage and kale are also in season, brilliant in soups, stews or just as a side of greens. Root veg like carrots, turnips, parsnips and swedes are in abundance, ready for roasting, mashing or turning into something hearty and warming. And of course, it wouldn’t be October without pumpkins – perfect for Halloween, but also packed with goodness. The seeds, flowers, and flesh are all edible and full of vitamins. From the sea Seafood lovers are in luck too – mussels, oysters, crabs, clams and scallops are all at their best. Fresh from the coast, they’re a brilliant way to add a little luxury to your autumn table.
October Shopping List Apples, Pears, Plums, Blackberries, Raspberries, Sloes, Quinces, Elderberries, Damsons. Pumpkins, Butternut Squash, Beetroot,
Cauliflower and broccoli are both in season now. Try roasting cauliflower – just toss the florets with olive oil, salt and a bit of spice, then pop them in the oven. The edges go golden and crisp - much tastier than boiling!
Brussels Sprouts, Cabbage (all varieties), Carrots, Cauliflower, Celeriac, Kale, Leeks, Parsnips, Swede, Turnips, Broccoli, Celery, Spinach, Rocket & Watercress, Wild Mushrooms
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EssentialsMAG | October 2026
Planning For and Protecting Your Future
Lisa Jones Private Client Partner
Professional Legal Services
Over 18 years experience helping families and individuals across Wrexham, Chester, and North Wales.
• Estate Planning and Administration • Wills • Lasting Powers of Attorney • Lifetime Trusts • Probate • Inheritance Tax Planning
Call or Email Lisa for Personalised, Independent Legal Advice
B E X L E Y B E AU M O N T Lisa Jones, Partner, Bexley Beaumont 07359 435722 • lisajones@bexleybeaumont.com
Traditional Carpenters & Restoration Specialists Timber Traditions specialise in traditional carpentry work and restoration projects
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www.timbertraditions.co.uk October 2026 | EssentialsMAG
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Wrexham Birdwatchers Club Latest News
By TREVOR BRITTON Autumn is upon us. It’s all change in the bird world as our summer visitors leave us and winter visitors arrive. We are now seeing more, and a greater variety of birds arriving on our shores. Changing weather patterns certainly make a difference, and I also think the increasing number of bird watchers with vastly improved optics help boost the records as well. Hours of pouring over photos of a chiffchaff will show whether it really is a Siberian Chiffchaff or an Iberian Chiffchaff, or even a Willow Warbler! However, this time of year is important for birdwatchers for another reason now. If we follow RSPB and BTO advice, we can now bring our feeders out again in October. I’ve outlined below the advice given. It’s good advice, but I can fully understand that having garden feeders available all year round gives a lot of pleasure, and I think that must be a factor when you decide what to do. We did stop garden feeding and I must admit our garden bird count has halved the number of species seen each week, although providing clean water did bring large numbers of young blue tits. Seeds and peanuts are foods favoured by finches, including those species whose populations have been impacted by finch trichomonosis. The scientific evidence indicates that the risks from finch trichomonosis are increased during the post-breeding period, so limiting access to these foods at this time of the year provides our best chance of lowering transmission risk. The advice is to feed seeds and peanuts from November to April, but to pause their provision during May to October.
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The updated guidance also highlights the importance of water hygiene, since water sources can be a Wigeon Duck transmission route for the Trichomonas parasite. If you, or a neighbour, has a shallowedged pond that allows birds to drink and bathe, there is generally no need to provide additional water unless the pond has dried out or frozen. Where water is provided, replace it daily. Bowls or trays should be cleaned weekly, then rinsed and dried before re-use. Fat balls and similar are OK at any time. I still provide these with limited success, as only magpies seem to be interested. Whatever the time of year, good hygiene remains essential – offer food little and often, clean feeders regularly, and move them periodically to reduce build-up of waste and contamination. Apart from our gardens the waders and ducks are changing on our coasts. Our next Bird Club outing should give us good sightings of winter visitors. One such is the Wigeon duck.
Our next outing: Friday 2 October, Talk: Wetland Birds & WEBs by Gethin Jenkins-Jones, BTO, 7:30pm at Gresford Trust Memorial Hall. £3 non-members. Saturday 17 October, Day Outing: The Spinnies & Llanfairfechan 9:30am (meet at Gresford Lakeside Car Park) Outings are free.
For details: Trevor Britton: 07925 596168
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St Mary’s Cathedral Essential Repairs By KAY RYAN St Mary’s Cathedral is in urgent need of essential repairs, with the cost estimated at more than £1.7 million. Over the past three years, parishioners have worked tirelessly to raise funds, alongside efforts to secure support from grant funders. We are delighted that several recent grant applications have been successful, meaning Phase 1 of the renovation work can begin. The National Lottery Heritage Fund has awarded the cathedral £250,000, providing a major boost to the project. The funding will also support an exciting oral history and heritage project. We are also extremely grateful for the generous support of The Albert Gubay Charitable Foundation, a £100,000 grant from The Benefact Trust and support from The Charles Lloyd Foundation, as well as the generosity of parishioners and visitors. Why the Cathedral Matters St Mary’s stands at the gateway to the city of Wrexham in Regent Street, and is situated next to the new Museum of Two Halves, which is also supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Phase 1 of the renovation project includes replacing the floor, with Phase 2 involving the installation of a more energy-efficient heating system. These improvements will help to make the cathedral safer, more comfortable and sustainable for generations to come.
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The cathedral is the spiritual home of the Catholic congregation and plays an important role in the lives of a large and diverse community. It is also a Grade II listed building of architectural interest and significance. Within the cathedral is a relic of our local saint, St Richard Gwyn, who was hanged, drawn and quartered at Wrexham Beast Market because he would not renounce his faith. Sharing our heritage As part of the project, we will develop new ways to celebrate and share the cathedral’s heritage, including: • Creating a heritage display; • Producing a guide to the stained-glass windows; • Recording the histories of parishioners across the generations; and • Displaying historic artefacts in a new exhibition. We will deliver this work in collaboration with local schools, colleges and the university, helping to make the cathedral an interesting and meaningful place to visit. Our fundraising efforts will continue, but we would like to extend our sincere thanks to all donors for their invaluable support.
St Mary's Cathedral Regent Street, Wrexham LL11 1RB www.wrexhamcathedral.org.uk
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October 2026 | EssentialsMAG
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Alyn Family Doctors Latest News The right clinician for my appointment At Alyn Family Doctors, we have a team of clinicians with different skills and areas of expertise. When you contact us, you may be offered an appointment with a GP, Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP), Practice Nurse or Healthcare Assistant (HCA). We understand that you may contact the practice expecting to see a GP. However, a GP appointment is not always the most appropriate appointment for every health need. Our aim is to make sure you are seen by the clinician who is best placed to help you. GPs Our GPs assess and manage a wide range of health concerns, including new, complex or undiagnosed problems. They can also arrange further investigations, treatment or referrals where needed and coordinate your care. Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs) Our ANPs are highly trained clinicians who can assess, diagnose and treat many common illnesses and health concerns. They can request investigations, prescribe medication and refer patients where appropriate. For many health problems, an ANP can provide the same type of assessment and treatment you would receive from a GP. Practice Nurses Our Practice Nurses provide planned nursing care and specific clinics. Appointments include: Baby and travel immunisations, Pill and HRT reviews, Hormone injections, Diabetic and pre-diabetic care, Cervical screening, Swabs,
Asthma and COPD reviews, Coil checks, INR monitoring, Vaccinations, Other nursing care. Healthcare Assistants (HCAs) Our HCAs carry out a range of checks, tests and monitoring, including: Blood tests, Blood pressure checks, ECGs, Well-person checks, Diabetic and diabetic foot checks, New patient checks, Flu vaccinations, other checks and procedures requested by the clinical team. The HCA role has specific limits, and they are not trained or authorised to carry out a full clinical assessment or diagnose and manage health concerns. HCAs are not able to listen to a patient's chest, assess new or worsening symptoms, examine a patient for other health problems, or determine whether further investigation or treatment is required. Being offered an appointment with a Practice Nurse, HCA or ANP does not mean you are being refused an appointment with a GP. It means we believe another member of our clinical team is best placed to deal with your particular need with the appropriate skills for your needs. We want to make sure you receive the right care, from the right person, at the right time. Please give our Patient Advisors as much information as possible when you contact us. This helps us understand what you need and ensures we can offer you the most appropriate appointment. Thank you for working with us to help us provide the best possible care for all our patients.
Tel: 0333 332 3260 www.alynfamilydoctors.co.uk www.facebook.com/alynfamilydoctors
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ADVERTISING FEATURE
How to Get The Most Out of Your Retirement By TOM HADLOW Throughout my career in financial advice, the thing I recommend is balance. It is absolutely crucial in retirement planning, and an essential if you want to make the most of your circumstances. It might be time to assess what it is you want from your finances and more importantly, your time. We all want to leave something behind for our children and grandchildren, live like we’re still 20 years old, and slow down at the right time – this can be a very difficult balancing act, and one I’d love to help you with. There are a few ways we can make sure you’re doing the right things at the right time. Don’t start too late You may be retired already, or coming up to retirement age – just make sure you don’t start your retirement too late, as you could be eating into your time to enjoy the capital you have made over your career, and spending that time with your loved ones. On top of that, you could be adding to their IHT bill if you were to pass on suddenly. We all want to make sure that we’re being careful with our money, but it’s also important to enjoy a well-deserved break and reap the rewards. In the same way, starting to spend all of your capital quickly can be a risky decision, as once your private pension pot is gone, it’s gone – you’ll have to live off the Government State Pension allowance, if you’re eligible for it, from the moment your private pot runs out until the day you pass on. It is crucial to consider your private pension pot – as coming in April 2027 the new rules around IHT kick in, and your pension fund will be included in your assets, previously protected and not included in the nil-band rate allowances. When you do want to slow down You may be quite deep into retirement, 38
EssentialsMAG | October 2026
and already slowing down by taking fewer holidays abroad and keeping a closer eye on your funds. It’s at this point that you should be considering the ways in which you can mitigate the cost of an IHT bill for the people in your life who stand to inherit after you’re gone. Consider what impact you can have on your IHT bill by making the most of the seven-year rule. Gifting rules are always changing, but what you can do at the moment is assess who in your life could do with a helping hand and gift them money now, or set up a fund for them to access in the future via a Trust. Moving assets into a trust may be another financially efficient option to mitigate the cost to your beneficiaries’ IHT bill. If you have young grandchildren, setting up a Junior ISA may also be an option. For yourself, it may be time to reassess the capital you have saved in ISAs, as this isn’t protected from IHT and could work against you, and your loved ones, when it comes to an IHT bill. Summary So, if you want to enjoy your time and money without having to keep your eye fixed on the numbers, but also keep yourself comfortable in later life, come and have a chat with me so we can see what we can do for you and your family’s financial future. You can reach me on Tom.Hadlow@sjpp.co.uk or book in for a no-obligation chat at 01978 311611. Trusts are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
By Tom Hadlow of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk Tel: 01978 311 611 www.hadlowedwards.co.uk
From Samhain to Pumpkins Today, Halloween means carved pumpkins, fancy dress, trick-or-treating and bowls of sweets waiting by the front door. But while some of our modern celebrations have been influenced by America, many Halloween traditions have much older roots here in Britain and Ireland. Ancient beginnings Halloween is often linked to the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, which marked the end of the harvest season and the beginning of winter in Ireland and parts of Britain. Although the exact relationship between Samhain and modern Halloween is debated by historians, it was an important turning point in the year, as communities prepared for the colder, darker months ahead. It was believed that the boundary between the living and the dead was particularly thin at this time. Fires were lit and various customs developed around spirits, fortunetelling and protection from bad luck. All Hallows’ Eve As Christianity spread, older seasonal traditions became intertwined with Christian observances. 1st November became All Saints’ Day, also known as All Hallows’ Day, while 2nd November was All Souls’ Day, a time to remember the dead.
dead in return for small ‘soul cakes’ (small spiced cakes), or other food. Turnips before pumpkins Long before pumpkins appeared on British doorsteps, people carved turnips and swedes into lanterns. These lanterns were sometimes made with frightening faces and carried or displayed around Halloween. Irish and Scottish immigrants later took similar traditions to North America, where pumpkins were plentiful and considerably easier to carve. The pumpkin lantern eventually became one of Halloween’s most recognisable symbols. Halloween today Halloween celebrations changed over the centuries and varied considerably around the UK. In Scotland and parts of northern England, for example, children practised ‘guising’, dressing in disguise and visiting houses, often performing a song, joke or trick in return for food or coins.
The evening before All Hallows’ Day became known as All Hallows’ Eve, which was eventually shortened to Halloween.
During the 20th century, American films, television and popular culture helped transform Halloween into the celebration we recognise today. Pumpkins largely replaced turnips, costumes became increasingly elaborate and trick-or-treating became widespread.
One tradition associated with this period was ‘souling’. Poorer people, and later children, would visit homes offering prayers for the
So, although today’s Halloween may feel heavily Americanised, many of its traditions have connections much closer to home.
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Legal Advice By NATHAN WRIGHT, a Partner at GHP Legal When a prenup is no longer relevant... you need to update it with a postnup As couples get older it is likely that their financial landscape will change. They may have children and grandchildren, make plans for the future and share dreams for their retirement. All of those things will have a bearing on their finances, which they will want to safeguard as much as possible from the outset. Whilst it is good to plan for the future, none of us knows, however, what may be around the corner that could knock those plans out of kilter. There could be divorce, ill health, death, and even factors forced upon us by government, world climate etc. that will change our views and needs in the future. Prenuptial agreements are an increasingly popular consideration when it comes to protecting both individual and generational wealth, particularly in second marriages. However, there is less consideration given to the need for updating the original terms of a prenup - because parties assume this is not possible since the document was drawn up prior to marriage. Whilst this is true in theory, it is in fact possible to formalise any required changes after
marriage by using a postnup. If you don’t update your prenup and life changes require enforcement of it, you could find a court ruling it unfair and refusing to follow the terms of it in a divorce settlement. Both parties must agree to new terms, so it is important to review a prenup after all major events in your life. Major events could be having children, receiving a large inheritance, starting or selling a business, having grandchildren etc. Conversely it could be a decrease in income or a large debt. All these things have a bearing on how you see your financial future and how you are going to protect your wealth for yourself and future generations of your family. Changes to the law surrounding marital property can also change over time. Keeping your prenup up to date with legislation by way of a postnup ensures the document remains valid and enforceable. Prenups and postnups can also help to protect more complex assets such as trusts.
This article has been written by Nathan Wright, a Partner at GHP Legal
Tel: 01978 291456 www.ghplegal.com
GHP Legal Solicitors 26-30 Grosvenor Road, Wrexham LL11 1BU
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Fun Time For Kids..! Welcome to your October colouring adventure! Grab your crayons, felt tips, or pencils, and let your imagination run wild. Have fun, and get creative!
What’s your favourite colour? 00 44
EssentialsMAG | October 2026
Please share your colouring creations with us with us on Facebook: @EssentialsMag Wrexham
Little Scholars Day Nursery The Centre for the Child, Wrexham University, Mold Road, Wrexham LL11 2AW
For information about places please contact KIM or BECCA
Tel: 01978 314912 littlescholars@activechildcare.co.uk
“Let nature be your teacher” - WILLIAM WORDSWORTH
Why not pay us a visit and see what we have to offer you and your child... • Purpose built nursery • Dedicated and passionate practitioners • Registered to deliver EE and the Childcare Offer • Open to the general public as well as students and staff at GlyndŴr University • Holiday Club provision for ages 4‐12 also available
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Horoscope Your Forecast for October by Warren Starling www.warrenstarlingpsychicmedium.com
New Moon: 10 October / Hunter’s Moon: 26 October
Aries
21 March-19 April
October encourages you to slow down and listen before acting. The New Moon brings fresh partnerships, while the Hunter’s Moon highlights finances. An unexpected opportunity could transform your plans.
Cancer
21 June-22 July
Home and family remain important throughout October. The New Moon brings an opportunity to heal an old situation, while the Hunter’s Moon encourages emotional release. Trust your heart.
Libra
23 Sept-22 Oct
Taurus
20 April-20 May
October focuses on wellbeing, routines and personal balance. The New Moon encourages healthier habits, while the Hunter’s Moon brings important relationship revelations. Trust actions more than promises this month.
Leo
23 July-22 Aug
October brings movement through communication and new ideas. The New Moon encourages you to speak your truth, while the Hunter’s Moon highlights family matters. A message brings unexpected clarity.
Scorpio
23 Oct-21 Nov
Gemini
21 May-20 June
Creativity and romance brighten October. The New Moon encourages fresh inspiration, while the Hunter’s Moon highlights deeper emotional connections. A chance encounter could awaken feelings you thought had disappeared.
Virgo
23 Aug-22 Sept
Money and personal values come into focus this October. The New Moon offers a chance to improve your financial direction, while the Hunter’s Moon reveals where your true priorities lie.
Sagittarius 22 Nov-21 Dec
Happy birthday, Libra! October puts you firmly in the spotlight. The New Moon offers personal renewal, while the Hunter’s Moon brings clarity around relationships. Step forward confidently and embrace change.
Your birthday season approaches, Scorpio, bringing powerful transformation. The New Moon encourages quiet reflection, while the Hunter’s Moon reveals hidden truths. Your intuition is especially strong; trust what you sense.
October brings exciting connections and future possibilities. The New Moon encourages you to expand your social circle, while the Hunter’s Moon highlights spiritual growth. Follow the opportunity that excites you.
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces
22 Dec-19 Jan
Career and ambitions receive attention this October. The New Moon opens a professional door, while the Hunter’s Moon illuminates friendships and future goals. Someone influential may offer valuable support.
20 Jan-18 Feb
October encourages adventure, learning and spiritual discovery. The New Moon opens your mind to new possibilities, while the Hunter’s Moon highlights career matters. A bold decision could change your direction.
19 Feb-20 March
October deepens your intuition and emotional awareness. The New Moon encourages transformation, while the Hunter’s Moon highlights shared finances and trust. Pay attention to dreams; an important message may appear.
Free Spirit Emporium, The Plassey, Eyton, Wrexham LL13 0SP Drop in for a reading – no booking needed!
your sanctuary for
spiritual enlightenment Discover the enchanting Free Spirit Emporium, where psychic medium Warren Starling offers personalised readings and guidance. Browse our collection of gifts, crystals, and unique spiritual items designed to help you on your journey of self-discovery.
• Psychic Reading • Tarot Readings • Horoscopes • Crystals & Gifts • Spiritual Supplies
Free Spirit Emporium The Plassey, Eyton, Wrexham LL13 0SP
www.warrenstarlingpsychicmedium.com
Guessmiim Picture Word Guessing Game
1. Tastes Sweet 2. Train Home 3. Cowboy Film 4. Baseball Game
1. Photographic Dark Room 2. Loop Hole 3. Camera Case 4. New Black Curtains Answers: 3. Cowboy Film 1. Photographic Dark Room
Guessmiim is available to play seven days a week at: www.guessmiim.com
STEAMY. FOGGY.. MISTY... WINDOWS? • Yes to the above? Gary can fix it! • Broken glass? Gary can fix it! • Condensation? Gary can fix that too! • TWENTY year warranty on glass units! • Faulty double-glazing is a problem that’s easily solved! • You don’t need new windows or doors
- You just need a Gary! Affordable - Local - Reliable
Call Gary The Glass on:
✁ 01978 253 022 October 2026 | EssentialsMAG
47
Directory of Advertisers A huge thank you to all the businesses listed here for their continued support. Your partnership allows EssentialsMAG to thrive and serve the community. When contacting any of these businesses, please remember to mention EssentialsMAG. It’s a simple way to show appreciation for their support and help strengthen our local connections. ARTS, MUSIC & EVENTS David Michael Productions Grove Park Theatre Holly Bush Inn & The Ebenezer Marcher Vibe Radio Station
PAGE
11 43 19 41
AUTOMOTIVE Balmuir Garage Tilston Training
49 21
BEAUTY, HEALTH, FITNESS & WELLBEING Arc Healthcare Bodywork Pilates Gresford Eyecare Natural Balance Podiatry by Sophie Rose Foot Clinic Specsavers Wrexham Warren Starling Psychic
25 11 25 25 25 11 31 47
BUILDING, MAINTENANCE & REPAIR F2 Architectural Design JP Plastering Owain Pritchard Timber Traditions
37 49 37 29
BUSINESS & PROFESSIONAL My Wrexham Time for Marketing
6 43
CHILDREN & EDUCATION Abbey Gate College Active Childcare Overton Playcentre
23 45 47
CLEANING SERVICES Headstone Cleaning Niklas Roof, Window & Gutter Cleaning Tidy Space Team Wilson Brothers
21 37 21 33
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EssentialsMAG | October 2026
ELECTRICAL & LIGHTING Electric Center G Davies Electrical ESTATE AGENTS & PROPERTY Monopoly Buy, Sell, Rent FINANCIAL SERVICES Hadlow Edwards
PAGE
33 21
15
38-39, 52
GARDENING SERVICES Nathan’s Tree Surgery & Landscaping
21
KITCHENS, BEDROOMS & BATHROOMS Reflections Transform Your Kitchen
49 7
LEGAL SERVICES Bexley Beaumont
29
PLUMBING & HEATING Rightio Wrexham Plumbers Merchant
35 21
RETAIL Ableworld UK The Sofa Outlet
9,29 43
SOLAR PANELS & EV CHARGING Domelec Electrical & Solar
2
TRAVEL & LEISURE Delmar World Visit Wrexham
17 29
WINDOWS, DOORS & CONSERVATORIES ADG Alpine Gary The Glass Premier Windows & Conservatories
33 47 51
se A r v ir ic co e& n re pa ir
Transform your home with bespoke fitted furniture
BALMUIR GARAGE We believe QUALITY, SERVICE and PRICE can go together Servicing and mechanical repairs for all makes and models of cars and light vans • MOT Testing Station for cars and light vans • Exhausts, clutches and brakes • Cam belts • 4-wheel alignment • Courtesy cars available
DON’T FORGET WE DO TYRES www.balmuirgarage.co.uk
At Reflections we specialise in the bespoke design, manufacture and fitting of high quality bedroom, kitchen, offices and bathroom furniture.
01978 852412
info@balmuirgarage.co.uk 3 Chester Road, Gresford (behind Texaco service station)
Professional Interior & Exterior Plastering Services Whether you’re looking for a quick repair for some cracks, or a total redecoration complete with floor screeding, existing render removal and coving, you won’t find better than J P Plastering.
All manufactured and installed by our own highly skilled craftsmen. Free no pressure, no obligation consultations. Superb value for money.
Tel: 01978 265 381 www.reflections-wrexham.co.uk Unit 2, Fairfield, Barkers Lane, Borras LL13 9TP Showroom open: Monday - Friday 9am to 4:30pm with evenings and weekends by appointment
October 2026 | EssentialsMAG
49
Puzzle Page... Just For Fun Crossword ACROSS 1
Veins (anag) (5)
4
Capable of relieving pain (7)
7
Not taut (5)
8
Expensive fungi (8)
9
Wrong (5)
11 Business organisations (8) 15 Hairstyle (8) 17 High-pitched cries (5) 19 Narrowly avoided accident (4,4) 20 Oily organic compound (5) 21 Precipitously (7) 22 Hurt by an insect like a wasp (5)
DOWN 1
Almost; nearly (9)
2
Small rounded lumps (7)
3
Be adequate (7)
4
Stick to (6)
5
US currency (6)
6
Giraffes have long ones (5)
10 Surrounding on all sides (9) 12 Evergreen conifer (7) 13 Type of deer (7) 14 Elf or fairy (6) 16 Publicly (6) 18 Decree (5)
If you’d like to know the answers, they will be published in next month’s edition. Here are the answers from September:
50
EssentialsMAG | October 2026
Classic Sudoku
SCAN ME!
WINDOWS • DOORS • CONSERVATORIES • GARDEN ROOMS
BEAUTIFUL ROOF SOLUTIONS TO TRANSFORM YOUR HOME Whether you’re looking to create a brighter living space, add character to your home or improve energy efficiency, Premier Windows has the perfect roof solution for you. From stylish tiled roofs and elegant glass roofs to stunning skylights and lantern roofs, our expert team can help you find the ideal option to suit your home and lifestyle. Contact Premier Windows today for your FREE, no-obligation quote
Visit our local showroom, or call us to arrange your no-obligation quote SHOWROOM ADDRESS
OPENING HOURS
Unit 5 Moreton Business Park, Gledrid, Nr. Oswestry, Shropshire, LL14 5DG
Mon - Fri Saturday
8:30am to 5pm Appointment only
www.premierwindowsoswestry.co.uk info@premierwindowsoswestry.co.uk
01691 773 993