Clwyd Connection May 2023

Mold, Flintshire

A charming cottage with private grounds

• 4 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms

• Redevelopment potential

• Stable block with workshop

• Additional plot for sale

• EPC Rating E

£ Guide price – £650,000

Maenan, Llanrwst

A charming character residence and detached barn

• On the edge of Snowdonia National Park

• Three bedrooms

• Charming original features

• Barn conversion with 2 bedrooms

• EPC rating: Barn conversion G. Riverview lodge: F

£ Guide price – £550,000

Chester 01244 409660

Knutsford 01565 757970

Rhosesmore, Mold

A traditional 17th century farmhouse

• Adjoining self-contained cottage

• Glamping pod with planning

• Main residence c. 1,965.5 sq ft. Cottage c. 1,147.2 sq ft

• Workshop with services & parking for numerous vehicles

• EPC Rating: Foel Farm - F. Cottage - D

£ Guide price – £850,000

Cilcain, Mold

An exceptionally well-presented long barn with exquisite views

• Four bedrooms

• Triple aspect living room

• Contemporary breakfast kitchen

• Planning permission granted

• EPC Rating D

£ Guide price – £750,000

Corinne Harris

Susan Wallace

Toby GaleHasleham

Michael Harris

CONNECTION

CONTENTS

Publisher: Connection Magazines Ltd

Editor: Trevor Arnold

Tel: 01824 707 013

Email: trevor@clwydconnection.co.uk

16 Parc Alun, Mold, CH7 1LQ

Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, the publishers cannot accept any liability for any loss or damage caused by errors or omissions.

All adverts are published in good faith using information supplied by each company, on the understanding that relevant permissions have been obtained.

Copyright retained All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be re-produced in any way without the permission of the Editor

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Printed by S&G Print Group, Mertyr Tydfil

Hello lovely reader and welcome once again to the latest edition of the Clwyd Connection.

I hope you had a lovely Easter, I did. I spent it with my 2 adult children catching up on their lives while visiting the Natural History Museum in London followed by afternoon tea with them. It really was a lovely weekend.

Recently, a local resident called me to ask for the details of an advertiser that she had seen in the magazine. She was upset that she had misplaced her copy of the previous magazine and couldn’t find it anywhere. Obviously I gave her the details she wanted but one thing she wasn’t aware of, and you might not be, is that the magazines and all of the advertisers can be found on my website:- www.connectionmagazines.co.uk

The magazines are there for you to look at and there is a searchable directory of all of the current advertisers. Obviously, if you’d prefer to call me, I will always help out.

By the time you read this, we will be very close to another Bank Holiday weekend. This time for the Coronation of King Charles III. A moment in history. Will you be doing anything special?

Maybe there is a street party being planned near you or a get together to watch it on TV or are you not bothered and will just enjoy the long weekend in some way?

If the weather is good, I will probably be busy in the garden and then watch the highlights of the whole event later in the day. Whatever you do, lets not forget the people who have to work on Bank Holidays to provide vital services we all expect.

I hope you have a great month

To keep up with local what’s on, why not pop along to our Facebook page Facebook.com/ConnectionMags and like us

Or you could follow us on Twitter. @Connection_Mags

Dementia Awareness Week 16-22 May 2023

To raise awareness of this very important week, here are 5 reasons why you should not wait for the worst to happen before you make a Will:-

1. Control.

Making a Will is the only way you can be sure that your estate will pass to those you hold dear. Otherwise, your estate will be distributed in accordance with the intestacy rules with often unwanted results!

2. Protection

Making a Will means that your loved ones are protected and provided for, especially if you have children or vulnerable beneficiaries.

3. Cost effective

Making a Will is relatively cheap to put

into place and will save your family thousands of pounds and emotional strife should a dispute arise further down the line.

partner (having inherited the whole state) then requires care, most of the leted in order to meet the cost of

4. Quick and easy to put into place

Lots of our clients are surprised at just how easy and stress-free making a Will is!

5. Peace of mind

Once your Will is in place, you can simply forget about it and get on with enjoying life!

Have peace of mind and protect your loved ones by speaking to one of our specialists about your Will today.

can offer a solution. You can alue of one-half of the joint nsuring that the surviving ner will be financially secure. w if a Life Interest Will is ou, call me or speak to a m. We are always matters on the phone n initial meeting, at to you and without portunity to get ou. Swayne Johnson

Spare – Prince Harry

It will go down in history as the bombshell book that rocked the British royal family – as well as becoming the fastest-selling non-fiction book ever, selling more than 400,000 copies across hardback, ebook and audio formats on its first day of publication. It’s a no-holds barred memoir in which the Duke of Sussex makes a number of revelations about his own life, as well as his relationship with his father, his brother and other senior members of ‘the firm’. Royalist or not, read it and decide for yourself.

King Charles – The Man, the Monarch and the Future of Britain

An exhaustive biography of our new monarch by Robert Jobson, dubbed “the godfather of royal reporting”, who has been at the forefront of royal reporting for well over 25 years. He received unprecedented cooperation from Clarence House, what was the Prince’s office, in writing this illuminating biography. Revelations include the truth about his deeply loving but occasionally volatile relationship with Camilla, now Queen Consort. The result is an intriguing new portrait of a man who has at last become king.

Behind the Crown – Arthur Edwards

A collection of photographs capturing the modern British monarchy as never seen before, taken by the royal photographer for The Sun, who has covered them for nearly half a century and is the man behind the most iconic photographs of the most famous family in the world. With commensurate skill and unprecedented access, he has captured the candid moments when protocol is put aside, revealing the true personalities behind the Crown.

The Duchess

of Cambridge – Bethan Holt

Thrust into the global spotlight on her engagement to Prince William, Kate Middleton chose to wear a sapphire-blue wrap dress by London-based label Issa, which promptly sold out. It was the first step in Kate becoming the modern royal style icon she is today. This is a highly illustrated journey through a decade of her style evolution.

Queen Elizabeth – Gyles Brandreth

A personal account of the life and character of Britain’s longest-reigning monarch by someone who met her, talked with her and kept a record of those conversations. Gyles Brandreth knew the Queen and her husband well, and knows the new King and Queen Consort. Told with authority, a refreshing dose of humour and moving honesty from a totally unique viewpoint, he writes movingly about the Queen’s deteriorating health. “The truth is that Her Majesty always knew that her remaining time was limited. She accepted this with all the good grace you’d expect.”

The Crown Jewels, The Official Illustrated History – Anna Keay

The Tower of London has over two million visitors a year, with the Crown Jewels as its centrepiece. This sumptuous and highly readable publication tells the story of the most famous jewellery collection in the world, along with spectacular photographs with stunning details. A gem of a read for anyone interested in British history and monarchy.

To mark the King’s coronation, we round up some revealing royal reads.

The Mold Bookshop presents........

MARK BILLINGHAM - THE LAST DANCE

Actor, author and stand up comedian, Mark Billingham will be in conversation with fellow crime writer Luca Veste in Mold Library.

Mark will be talking about his latest book, The Last Dance, in which he introduces a new detective, Declan Miller in Mold Library, Earl Road, Mold Thursday May 25th at 7pm

Doors open 6.30pm

Tickets from £6 available from The Bookshop 01352 759879

Or online

https://bit.ly/3K1vce

www.mold-bookshop.co.uk

Candice Brown’s Salmon and Asparagus Quiche

Introduction

Perfect for large parties and small gatherings alike, this recipe takes care and attention, but done well will keep hungry tummies well satisfied.

Method

1. Combine the flour, salt, pepper and parsley in a bowl. Then rub the butter in with your fingertips until it feels like breadcrumbs. Add egg yolks, then slowly mix in the water.

Knead the pastry into a ball and divide in half, wrapping in cling film. Chill in the fridge for 30 mins.

2. For the filling, preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas mark 4. Lay out a sheet of foil and drizzle with olive oil. Place the salmon on top with dill, chilli flakes, garlic, salt and pepper.

Squeeze the lemon over the fish and lay on top. Wrap in foil on a

Ingredients

(makes 18 mini tarts)

You’ll need 18 10cm round tartlet tins

For the pastry

• 500g plain flour

• Salt and pepper

• 2 tsp dried parsley

• 250g cold cubed butter

• 4 medium egg yolks

• 100ml ice-cold water

• 1 beaten egg (egg wash)

For the filling

• Drizzle olive oil

• 3 x 110g salmon fillets

• 3 sprigs fresh dill

• ½ tsp chilli flakes

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• ½ lemon, sliced

• 220g fine asparagus

• Large bowl ice cold water

• 8 large eggs

• 160ml double cream

• 200g Parmesan, grated

• 100g Gruyère, grated

• Small bunch fresh chives

baking tray and bake for 12–15 mins. Set the fish aside to cool, discarding the herbs etc., then refrigerate.

3. Bring a pan of salted water to boil, add the asparagus for 1 minute, then put the asparagus in ice-cold water and drain when cool. Cut into 1cm pieces, then preheat the oven to 180°C/160°C Fan/Gas mark 4.

4. Roll the pastry to 4mm thick and cut into 11cm circles to line the pastry tins. Put the tins onto a baking tray and chill for 10 mins.

5. Cut squares of baking paper slightly larger than the tins, putting one into each pastry case

and add baking beans. Bake for 15 mins. Remove the paper and baking beans and brush the pastry with egg wash. Return to the oven for 6 mins.

Mix the eggs and double cream, with salt and pepper. Set aside 30g of the Parmesan and mix the remaining cheeses into the egg mixture, adding fresh chives.

6. Put chunks of the cooked salmon and asparagus into the baked pastry. Spoon the egg mixture in to fill the tarts to the top. Sprinkle over the rest of the Parmesan and bake for 15 mins.

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King Charles III: a monarch for modern times

When the coronation of King Charles III takes place on 6th May at Westminster Abbey, the ceremony – which will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury – will be rooted in longstanding traditions and pageantry. However, it will also reflect the monarch’s role today, and look to the future.

Then and now

The Queen’s coronation on 2nd June 1953 was one of the greatest events of the twentieth century. More than 8,000 guests filled the abbey to witness the crowning of the young mother, while crowds lined the route that took her and the Duke of Edinburgh to and from the abbey. Millions more were lucky enough to watch the event on the still novel phenomenon of television, this being the first time the event had been televised.

It has been speculated that King Charles, who ascended to the throne following the death of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, on 8th September 2022, will have a toned-down affair. Spending will be reduced partly as an acknowledgment of the cost-of-living crisis –something the monarch referenced in his first King’s Speech on Christmas Day. Suggestions are that it will last just one hour, with around 2,000 dignitaries in attendance, compared to the three-hour-long ceremony and 8,000 attendees at his mother’s coronation.

Acclaimed royal historian Christopher Wilson says: “It’s been 70 years since the last coronation but, inevitably the next one will come along sooner. When his time comes, the Prince of Wales will have to do as his father has done – assess the economic climate and the state of the country before deciding how lavish, or pared-back, his own crowning will be.”

Break with tradition

Initial reports had suggested the King’s coronation would be held around the same date as his mother’s 1953 coronation, which took place on 2nd June – but 6th May was reportedly chosen in consultation with the government, the Church of England and the Royal Household. However, the date does have some symbolic references to family members:

• Firstly, the coronation of George VI, the King’s grandfather, was in May.

• 6th May is also the birthday of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s son, Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor, the King’s grandson, who will be turning four on the day.

• It’s also the same date as the late Queen’s sister, Princess Margaret, was married in 1960.

During the ceremony – which has the codename Operation Golden Orb – the King will be anointed with holy oil, receive the orb, coronation ring and sceptre, and be blessed and

then consecrated by the Archbishop. Monarchs traditionally sit in the fourteenth-century King Edward’s Chair, and Charles will be crowned with the St Edward’s crown, becoming the fortieth British monarch crowned at the Abbey since William the Conqueror in 1066.

Camilla, Queen Consort, will also be anointed and crowned, as was the Queen Mother when George VI was crowned in 1937.

Man and boy

Charles will be 74 a t the time of the ceremony, the oldest ever new monarch. In 1953 the then-Prince Charles was just four years old when his mother was crowned. He sat in the royal box at Westminster Abbey to watch the coronation, fl anked at the time by the Queen Mother and his aunt, Princess Margaret.

the Queen Mother and his aunt, kept awake by the “thousands

As with royal ceremonies, there had been behind-the-scenes preparation and practices in the lead up to the big day. Charles’ boyhood memories include how, the night before, the Queen came to say goodnight wearing the St Edward’s Crown as she was trying to get used to its 5lb weight. He also recalled being kept awake by the “thousands of people gathered in The Mall outside Buckingham Palace chanting: ‘We want the Queen’”.

Royal author Robert Jobson says: “Charles has adapted to his new role very well and is out connecting with people, which sadly the late Queen wasn’t able to do towards the end of her life.”

King Charles’ coronation will be followed by a Bank Holiday on 8th May. Announcing the decision, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “The coronation of a new monarch is a unique moment for our country. I look forward to seeing people come together to celebrate and pay tribute to King Charles III by taking part in local and national events across the country in his honour.”

By Caroline Knight

The changing face of gardens

The average garden has changed significantly over the last 50 years. In a physical sense, it has become smaller but, in more general terms, expectations have grown. In a small garden every square metre matters. Today’s contemporary garden might have an outside kitchen and possibly a retractable roof to serve as sunshade or umbrella and a moving water feature provides a soundscape to accompany the outdoor dining experience.

Alongside the shrinking space, our need for privacy has expanded. The addition of pleached trees – often called a ‘hedge on stilts’ – has become commonplace. They allow taller boundaries that blur the fence line, thus bringing seclusion without harsh enclosure.

Look at the plants

Gardens follow fashion and plant selection tells you a huge amount about the history and evolution of a garden. Before the 1980s, a garden border would be filled with perennial planting that might include asters, campanula, delphiniums, hardy geraniums, helianthus, geums, lupins, peonies, pulmonaria, salvias and veronica. These provided spring and summer colour but would die down for winter. Newer or updated borders might incorporate a number of

shrubs to give year-round shape. There could be some structural forms in terms of sculpture or topiary. There might be evergreen giant cones and maybe some roses, rather than an entire bed dedicated to perennials.

The palette of plants available to us has extended dramatically over the decades. Ornamental grasses and ‘new perennial’ planting, including naturalistic swathes of perennials in subdued colours, are now likely to replace some of the more traditional herbaceous plants. This style of planting has ecology at its heart and the layers of plants tend to be interwoven to form patterns that might be found in the natural world.

A contemporary border will place even more emphasis on forms, shapes and colour that last for longer. Some borders now feature a restricted palette of plant varieties, perhaps chosen for the foliage colour or shape. For example, an entire bed filled with ‘strappy’ shaped leaves in plain green, a shady bed filled with just one variety of fern, or foliage that contrasts such as burgundy and yellow. The gardener will be ruthless when interlopers try to seed themselves amongst such a carefully designed setting.

Making a comeback

Island beds filled with small conifers and perhaps a few rocks were a feature of the 1970s. Over the years we have tended to shun the idea of including these within a planting scheme, perhaps because some of the dwarf conifers grow larger than anticipated. They are beginning to make a comeback, however as we learn to embrace their charm. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show tends to set the trend and over the last few years these old favourite plants have been featured and applauded, along with hydrangeas, rhododendrons, dahlias and chrysanthemums.

Modern materials include Corten weathering steel at Chelsea Flower Show

Extra-Curricular Excellence

How to choose a tutor when your child needs that little bit of extra help.

Regardless of how bright or brilliant your little one may be, there may come a time when they need extra tuition outside of the classroom. This is an opportunity to give them that boost of confidence they might require in a subject, and is a good method for continuing learning over those long summer weeks when education appears to grind to a halt.

When looking for a tutor for your youngster –whether they’re taking their SATs or progressing to degree level – here are a few vital things to consider.

Qualifications

The first thing to look for in an after-school tutor is their qualifications. Ideally, they should have a degree in what they’re teaching, or at the very least extensive experience in that subject.

It also helps if they have experience working with children and teaching in a oneon-one or small group settings.

Personality

A good tutor should have a personality that meshes well with your child’s. They’ll need to be patient, empathetic, and have good communication skills, as well as being able to explain concepts clearly, in a way that adapts to your child’s learning needs. Amiability is a

must, and a good sense of humour doesn’t hurt either.

Availability

You’ll want to find a tutor who has availability that matches your child’s

schedule. Make sure to discuss this in detail before making a commitment to ensure the plan works for your family.

References

Ask for references from the tutor and follow up on them. Ask other parents who have used the tutor’s services about their experience, and look for reviews online.

Teaching style

Every child has a unique learning style, and a good tutor should be able to adjust this to their needs, whether it’s using visual aids, hands-on activities, or other techniques, quickly identifying individual strengths and weaknesses

whilst maximising engagement.

Progress tracking

A good tutor should keep track of your child’s progress and provide regular feedback. This can help you understand what is being learned, and improvement over time. Regular progress updates can also help the tutor in their teaching approach.

Commitment

Finally, you’ll want to find a tutor who is committed to helping your child succeed. They should be invested in his or her academic success and be willing to go the extra mile to ensure learning is progressing.

Overall, finding the right afterschool tutor for your child can be a challenge, but taking the time to research and vet potential tutors can help you find someone who is a good fit for your family, and who can help your child achieve their academic goals.

Target your LOCAL community

The Mold Connection is delivered to Mold and surrounding villages.

The Clwyd Connection is delivered to Ruthin, Denbigh and surrounding villages

Delivered to over 95% of the residents of Ruthin, Denbigh, Mold and surrounding villages. Effectively promoting local businesses since 2005.

HOW TO PLAY

Fill in the grid so that every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 to 9 without repetition. That’s all there is to it.

You solve the puzzle with reasoning and logic. There’s no maths involved, It’s fun, challenging and addictive. Solutions on page 47

Looking for long, luscious lashes?

(Try saying that after a G&T or three…)

From salon treatments to at-home serums, here’s how to get lashes you’ll be proud to flutter.

At home serums

You condition your hair, so why not condition your eyelashes? Growth serums aim to strengthen lashes, promote healthy growth and reduce lash loss. Eyelash serums are particularly beneficial if your eyelashes are brittle or damaged, for example due to regular extensions.

There are lots of eyelash serums on the market. At £37.99, the UKlash Eyelash Serum is on the pricier side, but it’s packed with vitamins and peptides, and fans rave about it. A good budgetfriendly alternative is e.l.f. Enhancing Lash & Brow Serum, which is just £8.

A note of caution: to avoid irritation, always do a patch test first, and don’t overuse the serum.

Lash extensions

The best thing about lash extensions is that they can be tailored to you. Want full, long, natural looking lashes? Coming right up. Have some big nights out planned so craving a more dramatic effect? Again, not a problem. Done well, lash extensions should last around six weeks, but you’ll need them infilled every two to three weeks. Do make sure you take regular breaks from extensions, or you risk damaging your natural lashes.

Lash tint

If you want something a bit more subtle, a lash tint could be perfect, particularly if you have naturally fair eyelashes. You’ll need a patch test before the tint, so book in with your salon in plenty of time. You can buy a kit to tint your eyelashes at home, but it is pretty fiddly to do yourself. Whether you go DIY or professional, a tint should last for around four to six weeks.

Lash lift

A lash lift curls your eyelashes upwards. It’s often combined with a tint to give the best results. It’ll make your eyelashes more visible, but it won’t add length or volume. A lash lift is semi-permanent, so should last for around six weeks. Lash lifts do use chemicals, so choose a qualified practitioner with plenty of experience and good reviews.

The best mascara

There are hundreds (if not thousands) of mascaras to choose from. So how do you pick the best one? One way is searching Boots.com for ‘mascara’ and filtering by four stars and up. Then look for those with more than 500 reviews and close to a fivestar rating. As an example, Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara has an average of 4.5 stars, from more than 1,500 reviews, but is actually one of the cheaper brands at £11.99. Read the description of each of the top mascaras to find one that will deliver the effect you’re looking for. Of course, not all brands are available through Boots, but it’s a good place to start.

Your local groups are:-

Tuesday - Ruthin

St. John’s Ambulance Hall - 5.30pm

Thursday - Denbigh

Plas Pigot - 9am, 11am, 5.30pm & 7pm

Saturday - Ruthin St. John’s Ambulance hall - 8am

Contact Steph:-

#YesYouCanWithSlimmingWorld slimmingworld.co.uk

#YesYouCanWithSlimmingWorld slimmingworld.co.uk

Wrexham

✓Friendly in-home service ✓ Options for every budget ✓ Price includes measuring & fitting

YOUR LOCAL BLINDS, CURTAINS & SHUTTERS SPECIALIST

• I provide expert advice on the best window solutions

• Flexible appointment times

• Blinds & curtains tailor-made here in the UK

• Ask me about multi-blind discounts

“My local advisor helped me find a blind to fit my budget. The service was second to none”.

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• I won’t be beaten on price*

• Electric blinds available

Working on Bank Holidays: Understanding Your Rights and Contract Terms

Irecently started a new job where my boss has told me I’ll have to work on bank holidays. This was never the case in my old job. Can my employer really make me work on a public holiday, and should I get paid extra if I do?

Congratulations on the new job and wonderful to hear you’re enjoying the work. Unfortunately, when it comes to bank holidays, whether or not staff have to work is up to their employer, and you don’t have to be paid more if you do. The situation will vary from job to job and may depend on a number of factors such as whether your place of work is open on bank holidays, your hours of work and crucially, what your contract says.

Take a look at your contract, if you have one, to find out what your personal situation is. Your contract might say you will always get bank holidays off but it might say you may sometimes be required to work them or will always be required to work. If your place of work is normally open on a bank holiday you’ll probably be asked to work at least some. But if your contract says you get bank holidays off you shouldn’t be asked to work.

Your contract might say something like: “In addition to bank and public holidays,

your annual entitlement to holidays is X days”. This means you get public holidays off in addition to your annual leave entitlement but it might not mean you’re entitled to take the specific days off. You may be required to work a bank holiday, in which case you should get another day off instead.

Alternatively, it might say something like: “Your annual holiday entitlement (inclusive of bank and public holidays) is X days” - this means you have to take bank holidays off as part of your annual leave entitlement. Bank holidays will either be deducted from your annual leave allowance (so you’ll have to book all bank holidays as paid time off) or counted as additional holiday days.

A common misunderstanding around bank holidays is that employers have to pay you extra for working them. This is not the case. Unless your

contract says you’ll be paid extra you will just be paid your normal amount. If your contract says you are entitled to bank holidays but you’re asked to work, you should be able to take a different day off in lieu. Your employer has to follow what’s set out in your contract, if they don’t, you should raise this with them.

If you don’t have a contract, the legal default position is that your employer can tell you when you can or can’t take time off. If you’d like to request a bank holiday off, use the normal method for requesting time off.

If you find you need to resolve an issue with your employer, first ask for an informal chat, where you can raise your concerns. If this doesn’t get you anywhere, you may need to raise a formal grievance. If you need advice on this contact your local Citizens Advice.

CARPET EMPORIUM CARPET EMPORIUM

FLOORING SPECIALISTS

25 High Street, Denbigh, LL16 3HY

(opposite Holland & Barrett)

Tel: 01745 814235

www.carpetemporiumnorthwales.co.uk

We offer a wide choice of carpets, vinyl, rugs and runners, to suit every budget.

Come in and see Lyndsey who can help you choose your perfect carpet, vinyl or laminate flooring, based on your individual requirements and interior decor.

Phil - who has many years’ experience - will expertly measure your rooms and ensure the fitting is carried out to the highest standard, and in a professional and efficient manner.

*NOTE:- Our fitters are employed and trained by us. We don’t use any contract carpet fitters.

We take pride in every job we do and make sure customers are happy with our service. We even hoover up and take any unwanted bits away for you; as a result, many customers return time and again and recommend Carpet Emporium to their friends and family.

NOTE THE SHOP WILL BE CLOSED FROM FRIDAY 12TH MAY AND REOPEN ON TUESDAY 16TH MAY

MADE TO MEASURE OPTION AVAILABLE THROUGH OUR RUG AND DOORMAT BINDING SERVICE

OPEN: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri - 9.30am-5pm. Wed and Sat 9.30am-2pm

WE ARE AN INDEPENDENT LOCAL BUSINESS NOT A CHAIN AND AS SUCH OUR ONLY SHOP CAN BE FOUND IN DENBIGH GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE IS SO IMPORTANT TO US Follow us on Facebook @carpetemporiumdenbigh Follow us on Twitter @CarpetEmporium1 @carpetemporium1

You have several choices regarding taking money out of your workplace or personal pension. This includes taking cash as a lump sum or drawing a regular income. This latter option, known as income drawdown or pension drawdown, brings more flexibility but also more risk.

PENSION DRAWDOWN

Most people will be in a ‘defined contribution’ scheme (we are not covering ‘defined benefit’ schemes – also known as ‘final salary’ – in our tips here). This takes the money you and your employers put into the scheme and invests it, producing a pot of money called a pension fund. You choose how to use this fund.

ANNUITY

The traditional approach is to use your pension fund to buy an annuity. An annuity will pay you a fixed sum until you die, with that amount dependent on your health and age. The cost of annuities and payments from them haven’t offered best value in recent years, sparking an interest in other options.

DRAWDOWN

That’s where pension drawdown comes in. Put simply, you take some of the money out of the pension fund and leave the remainder of the fund invested to (all being well) continue growing. You can take up to 25% of your pension fund as a lump-sum payment, which will be tax-free. Alternatively, you can take a regular income from the fund, with 25% of each payment tax-free and the rest counting towards your taxable income.

The main advantages of pension drawdown are increased flexibility and a potentially bigger income than you’d get from an annuity. The main disadvantage is that your pension fund could run dry before you die, leaving you reliant on just the state pension.

Remember also that any money left in the pension fund remains subject to investment performance. Ideally it will grow, perhaps even by enough to cover the money you take out, but it’s possible the fund will decline.

DRAWDOWN CONDITIONS

You can use pension drawdown from age 55 (rising to 57 in 2028), even if you are still working and still contributing to the pension. You’ll need to watch out for rules against ‘pension recycling’, which is intentionally taking money out of a pension fund and then putting it back in to try to get tax benefits.

Once you take any money out of a pension fund, your future tax-free contributions (including those from your employer) are capped at £10,000 a year from April 2023. If you pay in any more than this, the money will count as part of your taxable income.

Not all pension providers offer a pension drawdown option, but you can switch your pension fund to one that does. Most providers who offer pension drawdown can offer advice and managed options to help you achieve specific goals. Remember that while you still have a pension fund open, you’ll need to pay management charges.

TAKE ADVICE

You should always take expert advice before making any pension decisions. One good option is a free Pension Wise review from MoneyHelper, an independent government-backed organisation.

Ninety miles or so south of Bangkok, Thailand’s oldest resort is an elegant getaway loved by the Thais and discerning visitors. Once a humble fishing village, it became a royal residence in the 1920s when Rama VII built his summer palace on a quiet corner of the Sunrise Coast. He called it ‘far from worries’ and as you relax on the soft tingling sands, that’s exactly how it feels. It’s only a two-hour drive from the capital but if ‘slow travel’ is your choice, hop aboard the train snaking its way through rolling countryside, peeping at scenes of daily life and finally alighting by the Royal Waiting Room, which stands pagoda-like, plum-red and cream, in Hua Hin station.

New hotels, fine cuisine, golf, spa and all the pleasures of the beach, it is boom time in Hua Hin, but if you venture out of town you could sail to the Marine National Park or head for Kaeng Krachan, also a National Park home to tropical birds and other wildlife. Equally enticing is Monsoon Valley where you can ride elephants through the vineyards, taste awardwinning wines and enjoy a delicious lunch in a cool winery, looking across the vines to the lush green hills rising all around. Yet a leisurely pace still lingers in the coastal resort, punctuated by tinkling bells and rattling tuk-tuks. Spirit houses shelter under the trees, draped in orchid garlands, auspicious offerings are laid on the doorsteps and now and then fragrant incense

drifts through the air. There are myriad temples glistening with colour and exquisite carvings under lofty pagoda roofs. You may have to share the hilltop Khao Takiab with chattering monkeys, but at the end of the beach the giant Buddha looking out to sea radiates peace. Then look out for the wooden cottages in the lanes and the little dens offering lacquerware and painted china, visit the tailors, marvel at endless rolls of shimmering silk or hand-printed cotton and wander through tropical gardens filled with bird song and the sweet scents of jasmine and frangipani.

Sunsets are magical in Hua Hin, a fiery orb dipping behind the swaying palms, sending ripples of golden light across the sea – then it’s time for the evening stroll followed by dinner al fresco. Seafood is top of the list, tiger prawns, crab, crayfish, succulent catch of the day and cosmopolitan or traditional Thai – you will be spoilt for choice. Meanwhile, on Dechanuchit Road, the night market offers fast food local-style as white-hatted chefs chop and stir and clouds of smoke rise from the woks. Lights twinkle under the trees and crowds browse around the stalls brimming with sarongs and scarves, T-shirts, ethnic jewellery, seashell mobiles and flower garlands, exotic fruit and luminous sweets. Meanwhile, folded parasols stand silhouetted in the moonlight and, on the deserted beach lapped by the waves, the royal resort drifts into a peaceful night ‘far from worries’. By Solange Hando

Sports Day

SATURDAY MAY 27TH

Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd

Sports Day is a much-loved local event and on Saturday May 27th will once again offer an afternoon of family activities and entertainment on the Llanfair D.C. football field. Gates open at 1.00pm and the programme will begin at 1.30pm with the crowning of the Village Queen. Events include a fun dog show, stalls, games, junior art competition, homemade cakes and teas.

The highlight of the afternoon will be the traditional sports races including egg and spoon, sack, three-legged, slow bicycle and many more, with prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd places. The afternoon will conclude with six-a -side football, with teams from local primary schools competing in a hotly contested tournament. Free parking will be available on the field, with an entrance fee of £2.00 for adults and 50p for children.

For more information, please phone 01824 707028 / 704163 or go to the Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd website: www.llanfairdc.co.uk

Mini Cryptic Crossword

Across

1. Puncture when recipe is changed (6)

4. Stumble on a journey (4)

8. Smell one before an Italian city (5)

10. Article of faith viewed either way (5)

11. Takes round wooden post (5)

12. Lawyer who makes and serves coffee, we hear (9)

18. Exists as Elvis goes about (5)

19. Parisian flower (5)

21. Hip new queen or private (5)

22. Always in reverse (4)

23. An aged sort of plan (6)

Down

1. Drawers and gasps for breath (5)

2. Enthusiastic energy after a lane change (4)

3. Fool to coagulate (4)

5. Tax return? (6)

6. Space apart for strides (5)

7. Rock group is a welcome sight in the desert (5)

9. Bring up at last (4)

13. I saved up to make a suggestion (6)

14. Sticky stuff from Flores, I note (5)

15. Plant seen in the street (4)

16. Near finish (5)

17. High IQ society names changes (5)

19. Unforeseen problem in Ulhasnagar (4)

20. A country ruled by me! (4)

Llanfair Dyffryn Clwyd

A Design for Life… The Kevin McCloud Column

Designer, writer and television presenter, Kevin McCloud leapt into our consciousness with his vastly successful Grand Designs show on Channel 4. This month, the a able architectural business owner talks about embracing darker shades in making our living space look stylish and welcoming.

Something I get asked a lot is how to use darker shades in a way that enables a room to feel stylish, whilst still inviting. It can be a tough thing to get right, but it’s certainly achievable with the correct approach.

The first thing I ask people is their definition of ‘dark’. After all, dark doesn’t have to mean pitch black! Traditional gloomy colours can sometimes feel cold and unwelcoming, but use of warm-toned dark shades like deep reds, burnt oranges and rich browns can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

The next big thing is texture. Incorporating a variety of textures like plush fabrics, cosy throws and soft rugs can help balance out the darkness of the room, en route to making it feel more welcoming. With this in mind, ensure you don’t use objects or furniture that are oversized, as these will dominate the darkness and make the room feel insular.

Next is where the lighting itself comes in. I feel the real secret when it comes to creating a welcoming

space with dark colours is to utilise a variety of lighting sources; so consider table lamps, floor lamps and overhead lighting, to create a warm and inviting glow.

In essence, you’re not looking to light up a dark room – more to accentuate some areas of darkness by lighting up other parts, where the detail is. It’s a skilled art, but embracing darkness in corners or through shadow and shade is incredibly satisfying.

Finally, juxtapose this with light-coloured accents - pillows, curtains and artwork can help to balance out the darkness of the room and prevent it from feeling too heavy or oppressive.

Overall, creating a welcoming room using dark colours in interior design requires careful attention to detail and a thoughtful approach to colour, texture, and lighting. With the right techniques, and if you’re openminded and brave, even the darkest of rooms can feel warm and inviting.

If you often find yourself feeling sluggish and lethargic, even after a full night’s sleep, you’re not alone. Fortunately, there are plenty of healthy actions you can take to boost your energy levels that don’t just involve getting more sleep – although that’s a good place to start. If you’re tired of feeling tired, try out these five tips for boosting your energy levels.

Reduce stress

Stress uses up a lot of mental energy and has also been linked to other mental and physical health problems.

While in many cases it’s not possible to remove certain stressors from our lives altogether, there are things that can help. Take some time for yourself, lose yourself in a book or go for a walk outside. You could also try mindfulness or meditation techniques, which are often used to reduce feelings of anxiety.

Move more

It might sound counterintuitive, but research has proven that regular exercise can fight feelings of fatigue, increase energy levels and help you sleep better at night. To top it off, physical activity also triggers the release of ‘happy hormones’ dopamine and serotonin, boosting your mood long after you’ve finished your workout.

If you’re not keen on exercise, start small by going for a walk on your lunch break, taking the stairs instead of the lift, or walking to work or school instead of driving.

Stay hydrated

Water can have a huge effect on your body’s brain function, mood, energy levels – and more – so it’s important to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Particularly as you age, the sensation of thirst decreases.

Eat healthily

We are what we eat, so an unhealthy diet will always be a huge contributing factor to feelings of fatigue.

When you feel tired, it’s tempting to fill up on sugary foods for a much-needed energy boost. However, although sweet snacks can combat feelings of tiredness in the short term, the effects wear off quickly and can actually leave you feeling more tired than before.

This is because high-sugar foods cause a sharp spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash as the body releases a large amount of insulin to transport sugar from the bloodstream to the cells. If you want to satisfy your sweet tooth without the sugar crash, try snacking on fresh berries and ‘no sugar’ drinks.

Caffeine is another culprit. While it increases alertness in the short term, it can also cause sleep problems when consumed in large amounts. Cut out caffeine completely for a month to see if you feel more energised without it.

Supplement your diet

No matter how nutritious your diet may be, there’s a chance that your body could still be lacking certain nutrients. For example, being deficient in vitamin B12, a vitamin only found in animal products, has been known to cause feelings of fatigue.

If you’re unsure which supplements you need, talk to your doctor to find out if you’re deficient in any key nutrients.

What’s On and Local groups.

May 2nd - Denbigh Floral Art Club

Ladies why not come and have a relaxing evening at Denbigh Floral Art Club.

You do not have to do anything, enjoy a tea or coffee and watch our demonstrator do wonderful things with flowers. We meet at the Plas Pigot Country Club at 7.30 with Jacqui Owen and a title of River runs Through.

If you can not make this one join us at Theatre

Twm O’r Nant 7.30 on June 1st with Jae Pugh a chocalate Fantasy. We look forward to seeing you.

Saturday 20th May - North West Cancer Research, Ruthin Branch Spring Fair at Llys Erw from 10 am until 12 Noon. Tickets are priced at £5 which includes either Cupcake or Traybake and Tea or Coffee. Stalls for Books and Cakes plus there will be a Tombola and Raffle. All are welcome.

GENERAL INTEREST GROUPS & CLUBS

Ruthin Macular Society Group

Do you have a visual impairment? Would you like to know more about your condition? Do you want to know what is available to help you?

We meet on the 2nd Thursday of each month from 11am – 1pm at Canolfan Naylor Leyland Centre. For more information contact: Marian Williams 07495 054 053

Vale of Clwyd Mind.

We meet at The Naylor Leyland Centre on Tuesday afternoons from 1pm until 3.30pm with an optional walk leaving from the centre at 2pm. Sessions are £1.00 which includes tea, coffee and biscuits. The group is for anyone over the age of 18 who lives in Denbighshire and wants to maintain their mental wellbeing. 01745 812461 or 01745 351635.

Facebook:- ‘Vale of Clwyd Mind’

Dementia Friendly Ruthin meets quarterly at the Naylor Leyland Centre and our next open meeting is scheduled for 01/03/2023. We are also hoping to start an inclusive choir in the New Year. If anyone is interested in joining or volunteering for a few hours a week, please contact Debbie at debbiebookofyou@gmail.com

Ruthin Local History Society

Meetings are held every third Wednesday in the month in Ysgol Stryd y Rhos, from 7:30 to 9pm. We recommend you visit our website “ruthinhistoryhanesrhuthun.org”. You can find a

host of interesting papers on the history of Ruthin, including details of our winter programme and guest speakers.

Non-members are warmly invited to our meetings. Cost to non-members to attend is £2 with annual membership costing £5.

‘Clwb Natur’ workshops in Denbigh and Llanrhaeadr.

Take place Tuesdays (Ysgol Pendref, Denbigh) and Thursdays (Ysgol Bro Cinmeirch, Llanrhaeadr) during term time 3.30 – 4.30pm and include workshops aiming to connect people with each other and the environment – gardening, nature studies, arts & craft, mindfulness. All ages are welcome. There’s no charge to attend.

Public Crown Green Bowling Facility at the Llanfwrog Community “The Centre” on Mwrog Street, Ruthin.

Crown green bowling, “Pay and Play” facilities open to all, including all equipment.

Contact “The Centre” on 01824 702885 or info@thecentreruthin.co.uk.

Membership of the Llanfwrog Bowling Club, is also available. Beginners welcome. Club meetings are at 11am on Tuesdays and 2pm on Thursdays and Sundays. For details contact Guy Alford on 01824 703645 or guyalford@tiscali.co.uk

Henllan Table Tennis meet in the Community Hall at 7pm.

For further information please contact one of the following:- Don Grigg Tel 01824 709959. Email d_grigg@sky.com

Iain Macgillivray 01824 780672

Email Iainmacgillivray@btinternet.com

Trinity Table Tennis club meet in the Village Hall in Trefnant on Monday evenings from 7:30pm and every Thursday except the 2nd Thursday of each month at 7pm.

We are a very social club and cater for all levels of play, whether a seasoned player or indeed a newbie to our game, youngsters or more mature folk, physical disabilities not a problem, all will be made most welcome.

Contact :- David Jones Tel :- 07502 544 688 or Email :- david.trinitytt@gmail.com

LADIES & GIRLS GROUPS/CLUBS

SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL

A non-profit - non-political - non-religious organisation for women.

Meet women from other walks of life with different

skills. Put something back into your community, diversify your knowledge, use your skills and talents in a different context; make new friends and have fun. COME AND JOIN US.

we meet the second Tuesday of the month at 11am. Further information from Membership Officer Mair Jones (Mair jones@ talktalk.net)

Ruthin W I meet for a Craft afternoon at 2pm on the 2nd Friday of every month and on the 3rd Friday of the month for our normal meeting, both in LLys Erw Community Hall Ruthin. We have guest speakers , outings and meals out. Come along and see what we get up to. For further information call Mary Marquess on 01824705166 or Jen Roberts - Jones on 01824 703816.

Trefnant WI meet on the second Thursday of every month in Trefnant Village Hall at 7.00pm. In addition to guest speakers we have outings and meals out. Why not come along and see what we’re up to. We are not just about Jam and Jerusalem! We always welcome new members. For further information please call Jane Wood 01745 710 201.

Denbigh Church Ladies Guild, A warm and friendly social group, have now restarted meeting at 2pm every 2nd Wednesday of each month at Eirianfa, Denbigh. New members welcome.

We also hold a coffee morning every 2nd Saturday of the month 10am - 11.30am at Eirianfa which is open to all. For more details contact Annwen on 01745 815 827

Ruthin Girl Guides are open to all girls aged between 10 and 14 years old. Meetings are Monday evenings during term time. You can apply and register for a place via the Girlguiding website girlguiding.org.uk

Please message Girlguide Leader Alex Jones for more information via 2nd Ruthin Guides Facebook page or ruthingirlguides@outlook.com

MENS GROUPS/CLUBS

Denbigh & Distric Probus Club is a club for retired or semi retired professional and business people. Join us for lunch, friendship and talks once a month at the Oriel Hotel, St Asaph. Our next meeting is on the 6th March where we will have a talk about protecting ourselves from fraud and scams. New members warmly welcomed. For more details, please contact Gareth Williams julmwilliams1974@ gmail.com or 07881 783735

Shed in Rhuthun.

At Ruthin Mens Shed, guys will have a brew and generally discuss anything that may be causing anyone problems in their life, we openly talk, laugh, cry about mental health and no judgement is made on anyone. If you are a man or you know a man that needs help and emotional support, get in touch. Our email ruthinmensshed@gmail.com or Rhuthun Men’s Shed The Skills and Happiness Exchange is our Facebook page.

Denbigh & District Male Voice Choir meets at 7.30 on Tuesdays at the Eirianfa Centre, Denbigh. We have seen an upsurge in membership since the appointment of Sam Pritchard as Musical Director and a warm welcome awaits those who would like to join us. Contacts : Choir Secretary mbaines@uwclub.net or 01824 703832. www.denbighchoir.com

CHURCH MEETINGS

Ruthin Quakers meet on the second and fourth Sundays of the month 10.30 - 11.30 in the Parish Rooms behind St Peters Church, followed by social time over refreshments - all welcome! Just tollow the signs round the Church or from School Road! Phone 705592.

New CAFE CHURCH held in St. Thomas’ Church Hall, Vale St Denbigh on 2nd Sunday each month at 10.30am.

We start with coffee and cake followed by a short very informal family friendly service Why not give it a try everyone is welcome

To have details of your non profit event, club, group or Church included here, please EMAIL the information to:trevor@clwydconnection.co.uk by the 18th of each month.

Vale of Clwyd

Competition and puzzle solutions

Cryptic crossword

Where’s Rebus

WIN £15!

I have hidden 5 pictures of “Rebus” the dragon in this magazine

For your chance to win £15, just email or write to the address on page 4 and tell me where he is hiding. Don’t forget to include your name and address. NOTE Only 1 entry per person. The winner will be picked at random on 18th May and will receive £15.

The winner of the “Where’s Rebus” competition in February was:- Ms L, Burkhill of Maes Hafal, Gellifor Well done.

Rebus was hiding on pages :- 6, 14, 23, 27 and 29