Mold Connection May 2023

Publisher: Connection Magazines Ltd

Editor: Trevor Arnold

Tel: 01824 707 013

E: trevor@connectionmagazines.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.

Hello lovely readers and welcome once again to the latest edition of the Mold Connection.

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

As I worked on this edition of the magazine, I had a surprise email from Mold Town Council, telling me that this magazine/my business, had been nominated for an award in the Councils “Community Awards” in the Business of the Year category and had made the short-list. The winners of each category will be announced at a ceremony on the 27th April. So to whoever nominated my business, I would like to say a very big thank you and I hope you’re reading this. Knowing that my work is appreciated, whether I win an award or not, certainly made my day.

By the time you read this, we will be very close to another Bank Holiday weekend. This time for the Coronation of King Charles. 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?

Don’t forget to send me details of any events happening in the area so that I can help promote them in the magazine.

Wishing you a great month.

Trevor

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

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Y o u r L o c a l K i t c h e n & B e d r o o m S p e c i a l i s t

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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

over

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.

Since your will was written, have your circumstances changed? This includes being married, moving in with a partner, being divorced, separated or having children, grandchildren or dependents. Have you bought a property, started a business or received inheritance? We provide easy to understand advice, enabling you to make the right decisions for you and your family. Choose from an appointment in the comfort of your own home or opt to come to our Hawarden based office.

• We have 30 years experience.

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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

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Your local supplier of domestic and commercial Blinds & Curtains

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

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.

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!

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.

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

Swayne Johnson Solicitors, 23 Clwyd Street, Ruthin, LL15 1HH Telephone 01824 703833.

Email: edwardsa@swaynejohnson.com Anna Lloyd Edwards

Please mention the Mold Connection when using any of the advertisers

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.

*Based on a mortgage of £240,000 repaid over 25 years at a rate of 4.25%, the amount repayable over the lifetime of the loan will be £389,906. At a rate of 4%, the amount repayable will be £379,883 saving £10,023.

By Harvey Property Services

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, recalled 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.”

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.

Starkey Hearing Technologies

All-In-The-Ear rechargeable model

St Andrews Business Centre

St Andrews Park, Queens Lane

Bromfield Industrial Estate

Mold, CH7 1XB

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.

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.

HOW TO PLAY

Fill

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

TYRES

A

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

By Caroline Knight

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

Looking for a refresh in your bedroom?

Try our ideas to create a room that perfectly reflects your individual style.

If your bedroom is uncoordinated, dated or lacklustre, now’s the time to make some changes that make all the difference, helping create your own relaxing and cosy retreat.

Look at the biggest surfaces

The largest areas in any room are the walls, the floor and the ceiling. In a small bedroom there may not be much visible floor area but there will be space for a small bedside rug or two, or you might consider changing the carpet or removing it entirely, then stripping or painting the floorboards. If you do, add a large, thick rug for a feeling of warmth and cosiness. Walls may be a neutral backdrop but think about adding pattern or texture. Bold paint colours combined with eyecatching wallpaper are very on-trend right now. On the ceiling, you could continue the wall colour (even the wallpaper), choose a contrasting shade or even opt for a mosaic or gold leaf.

Ensure the lighting is right

A good lighting scheme should include functional, decorative and ambient lighting, with a variety of types of light sources, from ceiling pendants or inset spotlights to floor and wall fittings, at differing heights and spread out around the room. Consider replacing any outdated shades and if possible, fit a dimmer switch for ambience, and use warm white bulbs. Add bedside lamps that coordinate with other elements of the room while adding some personality and pizazz.

Plan suitable storage

By Katherine Sorrell

A wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling, built-in wardrobe can accommodate clothes and footwear, spare linens, jewellery, make-up and so on, but if that’s not an option choose the largest freestanding wardrobe you can. Make it interesting by painting it a gorgeous colour and swapping the knobs or handles, and consider decorating the inside with a dramatic colour or bold wallpaper.

Make your bed beautiful

Transform your bedroom with sumptuous bed linens that are pleasing to the touch and gorgeous to look at. Choose the best you can afford – they will feel nicer on your skin and will wash and wear well for years. For cotton bedding, look for a thread count of at least 200. Pintucks, piping or a scalloped edge add subtle interest to all-white bedding, though for more colour opt for patterns, whether ditzy florals, strong stripes or modern geometrics. Add a throw, blanket, eiderdown or quilt – or several – for warmth, comfort and an appealing, ‘layered’ look.

Complete the look

If you love personal, quirky elements then it’s time to consider the final touches. Hang artwork on the walls, perhaps in coordinating frames for unity, and add some houseplants in attractive pots. A shelf or two, carefully arranged with books, vases and other ornaments, makes a strong statement and use a scented candle or a diffuser for a delightful fragrance.

B&M’s Eden Life range of home accessories embraces a gentle, relaxing mood. bmstores.co.uk

John Lewis’s ‘Modern’ collection for spring/summer 2023 features statement designs, inspired patterns and products that will seamlessly fit into existing schemes. johnlewis.com

What’s On

Mold Choral Society

If you would like to join a friendly choir for rehearsals at Bethesda Chapel in Mold on Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm you’d be made very welcome. Please join us at St Asaph Cathedral, Saturday, 13th May at 7.30pm for a performance of Vaughan Williams Sea Symphony. Mold and District Choral Society together with Dyffryn Conwy and St Asaph Choral Societies. Tickets £18 and £15 available from Gail Roberts 07827967607 or Gail13.roberts@gmail.com

MOLD FLOWER CLUB

Next meet on Thursday 18th May 7.15 pm at St. David’s Church Hall, St David’s Lane, Mold when Anita Wright will entertain us with flowers and tales of her garden in ‘Gardener’s Delight’. Nonmembers are very welcome – entrance £5. Lucky winners in the raffle will take home a delightful arrangement of flowers.

The Mold Bowel Cancer Support Group

Mold Bowel Cancer Support Group

Have now changed their venue and now meet at the Beaufort Hotel Mold CH7 6RQ.

Our next meeting will be on Thursday May 18th at 7pm. Anyone affected by Bowel Cancer are welcome to our informal meetings. For further information contact Haydn on 07522 483374 or Janet on 07849 441566. bowelcancersupport.co.uk

All will be made very welcome

GENERAL INTEREST GROUPS & CLUBS

WAF MOLD WALKS. FREE led walks in Mold

Subject to Welsh Government guidelines these walks will take place

Monday 10.30 Tesco Car Park near Click & Collect CH7 1UB. Grade 1 / 2 Easy to moderate. 60 to 90 +minutes duration

Tuesday 14.00 Queens Head Chester Road CH7

1UN. Grade 3 Hard 90 to 120 minutes duration. Both walks finish in a cafe for a cup of tea or coffee. See walkaboutflintshire.com for more walks

Chatterboxes Communication Support Group

For over 20 years, we have been supporting stroke survivors and people with brain injuries who have communication difficulties. Part of the Stroke Group Network, Chatterboxes is run by enthusiastic volunteers, who encourage

interaction through conversation activities, quizzes, gentle chair based exercises, outings and more. We meet every Monday from 10.30 to 12.30 in the church hall of Our lady of the Rosary, Buckley. A warm welcome plus refreshments guaranteed!

For more information, please contact Kate –tel: 01824 750713

Butterflies After Stroke Club

Struggling after a stroke to find somewhere to meet? Butterflies is here to help. We are a voluntary group, part of the Stroke Group Network, who meet every Thursday at Ewloe Social Club from 10.30 am to 2.00 pm. We are run by a lovely group of volunteers and have various activities throughout the day, including Tai Chi exercises. A warm welcome awaits you with tea/ coffee/biscuits. For more information contact Brenda – telephone 01244 547672

Northop Brass & Northop Sunday Band

Come and join Northop Brass and Northop Sunday Band. All ages and abilities very welcome! Whether you are a brass or percussion player and interested in playing for fun, contesting, or returning to playing after a break, please do get in touch. Northop Brass meet Tuesdays and Thursdays

6.30pm – 7.45pm

Northop Sunday Band meet Sundays 1pm – 3pm

Northop Bowling Green

Come and join our club for the perfect socially distanced game with friends and family in beautiful peaceful surroundings. No experience or own equipment necessary. Call Aled on 07778 512 385 or email:- northopbowls@btinternet.com for more information. Facebook: Northop Bowling Green.

Wood Turning and Carving.

Want to learn new skills? The woodcraft Association are a friendly group of people who meet on a Monday morning from 9:00 until 12:00 at Level Road Community Centre in Ewloe. We make things for ourselves, friends and for charities. We have a lot of lathes and machinery and we will show you how to use them safely. The only thing you will need to start is your own tea or coffee. Just turn up and enjoy the beauty of wood. For more info ring Phil Moyes on 0771 245 4044 or look at our website: woodcraftassociation.org.uk

Continued on page 44

FLINTSHIRE U3A. learn - laugh - live WANT TO MAKE NEW FRIENDS, SHARE INTERESTS, DEVELOP NEW SKILLS?

u3a is an international self-help organisation for retired and semi-retired people, in their third age, who draw upon the knowledge, experience and skills of their own members.

Flintshire u3a has a wide variety of group activities and interests in informal and friendly atmospheres on your doorstep offering two free “taster sessions” prior to joining. 07800 930549. www.flintshire-u3a.co.uk

DANCING WITH DEMENTIA.

This is a new group for people with dementia and their careers.

Music has a unique connection with dementia and people can often remember music and words to songs they have heard in the past, so if you love music and find yourself tapping your toes come along to my group and have fun with dance, movement and singing.

We meet every Tuesday from 2-4 at Edith Banks Memorial Hall in Northop village, Flintshire, CH7 6BQ. There is free parking in the car park opposite the hall. Contact Pauline on 07521 377 945 for more information.

MOLD FLOWER CLUB

Next meet on Thursday 18th May 7.15 pm at St. David’s Church Hall, St David’s Lane, Mold when Anita Wright will entertain us with flowers and tales of her garden in ‘Gardener’s Delight’. Nonmembers are very welcome – entrance £5. Lucky winners in the raffle will take home a delightful arrangement of flowers.

Mold Derby & Joan Club

Join us for bingo, a friendly chat, tea and coffee. We meet on Wednesday afternoons at Grosvenor Hall on Grosvenor Street from 1.45pm - 3.15. Come and join us, you’ll be warmly welcomed.

LADIES GROUPS & CLUBS

Mold WI meet on the 2nd Tuesday of the month at St David’s Hall Mold. The meeting starts at 7pm. We welcome visitors and hope that they will become members in due course. We are a friendly bunch and enjoy getting together. Come to a meeting and try us out.

Mynydd Isa Butterflies W.I. meet on the first Thursday of the month at the Women’s Institute Hall on Chambers Lane in Mynydd Isa at 7.15. All are welcome. For more details contact Julie Wilkins 07970961703

juliewilkins.826@gmail.com

Mountain Harmony Ladies Chorus

Do you enjoy singing? Do you want to make new friends? Mountain Harmony might be just the group for you.

Why not come along to our rehearsals at Gwernymynydd Village Hall and have a listen? We practise every Monday from 7.30pm Mountain Harmony sing songs to suit all tastes and ages including traditional, ballads and contemporary music. For more information email mountainharmonychorus@gmail.com For further information please contact Graham 01244 520370, Rhys 07733 337746 or you can email northopbands@outlook.com

MENS GROUPS & CLUBS

Mold & District Probus Club, which was formed in 1976 to arrange talks and social events for retired and semi-retired men, continues to meet monthly in the schoolroom at the Bethesda Chapel, New Street. The meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month, with hot drinks served from 9.45 a.m being followed by a talk and questions ending around 11.30 a.m. New members are welcome and further information is available from the treasurer, Richard Rowley, tel. 0l352 756835.

To have your club, group, church, charity or non profit event listed, in this section, email:-

trevor@connectionmagazines.co.uk by the 18th of each month for inclusion the following month.

Please note, a word limit of approximately 75 words applies.

Inclusion is NOT guaranteed but is dependant on space available.

Includes a 3 course dinner & live singalong £15 Kids

FRIDAY 31ST MAR Retro Decades Disco

Includes a 2 course dinner & DJ £25pp

FRIDAY 28TH APR Boogie Bingo

Includes DJ & disco. Snack menu available £15pp

FRIDAY 12TH MAY Retro Decades Disco

Includes a 2 course dinner & DJ £25pp

FRIDAY 30TH JUN Retro Decades Disco

Includes a 2 course dinner & DJ £25pp

Fri 12th May Retro Decades Disco

FRIDAY 28TH JUL Boogie Bingo

Includes 2 course dinner & DJ

Includes DJ & disco. Snack menu available £15pp

Fri 30th June Retro Decades Disco

FRIDAY 25TH AUG Skools Out for Summer Disco Party Night

Includes 2 course dinner & DJ

Includes a 2 course dinner £25pp

Frid 28th July Boogie Bingo

FRIDAY 29TH SEP Greased Lightnin’ V Dirty Dancing Live Tribute Show

Includes DJ & disco. Snacks available

Includes a 2 course dinner £30pp

Frid 25th Aug Skools Out For Summer Disco Party Night

FRIDAY 27TH OCT ABBA Live Tribute Band

Includes a 2 course dinner £30pp

Includes 2 course dinner £30pp

Frid 29th Sept Dirty Dancing

Tribute live party night

BOOK TICKETS HERE:

TICKETS FROM £15PP JUST £10 DEPOSIT PER PERSON.

Includes 2 course dinner

Competition and puzzle solutions

Where’s Wyddy

I have hidden 5 pictures of “Wyddy” 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 Wyddy” competition last month was:- Ms I. George, of Parc Hendy, Mold Well done.

Wyddy was hiding on pages :- 2, 20, 29, 33 and 37

Index to advertisers

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

WHY NOT GRAB YOURSELF A BARGAIN IN OUR FLOOR MODEL CLEARANCE SALE?

Comprising

1 x 3-seater std-back Sofa (was £1,512)

1 x 2-seater scatter-back Sofa (was £1,092)

Total was £2604. NOW £1,875 (SAVING £729)

Espoire Eternity 3000 Complete 4’6’’ Bed Set With 4 continental drawers and a Chesterfield Headboard Was £1402.

NOW £999.00 (SAVING £403)

Espoire Ortho Natural 2000 Complete 4’6’’ Bed Set With Chloe Headboard Was £901. NOW £669.00 (SAVING £232)

SUPPLIERS AND FITTERS OF QUALITY CARPETS AND FLOORING INCLUDING THE FOLLOWING RECOGNISED BRAND NAMES:

Axminster, Ulster, Brintons, Westex, Victoria, Furlong, Cormar

Abingdon, Amtico, Karndean, Woodpecker, V4

CALL IN SOON FOR A FREE, NO OBLIGATION QUOTE. We look forward to helping you make your house a home.

Furnico

Recliner Chair Was £920. NOW £799.00 (SAVING £121)

Ludlow Powered

Furnico Harmony Suite