Mold Connection magazine, February 2023

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.

Welcome to the latest Mold Connection, I hope you are well and life is being kind to you.

In previous years, I have been notified of pancake races taking place locally but I’m not aware of any this year. This might be because I think Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Day) is on the 21st Feb which, I think is during Half Term and it’s normally pupils form the local schools who take part. I’m sure there will still be lots of pancakes consumed. What’s your favourite topping? For me it’s Nutella with slices of banana.

There are many great businesses in Mold and the surrounding area but in the current economic climate, I know from talking to many of the owners, that they are really feeling the pinch at the moment.

It’s worth remembering that all of these companies employ local people so by shopping locally, we help local people. If you haven’t taken a good look around Mold and the local villages lately, including off the main roads, why not take some time to do so, there are many surprises to be found, businesses that you might not have known about.

Did you know?

If ever you can’t find your Mold Connection and you’re trying to find the details of an advertiser, you will find the magazines and our advertisers on our website at www.connectionmagazines.co.uk and if you’re still stuck trying to find a contact, please feel free to call me and I’ll always try to help.

I hope you have a great month.

Good bye for now

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

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.

• Professional Will Writing, LPA services & Funeral Planning.

• Flexible appointments at a time and place that suits you.

• Competitively priced. Kate Smith - Director Watkins Smith Wills & Estate Planning

A Santes Dwynwen Valentines Special - Love and the Law

Whether you have or will mark[ed] the occasion with flowers & chocolates for your loved one or perhaps by “popping the question”, it is important to be aware of the effect of the status of your relationship. In the UK, married or civil partnered remains the most common legal partnership status. However, statistics show we have an ageing married population and the unmarried / cohabiting population is growing. If you and your partner are unmarried / co-habiting it is even more important for you both to make adequate provision for each other by making Wills.

Here are a few important facts worth remembering:-

1) If there is no Will, an unmarried partner is not entitled to any provision

under the statutory rules of intestacy.

2) Any assets inherited by an unmarried partner will not be exempt from Inheritance Tax and the tax-free allowance (the “Nil Rate Band”) is not transferrable.

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

3) There is no such thing as “common law married” although it is possible to formalise some aspects of your relationship with something called a “cohabitation agreement”.

Kristin Charlton

4) If you have children, it is even more important that you prepare a Will to ensure that both your partner and your children are adequately provided for.

5) Beware: marriage / civil partnership automatically revokes a Will.

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.

Kristin Charlton and her team can guide you through the Will making process, whatever your circumstances. Call now to speak with a friendly expert, in confidence.

Swayne Johnson Solicitors, 23 Clwyd Street, Ruthin, LL15 1HH

Telephone 01824 703833.

Email: edwardsa@swaynejohnson.com

Santes Dwynwen has just passed and Valentine’s Day is around the corner. In the words of John Paul Young “Love is in the Air”!

Ingredients

(makes 8 hearts)

Lisa Faulkner’s Choux

Hearts with Berries

Introduction

Having met her now husband, John Torode, on the 2010 series of Celebrity MasterChef – on which he was a judge and she a contestant – Lisa Faulkner knows full well that food is the language of love. So, what better way to woo your beloved on Valentine’s Day than with these stunning choux hearts?

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C, gas mark 6. Put the butter and water in a medium saucepan, add the salt and sugar, and bring to the boil. Ensure the butter is melted. Remove from the heat, add the sifted flour all at once and beat vigorously with a wooden spoon until the mixture comes away from the sides of the pan. Return to the heat and cook for 2 minutes until the paste is pale. Cool a little.

2. Add the beaten eggs, a little at a time, incorporating fully with a wooden spoon after each addition. The mixture will go glossy then back to dull. Add the eggs until the mixture is

shiny again and it just drops o the wooden spoon. Cool the mixture for about 10 minutes. Put in a piping bag and pipe heart shapes on to a baking sheet dampened with a little water.

3. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes then reduce the temperature to 160°C, gas mark 3, and bake for a further 15-20 minutes until golden.

4. Pour the cream into a chilled bowl and whisk, either by hand or with a hand mixer, until sti peaks form. This may take a few minutes.

5. When cooked, turn the hearts over and pop back into the

For the choux pastry

• 90g butter

• 360ml water

• pinch salt

• pinch sugar

• 110g plain flour, sifted

• 3 whole eggs, beaten well

To serve:

• 500ml double cream

• 400g mixed fresh berries

Top Tips

Be careful not to overwhip your cream. As soon as you have firm peaks (you should be able to hold the bowl over your head without it spilling out!) you should stop.

If berries aren’t your thing use whatever fruit you prefer… mango and passion fruit, for example.

oven for 2 minutes to dry out a little. Split each heart in half horizontally and then spoon or pipe the whipped cream on the base. Top with the other half and fill the centre with the fruit. Serve immediately.

Turning the page

For February, four books that will weave a fictional spell.

The Angel Maker

by Alex North

Haunted by the violent attack of her brother Chris years ago, Katie Shaw sees threats everywhere. When her brother disappears, Katie leaps into action to help him once more.

Meanwhile, Detective Laurence Page’s investigation of a brutal murder of a professor leads her to suspect the case is connected to Chris’s attack... and to a serial killer said to be able to predict the future.

Published by Celadon Books on February 28th

The Porcelain Moon

by Janie Chang

At the end of the First World War, Pauline Deng runs away from her Chinese family in Paris to escape an arranged marriage back in Shanghai. In the French countryside, Pauline finds shelter with Camille, a French woman planning to escape her own abusive marriage, until Pauline finds out a terrible secret about Camille, forcing them to make a decision that will bind them together forever. Published by William Morrow on February 23rd

Someone Else’s Shoes

by Jojo Moyes

Globetrotting Nisha Cantor has the perfect life money can buy until her husband divorces her and cuts her off. Scrambling to hold on to her previous lifestyle, Nisha’s distress hits a peak when even her gym bag is stolen.

Meanwhile, Sam Kemp is desperately trying to keep her

family afloat. When she tries on a pair of expensive shoes from a gym bag she took by accident, the jolt of confidence inspires her to change her life.

This is a story of mix-ups, mess-ups and making the most of second chances.

Published by Michael Joseph on February 2nd

The Worst Woman in London: A Victorian Romance

by Julia Bennet

A defiant Victorian wife fights to escape a bad marriage but her love for a forbidden man jeopardises her chance at freedom.

James Standish knows how to play society’s game. He’ll follow the rules, marry a virginal debutante, and inherit a massive fortune. At least, that’s the plan until he meets Francesca Thorne. She’s not the sort of woman a respectable gentleman like James could ever marry… not least because, strictly speaking, she’s married already.

Francesca is determined to flout convention and divorce her philandering husband. When James sweet talks his way into her life tasked with convincing her to abandon her dream of freedom, she’s unprepared for the passion that flares between them.

James and Francesca must choose whether to keep chasing the lives they’ve always wanted or take a chance on a new and forbidden love. Published by Entangled on February 2nd

Meet the author events with The Bookshop, Mold in partnership with Mold Library

Tom Bullough will be talking about his new book Sarn Helen - A Journey through Wales Past, Present & Future.

An evocative journey along the old Roman Road from South to North Wales

February 8th at 7pm in Mold Library, Earl Rd. Mold

Tickets £5 for event entry or £16.99 including a copy of Sarn Helen available from The Bookshop or online here:https://bit.ly/3ZPUgfw

Jon Gower will be discussing his new book The Turning Tide - A Biography of The Irish Sea. A fascinating account of a stretch of water with a turbulent history and an abundance of wildlife.

February 24th at 7pm in Mold Library, Earl Rd. Mold

Tickets £5 for event entry or £20.00 including a copy of The Turning Tide available from The Bookshop or online here:- http://bit.ly/3GX7CxL

The Bookshop. 33 High St. Mold. 01352 759879 www.mold-bookshop.co.uk

Fed up of stuff going to landfill?

Don’t throw it away, get it fixed at Mold Repair Cafe

In our ‘throwaway society’ once stuff stops working the temptation is to throw it away and buy a new one.

To help stop broken items ending up in landfill, pop-up Repair Cafes are opening up across the country - where people can have their broken household items repaired for free by volunteers.

This saves money for the households, prevents items going to landfill or incineration and reduces the volume of raw materials and energy needed to make new products. It cuts CO2 emissions, for example, because manufacturing new products and recycling old ones causes CO2 to be released.

We throw away vast amounts of stuff. Even things with almost nothing wrong which could get a new lease of life after a simple repair.

The scale of the problem here in Wales is eye watering, with over 1.3 million tonnes of household waste thrown away each year

according to local authority figures. And over 40 percent of that ends up in landfill sites or being incinerated.

Environmentally friendly volunteer ‘fixers’ at Mold Repair Café share their skills by carrying out repairs to household items to give them that new lease of life. The Café is organised by Parkfields Community Centre and held there on the last Sunday of the month, except December and August.

Mold Repair Café is part of the Repair Café Wales network, a national organisation backed by the Welsh Government, through their commitment to the Circular Economy.

Parkfields organiser, Andrea Mearns said, “If you’ve got a broken kettle, a bicycle in need of some TLC, a sewing machine that’s stopped sewing, or a laptop that’s on the blink - our friendly Fixers will try to repair them for free. They’ll look at any household items apart from microwaves and white goods.”

The next café will be on

Sunday 26th February

Top of the Pots

A solution for brightening up small to medium-sized gardens, with big potted flowers, shrubs or plants. Step forward the humble pot.

The answer for those looking to create interest, texture and variation to an outside space, is to consider clever use of pots; here’s why:

1. Versatility

Using pots as a way to house things you grow in your garden, means you can move them around at will. This may suit you across the changing seasons, or simply satisfying your changing moods as your garden evolves over time.

2.

Budget

Pots are generally very cheap, and last across the seasons, and while the plastic variety may feel and look cheap, they can be painted assorted colours and hung from walls, stacked along sills, or placed on benches.

Similarly, if the time comes that you want to invest in something a bit showier, simply repot.

3.

Colour

Work pot colour into an area of your garden, either as a way of blending with a background, or perhaps with the intention of adding standout value that will wow visitors.

4.

Multi-use

Whether placing inside it a small shrub or a strapping tree, your perfect pot offers a happy home for all manner of living matter.

5.

Design

Pots come in all shapes and designs; from the basic

terracotta round variety, to elegantly glazed, right through to the steely grey industrial look that suit a rather more contemporary garden.

Other considerations

When choosing which type of containers you would like, first consider your space. If you just have a window box or modest balcony, smaller plastic or tin planters work best.

If you have an entirely concrete space, choose larger vases made of clay, either plain or painted. These will bring life to the dank corners and transform a brutalist set of stairs into a picturesque path.

It can be tempting to assemble an assortment of different pots and containers, but this can start to look messy, so choose a theme and stick to it.

Similarly, as far as flowers go, you don’t want to throw just any seeds in and hope for the best. Consider which colours work best together and try to pick flowers of equal heights. Poppies and dahlias complement one another magnificently, as do tulips and peonies.

For trees and larger plants, obey all the usual rules in terms of factoring in shade and direct sunlight.

Of course, the good news is if you do position your pot in the wrong place, it’s very easy and quick to move… and the same can’t be said about a tree anchored 3ft in the ground!

Harvey Property Services

The

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 53

Terms

What do we mean by gender?

We tend to use the terms ‘sex’ and ‘gender’ interchangeably, but they’re actually different things. Sex is about our visible biology: when we’re born the doctor looks at our bits and proclaims “It’s a boy!” or “It’s a girl!” That’s our sex.

Gender is different: it is the label you’re given –boy or girl, man or woman – and the rules you’re expected to follow. The rules vary from place to place, from culture to culture and from era to era: boys don’t cry, girls are nurturing, those jobs are for the boys, girls should and shouldn’t do certain things… that’s gender.

Largely the judgement of your gender will be based on what your sex appears to be, based on things like your clothes, your haircuts and other visual cues.

For most of us, our gender matches our biological definition. That’s often called ‘cisgender’, where ‘cis’ means ‘on the same side as’.

However, some people’s gender doesn’t match their birth sex, and those people may be transgender, non-binary or use other terms to describe themselves.

What does transgender mean?

Transgender is when the gender everyone thinks you are – such as man or woman – doesn’t match who you know you are. For example, you might have been born in an apparently female body but your mind strongly disagrees. People who take steps to fix that, for example by changing the clothes they wear or even undergoing surgery, are typically called transgender or trans for short. Trans means ‘across’, and trans people cross from one gender to another.

What does non-binary mean?

For most of us, gender is a binary: there are only two options, man or woman. But not everybody feels they fit into those categories. If you imagine gender not as a binary but as a spectrum, most people are at one end or the other – but some people are much closer to the middle. That’s non-binary. Non-binary people don’t feel they can categorise themselves as either a man or a woman, but somewhere in between the two.

What about genderfluid and other terms?

Genderfluid is a bit like non-binary but it’s less fixed: genderfluid people may feel closer to male or female at different times. And you might see the terms ‘gender expansive’ or ‘gender non-conforming’. They’re used to describe people who don’t stick to traditional gender roles, so for example someone born male with a very feminine presentation might still feel 100% male but enjoy expressing himself differently from most men.

Here to stay

Society’s oppression – from opinion to the law – meant that these variations were very much hidden in the past, and in many societies still are. Times have changed though, and younger generations are not only accepting of non-traditional gender definitions, but rail against a world where appearance, behaviour, places and products are meant only for one narrowly defined gender.

such as ‘trans’, ‘genderfluid’ and ‘non-binary’ seem to be everywhere. If you’re a bit baffled by it all, we’re here to help.

We offer a friendly, punctual and reliable service in Wrexham, Mold and surrounding areas.

We are holding the regular “POTATO DAY AND POP UP PLANT NURSERY” at the Daniel Owen Community Centre, Mold, for one day only on Saturday 11th February from 9am – 1pm

FREE ADMISION

Call in to choose from

Over 80 varieties of seed potatoes

Onion and shallot sets

Fruit trees and bushes

Herbs

Seeds and seedlings

If you want, you can pre order your requirements for collection on the day. Just visit www.growvegandfruit.co.uk to place your order.

Refreshments available

This event is organised by Brighter Blooms of Preston and Flintshire CSA working together. Flintshire CSA is your local community veg growing social enterprise based at 3 sites –Cilcain, Northop and Hawarden.

Starkey Hearing Technologies

All-In-The-Ear rechargeable model

St Andrews Park, Queens Lane

Bromfield Industrial Estate

Mold, CH7 1XB

St Andrews Business Centre

Upgrading your lighting design is an easy way to transform your home. You can make a big difference within a short timeframe and on a small budget.

1 Swap your shades

Replacing the shade on a table lamp or pendant is easy, and a bold colour or pattern adds instant pzazz. Choose fashionable materials such as rattan or smoked glass, or buy a plain shade with a warm-coloured, reflective metal lining for an appealing glow.

2 Retrofit a dimmer

Turn your lights down for atmosphere with a dimmer switch (it’s best to use a qualified electrician for this). Choose an LED-appropriate dimmer for LED bulbs or fittings.

3 Plug in more lamps

Bring light to dark corners by adding table or floor lamps for an attractive spread of light at different heights.

4 Use smart bulbs

‘Smart’ bulbs can be switched on and off, dimmed or colour-changed via remote control, app or voice command. Some can be linked to other household ‘smart’ systems.

5 Choose the best CRI

A bulb’s colour rendering index (CRI) measures how colours appear under its light compared to natural daylight, with 100 being daylight-equivalent. Above 90 is preferable.

6 Get the Kelvins right

Light bulb colour temperature is measured in Kelvins. Choose 2,700K for ‘architectural’ lighting and 2,200-2,400K for decorative fittings.

7 Use cordless lamps

Cordless lamps are rechargeable fittings with an integral battery and can be placed anywhere you like.

8 Add a light strip

LED light strips are easy to use, slender and customisable and can go almost anywhere. Add them to coving, bookcases or shelves, underneath or inside cabinets, up the stairs, around mirrors and picture frames, and even inside drawers.

9 Lower the height of pendants

Create ambience by dropping pendants low over a dining area. Consider slightly varying the heights of a row or cluster of three or more, or swapping a plastic flex for an elegant cotton one.

10 Embellish with string lights

Fairy lights add sparkle wherever you like. Great for children’s rooms, an empty fireplace, around a headboard, wound up a staircase, and to highlight a picture or mirror.

11 Choose interesting bulbs

Modern bulbs come in a variety of decorative styles, such as iridescent, oversized and in glorious shapes.

12 Add a kinetic light switch

A self-powered, wireless, battery-free kinetic switch lets you move a light switch or dimmer without installing wiring (you’ll need a receiver wired into the fitting or existing switch). They can be used in bathrooms or outdoors.

By Katherine Sorrell

The design of this pendant was inspired by Art Deco and Modernist hanging lights. Milano pendant light in antique bronze, £139, atkinandthyme.co.uk.

Winner of the UK Gift of the Year 2022, this extraordinary lamp is a decorative feature in itself, and provides a gentle glow with three different light temperatures. Smart Moon Lamp, £139, gingkodesignstore.com.

All animals need exercise and cats are no different. However, if you are concerned about letting your pet out, you might be thinking about buying a harness and talking your cat for a walk. It may be possible if you start this when they are a kitten, but it’s really not recommended for the following reasons.

• Cats are naturally cautious and want to explore at a pace that feels right and safe for them. They will want to be able to hide, run away or avoid potential threats without restriction.

• Cats are naturally very attached to their home and need to feel they always have access to this. Being taken on a lead takes them into new territory and prevents them from being able to access their own space.

• If the lead is dropped or they escape their harness it is unlikely they will return to you, especially when they are scared. Cats are more likely to bolt in order to reach a place of safety and will be at risk from cars on the road as well as other threats.

• Dogs have a high chase drive and, if they see a cat, may try to run after them. Being on a lead or harness makes your cat vulnerable to all sorts of dangers like this that they would naturally avoid.

Rather than using a harness and leash to provide access to the outdoors, the RSPCA recommends providing your cat an enclosed outdoor space with cat-proof fencing.

‘Build your own Rotary’!

We would love to hear from individuals, or ‘groups’ who would like to take over the work and success of Rotary in Mold.

A new ‘team’ is sought, to re-invigorate and adapt the Club to today’s activities and charitable work for and with the people of Mold.

Determine your own format, priorities, and meetings, backed by a regional, national, and international network, providing insurance, and with some financial support, all within the Charter and the motto “Service Above Self”.

For more information, contact: markjprotary22@btinternet.com

The benefits of travelling are infinite. However, the increase in plane travel and overcrowding of tourist hotspots has undoubtedly had a negative impact on the environment too.

If you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, but still want to see the world, don’t lose hope. There are lots of ways to make your trips more sustainable – whether that’s by choosing the right destinations, seeking out eco-experiences or choosing greener modes of transport.

Choose a destination closer to home

You don’t have to travel to the other side of the world to have an unforgettable holiday. There are plenty of awe-inspiring destinations sitting right on your doorstep here in the UK, or just a short plane or train journey away.

With the pandemic putting a halt to foreign travel for over a year, many of us will be more accustomed to holidaying in the UK. However, if your sights are set on somewhere far-flung, reduce your carbon footprint by taking one longer holiday per year instead of multiple shorter trips.

Use efficient modes of transportation

Too often, we choose the easiest option when it comes to travelling, instead of thinking about the journey as an experience in itself.

Air travel tends to be the easiest but least efficient mode of transportation. When visiting destinations that are close to home – such as cities in Western Europe – why not consider travelling by train or coach? You’ll cut your emissions, while soaking up the scenery along the way. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, avoid renting a car and travel by bus, rail or bike instead.

Take the road less travelled

Nowadays, more and more destinations are becoming victims of overtourism. This is when there are too many visitors at a particular destination, resulting in locals being pushed out, damage to the area and more.

While it’s tempting to visit the bucket-list destinations you see on social media, as a tourist you can make a difference by getting off the beaten path. Do some extra research and look beyond the top attractions in the area you’re staying. You could also ask locals or other travellers for recommendations. By doing so, you’ll be spreading the benefits of tourism to more remote communities!

Seek out local and sustainable experiences

While you’re enjoying yotur holiday, take advantage of every opportunity to give back to the local community. Buying gifts for your family? Snap up locally made souvenirs at smaller independent stores. Fancy a meal out? Avoid big hotel chains and find restaurants run by local residents.

Homestays, local guides and programmes that give back to the community are also good ways to ensure your money is injected back into the local economy.

Pack like a pro

Plastic waste might not be a huge issue in the western world, but developing countries have been suffering from uncontrollable plastic rubbish in oceans and beaches for years. You can avoid single-use plastics on your travels by packing reusables like a water bottle, coffee cup, steel or bamboo straw, collapsible food container and bamboo cutlery.

Škofja Loka, Szlovénia

Cornwall, England

20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE & LATEST REPAIR TECHNOLOGY USED

Mini Cryptic Crossword

Across

1. Twisted fir cone provider (7)

7. Beneath sheltering in thundery conditions (5) 8. Fruit grown from a melon (5)

9. Prisoner driven to agree (7)

11. Overweight part to be sent (5)

13. Foodstuff termed a stew (3,4)

17. Unit I constructed for Arctic people (5)

19. Natural habitat in the periodic table (7)

22. The Spanish after very warm place to stay (5)

23. Garment cut in pieces (5)

24. Exploit the power of stable gear? (7)

Down

1. Small room with nothing in the orchestra (5)

2. Quantity men rub the wrong way (6)

3. Enclosed and fought with swords (6)

4. Dash occupied by one wreck (4)

5. Lied about being lazy (4)

6. Trace around a container (5)

10. Bird observed in Botswana (4)

12. Appear to be a join, we hear (4)

14. Choice reply (6)

15. The gospel truth is holding back a swimmer (6)

16. Concavities seen in decadent spot (5)

18. Least organised accounts (5)

20. Nose broken for ages (4)

21. Engrave one hundred in the new style (4)

The Trouble with change

Change can be hard on children, but with these handy tips you’ll be able to easily navigate whatever life throws at your family.

Start a conversation

Having a frank and honest chat with your children about what’s happening in their lives is vital. It may be that the problem at hand is a bigger deal for you that it is for them.

Either way, make it clear that it’s okay to have big emotions about the new situation and reassure them that you are always there to listen to their fears and thoughts.

Read books on change

Whether a new baby is on the way, you’re moving to a different town, or one parent will be leaving the family home, there is a book –or 10! – for your specific needs. With titles like: Two Homes; You Were First and My Very Exciting, Sorta Scary Big Move, stories are great for solving problems in a gentle, kind and even humorous way.

Involve them

If something is going to change then get the kids involved. They will enjoy planning and embracing this new aspect of their lives.

Perhaps it’s the prospect of a new room or finding exciting places to visit in your new

area, or maybe there is a problem you can’t work out on your own that your child – with their brilliant, open and diverse mind – can solve it in a jiffy.

cope with their emotions is vital, regardless of what is going on in their lives.

Remember, kids are more resourceful and resilient than we give them credit for.

Prioritise routines

Humans, in general, like routine, yet kids thrive on it. So always seek to find that fine line between things being different but also being a bit the same.

From a simple bedtime story, to seeking out the pool in your new area so you can maintain your Sunday swim, it’s all about consistency.

Provide coping skills

Teaching children how to

Typical coping strategies include slow deep breaths (to relax), distraction (thinking about something else), problem-solving (finding a way to improve the situation) and positive selftalk (telling yourself it will all be okay).

Be positive

else),

No matter how you are feeling about the change ahead, try to put a good spin on it for the sake of your kids.

Ultimately, the future only has the potential to be as brilliant as you can imagine it, so if you find yourself clinging needlessly to the past listen to George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass and focus on brighter days ahead.

Be sure you’re insured

The simple mistakes that make can invalidate your car insurance.

Following the four pieces of advice below should ensure that, in the event of the worst happening, you get what you’re owed:

Renew and refresh

When your renewal comes around, think about what’s happened in the past year. Some companies auto-renew, meaning points gained in the last 12 months don’t automatically get added. And yes, you’ve guessed it, when it comes to claiming, they’ll be asking why these weren’t declared.

It’s not just about underpaying for insurance, either – if you’re claiming having lost control of the car and there are points on your licence for speeding… well, in their eyes, two plus two might well equal four.

Think as well about predicted mileage, a new job location perhaps, or even some natty car modifications – these will all have implications.

Put your claim in the fast lane

If something happens to your car on the Monday, call your insurers on that day, not Tuesday, not Wednesday, not the week after. Delayed reporting raises suspicion levels, and the first thing insurers will ask is why you didn’t act with the urgency expected or someone who had been in an accident or suffered damage to their prized possession.

Delayed claiming isn’t, in itself, a reason not to pay out, but it won’t do you any favours and, if combined with other aspects that show a lack of care, attention or urgency, may make an insurer think twice.

As good as your word

Consider as well the agreed terms of the motoring insurance that you took out in the first place.

Perhaps, for instance, your vehicle requires special maintenance on a regular basis; maybe you’ve said it’s parked off-road, yet it’s been sat on the grass verge of a busy A-road.

If your policy states certain conditions must be fulfilled, make sure they are.

Honesty is the best (insurance) policy

Finally, if your insurance states you’re the sole driver then it has to be you behind the wheel, however tempting it is for your mate to drive you back from the pub.

In a similar way, if you’re tempted to add on existing damage to a new claim or, worse still, feign injury should you be involved in a collision, think again. Insurers identified over half a million dishonest insurance applications last year, and in extreme cases police were involved.

Ultimately, insurers are happy to pay out for honest claims, and the price per pay-out has steadily risen in recent years. So steer clear of simple or careless mistakes, and you’ll find you’re covered!

Owen telestar aerials

Aerial and TV engineer over 30 years experience formally of TELESTAR Buckley

• New Aerials & Satellite dish installs and repairs

• Freesat, foreign sky and DAB aerials

• TVs and equipment set up including tuning in.

• TVs Wall mounted

• TV repairs

• Aerial points to multiple rooms

• All work meter tested and guaranteed

For free quote CALL: 07919 525 171 OR 01244 547 015

 On site embroidery machine

 Branded workwear for every business

 PPE, Safety & Workwear

P. TATTUM

Roofing & Building

 Conservatory roof conversions

 UPVC Facia and Gutters

 Rubber & Fibreglass roof system

 Re-roofing - Slate or Tiles

 Chimney repairs and Re-pointing

 House extensions & Renovations

 30 years experience. Fully insured

For a free, no obligation quote call Perry 07787 913 452

On these dark, cold mornings, spring still seems a very long way away. Our skin and hair (not to mention our mood) often suffer during the winter months as biting winds and central heating take their toll. Thankfully, a little TLC can make a big difference.

When your skin is feeling dry, the temptation is to pile on a super-rich face moisturiser. But dryness often goes hand in hand with sensitivity, and too heavy a product can make things worse. Instead, switch to a gentle balm cleanser. Tea & Tonic’s The Meadow’s Secret Cleaning Balm (£28, www.teaandtonic.co.uk) is a good choice. It’s 100% natural and rich in seed and flower oils to nourish your skin as it cleanses. Massage a small amount of the balm into wet skin, then wipe it off with a warm, damp cloth. The jar may seem small, but you only need a tiny amount of the balm, so it lasts for a surprisingly long time.

Follow your cleanse with a hyaluronic acid serum or a face oil to hydrate without clogging pores.

Prefer soap to shower gel? Trii’s Hand & Body

Exfoliating Wash Bars (£8, trii.co.uk) gently remove dry skin as they clean. They’re also rich in natural moisturisers, like aloe vera. And they smell amazing. (The lemongrass scent is particularly uplifting.)

clean. They’re also rich in natural

Our hands can really suffer during winter. If yours feel dry, cracked and sore, the first thing to do is ditch your liquid hand soap. Liquid soaps usually contain sodium lauryl sulphate and other harsh ingredients that can really irritate skin. Swap to a solid soap bar, like the ones from Faith in Nature (£2.75, www.faithinnature.co.uk).

when we’re covered up from head to toe, but it’s worth taking the time skin with

Body scrubs and lotions often go out of the window during winter, when we’re covered up from head to toe, but it’s worth taking the time to treat your skin now and then. Go for a gentle body scrub with added moisturisers. Sanctuary Spa’s

Signature Natural Oils Salt Scrub (£16) uses sea salt to exfoliate

Signature Natural Oils Salt Scrub

(£16) uses sea salt to exfoliate away dead skin, and coconut, almond, sunflower, wheat germ and jojoba oils to add moisture.

and jojoba oils to add moisture.

Your skin will thank you for Natural Rich Shower Oil (£8.50) will keep your skin feeling soft and pampered. Both are available

Your skin will thank you for it. In between uses, the

Signature Natural Oils Ultra Rich Shower Oil (£8.50) will keep your skin feeling soft and pampered. Both are available at www.boots.co.uk.

Does your scalp feel itchy, flaky or sore in winter? You’re not alone. And you don’t have to put up with it. As Anabel Kingsley says, “The scalp is simply an extension of the skin on your forehead, and therefore it should be cared for with the same attention devoted to facial skin.” Philip Kingsley’s award winning Flaky/Itchy Scalp range has gained thousands of five-star reviews. And no wonder. The products work to gently clean your hair and scalp, while soothing irritation, stopping the itchiness and clearing dandruff in a matter of days. From £10.50, at www.philipkingsley.co.uk.

Daniel Owen Centre – Mold

We have many things going on at the Centre such as

• Warm Hub every Friday, 9.30am-12, Free Soup, Roll and Tea or Coffee.

• Lunch Club for all ages every Friday afternoon 122.30pm £4.50 per person, 2 course meal and Drink.

• Day and Night activities throughout the week,

• Room hire available, Café on site for your catering needs.

• Café also available to hire day or evening.

• Coffee Mornings open to Charities every other Saturday, looking for much needed funds.

• We supply the Café area. £40 per Charity. 1 date per year per Charity.

• Cash Bingo every Tuesday – Doors open at 1.30pm, Eyes down at 2pm.

• Refreshments available.

• We are also looking for anyone who wishes to put on some Yoga Classes or Children’s Play days.

For more information please call; 01352 754792 Or email Karen or Sarah– danielowencentre@outlook.com

Let’s talk about Debt

Whether you're worried today or concerned about tomorrow, we're here to help you sort things out in the here and now.

Money worries are usually brought about by a culmination of events that bring debt to your doorstep; mortgage payments, rent, credit cards, loans, fines, Council Tax, mobile phones and energy bills are just some of the many ways you can find yourself owing more money out than is coming in.

Here at Citizens Advice Flintshire we have built a dedicated team focused on finding solutions to specific debt problems and to helping our clients manage financial matters so the problems don't return.

0

This is the free and confidential number to get through to us between 9 am - 3 pm, Monday to Fridays. We'll more than likely make you an appointment to go through your financial situation with one of our specialist advisers.

Citizens Advice Flintshire

If you’ve ever forgotten your shopping list or lost your train of thought, you’re not alone. Memory changes are a normal part of ageing, so symptoms of mild forgetfulness are usually nothing to worry about and aren’t indicative of a serious memory problem.

Poor memory health, on the other hand, can make it harder to do everyday things. Sometimes, memory problems can be a sign of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), or in rarer cases, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. If you’re concerned about your own or someone else’s memory, there are a few signs to look out for –some of which include:

• Asking the same questions over and over again.

• Getting lost in places one knows well.

• Having trouble following instructions or directions

• Becoming more confused about time, people, and places.

Unfortunately, there are no drugs or treatments that prevent or permanently treat dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, although there are several drugs your doctor can prescribe to treat the early and mid-stage symptoms. There are also no guarantees when it comes to preventing memory loss or dementia, but there are certain activities that can help.

Keep active – mentally and physically

Physical activity increases blood flow to your brain, which can help keep your memory sharp. Keeping your mind active is important too. The best way to keep your brain in good shape is to engage in mentally stimulating activities, such as crossword puzzles or sudoku. You could also try challenging your memory by taking alternate routes when driving, or even learning a new skill.

Stay social

Humans are social creatures, so it’s no surprise that social interaction has been proven to boost our happiness by warding off depression and stress – both of which are known contributors to memory loss.

Look for opportunities to get together with friends and family – especially if you live alone. Or, why not consider volunteering at your local school, church or community centre?

Sleep well

Along with countless other benefits, getting a good night’s sleep has been proven to play an important role in memory consolidation, a process in which short-term memories are strengthened and transformed into long-lasting memories. The NHS advises that adults should get between seven to nine hours of sleep a day.

Practice meditation and mindfulness

Studies have shown that both mindfulness and meditation can lower stress and improve concentration and memory. You can incorporate mindfulness techniques into your daily routine by paying more attention to your present situation, concentrating on your breathing and resetting your attention when your mind wanders.

Watch your diet

Cutting out sources of excess sugar, reducing overall caloric intake and limiting your alcohol consumption have all been proven to help protect the brain.

More surprisingly, caffeine from coffee or green tea has also been shown to have a positive effect on memory retention, as has dark chocolate. This is due to cocoa flavonoids, the active compounds in chocolate, improving blood flow to the brain and therefore boosting brain function.

Driven to distraction

Driving on UK roads is about how we respond to danger and hazards… both of our own doing, as well as those around us. We look at how these factors collide, and how being aware means being safe.

The actions of others

The AA regularly poll their members on a variety of road issues, and over time have gathered the responses of a quarter of a million people on the habits and traits that irritate them most. The results are revealing, with talking on a mobile phone, in recent years, having become the thing that creates the most ire.

Most frustrating habits of other road users:

1. Talking on a mobile (30%)

2. Tailgating (23%)

3. Middle lane hogging (20%)

4. Swooping or cutting across lanes to leave a motorway at the last minute (10%)

5. Overtaking on the inside (7%)

6. Driving too slowly (4%)

7. Speeding (3%)

8. Littering (3%)

Our own misdemeanours

Most of us know the key things we need to avoid on the roads, yet there are a few other

seemingly inoffensive actions that you may also land you in trouble.

A bad apple

Around two thirds of British drivers have had a bite to eat while behind the wheel – but how many of those would have snuck a piece of sandwich had they known it could mean big trouble? The Highway Code, under Rule 148, states that “safe driving and riding needs concentration,” and advises against eating, drinking, smoking, listening to loud music and trying to read maps while behind the wheel.

Anyone tucking into their lunch could well be committing an offence of driving without due care and attention, or not being in proper control of a vehicle.

Making a splash

Mean-spirited motorists careening through surface water and subsequently soaking pedestrians may be infringing section three of the Road Traffic Act 1988, which states that driving “without reasonable consideration

for other persons using the road” is an offence. So next time you see an inviting puddle, steer well clear or risk being hit with a fixed penalty notice!

Horn blower

The horn is a vital part of staying safe on the roads and should be used to warn other drivers of your presence, particularly if you are about to tackle a sharp corner or a situation where there is poor driver visibility.

Beeping in a moment of anger can in fact be considered breaking the law; while sounding the horn between 11.30pm and 7am in a built-up area is prohibited, unless it is an absolute emergency.

What’s On plus Local Groups & Clubs

Spring Term Programme for Mold and District Choral Society:

Come and Sing Mozart Requiem, Saturday February 11th at 10.30am Capel Mynydd Seion, Abergele .

Sommerville Passion of Christ, Wednesday April 5th, 7pm, St. Matthews Church, Buckley. Vaughan Williams Sea Symphony with full orchestra, Saturday May 13th 7.30pm, St. Asaph Cathedral.

For further details please contact Gail Roberts 07827967607 or Gail13.roberts@gmail.com

Nightingale House Hospice, Mold, Fundraising Group are having a coffee morning to raise funds on Friday 3rd March, 9.30am 11.30am at Gwernymynydd Village Hall. Homemade cakes for sale and a raffle

Please come along for a coffee and a chat and help us raise funds for this very worthwhile cause.

Rotary Club of Mold Annual Charity Quiz will be held on Tuesday March 14th at Beaufort Park Hotel, starting at 7.30 pm. The cost is £15 per team (max 4 people). Winners receive a prize of £100 to be donated to the charity of your choice. Raffle with loads of prizes! ALL proceeds to Charity. To pre-book a table, please email allanbayliss@yahoo.co.uk We look forward to welcoming new teams, as well as the stalwarts!

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.. The annual subscription is £12.00. New members are welcome and further information is available from the treasurer, Richard Rowley, tel. 0l352 756835.

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 February the 16th 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

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

Mold Choral Society

Are you looking for something to be involved in and to meet new friends? Do you enjoy singing? Mold Choral Society have been singing since 1969 and are back with a great programme for 22/23. We are one of the biggest mixed voice choirs in Flintshire and sing in both English and Welsh. We meet in St Davids Church Hall on Wednesdays between 7.30 and 9.30pm. Please come and join us, you will receive a very warm welcome. For more information contact Gail Roberts on 07827 968 707 or email:- gail13.roberts@gmail.com

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.

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

Continued on page 52

AGM TREE SURGERY

From a sapling to a forest, we are your complete tree and hedge specialists.

 Pruning, Reduction, Re-shaping

 Storm damage, Dangerous tress

 Log splitting, Stump grinding

 All waste chipped & removed

 No job too small or too big

 Locally based covering Flintshire, North Wales and Chester

 FREE written quotes & professional advice

 Fully qualified and insured

 30 years experience Call Rob:- 01352 920 007 Or 07887 888 745

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

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.

Chatterboxes Communication Support Group

Struggling with getting your message across? Chatterboxes is here to help.

We are a communication support group, part of the Stroke Group Network. We are run by enthusiastic volunteers who encourage interaction through a variety of activities.

We meet every Monday from 10.30 to 12.30 in the church hall of Our lady of the Rosary in Buckley. A warm welcome plus tea/coffee and biscuits guaranteed! For more information, please contact Kate - tel: 01824 750713

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.

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

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.

Fully qualified painter and decorator

Over

cvatkins14@gmail.com

Man-With-A-Van

Multiple vans available for:-

4 House removals 4 Collections 4 Deliveries

Need to get your goods from A to B, securely?

Near or far – it really doesn’t matter

Call Ian for a fast, friendly, local response

t: 0333 1234 666

web: www.eldridian- logistics.co.uk

Email: ian@eldridian-logistics.co.uk

Competition and puzzle solutions

Where’s Wyddy

WIN £15!

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 February and will receive £15.

The winner of the “Where’s Wyddy” competition last month was:- Mrs A Jones of Upper Bryn Coch, Mold Well done.

Wyddy was hiding on pages :- 2, 23, 29, 31 and 32

View online now

Alternatively, you can access it by typing the following URL into your browser: https://bit.ly/3MAhAHX

If you’d like to discuss featuring your property in future updates, we would be very pleased to hear from you. When browsing the magazine, you can click the links on any of the properties to view full details online.