Mold Connection November 2022

Hello and welcome to your local guide to some of the best local businesses.

This month sees the welcome return of the very popular “Mold Novemberfest” after the disruption of the last few years and as we move into November, many local groups will have started to plan Christmas events and activities.

As I’m working on the December edition of the magazine now, please, if you know of any events being planned for the Mold area, please let me know about them by the 18th November and I will do all I can to help promote them.

This can be any events taking place in December. This could be Christmas fairs/ markets, Carol services or anything else that you know of. Even if you are not connected with something being organised, if you know of something being planned, you can still let me know about. My email address is on the left of this page and I’ll do the rest.

Once again, we will be helping “North Wales Superkids” with their Toy Appeal. This year is going to be even harder than previous years as families struggle, so if you are able to donate any new toys or books or even some money, it would be a big help. Please check out page 28 for more details.

See you next 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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Money on my mind...the Martin Lewis column

He’s the UK’s leading money saving expert - a journalist and presenter who has kept millions of pounds in people’s pockets as well as lifting the lid on the threats and dangers we need to be aware of as consumers.

In this month’s column, Martin Lewis looks at the current energy crisis, and the fact no real solution appears close.

Our energy sector is in a mess, and there is little doubt about that. For too long we have experienced this continual up and down shift of prices and supply and tariffs and everything else that, as consumers, drives us bonkers.

The reality of what we have and what’s going on right now has been brewing for a long time. A perfect storm of situations, from Brexit to covid to the conflict in Russia, effectively means we are being throttled in our desire to heat and light our homes, ensure water comes through our taps and more.

You may say we have been unlucky to find these factors all colliding in together at one time, yet it is the job of the government – and any sort of decent opposition – to put fail safes in place so that when something catastrophic like this happens, the end result isn’t the sort of bewildering increase in bills that really may move a greater quantity of people into poverty than we have ever seen before.

It’s a disastrous combination and we are praying for short-

and medium-term solutions that will see not just the most vulnerable through the winter, but everyone else besides, because this is a national problem coming at a time of huge inflation and cost of living emergency.

Let’s just go to a basic summary of what we have here – in the UK we’re talking about having privatised energy firms, but we effectively now have restricted competition and regulated prices in the form of a price cap. You have to ask yourself, what is the benefit of privatisation if you work in that marketplace?

The next price caps – they’re going to be in January and April – will reveal where we go from here.

All I can say right now is energy bills will go down – they will be lower in April than they will be in January, but higher than they are now.

And while we wait for a solution, we will need to ride this out – we have no choice. Yet rest assured the consumer has been sold down the river and the lessons of this will resonate with both current and future governments, as they should.

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When was the last time you rode a bike? Last month? Last year? So long ago you can barely remember? It might be time to rediscover the joys of cycling. According to the NHS, there are lots of health benefits to riding a bike. It can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. It’s low impact, so it puts less stress on your joints than running, football and other aerobic activities. It can help to ease anxiety and boost your mood. And, of course, it’s better for the environment (and a lot cheaper) than most forms of transport.

Learn to ride

If you’ve never ridden a bike before or aren’t a confident cyclist, it’s worth taking an adult beginners’ course with Bikeability. Find out more at www.bikeability.org.uk. You’ll also find some useful tips at www.cyclinguk.org/teachingadults.

Choosing a bike

The right bike will depend on a whole range of factors, including where you’ll be riding it (e.g. on roads or dirt tracks), your height and your budget. Head to a bike shop to discuss your requirements. If you live in a hilly area, fancy more leisurely rides or need to build your fitness up, then an e-bike might be the best bet. Buying second hand? Try to get the bike serviced or at least checked over. Halfords offer a free bike safety check.

What to wear

The most important thing is to be seen by other road users, so choose brightly coloured or high-vis clothes. To start with, you can just cycle in a T-shirt and jogging bottoms or leggings. Avoid loose bottoms that could get caught up in the chain, or use clips to keep your trousers in place. Long-term, you might want to invest in decent cycling gear. Padded cycling shorts and a sweat-wicking T-shirt can make longer rides a lot more comfortable!

Extras

You’ll need a decent helmet that’s the right size for your head. Check out guides.wiggle.co.uk/ how-choose-perfect-cycling-helmet for guidance or visit your local sports shop. You’ll also want a water bottle holder, puncture repair kit and pump. A bum bag is handy for your phone, wallet and keys, but you might need a backpack, basket or panniers if you need to carry anything else.

Stay motivated

Staying motivated is difficult at the best of times, but winter makes things a whole lot harder. Deciding a set day and time helps, as does finding a cycling buddy or joining a club. You could also set yourself distance goals or book onto a sponsored cycle ride to focus your training.

Stay safe

To begin with, you’ll want to stick to daylight rides in traffic-free areas, but you’ll still need decent reflectors, and a bike light is a good idea. Always let someone know where you’re going and keep your phone with you just in case. A flat tyre ten miles from home is never fun, but it’s a lot trickier if you can’t call someone to pick you up!

Endorsed

The Connection Sudoku Puzzle

EASY HARD

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

Please

Wool and the gang How knitwear became cool again.

For some of us, knitwear evokes uncomfortable memories of itchy, misshapen cardigans in garish hues and patterns knitted by one’s nan or elderly aunt. It is a giant leap therefore to appreciate just how cool those same woollies, and all associated needlecraft, have now become.

Modern knitwear

In some ways it is just the inevitable movement of time, as that which was once au fait becomes so again, but there is also another social phenomenon which has helped propel this ancient art form to fashion’s front row: Instagram. Now boasting a breadth of needlewielding influencers, the photo-sharing app has become the ideal place for knitters to show off their yarns. Whether cutesy crochet bikinis or gorgeous, grannyish cardigans, wool enthusiasts such as New Zealand native Nicole Leybourne (@theknitter) and California student Kara Eng (@karas.knit.eng), not only have thousands of followers (43k and 118k respectively) they also have thriving online marketplaces where they sell their highly coveted patterns across the globe.

Not surprisingly, this online trend has begun to seep into modern culture with knitwear having a few massive moments. There was Bernie Sanders’ mittens which basically became the meme of Joe Biden’s inauguration; the cream, cable knit sweater worn by Chris Evans in thriller flick Knives Out (who knew cable knit could be so sexy?); and diver Tom Daley’s magnificent Team GB cardigan which he was seen knitting poolside at the Tokyo 2020 games.

Knitting inspiration for the nation

It comes as no surprise that a huge boost in sales was seen across sewing machines, knitting kits and crochet books during various lockdowns that commenced in the spring of 2020, while many of us around the globe sat anxiously at home.

After all, if one is going to nervously twiddle their thumbs

for weeks on end, one might as well acquire a beautiful scarf and beanie set at the end of it.

Knitting is community, as the plethora of online forums will attest. It is unity, and comes with free online patterns widely available to download.

Purling that makes perfect sense

Beyond all the cultural ephemera, however, is the fact that knitting is just good sense. With the perils of fast fashion becoming more apparent by the day, making clothes yourself is an appealing antidote.

Made with care, made with time, and made with love: you can modify the pattern exactly to your size and colour preferences, save money, and nurture a real sense of pride and accomplishment at the end of it.

Magni cent inside a month

While pursuing a full-time healthy lifestyle takes time and no small amount of commitment, even within a month it’s possible to see and feel real changes to who you are, how you feel and the way your body responds to life’s challenges.

Here are five tips to give your health and wellbeing an instant boost, where you can start feeling the positive effects almost immediately.

1. BETTER DIET

Diet is probably the most obvious place to start. It goes without saying, the unhealthier the food you consume, the harder it’s going to be to make a full 180-degree turnaround.

Focus on replacing fatty foods with fruit and fibre, keep a check on your salt intake, cut down on alcohol and make food preparation changes, such as grilling rather than frying. Topping up the body with vitamins and supplements is a good idea.

2. WALKING OR LIGHT RUNNING

Movement is so vital to the human body, and you don’t have to become an Olympic athlete to be able to see and feel the differences.

Daily walks and regular running can significantly improve your outlook over the course of a month, with recent research revealing that doing regular 60-second energetic activity broken down into three separate 20-second bursts will bring about noticeable benefits within four weeks. The endorphins created during exercise also make you feel great.

3. SLEEP

Getting at least seven hours a night is essential if you’re looking to enhance your health – it will also help you hold off illnesses… both run-of-the-mill colds and viruses, and more serious ailments including cancer, diabetes and stress.

A consistent sleep pattern is also essential, as regulation helps the body figure out the best way to recover from twinges, tweaks and other things that hold us back.

4. WATER

Water is absolutely vital for the human body, and arguably the easiest thing on

this list to tick off, providing we can drink around two litres of the stuff a day.

What’s more, hydrating offers the body an instant and very noticeable boost, so you will get instant gratification for your efforts.

5. FOCUS AND POSITIVITY

Yoga, Pilates, Zumba and a variety of other exercise pastimes are perfect for people looking to become fitter, whilst also boosting happiness and mindfulness.

Not only will you feel reward for the effort put in, but your inspiration to keep at it and build further will become automatic, because feeling good is addictive!

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Christmas is going to be very different this year and your help is needed more than ever before.

Can you help the North Wales Superkids toybox appeal, please?

Through no fault of their own, things like financial problems, ill health and domestic violence will mean, for one reason or another that many children will wake up on Christmas morning with no presents. You can help change that.

Since 1999, Margaret Williams has been trying to change that. She set up the charity – North Wales Superkids (NWS) after retiring from many years working in social services with vulnerable families, seeing first-hand the problems families faced every year, she decided to form the group as

the need was still there.

The organisation gives these children presents that have been donated by members of the public through its Toybox appeal. It receives no direct funding from government and relies entirely on volunteers and peoples generosity plus the occasional small grant and monetary donations from businesses and individuals.

When Margaret first started North Wales Superkids, she used to hand out presents to around 150 children. That figure has now grown to over 1,700 in 2020 meaning over 15,000 presents

How you can help?

have to be found for children aged between one and eighteen years old across North Wales. Numbers are rising year after year and more families need the help of NWS at Christmas.

Children have to be referred to NWS by a professional, either through their school, via a health visitor or someone in social services or a public organisation. All children have to be living at home with at least one member of their family. Many different circumstances and situations are taken into account for them to be considered for help.

Toys can be dropped off at the following places The Bookshop, MOLD. Tesco, MOLD. Specsavers, MOLD. Reid and Roberts Estate Agents, MOLD Reid and Roberts Estate Agents, Wrexham

Alternatively, with me, Trevor Arnold (editor of the Mold & Clwyd Connection magazines) 16 Parc Alun, Mold. I

will then ensure the donations reach North Wales Superkids. If dropping of at my house, please phone 01824 707013 before coming to drop toys off.

Alternatively, you can make a cash donation here www.justgiving.com/nw-superkids which will allow the organisation to buy toys from suppliers (often at large discounts) to give to the children.

Note: All toys for the Toybox Appeal must be new and in original wrapping only please and need to be appropriate for children from one to eighteen.

Please don't gift wrap any toys.

It is recommended that gifts with a high value are avoided. Margaret can be contacted directly for donations through the NWS Facebook page www.facebook.com/superkidsnorthwales where more information can also be found.

Remember Remember, a good book this November

This month, four November autobiographies to while away those increasingly dark nights.

Gloves Off by Tyson Fury

He presided over quite possibly the greatest sporting comeback ever – a colossally overweight, drug-addicted former champ whose deterioration in physical health was as profound as his plummet in mental health.

Thus, this no-holds-barred tome of bamboozling brilliance, both in the ring and out of it, chronicles the entirety of the Gypsy King’s career to date, from his tempestuous Travelling upbringing, through to the devotion he has to his wife and children.

Grounded yet never ground down, this book is an extension to his previous autobiography, released in January 2021, and worth the read. Published by Penguin Books on November 10th

Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing by Matthew Perry

Matthew Perry is the incredible actor that brought to life Chandler Bing in Friends - the funny, witty, and often goofy character that lived across the hall from Rachel and Monica.

Almost every one of his scenes had us in stitches, but it wasn’t until the reunion show that many realised Matthew was dealing with some profound struggles.

This moving memoir documents being catapulted to dizzy

stardom; it’s about fame, wealth, living with addiction and recovering from some truly dark days. Published by Headline on November 1st

Too Much by Tom Allen With trademark wit and insight, Tom Allen writes about becoming a reluctant adult - leaving home, securing a boyfriend, and finally growing up by facing the grief of losing his beloved father.

The comedian, actor, writer and presenter, who is host of The Apprentice: You’re Fired and Bake Off: The Professionals, shares his unwillingness to move on from the arrested development of millennial life, whilst philosophising over travel adventures to Japan, America, and beyond. Published by

Ticket to the World: My 80s Story by Martin Kemp Ticket to the World is a joyous, nostalgic celebration of eighties culture from one man at the centre of it all.

In this candid, evocative memoir, Martin Kemp reflects on the unforgettable decade that made him, and that he in turn helped to shape, as he reminisces on leading the New Romantics, adventures with Spandau Ballet, the eradefining Live Aid and many other memorable moments along the way.

From friendships with George Michael, Sade and Boy George to living under Thatcher, from his musical influences to some of his more distinctive fashion choices, Ticket to the World explores both Martin’s personal experiences and the social and political climate underpinning the decade. Published by Harper Collins on November 10th

Hodder & Stoughton on November 10th

Stoughton from

Even on an overcast November day, the garden can be bathed in light. But it doesn’t need to come from the sky: plants can provide a golden glow that looks as warm as sunshine.

The stars of the autumn garden are not only spectacular leaves, turning shades of crimson, orange and yellow before they fall from deciduous trees, but ornamental grasses that send spirits soaring. They quietly grow in stature throughout the summer, then burst forth in full glory during autumn and winter, filling borders with joy once most other plants have faded.

Grasses soften the understorey in a cloud of luxuriant waves. These are plants to excite and stimulate the senses. The sound of rustling in the autumn breeze cuts through the stillness in the air, evoking memories of the turning tide and of passing time.

The secret of successful planting lies in repeating forms and patterns throughout the space. One or two specimen grasses are certainly worth having, but it’s not until you repeat the theme across the garden that you create an unforgettable sea of beauty.

Top tips for using ornamental grasses in the garden

• Aim for contrast. Think about the backdrop against which your grasses will be seen. An evergreen yew hedge, for example, will make your golden autumn grasses look brighter and bolder than a background of mixed deciduous shrubs. A black wall or fence will provide a similar effect.

• Place taller grasses at the back of the border, such as Miscanthus sinensis ‘Ferner

Osten’ (Chinese silver grass), which can reach heights of 1.5m, and mounded forms of slightly lower grasses in the middle. Miscanthus sinensis ‘Kleine Silberspinne’ (another variation of Chinese silver grass) is a particularly easy grass to grow and it changes colour as winter progresses. Pennisetum alopecuroides ‘Hameln’ (fountain grass) is a rather beautiful smaller grass, and the evergreen or semi-evergreen Anemanthele lessoniana (pheasant’s tail grass) looks magnificent when placed towards the front of the border, spilling slender foliage and airy flowerheads onto paths.

• Plant most grasses in multiples of odd numbers, if possible. It creates a balanced composition that feels harmonious.

• Consider incorporating structural elements amongst grasses to provide an anchor. Topiary such as tall cones of evergreens, pillars of hornbeam (Carpinus betulus), cloudpruned trees or multi-stemmed trees can look highly effective.

• Don’t expect all grasses to stay where you put them! Some tend to seed themselves around and the parent plant might eventually fade away. Aim for an informal look that allows this natural transition to take place.

• Research your grasses so that you know how to care for them. Deciduous grasses should be cut down to the ground in very early spring or late winter. Evergreen and semi-evergreen grasses generally need a comb through with a gloved hand in order to remove dead stems. The harder-leafed evergreens sometimes benefit from a very light pruning, just removing damaged stems.

By Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

Verbena bonariensis, planting partner for grasses

By Caroline Knight: Gardendesignideas.co.uk

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With Christmas now just around the corner, if you find yourself fantasising about mulled wine and steaming chestnuts – you’re not alone. Christmas market season is upon us, the perfect time to wrap up warm and hunt for gifts you wouldn’t find anywhere else. While we have plenty of markets to visit on our doorstep, nothing quite compares to Europe’s fairy-tale, festive spirit.

From Hungary’s regional specialities and the dazzling lights of Vienna, all the way to Tallinn’s cobblestone streets dusted with snow, we’ve pulled out five of the best Christmas markets in Europe, and what makes each one so magical.

Vienna, Austria

Every winter, Vienna’s prettiest squares transform into a maze of Christmas markets, adorned with fairy lights. Wherever your feet take you, expect to see everything from artisanal handicrafts and traditional wooden toys, to ice rinks Ferris wheels and merry-go-rounds. This is Christmas at its most traditional.

Oh, and did we mention the food? Warm the cockles of your heart with a mug of mulled wine while inhaling the smell of roasted chestnuts and freshly baked pretzels.

Tallinn, Estonia

Part of what makes Tallinn’s Christmas markets so magical is their setting. Come December, this beautiful medieval city is completely dusted with snow, and the markets filled with local arts and crafts and festive treats. They’re also joined by Tallinn’s very own Santa, who arrives at his winter grotto on an authentic reindeer sleigh. The highlight, though, is Tallinn’s Christmas tree, which has been displayed in front of the town hall since 1441, making it the first of its kind in Europe.

Budapest, Hungary

Officially hailed as Europe’s best Christmas market in 2022, Budapest’s Advent Feast at the Basilica is a delight for the senses. Shop for unique gifts from more than 160 artisan vendors and sample local Hungarian specialities. Goulash and flódni are must-tries!

There’s even an ice rink in the heart of all the action, circling a nine-metre-tall Christmas tree. Be sure to hang around for the real star of the show though – a spectacular laser light show projected on the facade of St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Nuremberg, Germany

Home to more than 150 towns and cities with established Christmas market traditions, Germany is synonymous with the festive season. Berlin and Cologne are world-renowned but most visitors will agree that Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt just about comes out on top.

One of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to around 1530, Christkindlesmarkt is a foodie’s paradise. Grilled sausages, crackling pork, mulled wine, sweet gingerbread –every festive food fantasy can be fulfilled here. Prague, Czech Republic

Postcard-worthy Prague was made for the festive season, so it’s no surprise its capital’s market is one of Europe’s favourites. This is part and parcel down to its magnificent setting, but as Czechs are famously heavy drinkers, they go above and beyond when it comes to booze too. Sample mead, punch and grog, a concoction of rum, lemon, sugar and hot water.

If you’ve got little ones, they’ll love the Old Town Square’s petting zoo – complete with sheep, goats and donkeys.

Please

Tom Aikens’ Pro teroles

Introduction

There is something so contradictory about profiteroles that they keep me coming back for more. There is the sweetness of the chocolate against the plain cream; the dryness of the pastry against the moisture that spills from the middle; and a solitary, innocent-looking ball that ends up being filling and extroverted. What I love most about profiteroles is the fact they’re easy to make yet considered luxurious and even slightly opulent; so here’s a recipe that, in a similar way, is simple, yet sensational!

Method

1. Put the butter, sugar and salt for the profiteroles in a pan with 250ml of water and bring to a simmer. Add the sifted flour and stir for a good 5 minutes over a low to medium heat, until the paste comes away from the pan.

2. Transfer this immediately to a food mixer or processor with a beater attachment. Add the eggs, one by one, and beat to a smooth, shiny paste. Put this in a bowl, cover with clingfilm and leave to cool.

3. Preheat the oven to 190°C/ gas mark 5. Spoon the choux

paste into a piping bag with a plain nozzle and pipe 2.5cm blobs onto a baking tin. Each one should stand up nice and high, and you should get roughly 30 profiteroles in total. Bake for about 15 minutes until golden in colour. Pierce each one to let out the steam and cool on a wire rack before filling.

4. To make the crème Chantilly, add the vanilla seeds, scraped from the pod, to the whipping cream along with the caster sugar and vanilla extract and whip until firm. Pipe into the choux buns.

Ingredients

(serves 4)

For the profiteroles - 80g unsalted butter - 25g sugar - ½ tsp salt - 150g plain flour, sifted - 4 eggs - 2 handfuls of chopped almonds, to serve

For the crème Chantilly - 1 vanilla pod - 250ml whipping cream - 40g caster sugar - ½ tsp vanilla extract

For the chocolate sauce - 50g unsalted butter - 250ml double cream - 180g sugar - 1 tsp vanilla extract - 100g cocoa powder - 50g dark chocolate

5. To make the chocolate sauce, put the butter, double cream, 180g of sugar and vanilla extract into a pan and bring to a simmer. Add the cocoa powder and whisk while continuing to cook for 5 minutes at a slow simmer. Break up the dark chocolate and put it into a bowl. Pour over the hot chocolate mixture and stir until the dark chocolate has melted, then pass the sauce through a fine sieve.

6. Drizzle the choux buns with warm chocolate sauce and sprinkle with the chopped almonds.

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Stepchildren and Inheritance

In a time of increasingly fluid family relationships, many children are brought up by stepparents. In fact, at least 1 in 10 children are brought up by a stepparent within the family home (Office of National Statistics).

But how does this affect our assets when we die without leaving a valid Will in place?

A recent study conducted by the co-operative showed at least 60% of people die without leaving a Will. In this situation, the estate will be administered in accordance with the intestacy rules. Stepchildren are not included within these rules and only include the bloodline of a deceased person. In recent years, the intestacy rules have been subject to strong criticism particularly in light of the ever-changing family dynamics we see in our modern-day society. In some cases, the people we wish to benefit are not necessarily related by blood.

A recent case seen in the Manchester Courts (Higgins V Beneficiaries of the Higgins Estate 2021) highlighted the importance of making a Will when it comes to benefiting stepchildren. The defendant was brought up from a young age by his stepfather, even changing his name

by deed poll to match that of his stepfathers. His stepfather died without a valid Will in place, which meant his estate passed to distant cousins with whom he had not had a relationship for many years. The claimant applied for provision under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependents) Act 1975, stating that he was financially reliant on his stepfather, having lived with him since he was a child. The court awarded the claimant just £55,000.00 of the £200,000.00 estate.

The above could have been avoided if the deceased had made a valid Will gifting his estate to his stepson. Preparing a valid Will is the only way in which you can be certain that the most important people in your life stand to benefit upon your death.

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

If you would like to discuss making a new Will to ensure that your wishes are met upon death, please contact one of our experienced team members who would be happy to assist you.

Anna Lloyd Edwards

Swayne Johnson Solicitors, 23 Clwyd Street, High Street, Ruthin LL15 1HH or telephone 01824 703833.

Please mention the Mold Connection when using any of the advertisers

Radiators are often-overlooked essentials, but over time, rust, corrosion and blockages can build up. Chemical ‘flushing’ and regular bleeding will help but sometimes radiators need replacing because a new boiler, with increased pressure, causes leaks, or you may be installing an entirely new home heating system such as a heat pump.

Extra efficiency

Modern radiators heat up more quickly and can be 50% more energy-efficient than old models (pre-2000). Today’s radiators come in an array of sizes, shapes, materials and colours, to let you complement your design scheme and even add a dash of style.

Where to start

Start by calculating the heat output required for each room in BTUs (British Thermal Units. The next task is to look at each space and work out what size and shape of radiator you want to install. You may even like the look of the traditional column radiator, while in a bathroom a heated towel rail is a great choice.

A choice of materials

The vast majority of modern radiators are made from mild steel. Other options include stainless steel (more expensive, but less prone to rust build-up) and aluminium, which is the most expensive option but also the most efficient and the greenest to manufacture. Stone, glass and brass radiators are also available.

This steel radiator incorporates a wooden seat and is made to order in a choice of four, five and six columns and 218 colours. Ancona Bench Seat Vertical, from £1,312.80, theradiatorcompany.co.uk.

Positioning your radiators

Radiators are best placed in the coldest part of the room, which always used to be under a single-glazed window. In well-insulated homes this principle is less important, and you can put radiators wherever you wish, depending on the positions of your furnishings, and whether you want them to blend in or stand out. Don’t block them with long curtains or bulky furniture, and in period houses aim for symmetry with radiators placed centrally on a wall.

Design possibilities

Typically it’s a case of choosing the radiator material you prefer and deciding on a style and colour, though where space is limited or awkward you may need to research a few different solutions. It could be a corner radiator, a curved one for under a bay window, one that’s completely flat, one with a mirror finish, or one including a bench seat. There is a range of radiators shaped like abstract wall art and, increasingly, radiators are available in a wide variety of powder-coated colours. No longer do radiators have to be an unseen necessity –both attractive and efficient, they may well be the new heroes of your home.

Katherine Sorrell

A copper finish gives this mild steel towel radiator a luxurious and timeless look. Terma Jade curved heated towel rail in True Copper, from £154.99, onlyradiators.co.uk.

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Using timber sourced from across the globe we provide our customers with quality, pre-treated, durable timber products.

for a small

Koray Eau de Parfum, £28.00, www.hotelchocolat.com.

The Amika Blowout Buffet Blow Dryer Brush + Styling Set (£82 www.loveamika.co.uk) makes blow-drying a breeze.

Fairtrade and just £3.50? There’s a lot to love about this Primark Balm To Oil Cleanser.

Who doesn’t love a gift set at Christmas?

Elemis X Rixo The Story Of Glam Gift Set, £65, www.johnlewis.com.

Make the Christmas countdown extra special with this Wilko Joy Fabric Advent Calendar (£20 www.wilko.com). Fill it with nail varnishes, make-up, travel-sized skin and hair goodies, and a chocolate bar or three.

Give the gift of great skin with Bondi Sands Everyday Skincare Starter Bundle. £42.99, www.bondisands.co.uk.

New beauty goodies deserve a luxe new home. How about this Dune London Shining Green Diamante Make Up Bag? £40, www.dunelondon.com.

These little soaps are perfect for popping into stockings. £13 for a set of six, shop.nationaltrust.org.uk.

Need a Secret Santa gift? Here you go… Matalan Luxury Bath Company Bath Fizzer Set, £5, www.matalan.co.uk.

What’s On plus Local Groups & Clubs

Tyddyn Street Church are having an Autumn fair - Saturday November 5th - 10am to 2.00pm.

Free entry, stalls and games and refreshments. All are welcome. Sunday November 6th will be our harvest Festival.

MOLD FLOWER CLUB

A warm welcome awaits you at the annual Christmas Floral Extravaganza which this year will be held on 17th November at 7.15 p.m. at Bryn Coch School, Victoria Road, Mold (CH7 1EW) with the return of the ever popular Don Billington with his version of a “Christmas Cracker”. Tickets, which include light refreshments are £10 and available from 01352 755796. There will be some availability on the night, but booking is preferable.

Mold & District Probus Club, which has arranged talks and social events for retired and semi-retired men for over forty years, has resumed its monthly meetings in the schoolroom at the Bethesda Chapel, New Street. Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month except August, 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 November 17th 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

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 1st and 3rd Tuesday 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. are meeting again 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.

Index to advertisers

Aerial Installation Estate Agent

Owen Telstar Aerials

Fisher German

Physiotherapy

Grosvenor Physio 19

Assembly Member Reades Residential 12 Plasterer Hannah Blythyn AM

Fitted bedrooms Ross Greeenslade 46 Artisan Markets Sliding Robes

Plumbing & Heating

Framing & Engraving D2P Plumbing 37 Bathrooms & Wetrooms Josar

Ruthin Markets

DR plumbing & Heating 26 Deeside Bathrooms

Garage door replacement Ken Davies Plumbing 16 Book shop Gorolla Doors

Peter James Gas 2 Mold Book Shop

Garden Centre Roofing contractor

Building services Woodworks

DP Healy Roofing 49 Dickinson & Son 32 Garden work Morris Roofing 31

Car Bodywork Repairs Beautiful Borders

Septic Tank emptying

Tom Harvey Driveways 38 Wilson Brothers 46 Carpet Cleaning Garden structures Solicitors

Aurora Refinishing

Zero Dry Time cleaning 17 Wood Store Wales

Swayne Johnson 43 Carpets & Furniture Handyman services Taxi Service Cooks

The Care Taker

Jays 1st Class Travel 2 Car Servicing Hardware supplies Theatre/Cinema Autoservice Buckley

Morgans of Mold

Theatr Clwyd 11 Nonstop 25 Hearing problems Tiler Tip Top Service Centre 42 Colwyn Hearing Practice 29 Peter Thompson 33 Computer problems Hearshop

Tool Hire MAC 3

Home improvements KMA Tool Hire & Sales 46 Consumer Advice Cranwell Interior Solutions 2 Tree surgeon Flintshire CAB 41 Kitchens installer AGM Tree Surgery 38 Craftng supplies Academy of Design 5 Chester Oaks 37 Lavinia Stamps 16 Kitchen & Bathroom installerVan & Man

Credit Union Headley Greenslade 31 Eldridan Logistics 49 Cambrian Credit Union 39 Kitchen Refurbishment Website Creator Curtains & Blinds Transform your Kitchen 15 Doodly Dog Websites 33 Andersons curtains & blinds 49 Loft access Will writing & Estate planning

Decorating supplies Access 4 Lofts 27 Watkins Smith (NW) Ltd 7 Ruthin Décor 19 Locksmith Window Blinds

Denture Repairs Lock & Key Solutions 37 Andersons curtains & blinds 49 Moore's Dental Studio

Painter & Decorators Window Cleaner

Drain clearance & repair Craig Atkins

Fred Harvey cleaning 10 Drains Today Ltd

Personal tuition Electrician Creative in Excellence 3

Electrical Services

Daniel Hayhurst Susan Wallace Toby GaleHasleham Michael Harris

Alstons Oceana

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