INSIDE FLINTSHIRE 2 MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2020 ISSUE

FIintshire 2 Inside Inside

Magazine Magazine

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MERRY XMAS....

Welcome to our Christmas issue. This issue we are feeling extra festive with lots of interesting articles inside to help you through the Christmas season, including best tech gifts, best artificial Christmas trees, pets at Christmas, our choc chip mince pie cookies recipe by little Welsh foodie. Don’t forget to give her a follow on Instagram for more delicious recipes.

Please take a look at our shop local feature on pages 18-19. We’ve come up with a selection of local businesses you could use this Christmas when looking to buy gifts or even your christmas turkey.

Lots more going on inside and we hope you enjoy our festive edition.

Please feel free to let us know how we’re doing. So all that is left to say is, everyone at Inside Flintshire magazine would like to wish all our readers a safe and merry Chrstmas.

Don’t forget to give us a mention if you use one of the businesses inside as without them advertising with us, this magazine would not be possible. £25 Cash Winner - R Anstey - Vinnie Jones Book - G Davenport - Dilip Sarkar Until next month.

Stay Safe & Merry Christmas, Reg, Editor Inside Flintshire Magazines

CONTENTS........

6

10

Choc Chip Mince Pie Cookies Xmas Films On Netflix

Edition 65 December 2020.....

Best Christmas gifts 2020

Hover-1 Superstar Hoverboard Forget 2020, this present will transport your teen to 3020. The board is super easy to use, fun and - most importantly - safe, as the maximum speed is only six miles per hour. It comes complete with LED wheels and has a Bluetooth speaker built-in.

Present ideas for all the family

£179 | Amazon

he countdown to the most festive time of the year has begun and we’re here to help you sleigh the gift giving process.

The festivities may be taking place virtually this year, but it’s still important to nail the gifting exchange - even if it via Zoom - and find that perfect present for your partner, parents and children. We’ve gathered ten of the best gifts to give Santa a run for his money.

Gaiam Be Free Reversible 6mm Yoga Mat In these uncertain times, any form of stress relief is welcome. Yoga boasts a host of healing benefits, from mental to physical. Whether they are an expert yogi or just mastering their Downward Dog, the stylish yoga mats from Gaiam will make a great gift.

Nintendo Switch 1.1 32GB Console with Joy-Con in Neon Gaming addicts everywhere will appreciate the Nintendo Switch and particularly the 1.1 model with a long battery life and more on-the-go flexibility.

£33.56 | John Lewis

£279.99 | John Lewis

Philips Airfryer XXL

Bombay Sapphire Home of Bombay Hamper

The Philips Air fryer offers a healthier alternative to traditional oil frying - it also cooks in a fraction of the time it would take in theoven.

The device will allow you to bake, roast, and grill to your heart’s content. It’s even big enough to cook a whole chicken!

From Bombay Sapphire’s Laverstoke distillery is this stunning hamper, filled with enough of the spirit to sink a Royal Navy battleship. There are five bottles: the classic Bombay Sapphire, Bombay Dry, Bombay English Estate, Bombay Sapphire East and Bombay Bramble to keep you well hydrated through the festive season. A bar spoon and cocktail measure, or jigger, finishes the set.

£249.99 | Philips

14-15 Best Xmas Gifts Ideas 18-19 Shop Local This Xmas Season 22-23 Pets at Christmas 30 52 60

Best Tech Gifts This Xmas Best Artificial Xmas Tree’s

Veja Campo Textured-Leather Sneakers Your youngsters really can’t go wrong with these universally appealing white leather trainers from Eco-conscious footwear label Veja that have a variety of colours for the logo detailing. These all-rounders can be dressed up either smart or casual. £115 | Net-A-Porter

£120 | Bombay Sapphire

Bakedin Bread Baking Club Mela Weighted Blanket For the uninitiated, a weighted blanket feels like being cocooned in a giant hug. While it offers all the cosiness of a traditional blanket, it is comforting and can reduce anxiety. To solve winter blues, Mela is on hand with its super soft iteration that aims to promote better sleep.

FITBIT Sense

If your teen worships pop star du jour Ariana Grande they’ll love one of her fragrances. Cloud EDP comes in an Instafriendly bottle shaped like the clouds and sun.

The latest smart wearable from Fitbit takes the step counter to the next level. It monitors your heart rate and thus can detect stress, tracks your skin temperature, your sleep to give information about your stages and scores, wake you up with a gentle alarm and even gives you a six month subscription to Fitbit Premium with fitness and nutrition programmes.

£25 | The Perfume Shop

£299 | Currys

£99 | Mela

Ariana Grande Cloud EDP

Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements

Have an animal friendly festive period

Here we’ll share some food safety tips for your pets, help you to ensure your pets remain safe and calm and you’ll even discover how to make reindeer food that’s safe for wildlife!

Helping pets feel calm at Christmas Christmas can be stressful for pets.

The change in routine, visitors, children and decorations can all worry them.

Here are our top tips for a stress-free pet Christmas:

Cats and dogs

Outdoor animals

Try to keep food, exercise, bed and toilet break routines the same, as consistency can help pets feel more secure.

Give them somewhere cosy and quiet to retreat to, away from all the excitement, where they won’t be disturbed. Leave their toys there too.

Outdoor animals such as rabbits will need extra bedding in the cold weather. Keep their enclosures clean as wet bedding will freeze on cold nights, which could lead to illness.

Ensure outdoor pets always have fresh, clean water to drink and check at least twice a day that it isn’t frozen.

For cats, you can provide hidey-holes for them to retreat to if they feel unsure. Try tops of wardrobes or under furniture - even cardboard boxes.

Although Christmas is a busy time, be careful about leaving your pet alone.

Small furries Make sure nocturnal animals such as hamsters are kept somewhere they aren’t going to be disturbed during the day.

Don’t put tinsel around cages and keep fairy lights and electrical cables out of reach to prevent them nibbling objects that could cause medical issues.

4

Christmas is great! There are presents, fantastic food and we (hopefully, this year) get to spend time with family. But Christmas food can be hazardous for your pets.

Referring to the list below will ensure you’re not giving treats that can make your pet unwell: l Chocolate l Mince pies l Christmas pudding l Onion gravy l Alcohol l Bones from carcasses, which are a dangerous choking hazard.

What Christmas food can pets eat?

Skinless and boneless white meat such as turkey is okay for dogs and cats, but be careful that it’s not covered in fat, salt or gravy.

Pets in cold weather With darker nights and colder days, your pets need to stay safe and warm this winter

Walking dogs in winter Stay safe when walking your dog in the dark, wear reflective clothing and think about a reflective collar for your dog.

Reindeer food mix

If you have an elderly or sickly dog, you can buy a special coat or jumper to keep them warm.

Looking for a wildlife friendly snack to leave out for Rudolph and his reindeer friends this Christmas?

Follow our simple recipe for reindeer food that is free from glitter and suitable for reindeer and birds alike.

Keep your dogs away from ponds and lakes that are iced over. Thin ice may break under a dog’s weight.

And, if it’s snowing outside, watch out for your dog’s paws becoming impacted with snow, which can cause discomfort.

Be aware that antifreeze and rock salt can be poisonous to pets.

After walking your dog in areas that may have been gritted with rock salt, ensure you wash their paws thoroughly.

Keeping cats warm In the coldest months it’s important that your cat has access to a warm environment, such as your home or another inside area with appropriate heating. Check that their bedding is away from cold draughts and stays warm and dry.

Taking care of Rudolph and his friends On Christmas Eve night, as Father Christmas is rushing from house to house to deliver presents, his reindeer helpers often need a quick snack to keep them going on their busiest night of the year. You don’t need to go and buy them special food (often the food you can Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements

Enterprise House, Aber Road, Flint CH6 5TG Telephone: 01352 870 760 Email: reg@insideflintshiremagazine.co.uk Published by Inside Magazines.

buy in the shops is full of glitter, which is very bad for flying reindeer and other garden wildlife) - chances are you have just what they love in your store cupboards anyway!

Festive food for your pets

Wildlife friendly reindeer food

Get Your Garden Ready For Xmas

ARTWORK DEADLINE DATE 14TH DECEMBER

£30 | Bakedin

To advertise text ADVERT to: 01352 870 760

Pets at Christmas e all love Christmas! But, whilst we’re busy getting wrapped up in the festive fun, we may forget to think about the effect Christmas can have on our pets and other animals too.

Encourage good habits with a subscription service from Bakedin.

Not only will their monthly package create continual excitement but as the generous gift-giver, surely you will be at the top of the list to enjoy the fruits of their labour - it’s a true win, win.

The boxes are compact enough to fit through the letterbox and contain all the correctly-measured ingredients needed to whip up masterpieces that would give this year’s Bake-off contestants a run for their money.

Ingredients and instructions l A handful of wild bird seed (which may include sunflower hearts, naked rolled oats, dried mealworms, yellow millet, kibbled peanuts and black sunflower seeds) - this is what helps the reindeers fly! l A few rolled oats l Some dried fruit, like cranberries (if you have a dog, please don’t use grapes, raisins, sultanas or currants as these can be poisonous for them) l Some dried insects - Rudolph and his bird friends love mealworms and waxworms l Some grated cheese l A hint of chilli powder - it helps keep Rudolph’s nose glowing red and will stop squirrels and rodents from stealing the food before Rudolph arrives!

Mix it all together, then sprinkle it on your lawn or leave it in a bowl by your front door just before you go to bed.

To advertise text ADVERT to: 01352 870 760

Copyright No part of this publication may be reproduced, resold or stored in a retrieval system without the express permission of “Inside Flintshire Magazine” Adverts When providing advertising copy, artwork or photographs from existing sources, it is our customers’ responsibility to ensure that all the appropriate permissions regarding copyright have been obtained from the originator :Inside Flintshire Magazine accepts no liability for copyright issues regarding adverts published in good faith. For full terms and conditions see our web site

Entrance Assessments • SENIOR SCHOOL Entrance Examinations Monday 11 January 2021

• LOWER SCHOOL Entrance Assessments By appointment w/c 11 January 2021

Register online today

thequeensschool.co.uk/register For bespoke tours and meetings, call our Admissions Manager on 01244 312078 or email admissions@thequeensschool.co.uk AN OUTSTANDING INDEPENDENT SCHOOL for girls aged 4-18 in the heart of Chester.

Small enough that we get to know every girl personally, and big enough to provide a wealth of opportunities that go well beyond the classroom, challenging your daughter along the way to ensure a successful and happy future.

BESPOKE TOURS & MEETINGS AVAILABLE

Igniting her potential

Choc chip mince pie cookies

We’re very grateful to Inside Flintshire reader Naomi for this crunchy Christmas recipe.

Be sure to follow her on Instagram - the link is at the bottom of the page.

Ingredients l 110g unsalted butter l 200g light brown soft sugar l 1 egg

Step by step 1 Pre-heat the oven to 190°C. Line 3 baking trays with greaseproof paper.

l 2-3 tbsp of mincmeat from a jar

2 Cut the butter into cubes and cream together with the sugar until combined.

l 2 drops of vanilla essence

3 Mix in the egg, vanilla essence & mincemeat.

l 195g plain flour

4 Mix in the flour, bicarbonate of soda, baking powder, salt & the spices.

l 1/2 tsp baking powder l 1/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda l 1 tsp ground sweet cinnamon l 1/2 tsp mixed spice l Pinch of ground ginger l Pinch of salt l 100g milk chocolate l 100g dark chocolate

5 Chop the chocolate into chunks and pour into the mix. Use a wooden spoon to combine chocolate with the cookie mix.

6 Shape into small balls (about the size of a golf ball) and space out well on the baking trays.

7 Bake in the middle of the oven for 10-12 minutes.

When you take them of the oven, tap the tray down on a surface - this give the cookies their crack!

8 Leave to cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool fully.

@littlewelshfoodie 6

Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements

7

Established 1991 www.matt-finish.co.uk

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RESPRAY! A NEW LOOK KITCHEN

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r h i s C t m e a s s flm t s on u s M

The Christmas Chronicles Part 2

Available from November 25 Starring: Kurt Russell, Goldie Hawn, Darby Camp

Unhappy over her mother’s new relationship, a now-teenage Kate runs away and lands at the North Pole, where a naughty elf is plotting to cancel Christmas.

Real-life long-term couple Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell reunite for this sequel, in which Mrs. Claus (Hawn) plays a more prominent role.

Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey

Available from November 13 Starring: Forest Whitaker, Keegan-Michael Key, Hugh Bonneville An imaginary world comes to life in a holiday tale of an eccentric toymaker, his adventurous granddaughter, and a magical invention that has the power to change their lives forever.

Forest Whitaker stars as legendary toymaker Jeronicus Jangle, who enlists the help of his granddaughter to ‘heal old wounds and reawaken the magic within’ after his most prized possession is stolen.

Let It Snow

Available from November 13 Starring: Isabela Moner, Shameik Moore, Kiernan Shipka

Hailed as 2019’s answer to Love Actually, Let It Snow is the heartwarming story of a group of teenagers whose lives collide when a snowstorm hits their small town on Christmas Eve. Starring Kiernan Shipka and Odeya Rush, Let It Snow is the festive rom-com you need in your lives.

10

Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements

Wishing our Customers a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

£50 trade in for your old gas fire when purchasing a new gas fire (supply & Fit ) (T&C’S Apply) All Covid-19 regulations and standards are met (PPE used)

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Get Cooking Ready for Christmas

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£199.00 Speak to us about our installation & removal service.Visit us online or in store.

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74 Chester Street, Flint, Flintshire, CH6 5DH Open Daily 9.00am - 5.00pm. For our latest offers, follow us on

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55 29 27 59 4933 45 37

Best Christmas gifts 2020 Present ideas for all the family he countdown to the most festive time of the year has begun and we’re here to help you sleigh the gift giving process.

The festivities may be taking place virtually this year, but it’s still important to nail the gifting exchange - even if it via Zoom - and find that perfect present for your partner, parents and children. We’ve gathered ten of the best gifts to give Santa a run for his money.

Nintendo Switch 1.1 32GB Console with Joy-Con in Neon Gaming addicts everywhere will appreciate the Nintendo Switch and particularly the 1.1 model with a long battery life and more on-the-go flexibility.

£279.99 | John Lewis

Philips Airfryer XXL The Philips Airfryer offers a healthier alternative to traditional oil frying - it also cooks in a fraction of the time it would take in theoven.

The device will allow you to bake, roast, and grill to your heart’s content. It’s even big enough to cook a whole chicken!

£249.99 | Philips

Veja Campo Textured-Leather Sneakers Your youngsters really can’t go wrong with these universally appealing white leather trainers from Eco-conscious footwear label Veja that have a variety of colours for the logo detailing. These all-rounders can be dressed up either smart or casual. £115 | Net-A-Porter

Mela Weighted Blanket For the uninitiated, a weighted blanket feels like being cocooned in a giant hug. While it offers all the cosiness of a traditional blanket, it is comforting and can reduce anxiety. To solve winter blues, Mela is on hand with its super soft iteration that aims to promote better sleep.

£99 | Mela

Ariana Grande Cloud EDP If your teen worships pop star du jour Ariana Grande they’ll love one of her fragrances. Cloud EDP comes in an Instafriendly bottle shaped like the clouds and sun.

£25 | The Perfume Shop

14

Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements

Hover-1 Superstar Hoverboard Forget 2020, this present will transport your teen to 3020. The board is super easy to use, fun and - most importantly - safe, as the maximum speed is only six miles per hour. It comes complete with LED wheels and has a Bluetooth speaker built-in.

£179 | Amazon

Gaiam Be Free Reversible 6mm Yoga Mat In these uncertain times, any form of stress relief is welcome. Yoga boasts a host of healing benefits, from mental to physical. Whether they are an expert yogi or just mastering their Downward Dog, the stylish yoga mats from Gaiam will make a great gift.

£33.56 | John Lewis

Bombay Sapphire Home of Bombay Hamper From Bombay Sapphire’s Laverstoke distillery is this stunning hamper, filled with enough of the spirit to sink a Royal Navy battleship. There are five bottles: the classic Bombay Sapphire, Bombay Dry, Bombay English Estate, Bombay Sapphire East and Bombay Bramble to keep you well hydrated through the festive season. A bar spoon and cocktail measure, or jigger, finishes the set.

£120 | Bombay Sapphire

Bakedin Bread Baking Club

FITBIT Sense The latest smart wearable from Fitbit takes the step counter to the next level. It monitors your heart rate and thus can detect stress, tracks your skin temperature, your sleep to give information about your stages and scores, wake you up with a gentle alarm and even gives you a six month subscription to Fitbit Premium with fitness and nutrition programmes.

Encourage good habits with a subscription service from Bakedin.

Not only will their monthly package create continual excitement but as the generous gift-giver, surely you will be at the top of the list to enjoy the fruits of their labour - it’s a true win, win.

The boxes are compact enough to fit through the letterbox and contain all the correctly-measured ingredients needed to whip up masterpieces that would give this year’s Bake-off contestants a run for their money.

£30 | Bakedin

£299 | Currys To advertise text ADVERT to: 01352 870 760

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Loft ladder, Light & Switch plus 50 sqft of flooring from as little as ÂŁ287+VAT which includes FREE fitting in less than a day.

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0800 03 59 880 or 01244 397 990

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OPEN

TUE TO SUN 9.30AM - 5.00PM &BANKH OLIDAY MONDA Y

OPEN TUESDAY TO SUNDAY 9.30AM -5.00PM

SHOP LOCAL

This Christmas

It's been a difficult year for us all but none more than our Local Shops & High Streets, so let's keep supporting them as we head into the Christmas shopping season. Here are just a few of what Flintshire has to offer...

SIMMI Simmi Woman is a hidden treasure in Mold, North Wales, stocking French Connection, Great Plains, Joma Jewellery, Katie Loxton, Envy, POM, Simmi silver, East of India gifts and more.

18 Grosvenor St, Mold CH7 1EJ www.simmiwoman.co.uk 01352 218162

VAUGHAN DAVIES LTD. One of the UK’s top independent menswear and ladies’ wear retailers, located in the small historic market town of Mold, North Wales, which we have called home for 60 years, establishing ourselves as an important part of the community.

Don't fo rget your Pet s!

WWW.P UPSAND PETS.CO .UK

1-3 Wrexham Street, Mold, Flintshire, CH7 1ET www.vaughandavies.co.uk 01352 752632

MOLD BOOK SHOP With over 4,000 titles in stock we have something for everyone, but if the book you are looking for isn't in stock you can search from a vast range of titles on bookshop.org. You can then either contact us to place an order for collection from the shop or order online for home delivery.

18 Grosvenor St, Mold CH7 1EJ www.mold-bookshop.co.uk | 01352 759879

18

LIVI-LOUS SHOP Our Products are Top Quality catering for Newborn to 2 Year, although we do occasionally get stock for up to 5 Years. Rita can also make to order and mend or alter. Gift Sets also available, some already made and on show in our shop.

46 Church Street, Flint, CH6 5AE www.livi-lousboutique.co.uk Email: livi-lousboutique@hotmail.com

LIFE ON WHEELS Looking for bike specialists in North Wales?

You've come to the right place! We love hearing from fellow cycling enthusiasts, whether it’s for advice, to check about a product or to ďŹ nd out more about our services so please get in touch.

Hillcrest Garage, Holywell, Flintshire CH8 7SJ www.lifeonwheels.co.uk | 01352 715716

QUEENSFERRY SPORTS Now an established retail business, specialising in football, cricket, schoolwear, workwear, running and more, Queensferry Sports stock leading brands and are part of the Intersport group.

18 Station Road, Queensferry, Deeside, CH5 1SX www.queensferrysports.net 01244 812040

BISTRE FARM SHOP Bistre Farm Shop is a family-run butchers owned and run by the Jones family, who have been serving the local community with various forms of farm produce for over 100 years.

10 Buckley Shopping Centre, Brunswick Road, Buckley Flintshire, CH7 2EF www.bistre.co.uk | 01244 547835

MOSTYN KITCHEN GARDEN This walled kitchen garden is being used to grow fresh fruit and vegetables for our range of preserves. Local people can be involved by volunteering in all aspects of commercial growing.

Set in the grounds of Mostyn Hall www.facebook.com/mostynkitchengarden 07734 739513

19

12

Design & Installation Of Central Heating Systems Boiler Installtion Bathroom Design & Install Burst Pipes & Leaks All Breakdowns & Repairs Boiler Servicing Underfloor Heating Landlord Safety Checks Shower & Radiators New Taps Fitted Radiators Moved & Fitted Power Flushing

20

Pets at Christmas Have an animal friendly festive period

e all love Christmas! But, whilst we’re busy getting wrapped up in the festive fun, we may forget to think about the effect Christmas can have on our pets and other animals too.

Here we’ll share some food safety tips for your pets, help you to ensure your pets remain safe and calm and you’ll even discover how to make reindeer food that’s safe for wildlife!

Helping pets feel calm at Christmas Christmas can be stressful for pets.

The change in routine, visitors, children and decorations can all worry them.

Here are our top tips for a stress-free pet Christmas:

22

Cats and dogs

Outdoor animals

Try to keep food, exercise, bed and toilet break routines the same, as consistency can help pets feel more secure.

Give them somewhere cosy and quiet to retreat to, away from all the excitement, where they won’t be disturbed. Leave their toys there too.

Outdoor animals such as rabbits will need extra bedding in the cold weather. Keep their enclosures clean as wet bedding will freeze on cold nights, which could lead to illness.

Ensure outdoor pets always have fresh, clean water to drink and check at least twice a day that it isn’t frozen.

For cats, you can provide hidey-holes for them to retreat to if they feel unsure. Try tops of wardrobes or under furniture - even cardboard boxes.

Although Christmas is a busy time, be careful about leaving your pet alone.

Small furries Make sure nocturnal animals such as hamsters are kept somewhere they aren’t going to be disturbed during the day.

Don’t put tinsel around cages and keep fairy lights and electrical cables out of reach to prevent them nibbling objects that could cause medical issues.

Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements

buy in the shops is full of glitter, which is very bad for flying reindeer and other garden wildlife) - chances are you have just what they love in your store cupboards anyway!

Festive food for your pets Christmas is great! There are presents, fantastic food and we (hopefully, this year) get to spend time with family. But Christmas food can be hazardous for your pets.

Referring to the list below will ensure you’re not giving treats that can make your pet unwell: l Chocolate l Mince pies l Christmas pudding l Onion gravy l Alcohol l Bones from carcasses, which are a dangerous choking hazard.

What Christmas food can pets eat?

Skinless and boneless white meat such as turkey is okay for dogs and cats, but be careful that it’s not covered in fat, salt or gravy.

Pets in cold weather With darker nights and colder days, your pets need to stay safe and warm this winter

Walking dogs in winter Stay safe when walking your dog in the dark, wear reflective clothing and think about a reflective collar for your dog.

Reindeer food mix

If you have an elderly or sickly dog, you can buy a special coat or jumper to keep them warm.

Looking for a wildlife friendly snack to leave out for Rudolph and his reindeer friends this Christmas?

Follow our simple recipe for reindeer food that is free from glitter and suitable for reindeer and birds alike.

Keep your dogs away from ponds and lakes that are iced over. Thin ice may break under a dog’s weight.

And, if it’s snowing outside, watch out for your dog’s paws becoming impacted with snow, which can cause discomfort.

Be aware that antifreeze and rock salt can be poisonous to pets.

After walking your dog in areas that may have been gritted with rock salt, ensure you wash their paws thoroughly.

Keeping cats warm In the coldest months it’s important that your cat has access to a warm environment, such as your home or another inside area with appropriate heating. Check that their bedding is away from cold draughts and stays warm and dry.

Wildlife friendly reindeer food Taking care of Rudolph and his friends On Christmas Eve night, as Father Christmas is rushing from house to house to deliver presents, his reindeer helpers often need a quick snack to keep them going on their busiest night of the year. You don’t need to go and buy them special food (often the food you can

Ingredients and instructions l A handful of wild bird seed (which may include sunflower hearts, naked rolled oats, dried mealworms, yellow millet, kibbled peanuts and black sunflower seeds) - this is what helps the reindeers fly! l A few rolled oats l Some dried fruit, like cranberries (if you have a dog, please don’t use grapes, raisins, sultanas or currants as these can be poisonous for them) l Some dried insects - Rudolph and his bird friends love mealworms and waxworms l Some grated cheese l A hint of chilli powder - it helps keep Rudolph’s nose glowing red and will stop squirrels and rodents from stealing the food before Rudolph arrives!

Mix it all together, then sprinkle it on your lawn or leave it in a bowl by your front door just before you go to bed.

To advertise text ADVERT to: 01352 870 760

23

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The five best tech gifts this Christmas Bose Frames Tenor Yes, Bose sells sunglasses and, yes, they play music but not in the way you’d think. Unlike other sunglasses that either use built-in earbuds or bone-conduction tech, Bose’s shades use the company’s Open Ear Audio design, which consists of a super-thin acoustic speaker setup housed in the frame. £239.95 at bose.co.uk

Theragun Pro This year’s been more stressful than most, so why not treat someone (or yourself) to this powerful massage gun. The Theragun is described as a “percussive therapy device” that essentially means it thumps your muscles at high speeds to provide the same relaxing results as a soft-tissue massage. Aches and pains be gone. £549 at theragun.com

Samsung Galaxy Fold 2

Sony WH1000XM4 Headphones

The future of smartphones is both bendable and poseable - open this handset and it’ll transform into a 7.6-inch tablet, one that you can tuck into a jacket pocket with no trouble at all.

The Fold 2 also features an accomplished triple-lens camera and a markedly more durable design than its predecessor. £1,799 at samsung.com

Sony’s over-ear cans are, simply put, one of the best pair of headphones ever made. Improving on last year’s already class-leading model, the XM4s feature a tweaked design for extra comfort, even better sound and incredible, borderline magical noise-cancelling technology for drowning out the outside world. £349 at amazon.co.uk and

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8Bitdo Arcade Stick Do you need an arcade stick for your Nintendo Switch and/or PC? Probably not. But would you like one?

We thought as much. Housed in a robust, retro-fuelled case, this ultra-modable arcade stick has wired and wireless support, dedicated buttons for the Switch and the ability to create custom macros - a perfect choice for retro gamers and tinkerers. £81.99 at amazon.co.uk

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Your bumper

Christmas Quiz

Who's Santa?

Christmas TV

Can you name the famous Father 1 When Ross can't find a Santa outfit in time for Christmas in Friends, what does Christmas and the festive film? he dress up as instead to impress his son Ben? 2 Who proposes to who in the 2008 Gavin And Stacey Christmas special?

3 Which celebrity won the first ever Strictly Come Dancing in December 2004?

4 Who was killed off in 2012's Downton Abbey's Christmas special cliffhanger?

5 The Snowman was shown on TV for the first time on Boxing Day of which year?

Christmas films

6 How old is Kevin McCallister in Home Alone?

7 According to 1946's Christmas classic It's Wonderful Life (pictured), what happens every time a bell rings?

8 In Mean Girls, what song do The Plastics perform a risquĂŠ routine to in front of their school?

9 In Will Ferrell's Elf, what's the first rule in the Code of The Elves?

10 What feel-good song is everyone dancing to in the final scene of The Holiday?

Christmas literature

11 Which March sister opens LM Alcott's Little Women by grumbling "Christmas won't be Christmas without any presents"?

12 In Harry Potter and the Philsopher's Stone, what do the Dursleys give Harry for Christmas?

13 In what classic novel does the protagonist set sail for a sea voyage on a cold Christmas day?

14 Which character declares "Merry Christmas, one and all!" in Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol?

15 In which children's classic is it 'always winter but never Christmas'?

Christmas music

16 Which Christmas hit originally released in 1984 has been no.1 in the UK charts three times?

17 Cliff Richard had his 12th number one hit with his sing-along Christmas classic "Mistletoe and... ?

18 Mariah Carey's iconic Christmas hit All I Want for Christmas officially signals the start of the festive period - but what year was it released?

19 Which group sang "Don't leave me alone like this, Don't say it's the final kiss" in their bell-tolling Christmas no.1?

20 What comes next in Wham's Last Christmas: "Once bitten and twice shy, I keep my distance..."

answers on p56 34

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Twas house Twasthe thenight nightbefore beforeChristmas Christmas and all through the house nothing nothingwas wasstirring, stirring,not not even even aa mouse mouse fingers would vanish vanish fingerswere werecrossed crossed that that Brexit Brexit would and electoral campaigns would forever be banished and electoral campaigns would forever be banished The in bed bed Thechildren childrenwere were snuggled snuggled all cosy cosy in dreaming nose red red dreamingofofSanta Santaand and Rudolph, Rudolph, nose Grand parents were wishing for retirement quite soon Grand parents were wishing for retirement quite soon and parents were singing a similar tune

and parents were singing a similar tune

But moment in in time time Butthe theworld worldseems seems quite quite mad mad at at this this moment and plans to stop working a mountain to climb and plans to stop working a mountain to climb How Howtotofill fillstockings stockings for for children children who who sleep sleep and plans for tomorrow need pockets quite deep

and plans for tomorrow need pockets quite deep

But the snow snow Butback backininthe theland land of of the the elves elves and and the through the know know throughwishes wishesand anddreams, dreams, someone someone inin the totohelp and guide through the fear and the doubt help and guide through the fear and the doubt financial advice with some serious clout

financial advice with some serious clout

There white beards or aa sleigh sleigh Theremay maynot notbe bereindeers, reindeers, white beards or but way butsomething somethingmore more useful, useful, to to help help on on your your way to a future less scary and a plan all mapped out to a future less scary and a plan all mapped out and shoulders much lighter, you’re happy to shout

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and shoulders much lighter, you’re happy to shout

So yet to to be be Sototoall allofofour ourclients, clients, and and those those yet from all of my team, and of course also me from all of my team, and of course also me we wish you glad tidings and much festive cheer we wish you glad tidings and much festive cheer with an invite to call us in the new year

with an invite to call us in the new year

Hang up the the tree tree Hangup upthe thestockings stockings and and dress dress up eat the mince pies, the pud and turkey eat the mince pies, the pud and turkey as I finish my rhyme and drift out of sight as I finish my rhyme and drift out of sight Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night

Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night

Merry Christmas Christmas from from Merry Carolyn Ling Financial Planning Carolyn Ling Financial Planning

Carolyn Ling Financial Planning Ltd is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Carolyn Carolyn Ling Ling Financial Financial Planning Planning Ltd Ltd 01244 01948 840738 075959 28907 01948 561323 840738 // 07469 075959871283 28907 alexander.smith@sjpp.co.uk carolyn.ling@sjpp.co.uk carolyn.ling@sjpp.co.uk www.sjpp.co.uk/carolynling www.sjpp.co.uk/carolynling www.sjpp.co.uk/carolynling

Quality Quality is is never never an an accident…. accident….

Based locally on the Shropshire/Cheshire border, Based Shropshire/Cheshire border, Based locally locally on in the Hawarden, we work closely where I have lived for most of my life, I work where I have lived mostfamilies of my life, I work with our clients andfortheir to fully closely with my clients and their families to closely withtheir my clients andaspirations, their families to fully fully understand financial hopes understand their financial aspirations, hopes and understand their financial aspirations, hopes and and concerns. concerns. concerns.

Ourbusiness businesshas hasquality qualityand andservice service atit’s itscore core Our Our business quality andreaders service at at it’s and we wouldhas like to invite to findcore out and II would like to invite readers to find out for and would like to invite readers to find out for themselves our personal approach to for themselves my themselves my personal personal approach approach to to financial financial financial planning. planning. planning.

It It is is always always the the result result of of intelligent intelligent effort effort WHAT WHAT MY MY CLIENTS CLIENTS SAY SAY

“The level support, “Alex hasof trustworthy “The level ofprovided support, help help and and advice advice Carolyn provides to me and my family Carolyn provides to me and my family and sound advice. He explains goes far beyond what we have goes far beyond what have everything in a clear and we easily experienced in the past.

Nothing is too experienced in the past.

Nothing is too understood manner. much trouble and she and her team are much trouble and she andinher I have complete trust histeam are always available.

We have complete We have complete always available. advice and I would not hesitate trust in her advice and have no trust in her advice and in recommending Alex to have no hesitation hesitation in in recommending recommending her” her”

anyone.”

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Investment Investment Planning Planning Retirement Retirement Planning Planning Protection Protection Inheritance Inheritance Tax Tax Planning Planning Long Long Term Term Care Care Fees Fees Planning Planning

Carolyn Ling Financial Planning Ltd is an Appointed Representative represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management Carolyn Ling Financial Planning Ltd represents only of St.and James’s Place Wealth Management plcSt.(which is Carolyn Financial Planning is anConduct Appointed Representative and represents James’s plc (which isLing authorised and regulated by theLtd Financial Authority) for the purpose ofofadvising solely on the only group’s wealth authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Place Wealth Management (which iswhich authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct management products and services,plc more details of are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

TheAuthority) titles Group’s wealth management products andused services, more of which are set out the Group’s ‘Partner’ ‘Partner are marketing to describe St. details James’s Place representatives. for the and purpose ofPractice’ advising solely onterms the Group’s wealth management products andonservices, morewebsite details at www.sjp.co.uk/products. of which are set out on the Group’s website at www.sjp.co.uk/products.

39

It happened this month ... in1952: The Great Smog of London

In early December 1952, a period of unusually cold weather, combined with an anticyclone and windless conditions, collected airborne pollutants - mostly caused by the use of coal - to form a thick layer of smog over the city.

It lasted from Friday, December 5 to Tuesday, December 9, then dispersed quickly when the weather changed. London’s worst-ever “pea-souper” caused major disruption by reducing visibility and even penetrating indoor areas.

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It was estimated that up to December 8, 4,000 people died as a direct result of the smog and 100,000 more were made ill by its effects on the human respiratory tract. More recent research suggests that about 6,000 more died in the following months.

... in1972: The last men on the moon

... in1990: Channel Tunnel breakthrough

The mission included the first night launch of a U.S. human spaceflight and the final crewed launch of a Saturn V rocket.

After the breakthrough, a French party drove through the tunnel to Folkestone, Kent to have their passports stamped, while a British group walked to Calais to do the same.

Men (and women) may yet set foot on the moon again within the next few years. NASA are currently training astronauts to take part in their Artemis missions which aim to land astronauts on the lunar surface again in 2024.

The project would take another three and a half years to complete. The Channel Tunnel was officially opened on May 6, 1994, with the first passenger rail service taking place in November.

Apollo 17 (December 7–19) was the final Moon landing mission of NASA’s Apollo programme, and remains the most recent time humans have travelled beyond low Earth orbit. Its crew consisted of Commander Eugene Cernan (pictured), Lunar Module Pilot Harrison Schmitt and Command Module Pilot Ronald Evans.

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On December 1, construction workers from Britain and France drilled though the final section of rock and met under the English Channel. French worker Philippe Cozette and Briton Graham Fagg were able to shake hands and exchange their nations’ flags through the gap.

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WIN

2 tickets to see

THE SWEET

and their BLOCKBUSTER CHRISTMAS SHOW

at Warrington Parr Hall on Friday December 21, 2018

The Sweet are a National Treasure, British at the core and a Rock Music Phenomena that has taken every continent by storm for more than four decades. With the hits Blockbuster, Ball Room Blitz, Fox On The Run & Love Is Like Oxygen The Sweet became one of the biggest bands of the ‘70s, and were the quintessential glam rockers.

The Golden Thread that links the past through to

the present and into the future is Andy Scott. His determination to maintain high standards with the band’s musical legacy and touring is legendary. The band today has an illustrious pedigree recreating “live” the high energy and soaring vocals associated with the Sweet sound that is the band’s trademark.

To be in with a chance of winning the tickets, complete the following sentence: “Ball Room .....”

Friday December 21, 2018; Warrington Parr Hall; Box Office No: 08444 780 898; Tickets: £22; Doors: 7.30pm; Website: https://www.thegigcartel.com/ Artists-profiles/The-Sweet.htm

WHO AM I? WIN £25 CASH!!

Guess the identity of our mystery celebrity and you could

Neville John ?????? was born on 15 June 1946 in the Caldmore area, near the centre of Walsall, Staffordshire, England. As a child he moved with his family to the Beechdale Estate, a council estate in the north of the town. The son of a window cleaner, He passed the Eleven plus exam and attended a grammar school for a year until it closeD. He formed a group called the Rockin’ Phantoms with school friends at the age of 13, and with money earned from a part-time job, he bought a guitar and an amplifier. He also used his father’s window-cleaning van to drive Robert Plant to gigs with Plant’s band at the time, the Tennessee Teens. He started his own band called the Memphis Cutouts and then with Steve Brett & the Mavericks in the early ‘60s made four singles for Columbia Records.

In 1966 drummer Don Powell persuaded Him to join The ‘NBetweens, a group which already included

guitarist Dave Hill and bass guitarist/ keyboard player/ violinist/songwriter Jim Lea. Together they formed the band Ambrose Slade, eventually to become Slade, one of Britain’s top-selling rock bands. Slade also recorded some ballads, “Everyday” and “How Does It Feel?” in particular being widely acclaimed.

Slade are particularly remembered for the single “Merry Xmas Everybody” written

by Holder and Lea.

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45

The new PHEVourite: Land Rover Discovery’s New Sport hybrid

Few brands epitomise automotive Darwinism like Land Rover, with the latest addition to the Discovery Sport range - a BIK-friendly plug-in hybrid, no less - illustrating the point.

Spoiler alter: for city dwellers who need a rugged SUV and company car drivers looking for something upmarket, but not too flashy, this is the pick of the ‘diddy Disco’ range.

Doesn’t it just look like any other Discovery Sport?

EV (battery only) and a third to maintain the battery’s reserves until you’re in a zero-emission driving area.

Technofans will enjoy the introduction of the new Pivi (on S specification models) and Pivi Pro (SE and HSE versions) multimedia system. Running on its own battery system and featuring over the air updates, the new package is significantly quicker to operate with far less lag than its predecessor. All barring the first handful of models will have the new system.

Land Rover styles its electrified models virtually identically to its petrol and diesel ones, working on the theory that owners are more interested in knowing that they’re doing their environmental bit rather than broadcasting the fact.

You will spot that there’s a filler flap on both rear wings of the plugin hybrid models: one side’s for petrol, the other being the façade for the charging port.

Is it a similar story inside?

Very much so, and for the same reasons cited above. This isn’t a bad thing as the latest dashboard looks and feels of a higher material quality than the 2014 edition.

There are a couple of modifications necessary for PHEV operation, such as scrolling between driving modes of Hybrid,

46

Usefully, the navigation system will determine not only the most efficient routes, but also where on the journey it’s best to be EV-only, use both power sources or even stick to just the engine.

It’s around the back of the cabin where you’ll find a significant change, though: the Discovery Sport P300e is a strict fiveseater with no option to spec those ‘plus 2’ rearward births.

Clearly that combination of engine, fuel tank, electric motor and batteries have to go somewhere.

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Specifications: Price when new: £47,000 On sale in the UK: Now Engine: 3-cyl, 1.5-litre petrol plus electric motor, 305bhp, 398lb ft Transmission: 8-speed automatic, four-wheel drive Performance: 6.6sec 0-62mph, 130mph, 141mpg, 44g/km Weight / material: 2168kg/steel Dimensions (length/width/height in mm): 4597/2173/1727mm

What are the plug-in stats?

How do numbers like up to 34 miles of electric driving range and CO2 emissions of 44g/km grab you? Not bad, but the numbers only tell part of the story.

More impressive is the seamless way the Discovery Sport plugin hybrid juggles its power systems when left to its own devices in Hybrid mode. It’s also pleasingly hushed compared with the PHEV version of Ford’s latest Kuga.

While the Kuga’s installation employs a CVT, the Discovery Sport P300e is equipped with a conventional eight-speed automatic alloying it to be quieter. Even when the petrol engine does kick in - it’s a turbocharged 1.5-litre triple version of the Ingenium family - it rarely disturbs the cabin’s equilibrium, only sounding coarse as opposed to characterful when very hard acceleration is demanded of it.

On the more rigorous WLTP cycle it’s rated at 141mpg, but run it without any electrical assistance and you’ll struggle to approach 40mpg. Don’t forget, this is a 2168kg car suddenly only propelled by a 1.5-litre mill, albeit one punching out 197bhp.

The engine?

Charging the 15kWh lithium-ion battery pack is relatively time efficient, too: 0-80% charges take as little as half an hour on a 32kW public charger and a smidgen under an hour-and-a-half on a dedicated 7kW wallbox that you would have installed at home.

Overall power is rated at 305bhp, with 398lb ft of torque aided by the on-tap nature of the electrical drive - ensuring a swift 0-62 blast of 6.6 seconds.

Top speed, as academic a figure as that is in an SUV like this, is 130mph. Suffice to say the P300e powertrain is swift, but this Land Rover encourages you to drive it with consideration, not aggression, a factor that merely amplifies the attractiveness of the plug-in hybrid arrangement.

The verdict?

Given that most Discovery Sports are subjected to little more adventure than a school run or commuting to and from work, the P300e plug-in hybrid fulfils the needs of its key demographics consummately, providing their journeys aren’t significantly over 34 miles between recharges.

It looks after the front wheels, while the 108bhp motor powers the rears, allowing for four-wheel drive security.

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The three best artificial Christmas trees for 2020 s lovely as the real thing looks and smells, the winter home is often not a welcome environment for a real tree.

So let’s go faux for Christmas - forget vacuuming up pine needles every day, it’s far easier with an artificial tree.

B&Q 6ft Smart Natural Looking Christmas Tree - best smart artificial Christmas tree B&Q’s smart tree (main pic, right) comes pre-lit with 300 multi-function LED bulbs for a traditional look. The dual coloured bulbs can be changed from warm white to multicoloured lights.

The smart design means the lights are compatible with both Google Home and Alexa devices. The voice control functionality allows control of the lights with a single spoken command. There are also seven multifunction settings.

The stand is very robust, and when carrying out the push test this tree barely wavered.

£120 from B&Q Hayes Garden World Yukon Snowy Pine Tree best snowy artificial Christmas tree

This tree (pictured left) wowed from the moment we got it out of the box. Standing at a statuesque 6ft tall, it’s made from a mix of PE/PVC, which creates a life-like illusion.

With a smattering of large pine cones beautifully placed throughout, it gives the feel of a full bodied life-like tree in a snowy wooded forest.

The snow coverage is excellent, with a soft textured feel, and branches are entirely snow-covered. It comes pre-lit with globe-shaped LED lights - far more decorative than normal fairy lights. They’re long-life, energy-efficient lights which will last for years to come.

£279.99 from Hayes Garden World

Balsam Hill Vermont White Spruce Flip Tree best luxury artificial Christmas tree This tree (right) is simply stunning, and so well lit it could happily reside in the lobby of a 5-star hotel. It’s not cheap, but it’s in a different league when it come to artificial trees to keep for life.

The meticulously hand-crafted tree is made using Balsam Hill’s exclusive ‘True Needle’ technology, giving it subtle colour changes and a lifelike texture. It’s pre-lit, and the coverage is superb - the 850 warm white LED lights are on a remote control which adjusts the colour.

Being such a premium tree, it comes complete with a repair kit, a spare set of lights, bulbs, heavy-duty canvas storage bags and even gloves to protect hands during assembly!

£949 from Balsam Hill 52

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53

Your stars for December Aries (March 21 - April 19)

If you are tempted to overspend, try to resist the urge. This is likely to be a very social period in your calendar and you may need to watch any potential strain on your finances over the festive period.

You will be in great demand and others will seek out your company.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

Your patience could well be put to the test. There could be a situation where you will need to forgive and forget, rather than harping on about something that has irritated you. Your emotions may be up and down but mentally you will remain strong and able to deal with whatever may happen.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)

This could be a profitable period for those born under the sign of the twins. You will be confident enough to take risks, and if you make investments this month, they may prove profitable in the future. An approach to your bosses about a pay rise may prove more successful than it has previously.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)

Cancer charts show you may need to slow down and take more care of your health. You may also need time to de-stress and get away from the workplace. A few hours of relaxation, especially at weekends, could be of great benefit to you.

Leo (July 23 - August 22)

You are going to experience a certain amount of fulfillment where your career is concerned and much satisfaction will be gained from doing well and achieving your goals. Others will seek you out for advice which they will follow and you could find yourself in demand.

Virgo (August 23 - September 22)

You will be dealing with a lot of money-related issues during this month and your horoscope predictions suggest that any financial speculations you make will be fruitful, though you will not indulge in impulsive spending; rather, you will be taking a more measured and careful approach.

Libra (September 23 - October 22)

Life may slow down for Librans, offering some welcome rest from the recent whirl of activity, giving you time to spend with family. It is a time for quiet reflection, recovery and an ideal time to recharge your batteries.

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

This is likely to be a spiritual phase for Scorpions, where you will be in a reflective and contemplative mood. It is entirely likely that stepping back from the business in your life will make you spiritually stronger. Don’t feel guilty about taking time out to relax.

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)

Sagittarians may see the need to sort out minor issues in personal relationships. It would be beneficial to all concerned if both parties could listen to the other and act directly and quickly upon what has been said. You may need to curb their idealism and teach them to be more practical.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

You may feel a bit fragile - whether this is due to stress at work, family problems or simply that your work/life balance is off-kilter. In any case, Capricorns could find alternative therapies very helpful, especially when symptoms like tiredness, headaches and indigestion are vague annoyances.

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)

Your finances will be in great shape during this phase and there could be an influx of money which you didn’t know was coming. This will mean that you can fulfill some of your wishes or desires. It could be a lucky time for you in all aspects of your financial dealings, so don’t hold back!

Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

You could find yourself in a quiet and reflective mood and feel a bit down and dejected. It may be that you are struggling with the pace of your life at the moment so be mindful that life doesn’t always have to go at a hundred miles an hour.

54

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Classified Home Services

Bumper Christmas Quiz Answers Who's Santa?

8 Jingle Bell Rock 9 'Treat every day like Christmas' 10 'You Send Me' by Aretha Franklin

A Richard Attenborough (Miracle on 34th Street) B Jim Broadbent (Get Santa) C Tom Hanks (Polar Express) D Jake Gyllenhaal (Jarhead) E Kurt Russell (The Christmas Chronicles)

Christmas literature

1 Holiday Armadillo 2 Dave proposes to Nessa 3 Natasha Kaplinsky & Brendan Cole 4 Dan Stevens' Matthew Crawley 5 1982

Christmas music

Christmas TV

Christmas films

6 Eight 7 An angel gets its wings

11 Jo March 12 A 50 pence piece 13 Moby Dick 14 Tiny Tim 15 The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe 16 'Do They Know It's Christmas?'

17 Wine 18 1994 19 East 17 20 "... but you still catch my eye."

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Five tips to get your garden ready for Christmas ake your festive garden from boring to blissful this festive season with some simple yet effective DIY projects for the garden!

Short days and poor light mean that even the brightest of shrubs and perennials look dreary and lifeless, especially in the lead-up to Christmas. However, with a sprinkling of festive inspiration and some determination, you can transform your garden into a winter wonderland.

Merry Planters and Hanging Baskets

Put those leftover planters and hanging baskets to good use by creating some cheery holiday displays (right).

Simply fill with garland (or use real life spruce sprigs if you have access to a tree) and dress it up with colourful baubles, artificial poinsettia flowers, cones or holly sprigs for that warm fuzzy yuletide feeling. The great thing about these is that you can add as much or as little as you like!

Hanging Chandeliers

Here’s another great idea for those out-of-commission hanging baskets! Fix two together to form a ball using cable ties or gardening wire. Jazz it up with some silver or gold spray paint and wrap a string of outdoor fairy lights around it in different directions.

Hang from your porch or hanging hooks.

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Festive Fountains

Add some Christmas cheer to your fountain with some trailing garland, artificial mistletoe, baubles and cones (bottom left). Or float some artificial poinsettia flowers in the water. If you have an fountain or water feature that’s no longer in use, go a step further and add some outdoor fairy lights for an extra magical touch.

Rustic Reindeer

Build your very own handmade reindeer family (left) with some birch logs and branches. All you need is a large log for the body, a smaller one for the head and some branches for the neck and legs. Finish off with some coal for eyes, twigs for antlers and a pine cone for the tail!

Trees, Trees, Trees

Jolly up any tree in your garden with a string of fairy lights or, if you prefer, oversized baubles designed for hanging on outdoor trees. If you don’t have trees in your garden, why not improvise with a driftwood tree made from different lengths of branches or pallet wood?

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A HORSE, A SWORD AND A RIFLE AUTHOR: Mary Watkin Jones This book tells the story of three of my family who went to three wars on horses.

Joseph Dodd rode in the Boer war as a dispatch rider while also serving as Batman to Lord Dudley who was third down from Lord Kitchener. During his time in South Africa he rode with Winston Churchill, Churchill’s words being ‘you ride with me Dodd’. After his return he set up a racing stables in Marbury, near Whitchurch were, in 1928, he trained a grand national winner, Tipperary Tim, a hundred to one outsider. He is quoted as saying that was the best day of his life. He also received a telegram from Winston Churchill congratulating him.

His son-in-law, Sydney Williams rode in WW1 pulling the guns to the front. He was an asthmatic before he left, and the experience did not help his health in future years.

He didn’t let this bother him. On returning he rented 20 acres to start farming and when he retired, he was farming over 200 acres. There are many stories about his farming career in the book.

Sydney’s son, John was called

62 62

up on day one of WW2 with the Shropshire Yeomanry which he was already a member of. When horses were not required on the front this regiment was converted to a gunner regiment which fought its way up Italy. John also had asthma and his health ment he was deemed not fit to fight at the front. He was posted to the only Allied Ski Training camp in the Lebanon where he taught himself Arabic and liaised with the locals and bought fresh food in the markets in Beirut.

All these men lived at some point in their lived in the small village of Marbury where the church bells told them the time. I tell of some of the many changes in the village which centres on the local pub, the Swan where we have our annual family reunion parties.

John was my uncle and Sydney my grandfather making Joseph my great grandfather. I have put this book together with the help of all Sydney’s grandchildren as a tribute to the parts they have played not just in our lives but in so many more by helping to keep Britain safe.

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WIN A COPY

To enter the competition simply answer this question, The Book tells a story about how many families?

Send your answer to reg@insideflintshire magazine.co.uk along with your name,full address, contact details and the date you received the magazine.

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Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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