INSIDE FLINTSHIRE 2 MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2020

FIintshire 2 Inside Inside

Magazine Magazine

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Welcome....

Welcome to our November edition. I’m sat here writing my editor’s notes and I’m really struggling to keep it positive with the whole of Wales due to go into another lockdown tomorrow, let’s hope and pray it’s only for two weeks as stated by the Welsh first minister, positive results go down and our local businesses can do some sort of trade with the run up to Christmas.

How can we help our local businesses through these very difficult times?

If we all took the time to source and buy our Christmas gifts locally instead of online through the big companies like Amazon, this could make a massive difference to our local economy, jobs and well being of our high

CONTENTS........

6-7

Christmas Gift Ideas

14-15 Animal Friends

street. Remember once they’re gone they very rarely come back ! KEEP IT LOCAL Lots going on in this month’s issue so please find the time to sit back, put your feet up and have a look through. Please support the businesses within and in return they will be supporting Inside Flintshire Magazine which is another local independent business. £25 Cash Winner - S Hopson - Osprey Windows Signed CD - H Shemilt - Paul Heaton Until next month.

Stay Safe, Reg, Editor Inside Flintshire Magazines

Edition 64 November 2020.....

Christmas Gifts!

Top Christmas

Toys 2020 from the biggest sellers

Netflix Series For November

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Puzzle Page

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In This month

The dancing unicorn that's all over YouTube? The latest Lego set? The new Paw Patrol vehicle?

We've tried and tested hundreds of toys to bring you the definitive list of the best Xmas toys of 2020, with prices from 80p to £699..

After weeks of testing, we reveal the best and hottest toys for Christmas 2020. Is it worth shelling out for that sloth that flosses, the unicorn that dances or the flamingo that poos?

Laser-shooting battle trucks and the new Super Mario Lego sound awesome but will your child actually play with them for more than 5 minutes?

We’ve got the answers and 100 best toys to delight children from babies to teens on 25 December 2020, which are definitely worth their place on your child’s Santa wishlist.

Gotta Go Flamingo, £32.99 Yep, it’s an interactive flamingo that does a poo on his own special toilet, after you’ve fed him some (reusable) Magic Flamingo Food. Sherbet is 31cm high, his necks wiggles and wobbles as he feeds, and he sings, “Uh oh, gotta go” when

his furry bowels need to unload. He also has a record-and-repeat function. Available from: Smyths Toys, Argos and Amazon.

Little Tikes First Washer-Dryer, £49.99 Not just a mini washing machine, this offers tumble dryer fun too! It’s a chunky size (40cm x 40cm x 20cm) and features spinning dials, a tumbling drum, sliding detergent drawer and sound effects. “I love this toy for 1000 years!” says our child tester Maisie, 3. “The best bit is turning it on.” Maisie’s mum Abigail says, “Maisie played with it for a full hour before stopping and has been excited to play with it every day since.

Available from: Asda, Argos and ELC.

Power Treads, £24.99 This whizzy all-surface vehicle (ASV) comes with 22 pieces of track plus a Power Trekker that ‘walks’ on its own

60

Gardening

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

4

Hatchimals Pixies Crystal Flyers, £35 Hatchimals Pixies just got wings!

Launch your 25cm-high pixie into the air and you can guide where she flies with your hands (there’s also an auto-stop feature, so those glittery wings will safely stop if you touch them by accident). “It was a little fiddly to launch her at first,” says our tester Lucie, 6, “but when I got the hang of, it’s so much fun. I love her – she’s magical! Available from: Argos, Amazon and Smyths Toys.

Lamaze 3 in 1 Airtivity Centre, £69.99

Lego Super Mario Adventures with Mario Starter Course, £49.99

Let’s face it, an air-powered baby activity centre sounds like fun, whatever your age. Based on a sea scene, with floating seaweed, a spinning starfish , swimming fish and a whale with a spinning spout of ‘water’, the centre works as both a floor-based toy (52cm wide) and a table (48cm high), taking your baby from sitting to standing. Available from: Argos, Amazon and Very.

The new Super Mario Lego set brings together Mario video game experiences with Lego construction fun (231-pieces). A speaker plays iconic Mario music and sounds, while a responsive Mario figure shows instant reactions through the LCD screens in Mario’s eyes, mouth and belly plus colour sensors. The aim is to build Mario a course and then earn virtual coins as you send him round. Available from: Amazon, Argos, Lego and Smyths Toys.

Watch your feet! This Peppa Pig car has, wait for it, infrared obstacle-avoidance technology. It also has pushbutton activation, flashing lights and sounds, plus it comes with 4 Peppa characters that your toddler has to place in their colour-matched seat (adults in front, obvs) before the car will start.

Available from: Smyths Toys

Peppa’s Clever Car, £34.99

Before finding a solution for your dog’s destructive behaviour you’ll want to rule out some other problems first.

Separation anxiety

An unbalanced diet A hungry dog will become destructive and chew and dig to find additional sources of nutrition. Some dogs are known to have chewed stones or plaster as they’re not getting enough calcium in their diet. If you have any concerns about your dog’s diet then speak to your vet.

Normal chewing behaviour Chewing is normal and will help a teething puppy soothe their sore gums, but there are a few other reasons why your dog might be finding comfort in chewing your favourite pair of shoes.

Boredom

How to stop your dog stuff

chewing

t’s almost inevitable that one day you’ll come home to some sort of destruction caused by your dog’s teeth. Recently, I came home to a ruined hallway carpet that our youngest dog had decided to pull from the edges. Chewing accomplishes a number of things for our dogs and they will use their teeth for various different things throughout their life, from exploring the world to easing pain.

Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements

ARTWORK DEADLINE DATE 18TH NOVEMBER

This height-adjustable mini kitchen/café totally bowled our tester family over with the sheer wealth of play opportunities it offers. It’s a substantial toy (101cm x 138cm x 44cm) featuring a fridge, oven, espresso machine, hotplate (with sound effects), till, sink with real water function and over 70 accessories, including food, utensils and money. “This is fantastic!” says Sarah, mum of our child tester Annabelle, 6. Available from: Argos and John Lewis.

This really is a fun board game for all the family. The idea is to be the first to get your frog family across the lilypads to the other side – without being blocked by another player or running into the big fish that can send you back to the start. You can play it fast and furious or be strategic and drive everyone hopping mad with your froggie cunning. Available from: SmartGames, Amazon and Wicked Uncle.

Some puppies and even older dogs don’t take too well to being left at home alone. If this is the case then your dog might show other signs of separation anxiety, such as whining, barking, indoor urination and defecation, restlessness and pacing.

46-47 Motoring Gadgets

Meet Sisi – a large (45cm tall) doll who’s designed for dancing and choreography. She has a body soft enough to hug, moveable arms and legs, stylable hair, long eyelashes and sparkly silver trainers, plus she comes with a silver charm bracelet. “She makes me feel so happy,” says our child tester Roselyn, 5.

Available from: Argos.

Froggit, £24.99

Rule out other problems first

Pet Insurance Experts

52

Designafriend Sisi Doll, £35

Smoby Chef Corner Restaurant, £149.99

www.madeformums.com/news/must-have-toys-for-christmas-from-the-biggest-sellers

22

over the floor once your vehicle’s on board. You can customise your ASV with your colour choice of treads, add glow-in-the-dark stickers (brilliant for racing in the dark) and even include household furniture into your track. Available from: Smyths Toys, Argos and Amazon.

Just like us, dogs get bored.

Being left alone for long periods of time or not getting enough mental or physical stimulation can all lead to boredom where they’re left to entertain themselves, which can lead to destructive behaviour.

Attention-seeking behaviour If your dog learns that you’ll give them attention because they’re chewing something they’re not supposed to then they’re likely to carry on chewing if they’re getting attention, whether it’s good or bad.

Teething Just like babies, puppies appreciate the ability to soothe their aching gums and chewing does this. There are different stages of teething, so just when you think it’s over, they might start chewing again.

How do I stop my dog chewing?

Our top 5 techniques to stop your dog chewing: l Make sure your dog has plenty of “approved” items to chew.

Don’t provide these all at once, you’ll want to rotate the toys and chews so that your dog doesn’t get bored of what’s provided. l Teach your dog what is unacceptable and acceptable to chew. If you find your puppy

chewing on a pair of shoes then simply replace them with a toy.

Don’t be tempted to provide an old pair of shoes or other unused household items as this will just confuse your dog. l Puppy-proof your home. This will help minimise the damage your dog will be able to cause when alone or bored. l Provide your dog with plenty of physical and mental exercise so that they’re properly stimulated. l Try and play with your dog a couple of times a day. This will help them to learn appropriate behaviour which they may not learn by playing by themselves.

Top tip Remember not to punish your dog if they end up chewing things they shouldn’t; this is not an effective way to train your dog and will only result in damaging the relationship between you.

For more information, visit:

www.animalfriends.co.uk 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

£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)

Christmas Gifts!

Top Christmas Toys 2020 from the biggest sellers www.madeformums.com/news/must-have-toys-for-christmas-from-the-biggest-sellers The dancing unicorn that's all over YouTube? The latest Lego set? The new Paw Patrol vehicle?

We've tried and tested hundreds of toys to bring you the definitive list of the best Xmas toys of 2020, with prices from 80p to £699..

After weeks of testing, we reveal the best and hottest toys for Christmas 2020. Is it worth shelling out for that sloth that flosses, the unicorn that dances or the flamingo that poos?

Laser-shooting battle trucks and the new Super Mario Lego sound awesome but will your child actually play with them for more than 5 minutes?

We’ve got the answers and 100 best toys to delight children from babies to teens on 25 December 2020, which are definitely worth their place on your child’s Santa wishlist.

Gotta Go Flamingo, £32.99 Yep, it’s an interactive flamingo that does a poo on his own special toilet, after you’ve fed him some (reusable) Magic Flamingo Food. Sherbet is 31cm high, his necks wiggles and wobbles as he feeds, and he sings, “Uh oh, gotta go” when

6

his furry bowels need to unload. He also has a record-and-repeat function. Available from: Smyths Toys, Argos and Amazon.

Little Tikes First Washer-Dryer, £49.99 Not just a mini washing machine, this offers tumble dryer fun too! It’s a chunky size (40cm x 40cm x 20cm) and features spinning dials, a tumbling drum, sliding detergent drawer and sound effects. “I love this toy for 1000 years!” says our child tester Maisie, 3. “The best bit is turning it on.” Maisie’s mum Abigail says, “Maisie played with it for a full hour before stopping and has been excited to play with it every day since.

Available from: Asda, Argos and ELC.

Power Treads, £24.99 This whizzy all-surface vehicle (ASV) comes with 22 pieces of track plus a Power Trekker that ‘walks’ on its own

over the floor once your vehicle’s on board. You can customise your ASV with your colour choice of treads, add glow-in-the-dark stickers (brilliant for racing in the dark) and even include household furniture into your track. Available from: Smyths Toys, Argos and Amazon.

Designafriend Sisi Doll, £35 Meet Sisi – a large (45cm tall) doll who’s designed for dancing and choreography. She has a body soft enough to hug, moveable arms and legs, stylable hair, long eyelashes and sparkly silver trainers, plus she comes with a silver charm bracelet. “She makes me feel so happy,” says our child tester Roselyn, 5.

Available from: Argos.

Smoby Chef Corner Restaurant, £149.99 This height-adjustable mini kitchen/café totally bowled our tester family over with the sheer wealth of play opportunities it offers. It’s a substantial toy (101cm x 138cm x 44cm) featuring a fridge, oven, espresso machine, hotplate (with sound effects), till, sink with real water function and over 70 accessories, including food, utensils and money. “This is fantastic!” says Sarah, mum of our child tester Annabelle, 6. Available from: Argos and John Lewis.

Lego Super Mario Adventures with Mario Starter Course, £49.99 The new Super Mario Lego set brings together Mario video game experiences with Lego construction fun (231-pieces). A speaker plays iconic Mario music and sounds, while a responsive Mario figure shows instant reactions through the LCD screens in Mario’s eyes, mouth and belly plus colour sensors. The aim is to build Mario a course and then earn virtual coins as you send him round. Available from: Amazon, Argos, Lego and Smyths Toys.

Froggit, £24.99 This really is a fun board game for all the family. The idea is to be the first to get your frog family across the lilypads to the other side – without being blocked by another player or running into the big fish that can send you back to the start. You can play it fast and furious or be strategic and drive everyone hopping mad with your froggie cunning. Available from: SmartGames, Amazon and Wicked Uncle.

Hatchimals Pixies Crystal Flyers, £35 Hatchimals Pixies just got wings!

Launch your 25cm-high pixie into the air and you can guide where she flies with your hands (there’s also an auto-stop feature, so those glittery wings will safely stop if you touch them by accident). “It was a little fiddly to launch her at first,” says our tester Lucie, 6, “but when I got the hang of, it’s so much fun. I love her – she’s magical! Available from: Argos, Amazon and Smyths Toys.

Lamaze 3 in 1 Airtivity Centre, £69.99 Let’s face it, an air-powered baby activity centre sounds like fun, whatever your age. Based on a sea scene, with floating seaweed, a spinning starfish , swimming fish and a whale with a spinning spout of ‘water’, the centre works as both a floor-based toy (52cm wide) and a table (48cm high), taking your baby from sitting to standing. Available from: Argos, Amazon and Very.

Peppa’s Clever Car, £34.99 Watch your feet! This Peppa Pig car has, wait for it, infrared obstacle-avoidance technology. It also has pushbutton activation, flashing lights and sounds, plus it comes with 4 Peppa characters that your toddler has to place in their colour-matched seat (adults in front, obvs) before the car will start.

Available from: Smyths Toys

7

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Slow-cooker lamb shanks Make this slow-cooker lamb shank recipe for chilly evenings when you need something simple and hearty. Serve with mash, fettuccine or a crispy baked potato

Ingredients l 4 lamb shanks l 2 tbsp olive oil l 1 onion, finely chopped l 2 tbsp tomato purée l 250ml light red wine (such as Pinot Noir) l 2 tbsp plain flour l 500ml stock, vegetable, chicken or lamb l 2 carrots, chopped l 2 garlic cloves, peeled l 2 bay leaves l 2 thyme sprigs l 1 bunch parsley, leaves chopped separately to Prep: 10 min the stalks

2 Add the red wine and bring it to a boil, stirring the flour and purée into the wine until you have a smooth sauce around the onion pieces. Tip into the slow cooker. Pour the stock into the same pan and bring it to a boil, then tip into the slow cooker. Add the carrots garlic, bay leaves, thyme and parsley stalks to the slow cooker and put the lid on. Cook on low for eight hours or on high for four hours. Turn the shanks over at some point during the cooking.

Cook: 5-9 hrs

Step by step 1 If you need to preheat your slow cooker then turn it on now. In a large hot frying pan, add half the oil and brown the lamb shanks all over, then transfer them to the slow cooker. This will take you about 10 mins and you may need to do it in batches. Add the remaining oil to the frying pan and fry the onion gently until it starts to turn translucent, then stir in the tomato purée and flour and cook for a minute.

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Serves: 4

Goes well with: Baked potatoes or traybaked potatoes

3 After eight hours the lamb should be tender and starting to fall off the bone. If the sauce is too thin lift out the lamb and carrots and tip the sauce into a pan, boil it rapidly until it starts to thicken before adding the parsley.

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Pet Insurance Experts

How to stop your dog stuff

chewing

t’s almost inevitable that one day you’ll come home to some sort of destruction caused by your dog’s teeth. Recently, I came home to a ruined hallway carpet that our youngest dog had decided to pull from the edges. Chewing accomplishes a number of things for our dogs and they will use their teeth for various different things throughout their life, from exploring the world to easing pain.

14

Please mention Inside Flintshire Magazine when responding to advertisements

Rule out other problems first Before finding a solution for your dog’s destructive behaviour you’ll want to rule out some other problems first.

Separation anxiety Some puppies and even older dogs don’t take too well to being left at home alone. If this is the case then your dog might show other signs of separation anxiety, such as whining, barking, indoor urination and defecation, restlessness and pacing.

An unbalanced diet A hungry dog will become destructive and chew and dig to find additional sources of nutrition. Some dogs are known to have chewed stones or plaster as they’re not getting enough calcium in their diet. If you have any concerns about your dog’s diet then speak to your vet.

Normal chewing behaviour Chewing is normal and will help a teething puppy soothe their sore gums, but there are a few other reasons why your dog might be finding comfort in chewing your favourite pair of shoes.

Boredom Just like us, dogs get bored.

Being left alone for long periods of time or not getting enough mental or physical stimulation can all lead to boredom where they’re left to entertain themselves, which can lead to destructive behaviour.

Attention-seeking behaviour If your dog learns that you’ll give them attention because they’re chewing something they’re not supposed to then they’re likely to carry on chewing if they’re getting attention, whether it’s good or bad.

Teething Just like babies, puppies appreciate the ability to soothe their aching gums and chewing does this. There are different stages of teething, so just when you think it’s over, they might start chewing again.

How do I stop my dog chewing?

Our top 5 techniques to stop your dog chewing: l Make sure your dog has plenty of “approved” items to chew.

Don’t provide these all at once, you’ll want to rotate the toys and chews so that your dog doesn’t get bored of what’s provided. l Teach your dog what is unacceptable and acceptable to chew. If you find your puppy

chewing on a pair of shoes then simply replace them with a toy.

Don’t be tempted to provide an old pair of shoes or other unused household items as this will just confuse your dog. l Puppy-proof your home. This will help minimise the damage your dog will be able to cause when alone or bored. l Provide your dog with plenty of physical and mental exercise so that they’re properly stimulated. l Try and play with your dog a couple of times a day. This will help them to learn appropriate behaviour which they may not learn by playing by themselves.

Top tip Remember not to punish your dog if they end up chewing things they shouldn’t; this is not an effective way to train your dog and will only result in damaging the relationship between you.

For more information, visit:

www.animalfriends.co.uk To advertise text ADVERT to: 01352 870 760

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November highlights Outer Banks

11 season season Starring: Starring: Chase Chase Stokes, Stokes, Madelyn Madelyn Cline, Cline, Madison Madison Bailey Bailey Creators: Josh Pate, Jonas Pate, Shannon Creators: Josh Pate, Jonas Pate, Shannon Burke Burke When When you’ve you’ve got got teens teens from from warring warring tribes tribes going going head head to to head, head, there’s there’s going going to to be be drama. drama. Just Just look look at at the the Montagues Montagues and and the the Capulets, Capulets, or or the the Greasers Greasers and and Socs.

Socs. This This time, time, it’s it’s the the Pogues, Pogues, working-class youngsters youngsters on on the the North North Carolina Carolina coast, coast, and and working-class their their posh posh rivals, rivals, the the Kooks.

Kooks.

They’re They’re into into surfing, surfing, being being impossibly impossibly attractive, attractive, and and solving solving the the mysteries mysteries around around their their leader’s leader’s missing missing dad dad and and a a buried buried treasure.

What could be more binge-worthy than that? treasure. What could be more binge-worthy than that?

Unsolved Mysteries

11 season season Creator: Shawn Levy Creator: Shawn Levy The original original Unsolved The Unsolved Mysteries Mysteries series series ran ran from from 1987 1987 until until 1999, 1999, and and had had a a total total of of nine nine seasons seasons which explored which explored a a variety variety of of unsolved unsolved cases. cases.

This This new new series, series, revamped revamped by

by Stranger Stranger Things Things producer Shawn Shawn Levy, Levy, will will look look at at a a range range of of producer unsolved mysteries mysteries from from the the trauma trauma of of a a loved loved unsolved one’s one’s unexplained unexplained disappearance disappearance or or horrific horrific death, to the shock of a bizarre paranormal death, to the shock of a bizarre paranormal encounter. encounter.

Alongside Alongside detectives detectives and and journalists, journalists, family family members offer offer clues, members clues, present present theories, theories, and and identify identify suspects, suspects, hoping hoping one one viewer viewer holds holds the the key key to to solving solving the the mystery. mystery.

Killer Inside: The Mind of Aaron Hernandez

11 season season ‘Killer ‘Killer Inside: Inside: The The Mind Mind of of Aaron Aaron Hernandez’ Hernandez’ is is a a haunting portrait portrait of of the the NFL NFL star star who who became became a a haunting convicted convicted murderer. murderer. The The documentary documentary revisits revisits the the 2015 murder murder of of Odin Odin Lloyd Lloyd for for which which Hernandez Hernandez 2015 was was found found guilty, guilty, as as well well his his trial trial for for the the 2012 2012 double double homicide of of Daniel Daniel de de Abreu Abreu and and Safiro Safiro Furtado Furtado for for homicide which he he was was acquitted. acquitted. But But beyond beyond the the crimes, crimes, the the which documentary documentary paints paints a a picture picture of of the the man man himself himself with with new audio audio recordings recordings of of Hernandez’s Hernandez’s phone phone calls calls from from new prison prison -- to to his his lawyers, lawyers, mother, mother, and and his his young young daughter. daughter.

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Please Please mention mention Inside Inside Flintshire Flintshire Magazine Magazine when when responding responding to to advertisements advertisements

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LETTER’S LETTER’S FROM FROM THE THE FEW FEW AUTHOR: AUTHOR:Dilip DilipSarkar SarkarMBE MBE This publication is the culmination of decades of correspondence with many of the Few, those individuals entitled to the immediate award of the Battle of Britain Clasp Many of the letters contain unique stories, information or recollections that the writer has never previously revealed before.

Some of the letters contain comments and information that shed new light of some of the events of the Battle of Britain Proliferated with unique @rst-hand accounts impossible to record today, given that virtually all of the veterans are now deceased.

Highly illustrated throughout with archive images, many of which were supplied by the veterans with their letters.

Includes many of the more famous Battle of Britain pilots such as Group Captain John ‘Cats’ Eyes’ Cunningham and Air Commodore Peter Brothers, as well as lesser known members of the Few

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About the Author

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Driven by his passion to research and share the stories of casualties, and record the human experience of war, DILIP SARKAR is a best-selling author whose work is highly regarded globally. A noted expert on the Battle of Britain period, who enjoyed a long and very personal relationship with the Few, Dilip was made an MBE in 2003 for ‘services to aviation history’, and elected to the Fellowship of the Royal Historical Society in 2006.

He is a sought-after and dynamic speaker whose enthusiasm is infectious, presenting and exhibiting at many prestigious venues on an international basis, and has worked on TV documentaries, on and off camera.

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“

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moneytalks moneytalks

This is a difficult topic to write about, but I really feel I must. According to the Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house Association of British Insurers, (Association of British Insurers “Insurers pay £90 I've just read that HMRC collected recordnotinheritance nothing was stirring, even a mousetax payments of £4.9bn million to help families cope with Coronavirus deaths”, August 2020) life insurers in the 12 months to April 2017 a 4%would increase fingers werewhich crossed was that Brexit vanish on the previous year. alone paid out £90 million in claims between 1st March and 31st May 2020 to help That's an awful lot and of money forwould the most has already been taxed electoral which campaigns forever part be banished families with (possibly Covid-19 deaths. along cope the way several times) as its been accumulated, either as Theearned children in were snuggled all cosymore in bedincome tax if it's been income tax when it was the first place, Almost certainly partgains of this sum would haverealised recently learned a couple who were dreaming ofasset Santa and IRudolph, nose redandabout saved, capital tax if the a profit finally, inheritance been used to pay off outstanding mortgages and having to draw large amounts from their penGrand parentsleaves were wishing for retirement tax at 40% when the owner this mortal coil!quite soon

I really would like to think thatand anyone reading siona plans parents were singing similarmuch tune earlier than they had planned, very an simple thingsresulted you canindoa to ensurespiI've nothas written about this for a long this, who a mortgage, will subject have sufficient life some because accident serious time,inmainly until this year, there have your wealth passes to the people who matter cover place because to pay this off should the worst nal injury and effectively ended the ability to But the world seems quite mad at this moment in time been noIncidentally, changes to the inheritance tax nil rate the most to you.not For just example, I write a lotwho abouthad happen. if you haven’t, or are not earn a living, for the person and plans to stop working a mountain to climb band for some befar fair,too theimportant fact that retirement planning, and keeping assuddenly much ofbesure please give years, me a and call,toit’s the injury, but for the spouse who How to fill between stockings foryour children who sleep the off. nil rate band is now transferable capital astime you carer can, for as long as you can in to put came a fullquite and plans for tomorrow need pockets deep overnight.

spouses, means that the old adage of "use it or lose it" is no longer a worry.

a pension "wrapper" is incredibly tax efficient, so often when I undertake cash flow modelling, Putting the mortgage aside for whatof theIfelves you and think Butone backminute, in the land theyou snowcan’t afford to protect your I'll suggest drawing on other capital before Reading these figures though reminded me of do you think will have happened those and people income orincover a large debt in the event of throughtowishes dreams, someone theMany know pension capital. people don't realise that I feltcontracted when I hadCovid-19, to to write a guide cheque to whohow have and although death or serious illness, I’m writing this article helpout and through the fear and the doubt gifts from surplus income don't eat into the nil the Inland yearsto ago onhave the thankfully haveRevenue not lost many their lives it, and to highlight that you absolutely can’t afford not financial advice with some serioussoclout rate band, if your income is building up, death of my mother.

Myconsiderable father had prebeen unable to work for some time to. diverting this to a savings or investment product deceased her by some 16 years, she sadly passed whilst they recover?

There may not be reindeers, white beards a sleigh a child, canorhelp reduce the final inheritance away before the rule change allowing the for I could give dozens of examples here, disprovbut something more useful, to help on your way tax bill on your estate, whilst building up capital transfer of a deceased spouses unused nil rate When considering life, critical illness or income ing the old adage of “it will never happen to on a future less scary a plan all amapped enable child toout perhaps put down a deposit to band, result, a hefty IHT bill an estate whichand to protection, not all protection is considered equal, me” indeed a colleague of mineloan sadly lost her on a property or pay off a student in years shouldersofmuch you’re happy to shout today wouldn't even raiseand a glimmer hopelighter, in and what’s right for you, as with all aspects of tolife to Covid 19 at the age of 58 earlier this come. the Revenue's eye's. financial planning, will very much depend upon year.

I don’t doubt that like the rest of us she So to all of our clients, and those yet to be It's fair say that one size definitely does not fit It'sown clear personal though, from the figures announced by and your circumstances. is team, true felt thetosame. from all ofItmy ofand course alsoinme all, advice, what can be a complex area is HMRCthat thatwhilst many most peopleofare still falling foul of though us, hopefully, we wish you gladhave tidings and much festive cheer If you would like more to my mind essential. this most unpalatable of taxes, and it's equally the mortgage covered in the event of death, it’s So please, if you do one thing as we look to with an invite to call us in the new on yearthis, or any other area of clear me thatforwith someillness, sensible planning often nottocovered serious disability or information more restrictions being imposed upon our daifinancial planning, please do give us a call on and discussion, you who may long-term sickness. those ofHang ly dress lives,up pick up the phone, in the same way up the stockings and the tree 840738 or 075959 28907 where me and inadvertently be making HMRC one of your 01948 as you would to ring your GP to check on eat the mince pies, the andwill turkey mypud team be happy to help you. main beneficiaries, may be able to remove them, If we take this a step further, the mortgage, your physical well-being, and arrange for a full as I finish my rhyme drift out of sight or at the very least considerably reduce their andcheck value anfinancial investment with St. James's whilst often being our biggest financial com- The on of your well-being. to all a good night "inheritance" from you. Happy Christmas to all, and Place will be directly linked to the performance mitment, is far from the only bill which needs Of paid course, some of youBeing reading this may not to be each month. unable to work in theofslightest more of yourreduced estate for mind any length time withifconsiderably passes orto indeed the revenue than your or income, no income, canchildren, and does grandchildren, and thathardship is of course your choice. cause serious financial to families.

”

ofMe theand fundsmy selected fall ashappy well astorise. team and are may always help, You may get back less than the without obligation, so do call us amount on 01244 invested. levels and bases 561323 The to put back a little bitofoftaxation certaintyand in an reliefs from taxation can change increasingly uncertain world. at any time and is dependent on individual circumstances.

Merry Christmas from Carolyn Ling Financial Planning

If that's not your eventual aim though, there are

Carolyn LingLing Financial Planning Ltd represents only St. James’sRepresentative Place Wealth Management plc (whichonly is authorised andPlace regulated by theManagement Financial Conduct Carolyn Financial Planning Ltd is an Appointed of and represents St. James’s Wealth Authority) for the purpose of advising solely onbythe wealth management products andpurpose services,ofmore detailssolely of which out onwealth the Group’s plc (which is authorised and regulated theGroup’s Financial Conduct Authority) for the advising on are the set group’s website at www.sjp.co.uk/products. 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 Ling Ling Carolyn Financial Planning Planning Ltd Ltd Financial 01948 840738 // 07469 075959 28907 01244 01948 561323 840738 075959871283 28907 carolyn.ling@sjpp.co.uk

alexander.smith@sjpp.co.uk carolyn.ling@sjpp.co.uk www.sjpp.co.uk/carolynling www.sjpp.co.uk/carolynling www.sjpp.co.uk/carolynling

Quality is never an accident….

Quality is never an accident….

Based locally on the Shropshire/Cheshire border, Based locally on the Shropshire/Cheshire border, where have lived for most ofwemy life,closely I work Based Ilocally in Hawarden, work where I have lived for most of my life, I work with ourwith clients and their to fullyto fully closely my clients andfamilies their families closely with my clients and their families to fully understandtheir theirfinancial financialaspirations, aspirations,hopes hopesand understand understand their financial aspirations, hopes and and concerns. concerns. concerns.

Our business has quality and service atatit’s core Ourbusiness businesshas hasquality qualityand andservice serviceat itscore core Our it’s and would likelike to invite readers to find out out for and Iwe would to invite readers to find and I would like to invite readers to find out for themselves my personal approach to financial for themselves our personal approach to themselves my personal approach to financial planning. financial planning. planning.

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Carolyn Ling Financial Planning Ltd is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James’s CarolynWealth Ling Financial Planning Ltdplc is an(which Appointed of and represents only St. James’s PlaceConduct Wealth Management Carolyn Ling Financial Planning Ltd represents only and St. James’s Place Management plcAuthority) (which is Place Management is Representative authorised regulated

by Wealth the Financial plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products. The titles Group’s wealth productsterms andused services, moreSt.details which are set out on the Group’s website of whichand are setmanagement out on the website attowww.sjp.co.uk/products.

‘Partner’ ‘Partner Practice’ areGroup’s marketing describe James’sofPlace representatives. at www.sjp.co.uk/products.

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39

It happened this month 01352870752 | 07850333990

... in1986:

Mike Tyson makes history

On November 22, 1986, 20-year-old Mike Tyson knocked out 33-year-old Trevor Berbick in just five minutes and 35 seconds to become the youngest world heavyweight titleholder ever. “I’m the youngest heavyweight boxing champion in history,” Tyson told his manager after the fight, “and I’m going to be the oldest.”

Tyson had a plan : “I wanted to throw every punch with bad intentions. I was throwing hydrogen bombs.”

Tyson kept his title for nine more bouts, until Buster Douglas beat him in 1990.

After that, his life unravelled. He was sent to prison for three years for rape.

Then, five fights into his comeback in 1995, he bit off a part of Evander Holyfield’s ear and was disqualified. Tyson retired for good in 2005.

... in1995: Martin Bashir interviews Princess Diana

On November 20, 1995, the BBC’s Panorama programme broadcast Martin Bashir’s infamous interview with Princess Diana.

During the course of the interview Diana claimed to have suffered from depression, “rampant bulimia” and had engaged numerous times in acts of self mutilation. Referring to Charles’ relationship with Camilla Parker-Bowles, she said, “Well, there were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded.” She also expressed doubts about her husband’s suitability for kingship.

The interview proved to be the tipping point. On December 20, Buckingham Palace announced that the Queen had sent letters to the Prince and Princess of Wales, advising them to divorce.

40

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43

Buying a house during the recession

Part Two

Could the stamp duty holiday help to revive the housing market? ince the lockdown was announced in March, the property market come to a virtual standstill, and it’s estimated that 373,000 property transactions had been put on hold and housing demand had fallen by 90 per cent since the start of March.

In July, Chancellor Rishi Sunak confirmed a major stamp duty cut in a bid to boost the housing market. He revealed plans to raise the stamp duty threshold from £125,000 to £500,000 in England and Northern Ireland.

It will run until 31 March 2021 and means that nearly nine out of 10 transactions will no longer be subject to stamp duty.

What is stamp duty?

Buyers must pay stamp duty when buying a home or piece of land worth £125,000 or more in England and Northern Ireland. It is charged on a tiered basis (so you only pay the higher rates on the slice above any threshold – the same as income tax). The rates are: l Up to £125,000: 0% l On the portion from £125,001 to £250,000: 2% l On the portion from £250,001 to £925,000: 5% l On the portion from £925,000 to £1.5m: 10% l Above £1.5m: 12% There are exemptions available for first-time buyers, who don’t have to pay stamp duty on the first £300,000, so long as the home doesn’t cost more than £500,000.

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How does it work?

The new measure means that buyers will only start to pay stamp duty on property above £500,000. This will apply to people buying their first home, or moving up or down the housing ladder. The rates are: l Up to £500,000: 0% l On the portion from £500,001 to £925,000: 5% l On the portion from £925,001 to £1.5m: 10% l Above £1.5m: 12%

Would the stamp duty holiday help potential buyers?

The stamp duty holiday is welcome news for buyers, estate agents and developers, but the move isn’t unprecedented. During the 1992 downturn, a stamp duty holiday helped double the number of homes sales.

A 12-month stamp duty holiday was also one of the measures introduced following the 2008 financial crash to boost the property market.

However, stamp duty is a lucrative tax for the Government. In 2018 to 2019 it brought in £8.4 billion in revenue through residential sales. A suspension of the tax could potentially lose the Government billions.

Moreover, advocates of stamp duty have argued that it benefits first-time buyers, by edging out buy-to-let speculators. So if the government was to only introduce a stamp duty holiday, it could potentially backfire on buyers in lower price bands.

As a result, many estate agents are calling for a combination of measures alongside the tax holiday, believing that on its own it will not be enough. Measures suggested include an extension to ‘Help to Buy’ to support first-time buyers and support activity across all price bands.

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Volkswagen Though you can’t buy a Golf R any more, the letter’s now been applied to the Touareg and T-Roc SUVs, and it’ll be coming to the new Arteon fastback and shooting brake range too.

What are the mechanicals?

The Tiguan R uses the same powertrain as the forthcoming Arteon R. Under the bonnet is VW’s latest 2.0-litre turbo powertrain, and it’s suitably rapid - 0-62mph takes just 4.9 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.

The transmission’s more interesting. Power is sent to all four wheels via a seven-speed DSG auto, with up to 50 per cent heading towards the rear axle. But VW’s ditched the previous Haldex setup in favour of a new torque vectoring rear differential capable of splitting drive between the rear wheels via a pair of clutches.

What’s it like?

The Tiguan’s R character depends very much on which of its three driving modes you opt for. ‘Sport’ is the default, and thus it should remain - flip into ‘Comfort’ and though the ride is undeniably relaxed the gearbox shifts into an ‘Eco’ mode which saps any enjoyment whatsoever and makes the Tiguan R feel lethargic.

46

And now the facelifted Tiguan has had the same treatment. VW’s mid-sized family SUV has never been especially exciting, even in its most potent forms - but this is the first time a true performance variant has been available.

Is it any good?

Keep the gearbox in ‘D’ in Sport mode and you’ll enjoy acceleration when you need it but a gearbox that’s more than happy to cruise in a high gear.

Driving modes can now be selected from a button on the steering wheel, and if you hold down the ‘R’ button you’ll immediately be put into the most aggressive of the Tiguan’s driving modes.

The system’s able to send 100% of rear torque to the outside wheel when you’re cornering hard, leading to cornering ability unthinkable in the standard car. It turns in sharply and barely understeers, while the steering is light and pinpoint accurate.

Despite the lowered ride height, 21-inch wheels and firmer dampers, the Tiguan R still rides well, too - comfort levels are more than high enough for this weapon to be used on a daily basis.

It rolls more and leans on its traction control to stop things getting out of hand. It’s rapid, but not especially playful - but that’s been a hallmark of VW R models since the beginning.

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Tiguan R

Any other tweaks?

Most of the improvements are the same as you’ll find across the facelifted Tiguan range - a new infotainment screen that works brilliantly, a touchsensitive climate control panel and steering wheel.

It’s the basic Tiguan platform, with a 615-litre boot that’ll fit all the flat-pack furniture your heart desires.

The front seats are new, though.

They’re single-piece Alcantara and fabric affairs printed in a particularly fetching blue check.

Verdict

Maybe the Tiguan’s been too long coming, but it’s been given enough thought and executed with the sort of German precision that makes us happy to have waited this long. As SUVs go it’s a cracker, and looks set to seriously challenge the Audi SQ2 and MercedesAMG GLA 35.

Prices haven’t been announced yet, but do look likely to approach the £45,000 mark though VW’s finance packages are usually generous.

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SUBARU XV e-BOXER fuel economy and CO2 results (WLTP): Combined 35.7mpg, CO2 emissions 180g/km. Mpg figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes & may not reflect real driving results. Fuel consumption achieved in real life conditions & CO2 produced depends on a number of factors including accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles & vehicle load.

Credit available subject to status. UK residents 18+. Minimum deposit required of 23%. This offer excludes fleet and Members Affinity scheme sales, is only available through participating Subaru dealers and is not available in conjunction with any other offers unless specified. Crystal White Pearl special paint finish free of charge across all models. This credit offer is only available through Subaru Finance provided by International Motors Finance Limited, St. William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 5BH. Offers may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Offer ends 30.11.2020.

OTR price includes VAT, delivery, number plates, 12 months’ road fund licence and first registration fee. Prices correct at time of going to print. Please consult your local Subaru dealer for exact quotation. With Personal Contract Purchase, once you have paid all of your regular monthly repayments you can choose to: 1) Pay the optional final repayment and own the car – optional final repayment includes £10 purchase fee. 2) Part-exchange the car for a new one (subject to settlement of your existing agreement, new agreements are subject to status). 3) Return the car to Subaru Finance without paying the optional final repayment. Providing you’ve not exceeded the maximum agreed mileage and the car is in good condition (fair wear and tear accepted), you will have nothing further to pay. If the vehicle has exceeded the maximum permitted mileage then a charge of 9.6p inclusive of VAT at 20% per excess mile on 2.0i will apply. †SUBARU XV e-BOXER is covered by a 5 Year/100,000 mile (whichever comes sooner) Limited Warranty which comprises of a standard 3 Year/60,000 mile (whichever is sooner) Manufacturer’s Warranty (bumper to bumper, excluding clutch driven plate) and an Extended Warranty (applies to powertrain only) provided by the importer. Added reassurance is provided by a comprehensive 3 Year Recovery and Assistance Programme valid in the UK and Europe.

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The technology behind Track and Trace Test, track and trace. That’s been England’s mantra for fighting coronavirus since the first peak. But things haven’t exactly gone to plan.

Now, after months of delay, England finally has a Bluetooth-based contact tracing app. It aims to alert people when they have been near someone who has tested positive for coronavirus, allow people to check their symptoms, try to book a test and ‘check-in’ to places they visit using a QR code system.

It’s free to download from Google Play and the App Store.

But how does the app work and what data does it collect?

How does contact tracing work?

Contact tracing is a well-established method for controlling the transmission of diseases. The process involves a person who is infected recounting their movements and activities to build up a picture of who else might have been exposed.

Contact tracing done by humans involves an interviewer asking a person who is infected with Covid-19 where they have been and who they have been in contact with.

In England, if you test positive for coronavirus you will be contacted by the NHS Test and Trace service – this will be done via text message, email or phone. When contacted, people are sent a link to the NHS Test and Trace website to enter details of recent contacts.

The contact tracing system will then get in touch with people who may be at risk of contracting the virus to tell them they are required to isolate for 14 days.

as encounters). The app uses Bluetooth signal strength between different devices to estimate the distance between people. When someone tests positive for Covid-19 the system can send out alerts to people they have had encounters with. These alerts tell people that they should self-isolate.

For calculating people’s risk scores the app uses distance (via Bluetooth strength), time around a person and details about when their symptoms started. The last of these is based on information that can be inputted into the NHS app. The distances used for calculating risk scores fall into three categories: close (within 0-2 metres), medium (2-4m) or far (further than 4m). These distances are not precise as the actual measurements may vary depending on where you are and where your phone is placed.

How are Apple and Google involved?

The ecosystems of Apple and Google are fundamental to the NHS app. The app uses the Apple and Google exposure notification system to conduct Bluetooth contact tracing. This is done through an API (software which allows two applications to talk to each other).

Apple and Google created the API in the early months of the pandemic and did so to ensure that as little data was collected as possible. The companies have favoured a method that puts people’s privacy at the forefront of the system. This is, in part, to stop Bluetooth contact tracing technology from being used maliciously.

People should isolate whether they are ill or not. From September 28 it will be illegal for people not to selfisolate once they been contacted by Test and Trace and the government can issue £10,000 fines to people who break the rules.

How does the app work?

Contact tracing apps aim to automate the human process by using your smartphone.

In theory, apps could be a useful tool to quickly get people to self-isolate and limit the spread of the virus. The main issue?

Contact tracing apps are new and their effectiveness is largely unproven.

The NHS contact tracing app – like other similar apps around the world – uses a form of low energy Bluetooth to identify phones nearby (these are referred to

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

This is an extremely romantic time for those born under the sign of the Ram. You will experience excellent compatibility with loved ones, and in partnerships there are going to be some very happy times.

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

This will be a month where you look to the future. You will be in a positive frame of mind and ready to embrace the changes that come your way. If you have stagnated in the past, then now is most likely going to be the time when you have a focus. It is a time for looking forward, not back.

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)

November will be a good time for overseeing changes. There could be significant changes made in a career which will engender a feeling of excitement and positivity. On the home front, there are unlikely to be any changes and recent events in your love life may cause you some concern.

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)

This month could prove rather slow moving for you and you might find yourself thinking of ways to speed things up. If you have time on your hands, why not inprove your own personal skill set through additional training. You could find much enjoyment in embarking on a new training course.

Leo (July 23 - August 22)

Lions could find this is the month to focus on hobbies and interests. You will be physically active, enjoying both your work and your home life. For single Leos, there could be the beginnings of a new romance. For those already in partnerships, you will feel happy and content.

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Virgo (August 23 - September 22)

You may find yourself in a more reflective state. You will be very intuitive and in touch with other people’s emotions as well as your own. It could be a very mystical time for some Virgos, where spirituality is likely to be the main focus.

Libra (September 23 - October 22)

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CY After an excellent October when Lady Luck was on your side, the Libra forecast for November promises another positive month where you truly feel you can make a difference. There will be lots CMY of progress made in all areas of your life.

Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

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It’s probable that your drive and intense focus on your work will bring excellent rewards, in terms of both your career and any business deals. Certainly, great gains and considerable wealth could come to you from your professional life. You deserve all the accolades that come your way.

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)

In business and professional matters you are likely to enjoy new challenges, with a considerable amount of success to follow. Your determination to succeed, your focus and your ability are all factors that will make this an extremely positive spell for you.

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

Luck will favour both men and women born under the earth sign of Capricorn this month. Your natural instincts will alert you to the important things to worry about, so try not to get bogged down by trivia and learn how to best prioritise your time.

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)

This has the potential to be a really exciting time for Aquarians. If you are thinking about extending your family or planning for a new baby, this could be the perfect time. It will also be a very pleasurable spell for those not interested in having more children.

Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

You may be in a dreamy mood this month. Your focus will be on your own professional development and you may already have your eyes set on a new goal. You can be assured that your boss has already noticed you and you have nothing to worry about.

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040519DFL_148x210_FINAL.pdf

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Five autumn tips to prepare your garden for winter utumn is your opportunity to get rid of dead vegetation left over from the summer, tidy your borders, clear out your gutters, and more. This season is all about picking up and packing down before the arrival of winter.

Here are the first of ten tips to make the most of your autumn garden.

Once your borders are clean and tidy, spread a thick layer of compost, bark chips or well–rotted manure. Don’t worry about digging it in – let the worms do the hard work for you.

1. Autumn clean

Improve drainage and aeration around paths and play areas by making deep holes with the prongs of a garden fork at 10 cm intervals. Autumn is a great time to lay new turf too, giving it plenty of time to establish before next summer.

Before overwintering tender plants, remove everything from your greenhouse, sweep out plant debris and disinfect all paths and staging, including the inside of the glass.

Ventilate your greenhouse over the next couple of days to dry it thoroughly, cleaning pots and seed trays.

4. Lawn enforcement

Remove thatch and moss using a spring-tined rake and add it to the compost heap. Brush in a sandy top dressing afterwards, followed by an application of autumn lawn feed.

More tips next month...

2. Scrub off shade paint As the nights draw in, make the most of the available light by scrubbing shade paint from your greenhouse windows. This lets more of the sun’s rays through the glass, helping winter temperatures to climb that little bit higher, saving you money on heating.

A bucket of hot water and some elbow grease is all it takes to bring the glass up sparkling clean.

Now’s a good time to check and replace damaged panes, and clear your greenhouse gutters too.

3. Tidy up borders To ensure a vibrant display next spring, dig up annuals and plant your beds with pansies, bellis daisies and wallflowers, while cutting back faded perennials to 5cm above ground level.

5. Make leaf mould

Leaf mould adds structure and organic matter to your soil and is a great way to recycle fallen leaves. Choose a sheltered spot that won’t spoil the view of your garden and using wire mesh and wooden stakes, make a large bin. Fill with leaves, sprinkle with water and leave.

Once the leaves reach a crumbly texture, spread as a mulch throughout your borders. Oak, alder, beech, and hornbeam rot fairly quickly while sycamore, walnut, horse chestnut, and sweet chestnut may take a little longer. The process should take about two years..

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