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Acknowledgements
We are grateful for support from Kington Town Council & Knighton Town Council, without whom we wouldn’t be here. Also to Richard Banks for support and advice; and to Andy Tobin, image wrangler who sorts out the cover. May the bluebird of happiness fly over you all.
Cover photo: Editor: Autumn Fungi
Funny bits: Blogswallop
Editorial
Welcome to our autumn issue! I don’t know where our summer went but maybe it will turn up next year. Meanwhile, there are lots of great things to look forward to yet: Kington Walking Festival 18 – 22 September, Leominster Food Fayre 7 September, Hergest Croft Autumn Plant Fair 13 October, The Huntington Chase 5 October and lots of things at The Knighton Community Centre.
I’m delighted to introduce you to our new Knighton Correspondent, Lisa James. Lisa will be writing the Knighton News page and I think you’ll agree she’s done a fine job of her first one. After a stint as Knighton Town Clerk, Lisa is now concentrating on her creative side and we look forward to benefitting from her writing skills.
I hesitate to mention the C word, but our winter issue comes out at the beginning of December and is just the place to publicise all your Xmas events, so make sure to let us know in good time.
Best wishes,
Annie Annie Vickerstaff, editor
Brilley Flicks in the Sticks
We are back with a fabulous new show for the Autumn season. As usual, all tickets should be bought in advance via www.paybrilley.co.uk Ticket prices have been held at £5 for films and £12 for our live show. Everything starts at 7.30pm with doors open from 7pm. Please bring your own refreshments to Flicks and support the bar at the live show.
5th September: One Life (cert 12). An incredible true story of bravery and heroism - One Life features Sir Nicholas ‘Nicky’ Winton, a young London broker who, in the months leading up to the Second World War, rescued 669 children from the Nazis. Nicky visited Prague in December 1938 and found families who had fled the rise of the Nazis in Germany and Austria, living in desperate conditions with little or no shelter and food, and under threat of Nazi invasion. He immediately realised it was a race against time. How many children could he and the team rescue before the borders closed? Starring Anthony Hopkins and Helena Bonham Carter
3rd October: Wicked Little Letters (cert 15). A 1920s English seaside town bears witness to a dark, absurd scandal in this riotous mystery comedy. Based on a stranger-than-fiction true story, "Wicked Little Letters" follows two neighbours: deeplyconservative local Edith Swan (Olivia Colman) and rowdy Irish migrant Rose Gooding (Jessie Buckley). When Edith and fellow residents start to receive wicked letters full of unintentionally hilarious profanities, foul-mouthed Rose is charged with the crime. The anonymous letters prompt a national uproar, and a trial ensues. If you don't mind a bit of bad language, this tale is a complete hoot.
7th November: Fremont (cert 12A). Beautiful and troubled 20something Donya, an Afghan translator who used to work with the U.S. government, has trouble sleeping. She lives by herself in Fremont, California, in a building with other Afghan immi-
grants and often dines alone at a local restaurant watching soap operas. Her routine changes when she's promoted to writing the fortunes at her job at a fortune cookie factory in the city. As her fortunes are read by strangers throughout the Bay, Donya's smouldering longing drives her to send a message out to the world, unsure where it will lead.
22nd November: Bonfire Radicals in Concert. A vibrant feast of dynamic, contemporary folk music. The electrifying sound of Bonfire Radicals is intensely creative and irresistibly fun. Their live set is a burst of energy, capturing the adventurous breadth of their musical imaginations which emerge from a melting pot of original and traditional folk tunes and songs from the British Isles to the Balkans. Rhythmic grooves, instrumental fireworks, rich vocal harmonies and delicate a cappella all collide and explode into a "crashing rollercoaster of sound...alive with possibility and thrills" - Folk Radio.
"Supreme musicianship and a fantastic meld of folk/jazz/ world influences... you were magnificent and really livened up our village" - audience member
Walton Village Hall Events
MacMillan coffee morning from 10am to 1pm on Friday 20 September. Donations of cakes and local produce will be gratefully accepted. Please come and support this important charity. Book and jigsaw swap on the 2nd Wednesday of every month,10am to 1pm. Tea, coffee, home made cakes and friendly chat available. Dates for your Diary: Autumn Talks starting at 7pm. September 21, Blood Bikes by Ray Rand. October 19, Winter care for horses and ponies by N Dodeman MRCVS. November 16, A School in Gambia. Tickets £5 on the door. Also 5 October, Games Night £2 per person, BYOB. 23 November Quiz Night, £2 per person Max 6 per team BYOB.
The Interview: Cllr & Mayor Philip Sell
Tell us a bit about yourself and how long you have lived in Kington
I moved here with my wife, Deborah, in 2010 to take up the post of Director of Education for the Diocese of Hereford. Before that I had been a primary school headteacher. In fact, I had been a headteacher in 5 schools, but not all at the same time! When we first arrived in Kington, we rented a house in Tanyard Lane. The river flooded a couple of months after we moved in, so we moved up hill to the then new estate on the edge of town.
What do you like about living in Kington?
We both instantly fell in love with Kington. It is such a friendly place- a town with real heart and sense of community. The people are so welcoming and caring for each other. Of course, we are so lucky to live in such a beautiful area; to breathe the pure air and to feast our eyes and souls on the wonderful hills, trees and meadows that surround us. Then, of course, there is the rich and varied artistic life of this creative, vibrant town. We love all the festivals, the steam rally, food fares, The Kington Show and the infamous Wheelbarrow Race!
What achievements are you proud of?
I am proud to be part of this town and all it does and represents. We should all be heartened by what we have and do as a community and the care and consideration shown by its residents. My fellow councillors have voted me in as their mayor, and I am so pleased and proud to be able to carry out that role. Hopefully, I won’t let them down.
What do you think Kington needs to thrive?
We need to improve our infrastructure- bus links to other towns, get a banking hub here, encourage other businesses to set up shop here and to develop our industrial sites. These things will bring further employment and opportunities for our young people.
What else are you involved in?
I am the Director of Music at St Mary’s Church. We are just in the final stages of completing an overhaul of the pipe organ. This was first placed in the church in 1897, paid for by 110 members of the public. A great gift to the town. I am also the Administrator for the Kington Group of Churches and Chairman of the Kington Allotment Association.
Where will life take you in the future?
When we first moved to Kington, it was to be for a short stay while we looked around for a more permanent base. BUT we
love if here and expect to end our days in this delightful place (but not just yet!!)
Is there anyone you’d like to thank for their support? My wonderful wife and family. Deborah is my constant support, my friendly, gentle critic and my lifelong travelling companion.
What, in your opinion, is the meaning of life?
To be, and do, the best you can to all those you encounter and to leave people with a smile!
Kington Show 14 September
Kington Walks Autumn Festival 19-22 September
Hergest Croft Autumn Plant Fair 13 October
Bonfire Night Fireworks Display 26 October
Remembrance Sunday Parade 10 November
Christmas Party Lights On 30 November
Food Festival 7 December
Open Arms Kington Events
Sunday 8 September, 10am-4.30pm. Heritage Day at The Oxford Arms. Explore and celebrate Kington's droving history, with crafts, tours, film and family-friendly activities, plus vintage-style afternoon teas.
Thursday 19 September, 9am-1pm. Find out how to keep your heart healthy, reduce your risk of stroke and stay in control of your health with the Talk Wellbeing healthcare team. Drop in and say hello; no appointment necessary.
Friday 20 September, 2pm-4pm. Get ready for Kington Walking Festival. Join our map interpretation workshop to navigate effortlessly over the hills.
Saturday 21 September, time TBC (follow our socials @openarmskington) woodfired, authentic Italian pizza from Origin Pizza in the courtyard.
Saturday 28 September, Creative Café. Experiment with weaving in this friendly, relaxed session.
Sunday 13 October, Kington Castaways. Heartwarming and inspiring, our popular Desert Island Discs inspired session will welcome another community figure for an afternoon of music and conversation.
Saturday 26 October, time TBC (follow our socials @openarmskington) creative activities for all the family to celebrate the Big Draw Festival.
Saturday 30 November, Kington Castaways.
Follow us on social media @openarmskington for all event details and latest information.
Kington Branch of HWT Talks
Our Winter meetings begin again in September with a varied programme of speakers and subjects.
24 Sept: Hidden Herefordshire, with Tim Kaye
29 Oct: The Adder – Unravelling a Misunderstood Beauty, with Nigel Hand
26 Nov: Farming with Nature, with Ben Andrews
Kingswood Village Hall 7.30pm. All Welcome. Kington Local Branch Group: Herefordshire Wildlife Trust.
Kington Post Office
Great news! The HSBC team will be back with another pop-up banking hub on Thursday 19 September, between 10am and 2pm at Kington Post Office. Just like last time, we’d appreciate all the support we can get to ensure we can keep providing essential services like this to our community. If you have banking questions or queries or if you’d just like to say hi, please do pop in!
Kington Post Office is very proud to be sponsoring a walk for this year’s Kington Walks Autumn Walking Festival. Join us on Sunday 22 September for the ‘Three Hills and Three Artists’ walk, led by artists and curators involved in the Hogsback Hill exhibition at Sidney Nolan Trust and RidgeBank Contemporary Art Space. For more info visit www.kingtonwalks.org and contemporary art space (@ridgebank) • Instagram photos and videos
Three Peaks Fundraiser
On Saturday 3 August Simon, Emma, Emma and Tom embarked on the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge in memory of Oliver Thomas (Simon and Emma's cousin). A proud Welshman with a deep passion for the outdoors, Oliver thrived on challenges and embraced every adventure that came his way. This year marks a decade since we lost him, and there's no more fitting tribute than conquering the majestic peaks of Wales in his name. We aimed for completing the challenge in 15 hours but managed to smash that time by finishing in 11 hours and 40 minutes. Each peak was a challenge with incredible views. We are so grateful for everyone who sponsored us as we were aiming for £500 and are now over £2k. Thanks so much.
Our just giving page is still open if you can please join us in raising vital funds to support serving men and women, veterans and families who will call on SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity for help in time of need. https://www.justgiving.com/page/emma-turner-1720385192011? utm_source=Whatsapp&utm_medium=email_social&utm_camp aign=LFCFRUK_Day2_FTReturn
Art of Chi Tai Chi Classes in Leominster and surrounding areas
Autumn term starts from Monday 9th September, FREE in the first week for new people wishing to try a class. Essential to pre-book – standing and seated options available. This ancient oriental practice, based on martial arts, offers you a chance to relax and refresh the mind while working the body and brain in different ways. Our focus is wellbeing, developing our energy while strengthening our sense of centre. Contact Enid on 07877 250275 / hello@goldenthreadscic.com
Radnorshire Artists at The Hymns
Herefordshire Art Week (h.Art) at The Hymns, Walton LD8 2RA. Selling Exhibition, private view, art classes, talk by Anne Goodwin on “Wordsworth in The Radnor Valley” and exhibition dinner at The Hymns & National Garden Scheme. Garden open days Saturday 7th to Sunday 15th September, 10am to 5pm. To book Anne Goodwin’s talk (£5 in aid of Walton Village Hall) on Friday 13th September; private view on Friday 6th September; exhibition dinner (£25) on Saturday 14th September; watercolour workshop by Ruth Kirkby & Deb Bunker; pottery and pottery painting workshop by Sally Hamer & Sarah Jane Harper throughout the week, please go to our website www.radnorshireartists.com.
Knighton Comm Events
Knighton Wellbeing Festival, 22 September. 32 stalls showing holistic approaches to daily living plus clothing, crystals, reiki and more. Demo’s and workshops available.
Benji Kirkpatrick, 28 September Doors open 7.30pm, Benji begins 8pm.
Knighton Literary Festival, 11- 13 Octoberwww.Knightonfestival.wales for more info.
Community Markets: 28 September, 26 October, 9 & 23 November, 7 &21 December
A History of the Oxford Arms, Kington, Part 3: 1900s
Moving into researching the 1900s is a challenge and such fun, because primary source material becomes harder to find (because of freedom on information laws etc), and although people’s personal memories are rich they are also shaped by time and experience. Social history feels like a mix of going for an unfamiliar walk with a faded map and trying to find some elusive pieces of an ever-growing jigsaw! Huge continuing thanks for both Wendy and Chris’ unwavering support at Kington Museum, and HARC resources and guidance. If any readers can add, change or enhance any of the remembered names, events, dates and share photographs with us, we would be very grateful.
In the summer issue we left The Oxford Arms being sold out of the Harley family ownership in the late 1880’s, but with no legal documentation to confirm who to, or when. Kelly’s Directory of 1895 lists Mrs. Mary Harvey, widow, as the proprietor The 1901 Census records for No 42 the head of the household for The Oxford Arms Hotel as Thomas Allen, aged 66, Hotel Proprietor and his wife, Elizabeth. Living with them on that day were his two stepsons and 5 servants/ workers and at No.43, a male head of household, a groom and a lodger. By 1907, William Howlette Wilson was the proprietor of the hotel and had large weekly advertisements in the Kington Gazette, ‘One of the oldest family and commercial hotels in Herefordshire, refurnished throughout with a coffee room, private sitting rooms and bedrooms ensuite. With excellent cuisine, billiards, a garage, and stabling for 20 horses, fishing and shooting’. His daughter Violet was one of twelve girls who were the first intake of female students at Lady Hawkins School. He put the Oxford up for sale in 1910. The 1911 Census records for the Oxford Arms Hotel, Mary Amelia Davies aged 41, Hotel Proprietor; Rose Margaret Pudge 38, her sister and manageress; and Edgar Stanley Morris, brother in law, a commercial traveller. At No. 43, were William Davies, 27, Head of household; his wife Elizabeth, 40; married for three years, with two children, one still living: a daughter Joyce; and a boarder William Evans, single, and both men working as carpenters at Kington Foundry. This is the last Census information available publicly at this time. It is possible that a licensee of the name Pennell (previously a groom/ gardener) ran the hotel on Rose’s behalf at some point (and maybe went to America in 1923 to try to raise funds to buy back the Oxford Arms). In 1913, Kathleen Harley organised a rural ‘Friends of Women’s’ Suffrage Pilgrimage tour’ of Herefordshire and representatives came to speak at the Oxford Terrace in Kington on the evening of Tuesday 16th June having given earlier talks in Leominster and around. They spoke with passion and calmness, despite being heckled by ‘youths’, and after over an hour retired somewhat spattered and dishevelled to The Oxford Arms for the night, where Edward Stanley Morris was the landlord (but he went bankrupt shortly after this).
The Landlord in 1926 was listed as W Arnold Daly Briscoe. In 1934 Mrs. M.H. Heath was the new owner; various sources quote, ‘In 1937 the Oxford Arms was largely rebuilt/ repaired with an elaborate 18th century façade, (but this may be a confusion with the refurbishment that Thomas Rogers reported in 1829 in the Hereford Journal). Either Mrs. Heath, or the next owners, Major and Mrs. Locke (1940) had printed a Souvenir Tariff booklet, which describes the Oxford as, ‘established for five hundred years’, endorsed by both the RAC and the AA and being, ‘the place to stay when visiting this delightful little border town, and enjoying the amenities of the old-world Hotel, garden and adjoining paddock. The public rooms - a Dining room, coffee room, bar, smoke room and lounge are spacious and well appointed; there are 17 light and airy bedrooms and private sitting rooms may be enjoyed if required.…farm, garden and dairy produce is obtained from local growers and feeders…. Fully licenced, garage accommodation, for 14 cars.
Hunting, fishing and shooting are promoted, and the hotel car conveys guests to and from the Golf Course. Hereford & Tredegar Ales sold here.’
Mr. and Mrs. A.G. Adamson were the next proprietors, being followed in 1955 by M.R. Elcome who on the 27th July issued a receipt to the Urban District Council for hosting a visit of the Welsh Guards where they enjoyed 60 suppers at 5/- a head, 107 Cheltenham Ales at 10 halfpenny, 14 orange squashes at 6d, and 2 pints of bitter! By 1962, Mrs. E.G. Robinson was the listed proprietoress, and Mr. Robert Hussey recalls that, ‘The gun club met in the cellar, every Monday, in the winter.’ William Powell & Son of Sunset Yard announce, ‘we have had the pleasure of building the dining room and lounge of this hotel’.
Following the huge success of Tubular Bells in 1973, Mike Oldfield moved to Kington, buying a house on Bradnor Hill and reportedly walking barefoot down the hill to The Oxford to sit in the window seat of the lounge/snug, writing music for his next two albums ‘Hergest Ridge’ and ‘Ommadawn’, whilst enjoying a quiet pint. He also frequented The Oak and the Imperial Café amongst others, sometimes arriving in Richard Branson’s open-topped Bentley. Peter Horrocks, local artist and long-time teacher at Lady Hawkins School remembers the first ever Lady Hawkins School staff Christmas ‘do’ at The Oxford, in 1974, where a good time was had by all.
Robert Hussey and Brian Williams both recall Roger Adamson and Don Harvey and their wives running the hotel, in the early 1970’s, who were keen on playing golf. The inaugural Kington Festival was in June 1976 which hosted a whole range of colourful and sometimes risky activities which over years have become part of our Kington traditions, the wheelbarrow race being a key one, in which all the open pubs took part, with racers drinking a pint at each stop.
Mr. C.H. and Mrs. H.E. Hamilton were the owners of The Oxford by 1978. They were less ‘hands-on’ than some owners but encouraged their barmen, Billy Mayglothling and Vernon Walters, to promote events that appealed to a younger audience and the public bar was the busiest young person’s pub in town whilst the Function Room, called the Crown and Cushion, was let for dances, parties, and meetings. Around this time Arthur Hyde arrived in Kington in his van with his dog and guitar, and became a loyal Oxford customer, often entertaining people with his singing.
Rob Hussey recounts that around 1982 Ian Hemsley took over the helm and Jim Dick was landlord/barman. His business partner pulled out and he had to sell the hotel. In 1986 Stella Hunter visited Kington from her London home and fell in love with the Oxford Arms. She bought it initially with Charlie Connell, and her grandson Michael recalls how much she loved cooking in the (back bar) kitchen. She also promoted varied community classes in ‘the hall’ and was granted outline planning permission for 8 apartments in the land behind the Oxford. Michael and family would visit ‘Nan’ in the summer holidays and he remembers climbing with his brother, (about 4-8 years) in bare feet, up onto the top of the main roof! His love of buildings stems from these childhood visits and has led to his professional career as a building surveyor. Early in 1992 Stella decided to return ‘home’ and sold up.
The hotel was bought by Neil Morris; who united the public bar and lounge into one large, light and airy space, and did substantial renovation works including making a large new bar serving all 3 bar areas, new panelling, flooring, mirrors, fluted columns and more. When he re-opened The Oxford in 1995 the hotel offering a range of ensuite bedrooms on the 2nd floor, and an owner’s and residential flat on the 3rd floor. The back room housed the pool table, space invaders etc. His sister, Deborah Mason, hand painted the ‘stained glass’ panels over the bars and doors. The side passage way now opened up to the men’s toilets, becoming known as ‘Scrappers Alley’!
Annie Gamble
Presteigne Community News
The Community News is an information service from the Presteigne Area Community Development Group “Working Together For Our Community”. If you have any questions on what's happening - or not happening - in our community, do let us know and we'll do our best to provide an answer, or at least point you in the right direction - email the Editor if you see or hear of anything that will be of help to other residents, including local area jobs, or if you need assistance in any way, email us and we’ll pass on your message to people who can help: news@pacdg.org Back issues can be found on the town website www.presteigne.org.uk/calendar
Closure of Lloyds Bank in Presteigne. The Town Council has been formally notified by the Bank that the branch will be closing in March 2025. It has been assured that a LINK cashpoint will be in place and the Town Council is stressing the need for this to have 24 hour access and has asked for more information on this and on the proposed location. More information is also being sought on the community banker assistance that is to be provided.
Presteigne Floral Art Society. The next meeting is a demonstration of floral art on Wednesday August 14th at 7.30 in Lingen Village Hall. We welcome the return of demonstrator Arnaud Metairie, now an ‘Old Friend’ of the club, with his title Floral Fantasy. The designs will be raffled at the end of the evening. Light refreshments available. Visitors welcome - £6 on the door. Further details 01544 340453. Flowers for Fun: these informal classes in Whitton Hall will resume in September. Presteigne Screen. The new season of Screen films will start on Friday 6 September. Sign up to the mailing list via this link: http://eepurl.com/iyY_0
Presteigne Medical Centre. Please check out our new, interactive website www.presteignemedicalcentre.wales.nhs.uk/ The new website offers: a self-help hub - a page detailing where patients can self-refer to services such as Physiotherapy, Weight Management, Ear Wax Removal, Silvercloud, Powys Women's Health Service, Podiatry and Sexual Health; the submission of digital administrative requests in a more efficient manner including Fit Notes requests, updating contact details, informing the practice if you are a carer and many more requests that will go straight to the administrative team; the opportunity to request a routine non-urgent appointment online during the hours of 8am-midday every working day to save telephoning the surgery during busier hours.
The Old School (Youth Centre) - kitchen needed! As part of our ongoing programme of improvements to the Old School we really need to upgrade (replace!!) our small and very dated kitchen to better serve the various groups that use our lovely old building. At the moment however we have no spare funds to do this. We are looking for a ‘white knight’ - perhaps a working or retired kitchen fitter, or competent handy man to do the work (is anybody out there taking out a decent kitchen to fit their own dream units?) - or even a local company who would be willing to sponsor and carry out a kitchen refit for us. If you think you can help - or can suggest someone who can - please contact Terry on 07766 097600. Thank you!
The Radnor Arms. We're over the moon to announce that the community are now officially in ownership of The Radnor Arms pub in New Radnor! Now the hard work continues as we work towards reopening the pub. See www.rahl-cbs.org for the latest news and please get in touch if you have any questions.
St. Andrew’s Church - coffee mornings in the Church Hall every 2nd Saturday from 10.30am. (Sept, Oct, Nov and Dec). Also St Andrew's Church Christmas Fair on Friday 29 November. Anyone wishing to have space to sell their crafts to contact - sadvert98t@btinternet.com or 01544 267857.
Presteigne Youth Project Limited (PYP) is looking for someone to join us as the secretary of the organisation, as the current secretary will be taking over as Treasurer. PYP is a limited company and a registered charity. We look after the Old School (Youth Centre) community building in Hereford Street. The role is not onerous as PYP is a small, relatively uncomplicated organisation but will include: organising meetings, preparing agendas, taking minutes, ensuring that all legal requirements are met, for example keeping PYP’s details up to date at Companies House and the Charity Commission, ensuring regular reviews of policies and procedures.
Email presteignedogman@icloud.com
Presteigne Flower Club. Our next demonstration of floral art is on Wednesday 11 September at 7.30pm in Lingen village hall, SY7 0DY, where we meet while our Memorial Hall remains closed. The demonstrator will be Sionedd Hughes, making a welcome return to the club. Her title is Beyond Mere Words. It will show how floral designs are created and they will all be raffled at the end of the evening. Light refreshments available. The October meeting on Wednesday 9th will be a workshop with Sue Hamer to learn about and create designs involving foliage and leaf manipulation. On November 13th we welcome Jane Pugh with her demonstration called A Walk on the Wildside. Visitors and prospective members are always welcome to our meetings. For further information about our programme contact Ann - 01544 340453. Flowers for Fun: The informal flower arranging classes will resume in September in Whitton Community Hall. Phone Ann as above, for dates and more details.
Talk on Presteigne PoW Camp. An illustrated and documented talk by Roger W G Curtis about POW Camp No 48 in the town and the Italians and then Germans who were held and worked from there or its satellite hostels between 1941 and 1947. Some stayed on and married locally. 19 September, 7.30pm at the Day Centre on Scottleton Street, Presteigne, in aid of the Centre and the Home Support service run by local charity East Radnorshire Care. Tickets £10 on sale at the Day Centre; call in Mon – Thurs 10am – 4pm. For additional information phone Roger on 01544 262846.
Norton Community Hub
The new Norton Community Hub is now in full swing and we have two superb events coming up in September. Don't Go Into the Cellar! theatre company bring new adaptations of 19th C literature's greatest ghost and horror stories to modern day audiences. This one-man show, original performance of HG Wells' War of the Worlds on Tuesday 3rd September, 7.30pm, is at Norton Hub, Norton, Presteigne, LD8 2EN. Tickets are £12.50 each, advance bookings only. Tickets can be bought online directly from https://www.trybooking.com/uk/DPAI or you can phone Dave on 07709 603641 for further information and tickets. If you'd like to see more details about this fascinating theatre company, see www.dontgointothecellar.com/ welcome.htm
We're also delighted to welcome to Norton Hub Presteigne's very own Press Gangers: "a lot of shanty, a bit of Irish". A very special fundraising concert in aid of Cancer Research and Norton Community Hub. Saturday 7 September, 7pm, tickets £12, from Press Gangers Tickets, Norton Community Hub | TryBooking United Kingdom Norton Community Hub, Norton, Presteigne, LD8 2EQ. E: nortoncommunitytrust@gmail.com
Norton Community Hub (formerly Church of St Andrew Norton) is now fully operational and available for local community and private hire events. We have a magnificent flexible space with seating for 70, a well-equipped kitchen, an accessible WC/baby change, a separate small meeting room, a PA system and audio induction loop; and we are the most beautiful venue around (probably!) For further information contact Dave our booking secretary on 07780 642496, or book directly at www.nortonhub.uk If you'd like to come and have a look before booking, you'd be very welcome!
A
Brief History of Lyonshall, Almeley and the surrounding area
I’ve said a few times that this area of North West Herefordshire that we live in is heaving with history. Well, the area around Lyonshall, Almeley and its neighbouring villages once again proves the point. There have probably been settlements in and around the area for many thousands of years. Archaeological evidence of arrowheads, stone axes and flint tools have been found locally, and date back to the Neolithic period. The Walton Basin is nearby, and we know that the Romans were in the area as well. A thousand years on, and Offa’s Dyke is built just to the north. After the conquest and the arrival of the Normans in 1066, the fortifications quickly followed and life changed rapidly. As well as Lyonshall Castle, with its own existing moat, there are remains of early Norman Motte and Bailey castles at nearby Staunton on Arrow, Kington, Hergest, Huntington, Eardisley and two in Almeley! If you were a mere villein at the time, it would have been very hard to escape the reaches of your Norman overlords. Both Lyonshall and Almeley are listed in the Domeday Book, Lyonshall under the name of Lennehalle. Almeley was worth 1 pound, 17 shillings and 7 pence in 1086.
Lyonshall castle was held by Roger of Lacey who probably started building it in 1090. Roger was a powerful Marcher Lord who just loved building castles (He also built Ludlow Castle). Today, what’s left of the castle is in ruin and the moat and outer enclosure cover around three acres in total. Almeley is notable as the birthplace of Sir John Oldcastle, probably in 1370. He was a Lollard, and as a friend of Henry V, he long escaped prosecution for heresy. When convicted, he escaped from the Tower of London and then led a rebellion against the King. Eventually, he was captured and executed in London. He formed the basis for William Shakespeare's character John Falstaff, who was originally called John Oldcastle. Close by is Penrhos Court, a manor house dating back to the 13th Century and steeped in history. Originally a large cruck building forming the main hall, it was extensively expanded over the next centuries into the existing collection of buildings. Penrhos Court has a fascinating history and many notable people have stayed there in recent years, including members of Queen, who stayed for a couple of weeks in August 1975 to rehearse their album A Night at the Opera. Robert Plant and Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin also stayed, as did Mike Oldfield of Tubular Bells fame, who apparently could be found sitting by the large inglenook fireplace playing his guitar. This must have been at the time when he was living up at The Beacon on Bradnor Hill where he escaped to write Hergest Ridge. Later, in 1977 Terry Jones of Monty Python set up a microbrewery at Penrhos Court. Jones also had interest in real ale and in 1977 co-founded the Penrhos Brewery, which ran until 1983. The former brewery was turned into a pub by the current owners and is called, rather delightfully, The Python's Arms. Old Peculier can attest to the excellent beers on offer there.
An exciting new enterprise has launched in Knighton: The Consortium is a group of independent businesses, all run by women, based in and around The Narrows. Coordinated by Julia Roberts of the Tower House Gallery, the group aims to revitalise this area of Knighton into a thriving commercial hotspot. The MidBorder News is proud to introduce them to you: read on!
Tower House Gallery
In 2005, we moved to Knighton and bought a gallery and art supplies shop in a late Georgian building right next to the clock tower. I honestly didn’t have a clue, would nip in the back to consult art books and catalogues and gradually brought a lot of our stock round to what had always been my greatest love - textiles.
In 2009, we were asked if we were willing to open as small coffee shop on the premises and the rest is history. We trade as a member of Social Firms Wales and over the last 19 years have been helping to train young people who might find it difficult to find employment, plus quite a few college and high school work-experience students.
Knighton was such a vibrant town when we first arrived and The Narrows, which forms part of the original approach to the castle, was described by one of our customers as, ‘Just like Cornwall but without the sea”. Today, it’s looking a little sad and the area above the start of the Glyndwr Way as lost most of its shops. We hope that our alliance of women business owners will give this iconic street a boost and maybe, one day soon, it will again become the “Clovelly” of The Marches! Open: 10.00am to 5.00pm Weds, Thurs and Fri with occasional textiles and bread-making workshops on Saturdays. www.galleryknighton.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/ towerhousegallery Julia Roberts.
Sandra’s Sewing and Alterations Service
I started Sandra’s Sewing and Alterations Service in 2014, after a long career as a theatre nurse. I’ve been sewing since the age of five and it has always been my passion to make quality clothes that fit well and can be altered or repaired. I had no previous retail experience, so opening the shop was a completely new (and a sometimes daunting) experience for me. However, over time, the shop has evolved as I found suppliers, listened to customers’ needs and built on years of sewing experience. In the ten years since first opening the doors for business, Sandra’s Sewing has become something I am exceptionally proud of. I am passionate about providing quality fabrics for dressmaking/ quilting and crafts. I also run a repairs and alterations service, which, with the cost of living crisis, has been utilised more and more by members of the community. For me it’s a joy to share my skills with others and being able to show people how clothes can be altered to fit, or repaired instead of thrown out. As work has increased, I was joined by Karen three days a week and the shop has gone from strength to strength. It’s always busy, with lots to do. Most importantly though there is fun and laughter. Open Tuesday to Friday 95.30 and Saturday 10-5pm. We run a website www.sandrassewingknighton.com and try to maintain a social media presence on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok, time allowing. See Business Directory for more details. Sandra Matthews.
W E Price & Son
My grandparents started the business in 1930 in a shed down the Cwm, my Dad then joined the business and when my brother and I were old enough we joined the business. Due to the passing of my parents it fell to Raymond and I to carry on; Raymond has retired so I’m now the sole trader of the business. A little about what we sell: ladies’ fashions, baby clothes, haberdashery, fabrics, wools, bedding. In a separate premises over the road we have toys, games, cards and gifts.
I was born at " The Walkmill " Cascob in 1968, a property that my parents renovated and began their journey with "Walkmill Antiques." We moved to 7 High Street Knighton in 1979 where my parents had their final shop. Our story begins in 2017 following the sad passing of my Dad. Upon my return to our family home the desire to recreate " Walkmill" began. This is when " Walkmill @ no. 7" was created, born from a deep rooted passion from my involvement within their business. We now stock an eclectic mix of vintage collectables, vinyls, ceramics, modern gifts, greetings cards and much, much more. We are really enjoying our journey following in my parents’ footsteps. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am - 4pm. T: 07989 284464. Helen Coxill.
Serenity Muay-Thai and Yoga
Serenity was born out of my love of a healthy life whilst being inclusive to all. I designed a well-being space to welcome all demographics of the community, from baby yoga to chair yoga and all in between. We have a play room, a sensory/ soft play room and a ’tree-house’ to enable parents to come to exercise without having to find child care and to encourage families to exercise and learn new skills together. I love holding retreat evenings on Friday nights. I also offer various mixtures of sound therapy, massage, reiki and yoga wrapped up with cacao ceremonies and time to relax in a welcoming and safe environment. Yoga Nidra (conscious sleep) evenings are also proving popular. I have a particular interest in helping those with chronic fatigue or pain, and having fibromyalgia myself, know the benefits of yoga, breath-work and meditation first hand. However, I also hold a hen night style dance
fitness class, so there is literally something for everyone!
My husband has fought in televised events and is a superb Muay Thai fighter who teaches this Asian style boxing class on Saturdays. Again, all are welcome. And if none of this excites you, then just have a look at the variety of leisure wear and gifts I stock. I have natural cork and rubber yoga mats/blockslooking after our planet being a huge concern. I am one of many independent, specialists and unique shops that bring Knighton High Street and The Narrows to life. You will not find this unique blend of independent, friendly and vividly creative women in any other street, so why not come and take a look for yourself? We welcome you!
Monday: 11am – 12pm, Chair Yoga. 5pm - 5:30pm, Restore the Core: reduce and heal pelvic floor damage and the effects of diastasis recti (separated abs). 6pm – 6.45pm, Dance Fit. Tuesday: 1pm – 2.15pm Fit Flow. 8pm - 8:45pm, Beginners Muay Thai.
Wednesday: 10am – 11am, Baby and Mama Yoga. 1pm2:30pm, Hatha with a twist of Yin. 8.30pm – 10pm, Rehabilitate, Restore and Relax.
Thursday: 7.20 – 7.50pm, Core Play / Headstand/crow challenge: a rotating class to build strength and hard core ab and pelvic floor. 8pm – 9.30pm, Yin Yoga.
Friday: various retreat evenings with different therapists and themes. See Facebook for details.
Saturday: 10am – 11.30am, Muay Thai Boxing.
I am a qualified school teacher with QTS status, 200 YTT trained yoga teacher with additional specialist training in yin yoga and Chinese medicine, Neurolinguistic programming, Breathwork, prenatal and baby yoga and nutrition.
E: Serena121@hotmail.com T: 07754604373. Serenity Muay Thai and yoga is always open, just ring the bell if the sign says ‘open’ as I may just be upstairs as I also live here! Serena Taylor.
Knighton News
By our Knighton Correspondent Lisa James
Knighton Town Council
At the Annual Council Meeting in May, Councillors David Williams and Holly Adams-Evans stood down as Mayor and Deputy Mayor. They were replaced by Councillors Chris Branford as Mayor and Ben Butler as Deputy Mayor. Councillor Andrew Craggs has settled in well since being co-opted to fill the vacant South East Ward seat. He was welcomed onto the Council at the monthly Full Council Meeting held on 17 April 2024, when he hit the ground running by becoming quickly involved in a number of initiatives to serve the town. An election has been called to fill the vacant seat in the West Ward; at the time of going to press, no candidates have presented themselves. The Council is in the process of recruiting a new Town Clerk; the position has remained unfilled since the end of June this year. The Council has agreed to extend the contract of its cleaner. Knighton Town Council meets as Full Council once a month, on the 3rd Wednesday of the month at the Civic Centre. All meetings start at 7pm and are open to the public. Autumn 2024 meeting dates are Wednesday 18 September, Wednesday 16 October and Wednesday 20 November. Check the Knighton Town Council websites for updates.
Knighton Town Council, The Civic Centre, West Street, Knighton LD7 1EN. E:KnightonTownCouncil@outlook.com T: 01547 529660
Community Banking for Knighton Available Fridays 12.30pm - 3pm in the foyer of the Civic Centre. With the summer holidays over and the Christmas holidays fast approaching, it could be time to get budgeting. Local volunteers with Smart Money Cymru Community Bank will be at the Civic Centre from 12.30pm to 3pm every Friday throughout Autumn. Get advice, open a new savings, current or loan account or manage an existing account. Community groups and charities are welcome. Smart Money Cymru Community Bank is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) to operate as a Financial Organisation and its actions are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the PRA to ensure it meets legal requirements as a financial organisation Smart Money Cymru’s registration status can be checked using the Firm Reference Number (FRN) 213370 and Mutual Society number 163c.
from the drovers to the flannel weavers, from trade to agriculture. Many of the exhibits can be handled by visitors and this interactive element makes the whole experience thought- provoking for children and memory- provoking for adults. You can chat with a resident weaver, role-play teacher or pupil, wonder at the sheer weight of an early mobile phone, spend some time reading some vintage editions of Beano or Punch, or simply go back in time with the smell of carbolic soap.
MidBorder News has enjoyed all of these past-times at the Knighton Museum and recently caught up with long-serving museum volunteer and curator Julia Llewellyn-Roberts. Julia updated us on changes to the museum’s Board of TrusteesChris Franklin has replaced Norman Thorp as Chairman and Jennifer Clifton has been appointed a Trustee and Secretary. Julia also shared that the museum roof is undergoing repairs and so opening times this year are very much at the mercy of the weather and the ongoing works. Throughout Autumn and Winter, the volunteers will be working hard behind the scenes, including moving existing exhibits to storage and cataloguing new donations. There are talks about Knighton Museum and Offa’s Dyke Association collaborating on presentations and other plans to raise the profile of the museum and the history of Knighton.
E: info@knightonmuseum.org T: 01547 529530
W: www.knightonmuseum.org
Offa’s Dyke Centre is a short walk out of the town centre and is a great place for walkers to pick up Offa’s Dyke path. Like the museum, the Offa’s Dyke Centre relies on donations and the passion and energy of volunteers to be open during the spring and summer months. In Spring 2024 the Offa’s Dyke Centre opened weekly from Friday to Sunday, with the opening hours increasing to Friday to Monday for the duration of the school summer holidays. The Town Council has recently agreed to open the Powys County Council refurbished public toilets adjacent to the centre and this should provide a valuable ‘relief’ for local and visiting walkers alike after a few years of closure. During the autumn and winter months the demand and donations from walkers drop significantly and overheads increase, so the Centre is closed to the public. The good news is that this drop in footfall gives our beloved dyke a chance to recover before the next year’s trampling begins. The Centre itself is still available to be booked privately as a venue for meetings, presentations, exhibitions or events.
Knighton Festival of Books, Art and Music Friday 11 - Sunday 13 October. Now in its 7th year, the 2024 Knighton Festival of Books, Art and Music returns to Knighton on Friday 11 October with an afternoon of poetry and music during the day and a film in the evening. Over the weekend there will be authors’ talks and readings, an art and book fair (Saturday), a writing workshop (Saturday), live music, organised rambles, a town history walk and a cycle ride. The Festival finishes on Sunday 13 October with a production by the Willow Globe Theatre group of Twelfth Night. This little festival packs so much in, all curated and executed by volunteers on a budget. It is a tiny jewel in Knighton’s crown with the programme growing more impressive each year - bravo! The festival is based at the Knighton Community Centre which has ample car parking space and its own cafe and licensed bar. Leaflets can be found around town and keep an eye online for any changes to the programme.
Local History Focus on The Knighton Museum and The Offa’s Dyke Centre
The Knighton Museum stands proudly in the centre of town, not far from the iconic historic Clock Tower. The Knighton Museum reflects the social history of Knighton and the surrounding area and is run entirely by volunteers. Most exhibits have been either donated or lent by local people: personal memories of the history of this border town handed down
David McGlade and his team at the Centre work hard to support the aim of the Offa’s Dyke Association, (“To promote the conservation, improvement and better knowledge of the Welsh Border region along the Offa's Dyke Path.”) by providing a top notch heritage centre dedicated to enhancing public understanding and enjoyment of Offa’s Dyke. The pleasant, airy building is a nice place to learn, either from the interactive exhibitions, leaflets, the growing library of reference books and original source material or the knowledgeable staff and volunteers. Outside of the management and promotion of the Centre, David and the Offa’s Dyke Association are also responsible for the conservation of the dyke itself, a scheduled monument with unique challenges, which we hope to cover in the winter edition of MidBorder News.
Information Officer, Offa’s Dyke Association, West Street, Knighton, Powys. LD7 1EN. E: oda@offasdyke.org.uk T: 01547 528753
Spotted
The signs are there … Knighton and District Tourism Group have popped these temporary updates on the notice boards at visitor entry points to the town. Good news for visitors. See also the stunning planters flanking the new bus shelter at Bowling Green Lane.
New Rural Advice Van in Powys
Age Cymru Powys is revving up to empower rural communities with the launch of an innovative mobile advice service: The Powys Rural Advice Van is packed with expert guidance for people aged 65 and over. Transformed into a mobile office, the van will be crisscrossing Powys, offering free, confidential advice on everything from tackling the Cost-of-Living Crisis to loneliness to navigating social care options. Living in rural Powys offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere, but accessing essential services can be challenging for many older residents, particularly those living with disabilities or mobility issues, due to the long journeys and limited transport. The Powys Rural Advice Van offers a solution: face-to-face support from friendly, trained experts in your local area. Age Cymru Powys has listened to older people in the rural community to identify their needs. Many older people are missing out on money that is rightfully theirs. Every year, it's estimated that more than £200m worth of Pension Credit and other state benefits goes unclaimed by older people in Wales. Even if you own your home, have savings, or are claiming benefits, you may still qualify for additional financial support and entitlements. Many services have moved online, but if you are unfamiliar with the internet, this can also leave you cut off from help. The Rural Advice Van delivers a one-stop advice shop in your local community, including a free, confidential check to ensure you’re receiving all of the money and support that you are entitled to. The Advice Van is kindly funded by Independent Age to enable Age Cymru Powys to meet the rising demand from local older people impacted by the increased costs of living. Look out for the Rural Advice Van in your community or call Age Cymru Powys to see when they’re next in your area. Why not drop in for a chat and see how they can help you?
Age Cymru Powys, Old Warehouse, Parkers Lane, Newtown, Powys SY16 2LT. Call: 01686 623707; Email: enquiries@acpowys.org.uk Website: www.agecymru.org.uk/powys
Herefordshire Green Network
We are a not for profit organisation that brings together local groups and individuals who are committed to a thriving Herefordshire and are working together to address the climate and ecological crises. HGN supports local projects, hosts regular events, provides free training and resources for our members, and lobbies for change. Members and supporters receive our weekly newsletter which has a readership of 1000+ people and reaches many more people across the county via our member organisations. The newsletter is full of information about local events, articles of interest and calls to action. Member organisations find it a vital resource for promoting their activities to like-minded people.
The need to connect, share resources and help each other is more important than ever and we are dedicated to supporting communities via our growing membership and through new initiatives such as Building Sense, Great Collaboration Herefordshire and the Great Collaboration Toolkit. Great Collaboration Herefordshire brings together communities on their path to a low carbon and sustainable future. Building Senseis an initiative from HGN to bring together people, information and professional expertise to help with the challenge of making homes (and workplaces) comfortable year- round in the face of high heating bills and the need to cut carbon emissions. The HGN website has a library of recordings of past webinars from both these projects, as well as from our Gatherings on a wide range of topics, available for anyone to access.
With our strong, active base of public support and our history of positive engagement with local agencies, local government and local businesses, HGN is uniquely well- placed to encourage and support long-term sustainable change across Herefordshire. If you would like to join HGN and become part of the change, please visit the membership page of our website. https://hgnetwork.org/membership/
It’s Time for h.Art!
Herefordshire Art Week, Saturday 7 to Sunday 15 September, is a nine day art trail open to all. Artists, craftmakers and creative businesses open their private studios every day from 11am - 5pm at least. Galleries put on special events, whilst groups get together to put on one-off exhibitions, in a wonderful mix of interesting venues. Many artists only open their work spaces once a year, giving you a rare insight into their creative lives and their individual practice. You can chat, just browse, buy, or commission direct. Guides are available to pick up around the County; you will find them in libraries, Tourist Info Centres and many local shops, cafes and businesses, as well as h.Art venues who are open regularly. If you are out of county you can pick them up within a 50 mile radius of Herefordshire at libraries, Tourist Info Centres, main tourist attractions. Contact h.Art for a full list of pick up points outside the County or request a paid postage guide via our website.
Since 2002 our county wide art trail has taken place, always starting on the first Saturday in September. h.Art has become part of Herefordshire's rich cultural calendar, with a huge variety of art and art forms on show in Open Studios, Group Exhibitions and Gallery Events. With the vast majority offering FREE admission to visitors, h.Art promises a fun day out in one of England's most beautiful counties. Meet hundreds of individual artists, see an array of artwork across the county in the city and countryside, in humble and fabulous locations from sheds to manor houses. All the elements combine to attract people who want a high quality, memorable experience. Our website promotes participating artists all year round, so keep up to date with your favourites. Home | Herefordshire Art Week (h-art.org.uk)
With a different group bringing fresh stock in, every week, it is one of the most interesting shops anywhere! You never know what you will find in there. It is a wonder of re-use and a brilliant example of the “local multiplier” effect; keeping more of our money in the community with 50 local organisations raising a grand total of over £60,000 each year. Our Committee rents the whole shop on behalf of all the groups who use it. We pay the bills including insurance, cleaning and PAT testing, keep accounts & take care of maintenance. Each organisation pays a share of these costs (currently £130) and will normally “keep their week” in a rolling calendar. Please get in touch if your group is within a 10 mile radius of Kington and would like to be added to a small waiting list who will be offered any vacancies as they arise. E: kingtoncommunityshop@outlook.com
4 Sept Kington Medical Practice Patient Participation Group (PPG)
11 Sept Kington First Responders
18 Sept Radnor Valley Young Farmers
25 Sept Kington Show
2 Oct Titley Village Hall
9 Oct Eardisley Primary School
16 Oct Early Music in the Marches
23 Oct Kington Choral Society
30 Oct Kington Local Environment & Energy Network (KLEEN)
6 Nov Radnor Valley Recreation & Amenity Association (Hub)
13 Nov Pembridge Primary School
20 Nov Friends of St.Mary's Church, Kington
27 Nov St Mary's Church, Newchurch
Dance your Way to Inner Peace!
Join us for a super fun and creative dance session of Groove with Elly, simple dance steps that you dance in your own way, you can’t get it wrong! Followed by a deeply relaxing Soundbath with Lynney: lie back and let the sounds wash over you. 14 September, 2pm at Lyonshall Memorial Hall. £22, booking essential from www.sacredsoundandyoga.co.uk
Business Directory
KNIGHTON
JM Bespoke Stonework. Artisan interior and exterior stonework specialists. All aspects of stonework from drystone, limework to bespoke features. T: 07968 216261
Mark Arbon Sustainable Building. We build everything from large multi-room extensions to modest garden rooms. With a full design and build service, including planning applications, we use 3D drawing to allow virtual walkthroughs. All built with natural, sustainable materials and super insulated. W: www.markarbon.co.uk
Rotary Club of Knighton and District. We are a small but active Rotary Club of around 30 members. We share fun and friendship while supporting our local community in many ways. We meet regularly and also organise social and fundraising events to help those who need it. T: Cathy Jones 07813 733240 E: knightonrotary@outlook.com W: www.knighton.rotary1150.org
Pentre Farm. Offering private family interaction sessions, children's parties, playgroups, school/care home visits, pop up farm, Forest School, camping, private hire. T: 07969 240470 E: Sam@pentrefarm.co.uk W: www.bookwhen.com/pentre
Sandra’s Sewing & Alterations. Quality fabrics for dressmaking/ quilting and crafts, repairs and alterations W: www.sandras-sewingknighton.com Instagram, Facebook and TikTok, time allowing. open Tuesday to Friday 9am - 5.30pm and Saturday 10am - 5pm.
Serenity Muay-Thai and Yoga. Variety of yoga classes, play spaces, sound therapy, massage, reiki, cacao ceremonies, TCM, breathwork, NLP, Yoga Nidra, Muay Thai boxing, leisure wear and gifts. Get in touch to ask about all our classes: E: Serena121@hotmail.com T: 07754 604373.
Tower House Gallery & Café. Open 10.00am to 5.00pm Weds, Thurs and Fri with occasional textiles and breadmaking workshops on Saturdays. www.galleryknighton.co.uk https:// www.facebook.com/towerhousegallery
Walkmill @ no. 7. We stock an eclectic mix of vintage collectables, vinyls, ceramics, modern gifts, greetings cards and much more. Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am - 4pm. T: 07989 284464. 7 High Street, Knighton, Powys LD7 1AT.
PRESTEIGNE
Chilvers Country Store. For all your livestock, equine, pet, gardening and country life needs, including clothing and machinery. Find us on the Presteigne bypass next to the Radnorshire Arms car park. T: Andy 07791 096941 E: andychilvers@outlook.com
NEW RADNOR
Esco. We are a small independent village shop that has been going for 10 years. We have fresh stock daily includ-
ing fresh vegetables, fruit, milk and bread. We have fresh meat, cooked meats, pies, fish and cheeses weekly. As well as groceries, wood and coal. We try our best to get what is requested. Open Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 8 to 1 then 3 to 5.30 Weds; Sat 8 to 1. We are passionate about supporting local suppliers and maintaining a community. The Old Town Hall, Broad Street, New Radnor. T: 01544 350619
Girlguiding Radnorshire Division. Based in Radnorshire, Mid Wales. Part of Girlguiding, we have Rainbows (5-7 years), Brownies (7-10 years), Guides (10-14 years) & Rangers (14-18 years) across the Division area. W: www.facebook.com/girlguidingradnorshire
Hay Meadow Burial Ground. Award winning burial ground. Beautiful site with wildflowers, trees, peacefully grazing sheep, sensitive and personal service. Busnant Farm, Glascwm, Powys LD1 5SE. T: 01982 570701. E: info@haymeadowburialground.co.uk W: www.haymeadowburialground.co.uk
The Hub in New Radnor. Coffee mornings every Thursday 10am-12pm; Friday Bar and Food 6.30pm-11pm. The Hub can be hired for meetings, rehearsals (grand piano available), private parties (including bar if needed) and events. School Lane, New Radnor, LD8 2SS. E: thehubnewradnor@gmail.com or Ruth Watson T: 01544 350559
M&S Pizzas. Made to order in a woodfired pizza oven in New Radnor. Available for parties and functions. Call 07485 013110 or Esco’s 01544 350619. Facebook: M&S Wood Fired Pizza.
KINGTON
Border Bean. Independent coffee shop established in 2013. Speciality coffee, tea, hot chocolate and cold drinks. A variety of delicious homemade cakes and healthy snacks. A warm welcome and comfortable surroundings await! “A real social hub of Kington." T: 01544 231625. 22-24 High Street, Kington, HR5 3AX. Current opening: Mon-Tues: 9.30am to 3pm, Weds-Sat: 9.30am to 4pm.
BRP Architecture Ltd. We work on a range of projects including traditional & contemporary designs, historic buildings, barn conversions, renovations, extensions & new builds. Contact us for a FREE initial consultation. Services include: Planning & Listed Building applications; Building Regulations; construction drawings & specifications; 3D visualisation T: 01544 230471 E: brparchitecture@gmail.com W: www.brparchitectureltd.com
Collaborative Crafts. Showcasing a wide range of art & craft to suit every pocket. 41 High Street, Kington HR5 3BJ. Offering shelf space to local artists and makers. Contact Anna King 07977 978676 or E: anna@akcrafts.co.uk
Hergest Croft Gardens. From 29 March to 31 Oct open daily11am to 4.30pm. FFI: www.hergest.co.uk
KBS. Kington Building Supplies. Kitchens, bathrooms, plumbing, electrical, paint, power tools, paving, workwear etc. T: 01544 230081 Also Rhayader Building Supplies 01597 810828. Sunset Yard, Kington HR5 3SF. W: www.kingtonbuildingsupplies.co.uk
Kington Car Club. Be part of the solution! Reserved parking at Love Lane, charging point at Mill Street, membership includes tax, insurance, recovery, maintenance & repairs. E: kingtonkleen@gmail.com
Kington Chiropractic. If you suffer pains, strains, cramps, musculoskeletal injuries, joint or muscle pain, headaches etc. try chiropractic for personalised treatment. Room 3, Old Police Station, Kington HR5 3DP. Barry Williams T: 07526 363338 E: kingtonchiropractic@gmail.com
Kington Community Shop. Available for non profit and community organisations to raise funds. E: kingtoncommunityshop@outlook.com
Kington Folk Club. At Kington Football Club on the last Thursday of the month. 7.30pm for 8pm start. E: kingtonfolkclub@gmail.com
Kington Golf Club. Membership available from £250. Visitors and societies always welcome. T: 01544 230340 ext 1. E: pro@kingtongolfclub.co.uk W: www.kingtongolf.co.uk
KLEEN. Kington Local Environment & Energy Network. Focused on environmental issues, energy saving and generation. Not for profit organisation. To find out more or to join us. E: kingtonkleen@gmail.com W: www.kingtonkleen.org.uk
Maples Tea Rooms. Open From Tuesday, 5 November 10.30 to 3.30, then every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday the same until March. Last orders 3pm. Some Sundays will be pre-booked roasts. E: maplestearoom@hergest.co.uk T: 07970 595420. Breakfast, light lunches, cakes and drinks. Please phone Mell on 07970 595 420 for further information or bookings in the tearoom.
Marches Counselling Service. Established and respected professional service offering adult counselling in Hereford. We are experienced in helping people with a wide range of problems and provide different forms of therapy to match people’s needs. Fees based on what you can realistically afford. T: 01432 279906. W: www.marchescounselling.org
Number 25 Delicatessen. A family run deli with a fine selection of cheeses, charcuterie, chocolate, wines, spirits, hampers, gift vouchers as well as everyday pantry staples. We currently offer an order and collect service. 25 High Street, Kington. T: 01544 230330. E: number25deli@gmail.com. W: Number25deli.co.uk
Old Shop Framing. The Old Shoe Shop, 43 High Street, Kington HR5 3BJ. E: Info@oldshopframing.co.uk T: 07547 025337
Planet B. For all your eco home & body care goods. Kington’s one-stop shop for home and body care refills, soaps, shampoo, facial and dental care, menstrual products, brooms, brushes, scrubbers & scourers and refills. 47 High St., Kington, HR5 3BJ. Open 9.15am to 4pm, Friday & Saturday. E: planetbkington@gmail.com W: www.planetbkington.co.uk
Psychotherapist & Counsellor. Professional, experienced ,UKCP accredited. Kington based. Face-to-face sessions for individual adults over 18. No couples work. Regain control of your life, restore meaning to your existence and relief from anxiety, sleeplessness and troubled relationships. Penny Cole 07776 146427. W: http://www.pennycolecounselling.co.uk
Small Breeds Farm Park. We have 20 plus types of animals, plus a Tea Room and Gift Shop, a great place for all
ages. Open all year round from 10.30am - 5pm. Kington, Hereford, Herefordshire HR5 3HF. T: 01544 231 109. E: info@owlcentre.com W: www.owlcentre.com
Timbers Building Company. Restoration, Building, Roofing. Call us now for your quotation. T: 07931 482931 W: www.timbersbuilding.com
J & P Turner. For all your gardening and animal feed requirements visit, phone or check us out online. Delivery service available. Arrow Mills, Kington, Herefordshire HR5 3DU. T: 01544 230 536 W: www.arrowmills.co.uk
Walking Hub, The. For all your walking needs: clothing, boots, maps, socks and so much more. Nordic Walking classes by qualified instructor, lovely B&B dating from 1700s. Visit our lovely new shop at 20 High Street, Kington HR5 3AX. Please check website for opening hours. T: 07756 172160. E: thewalkinghub@gmail.com W: www.kingtonwalkinghub.com
HAY ON WYE
North Books. Selling shiny new books, cards, candles and ceramics. Also reading groups, author events. 4 Castle Street, Hay on Wye HR3 5DF. Open Mon, Weds-Sat 10am-4.30pm; Sun 11am-3pm.T: 07866 170360. W: www.northbooks.co.uk
LEOMINSTER
Apple Mac Computer repairs, upgrades and tuition
Any Apple computers. On site service only. Any distance. Call or Email Lee on 07875 267790
E: mail@applemacmechanic.co.uk
HEREFORD
Herefordshire Green Network. HGN is an alliance of local green, environmental and Transition Town groups, organisations and businesses. We are a hub for resource and sharing; we host events (called our Gatherings) and workshops on subjects such as: local transport, community hubs, food poverty, retrofitting energy efficiency measures, community engagement techniques. E: admin@hgnetwork.org W: www.hgnetwork.org
Herefordshire Rural Hub. Helping rural businesses thrive. Sign up for the monthly newsletter, full of useful information on farming, support, rules & regs, payment schemes, advice, employment, training and much more. W: www.herefordshireruralhub.co.uk
Signworx. Signage, Vehicle Livery, Banners, Window Graphics, Fascias, Digital & Litho Print, Design Services. Lugg View Ind Est, Moreton on Lugg HR4 8DP. 01432 760700. E: sales@signworxhereford.co.uk
BUCKNELL
Hazel Grove Health Osteopath, Acupuncturist and KLaser practitioner, practicing for over 35 years. Effective treatment for conditions such as back and neck pain, headaches, migraines, shoulder problems, hip and knee arthritis, joint pains, muscle spasms, plantar fasciitis, fibromyalgia and more. Jane Morris D.O. Dip Ac, MSc Acu, MBAcC, Hazel Grove Health, Hazel Grove, Bucknell, Shropshire SY70AA. T: 07843 986686. W: www.HazelGroveHealth.co.uk
