MidBorder News Summer 2024

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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: Bronnie & Ruby at the gate to Olchon valley. Editor.

Funny bits: Blogswallop

Editorial

Weren’t the Northern Lights spectacular?! It was amazing to see them this far south and there were lots of great photos on the local social media pages. Well, summer is finally here and our local garden venues are bursting at the seams with colour, shape, texture, scent, wildlife and general gorgeousness. Visit Hergest Croft, Brobury House and Rhos Farm to name but three. Watch out for the Presteigne Carnival, Kington Wheelbarrow Race, Shobdon AirFest, Presteigne Festival, “Strong to Save” RNLI fundraiser and singalong and an amazing exhibition at Leominster Priory: Threads through Creation, organised by Priory Arts and offering music, folklore and activities in June and July. Those amazing people at Knighton Community Centre have loads of classes, activities, support groups, family stuff, exercise, dance and a cracking good market too. Enjoy your browse through the magazine and remember, if you don’t tell us about your news, we can’t spread the word and tell everyone else! Have a great summer.

All the best,

Annie Vickerstaff,

editor

Exhibition: Celebrating Antonia

Antonia Spowers was born in Knaresborough in Yorkshire in 1934, made Wales her home in 1996 and was dedicated to the Welsh art community until she died in 2020. In 1950 she learned to paint in Paris with Andre Lhote and Souverbie and from 1951 to sculpt in Florence with Giunio Gatti. From 1979 - 1982 she added jewellery to her skills, followed by a Welding for Artists course at Westminster College in London in 1996. She was an Associate Member of the Royal Society of British Sculptors and a member of the Welsh Group, the 56 Group, Sculpture Cymru, Paperweight and Sculpture-Network. In 1996 she moved to Wales as she yearned to live with greater connection to the natural world. She lived on the edge of the Black Mountains in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. Her studio was high above the beautiful midWales market town of Talgarth and she created a wonderful garden there. She then moved to Presteigne and designed a studio into the house which she built.

Antonia received a Certificate for Outstanding Contribution to Clwydian Range Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (1997), a career development grant from The Arts Council of Wales to attend The Language of Water Conference in Bath (2001), a bursary to develop new work from The Arts Council of Wales (2001) and was lead artist at The Standing Stones of Cwmbran (2007). Her work is held in homes and galleries across the world, from the UK to the International Sculpture Park in Lithuania, to Korea and Australia. She enjoyed commissions, residencies in Britain and Europe and exhibitions across a career spanning over 70 years. The residencies combined work with schools, local communities and environmental trust volunteers as a result of her deep love for the environment and community. She exhibited all over the UK but her favourite galleries were run by friends in Brecon, Machynlleth, Hay-on-Wye and Caersws.

Exhibitions were held in Brecknock Museum, Brecon; The Found Gallery, Brecon; The Brick Lane Gallery; Llantarnam Arts Centre; The London Art Fair; Mid Wales Arts Centre; The National Botanic Garden of Wales; Newport Museum and Gallery; The Pump House Gallery; Battersea Power Station; The Red House Museum, Christchurch; Somerset House; St Michael’s, Discoed; The Museum of Modern Art, Wales; The Tabernacle Gallery and The Washington Gallery; she was also represented by jaggedart, London and the Cass Foundation, Goodwood. Antonia worked mainly in wood, glass, acrylic, metal and paper; other materials included pencil shavings, rubber, perspex, bronze, copper, brass and cord. She was particularly interested in the physical properties of materials, either singly or in combination, and their ability to express ideas. For some time water was a major theme and she experimented with paper and glass to illustrate it. Latterly her work explored themes of disconnection, displacement and erosion.

Passionate about the environment, much of her inspiration came from the Welsh countryside. Her work has an environmental and sustainable emphasis with particular focus on solar power for self-circulating water sculptures and recycled, reusable materials combined with new technologies. She left behind a huge range of sculptures, from table-top pieces to large outdoor installations, and a fantastic collection of drawings and paintings, all of which are being sold at the exhibition, to support young Welsh artists.

Selling Exhibition: Sunday 30 June, 11am to 6pm, The Hymns Farm, Walton, Powys, LD8 2RA, Wales. Works include sculptures, drawings and paintings by Antonia, in the largest ever collection of her work held in one place. Entry: Free. Refreshments, tea, coffee, cakes etc will be available for purchase.

An online catalogue is being produced and will be available soon. Please contact Radnorshire Artists or check the website. E: radnorshireartists@gmail.com www.radnorshireartists.com/exhibitions

Trotting Races

We are a grassroots organisation entirely composed of amateurs, putting on great racing. A typical race meeting will have a bar, bookmakers and a burger van, and there will often be a bouncy castle too. Here’s the fixture list for Wales and Border Counties Racing Association.

18th May WBHR - Amman Valley SA18 1UT

27th May Synod Inn - Synod Inn SA44 4XD

1st June WBHR - Presteigne LD8 2HG

8th June WBHR - Amman Valley SA18 1UT

15th June Knighton - Llangunllo LD7 1SL

22nd June Presteigne - Presteigne LD8 2HG

29th June WBHR - New Radnor LD8 2TN

13th July WBHR - Amman Valley SA18 1UT

20th July WBHR - Ludlow SY8 3HE

27th July Penybont - Penybont LD1 5SW

3rd August Talsarn - Talsarn SA48 8QB

10th August Newbridge - Cilmery LD2 3LG

17th August WBHR - Cilmery LD2 3LG

24th August Llandrindod Wells - Penybont LD1 5SW

30th August WBHR - New Radnor LD8 2TN

7th September WBHR - Almeley HR3 6LD

14th September Beulah Show LD5 4UB

21st September Charity -Almeley HR3 6LD

Please check the website (http://www.welsh-trotting.co.uk) or our Facebook pages (Wales and border counties harness racing ltd / fans of Welsh trotting) before setting off as fixtures may change, especially if weather is wet.

Applewood Permaculture Centre Courses

Mothers as Natural Leaders, 7 – 9 June. Facilitators: Looby Macnamara & Emma Gorbutt. The course guides women through a nourishing reflective process. We explore what leadership means to us as mothers; leadership of ourselves, our families, in our community and in the wider world.

Peace Course: Peace Empowerment and Cultural Emergence, 18 – 23 June. Facilitators: Looby Macnamara & Leona Johnson. This module of the Cultural Emergence toolkit gives us the opportunity to deeply connect with ourselves, each other and the more than human world. It is an experiential journey to finding peace and empowerment within ourselves.

Introduction to Permaculture, 29 – 30 June. Facilitator: Chris Evans. This introduction to Permaculture weekend will give you a taste of permaculture: what it is, why it’s essential to create an abundant world, and how to get started on what can be a life-long journey to participating in the great turning!

Budding and Summer Pruning Workshop, 6th July. Facilitator: Chris Evans. Interested to learn about fruit tree budding? Didn’t know you could prune in the Summer? Come to a Budding & Summer Pruning Workshop with Chris Evans. You will learn about budding and Summer pruning and take home a tree you’ve budded yourself.

Practical Permaculture Volunteer Week, 23 – 28 July. Facilitator: Chris Evans & Looby Macnamara. Join us for our annual volunteer week, getting jobs done, creating community and then gathering round the fire in the evening.

Forest Gardening Course, 7 – 8 September. Facilitator: Chris Evans. This 2-day introduction to the concept and techniques of forest gardening involves theory and practice from visioning to harvesting.

All events held at Applewood Permaculture Centre, North Herefordshire UK See website for further information https://applewoodcourses.com/

Kington Vintage Rally

Kington Vintage Club presents the 29th Kington Vintage Show, Kington Recreation Ground, Kington, HR5 3AL Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 August 2024

This annual two day show at the recreation ground in Kington includes all sorts of classic and vintage vehicles and machines with a grand parade through Kington High Street on Sunday morning. A fantastic family day out!

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

Liminal Space Workshop on Thursday 13 June 2.30 - 5pm. In this workshop we'll be exploring Lasting Power of Attorney, Advance Directives and Advance Statements. These documents enable us to reflect upon and then record our wishes for any future care and treatment. Generally they are only used if, at any point, we lack the capacity to communicate for ourselves. It also provides a great opportunity to gain clarity on our values and preferences regarding our wellbeing and can build confidence in starting conversations about end of life issues with our family and friends. Old School Room, Hereford Street, Presteigne. Liminalspace20@gmail.com

Grand Summer Sale! Saturday 15 June, 10am-2pm, Presteigne Assembly Rooms. We’re back! Fabulous clothes, vintage, collectables, books & jumble; tea, coffee & cake at our pop-up cafe. Come and browse, bag yourself a gorgeous bargain, and meet up with friends over coffee and delicious homemade cake. Entry £1 in aid of St Michael’s Hospice and Knighton & District Refugee Support. More info: Kate Bull 01544 370637 or Sabina Rüber 01544 262864.

Presteigne Flower Club Our next demonstration of floral art is on Wednesday 10 July, 7.30pm in Lingen village hall, SY7 0DY, where we meet while our Memorial Hall remains closed. The demonstrator will be Andrew Lloyd, making a welcome return to the club. His title is Mid-summer Madness. It will be a show of how floral designs are created and they will all be raffled at the end of the evening. Light refreshments available. On 14 August our demonstrator will be Arnaud Metairie with ‘Floral Fantasy’. Visitors and prospective members are always welcome. For further information about our programme contact Ann - 01544 340453.

Flowers for Fun: maybe you would like to know how to arrange flowers? Join our friendly group to see what we do at Whitton Community Hall on Thursdays 16, 20, 27 June and 4 and 18 July from 12 – 2 pm (more dates to follow). Come for a coffee and a chat, all welcome - first visit free! Phone Sue on 07368 350379 for more details, or just come along.

Presteigne Youth Club Runs on Monday Nights 6pm ‘til 8pm in the Youth Centre (Old School), Hereford Street. 11-18 yrs. Pool, Darts, Table Football, Ping Pong and other activities too. Only £1 to get in. Follow us on Facebook ‘Presteigne Youth Project’ for updates

St Andrews Church, Presteigne, coffee mornings on 2nd Saturday of each month 10.30am onwards. Also Summer Craft Fair on 8 June from 2pm. If you wish to have a stall to sell your crafts, contact 01544 267857 or 07903560297. It will be in the church yard if dry, otherwise in the church.

Public Meeting: Nant Mithil Energy Park. 13 June 7pm at New Radnor Community Centre. Organised by New Radnor and Old Radnor Community Councils and County Cllr. Ed. Jones.

HART (Hay Animal Rescue Team) Two day fund raising event. Friday 7 and Saturday 8 June 10am-3pm at 2 Radnor Buildings, opposite Presteigne Library. Bric a brac, clothes, bags, jewellery, come and bag a bargain and help a worthy cause at the same time. We are also asking for any animal food donations please to be dropped off during those two days for the animals that HART currently have in their care. Thank you.

Presteigne Library - Did you know you can borrow more than books from the library? We now have Balance Bikes suitable for 4 - 6 year olds to help your little one get to grips with riding. They're free to borrow and come with a helmet!

Rotary in the Marches are looking for new members to join our team, who can bring with them new perspectives and ideas. Together we really can make a difference in people's lives. To find out about volunteering opportunities, contact knightonrotary@outlook.com Cathy Jones on 07813 733240 or you can find us on Facebook.

Presteigne Cricket Club - any local businesses or people interested in sponsoring a home match for Presteigne Cricket club this summer? Sponsorship is £50 a match, for this you will be posted over club’s social media, put on matchday poster board at club, and welcome to join us for a drink and tea down the pavilion. If interested please get in touch with the following: Andy Bray 07817 655975, Fred Chilman 07817 655975.

Art Fair at the British Legion, Presteigne - first Saturday of each month Art Fair 10 - 1pm. Craft and artwork welcome. £10 a table in the main hall, supporting local artists to sell their work. Next date Saturday 1 June. Call Kay 07724 379335.

Sidney Nolan Trust. MAKE art group continues, Summer term, 3 June to 8 July. Every Monday 3.30 – 5pm at Presteigne Youth Centre. Details and booking at www.sidneynolantrust.org FREE Annual Community Day returns on Saturday 6 July, 12 – 5pm. Music by Iris Rei, Presteigne Pop Choir, Storytelling by Fiona Collins, arts activities, food and bar.

Music from the Parish. A fundraiser for St Michael’s Hospice in memory of Andy Leavis will take place on Wednesday 19 June, 7pm at St Andrew’s Church, Presteigne. Compered by Ian Marchant, with Little Rumba, Jessica Rising, Presteigne Pop Choir and Rev. Steve Hollinghurst. Bar, snacks.

Help Sophie Walk Again

Former Lady Hawkins pupil Sophie Alexandra, 23, was building a career as a successful model, featured in international magazines and appearing at London and Paris fashion weeks, while holding down a full time job as a respected client liaison operator. Her life was a dream as she was achieving the things she set out to do.

One morning in January 2023 this all changed as she woke to find her foot in excruciating pain. That pain went undiagnosed for 3 months as it baffled doctors and all those she encountered until one researcher told her she had a rare neurological disease: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

Sophie has been unable to walk since January 2023 and has been wheelchair bound since her release from hospital in March. CRPS has multiple factors and presents itself in many ways. For Sophie her right foot and lower leg are constantly blue and limp; she can put no pressure on her foot whatsoever. Her foot is prone to infection which can affect her whole body. Her lower leg has no muscle or shape and her bone structure is now very weak. Unfortunately the disease is now spreading to her other foot. If she doesn't get treatment it is almost certain she will have one, if not both of her legs amputated.

Sophie endures chronic, debilitating pain and has moments where she is in despair and very depressed, but she continues to try and push through, keeping her mind active. She has been blessed with a beautiful singing voice like her older sister Jessica Garlick, who sang for the UK In Eurovision 2002, so despite living with CRPS and whilst she hopes to go into remission and get her normal everyday life back at some point in the future, she has decided to take advantage of her voice and of her talent as an avant-garde fashion designer and is performing at various fashion events up and down the country as both singer and designer. She will also grace the catwalk in one of

the country's first able bodied and disabled fashion shows in London on June 15th, Beyond Fashion Limits.

Sophie has been reluctant to show the visible signs of the disease but when she found a treatment that offers a 98% chance of remission, but at a cost of over £35,000, she decided she needed help so started a GOFUNDME campaign in hope of raising the amount necessary. The treatment is in Italy and she hopes to be there within the next 10 months. Sophie’s mother Julia, daughter Victoria and boyfriend Lewis, are arranging small events to help raise money towards the campaign. There will be a quiz at The Rowing Club, Hereford on June 5th, a Bingo Night at Kington Football Club on June 22nd and a quiz at The Bay Horse on Kings Acre Road. Hereford. We are also hoping to hold a themed disco/dance at The Burton Hotel Kington, date to be confirmed.

ALL money raised will go to Sophie's fund. You can donate here:

Fundraiser by Sophie Morris : Help with medical costs for treatment for rare disease CRPS (gofundme.com)

Local Markets

Kington Friday Market, weekly from 9am to 1pm, 07867 483135. Also Country Market every Friday morning at the Baptist Chapel 9am to 12 noon.

Kington Art & Craft Market, 3rd Saturday of the month. 9.30am to 3.30pm. 07977 978676 E: anna@akcrafts.co.uk

Knighton Community Market, Community Centre, 4th Saturday of the month, 9.30am to 12.30pm. 07751 221487.

Presteigne Local Food Market, 1st Saturday of the month, Memorial Hall, 9am to pm.

Leominster Farmers’ Market, 2nd Saturday of the month, Corn Square 9am to 1pm. 01568 797427, Facebook: Leominster UK Farmers Market.

Hay Market Day, every Thursday, 9am to 2.30pm, Memorial Square and Clock Tower, Hay on Wye www.haymarkets.co.uk

Walton Village Hall

1st & 3rd Tuesday every month Craft & Art with others. 24pm. Enjoy a couple of hours with other crafters and artists along with a cuppa and cake. Bring along your knitting, artwork, etc.

2nd Wednesday every month Book & Jigsaw Swap 10am1pm (refreshments available). Walton Hall has a huge range of books (over 1000!) and jigsaws. Either swap your books/ jigsaws or purchase them at reasonable prices.

A History of The Oxford Arms, Kington, Part 2 – 1800’s

Welcome to The Oxford Arms and its unfolding story through the 1800’s. Richard Parry had his ‘History of Kington’ published in 1845 and it is his record of history, people and events that nearly all other researchers initially turn to. The Oxford (the O.A.) remained in the Harley Family’s estate of Eywood Manor, Titley, throughout most of this century but saw a thread of different tenant landlords. Kelly’s Directory chronologically lists its proprietors as: John and then Richard Pugh, John Cummings, Thomas Rogers, Edward Ellis, Joseph Gardner, George Evans, Thomas Bowen, William Harvey. From 1889 there are no rental records for the O.A. which suggests it was sold at around that time; in 1895 Mrs. Mary Harvey is listed as proprietor.

However, we jump ahead. In 1811-12 Lord Edward and Lady Jane Harley (the 5th Earl of Oxford and Mortimer) were receiving famous and erudite visitors such as Byron, Shelley and Wordsworth, and presumably to suitably welcome such company, made significant improvements both to their home Eywood Mansion and the Oxford. They ‘funded considerable updating and enlargement to the O.A.’ and the first annual O.A. Ball was held in 1812, starting at 9pm and ending at 4 or 5 am! Lord and Lady Harley had met Byron in Cheltenham, and he quickly became a regular visitor to Eywood, leasing and beginning renovations to Kinsham Court. Byron had recently ended a relationship with Caroline Lamb in London and began a brief and rather infamous affair with Lady Jane Harley. He was 24 and she was 38, and he described ‘her autumnal charms’ as ‘matching those of any woman he had known.’ Byron and Lady Jane may well have enjoyed each other’s company at the Oxford.

Thomas Rogers was the landlord from 1822-1840, and the Oxford Arms is recorded as the principal house of entertainment and commercial resort in the town. In 1829, he advertised in the Hereford Journal a complete refurbishment of the inn (possibly the flamboyant frontage with a pediment and pilasters, second storey Venetian window and ground and first floor bays).

In 1841, with the demise of the lower Swan Inn (the Chained or Fettered Swan) the O.A. became the principal inn for assemblies and meetings of groups such as The Woolhope Society and The Oyster Club. The Vestry meetings moved to the ‘Great’ room from the parish church, and in 1848, it was listed in Kelly’s directory as a noted commercial, family and coaching hotel and posting house. Parry states, “The principal inn of the town is the Oxford-arms, formerly the ‘Salutation’ in Duke-street which lets post chaises and horses and where the mail-coach stops for the change of horses and refreshments of passengers. The Excise-office is also here, and the Commissioners’ meetings, appointed under the Kington Street Act. It is a stone and timber building, three story high, with a long frontage and commodities in all other respects for noblemen, gentlemen and travellers. The present occupier is Mr. Gardner.”

Early on the 18th October 1853, there was a ‘melancholy occurrence’. Mrs. Evans, the landlady at The Oxford Arms Inn (from 1851), having returned home from visiting friends in Birmingham on the 16th, drowned herself and her six month

infant at ‘the Meetings’. The inquest held at the OA the following day recorded a verdict of ‘temporary insanity’. With today’s understanding, she may well have been experiencing postnatal depression. Her husband, George Evans, was wretched but retained the tenancy until 1867 when his possessions and the stock of the Oxford was auctioned by Sunderlands.

In 1853 the 6th Earl of Oxford died without legal heir, and the Eywood Estate, including the Oxford passed to his sister, Lady Jane Langdale, who lived there until her death in 1872. In 1857, the Hereford Times reported that ‘The Oxford Arms is having a commodious new room built on courtesy of the owner, Lady Langdale.’ (The ballroom?)

George Evans continued to have troubles at the Oxford. At 3.45am on the 5th August 1862 there was an ‘Awful Calamity’, when an explosion of gunpowder and ammunition stored by Mr. Henry Meredith the ironmonger, in a barn in the O.A. plock, dealt the Oxford and surrounds much damage: doors and windows were blown out and the shock was felt in Broken Bank and Bradnor Hill. A special religious service of thanksgiving was announced on 12th August to mark there being no injury or loss of life.

The Oxford Arms was advertised to let ‘with or without’ 55 acres in 1868 and was probably taken by Thomas Bowen, although it looks as though the rental was paid by a Mr/Mrs. Bebb, who also rented other Harley land. From 1876 the landlord was William Harvey, who offered hearse and mourning coaches, and a coach to meet every train. He may have bought the O.A. from the Harley estate. The 1889 Ordnance Survey map shows considerable buildings covering the yard, and these may well have incorporated the ‘hearth’ that is still in evidence in the retaining stone wall bordering the O.A’s double burgage plot.

Next: The 1900’s see a whole new picture of private ownership for the Oxford, a move from horse drawn carriages to the motorcoach, and many changes in work and leisure.

News from Kington Town Council

As we come out of what seems like a very long and very wet spring into summer we’re here to update you on the workings of your council. And a lot has happened!

New Mayor and Deputy Mayor

In our full council meeting on 13th May we were delighted to elect our new Mayor; Councillor Phillip Sell.

Phillip has lived in Kington since Autumn 2010 when he took up the post of Director of Education for the Diocese of Hereford. Prior to this, he held headships of five primary schoolsthree in Essex, one in Cornwall and one in Northamptonshire. He retired in Autumn 2018, which gave him more time to pursue his many hobbies and interests.

He is a keen gardener and spends lots of time at his allotment in Kington – he even represents the Council of the Allotment Association. He is the Director of Music and Parish Administrator at St Mary's Church.

When he lived in Cornwall, he was elected Ward Councillor in Truro. He chaired several committees of the District Council. In this capacity, he was a member of the Port Health Authority, the Court of Exeter University, and a member of the Board of the Hall for Cornwall. He was also a member of Truro City Council, and particularly enjoyed his role as Chair of the Parks Committee.

He is a member of the Academy Board at Lady Hawkins School, and this enables him to share his experience and knowledge of schools and education.

We were also delighted to welcome Councillor Martin Woolford as our Deputy Mayor.

Martin has been associated with Kington for over 20 years and has owned a home here since 2014. Martin and his wife, Vicky, are both retired having run their own estate agency business in Gloucestershire for some 13 years. They have two married sons and three grandchildren. Over the years, they have enjoyed the friendly and welcoming community of Kington, helping with the Food Festival and the Tourist Information Group.

We look forward to writing more on the priorities and programme of the new Mayor in an interview in the next edition of MBN. In the meantime, they’re your community leaders –so reach out to them!

Outgoing Mayor

We thank Councillor Elizabeth Banks for serving us so well in her third (non-consecutive), term as Mayor. Over many decades Councillor Banks has brought grace, passion, thoughtfulness, and a steely determination to her leadership of our Council. We’re all truly grateful for the contribution she has made and look forward to her continuing sage advice as she remains a key part of the council (as long as we promise never to ask her to be mayor again, she says!). If you see her, please thank her.

Civic Awards

The Civic Awards are nominated annually by Kingtonians to honour people who you see as having made outstanding contributions to our community. The Awards we presented in our annual Town Meeting were as follows:

The Community Award went to John Richardson on his retirement from the Burton for his amazing contribution to the town over nearly forty years.

The Business Award is nominated by the Chamber of Trade and went to Tim Allen in recognition of the importance of the Post Office to the town and Tim’s role in supporting the business community through his work on having a banking hub for Kington, the refurbishment of a former HSBC bank premises into a contemporary art gallery attracting visitors to the town, run and curated by his wife Caroline and for his determination to get things done for Kington.

The Mayor’s Special Award went to Andrew (Smokey) Davies in recognition of his 44 years of service to Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, serving at Kington Fire Station.

This year more than ever we are humbled and grateful for the selfless service all of the winners have given to our town and strive to emulate them ourselves. In the remaining space we want to update you, briefly, on some of the things on which we are currently working.

Wheelbarrow Race 8 June

Smokefest 15 June

Vintage Show 17-18 August

Kington Show 14 September

Kington Walks Autumn Festival 1922 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

Green Spaces

The transfer of Crooked Well to the Recreation Ground Trust is progressing. We’re hopeful that the final agreement will be in place shortly. We’ve undertaken an assessment of the work necessary to improve the meadow and are thinking about on establishing a Resident’s Advisory Group to enable local residents to communicate their ideas to the management group directly and easily.

We’re working on a number of projects to improve the condition of the Recreation Ground. Not all of the Rec is directly under our control – some sits with Herefordshire Council –and we’re lobbying them hard to pull their weight. We’ll update you more in the next edition of MBN.

We congratulate Luke Bibby, our lead groundsman, on earning his C&G Level 2 Carpentry Diploma with Distinction. He’s already bringing his new skills to bear in some projects on the Rec. Well done, Luke!

Kington festivals and events to come in 2024

We hope you have all seen the amazing Festivals guide. Well done the team for putting that together – it looks better than ever this year. You can pick up a copy in the council offices or all around the town.

Herefordshire Council plans and initiatives

There are a raft of consultations and initiatives being undertaken by Herefordshire Council which concern Kington. We are making representations to all of them – but you should too. We are one voice but to be heard we need to be many. At the time of writing the following projects are underway.

Herefordshire Transportation Study: The County Council is conducting a consultation and survey into transportation patterns across the county. Kington should (we have been promised, repeatedly) also receive its own transport study and the Town Council has recently reiterated its expectation that we

will be deemed a ‘key stakeholder’. As residents you can also take part – please do.

Community Infrastructure Fund: There is grant money available via Herefordshire Council for community projects in Kington. You can find details here:

https://www.herefordshire.gov.uk/directory-record/6740/ community-infrastructure-grant-repf

Kington Economic Development Plan: Herefordshire Council’s Service Director for Economy and Growth has announced that they will shortly begin work on a feasibility study for implementation of the Market Towns Economic Development Plan, the first stage of which will focus on employment and land availability. We have been invited to take part and will update you as and when we have more!

You can contact the Council via the Clerk Liz Kelso: 01544 239098; mob: 07483 914485.

E: clerk@kingtontowncouncil.gov.uk

Fundraising Success

Big congratulations to Kington ladies Helen Yeomans, Chrissie Johnston and Cath Mahon, who have recently raised over £3,475 for St Michael’s Hospice. The friends decided to mark their 60th birthdays by doing something a little different and entered The Poseidon Run, held in Athens. Helen and Cath ran a half marathon while Chrissie ran 10k. Well done!

Events at North Books, Hay

Sat 1 June 4pm. Four o’Clock Friends. Meet Meredith Miller, author of Fall River 'Britain's Internal Borderlands'. A story of friendship and love, Miller crafts an unfolding psychological mystery, blending lyrical storytelling with a cast of strong female characters. Free. (Part of Hay Festival 4 o’clock bookshop friends series of free events).

Sat urday15 June 4pm. Four o’Clock Friends. Renowned author Richard King returns to North Books with his biography of Arthur Russell. Travels Over Feeling brings together the largely unseen hand written scores, lyrics, photos, letters and drawings found in both Arthur’s and other private archives, alongside wide ranging original interviews with Arthur’s collaborators, contemporaries, family and friends. The resulting book reveals a true picture of one of the most distinctive artists of the last fifty years. Ticketed; to include book £30. Without book £5. Refreshments served. E jules@northbooks.co.uk to reserve your place.

Friday 21 June 10am to noon. Friday Social with signing. Kington artist and gallery owner Kathryn Moore has produced her first book capturing the evolving year at Hergest Croft Gardens following her year as artist in residence. A Brush with the Borders – An Artist’s Year was published by Logaston Press (160 pages full colour, £25) and follows her journey through her painted diaries of the seasons’ cycle. This stunning visual treat illustrates both natural history and horticulture in watercolours, drawings, and hand written notes of her observations. A selection of Kathryn’s art will accompany this signing. Refreshments available, free.

All events at North Books, Castle St, Hay-on-Wye HR3 5DF. www.northbooks.co.uk

Norton Hub

Over the summer and autumn we have a wide variety of special events being planned – details about these are on our website www.nortonhub.uk We will also be getting a regular coffee morning and lunch club going and possibly some “pub evenings”.

We’d really like to have a special place at these events for some memorabilia which focus on Norton and particularly the former church building which holds special memories for many residents. We’re considering a display and perhaps a “memory box”. If you have any material – photos, postcards, memoirs, items, etc – that you’d be willing to share (or lend so we can copy) please do get in touch and we can discuss how best we could use them.

Please consider the Hub for your private parties, meetings and activities, and also spread the word further afield. Details of facilities and charges are all on the website. Now that the Hub is really up and running, we would love to welcome some new volunteers – the type of help needed really is unlimited.

Our volunteer co-ordinator is Dave Rowing and he’d love to hear from you: volunteering.nct@gmail.com

29 June Official Opening and Strawberry Fair. 28 July, Norton Show: field adjacent to Offa’s Green.

Car Boot Sales

2 June, 14 July, 8 August. Car Boot Sale (Indoor/Outdoor) 1st Sunday of every month, 9am - 1pm (open for trader setup from 8am). Outdoor pitches: Trailers £12; Vans £8; Car Boots £6. Indoor Tables: £10 per table. Baskerville Hall, Clyro Court, Clyro HR3 5LE. Info: Derek 07798 881345.

Gladestry Pop-in Café

Open every Monday 10.30am - 11.30am. Tea, coffee, biscuits and lively conversation!

A Brief History of Presteigne

Presteigne is a small market town set in the stunning Welsh Marches on the south bank of the River Lugg in Powys. There may well have been an early Saxon settlement close to the river near the church, where there is evidence of late Saxon architectural remains in the church which is dedicated to St Andrew. The Welsh name for the town is Llanandras which means the Church of St Andrew and this informs us of the possible origins of the settlement.

Although there are few remains visible, there was a castle built at the western edge of the town. It was most probably a typical Norman fortification, although it was captured and destroyed by Llewelyn in 1262 and disappears from the historical record.

The town developed on the eastern side of Offa’s Dyke so it would have started out as an English settlement. As a result, the population of Presteigne in the early medieval period was largely English. Needless to say, this made the town a target for Welsh rebels, and following a double whammy of The Black Death and the Glyndŵr rebellion, the town and population, now Welsh, were struggling.

Things started to pick up for Presteigne during Tudor times as it became known as a centre for the cloth and wool trade. Unfortunately, all this prosperity came to a grinding halt when the town was hit by three doses of the plague, in 1593, 1610 and then finally in 1636. The town gained an unwelcome reputation as a plague town, with devastating effects on the local cloth trade. No one wanted to enter the town and the authorities tried to prevent residents from leaving. Presteigne gradually recovered, got back on its feet, and once again became a popular market town and also a centre for malting locally grown barley for brewing. It was also helped by being on a coaching route linking London, Gloucester and Aberystwyth.

The town had an unexpected benefit when, in the 1530’s, a judge was murdered while presiding at the Court of King's Great Sessions in Rhayader. It was swiftly decided that a safer place was needed and so the court was moved to Presteigne, and for the next 400 years it was the legal and administrative centre of Radnorshire. Today, the Judge’s Lodgings is a fascinating museum and offers an insight into the world of the 19th-century judges, their households and the constabulary. Presteigne is now a thriving town with a strong community feel and plenty to see and do. There is a wealth of Tudor, Georgian and Victorian architecture and buildings, and in August, The Presteigne Festival has become a focal point for those seeking musical nourishment and artistic discovery in the beautiful surroundings of the Welsh Marches.

By Old Peculier

https://www.presteigne.org.uk/

https://cpat.org.uk/ycom/radnor/presteigne.pdf

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Presteigne

The Sleeping Dragon is Back

On 27 April the Sleeping Dragon returned to his former resting place beside the roundabout on the approach to Presteigne. Blacksmith and ‘Father of Dragons’ Pete Smith and a team of helpers installed him on his iconic cromlech; despite the rain, a crowd of over 60 people came to see the sculpture unveiled. The dragon was originally made as a temporary installation that was in place from 3 August 2014 to 11 November 2018 –the centenary of the start and end of the First World War. It represents the 35,000 Welshmen who were lost in the conflict. Why a “sleeping dragon”? he represents the men who did not return: Welshmen who sang and who are now silent; who loved their valleys and hills but will never again walk there, who told their children bedtime tales of dragons. The cromlech is aligned with the spring equinox sunrise and connects with the magic of the land, stars and sun. https:// www.presteigne.org.uk/some-history-presteigne-and-norton

Knighton News

Knighton Community Centre (The Comm)

There are lots of things going on at The Comm, including yoga, karate, Pilates, dance, Zumba, youth club, Bingo, maths sessions, advice (form filling, signposting, council assistance), stay and play, community connector, energy saving advice, women’s hour, family centre, art group, Bracken Trust cancer support, mental health support, leg club, whist, refugee support, army cadets, puppy class, RNID hearing clinic and more. See the website for more information: Events Calendar | Knighton and District Community Centre (knightoncomm.wales)

Knighton Community Market is held in the warm, dry Community Centre hall with ample parking just yards away on the 4th Saturday of every month (Library also open on 4th Saturday) from 9.30am to 12.30pm. Meat, bread, pies and cakes are on offer, together with a wide variety of interesting items such as skincare, books, jewellery, bags, art prints and personalised items, wall art and more. The market cafe serves tea, coffee, juice and snacks plus bacon baps and toasties. To keep up to date why not ‘Like’ our Facebook page Interested in applying for a stall? Email Knightonmarket@gmail.com and we’ll get straight back to you about the availability of space and appropriate charges – but please remember to say something about the nature of your product.

Hire the Comm for business events, gigs, weddings, private parties and other special occasions. Single rooms also available.

Volunteering is a great way to meet people and find fulfilling and worthwhile ways to get involved with your local community. And now finding out what volunteering opportunities are out there is easier than ever. The Comm is now working with PAVO (Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations) to match volunteers with organisations working to improve life in the area. Our volunteer coordinator Annie England will be working Monday – Thursday mornings based at the centre on Tuesday mornings.

June Calendar

1st 10am to 12pm: Sat coffee stalls library. Jigsaws at Leintwardine Centre.

4th 2pm to 4pm, Tea and Natter, Rotary Club, St Edward’s church hall, Church St.

5th 7.30pm to 9pm: singing group, Llangunlo village hall. 6th 10.30 to 2pm: Communities for Work, drop-in at The Comm. 10.30am to 1.30pm: James Evans Member of Senedd, drop-in. 6.30pm to 8.30pm: Dysgu Cymraeg / Learn Welsh, beginners, The Comm.

7th 12.30pm to 2.30pm: Smart Money Cymru Community Bank, Civic Centre in West St. 10th 5.30pm to 6.30pm: online group for parents and carers of people with ASD, Credu Carers. 11th 10.30 to 12pm: coffee and cake, Whitton Community hall.

13th 6.30pm to 8.30pm: Dysgu Cymraeg / Learn Welsh, beginners, The Comm.

14th all day: The Bettws Triangle Festival. 12.30pm to 2.30pm: Smart Money Cymru Community Bank, Civic Centre in West St.

15th 10am to 12.30pm: Botanical walk at Pentwyn Farm, Radnorshire Wildlife Trust. 10am to 12pm, coffee morning at St Edward’s.

16th all day: The Bettws Triangle Festival.

18th 10am to 1pm: help for hearing Clinic, RNID, The Comm.

19th 7pm to 9pm: Knighton Town Council Meeting, Civic Centre, West St.

20th 2pm to 4pm: moth trapping at Pentwyn Farm, Radnorshire Wildlife Trust. 6.30pm to 8.30pm: Dysgu Cymraeg / Learn Welsh, beginners, The Comm.

21st 12.30pm to 2.30pm: Smart Money Cymru Community Bank, Civic Centre in West St.

22nd 9.30am to 12.30pm: Community Market, the Comm.

10am to 11am, Paws a While dog walk, from The Comm. 10.30 to 12.30pm Library open. 12pm to 1pm, church fete.

24th 5.30pm to 6.30pm: online group for parents and carers of people with ASD, Credu Carers. 7.30pm to 11pm, Wigmore Folk Club, W Community Centre.

27th 6.30pm to 8.30pm: Dysgu Cymraeg / Learn Welsh, beginners, The Comm.

28th 12.30pm to 2.30pm: Smart Money Cymru Community Bank, Civic Centre in West St.

29th 7pm to 9pm: Bingo, St Edward’s church hall, Church St. 30th 10am to 11am: litter pick, meet at Offa’s Dyke Centre. Offa’s Dyke Centre open: June 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 28, 29, 30. 10am to 4pm.

Knighton Museum open: June 1st 10am to 3pm; 2nd 11am to 3pm; 5th 10am to 4pm; 6th 10am to 4pm; 7th 10am to 4pm; 8th 10am to 3pm; 9th 11am to 3pm; 12th 10am to 4pm; 13th 10am to 4pm; 14th 10am to 4pm; 15th 10am to 3pm; 16th 11am to 3pm; 19th 10am to 4pm; 20th 10am to 4pm; 21st 10am to 4pm; 22nd 10am to 3pm; 23rd 10am to 4pm; 26th 10am to 4pm; 27th 10am to 4pm; 28th 10am to 4pm; 29th 10am to 3pm; 30th 11am to 3pm.

Calendar information from Visit Knighton: check out the website for July and August. www.visitknighton.co.uk

Knighton & District Community Support

We are a charity that is constituted to promote any charitable purpose for the benefit of Knighton and District residents, and to enhance the lives of people living in Knighton and its surrounding areas who are elderly, infirm, disabled or in need of some other form of assistance.

Our income is derived from the sale of goods in the Furniture Barn, where the goods have been kindly donated to us by local residents. Our main focus is the transporting of local people to various destinations at a subsidised cost.

Our services include prescription collection and delivery every weekday, The Community Car Scheme, Town Connection, The Furniture Barn, bike workshop project, volunteering in The Furniture Barn, volunteer drivers, furniture recycling, information and signposting and photocopying facilities.

Volunteers to help out in any of the above are most welcome, please contact the office. We have a mobility scooter available for long or short term loan. Please phone or pop into the office for further details.

The Furniture Barn opening times: Mon – Fri 9am to 1pm, Sat 9.30am to 12.30pm, Sunday closed. The office opening times: Mon – Fri 9am to 3pm, Sat & Sun closed.

We run a weekly Wednesday shopping trip to give people a chance to go to a bigger supermarket. We alternate between Ludlow / Leominster / Llandrindod & Newtown. Out & About Service will resume on Friday 7 June. First trip: Aberystwyth £10 per person. Future trips will hopefully include Worcester, Llandudno, Hay-on-Wye, Abergavenny, Whitchurch, New Quay, Cardiff, Chester, Brecon. Phone the office to book a seat.

Office: 01547 520653

E: debbie@knightoncs.co.uk

’

Men

s Shed

A Men's Shed is a safe and nurturing environment where men, who have time on their hands for whichever reason can go to work on projects and activities which interest them. Men's sheds welcome everyone who has spare time whether that's due to unemployment, retirement, bereavement, disability or if you're simply looking for a new hobby.

Contact: John Thorogood on 01544 232750 or John Cox on 01547 528428.

Threads through Creation

This summer, Leominster Priory will be hosting ‘Threads through Creation’ – a community, arts based festival of exhibitions, concerts and events. The theme of Creation is at the heart of the celebration, which runs for 7 weeks from 5 June to 18 July 2024 and everyone is welcome.

The centrepiece, a magnificent textile installation by artist Jacqui Parkinson, will be on display at the Priory (free) every day from 10am – 4pm*. Jacqui’s extraordinary series of twelve embroidered panels has been touring cathedrals in the UK and re-tells the story of Creation from the book of Genesis. It is one of the largest textile art projects by a single artist in the world and is an opportunity not to be missed.

Priory Arts have collaborated with many organisations from the town and surrounding area to present an exciting array of events, including a community exhibition showcasing the skills and artistry of local groups such as Leominster In Bloom, Leominster Quilters and collaborative pieces by local schools (free). Concerts, village trails, themed walks, nature talks, craft workshops and celebratory church services, all inspired by the theme of Creation, complete the festival line-up.

Highlights include:

Friday 14 June, in partnership with Leominster Museum, Herefordshire folklorist Ella Mary Leather will be remembered through our ‘Creative Collaboration’ concert - celebrating her musical collaboration with composer Ralph Vaughan Williams. With international violinist Julia Bishop, organist and pianist Hilary Norris, and singers from folkgroup the Bushel Bag Carollers.

Saturday 15 June, ‘The Big Stitch Up’. Join us for a day of stitching and weaving activities for all ages, with presentations by local artisans including award winning quilter Liz Jones.

Wednesday 3 July, a recital by internationally renowned organist David Briggs, whose performances are acclaimed for their musicality, virtuosity, and ability to excite and engage audiences of all ages.

Saturday 13 July, a rare opportunity to experience an evening of Javanese Gamelan music and dance with the Oxford Gamelan Society and classical dancer Andrea Rutkowski.

Friday 14 June, in partnership with Leominster Museum, Herefordshire folklorist Ella Mary Leather will be remembered through our ‘Creative Collaboration’ concert - celebrating her musical collaboration with composer Ralph Vaughan Williams. With international violinist Julia Bishop, organist and pianist Hilary Norris, and singers from folkgroup the Bushel Bag Carollers.

Friday 5 July, Herefordshire Folk NOW presents an evening of living folk traditions in song, dance, theatre and story, inspired by the work of Ella Mary Leather.

And every Thursday in the Priory, ECHO will host ‘Let’s Create’ café, providing opportunities for people to get together for a relaxed and sociable session, exploring a different craft every week.

For further information, the full events programme and to purchase tickets please see Priory Arts website www.prioryarts.org.uk

*Please check the website before you visit the exhibition as the Priory is a working church and some special services may be scheduled at short notice.

Radnor Arms Share Offer

Our share offer closed on 14 May and we would like to thank everyone who has bought shares to help save The Radnor Arms. We’re delighted to say that £143,165 has been raised through our community share offer. Added to the pot is a £29,900 award from the Architectural Heritage Fund giving us a total so far of £173,065! What a fantastic achievement –thank you! FFI: contact@rahl-cbs.org

Eardisley Coffee Mornings

Do you live in or near Eardisley? There is a warm welcome and a chance to chat to neighbours and friends over tea/coffee and cake at the Monthly Community Coffee Mornings every third Friday of the month, 10-12 a.m. in Eardisley Village Hall. Preceded by a baby/toddler group from 9-10am with toys, games, and the opportunity to meet with other parents. The event is run by Eardisley Neighbourhood Friends and is a Herefordshire Talk Community Hub.

Business Directory

KNIGHTON

Chapel House Clearance. Free, no obligation quote, friendly, efficient service, responsible disposal, recycling & upcycling possibilities, domestic & retail, any size job considered. T: 07901 822294. E: info@restorella.co.uk

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

Restorella. Vintage home accessories store, garden furnishings and workshop. The Old Dairy, West Street, Knighton Powys LD7 1EN. T: 07901 822294. W: www.facebook.com/restorella and Instagram restorella.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

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

Church Walk Osteopaths. Osteopath Trudi Price gets to the root of your problem. Effective treatments for minor sports injuries and aches and pains from conditions such as back & neck pain, sciatica, headaches, migraines, arthritis, joint pain, muscle spasms, plantar fasciitis, fibromyalgia and more. Trudi Price BOst (Hons) Claggan, High Street, New Radnor, Presteigne, Powys, LD8 2SL T: 01544 350417 / 07794 115792 www.churchwalk.co.uk

Esco. We are a small independent village shop that has been going for 10 years. We have fresh stock daily including 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

Elly Ingram. Massage therapist. Holistic, sports & remedial massage. Room 2, Old Police Station, Kington HR5 3DP. T: 07792 743894 E: info@ellyingram.co.uk W: www.ellyingram.co.uk

Emma's Dog House. Day Care and Boarding in our home, not kennels. With 25 years’ experience in animal care your best friend is loved as part of the family. Ofqual Qualified, Canine First Aid trained, licensed and fully insured. E: emmakurrels@hotmail.com T:07495 885653 W: www.emmasdoghouse.co.uk

Forget-Me-Nots. Greetings cards, gifts (stockist for Tractor Ted, Bomb Cosmetics and Life Charms Jewellery) and a large selection of balloons for all occasions. 44 High Street, Kington, HR5 3BJ. T: 01544 231796.

Handmade by Solange. Wedding & celebration cakes made to order. 46 High Street, Kington (used to be Jane’s Parlour) HR5 3BJ. W: juliette@handmadebysolange.com See Facebook & Instagram.

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 Tues, Thurs, Sat & Sun 10.30am to 3.30pm (last orders 3pm). 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