MidBorder News Winter 2022

Advertising in the MidBorder News

MidBorder News is your local news and events magazine and we love to see our local businesses flourishing, so let’s get the word out there and promote your event, business or service.

Our ad prices are below; don’t forget that the MidBorder News is a quarterly publication, so each issue lasts for three months: people like to take it home and refer to it whenever they need a piece of local information. It’s also available online (the link is sent out to our mailing list), as a pdf and on our Facebook page & Instagram as well as the printed version being distributed to many venues in and around the three towns.

So if you need to tell people about your special offers, new stock or anything else, let us help you to bring those customers in. The MidBorder News is a community news magazine run on a non profit basis. We exist to support our community and the local economy. For charities and community groups & services we can give you free space, just get in touch.

We can create a professional full-colour ad for you, only £15.

PUBLICATION DATES: 1st of March, June, September and December.

COPY DEADLINES: 10th of February, May, August and November

The Business Directory listings section aims to make the MBN the go to resource for local information on businesses & services. This includes live online links so that customers can click straight through to your social media, website or email address. And if you take out an advert you’ll get a free Business Directory listing.

Get in touch for further information or to discuss your advertising needs.

E: midbordernews@gmail.com

Online issues: https://issuu.com/midbordernews/docs/ Next copy deadline Spring 2023 (March, April, May) 10 February

Advertisers get regular exposure on our Facebook page (reaching up to 6000 people), so we can publicise your special offers, updates and new information in-between publishing dates. www.facebook.com/midbordernews

Facebook Feature: we are offering a photo feature ad on our Facebook page & Instagram. You can have up to 12 photos of your business showing products, shop front, your good self and anything else you want to promote. You can either send us photos (cost £15) or we will come and take them for you (cost £20). Your feature will be shared three times over a period of 2 weeks and once a month thereafter for 3 months. Phone pics are fine.

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Acknowledgments

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 tricky bits. May the bluebird of happiness fly over you all.

Cover Image

On Dusk by Jane Keay. A professional artist and art tutor, born amongst the hills and valleys of the borderland between Mid Wales and the 'Shires, where I now live. I work in a variety of media but mostly in pen & ink and watercolour. My inspiration is derived from the effect of changing light on landscapes that form around me, to which I respond with emotion and spirituality, often using imagery and symbolism connecting with my Celtic roots. I work from my home studio, which is open to visitors by appointment, allowing me the opportunity and privilege of selling directly to my customers, and to enable me to personally and passionately express the story behind my work. I also sell at art shows, fairs and exhibitions and my work is displayed in many galleries: Made in the Marches Gallery, Kington. Blue Stone Gallery, Hay on Wye Oxenham Gallery, Leominster and Mistletoe House Cards. You can find out more at www.janekeay.co.uk

Muffin and the Passage of Time

The first new adventure for the well loved puppet of the 1950’s Muffin The Mule, written by Benjamin James Huxley, a wonderful life enhancing family adventure with all Muffin’s friends, and introducing some new puppets along the way. Published by www.thethreeandsixbookpublishingcompany.co.uk Many colour and black and white illustrations.

Late Harvest A wonderful reflective collection of country tales from the life of a dry stone wall builder in the Cotswolds, and Welsh Borderlands, illustrated throughout with black and white illustrations. Please contact Jane Keay for more information and sales.

Editorial

What a year it’s been! Such shenanigans across politics, Ukraine, post Brexit ballyhoo, environmental destruction and economic misery. It’s difficult to stay positive and indeed the statistics for our deteriorating mental wellbeing are alarming. What can we do? Here in the borderland we are fortunate in living amidst some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK. Science tells us that being outside amongst trees, fields, rivers and wildlife is vital to our health and we can certainly do that here. Our valiant food banks are stepping up to provide the basic necessities to those who need it and our public buildings are opening up as warm spaces. In 21st Century Britain none of this should be necessary, but we are where we are. As in the pandemic, the human values of kindness, compassion and community are strong in our area: if you can help, even in a small way, do so you will feel better and you will make a difference.

Annie Vickerstaff, editor

1 ISSUE 2 3 4

Business Directory: up to 40 words £10 £18 £27 £36

Quarter page landscape/portrait £32 £57 £86 £115

Half page landscape/column £55 £99 £148 £198

Full page £125 £225 £337 £450

Half back page £65 £117 £175 £234

Full back page £135 £243 £364 £486

Full page advertorial: article, photo £150 £270 £405 £540

Tell us a bit about yourself

I run ESCO village shop in new Radnor and have done for 12 years following the death of my dad Hedley Simcock, most people locally knew him! I was brought up in New Radnor and left when I was 18 to do nurse training for people with learning disabilities in Southport/Liverpool After completing that I worked for a long time locally with McIntyre Care.

I left to spend time with my family and after having my son returned part time to work for Herefordshire Social Services, which I loved. I had a year break after dad died and thought I would go back, but 12 years on I am still running the shop and loving it.

My mum and brother live in Kington and I have a big family around the local area. My partner Martin and I will be getting married next year after it being delayed due to Covid.

Between us we have six young adults we care for in one way or another and two lovely grandchildren so we can be pretty busy. Myself and Martin also run a mobile woodfired pizza business (M&S Pizza) which we do at weekends at private and community events.

What do you like about where you live?

I live in New Radnor and love it, I love the community and am passionate about trying to keep communities alive, we are very lucky to live in such a beautiful area, the hills are fantastic and outside my door I am surrounded by Welsh hills and countryside, not sure what else you could want?

Kington is your nearest town, what do you think of it?

Kington I think has improved so much over the last few years, it’s lovely to see more independent shops in the high street and although I am often at work, if I can go to Kington I love to visit all the shops. We love doing pizza in Kington! It has lots of great people, past and present, who work hard for the town.

What else are you involved in?

ESCO customers and M&S Pizza have over the years raised money for lots of causes both locally and nationally. ESCO always supports MacMillan in selling their Christmas cards. I try and ensure each year we raise money through a raffle for a different cause; so far we have raised for Born Sleeping Appeal, a homeless charity, cancer charities, epilepsy for children at Hereford hospital, plus many more. M& S Pizza tries to donate to every event we attend and raise money for lots of local causes and events.

Now more than ever, communities are vital to ensuring people are managing and doing ok, I would like to see councils supporting all independent businesses, we are certainly feeling the pressures now as many are, and if we don’t protect what we have, we will lose it. I think much more could be done to link council services with the knowledge and information a small shop has: we do check on people and deliver shopping etc, this service we already provide could assist all services within a council and as well as helping individuals we are helping the services and the business. We need to recognise our rural setting, value it and celebrate it.

Where will life take you in the future?

Who knows where I will be in the future, I never expected to be where I am, but that’s life’s tapestry. I would like to see the shop still supporting the village as it does. I would love to see more equality for people and less greed.

Anyone you’d like to thank?

I couldn’t list them all, but so many loyal customers, without which there would be no ESCO and of course all my family (I don’t want it turning into an acceptance speech!).

What, in your opinion, is the meaning of life?

Hmmmm!! if we could all end our time knowing we did our bit, we helped someone. I believe we should all pay our skills, talents, knowledge and humour forward, even if it’s just a cup of tea, or a five minute conversation, and we can do it with a sense of humour which I think is one of the greatest human gifts we have, that’s enough for me.

Knighton Community Centre

Knighton Community Market is held indoors with ample parking just yards away, on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month from 9.30am to 12.30pm. Fruit and veg, meat, bread and cakes, jewellery, art prints and more. The market cafe serves tea, coffee, juice and snacks plus bacon baps and toasties. Next markets: 10 and 17 December; the latter will have Santa’s Grotto with selfie area plus Knighton Handbell Ringers for a festive sound. Knighton Flicks: 2 December, Top Gun. 16 December, Elvis. Bar and cafe open from 7pm, Film 7.30pm. Tickets £5. knightoncomm@gmail.com

The Interview: Sharon Simcock

Kington Festive Food from the

Borders

Town centre, Saturday 3 December 2022 9.30am to 3.30pm. The first Kington Food Festival was established in December 2004 with just 15 stands under a marquee in the Plas de Marines, which at that time was not a covered space. Orgasmic Cider of Eardisley and Jus Apple of Ledbury were among those 15 exhibitors and they’ve never missed an event to date. Each year, thanks to the diligent efforts of the organisers, the numbers of trade stands has increased and we now have 80 to 90 and have been known to reach 100.

This is always a free event and has two main goals: to promote Herefordshire Food and Drink and bring visitors to Kington, a small market town on the Welsh Border. Now we welcome artisan producers from Wales, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Shropshire, Gloucestershire and the Midlands, all small businesses offering top quality products. Sadly since the Covid pandemic some have not survived, but we are delighted to see that we are still attracting new enterprises.

Among the variety of delicious food and drinks this year we have great street food: The Beefy Boys with their wonderful burgers, A2Z with their Thighs n’ Fries, plus goat meat, falafels, Asian cuisine and lots more. The range of culinary delights from our exhibitors includes wine, cider, beer, apple juice and spirits; charcuterie, gourmet mushrooms, cheeses, pies, oils, meat & game, olives, sauces, preserves, fermented foods, spices, nuts and breads; patisserie, fudge, chocolate, cheesecakes and marshmallows; Christmas trees, flowers, books, wreaths, ceramics and baskets. Something for everyone, we think you’ll agree.

To add a continental flavour to the proceedings the French Town of Marines, twinned with Kington, is sending a delegation of artisanal food experts with a selection of delicious items to complement our local producers.

Daniel Jones, artisan chocolatier and pâtissier, will have signed copies of his book Husk and Bean: chocolate infusions and magic, available to buy.

Throughout the day choirs and street music add to the ambience, making this a great opportunity for you to come and meet friends, enjoy a tasty lunch, buy Christmas presents and take home delicious hand-crafted food and drink. It’s worth mentioning that when you buy local, money stays in the local economy which is a significant benefit for the community.

The event is free as is all parking, plus a Park and Ride from the Kington Medical Practice on the Eardisley Road.

A very sincere thank you to our sponsors this year: without their help this event would have struggled, as overheads have risen considerably. Grateful thanks go to McCartneys, Arrow Medical Supplies, White Heron Cassis and Kington Medical Practice, as well as those who prefer to remain anonymous. A Kington Chamber of Trade event.

Titley Village Hall

Extended and refurbished; ample parking; perfect for weddings, parties, meetings; fully equipped kitchen; disabled accessible facilities. T: 01544 209025

E: info@titleyvillagehall.co.uk

Kington Coppice

Volunteers Buy Their Tiny Woodland with a Big Heart Since 2016, a group of friends & I have been restoring this half-acre hazel coppice with standards, alongside the Offa’s Dyke path just 10 minutes’ walk from Kington. Coppicing creates a sustainable supply of small wood in a symbiotic relationship with nature. This year we managed to buy it, with contributions from 13 generous supporters. We welcome visitors and invite local people to get involved with the winter work and learn more about this ancient craft. The views are pretty good too. Contact Richie Cotterill 07777 661252 or email via kingtonkleen@gmail.com

RidgeBank Contemporary Art Space

Exhibition 3 to 13 December: Fruiting Bodies. Curated by Caroline Lisa Allen as a response to discovering dry rot in the exhibition space she has beautifully created in the former Kington and Radnorshire Bank (later Midland / HSBC). The exhibition shows the responses of 12 local artists to the theme of Fruiting Bodies. 1 High Street, Kington HR5 3AX.

Huntington News

On 11 December at 12.30pm a Christmas 3 course lunch will be held in Huntington village hall. Tickets are £15 and can be booked from Pippa Lloyd at pippalloyde@btinternet.com You can also contact Pippa if you wish to book the hall.

Money on Your Mind?

Many people across the UK are under immense pressure as the cost of living continues to increase and goods and energy prices rise. We recognise many people are worried. It’s important to remember you’re not alone, as there’s lots of local and national support available. Whether it’s help with bills, money, debt, benefits or budgeting, our money on your mind section will help you quickly and easily find what you need, when you need it. See the Talk Community website for help:

www.talkcommunity.org/money on your mind/

Presteigne News

Would you like to get more involved with your local community? If you enjoy reading our Community News, maybe you could help us. PACDG (Presteigne Area Community Development Group) is looking for some new members for the steering group and would especially welcome someone with good IT skills who could help with our publicity contact: admin@pacdg.org Help wanted! still looking for someone who can spare some time to help a barely IT literate Editor switch to using MailChimp or similar to produce and send out the Community News in future from an iPad. If you can help, please call/text 07766 097600. Thank you!]

Presteigne’s Sleeping Dragon can return if we can raise the funds. It has been decided that the original will be refurbished with a marine resin that will last for many years, we will need about £5/6K. Part of the funding will be reserved for the future TLC to ensure its future state of repair. I have already received a promise of a donation today and I know many of you have made offers in the past towards this end. Now is the time to follow through if you can. We are getting organised to do it but have to sort costs etc so watch this space and Facebook ‘Presteigne Sleeping Dragon’ for news on donations etc. Pete Smith Struggling with your mobile phone and broadband bills? Did you know some companies have low cost deals aimed specifically at those claiming benefits, known as “social tariffs”. These deals are cheaper than the equivalent standard monthly rates. There are currently about 10 companies that offer these social tariffs with some as low as £12 a month. If you’re struggling, ask your provider if they offer these deals. If they don’t, you might want to look into how much it would cost to switch to one that does. More information is available from Ofcom https:// www.ofcom.org.uk/phones telecoms and internet/advice for consumers/costs and billing/social tariffs or 0300 123 3333 / 020 7981 3040. From PACDG

PNCS Christmas Raffle tickets are now for sale at the Transport Office, Charity Shop and The Warehouse. This is our annual fundraiser for our community transport scheme. If you have any prizes you would like to donate please pop them into the transport office. We will have our Xmas Draw prizes displayed in the transport office window in the next couple of weeks. Thanks for your continued support.

Presteigne Panto is back! The Panto Players are very excited to be able to stage a show this year, after a gap since 2019. Performances are on Thursday 8th, Friday 9th and Saturday 10th December at 7:30pm in the Memorial Hall, with tea, coffee and a full bar available. There will be cheaper earlybird tickets for the Thursday night, and also special family tickets as everyone is saving their pennies this year.

St. Andrew’s Christmas Fair, Friday 9th of December 2pm to 7pm with craft stalls, Father Christmas, Primary School choir singing Christmas carols, Christmas trees, mince pies and mulled wine and refreshments.

Carols at Presteigne Baptist Church, Hereford Street on Thursday 15 December 7pm. Well known carols and readings with Christmas music, led by the Very Revd Michael Tavinor. Coffee and mince pies for all after the service. All very welcome.

Walton Village Hall Events. 8th December Christmas Floral Workshop 1.30 4pm, £15 per person ring 01544 350 511 to reserve your place; 10th December Christmas Party

from 7pm. Performance by Jess Squires (vocalist) & Helen Hunter (piano & saxophone). Please bring your own beer etc. 14th December Book & Jigsaw Swap 10am to 1pm. Refreshments available.

Evenjobb Saturday Cafe is open 10.30 am to 3.30 pm for Morning Coffee, light lunches, tea & homemade cake. Meet friends and make new ones, a warm welcome awaits you! Please note the cafe will be closed on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Seasons Greetings to all our customers.

Presteigne Plastic Project. The UK produces more electrical waste per person than any other country in the world (except for Norway). E waste is anything with a plug, battery or cable. From the end of the month we will have a new bin down at The Old School for recycling SMALL ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONIC ITEMS ONLY eg. tablets, smart phones and electric tooth brushes etc.

Norton Community Trust. We are delighted to tell you that we have received confirmation from the Lottery Community Fund that our application for a capital grant of £75,000 has been approved. When added to the £35,000 contribution from the Church in Wales, this goes a long way towards covering the costs of the Hub adaption work which we hope will commence in early 2023. Thanks in particular to Claire and Chris for their work in preparing the Lottery application.

Public Defibrillator locations (thanks, Colin) Broad Street (Lorna’s), East Radnor Day Centre (Scottleton Street), John Beddoes (School entrance), Norton (Telephone Box). There are other portable units at PSA Football Club and Presteigne Bowls Club.

Kington Food Bank

Every Friday between 2pm and 3pm at Old Police Station Market Hall Street. Donations can be dropped off at the Old Police Station from 1.15 until 2pm, also at any of the local churches. There is also a trolley at the Coop where items can be dropped off or if people contact Pat Roberts she can arrange where to drop them. Money can be donated to Kington Churches Together Food Bank, please contact Pat for further information. Items required:

Tinned potatoes

Long life milk

Tinned meat products

Biscuits

Tinned meat products corn beef etc

Tinned vegetables

Any tinned produce

Nappies

Toiletries

Cleaning products

Washing powder

Thank you. Pat Roberts 01544 231000

Little Black Sheep Café Knighton

Get your Christmas 2022 all arranged today! Christmas Day Menu. Once again Little Black Sheep Cafe will be cooking up a 2 course Christmas Day Lunch (DELIVERED ON CHRISTMAS DAY) for £22.50 per person or for collection. Consisting of roast turkey, pigs in blankets, stuffing balls, roast potatoes, roast parsnips, mashed potatoes, Brussel sprouts, swede, carrots, cauliflower cheese, cabbage with homemade gravy (all suitable for gluten free). Followed by homemade trifle (suitable for gluten free) or Christmas pudding (suitable for gluten free) or apple pie and custard or cream. Also if you know of anyone who you think is in need of a free Christmas lunch (either living alone, or simply just can’t afford one) I am hopefully receiving a donation from the ever wonderful people from the Rotary Club, just contact me on 01547 520224 and I will do my utmost best to provide them with a meal. We do have a limit of the area of delivery but anyone can collect.

Thankyou

Friends of Kington Primary School

We are one of the Co op's Community Causes this coming year. Please consider choosing us as you Co op Local Community Cause and support us whilst you shop. Our cause is live NOW, until October 21st 2023 and you can support us using either of the details below; https:// membership.coop.co.uk/causes/70670 or via the community tab in the Co op App. Swipe your membership card each time you shop with any Co op store and you'll earn 2p for each £1 you spend on selected Co op branded products and services, for yourself and your chosen cause. We're raising funds to support our continuing playground development and every supporter makes a difference to how much we raise. Your vote really does count! You can read more about our project via the link above.

Kington Walking for Health

Do join us at The Places de Marine every Thursday morning at 10.30am. Everyone welcome. Contact Kevin Robinson: 07415 743409 or email: walk4health@Kingtonwalks.org or the social prescriber at Kington Medical Practice: 01544 230302

Elly Did It!

Finally, after a 33 month wait I have completed the Inca Trail! It was quite an emotional ascent to the summit of Dead Woman’s Pass at 4,200 metres above sea level. I did find the altitude a struggle and had to stop to catch my breath a lot. It was quite frustrating, especially when the porters then ran up by the side of you with a huge pack on their backs. But they live there so they are used to it. I thought after reaching the summit the hard work would be over, but the steep downhill was very tough on the legs, coupled with the rain making the steps extra slippery and a lack of view due to the clouds it was not easy going.

By the time we got to Machu Picchu at 2,400 metres above sea level I was quite exhausted and looking forward to having a shower and sleeping in a proper bed. My donations page is still open and so if you would like to donate here is the link https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ elly ingram trek I am not far off £4,000! Thank you to everyone who has donated and given me support over the last couple of years, it has certainly been a test of endurance! The money is all going to water aid, who are aiming to provide everyone, everywhere with a clean water source and decent toilets within our lifetime.

Knighton Council News

Christmas is coming and Knighton has a great celebration lined up! On 2 December the festivities begin at 6pm which is a late night shopping opportunity for you to get those last minute presents. Santa will drop by on his way from the north pole and as the reindeer are having a day off, his sleigh will be pulled by a red Fergie tractor. Children will be able to meet him at the magic Grotto in the civic centre to see if he has brought any presents with him.

The band will play at the clock and on the Narrows (where there will be stalls), accompanied by carol singers feel free to join in! After the singing people are invited to the civic centre where refreshments will be available. This is a real community event with residents helping out, so come along and enjoy some festive cheer.

New Ponds

Councillors have backed a plan to create three new ponds that will act as a buffer zone for floodwater on part of a marshy field at Upper Pitts Farm, Pitts Lane. This is part of the Resilient River Teme project which will be delivered by Severn Rivers Trust with funding from Nature Networks in a partnership with the Heritage Fund and the Welsh government. The application states that the ponds will be located in an area which collects water running down to a stream that flows into the River Teme. Livestock will be fenced out to prevent erosion and the ponds will contain a substantial volume of water while also creating a wildlife habitat. Powys County Council will have the final say in early December.

Poo Plea

The successful dog waste bag scheme needs a volunteer coordinator to order the bags for the dispensers that are provided in several locations. Brendan Rogers has done a sterling job of ordering the bags and refilling the dispensers but is now ready to hand over to someone else. If you can help, please contact the town clerk Neil King at the civic centre on 01547 529660 or you can email neil.king321@gmail.com

Council Vacancy

Due to the resignation of John Goodband there is a vacancy on the council. If you are interested in serving your community in this capacity please contact the clerk on the number given above.

Land Delay

The Teme Valley Environment Group had asked the council if it would register a piece of land at the junction of Mill Road and Penybont Road to protect some trees which the group had planted there. However, the council has been told that it has no jurisdiction to do so, as it has no connection with the land.

The solution would be for group member Anne Marie Davies or TVEG to apply as they planted the trees there and thus have an interest. The land could then be donated to the council. Council members will make further legal enquiries.

Map: Jemima Jameson, www.visitknighton.co.uk

Tea Shop Change

Cllr Chris Branford has retired from running the Clock Tower Tea Shop (in Prince & Pugh) where she has worked since 2000. Chris and her friend Jan Martin took over when Myfanwy Pugh retired; when Jan retired Chris continued cooking but is now ready to lay down the tea towel. However she will remain as a town councillor, having been mayor several times, so continues to support her community. The tea shop is now being run by Karen Aveyard.

Knighton Investment Plan

Knighton is one of 10 towns chosen by Powys County Council to work with consultants Rose Regeneration Ltd to come up with ways to revitalise the town. A survey of the public and local stakeholders revealed that employment opportunities, particularly for young people, affordable social housing, facilities for the young and the elderly and better public transport were among the things highlighted as needed. Lots of creative ideas were put forward including a shop front improvement scheme, a walking and cycling hub and flood alleviation. Watch this space.

Energy Advice Service in Knighton

To help respond to the cost of living crisis, energy advice is now available at the Knighton Community Centre on Tuesdays from 10am to 2.30pm. You can receive free and impartial advice, tailored to your circumstances, on how to reduce the energy use in your home something we can all benefit from given the big increases in energy prices. You can drop in to the advice surgeries: if it is busy, you will be able to make an appointment for another time. Nicola Colston of the Teme Valley Environment Group said, “Teme Valley Environment Group is delighted to have been successful in raising grant money from Citizens Advice to fund this personal service.” To pre book an appointment at an energy advice surgery, or to arrange for energy advice to be given over the telephone, please contact Gary Cowell on 01547 520374 or email garydkcowell@yahoo.co.uk

Knighton Flood Group Report

Knighton Flood Group met with Assistant Chief Fire Officer (ACFO) for Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service Craig Flannery, and Group Manager Teri Ann Parry, on 8 November at Knighton fire station. The purpose of the meeting was to make a case for Knighton’s fire station to receive wading status, including the necessary training and equipment. During the meeting, Knighton Flood Group’s Robert Edwards presented evidence demonstrating that wading status is desperately needed, including a map of the flood zone and the 174 properties affected; evidence that the Station Road wall is at risk of collapsing and causing catastrophic flooding; photographs of tree limbs, concrete, and other debris under the “Bailey” bridge; the town experiencing no fewer than five floods in the last three years; and the possibility that Knighton is cut off due to roads and bridges being destroyed (as happened in 2020 during storm Dennis).

The ACFO and Group Manager showed great interest in the evidence presented, praised the group’s determination, and expressed sympathy with the affected residents. ACFO Flannery explained the constraints of the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service: finite resources must be distributed among the many fire stations in the region. The group and fire service officials agreed that the local fire station should be equipped adequately to deal with the present challenges of flooding and potential future challenges, such as more extreme weather due to climate change. Some additional points raised included Powys County Council’s obligation to commence with the much needed maintenance of drains, the culvert, and the station road wall in Knighton and the responsibility of National Resources Wales (NRW) to keep the river Teme free flowing and clear of obstructions. ACFO Flannery pointed out that the fire service should be the last line of defence. He offered to liaise with the responsible agencies to facilitate more efficient management of the river and culvert. The group welcomed this. While there is no guarantee that the fire station will receive wading status in the future, Knighton Flood Group remains hopeful that the town’s flood resilience and emergency response can and will be improved.

Knighton Flood Group is deeply grateful to ACFO Flannery and Group Manager Parry for facilitating a most successful and informative meeting.

East Radnor Ramblers

Ffynnon Gwynydd Circular, Saturday 3 December 2022 (Group: Four Wells / East Radnor), Start time 10am, moderate 9 miles / 14.5 km (Estimated finish time: 3pm). Circular walk across the Begwns to the Roundabout and back down. Ffynnon Gwynydd Circular

Crickhowell Circular Walk, Saturday 10 December 2022 (Group: Four Wells / East Radnor), Start time 10am, moderate 10 miles / 16.1 km (Estimated finish time: 3.30pm). Beacons Way to Cwm Mawr, Tretower, Glanusk Estate then returning to Crickhowell via the Canal. BOOKING REQUIRED: Crickhowell Circular Walk

Kington Art Society

We are a friendly group of artists of all ages and levels of skill and we meet up weekly on a Thursday afternoon to paint together and socialise. We meet at Kingswood village hall (near the Small Breeds Farm and Owl Sanctuary) Times: between 1.30 to 3.30 in winter and 2 to 4 in summer. There are parking spaces at the hall.

We are looking for new members to join us.

Membership costs £15 per year which covers the cost of renting the hall and other admin expenses. If you think you might like to join the group, please drop in on any of our Thursday afternoon sessions to have a chat and see if you would enjoy painting with us (free of charge). We occasionally have professional painters come to do demonstrations and our very talented members are always available to help beginners if they would like.

We also participate in local arts events during the year when we show our paintings at Kingswood hall on the society’s own display panels. We provide tea, coffee and biscuits during the afternoon. If you would like more information or just to have a chat about the gro up please contact either Lorna Hart on 07587 484436 lornahart44@gmail.com or Judy Weir on 01544 239124 judycaebachhall@gmail.com

Winning Pubs

Congratulations to two fine hostelries in our area! The Bells Inn, Almeley was voted the Hereford Times Best Pub 2022 while The Harp Inn, Old Radnor was runner up. Pubs were nominated by readers and then the 10 pubs with the most nominations were voted on by the public. The Bells also has a delicatessen and shop.

Image: Robert Edwards discussing Knighton’s flood map with Group Manager Parry. Copyright: Knighton Flood Group

News from Kington Town Council

A New Kington!

You will, we hope, have noticed High Street, Bridge Street, Church Street and Love Lane and The Square have been resurfaced and repainted. You should also notice the new pavements in the High Street.

By the time you read this the final resurfacing should be complete and the last snags resolved. We want to thank all the residents and business owners who have had to put up with the disruption in October and November. We think it was worth it and we hope you do too.

The works have been carried out by BBLP working on behalf of Herefordshire Council in close consultation with both Kington Town Council and the Kington Chamber of Trade. A team from the Chamber and the Council were the primary point of contact for the contractors from the start of the project. We even helped BBLP specify the project and chose the designs with them.

This is a great example of how, by working together with our county partners, we can get great results for Kington. Alongside the Shop Front Renovation scheme which ended in September, we think our town looks really smart and is ready for business! It is also great to see new shops opening in the High Street.

We are in discussion with BBLP about the budgets for 2023 and 2024 and hope that this amazing upgrade to our town is just the beginning. We are also monitoring how the buildings and parts of the infrastructure which haven’t been upgraded this year might become part of the process next year.

50mph Limit

We have been consulting with Herefordshire Council on reducing the speed limit on the Kington bypass. This road is, in our opinion, very dangerous, with drivers frequently exceeding the 60mph limit in an area where many footpaths cross the road. We had petitioned for a reduction from 60 to 40mph for the whole stretch of the road from Kington Surgery to the Floodgates turnoff.

Sadly, we have only partially succeeded. For reasons that we are not convinced by, the authorities have decided only to reduce the limit to 50mph from the Tavern roundabout to the Floodgates turn. Our opinion is that the limit remains too high and that the planned mix of speed limits (60, 50, 30) in such a concentrated area will be confusing and potentially dangerous. We have made representations to this effect and will continue to push for a better outcome.

Elections and Co-options

We want to give you advance notice that there will be an election for the Town Council in May next year. The current council and mayor will all stand down before the election. Some of us will probably stand again for the new council but this is your opportunity to stand for election too! If you would like more information on standing for the Council, please contact our Clerk: clerk@kingtontowncouncil.org.uk We will have more details and deadlines in the next edition of the MBN.

Christmas Party

This year’s Council/Chamber Christmas Lights Switch On Party will be held on Thursday 1 December at the Market Hall/Place de Marines. Here’s the running order from 5pm:

Carols and Christmas tunes from the Community Choir and The Ludlow Concert Band. We will have a ticket system to provide food and drink for free to as many of you as we can serve!

Piping hot fresh pizza in the Burton Hotel car park by Wood Fired Pizzas from New Radnor.

Drinks will be served in the Market Hall where there will be hot gin and tonic, hot chocolate, soft drinks and beer.

The Border Bean will be giving us all some of their delicious Mince Pies.

Santa’s Grotto with a mystery Santa - in the Place de Marines, and we will have snow machines to add to the atmosphere! There will be plenty of Christmas presents for the children.

Official Switch On for the Town Lights will be at 6.30pm.

We’re looking forward to an even better turn out than last year!

Transport Survey

The council requested some time ago that Herefordshire Council carry out a transport study of Kington, as they have done for other market towns prior to any decisions on their part relating to parking charges or transportation issues. The briefing document for this survey was commented on by the Town Council in March this year. Herefordshire Council has now finalised the appointment of consultants to carry out this work which will take place over the coming weeks.

Vacancy

Councillor Robert MacCurrach has resigned as a Town Councillor. Herefordshire Council have not received a valid request for an election to fill this vacancy so the Town Council will be free to co opt someone to fill the vacancy. If you think you might be interested in becoming a Town Councillor, please contact the Town Clerk on 07483 914 485 or email clerk@kingtontowncouncil.gov.uk for further information. Please note that all councillors will be required to retire in 2023 and if they so wish may present themselves for re election. Elections for all town and parish councils in Herefordshire will take place on Thursday 4th May 2023.

Council Meeting

The next ordinary meeting of Full Council is scheduled for Monday 5th December 2022 at 7pm at the Old Police Station, Market Hall Street, Kington. Agendas and supporting papers will appear on our Council Business website page approximately 3 clear days before the meeting. Occasionally additional meetings are necessary to make decisions on matters which are urgent. These are always announced on the council website and on notice boards in the Town. Please check these for further information. Members of the public are warmly invited to join us for all meetings. Clerk: 01544 239098 or clerk@kingtontowncouncil.gov.uk

New road surface, paving, lines and freshly painted shop fronts in the refurbished Kington High Street.

Kington

With a different group bringing fresh stock in every week, this is one of the most interesting shops anywhere: you never know what you will find! It is a wonder of re use and a brilliant example of the “local multiplier” effect: keeping more of our money in the community. Fifty local organisations raise 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, PAT testing, keeping accounts and 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.

Email: kingtoncommunityshop@outlook.com

Kington and Hergest Ridge

There’s a lot wrong with the world at the moment: wars, recession, Donald Trump; but I still have to pinch myself each day when I look at the amazing area that we live in. This small corner of Herefordshire around Kington is simply stunning, with the hills, rivers and valleys and more history than you can poke a stick at!

Kington itself is a lovely small medieval market town founded in the early Norman era and was recorded in the Domesday book in 1086 as Chingtune meaning King’s Town. There’s not much you can’t get in the town which has a thriving high street, Co op and Friday markets.

A couple of miles outside the town is Hergest Ridge, a large hill of common land which stretches all the way to Gladestry and straddles the border with Wales. Offa’s Dyke runs through much of it and there are stunning views over to the Malverns in the east, the Shropshire hills to the north and the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons to the south. I’m up there most days walking with the dog and it’s an area that I never tire of; you can easily spend a few hours exploring the landscape.

One of Kington’s most famous and noticeable landmarks on Hergest Ridge is a small copse of monkey puzzle trees. They sit on the path that runs up from the town you can’t miss them. They were planted in the early 90’s by Dick Banks of Hergest Court.

Surrounding the monkey puzzle trees is an old Victorian racecourse. It’s about a mile all the way round and was used through the summer months up until about 1880. The Worcester Herald included results from the meeting on Thursday 9th July 1829 when the £50 Plate was won by Master Henry for Mr Onion, while the Sweepstake went to Forester for Mr Fuller.

Nationwide coverage followed in 1839 when the meeting on Thursday 17th October was included in Baily's Racing Register for the first time, with the Farmers Stakes going to Mr Wadlow's Woodbine, and the Kington Plate captured by Catherina. Must have been quite an event!

Also within the racecourse is the Whetstone. This is a large granite glacial erratic which probably originated on nearby Hanter Hill and deposited where it is now by a glacier in the last ice age. Apparently in medieval times it was used as a place to distribute food to people suffering from leprosy. Legend has it that the stone rolled down to Hindwell Brook each time it heard a cock crow.

In 1974 following the success of his first album Tubular Bells, Mike Oldfield moved to The Beacon, a house on Bradnor Hill where he sought inspiration for his second album named Hergest Ridge (presumably it was not forthcoming).

As I mentioned earlier, the Offa’s Dyke path runs the full length of the Ridge. The path roughly follows the actual dyke and is named after Offa, the Anglo Saxon king of Mercia who ruled from AD 757 until 796, who is traditionally believed to have ordered its construction.

Although its precise original purpose is debated, it delineated the border between Anglian Mercia and the Welsh kingdom of Powys. The path runs all the way down to Gladestry where after a great walk you can drop into the Royal Oak for a pint or two!

Andy Tobin

Waste Not, Want Not Exhibition

An exhibition in Hereford Cathedral’s Mappa Mundi and Chained Library building explores the historic use of recycling and how this has managed to preserve artifacts and information which might otherwise have been lost. The Waste Not, Want Not exhibition this winter showcases items from the cathedral’s collections which have reused or repurposed older materials, and given them a new lease of life. Ranging from old books and documents carefully re using parchment, to reframing stained glass fragments or resetting silver and gems, there are many ways that the cathedral of the past ‘wasted not’. The exhibition features items such as a scrap of parchment used to record the receipt of a salary for the Dean’s Champion, and the oldest piece of manuscript book held in the collections used as endleaves in a later volume.

'Waste Not, Want Not' is on show within Mappa Mundi and Chained Library, Hereford Cathedral, Monday 12 September to Saturday 31 December. The exhibition is open from Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 5 pm (last entrance 4.30 pm). Normal admission charges apply.

Leominster Victorian Market

Saturday 10 December. Step back in time and join us for a truly Dickensian adventure at the 25th Leominster Victorian Christmas Street Market. The town centre will be filled with stalls selling handmade and locally produced gifts for loved ones. Enjoy street food, roasted chestnuts and mulled wine or why not go for a horse and carriage ride around the town. Let yourselves be entertained by Punch and Judy, Morris dancers, live seasonal music and more. Make sure you take the opportunity to explore Leominster’s famously independent shops which will be open on the day. And watch out for shady Victorians who might pick a pocket or two! www.visitherefordshire.co.uk

The Radnor Arms

The Radnor Arms Action Group (RAAG) is a Community Benefit Society dedicated to reopening the Radnor Arms Hotel, New Radnor’s last pub. In October 2022 we successfully purchased the pub for £115,000. We are currently fundraising towards a target of £150,000 to cover the cost of purchase and early work as we apply for further grants.

Having secured the site we intend to pay for it using a Community Share Issue to raise funds. Our plan is to develop the site into an exemplar of community ownership. When open the pub will once again turn the village centre into a vibrant and sociable place to be. In 2016 the Radnor Arms closed. Despite being a viable business, and valuable community asset it ceased trading and has fallen into disrepair. Following a forced sale it has been purchased by a Community Benefit Society who now wish to reopen it as a thriving welcoming public house. Much of the existing building needs repair, including works to the roof, windows, and total interior refit. It is hoped that we can raise the monies for this work from community donations and support from business and local trades people.

Silent Auction

Please join us by bidding for items in our silent auction which runs from Friday 18th November to Tuesday 13th December and includes wonderful lots from near and far including art works from celebrated local artists, short breaks, guitar lessons, wine tasting and food pairings, a customised family tree, meals out, a jointed half lamb, hampers, pottery lessons, salmon fishing, a folding bicycle, British Cassis, Hergest Croft tea and garden visit, a wheelbarrow (in a colour of your choice!), a handmade bird table and …. first edition Radnor Arms mugs! And lots more!

Go to www.32auctions.com/theradnorarmshotel or you can see the physical auction catalogue at ESCO’s, The Hub, or The Community Centre in New Radnor, The Fforest Inn, The Harp Inn, Kington Building Supplies, The Grapevine, J&P Turner and The Burton Hotel in Kington, Deli Tinto in Presteigne, Lyonshall Garden Centre, and at our h.Art Winter Weekends.

You can also see the catalogue and many of the auction items at the community open days at The Radnor Arms on Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 November, and Saturday 3 & Sunday 4 December. We hope you can join us.

Also on those dates we invite you to a selling exhibition of

artwork as part of h.Art’s Winter Weekend. Refreshments, tea, coffee and cake (together with more artworks) will be available at the Hub in Old School Lane, New Radnor, in aid of the Radnor Arms repair work.

Woodfired pizzas from M&S Pizza will be available for sale on Sunday 27 November, from midday, with £1 donated from each pizza sold to the fund raising. Tours of the building at 11.30am and 2.30pm each day for those interested to see it, and to see how much work needs to be done. A fund raising concert by Phil Ram & The Manana Kids will take place on the evening of Saturday 3 December from 7.30pm, at The Iron Bar, Radnorshire Ales, Brookside Farm, New Radnor, LD8 2SU. £10 on the door.

The Radnor Arms Hotel, Broad Street, New Radnor, LD8 2SP www.theradnorarms.com

Brilley Flicks in the Sticks

Thursday 1 December: The Phantom of the Open (PG) The remarkable true story of Maurice Flitcroft, a crane operator and optimistic > dreamer from Barrow-in-Furness who, with the support of his family and friends, managed to gain entry to the 1976 British Open, despite never playing a round of golf before. With pluckiness and unwavering self belief, Maurice pulls off a series of stunning, hilarious and heartwarming attempts to compete at the highest level of professional golf, drawing the ire of the golfing elite but becoming a British folk hero in the process.

Thursday 5 January 2023: West Side Story (12A) Steven Spielberg's adaptation of the 1957 musical. In the midst of a tense gang rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, Tony finds himself falling in love with his rival’s sister, Maria. As the turf war between the two gangs grows more violent by the day, their love blossoms and threatens to rip apart the neighbourhood. Music by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim.

7.30pm at Brilley and Michaelchurch Village Hall. Tickets for all films are £5. Advance booking only please book and pay for your tickets online at www.pay brilley.co.uk Don't forget to bring your own refreshments for films. The bar will be open for the live performance. Doors open at 7pm. Please note that if you do not get an almost immediate email confirmation, then your payment has not gone through and you will need to try again!

Railway

KNIGHTON RAILWAY. THE FIRST SOD OF THE KNIGHTON RAILWAY WILL BE CUT BY LADY JANE WALSH, On THURSDAY, the 19th day of AUGUST instant, At one o'clock precisely. A LUNCHEON at 2 o'clock, in a spacious Marquee erected for the occasion, President the Hon. Windsor Clive, M.P., Chairman of the Company. There will be a tent for Dancing after the Luncheon, and the Band of Mr W. C. Hay, of Shrewsbury will attend. Tickets of Admission to the above, including Wine, 5s each; to be had at the bar of the Chandos Arms Hotel, Knighton, and of Mr Jeffries, the Manager of the Locomotive department of the Shrewsbury and Hereford Railway, Shrewsbury. Knighton Market will be held on Wednesday, August 18th (being Fair day) instead of Thursday the 19th, the Tradesmen having all agreed to close their shops on Thursday, the 19th.

[Lady Jane Walsh was the wife of Sir John Benn Walsh, Baronet, who was MP for Radnorshire. The chairman of Knighton Railway Company was Robert George Windsor Clive, 1st Earl of Plymouth GBE, CB, PC He was the great grandson of Major-General Robert Clive, 1st Baron Clive, KB MP FRS, better known as Clive of India].

Hereford Journal Wednesday 13 March 1861

THE RAILWAY The opening of this line, which forms the first section of the Central Wales Railway, took place on Wednesday. All public demonstration had been dispensed with, nevertheless there was a great influx of persons from the country, and a strong feeling of interest manifested on the occasion. At 9.15 a.m., the time fixed for the arrival of the first train, the platform in front of the station, also the bridge which spans the railway a short distance above it, and the new road, commanding a view of the station was crowded by some hundreds of persons, all anxious to catch the first glimpse of the train, and by whom its arrival was greeted with hearty cheers, which made the welkin ring. The band, under the mastership of Mr. F. Teague, was in attendance, and played at intervals, and the bells of our parish church rang merrily throughout the day. The weather, in the evening, was most unfavourable. The wind blew a perfect hurricane, and the rain came down almost without intermission. Notwithstanding this, the interest taken by the crowds of persons who assembled to witness the arrival and departure of each successive train continued through the day. The advantages of a railway to Knighton have been already felt by the inhabitants of the town and neighbourhood in the transit of coal and heavy goods during the past severe winter. It is expected that in a few weeks the line will be opened as far as the Knucklas, and incalculable will be the advantages it will afford our neighbours on the adjoining hills.

Hereford Journal 29 May 1861

A visitor to Knighton Station writes: We promised to say something about the station at Knighton, and we will not offer any excuse for not doing so. We might say, and with truth, that Knighton is the prettiest, neatest, most cheerful looking station we have ever met with in our travels. So we understand it was meant to be, for a good many wise heads, and some fair ones too we don't mean that they were white had something to do with the selection of the plan. It is built in the Medieval Gothic style and is spacious, and furnished with all the apartments of a first class station. The stone is Kinsley with Grinshall rock quoins and dressings. The windows have pointed arches anti gables and the barges have handsome tracery. Over the ladies'

waiting room there is a handsome Belgian tower, and this, with the balustrading and finial sprays, when gilded, (as they are intended to be) gives the place an elegant appearance. The chimney shafts are from Buckley, near Chester, and the tiles, ornamental cress, and gablets, from the wellknown manufactory of such things at Broseley, we think. There is a canopy over a portion of the platform supported by brackets, and the internal fittings are all of the best and most substantial character. The line to Knighton was carried out under the contractor, Thomas Brassey, Esq., portions being done by John Morton, Esq., the sub contractor. A good deal of the general supervision devolved upon Edward Jeffreys. Esq., locomotive superintendent of the Shrewsbury and Hereford, at the former place. Messrs. Mackay and Preece carried out the masonry generally, Mr. Haslar superintended the carpentry, and Mr Goodbye, of Shrewsbury, did the painting. The work from beginning to end has the appearance of having been carried out in a first class manner.

We are very grateful to Terry Drayton for allowing us to reprint this information from his website https:// terrydrayton.wixsite.com/knighton It’s well worth a visit! Here’s some information about him and his history projects.

Eight years ago I had been researching my family tree but had gone as far as I reliably could. However, I enjoyed undertaking the research the bug had got me! A friend suggested that I research my home town and, although I was not born in Knighton, I have lived here since 1993, growing up in the general area. My first idea was to produce something on the Knighton Workhouse, and that same friend suggested that I set up a website for my findings, so that I could share it with like minded people. This then expanded into other topics: railways, the cinema, notable people - even murders - to name but a few. Family History is not a cheap hobby as so many websites ask you to put your hand in your pocket for them to provide information. I therefore decided to make all the information that I gathered free to anyone who had an interest. I now have enquiries from all over the world requesting information on their relatives who originated from Knighton. This I enjoy and give my time freely. I have since surveyed the local cemetery and have produced another site with all the burials in there. https://knightoncemetery.wixsite.com/mysite

Christmas Pastorale, Knill

Thursday 29 December. A concert of contemplative seasonal music with Ruth Watson, oboe; Leila Basletic, organ; John Hymas, violin; Marion Rowlatt, mezzo soprano with the Saint Andrew’s Sisters. The programme will include works by Bach, Corelli and Berlioz and there will be mulled wine and mince pies. 3pm at St Michael's Church Knill LD8 2PR. Donations are invited in aid of church funds.

Music in New Radnor

Syrinx Ensemble: Music for Christmas, Saturday 10 December. A delicious evening of delightfully light classical music from this professional wind quintet and piano ensemble. A Christmas theme, a few surprises and humour for good measure. Tickets £15

Adam Khan and Clarissa Payne: music for guitar and flute, Saturday 11 February. Adam is a superb musician well known for his collaborations with other performers. Tonight’s programme will feature many works by women composers including Elisabeth Claude Jacquet de la Guerre, Chiqinha Gonzaga, Libby Larsen and Katherine Hoover, as well as pieces by JS Bach. Tickets £15. https:// guitarflute.net/

Kassia Trio, Saturday 11 March 2023. Graduates from the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and the Guildhall School of Music, The Kassia Trio are a modern reinvention of the typical piano trio, with two saxophones and piano. A versatile ensemble offering a lively and varied programme. More details nearer the time. Tickets £15. https:// www.thekassiatrio.co.uk/home

Although there will be seats available on the door, we encourage you to continue to book your tickets in advance through the box office numbers (preferably not on the day).

New Radnor Community Hall, Hall Lane, New Radnor. LD8 2SW. All performances start at 7.30 pm (doors open at 7.00 pm). Box office 01544 350268 unless otherwise stated. The concessionary price for children under 14 is always £3. Wine and soft drinks will be available at the bar: feel free to bring snacks. Please note that there is no parking available at the hall.

We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Noson Allan / Night Out scheme whose support is invaluable to all small promoters in Wales.

KIngton Choral Society Winter Concert

Saturday 10 December in St Mary’s Church, Kington, a performance of Bach’s Magnificat together with other works by Ireland, Parry, Stanford & Wood. The KCS choir will be accompanied by Hilary Norris on organ, conducted by Robert Evans. Tickets only £10; book in advance online at www.kingtonchoral.org.uk or buyon the door (<18s free).

In the new year, the choir starts rehearsals for Carl Jenkins’ “The Armed Man” which will be performed in Presteigne,in June 2023. his stirring and very emotional work by Welsh composer Karl Jenkins is one not to miss put the date in your diary!

The choir welcomes new singers if you would like to know more about the choir or join us for The Armed Man, visit our website www.kingtonchoral.org.uk

Business Directory

KNIGHTON

Rotary Club of Knighton and District. We are a small but active Rotary Club of 30 members including 12 women. 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

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

Bricklayer, Presteigne,30 years’ experience, available for all brickwork jobs, repointing slabbing and patio construction. No job too small. Reasonable rates. Please call Dean 07496 537194 anytime.

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

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: Dan 07798 928909 E: andychilvers@outlook.com

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

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 pain, sciatica, neck pain, headaches, migraines, shoulder problems, hip and knee arthritis, joint pain, muscle spasms, plantar fasciitis, fibromyalgia and more. Trudi Price BOst (Hons) Church Walk Osteopaths 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

The Hub in New Radnor is a welcoming place to get together over a drink or to attend one of the many events taking place. We are open every Friday night for PHub night with simple food from 6.30 11.00pm and every Thursday 10am to 12pm for coffee mornings. School Lane, New Radnor, LD8 2SS. T: 07870 752325 E: ruthwatsonfood@gmail.com Fb The Hub New Radnor

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.

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 email 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. juliette@handmadebysolange.com See Facebook & Instagram.

Hergest Croft Gardens Open weekends from 5 March, then daily from Saturday 26 March to Sunday 30 October 11.30am to 5pm. Admission: adults £7, accompanied children under 16 free. Gift shop, free car parking, dogs on leads welcome. Maples Tearoom serving delicious homecooked food. Ridgebourne Rd, Kington HR5 2EG. T: 01544 230160.

E: gardens@hergest.co.uk W: 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. 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 the Oxford Arms on the last Thursday of the month, 29 September, 27 October and 24 November. 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

Made in the Marches Gallery. Kington’s artisan gallery, showing a diverse and changing collection of artwork encompassing the beauty and essence of the Marches, from local artists and makers. 12 Church St, Kington HR5 3AZ. T: 07531 820195. E: madeinthemarchesgallery@gmail.com

W: Made in the Marches Gallery

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.

E: marches.counselling@gmail.com 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. Open Monday 8.30 1; Tuesday 8.30 3; Wednesday closed; Thursday 8.30 3; Friday 8.30 3; Saturday 8.30 1. E: number25deli@gmail.com

W: Number25deli.co.uk

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

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. 26 High Street, Kington HR5 3AX. Please check website for opening hours. T: 07756 172160. E: thewalkinghub@gmail.com W: www.kingtonwalkinghub.com

WEOBLEY

Gina Lucy Yoga. Classes in Dilwyn & Weobley. Experienced teacher, new classes starting in September. W: www.ginalucyyoga.co.uk

Robert Arley. Ex BBC and ITV producer (now based in Herefordshire) reveals behind the scenes secrets on making popular programming ranging from The Antiques Roadshow to Top Gear; Children’s ITV to Music Live. Available for talks. W: www.robertarley.com

HAY ON WYE

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

LEOMINSTER

Services for Independent Living (SIL). SIL supports disabled and/or elderly people who live in their own homes. We offer a range of services from short calls, to complex care and also support for those with a direct payment or PHB. For more information on our services or current vacancies: W: www.s4il.co.uk T: 01568 616653 E: contactus@s4il.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

National Gardens Scheme

There is an evening opening (4 6pm) Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 December at Tranquillity Haven, 7 Lords Land, Whitton, Knighton LD2 3HU, no teas.

Open all year by arrangement are Llysdinam, Newbridge on Wye, LD1 6NB and Plas Dinam, Llandinam, Newtown SY17 5DQ. For details visit ngs.org.uk