MidBorder News Summer 2022

MidBorder News Summer 2022

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Serving Kington, Knighton, Presteigne and the surrounding areas

The Interview: Bob Widdowson, Kington Councillor Kington Food and Drink Fair Presteigne Festival & Carnival Knucklas Fete Civil War Re-enactment Jubilee Events Council News 1

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Acknowledgments

MidBorder News is your local news and events maga-

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 all our ads. May the bluebird of happiness fly over you all.

zine 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 as well as the printed version being distributed to many venues in and around the three towns.

Cover: Shelly Perkins is a wildlife artist based on the Worcestershire /Herefordshire Border. Her vibrant limited edition prints showcase our natural world from scenes of rural Britain to Africa, Antarctica and beyond. Shelly's love of wildlife and her work as an artist have taken her to many beautiful places on the planet and she uses those experiences to inspire her work.

Aiming to champion a better understanding for our natural world and the creatures that inhabit it. To see more of her work visit www.shellyperkins.co.uk or on instagram @shellyperkinswildlifeart

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.

Editorial Welcome to our Summer issue! We’ve got lots of events and Jubilee happenings for you to enjoy. It feels as if, at long last, life is returning to something like normal – at least on a social level. Economically life continues to be challenging for many of us, and the huge increase in the cost of paper products means that our printing costs have more than doubled. So we’re very grateful to Signworx, near Leominster, for their help and support for this issue.

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COPY DEADLINES: 10 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.

I am always inspired by the amount of local events that are run by volunteers: the recent Marches Makers Festival is a case in point and it’s extraordinary to see the quality and professionalism of such a big event, powered by the time and energy of a mall group of dedicated people. Many of the festivals, fétes, fairs, museums and carnivals featured within these pages are volunteer run and they always need more people, so why not benefit your community and yourself by joining in? It’s enormously satisfying and you meet some lovely people.

E: midbordernews@gmail.com Online issues: https://issuu.com/midbordernews/docs/ Copy deadline Autumn 2022 issue (September, October, November) 10 August 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 NEW for 2022: we are offering a photo-feature ad on our Facebook page. 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.

Best wishes, Annie Annie Vickerstaff, editor

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Elly Ingram Sponsored Trek You may remember reading about my sponsored trek in previous issues of MidBorder News, well after being postponed 4 times we are now on track for 10th September. My training will be resuming this month. I am following a 16 week training plan, and after starting it 4 times I do feel a lot more confident in my trekking abilities than I did at the start of 2020. If you need a reminder: I was due to go in October 2020. The plan is to do a 5 day sponsored mountain trek through the Andes in Peru, along the Inca Trail. This trail goes up to 4,200 metres above sea level, so there is potential for altitude sickness to set in, which is something I can’t do a lot to prepare for. I am doing this to raise money for the charity WaterAid because I believe everybody should have access to clean water, decent toilets and good hygiene. I still have a little bit of fundraising left to do to reach my target of £4,000 and so I am asking, once again, if you would be willing and are able, to please sponsor me. Even the smallest amount can help WaterAid to do the amazing work it does. Did you know that 1 in 10 people do not have clean water close to their home?

RidgeBank RidgeBank is a new contemporary art space in the former Kington and Radnorshire Bank building at no.1 High Street in the heart of Kington. This has been a four year project from inception in 2018 to completion in April 2022. Our aim is to complement the existing vibrant art scene in Kington and the surrounding area by running an exciting, experimental and ambitious programme of exhibitions and events that will reflect our local area, artists and people. RidgeBank's doors are open to all artists and audiences interested in Kington's rich border history, heritage and stories.

Open Fri to Sun 12-6pm.

My fundraising page is on the JustGiving website at https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/elly-ingramtrek and I would be so, so grateful of any donations.

Thank you for everyone who has donated so far, I appreciate it very much. If you’d like any further information please feel free to email me at info@ellyingram.co.uk - thank you again. Elly Ingram

Kington Community Shop

Photo Andy Compton

DATE

ORGANISATION

01 June

Walton Village Hall

08 June

Bryngwyn Riding for the Disabled (RDA)

15 June

Kinnerton Village Hall & Church

22 June

Kington Community Choir

29 June

Gladestry Village Hall

06 July

Knill Church

13 July

Almeley Church

Lee Taylor

20 July

Music @ St. Marys

27 July

Marches Maker Festival

03 August

Huntington Church

10 August

tbc

17 August

New Radnor WI

24 August

tbc

Celebrating 15 years of teaching Karate in Presteigne, Lee is attempting to complete 24 hours of performing Karate Kata to raise money for the local charity Mid & North Powys Mind. Lee believes the charity resonates with the aim of his Karate clubs, of helping people of all ages improve their health and well being physically and mentally, especially after the last 2 years!

Friday June 24th-Saturday 25th 2022 at Presteigne Memorial Hall 12noon to 12noon.

31 August

Kington Amateur Drama & Operatic Society

07 Sept

Llangunllo Church & Village Hall

Donations: https://localgiving.org/fundraising/24-hourkata-thon/

Charity: https://mnpmind.org.uk/ 3

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Ludlow Rotary Club’s Annual Dog Day

burley of the sieges. Activities for all ages, free parking, daily ticket £4.00 per adult, children free.

On Sunday 24 July after 2 years Ludlow Rotary Club’s Annual Dog Day is back again: but this year, in conjunction with Church Stretton Rotary Club, it’s bigger and better than ever!

In addition to the sieges throughout the weekend there will be a large ‘Living History Village’ with a range of craftspeople, and exhibits demonstrating what life was like during the middle of the 17th century. Weaving, leather working and much more went on even during periods of fighting. There will also be horse in full regalia of the time.

Our 7th annual Dog Day is held in the beautiful grounds of Stokesay Court, situated approximately 6 miles north of Ludlow and just off the A49 is back. As a result of the money this event has raised over the last 6 years we have been able to distribute over £120,000 to a range of charities and community organizations.

In the warehouse, noted battlefield historian Martin Hackett (author of the ‘Lost Battlefields of Wales’ and the ‘Lost Battlefields of Britain’) will be explaining what happened during the sieges with the help of his intricate scale models, which get more detailed and better each year, and conducting wargaming activities.

This years’ chosen charities are Hope House Children’s Hospices (providing care and support to life-limited children, young people and their families from Shropshire, Cheshire, and North and Mid Wales), St Michael’s Hospice, Hereford (providing care for patients affected by a terminal illness and their families) and Ludlow Rotary Cares which provides small grants to help local charities and organisations make a real difference in the community.

He also has models of other local battles including Mortimer's Cross (1461). Martin has worked with the Mortimer's Cross Society on the successful campaign to list the battlefield site, and over the next few years will be spearheading the first scientific surveys of the area of the battlefield.

The day is all about fun for the whole family, particularly our furry friends. There are over 20 classes you can enter, from the scruffiest mutt, and the fastest sausage eater, to the best in show; have-a-go events such as dog agility, gun dog scurry and there are demonstrations galore throughout the day, including many past favourites along with new additions such as Bob Hogg’s Dog and Ducks: a must see!

Also joining us during the day will be Adrian Durkin, formerly senior curator at Dudley Museum. Adrian will be bringing his collection of costume, weapons and armour of the period and will also be leading the educational activities in which children get a flavour of warfare of the period.

There are plenty of stalls for you to enjoy, whether selling canine related goods or pampering to your needs such as the food stalls, the popular tea tent and the Hobsons’ Bar. So, if you are looking for a wonderful day out in support of three very good causes, then join us to celebrate our furry friends in all their glory. For more information please go to www.ludlowdogday.org.uk or visit our facebook page: Ludlow Rotary Dog Day

English Civil War Re-enactment: The Sieges of Brampton Bryan 13 &14 August 2022. The English Civil War Society is due to descend on Aardvark Books in Brampton Bryan again in 2022 to commemorate the two sieges of Brampton Bryan in 1643 and 1644. Including a full detachment of cannons, muskets, pikes and much more, hundreds of re-enactors are visiting Brampton Bryan to tell the bloodthirsty story of the heroic defence of Brampton Bryan Castle by Brilliana Harley and her household.

Organ Recital June 3rd 7.30pm an organ recital in St Edward's Church, Knighton. 'Baker's Dozen': 13 short works played by organ virtuoso George Baker, including pieces by Elgar, Saint-Saens and Johann Strauss Sr. Free admission.

Attacked by a Royalist force of some 800 men lead by Sir William Vansittart, Lady Brilliana Harley bravely defended the castle – the second largest in the Marches – and the re-enactment captures the noise and hurley 5

(Liberal) 106, Richard Ship (Greens) 100. Total votes cast 733 - 43%. The result for Llangunllo with Norton Ward: Deb Edwards (Independent) 359, Nigel Bufton (Liberal) 303, Paddy O’Connell (Conservative) 135.

Total votes cast 797 - 59%. Radnorshire: following the election, six seats on our Town Council remain unfilled. If you would like to be considered to contribute to the work of the Council and fill one of those vacancies, please apply by email to the Town Clerk at presteigneandnortontc@outlook.com

Ukraine Fundraiser Went’s Meadow We’re looking for friendly, enthusiastic people aged 18 or over to be volunteers at the Ukraine Fundraiser on Saturday 25 June, Went’s Meadow, Presteigne. This is an ideal opportunity for anyone who would like to get involved and to help raise funds for the British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal and Presteigne Area Refugee Support Fund. The main areas you can get involved in as a volunteer are: Entrance Gate; General Site including Recycling; Car Parking; Assisting Caterers; Building and taking down site. If you can spare a few hours and would like to volunteer, please sign up as a volunteer on the Sheep Music website www.sheepmusic.co.uk or email info@sheep-music.co.uk

PNCS Warehouse. Wanted: good condition furniture, bookcases, cabinets, tables and chairs, cupboards.

Sofas and easy chairs (must have a fire certificate). Garden furniture, tools and other items. Please note that we do not take glass TV stands, DVD players, printers, beds or mattresses. Contact the Warehouse for further info 07496 732067.

From Presteigne Community News An information service from PACDG: Presteigne Area Community Development Group. If you would like to receive this excellent newsletter just email

Knighton & Presteigne Leg Club. Appointments available from District Nurses on 01547 521270. Why not have lunch at the Community Cafe at the Community Centre afterwards?

news@pacdg.org

Presteigne and Norton high speed broadband. Have you registered your interest in the new high speed broadband project? Would you like to have internet speeds of 100mb plus? A full fibre to the premises reliable connection? Future proof your broadband at no cost for installation? Then register using the details pinned at the top of the PresteigneNortonTC page https://www.facebook.com/PresteigneNorton-T-C-447804012279436 Registrations have slowed and we still need more to submit a funding application. Please share this post as widely as you can amongst Presteigne and Norton friends and family.

142 premises are still needed to reach the 25% target.

Please sign up to help make this happen - for everyone’s sake!

Spine Race. On 19 June at 8am I'll be setting out on what has always been a distant idea, a joke after a couple of beers and something I've always wanted to do but never thought was possible (don't all the best ideas start in the pub?). The Spine Race is a 268 mile non stop race with a 156 hour time limit. Its starts in Edale and finishes just over the Scottish Borders in Kirk Yetholm encompassing the whole of the Pennine Way. Thought I might as well have a crack! I'll be raising money along my way for our Fire Service's Co Responders - find out more about the race and my charity at JustGiving: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ rory-bennett All donations welcome for this vital local cause!

Presteigne Freegle. Popular items listed on Freegle at this time of the year: paving slabs, greenhouses, DIY offcuts, gardening tools , plants, water butts, sheds, soil, seeds, bird-feeders, garden furniture, fencing, timber, pallets, sun loungers, surplus allotment crops -all free to reuse, just grab our app to see what's being giv-

County Councillor Elections. Beverley Baynham was duly elected as the new Councillor for the Presteigne Ward and Deb Edwards as Councillor for the new Llangunllo with Norton Ward - congratulations Beverley and Deb! The result for Presteigne Ward: Beverley Baynham (Independent) 527, Leon Abecasis 6

en away nearby https://www.ilovefreegle.org/mobile 1st Presteigne Guides Re-opening. We are so pleased to be able to re-open the local Guides unit! We have plenty of spaces available for young women aged 10 to 14 years old. Why not come along to one of our weekly meetings as a taster session to find out more?

Tuesday evenings at the Old School, Hereford Street.

Contact Amy amyprice@hotmail.co.uk Presteigne Carnival Volunteers Saturday 9 July.

Volunteers needed!! We are so excited to be holding the carnival this year on 9th July in Went’s Meadow.

We have a fun day and evening planned, but as with all great events, we need volunteers to run it. If you can spare an hour or so, either on the Friday to set up, the Sunday to take down, but particularly on Saturday, we would be eternally grateful. Please either contact us through FB or ring on 07766 152000. There are lots of jobs to choose from! Thank you in anticipation, we really need your help.

Presteigne’s Platinum Party to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee on Friday 3 June from 2pm onwards in Presteigne High Street. The High Street will be closed to traffic from 10am to 8pm to enable set up and removal of tables, chairs etc. Food available from High St outlets or bring your own picnic & drink.

Norton bring and share picnic in celebration of the Queens Platinum Jubilee on Thursday 2 June from 12 noon on the Mill Field, soft drinks and coffee and tea available, bring your own alcoholic drinks, games for the children and music for all! For further details contact Chris 01544 267749, Tracy 01544 598251, or Eileen 01544 262710

We shall have a selection on sale, together with succulents and perennials at the Methodist Church on Saturday 21 May from 10am to 12pm. Tea and cake will be on sale as well as cake, jam and bric a brac stall.

Ukrainian fundraising day of music in Presteigne. Save the date! Saturday 25 June. Kington Choral’s Spring Concert features music by Schubert, Handel and Vaughan Williams, with guest soloists. 3pm in St Andrew’s Church. Retiring collection for Ukraine. £12 (£6 <18s) at the door or book online www.kingtonchoral.org.uk Sheep Music and MBA Ukraine Fundraiser. 5pm to 11.30pm at The Barn, Went's Meadow. A fantastic line up of bands - The Destroyers, Little Rumba, The Poobahs and DJ Stef Mo with the event compéred by Loose Baker. Bar, good food and raffle. The event is raising funds for the British Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal and Presteigne Area Refugee Support Fund. Tickets £12 for adults, £5 for age 12 and under, and free for age 5 and under. Tickets from The Workhouse Gallery (cash only) or online from https://www.wegottickets.com/

Presteigne Repair & Share. Come along this Saturday 21 May from 10am to 12 noon. We Repair Household Stuff - of all sorts - for free! Old School, Hereford Street. If you enjoy fixing stuff we need more fixers for our monthly Repair sessions. It only requires 2 hours or so once a month and is very sociable - with lots of thank-you’s from grateful customers, and the occasional Fixers’ social. To hear more, please call Rolly on 01544 260766.

Presteigne Carnival

Saturday 9th July starting with a procession through the town at 12.45pm, with official opening at Went’s Meadow at 1.45. The main acts are Paws for Thought, a dog display team, and Pentre Farm. We have lots happening on the field throughout the afternoon including Country Fayre classes in the Community Barn, Tug of War, magician, slippery pole, games, Pop Choir, assault course, and also have a variety of food stalls, carnival cafe and bar. The day continues into the evening with music from 5pm with the Steve Yeomans Duo, The Fabulous Bordellos and The Barebacks, finishing 10.30pm. The entry fee is £5 for adults, under 16s free. https://www.facebook.com/Presteignecarnival/

event/547366.

Methodist Church Plant Sale. You don’t need a big garden; some look pretty in the flower bed like swiss chard. Tomatoes, cut and come again lettuce, courgettes and runner beans can be all grown in pots.

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News from Kington Town Council

Car Parking Thanks to an amazing and spirited turnout to the public consultation on parking charges in Kington, the town has convinced Herefordshire Council to think again.

Your new mayor, Cllr David Redmayne, writes: I was elected barely a week ago and while hugely honoured to have been selected to be Mayor, there’s certainly been no honeymoon period as I’ve been thrown into a very busy period for the council.

First, I should pay tribute to the outgoing Mayor, Cllr Bob Widdowson, who has been instrumental in so many of the projects that have recently come to fruition. I’m so pleased Bob has agreed to stay on as Deputy Mayor to help guide me from his vast experience!

HC will be commissioning a transport study which will, we’re promised, include both a comprehensive review of the transportation options to, in and from Kington AND a proper consultation with our residents.

In fact, all my fellow councillors have put a huge amount of effort to get these town improvements in place – so too our Town Clerk, Liz Kelso who is now most adept at completing grant application forms. Thanks everyone!

As your council we want to thank all of those who took the time to turn up and leave Cllr Harrington and his team in no doubt that their plans were flawed.

You can read later about some of the exciting changes the grants have meant for our town and there’s more to come – but let’s not forget last year’s improved Christmas lights and the recent unveiling of the Remembrance Bench up at St Mary’s.

We must not give up the fight, despite this victory.

In time, we are sure, the issue will return, and we must act collectively to ensure that the town and its residents get a transportation policy which reflects our unique situation among the market towns and serves the needs of our community in the long term.

Shop Front Grant Scheme and Planters The works to renovate Kington’s shop fronts are well under way. Already the change is incredible.

Do stop and look at the shops and buildings in the High Street, Church Street, Mill and Bridge Streets.

The new lease of life that the grant has given the town is amazing – and it’s not done yet!

You will also, we hope, have noticed the new planters around the town and on the roundabouts and roads into and out of Kington. We have also budgeted and contracted for the continuous maintenance of these planters during the summer – so Kington will always be in bloom.

We’ll soon have news of a second bench also designed and built by Ambrose Burne. This one will be sited in a quiet spot in the Rec for reflection on those we lost during Covid and for those who sacrificed so much for our community during the pandemic.

Town Map and Jubilee Events We approved the design for the new town map at our meeting on 9 May. The map measures 5m x 2m and will hang on the back wall of the Place de Marines. We’re hoping that it can be unveiled during the Jubilee celebrations on 3rd June.

So, I start my year as Mayor of Kington with a full diary! One of my aims is to continue to strengthen ties with all the groups and organisations who operate in our town and work together to continue to make Kington a grand place to live in and to visit.

Please keep an eye out on social media and in the 10

damaged. The work would be carried out by Balfour Beatty Living Places. This fits in with the larger vision of improving the town for residents and visitors alike and builds on the work done via a grant scheme from the town council to refurbish shop fronts – many of which are looking very handsome indeed.

town for confirmation of the time of the unveiling and other Jubilee events.

Outdoor Gym The new outdoor gym in the recreation ground should be installed and operational by the time this edition is published. The council team behind the project and the grant which supports it (it’s not from your precept) are hugely excited by the successful conclusion of the project. They can’t wait to use it! If you don’t see at least one of your councillors red-faced and sweating – then let us know!

Foals on Hergest Ridge

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Thistles

Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Over the special bank holiday weekend there will be lots going on in the town. The famous Kington Food and Drink Festival is on Saturday 4 June and there will be a literal feast of delicious local produce, drinks, music and other delights.

Against the rubber tongues of cows and the hoeing hands of men

Thistles spike the summer air And crackle open under a blue black pressure.

Kington Golf Club will be lighting up the sky on 2 June with a Jubilee Beacon at 9.45pm. St Mary’s Church will hold a service of thanksgiving on Sunday 5 June at 11am and after that you are invited to bring a community picnic on the Rec (let’s hope the sun shines).

Every one a revengeful burst Of resurrection, a grasped fistful Of splintered weapons and Icelandic frost thrust up From the underground stain of a decayed Viking.

The church is also having a Flower Festival starting on 28 May and running for two weeks. The theme represents the decades of the Queen’s reign and promises to be a spectacle of colour and scent.

They are like pale hair and the gutturals of dialects.

Every one manages a plume of blood.

Then they grow grey like men.

Better Roads?

There is a possibility that Kington’s roads could benefit from £350,000 from Herefordshire County Council. The town council would like the money to be spent on resurfacing the High Street, part of Bridge Street and part of Church Road, including the pavements, some of which are uneven and

Mown down, it is a feud. Their sons appear Stiff with weapons, fighting back over the same ground.

Ted Hughes

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Elected to Kington Town Council in 2011 and have served as mayor several times.

What do you like about living in Kington?

The people, the landscape, the food, the ease of living.

What do you think Kington needs, moving forward?

To hold on to what makes Kington a very special place.

What else are you involved in: good causes, community projects etc?

Town councillor, Chair of Herefordshire CPRE, the countryside charity.

Where will life take you in the future?

My Chris died 3 years ago and I have to work on building a new life. I’m 75 years old so I hope there will still be life.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank for their support, advice etc?

The Transport and General Workers Union for encouraging me to believe that everything was possible and my late wife Chris for loving me.

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

To always strive for a better world.

The Interview: Bob Widdowson, Kington Town Councillor and Former Mayor Tell us a bit about yourself

Born in Yorkshire the only child of loving parents.

Dad was a farmer, mother hated it. Raised in Australia (until age 11), after a poor education in Somerset escaped from school at 15.

After a couple of very boring jobs headed to London in 1968 (what a year!) Motivated by “Cathy come home” in 1966 I got a job at St. Martin in the Fields working with street homeless people (qualifications were less of an issue in those days!) Moved on to Shelter in the early 70s.

It was a great time to lobby for social progress and our greatest success was to secure homeless people’s right to housing in1977, ending the Poor Law practices portrayed in “Cathy come home”. Built and headed up Shelter’s national housing advice network. In the early 90s established the National Homelessness Advice Service.

Married Chris Forrester in 1992 and we both decided to escape London becoming freelance consultants and moving to Kington in 1997. Over the next decades worked on a range of poverty issues in the UK as well as Hungary and Russia. Due to Tory austerity, work dried up after 2015.

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h.Art Preview: Two Special Exhibitions h.Art is happening 3-11 September this year, with two special exhibitions in Kington and Brampton Bryan curated by Kington artist Shannon Donovan.

Industrial Pastorale will explore the mark of human activity on the countryside. If you can't resist a rusty corrugated barn, peeling paint and the patina of history, this is the show for you. The 15 participating artists work in diverse media, from photography and painting to ceramics, jewellery and found materials: a feast for the eyes and the mind. Artist demonstrations and walks associated with the industrial heritage of Kington are being planned. Exhibiting artists are Amanda Attfield, Rosamund Black, Sarah Cadwallader, Ruth Cameron-Swan, Shannon Donovan, Rebecca Finney, Denise Fordyce, Rob Fountain, Nancy Frost, Freya Gamble, Lois Hopwood, Gretchen Ind, Jane Keay, Rebecca Reynolds and Stuart Roper.

The Shield of Achilles features 13 artists and makers whose are creating work in response to this rich Classical theme. The show is sure to provide new perspectives on this enduring subject of artistic fascination. Taking place at Aardvark Books, participating artists are Jacs Collins, Gordon Crosby, Shannon Donovan, Alison Grimley, Michael J. Hancock, Andrea McLean, Tony Hall, Lois Hopwood, Ciara Lewis, Helena Orlowski, Laura Rowlatt, Jane Tudge and Cheryl Williams.

Industrial Pastorale, 30 August to 29 October 2022 Made in the Marches, 12 Church St, Kington HR5 3AZ. Gallery hours: Tuesday to Sunday 11am to 4pm.

Shield of Achilles, 3 to 11 September 2022 Aardvark Books, Manor Farm, Brampton Bryan SY7 0DH.

Exhibition hours: Daily 11am to 5pm.

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New Sheds Together Project recruiting P/T Coordinator for Kington and Leominster

to follow. Kington Lions now have three wheelchairs.

If anyone needs to borrow one or would like any other help our contact is kingtonlions2018@gmail.com If anyone is interested in becoming a Lion or are just curious, we meet in The Burton Hotel on the first Wednesday of every month at 7pm.

The "Sheds" are places to pursue practical interests at leisure, to practice skills and enjoy making and mending; one of our planned sheds (in Bromyard) includes a kitchen where one of our volunteers, a former pub landlord and chef, will be sharing recipes for delicious pub grub. Other sheds will be set up as workshops, where participants can meet and work on their own projects in a friendly and supportive environment. As part of the UK Men’s Shed Association, we aim to deliver 8 sheds across the county using the concept of bringing together older people with the aim of providing a safe, welcoming environment to meet, socialise and learn/share new skills. The sheds will be run by steering groups of volunteers, together with the local coordinator. We are still recruiting for a Part Time Coordinator for Leominster and Kington – 9 hours a week (funded by The Prince’s Countryside Trust).

Dates and times in each location will be decided by the coordinator and volunteers.

Radnorshire Society Trip to Ludlow Saturday June 11, 2pm. Philip Hume will lead a tour of Ludlow Castle describing the growth of the castle, focusing on the developments in the Tudor period associated with Sir Henry Sidney and the Council in the Marches of Wales. It will be possible to view a high-quality facsimile copy of the Heraldic Roll.

Pre-booking required for a group discount.

Midsummer Picnic Friday June 24, 6pm Hindwell, Walton. By kind permission of Anne & Colin Goodwin.

Guided tour: Abbeycwmhir Village and Abbey Saturday July 16, 2pm led by Julian Lovell. Meet at Abbeycwmhir Heritage Trust Exhibition Room near the Church.

Age UK Hereford and Localities is a local charity based in Leominster with outreach offices in Herefordshire. We have been running for over 21 years and serve to provide information and advice, nail cutting services, day centres and befriending services to people over 50, helping them to make the most of later life.

Boughrood Church and Dead House Sunday August 14, 2pm. Led by Lady Elizabeth Bingham. Walk around historic sites in the village. Meet at Boughrood Church.

Some afternoon meetings will include a Tea. Elsa Harflett will Email members with further details before each event. Extra walks and outings may be organised in addition to the published programme. Tel: 01597 851233 Email: elsa.harflett.eh@gmail.com

Contact Emma Phillips: 0333 0066 299 emma.phillips@ageukhl.org

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/herefordandlocalities/

Kington Lions

Knighton Community Market

What are we planning so far this year? Our first outing will be assisting Tempo Events by again marshalling The Offa’s Dyke 15 Run on Saturday 15 June. This was started way back in 1977 and continued until 2002 when foot and mouth put a stop to it. In 2015 it was relaunched and is known as being one of the most beautiful and challenging races in the country. Kington Lions will also be at the Vintage Show in The Recreation Ground on Saturday and Sunday 20 and 21 August. We will be showcasing Kington Lions and having a jumble / bric a brac sale. Come and say hello whilst browsing. Kington Show this year is Saturday 10 September. Kington Lions are planning to showcase and promote Lions and maybe put on some games for children. Rumour has it the famous Kington Lions ducks may be persuaded to come out from retirement! On Saturday 22 October we will be organising The Martin Cotterill Memorial 8 Peaks Challenge for the second year. The proceeds from this will be split between Kington Lions and Pancreatic Cancer UK. More details to follow at a later date via social media. Interspersed between will be another Lion’s Den Sale from Nisa car park and our popular Car Wash. Again details

Held in the warm, dry Community Centre hall with ample parking just yards away on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month from 9.30am to 12.30pm. Locally produced fruit and vegetables, meat, bread and cakes are on offer, together with a wide variety of interesting craft items such as jewellery, art prints and personalised items, second-hand books and more.

The market cafe serves tea, coffee, juice and snacks plus bacon baps. To keep up to date why not 'Like' our Facebook page.

Interested in applying for a stall? Email knightoncomm@gmail.com We'll get straight back to you about availability of space and appropriate charges - but please remember to say something about the nature of your product. Markets will be packed full with our regular stalls. Everything from jewellery, skincare, stone carvings, plants, crafts and more.

The Library will be open the 4th Saturday so your little ones can read to their hearts’ content while you pick up some tasty morsels or lovely handmade crafts. Plus our café will be in full swing with cuppas and toasties too!

It's always a lively venue to meet friends, whatever the weather.

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Old Tennis Courts Knighton Sports Association has applied for £100,000 from the National Lottery to carry out work on the old tennis courts to turn the area into an all weather pitch.

They have also submitted a planning application for floodlighting and together these changes will allow the space to be much more flexible for local groups to use.

The project has the support of Knighton Primary School, the police, doctor’s surgery and the youth group.

Credit Union The Red Kite Credit Union has opened a branch in Knighton at the Civic Centre and will be open every Friday between 12.30 and 3pm. This was initiated by the council who contacted the credit union to offer space at the Civic Centre.

Clock Funds The historic clock at St Edward’s church is in need of repair and the church has asked if the council would be able to contribute to the cost, an estimated £5,800. It was felt that a fundraising effort was needed and discussions are ongoing between the council and the church.

Civic Centre The Civic Centre continues to provide convenient and affordable spaces to rent for local events and businesses. If you are interested in using the centre please contact the Clerk, Neil King.

Knighton Town Council The south east ward gained two new members: John Goodband (152 votes) and Petra Ford 125 votes).

They join Bob Andrews (191 votes), Benjamin Caine (221 votes) and Mark Vaughan (205 votes).

There was no election in the central ward so all three current councillors return unopposed: Chris Branford, Tina Sharp and Tom Taylor. In the west ward there was just one new councillor, Ben Butler, joining existing councillors Holly Adams-Evans, Mark Coxill and Sally Vaughan.

Bus Moves Councillors have met with officers from Powys County Council to discuss a review of bus stops and routes in the town. There are also ongoing talks with the bus companies involved, Arriva and Sergeants.

Climate Action Knighton has been accepted to take part in a community carbon audit and action initiative run by Powys Action on Climate Emergency in tandem with Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations. These groups have been awarded Climate Reduction funding and there will be four projects: the 20 minute community, carbon audits and action planning, home energy surveys and a green guide website. Clerk Neil King needs to collect some data and statistics about Knighton for the project, which he said will be a good thing for the town in terms of environmental benefits.

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still be some bluebells around but skylarks and the best summer flora anyway!

Brechfa Pool Circular (booking required) Saturday 4 June (Group: Four Wells / East Radnor). Start time 10am. Moderate 11 miles / 17.7 km (Estimated finish time: 4pm). Brechfa Pool, Llandefalle Hill to Mynydd Forest, Trericket Mill and Wye Valley Walk to Boughrood.

Hills Bordering Llangors Lake Sunday 19 June (Group: Four Wells / East Radnor). Start time 10am.

Strenuous 11 miles / 17.7 km (Estimated finish time: 4pm). From the small car park at Llangasty, we will be tackling the hills of Mynydd Llangors, Cefn Moel and Allt yr Esgair. Stunning views from the tops on a good day. The route takes in some of the Beacons Way and the Three Rivers Ride and passes the Allt yr Esgair Iron Age hillfort. A really good day out!

Llandinam Circular Saturday 16 July (Group: Four Wells / East Radnor). Start time 10am. Moderate 9.5 miles / 15.3 km (Estimated finish time: 3.15pm). Giant’s Grave and Llandinam Wind Farm walk 1981 ft of ascent.

Hay, Llowes, Clyro, Hay Saturday 30 July (Group: Four Wells / East Radnor). Start time 10am. Moderate 8 miles / 12.9 km (Estimated finish time: 2.30pm).

Wye Valley Walk (using alternative route), Llowes, Llowes Common, Clyro. 2 ascents. Riverside walking and good views.

FFI: 01547 530120 www.ramblers.org.uk/east-radnor

East Radnor Ramblers We are a very friendly group, covering the Knighton and Presteigne area of Powys (though parts of both towns are in England!), with members in Herefordshire and Shropshire also. We have the Offa's Dyke Centre in Knighton (the route passes through the town). Knighton is also the start of Glyndwr's Way and the new Heart of Wales Line Trail passes through our area.

Knucklas Fete

We also have a team of volunteers, working for the County Rights of Way department, helping to keep paths open by installing gates, bridges, etc. and doing clearance work, surveys and anything else needed.

The Knucklas Village Fete 2022 will be held on Saturday 30 July between 12 and 5pm at Knucklas Community Centre LD7 1RR. Last year’s fete was a great success which hundreds of people attended and it was a most enjoyable afternoon. Come and see the Black Crow Vikings who are returning with more reenactments and historical recreation. There will be classic cars, a dog agility display as well as a dog show. A huge selection of stalls will offer a wide variety of hand made and artisan goods and there will be delicious refreshments available throughout the afternoon. Bags of fun, games and entertainment for all the family. All funds raised will be used for the Knucklas Castle Community Land Project.

Contact: knucklascastleclt@gmail.com

We walk every Wednesday and some Saturdays, generally with moderate walks 6-10 miles, and short walks on some Tuesdays and Thursdays each month. Visitors always made welcome. The other Saturdays there are walks led by our neighbours the 4 wells group Please note that we do not allow dogs on our walks, unless the description specifically says they are. New members will get plenty of help from our experienced leaders.

A Mountain, a Globe and the Last of the Bluebells Wednesday 1 June 2022 (Group: East Radnor). Start time 10am. Moderate 7.8 miles / 12.6 km (Estimated finish time: 2.15pm). Mixed terrain, lovely views, may 17

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Presteigne Festival | 25-30 August 2022

sic programme also features a wide variety of works by Bach, Beethoven, Elgar, Fauré, Hindemith, Ireland, Ravel, Schoenberg, Schubert, Shostakovich, Stravinsky, Walton and a collection of important pieces by Vaughan Williams.

After two years of uncertainty caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the Presteigne Festival celebrates its 40th anniversary in late August. With an international reputation for the commissioning of important new work and the support of young generation performers and composers, the 2022 Festival takes the 150th anniversary of Ralph Vaughan Williams’ birth as its central theme.

The artist roster includes many Festival favourites and a number of newcomers: the Carducci Quartet, members of Nova Music Opera, Leonore Piano Trio, oboist Nicholas Daniel, violinist Benjamin Nabarro, saxophonist Amy Dickson, baritone Julien Van Mellaerts, pianists Tim Horton and Huw Watkins, cellist Gemma Rosefield, harpist Olivia Jageurs, guitarist Emmanuel Sowicz, the Bath Camerata with conductor Benjamin Goodson and the ever-popular Festival Orchestra under artistic director, George Vass.

Continuing its promotion of the widest range of British contemporary music, the Festival has commissioned no fewer than nine works to mark this very special anniversary year: Looking West, a major new concert-theatre work from composer in residence Julian Philips together with an exciting corpus of orchestral, chamber, instrumental and choral pieces from Cheryl Frances-Hoad, David Matthews, Tarik O’Regan, Aileen Sweeney, Huw Watkins and 2022 Royal Philharmonic Society Young Composer, Rylan Gleave.

The supporting programme brings cabaret from Jessica Walker and Joseph Atkins, poetry from Gillian Clarke, literature from Helen Attlee and Nicholas Murray, Stephen Johnson on Vaughan Williams, musical and local history from Michael Tavinor, a trio of films by American director Wes Anderson, exhibitions and the hugely popular Presteigne ‘Open Studios’ weekend.

There are also important commissions from Ninfea Cruttwell-Reade and Sarah Frances Jenkins, exceptional younger generation artists currently supported by the Presteigne Festival’s own ‘Evolve’ and ‘Emerge’ composer mentoring schemes.

The Festival Brochure has been published and will be available very soon, with telephone and online booking opening on Tuesday 24 May.

In addition to the Festival’s new music strand, the mu-

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Pentre Farm CIC This is a newly formed company in Old Radnor that provides supported activities for members of our local community. For families, for young people, for people with learning disabilities and anyone else that could benefit from our provision.

We run a playgroup monthly, weekly sessions for adults with learning disabilities, private hire sessions for regular school groups and we are also a venue to hire for outings and even family get togethers.

We work with our wonderful team of humans and animals who range from Miss Nibbles the guinea pig to Linda the llama! We have a forest school area and a play paddock with a fantastic new climbing frame.

We are always open to volunteers whether you are looking to gain experience in animal care, working with children or just love ponies! We have endless jobs and we love help!

Please follow us on social media and see what we are up to, how you can get involved and to help us shape our service to the community. www.facebook.com/pentrefarmcic

Please consider supporting us by buying a lottery ticket and be in with a chance of winning £25,000! https://www.powyslotto.com/support/pentre-farm-cic

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Business Directory

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Ian Jones Tyres Ltd. Tyres, batteries, exhausts, MOTs (£40), air conditioning, repairs, services, Hawkeye laser alignment. T: Kington 01544 230291; Brecon 01874 622905.

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

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 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

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 and 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

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

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

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

The Hub in New Radnor is a welcoming place to get together or to attend one of the many events taking place.

We are open every Friday night for PHub night with simple food from 6.30-11pm and the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month for coffee mornings School Lane, New Radnor, LD8 2SS. T: 01544 350559 E: ruthwatsonfood@gmail.com

Marches Counselling Service Established and respect22

ed 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 9.30am 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 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. www.herefordshireruralhub.co.uk

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