South Shropshire Journal - 15-Dec-2022

Councillor givesdamning verdictafter healthemergency promptsvisit to hospital

DAVIDTOOLEY david.tooley@mnamedia.co.uk

Thewhole NHSsystem is in “shambles”,aSouth Shropshire councillor hassaidafter experiencing first-hand thechallenges staffare facing.

ShropshireCouncillor forLudlow East Tracey Huffer delivered thedamning verdict afterbeing blue-lighted to hospital with asuspected heartattackonTuesday last week

It turned outtobeatrial fibrillation,which left herwitha heart rate of 220beats perminutefor five hours. Shetoldfellowcouncillors: “I wastreated in thebackofan ambulancebyacardiologist.

“Whenyou getthere it is likea warzone, it’s absolutelyterrible andIamnot blaminganyone. The wholesystemisinshambles.”

Shecalledfor moresupport for communityhospitals so they can help ease thecarebacklog

Councillor Huffer wasspeaking at acouncil meetingonMonday whichwas discussing the recommendations of ataskand finish group. Thegroup wasput together to explorehow healthcare in the county canbeimproved.

Themeeting heardthe localNHS wasmakingprogressonthe issues

Councillor Claire Wild,who led thetaskand finish group, said:“It should be asystemsolution.”

SheaddedthatShropshireCouncilispartofthe widerhealthsystem. Butshe added: “Wehaveabsolutely gottodosomething. We can’t carryonlikethis.” l War–Page17

Hospice shop is readytoopenat newsite

Anew HopeHouse Children’s Hospiceshopisopening itsdoors in the heartofLudlow.

Theshop, whichwas basedin King Street, hasmovedtonew premises in Castle Street, with its doorsdue to open to customers this morning(Friday).

Head of retail Angela Whelan

said:“We arereallyexcited to be moving ourLudlowshopintothe busy market square at theheart of thetown. We believethisnew,more spaciousshopwill make it easier forsupporterstodropoff donations andcome andshopwithus.

“The square in Ludlow is always ahiveofactivity, especially on mar-

ket day, andwehopeour newlocation will mean more residents and visitors will find us andthatthe fantasticsupport we alreadyreceive will grow further.”

Theshopisinneed of volunteers Anyone interested canvisit hope house.org.uk/volunteerorpop in to theshopfor achat.

Collection of waste datesare to change

Changeswill be made to theday of theweekthatwaste andrecycling is collected in theShropshireCouncil area.

During theChristmas andNew Year period, revisedcollection days will be in place, starting from Christmas Eveuntil January7

Most collectionswill be oneday laterthannormal, with oneexception–collections that would normallybemadeonMonday, December 26 will be made earlier, on Christmas Eve.

Collection calendarsare being left under binlidsthisweekand can be accessed online

Brewer’stop work is givenrecognition

Ayoung brewer hasbeenhighly commendedatanationalawards ceremony.

Ludlow BrewingCompany’s head brewer Cody Palinpickedupthe accolade in theYoung Brewer Of The Year category at the2022Brewers Choice Awards in London.

Gary Walters, themanagingdirector of Ludlow BrewingCompany, said:“Cody is aremarkableyoung manwho is hugely talented

“I can’tspeak highly enough of him, andamsochuffed histalent hasbeenrecognised. Ican’t wait to seewhatnew beershewill create in thefuturefor Ludlow Brewery.”

Date announcedfor airbaseconsultation

Apublicconsultationonaproposal to closeanair ambulancebasewill beginonJanuary 9.

SouthShropshirecouncillors have raisedconcernsabout what impact theclosure of theWales Air AmbulancebaseatWelshpool would have on 999 care on both sidesof theEnglish andWelsh border

Theproposals wouldsee theclosuresofthe Welshpooland Caernarfon basesand thecrews combinedintoanew NorthWales site Bosses saythatmovewould allow them to provideabetterservice

Theconsultationwill be conducted over several weeks.

Ludlow’s

Crew called out to chimney fire

A fire andrescue crew wascalled outtoreports of achimney blazein SouthShropshire.

Theemergency servicereceiveda call reportingthe blazeinthe Ludlowareaat8.33pmonSunday.

Oneemergency crew attended the incident at Hopton Cangeford.

Crew membersremovedawood burningstove andsmall sectionof liner.

Chimneyrodswerealso in use as they putout the fire

Thecrewusedathermal imaging camera to checkfor remaininghot spotsbeforedeclaring theincident stoppedat 10.48pm.

Chiefs outlinescarlet feverinfection dangers

Bosses issueguidanceashealthconcerns continue in county

MEGANHOWE newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

Firefighters came to therescue of ahorse trapped in acattle grid

Thelarge horse hadfallen andgot itslegstrapped in acattlegridatKempton,nearCraven Arms, at around 8.15am on Wednesday last week

Fire crewsusedcutting equipment to releasethe horse by removing part of thecattlegrid andthenlifting thehorse using aharness andManitou lifting machine.Crews from Clun Fire Stationand Wellingtonattended thescene

Motoristsfeeling thepaininfreeze

CarbreakdownsinShropshireare up by around aquarter as drivers struggledinfreezingtemperatures.

Thenumberofstranded vehicles is farhigherthannormal, accordingtothe RAC.

RodDennisfromthe breakdown rescue companysaid: “Thursday andFridaywereexceptionally busy days forour patrols, with around a quartermorebreakdownstaking placenationwidethanisnormalfor this time of year

“The easternsideofthe UK saw most of thedemand, butthe West Midlands hasalso seen arise as the freeze started to impact.”

It comesafterNHS Shropshire, Telford&Wrekinannounced servicesare facing ‘extreme pressures’ from cases of flu, Covid, andfears about scarletfever or Strep A.

Now, thedirectors of public health from Shropshire Council andTelford &WrekinCouncil have said teams areworking closely with parentstohighlightthe signsand symptoms of scarletfever

Andtheyare working closely with schoolsonthe necessarysteps to take includingwhatinfection controlmeasurestotakeand whoto contactin theevent of an outbreak.

Rachel Robinson, director of publichealthfor Shropshire Council, said:“We wouldliketotakethis opportunitytoremindschools, parents andcarersofthe signs, symptoms andthe actionsschools should take if they become awareofanoutbreakatyourschoolornursery

“Scarlet fever is acommon childhood infectioncausedbyStreptococcus pyogenes, or groupAstreptococcus

“The earlysymptomsofscarlet fever includesorethroat, headache, fever,nauseaand vomiting

“Althoughscarlet feverisusually amildillness,patientscan develop complications.

“Good hygienepracticesuchas hand washingremains the most importantstepincontrolling the spread.Patientscan develop complications andifyou have anyconcernsNHS 111

“Ifschools or nurseries suspect an outbreak, they cancontact UKHSAon0344225 3560.”

Firm’s inspiringnew target

An award-winningLudlow business,formedatthe heightoflockdown,has launched newproducts as it sets an ambitiousenvironmentaltarget–tohelpsaveone million seaturtles

Lost YearsRum,which celebrated itssecondbirthdaylastmonth, is abusiness with adifferenceasit ploughs profits into supporting sea turtle conservation.

Through itspartnership with US charitySEE Turtles, everybottle of rumsoldgenerates adonation to supportcommunity-basedconservation. Thecompany,the creation of Leeand TrudySmith,has helped save morethan50,000 baby seaturtles savedsince Lost Years launched.The familywereinspired to launch thebusinessonatripto Jamaicaasa result of Lee’slove of rumand sonBilly’sfascination with seas turtles.

Andnow thefamily-runbusiness hasset itssightsonhelping more than onemillion of theendangered

creatures. “The charitywework with estimatesjustone in athousand of thesebabysea turtlesare making it to adulthood,”saidLee “Whenwelearntall this, we said we need to do something. We wanted to tryand make adifferenceto these creatures whichsymbolicof ourBluePlanetand thechallenges andperilsweface.”

Thebusinesshas provedabig success so farand this month the familylaunchedanew Wandering Turtle rangecomprisingtwo bold new flavours

The first, asilver spiced rum made with single origin rumfrom Antigua,is flavouredwithcoconuts, blood orange,mandarins, limes, vanillaand exotic spices

Thesecond flavourcombines golden rums from Jamaica, Venezuela, andNicaragua with aunique blendofqueen pineapples andtropical spices.“We have won16awards with ourrum,for itsquality,since we started thebrand,” addedLee

Amajor clothing brand–with stores in Shropshire–has plunged into administration putting170 stores andnearly 2,000employees at risk

M&Co,which hasstoresin Bridgnorth, Oswestry,Newport,Welshpool andStourport, hasannouncedithas collapsed into administration butwill continue to trade fornow

Thebrand confirmed on its websiteTeneo FinancialAdvisory Limited has been ‘appointed jointadministrators of M&Co TradingLimited’.

Food appeal is made by Co-op Horserescued from cattle grid

TheMidcounties Co-operative has launched aChristmas Food Bank Appeal

It is calling on itsmembersand customers to providevital donationstoits food bank partners

Eachofthe society’s229 Your Coop Food stores hasacollectionpoint forits localfood bank partner, allowing shoppers to drop offarange of essentialitems

Themostindemanditems range from everydayessentialsincluding tinnedfruit andvegetables, pasta sauces,and toiletries to festivefavouritessuchas tinned ham,selection boxes, mincepiesand jellies.

Stores putinto administration Knifescheme wasasuccess

Apoliceoperation to prevent knifecrime hasbeenhailedas asuccess.

OperationSceptre,anational week of intensiveactionto tackle knifecrime,ran during November.

Forthe scheme,WestMercia Police ranaseriesofeducation andengagementactivities, designed to raise awarenessofthe dangersofcarryingaknife

This included 28 community events, reaching over 12,000 people,and 74 school visits reaching over 18,000 children andyoung people

Shropshirehealthbosses have confirmed they areworking closelywith schoolsand nurseries to raiseawareness of the signsand symptoms of scarletfever.

OwnerofLostYears Rum,Lee Smith,has setthe firm anew target

Councillor rejoinsthe Liberal Democrat groupatauthority

DAVIDTOOLEY david.tooley@mnamedia.co.uk

Acouncillorhas rejoined theLib Dempolitical grouponShropshire Councilafter nearly a year as an independent.

Councillor Andy Boddington had resignedfromthe partygroup in February saying he disagreed with how themainopposition grouping at Shirehallwas run.

Councillor Boddington,who representsthe Ludlow Northseat, was elected to Shropshire Councilin 2014

He said:“Ilikethe waythe Lib Demgroup is goingand Ithink thereisalot that we canachieve before theall-out election.”

He addeditisgoodtobeinvolved in agroup where“you canshare viewsand disagree”.

Councillor Boddington said he wouldcontinuetovotetorepresent hisward, whichmay occasionally mean that he disagreeswithhis colleagues

Themove meansthatthe Lib Demgroup,which is thelargestopposition group, movesbacktohaving15members,comparedtothe 41 Conservatives whorun Shropshire with an overallmajorityofthe 74 seats.

Cold conditionshit variousparts of region

MEGANJONES newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

Heavysnowfalland icyroads in some partsofShropshirecaused disruption over theweekend

Butitwas notall doom and gloomasmanypeopleenjoyed playingand walkinginawinter wonderlandafter snow fell acrossthe region

Thecoldconditionscontributed to road problems

Emergencyservicesattendeda crashbetween junctionsthree and twoonthe M54justafter 9.30am on Sundaymorning.The crashinvolved twovehiclesand threecasualties were treatedbyambulance staff.

West Mercia fire crewsonthe sceneremindeddrivers to take care on theroads,reportingthat heavysnowfallhad caused“multipleincidents”. Theincidentand theweather caused delays back to junction four at Shifnalservices.

TheAAhas reminded motorists to adjust theirdriving to thefreezingconditions. Sean Sidley from thecompany said:“On afrosty morning,hazards likeblackice can prove lethal if you don’tadjustyour

speed anddriving styleincolder weather

“Alwaysleave plenty of space behind othervehiclesasstoppingdistances canbe10times longer on icy roads.

“Allow extra time as theremay be delays to yournormalroutes andmakesureyou pack winter essentials in thecar such as warm, waterprooflayers,a shovel, atorch, fullycharged mobile phone anda flaskofhot drink.”

Bosses pledge to change trust’s culture

Health chiefs saytheyare workinghardtochangethe cultureof atrust whichrunsTelford’s and Shrewsbury’s hospitalsfollowing the Shropshirebabydeathsscandal.

They saytheyare making good progress on the210 actionsthey need to carryout followingthe Ockenden Report

TheOckenden Report wascarried outfollowing thematernity scandalwhich flagged up major failingsbystaff andbossesover several years. ThereportbymaternityexpertDonna Ockenden found201 babies andninemotherscould have survivedifthe hospitals hadprovidedbettercare.

Aspokespersonfor TheShrewsbury andTelford Hospital NHS Trust(SaTH)said: “SaTHwill continue to deliverthe remaining report actionsas outlined

“There is acommitmentand focusondeliveringmeaningful

change to serviceusers,following robust governanceand assurance mechanisms to meet agreed timescales.”

A finalOckendonreportwas publishedinMarch including93 LocalActions forLearningwhich

arefor SaTH only.There were also 117actionrequired forimplementationatall providersofNHS maternitycarein England.

Amedia briefing meetinglast month wastoldthat“SaTH are nowina position where thereare safe staffing levelsinmaternity”. Health leaderssay they have delivered 46 of the52actions from the firstOckenden Report and77ofthe 158actions in the finalreport.

They arealso lookingtobein contactwithmoremums-to-be throughanew MaternityVoices Partnershipand otherpeoplein thecommunity

SirNeilMcKay,who chairs the Shropshire NHSIntegratedCare System,saidtheyare trying to change theculture of maternity services andusing the good resultstheyare seeing in maternity services to change theculture of thewhole trust.

County’s fire servicecomestop in awards scheme

ShropshireFireand Rescue Service has been namedasthe emergencyservice of theyearata top awards ceremony in London

TheWestMidlandsregion dominatedthe topcategoryat theExcellenceinFire& EmergencyAwards2022, with Shropshireshortlistedagainst DerbyshireFire&RescueService and West Midlands Fire Service.

Aspokesman forthe Shropshireservice said:“From the stationcleanerstothe chiefofficer, from theITdepartment to thetrainingand development centre,fromthe technicalservicesdepartment to fire control, from thehuman resourcesdepartment to workshops, from the financeteamtothe wholetime firefighters,fromthe admin

team to theon-call firefighters, from theprotection department to thepreventiondepartment, andall ourother colleagues at ShropshireFireand Rescue Service,amassive well done.”

Theservice hadalso been shortlisted in theInnovationof theYearcategoryfor on-callsustainability at theawardsceremony held on Friday last week

Remindergiven over chimneys

The fire serviceinShropshireis appealingfor peopletosweep their chimneys followingseveral callouts over thelastweek.

ShropshireFireand Rescue Service wascalledout to reportsofsix chimney firesover theweekend and on Monday.

Theservice reported attending chimney firesinLudlow,Telford, Edgmond,Ellesmere andtwo in Bridgnorth

Theforce took to Twitter to remind residents of theimportanceof chimneysweeping.

Thepostsaid: “Pleaseensure thathaveyourchimney sweptat leastonceayearand use seasoned wood.”

Police pleaover theftoftrailer

Police arehuntingthose responsiblefor thetheft of atrailer in Much Wenlock.

PCSO Mal Goddardsaidthe Ivor Williamstrailer hadbeen takeninthe earlyhours of Tuesdaylastweek.

He said:“At approximately 4.30am, unidentified offenders forced theirway througha fence andbroke locksoff atrailer andthenstole it from theHigh Street, Much Wenlock.”

AndPCSOGoddard added: “The trailer is an Ifor Williams trailer,registration BK11UZV, silver galvanisedwithmesh sides.”

WINDOWS

Asnowball fightafter thestreetsofLudlowwerecloakedinthe whitestuff

Donna Ockenden completeda reportintothe maternity scandal

Therewas cool funinLudlowwith Adam,Georgeand Lola Griffiths enjoying theconditions

Strikes taking a toll on business

Continuing strikesthisweekare having aserious effect on businesses in theregionwithstaff unable to getintoworkand thesupplychain affected

Shropshire’sChamber of Commercesaidthe industrial disputes have come at atimewhenbusinesses arestill gettingbackontheir feet afterthe Covidpandemic It is calling foraspeedy resolution to thedisputes, from Royal Mail to thetrain strikes.

Membersofthe Rail,Maritime andTransport unionatNetwork Railand 14 train companiesare striking in abitterrow overjobs, payand conditions

RichardSheehan,chief executive of theShropshireChamber of Commerce, said:“Thestrikes arehavingasignificant impact on many businesses.Staff arestrugglingto getintoworkand whilemanycan adaptbyworking from home it is not thecasefor everyone.”

Cold payments aretriggered

Ludlow MP PhilipDunnehas welcomedcoldweather paymentsbeing made to therecipientsofselected benefits

Thepaymentsare madewhen theaveragetemperature at a nearby weatherstation is recorded as,orforecasttobe, 0°C or belowfor sevenconsecutive days.Analert wastriggered acrossSouth Shropshireon Tuesdaylastweekfor theperiod up to Mondaythisweek.

Mr Dunnesaid: “Itiswelcome news that eligible householdsin SouthShropshirewillreceive additional supportduringthis cold spell.”

Asum of £25will nowbepaid to eligible residents within Ludlow constituency living in many postcode districtscovering SouthShropshire.

Visitgov.ukfor more information

Forcegives out warningonfraud

West Mercia Police is highlighting thetypes of fraudthatare most likelytoput thepublicatriskinthe run-up to Christmas.

The12DaysofFraud initiative coversarange of topics from romancefraud to shoppingfraud and underlines thekey ways to keep safe Police said romancefraud sees suspectsinvestsignificant amounts of time into sociallyengineering their victims–knowing thatasthey gain thevictim’strust,their chances of extractingconsiderable funds from them simultaneously increase Andpolicesaidwhileshopping fraudishardtospotsometimes, there aresome simple stepspeople cantaketoprotectthemselves That includes doingyourresearch before choosing wheretoshoponline.Peopleshouldalso keep their devicesuptodateand installthe latest software andapp updates whichcontain security updates.

Speed vantyreswerepunctured

Dyfed-Powys Police is appealing forwitnesses or anyone whohas dashcamorCCTVfootage after aGoSafevan hadtwo of itstyres punctured.

Thevan wasdamaged whileit wasenforcingonthe A483 near Crossgates,nearLlandrindod Wells, on Wednesdaylastweek, at approximately6pm

Anyone with informationthat

couldhelpofficers with theirinvestigationisasked to report it to Dyfed-Powys Police,eitheronline at bit.ly/DPPContactOnline,by emailing 101@dyfed-powys.police.uk, or by calling 101. If you are deaf,hardofhearing,orspeech impaired text thenon-emergency number on 07811 311908

Quotereference:DP-20221207301.

Remember lovedoneswithcampaign

Midlands AirAmbulance Charity is giving everyone thechancetoremember theirlovedonesinaspecial campaign this Christmas.

The‘Remember Your Star’campaigngives thosewho have lost lovedonesaspecialway to paytributethisfestive period

Everysupporter will be given a virtualstartonameand aseeded card to displayontheir Christmas tree.

Eachstardonated cancontain anameand apoignantmessage whichwillthenbedisplayedonthe AirAmbulance fundraiserpage.

Theseededpacket givenbythe charitycan also be plantedinthe newyeartokeepthe memories of lovedonesalive

Formoreinformation aboutthe campaign people canvisit midland sairambulance.com/in-memory/re member-your-star

Deaths linked to ambulance delays increasing significantly

DAVIDTOOLEY david.tooley@mnamedia.co.uk

Deaths of patients who have died afteranambulancedelay have increasedsignificantly.

West Midlands AmbulanceService,which coversShropshire, says crewshad to wait atotal of 40,000 hourswaiting to dischargepatients into hospitalsinOctober alone, whichkeeps them off theroad.

New figureshavebeenreleased relating to thenumberofdeaths wherethe case hasbeenhighlighted by theambulance serviceasan area of concernand it hasbeendeclared apotential seriousincident.

In 2020 thedeath of oneperson wasrecordedafteraserious incidentwas declared

In 2021 thenumberofdeathsrose to 22 andinthe firstninemonthsof 2022 the figure hadleapt to 37,accordingto figuresobtainedthrough aFreedom of Informationrequest

Theambulance serviceisunable to advise of thenumberofdeaths beforeanambulance hasarrived, as this is notavailable in areportableformat.

The figuresrelatetothe number of deaths wherethe case hasbeen declared apotential seriousincident.

TheNHS andits socialcarepartners saytheyare working to reduce thedelays.

Aspokesman forWestMidlands AmbulanceService said:“We have seen asignificant increase in the

number of cases whichhavebeen called as seriousincidents.

“The vast majority of theseare wherepatientshavecome to harm asaresultofambulance crewsbeingunabletorespond to patients in atimelymanner, duetothe levelof hospital handoverdelays.

“The ambulanceservice relies on each part of thehealthand socialcaresystemworking together so that ourambulancescan getto patients in thecommunity quickly.

“Sadly,the pressuresweare seeinginhealthand socialcareleadto long hospital handoverdelayswith

ourcrews left caring forpatients that need admitting to hospital rather than responding to thenext call

“The result is that ourcrews are delayedreachingpatients.

“Weare working incredibly hard with allofour NHSand socialcare partners to preventthese delays, lookingatnew ways to safely hand over patients quicklysothatour crewscan respondmorerapidly and save more lives.”

Ludlow NeedsAmbulancescampaignerDarrenChildssaid: “Unfortunately 37 deaths arenot that

surprising if peopleare having to wait hoursfor an ambulanceand hours to getintothe hospitalthen thenumberofdeathsisgoing to go up.There areonlyone lotofpeople who areresponsible andthatisthe governmentwhich needs to invest in theNHS.”

Mr Childs,aLudlow town councillor,saidaninvestmentinpaying moretodoctors andnursescould stop them leavingthe NHSwhich he said is at risk of collapse under mounting pressures this winter West Midlands AmbulanceService says itsclinicalvalidationteam of advanced paramedics andnurses arehelping it target ambulances on thosewho need it most by assisting morepatientsoverthe phone or seamlessly transferringpatientsto otherpartsofthe NHSsuchasoccupational therapy, advanced nurse practitionersinthe community,districtnursesorreferring patients to SDEC services

Newambulance decision areas at University HospitalsofBirmingham(UHB) andShrewsburyand soonWorcester arealready making adifferencewithdelaysat UHB half what they used to be Advanced paramedics areworkingwithambulance healthcare assistants to look afterpatientswithin dedicatedareas of thehospitalto free up crews. They have additional skills whichallow them to start teststhatthe patientneedsahead of them entering emergencydepartments. Fewerthan50per cent of ambulancepatientsnow go to A&E, they say.

Councillorsvoiceworries aboutemergency care

Kingtoncouncillors have expressedconcern about ambulance response timesaftertwo recent incidents involvinglongwaits

ThechairmanofKington ChamberofTrade Emma Hancocks said on thenightofthe Christmas lights switch-oninthe town aman fell andhit hishead.

An ambulancewas called and theorganisersweretolditwould be aminimum of athree-hour wait

Emma said:“It’s abit of aworry if somethingveryserious wasto happen

“There arealsothreats to them moving theWales AirAmbulance from Welshpooland we areout in thesticks here

“Weonlyhaveone firstresponder nowand sheisworking fulltime.”

Kingtoncouncillorshave voiced theirconcerns aboutambulance response timesand howlongit takestoreceiveNHS care

Shesaidaweekbefore, aperson fell andhit herheadand an off-duty nurse lookingafterher rang foranambulance andwas told it wouldbeasix-hour wait

Councillor PhilipSalesaid, however,thathis wife hadasuspected stroke recently andhecalledan ambulanceand it wasthere within 20 minutes

Memberssaidtheyfelthewas lucky, andresponse timesvarydependingonthe dayand time

Deputy MayorCouncillor Bob Widdowson said:“Ithink we should flag up theissue because if we accept it,slowly it will become thenorm.

“I thinkweshouldcontinueto raise theissue andask people to let us know if thereare unreasonable delays

“Wehavelostthe last NHSdentalhealthservice in Herefordshire andthiscountyisrecordedashavingone of theworst childcaredentalhealthrecordsinthe country.”

Councillor Esther Rollscalled forthe importantissue to be placed on theagendaofthe next meeting to keep it in people’s attention.

Ambulances are being kept waitingathospitalsbecause of handover delays,keeping them from responding to emergencycalls for help

Caring firm adds itssupport to festive initiative

MATTHEWPANTER newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

An initiative by Shropshirebusinesses to show warmth andkindness to thecounty’selderly hasattractedanother supporter.

Alec andNikki NixonfromStretton L.H.C. in Church Strettonweresoimpressed by theShropshireChristmas Comfortand Joyinitiativethatthey agreed to join thelistofsponsors

SalopLeisure haslaunchedthe initiative with supportfromfellowShropshirebusinesses

Elderlypeopleare beingasked to contactSalop Leisure’s EmstreyheadquartersinShrewsbury if they wouldliketobetreated to food andrefreshmentsand aclassic Christmas film dailyinwarm, comfortableand festivesurroundings.

Theinitiativerunsuntil Wednesday Businesses areeachdonatingup to £400,which represents£1for each elderlypersonhosted during December

Eachpersonattending will be payjust£2for the food, hotdrinksand entertainment, whichwould normally cost £9.50.

“Wethink this initiative is agreat idea andit’s much-needed at this time of year when so many elderlypeoplefeellonely,” said MrsNixon.Her husband added: “I thinkbusinesses should contribute to effortslikethisbecause they areveryworthwhile. We trytohelppeopleinneed wherever we can.”

Anygroupsorclubs forthe elderlywho wouldlike to attend areasked to contact01743 282400.

People invitedtosing carols around landmark

Theorganisers of acarol-singing get-together on Christmas EveinKnightonhopetomakeitbigger andbetterthanthe last eventin2019.

People gathered at theClock Towertostart Christmas offinthe traditionalway in 2019.The eventcould not take placein 2020 becauseofCovid andlastyearorganisers Knighton andDistrict TourismGroup wasforcedtocancelbecause of the threat of theOmicron variant.

Butthe 14th Carols by theClocktowerwilltake placeagain on ChristmasEve at 4pm. Theorganiserssay everyone cansingtheir hearts outand that will leave time forfamiliestomaketheir waytoSt Edward’s Church forthe 5pmcribservice

This year,the

Buildingsdamaged after busburst into flames

Severalpartly developedhouseshavebeen left damaged afterabus became engulfed in flames in Kington.

TheSergeantBrothersbus burstinto flames on Victoria Road on Thursday last week at about6.50pm.

Church will be hosting service forall thefamily

TheRockBaptist Chapel at Crossgates, LlandrindodWells hasgiven awarminvitation to everyone to go alongtoits family carolservice this weekend.

Thecarol servicewilltakeplaceonSundayat6pm

Thewaste

collectionswill allmoveonaday,withthe crewsworking on December 31 to complete theweek’s rounds.Sothose whousuallyhavewaste collected on aMondaywill move to Tuesday, TuesdaytoWednesday andsoon.

Collectionswill take placeasnormalover theNew Year bank holidays

Therewerenopassengersonboard the busatthe time andno-onewas injured, a spokesperson said Herefordshireand WorcestershireFire andRescueService fire controlreceived severalcalls from membersofthe public

Theroadwas closedascrews tackledthe blaze, andsome nearby properties which arebeing developedonadisusedsitewere affected by theintensity of the fire

Alongwithsinging traditionalcarols, the congregation will be hearingBible readings from some of theSundaySchoolchildren andothersinthe congregation, thechurch hassaid.

Therewillbea shortBible messagewith tea, coffee andmincepiestofollow, theorganisers have said

Find outmoredetails online at rockbap tistchurch.co.uk

Salop Leisure’s marketing managerEdGloverwith Alec andNikki NixonfromStrettonL.H.C. The firm hasadded itssupporttoaninitiativebringing some comfortand joytothe elderly in Shropshire

Driverswarned to expect delays

Driversare beingwarnedtoexpect lengthy trafficjamsonmajor routes in therun-uptoChristmas

Thebusiest days forgetaway travel will be Friday next week and Christmas Eve– whichwill both see nearly 17 million cars on UK roads, theAAestimated Asurveyofmorethan12,000motoristsindicated 51 percentplanto make acar journeyonFridaynext week,with50per cent expectingto make atripthe followingday

Disruption to rail services dueto strikesand engineeringworkmean morepeopleare likelytoswitch from trainstoroadvehiclesfor theirgetaway journey.

Potentialcongestion hotspots identified by theAAinclude the M25, theM5between Bristoland Weston-super-Mareand theM6 around Birmingham.Delaysare also anticipatedonthe M1 andthe M4 whichrunsbetween west Londonand southwestWales

Supply warning on antibiotics

Antibioticsin Shropshire arein shortsupplybut it is expected to be a“short-term issue” in local pharmacies,say countyhealth leaders.

Pharmacies in Shropshire saythere hasbeenasurge in demand forthe liquid andsolid formsofpenicillinthatare used to treat StrepAinfections.

Ravi Nagra, themanaging director of theMSN &Lunts Pharmacy groupwhich has outletsinSouth Shropshire, said:“Thereisanissue with the supply of antibiotics, andweare findinggetting supplies from wholesalersahugestruggle.

“It’scommonfor an increase of Strep Athistimeofyearespecially around December to February. However,the increase in seriouscases is causingabigger demand andalarge shortage of suitable antibiotics.”

Cancerpatients treatedtoevent

Morethan30cancerpatientswere treated to an intimate carolconcert featuringthe talented officialroyal harpistand her fluteaccompanist.

TheLingenDaviesCancerFund organisedthe complimentaryconcert performedbyAlisHuwsand CarysGittins before theduo played at Shrewsbury Abbeylater that day, helpingtoraise £4,700

Thecharity workedwiththeir health partners to invite thosewho arecurrently undergoing treatment or have previouslyreceivedtreatment to theexclusive concert.

Severalattendees were graduates of theiCanProgramme,afree fiveweek holistic activity programme.

Theconcert washeldat the Shropshire WildlifeTrust in Abbey Foregate,Shrewsbury. LizzyColeman, events andfundraising officer forLingenDavies, said theconcert wasagreat waytoend abusyyear of fundraisingeventsand alovely treat forthose impacted by cancer

Collegeisjudged ‘good’ afterOfstedinspection

Acollege hasbeenjudged‘good’by Ofsted inspectors afterafour-day visit.

Students, apprenticesand staff at Herefordshire, Ludlow and NorthShropshireCollege (HLNSC)are celebratingafterthe Ofsted conclusion,which ratedthe collegeas ‘good’overall, whilebehaviours andattitudeswerejudged to be ‘outstanding’.

Inspectors describedhow learners“valuethe opportunitytotrain in well-equippedand safe workshops” and“benefitfroma broad andrichcurriculumthatclosely reflects the skillsneeds of local, regional andnationaleconomies”

Teachers were describedas “highlyqualified industry experts” who“ensure thecurriculum is up to date andlinkedwelltoindustry areas”

Inspectors also highlightedthe college’spositive culture.

Students’attitudesand behaviour in lessonsand around campuses were describedasexemplary, with inspectors notingthatthey are“very positivetowards their learning”, “takepride in theircollege”and “demonstrate high levels of motivation”.

Thereport, basedonaninspection carriedout in Octoberthis year,also praisedsafeguarding

andsupport services,which allow learners “tofeelwelcome,safeand secure at allcollege sites”

Thereportlisted oneareaas ‘requiresimprovement’ –the provision forlearnerswithhigher needs. HLNSC wasformedin2018 followingthe merger betweenHerefordshireand Ludlow Collegeand NorthShropshireCollege.The collegeconsistsofsix main sites –general furthereducation campuses at FollyLaneand Oswestry, land-basedstudies campuses at HolmeLacyand Walford, anda sixthformcampusinLudlowand TheGatewayCentrein Shrewsbury

Child’sdeath leadstopossible links to StrepA, saybosses

KARENCOMPTON karen.compton@mnamedia.co.uk

LinkswithStrep Aare being investigated after thedeath of achildin Powys.

Public HealthWales (PHW)said it wasworking with localhealthofficials andthe council followinga possible “veryrarecomplication of GroupAstreptococcalinfection”.

PHW’sDrArdiana Gjinisaid people“identified forpublichealth action have alreadybeencontacted”.

“Weremindparents to be vigilant forsigns andsymptoms,”she said.Mostoften,symptomsare mild–asorethroatoraskininfection that canbeeasilytreated with antibiotics.

ButStrepA cancause arange of things andone is scarletfever, whichmostlyaffects young children and, again, needsantibiotics

Dr Gjinisaid: “While we understandthatparents arelikelytobe worried,cases of invasive groupA streptococcalinfection (iGAS) remain rare in Wales, andchildren have averylow risk of contracting thedisease.”

Referringtothe child’sdeath,Dr Gjinisaid: “Weoffer our deepest condolencestothe family, friends andall thoseaffected

“A multi-agency incidentmanagementteamisfollowing normal processes, andinvestigatinglinks to InvasiveGroup AStreptococcal disease.”

Venueisanexcellent choice, sayvisitors

StaffataShropshiremuseum are celebratingbeing awardeda2022

Shrewsbury

an musichalland 13th century Vaughan’smansion,Shrewsbury Museum andArt Galleryisafamily-friendly experience with children’s activities,acafeand exhibitionsshowcasing some of themost prominentlocal history.

People

Shelley’sart is on show at centre

Limitededition prints from a Shropshireartistwill decorate thereception of alocal health centre this festiveseason.

ShelleyWingrove,ofLittle BlackMare, Much Wenlock,creates hand cutlinoprints, collagraphs andetchings, allofwhich areinspiredbyand celebrate theShropshirecountryside and itsAreaofOutstanding Natural

Beauty.And aselection of her works will be availabletoview andpurchaseatThe Natural Health Centre in Shrewsbury untilthe endofFebruary.

“Asanadvocatefor thepower of naturaland holistictherapies myself,I wasthrilled to be invited to displaymyartworkwithinThe NaturalHealthCentre in Shrewsbury,” Shelleysaid.

Institute is told aboutsoldier Flora

MembersofKington Women’sInstitute held theirmonthly meetingin theMarkwickHall.

Thehighlightofthe meeting wasanenthralling talk by Wilma Hughes on thelifeofCaptain Flora Sandes

Florawas theonlywoman soldier to fightin theFirst WorldWar.She fought with theSerbian Army in theBalkanCampaign.

WilmasaidFlorawas amostre-

markable woman –truly inspiring andrespected by themen sheled Themeeting heardthatshe fought, smoked anddrank herway to 80 yearsofage,nomeanfeatwhen mostofher lifewas spentunder harshand sometimeshungry, cold anddeprivedconditions.

Thegroup said Wilmawas an engaging speakerand hadobviously spentmanyhours researchingFlora’s adventurouslife.

Ludlow College

Avan break-in andadisturbanceat apub were some of the incidents dealtwithbyKington police in recent weeks, councillorshaveheard.

KingtonTownCouncil was told investigations into thefts from vehicles in Kingtonand Brilley were stillongoing.

Thecouncil wasalso told on November16there wasareport of abreak-inofa vanonOak Plock,Kington.Tools were stolenand thepolicesaidthere are currentlynolines of enquiry availabletothemsothe matter hasbeen filed.

Police also responded to areport of adisturbance at aKingtonpub on November19.

Aspokesman said:“Response officers arrivedand amalewas spoken with andthe incident wasbelievedtobeover. However,response officers were called back abouthalfanhourlater whichresultedinthe individual leavingand goinghome.”

Officers have been at Border Bean Cafe holdingadrop-in surgeryand they,withcolleaguesfromLeominster, were duetoholda dayofpoliceaction in andaroundthe town yesterday(Thursday)involving variouspriorities.

Campaignaskspeople to checkontheir neighbours

DOMINIC ROBERTSON ChiefReporter

Health

TheCheck campaign urges everyonetocheck on theirneighbours andcommunity to ensure asupport network–especiallyfor thoseliving in ruralareas

TheChristmas andNew Year period is atimewhenout-of-hours providers– andthe health sector as awhole –facesignificant demand fortheir services

Dr SimonChapple said:“Checkingonyourneighboursand ensuringtheyhaverepeatprescriptions to carrythemthrough theholiday period andmakingsuretheyknow thecorrect services to contactif they have along-term condition that mayworsencan play ahuge partinsupportingcommunities

“Atatimewhenmanyare strugglingwithenergybills, it is also importanttocheck that thoseliving around you arepreparedfor winter

anddroppingtemperatures.”The Checkcampaignurges peopleto care forthose around them,help anyone that mayneedassistance, understand that everyone canprovide support, be consistent in their checks andkeepcommunities connected

“Althoughsimplycheckingin with others andreminding them about gettingprescriptions and having therightcontact informa-

tion availableseems trivial it can have areallybig impact,” adds Dr Chapple. “And it canbelife-saving if people arestrugglingwithenergy billsand arecoldintheir own homes.

“You do not have to be freezing to develophypothermia.

“Hypothermia occurs when your body losesheatfasterthanitcan produceheat, causinga dangerously low body temperature.”

Original artby CharlieAdlard will be sold off to boostcharity

AShropshirecomicslegendhas createdarange of artworktoraise moneyfor aShrewsbury charity.

TheHive, acommunity arts and wellbeingcharity in thetowncentre,isselling limitededition artworkby internationalcomic artist andthe charity’spatron, Charlie Adlard.

Charlie, best knownfor hiswork on TheWalking Dead, hascreated illustrationsspecially forthe purposeofraising money forthe Shrewsbury charity.

Originalone-off artworks featuringthe town’s well-known bridges, as well as alimitededition fourpiece coasterset andChristmas cardsare allavailable to purchase.

TheHive’sCEO,Katie Jennings, said theteamatThe Hive is thrilled to be given theopportunity.

Shesaid: “It’sincrediblygenerousofCharlie Adlard to create limitededition artworks to raise much-needed fundsfor ourcharity

“Charlie is abrillianthomegrowntalent, andhis artworkis renownedacrossthe world

“Words cannot expresshow grateful we are.”

To purchase oneofthe itemspeoplecan visitthehiveshrewsbury bigcartel.com

provider Shropdochas launched a campaign dedicatedto supporting vulnerable people in Shropshire andMid Wales.

Thecampaignhas been launched by health provider Shropdoc. TheCheck campaignurges everyone to check on theirneighboursand communityto ensure asupportnetwork –especially for those living in ruralareas

DAFYDD LLYWELYN

Earlierthismonth Ilaunched apublicconsultationonpolice funding, giving thepublicthe opportunitytohaveyoursay on thepoliceprecept levelfor the next financialyear.

As Police andCrime Commissioner Iamresponsible forsetting thepoliceprecept whichis theamountthatlocal council taxpayers contribute towards policing.Myoverallbudgetfor 2022/23is£127.4m with £60.7m of fundingcomingfromUK/ WelshGovernmentand £66.7m from localcouncil taxprecept. Currently, aBandD Council taxpayer in Dyfed-Powys pay £290.16 throughtheir Council Taxtosupport policing

Decidingonthe preceptlevel is always achallenging process butthisyearsees unprecedented challenges given thesevere financiallandscape.

Thereare also additional pressuresarising from both theincrease in volume andcomplexity of crime, whichwemusttake into considerationaswelookto thefuture. Given thescale of all thechallenges,the ChiefConstable initiated aForce Review during thesummer to critically assess allareas of activity seekingefficiencies,savings and transformationalopportunities.

Iampainfully awareofthe pressure thecostoflivingcrisisisputting on people across Walesand indeed locally.

Sadly, these challenges andrisingcosts arehitting emergency services too, andweneed to act nowtoprotect ourvital service to thepublic.

Despite careful financialplanning by theforce,wewill have to make increasinglydifficult decisionsoverthe next fewyears, butmy priority is to ensurewe cancontinuetorun an efficient andeffective police forcetocontinuetokeepour communities safe

Alloptions beingput forward within this preceptconsultation rely on theforce making efficiency andsavings of between £4.1mand £5.9minthe next year

It is averychallenging year, butitisveryimportant forme to hear people’sviews,therefore Iamurgingour residents andbusinessestohavetheir say throughthisconsultation.

Thesurveywill remain open untilJanuary 8, andcan be accessed at surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ R2WY8HV

It’s back to the shops as we tire of clicking

Is ourloveaffairwith online shopping on the wayout?

Thesigns areshoppersare becoming less click-happyastheylook to take care of their finances

Andwiththatmorehesitantapproach comesadesiretotravelback to shopsagain,tophysicallycheck on goodsand ensure qualityand valuefor moneyisright.

Accordingtoexperts, almost half of gift shopping by people in theWestMidlandswillbedonein stores andhigh streetsthismonth

That signalsawelcome return to thehighstreet andwithitaboost fortownand city centresthathave increasingly struggled to compete with theconvenienceofonline shopping,especiallyafter aCovid lockdown in whichpeoplegot outofthe habit of ‘going shopping’.

PricewaterhouseCoopers’annual Festive Predictionsreport, published today, hasfound that while thepandemicacceleratedthe shift to online shopping forChristmas presents, therehas been arecovery in thepreferencefor shopping in physicalstores.

FollowingBlack Friday,where PwC research foundthat43per cent of West Midlands consumers were interested in spending on the day, it is predicted that consumers areplanningtoslightlyreducetheir festivespendingthisyear, with an averagespend of £393 peradult in theUK, eightper cent less than last year’s £426.But more of themoney beingspent will be handed over at tillsratherthanthrough themobile phoneorcomputerscreen.

SarahPhillips, PwC consumer leader forthe Midlands,saidmajorshoppingcentres, such as the Bullring, MerryHill, Telfordand Shrewsbury should seea benefit.

Shesaid: “Footfallshouldincrease acrosshighstreetsinthe region this Christmas.Big events likethe return of theBirmingham GermanMarket,aswellasother festiveattractions putonagain in town andcitycentresacrossthe West Midlands will bringpeoplein andthatwillhaveapositive impact

“Whilst averagespend perconsumerin theUKispredictedto slightlydecline,45per cent of those in theWestMidlandsare planning

thekey spending priorities, with almost as many people saying they will spendmoreasspend less “Our research showsalmosttwo thirds of people in theWestMidlandswill be hostinganextended or immediate family gathering, thehighest proportion in theUK, showingthataftertwo years’ of restrictions, spending timewithloved ones is apriority.”

Retail expertsalso pointtoa growingcynicismamong shoppers at thelevel of discount availableonline andwhether thesavings being advertisedare genuine.

Pricecomparisonwebsite PriceSpy surveyed thetrendsin prices in theperiodahead of BlackFridayand noticed that online prices were artificiallyincreased in the weeksahead of theevent so that they couldthenbeadvertisedas discounted when thesales started This tactic of preparingfor ‘fake sales’ is part of an increasing trend. Around 14 percentofproducts tracked by PriceSpy increasedin theweeks aheadofBlack Friday andthenweresuddenly‘reduced’

TheUnitedKingdom hasa proudhistory of supporting those in need of protection Since2015, theUKhas resettled more than 27,000 refugees throughsafeand legalroutesdirectly from areasofconflictand instability

Fewepisodes canbetterdemonstrate Britishcompassionfor those fleeingwar andpersecution than theHomesfor Ukraineprogramme which hasseen145,000 Ukrainians housed with familiesupand down thecountry,including around 550 in Shropshire.

Thecriminalgangs whoexploit migrants anddealinthe despicable humantraffickingtrade, puttinglives at risk in dangerousdinghiesacrossthe channel, make amockery of this compassion anddoadisservicetothose whomigrate to theUKthrough proper legalroutes.

Morethan40,000 people have illegally crossedthe Channel in smallboats this year.Many originate from safe countries andtravelthrough safe countries. That is unfair on those whocome here legally, unfair on thosewho have agenuine asylum claim, andunfaironthe Britishtaxpayer. So,Istrongly welcome newmeasuresannouncedthisweekwhich will go much furthertotacklethe issue of illegal migration.

TheGovernmenthas reacheda newagreement so thevastmajority of over 10,000 single male Albanian claimants, whohave arrivedonsmall boatsacross theChannel,can be removedon weekly flights untilall those in ourbacklog aresenthome

Apermanent,unified Small BoatsOperational Command hasbeenannounced in the Channelwith700 newstaff that will bringtogethercivilian,militaryand crimepartnerstodetectand interceptsmall boats

to head in storefor theirfestive shopping, providingaboost to retailersand hospitalityvenues.”

PwC research showsthatthis year many consumers usedBlack Friday as an opportunitytostart Christmas shopping, lookingto make useofdiscounts when looking forgiftsasthe cost-of-living puts pressureondisposable income

Ms Phillips added: “Thismeans thatspendingduringDecember is likely to be lowerand retailers should help theircustomers economise,while keepingChristmas special. Christmasdinner –and food anddrink moregenerally –remain

Figuresfor 2021 show that beauty wasthe worst-affected sector, with 22 percentofall perfumes and 21 percentofall skincare products featuringinfakesales.Othersincluded computer components (18 percentofall products), hikingand trekking footwear (16per cent)and kitchenappliances(15 percent)

“Our data indicatesfakesales on BlackFridayin 2022 mayhave been much more widespread than in recent years,”saysLiisa Matinvesi-Bassett, thewebsite’s manager

ConsumermagazineWhich?goes further–itfound that 99.5 percent of products in supposed BlackFriday‘deals’ were cheaperorthe same priceatother timesofthe

Tougherimmigration enforcement will be introduced, boosted by 200new staffand better data sharingtocrack down on illegal migrants andcarry out 50 percentmoreraids on those whoexploit migrants to workillegallyinthe UK

Finally, RishiSunakmadea commitment to clearthe initial asylum backlogby2023.

Ourdeepeningco-operation with France andplans to pursueasylumprocessinginsafe countrieslikeRwanda, coupled with these measures will make asignificant difference in tackling this tragicissue

PHILIP DUNNE

year

‘There’s growing cynicism at the levelofdiscount availableonline’

Busy –Shrewsbury town centre

Hope someone in government sees sensesoon

As theend of theyearapproaches,itseems agoodtime tolookbackon2022.

It hasbeen, forthe increasingwealthofthe topdogs, a very good year.Asthe austerity kicksintothe mostvulnerable, they arecreamingmoreand moreofthe profits.Donot hang aboutwaitingfor the“trickle-downeffect” –it’samythas historywill confirm

PM Sunakwill look afterthe rich whilst explaining the problemofhow to manage thenext monthswithverylimited heatingand food formillions.

Let’snot be negative about theyearthough. We hadhelp from many unelected andincompetentquarters. Peppa Pigwas outstanding. If you thoughtthatwas abad Tory choice thinkon. Trusstravelledthe planetarranging expensivedeals that wouldhurt theUKeconomy before they were proveduseless.Tobefair though,she wasalso trying desperately to last longer as PM than alettuce.She failed Fortunately, we nowhavea billionaire PM to look afterthe awfulstate theTorieshaveleft us in.Hehas been trying to creepbackintothe EU’s good bookswitha“Swiss” type of deal,but it seemsthe odds are againstit. AherdofToryMPs seem to be leavingthe sinking ship before the next election This couldleave himwithonly theextreme Tories andERGs to trytosortout theongoing mess.Let’s hope someone in government sees sense very soon.

RogerCain, Clee Hill

Invest in best farm practices

How have ourfood andfarming systemsbecome so badfor us andour environment?

This wasexplored at the WalesRealFood andFarming Conference

It wasupliftingtomeetwith so many farmersand growers whoworkhardtoproducefood that is goodfor us, tastes great, leaves thesoilingood shapefor thefutureand provides space forother species

Theparticipants agreed that theintensive,industrialised food production system that waspromotedafterthe Second

PICTURE FROMTHE ARCHIVE

WorldWar is heatingthe planet,causing water shortages, pollutingour riversand makingpeoplesick.

Ourarable farmsare reliantonhybridseeds, pesticides andartificialfertilisers;our livestockproductionisgeared towardsfastproductionand weightgain.

It is ‘efficient’ andextremely profitablefor thecorporations, butnot formostfarmers caught in theirtraps whocan only profitbecause thereal coststoour health andenvironmentare notincluded.

Examples includehighlevels of antibiotic resistant bacteriainUK riversaroundmany chickenand pigfactories,and a massivedecline in biodiversity includingpollinating insects.

We need to demand that governmentgrantsand schemes will supportlocal,quality food systemsproducingfood which does notcostthe earthormake us sick.

Intensivefactory farming of chickens andpigsmustgo, agri-ecologicalmethods have to be supported,and food must cost more so that farmerscan getpaiddecently.

AngieZelter, Knucklas

Children should nothavetobe goinghungry

Nutritionistshavelongknown the firstmealofthe dayisthe most importantfor healthyliving.

Yetfor many people strugglingwiththe soaringcost of living today, thereisnot enough food on thetable at any time of day.

With so many goinghungry each morningbeing children, theconsequences affect not just theirhealth, butlong-term learning.Itisasad indictment of ourmodernwaysand economictimes facing ourlocal communitiesthathow to feed hungry children hasbecome such apressingissue

Theprovision of free school mealsare appreciated by pupils, parentsand staffalike.

It is amajor public health success.Clearly,suchvital support is needed allyearround, as fartoo many children are starting theirday hungry

Doug James, West Midlands

Gap between rich and poor still widening

“Christmas is coming,the goose is getting fat, please put apenny in theold man’shat”.

So goesthe oldrhyme,sadly thereseems to be more begging than ever on ourstreets.

We arestill arichcountry, you only have to look at the expensive foreigncarsonthe roads, butthere’s awidening gapbetween therichand the poor.

Food banks arebusierthan ever.Thank Godfor thededicatedpeoplewho runthemand food that peopleand supermarketsprovide Ifeelfor thepoorand elderly whohavetochoosebetween eating andheating. It wasthe same that very firstChristmas, Jesus wasborninastable, but Hewas theone theprophets hadforetoldlongbefore. God’s Soncomingintothe world to save us from sinand Hell and give thehopeofeternal lifein

RonJones,Oswestry

Lettersmustinclude

Heaven

CravenArms boystable tennisteam picturedatNewtoninthe town in 1937:back, lefttoright, CyrilStead,Ted Humphries, John Banks, EddieSmith,JeffJoyner, Basil Wood,Henry Le Worthy, CharlesHarper. Front,fromleft, Victor Joyner,Doug Hanson,Mr Brereton,PC Hemmings, Mr Humphreys, LesPickles, PercyStead

Churches hold various services

Avariety of church services will be held in theGlanIthon parish in the run-up to Christmas.

EucharistwillbeheldinHoly TrinityChurchinLlandrindodWells on Sundayat8am and 10.30am.

AChristingleservice will take placeatthe same church at 6pm, it hasbeenannounced

Carols will take placeatHowey church at 7pmonTuesday,Eucharist will be held at Holy Trinity Church at 6pmonWednesday,and at 10am on Thursday

Carols will be hosted at Heligan at 6pmonFridaynextweek.

Christmas Eveserviceswill includea crib serviceatLlanyre at 4pm, Eucharistand carols at Howey at 8pmand Eucharistand carols at Holy TrinityChurch at 11pm.

On ChristmasDay therewill be Eucharist at Holy TrinityChurch at 10.30am,churchleaders have said

Invitation to join inwithcarols

Therewillbevarious pre-Christmascarol services in theUpper Wyeparishin theNewbridge-on-Wyeareafor everyone to enjoy.

Allare welcome to attend carolsatLlanafan Fawr on Sunday at 9.30am andcarolsatCwmbach on Monday at 6pm, church leadershavesaid.

Andthatinvitationisextended to everyone to carols at All Saints Church, Newbridge on WyeonWednesday at 6pmand carols at Llanfihangel BrynPabuan on Thursday next week at 6pm.

Thoseinthe UpperWye Parishare reminded that forenquiriesregarding weddings, burialsand confirmations, the RevAndrewPerrin, Priest in Charge,can be contacted or the area administratoron01597 822557

Postponementof garden opening

Theopening of agarden as part of theNationalGarden Scheme has been postponed

Duetothe winter weatherconditions, thegarden ownerhas decided to postpone theopening of Tranquility Haven at Whitton, near Knightontomorrow(Saturday)and Sunday.

Aspokespersonsaid: “Ifyou were planning to seethe fairylights, sorry, we hope to rearrangefor the NewYear.”

However,openall year by arrangementisLlysdinam, Newbridge-on-Wye.

TheNationalGarden Scheme has launched itsGreat BigChristmas

Raffle. Thereare 15 prizes from a one year’s subscription to Country Lifemagazine, aNationalGarden Scheme Tote bag, to abeautybox of luxury cosmeticsitems worth atotalof£500. Ticketsare £5 each.To buytickets andsee allthe prizes go to ngs.org.uk

DuaLipaheads up theleadingnames at festival

PopstarDua Lipa andThe HandmaidsTaleauthor Margaret Atwood will appear at next year’s HayFestival.

Thefestivalhas announced 32 early-bird events forits 36th spring edition, taking placefromMay 25 untilJune4in Hay-on-Wye Events featureinternationally acclaimednovelistswithnew workincluding Margaret Atwood on hershortstory collection Old Babesinthe Wood, Eleanor Catton on Birnam Wood andformerHay Festival internationalfellow Fflur Dafydd with TheLibrary Suicides Grammy award-winningsinger andsongwriterDua Lipa will pres-

entaliverecording of her newpodcast,AtYourService

DuaLipasaid: “I have wanted to explorethe bookshopsofHay and experience theliteraryatmosphere of theHay Festival forsuchalong time

“SoI’m thrilled that Iwill be therenextyeartoshare stories on stageand offwithsome of my favourite authors, andtosoakup theinspiration alongsidemyfellow book lovers.”

TheUKtoday is drawnintofocuswiththe burningquestions of equity,sustainability anddemocracydebated in events with columnistMarinaHyde on What

Just Happened?; historianSimon Schama on Return of theTribes; travelwriterIsabellaTreeonThe Book of Wilding; philosopherA.C Grayling talks philosophy andlife; andbroadcaster Jon Snow on The StateofUs.

Scottish rockduo TheProclaimerswillappearduringthe festival, and, broadcaster, journalist and author SirMichael Parkinsonwil be sharinghis sports writingwith theHay audience

Early-bird eventticketsare on sale nowtoFriends of HayFestival at hayfestival.org/walesand go on generalrelease at noon today(Friday)

Changesonthe wayaslibrary servicelooks towardsfuture

MEGANJONES megan.jones@mnamedia.co.uk

MembersofShropshireCouncil’s cabinetweredue to be askedtoapprove afresh approach to theway thelibraries arerun andthe services they provide.

TheShropshireLibrary Strategy,which wasdue to be discussed by thecabinet on Wednesday this week,aimstoensureeveryone of thecouncil’s 21 static libraries, one prisonlibrary andthree mobile librariesare meetingthe needs of theirlocal communities.

Thestrategy followsaconsultation whichidentified theneed for services inrural areas, aneed to supportpeopleand families on low income,and theimportanceoflibrariestochildren andfamilies.

Thereportwarns that change is necessarytoalign with publicneed, saying:“Theway people use libraries, andtheir expectations of public services,are changing.Financial, technological, anddemographic challenges areincreasing. Standing still is thereforenot an option forlibraryservices.”

Councillor RobGittins, ShropshireCouncil’scabinet member for cultureand digital, said:“Putsimply, ourvisionisfor libraryservices to be at theheart of ourcommunities,makingconnections to enhanceand improve people’s lives.”

Eric theTurkeyisbackwithtop tips song

Shropshire’s Eric theTurkeyhas made hisannualfestive return to YouTubewithaneagerly-awaited Christmas videorelease.

Eric is thecreationofAdrian Hill,the fun-loving technology manageratMorrisLubricants, whohas also created a fictional band,Jingleand theBells

Eric hasbuilt up afan base and hissupporterswaitwithbated breath everyDecember forthe

Tractors to take to theroads again

Penybont YoungFarmers Club is holding an after-dark tractor run this weekend.

Atotal of 91 tractorstookpart in last year’s event, bringing joy andfestive lights to Penybont, Crossgates andLlandrindod Wells. Therun raisedover £5,500 forthe club andthe Motor Neurone DiseaseAssociation

This year’s runwill be held on

Sunday. Everyonewishing to take part should meet at 3pmand they will setoff at 4.30pm from CrossgatesPrimary School

Thecostis£10 pertractor and therewill be aprize forthe best dressedtractor on theday

Allproceedsfromthisyear’s eventwill go to theTeenage CancerTrust andBirmingham Children’s Hospital

ebrations. Thevideohas gone live at https://youtu.be/5EMgeV-VsFs andAdriansaid: “Withall the gloomy news aboutacostofliving crisis andinflation, Iwanted to come up with somethingupbeat andabit comicalatthe same time “Thissongisall about surviving Christmas.Ihopethisyear’svideo will chimewithviewers whohave perhapsexperienced afew mishaps of theirown.”

Useofcashfalls,latest figuresshow

Theproportionofpaymentsmade usingcashhalvedin2021, comparedwiththe previousyear, accordingto figuresfromthe British Retail Consortium(BRC)

In 2021,asstoresclosedfor lockdownsand people increasingly turned to contactlesspayments, cash usagefelltojust15per cent of alltransactions– down from 30 per cent in 2020

As aproportionofthe totalmon-

ey spent, cash accounted forjust eightper cent of consumer spend last year,the BRCfound

Morethanfour-fifths of transactionslastyearweremadeusingcreditordebit cards, up from around two-thirds in 2020,accordingtothe BRC’sannualpayments survey

Therise in card payments is also partly duetoanincreaseinonline shopping in 2021

HowShropshire’slibrary servicewilllook in thefutureisbeing debatedbycouncillors.

PopstarDua Lipa

AdrianHill with Eric theTurkeywho have released aChristmassongagain this year on YouTube

MATTHEWPANTER matthew.panter@mnamedia.co.uk

Hundreds turn outtoservice of reflection

DOMINIC ROBERTSON newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

Hundreds of people joined togetherfor the return of apoignantand striking servicetoremember lovedones.

Staffand volunteers from Severn Hospicehavespent months preparingfor thecharity’s firstin-person Lights of Love eventsince 2019 Held at itshospiceinBicton, Shrewsbury,the hour-long service of reflection sawhundreds of people come together underthe nightsky, around a25ft-high Christmastree coveredin thousandsoftwinkling lights

JessicaDruce,fromthe charity’s fundraisingteam, said:“Lights of Love is emotional foranyonewho attendsand hosting it at thehospice wasall aboutrecognisingthe deep connection people mighthavetous.

“The treewithits lights dedicatedtothe memory of lovedones we have caredfor andsupported looked beautiful.”

Lights of Love hasbeena well-attendedseasonalevent, andbefore thepandemic washeldeachyearat St Chad’s Church in Shrewsbury.

Theservice returned in-person for the firsttimesince 2019

TheWem JubileeBandperform at theLights of Love service Hadley MaleVoiceChoir performed as part of theservice

Therewereemotionalscenesashundreds of people turnedout for the poignant Severn Hospiceremembranceservice

TheSevern Hospice Lights of Love servicetookplace at Bicton Heath

Formerpolice officerperverted course of justice

Aformerpoliceofficerwho messaged female victimsofcrime to try andstrikeupsexualrelationships hasbeenfound guilty of perverting thecourseofjustice

RhettWilson, 27,aformerWest Mercia Police officer, whohad at one stagebeenbased in Shrewsbury,was on trialatWorcester CrownCourt last week

He haddeniedperverting the course of justicebut wasconvicted by ajury.

Wilson, of Tidworth, Wiltshire, whoresignedfromthe forceinJuly 2020, had previously pleaded guilty tothree police corruption charges He will be sentencedonJanuary 20.The chargesrelatetoWilson contacting threewomen,who he hadbeencalledtohelp, in an attempttostart sexual relationships.

West Mercia Police’s Professional StandardsDepartmenthad carried outaninternalinvestigationafter receivinginformation that Wilson wasabusing hispositionfor sexual gain.The offences took placebetweenDecember 2019 andMarch 2020

Deputy ChiefConstable Alex Murray said thebehaviour carried outbyWilsonwould not be tolerated,withactiontobetaken against anyofficerfound to have abused their position.

Theincidentwas referred to the IndependentOffice forPoliceConduct (IOPC).Internalmisconduct proceedingswill nowtakeplace

Piles of festive funplannedat holiday clubs

Ahostoffestive funislined up foryoungstersatChristmas holiday clubsaroundShropshire.

TheCrossbar Group, in partnershipwiththe Crossbar Foundation,isputting the finishing touchestoabusyitineraryofactivities.

Designedtokeepchildren aged betweenfourand 11 active andentertained,clubs will be held at eightShropshireprimary schoolsbothbeforeand afterChristmas.LukeHughes, Crossbar’s holidayactivities lead,said: “The firstweekwill be Christmas-themed with lots of Christmasgames andactivities,artsand crafts

“There will be avisit from Santatoall eightholiday clubs when apresent will be delivered to everychild that attends, whichisalwaysahighlightof theweek.

“Weektwo will have an ‘I’m aCelebrity’theme,sothe children canlookforward to enjoyinga rangeofgames,activities, challenges andtrials. The Christmas holidayclubs are always very popularwithchildren.It’sa special time of year andtheyare very excited, with ourclubs allabout keepingchildren healthy, happyand active.”

Places canbebookedatcross barcoaching.schoolipal.co.uk

Counciltax payers to seebillsrisefor West Mercia Police contribution

Shropshireresidents will be payingmorecouncil taxfromnext year as West Mercia Police is setto increase itsprecept West Mercia’s police andcrime commissioner said he had“no choice buttoincreasethe precept”, as governmentfunding wasnot keepingup with inflation.

It is proposed that theaverage householdwill payanextra £9.84

forpolicingeachyear, arise of 3.94 percent, basedonabandDproperty

However,the forcehas pledged an extra 20 officers forcommunities as part of itsproposedbudget for2023/24

Theseadditionalofficers will bringthe force’sestablishment figure to 2,476, andtheywill be basedat theheart of communities,

addressing andtacklingcommunity concerns Police andcrime commissioner JohnCampionsaid: “I am committedtoensuring this budgetcontinuesthe deliveryofmySafer West Mercia Plan,whilst tackling the unavoidablecostpressures we face andmaximisingthe valueofinvestments Ihavemadetoaddress theconcernsofcommunities

“Communities have told me loud andclear that theywantmorepolice officers.Thisiswhy Ihaveensuredthatfrontline policing numbers areprotected,but Ihavealso allocatedfunding to boostnumbers by afurther 20.It is also importantthatthe public canaccess West Mercia Police,soinvestment will also be placed in improving publiccontact.”

Road tragedies‘notinevitable’, says councillor in action call

NICK HUMPHREYS nick.humphreys@shropshirestar

Acouncillorhas insisted road

“inevitable”partoflife.

Figuresshow121 people were killed or injuredonShropshire’s roadslastyear.

Councillor RobWilsonhas submitted amotiontoShropshire Councilcalling forthe authorityto target zero deaths on roads.

Themotion, duetobediscussed yesterday(Thursday), suggestsa “VisionZeroSafeSystem”

It says:“ASafeSystemaccepts that whileroad-users should behave safely andlegally,peopledo sometimesmakemistakes, andthat some mistakes lead to crashes.”

Themotionadded: “Vision Zero principles will change public perceptionabout road danger,sothat deathand injury is no longer an inevitable part of ourlivesaswemove around,but somethingthatcan be avoidedifaserious andsustained effort is made to tackle thecauses of theproblem.”

Thefourkey principles of the Vision Zero Safe System arethat possibility formistakesshouldbe takenintoaccount, humanlifeand health should be given thehighest priority, responsibility needstobe takenand danger reductionmeasures takenfor thosewhose transport createsthe highestrisk,and that active travel such as cycling andwalking should be enabled.

Delightoveraccoladefor community pub

AShropshirepub hasbeenincluded amongthe top100 places to stay in theUK, eightyears afterit wassaved by thecommunity

ThePheasantatNeenton has been chosen by Timesand Sunday TimesTraveleditors as oneofthe 100bestplacestostayinBritain for2023.

It comesafter worktorefurbish thederelictbuilding began in 2014,led by NeentonCommu-

nity Societyin collaboration with ShropshireCouncil andthe ShropshireHousing Group.

Commenting on thenew-found national recognition, Mark Harris, head chef andco-managerat thePheasant, said “We’ve atalentedand creative team on topof theirgamein ahappy kitchen.

“It’sterrifictoget aratingwhich recognises theirefforts, puts us on apar with some of thebestchef teamsinthe countryand encourages people from farand wide to come to Shropshireand stay with us.”

In Novemberof2014, thecommunity-ownedpub opened once more andhas sinceoffered countryhospitality and fine food to its visitors.

Town centre is ‘openasusual’after bomb scare

Businesses andshoppershavegot back to normalfollowing abomb scareinthe heartofShropshire’s countytown.

Police have liftedacordon around TheLionPub in Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury,following theincident.

Measures were takentoevacuate thehotel,along with businesses andresidents living in the immediatevicinity, on Thursday eveninglastweek.

West Mercia Police confirmed theincidenthad safely come to an end.

They thankedofficers,supportingemergency services andthe

localcommunity fortheir co-operation.

Meanwhile, business owners have said they have gotbackto normalafterthe disruption NigelMatthews, assistantmanager of Wrekin Whiskies on Wyle Cop, said:“Theshopshut at five o’clockand thereforethere was nobody here when thescare came about. It’s business as usual.”

Stacey Hill, ownerofOberon clothing andaccessoriesonthe Wyle Cop, said:“It hasn’t affected us at all. We went forour works nightout anditwas fine

“Wewenttothe DrapersHall andgetting into town foreveryone

wasquite difficultbut everyone managedtoget there.”

SebSlater, theexecutive directorofShrewsburyBID,said: “We areaware of thesituation at The Lion andhavebeenliaisingwith partners to help in anyway we can.

“WyleCop, andindeed thewhole of thetowncentre,isverymuch open forbusinessasusual, and we would urge people to come into Shrewsbury andsupport theirlocaltraders

“Shrewsburyisawonderful placetodoyourChristmas shopping,and it’s greattosee thetown centre bustling at this time of year.”

Emergency services at the scenenear theLion in Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury on Thursdaylast week

tragediesshould notbeacceptedasan

Cheers–the managerofThe PheasantInn at Neenton Mark Harris with assistant manager Andrew Burton

MEGANHOWE Community News Reporter

Caravanparktoquadruple in size aftergo-aheadisgiven to application

Planners have approvedacaravan park expansionwhich will seeit quadruplein size.

Earlierthisyear, Hannah and WynMorrislodged aplanningapplicationwithPowys County Counciltocreate20staticcaravan plots together with theconstructionof four-metre wide access tracksand theinstallationofa sewage treatment plantata fieldonFingerPost

Farm,nearNewtown.The livestock farm is betweenTregynonand BettwsCedewain.

Planning permission for five chalets wasgranted back in 2003 and in 2019 this was“varied”toallow five static caravans to be placed there. Both localcountycouncillor,Heulwen Hulmeand Tregynon CommunityCouncil hadbackedthe scheme

Senior planning officerKateBowen said:“It is considered that the developmenthas been designed to integrateintothe topography of the land andtherefore whilst thesite wouldbevisible from public vantage points in theimmediate locality,it wouldnot be visibleinlongerviews. Considerable weighthas been given to thelandbeing classified as grade 3a by theAgriculturalLandClassi-

fication map. However,takinginto accountthe extent of land involved, theavailability of best andmost versatile land in thearea, theeconomicbenefits of thedevelopment as atourism scheme as part of farm diversification outweigh thelossof high-quality agricultural land in this instance.”

Anumberofconditionsare attached to theapproval.

Hunt’scarol serviceiscalled offfollowing safety concerns

DOMINIC ROBERTSON ChiefReporter

Achurchcancelled a carolservice organised by aShropshirehunt “onpoliceadvice” after concerns aboutsafety.

Theservice,for theSouth Shropshirehunt, TheUnitedPack, had been duetotakeplace at St George’s Church in Clun on Sunday.

Butthe Diocese of Hereford, whichisresponsible forthe church, said it haddecidedtocancelthe service aftercommentsabout amemberofthe clergy on theinternet.

In a statement, the diocese said a member of thechurch hadbeenthe subjectof“anumberofuntruths spread online”.

It added: “Based on police advice, we have takenthe decision that the servicewill notgoahead.There have been anumberofuntruths spread online abouta member of ourclergywho it wasassumed wouldbeleading thisservice.The decision hasbeenmadeinthe interestsofher personal safety.Our churches remain open to everyone andoffer anyone awelcome,whatever theirbelieforworld view.”

ThreatscameafteraFacebook post askedpeopletoemail their thoughts to areverend, andto “keepitpolite”.Aspokesman for TheUnitedPacksaidnew arrangementshad been made, blaminga “hate-filled campaign againstlocal clergy”onsocialmedia.

Firmsteaming up in shepherd’s hutinitiative

Multi-awardwinning Shropshire business SalopLeisure is working with aMid Walesmanufacturerto sell shepherd’s hutstothe booming staycationand glamping market Salop LeisureInnovativeSolutions, thespecialprojectsdivision of theShrewsbury-basedbusiness,has teamed up with Gareth Rowlands,who manufactures the shepherd’s hutsinRhayader, to fill agap in themarket forinno-

KARENCOMPTON

karen.compton@mnamedia.co.uk

vative glampingaccommodation. Thetwo businesses promotedthe shepherd’s huts, whichcan be used fortourism accommodation, gardenofficesorgarden rooms, at the RoyalWelsh Winter Fair andthey have been very well received.Salop Leisure’sInnovativeSolutions divi-

sion,headedup by projectmanager Samantha Stubbs,aimstowork with partnercompanies to maximise theretailopportunitiespresented by thebooming demand for staycationholidays.

Thetimberorcorrugatedmetal clad shepherd’s hut,which comes in arange of sizes, hasbeendesigned to offervarious accommodation options, with qualityand comfortinmind.

Fire service settoask forextra £1minfunding

Midand West WalesFireand RescueService is settoask foranextra £1 million forthe next financial year

The fire authoritywas this week expected to discussand approve a 13 percenthiketoits budget which will be levied on allsix localauthoritiesthatMid andWestWales Fire andRescueService covers, includingPowys, from April1

This wouldtakeits budgetup from £53.824million to £60.821 million

At aPowys County Council meetingonThursday last week, chief fire officerRoger Thomas and

chief financialofficerSarah Mansbridge explainedtocouncillorswhy they need to increase theirlevy. Mr Thomas said thenumbers of retained firefighters is falling and that this wasputting astrain on theservice

Morefunding andre-structuring retained firefightercontractscould “arrestthatdecline”, he said

“We’ve hadthe on-call sector on thecheap fordecades andit’sunsustainable in itscurrent guise,” said Mr Thomas PowysConservativegroup leader Councillor Aled Davies said:“We don’tknowyet as acouncil what

we will be gettingfromthe Welsh Governmentas asettlement, the indication predicts threeper cent “Yourexpectation foramuch higher preceptisgoing to createa pressure on thecouncil.”

Councillor GwynforThomas, whoisalso vice-chairmanofthe fire authority, said:“Iassuremembers that thebudgetsetting process has been exceptional.

“We’ve seen underneath theinformation.

“We’ve seen them search forsavings andsadly if they were made,it wouldmeanthe closureofstations or removalofequipment.”

Clinic takes Covid jabs to thehomeless

TheNHS is helpinghomeless people by organising clinicsto driveuptakeofthe Covid-19 vaccineacrossShropshire.

Thevaccineservice recognises that to reachthisvulnerable groupitneedstorampupefforts by working closely with shelters andcharities in thearea.

Shrewsbury Ark, theShropshire-basedcharity whichprovidesongoing supportand day centre facilities forthe homeless andvulnerablein thecommunity,openedits doorstoShropshire, Telfordand Wrekin’s Covid-19 vaccination teamon Tuesdaylastweektohelpgive homeless andvulnerable people theopportunity to boosttheir immunity.

Theclinicoffered thoseattendingthe chance to receive either their first, second or boostervaccine. This wasthe latest in anumberofvisitsto TheShrewsbury Arkand other venues acrossShropshiresince thepandemicbegan

EmilyBell, chairofShrewsbury Ark, said:“Access to healthcare is areallybig problemifyou’rehomeless,sotobe able to have asafeenvironment here at TheArk wherewecan ensure everyone cankeepupto date with theirvaccinationsis brilliant.”

Newleaderis appointedto regional board

Emma Thomas hasbeenappointed as thenew chairofthe MidWales Regional Skills PartnershipBoard

Thepartnership playsa key role in helpingthe region to drive itsvision forlearningand skills, representsthe voiceofthe private sector to influenceand supportdecision-makingand champions Mid Walesatanationallevel

Ms Thomas is currentlythe HR managerat ABER Instruments, a lifescience manufacturer,and has been with thecompany forthe last seven years.

Shesaid: “I’m passionate about providing goodquality jobs within thelocal area.

“I am excitedbythe role of chair andhopethatasagroup we can help to make adifferencebyensuringthe correctskillsprovision is availabletomeetthe needs andrequirements of MidWales.Retaining ouryoung people with thecorrect skillsisessential to oureconomy.”

Theappointment wasmadeby Councillor BryanDavies, leader of Ceredigion County Council,and Councillor JamesGibson-Watt, leader of PowysCountyCouncil They said:“We wouldliketoextend awarmwelcome to Emma as thenew chair.

“Thiscomingyearwillsee some importantareas of work forthe boardsuchasthe newthree-year Employment andSkillsPlan20222025 andits subsequent implementation.”

Salop Leisure Innovative Solutions’project managerSamantha Stubbs with one of theshepherd’shuts

Airportto issue update on strike

Birmingham Airportispreparing a guidefor travellersthatwill be usingitduringthe industrial action by Border Forceworkers

Theactionaffectingairportsis plannedbetween Friday next week andDecember 31

Birmingham Airportspokesman Simon Evanssaidthatatthisstage theairport wasnot commenting beyond thestatement issued by the AirportOperators’Association.

It says that if thestrikes cannot be avertedthen“concrete anddeliverable contingencymeasures”must be putin place.

Mr Evanssaidthatwhenthe airport hadmoreclarity on theimpact of theactionitwould issuea full update forpeoplethatwould be using theairport over theperiod.

Border Forcestaff in thePublic andCommercialServicesunion at Gatwick, Heathrow,Manchester andCardiff arealso striking as part of adispute

999 calloutto crashintown

Allthree emergencyservices were scrambledtothe sceneofa two-vehicle crashinMuchWenlock.

ShropshireFireand Rescue Servicesenta response from TelfordCentral, Tweedale and WellingtonstationstoShrewsbury Road in thetownfollowing reportsofacrash involvingpeopletrapped at 4.28pm on Saturday.

When the fire crewsarrived they foundanincidentinvolved onevan andone small hatchbackand no people were trapped

Acounty fire andrescue service spokesmansaid: “Fire crewsmadethe vehicles safe Police andambulance were in attendance.”

Fire crewssenttheir incident stop message at 4.50pmonSaturday.

Services set to be held in valley

Arange of services will be held in theIthon Valley parish in therunup to Christmas.

On Sunday,there will be morningprayer at Crossgates at 11am, EucharistatLlanbisterat11am andcarolsatAbbey CwmHir at 3pm.

Therewill be carols at Llanddewi on Monday at 6pm, andcarolsat Llandegley on Tuesdayat6pm

Therewill be carols at Llanbister on Wednesday at 6pm, andcarolsat Llanbadarn Fynydd on Thursday at 6pm.

On Friday next week,Dolau will host communitycarolsatthe village hall at 6pm.

On ChristmasEve acribservice will take placeatLlanbadarnFawr at 5pm.

Therewill be EucharistwithcarolsatLlandegleyat11pm.

DolauwillholdEucharist on Christmas Dayat9.30am,ithas been announced.

Service staffinlow-grade houses

Morethanhalfofservice personnelinShropshireare living in the lowest gradeofservice accommodation, figureshaverevealed.

Newdatafromthe Ministry of Defencehas shownthat460 out of 800service personnel –57.5per cent –live in ‘Grade 4’ Single LivingAccommodation –the lowest ratinggivenbythe government department

This is higher than thenational percentage,with40per cent of servicepersonnel living in ‘Grade 4’ SingleLivingAccommodation.

Additionally,afurther 4,360 personnellivein accommodation so poorthatnorentalchargeis levied

Andjust21per cent live in the top‘Grade1’accommodation,the lowest proportion since2018.

Market hassomething foreveryone

ThenextKington art andcraft Christmas market will take place tomorrow (Saturday)

It will take placeatKington Market Hall andPlace De Marinesfrom 9.30am until3.30pm

Themarket will featurelocal artists andcraftspeople.

Theorganisers saidthere will be somethingfor everyone anditems to suit allpockets, tastes andages available.

Thestallswill featuregenuinely handcraftedproductsincluding cardsfor alloccasions, pottery, ironware,basketweaving,alpaca products, woodturning, art, papercrafts, knitted andcrocheted garments, sewn products, pinloom weavingand waxmelts

Allare welcome to attend the market

Themarketswillthenreturnin April.

NHSreveals wait timesfor GP appointments across county

DAVIDBANNER newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

TheGPpractices in Shropshire, Telfordand Wrekin wherepatients aremostlikelytowait longer than twoweeks foranappointment have been revealed.

Thegovernmentsaidthe new data published by NHSDigital will help patients “makeamore informed choice aboutthe practice they choose to visit”

But the move has not been welcomedbyeveryone,withthe Royal CollegeofGPs (RCGP) criticising thelackofcontext around howdifferent practicesoperate

Atotal of 284,225appointments took placeatGPpractices in the county in October.

At least54,354–19per cent –of thesehad takenplacemorethana fortnightafter beingbooked, andof those, 12,746 –fourper cent –saw patients wait longer than 28 days

Thepracticewiththe greatest proportion of appointments taking more than twoweeks wasMytton OakinShrewsbury, whereitwas 46 percent, whileStirchleyin Telford hadthe fewest,withjust1.5 percent. NHSDigital cautioned that GP workloads canbeaffected by several factorssuchasthe demographicofpatientsregisteredatthe practice,how deprived theareais andthe number of care homesthe practice offers services to

Thenew practice-level figures come as part of thegovernment’s “planfor patients”, whichincludes anew ambitionfor everypatient to getanappointment at theirGP practice within twoweeks

However,the RCGPsaidthe governmentshouldaddress theroot causeofGPpressures –includingrecruitment andretention of

doctors–“insteadoflumbering a struggling servicewithnew expectations”

ChairProfessor Kamila Hawthorne said:“Arecord36.1million consultationsweredelivered in October, almost 40 percentofthese on theday they were booked and more than 71 percentdelivered in-person, thehighestproportion

sincebeforethe pandemic.” Prof HawthornesaidGPworkloads have escalated whilethe number of fully qualified full-timeequivalentGPs hasfallenby719 acrossEngland since2019. “GPteams arejustas frustratedaspatientswhenthey don’thavethe resourcesand time to deliver thehighstandardofcareto patients they want to,” sheadded.

Figuresdonot show full picturesayshealthboss

Ahealthbosshas urged caution overfresh NHS figuresonGPappointments, warningtheydonot provide “thefullpicture”.

Figuresdetailthe number of appointments at practicesacross thecountry –and how longpeople have to wait forthatappointment

However,EmmaPyrah,associate director of primarycareat NHSShropshire, Telfordand Wrekin, said thedata“givesno indication of qualityofcare”

Shealso said practicesinthe countyare providingmoreappointments than ever,and were working hard to meet “exceptional demand”. GeneralPracticehas

faced considerable strain during andafter thepandemic– butMs Pyrahpointed to figureswhich show that 91 percentofpatients arebeing seenwithintwo weeks.

Shealso highlightedthe fact that sevenout of 10 appointments arenow face-to-face,whilenearly half take placeonthe same day.

Shesaid: “Althoughanindication of appointmentavailability, as well as waitstosee ahealthcare professional,itisimportant to recognise that GP AppointmentData (GPAD) only measures data about appointments andisnot ameasure or indication of practice qualityor patientcare.

“Our GP teamsacrossShropshire, Telfordand Wrekin are working hard to meet exceptional demand,deliveringmoreappointmentsthanever before,and we wouldliketoremindpatientsthat this newdatadoes notprovide the full picture when it comestopractice performance.

“Onaverageour practicesare offering five more appointments than before the pandemic andlockdown

“Aroundseven in 10 appointmentsare in person,with48per cent taking placeonthe same day andapproximately 91 percentof patients seen within twoweeks.”

GPsare facing ahugeworkload

Tories calling for councillors to condemn eco protestgroups

Conservativecouncillorswerethis week duetocallonfellowmembers of Shropshire Counciltopublicly condemneco protesters anddemand an endtoillegal demonstrations.

Thegroup of councillorsincludes RichardMarshall, GarryBurchett, SteveDavenport,Geoff Elner, Hilary Luff andDan Morris.

It comesafterseveral controversial Just Stop Oilprotestsand action by Extinction Rebellion Protesters pretendedtobecorpses in Shrewsbury’s Barclaysbranch recently andwould not leave, and several Shropshirepeoplewere arrested by police andcharged afterchainingthemselvesupinside aBarclaysbranchin Cardiff. The protesters were demonstrating againstthe bank’s fossil fuel investments. Thegroup of councillorssaid in astatement:“BarclaysBankin Shrewsbury wassubjected to adisruptiveprotest in Novemberbyan Extinction Rebellion group. Again, this createdadditionalinconveniencetothe residents of Shropshire.

“Werecognise therightin the United Kingdomfor peaceful protest.However,weare vehemently againstproteststhatinclude wilfulvandalism,the disruption of individualsattemptingtoearna lawful living,the blocking of roads that impedesparents taking their children to hospital forvital lifesaving appointments andinthe utterlyselfish actofdepriving ason attendinghis ownfather’sfuneral by stopping the flow of trafficonthe nation’s highways.”

Thecallwas duetobediscussed at ameeting yesterday(Thursday).

Craftfairheldatchurchwas abig success

Despiteextremely cold weather andsome disruption on thebypass, considerable numbersattendedthe Presteigne craftfairatStAndrew’s Church on Friday last week.

Agreat varietyoflocal crafts were represented andsales were brisk.

Therewas greatinterestinthe fire jugglerJohnBray, whohas entertainedatseveral localevents andFatherChristmas wasextremely busy taking orders fordeliveryon the25th.

Visitors were entertainedbyboth achoir from Presteigne Primary

KARENCOMPTON

karen.compton@mnamedia.co.uk

School andanimpromptu choirled by Marion Rowlett.

Mulled wine wasenjoyed by many andLeonAbecasis of theSalty Dog provided hotrefreshments.

Thanks went to allthe organisers, helpersand everyone who attended andmadethe fair such asuccess.Returns so farindicate that about£800was raisedatthe event, whichwas mainly organised by Di Hammersly.

Upbeat messageisdelivered on property pricesincounty

Attractive townsin Shropshire such as Church Stretton arein high demand,and that meanstheyare likelyto seea particularly strong bounceback in thehousingmarket, an expert hassaid.

People areincreasinglylooking to escapetheir urbanlifestyle and enjoyarural idyllwithgoodshops andschools,whilestill beingableto commutetowork.

In theperiodbetween January andOctober of this year,the postcodesofMarket Drayton, Newport, Much Wenlockand theirsurroundingareas sawa49per cent increase in second-handhomespricedabove £500,000 beingbrought to themarket,comparedtothe same period

MATTHEWPANTER matthew.panter@mnamedia.co.uk

in 2021,accordingtodataprovider

TwentyCi

As well as areassuchasChurch Stretton, Bridgnorth,Shifnal, High Ercall andWem,MuchWenlock hasalso been enjoying strong interest accordingtoSavills. Peter Daborn of Savillssaid: “Nicelypositioned betweenShrewsbury and Bridgnorth, Much Wenlockisavery traditionaltownthathas alovely mixofhistoricpropertyalong with some more modern development

“There is agoodrange of facilities in thetown, with aprimary and secondaryschool, aselection of independentboutiqueshops, conveniencestores, atop qualitybutcher andaselection of public houses

“Whatwehavenoticed is that Much Wenlock is averypopular

destination forthose lookingto commutetothe larger country townsorthe West Midlands,but wantingtomakethe most of Shropshire’slovely countryside.”

Averagehouse prices in theregion will seea significant rise over thenext five years, despiteproperty values beingexpected to fall dramatically in 2023, Mr Daborn added. Savillshas given an upbeat prediction forthe housingmarket in Shropshire

Anditsaysthe region is also expected to be “moreresilient” than many otherparts of thecountry, particularly London wherethe slumpisexpected to have abigger impact

As borrowingcosts rise,Savills saythe housing market will diverge betweenthe mortgage-dependent ‘mainstream’markets andthe luxury‘prime’ markets, whichrepre-

sentsbroadly thetop 10 percentby valuein each region.

Aftermorethantwo yearsof strong growth, theaverage UK houseprice is expected to fall by 10 percentin 2023 when interest rates peak, butthe primemarketswill seesmaller fallsand outperform over the five-yearforecastperiod.

Mr Dabornsaid: “Weanticipate agrowing divergencebetween cash andequityrichorcashbuyersand othergroupsintheir ability to transact, andbetween themainstream market andprime markets wherehousing wealth is most concentrated.”

Interest ratesare expected to graduallyeasebackfromthe middleof2024and Savillsis forecastingvalueswill begin to recover andthe averagehouse priceacross Shropshire,Staffordshire andthe widerWestMidlandswill rise

New figures say fewerpeople speaking Welsh

ThenumberofWelsh speakers has fallen in thepastdecadeas fewer children arespeakingthe language, new figuresshow

In 2021 an estimated 538,000 people in Walesagedthree years andover(17.8 percent) reported beingabletospeakWelsh

That is adecreasesince 2011 when 562,000 or 19 percentspoke thelanguage, accordingtothe Office forNationalStatistics(ONS)

TheONS said oneofthe main factorscontributingtothe overall decrease is fewerWelsh speakers aged threeto15.

Thedatawas collected by asking people to assess theirown ability to understand spoken Welsh, andto speak, read andwrite Welsh.

In 2016 theWelsh Government setatargettohaveone million speakers in Walesby2050.

Jeremy Miles, minister foreducation andthe Welshlanguage, said: “The census figuresare of course disappointingand notwhatwe wanted to see.

“Census 2021 showsusone snapshot of what’s happened over the last 10 years. We’lllookatthose results in detail alongsideall the otherstatistics andresearch that’s availabletous. I’ve oftensaidthat Welshisn’t just somethingIspeak, it’s somethingI feel,and Ifeelmore andmorepeoplefeelthatthe languagebelongs to them.The keyis changing thosefeelingsintolanguageuse.”

MP

urgesuse of smartmeter to save money

An MP hasurged people with smartenergymeterstosignup to aschemethatpaysthemfor cuttingtheir energy use.

National Grid’s Demand Flexibility Serviceoffersindividuals andbusinesses whoare using certainenergyproviders the chance to earn money by cutting non-essentialenergyuse foruptoa couple of hoursaday

Theenergysuppliers involved should be contacting customers whoare able to take part in the scheme,who will then be paid if they reduce energy useatpeak times.

Ludlow MP PhilipDunne said:“As we allfacethe challengeofhigher energy bills fuelledbyPutin’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine, it is welcome news that theNational Grid have nowlaunchedthe Demand Flexibility Servicethat will reduce ournationalenergy consumption andsavehouseholdsmoney.

“Ifyou do not currentlyhave asmart meter, whichisrequired foryou to take part in themoney-savingscheme, you canget in touchwithyourenergyprovider to find outifyou areeligible”

TheDemandFlexibility Service,was approvedbyenergy market regulatorOfgem

Considerable numbers attended thePresteigne craftfairatStAndrew’sChurchonFriday last week

Fire juggler John Bray in action

Campaign will help shapecare fordementia

Atownand itssurrounding area have been chosen to help shapethe future of dementia care

Thenew Rhayader Community ListeningCampaignaimstobring regionaldementiagroupstogether with residents to sharestories about thecommunity andhow local peoplewithdementiaare cared for From councillors, volunteers andactivitygroup leaderstoshop ownersand thirdsectorrepresentatives,community leaderswill take aleading roleingetting the conversation started across theRhayader area.

Throughtalking andlistening to peopletheywill collectstories about what it’s liketoliveinthe area and thecurrent dementiasupport to establishavisionfor thefuturerepresentingthe wholecommunity’s view

DeborahGerrard,chief officerof Dementia MattersinPowys,said: “The Rhayader CommunityListeningCampaignisagreat opportunity forlocal people to contribute to improvingthe livesofpeoplewith dementia,their carers, familyand friends. We need people from across thecommunity to getinvolvedand to help move this campaign,the firstinPowys, forward.”

Residents of Rhayader andsurrounding areascan getinvolved by becoming Active ListeningVolunteers andbycompletingashort questionnaire. Visit1.snapsurveys. com/o1ibx1 to take part

Advice givento stay safe during thecold snap

NHSchiefs saythere arethings people candotostaywelland look aftertheir neighboursas thetemperatures drop

Thechief medicalofficerat NHSShropshire, Telfordand Wrekin said winter conditions canbebad forour health and especially forpeopleaged65or olderwithlong-term conditions

Nick Whitesaid: “Being cold canincreasethe risk forthose people with existing problems, such as raisedblood pressure andthose whohavehad heart attacksand strokesin thepast.”

He added: “The cold and damp weather, ice, snow and high windscan also aggravate existing health problems and make us morevulnerable to respiratory illnesses

“Ifyou can, it is importantto keep yourhome warm –ideally to atemperaturethatiscomfortable foryou

“Thisshouldbeatleast 18°C in therooms that you regularly use, such as yourlivingroom andbedroom

“Itisalsoagood idea to ensureyourwindows areclosedat night, andespecially when the weatheriscold, draw yourcurtainsatdusk to keep theheat in,and make sureyourradiators arenot obstructed by curtainsorfurniture.”

Delightassilverbroochisdeclaredastreasure

Awoman whofound amedieval broochinafarmer’s fieldinShropshireand hasnow seen it declared treasureishopingtoget to seeit on displayata localmuseum

Catering managerCarolineParkinson, 61,has been goingout metal detectingfor aboutfouryears

Herhobby really paid offonJanuary 22 when shejoinedagroup of about 60 othermetal detectorists andheadedintoa fieldowned by theRobinsons at an undisclosed location near Hodnet

Shefound thebrooch aboutfour inches down.Itwas an organised eventwiththe full permission of thefarmerinvolved.

“I thoughtitwas apiece of costume jewellery untilsomeone else told me he thoughtitwas treasure.

I’mveryexcited to have it declared treasurebut we don’tknowhow much it will be valued at,” shesaid.

“I know themuseum wants it andIwould love forittogoon displaysoI cangotosee it.” Richardand IsobelleRobinsonown the fieldand will sharethe proceeds of thesale.

MrsRobinsonsaidtheyare happy to getappointmentstovisit and detect on thelandand seepeople outinthe countryside enjoyingit.

“Itisnicetolet people enjoy their hobby,”she said

Shropshire’s senior coronerJohn Ellery declared themedievalsilver gilt annularbroochtreasureat an inquestatShirehall in Shrewsbury last week.Heheard evidence from Dr IanLBass, the findsliaisonofficerfor Herefordshireand Shropshire.

Hisreportsaidthatannular broocheswithanimaldesigns can be dated to the13thcentury Shropshire Museumshaveexpressedaninterestinacquiring the find.Now the find hasbeendeclared treasureitwill be valued by theDepartment forDigital,Culture,Media,and Sport’streasure valuationcommittee

Welshlanguageprovision plan is to be discussedatmeetings

ELGANHEARN newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

Work to exploreestablishingWelsh-medium educationatanew location in Powyshas been completed.

PowysCountyCouncil hasinvestigated theviability of establishing Welsh-medium educationinthe currentLlanfihangel RhydithonCP School building in Dolau near LlandrindodWells

Akey elementofthe workwas engagement with parents in thearea.

Basedonthe findings of thework, theadviceofofficers is establishing Welsh-medium provisioninDolau is not viable

Concerns have been raisedabout whetherDolau is therightstrategic location duetothe very smallsize of theschool.

Parentswishing fortheir children to access Welsh-medium educationinthe area areabletoattend YsgolTrefonnen or Rhayader Church in WalesPrimary School, andtheywould be eligible forfree home to school transport to their nearestWelsh-medium provider

Theviability studyand thequestionnaire findings were expected to be reviewed by theWelsh Medium EducationForum on Monday this week,and by thecouncil’s learning andskillsscrutinycommittee on Wednesday this week,beforebeing considered by thecouncil’s cabinet on Tuesdaynextweek.

Firstpatient praises£6m veteran’scentre

AformerWingCommander in the RAFhas become the firstpatient to be seen in the£6million HeadleyCourt Veterans’Orthopaedic Centre at Shropshire’sspecialist orthopaedichospital.

Alex Baxter,64, wasatThe Robert Jones andAgnes Hunt OrthopaedicHospitalfor afollow-up review,havinghad both hips replaced last year by hissurgeon, Lieutenant ColonelCarlMeyer,

SUEAUSTIN

sue.austin@mnamedia.co.uk

whoisthe director of theVeterans’ OrthopaedicService

Mr Baxter,fromShrewsbury, creditsthe surgerywith“giving himhis life back” –and believes theVeterans’ Centre –which is the firstofits kind in theUK– will be agame-changerfor meetingthe

health andcareofthe country’s largeveteran community.

Mr Baxter,servedinthe Royal Navy as aradio operator from 1978 to 1985 before joiningthe RAFin 1985.Heretired in2006withthe rank of Wing Commander

He said of Lt ColMeyer:“When he sawmeI wasreallystruggling anddaily life wasdifficult.Two operations later, andhehas given me my lifeback.”

Warm welcomeawaitsaschurchpreparesfor traditionalChristmas service

Awarmwelcome will awaiton Christmas Dayfor thoseattending morningservice at PentrefBaptist Church at Newbridge-on-Wye

Theservice will commence at 10.30am.

Theinvitationisextendedtoall forashort service.

Therewillbethree carols anda message of joyand peace.

Theservice will be ledbythe minister,the RevMisha Pedersen

People arebeing encouraged to go alongtothe serviceand “connect againwiththe storywhich changes everything”.

On thefollowing Sunday on January1,Pentrefmemberswill be providing brunch at 10am

This will be followed by the first morningservice of theNew Year in theChapelHallat10.30am

Meanwhile, people arebeing invited to acharity coffee morning

It will take placeatPentrefat Newbridge-on-Wye.

It will be held on January4between10.30am and12pm.

Coffee,tea,cakes andbiscuits will be provided

Theministerand membersof Pentrefsaidtheywould love to see everyone

Thereisnochargebut donations wouldbegratefullyreceived for charity.

Thedonations from theevent will be given to thelocal Calon–DBS women’s refuge

Also in Newbridge-on-Wye, the Golden Lion is extendinga New Year’s Eveinvitationtoeveryone to start2023instyle

People arebeing invitedtogoand enjoyafreebuffet.

Therewill also be live musicfrom Catch22. Thefun on December 31 is between9pm untillate.

Shropshire’s senior coronerJohn Ellery declared themedievalsilver giltannular broochastreasure

Lieutenant ColonelCarlMeyer andAlexBaxteroutsideHeadley CourtVeterans’ Orthopaedic Centre

RSPCA: Scareis ‘timelyreminder’ to look afterour garden birds

Nearly 9,000calls to theRSPCA aboutsickorweakgarden birds have prompted apleafor bird-lovers to cleantheir feedersregularly Nowautumn hasturnedtowinter andbird-loversstepupsupplementary feeding, data from theRSPCA highlights just how vulnerable gardenbirds canbetoill health

Thecharity received 8,750calls aboutsickorweakgarden birdslast year,and with thehelplinestrugglingwithanunprecedented high volume of calls, it is asking thepublictohelpmaintainthe health of garden birds.

Whilst only 52 of thosecalls came from Shropshire,aspokesperson from thecharity said that this year’s bird fluscare is atimelyreminder of thedevastationthatcan occurfromcontagiousdiseases

Whilebird fludoesn’ttendtoaffect garden birds, stepstoprevent highly infectiousdiseases from spreadingthrough abirdpopulationare essentialwhatever thespecies.The charityhas recommended cleaning feedersweeklyand watercontainersevery day.

Feedersshouldalso be rotated around thegarden to keep bird droppingsand bacteria from buildingup, andfeeding areasshouldbe keptraisedabove thegroundtodetermice.

RSPCAscientificofficerEvieButtonsaid: “It’sreallyheart-warming thatsomanypeople –aroundhalf thepopulation–wanttohelpgardenbirds by feedingthem. Butthis data suggests that birdsare not as healthyas they should be andone waywecan make adifferenceis goodhygiene.”

Charity’ssinginggroup releases latest CD

TheBracken TrustSingersare celebrating10years of singing, companionship andfundraising by recordinganew CD,their third.

Titled “WithaSonginOur Hearts”, it reflects thetypeofsong thegroup hasconcentratedonin recent times, includingfavourites such as No Matter What,Theme from aSummer Place, andStreets of London,comprising16tracks in all.

With BevNethercoat’saccompaniment,and ChrisClarke’sexpert leadership,the membersofthe grouphopethe public will enjoy lis-

CLIVEBARRETT

newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

tening andsinging alongtomanyof theitems

Theselection includes twosolo pieces,Bring HimHome from Les Miserablessungbyguest singer Mike Clarke,husband of leader Christine, andIDon’t Know How to Love HimfromJesusChristSuperstar,sungbyChris Clarke herself.

Recorded live at GiantWafer Studios at Llanbadarn Fynydd,the CD hasbeenproducedwithhelpfrom

TheBracken Trust, Heidelberg GraphicEquipment Ltd, andSian GwynnBuckler photography. The CD is nowonsaleat theBracken TrustshopinMiddleton Street in LlandrindodWells,and theBracken TrustCancerSupport Centre at Cefnllys Lane,Llandrindod Wells. It is priced at £10or£15 fortwo, with allproceedsgoing to thetrust

TheSingers wish to thankall theirfriends,followers andsupportersfor theirappreciationand attendance at themanypublicconcertstheyhavegiven,especially sincethe Covidpandemic

Going to hospital waslikea warzone, revealscouncillor

Acouncillorwho had first-hand experience of beingrushedtohospital in an ambulanceonblue lights hasspokenofthe health system being“in shambles”.

Councillor Tracey Huffer is a part of acommittee that is lookingintothe complexproblemsthat arecausing ambulances to become stackedupoutside hospitals.

“I had first-hand experience of beingbluelighted last week on Tuesday with asuspected heartattack,” said Ludlow East councillor Huffer,ahealthworker.

It turned outtobeatrial fibrillation,which left herwithaheart rate of 220beats perminutefor five hours.

“I wastreated in thebackofan ambulancebyacardiologist.

“Whenyou getthere it is likea warzone, it’s absolutelyterrible

DAVIDTOOLEY david.tooley@mnamedia.co.uk

andIamnot blaminganyone. The wholesystemisinshambles.”

Shecalledfor community hospitals in thecountytobesupported andto“getthose beds open”.

“Weneedour community hospitals to prop up therest.”

Aspecial task and finish group wasset up by ShropshireCouncil in thespringtolookintothe issue, whichhas been linked to more deaths as ambulances become stuck outsidehospitals waitingfor discharge

Areportfromthe groupwas presented to ameetingofthe health andadult socialcareoverviewand scrutiny committee with seven recommendations

Much of thefocus is on how peoplecan be divertedawayfromthe need to go to A&E. Butthere is also aneedtounderstandthe needsof differentcommunities andtoclose

skillsgaps. Themeeting wastold that thereisamassive shortfallof people working in home cares.

“Tomeetcurrent andimmediate shortfallinhome care demand for examplewewould need to employ 250to300 workers immediately –with farmoreneededaswemove forwardtomeetour increasingly olderdemographic in thecoming25 years,”the report read

Councillor Claire Wild,who led thetaskand finish group, said that they shouldnot apportionblame

“Itshouldbeasystemsolution,” shesaid, adding that Shropshire Councilispart of thewider health system

Butshe addedthat“we have absolutely gottodosomething, we can’tcarry on likethis.

“Wehaven’t gotasilver bullet to solveitbut we have gottoworktogether to find solutions.”

AndCouncillor HeatherKidd said theissue of ashortage of care workers wasgetting in theway

“It’snot themoney as much as we can’t find people to do it anymore,” shesaid.

Councillorsagreed to pass the report onto anothercommittee to have alookat. Thejoint health overview andscrutinycommittee is whereNHS leadersjoincouncil officials to bringheads together

Themeeting also considered the stateofthe care market,and the fact that some care homesdo not take discharged patients from hospitalafteracertain time

Councillorswerepresented with planstochangethe waythatShropshireworks with care providers.

Costshaveballooned in thesectorsince thepandemic, themeeting heard.

Thereare some 89 home care providers in thecountyand thecouncilisworking on anew strategy forworking with thesector, where some officers arewonderingwhether they have to work with toomany smallercompanies

Advice to order prescriptions

People whorequiremedicationhave been urgedtoget aheadfor Christmasbyorderingprescriptions early. With Christmasand NewYear fast approaching, NHSleaders are keen to ensure people acrossthe region have enough of theirroutine medicationand prescriptions for theholiday period

Some pharmacies andGPpractices will be closedover thebankholidays. Dr Nick White, chiefmedical officeratNHS Shropshire, Telford andWrekin, said:“Nowisthe time to plan aheadtohelpget you and yourfamilythrough thewinter season. By ordering earlyand collectingontime, you’llsaveyourselfthe stress of possiblynot getting what you need on time andplayyour part in keepingthe pressure offour health services

“Christmas andNew Year canbe adifficult time forhealthand social care professionals. Demand will be extremely high.”

Payments are sent to farmers

Welshfarms receiveda shareof £62.5million as BasicPayment Scheme (BPS)2022full or balance payments on Friday last week

RuralAffairs Minister Lesley Griffithssaidpaymentswere made to over 14,400 farm businesses acrossWales,which is 90 percentofclaimants

This is in addition to the £161mBPS advancepayments made to 97 percentofclaimants in October. This wasthe secondyearRural Payments Wales made automaticBPS advance payments in Octoberfollowing simplification of theBPS requirements

Lesley Griffithssaid: “I am pleasedweare yetagain making an impressive number of BPS payments to farmsthroughout Walesatthe beginningofthe paymentwindow.”

‘Don’t crossthe lineatparties’

With office Christmasparties approaching, aShropshireemployment lawyer hasurged employees ‘not to crossthe line’.

Thewarning comesfromemployment specialistSally Morriswho says thereare ‘countless’hidden dangersatthe office Christmasdo.

“Christmas is theseasontobe jollybut onewrong decision at the office partycould meansomething very differentoneithersideofthe coin.” said Sally, partnerand head of theemployment division at law firm mfgSolicitors, whichhas officesinKidderminster,Ludlow and Telford.

“Office Christmasparties area greatchancefor employees to socialise.However,oncethe free bar is open andlevelsofalcohol increase people lose theirinhibitions. That’s when theiractions couldlead to dismissalfromtheir joborjustas bad, acolleague raisingaformal grievanceagainst them.”

TheBracken TrustSingers by thebridgeinthe Rock Park in LlandrindodWells

Estateagent’s helpinghand

An estate agents hasput together acompetition to help people who mightbehavingamoredifficult time than usualthisChristmas

Prizes in Samuel Wood’s Facebook competition, to be wonbyone luckywinner,include a£75 voucher to spendonline at Tescoand a £50voucher to spendat either the Shrewsbury or Ironbridge branch of TheToyboxToystores Co-directorofSamuelWood, Andrew Cadwallader, said:“We’reall awareofthe impact thecostoflivingand energy crises arehavingon day-to-day living.Hereat Samuel Wood we just want to make lifethat little bit easier this Christmasfor one luckywinner.”

To enterthe competition, follow Samuel Wood on Facebook @SamuelWoodShropshire,likethe competition post andcomment “I’m on the nice list”and tagasmanyfriends in individual comments belowas you wouldlike.

Churches to holdservices

Arange of services will be held in churches in theKington area this Christmas.

They will beginwitha Knights of St Lazaruscarol serviceat St Thomas aBecket Church in Huntington tomorrow(Saturday)at3pm

On Sundayat 10am therewill be Morning Praise in St Mary’s Church in Kingtonand Holy EucharistatStMary’sChurch in Kinnerton.

Ajoint carolservice will be held at Huntington United Reform Church in Huntington at 11am whichparishionersfrom St Thomas aBecket Church will also be attending, andacarol servicewillalsobeheldatSt Peter’sChurchinTitleyat6pm

Therewill be aNineLesson andCarolsservice at St Mary’s Church in Kingtonat7pm on Friday next week

Festiveadvice from theRSPCA

An animal charityhas issued advice on howtokeepyour fluffy friends safe this festive season

RSPCAShropshireisurgingpet owners to be prepared forany emergenciesthatarise over Christmas andtoensurethatthe festive seasonisasnon-stressfulas possible forour furryfriends

From toxicfoods, thedangers of decorationsand keepingyourpet calm amongthe Christmaschaos, here aresome of thecharity’s top tips:

l Chocolateistoxic to cats and dogs so ensure it is safe andout of yourpet’s reach.

l Make sure yourpetsdon’t eat tinselorwrappingpaper

l Raisins, currants andsultanas areincrediblydangerous to pets.

l Nuts areachoking hazard and macadamianutsare toxictodogs.

l Holly, ivyand mistletoecan be toxictopets; lilies canbeverydangerous forcats.

SuperSantasturnout in force to take part in funrun at lake

KARENCOMPTON karen.compton@mnamedia.co.uk

More than 100Santas ranaroundLlandrindodWells lake as part of the firstSanta Fun Runhostedbythe Lakeside Boathouseand LlandrindodCommunity Events on Sunday.

Lots of them donned Santahats, brightcoats andChristmas sweatersbut they wasalsoa Christmas elfortwo andevenaninflatable Christmas tree. In allthere were over 140entries andbetween them they managed to complete over 1,000 laps of thecourse, which also included an inflatable obstacle course.The eventwas held in memoryofMarkPercy,the father of theboathouse’s LeePercy and hisbrother Kevin, whopassedaway recently at St Michael’sHospicein Bartestree, Hereford.The funrun washeldtoraise moneyfor the charity. Thefun runwas totallyinclusive, so people couldwalk, runor crawlthe 1.5kmcourse around the lake andthenontothe common for an obstacle course whichincluded atyrestep, inflatablesand anet crawl. During theevent,Santas coulddoasmanylapsorasfew laps as they wished

Thesenior winner wasHarry Shepherdsonwho completed11 full laps andthe junior winners were Caleband Ayla Barrettwith AvaPercy,MarkPercy’s youngest

grandchild, whoall completed 10 full laps.The winnersreceivedtrophies, andeveryone enjoyed agreat funday outand helped to raise £1,457 forStMichael’s Hospice.

LeePercy said:“We hadanabsolutely fantasticday hostingour firstever SantaFun Run. Followingthe success of theevent,itwill now be held annually here at Lakeside Boathouse.The totalmoney raisedfromthe SantaRun to go to St Michael’sHospicewas amassive £1,457.Money raisedatour first Christmas market was£182. We still have around of golf to auction

offatLlandrindod WellsGolfClub andour second Christmasmarket this Thursday,soweare hoping we canraise £2,000 forthe hospice.

“A massivethank you to everyone whojoinedour firstever SantaRun andmadeitsuchasuccess.”

Leethanked theLakesideBoathouse staff, thevolunteers whogave up theirtimetohelponthe day, the Percyfamily, MidWales Bouncy Castle andSoftPlayHireLtd for theinflatable assaultcourse, DJ Calfor musicand commentary, LauraJaneFitness forafestive warm-up, andLlandrindod Wells

He also thankedThe Salesand ServiceCentre Ltdfor lorryhire, Lakeside Cafe andCateringfor providingfestive rolls, Luke’s Photography,Castell Howellfor Santa’s lorry,sweetsand luxury Welsh hamper,RhayaderBuilding Supplies, Tesco, Verina Palmer and Lakeside Boathouse, Therewillbea Santa’sgrotto at theboathouse tomorrow(Saturday) andSundayfrom10.30am until3.30pm. Thecostis£2.50 per childwithagiftand to book aplace phone 01597824604

Council’seducation chief avoids confidencevote

Acouncil’seducation chiefhas avoidedfacinga no confidencevote in an ongoingrow about thepossibility of schoolsmovingtoafourdayweek.

TheConservativegroup leader on PowysCountyCouncilAled Davies called foravoteoverthe future of Councillor Pete Roberts, thecabinet member foreducation

At aPowys County Council meetingonThursday last week a noticeofmotiontoensureschools in thecountydo notmovetoa four-day week wasdebated

In Octoberitwas revealed that beingtaughtonline forone daya week wasamongst anumberof

ideasfor Powysschools to consider to help deal with spiralling energy costs. Themovewas defended by theadministration as something that couldbedonein “extreme circumstances”.

In November, an intervention from theWelsh Governmentsaw thecouncil change itspositionand saythatthe four-day school week option hadbeen“removed”

PlaidCymru councillor Elwyn Vaughanwho proposed themotion, believed it wasstill worth debating even afterthe council’sU-turn.

Councillor Davies said he wanted avoteoverthe future of Councillor Roberts. He said:“Iwant

anamendment to saythatcouncil doesn’thaveany confidenceinthe member foreducation.”

Butcouncil vice-chairman, Councillor BeverleyBaynham believed this to be a“majoramendment”and wouldnot allow it to be added. Head of legaland democratic services ClivePinney addedthat membership of thecabinet is only adecision forcouncil leader Councillor JamesGibson-Watt to make Earlier, financeportfolio holder Councillor DavidThomastold councillors“forclarity”thatthe four-day week advice hadnot been “partofproposals”for nextyear’s budget.

FirstRespondersfor firstaid cover.

Vikki Copland,Tiffany Rising,Nia Jamesand Alex WoolleyLee

Percywelcomeseveryone

Dianaand JakeBerriman, LlandrindodWells county councillor,atthe Santa FunRun Someofthe SantaFun Run entrants.PhotosbyAndyCompton

Thejuniorwinners Caleband Ayla Barrettwith AvaPercy,Mark’s youngest grandchild, andMark’s wife MariePercy.Photo by Luke’s Photography.

Councillor Pete Roberts

New fire chief tellsofhis vision forthe service

Anew fire chiefistotakeoverthe reinsinShropshireinthe new year

Assistantchief fire officerSimon Hardiman will be taking over as chief fire officerfromRod Hammerton

Mr Hardiman said:“Ifeelvery privileged to have been chosen to take on this role andtotakethe serviceforward in thecoming years.

“I have been proudtobepartof ShropshireFireand Rescue Service (SFRS) forthe last five years andIamveryexcited to continue this next chapter.”

Mr Hardiman beganhis career in theWestMidlandsFireService in 2001 andmoved to Shropshire Fire andRescueService as the area manager foroperational risk management in 2018

He added: “SFRSisalready a high performing serviceand Iplan to ensure this continues.

“Myvisionistomaintaindeliveryofexcellent services to the communitiesofShropshireand to meet newchallenges anddemands placed upon us over thecoming months andyears.”

EarlierthisyearMrHammerton announcedhe wouldbestepping

down at theend of 2022 andthe ShropshireFireand Rescue Service began aninterview process.

Mr Hammertonsaid: “Being a firefighterhas been themostfulfilling jobIcould have hopedfor anditisbitter-sweettoberetiringafter 30 yearsofworking with such wonderfulcolleaguesand partners

“I have been honoured to be the chief fire officerfor Shropshirefor thelastseven years, butIamleavingsecureinthe knowledge that theleadershipisingood hands. In my time as chiefIhaveoverseen significant improvements.”

Priority calloversupplyof home-grown food production

MATTHEWPANTER matthew.panter@mnamedia.co.uk

Farmer andNFU West Midlands regional boardchairmanDavid Brookes, who represents Shropshire, Staffordshireand Warwickshire, spokeafterthe Government wastolditfaced astark choice –back Britishfood production in ordertosecureahome-grown supply of sustainable food or risk seeing more emptyshelves in thenation’s supermarkets.

That warningcameat an emergencypress conference convened by theNFU,onthe same dayashorticultureboard membersgathered foranextraordinary meetingabout ongoingshortages in itsworkforce

Mr Brookessaid: “Affordable, traceable, climate-friendly British food does need to be made apoliticalpriority.

“Our farms, largeand small, continue to deliverinthe toughest global circumstancesand we have thebacking of theBritish public, they have made it cleartheywant thefood they eattocontinueto be produced to ourworld leading standards.

“I wouldurgeour politicians and thewider supply chaintobackour calls.”

Institute supporting armedforcescovenant

TheOrthopaedic Instituteat Shropshire’sRobertJones and AgnesHuntOrthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) haspledgedits supportfor staffand volunteers whoserve in militaryroles by signinguptothe ArmedForcesCovenant.

Thecovenant, whichhas also been signed by theGobowen-based hospital andthe League of Friends Charity, representsapledgeofsupport to people whoare servingin,

Vegan-friendly salonlaunched

Councillorshavewelcomedthe openingofavegan-friendlybeauty saloninMuchWenlock

Studio Sydney hasbeen launched by residentMia Carr andcouncillorsdropped in to wish herwell. It offers brow lamination,aswellasmanicures

ShropshireCouncillor Dan Thomas visitedthe salonin

Bridgnorth Road andsaid: “Welcome Miaand Iwishyou every success with yourfuturehereasa resident andbusiness owner.”

Much WenlockMayorCouncillor Duncan Whiteaddedhis ownwelcome to Mia. “Welcome to Much Wenlockand Iwishyou everysuccess in yournew business ventureMia,” he said

DOMINICROBERTSON ChiefReporter

or whohaveservedinthe armed forces.Richard Lumby,trustee at theOrthopaedic Institute, signed thecovenantonbehalfofthe organisation.Hesaid: “Wehave thoughtcarefullyabout what we candotosupport thearmed forces community. Signingthe covenant

reaffirmsalinkagewiththe Veterans’ Centre andthe Institute.

“Pledgingour supportbysigning thecovenantconveys oursupport forthe centre andthe workcarried outbyLtCol Meyer andhis team caring forveterans, reservists and currentserving membersofthe armedforces.”

TheOrthopaedic InstitutesupportsRJAHbyraising fundsfor research andeducation

Property market prices fall once more

House prices fell by 2.3per cent in November, markingthe biggest monthlydropsince 2008,according to an index.

Theannualrateofhouse price growth slowed to 4.7per cent,from 8.2per cent in October, Halifax said.The averageUKhouse pricein Novemberwas £285,579.Pricesare still higher nowwhencomparedto this time last year

In theWestMidlands, the aver-

agehouse priceis£253,253, up 9.4 percentin ayear. In Wales, prices average£220,689, up 7.9per cent

KimKinnaird,directorofHalifaxMortgages,said: “The monthly drop of 2.3per cent is thelargest seen sinceOctober 2008 andthe thirdconsecutive fall

“Whilea market slowdownwas expected,thismonth’s fall reflects theworst of themarket volatility overrecent months.”

Protestors at factorycaused £500k damage, courtistold

Four protestors accused of causing more than £500,000 worth of damageataPowys factorywillspend Christmas in prison.

Thefourare SusanBagshaw, aged 65,ofClawdd Helyg, Commins Coch,MorwennaGrey, aged 41,of Penrallt Street,Machynlleth, Ruth Hogg,aged39, of StanleyRoad, Aberystwyth, andTristan Dixon, aged 34, of Osprey Drive, Netherton, Huddersfield.

They were arrested followinga break-in at Labtechin Presteigne on Friday last week,allegedly as part of aprotest by politicalgroup PalestineAction.

They have been chargedwith conspiring to cause damageand conspiring to commit burglary

Thedefendantsdid notenter pleas, butitwas indicatedthatthey wouldenter notguiltypleas to the offences

Allfourwill remain in custody untiltheyappearatMoldCrown CourtonJanuary 6.

WelshpoolMagistratesCourt was told on Tuesday protestorswere foundmaskedand dressedinoveralls with toolsand equipment

Morethan25windows,computers, monitors, andtwo largemachines worth more than£500,000 were broken

Thecourt wastoldthe incident couldhavecausedasignificant environmentalincidentand significant risk to lifeand waspotentially catastrophic

Sincethe incidentthe business hasbeenunabletooperate,products have been significantly damaged andemployees areunableto return to work.

Firmsset to get ratessupport

AllbusinessesinWales will benefit from newrates supportfromthe WelshGovernmenttohelpwiththe effectsofrisingcosts

Apackageofsupport worth more than £460moverthe next two financialyears will be announcedin theWelsh Government’supcoming draftbudget.

Bosses said thepackage will provide aboost to businesses across Waleswhich arestrugglingtocope with theimpacts of high inflation andsurging energy costs. It operates in addition to permanentrelief schemesfromthe WelshGovernment whichare alreadyproviding £240mofrelieftoratepayers across Walesthisyear.

Thenon-domesticrates multiplierhas been frozen for2023-24, at acostofmorethan£200m over thenexttwo years. This ensures therewillagain be no inflationary increase in theamountofrates businesses andother ratepayersare paying

Afurther £113mwill be provided over thenexttwo yearstoprovide transitional relief forall ratepayers whosebillsincreasebymorethan £300 followingthe UK-widerevaluation exercise,which takeseffect on April1

Home-grown food productionand securing domestic supplies cannotbeoverlookedatany cost,saysa Shropshire farmingrepresentative.

SimonHardiman

Representativesofthe institute, thearmed forces andthe orthopaedic hospitalatthe covenant signing

Youngsters are settoentertain by singingcarols in theSquare

THESTRETTONS

Carols –The pupilsfromStLawrence’s PrimarySchool will be singing carols in theSquaretoday (Friday) at 10am.On Sunday,therewillbecarol services at St Michael’s in AllStretton at 6pm and at St Laurence’sChurchat6.30pm. On Christmas Eve therewillbecarolsinthe Square at6pm

Survey –The consultation on theleisure centre andswimmingpool ends today (Friday) anditshouldbecompleted online.

Lunch –TherewillbeaChristmas Day lunchatthe Parish Centre at 12.30pm for those who have booked in advance by emailing strettonparish.org.uk or by ringing 01694724224.

Mayfair –The luckynumbers in the MayfairLottery forNovember were 105, 119, 76 and 569 winning £100,£50,£20 and£10 respectively.Mayfairwishes to thankthe Co-opand allthose who have donated their shareofthe profits to Mayfairwhich resulted in achequefor £1,093 to help supportits work in the community

Pictures –The Flicks in theSticksmovie this evening (Friday) at AllStretton VillageHallwillbeABeautiful Day in the Neighbourhood,acertificate PG film at 7.30pm.OnTuesday, ActonScott Village Hall will be screening TheAngels’ Share, acertificate 15 movie.

Pies –LittleStrettonVillage Hall will be thesetting foramince piesand merrimentevent this evening (Friday) at 7.30pm.Therewillbemusical entertainment by BrianStone, aquiz anda raffle. Tickets cost £10and all are invitedtotaketheir owndrinks. Enquiries for placesshouldbemadebyringing 01694723627oremailingmhaigh3@ aol.com

Garden –Peoplewho areinterested in becoming part of Glyn’s Garden Projectshould meetatthe Cemetery Lane Allotments at 9.30am on Saturday mornings. Theprojecthas alarge allotment, an area forraised beds, a watersupply, agreenhouseand ashed whichhavebeendonated.Therewill be some events to raisefunds to help with thecreation of theraised bedsand purchase gardening tools in readiness for next year’s growing season.Toget in touch ring 07790352133ortext bandh22@btinternet.com

Crafts –Scrappieswillhavea Christmas craftdemonstration of wreath-making from 10am-noon tomorrow (Saturday)

Concerts –Therewillbeaprogramme of seasonal piano duets andsongsat theURC tomorrow(Saturday) at afree concertat10am. It will feature theTritsch TratschPolka,The Christmas Song,The CarolSymphonyand Faure’s DollySuite Proceedsfroma retiring collection will benefitlocal good causes. TheMore Singerswillbeatthe Methodist Church tomorrow evening fortheir festivecarol concertfeaturing seasonal readingsand carols foraudienceparticipation.Doors open at 7pmfor 7.30pm andadmission is £6

Dance –The Ballroom andSequence DanceClubwill beatthe SilvesterHorne Institute at 8pmtomorrow(Saturday) from 8pm-10.30pm.All abilitiesare welcomewithorwithouta partner, to enjoy ballroom,Latin andmodern sequencedances.Admission is £6 per person

Record-breakerTom makes areturnto TV

Shropshire’sCountdown legend wasbackonthe TV this week

TomStevenson, from Burford, near Ludlow,shook thenationduringhis record-breakingappearance earlierthisyearonthe beloved Channel4gameshow

This week,he wasbackonour televisionsyesterday (Thursday) in theshow’s quarter-finals

The21-year-old said it wasgreat to be back in front of theclock

He said:“It wasnice, greattobe back

“It’salwaysnicetomeetother contestants, having watchedthem

megan.jones@mnamedia.co.uk

over thelastfew weeksand it was nice to be recognised.

“I wasquite surprisedin asense, to do so well the firsttime.

“I didn’t really setmyselfany expectations,Iwas justgoing on and seeing what happened

“Verywhatwill be,will be.”

On hislastappearance, Tom wasthe firstcontestanttowin all eightofthe rounds he took part in, gained thehighestscore in onepro-

gramme of 154and setthe record time of threeseconds forsolving a conundrum.

He added: “It’sstill strangeto me.Isit at home andplayalongand there’sbeensome really amazing contestantsthrough theyears and Ifeelthey’re allmuchmoreworthy of it than Iam.

“Butit’snicetohavethe accolade.”

Tomiscurrently studying media andculture with Englishliterature at WorcesterUniversity andhas planstotrain as an Englishteacher once he finishes hisstudies

Dark skies projectisoutlined as councillooks at similar idea

Knightoncouncillors were given apresentationabout alocal dark skiesproject as they consider whethertopursuea similarideafor theirtown.

Leigh HarlingBowen spoketo councillorsabout thePresteigne andNortondarkskies project Presteigne andNortonare applyingtobecome adarkskies community andiftheyare successfulthey wouldbethe firstinEnglandand Wales.

Norton is alreadythe firstcommunity in Powystohaveits standardstreetlightschanged to dark skycomplaintlightingand probably the firstinthe United Kingdomto have itslightingmonitored before andafterthe transformation.

He said thechangeisnot about less light, butratherinstalling street lights whichcut glare andreduce lighttemperatureand only put lights wheretheyare needed

He said actually therewill be morelights in Presteigne by theend of theproject buttheywillbedirected nottocreatelightpollution

He explainedtoKnighton’scouncillorsmoneywas raisedin Presteignebypublicsubscription. The groupreceived agrant from Welsh Watertoreplace some of thestandardlights on BroadStreetwith lights that look likegas lights to enhancethe ambiance of that area

Mr HarlingBowen said:“There is stillworktodoinPresteignebut we have puttogether an educational programmeand we have been in to Presteigne PrimarySchooland theScoutstospreadthe message andget youngstersthinkingabout theissue.”

Patients ‘face postcode lottery in emergency care response’

Shropshireand Telford have thelongest ambulancewaittimes in the West Midlands,new research hasrevealed.

Figuresuncovered by theLiberal Democratshaverevealeda postcode lotteryofambulance wait times acrossthe West Midlands,withpatients in Shropshire waitingonaveragemorethan five minutes longer forlife-saving help than thosein Birmingham

Theresearch, uncoveredbythe LibDemsthrough Freedom of Informationrequests, revealshow patients whoselivesare in immediate danger arewaiting twiceaslongin some ruralparts of theregionasin urbanones.

Category twocalls, includingpotentialheart attack or stroke patients,inShropshireand Telford& Wrekin arewaitingfor an average of 49 minutesfor paramedics to arrive –morethanhalfanhourover

DAVIDBANNER newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

thetargetresponse time of 18 minutes

Forthe mostserious calls, patients in thecountywaitedfor an averageof11minutes and31seconds forcategoryone responses, compared to sixminutes and20 secondsinthe BlackCountry

Thenationalstandardsetsout that allambulance trusts must respond to category onecalls in seven minutes,and category twocalls in 18 minutes on average.

Notone area in England achieved both of these targets.

Aspokespersonfromthe West Midlands AmbulanceService said: “The ambulanceservice relies on each part of thehealthand social care system working together so that ourambulancescan gettopatients in thecommunity quickly.

“Sadly,the pressuresweare seeinginhealthand socialcareleadto

long hospital handover delayswith ourcrews left caring forpatients that need admitting to hospital rather than responding to thenext call.The result is thatour crewsare delayedinreachingpatients.

“Weare working incredibly hard with allofour NHSand socialcare partners to preventthese delays, lookingat newwaystosafelyhand over patients quicklysothatour crewscan respondmorerapidly and save more lives.”

Meanwhile, new figureshave unveiled theareas in Waleswith thelongestambulancedelaysfor response timestolife-threatening calls.

In Powys, potentialheart attack andstrokevictims areleftwaiting an averageofone hourand 14 minutes forparamedicstoarrive Patients in Powyswaitedfor an averageof11minutes and37seconds forred callscomparedtosix minutes 31 secondsinNewport Overall, 13 outofthe 22 localau-

thoritiesinWales hadanaverage wait of over twohours foramber calls.

TheWelsh Liberal Democratsare calling foractiononthe socialcare crisis in ordertofreeuphospital beds andstopambulanceswaiting outsidehospitals.The partyhas said both Labour andthe Conservativesare failing to gettogrips with thecrisis.

Healthcare is devolved in Wales meaning it is underthe controlof theWelsh Government, however many Powysresidents attend A&E in Shropshire andHerefordshire overthe border

WelshLiberal Democrat leader andMid &WestWales Senedd Member Jane Doddssaid: “These figuresare heart-breaking,but not necessarilyshockingtoanyonewho hashad to call on an ambulancein recent months.

“Far toomanypeopleare being left to wait toolonginanemergency acrosseveryregionofWales.”

TomStevenson from SouthShropshire on popularTVshowCountdown

MEGANJONES

Newplanningrules proposed forhistoricgorge

Adraft planning document which aims to furtherprotectand conservea UNESCO WorldHeritage Site is beingpresented to councillorsinShropshirethisweek.

ShropshireCounciland Telford &WrekinCouncil will seek approval from theirrespective cabinets on thedraft proposalstofurther protectIronbridge Gorge.

If approved, asix-weekpublic consultationperiodwill commence earlynextyear, wherethe public, includingresidents of theIronbridge Gorge, will be encouraged to sharetheir views.

Thesiteisspreadover550 hec-

tares, with approximatelythree quarters sittingwithinthe administrative boundary of Telford &WrekinCouncil, androughly one quarterwithinthe Shropshire Counciladministrative boundary It wasgivenWorld Heritage Site status in 1986 in recognitionofthe area’s record of innovationduring theIndustrialRevolution.

Thedocumenthas been created to provideguidanceand information to supportthe implementation of policies within theadoptedand future LocalPlans forbothcouncils.Richard Marshall,Shropshire Council’scabinet member forhigh-

ways andregulatoryservices, said: “Itisimportant theiconicIronbridge GorgeWorld Heritage Site is conserved forpresent andfuture generationsrespectively

“Bothcouncilshaveendeavouredtoensurethisdocumentdetailsthe appropriate information andguidancethe site undoubtedly deserves,and provides clarity on possiblefuturedevelopments whichwillconserveand protectits historicalsignificance.”Approval forconsultationwas duetobe sought at ShropshireCouncilon Wednesdayand at Telford&Wrekinyesterday (Thursday)

Disadvantagedstudents‘hit badlybyimpactofpandemic’

MEGANHOWE Community News Reporter

Figuresfromthe Department for Educationshow 22.4 percentofdisadvantaged children in Shropshire and20.7per cent of disadvantaged children in Telfordand Wrekin achieved grade five or above in GCSE English andmaths in 202122.Thiscomparedto49.9per cent forall otherchildreninShropshire and51.5per cent in Telford&Wrekin.

It followsthe trend nationally, in which29.5per cent of disadvantaged children reachedgrade five or above in Englishand maths, whereas 56.8 percentofall otherchildren achieved thegrades.

Now, educationcharity SHINE hassaiditis“saddenedbut not surprised” to seedisadvantaged children fall behind,notingthe pandemic “amplified existing inequities”for disadvantagedchildren

Dr HelenRafferty, senior programme manageratthe charity, said:“We know that children from poorerbackgrounds lost outon more learning than theirwealthier peers. Now, withoutintervention, thecostoflivingcrisisand mooted cuts to already-stretchedschool budgets risk wideningthe gapeven further.”

Thanks givenfor support forPoppy Appeal

Themembersofthe Knighton branch of theRoyal BritishLegion have said that they wouldliketo extend theirthankstothe people of thetownfor theirgenerosity during theannualPoppy Appeal this year

Thelocal RoyalBritishLegion poppyorganiserMikeHiles said this year thegroup managedto raise more than£4,000 thanks to thevarious poppytinslocated

Fuel’s‘rocket andfeather’pricing

Drivershavebeenthe victim of “rocket andfeather”pricingby fuel retailers, awatchdogsays.

TheCompetition andMarkets Authority(CMA) said diesel had been particularly affected by the behaviour, in whichpumpprices quicklyreflectrisingwholesale costsbut areslow to fall when costsdrop. This couldbedriven

by theextreme volatility of prices andsupplyin2022, theCMA says.The watchdogsaiditwould investigatefurther It described2022as“themost volatile”for fuel prices sincereliable recordsbegan.Pricesrose by around 50palitre from January to July before falling by 31p for petroland 14pfor diesel

KARENCOMPTON

karen.compton@mnamedia.co.uk

around thetown, door-to-doorcollections by members, personaldonationsand afundraising eventat theKnightonCommunity Market

Theevent at thecommunity market also sawanassortmentof militaria beingput on displayfor theinterestofthe public in addi-

tion to thesaleofPoppy Appeal merchandise

It is believed that this is the highestamountthe localbranch hasraisedonbehalfofthe Poppy Appeal so far, andwas allthe more impressive given thecurrent financialclimate.The groupgaveabig thank you to everyone whodonated,and said thedonations will go a long waytohelping the bravemen andwomen of thearmed forces

Region’s smokersslowtokickhabit

Theproportionofsmokersinthe UK hasfallentoits lowest level–butnumbers in theWestMidlands remain above thenationalaverage.

Statisticians sayvapinghas playeda“majorrole” in thedropin thenumbers of smokers.

New figuresfromthe Office for National Statistics (ONS) show that 13.3 percentofpeopleaged 18 and over in theUKsmokedcigarettes in 2021,the equivalent of around

6.6million people.Thisisthe lowestproportionofcurrent smokers sincerecords startedin2011, when it stood at 20.2 percent.

Whilemostofthe West Midlands have smokingrates above this level, the figure in more ruralareas such as Shropshire is lower

TheONS said therehad been a “significant”dropinthe proportion of smokersnationallyfrom14.0per cent of thepopulationin2020.

Food bank is continuingto offervitalhelp to theneedy

THESTRETTONS

Food –The food bank team wishes to thank everyone fortheir support with money anddonationsoffooditems as 31 people have beenhelpedduring thepast week.Anyone needing help cancontact strettonfoodbank@gmail.comorcallin at theParishCentre from 2.30pm-4pm onFridayafternoons.

Smallholders –Atthe November meeting,The ShropshireSmallholders had thechanceto make theirown organic, fullycompostable,winter wreathsled by JuliaBrion.Anumber of guests were also present.The December meeting will seeeveryone enjoying the Christmas Partymeal. TheJanuary 12 meeting at 7.30pm in Leebotwood Village Hall will be theannual general meeting andtimetoelect thecommittee and consider theprogrammeoftalks and workshopsfor thenew year.Therewill then be some shorttalks by members followedbya bring andshare buffet In themeantime look afterthe garden, harvestthe remaining vegetables,then clearthe beds andmulch with soil improver, andplant newfruit trees and bushes if theground is nottoo wetor frosty

Services –ABlueChristmas eventwill be held at St Laurence’s Church at 6pmon Wednesday. At St Laurence’s,the nativity is at 3pmon Christmas Eve andMidnight Communionisat11.30pm.OnChristmas Day, HolyCommunionatStLaurence’sis at 8.30am andat9.30amatStMichael’s in AllStrettonand at 11am in AllSaintsat Little Stretton.

Shuttle –InJanuarytherewillbea workshop at theSilvester Horne Institute from 2.15pm-4pm fora groupdiscussion on theuse,accessibility, ticketing and frequencyofthe Summer ShuttleBus Telephone 01743254740to find out more.

Spaces –Mrand MrsBourkeoffered theirown warm space in Little Stretton earlierinDecember,and thereare severalavailable in Church Stretton before Christmas including Mayfairand theHealthand Wellbeing Centre which canoffer acafe, activities,information anddisabledtoiletfacilities andisopen from 9am-5pm. Thelibraryisopen on Tuesday, Thursday,Fridayand Saturday from 9.30am-5pm andcan offerbooks, computers,wifi,information andhas disabled toiletfacilities andStLaurence’s Church is open everyday.The Methodist Church is open from 12.30pm-4pmon Wednesdays andcan offerhot drinks, boardand tablegames,a chance fora chat andisdementiaaware,and has toilet facilities.All Stretton VillageHall is occasionally openonTuesdays and canoffer cafe,mobilelibrary andtoilet facilities

Programmes –SAPAwillberunning aholidayprogrammefromMondayto Friday each dayfrom9am-3pm with an optional film club from 3pm-5pm.There arespecial Christmas gym classeson Mondayand TuesdayatLudlowSports Hall for thoseaged 5-16 yearsand 3-5 yearseachmorning costing £18and £6 respectively.Spacesare limitedbut all arewelcome to apply.

Carols –LittleStrettonresidents were invitedtosingalong with Radio ShropshirecarolslastWednesday evening whentheywereplayedfor everyone’s enjoymentout on the driveway of WhiteOaks.

Disadvantagedpupils fell furtherbehindtheir classmates during the coronaviruspandemic, new figuresshow.

Thegorge is apopularvisitorsite

Someofthe KnightonRoyal British Legion members at theirfundraising eventatthe communitymarket

Festiveservices forbus company

Abus companyhas publishedhow itsserviceswill be operatingover thefestive period

Arriva coversmuchofthe county,including servicesinOswestry, Shrewsbury andTelford

Thecompany will notberunning anyservicesinthe county on Christmas Day, Boxing Dayand NewYear’sDay

Theother days area mixture of Saturday,Sundayand normal working timetables.Ithas also published thetimes of thelastbuses on December 24 and31.

Formoredetails aboutservicesin Shrewsbury visitarrivabus.co.uk/ latest-news/update-on-shrewsbury-services

FormoreonservicesinOswestry visitarrivabus.co.uk/latest-news/ update-on-oswestrys-services

Andfor more on services in Telford go to www.arrivabus.co.uk/ latest-news/update-on-telfords-services

Fearsashens areabandoned

Nearly 2,000abandoned chickenshavebeenreported to the RSPCAalready this year and thecharity fearsbird flucould make theproblem worse

Therehavebeen194 reports of abandonedchickensinthe region since2020.

Kate Norman,poultry expert at thecharity,said: “Keeping hens hasbecome increasingly popular, butit’sincrediblysad to seesomanyofthembeing abandonedand neglected

“Weare concernedthatwe couldsee an increase in the number of dumped chickens due to thecostoflivingcrisisand concerns over bird flu.

“Wewould urge anyone who is struggling to care fortheir pets to reachout forhelpfrom friends, familyorcharities Pleasenever abandonany animal.”

Tasteofsuccess foryoung chefs

TheJunior Culinary Team Walesis celebratingasilver medalatthe Culinary WorldCup in Luxembourg.

Thetalented young chefsadded thesilver medalinthe Restaurant of Nationshot kitchentoabronze medalawarded in theTable of Fire elementofthe competition.

Theteam, comprising young chefs from acrossWales andthe border,competedagainst 15 other teamsfromaroundthe world at the high profile culinary event.

TheTable of Fire sawthemprepare four differentkinds of cold and hot finger food, acold, festive fish or seafood platterand hotmaincourses anddessert for12people.

They completedtheir competition in theRestaurantofNations where they prepared andcookedathreecourse menu 70 people.

Theteamismanaged by Michael Kirkham-Evans, alecturer at the Grwp Llandrillo Menaicampusin Rhos-on-Seacampus.

Marvel at Hulk sculptureondisplay at Ironworks

Agiganticsculpture of theHulk made from recycled carparts has takenup residenceataShropshire attractionaspart of anew global exhibition

TheMarvelcharacter hasbeen assembledfromentirelyrecycled material andisalready impressingguestsatthe BritishIronwork Centre andSculpture Park near Oswestry

He is the firstsculpture in anew exhibition whichaimstodisplay a piece of artfromall 195countries

As part of theGreen Sculptures from around theGlobe exhibition, thecentre hasscouted artistsfrom alloverthe world andiscommis-

sioningsculpturesfromthem, whichwilleventuallybedisplayed in Shropshire

CliveKnowles,chairmanofthe centre,said: “Green Sculptures from around theGlobe will showcase allthe amazing workbeing created around theworld

“There are195 separate countries, accordingtothe United Nations. Each countryhas aspecific styleorskill that’s unique to their region andtheyall have very different characteristics. It’s ourintentiontobring somethingamazingfromeachcountry andshow all thestyleshereatthe Ironworks.”

Cliveadded: “The Hulk really is

spectacular– it originated in Thailand wheretheyhaveabreath-takingskill in creating from carparts. We want more andmoreinterestingsculpturestoarrivehere.”

Otherartworks have been commissioned, andwill go on display when they arrive in Shropshire

Clivesaid: “We’ve commissioned oneworkwhich is an enormous sculptureofhalfthe globe. A spacemansitsonthe top–head down andbored because mankind ruined theworld.There’s nowhere to go andnothing to do.We’ve also commissioned an artist in Kenya whoismakingaturtleout of flip flopshefound on thebeach.”

Hospital shake-up predictedto tackle emergency care delays

SUEAUSTIN sue.austin@mnamedia.co.uk

SubramanianKumaran says the currentset-upatthe RoyalShrewsbury andPrincessRoyal hospitals is becoming increasinglydifficult forpatientsand staffalike

Akey component of plansto shake-up acutehospitalservices acrossShropshire, Telford&Wrekinand MidWales involves changingthe Shrewsbury site to specialise in thedeliveryofemergency care andthe development of 24/7 enhanced urgent care services at both hospital sites.

Mr Kumaran, clinical lead for emergencycarefor theHospitals Transformation Programmeand emergencymedicineconsultant, saidthe changes wouldbring together specialistteams so that patients areseenfasterand in the rightplace, leadingtoaquicker diagnosisand shorterhospitalstays

He said:“Istrivetodeliver the best care forpatientsand with our currentservice set-up this is becoming increasinglydifficult.We need to change theway ourservices aredelivered so we canaddressthe delays that ourpatientsare facing andthe challengingconditionsin

whichour staffwork. Theplanned servicechanges will deliver real improvements to both theurgentand emergencycarereceivedbyour patients andwill assist us in attractingand retainingmoreofthe specialist staffweneed.”

He said allresidents wouldbenefitfromenhanced urgent care services at both Shrewsbury and

Newyeardates forcomedianLee

Comedian Stewart Lee, whowas born in Shropshire, hasshowsin theregionnextyear.

Theaward-winningWellington-born comicisappearing at Birmingham’s SymphonyHallon January26and 27 with hisnew show BasicLee

ThetouralsocomestoWolverhampton’sGrand Theatre on February12.

BasicLee is said to be astreamlinedsolostand-upperformance The54-year-old comedian began hiscareerashalfofthe duoLee andHerring with RichardHerring

He hassincehad several solo TV series andisalsoknownas an author.Heco-wroteJerry Springer:The OperawithRichardThomas

Telfordhospitalsites,delivered through anew ‘A&E Localmodel’ in Telfordand available24 hoursa day, seven days aweek

“Theywill deliver improvedcare from therightteams of specialists, have thediagnosticand scanning equipment on site to diagnose and treat peopleonthe same dayand leadtoshorterwaits anda much

better experience forpatientscurrently attendingour emergency departmentswithanurgentcare need,” he said

“Mostofour patients need urgent rather than emergencycare, andI want to reassure ourresidents that ourteams will be availablearound theclock to supporttheir needs,”he added.

100extra trains in £1.5bn rail scheme

Up to 100extra trainswill pass through theMidlandseachday undera£1.5billion schemetoimprove connections.

TransportbodyMidlandsConnect hassubmitted planstothe Governmentitsayswill boostthe region’s economybytransforming east-west connections.

TheMidlandsRailHub scheme includes additional hourly trains

betweenBirmingham andstations includingBristol,Cardiff andHereford,all stopping at Worcester.

MeanwhileaccesstoHS2 in Birmingham will be improved, anew crosscitylinewillsee sixtrains perhour, andthere will be platform improvements at Snow Hill station, accordingtothe plans. Work on the scheme will startin2025providing it is signed offbyministers

Atop clinician in Shropshirehas said thecontroversialhospitalstransformationprogramme will addressdelaysin urgent andemergency care.

Mr Kumaran supports theplans to restructure thehospitals in Shropshire

Thesculpture of TheHulk

Heat impacts heavilyoncow production,workshopistold

DAVIDBANNER newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

That wasthe message from independentvet consultant,DrTom ChamberlainfromChalcombe Ltd, at aLallemand Animal Nutrition workshopatTotal Dairy.

Alivepollrun during theworkshop indicated92per cent of farmershaveseenheatstress on their farm and86per cent thoughtthey’d lost more than50litres/cowduring lactationasa result of this, with many suggesting they’dlostmore than 150litres/cow.

To reiteratethe impactsofheat stress,duringthe workshopDr Chamberlainsharedresults of a study, carriedout in conjunction with Lallemand, to assess whether heat stress is aproblem in British

dairyherds.The

“The studyshowsthe amount of time cows suffered from heat stress during thetrial period, whichran from ApriltoOctober,was 57 per cent forcowskeptinside, and22per cent forthose outatgrass,” said Dr Chamberlain.

He said thestudy suggeststhe averagehousedcow lost 139litresof milk production duetoheatstress during thesummer,whilethe averagecow outatgrass missed outon 129litresofproduction.

“Acrossthose nine farms, theaveragelossofproductionfromheat loss is £128 percow,withherdlosses rangingfrom£24,000 to £90,000,” addedDrChamberlain.

He encouraged farmerstodraw up aheatstressmanagementplan forsummer 2023 andsuggested adopting asiestamanagementapproach

“Thisinvolvesgetting thecowsin at 10am andkeeping theminuntil aftermilking,beforeturning them outagain at 4pm,”saidDrChamberlain.

“Thismeans they areindoors during thereallyhot period;when thereisa lotofdaylightthe cows will have amajor grazingboutin theevening,soyou arestill makinggood useofgrass with this approach.”

Dr Chamberlainalsoencouraged farmerstoput cows in paddocks with thebestshade on hotdays.

Loadallableto accessall areas

JCB’snew Loadall514-40telescopic handlerbringstogethermorethan 45 yearsoftelehandler development to createthe smallest overallpackage, with bigmachine comfortand capabilities,bossessay

At just 1.8m tall and1.56m wide, the514-40has been designed to access themostconfinedsites

Acompany spokesperson said: “Small enough to fit through a 2m high doorway, themachine delivers unparalleled manoeuvrability with all-wheelsteering,makingitan idealtelehandler forworking in and around thesmallestofbuildings andfarmyards.”

Winter wheat is addedtolist

DSVOxfordbecomesthe company’s latest British-bred hard Group4winterwheat to join the AHDB RecommendedList.

Thewinterwheat hasaperformance very closetothe highestyielder in theclassDSV Champion, said DSVUK’sSarahHawthorne

Ms Hawthornesaid: “DSV Oxford is anothersuccess of ourWardington-basedbreedingprogramme combininghigh treated anduntreated yields with arobust diseasepackage.”

mccartneys.co.uk

KNIGHTON, FRIDAY 6th JANUARY

Sale of StoreSheep inc. In Lamb Ewes.Catalogue entriesclose on Thursday 29th December at 5.00pm

WORCESTER, SATURDAY 7thJANUARY

Sale of StoreCattle, StoreSheep inc. In Lamb Ewes,Calvesand Weanlings & Fodder.Sheep at 10.00am, Calves at 11.00am, Cattle at 11.30am. Catalogue entries closeMonday2nd Januaryat3.00pm.

ORANGE STORESALES–TBCATTLE

LUDLOW,FRIDAY16thDECEMBER

MonthlyOrangeSaleof140 TB Restricted StoreCattleViz:FeedingBulls,Beef Stores.(All thecattlewillthemselves have passed aTBTest. Purchasersmust have approved DEFRAUnits.Cattlecan go in to Englandand Wales).Saleto commenceat2.15pmfollowing theStore Sale at Knighton Market

SMALLHOLDING FORSALE

**NEWTOTHE MARKET**

ROWE FARM,ROWELANE, STANTONLONG, MUCH WENLOCK, TF13 6LR An idyllicallysituated 16-acresmallholdingoffering afantastic two/threebedroom cottage-stylefarmhouse,traditionalbarns with potential for alternative uses,subject to thenecessary planningconsents, modern farm buildingsand useful pastureland. Nestledinaprivate yetaccessible location betweenthe sought-afterWenlock Edge andCorvedale,enjoyingunspoilt countrysidewithuninterrupted viewstowards theBrown Clee.Available with no upward chain.EPC ‘E’.

agricultural, equestrian,amenityand recreational purposes

FORSALE BY INFORMALTENDER

TENDERS CLOSE: WEDNESDAY21stDECEMBER at 12noon Guide Price-£350,000

AT STANBATCH, Nr WENTNOR,BISHOPSCASTLE, SHROPSHIRE

Dairyfarmers couldbe losing milk production worthtensofthousands of pounds by failingto protect their cows from heat stressduringthe summer.

studyfocusedon nine farmsinEngland in thesummerof2022–fromCheshireinthe north to Devoninthe south–and temperatureand humidity were measured inside cattlesheds and outatgrazing

Dr TomChamberlainand Lallemand’sNicoVreeburg andMarkMcFarland

Champions at primestock show

Water firm’s biodiversity work recognised by awardsuccess

DAVIDBANNER newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

Severn Trenthas been crownedBiodiversity

Championatthe 2022 Responsible Business Awards.

Thewin waslargely attributed to thecompany’s £1.2 billion investmentinthe ‘Great BigNature Boost(GBNB).

JasonRogers, head of water qualityand environmentatSevern Trent, said theaim of theGBNBis to make thecatchment area abet-

terplacefor thepublic, andwildlife, whilesupportingfarmproductivity andcutting carbon emissions. “To be thestand-out winner from awide rangeofleading businesses is atrue credit to ourambitions anddelivery,”hesaid.

Theaward judges were particularlyimpressed with SevernTrent’s workwithpartnersand third-party collaborators.The judges said the company’spartnersnot only benefit from thework, butare also helping to go above andbeyondoriginal plans.

Thepanel of judges said Severn Trentwas an ‘anoutrightwinner

MARKET REPORT

KINGTON

THURSDAYDECEMBER 8,McCartneysofKington reporta very good finished sheep tradeinall sectionsfor theirChristmas Show andSale.Lambs sold to £2.70ppk and£130per head andCull sheepto£120per head.A very good tradewith strong demand from allthe buyers on everything We have excellentbuyingsupportand needgood entrieseachweek tosuffice thegood numbersof buyerswehave andtheir currentdemandfor lambs andcullewes. We caneasilysell 2000 lambsand 600 cull sheep each week giventhe numberof buyersand demand we have on aweekly basis.

Ludlow LivestockMarket’sChristmasPrimestockShow washeldon December 5.

Overallchampionpairoflambs were apairofBeltexx lambsfrom ChrisPaddock.The champions weighed 45.5kg andsoldfor 632ppk to AH GriffithsLtd of Leintwardine Cattleclass overallchampionwas a LimousinxheiferfromMessrsCW Roberts&Partners.The champion sold for£2,120(400ppk)toKnightwick Butchers.A firstwenttoTL& EM Davies &Son forthe best pair of lambssired by anativesire.

Device helps measureintake

Leadingdairy innovatorsmaXtec has launched TruDrinking, anew function whichaccuratelyrecords individual cow’swater intake

Bosses said this latest technical advanceisaworld firstinthe sector-leadinghealthmonitoringsystemand helpsfarmers to optimise milkproduction andanimalmanagement.

“Water is oftenthe forgotten nutrientindairy herds,”saidthe firm’s ChrisHowarth.“If acow drinks toolittle, herfeed intake will reduce,and hermilkyield will drop.WithTruDrinking,farmers canimmediately detect anydisruption to normalwater consumption.

“Thiscan be an earlyindicator of emerging health problems.”

Lambs–The ambs sold to an very good trade trough out, with lambsranging in weightfrom29kg to 53kg. Thetrade onthe lighter weightsunder 45kg remainsverygood with these weight lambs averaging £2.40ppk upto£2.70ppk.Heavier lambsfrom46kgto50kgwerealsoaverygood trade with theselambs averaging 2.39ppkand £116per head.Heavy lambs over52kgsoldtoa very good tradewiththeselambs averaging £129 per head upto £130 perhead. Allweight ranges were in good demandagain with excellent buying supportatKington forall typesoflambs. Thelamb section averaged averygood £2.40ppk SQQand £105per head throughoutthe whole market for lambsweighing29kgto53kg. Lambsbetween 32 to 39 kg averaged2.35ppk upto2.37ppk which averaged£93 per head.Lambs between 40 to 45 kg averaged2.40ppk upto 2.70ppkwhich averaged£104per head.Lambs between 45 to 52 kg averaged2.39ppk upto 2.50ppkwhich averaged£116per head. Lambsover52kg averaged £2.37ppk upto£2.40ppk whichaveraged £129 perhead. OurChristmas show andsale of lambswas kindly judgedbyPercy Jenkins of Euro QualityMeats.The prizewinnerswereasfollows ChampionPen of Lambswas awarded to DR & MG Williams. ReserveChampion PenofLambs was awarded to HA Bunningand Son. Other first prizewinners in their classeswereClass 1– S Williams andSon Class2 –S Williams andSon Class3–S Williams and Son Class4– DR &MG Williams Class5– SBedford. Cull ewes,tups, wethers, storelambs& goats– Averyplain show of cull sheepmet agood tradethroughout. Strong Suffolk, Mule andContinentaleweswould beavery good trade. Good meatedewessoldtopremium prices with agood tradeoneverything.The best trade again being on theheavier well meated ewes whichsold to £120 perhead. We needgood entries of cull sheepeachweektosuffice theexcellent demand we have. We have excellentdemandfrom 8buyersonaweekly basis with agood tradeand premiumspaidtothe bestmeatedsheep. Anumber of strongerwell meatedsheep sellingfrom£105 per head upto £120 per head.All typesofewessold to agood tradeto8 buyers with anumber of the best meatedcullsheepregularly selling between £105 and £120per head depending on type for thestrongersorts with theoverall averagebeing £61per head whichwould be agood average for theplain entrywehad this week.The buyersare currentlyrequiringall kindsofcullsheepfor their orders,if youhave anycullsheep it is agood time to getthemsold.Continentalxand strong ewes averaged£108per headand sold up to £120 per head. Mule type ewes averaged £78per head andsold up to £90per head.Welsh, Speckleand smaller hill type ewes averaged £55per head andsold up to £70per head.Tups averaged £72 perheadupto£89 perhead. Small storelambs/ ungraded lambssold to agood trade andaveraged

£70per head up to £85per head.Wehave buyers for storelambs each week at Kington, pleasegive us atry.The Christmas Show andSaleofcullewes waskindlyjudgedbyJohn Bithel.The Champion PenofCullEweswas awarded to CR Evans. New regulationshave come in force as from 15th Januaryregarding export of meat from theUKto Europe.Any livestockmeattobe exportedmust have adeclaration by thefarmer as follows“the animalshave originated from establishments that have received regular animal health visits from aveterinarian forthe purpose of thedetection andsignsofdisease”. Pleasecan allour vendors sellingprime stockthrough ourmarkets complete our “Green orRed”livestock entryforms with all livestockwhichissold through ourfat markets to declarethatthe livestocktheyare selling complies with theabove statement. This is particularly important forvendors whoare notfarmassured Anyvendors whocannotdeclare theabove statement must inform us on delivery of their livestocktoour markets as their livestockwillnot be eligiblefor export. McCartneys at Kington, offer an on-farmlivestock grading andmarketing advice serviceonafreeofchargebasis.Kington Market is everyThursday, commencing at 11am with Hoggets andSpring LambsfollowedbyCullSheep Lightand StoreHoggets.For further information please contact Gareth Wall on 01544230316or 07974143336.

KNIGHTON

THURSDAYDECEMBER 8,McCartneysreport an entryof835 finished Lambsand 229 Cull Ewes Aniceentryoflambsbut harder going this last week whichhas been thecaseall this week.Best selling lambswerethose with coverbut notfat over 42kg.Heavierlambs mainly over£117per head up to £130 per head.Wehave salesrightthrough December same time everyThursday. Overall average on theday was235.41ppk sellingto 248ppk for44kglambs achieving £109 from RWE Vogel &Son.Alsoto236ppk for 49.5kg lambs, achieving £117 from AE Bason. Topprice perhead was£130for 65kg lambsfromLewis Bros.A generallyplainer show of ewes metaharder trade than last week.Overfat ewes harder work.Covered ewes agood trade. Overallaverage was£56.28 selling to £120 forewesfromA EBason. Mule ewes sold to £98.00 fromAEBason.Hillbred ewe sold to £86.00 fromAJ&JAPowell.For up to date market information or forentriesspeak to oneof ourauctioneers JennyLayton Mills07867 522859 KatieDavies07817 474241 or Lloyd Humphreys 07534532468.

LUDLOW

MONDAY DECEMBER 12,Finished lambs-1285

Auctioneer:MichaelThomas Tel: 07890 898239

Topprice Lambs: £160.00Top priceLambs per kg:293ppkSQQ Averageper kg:249ppk Agood show of lambsinterms of quality butnumbers slightly down due to theweather conditions. Lambs with meatwerecertainly theorder of theday as buyerslook to hang lambsoverthe festive period Exporttypes againselling well as numbersacross thecountry were less.Extra lambsneedednext week including lightweights before theshutdown. Free on farmgrading serviceavailabletel:01584 872251. Finished cattle –70Auctioneer: Michael Thomas Tel: 07890 898239 Steers Topprice Steer perhead: £1820 Topprice Steerper kg:300ppk Averageprice Steerper kg:260ppk HeifersTop priceHeifer per head:£1970 Topprice Heiferper kg:312ppk Averageprice Heifer perkg: 261ppk A

forthiscategory’.MrRogerssaid theGBNBkickedoff in 2020

It had, a10-year plan to enhance biodiversity on over 5,000ha and improve over 2,000 km of riversby 2027,aswellasplant 1.3million trees by 2030

Part of this wasdelivered through SevernTrent’s EnvironmentalProtection Scheme (STEPS).

That programmeisagrant scheme in whichthe companyhelps farmsacrossthe region protect theirlocal environment, localwatercourses andimprove farm infrastructureand river health

Mr Rogers said thehardworkof

thecompany’s employees, partners andthird partycontributorshas meantitisalready well on itsway to meetingtargets

“Currently over 4,600haofland hasbeenimprovedand 466,745 trees have been planted, with therivers target alreadyexceeded by over 1,200km. On topofthissuccess with GBNB,we’ve also launched an extra commitment to ‘Get River Positive’, whichaddstoour originalpromises to includesupport forfarmers,businesses andthe communitytocare forrivers,”hesaid.

Formoreinformation,farmers should visitSevernTrent’s website

storming cattle tradeinthe last fewsales before Christmas.Buyerscompeting very well forthe stockonoffer andmorecould easilyhave been sold.Cattlewith finishverymuchindemand. Pleaseremember,nopenalties forage,farm assuranceorweight. Agood entryofall types needed nextweek.Freeonfarmgrading service availabletel:01584 872251.Prime bulls- 79 Auctioneer:Bradley Towell Tel: 07496263916Top pricebull: £1992Top pricebullper kg:269ppk Averagebull per head:£1412 Averageprice bull perkg: 219.47ppk Amixed entryofbulls forward andsold this week with trade easing backafew pence on thepreviousweek.Thatsaid, adecent tradefor allconsigned to include some very plain sortsinthe averages. BestU gradeContinental bullsto269ppk and£1992 with others255ppk andabove. ContinentalRgrade bulls with finish trading between 230ppk and245ppk generally. Charolaisbulls to 246ppk andSimmentalxto 247ppk.Herefordbulls to 230ppk andLonghorn xto222ppk. Dairybulls to 208ppk for Holstein Friesians with others185ppk to 204ppk.Plainer leaner sorts165ppk to 180ppk.Bulls wanted nextweek as normal.Cullcows–19Auctioneer: BradleyTowell Tel: 07496263916Top pricecow: £1134Top pricecow per kg:152ppk Averageprice cow: £746 Averageprice cow per kg:115.34ppk Notmanywell-fed cows in theaverage this week with tradereflective of steady demandasis expectedfor thetime of year.BestContinental cowsto152ppkand £1134.Grade 2Continental cowsto144ppkand £1058, grade3cowsto 135ppk andGrade 4cowsupto115ppk.Cows wanted for nextweek as normal.Cullsheep –462 Auctioneer:James AmphlettTel:07972 653077 Topprice Ewes:£182.50Ewe average: £90.99 Top priceRam:£160.50 Ramaverage:£78.47Plenty of strength in theshowing this week,and agood strong tradetogo with it.Eweswould be sharper than this time last week.Shapeyand well-bred Texels soldupto£182.50withothersmaking£172 and£152. Theheavy Suffolk xand Texelxewes wouldbedearer with thesesellingupto£146.50, £146 and£145.50 with all over£130. Half meated sortswould also be sharper from £115-£130. Heaviest of theMules sold at £118.50withall the strength over£110and halfmeattypes over£100. Good fleshed Hill ewes sold over£80.Leansorts around £40-£60withthe very plainest belowthis oncemore. Very strong Continentalramssold up to £160.50.

LUDLOW

FRIDAY DECEMBER 9,StorecattleAuctioneer: MichaelThomas Tel: 07890 898239 Cows and calves Topprice per outfit: £2000 Agood selection of cows andcalves on offermet afairtrade.Outfits peaked at £2000, other couplesto£1780 OTM feeding cattle Topprice per head:£1150 Afew cowsonoffer peaked at £1150or173ppk. If you have cowsintestthatwill standfurther feeding please consider this section.Young feeding bulls Topprice bull:£1290 Topprice bull per kg:295ppk Averagebullper head:£845Average price bull per kg:222ppk Agood entryofyoung bullsmet avery sharp trade. Extrabuyersinattendancelooking for alltypes andsorts.Young suckler typestopped at 295ppk.Several of this sale entrywould be Dairy bred,these meta fairtrade andmorecould have been sold to advantage.NextSale: Friday 23rd December.Freeonfarmselection serviceavailable tel:01584 872251.Prices were as follows: AberdeenAngusXBulls to £1040, £800 Blonde D’Aquitaine XBulls to £735,£200British Blue X

Bullsto£1110,£1040 BrownSwiss XBulls to £540 CharolaisXBulls to £1030Devon XBulls to £810 £500 HerefordX Bulls to £590, £540 Holstein FriesianX Bulls to £930,£700, £595,£555, £485 LimousinX Bulls to £1290,£1260,£1250,£1230 x2,£1180 x2,£1170,£1140,£1110,£1030,£1020, £990,£985, £960,£940, £910,£875, £830 x2, £800x2, £760,£750, £730,£640Steers& heifers Topprice heifer:£1530 Topprice heifer per kg: 283ppk Averageheiferper head:£975Average priceheifer perkg: 219ppk Topprice steer: £1440 Topprice steer per kg:284ppk Averagesteer per head:£1070 Averageprice steerper kg:226ppk A good selection andvariety on offer. Extra buyers presentatthissale andmorecould have easily have been sold.Young,well-bredtypes againhad theirown following with returnsbeing passedback from the finished ring.Strong feeding sortswere againverymuchindemandasfeederslook to keep yardsfull, having killed severalinthe runup to Christmas.Ifyou have storecattletosell,please take advantage of thecurrent levelofdemand. Next Sale:Friday23rdDecember.Freeonfarmselection serviceavailabletel:01584 872251.Priceswere as follows: Aberdeen AngusXHeifersto £1200, £1090, £1065, £1050, £935,£880, £860,£845 x2,£650x2BlondeD’Aquitaine XHeifers to £1100, £835 BritishBlue XHeifersto £1530, £1200, £1195, £1175, £1170, £1110, £1025, £1015, £1000,£750, £440 CharolaisXHeifersto£1230, £745 HerefordX Heifers to £1300, £1195, £995, £880,£825, £650,£530Limousin XHeifers to £1260, £1225, £1200, £1100, £1095, £1080 £1050x2, £1010, £990,£945, £885,£855, £850, £835,£800x2, £790,£770, £760,£745, £710, £680,£665,£630, £620,£600, £575,£555, £540,£505, £300 SimmentalX Heifersto £1275, £1170, £1070,£985StabiliserXHeifers to £1430, £1095, £1030, £1025AberdeenAngusXSteers to £1440, £1235, £1135, £1075, £1065, £990, £750 Beef ShorthornX Steers to £965 Blonde D’Aquitaine XSteersto£1020,£1010 British Blue XSteersto£1185,£1110,£1030 x2,£1020 £1010, £920,£895, £480 CharolaisX Steers to £1300, £1120HerefordX Steers to £1080,£980, £940,£830Holstein Friesian XSteersto£1200 £1035 LimousinX Steersto£1440,£1390,£1320, £1240, £1235, £1115, £1100x2, £1015, £950, £750 Salers XSteersto£1230,£1140 Simmental XSteersto£1145,£1080 WelshBlack XSteers to £1200Storelambs –1866Auctioneer: James AmphlettTel:07972 653077 MixedLambs Av £71.66 Top£105.00Ewe LambsAv. £81.26 Top £85.00Ram LambsAv. £73.30 Top£100.00A poorer show of lambsingeneralthisweek butall still sold very well,especiallyconsidering thefat tradehas struggled allthrough theweek.Strength wasstill well followedwithTexel xand Suffolk x lambssellingupto£105withother Texels making £104 and£100. Generallyall of thestrength sold over£90 with well-bredmediumtermfarming lambsstill £85-£92. Longtermlambsthatwere nicely bred still hadplenty of followingand made £75-£80.Long termlambs that weren’tsowell bred sold acrossthe £60’s. Very smallest were £40-£60.Strong Texelram lambssold up to £100 with Charollaisat£90.Moreneeded forour sale on Friday23rdDecember.Pleaseget them entered. Forfurther details please contact Michael Thomas Tel: 01584872251(Work)or07890 898239 (Mobile)JamesAmphlett Tel: 01905769770 (Work) or 07972653077(Mobile)Freeonfarm grading servicecontact:LouiJonesTel:07828 921864 or 01568611174orTed DaviesTel:07772 252293

ChrisPaddock with auctioneer MichaelThomasand judge Jack Gilder,centre

Messrs CW Roberts&Partnerswith judgeMatthew Barrett, centre

TL &EMDavies&Son

ACROSS

7. Bay window,often supportedby brackets (5)

8. Pear-shaped fruit of the treePersea americana (7)

9. Viral disease also called German measles (7) 10. Croatian seaport on the Adriatic (5) 12. Alfred, field marshal who devised aplan forGerman strategy in World WarOne (10)

15.The partofthe alimentarycanal between the stomach and the pharynx (10) 18. Republic whose capital is Damascus (5) 19. Popewho introduced the calendar currently in use (7) 21. American television westerndrama featuring theCartwright family (7)

22. ‘--- Ivory’, novel by R. M. Ballantyne (5)

DOWN 1. See 13 Down

2. Baggins, character in The Hobbit (5)

3. Israeli airline (2,2)

4. Lauren, actress formerlymarried to Humphrey Bogart (6)

5. Henri, French painter known as le Douanier (8)

6. Boris, horror film actor bornWilliam Henry Pratt (7)

11. Former state of E. Africa (10)

13 &1DRudyard Kipling novelset off Massachusetts (8,10)

14. ‘Air on the ---’, arrangement of the second movement of Bach’sSuite no. 3 (1-6)

16. The Sea is abranch of the Mediterranean between Greece and Turkey (6)

17. The Sea in the Pacific extends from the New Hebrides to Australia (5)

20. River in the Czech Republicand Germany which flows intothe North Sea (4)

WORD WISE

GONFALON

A Pedantic style of writing

B An ancient continent

C Ensign or standardwith streamers

1983 German GP (6)

Ibrahima retired Senegalese defender who was at Ipswich Town from 2011-12 and Harlow Town from 2015-18 (5)

Paul ......., a1980 and 1982 Wimbledon men’sdoubles tennis champion (7)

Dean ......., England Test cricketer who took 6-60 against Australia at Melbourne in 1998 (7)

Clay shooting, sport also called clay target shooting (6)

MS ....., Man of the Match in the 2011 Cricket World Cup Final (5)

See 18 Across

Hashim South Africa Test cricketer who hit aworld record311 n.o. against England at The Oval in London in 2012 (4)

P F T U Y C E S A E B T A E D S N B B O R K N S K Q Q J S A M U L K B O A A I C U Q N W Y J U G M N W T H S A C A N A V R I N Z Q S G

The following events all occurred in living memory.Can you guess the year?

1The US Navy shot down an Iranian airbus

2AFish Called Wanda became ahuge hit at British cinemas

3Top rate income tax was cut from 60% to 40%

4Paddy Ashdown was elected leader of the SLD party

B C

1Christian Dior’sNew Look was unveiled in Paris

2AlCapone died

3British rule in India came to an end

4Harold Wilson joined the Cabinet at the age of 31

1The Mousetrap opened in London

2RichardNixon went on TV to deny misusing funds

3The English translation of Anne Frank’sdiary was published

4Elizabeth Taylor married Michael Wilding

QUICK QUIZ

1. Which choirmaster lifted the nation’sspirits during the coronavirus outbreak with the BBC2 series The Choir: Singing for Britain? 2. What type of creatureisacoot? 3. In which county is the sea port Harwich? 4. Which method of food preservation uses vinegar? 5. Of which country was ImreNagy prime minister? 6. What type of precious stone is the hardcrystalline form of carbon? 7. What is the astronomical term for ashooting star? 8. Of which country was Macbeth king from 1040? 9. How is the fairground ride the big wheel also known? 10. What arethe two official languages of Canada?

This puzzle has no clues. Instead, every number printed in the grid represents a letter,with the same number always representing the same letter. For example, if 8turns out to be aV,you can write in Vwherever asquarecontains 8. Using your knowledge of words, complete the puzzle.

(4)

Queen of __, Biblical wife of Solomon (5)

Female person or animal (3)

Wildlife groups celebrate£5,000 windfall from top educationaltrust

TwoofShropshireWildlifeTrust’s youth groups have benefited to thetuneof£5,000 each thanks to agrant from leadingeducational charityThe Ernest Cook Trust.

TheGreen InfluencersProject Grant, whichispartofShropshire Wildlife Trust’sGreen Influencers Scheme,isbeing used forsupportingregular workparties, which give youngpeopleaged13to30the opportunitytodotheir bitfor their localwildlifewhilst gainingvaluablelifeskills.

ThePractical Conservation Groupvisit nature reserves across thecountyevery Sundaytocarry outtasks,suchasfencing,hedge laying,scrub clearanceand more, to benefitwildlife.

ShropshireWildlifeTrust’sGardening Club givesyoung people the opportunitytogainexperiencein horticulture,engagewiththeir localcommunity in Shrewsbury and lead events, such as open days and workshops

Underits GreenInfluencers Scheme,The Ernest Cook Trust is helping36hostorganisations to fund theemployment of 44 green mentors.

Eachgreen mentor’s role is to enable young people to lead theway as ‘Green Influencers’ on environmentalsocialactionprojects, andthe aimistorecruit 5,000 acrossthe country.

Theschemeismatch-funded through the#iwillFund, whichis a£66 million jointinvestmentbetweenThe National LotteryCommunity Fund andthe Department forDigital,Culture,Media and Sporttosupport young people

Historic bookshandedintocareoflibrary

Acollectionofbooks relatedtothe storyofhow agroup of children who were banished from Shropshire to newly-discovered Americahundredsofyears agohavebeenhanded over to acountymuseum

TeacherMikeBrogden,the late secretaryofanorganisationcalled Shropshire’sMayflower Children, collected nine booksonthe subject of thefouryoung children of KatharineMoreofShipton,who were banished to Americain1620.

Mr Brogden’s widowWendy joined an officialparty as Much WenlockLibrary took thecollection

david.tooley@mnamedia.co.uk

into itssafe-keepingand forlending out.

Mark Cavendish, thechairmanof Shropshire’sMayflower Children, said:“Mike wasthe person whodid about 90 percentofthe work. He wasan ex-schoolteacher whocollected booksfor hisstudies on the subject.

“Hecollected them over alarge number of years, on variousdifferentsubjectsincluding on thehis-

tory of theAmericancoloniesand of theMayflower.” Thepassengers on theMayflower,which setsailto thenewly discovered lands, areconsideredthe founding fathers from whom theThanksgivingcelebration originates

“There is interest in thesubject from theUS,”saidMrCavendish “I am awarethatthere have been tourists especially to seeaplaque that wasplacedinthe church by the Americans.”

Formoreinformation on Shropshire’sMayflower Children visit shropshiremayflower.com

Temporaryclosure of leisure centresprovokes concerns

Furiousconcernshave beenexpressed afterit wasagreedtoclose all Powysleisure centres over thefestive season andtemporarily shut some untilMarch.

Not-for-profitleisure operator FreedomLeisure andPowys County Councilproposedthe move to save money amid escalatingenergy costsand it wasunanimously agreed at ameetingonTuesday

Many councillorssaidtheyfelt regret,anger andfrustration havingtodiscussthe closureofleisure centres.

Vice chairman of thecouncil, Presteigne member Councillor Beverley Baynham, said it wasthe “darkest dayinher politicalcareer”. Memberswereinformedof thematterjust24hours before the meeting, with an impact assessment beingavailable half an hour

KARENCOMPTON karen.compton@mnamedia.co.uk

before thediscussion.Theyurged council leaderstodefer thematter, to allowittobescrutinisedand give membersthe chance to come up with otheroptions

ButCouncillor DavidSelbysaid delaying adecision wouldjustreduce theamountofsavings available.

He said FreedomLeisure hadnot been able to recover itspositionafterCovid,and energy prices,wages inflationand otherincreased costs were achallenge

Despite implementing arange of measures, a£287,000 overspend this year is predicted,and a£1.1 million shortfallnextyear.

Councillor Selby said to take no action wouldriskthe future of all leisure provisionand putanunacceptable burden on thecouncil’s overallbudget.

He added: “The action will buy

us time,but we will have to carry outathorough review of allleisure serviceprovision in thecounty. The currentmodel is unsustainable, andwemustworkwiththe people of Powystocreateastructure that we canafford.”

Councillor Baynhamsaidthe East Radnor LeisureCentre opened in 1987 andoffersawiderange of activities, with almost 350children signed up forswimminglessons. Sixprimary schoolsand aspecial educationalneedsschooluse it for swimming lessonsinadditionto JohnBeddoes High School which uses it daily.

Shesaid: “Imagine my horror as localmembertolearn that the centre is to closeinnolessthan11 days.No consultation,nodiscussionsjustadonedeal. Adecision slippedthrough thebackdoorless than twoweeks before Christmas.

“Inmyopinion this is an illthought-outdecision withoutany regard beinggiventothe communi-

ty.Why not sharethe cost savings outacrossthe board, making areductioninopening hours?”

Sheurged thecabinet to stop the proposal andopendiscussions.

“Thisisthe darkestday in my politicalcareer,”she said HerpetitionlaunchedonMonday to keep thecentre open alreadyhad 1,502supportersbeforethe meeting started.

Butcabinet member Councillor Jake Berriman said thecouncil had to listen to theexperts andtruncate services in partsofthe county so thewhole servicecan survive.

PowysCountyCouncil leader Councillor JamesGibson-Watt said comments made aboutalackof transparencyand openness were veryfair, butitwas an inevitable consequencefor alocal authority contractingwithanoutside provider.“This is just the firstofaseries of very difficultdecisionsthatIfear that will have to be made over the next fewmonths,”hesaid.

Changesahead at riversidelocal

Apopular pub/restaurant on the Shropshireborderisbeing taken back andrun by itsownersinthe newyear.

TheCross FoxesatErbistock near Overton-on-Dee has been a Brunningand Pricepub forthe past 25 years.

Theproperty’sowner Marstons Plchas decidedtoend theassociation with Brunningand Pricefrom January8

Thenewshas been metwithsadness by hundreds of customers on socialmedia.

Thepub is knownfor itsreal fires in thewinter andriverside beer garden in thesummer

In astatement in theCrossFoxes newsletter,manager JamesSpencer said:“We bringyou thesad news that we will be closingthe Cross FoxesfromJanuary 8. Afterawonderful25years ourlandlord, MarstonsPlc,havedecidedtotakethe pub back andrun it themselves.”

Double boost forpub chain

Pubs groupMarston’s is celebratingadoubleboost –Christmasand theWorld Cup.

Itsbosshas hailed “encouraging” Christmasbookingsdespitecostoflivingpressures on customers, andhas said thepub grouphas also been buoyed by extra numbersbrought on by Qatar2022.

TheWolverhampton-based firm,which runs 1,468 pubs acrossthe UK,saw shares lift higher as it also returned to profitfor thepastyearfollowing the easing of Covid-19 restrictions.

Andrew Andrea,chief executive of Marston’s, said:“Current tradingtothe endofNovember hasbeenpositive with encouraginglevelsofChristmas bookings as we look forwardtothe firstrestriction-freefestive period in threeyears.”

Car firm taking on apprentices

Jaguar Land Rover will hireabout 300new apprenticesin 2023

Therecruitswill be trainedin vitalfutureskillstobuild luxury electric cars forJLR’s RangeRover,Defender, Discoveryand Jaguar brands.Intotal,morethan800 people will join thecompany’s Early Careersprogrammesnextyear– a 55 percentincreaseon2022– arecord intake

JLRhas itsenginemanufacturingcentre at thei54 near theShropshireborderand assembly factories at Solihull andCastleBromwich.

Thecompany’s apprentice,undergraduateand graduate programmesopenfor applicationin January, including flagshipapprentice degree apprenticeship programmesindigital technologyand engineering.

Theannouncement followsthe unveiling of Jaguar Land Rover’s Future Skills Programme, which aims to improve skills.

Wendy Brogden, left,attendedthe eventatMuchWenlock Librarywhenthe books were handed over

DAVIDTOOLEY

Fearsvoiced on office closures

Railway workers have warned plans to closeticket officeswill have a huge impact on disabled andelderly travellers

Asurveyof1,000 membersofthe Rail, Maritime andTransport union(RMT) whoworkin ticket offices foundtheyall believed closures wouldmeanaccessingthe network will be harder forthe elderlyand disabled

Most respondents said closing ticket officesand making passengers getticketsfrommachinesor online will worsen disabled andelderly people’s access to therailway Four outof five of thosesurveyed said they have alreadyexperienced areduction in staffing at theirstation in thelastyear.

Many disabled people cannot use online ticketingorticket vending machines andrelyonticket offices to getthe advice andticketthey need fortheir journey, said theunion.

Price-cutting push forchain

Sainsbury’shas said it will pump afurther £50million into itslatestprice-cutting push to supportcustomers facing the soaringcostofliving.

Simon Roberts, chiefexecutive of thesupermarket chain, said thecompany is “doing everything we canto fightinflation”. Theretailer’slatesteffort on pricereductionswilltake placebyMarch next year and bringtotal investmentto£550 million over thepasttwo years.

It is aheadofSainsbury’s originalplanfor £500 million in investment overthe period Sainsbury’saddedthatmore than £15million hasbeenspecificallydirected to pricingimprovements forfestive food and drinkitems

Mr Robertssaid: “Weare acceleratingour commitmentto beingthe best value.”

Pubs facing uncertainfuture

Many pubsand breweriesacross theUKwill be forced to shut their doorsfor goodastheyfacerocketinglosseswithout furtherenergy support.

In anew report by Frontier Economics,producedfor theBritish Beer andPub Association (BBPA), calculations showed that energy billsreturning to theirregular rate afterMarch wouldput pubsand brewersatalossof20per cent on average.

Businesses have benefited from theenergybill relief scheme but many will face uncertaintywhen thescheme finishes at theend of March

Thereportshowed energy costs arethe biggest threat to theirviability and“wouldbeevenmorelethal”whenthe relief scheme ends. This comesontop ofcostinflation acrossother partsoftheir businesses includingonfood anddrink, keycommodities andwages

Soniatakes over as head of business partnership

Oneofthe region’shighest-profile businesswomenhas been appointed to head theMarches LocalEnterprise Partnership.

SoniaRoberts, chiefexecutive of supportedemploymentand trainingcharity Landau,was named thenew chairofthe MarchesLEP at itsboard meeting–steppingup from theroleofdeputychair which shehas held forthe last three years.

Shesucceeds MandyThorn who stands down afterserving athreeyear term asheadofthe LEP.

TheLEP brings togetherthe business community, thepublic sector andacademia to driveeco-

nomicgrowthacrossHerefordshire, Shropshireand Telford& Wrekin,and hasinvested £196 million in theregionover thelast decade.Its business supportservice –the MarchesGrowthHub –supported more than15,000 businesses acrossthe region in the 2021/22 financialyearand helped morethan800 people startanew business

Sonia, whohas served on the LEPboard since2015, said she washugelyhonouredtohavebeen appointed –and praisedMandy’s workinleading theLEP through adifficult period.She said:“The Marches LEPisfundamental to

theeconomicprosperity of this region,working with ourpartners to ensurethatthe necessaryinfrastructure,economicconditions andskillsare allinplace to help it flourish

“Mandy hasbeenaninspirational leader overthe last threeyears, working tirelessly to promotethe Marches here,regionallyand on thenationalstage

“The currenteconomicsituationmeans that thevalue of partnershipworking hasnever been greater.”

Shesaidthe groupwanted to help in creating ahigh-skill and high-wageregion.

Police issuewarning afterhay bale arsonistscause damage

DAVIDTOOLEY david.tooley@mnamedia.co.uk

Farmersand police across theregionare appealingtohay bale arsoniststothink about therealvictims of their actions.

Throughoutthe winter months farmerssupplementtheir animals’ feed with haybut setting fire to balesin fields hasperversely become some people’s idea of fun.

Butthe actionsare notharmless fun– it is arson, acriminaloffence, arural business crimeofficersays.

It is also extremely dangerous, thoughtlessand thevictims –besidesthe farmerswho lose thousandsofpounds–are theanimals whosefood andinfrastructureis beingset on fire

Sophie Sandison, West Mercia Police ruraland business crime officer, said:“What we have seen is young people straying on to private land andsetting lighttofood stocks

“Withfarmers making sure their livestockhaveenoughfood outin the fields thereare afew people who thinksetting animal feed on fire is fun.

“I’d liketoassurethemthatit’s not,thattheyare committing an offenceand,inalot of cases, they are beingwatched.Manyfarmers have strategicallyplaced covertcameras on theirlandand arethenprovidinguswiththe footage.”

Hollywood stuntman revealstricksoftrade

A film andTVstuntman shared storiesofhis action-packed career when he gave atalktohundredsof collegestudents.

Shropshire-bornperformer and co-ordinatorJustinPearsonhas workedonhugefranchises such as Star Wars,James Bond,Harry Potter,Fast& Furiousand Pirates of theCaribbean,aswellascult TV showslikeGameofThrones. He spentanhouratthe Wel-

Asda planstoopen300 outlets

Asda haslaidout an ambitious expansionplanfor itsnew conveniencestore business which will create 300storesand about 10,000 jobs over thenextfour years.

NewAsdaExpress convenience stores arepartofthe firm’s growth strategy underthe ownership of thebillionaire Issa brothersand privateequitybackers

TDRCapital,who took over the supermarket chainearly last year.Bossessaidthe planwillsee thecompany open 300moreconvenienceshops by 2026 Mohsin Issa,Asda’sco-owner, said:“Akey part of ourgrowth strategy is to providecustomers with more opportunitiestoshop at Asda closer to wheretheylive orwork.”

lingtoncampusofTelford College sharingdetails about hiscareer as part of thecollege’s wellbeing week,which broughttogethera rangeofinspirational andmotivational speakers

Mr Pearson, whohas puthis remarkable lifestory into printin a

newautobiography called Rolling With ThePunches,explained to students what it took forhim to earn aplace on theBritish Stunt Register

He revealed what it waslike working with starssuchasJohnny Depp,DanielCraig,Tom Hardy –and explainedthe risk assessmentsand health andsafetywork whichwentintocreatingsome of thescreen’sbiggest stunts

Flexible workingoptions settocome

Millionsofworkers will be ableto request flexible working from day oneoftheir employment,under new Governmentplans

Ministershavespelt outarange of flexible working options, includingjob-sharing, flexitime,and working compressed,annualised, or staggeredhours

Workerswerepromisedthatnew measures will give them greateraccess to flexibility overwhere,when,

andhow they work. Flexible workinghas been foundtohelpemployeesbalance theirworkand home life,especiallysupportingthose whohavecommitments or responsibilities such as caringfor children or vulnerable people

TheGovernmentannouncement comesalongside newlawscoming into effect that will allowthe lowest paid to workfor differentemployers.

Mandy Thorn andSonia Roberts

Shropshire film andTVstuntman

Justin Pearson gave atalktostudentsatTelfordCollege abouthis career

DOMINIC ROBERTSON newsroom@mnamedia.co.uk

Mythsand legendsthathave shaped thecounty’sfolklore

MEGANHOWE Community News Reporter

Shropshire is oneof England’smostrural counties,its origins datingbacktothe division of SaxonMerciamore than 1,000 yearsago.

Andinterweaved with itshistory, itsspectacular sceneryand architecture, arestories of fairies, magic,devils, hounds as well as ghosts andtragicheroes.

Folkloreisever-present in Shropshireand it livesand breathes in the rolling hillsand vast landscapes AmyDouglas, astoryteller from Bishop’s Castle,has spentmuch of her career keepingthe spoken traditionalive.She is apublished author,afoundingmemberofthe Talesatthe Edge storytelling club andrunsspokenwordevents around thecounty.

NowAmy hasretoldsome of her favourite Shropshire legends, whichhavebeenhandeddownfrom generation to generation l Wild Edric Edricwas an Anglo-Saxonnoblemanfromaroundinthe 11th century whoheldlandand estatesacross Shropshire andHerefordshire.

“He’sanincredibleherowith myth andlegendconnected to him,” Amysaid. “He’sthisincredible mythic hero of TheMarches.”

Knowntobea greatwarrior,a leader andlover of hispeople, Edric ledan Englishrebellion against William theConquerorduringthe

Norman Conquest.Out hunting in Clun Forest oneday,Edric came acrossagroup of womendancing barefoot on thegrass.The woman at thecentre,afairy called Godda, caught theeye of Edricand he took hertobehis bride.

When shedisappeared,itwas said that Edricspent hislastdays in lamentation. He residesnow underthe Stiperstones.

Wild Edricalso hasconnections to theLongMynd, in Church Stretton, sometimestakingthe form of alarge blackdog whoroams the heathlandoras theleaderofThe Wild Hunt.There have been many

storiesofsightingsofThe Wild Hunt over theyears, Amysaid.

l TheWhite Lady of Oteley Oteley Hall is agrand estate in Ellesmere, whichoverlooksThe Mere.While thepresent housewas builtin1960, followingthe demolition of thepreviousbuild, thehistory of thesitedates back to theearly 19th century.

ThedaughterofOteleyHallwas said to be young andwell-educated Herfatherwas keen to have her marriedtoaman of suitable wealth, butshe wished to marryher sweetheart–the stable boy– whowas of no rank or station. Thepairmet in

secret andmadeplans to elope. The young woman wastomeether lover at theboathouse,where they would sneakawayinthe dead of night. Butthe youngwoman’s father overheardtheir plans.

With agun underhis arm, he was theone whomet thestableboy –andshothim dead.The young lady watched on as herfatherhurledthe body into TheMere. Overcome by grief, shewaded outintothe water afterhim.Legendhas it shecontinuestohaunt Oteley Hall l TheDevil andThe Stiperstones

In herbook, Amysays“The Stiperstonesis whereall thebad thingsmeet–presidedover by The Devilhimself.” It beganasa prophecy.

“The storyofthe Devil’sChair is that therewas aprophecythatif TheStiperstonesfell, theworld and Shropshirewould be ruined,” she said

Hearingofthisprophecy, the Devilusedall hisbodyweightto poundonthe rocks. Repeatingthe motionoverand over, harder,and harder,itmadenodifferenceand therocks wouldnot crack.

Aftera while, it is said theDevil’s heat mouldedthe rock into the shapeofachair around hisbody, nowknown as TheDevil’s Chair.

Amyrunsstorytelling andpoetry sessionsas‘Wordsat theEdge’at WenlockPottery,Old Chapel House, Sheinton Street,onevery second Monday ofthe month.She also runs BLAST! –a monthly storytelling performanceseriesinBishop’sCastle. Seeamydouglas.com

Urgent workto stabilise part of landmark building

An urgent plan to stabilise part of oneofShropshire’shistoricbuildings hasbeenapprovedbycouncillors.

Theplanisfor atemporary timber frametobeinstalled over damagedinfill panels to stabilise asection of thewallofthe council-ownedRowley’sHouse in Barker Street in Shrewsbury,councillorshaveheard

MembersofShropshireCouncil’snorthernplanningcommittee were told that no adverse commentshad been madetothe application forthe workatthe historic property

Councillor VinceHunttoldthe meeting thatthe workneededto be done

AndCouncillor TedClarkeadded:“Thesoonerweget ridofthe scaffoldingarounditthe better.”

Rowley’s House, alongwiththe neighbouringRowley’sMansion,is aprominent building builtin the late 16th or early17thcentury,and listed as of considerable historic andarchitecturalsignificance.

Although significant repair workwas carriedout in 1932,more is nowneeded on theimposing timer-framedbuilding.

Membersofthe committee were

informed in thereportthatthe proposed workwould enable a moredetailedinvestigation of the repairsneeded to theGradeIIlisted building to be carriedout

Officials acknowledge that the deteriorationofthe building is more extensivethan firstrealised andthatthe currentapplication proposes temporarystabilisation

They have said that this will enable amoreextensive programme of repair to be developed

However,theyhaveurged that more permanentrepairs should be carriedout as “a matter of priority”

UK carsales are on theriseagain

TheUK’snew carmarket hasrecorded afourthsuccessivemonth of growth

Some 142,889new cars were registered in November, up 23.5 percentonthe same monthlast year,accordingtothe Societyof Motor Manufacturersand Traders (SMMT)

Thereweremixed fortunes for Jaguar Land Rover,which hasits engine manufacturingcentre at the i54north of Wolverhampton. Land Rover sawsales rise 25.7 percent to 3,468for themonth, butJaguar wasdown45per cent at 736.

Overall, registrationslastmonth were 8.8per cent belowpre-coronaviruslevels. Thenumberofnew cars registered during the first11 monthsofthisyearis3.4 percent downonthe same period in 2021

TheSMMTiscalling forGovernment action to boostelectriccar charging infrastructure andsupport theuptakeofplug-invehicles.

Animal faeces thrown at cars

Police have increasedpatrols afterreceiving reportsofcat litter, animal faeces,sawdust and sand beingthrownatorover parked cars

Officers saytheydon’t know whythe behaviourhas started,but it includes atrafficcone beingthrownontoadriveways in avillage close to theSouth Shropshireborder.

Residentsin Brimfieldwere told therehavebeentwo incidents in theWystonLaneand WystonAvenue area.

Pc Adam Stobbart said:“It is notclear as to whythisbehaviour hasstarted butitisdisgustingto find foranyone.”

He said theSafer Neighbourhood Team will be increasing patrols in theareaand said anyone with informationshould contactthe police on 101with thedetails

£2mofrepairs at airfield done

Birmingham Airportcarried out£2 million of essentialairfieldmaintenanceworkthroughoutNovember.

Thework, whichincludedresurfacingand removing aircraft tyre rubber from therunway, took placeovernight when therewereno flights

Nick Roberts, senior projectmanager,said: “Our airfieldisvast, so thechances aremostpeople, even thoselivingnearby, won’thave been awareofour night-time activitythisautumn.Wedothese vital jobs annually to ensureour runway andits taxiways aresafeand in goodshape to serveour customers forthe next 12 months.”

Theairport continuallymonitors thegriplevel of itsrunway, using a high-pressurewater blasting systemtoremove rubber that accumulatesonthe surfacefromlanding aircraft tyres. Removing this rubberensuresthe runway surfaceis safe andoffersgood grip when wet.

AmyDouglasisa storytellerfromBishop’s Castle.Picture:Joshua Crisp

SunriseoverThe StiperstonesOteleyHall, Ellesmere, takenfromthe Shropshire Star picture archive TheDevil’s Chair in 1958

Rowley’s

Planning ahead vitaltoavoid costlymistakes when moving

Expertsshare tips to cutcosts nowtofootbillfor Christmas

KATIEWRIGHT PressAssociation

With thecost-of-living crisis settoworsenas we head into thecolder months andenergybills go up,itcan be tempting to bury your head in the sand andworry

Moving costscan sometimesbe abit of an afterthought when buying or rentinganew property –but withoutsufficientprep, theexpenses canadd up

With living costsonthe rise, nowmorethanever,moverswill want theprocess be as cost-effectiveaspossible.

To help,deliveryand removals firm AnyVan haspartnered with TV presenter Phil Spencer to create aseriesreleasedonhis Moveiq.co.uk YouTubechannel andpodcast.

Keen to avoid costly moving mistakes?Spencer shares the followingtipsfor steering clear of expensivepitfalls…

1. Startsorting andpackingyourbelongingsearly –Firstly, once you’vedecidedto move,havingamajor clear-out is key–soyou’renot paying to transport itemsyou no longer need

When it comestopacking, he adds:“Theearlier you start packing, theeasieryourmove will be,and will help you avoid rushingaroundatthe last minutefeeling stressed.”

2. Measureitems correctly –Whenitcomestomoving, failing to take precise measurementscan also turn outtobe acostlymistake.“If you’vegot anylarge piecesoffurniture you’removingwithyou,you really will need to thinkahead aboutwhere it’s goingand will you getitin, either througha door,windoworupany awkward stairs,”saysSpencer

3. Make sure youand the moving team areprepped –Makingsureyou aredealing with amoving firm you can trustwillalsohelpyou to avoid anycostlydamagetocherished items.

4. Be mindfulofcosts kittingout thenew place –While decluttering maybe an issuefor some,particularly thosedownsizing, others may have theoppositeproblem –perhaps if they’rerenting or owningtheir ownhome forthe first time,and suddenlyneed lots of things they don’tcurrently own.

5. Factorinadditional short-term costsifyou’re planning renovations –If yournew home is a‘doer-upper’ whichneedswork, Spencer adds:“It’s importanttoprioritise whereyou aregoing to live whileyou do up theproperty.”

In reality, making aplannow forhow you’regoing to fund festive socialising,gifts andgroceries is amuchmoresensibleapproach–helpingyou save cash andcut back on thestress of over-spending.

We asked financeexperts for theirtop tips on how to budgetand find thebestdeals aheadofthe festive season…

1. SETA BUDGET

The firststeptomakingsureyou stay within yourmeans thisChristmasistocreateabudgetand stick to it

“Whether you prefer jotting the figuresdownonpaper or creating a spreadsheetonline,write down all of thecosts you’llneedtocover over thefestive season,suchasfood, presents, decorationsand travel,”says BreanHorne,personal financeexpert at comparisonsiteNerdWallet (nerdwallet.com).“Remember to includeany events or outingsyou mightattend.”

Aftereachpurchaseorevent, make suretolisthow much it cost.

“Manypeopleget whiskedaway by thebuzzofthe festive season andforgettocheck in with their budget,”saysSalmanHaqqi,personal financeeditorfromMoney co.uk. “Futureyou wouldbemuch happierifyou trackyourexpenses as you go.”

2. PRIORITISE YOUR EXPENSES

It’s not always easy to estimate exactlyhow much each present or experience will cost in advance, but it canhelptoprioritise theitems on yourbudgetintoessential and non-essential.

“For example, groceriesare a high priority,whilegoing iceskatingmay be lower down thelist,” says Horne.“Wherepossible, try to find cheaperalternativesorcut down on yournon-essentialcosts.”

3. TAKE ADVANTAGEOFSEASONAL OFFERS

If you wait toolatetostart your shopping,you maymissout on some of thebiggest discountsretailers offerall year.Justdon’t be temptedto blow thebudgetjustbecause something’sonsale.

Horne adds:“Settingupprice alerts online canhelpyou track thecostofyourgiftsand buythem when they reachyourideal price. Some retailerssuchasASOSperiodically offer flashsales,during

whichyou canbuy most itemsata discounted pricetoo.”

4. CHRISTMASCASHBACK

Cashback sitesmay be agreat waytoget extra savingsongifts from bignamebrands. “The site will getpaidfor sendingtrafficto thestore andyou’llget some of it back,[potentially] saving many people £100sontheir Christmas shopping bill,” Haqqisays. “It’s a goodideatosearchfor thecheapest deal,and then checktomakesure that cashback isavailable.”

5. SETA GIFT LIMIT

With somanypeoplefeeling the financialstrain,there’s no better time to chat to friendsand family

about cutting back on unnecessary presents.

“Why not tryafamilySecret Santa this year?” saysHaqqi.“Simply popall thenames into ahat and have everyone pick outone person to buyfor.” Horne suggestssetting aspendinglimit forgifts

6. USEVOUCHERCODES

Before you buyanything, checkif thereare anydiscount codesavailablefor that brandorretailer.

“WebsitessuchasSuperSavvyMe (supersavvyme.co.uk) offera wide rangeofvoucher codes,”says Horne. “It’salso worth lookingfor discountsinsupermarket magazines, promotional packetsand other online discount sitestohelpyou save money.”

Couldusing cash more help youtobudget better?

Swipingacardatthe till canbe very convenient –but when we’re notdealing with physicalcash, it cansometimesbehardertokeep track of exactlyhow much we’re spending

Recently,it’sbeensuggested that some people areturning back to banknotesand coinstohelp them balancetheir budgets.

ThePostOffice,which handled arecord£3.45 billion in cash in August,suggestedpeoplemay be increasingly turningtocashto manage theirbudget.

Onetrend whichhas been popular on socialmedia is ‘cashstuffing’ –which goesbacktotradi-

tional methodsofusing physical moneytobudget.

People usingthismethodlabel envelopes with differentbudget categories,suchasmoneyfor bills, socialising,birthdays or new clothes–and thesecan be keptseparateinafolderorwallet.

If youare handling physical cash,itmay make you more aware of how much you arespending, and how much you need to keep back to getyou throughtonextpay-day However,there arepotential downsidesand riskstohandling pilesofcashtoo.Ifthe moneyis beingkeptin envelopes, it’s not earninginterestasitcould be if

kept in abankaccount.There is also thedangerofmoneybeing lost or stolen –and if you arekeeping significant sums of moneyathome

Theremay be otherwaysyou canuse cash to buildupsavings, however.For example, there’sthe pennysavings challenge, where peoplesave1ponthe firstday of themonth, 2p on thesecondday, andsoon– whichcould be done in cash or within yourbanking app.

If cash isn’tfor you,itcould paytomakethe most of savings toolsinapps. Youcould try‘round ups’,for instance,todepositsmall amountsofchangeintoyoursavings accounteachtimeyou spend.

about Christmascosts later.

Moving homeiscostly

Festivefragrancesto fill the airwithcheer at Christmas

SAMWYLIE-HARRIS PressAssociation

Christmassy candles anddiffusers canhavea magicalglow.

Alongsideatwinkling Christmastree, the flickerofcandlelight makeseverything feel alittlemore luxe during this time of year

As Thomas Gibson, co-founder of designer dupefragrance firm Noted.Aromas(notedaromas.co.uk), says:“It’s themostwonderfultime of theyear, whichmeans it’s time to switch up yourhome fragrance wardrobe to somethingdelightfully festive.”

From thedelectablysweet smells of gingerbreadand candycanes to thefreshand invigoratingscent of thetree, Gibsonsaysfestive fragranceshavethe powertoevoke memories andfeelingsofnostalgia from Christmases past

Heroes

Scented candlesare theunsung heroes of Christmas decorations–mood-enhancing andstress-busting, it only takesafew minutes of alit candle to putyou in afestive frameofmind.

As well as theusual bright citrussy scents, ChloëLuxton, founder of Bramley(bramleyproducts. co.uk) recommendsplaying around with festive fragrancenotes,such as clove, frankincense,orange, myrrh, andpine.

This year,candlejunkies will love ESPA’s limited edition midnight blue vessel,withthe enticing scent of Christmasspiceand allthings nice

Katy Simpson, founderand CEO of NobleIsle(nobleisle.com),says: “Fragrance is as importantfor a home, as décoris at Christmas –adding to theatmosphere.”

Andbeyondthe festive scents of Christmas trees,frankincense and myrrh, herseasonalfavourite is the smellofwhisky, saying it “evokes afeeling of sittingwithasmooth

dram of whisky by the fire”.

Theuplifting scentofpinecones canalso empowerfeelingsofwellbeing. “Pinecones makefor perfect holidaydecorations –and areeven better when they arefragranced,” says Luxton

Shesaysyou firstneed to collect abunch of fallen pine cones–either straightfromyourgarden or awinterwalkinthe woods.

“Dry yourcollected pine cones andpresent them in adecorative bowl,” sheadvises, then spraythem with acinnamon-scentedoil Gibsonisalso allabout bringing atouch of theoutdoorsinside, saying: “Seasonalplantsand flowers arenot only lovely to look at,but they also addfreshness andalovely scenttoboot.”

Andhereis some more festivefragrancestotry

Noted. Aromas Christmas Tree Candle,£19.99

Loaf ChristmasEve Smelly Reed Diffuser, £29

St Eval FiggyPudding Scented Christmas TinCandle, £13.45

RichardPomeroyX Bramley Winter Candle,£50,Bramley

TheWhite CompanyMyrrh Signature Candle, £20

NobleIslePinewoodLuxury ScentedCandle, £42

ZestyLemonsHoHoHoChristmasReed Diffuser in Enchanted Forest,£16 (was £20);Xmas2022

Christmas Scented Candle in EnchantedForest, £12.50

AndSoToShopChristmas Reed Diffuser, £33-£36.50

Don’tget the needleoverthe priceofyour treethisyear

Christmas is on theway andfor many of us,thismeans choosing atree. Butthisyearmorethan ever,keeping costsdownisatop priority.

Themostpopular real Christmastree, theNordmann fir, a non-drop variety, cancostupwardsof£50 dependingonsize, making alarge holeinanalreadystretchedbudget.

So,how canyou getthe best deal on arealChristmas tree?

Shop around

“Search fordeals at supermarketsand otherstorestotry and find thebestprice,” says ReenaSewraz, moneyand shopping editor of Which? (which co.uk).“In 2020,wefound Aldi offeredthe most competitive pricefor a1.5-1.75m cuttree.

“Aswellasthe big retailers, it’s worth checkingout your localgarden centre.Keepan eyeout fordeals too. Forexample, Ikea will be offering a£10 voucher when you buyareal Christmas treefor £25overthe Christmas period.”

Bagasmaller tree

If you need heightbut don’t have alot of space forbig branches at thebase, consider buying asmaller treeand placing it in itsstand onatable or on an upturned pot, suggestsMarcus Eyles, horticultural director at DobbiesGarden Centres(dobbies.com). Asmaller treealso meansfewer decorations, which will save money.

Rent atree

“Inrecent years, there has been an explosioninChristmas treehirecompanies,and many plantnurseries andgarden centresare nowofferinga Christmastreerentalservice,” says Sewraz. Youhireatree, useit forabout threeweeks,making sure youwater it regularly, and then return it to thesupplier, whowillre-plantitand leaveit untilthe next Christmas.

Make it last

“Toensure your treeremains in good conditionbuy it as late as you dare –ideally theweekendbeforeChristmas,” says Sewraz. “The secret of along-lastingChristmas treeistocarefor it properly,soitdoesn’t drop its needlestoo quickly.”

Buyapot-grown tree

If you arepreparedtolookafterit, apot-grown tree(notpotted) maybeagood investment

ChristmasEve Smelly Reed Diffuser,£29,with aromasof firtrees,cedarwood andcinnamon,Loaf

AndSoToShop Christmas Reed Diffuser, from £33.00 to £36.50BramleyRichard PomeroyXBramleyWinterCandle, £50

Thereare many ways to make themostofyour Christmas tree

Katy Simpson,CEO of Noble Isle

Succulentmeat foryourfeast

Whetheryou liketokeepthings traditionalatChristmas with turkey, or fancyachangewithduck, then Gressingham hasall yourbases covered.

Producingturkeys andducks to high welfarestandards,Gressinghamcan ensure that you find the perfectand most succulentbirdfor yourfestive table.

AllofGressingham’s turkeys come from RedTractor assured Britishfarms acrossSuffolk, Norfolk andEssex.Gressingham offers both free rangeturkeys andturkeys that have been reared free to roam in largeairybarns with natural daylightand good ventilation.The turkeysare given perches andpeckingobjects to encourage them to interact andbeactive during theday andatnight they areencouragedto roostand sleep. They eatamix of wheatand soya with vitamins and minerals to ensuretheyare given a balanced diet to meet theirneeds.

If you fancyhavingduckfor Christmas lunch, then Gressinghamoffersdeliciouswhole ducks or crowns that servethree to four people. Perfectfor asmaller crowd, butstill special andsomething a bitdifferent,Gressingham breeds, hatches, rearsand then prepares theducks by hand

Gressingham turkeysare availablefromCostco andbutchers/farm shops. Prices vary.Gressingham ducksare availablefromSainsbury’s,Tesco, Asda,Morrisons, Waitroseand Ocadoall year round. Prices vary

Festiveslice is back in stores

Iconic pastry brandGinsters hasannounced that itslimited-edition Festive Chicken& Stuffing Slicewill return to supermarket shelves,following aTwitter campaign wherehundredsoffansofthe comforting treat lobbiedtosee itsreturn.

Onefan commented“BRING IT BACK”, whileanother Twitter user said,“C’mon lads getto work!”.

Theperfect lunchtoget into theChristmas spirit,the GinstersFestive Chicken&StuffingSlice includes 100% British chickenand smoked baconina creamy sauce, bakedwithpotato,and asageand onionstuffing made from locallysourced veg (where possible)– allwrapped up in alightpuffpastryand topped with acrispysage crumb.

Forthose whosimplycan’t wait untilthe bigday fortheir festivelunch,the sliceisenjoyed best afterbeing heated in the oven for20minutes (evenquicker in an airfryer)–Christmas musicoptional.

What’s more,costingjust £1.65, notonlydoesitmakea warmingand satisfying lunch, it does so withoutbreakingthe bank.

TheGinstersFestive Slice is availablefromTesco, Asda, Morrisons, Coop, andSainsburys.

Truffles combinetangy marmaladeand chocolate

1tbsplight brownsugar

Forthe toppings: BucksFizzMarmalade

powder,sifted 100g roasted, chopped hazelnuts Method: In asmall saucepan, bringthe cream, butter andsugar to just belowboiling point, stirring over agentleheat. AddBucks Fizz Marmaladeand stir throughuntil melted.Zestthe orange into the mixture.

Pour thehot creammixture over thechocolate chipsand stir gently

untilmeltedand smooth.Pourinto ashallow dish or tray to cool,then coverand chill in thefridge forat least3hours,oruntil firmed up

Putthe marmalade, cocoapowder, andhazelnutsin separate bowls.

Remove trufflemixture from thefridge. Usingaspoon, scrape from thedish, thenuse yourhands to shapethe chocolateintosmall balls.

Starting with themarmalade, then thecocoa powder andlastly thehazelnuts, roll thetruffles in thedifferent toppings untilevenly coated.Chill againto firm up.Pop into mini papercases, if you like.

Tastytreatstofeed allthe familyduringthe festivities

ANDY RICHARDSON andy.richardson@mnamedia.co.uk

Ingredients: Serves 8

Forthe trifle:

1x340gjar CottageDelight

MagicalMulled Wine Jam

2oranges,peeled andslicedin halves

420g sponge swiss roll

480mlcustard

360mldoublecream,whipped to soft peaks

500mlmulled wine (ready-made or usingrecipebelow)

135g pack raspberryjelly

Fresh/frozen berries,to decorate

Ground cinnamon,todecorate

Forthe mulled wine jelly:

Forhome-made mulled wine:

500mlred wine

2bay leaves

1staranise

1orange, thinly sliced

8cloves, whole

2tbspsugar

2cinnamon sticks

1packetraspberry jelly

Method formulledwinejelly:

Combineall ingredients(notincludingraspberry jelly) in saucepan andheatgently. Do not boil.Holdat gentle simmer foratleast 10 minutes.Remove from heat andstrain theliquid.

Return liquid to panand dissolveinjelly cubes. If usingbottled mulled wine,heataccordingtobottleinstructionsbeforedissolvingin thejelly cubes.

To assemble thetrifle: Make your mulled wine jelly in advance, using recipe andmethodstatedabove Pour jelly mixtureintoasmall rectangleorsquarebakingtin,soit’s roughly1 inch high.Leave it in the fridge to set.

To assemble,linethe bottom of atriflebowlwithhalfofyourcake slices.Press slices half wayup alongthe sidesofthe bowl.Arrange halved orange slices around side of bowl.Arrange half of thejelly squaresover thecakemixture.Pour over half of thecustard.Spoon over half of theMagical Mulled Wine Jamevenly.Repeatsteps twotosix Cover thetop with plasticwrap andleave in thefridge foratleast four to sixhours.Whenyou’re readytoserve,add whippedcream andfresh or frozen berriestodecorate before dustingwithcinnamon.

CHRISTMAS MORNINGMARMALADE BUNS

Ingredients: Makes12buns

Fordough: 240mlwhole milk

135g dark brownsoftsugar 2tsp mixedspice

½tsp ground cinnamon

2sachets instant yeast(7g) 115g unsalted butter,softened, cutintofourpieces

2large eggs,lightly beatenat room temperature ½tsp salt

563g strong whitebread flour, plus more forsurfaces

2tsp oilfor bowl

Formarmalade filling: 1x340gjar CottageDelight

Winter WarmingThinCut

Marmalade, room temperature

100g unsalted butter,verysoft

Forcream cheese frosting: 55gfullfat creamcheese

250g icingsugar

2tbspdoublecream

2-3tsp orange extract

Method: Grease alarge bowl using 2tsp of oil, setaside.Heatmilkto justbelow boiling pointtoscald

Remove from heat andcooltoroom temperature.

In astand mixer,using thedough hook attachment,combineall dry dough ingredients. Addeggs, followedbythe warm milk.Mix at a medium speedfor 10 minutes before tippingontoalightly floured surface.

Kneaddough into aballand place into alarge,greased bowl.Cover tightly with cling film andmoveto awarmspottoprove fortwo hours

Once proved, knockbackthe dough.Tip onto alightly floured surface. Gather into aneatball andusing alightly flouredrolling pin, roll dough into a50x35cmrectangle,makingsurethe dough is smooth andevenlythick as possible

Placethe rectangleofdough with alongedge facing you.Spreadthe softened butter alloverrightto theedges. Spoonover jarofWinterWarming Thin CutMarmalade (reserve 1tbspfor dressing)and spread over thetop of thebutter.

Starting from thelongedgefurthestaway, roll thepastrytowards you,keeping thedough as tightas possible as you roll (makesurethe seal is on thebottom).Takeasharp knifeand trim theends(roughly1-2 inches each side).

Cutthe rolled doughinhalf, then halveyourtwo halves again. Slice each quarterintothree equalslices andplace on theircut side into agreased andlined 20x30cmbakingtin.Cover therolls tightlywith cling film andallow to rise until doubled in size.

Pre-heat theoven to 200°/180°C fan/gas6.Oncedoubled,remove cling film andplaceinoven for2530 minutes,oruntil lightlygolden on top. Placetin on wire rack to cool

In amediumbowl, beat the creamcheeseona medium speed untilsmoothand creamy.Add doublecream andsifted icingsugar Switch to high andbeatfor aminute. Addorangeextract andbeaton high to combine. Spread theicing over warm rollsinswirlsand serve immediately. Dust with cinnamon anddecorate with reserved marmalade.

MAGICAL MULLEDWINE JAMTRIFLE

BucksFizzDarkChocolate

Serveup deliciousChristmas with recipessuretoimpress

Celebrate Christmasin style this year with CaliforniaWalnuts, whohas shared four newrecipes that areset to impress this festiveseason.

From freshlybaked California Walnut,Brie&Cranberry Croissants, to homemade Spiced Apple &CaliforniaWalnut Cookies, a comforting FriedGnocchi dish with Squash &CaliforniaWalnutsand finally, ashowstopping FestiveInspired Trifle.

Eachrecipe is designed to help useupyourleftoversand areless than £2 perserving,helping you to keep thefestive cheerhigh, while keepingcosts low

CALIFORNIA WALNUT,BRIE& CRANBERRYCROISSANTS

Ingredients: Serves six 350g cancroissant dough

50gcranberry sauce

100g California Walnuts, chopped

100g brie, sliced

1mediumegg,beaten

Method: Preheatthe oven to 200oC, gasmark6.Linealarge baking traywithbakingparchment

Open thecroissant doughcan accordingtothe pack instructions andcut alongthe perforated linesto make sixtriangles.Spreadeachtrianglewithcranberry sauce. Sprinkle75g walnutsover thedough Placethe brieatthe shortedgeof thedough androlltothe opposite corner to form acroissant shape, transfer to thebakingtray.

Brushwithegg andsprinkleover thereserved walnuts. Bake for1518 minutes untilgolden.Serve warm.

SPICED APPLE &CALIFORNIAWALNUT

COOKIES

Ingredients: 20 cookies

100g butter,softened

125g castersugar

1mediumegg,beaten

1small redapple,peeled, cored and finely diced

50gdriedcranberries

50gCaliforniaWalnuts, chopped

300g self-raising flour

2tsp mixedspice

Method: Preheatthe oven to 180oC, gasmark4.Line1-2 large baking trays with baking parchment

Whiskthe butter andsugar together untilpale. Whiskinthe egg andstirinthe apple, cranberries andwalnuts. Stirin the flourand

mixedspicetogivea stiffdough Divide into 20 ballsand flatten slightly, placeonthe baking trays andbakefor 15-20minutes until golden.Allow to cool slightly on the traybeforetransferringtoa rack

FRIEDGNOCCHI WITH SQUASH& CALIFORNIA WALNUTS

Ingredients: Serves four

2tbspoil

1red onion, chopped 150g dicedsmokedpancetta

250g frozen dicedbutternut squash

2clovesgarlic,crushed 200g mushrooms, sliced 400g Brussels sprouts,thickly sliced,defrostediffrozen

500g pack gnocchi

1tbspthyme leaves

1tbspchopped sage

100g California Walnuts

Method: Heat theoil in alarge fryingpan andfry theonion,pancetta andsquashfor five minutes. Add thegarlic, mushroomsand sprouts andcookfor afurther five minutes Meanwhile, cook thegnocchi in boiling water forthree minutes, drain. Addthe gnocchi, herbsand walnutstothe panand fryfor one to twominutes,seasontotaste

FESTIVE INSPIRED TRIFLE

Ingredients: Serves eight 135g pack raspberryjelly 300mlmulled wine

100g Madeiracake, sliced 50gcustard powder

150g castersugar ¼tsp grated nutmeg 600mlmilk

100g California Walnuts 300mlwhippingcream

Sprinklestodecorate

Method: Cutthe jelly into cubes andplaceina largejug.Heatthe mulled wine to justbelow boiling andpourover thejelly,stirtodissolveand topupwithwater to give 500ml.

Placethe cake slices in thebase of a1.2-litre trifledishand pour over thejelly,chill untilset Meanwhile, placethe custard powder, 50g sugarand nutmegin asaucepanand blendinthe milk, bringtothe boil,stirringcontinuously untilthickened.Chophalf thewalnutsand addtothe custard. Transfer to abowl, cover with cling film andallow to cool

Meanwhile, place50g sugarina smallsaucepanwith50ml water, bringtothe boil then addremainingwalnuts, cook fortwo minutes. Placethe remainingsugar on a plate. Usingtwo forksremove the walnutsfromthe syrupand toss in thesugar,allow to cool.

When thejelly is set, spread over thecustard.Whisk thecream to soft peaksand spoonoverthe custard.Sprinkleover thesugared walnutsand sprinklestoserve

IN SEASON

Essentialveg forthe table on thebig day

In thedeepmid-winter, frosty parsnips mademoan. Or somethinglike that.Weare in winter.Itwillsoon be Christmas. Andparsnipsare in abundant supply Parsnips have been around for ever.They’ve been used as vegetables sinceantiquity andwerecultivatedbythe Romans.Prior to the arrivalofcanesugar,inEurope, they were used as asweetener.With a flavoursomewherebetween potato andsweet potato,theycan be used forjustabout anything:stews, soups, salads,desserts, sidesand savouries.And,ofcourse, they’re an essentialonthe Christmas table.

Roastparmesanparsnipsare a goodway to dazzle friendsand familyat Christmas.For atwist on afavourite Sunday roastorChristmas side dish,coatparsnipsinpolenta andgrated Italiancheesetoensureatasty,crunchy finish.Cook untiljusttenderinsaltedboiling water,thencoatin theParmesan andpolenta mixbeforecooking at 220C for15minutes,until crisp. As

an alternative,makeparsnipsextra-special with a flavourful white miso andmaple glaze. Usethe same method, cookinguntil tender in salted boiling water, before coating in whitemisoand maplesyrup and roasting for10-20 minutes at 200C Thereare myriad ways to pimp yourparsnips, andthe last fornow is acrisp honeyand mustardnumber. Youknowthe drill:cookuntil tender,add alittlehoney anddried mustardthencrisp up

Parsnips make agreat mash andyou cangivethataspicykick by adding alittlemildcurry powder. They make agood pilaf, with slow cooked basmatirice, lentils andspices.A beef,ale andparsnip puddingisaworkofbeauty, particularlywhencoldnightscallfor warmingdishes. Make it with suet pastry as you putaparsnip-eyspin on thetraditional steakand alepie

Parsnips make greatsoups and MasterChef judge Monica Galleti hasarecipefor aparsnip soup with parsleycream.Makethe soup with onion, parsnips, milk,vegetable stockand bayleaves, before adding parsleycream as agarnish.

Don’tforgetthe joy of agood parsnippud.Parsnipsmakeagreat cake,alongwithmaple syrup, while parsnippancakescan be served with rashersofcrispybacon

FriedGnocchiwith Squash &California Walnuts

California Walnut, Brie &Cranberry Croissants

Spiced Apple&California Walnut Cookies

FestiveInspiredTrifle

Parsnips have been used as vegetables sinceantiquity

by Andy Richardson

NICK KNOWLES’ AMAZING RAILWAY ADVENTURE

Channel 5, 8.00pm

If Nick Knowles was thinking of making anew year’s resolution to travelmore, then he’s already got ahead start.

It was recently announced the DIY SOSpresenter has signed up for two new travelogues for Channel 5. One of the shows is Nick Knowles’ Big Adventure –The American Southwest, which will see him venturing into theGrand Canyon and kayaking along the Colorado River

Before that though, he’s letting the train take the strain with the other new series, Nick Knowles’ Amazing Railway Adventure.

It seems both programmes are passion projects for Knowles. He explains: “My love of trains developed when Iwas achild and my father would take me to standona bridge in Southall, London, to watch old steam locomotives run by underneath.

“I have also been fascinated by,have visited and have even lived with indigenous cultures in Australia and the Navajo in the US. Achance to combine the two with some of the best camera men and film makers to showcase the wonders of the world is a lifetime’s ambition made real.”

However,ifboarding atrain initially sounds alittle less exciting than learning how to withstand the temperatures of Death Valley,you needtolook at a list of Knowles’ destinations.

The series will take him to Mexico, Alaska, Malaysia and the Arctic Circle, but he begins with a trip across the extraordinary landscapes of Peru to magical Machu Picchu.

Knowles hops on board at Puno on Lake Titicaca, and then alights at La Reya, the fourth-highest train station in the world. It’s achance to explore the local street market andput his haggling skills to the

test when he spots awoven alpaca throw

Back on the rails, he gets to sample the Pisco Sour,Peru’s national cocktail, before swapping the train for aboat as he visits the floating islands of the Uros, apre-Inca tribe who still live in southern Peru.

He later arrives at the Inca capital of Cusco, where Nick ventures out of town to visit the ancient ruins at Moray,aswell as the celebrated restaurant Mil Centro, which is conveniently located next door

Hopefully,hegives his dinner time to settle before the next leg of the journey,which takeshim through ‘El Zig Zag’, aseries of five sharp turns in the track via points changes, which enables the train to climb out of the city

His penultimate stop is Ollantaytambo, where Knowles visits an architectural dig. As regular viewers of DIY SOS will know,he’s nothing if not hands on, so he’s keen to get involved, and even manages to unearth an ancient artefact.

Then it’s finally time for his last destination, Machu Picchu. The train is the only form of transport available as there is no road, and the presenter is moved by the stunning views of the ancient citadel, which he gets to share with the viewers.

6.00 Breakfast (S). 9.15 Morning

Live At Christmas (S). 10.00 ExpertWitness (S). 10.45 A Countryside Winter (S). 11.15 Homes Under The Hammer (R) (S). 12.15 Bargain Hunt (S). 1.00 BBC News At One; Weather (S). 1.30 BBC Regional News; Weather (S). 1.45 Doctors (S). 2.15 Shakespeare &Hathaway: Private Investigators (S). 3.00 Escape To The Country (R) (S). 3.45 The Bidding Room (R) (S). 4.30 The Weakest Link (R) (S). 5.15 Pointless Celebrities (R) (S).

6.30 Escape To The Country (R) (S). 7.15 Money ForNothing (R) (S). 8.00 Sign Zone: Trawlermen: Hunting The Catch (R) (S). 9.00 BBC News (S). 10.00 BBC News (S). 12.15 Politics UK (S). 1.00

Meet The Street At Christmas (R) (S). 1.45 Celebrity Eggheads (R) (S). 2.15 FILM: Fixing Up Christmas (Jessica Harmon 2021) Festive romance, starring Marshall Williams (S). 3.35 FILM: AChristmas To Savour (Jessica Harmon 2021) Romantic drama, starring Britt Irvin (R) (S). 5.00 Flog It! (R) (S).

6.00 Good Morning Britain (S). 9.00 Lorraine (S). 10.00 This Morning (S). 12.30 Loose Women (S). 1.30 ITV News; Weather (S). 1.55 ITV Regional News; Weather (S). 2.00 Dickinson’s Real Deal (R) (S). 3.00 Tenable (R) (S). 3.59 ITV Regional Weather (S). 4.00 Tipping Point (R) (S). 5.00 The Chase (R) (S).

World Winter Specials Adam Frost shows how to build arose arch (S). 9.30 Motherland APTA event results in a night of drama and revelations (R) (S). 10.00 QI Sandi Toksvig and her guests go tricking and treating (S). 10.30 Newsnight (S). 11.05 How To With John Wilson The host hopes to remember his dreams (S). 11.35 How To With John Wilson (S). 12.05 The Secret Genius Of Modern Life (R) (S). 1.05 Sign Zone: Simon Schama’s History Of

UNCLE DREW

(Film4, 6.55pm)

Emotionally scarred basketball fan Dax (Lil Rel Howery) hopes to win the coveted Rucker Classic street basketball tournament with acrew led by star player Casper.Fierce rival Mookie (Nick Kroll) steals Dax’s well-drilled team and his materialistic girlfriend Jess (Tiffany Haddish), leaving the crestfallen loner on the brink of financial ruin. Elders in the community advise Dax to track down one-time street basketball legend Uncle Drew (Kyrie Irving, pictured).

LATE NIGHT

(BBC1, 11.25pm)

Late-night talk show host Katherine Newburyfears slipping ratings mean she is set to lose her longrunning series, so hires an inexperienced writer to

Gino And Fred: Unseen Bits 2 The

re-live their

road trips across Mexico the USA and Morocco (S). 10.00 ITV News At Ten; Weather (S). 10.30 ITV Regional News; Weather (S). 10.45 The NFL Show (S). 11.45 Heathrow: Britain’s Busiest Airport Security Officer Estefania investigates an oddly shaped object (R) (S). 12.10 Shop: Ideal World 3.00 Happy Birthday Mr Bean (R) (S). 3.50 Unwind With ITV (S). 5.05 Tenable Christmas Cracker (R) (S).

her staff,mainly on the basis that she is an IndianAmerican woman with fresh perspective while all remaining writers are white men. As viewership improves, asex scandal involving Katherine comes to light, and the host’s future is once more put in the spotlight. Comedy,starring Emma Thompson.

(S).

(S).

Loves Raymond (R) (S). 9.05 Everybody Loves Raymond (R) (S). 9.35 Frasier (R) (S). 10.05 Frasier (R) (S). 10.35 Frasier (R) (S). 11.05 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA (R) (S). 12.00 Channel 4News Summary (S). 12.05 Couples Come Dine With Me (R) (S). 1.05 Jamie’s Easy Christmas Countdown (R) (S). 2.10 Countdown (S). 3.00 Escape

FILM: Under The Christmas Tree (Lisa Rose Snow 2021) Premiere. Romantic drama, starring Elise Bauman (S). 3.15 FILM: Christmas With The Darlings (Catherine Cyran 2020) Premiere. Drama, starring Katrina Law and Carlo Marks (S). 5.00 5News At 5 (S).

6.00 The Early Rundown (R). 6.30 The Early Rundown (R). 7.00 Sky News Breakfast (R). 7.30 Sky News Breakfast (R). 8.00 Hope ForWildlife (R) (S). 9.00 Nothing To Declare (R) (S). 9.30 Nothing To Declare (R) (S). 10.00 Road Wars (R) (S). 11.00 NCIS: New Orleans (R) (S). 12.00 NCIS: New Orleans (R) (S). 1.00 Hawaii Five-0 (R) (S). 2.00 S.W.A.T (R) (S). 3.00

Extreme Snakes: Africa (R) (S). 4.00 Will &Grace (R) (S). 4.25 Will &Grace (R) (S). 5.00 The Simpsons (R) (S). 5.30 Futurama (R) (S).

6.00 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records (S). 6.35 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records (S). 7.00 The Cabins (S). 8.00 Love Bites (S). 9.00 Love Bites (S). 10.00 Dress To Impress (S). 11.00 Dress To Impress (S). 12.00 Rolling In It: Christmas Special (S). 1.00 Family Fortunes (S). 2.00 Catchphrase (S). 2.50 One Tree Hill (S). 4.00 Chuck (S). 5.00 Chuck (S).

theft(S). 8.35 Everybody

6.00 Classic Coronation Street (S). 6.35 Classic Coronation Street (S). 7.00 Classic Emmerdale (S). 7.35 Classic Emmerdale (S). 8.05 Man About The House (S). 8.35 Man About The House (S). 9.10 The Darling Buds Of May (S). 10.25 The Darling Buds Of May (S). 11.35 Heartbeat (S). 12.35 Heartbeat (S). 1.40 Classic Emmerdale (S). 2.15 Classic Emmerdale (S). 2.50 Classic Coronation Street (S). 3.20 Classic Coronation Street (S). 3.50 ATouchOfFrost (S).

8.55 Kirstie’s Vintage Gems (S). 9.15 APlace In The Sun (S). 10.05 APlace In The Sun (S). 11.05 Find It, Fix It, Flog It (S). 12.05 Find It, Fix It, Flog It (S). 1.10 Heir Hunters (S). 2.10 Heir Hunters (S). 3.10 Four In ABed (S). 3.40 Four In ABed (S). 4.15 Four In ABed (S). 4.50 Four In A Bed (S). 5.20 Four In ABed (S). 5.55 Escape To The Chateau: DIY (S).

(S)

7.00 Christmas University Challenge The last two teams standing do battle for the series title (S).

7.30 TopOfThe Pops (S).

8.00 TopOfThe Pops: Christmas 1993 Featuring Take That, 2 Unlimited, the Bluebells, Gabrielle and MPeople (S).

9.00Fleetwood Mac: Don’t Stop Aprofile of the rock band (R) (S).

8.00 ALeague Of TheirOwn Christmas Special 2022 Afestive edition, with Tony Bellew,Eve Muirhead, John Barnes and David Seaman (R).

9.00 Micky Flanagan –An’ Another Fing Live Astand-up show recorded at London’s O2 Arena (R) (S).

10.00 Fleetwood Mac: The Dance A1997 live performance by the band (S).

11.45 Fleetwood Mac: A Musical History Fans celebrate the group’s success (S).

12.45 CountryMusic By KenBurns (S). 1.40Country Music By KenBurns (S). 2.30 Fleetwood Mac: Don’t Stop (R) (S). 3.30 Close

11.00 Never Mind The Buzzcocks Christmas Special (R) (S).

7.55 Grand Designs Restoring a100-yearold blacksmiths in Co Antrim (S).

9.00

24 Hours In A&E A man comes in having severed three of his fingers with an electric saw (S).

10.00

11.05

12.10 8Out

BBC RADIO 1 6.33am Radio 1’sBestNew Pop. 6.57 Newsbeat 7.00 Radio 1Breakfast With Greg James. 10.00 Radio 1Anthems. 10.30 Newsbeat 10.32 Radio 1Anthems. 11.02 KatieThistleton. 12.45pm Newsbeat 1.00 Matt And Jamie. 3.00 Radio 1’s PartyAnthems. 4.00 The Official Chart On Radio 1WithJack Saunders. 5.45 Newsbeat 6.00 Radio 1’sDance PartyWithDanny Howard. 8.00 Radio 1’s Future Dance With Sarah Story. 10.00 Pete Tong. 12mdn’t Radio 1’sEssential Mix. 2.00 Radio 1Dance Presents. 3.00 Danny Howard 4.00 Radio 1’s Wind Down Presents 5.00 Radio 1Relax-X1. BBC RADIO 2 6.30am The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show 9.30 KenBruce 12noon Jeremy Vine. 2.00 Scott Mills. 3.30 Scott Mills’WonderYears. 4.00 SaraCox 7.00 Michelle Visage. Aselection of hits from across thepop music genre. 8.30 MichelleVisage’s Handbag Hits. Feelgood party classics. 9.00 TheGood Groove WithDJ Spoony.Joyful floor fillers, soulful house and lyrical garagetunes. 11.00 TheRock ShowWithJohnnie Walker. 12mdn’t Romesh Ranganathan: ForThe Love Of Hip-Hop 1.00 Quincy Jones: FortyThousand Years Of Funk 2.00 Radio 2Unwinds WithAngela Griffin. 4.00 Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s Kitchen Disco. 5.00 Radio 2 In Concert: Shakin’ Stevens BBC RADIO 3 6.30am Breakfast. 9.00 Essential Classics. 12noon Composer Of The Week: LeokadiyaKashperova. 1.00 Radio 3Lunchtime Concert. 2.00 Afternoon Concert. 4.30 The ListeningService. 5.00 In Tune 7.00 In Tune Mixtape 7.30 Radio 3InConcert. Amusicaltake on Dickens’s AChristmas Carol. 10.00 TheVerb. 10.45 The Essay:Postcards From TheFloating Coast 11.00 Late Junction. 1am UltimateCalm. 2.00 Ultimate Calm. 3.00 ThroughThe Night BBC RADIO 4 6am Today 8.31 (LW) Yesterday In Parliament 9.00 DesertIslandDiscs 9.45 (LW) Daily Service 9.45 (FM)Book Of TheWeek: AHeartThat Works. 10.00 Woman’s Hour 11.00 The TruthAbout Jazz. 11.30 Un te 12noon News. 12.01 (LW) Shipping Forecast. 12.04 HowSantaStole Christmas 12.57 Weather 1.00 The World At One. 1.45 Please Protect Abraham. 2.00 The Archers 2.15 Drama:Tom Clancy’s Splinter Cell: Firewall 2.45 Why Do We Do That? 3.00 Gardeners’ Question Time. 3.45 Short Works 4.00 LastWord. 4.30 Feedback. 5.00 PM. 5.54 (LW) Shipping Forecast. 5.57 Weather. 6.00 Six O’ClockNews. 6.30 DeadRingers. 7.00 The Archers. 7.15 Screenshot. Ellen EJones and Mark Kermode investigatewhodunnits. 8.00 AnyQuestions? Topica discussion from Compton Verney,Warwickshire 8.50 APointOfView 9.00 Past Forward: ACentury Of Sound. Omnibus episode. Last in the series. 10.00 The World Tonight. 10.45 Book At Bedtime: ATownCalled Solace. 11.00 Americast. 11.30 TodayInParliament 12mdn’t News And Weather 12.30 BookOfThe Week: AHeartThat Works 12.48 ShippingForecast. 1.00 As BBCWorld Service. 5.20 Shipping Forecast. 5.30 News Briefing. 5.43 Prayer ForThe Day. 5.45 Four Thought. BBC RADIO 4EXTRA 6am Detective. 6.30 TheBlackburn Files. 7.00 The Crossway. 7.15 APassage To India. 7.30 Romance And Adventure. 8.00 Parsley Sidings. 8.30 Married. 9.00 Act Your Age. 9.30 Bleak Expectations. 10.00 Julie And The Prince. 11.00 Detective. 11.30 The BlackburnFiles. 12noon TheCrossway 12.15 A Passage To India 12.30 Romance AndAdventure. 1.00 Parsley Sidings. 1.30 Married. 2.00 Act Your Age 2.30 Bleak Expectations 3.00 JulieAnd ThePrince. 4.00 Detective. 4.30 TheBlackburnFiles 5.00 The Crossway 5.15 APassage To India 5.30 Romance And Adventure. 6.00 Parsley Sidings. 6.30 Married 7.00 Act Your Age. 7.30 Bleak Expectations. 8.00 GhostStoriesFrom Theatreland. 8.30 Be My Guest. 9.00 Unreal: ACritical History Of Reality TV 9.50 David Attenborough’s Life Stories 10.00 Comedy Club. 10.00 ComedyClub:The Confessional. 10.30 Comedy Club: The Cariad Radio Show. 11.00 Comedy Club:PennyDreadfuls:BrothersFaversham. 12mdn’t Doctor Who: The WarDoctor 1.00 Julie And The Prince. 2.00 Detective 2.30 The BlackburnFiles. 3.00 TheCrossway 3.15 APassage To India 3.30 RomanceAnd Adventure. 4.00 Parsley Sidings. 4.30 Married. 5.00 ActYourAge. 5.30 Bleak Expectations. BBC 5LIVE 6am 5LiveBreakfast 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 11.00 Chiles On Friday. 1pm Kammy &Ben’s Proper Football Podcast. 1.30 Kammy &Ben’sProper Football Podcast. 2.00 Elis James And John Robins 4.00 5LiveDrive. 7.00 5Live Sport: TheFriday Football Social. 8.30 Match Of TheDay: Top10. 9.00 5Live Sport 10.00 Stephen Nolan. 1am LauraMcGhie. 5.00 5Live Boxing. BBC 6MUSIC 7.30am Lauren Laverne. 10.30 Jamz Supernova. 1pm Craig Charles. 4.00 Steve Lamacq 7.00 The People’s PartyWith DJ Paulette. 9.00 TomRavenscroft. 11.00 TheRavers Hour 12mdn’t 6Music’s Indie Forever 1.00 6Music’sEmo Forever 2.00 Focus Beats 4.00 AmbientFocus CLASSIC FM 6am More Music Breakfast. 9.00 Alexander Armstrong. 12noon Anne-Marie Minhall 4 00 John Brunning 7.00 Smooth ClassicsAtSeven. 10.00 Smooth Classics. 1am Katie Breathwick. 4.00 Sam Pittis. ABSOLUTE RADIO 6am Dave Berry 10.00 LeonaGraham. 1pm Ben Burrell. 4.00 Bush AndRichie. 7.00 Absolute80s Greatest Hits With Claire Sturgess 10 00 SophieK 4am Ross Buchanan. December16 BIRMINGHAM CITY V READING Sky Sports MainEvent, 8.00pm Paragraph style like this, use best terrestrial main choice copy 500 word feature to fill text bo FRIDAY 41

STRICTLYCOME DANCING: THE FINAL

BBC1, 7.05pm

In theory,2022 has seen Strictly Come Dancing get back to business as usual.

During the previous two years, some changes had to be introduced due to Covid restrictions, but for this 20th series, the show once again had afull studio audience, and was also able to make apilgrimage to Blackpool, the spiritual home of ballroom.

That doesn’t mean that the current run, which concludes tonight, has been predictable. Not only have viewers had the added excitement of guessing what night it was going to be on as the quarter and semi-finals were moved around the schedules by the football, we’ve also had plenty of surprises thanks to the public vote.

The hotly tipped likes of Molly Rainford and Fleur East found themselves making regular visits to the bottom two, even in weeks when they had scored highly with the judges, while Tony Adams and Ellie Taylor both lasted considerably longer than their marks may have suggested.

There was also anew themeweek this time around with an episode celebrating the BBC’s centenary –although seeing how hampered some of the couples were by the music they were given, quite afew fans will be hoping we don’t see that repeated in the future.

However,asAnton Du Beke, who hasbeen with Strictly since the very beginning, would point out, the show has changed alot since it first began, even if viewers haven’t always noticed. He says: “The show has evolved, there hasn’t been arevolution or amassive change. We started with eight couples and now we have 15. We didn’t have group numbers in the early days. Theshow has just sort of gently moved on and on.”

Even his role has evolved –hebegan as a professional dancer,and is now ajudge, achanged

that he hasembraced. “I’m loving judging on Strictly Come Dancing, it’s incredible. Idowatch some of the pros do the numbers and get abit of dance envy, thinking Iwish Icould have been apart of that. But judging is so much easier on the knees.”

He’ll be offering his scores again tonight as the finalists take to the floor to perform aroutine of their own choosing, one decided by the judges and a final show dance. There’s not quite so much pressure on him and his fellow experts Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood and Motsi Mabuse though, as tonight their marks are for guidance only –it’s the viewers who decide who lifts the glitterball trophy

Last year,the public voted for Rose Ayling-Ellis in what was one of the most emotional finals theshow hasever seen. As Anton says: “It’s difficult to think about last year’s series without thinking about Rose and her incredible journey.Ithink the dance her and Giovanni won the BAFTA for was extraordinary,and there were other extraordinary moments through her Strictly journey.”

Will we be in for any equally moving moments tonight as the couples battle it out?

6.00 Breakfast (S). 10.00 Saturday Kitchen Live: Countdown To Christmas (S). 11.30 MaryBerry’s Festive Feasts (R) (S). 12.30 Rick Stein’s Cornish Christmas (R) (S). 1.00 BBC News; Weather (S). 1.15 Bargain Hunt (R) (S). 2.00 MOTD World Cup Top10: Winners (S).

2.30 MOTD Live: Fifa World Cup 2022 Coverage of the third-place play-off.Kick-off is at 3pm (S).

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7.10 Shaun The Sheep (R) (S).

7.15 Danger Mouse (S). 7.40

Odd Squad (R) (S). 7.50 Odd Squad (R) (S). 8.05 One Zoo Three (R) (S). 8.25 Malory Towers (R) (S). 8.55 Malory Towers (R) (S). 9.20 Blue Peter (R) (S). 9.45 Deadly Pole To Pole (R) (S). 10.15 Reindeer Family & Me (R) (S). 11.15 FILM: Summer Holiday (Peter Yates 1963) (S).

1.00 TopOfThe Shop With TomKerridge (R) (S). 2.00 The AToZOfTVCooking (R) (S).

2.20 FILM: Meet Me In St Louis (Vincente Minnelli 1944) (S).

4.10 FILM: Move Over,Darling (Michael Gordon 1963) (S). 5.50

Remarkable Places To Eat At Christmas (R) (S).

6.00 CITV 9.25 James Martin’s Saturday Morning At Christmas (S). 11.35 John And Lisa’s Christmas Kitchen (S). 12.30 ITV News; Weather (S). 12.40 Live Champions Cup Rugby Exeter Chiefs vs Bulls. Kick-off is at 1pm (S). 3.30 FILM: About ABoy (Paul Weitz, Chris Weitz 2002) Romantic comedy,starring Hugh Grant and Toni Collette (S). 5.30 Celebrity Catchphrase (S).

ITV News; Weather (S).

ITV Regional News; Weather (S).

Tipping Point: Lucky Stars Christmas Special With Len Goodman, Josie Gibson and Mr Motivator (S).

FILM: Quantum Of Solace (2008) James Bond thriller,starring Daniel Craig (S).

John Wilson (R) (S).

John Wilson (R) (S).

Is BBC Two (S).

10.05 The Jonathan Ross Christmas Show With Michael McIntyre, Minnie Driver,Gordon Ramsay,Big Zuu and Adam Lambert(S).

11.05 ITV News; Weather (S). 11.20 English Football League Highlights Action from the latest fixtures (S).

1.15 Shop: Ideal World 3.00 Unwind With ITV (S). 4.15 Love Your Weekend With Alan Titchmarsh (R) (S).

6.15 FILM: Capture The Flag

(Enrique Gato 2015) Animated sci-fi adventure, with the voice of Sam Fink (S). 7.50 The Simpsons (R) (S). 8.15 The Simpsons (R) (S). 8.45 The Simpsons (R) (S).

9.10 The Simpsons (R) (S). 9.40 The Simpsons (R) (S). 10.10 The Simpsons (R) (S). 10.40 The Simpsons (R) (S). 11.10 Couples Come Dine With Me (R) (S).

12.10 FILM: Christmas Encore (Bradley Walsh 2017) (S). 1.55

Four In ABed (R) (S). 2.25 Four In ABed (R) (S). 2.55 Four In A Bed (R) (S). 3.30 Four In ABed (R) (S). 4.00 Four In ABed (R) (S). 4.30 Channel 4News (S).

5.00 The Snowman: The Film That Changed Christmas (S).

6.00 Milkshake! 10.00 SpongeBob SquarePants (S). 10.15 SpongeBob SquarePants (R) (S). 10.30 Entertainment News On 5 (S). 10.40 Friends (R) (S). 11.10 FILM: Jumanji (Joe Johnston 1995) Fantasy adventure, starring Robin Williams (S). 1.15 FILM: AGingerbread Christmas (Pat Kiley 2022) Premiere. Romantic drama. starring Tiya Sircar (S). 3.10 FILM: Once Upon AChristmas Miracle (GaryYates 2018) Drama, starring Aimee Teegarden (S). 5.05 Strictly Come Dancing’s Greatest Moments (R) (S).

6.00 Big Beasts: Last Of The Giants (R) (S). 7.00 Big Beasts: Last Of The Giants (R) (S). 8.00 Big Beasts: Last Of The Giants (R) (S). 9.00 The Simpsons (R) (S). 9.30 The Simpsons (R) (S). 10.00 The Simpsons (R) (S). 10.30 Soccer AM Jimmy Bullard and John Fendley are joined by guests from the world of sports and entertainment for the Saturday morning institution. 12.00

Football’s Funniest Moments (R) (S). 2.00 Cinderella: After Ever After (R) (S). 3.00 The Simpsons (R) (S). 3.30 The Simpsons (R) (S). 4.00 The Simpsons (R) (S). 4.30 The Simpsons (R) (S). 5.00 The Simpsons (R) (S). 5.30 The Simpsons (R) (S).

6.00 Totally Bonkers Guinness World Records Christmas Special (S). 6.35 Coronation Street Omnibus (S). 9.25 Love Bites (S). 10.25 Dress To Impress (S). 11.25 Dress To Impress (S). 12.30 Celebrity Catchphrase: Christmas Special (S). 1.25 Family Fortunes (S). 2.30 Donkey’s Caroling Christmas-tacular (S). 2.40 The Madagascar Penguins In AChristmas Caper (S). 2.55 Kung Fu Panda Holiday (S). 3.30

FILM: Mr Popper’s Penguins (Mark Waters 2011) Family comedy,starring Jim Carrey (S). 5.20 FILM: The Grinch (Yarrow Cheney,Scott Mosier 2018) (S).

6.00 Man About The House (S). 6.40 FILM: Mutiny On The Buses (Harry Booth 1972) Comedy, starring RegVarney (S). 8.20 Man About The House (S). 8.55 Agatha Christie’s Poirot (S). 10.05 Agatha Christie’s Poirot (S). 11.10 Lewis (S). 1.10 Midsomer Murders (S). 3.05 Midsomer Murders (S). 5.00 Midsomer Murders (S).

8.55 APlace In The Sun (S). 9.55

APlace In The Sun (S). 11.00

APlace In The Sun (S). 12.00

Location, Location, Location (S). 1.00 Come Dine With Me (S). 1.35 Come Dine With Me (S).

2.05 Come Dine With Me (S).

2.35 Come Dine With Me (S). 3.10 Come Dine With Me (S). 3.40 Four In ABed (S). 4.10 Four In ABed (S). 4.45 Four In ABed (S). 5.15 Four In ABed (S). 5.50 Four In ABed (S).

7.00

7.35

7.00 Winter Walks (S).

7.30 Iceland: Land Of Ice And Fire –Natural World The volcanic fires of Iceland (S).

7.00Live

7.05 FILM: Bruce Almighty (2003) Comedy, starring Jim Carrey and Morgan Freeman (S).

7.00 Midsomer Murders

Rivalries behind the scenes at atouring dance show lead to murder (S).

7.25 Come Dine With Me DJ Denver hosts the third evening in Leeds (S).

7.55 Come Dine With Me (S).

9.00 FILM: Knives Out (2019) Comedy mystery, starring Daniel Craig (S).

9.35

9.30 FILM: Made In Dagenham (2010) Fact-based comedy drama, starring Sally Hawkins (S).

11.30

11.30

BBC RADIO 4EXTRA

9.00 FILM: Horrible Bosses 2 (2014) Comedy, starring Jason Bateman (S).

9.00 Midsomer Murders Barnaby and Winter investigate when a beekeeper is attacked (S).

9.00 24 Hours In A&E Ateenage aspiring Olympian fractures his pelvis (S).

Christmas At Warwick Castle Part two of two.

Historian Melissa Perry helps decorate the castle’s historic Daisy sleigh (R) (S).

Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders Inspector Anton Sullivan follows a white van being driven erratically (R) (S)

Fight Night Chris Billam-Smith vs Armen Xhoxhaj (R).

The Best Christmas Day Telly Ever! Alook at what makes up the ideal festive viewing schedule (S).

FILM: The Firm (1993) Thriller,starring Tom Cruise (S).

Britain’s Favourite Christmas Adverts Julian Claryrevisits memorable festivethemed advertisements (R) (S).

YesMinister Christmas special. Hacker runs for prime minister.Last in the series (S).

Never Mind The Buzzcocks Christmas Special (R) (S).

Family Guy Peter is asked to fill in for amall Santa (S).

Family Guy (S).

Agatha Christie’s Poirot An actress’s estranged husband is murdered (S).

8Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown With Henning Wehn and Victoria Coren Mitchell (S).

HIS DARK MATERIALS

BBC One, 7.00pm

It’s been along wait –over two years –but viewers are finally about to see what’s next for Lyra, Will, Lord Asriel and Mrs Coulter

The previous entry in Philip Pullman’s trilogy,The Subtle Knife, ended on acliffhanger,with prophesied child Lyra Belacqua (Dafne Keen) hidden in atrunk after being kidnapped by her mother Mrs Coulter (Ruth Wilson).

Meanwhile, the bearer of theknife, Will Parry (Amir Wilson), is embarking on anew mission based on his father’s dying wish.

With all that going on, Lord Asriel (James MacAvoy) has also called upon the angels to help him wage awar against the Kingdom of Heaven.

The delayed final series, based on the third novel The Amber Spyglass, opens with Lyra dreaming and finding herself in amysterious place with someone familiar –Roger (Lewin Lloyd).

Ayoung girl, Ama (Amber Fitzgerald-Woolfe), arrives at Mrs Coulter’s derelict hideaway,and asks Mrs Coulter why she is there.

Mrs Coulter shows her Lyra, claiming an enchanter has placed her under asleeping spell. But Ama has no idea that Lyra is being kept there against her will.

Seventeen-year-old Dafne explains what she thinks are the main themes across this season, and what audiences have to look forward to.

“Firstly,I’d say love,” she says. “Whether that’s family love, friendship, romantic love, or love of faith.

“I’d also say death and beliefs are amain part of the season too.

“I also think this series feels much bigger.There are so many more storylines and so many more characters.

“I think in the first two seasons, audiences are figuring out the world around Lyra, Will, Mrs Coulter,Asriel and everyone, whereas now,the premise has been set,so people can understand what’s happening.

“In this world that Philip Pullman created, there are lots of different worlds, there are daemons, there are worlds without daemons, there’s Metatron, there’s the concept of God that he’s created, and it’s navigating through that and understanding that better.”

With Lyra being held captive by Mrs Coulter,Will continues his quest to find her.

But as he scours the worlds, he is being pursued by two angels.

In another world, Asriel continues his recruitment drive for his war against the Authority,using his Intention Craft to breakresistance leader,Commander Ogunwe (Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje), out of prison.

Later,Willconfronts the angels following him, and discovers they wish him to take his knife to Asriel, to help him in his war

They strike adeal –if Will promises to take the knife to Asriel, the angel Balthamos (Kobna Holdbrook-Smith) will help him find Lyra.

At the Magisterium’s HQ in Geneva, ‘Father President’ MacPhail (Will Keen) meets adevoted young priest, Father Gomez (Jamie Ward), and instructs him to personally retrieve Lyra –using whatever force necessary

In the north of Lyra’s world, Will comes across Iorek causing destruction at aPort Town and enlists his help in the search for Lyra.

Pullman’s award-winning trilogy is considered amodern masterpiece of imaginative fiction and has sold over 18 million copies worldwide.

This BBC/HBOTVadaptation has also been ahuge success, and over the next few weeks, the much-loved characters are about to get the perfect send-off

6.00 Breakfast (S). 9.00 Sunday

With Laura Kuenssberg (S). 10.00 Politics England (S). 10.30

My Life At Christmas With Sally Phillips (S). 11.30 Homes Under The Hammer (R) (S). 12.00 Bargain Hunt (R) (S). 1.00 BBC News; Weather (S). 1.15 Songs Of Praise (S). 1.50 Lifeline (S). 2.00 MOTD Live: Fifa World Cup 2022 The final. Kick-off is at 3pm (S). 5.45 BBC News (S).

6.20 Gardeners’ World Winter Specials (R) (S). 7.20 Countryfile (R) (S). 8.15 Landward (S). 8.45

This Farming Life (R) (S). 9.45 Saturday Kitchen Best Bites (S). 11.15 The HairyBikers’ ComfortFood (R) (S). 11.45

Rick Stein’s Cornish Christmas (R) (S). 12.15 Olympia: London Horse Show The fourth day of the Olympia International Horse Show (S). 2.45 Flog It! (R) (S).

3.10 The Secret Life Of Mary Poppins: ACulture Show Special (R) (S). 4.10 FILM: Saving Mr Banks (John Lee Hancock 2013)

Fact-based drama, with Emma Thompson and TomHanks (S).

6.00 CITV 9.25 ITV News (S). 9.30 Love Your Weekend With Alan Titchmarsh (S). 11.25 Love Your Garden (R) (S). 11.55 ITV News; Weather (S). 12.00 English Football League Highlights (R) (S). 2.00 Fifa World Cup 2022

Final Live coverage of the final. Kick-off is at 3pm (S). 5.30 The Chase Celebrity Special (R) (S).

10.00 FILM: AStar Is Born (2018) Drama, starring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper (S). 12.10 QI (R) (S). 12.40 Idles At 6Music Festival 2022 (S). 2.00 Mykki Blanco At 6Music Festival 2022 (S). 2.50 Sign Zone: Question Time (R) (S). 3.40 This Is BBC Two (S).

6.30 ITV News; Weather (S). 6.45 ITV Regional News; Weather (S).

7.00 Alan Carr’s Epic Gameshow Christmas Special The comedian hosts afestive edition of Child’s Play (S).

8.00 Britain’s Got Talent: The Ultimate Magician Stephen Mulhern hosts as 10 illusionists compete to win £50,000 (S).

10.00 ITV News; Weather (S). 10.20 Michael Bublé’s Christmas In The City (R) (S).

11.15 Chris Kamara: Lost ForWords The former footballer finds out about apraxia of speech (R) (S).

12.20 Shop: Ideal World 3.00 MotorsportUK (R) (S). 3.50 Unwind With ITV (S). 5.35 James Martin’s Great British Adventure (R) (S).

HIGHLANDER

(BBC1, 12.00am)

Aband of immortal warriors pit themselves against each other through the centuries, ultimately clashing in New York City in adramatic final showdown from which there can be only one survivor.Ifyou can stand the constant chopping and changing between centuries and some questionable accents, this fantasy adventure starring Christopher Lambertand Sean Connery(both pictured) is great fun. It’s Lambert’s finest hour,and a genuine cult classic, with some top Eighties songs to boot, courtesy of Queen.

SAVING MR BANKS

(BBC2, 4.10pm)

Decades after MaryPoppins first charmed cinema audiences, RobertStevenson’s film continues to cast aspell. Australian-bornBritish novelist

PL Travers, who penned the series of books on which the film was based, famously rebuffed Walt Disney’s efforts to purchase the rights for more than 20 years. That infamous tug-of-war between the writer and Hollywood filmmaker is recreated in this witty comedy starring Emma Thompson.

Sport 6.15 FILM: TadThe Lost Explorer And The Secret Of King Midas (David Alonso 2017) Animated adventure, with the voice of Oscar

Barberan

6.00 Milkshake! 9.30 Entertainment News On 5 (S). 9.35 NFL End Zone (S). 10.00

Friends (R) (S). 10.30 FILM: AGospel Christmas (Erica CSutherlin 2021) Premiere. Romantic drama, starring Demetria McKinney (S). 12.20

FILM: CountryRoadsChristmas (Marco Deufemia 2022) Premiere. Drama, starring Lanie McAuley (S). 2.15 FILM: My Christmas Family Tree (Jason Bourque 2021) Premiere. Drama, starring Aimee Teegarden (S). 4.05 FILM: AMerryBerryChristmas (LindaLisa Hayter 2020) (S). 5.50 FILM: The Italian Job (Peter Collinson 1969) Crime comedy,starring Michael Caine (S).

6.00 Extreme Animals: One Wild Day (R) (S). 9.00 The Simpsons (R) (S). 9.30 The Simpsons (R) (S). 10.00 The Christmas Letter (R) (S). 10.30 FILM: How To Train Your Dragon: Homecoming (Tim Johnson 2019) (R) (S). 11.00 FILM: Extinct (David Silverman, Raymond SPersi 2021) (R) (S). 12.45 The Simpsons (R) (S). 1.10 The Simpsons (R) (S). 1.35 The Simpsons (R) (S). 2.00 The Simpsons (R) (S). 2.30 The Simpsons (R) (S). 3.00 Great Barrier Reef With David Attenborough (R) (S).

6.00 Unwind With ITV (S). 6.20 Love Bites (S). 7.20 Love Bites (S). 8.10 Dress To Impress (S). 9.10 Dress To Impress (S). 10.10 Dress To Impress (S). 11.10 In ForA Christmas Penny (S). 11.55 Alan Carr’s Epic Gameshow Christmas Special (S). 12.55 Celebrity Catchphrase: Christmas Special (S). 1.55 MerryMadagascar (S). 2.25 FILM: Trolls Holiday (Joel Crawford 2017) (S). 3.00 FILM: Smallfoot (Karey Kirkpatrick 2018) Animated adventure, with the voice of Channing Tatum (S). 4.50 FILM: Arthur Christmas (Sarah Smith, Barry Cook 2011) Animated comedy,with the voice of James McAvoy (S).

6.00 Man About The House (S). 6.35 Emmerdale Omnibus (S). 9.25 Man About The House (S). 9.55 Midsomer Murders (S). 11.55 Midsomer Murders (S). 1.55 Midsomer Murders (S). 3.55 Midsomer Murders (S). 5.55 FILM: AChristmas Carol (Clive Donner 1984) Dickens’ classic tale, starring George C Scott (S).

8.55 Amazing Spaces Snow And Ice Special (S). 9.55 Amazing Spaces Winter Wonderland (S). 11.00 Amazing Spaces: Northern Lights Adventure (S). 12.00

Come Dine With Me (S). 12.35

Come Dine With Me (S). 1.05

Come Dine With Me (S). 1.40

Come Dine With Me (S). 2.10

Come Dine With Me (S). 2.40 Four In ABed (S). 3.15 Four In A Bed (S). 3.50 Four In ABed (S).

4.20 Four In ABed (S). 4.50 Four In ABed (S). 5.25 Come Dine

7.00 The Perfect Morecambe &Wise (S).

7.30 The Perfect Morecambe &Wise Christmas Special (S).

9.30 The

10.35

11.50

12.50

6.00 FILM: The Polar Express (2004) Animated adventure, with the voice of Tom Hanks (R) (S). 9.00 FILM: Love Actually (2003) Romantic comedy,with Hugh Grant and Martine McCutcheon (S). 11.40 Family Guy Brian is accused of ruining Mayor West’s nativity scene (S). 12.10 Family Guy (S). 12.40 Family Guy (S). 1.10 American Dad! (S).

8.00 Predators Acommunity of polar bears struggle to survive. 9.00 FILM: Batman vs Superman: Dawn Of Justice (2016) Superhero adventure, starring Ben Affleck and HenryCavill (R)(S). 11.45 ALeague Of TheirOwn Christmas Special 2022 Afestive edition, with Tony Bellew,Eve Muirhead, John Barnes and David Seaman (R). 12.45 Micky Flanagan’s Christmas (R) (S). 1.45 Saturday Night Live (R). 3.10 Street Crime UK (R) (S). 3.40 Street Crime UK (R) (S). 4.05 Will &Grace (R) (S). 4.30 Will &Grace (R) (S). 5.00 Will &Grace (R) (S). 5.30 Will &Grace (R) (S).

8.00

6.25 Come Dine With Me

Celebrity Christmas Special (S). 6.55 Come Dine With Me

7.30 Come Dine With Me

Celebrity Christmas Special Margi Clarke hosts the final dinner party in Liverpool (S).

1.35 American Dad! (S). 2.05 All American (S). 3.00 Teleshopping

10.00

11.50

1.55 Man

2.30 Man

3.00

8.00 Emergency Helicopter Medics Acrew battles bad weather to reach an injured hill-walker (S). 9.00 999: On The Front Line The construction of a summer house goes badly wrong (S). 10.00 24 Hours In A&E A law student is treated for acondition that causes his ribs to grow inwardly (S). 11.05 Emergency Helicopter Medics Acrew battles bad weather to reach an injured hill-walker (S). 12.10 999: On The Front Line (S). 1.15 24 Hours In A&E (S). 2.20 Emergency Helicopter Medics (S). 3.25 Food Unwrapped (S). 3.50 Close

BBC RADIO 1 6am Radio 1’sChillout Anthems. 7.00 Sam And Danni. 10.00 Radio 1Anthems. 10.30 Newsbeat. 10.32 Radio 1Anthems. 11.02 Radio 100s With Nat O’Leary. 1pm MattAnd Jamie 4.00 Radio 1’sLife Hacks. 6.00 The Official Chart:First Look On Radio 1. 7.00 Radio 1’s ChillestShow. 9.00 Radio 1’sIndie ShowWithJack Saunders. 11.00 BBCIntroducingOn Radio 1. 12mdn’t Radio 1’sFuture SoulWithVictoria Jane 1.30 Radio 1’s UK R&B Mix. 2.00 Radio 1’s Decompression Session 3.00 Radio 1’s Chill Mix. 3.30 Radio 1’s Motivate Me Mix. 4.00 Radio 1Dance. 5.00 Radio 1Early Breakfast With Arielle Free BBC RADIO 2 6am Good MorningSunday. 9.00 Steve Wright’s Sunday LoveSongs 11.00 TheMichael Ball Show. 1pm Elaine Paige On Sunday. 3.00 Sounds Of The 70s With Johnnie Walker 5.00 RobBeckett. 7.00 Tony Blackburn’s Golden Hour.Popular music from the past 50 years. 8.00 SundayNight Is MusicNight. AWest End Christmas Extravaganza. 10.00 Radio 2 Unwinds WithAngelaGriffin. 11.00 Radio 2Unwinds WithAngela Griffin. 12mdn’t OJ Borg. 2.30 One Hit WondersWithOJBorg 3.00 Alternative SoundsOf The 90s WithDermot O’Leary 4.00 Early Breakfast Show BBC RADIO 3 7am Breakfast. 9.00 Christmas Around Europe. 3pm Choral Evensong 4.00 ChristmasAround Europe 11.00 Keelan Carew’s Piano Odyssey 12mdn’t Classical Fix 12.30 Through TheNight BBC RADIO 4 6am News Headlines. 6.05 Something Understood. 6.35 Natural Histories 6.57 Weather 7.00 News; Sunday Papers. 7.10 Sunday 7.54 Radio 4Appeal. 7.57 Weather 8.00 News; Sunday Papers 8.10 SundayWorship. 8.48 APoint Of View. 8.58 Tweet Of The Day 9.00 Broadcasting House. 10.00 The Archers. 11.15 Desert Island Discs. 12noon News. 12.01 (LW) Shipping Forecast 12.04 I’m Sorry I Haven’t AClue. 12.30 The Food Programme. 12.57 Weather 1.00 The WorldThisWeekend. 1.30 Faith In Music. 2.00 Gardeners’ Question Time 2.45 Property Of The BBC. 3.00 Drama: StarChild. 4.00 OpenBook 4.30 Edward ThomasAnd TheSong Of ThePath. 5.00 What’s ATory? 5.40 Profile 5.54 Shipping Forecast 5.57 Weather 6.00 SixO’Clock News. 6.15 Pick Of The Week.Catherine Bott presents highlights of the past seven days. 7.00 TheArchers. 7.15 TheConfessional. 7.45 Voices In TheValley 8.00 Feedback. 8.30 Last Word. 9.00 Money Box 9.25 Radio 4Appeal. 9.30 Britain’s Communist Thread. 10.00 TheWestminsterHour 11.00 Loose Ends. 11.30 Something Understood. 12mdn’t News And Weather 12.15 ContainsStrongLanguage LiveFrom Birmingham 12.45 BellsOnSunday 12.48 Shipping Forecast. 1.00 As BBCWorld Service. 5.20 Shipping Forecast. 5.30 NewsBriefing. 5.43 Prayer ForThe Day. 5.45 FarmingToday 5.58 Tweet Of The Day BBC RADIO 4EXTRA 6am Poetry Extra. 6.30 The Crossway Omnibus. 7.40 Inheritance Tracks. 7.50 APassage To India Omnibus 9.00 Stilgoe’s Around 9.30 SomethingTo Shout About. 10.00 Desert Island Discs. 10.30 Close Up:Agatha Christie. 11.00 Poetry Extra 11.30 The Crossway Omnibus. 12.40pm Inheritance Tracks. 12.50 APassage To India Omnibus. 2.00 Stilgoe’s Around 2.30 SomethingToShout About. 3.00 Desert Island Discs. 3.30 Close Up:Agatha Christie. 4.00 AlgernonBlackwood –The Camp Of The Dog. 4.45 The Waxwork. 5.00 PoetryExtra 5.30 TheCrossway Omnibus 6.40 Inheritance Tracks 6.50 APassage To IndiaOmnibus. 8.00 Stilgoe’sAround. 8.30 Something To Shout About. 9.00 DesertIsland Discs. 9.30 Close Up: Agatha Christie. 10.00 ComedyClub 10.00 Comedy Club:ElectricInk 10.30 Comedy Club: Son Of Cliche. 11.00 Comedy Club: OldHarry’s Game. 11.30 Comedy Club: The Clemmie HartYears 12mdn’t PoetryExtra. 12.30 TheCrossway Omnibus. 1.40 InheritanceTracks. 1.50 APassage To India Omnibus. 3.00 Stilgoe’s Around 3.30 Something To Shout About. 4.00 Desert Island Discs. 4.30 CloseUp: Agatha Christie. 5.00 Rogue Herries. BBC 5LIVE 6am 5LiveScience. 7.00 Sunday Breakfast. 10.00 Helen Skelton. 12noon World Cup 2022 3.00 World Cup 2022 5.00 World Cup 2022. 6.00 6-0-6. 8.00 Kammy &Ben’s Proper Football Podcast. 8.30 DifferentWithNicky Campbell. 9.00 StephenNolan. 12mdn’t MomentOfTruth 12.35 If BlackburnSigned Zidane. 12.45 If BlackburnSignedZidane. 12.55 5 MinutesOn. 1.00 DotunAdebayo. 5.00 Wake Up To Money BBC 6MUSIC 6am Amy Lamé. 8.00 RadcliffeAnd Maconie. 10.00 Cerys Matthews. 1pm The First Time With Shabaka Hutchings 2.00 Guy Garvey’s Finest Hour 4.00 IggyPop. 6.00 NowPlaying @6Music 8.00 Stuart Maconie’s Freak Zone. 10.00 DonLetts’ Culture Clash Radio 12mdn’t TheHuey ShowPresents The HipHop Mixtape. 1.00 6Music’s Rave Forever 2.00 ThisIsUs –6 MusicAt20. 3.00 This Is Us –6Music At 20 4.00 TheBBC Introducing Mixtape. 5.00 The RemixWith Chris Hawkins. 5.30 Chris Hawkins. CLASSIC FM 7am Aled Jones. 10.00 John Brunning. 1pm Catherine Bott 4.00 John Humphrys. 6.30 Gaspard’s Christmas With Zeb Soanes. 7.00 ChristmasWithThe Bocellis 9.00 Moira StuartMeets –John Rutter 10.00 Smooth Classics. 1am Bill Overton 4.00 Early Breakfast. ABSOLUTE RADIO 8am Jason Manford. 11.00 Sarah Champion 2pm TheAfternoon Show 6.00 Request Show With Claire Sturgess. 8.00 Sunday Night Music Club 12mdn’t Emil Franchi. December18 LUTON TOWN V MILLWALL Sky Sports Main Event, 11.30am Live coverageofthe Championship match. SUNDAY 45

PAUL O’GRADY: FOR THE LOVE OF DOGS –A ROYALSPECIAL ITV1, 9.00pm

Battersea Dogs &Cats Home, now known simply as Battersea, is avery special place.

The animal rescue centre was established in Holloway in 1860 by Mary Tealby,who called it “The Temporary Home for Lost and Starving Dogs”.

Initially,The Times ran astory ridiculing the idea of opening ahome for dogs when there were homeless people in London.

But Tealby’s work eventually won manyadmirers, notably Charles Dickens, who wrote about a“remarkable institution” that had saved over athousand dogs in 1860.

In 1885, Queen Victoria became patron of the home, and it has remained under royal patronage ever since.

To mark its 150th anniversary in 2010, the charity’s London Cattery was opened by HRH the Duchess of Cornwall, and Royal Mail released aset of stamps featuring aseries of dogs and cats that had been adopted by staff Then, in 2015, Queen Elizabeth II unveiled aplaque to officially open the intake kennels named after their founder, Mary

Tonight, ITV is celebrating 160 years of Battersea with a one-off special episode of Paul O’Grady’s NTAand Baftawinning series.

The programme will feature Her Majesty The Queen Consort, along term supporter of Battersea and selfconfessed dog-lover,inher previous role as The Duchess of Cornwall helping Paul care for some of the abandoned dogs and hosting acelebratory event at Clarence House.

Last month, The Queen Consort shared details of her special relationship she has with Beth and Bluebell, two rescue Jack Russells she got from Battersea.

“Beth came from afamily who could no longer care for her and poor Bluebell had been found abandoned in the woods, three weeks old, starving, covered in sores, with a docked tail and just afew patches of fur

“Battersea nursed her back to health andIfell in love with her when Ivisited their brilliant centre in 2012.

“They are both colourful characters –and now Icannot imagine my life, my home or my sofas without them.”

The Queen Consort is now apatron of Battersea and she

joins Paul at its Brands Hatch site in Kent to celebrate the special anniversary

Together they meet some of the dogs struggling to be rehomed and assist with their treatment and care.

Paul and Her Majesty set about teaching ablind Jack Russell to find its way around, bathe and comfort dogs that were abandoned on the street, and attempt to find them a happy-ever-after home in time for Christmas.

TopofPaul’s rehoming list are agiant Schnauzer with alife-threatening gastric issue and apuppy with awill of steel, fighting all the odds to survive.

Battersea is currently incredibly busy due to an overwhelming number of dogs that are more difficult to rehome due to their older age, medical or behavioural issues.

Paul says: “In the 11 years that I’ve been filming at Battersea, I’ve never known it so busy

“What’s worrying is, there are alot of dogs in here who would be classed as hard to home. Dogs with disabilities, blind dogs, you name it, we’ve got them in hereatthe moment.”

With the situation becoming increasingly desperate, Paul turns to a“very special friend” for help in throwing a garden party to drum up interest –wewonder who that could be?

6.00 Breakfast (S). 9.15 Morning

Live At Christmas (S). 10.00

Animal Park Christmas Special 2022 (S). 10.45 ACountryside Winter (S). 11.15 Homes Under The Hammer (R) (S). 12.15 Bargain Hunt (S). 1.00 BBC News; Weather (S). 1.30 BBC Regional News; Weather (S).

1.45 Attenborough’s Wonder Of Song (R) (S). 2.45 FILM: Dolittle (Stephen Gaghan 2020) Fantasy adventure, starring Robert Downey Jr (S). 4.15 Gangsta Granny Strikes Again! (R) (S). 5.15 Pointless Celebrities (R) (S).

6.10 FILM: Christmas In Toyland (Bill Corcoran 2022) (S). 7.35

FILM: Baking All The Way (Yannick Bisson 2022) Romantic drama, starring CoryLee (S). 9.00 BBC News (S). 10.00 BBC News (S). 12.15 Politics Live (S).

1.00 Celebrity Eggheads (R) (S).

1.30 FILM: TeaWith Mussolini (Franco Zeffirelli 1999) Period comedy drama, starring Maggie Smith and Judi Dench (S). 3.20

FILM: The Young Victoria (JeanMarc Vallee 2009) Historical drama, starring Emily Blunt (S).

5.00 The TwoRonniesChristmas Sketchbook (R) (S). 5.30 FILM: Porridge (Dick Clement 1979) Prison comedy,starring Ronnie Barker (S).

6.00 Good Morning Britain (S). 9.00 Lorraine (S). 10.00 This Morning (S). 12.30 Loose Women (S). 1.30 ITV News; Weather (S). 1.55 ITV Regional News; Weather (S). 2.00 In ForAChristmas Penny (R) (S). 2.45 FILM: Back To The Future (RobertZemeckis 1985) Sci-fi comedy adventure, starring Michael JFox (S). 5.00 The Chase (R) (S).

Street Spider digs for information on the identity of Griff’s financial backer (S).

Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs –A Royal Special Camilla, Queen Consort, joins Paul to help out at Battersea (S).

ITV News At Ten (S).

ITV Regional News; Weather (S).

Gordon, Gino And Fred: Unseen Bits (R) (S).

11.40 All Elite Wrestling: Dynamite Hard-hitting action from the world of All Elite Wrestling (R) (S).

1.25 Shop: Ideal World 3.00 Cooking With The Stars (R) (S). 3.50 Unwind With ITV (S). 5.05 The Cube (R) (S).

6.05 Countdown (R) (S). 6.45 Cheers (R) (S). 7.15 Cheers (R) (S). 7.40 Everybody Loves Raymond (R) (S). 8.05 Everybody Loves Raymond (R) (S). 8.35 The King Of Queens (R) (S). 9.05 The King Of Queens (R) (S). 9.35 FILM: Christmas At The Palace (Peter Hewitt 2018) (S).

Romantic drama, starring Lori Loughlin and Victor Webster (S). 1.10 Jamie: Together At Christmas (R) (S). 2.10 Countdown (S). 3.00 APlace In The Sun (S). 4.00 Chateau DIY At Christmas (S). 5.00 Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas (S).

6.00 The Simpsons Krusty and his daughter spend Christmas with the Simpsons (R) (S).

6.30 Hollyoaks (R) (S).

7.00 Channel 4News (S).

6.00 Milkshake! 9.15 Jeremy Vine (S). 12.30 FILM: Saving Christmas Spirit (Wendy Faraone 2021) Romantic drama, starring Ashley Newbrough (S). 2.15 FILM: AVeryYorkshire Christmas (Steven Nesbit 2019) Romantic drama, starring Rachel Shenton (S). 4.10 FILM: Scrooge –A Christmas Carol (Brian Desmond Hurst 1951) Charles Dickens’ fantasy,starring Alastair Sim (S).

Sport

ATHLETIC V SHEFFIELD UNITED

6.00 Orangutan Jungle School (R) (S). 7.00 The 80s: Cinema’s

Greatest Decade (R) (S). 8.00 The Simpsons (R). 8.30 The Simpsons (R) (S). 9.00 The Simpsons (R) (S). 9.30 The Simpsons (R) (S). 10.00 The Simpsons (R) (S). 10.30 The Simpsons (R) (S). 11.00 David Attenborough’s Natural History Museum Alive (R) (S). 12.30

FILM: The Borrowers (Tom Harper 2011) (R) (S). 2.15 Jack &The Beanstalk: After Ever After (R) (S). 3.15 The Simpsons (R) (S). 3.40 The Simpsons (R). 4.05 The Simpsons (R) (S). 4.30 The Simpsons (R) (S). 5.00 Sport’s Funniest Moments (R) (S).

6.00 Unwind With ITV (S). 6.25

Love Bites (S). 7.25 Secret Crush (S). 8.15 In ForAPenny (S). 8.45 In ForAPenny (S). 9.15 Ninja Warrior UK: Race ForGlory (S). 10.20 FILM: ACinderella Story: Christmas Wish (Michelle Johnston 2019) Premiere. Family comedy,starring Laura Marano (S). 12.10 FILM: Sherlock Gnomes (John Stevenson 2018) Animated comedy,featuring the voice of James McAvoy (S). 1.55 Britain’s Got Talent: The Ultimate Magician (S). 3.55 Catchphrase Christmas Special (S). 4.55

FILM: It’s AVeryMerryMuppet Christmas Movie (Kirk Thatcher 2002) Festive comedy,with Joan Cusack and Whoopi Goldberg (S).

6.00 Classic Coronation Street (S). 6.35 Classic Coronation Street (S). 7.00 Classic Emmerdale (S). 7.35 Classic Emmerdale (S). 8.05 Man About The House (S). 8.35 Man About The House (S). 9.10 The Darling Buds Of May (S). 10.25 The Darling Buds Of May (S). 11.35 Heartbeat (S). 12.35 Heartbeat (S). 1.40 Classic Emmerdale (S). 2.15 Classic Emmerdale (S). 2.50 Classic Coronation Street (S). 3.20 Classic Coronation Street (S). 3.50 ATouchOfFrost (S).

6.00 Lidl’s Christmas Secrets Alook at how the budget supermarket prepares for the festive period (R) (S).

6.55 5News Update (S).

7.00 Police Interceptors (R) (S). 7.55 5News Update (S).

8.00 Five Star Christmas: Inside Corinthia Behind the scenes at one of Britain’s most exclusive hotels (S).

9.00 The Handmaid’s Tale June must find away to keep herself and her family safefromGilead. Last in the series (S).

10.10 Lighting Up Christmas Festive displays at John Lewis, KewGardens, Longleat Safari Park and Blackpool (R) (S).

11.15 Christmas In New York: Inside The Plaza Abehind-the-scenes look at the Manhattan hotel over the festive period (R) (S).

12.15 Joe Lycett vs David Beckham: AGot Your Back Christmas Special (R) (S).

1.10 Taskmaster: Champion Of Champions 2022 (R) (S). 2.05 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA (R) (S). 2.55Come Dine With Me: Celebrity Christmas Special (R) (S).

8.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders Storms bring travel chaos to the roads (R) (S). 9.00 Police: Night Shift 999 An altercation in abar leads to afoot chase through Gloucester city centre (S). 10.00 Police Raids: Caught By Surprise Ahundred officers prepare for a series of simultaneous dawn raids (R) (S).

FILM: The Meg (2018) Action thriller,starring Jason Statham (S).

7.00 Winter Walks

Celebrities explore landscapes in Yorkshire and Cumbria (S).

7.30 The Good Life (S).

Of The Pops Christmas edition from 1998 (S). 9.00 HenryVIII’s Enforcer: The Rise And Fall Of Thomas Cromwell A profile of the 16thcenturylawyer and statesman (S). 10.00 Peter Kosminsky Remembers –Wolf Hall (S). 10.10 Wolf Hall (S). 11.15 Wolf Hall Harry Percy arrests Cardinal Wolsey for treason (S).

(S).

On 5 (S)

(R) (S)

(R) (S)

(R) (S)

Monday Night

House

House

The Capture (S). 1.10 The Capture (S). 2.10 The Capture (S). 3.10 Winter Walks (S). 3.40 Close

9.00 The Unofficial Science Of Home Alone Guz Khan and James Acaster recreate booby traps from the hit 1990 movie.

6.00 The Christmas Movie Countdown Simon Callow reveals the Yuletide number one, as voted for by the public. 9.00 Gordon, Gino And Fred’s Great Christmas Roast (S). 10.30 Family Guy Peter goes on aquest to save Quahog’s annual Christmas carnival (S). 11.00 Family Guy Brian and Peter go on a mission to find anew Thanksgiving turkey (S). 11.30 Family Guy (S).

12.00 American Dad! (S). 12.30 American Dad! (S). 1.00 The Stand Up Sketch Show (S). 1.30 The Stand Up Sketch Show (S). 1.55

(S)

Radio

Heartbeat Aboy’s life hangs in the balance when he falls down a well (S).

6.55 Escape To The Chateau Dick, Angel, Arthur and Dorothy share more enchanting tales (S).

7.55 Grand Designs A couple give a1950s house amodernist makeover (S).

Man About The House (S).

Unwind With ITV (S).

10.00 Coastal Railways With Julie Walters The actress travels on the famous Great Western Railway (S).

11.05 24 Hours In A&E A 14-year-old is rushed to St George’s after an accident on her bike (S).

12.10 8Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown (S). 1.15 Emergency Helicopter Medics (S). 2.20 24 Hours In A&E (S). 3.25 Food Unwrapped (S). 3.50 Close

8.30

7.30 Dot. 8.00 Brothers In Law 8.30 Counterpoint Christmas Special. 9.30 Romantic Friction. 10.00 Rogue Herries. 11.00 Detective. 11.30 TheLeftHanded Sleeper. 12noon AMaigret Christmas. 12.15 HighLites: SplitEnds. 12.30 Dot. 1.00 Brothers In Law. 1.30 Counterpoint Christmas Special. 2.30 Romantic Friction 3.00 Rogue Herries 4.00 Detective. 4.30 The Left-Handed Sleeper. 5.00 AMaigret Christmas 5.15 HighLites: Split Ends 5.30 Dot 6.00 BrothersInLaw 6.30 Counterpoint Christmas Special 7.30 Romantic Friction. 8.00 Radiolab 8.55 InheritanceTracks 9.00 TheFilm We Can’t See. 9.50 Witness History: The Monkees. 10.00 ComedyClub. 10.00 ComedyClub: I’mSorry IHaven’t AClue. 10.30 ComedyClub: Dave Podmore’s World Of Cricket 11.00 Comedy Club: DeadRingers. 11.30 ComedyClub:AsTold To Craig Brown 12mdn’t Rogue Herries. 1.00 Detective. 1.30 The Left-Handed Sleeper 2.00 AMaigret Christmas 2.15 HighLites: Split Ends. 2.30 Dot. 3.00 Brothers In Law. 3.30 Counterpoint Christmas Special 4.30 Romantic Friction. 5.00 Rogue Herries. BBC 5LIVE 6am 5LiveBreakfast. 9.00 Nicky Campbell. 11.00 Naga Munchetty 1pm Nihal Arthanayake. 4.00 5Live Drive. 7.00 5LiveSport. 9.00 5Live Sport 10.00 Colin Murray 1am DotunAdebayo 5.00 Wake Up To Money BBC 6MUSIC 7.30am Nemone. 10.30 MaryAnne Hobbs. 1pm Craig Charles. 4.00 Huw Stephens 7.00 Marc Riley 9.00 Gideon Coe. 12mdn’t TheFirst Time WithBjork. 1.00 TheStoryOfBjork 2.00 BjorkLive. 3.00 Army Of Me: Bjork Now 4.00 The Bjork Playlist. 5.00 The Remix With ChrisHawkins. 5.30 ChrisHawkins CLASSIC FM 6am More Music Breakfast. 9.00 Alexander Armstrong 12noon Anne-MarieMinhall. 4.00 John Brunning. 7.00 Smooth ClassicsAtSeven. 10.00 Smooth Classics. 1am BillOverton. 4.00 Early Breakfast ABSOLUTE RADIO 6am Dave Berry 10.00 LeonaGraham 1pm Ben Burrell. 4.00 BushAnd Richie. 7.00 Danielle Perry. 10.00 Jay Lawrence. 1am Dan Noble. December19 WIGAN

BBC RADIO 1 6.57am Newsbeat. 7.00 Radio 1Breakfast WithMatt Edmondson. 10.30 Newsbeat. 10.32 Rickie, Melvin AndCharlie. 12.45pm Newsbeat 1.00 DeanAnd Vicky 3.30 Newsbeat. 3.32 GoingHomeWithVick And Jordan. 5.45 Newsbeat. 6.00 Radio 1’sFuture Sounds WithClaraAmfo 8.00 Radio 1’s Future Artists With Jack Saunders 10.00 Radio 1’s PowerDown Playlist With SianEleri. 11.00 Rock Show WithDaniel PCarter 1am BBC Introducing Rock On Radio 1With AlyxHolcombe. 2.00 Radio1’s FutureAlternative 3.00 Radio 1’s WorkoutAnthems. 4.00 Radio 1Dance. 5.00 Radio 1Early Breakfast WithArielle Free. BBC RADIO 2 6.30am TheZoe Ball BreakfastShow. 9.30 KenBruce. 12noon Jeremy Vine. 2.00 Scott Mills. 4.00 Sara Cox 6.30 SaraCox’s Half Wower 7.00 Jo Whiley’s Shiny Happy Playlist. Jo plays her favourite albumtracks and musicalgems rarely heard on Radio 2. 7.30 Jo Whiley. Musicand chat. 9.00 The Blues Show WithRonnie Wood. Ronnie Wood sitsinfor Cerys Matthews. 10.00 Trevor Nelson’s Magnificent7 10.30 Trevor Nelson’s Rhythm Nation. 12mdn’t OJ Borg. 2.30 One Hit WondersWith OJ Borg. 3.00 Pick Of ThePops. 4.00 EarlyBreakfast Show BBC RADIO 3 6.30am Breakfast 9.00 Essential Classics. 12noon Composer Of The Week: Bach At Christmas. 1.00 Radio 3LunchtimeConcert. 2.00 Afternoon Concert. 4.30 New Generation Artists. 5.00 In Tune 7.00 In Tune Mixtape.Aneclectic non-stop mix of music 7.30 Radio 3In Concert. AperformanceofParts 1, 2and 3 of Bach’s Christmas Oratorio 9.00 Ultimate Calm.A selection of songs on thetheme of hope 10.00 Music Matters. 10.45 1922: LeisureAnd Entertainment. 11.00 NightTracks 12.30am Through TheNight. BBC RADIO 4 6am Today 9.00 StartThe Week. 9.45 (LW) Daily Service. 9.45 (FM) Book Of The Week: Agatha Christie: AVeryElusive Woman. 10.00 Woman’s Hour 11.00 The Untold 11.30 MichaelMorpurgo’s Folk Journeys. 12noon News. 12.01 (LW) Shipping Forecast. 12.04 TheNew Gurus. 12.30 Sliced Bread 12.57 Weather 1.00 TheWorldAtOne. 1.45 Living With TheNews. 2.00 TheArchers. 2.15 Drama: ThatDinner Of ’67. 3.00 Nature Table. 3.30 The Food Programme. 4.00 The Susurrations Of TheSea. 4.30 BadBlood: The Story Of Eugenics. 5.00 PM. 5.54 (LW) Shipping Forecast. 5.57 Weather 6.00 Six O’Clock News 6.30 I’mSorry IHaven’t AClue.WithJohnFinnemore Pippa Evans, Fred Macaulayand Rory Bremner.Last in the series. 7.00 The Archers 7.15 FrontRow.Arts programme. 8.00 (LW) Putin.New series. Jonny Dymond looks at recenteventsinthe extraordinary storyofVladimir Putin’s life. 8.00 (FM)Putin.

Crossing Continents.

Acknowledgements

Barry (Baz)

Of Bishops Castle.

Dorothy and Family would like to thank Relatives, Friends and Neighbours, for their kind messages, cards, visits andall whoattended the Funeral and donations received.

Thank you all.

DAVIES

Dennis Edward Lloyney House.

Peacefully at The Royal Shrewsbur yHospital on November19, 2022, aged 74 years

Much loved Uncle and GreatUncle who will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Funeral Service at Knucklas Baptist Chapel on Tuesday, December20at12.30pm followedbyInterment in the Churchyard.

Family flowers only please.

Donations if desired to Knighton Leg Club or Knucklas Baptist Chapel.

Inquiries to GEOFF HALL

FUNERALS

BryanJohn Stephens

Pursuant to theTrustees Act 1925any persons having aclaim against or an interest in theestateofthe aforementioned deceased, lateofAbernant,24Irfon Road, BuilthWells, Powys LD2 3DE died on the2nd October2022 arerequired to send particularsthereof in writing to theundersigned solicitors within twomonths of this advertisement after which theestatewillbe distributed having regard onlytothe claims and interest of whichtheyhave had notice

Dilwyns Solicitors, Oxford Chambers, TempleStreet Llandrindod Wells, Powys LD1 5DL

send written particulars to the address belowby17/02/2023, after which date the Estate will be distributed having regardonly to claims andinterests notified.

RosemaryDoraPrice, c/o Fodens Solicitors Limited, Fodens Business Centre, M54Junction6, Telford, Shropshire,TF3 5HL. Ref: SJP/PRI0493

Deborah Bashall

Julie Bridgewood

John Donaldson

Dorothy Feasey

Garth Goodall

William Gough

Judy Green

Phyllis Harpham

Jean Holmes-Brown

Vivien Hotchkiss

Jane Hurcomb

Paul Jones

Carole Lawrence Jackie Reading Richard Tomlinson

BAKER

Born May 29 ,1 948 in Bridgnorth, Colin passed away peacefully at home on December 4, 2022.

Devoted Husband to Carol, lovingFathertoColin and Rachael and doting Grandpa to Jon, Nick and Hannah.

Colin will be sadlymissed by his Family and many Friends.

Funeral Service will be taking place at Telford Crematorium on Wednesday,January4,2023 at 11.30am.

Flowers from immediate Family only please.

Donations gratefully received in support of the Severn Hospice, whose team gave amazing support to Colin and his Family

Knighton 01547 528554

HOWELLS

John Terence Of Clun.

Passed away at home with his Family on December3,2022, aged 74 years.

Muchloved Husband of Sandra, devotedFather to Angie, Mandy and Laura. Father-in-law to Jake, Martin and Simon and Grandad to Jack, Ben, Beckie, Sammie, Ryan and Emily

He will be sadly missed by all Family and Friends.

Funeral Service at St George’s Church, Clun on December 21, 2022, at 11am.

Immediate Family flowers only

The Familywouldlikebright clothing to be worn. Donations if desired to severn Hospice.

All inquiries to W.J. MORRIS AND SON Funeral Directors

OURTEAMARE

GRIFFITHS

Maisie Winifred nee Westwood

On November 28, 2022, peacefully at Danesford GrangeResidential Care Home, Bridgnorth,inthe presence of her Family, following ashort illness.

Mai sie Griff ith s, of Goodwood Av enue , Bridgnorth, aged 92 years R.I.P

The Wife of thelateHarry Griffiths, lovingMother of Mandy and the late Nigel Griffiths,the dear Nan of Craig andDaniel and the veryspecial Sister of Marlene, Alan and thelate Bill.

Much loved, Maisie will be sadly missed by all her Family and Friends.

Funeral Mass at The R.C. Church of St. John The Evangelist, Bridgnorth, on Thursday,December 22 at 11am, to be followed by IntermentatBridgnorth Town Cemetery.

Fa mily flowers only by request please but donations, which are to be divided betweenHope House Children’s Respite Hospice and TheBritish Heart Foundation, are being gratefully received, for which purpose acollection boxwill be provided outside The Church, or online at www.per ry and philli ps funerals.com

All inquiries to Mr.C.C. Adams

Bishops Castle SY9 5BS. 01588 638523 01588 630161.

LEA

Cedric

John

On December4,2022, peacefully at his home, in the presence of his Family, following along illness borne with great fortitude, Cedric Lea, of Conduit Lane, Bridgnorth, aged 80 years.

The beloved Husband of Judy,loving Father of Christian, Charlotte and Sam, Father-in-law of Sharon, Vivand Sally and a verydear Grandad.

Much loved, Cedricwill be sadly missed by all his Family,Friends and former colleagues and pupilsat BridgnorthOldbury Wells School, where he served as Deputy Headmaster

Aformer District Councillor for Bridgnorth East Ward (2).

Funeral Service at The Parish Church of St. Mary Magdalene, Bridgnorth, on Monday,December 19 at 11am, to be followed by IntermentatBridgnorth Town Cemetery.

Fa mily flowers only by request please but donations,which are to be divided between The British Heart Foundation and Bridgnorth Foodbank, are being gratefully received, for which purpose acollection boxwillbeprovided at The Church, or online at www.per ry and philli ps funerals.com

All inquiries to Mr.C.C. Adams

Colin Edward

LAVENDER

Ruth Barwick

McNeill Jacob Ryan (Jakey Bear)

Suddenly passed away on December 5, 2022, aged 4 years.

Dearly loved Son of Darren and Corryne, much loved Brother of Beth, Kieran, Alexis and Twin Brother Isaac. Adored Grandson of the late Lynne and the late Terrance, Monica and the late Ronnie.

Jacobwill sadly be missed by hisChildminder Lisaand all his Friends.

Fu ner al Ser vi ce at St, Michael’s Church, Llanfihangel Rhydithon, Dolau on Thursday,December 22, at 1pm.

Flo wer sw elc ome , donations if desired to Wales Air Ambulance.

Inquiries to

PRITCHARD &SONS

Funeral Directors

Britannia House Station Crescent Llandrindod Wells LD1 5BD. Telephone 01597 822121.

POOLER

Elizabeth Jean (Betty)

On December2,2022, peacefully at Bradeney House Residential Care Home, Wo rfield, Nr Bridgnorth, BettyPooler, formerly of Greenfields Court, Bridgnorth and of Stableford, Nr.Bridgnorth, aged 94 years.

The devoted Mother of Margaret and the late Anne, the dear Gran Bett of Dan and Laura and Great-Gran Bett of Sam and Lucy

Much loved, Betty willbe sadly missed by all her Family and Friends.

Funeral Service at The Parish Church of St. Peter The Apostle, Worfield, on Monday,January9,2023 at 12 noon, to be followed by Interment at Worfield Parish Cemetery.

Fa mily flowers only by request please, but donations for Compton Care are beinggratefully received, for which purpose a collection boxwill be provided inside the Church Porch, or onlineatwww perryandphillipsfunerals. com

All inquiries to Mr.C.C. Adams

THOMAS

Anne Of Lingen.

Passed away peacefully at Home on December 1, 2022.

Loving Wife to the late David and much loved Motherto Lynne and Jane.

Thanksgiving Service will take place on Wednesday, December 21, 2022 at St Michael’s &All Angels Church Lingen at 11.30am.

Family flowers only Donations, if desired to, St Michael’s Hospice and Lingen Church.

ForFurtherInformation please contact

A.WHUGHES &SON

Independent Family Funeral Directors

Presteigne: 01544 267778

FirstDrive:CitroenC5 Aircross

TEDWELFORD PressAssoiation

WILLIAMS Joan Francis

nee Hopkins

On November 18, 2022, peacefully at her home,in the presence of her Husband John, Joan Williams, of Birmingham Road, Kiddermins ter,f or mer ly of Bridgnorth,aged80years.

R.I.P

The beloved Wife of John, lovingMother of Greg, Mother-in-law of Melanie, very dear Grandmaof Connor,Jessica,Jordan and Kieran, and the GreatGrandma of Malcolm.

Much loved,Joan will be sadly missed by all her Family and Friends.

Reception into The R.C Church of St. John The Evangelist, Northgate, Bridgnorth, on Wednesday, December 14 at 7pm.

Funeral Mass at The R.C. Church of St. John The Evangelist, Northgate, Bridgnorth, on Thursday, December 15 at 12 noon, to be followed by Interment at Bridgnorth Town Cemetery.

Fa mily flowers only by request please, but donations for Macmillan Cancer Support are being gratefully received, for which purposea collection boxwill be provided outside the Church, or online at www.perryandphillips funerals.com

All inquiries to Mr.C.C. Adams,

Arriving in 2018 as the French firm’s largestSUV it hasproven successful,with more than 260,000 sold.Citroen is now back with amid-life refresh, to ensure it canremain competitivenexttonewer modelslikethe Qashqaiand Ford Kuga. Butisthe C5 Aircross abletocompete in this tough class?

Thebulk of thechanges as part of this update stem around theC5Aircross’ interior –the model’sslightweaknessbefore.

Citroen hasworkedtoimprove qualitywithamodernisedcentre console,anew touchscreen andafurther emphasis on comfort –anareawhere this crossover alreadyimpressed Around theexterior,you’ll noticethe Aircrossnow gets newheadlights, variousnew colour andwheel optionsas well as Citroen’s updatedlogo.

Forthose wantingsomething electrified,there’s a222bhp plug-inhybridthatcan manage 38 milesonelectricpower to a charge,while a128bhp 1.5-litre caters to high-mileageusers, with this fuel becoming an increasing rarity in this class.

Butour testcar uses the entry-levelpetrol– a1.2-litre turbocharged petrolgenerating 129bhp and230Nm of torque

If you come to theC5Aircrosslooking forsomething sporty,you’rebarking up the wrongtree, as this is amodel that majors on comfortand everyday ease of use. Thelight steering inspires littleconfidencedownatwistybackroad,

butaroundtown, it makesit very easy to manoeuvre, aided by fantasticvisibility.The Aircrossremains acomfortable,if soft-riding choice,thoughitcan be abit unsettledbypotholes.

Citroen’s designersaren’t afraid to be bolder than other brands,and theresultisa funky-lookingcrossover.Like before,you’vegot thebrand’s famed‘Airbumps’onthe doors –the plastic trim stuckhalfway up thedoorthatcan also help preventdoordings –aswellas variouscolourpacks

Thevisual changes arewelcome,withthe newLED lightingsignature that runs into thegrillebeing aparticularly neat touch. Youwon’t find wheels smallerthan18inches in size,whilethe plentiful plasticcladdinghelps to give theC5 Aircrossachunky andrugged look that will go down well with customers

Theinterior feelslikethe biggest step up,withthe centre console feelingmuchmore modern.Onautomatic models, there’sasmall gearselector that helpstofreeupspace,and thequality in generalisgood It’s notpremium,but feelssolid anddurable,withour test car getting some pleasant half-Alcantaraseats, whichutilise Citroen’s ‘AdvancedComfort’

program, andnow getmoresupport than ever.They’re great fortakingthe literalbackache outoflongerjourneys.

TheC5Aircrosswillalso workbrilliantlyasa family car. There’splentyofspace in therearseats,whileeachseat in therearfolds andslidesindividually.Even with theseats upright, thebootmeasures afantastic 580litres, easily eclipsingthe room offeredwith aQashqai

AllC5Aircrossmodelsget alonglistofequipment. The entry-levelSense Pluscomes with thenew,much-improved 10-inchtouchscreen,a 12.3inch digitalinstrumentcluster, frontand rear parkingsensors andareversing camera

Themid-range Shinetrim brings thesmarter part-Alcantara seats, as well as adaptive cruise control(notonmanual models)and blindspotmonitoring, whilethe top-spec C-Series Editiongrade packslarger19inch alloywheels, apanoramic sunroofand leatherseats

In termsofprice,the C5 Aircrossremains competitive next to rivals,startingfrom £26,930,thoughitwillcostyou more than £2,000 more across therange foranautomatic version–adecision we’d think twiceabout making,givingthe

auto isn’tall that great. Hybrid models,packing plenty of extra pace andimprovedefficiency, seem pretty good valueconsidering; starting from £35,835.

TheC5Aircrosswas already alikeableSUV,and these updateshaveonlyimprovedthat. Still offering eye-catchingdesign,plentyofequipment and lots of interior space, it nowhas asmarter interior to go with it This Citroen won’tchallenge thebestinthisclassfor top honours, butnevertheless, it’s an appealingchoice andone that deserves to be considered if you’reinthe market fora mid-size crossover

FACTFILE

CITROEN C5 AIRCROSS SHINE PURETECH130 EAT8 AUTOMATIC

Price as tested: £31,125

Engine: 1.2-litreturbocharged petrol

Power: 129bhp

0-60mph: 10.1 seconds

Topspeed: 117mph

Economy: 46.7mpg

CO2emissions: 148g/km

Astragains electric versions

Vauxhall hascontinued itselectric caroffensive with theintroductionofbattery-powered versionsofits Astra andAstra Sports Tourer

Settoarriveinthe UK next year,bothmodelsmeanthat theAstra will nowbeavailable with thechoiceoffourpowertrains be it electric,plug-inhybrid or petroland diesel.Italso boosts thenumberoffully electric Vauxhall vehiclescurrently on sale to six.

Both arepowered by a114kW electric motorand a54kWh batterywhich,Vauxhallsays, will return up to 258miles in betweencharges.Thanksto 100kWDCchargingcompatibility,the electric Astrawill

also be able to manage an 80% charge in as little as 30 minutes

JamesTaylor, managing director of Vauxhall,said: “The Astragoing electric is abig milestone forbothour popular family caraswellasfor the Vauxhall brandaswemovetowardsour commitmentofonly

offering fullyelectriccarsand vans from 2028

“The Astra Electric and AstraSportsTourerElectric will offereveryday practicality, comfortand locallyemission-freedriving pleasure combined with theinnovative technology andboldand pure design language that Vauxhall is knownfor.”

Becausethe batteryissituated within thecar’s underbody, theAstra is stillabletooffer a decent amount of luggagespace As such,the Astra Sports Tourer Electric canoffer up to 516 litresofspace –or1,553 litres with theseats folded –which is thesameasyou’ll find in plugin hybridversions.

Allcarsget Vauxhall’s Pure Panelinfotainmentsystem, whichcombines a10-inch digital instrument clusterwith a10-inch centraldisplay.All versionsget plenty of safety equipment as standard,too, includingautomatic emergency braking, active lane keepingassist andrearcrosstrafficalert Orders forthe Astra Electric will open from early2023with deliveriesexpected from June 2023.The Astra Sports Tourer Electric,meanwhile, will be availabletoorder in thesummerahead of deliveriesinthe ‘latterpart of theyear’,accordingtoVauxhall. Full UK pricingwillbeannounced closer to theiron-sale date,too

Citroen’sknown for doingthings alittle bitdifferently,and its C5 Aircross wasa fine exampleofthis.

VauxhallAstra andAstra Sports Tourer as they gainelectric versions

SUZUKIVITARASZ-TBOOSTER-JETAUTO5DOORESTATEA/CGOLD39K £16,995 2020 20

SUZUKIIGNISSZ-TAUTO5DOORHATCHA/CBLACK15K £16,995 2019 69

FABIA

Hondatopslistof reliable carmakers

Hondahas come outontop of anew report

on carreliability

TheJapanese firm –which produces cars likethe Jazz andCivic –cameout in firstplaceinWarrantywise’s Reliability Index, whichcompiled131,000 active warranty plansbetween 2021 and2022.

TheIndex rankseverycar based on anumberoffactors,including the cost andfrequency of repairs. With its overallscore of 96.8 outof100,Honda came out firmly on top, with itsJazz modelnamed themostreliableused carinthe Indextoo

Toyotacameinsecondplace with an overallscore of 91.2/100,followedup by Suzuki andKia with scores of 88.7 and86.2out of 100respectively

Lawrence Whittaker, CEO of Warrantywise said: “Asthe cost of living continuestorise,it’simportant to keep things likereliability at theforefrontofour mindswhenchoosing a used cartobuy

“By collecting andcollating allthis data into an indexlikethisone,we’re able to furtherhelpour customers with theirpurchases by arming them with informationtotry andhelplessen theburden as much as we can.”

Ford came outatthe bottom of the top10listwithanoverallscore of 73.1/100,which wasmatched by Mazda.

Renaultand Citroen enteredthe list justabove,withrespective scores of 73.2 and74.3

Honda topslistofmost-reliable car makers

Salopian make it threewinsfromthree at Wirral

Salopian dartscontinued to build on theirsolid starttothe season with a20-16 victoryatWirralin UK Division Three–backing up triumphs away at Shropshireand at hometoNorthumberland.

Despite theperfect starttothe season,three debuts were awarded within theladies’ Bside–two of whichfeaturedinthe opening twogames with lady-of-the-match PaulaDavies(16.61) andKaren Weston (14.75) enjoying respective 3-1wins.

Claire Boyle(14.83)sufferedher firstlossfor Salopian Ladies before Rachel Williams(12.67) returned

to winningwaystorestore the twogame advantage.

Thethird debutant,KateLeach (13.91),wentdowndespite showing promise andthe ladies’Bmatch concludedwithanemphatic3-0 winfor Tracey Dean(14.45)

That two-game advantagewas halved afterChris Sharp(23.77) defeated RobPaine (21.90)inthe openingmen’s Bmatch butafter Darren Lane (17.43)won anervy second matchinthe deciding leg Salopian never againtrailed inthe men’s Bsection

Once Andy Kynaston (19.10)had firedSalopianBahead,the spine

of theteam firedoncemoreasthey reeled offthree successivevictories through Mark Jones(23.76),Jamie Kynaston (23.15)and Paul Ashworth (18.02).

Wirral fought back,takingthe next threegames,but Martin Riggs (18.79)and man-of-the-match Gary Crowther (25.91)gavetheman11-7 advantageovernight Evonne Taylor (17.68)started the ladies’Amatch with an emphatic 3-0win,but Salopian progress was checkedasWirralhit back through Jane Robson (19.03).

AllisonGallagher (16.49)and JulieGriffiths(15.73) responded

forSalopian before SarahRoberts (22.51) fell to her firsteverSalopian defeat,losing ahigh quality match3-1 to KimHolden(21.41).

It waslefttoSteph Clarke (17.68) to secure ladies A’sthirdsuccessive victoryofthe campaign to give an overall 15-9 lead goingintothe men’sAmatches

With Salopian needingjustfour gamestosecureoverallvictory, Jon Mansell (23.18), JoeHiggins (24.97), AshHilditch(24.71),Matt Elsey(27.37) andKacey Jones (23.48)ensured it with five games still to play.ThoughSalopian would winjustsix furtherlegsafter that

Golfers club together to supportrisingstarIsla

Shrewsbury Golf Club membersswung into action to chip in foranew golf trolleyfor ateenageprodigy whoistakingthe golfing worldby storm.

Isla McDonald-O’Brien,aged16, from Nesscliffe,isinthe England under-18,and cardinggood scores againstsomeofthe best adultamateurplayers in tournamentsinthe UK andEurope.

Shrewsbury Golf Club proJohn Richards says Isla,witha3.8+ handicap,has “outstanding natural talent”and thegolfing mental ability to become agreat player. Shecan also outdrive most male golf club members.

“I’venever seen such agood female player at herage,” said Richards.“Shehas allthe skilland capabilities to make it in world golf

“She wonthe Shrewsbury la-

dies’clubchampionshipat12years of ageand hasgone ontoachieve in national events andrepresent GreatBritain andIreland.”

ParentsAndyand Alisonchose Shrewsbury Golf Club’s course at Condover as theperfect training ground forIslaand herbrother Rory,also an Englandplayer, where thefastand true greens aresimilartosome of thebesttournament courses

Theclub’sthree golf captains, representingall 500plusmembers, backed thesenior men’sideato buyIslaatrolley to help herasshe progresses in tournamentsagainst some of thetop players in herage group.

Women’scaptain Mary Saull said: “Weare very proudofwhatIslahas achieved so farand aredelighted to be able to help her.

“Not only is sheanexceptional golfer butshe is also alovely girl We will be watchinghow hergolfing career develops with greatinterest.”

Isla’sgrowing golf cv includes coming second in theR&A Girls’ competitionatEnville,secondin thePeter McEvoy Trophy,thirdin theEnglishGirls’under-16openat Formby and fifthinthe HelenHolm Scottish Women’sCompetition at Troon, beatingmanytop amateurs Shealso came fifthinthe Justin Rose competitioninPortugal.

Isla,who pickedupher firstgolf club as a five-year-old, hasjustvisited theUnitedStateswhere she wasinvited to threeuniversities in Arizona, Ohio andTexas,which producesome of theworld’s best future golfing talent

Golf proRichardscontacted Isla’s familytotellthemthatthe club wanted to supportIslaasshe progresses.

Dad Andy,aformerKentcounty cricketerand averyrespectable golfer with athree handicap,said: “Johnphoned me to saythatthe senior sectionhad some sparemoney left andtheywanted to reward Islawithatrolley as sherepresents Shrewsbury Golf Club wherever she goes

“Theythought it wouldbeanice gestureand it certainlyis.”

Apupil at Moreton Hall School, whereshe is studying Alevelsin history, geographyand PE after taking GCSEs ayearearly,Islawill take hernew trolley with herasshe travelswithEnglandGolffor warm winter traininginPortugalinFebruarypreparing formoretournamentsin2023.

Shealso hopestofollowinelder brotherRory’sfootsteps as theEngland golfer settlesintohis university in southCarolinawhere he won agolfing scholarshiptoprogressin theworld of topclassgolf.

Arch leadsthe medalrushas Northgateaces make asplash

NorthgateSwimmingClubare celebratingafterabrilliant weekendofcompeting at the WolverhamptonOpen, whichsaw twodaysofhard-fought races.

Theeventwelcomedswimmers from across theWestMidlands from nine to 18 yearsofage,all of whom were challengingfor medals on apackedscheduleof events

Northgate, whoseswimmers train at Bridgnorth andMuck Wenlockleisure centres, came away with 50 medals

Twenty-one club members competed,witheachsetting at leastone personal best time,and collectively as agroup gaining aremarkable84personalbests acrossthe differentraces

Therewerenumerousstandoutperformanceswith14-yearoldDewiArchleading the way.

Thetalentedyoungster claimedanimpressive12podium places,which included striking gold in the200mbutterflyand 200m backstroke events

He wassubsequently crowned ‘top boy’ forhis agecategory, pipping clubmatesElliottPabla and IsaacGibbard,who were placed second andthirdrespectively overall

Additionally,Gibbard claimed agoldmedal in the200mbreaststroke,as did15-year-old Anna Cole in the50m backstroke, with Cole gainingasecond-placed rankingfor herage group.

CharlotteSmith, aged 10, amassedsix medals acrossa series of races, whichled toa second-placed rankingoverall –anachievementequalledby 12-year-oldMarthaGibbard

LeoJohnson, Rory Yarnley, EddieGibbons, SamConnerand EmilyWootton allcompetedat an open eventfor the firsttime, whichservesasanother indication of theexcitingtalentthat is emerging from this Shropshire-basedclub.

IslaMcDonald-O’Brienwith club proJohnRichards, seniormen’s captainMikeLloyd-Court, men’scaptain AdePrice andwomen’s captainMarySaull

Northgate star DewiArch

Kitman JP pressesontoget Town dressedfor success

Teaand biscuits withEngland’s newsuperstar Bellingham

Shrewsbury

not

outthe wayhehas –and he revealed he wasalwayspartial to a biscuitinthe kitroomatBirminghamCity.

Thekitmanplays an integral role within any sporting dressing room –looking afterplayerstoensuretheyhave everythingtheyneed to performonthe pitch.

Anditisnodifferent at Shrewsbury Town whereJon Pearce,referred to as ‘JP’ by staffatthe club, hasthe importantjob of ensuring theplayers at theMeadoware well looked after.

Pearce,who is from east London, wasanother of SteveCotterill’s additionsinthe summer as he arrived from Birmingham City –aclub he hadworkedatfor almost nine years.

Butwhatexactly does he do on aweeklybasis to give theplayers nothing to complain about?

Pearce said:“Iliketobeinearly, Iaminwellbeforethe players,possiblyaround6.30 or 7am.

“I like to be in before themanager because it sets agoodexample that you aredoing yourjob properly

“And you want hiskit to be put out first, andthen, half an hour later,everyone’skit is out.

“Ifthe managerknows they have hadasession in themorning and then they have gym, he will askme to getthemfresh kitout,you don’t want them in cold clothes.”

AndPearceisverybusyon matchdaystoo

“WhenIworkedatBirmingham, Iwould probably go andset up the nightbefore, butitdoesn’tseemto happen so much in League One, so Iprobablyget to thestadium at 9.30am or 10am,” he continued.

“Even if youare away,Iliketo getthere earlyand getthe dressing roomset up

“I putwhattheywearinthe warm-upout forthem, boots, shin pads, flip flops, towels andany specificrequirements that theplayers have

“I always watchthe firsthalf.

“Butasakitman, you have to be twosteps ahead.

“Sosomethingcould happen on thebench andthe sports scientist couldneed somethingand Ineedto go andget it

“You have to be readytobeonthe move

“Ifthe players have less to worry about,theymightget threemore points aseason.

“Inthe same way, it givesthem less to moan about, if you give them nothing to moan about– allthey have to worry aboutiswhathappens on thepitch.

“I can’tchangewhathappens there, butyou want theplayers to be as prepared as possible forany eventually “And that is akitman’sthing,

you will always take too much. You will take things you don’tneed and things youwon’t use,but you will always getasked forsomething.”

AndPearcewill take allmannerofdifferent things to agameto make sure theplayers have allbases covered.

He takestoothbrushes, batteries andsometimeseventoiletpaper –asopposition teams have been knownnot to leaveany in thepast.

He refers to himself as an ‘odd job man’ andifthe players need something, he believes he should have it forthem.

When Town play away,hetakes aclubemblemwithhim to stickon thechangingroomdoortomakeit feel liketheir home forthe day, as well as packingseveral speakers –he says AaronWilbraham andLuke Leahyare usuallyinchargeofthe music.

The43-year-old hasnot always been akitmanbeforehetookup his role at Birmingham,heworkedasa baggagehandler,but Pearce always hadaspirations to workinfootball justlikehis fatherhad before him–he wasastadium manageratWest

Ham, hisboyhood club.Hedid work as afootballagent forawhile,but Pearce foundthat‘cutthroat’and even though he liked watching gameshefound talkingtoplayers andparents difficult

Andafter applying forafew jobs, he gota role Blues, andhemoved hisfamilytoTelford as aresult.

Away from football,hehas apassion forcollectingfootballshirts, somethinghehas done sincehewas young

He said:“Shirtcollectinghas been my real bigthing of mine,it startedwhenIwas 21 when my dad workedasthe stadiummanager at West Ham.

“I wasclose to thekitman, andI startedgetting shirts from there, Icollected more andmorethrough people Iknew.

“Itjustspiralled,and Iprobably have 700orsonow

“I like weirdonesthatnoone wantsbecause everyone wanted the biggerones.

“ButIhaveended up with aMessi shirtfromwhenhewas at Barcelona

“Footballismymainthing,but

shirtcollectinggoesalongside with it.”

Pearce hasworkedwithTown’s currentbossbefore, when Cotterill wasthe managerofBlues, andhesaystheyshare agood relationship

“Reallywell,”hesaidwhenasked how he gets on with the Salopboss.

“Hesaved us at Birmingham that season,Harry Redknapp wasthe face of it,but Stevehad putall the groundworkin.

“Not alot of people seehis attention to detail,tactics andset-plays

“Heisverygoodtactically, andhe is so driven by that,which is whyhe is so good at it

“I wasgood friendswiththe analystatBirmingham,and he would openly tell youthatwhentheywere working on preparingfor agame hisattention to detail wassoimportant

“Heisnormallynot toomany stepsbehindmewhencomingin, andalmostthe same when leaving.

“Wewill allhavea dayoff,and he will probably be watchingthree or four videos on whoever we areplayingnext.”

Thepairformeda good relationship when they were together at BlueswhenBellingham wasstill a playerthere,and Pearce workedfor BluesbeforemovingtoSalop this summer

Pearce remembersthe firsttime he sawthe youngster when he was ayoung boy, andhesaidashegrew up,hewould always find himinthe kitroomraiding histub of biscuits

He said:“Thekit room does become abit of homingpoint that all theplayers converse on

“Itmightnot be agreed by sports science, butthere is atub of biscuits in my room.

“And you don’twanttonamedrop,but Jude Bellingham wouldalwaysbeinmyroom having abiscuitatthe endofthe day.”

He made his firstappearance

forBlues when he wasjust16 yearsand 38 daysold before signingfor Borussia Dortmund for £25million

Andnow he hasbeenperforming on football’s biggeststage playinga starring rolein hiscountry’s World CupcampaigninQatar

He started allEngland’sgames as they reachedthe quarter-finals andimpressed with hisdynamic displays

Pearce is notsurprised to seehow well he is doing, andsayspart of it is down to howwellthe 19-year-old hasbeenbroughtupbyhis parents.

He said:“Icould not speakany higher of him–Imet himthe first time when he wasnineor10.

“I am so pleasedwithhow it’s turningout forhim,meand my son aredue to go to Dortmund in Januarytowatch himplay.

“The family aresuperb,and Jude is 100per cent theway he is through hismum anddad

“Heisone of thebestIhaveever hadtodealwith. Thekit room is justthatroomthateveryone comes in.”

Plenty to do:Kitman JP Pearce always ensure bossSteve Cotterill’s traininggear is ready first

JonPearce,Shrewsbury Town kitmanager,inhis kitroom atMontgomery Waters Meadow

In the firstofaseriesoffeatureswith ShrewsburyTownbackroom staff, OLLIEWESTBURY speaksto Salop’s kitman JonPearceabouthis role.

Town’s kitman Jon Pearce is

surprisedEngland star Jude Bellingham hasturned

JonPearce with asignedJude Bellingham shirthavingworked with theEnglandstarletwhenhe wasayoungsteratBirmingham

Karate kidBilly landsamedal

Atalented youngster from a Shrewsbury karate club medalledatthe recent European championships andhas abright future ahead.

BillyJones, 13,travelled with theWadokaEnglandteamfor the47thcontinental championship in Macedonia aftersuccessfullymakingitthrough the selections processinApril

It saw610 participants competing in Kumite andKatsa, with theyoungster entering thelater category.Hecontinuedthrough Repecharge which is acompetition to determine thirdplacefor athletes whowere knockedout by the finalistsand wonabronzemedal.

Billyhas been astudentatthe KoshikiKarateClubinShrewsbury sincethe ageofseven ledby SenseiFrank Johnson, 6thDan Johnsonaninternational competitorinthe EnglandSquad andcompetedinJapan.Billy, whose mumHeidi achieved a bronze in theveteransKatathis year,isnow practicing readyfor the2023EuropeanchampionshipsinBelgium

Whitehead honours great-nanwith fight

Familymeans everything to Ryan Whiteheadashedevotes hisnext ring assignment to thememoryof hislategreat-grandmother

It’s been an emotionalridefor him, justgetting to BCBPromotions’ finalbill of theyearatthe Hangar Events Venue, in Wolverhampton, on theFridaynightof December 16

Hisgreat-gran sadlypassedaway in November, with bereavement also coming Whitehead’sway in hisprevioustrainingcamp, when

great-grandadRonaldalsodied. Butthe 28-year-oldsuper middleweightisbattlingonwiththe aim of improvinghis prorecord, which stands at 2-0withaTKO registered last time out.

Whitehead, whogrewup in the TelfordtowninOakengatesbut nowlives in Muxton,stopped Steve Davies in thethird round, aftera relentless onslaught.

He’s trained by ex-pro Tristan Davies, whoalso coachesamateurs at DonningtonBoxingClub. White-

head said:“My grand-grandmother passed away in November, so Idedicate this fighttoher.Mygreat-grandaddiedthree weeksbeforemylast fightand Idid thesamethen.

“Theyhad abig impact on me growingupand it’s heart-breaking I’ve been mentally puttothe test andI’vehad timeswhenIwantedto pull out, butIdon’t have that in me

“I don’task questions. Iget in thereand do my job. I’mnot bothered aboutthe rounds,overfour, I just want entertaining fights.”

Maddocks bounce back to claimwelcome victory

Maddocks Bput the disappointment of beingstripped of their only previous league winofthe season by defeatingTelepost Bina keyShropshireChess League division onerelegation scrap.

TheOakengatessidetriumphed 3-2overtheir rivals on thesame nightasaleagueappealcommittee dismissedtheir appeal againsta ruling that cost them victoryover Oswestry Alastmonth

It marksadecentweekfor the club –MaddocksBwill be outofthe relegation zone at Christmas,while theclub’sA teamhas gone back to thetop of thetable aftera3-2 win overstrugglingOswestryA

MaddocksBhad initiallybeaten Oswestry A3-2 back in early November. Butthe hosts hadbeen awardedawin on topboard when Oswestry’s Rudy vanKemenadearrived40minutes late VanKemenadewas told he had arrivedtoo late to play as he was more than half-an-hour late and made thelongjourney back home –onlyfor officials on both sidestolaterdiscover theleague’srules state an hour must pass before adefault wincan be claimed.

MatthewClark,Shropshire ChessAssociation president, declared theboard null andvoid, whichmadethe matchresulta2-2 draw.Maddocks’ appeal wassubsequentlydismissed,withthe appeal

committee urging allcaptainstobe awareofthe rulesbeforethe start of play andifpossiblehavea copy of therules to hand

Elsewhereindivisionone,Newport Aended Shrewsbury A’sunbeaten startwithahardfought 3.5-1.5victory wherethe finaltwo boards to finish were theonlydecisive scores of thenight Meanwhile, Telepost Bare the earlyleaders of Shropshire Rapidplay League division twoafterthe openinground of fixtures

They wonall threeoftheir matchestoheadthe division,which is only open to players with an ECF ratingof1640and below.

Online,ShrewsburyB arerooted to thefootofShropshireOnline ChessLeaguedivisionone aftera 3-1lossagainst Oswestry B. The highlightwas aspectacular sacrificialwin forOswestry’svan Keme-

nade againstShrewsburycaptain Mark Smithonboard two.

Finally, entriesfor Shropshire ChessCongressare steadily on the rise.Todate69players have enteredthe tournament,which will be held at Wrekin HousingTrust in TelfordfromJanuary 6to8,across itsfoursections.

Players have untilDecember 31 to enterwithout incurringa£5late entrycharge. Formoredetails visit www.shropshirechess.org/shropshire-congress

Latest results -ShropshireChess

Leaguedivision one: Telepost B2-3 MaddocksB;NewportA3.5-1.5ShrewsburyA;MaddocksA3-2 Oswestry A. Onlineleaguedivisionone: Shrewsbury B1-3 Oswestry B. Rapidplaydivision two: TelepostC 1-2NewportB,TelfordB 1.5-2.5 Telepost B; NewportB0-4 TelfordB,TelepostB 3.5-0.5TelepostC;Telford B3-1 TelepostC,Newport B0-4 TelepostB

Toptwo start to pullawayin race forglory

It lookslikebeing atwo-horse race in thebattlefor gloryin theBridgnorthSnooker League afterBroseley Band Maddocks recorded 5-0 victories.

Broseley Bremainthree points aheadofMaddocksfollowing aone-sided clashwith AlveleyB

Pete Thompson,Owen Hughes,Nickand Andy Carson, andEddie Mullardall more or less romped home,althoughperhaps it couldbesaidthatArek Ziemkiewiczand Dave Jones did putabetter fightfor Alveleyin the finaltwo frames

It wasa similar storyfor Maddocks, whostrolled to victory againstAlveley B. Paul Harper knockedina breakof48, while allowing hisopponentNorman Jones just tworeds.There was also a44break forJames Brennan, whobrushed asideReg Burton.

Wins forNeilPearsonand Simon Yateswerealso never in doubt.The onlyMaddocksplayer that wastroubledwas Dan Morris. He hadtosettlefor afortuitous finalblack to beat Chris Jepsontosecuremaximum points forhis team.

Therewere4-1 wins forboth ChelmarshBand ChelmarshSc. However,the droppingof thosesingleframesmeans that both teamsare noweight points adrift of theleagueleaders

Thereigningchampions completed thedoubleover St John’s A, thanks to competitive wins from Gary Smithand Simon Thomas,amoreconvincingwin from Paul Manningand ademolition jobfromAndySmith

In fact,Smith putonthe performance of thenight,knocking in breaks of 50 and39. Theconsolation forStJohn’scamefrom KevinHawkins,who beat Mike Rogers in anotherverycompetitiveframe.

ChelmarshSc’svictory came at St John’sB.Chris Petford, Ian Postansand Beamer Jones were puttothe test playingagainst MikeCrawley,Jason Brownand Mark Jonesbut foundenough to secure safe wins whileCarl Walker,aided by a39break, rolled over Mark Worsdell. KevinSmith wasthe St John’s star,comfortably beatingMatt Judd

Woodfieldhaveopenedupa six-pointleadinthe Second Division afterbeating Broseley A3-2 in themostcompetitive matchof theevening.

The firstframe went to Broseleythankstoa blackballwin forNeilCaswell againstLuis Ferraro. RogerLees,playing forWoodfield, just managedto getthe upperhandoverCameron Barden on the finalcolours Gary Watsonrompedhomefor Broseley,beating JasonMorris andthe same couldbesaidfor Woodfield’sNeilDrewett,who beat Matt Smout. Thelastword went to RichardCastle, whoupstaged Andy Garbetttoconfirm Woodfield’svictory

Ryan Whitehead is dedicating hisnext fighttothe memory of hisgreat-grandmotherPicture: ManjitNarotra/MSN

COLTSEND THEIR YEAR ON AHIGH

Joneshoping to sign offwith awelcome win

Ludlow head coachMikey Jones is lookingfor hissidetoget back to winningwaysand end2022 on ahigh

Jones’s side head to Regional 2WestMidlandsrugby rivals WolverhamptononSaturdayfor their finalgameofthe year havingsuffereda recent dipinform.

Afterkicking offthe season in stunningfashion with seven straightwins, Ludlow have sufferedfourdefeats in theirlast five outingstoslipfromtop spot to fourth in thetable

Theonlygametosurvive thebig freeze in theHerefordshire Premier Division sawColtsheadhome from Worcestershire with allthree points

Thehome teamstarted on the frontfootbut didn’t really create anyclear-cut chances.

It wasColtswho struck firstwhen

Luke

Anditwasn’tlongbeforeHicks wascelebrating asecondgoalafter latching on to Jake Conod’sthrough ball andslottingpastthe keeper

Thehosts cutthe deficitafter the breakbut Coltshit back to go 3-1up when TomDwyer convertedfroma JabezSmith cross

With 20 minutesremaining, Coppertops madeit3-2,withColts then survivinga late scarewhen thehome side squandered agreat chance

Thevictory sawColts climbupto second in thestandings

Injuries andavailability issues haven’t helped andJones is set to be withoutsix players on Saturdaydue to askiingtrip.

“Wolverhamptonisahard placetogoand getaresultbut it wouldbenicetoend theyear with avictory,” said Jones.

“The boys have trained well arelooking forwardtoitand are keen forsome action afterlast week’s game wascalledoff

“Weset ourselves high standards andwehavetorespond to this recent run.

“I genuinelydon’t thinkthe sideswehavelosttoare better than us.Theyjustwereonthat particular day.

“Wehavegot agoodgroup of lads here andthere is no reason whywecan’t turn this around andget back up thereatthe top challenging. Thetop five or six aregoing to be closeall season.”

PublishedbyMidland News Association Ltd, 51-53QueenStreet,WolverhamptonWV1 1ES.

Ludlow Town Coltsbeat theweather andCoppertops to endtheir year withawin.

GRAHAM GOULD sports@mnamedia.co.uk

Hicksstepped up and fired home asuperb free-kickfrom25 yardsintothe topcorner.

Luke Hicksheadsgoalwards

Jude Bellingham took theWorldCup by storm andthere canbefew prouderofEngland’s rising starlet than Shrewsbury Town kitman JonPearce –who describesthe teenagesensation as oneofthe nicest players he hashad thepleasuretowork with in acareerlooking afterprofessionalfootballers.The pair worked together at BirminghamCityand would enjoyachat overtea andthe oddbiscuitbeforeBellingham movedtoBorussia Dortmundand Pearce movedtoMontgomeryWatersMeadowthissummer.