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PUBLISHED BY MNA Media, Ketley, Telford
7Dining out Andy Richardson meets the couple behind the remarkable success of pub-restaurant The Haughmond
11 Ayear in office
Selina Graham has clocked up thousands of miles in her 12 months as High Sheriff of Shropshire, says Heather Large
38 Interiors
The rustic trend is alook that channels character and charm, says Sam Wylie-Harris
Extreme weather doesn’t only takeits toll on us –itaffects all species. Hereabee keeper offers tips for gardeners
Andy Richardson explores the historic town of Ironbridge and its many attractions
Matt Panter visits anew training facility in Telfordwhich is aiming to plug the skills gaps in engineering and manufacturing
4 MARCH2023 SHROPSHIRE MAGAZINE
106 Beauty
Experts weigh in on the trend that’ssaid to delay wrinkles and firm facial muscles
108
Looking for the perfect pair of trainers? These arethe sneakers you should be sporting this year, says Katie Wright
115 Travel
Mystifying and charismatic, anew pilgrimage trail is set to makemountain kingdom Bhutan even moremagical
There’s achuckle as Mel Board considers the journey that she and husband, Martin, have taken.
The owners of The Haughmond, at Atcham, near Shrewsbury, will celebrate their 10thanniversary next year.It’s taken in apandemic, awar in mainland Europe, acost of living crisis that’s sent people away in droves and spiralling energy costs that would have ended many other businesses.
It’s agood job sheand Martin have learned to see the funny side. And it’s an even better job that they’re light on their feet, flexible, determined and resilient.
When the couple startednegotiations for their pub-restaurant in 2012, they
wanted amulti-functional site. They didn’t just want arestaurant, or apub They wanted somewhere that they could develop, with rooms, so as to hedge their bets. If one part of the business was under-performing, another would pull them through –orsotheythought
“Westarted in 2012, but didn’t get the keys until 2014. The thinking was always that we couldn’t just rely on arestaurant. We needed different avenues to get money in when other things were quiet.”
They bought the pub fromMarston’s. It was all flock wallpaper and flowery carpets. Over the next eight-12 months, they completely gutted and renovated the first floor
Mel says: “It developed from there.
There was adouble garage that was turned into acommunity village store, whichis now acoffee shop with abakery.Weput two extra bedrooms next to it which are dog-friendly,toattract adifferent type of customer.They accommodate dirty wet dogs or dirty wet bikes. We developedone of the barns into asingle-storey house, which we lived in ourselves, but now it’sa self-catering barnthatisfull pretty much all of the year.”
Mel and Martin moved into asecond barn themselves and as their offer grew to bed and breakfast, café and bakery, restaurant, and bar,they’ve continued to keep their feet on the ground.
“Now we’ve reintroduced bar snack menustobring the drinkers back. We
went down one road with the head chef, which was very much fine dining, but we’ve looked at that over the past 12 months and there’s acost of living crisis. We know people won’t spend £65 on atasting menu so we’re back to doing an alacarte menu. We’re back to doing amazing dishes that are affordable. We have anew head chef and all our starters are under £10. All our mains areunder £20. All our desserts are under £10. It’s the way it’s got to be. Ineed bottoms in my chairs and bodies in my beds.”
That determination to be flexible has led to great deals with 20% off food from TuesdaytoThurday.Mel says it’s working. “I’d rather 20% off and someone be there than have an empty chair or an empty room. It’s about being dynamic and flexible and adjusting to themarket place and knowing what’s goingon. There’s no point in us sitting in our ivory tower if no one is willing to buy.It’s about overdelivering on people’s expectations.”
Covid was aonce-in-a-lifetime challenge. “Wewrote alittle journal at the beginning of Covid. It was the day before Mother’s Day and we all huddled around the radio to find out what was going on. All our shoulders sank when we heard the news. Ihad 150 people booked and the chefs had prepared all the food. Ifelt like crying. We packed all the food up in boxes and people took it home. We vac-packed the gravy.The meat was vac-packed. We portioned all the desserts. Everybody –all those 150 covers –went out the door to people who’d booked in. We had to do something with all that food.”
Mel and Martin opened avillage shop, selling, pasta, rice and other goods, to get them through Covid.
“Wewere getting 20kg of rice and putting it into 500g bags. People have forgotten those times.”
And then there was the challenge of energy costs, which, in Mel and Martin’s case, went from £2,200 amonth to £7,000. Imagine that, having to find an extra £1,200 per week –and that was just for electricity
“The nonsense of thediscount from the Government meant 3p per kwh off our usage.” And so staff changedtheir behaviour,switching off lights andgas rings to bring the bills down. “It’s going to continue while Putin’s there.”
Putin’swar in Ukraine meant demand dropped off the face of the earth in February last year,when Russia invaded. “It was looking like it would be arecord month, then the war hit in the Ukraine. Bookings started dropping off the face of the earth. We triedtoadapt. We have anotherthreat coming up in Upton Magna because the Mytton &Mermaid is being done up. It will affect all the pubs round here. We’ve got to offer something outstanding and different. The cost of living crisis hasmeant we’ve all got to look at what we’re doing –whatwe’re offering to our customer base.
“Weknow that customers arenot going out to eat as often, becausewespeak to people all the time. There’s acustomer base that wants to eat out regularly but they’re going throughproblems too. Fine dining is dying on its feet. The cost
of living is changing it. Youhave to be affordable.”
Soldiering on has been ahallmark of Mel’s and Martin’s careers. And it’s served them well. “When we started out, we were in sales and marketing, living in Hong Kong. We sold stuff to people like Tescoand Wilkinson’s.Those places made stupid money but we both hated everything about what we did. We hada passion to supplypeople with something good, which is why we moved into hospitality
“My passion was customer service and Martin likes to cook –together,wemake a good team. Ijust lovefeeding people who are passionate about what we do. We were never restaurateurs who wanted to make amassive profit, sell-up and retire. Our staff are like our family.”
And so, it must be said, arethe locals from their community. Mel and Martin are the lifeblood of Shropshire –the county needs them as much as they need the county.
n Photos: Andy Hughes
SELINA GRAHAM HAS CLOCKED UP THOUSANDS OF MILESINHER 12 MONTHS AS HIGH SHERIFF OF SHROPSHIRE. HEATHER LARGE CAUGHT UP WITH HER TO CHAT ABOUT HER INCREDIBLE YEAR
Travelling the length and breadth of Shropshiretomeet the people who make our communities tick has been ajourney of discovery for Selina Graham.
When she was installed as High Sheriff in April last year,Selina vowed to champion volunteering in all itsguises during her 12 months in office.
Since then, she has made it her mission to meet as manypeople as possible, who giveuptheir time freely, and without expectation of reward, to improve thelives of others
“Somany people said at the beginning don’t be a‘busy fool’ and I’ve probably been a‘busy fool’!” says the mother of two. “Luckily my children learned young to fend for themselves andmyhusband has fast had to learn to cook! He has been ahuge support.
“I’ve been to alot of places and I’ve met alot of people. Ilovemeeting people and making connections and themore you meet the more connections you can make.
“The role has taken over my life completely but you only get one shot at it and if you want to make adifference then you need to throw as much at it as you possibly can,” explains Selina.
Over the past 12 months, she has clocked up thousands of miles visiting avast range of charities and community
groups across the county
“When you start travelling the length and breadth of it, you realise what ahuge county Shropshire is. It’s lucky Ilive pretty centrally,” says Selina, who has been involved in running her family’s estate at Willey Park, Broseley for more than 20 years, “but Istill managed to have aday when Iopened aChristmas Fayre in Shrewsbury,attendedacivic service in Wemand turnedonthe Christmas lights in Clun!”
Spending time in different communities has opened her eyes to awide variety of volunteering and the extraordinary efforts people go to support each other.
“My favourite definition of community is ‘a group of people that care about each other andfeel they belong together’. When people care about each other,they develop trust and trust unlocks collaboration.
“All over Shropshire, we have such groups. Seeingthe different ways in which these communities across Shropshire collaborate for greatest impact has been fantastic –and they are all so different, so proud of their own ‘place’ and how they care for it. It has been very evident that Shropshireis notone ‘place’, it really is made up of so many completely individual and very different towns and communities.”
To help recognise the valuable contribution volunteers make in Shropshire, she hasbeenhanding out High Sheriff ’s Awards of appreciation.
“We’ve had ahugenumber of people nominate someone for an award, which is fantastic. Ieven received three completely independent nominations for one individual, which obviously says ahuge amount about her. Somebody else has just received aHigh Sheriff ’s Award from the 4th different county!
“I would never be able to recognise everyone who deserves it but it’s been areal privilege to go outand meet the people Ihave given awards to,” says Selina.
Selina, whose mother,Catherine Lady Forester,was the first female High Sheriff of Shropshire in 1997, hasnot only wanted to thank volunteers, but also to spread the positive message: “Volunteering is aremedy.It’s afeel-good pill. Doing things for others makes you feel good about yourself and that can help mental health,” sheexplains.“One person’s ‘service user’isoften somebody else’s volunteer.” And that is why Selina strongly believes volunteering will have such apositive part to play in social prescribing in thefuture –where doctors connect people with activities, groups and services to improve their health and wellbeing.
“One of the words I’ve heard the most this year is: purposefulness. The lackof purpose is when things tend to go wrong so doing something meaningful can be incredibly important and there are so many different volunteering opportunities available. Ihave been highlightingsome of these on the High Sheriff ’s socialmedia #HighSheriffAsk but the Shropshire InfrastructurePartnership and town and county councils are alsogood places to look.”
Over the past 12 months, Selina has also undertaken the traditional role of aHigh Sheriff by supporting those working on our behalf in the judiciary,the police, prisons, probation and emergency services.
“People have been incredibly generous with their time and knowledge. I’ve sat with aHigh Court judge, Crown Court judges, with magistrates and with the coroner; met court staff,tribunal judges and probation officers.
“I’ve visited Stoke Heath Prison, been out with police on patrol, visited the police problem-solving unit, attended police awards evenings, met the police cadets and visited Willowdene Farm, aresidential rehabilitation centre for women in Chorley.”
As well as visiting West Mercia Police’s headquarters at Hindlip Hall,
Selina travelled out of the county to visit HM Prison Long Lartin, near Evesham in Worcestershire with fellow High Sheriffs from Worcestershire and Herefordshire.
Long Lartin is aCategory Afacility for male prisoners considered to pose the most threat to the public, thepolice or national security should they escape.
Describing thevisit as “life-changing”, she says: “No amount of watching Netflix crime dramas could have prepared me for the utter sense of desolation and hopelessness. It reinforced to me how important hope is, and howvital it is to work to keep even the faintest flickers alive, before aperson ends up somewhere
CLOCKWISE FROM TOPLEFT:
High Sheriff of BuckinghamshireDebbie Brock and High Sheriff of ShropshireSelina Graham visit CliveKnowles at the British Ironwork CentreinOswestry; Selina Graham is sworn in to her new role at St John the Baptist Church in Willeynear Broseley; cutting the ribbon and unveiling aplaque at theopening of theMen’s Shed, Cleobury Mortimer,withBarbara Martin, Peter Blackburn (Chair of the charity) and Rev’d Ashley Buck; Selina Graham’sMemories II art exhibition preview night at Willey Park; with Mayor of TelfordRaj Mehta as Lingen Davies launch their Cancer Awareness van at TelfordPlaza.
like this. There are also wider messages for society though –mostofthe people that end up there do so because society has –wehave –failedthem.”
There is, unsurprisingly,a ceremonial aspect to such an ancient role with royal visits, mayor makings, awards ceremonies, civic services and processions.
“I don’t thinkIcould have had a more extraordinary year.Itincludedthe Queen’sJubilee andthe Commonwealth Games. Iattended beacon lightings, community lunches, torch handovers and picnics in the park –alot of celebration.” Then in September,Selina, along with other High Sheriffs across thecountry, read the accession proclamation of King Charles III.
She gave the first address from the bandstand in the QuarryinShrewsbury before travelling to Southwater in Telford to repeat the proclamation.
“The proclamation was momentous. It was an incredible honour to take part in such an historic occasion,but also to spend time reflecting on the life of one of the most amazing, if not the most amazing, woman of my lifetime was a great privilege.
“Both Shropshire and Telford and Wrekin councils stagedimpeccable events, they were seamless,” says Selina.
In just afew weeks, she will be
handing over her reins to High Sheriff in nomination Mandy Thorn following a legal service at Shrewsbury Abbey
This is atraditional service held in thanksgiving of the King’s Peace, our heritage and for all those who work in the administration of justice andassociated charities.
“The velvet and feathers is going to end up in the attic,but all of the experiences, connections, friendships and knowledge will remain.
“It does go incredibly quickly.For four years, you are working up to it, then once you are installed, it takesona life of its own.
“I wish Mandy awonderful year –my advice to her is probably the opposite of that given to me –tobea‘busy fool’,
ABOVE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOPLEFT: Launch of the Tree of Light in Telford Shopping CentrewithPeter Seaward, chair of the Tree of Light committee; at Shrewsbury Station launching anew train, the Charles Darwin, to run from Wolverhamptonto Shrewsbury; unveiling aPlatinum Jubilee Bench at Market Drayton Junior School; visiting Severn Hospice in Shrewsbury with Jeanette Whitford(Chair), Prof Derek Willis (Medical Director) and patient Mary Reedy.
throw yourself into it, embrace all the opportunities, but play to your strengths because that’s the way you can make the most difference.
“It’s exhausting but it’s an enormous privilege and Ihave enjoyed every minute of it.”
Unveiling of a Covid tribute designed by Kevin Nutley, at Market Drayton with Town Crier Geoff Russell, and pupils from Longlands Primary School, Mia Freail and Phoebe ChamberlainLlandrinio Hall, in Llandrinio near Llanymynech, enjoys arural setting with wonderful views. On the market with Savills with aguide price of £1,350,000, the hall is believed to be the oldest extant brick-built building in Montgomeryshire.
The house boasts some wonderful features including exposed beams, large sash windows andworking shutters, original oak floorboards and afabulous staircase.
The accommodation flows beautifully from the central living room which has awood-burning stove, while the billiards room has wooden flooring, an open fireplace andis double aspect.
The cinema room has an open fireplace and has asoundproof floor and the family kitchen boasts farmhouse-style units, Norwegian granite worktops and quarry tiled flooring.
Doors lead through to the conservatory and dining area with fabulous views towards Rodney’s Pillar and over the formal gardens. The morning room is currently used as an office/ playroom.
The beautiful, solid oak Caroleanne staircase rises from an inner hallway to the first floor where there are two good-sized double bedrooms and afamily bathroom. Off acorridor are a further two double bedrooms, afamily bathroomand aseparate wet room.
The second floor is split into two wings with two separate staircases from the first floor.Onthe one side, is adouble bedroom and alarge attic store.Onthe other wing are two double bedrooms with alanding in between.
The house is approached via along lime tree avenue. To the front of the house is agravel parking area. The main garden enjoys wonderful views and is laid out with aformallawn with topiary yew hedges and akitchen garden, opening to an orchard area. Aprivate enclosed garden includes an outside chess set, but could serve well as avegetable garden
Llandrinio has apetrol station with avillage shop and post office, The Punch Bowl pub and avillage hall.
The property is well located for wonderful walking, cycling, riding and fishing and the area has some highly regarded schools and atrain station at nearby Welshpool.
LESS than two yearsafter joining Savills as adirector,Peter Daborn has been promoted to the head of residential sales for Shropshire, Staffordshireand Mid Wales.
Born and brought up in Shropshire, Peter is aqualified Chartered Surveyor and the fifthgeneration of his family to be working in property within Shropshire, and has astrong knowledge of the county which, in his ownwords, is no longer the hidden gem it once was.
Commenting on his new role, he says: “I feel incredibly honoured to lead such an experienced and well-respected team in acounty that Inot onlylove,but onethat has become so popular in recent yearsthat it is not such ahidden gem anymore! Ihope that my knowledge of the area, coupled with that of the team’s, will continue to be of great benefit to those looking to maketheir next house move.”
Recent research from Savills predicted that the average house price will fall, but Peter believes thereare several reasons to remain optimistic for those still weighing up a move –citing apositive start to the year
“Muchhas been made of the predicted drop in average house prices this year –with our researchers forecasting falls of as much as 9% across the wider West Midlands region –but thereisplenty of room for optimism. While therehas been a slight reduction in activity therehas been no such drop in the level of demand we areseeing among interested buyers. We arestill launchingproperties that areattracting interest and offers. The keyhereisthat thereisgood traction when the property is priced right: so, price to sell, rather than price to test.
“Shropshireremains an incredibly popular relocation market that combines commutability, good schools, and highquality housing stock. In ourmost recent buyer and seller survey, the long-term commitment to move has increased since our previous survey with small towns, villages and country living maintaining its allureamong those looking to move
“Weare,understandably, seeing alot morebuyers paying far moreconsideration to their home’s running costs than they perhaps were previously, and it is the backdrop of rising interest rates and increased cost of living that will see amore needs-based housing market in the short term.
“However, the value gap between Shropshireand wider commuter markets will leavegreater capacity for growth and, as such, we expect to be one of thestrongest performing regions overthe four years to 2027.”
Peter,supportedbyanexperienced team, will be responsible for property sales throughout Shropshire, Staffordshireand Mid Wales.
Yockleton, Shrewsbury
Adelightful family homefinished to avery high standard, Conveniently located approximately one mile from Pontesbury,close to Shrewsbury,The property features a paddock of 1.73 acres,set in 2.42 acres, EPC:E
Guide£1.25 million | Freehold
Hopesay, Craven Arms
Wonderful accommodation,including aannexe,afabulous opportunity forgenerational living, attractive gardens, paddock,off road parking and aseparateworkshop,just over 2acres, council tax band:F,EPC:D
Guide £950,000 | Freehold
LockleyWood,Market Drayton
Acharming equestrian property with stablingand amartin colins ménage,approximately 9.5acres including fenced paddocks, elevatedposition, further outbuildings,EPC:F, council tax band: E
Guide£925,000 | Freehold
PeterDaborn Director 01952239500
peter.daborn@savills.com
Ironbridge, Telford
Oneofthe mostnotable houses in Coalbrookdale,set withinaUNESCO world heritage site, original features, close to well respected schools,opportunity to run ab&b, council tax band: G, EPC: D
Guide £875,000 | Freehold
Beccy Theodore-Jones Associate 01952239500 btjones@savills.com
Dorrington, Shrewsbury
Rural location within proximity of Dorrington &Church Stretton, fabulous setting with paddocks, woodland and views overCaer Caradoc &the Lawley, barn with workshop and three/four stables, fabulous location for commuting to Shrewsbury,council tax band: F, EPC:D
Guide £825,000 | Freehold
Childs Ercall, Market Drayton
This is awonderful and versatile village property with beautiful views out towardsthe long mynd and over open countryside., well locatedfor commuting to the M54 and local schools, spacious off road parking with gatedaccess, EPC:F
Guide £775,000 | Freehold
NewInstruction
Crudgington, Telford
Wonderful blend of charm and contemporary,convenient location foraccess to Shrewsbury,Telfordand Newport, well regarded schools locally,south facing garden, EPC:D, council tax band: F
Guide £650,000 | Freehold
PeterDaborn Director 01952239500
peter.daborn@savills.com
Marton Hill, Marton
Situatedwithin beautiful Shropshirecountryside and yet accessible to Shrewsbury,fantastic walking, riding and cycling straight from the doorstep, well regarded schools in the area, no upward chain, council tax band:E, EPC:C
Guide £600,000 | Freehold
Beccy Theodore-Jones Associate 01952239500
btjones@savills.com
The Hollies is atruly stunning, superior four-bedroomed family residence, with double garage and generous parking. LocatedinCrowmeole Lane, Shrewsbury,itis on the market with Miller Evansatanaskingpriceof £1,200,000
The property boastsa self-contained home office and wellstocked, neatly kept landscaped garden.
It has recently undergone acomprehensive Grand Designsstyle refurbishment and is well presented throughout with splendid rooms, all of pleasing dimensions.
The property benefits from full gas-fired central heating, double-glazed sash windows and luxurious zoned underfloor heating system to theground floor living areas.
The property is situated on theever popular and desirable western fringe of Shrewsbury,close to excellent amenities including popular schools,the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and within close proximity of the nearby town centre with its many fashionable bars and restaurants.
Off the spacious reception hall are bedroom four and a luxuriously-appointed family bathroom with free-standing roll top bath.
The sitting room is adelightful room with central fireplace with ornamental surround and mantel, flanked on both sides by bespoke built-in storage cabinets and display shelving.
The magnificent kitchen/dining/family room is well appointed with an exquisite range of matching units
incorporating alarge central island unit with Italian granite work surfaces and awide selection of premium built-in appliances. There is an adjoining utility room, with arange of matching units, and acloakroom/WC.
From the reception hall, astaircase rises to the first floor landing with large walk-in airing cupboard/linen cupboard. The master bedroom suite includes afully fitteddressing room and luxury en-suite bathroom with twin handbasins and largewalkin shower cubicle.
There are two further bedrooms on this floor and ashower room.
The property boasts alargedouble garage, that is currently used as agym, and an adjoining open bay garage/store.
Above the garage is separate accommodation with planning permission allowing the spacetobeoccupied as office accommodation.
The loft annexe features an office/sitting room with built-in storage, an en-suite shower room and well-equipped kitchenette.
The property is approached through aformal pillared entrance with locally commissioned wrought iron electric double gates. There is agenerous enclosed forecourt. Steps ascend to the landscaped and paved terrace with retaining walls to the oakframed open vestibule which serves the formalreception area.
The rear south-facing garden is beautifully landscaped with large sun terraces. The enclosed extensive pleasure lawns are neatly kept with well-stocked shrubbery displays.
There is alargegarden tandem shed and ornamental greenhouse, while alarge garden room provides further potential for an additional workspace.
The rear south-facing garden is beautifully landscaped with large sun terraces
£725,000
This extremelyattractiveand well presented, five bedroom, detached property has been recently improved and modernised by thecurrent owners to provide versatile and flexibleaccommodation throughout.The property occupies apleasant positionin thehighly soughtafter South Shropshirevillage of Picklescott,which remains largelyunspoilt and provides village hall and therenowned Bottle and Glass public house/restaurant. The surrounding area providesmiles of local walksoveranexpanse of farmland andaroundthe South Shropshire Hills.
This well presented, modern, five bedroom detached property with self-contained one bedroom annex, provides spacious andwell planned accommodation withdelightful gardensand grounds extending to approximately 1acreincluding partownership of alarge pond.The property is pleasantly situatedinthis popular and convenient residential area close to excellentlocal amenities andthe nearbytowncentre.
Picklescott,C/Stretton
Shepherds Lane,Bicton
Offers Over £800,000
Guide £525,000
Situatedon theedgeofthe picturesque village of Llanrhaeadr ym MochantisArllwyn astunning 1900’s five bedroom detached Welsh stone house.Sitting in an elevated position, this idyllic property is surrounded by rollinghills,woodland,streams,and an abundanceofwildlife. Arllwynsits on approximately a1.73-acreplot comprising of atiered garden, vegetable plot,orchard, and woodland
Situatedbetween the county townofShrewsburyand the stunning smaller medieval townofMuch Wenlock, is the exclusivedevelopmentofCound Park Gardens.The developmentsits in the restored walled garden of Cound Hall.Pelham House is aspacious sixbedroom property,which the currentowners have recently improved and upgraded to ahigh standardofspecification.
Early interior viewing is recommended of this attractive, detached four-bedroom property,occupying aprime position within the favoured village of Nesscliffe. The Old Smithy in Holyhead Road is on the market with Samuel Wood with aguide priceof £450,000.
The village offers excellent links to Shrewsbury,Oswestry and Chester as well as avarietyof local amenities, beautiful countryside walks, gastro pub and aprimary school.
The property is situated in adelighted garden with vernacular stone walling and is for salewith no upward chain. It benefits from extensive off-road parking to the front with agarage and an attractiveenclosed garden.
An entrance door leads to the reception hall which has atiled floor and astaircase ascending to the first floor
Off the hall is the guest cloakroom/WC.
The spaciousbreakfastkitchen, which overlooks the rear garden, has arange of wall and base cupboards and drawers, with work surface over.There is also autility room
The living room has awindow seat and square bay window to the front, window to theside and French doorsto the rear
From the reception hall, the staircase ascends to the landing, off which are four bedrooms and the family bathroom.
The main bedroom haswindows to the front and side and an en-suite shower room.
Outside, the property benefits from off-road parking and a garage.
There is an enclosed rear garden extending to the side and to the rear of the premises, together with adecking area and attractivesandstone walling.
Thisspaciousdoublefronteddetached Victorianhousesitsinaconvenientlocation justoffLudlow’stowncentreandclosetoall facilities,whilebenefittingfromoffroad parkingandadelightfulreargarden.
Thiswonderful3storeyGradeIIlistedhome ofdistinctionislocatedinarguablyLudlow’s fineststreet.Beautifullypresented,fullof charmandcharacterandbenefitsfroman enclosedcourtyardgarden&smallworkshop.
Thiswonderfulcharacterpropertyhasbeen sympatheticallyextended,wellmaintainedand improvedovertheyearstoprovidespacious andversatileaccommodationtosuitvarious needs.Situatedinapprox40acresofland
Thistrulysuperbperiodcottagewitha detachedself-containedannex/studio/holiday letsetinapproxanacreofgroundswith stunningfar-reachingviewsandhavingdirect accesstowalksandbridleways.
PriceGuide£535,000
Superbindividuallybuiltdetached'Border Oak'designedoakframeresidenceina stunningrurallocation,withfarreaching viewsandwithmanyecologicalfeatures. A doublegaragewithworkspaces.
PriceGuide£750,000
Thisdelightfullypositionedand stunning familyhomeistheproductofanextensive renovationprojectbytheexistingvendors. Boastingbeautifullandscapegardens completewithpondsandoutdoorstudio.
PriceGuide£395,000
Providingexcellent,substantiallyimproved accommodationwithabrandnewroof, extendedfirstflooraccommodation,refitted groundfloorshowerroomandinstallationof bi-foldlivingroomdoors.
PriceGuide£499,995
Thisbeautifullypresentedstylishfivebedroom property(includingdressingroom)occupiesa primepositionwithinthismodernresidential developmentlocatedontheveryfringeofthis popularNorthShropshirevillage,
Classic lines combined with contemporary design make this four-bedroom home, found less than ten miles from both Telford and Shrewsbury ahighly desirable opportunity
Shooters Houseisfound at Barkers Square, Withington. From its location it offers stunning southerly views of countryside and the Wrekin.Launched to the market by Charlie Giffard, Balfours Associate Partner,Country House Sales, he says: “Built 11 years ago by the current owners, this property has so much goingfor it. The classic design is spacious,offering more than 3,000 square feet.”
There are three reception rooms off the traditional hall, where the staircase features, plus acloakroom and utility.In addition, there is ahugely generous open-plan kitchen/diner with French doors to two aspects and glazing to four,including alarge skylight in the vaulted ceiling.
From the kitchen, the sociable space for entertaining is extended, both through double doors opening into what is currently used as the games room with lantern ceiling, andtoa large, covered terrace accessible from the kitchen. Twobedrooms share aJack and Jill shower room, while thefamily bathroom with abath serves afurther two bedrooms.
Asweeping drive and landscaped grounds, extending over half an acre, incorporate ample parking and adouble garage. With the M54 just five miles away,the location is ideal for commuting.
Situated between Withington and Roddington, Shooters House offers excellent village life with public house, village hall and church at each. An extensive choice of state and private schools are within an easy commute.
With an eye to the future, the property is equipped with aground source heat pump servicing underfloor heating throughout the ground and first floor.Balfours are marketing Shooters House with aguideprice of £950,000. Formore information call 01743 353511.
GuidePrice £950,000
ARecently Renovated Four Bedroom Farmhouse with Outbuildings set within 8Acres (3.23 ha) of Permanent Pasture.
Stunning Views, CharacterProperty,High Specification, Four Bedrooms,Garden Room, Open-Plan Kitchen /Dining,
GuidePrice £795,000
ASubstantial Black and WhiteDetached Farmhouse with Five /Six Bedrooms laid out overThree Floors. 5/6 Bedrooms,Three Storeys, LargeGardens,3Reception Rooms, 3Bathrooms,Outbuildings,PotentialtoModernise. EPC: E.
GuidePrice £700,000
ADetached Four Bedroom House with Far-Reaching Westerly Views, Setin9.3 Acres(3.76 Ha) with Stables
CharacterProperty,Sitting /Garden Room, Kitchen /Dining Hall, Barn, Additional 14.17 Acres(5.73 ha) with SeparateAccess Via Separate Negotiation, EPC D.
GuidePrice £650,000
AGrade II Listed Three/ Four Bedroom Townhouse Situated Adjacenttothe Renowned Pelican Court.
Prime Location, Unique Residence,Grade II Listed,Townhouse, Open-Plan Living Room /Dining Room, Terrace, Garage,EPC: E.
Shrewsbury Shropshire TheBog Shropshire Clunton Shropshire Ludlow ShropshireGuidePrice £995,000
ACompletely Unique,Substantial Residenceset within the Sought-After Village of Burghill, ImpressiveResidence, Stunning Location, Five Bedrooms, Landscaped Gardens,Four Bathrooms,Close to Village Facilities, EPC: E.
GuidePrice £850,000
ADetachedPeriodFamily Home in one of Shrewsbury’s Finest Residential Locations with Enormous Potential. Town Centre,Excellentlocation, Period Property,Traditional Layout,Two Bathrooms,Four Bedrooms,Open-Plan Kitchen/ Breakfast Room, UtilityRoom,Formal Drawing Room, EPC E.
GuidePrice £825,000
One of the Finest Victorian Semi-Detached Villas in Belle Vue, boasting Unrivalled Residence.
Five Bedrooms,Four Storeys, Flexible Living,Sun Terrace, SecondaryAccomodation Potential,Good Decoration, Three Reception Rooms,Freehold,EPC D.
Shrewsbury Shropshire
GuidePrice £735,000
AFine Victorian Family Home,Boastinga Balanceof ModernDesignand Period CharacterinMeole Village 4/5 Bedrooms,Modernwith Character, Residential Location, Close to Town, Ample Parking,Delightful Garden, Garden Gym,EPC D.
Shrewsbury Shropshire
This stunning five/six-bedroomed detached home in Holyhead Road, Wellington, offers over 2,700sqft of fantastic and flexible family accommodation that could include agood-sized annexe within the house.
The property is on the market with Prestige by Mannleys for offers in the region of £725,000 freehold.
It is in ahighly sought-after location that has great local amenities and motorway access and occupies alovely plot that is set backslightly from the main Holyhead Road.
The ground floor comprises: entrance hallway,breakfast kitchen, lounge, dining room, family room, study,snug/bedroom six, utility room and aground floor shower room.
The first floor features the main bedroom with fitted wardrobes and ensuite shower,guest bedroom with Jack &Jill en-suite bathroom, three further bedrooms and aseparate shower room.
The property benefits from extensive established gardens to the front and side and rear,extensivedriveway parking, good-sized basement double garage, gas central heating anddouble glazing.
Viewing is essential to appreciate the quality of this unique property
BROCKTON PARK
BROCKTON,TF11 9LZ
OIRO£1,699,995
An elegant&stylish 4bedroom, 4bathroom, Georgian homewith it’s ownAirBnB furnished barn& outbuildings,all situatedina fantasticlocationwith landscaped grounds of approx 2.34acres.Brockton Park is an extremely impressiveproperty,blessed with a mixture of character and charm, yet boasting a modernluxuryinterior.EPC E
FAIRVIEW
26 STARS LANE, COLD HATTON,TF6 6PZ
OIRO£765,000
Fairview House is asuperbly extended four bedroom detached dormer bungalowand occupies afantastic plot of approximately 5.3 acres.Itislocatedinthe highly sought-afterHamlet of Cold Hatton. The property is perfect forequestrian use with an existing stable block, well drained fieldsthathaveriver frontage and it has the benefitofplanning approval forfurtheroutbuildings and amenage.EPC C
WELLINGTON,TF1 2HQ
OIRO£675,000
Spacious six bedroom detached executivehome with large open-plankitchen/dining/family room, sitting room, diningroom, family room, utility and W.C. Spaciousmain bedroom with dressing room and en-suite, guest bedroom with en-suite, twofurther bedroomsand afamily bathroom. 2nd floorhas two large double bedrooms andfamily bathroom. Superb plot with extensive driveway parking,detached double garage and landscaped rear garden. EPCC
WELLINGTON,TF1 2BJ
OIRO£439,000
Luxurythree bedroom topfloor penthouse with over 1700 sq ft of living accommodation and its ownprivate entrancehallway andprivate lift. Briefly comprises; 30 ft open plankitchen/dining/sitting room with enclosed balconyarea, 20 ft master bedroomwith en-suite, office,two further double bedrooms with en-suites,utilityroom and W.C. Allocatedparking
Anticipated completion Feb/March 2023
If you are looking to sell or let your property/ land, or need advice on arange of professional matters, please call or use the QR code to visit our website
Set in the romantic backdrop of the stunning Shropshire countryside, PresthopeGrangeisa beautiful residential park exclusively for the over 45s, just five minutes from the idyllic market town of Much Wenlock.
Offering aluxurious lifestyle amongst aclose-knit community,this is afantastic opportunity to live in this idyllic rural location.
The 40ft x20ft OmarImage Park Home is contemporary, modern and stylish, featuring twobedrooms, private parking and stunning countryside views.
The soft, neutral and simple interior design, along with the vaulted ceilings, provide bounds of natural lightthroughout the
home, as well as agreat feeling of space, whilst still offering the perfect canvas to make it your own.
Leading in through thefront door,there is asemi-enclosed cloakroom which links through to the modern kitchen-diner area with fully integrated appliances. Fitted with dust grey kitchen units complimented with brushed steel ‘T’ bar handles, an electric oven and hob, integrated fridge-freezer,dishwasher and washing machine, the kitchen has all you could need, whilst the open-plan design and round extending dining table with chairs creates the perfect space to wine and dine guests.
Featuring awall-mounted electric fire in the heart of the lounge, with recessed shelves either side, acoffee table and two stylish sofas, the living area is awarm and inviting space inwhich torelax and unwind at the end of the day
The simple and stylish design flows through to the two bedrooms, each featuring alarge double bed with luxury wallmounted headboards and freestanding bedside cabinets. The master bedroom has astunning walk-in wardrobe with two fitted double wardrobes, leading through to the private en-suite. The home also has alarge bathroom with contemporary finishes.
Featuring elegant Frenchdoors which open out on to the decking, the Omar Image provides the opportunity to admire the spectacular countryside views and enjoy the outstanding natural beauty surrounding the home.
The Omar Image is priced at £245,000 on 2Red Admiral Way, Presthope Grange.
Built to residential standard BS 3632, the home is designed for residential use throughout the year with exceptional build quality and a10-year structural warranty for peace of mind. It is also pet-friendly,situated in asecure and gated community,with the added benefitofbeing aCouncil TaxBand Aproperty
To arrange aviewing of this luxurious home, call theteam on 01746 541941 or find out more aboutPresthope Grange on the website at www.presthope-grange.co.uk
Ahome at PresthopeGrangeisthe perfectcountry retreat for the over-45s offering agentler pace of living in peaceful, spectacular surroundings, whilst boasting excellent transport connections to surrounding picturesque Shropshire towns and villages.
March is National Bed Month, and Cousins Furniture is on amission to help improve the quality of your sleep.
Sleep is such an important element of our everyday lives, so it is vital that you purchase abed that can provide the optimal level of comfort and support specifictoyour own individual needs.
The thought of choosingabed can be quite daunting but with such awide selection available at Cousins Furniture’s destination showrooms, you will be sure to find what you are looking for
Visit one of their stores where there are more than 80 beds on display, ranging from mattresses with natural fillings, to technology beds with gel, memory or medical foam. Let one of their friendly and knowledgeable bedding experts guide you in finding the right bed with their extensive knowledge and experience in the industry.Cousins always recommend that you test abed
or mattress before buying; it’s avery personal choice.
Be assured that they can answer allof your bed and sleep-related questions. Get abetter night’s sleep and save money with Cousins during their Bed Event.
Everything will be reduced including all the famousbrand names such as Hypnos,Harrison Spinks and TEMPUR®.Ontop of massive price savings, there will also be free upgrades such as kings for the price of doubles, free drawers and complimentary pillows.
Cousins also offer their own Bespoke collection of beds and mattresses for the ultimate in personal comfort and support. Bespoke bed bases, ottomans and bed frames are all available on express delivery within 14 days.
All Bespoke mattresses are in stock for immediate delivery,as are thevast majority of branded mattresses –as buying amattress or new bed can sometimes be adistress purchase.
Size specifications, storage options and existing colour schemes are all additional considerations that Cousins Bespoke can cater for.Quality,durability and abeautiful design and finish will also ensure that your new bed purchase is both functional and will enhance the style of your bedroom.
The mattress is an integral part of the decision-making process when purchasing anew bed. Getting the correct mattress for your requirements will safeguard and even prolong the life-span of the mattress,
and will provide the essential comfort and support necessary for agood night’s sleep which, in turn is so vital to your health and wellbeing. Cousins are also pleased to announce theexpansion of their technology for comfort range, including cooling technologymattresses, latex mattresses and medical grade mattresses.
Mattress innovations have advanced immeasurably over the years and there are now so many premium mattresses that can be customised for you and will mould perfectly to your body profile, helping to maintain your naturalposture. Many of the beds on show at Cousins use locally sourced materials and sustainable components thatare traceable back to their source.
Whether you have alist of criteria of exactly what will make the perfect bed for you or need additional expert guidance, one of Cousins’ friendly and knowledgeable sleep experts will be happy to assist you.
Abel wooden rattan accent chair,£250, Next
Described as amodernrustic mix of wood, rattan and upholstery, with acurved backrest and wide, plush seat, this accent chair will blend beautifully into Scandi and country living settings.
THIS IS ALOOK THAT CHANNELS CHARACTER AND CHARM, SAYS SAM WYLIE-HARRIS
Rustic linen runner in natural, £55, and rustic linen napkins, set of 4, £45, The White Company
Arustic runner in natural linen provides the perfect building block for all your homely tablescaping –think wooden accents, cream plates, evergreen foliage and filler flowers such as baby’sbreath.
Ifyou’re looking for fresh design ideas that ooze homely comfort and charm, rusticstyleliving could hold the key
This look is all about being stylish and relaxed –and the country aesthetic can be tweaked to suit your space, from casual to chic.
Indeed, the beauty of bringing home woven textiles, earthy pottery,ceramics and natural woods is that it’s easy on the eye and conjures pared-back bliss.
Here are 12 ways to work rustic style into your home…
Personalised pheasants on country gate, print only from £15, Florence &Lavender
Looking to set awelcoming country scene? These pleasing pheasants will add character and charm to any home.
Nutkins bowls, from £19-£59 each, Loaf
Made from solid walnut, these artisan bowls inspirethoughts of homemade rustic salads and crunchy chopped vegwithdips.
Emma Bridgewater Dig The Garden large tray, £36.95, Annabel James
Naturally, you’ll want awhimsy carrytrayfor toing and froing from your vegetable garden –orfor sittingpretty on the countertop.
TruGlowdark grey distressed LED pillar candle trio, £27, Lights4fun
When you want to strip back the lighting and enjoy a more atmospheric flicker, let these grey pillar candles take centre stage
George dried natural botanicals in bell jar,£7, Direct.asda
This decorativedomeisa natural beauty. Who wouldn’t love this tucked on top of a mantelpiece or bookcase?
Acontemporary ceramic vase with matte finish feels fresh –and it only takes acouple of stemstomakeastylish statement.
George plain frill edge duvet set, doubles from £16, Direct.asda
When you want to break up those muted tones, romantic frills in bold black areanatural bedfellow with warm woods and neutrals. Aperfect way to channel French farmhouse style.
Dutchbone Mathison side table, £224, Cuckooland cleverly configured side table is super versatileand can be used to display vases in various shapes and sizes; not mention your favourite collection of books. Finished in walnut veneer,itlooks the real deal
FROM MEDITERRANEAN HUES TO AQUA AND INDIGO, COOL BLUES ARE WHERE IT’S AT, SAYS SAM WYLIE-HARRIS
Pair apretty scalloped shade with acobalt blue stripe base –and you have an eyecatching centrepiece, ideal for aside table or dresser
Paisley fern/lapis blue wallpaper,£98 per roll, Fiona HowardWallpapers Apaisley print creates awonderful contrast, especially if you paper afeature wall and border it with white. Style with Turkishhammam towels to brighten up abathroom, or arattanaccent chair would make agreat finishing touch.
From piercing bright skies and turquoise seas to Greek island homes –nothing fires the imagination and soothes the spirits quite like pleasing shades of blue. To channel those positivevibes, we’ve rounded up the best blue homewares to shop right now…
This exciting new S/S bedding collection from award-winning designer Matthew Williamson celebrates his love for nature, with big blousy blooms, pacificblue petals, touches of teal and vibrant florals. Bright and beautiful.
Matthew Williamson gardenia damask cotton duvet coverand pillowcase set, from £70-£110, Next
Lottie bedside lamp, £177 (includes base and shade in blue sky linen), Pooky.com
Blue ceramic pineapple ice bucket, £40, Talking Tables
Funky and fun, this eye-catching ice bucket cries outfor sundowners. Bound to be aconversation-starter, too.
All eyes will be on this hero piece –which is crying out for atop spot on your mantle or bookcase.
Blue glass yala jug, £24.95 (tumblers from aselection), Heavenly Homes And Gardens
Channel the art of Mediterranean living, with an indigo glassjug for wine, water and al-fresco entertaining.
Holly 2.5 seat sofa in deep turquoise cotton matt velvet, £1,735, Sofa.com
With its suave upholstery in this standout shade, this looks like amodern take on mid-century style. And that deep cushioned seat and choice of English Oak or Mahogany legs certainly make it worth the splurge.
When it comes to relaxed tablescaping, these washed denim-look napkins feel
Coastal stonewareblue dinner set –16 piece, £49, ProCook
Amustfor casual get-togethers, this blue stripe stoneware has afetching French farmhouse feel. Think sea views, olive groves and great company
Ocean star fish sharing bowl, £7; star fish plate, £2.50; ocean swirl tumblers –4 pack, £8; ocean swirl wine glasses –4 pack, £8, and ocean Print Plate, £2.50, B&M stores from mid-late Feb Whether it’s catch of the day or recreating some of your favourite holiday street food, this new Ocean collection is tailormade for mezze dips.
These plush plumes will add personality to any space. Agreatcolour combo for some mix-and-match styling, too.
Soft blue fringed napkins –set of 4, £28, The White Company
The All Seeing Hands ornament, £28, Rockett St George
Mathew Williamson peacock cushion, £50, Next
Tel: 01686 626465
Craven Arms: 01588 673133
Knighton: 01547 520821
Freezing cold snaps and flooding in winter followed by long, sweltering summers, don’t only take their toll on us –theyaffect all species, including bees. Dr Hayley Jones, senior entomologist with the RHS (rhs.org.uk), says it’s not so much the cold weather that affects the insects, but sudden changes in temperature due to climate change, which confuses them and damages their cycle.
“Historically,we’ve had alot of coldweather. Theproblem is when it changes, such as acold snap after awarm period,” she says. “When the weather warms up, the insects become more active, and tend to come out of their restive hibernation state. However,when the cold snap happens, they either expend alot of energy going back into that state, having not managed to do any foraging, or they are caught unawares, and if they are very exposed, they could die.”
To help gardeners help bees, Rowse Honey (rowsehoney co.uk) and global charity Bees ForDevelopment (beesfordevelopment.org), share six tips for extreme hot or cold weather,with expert advice from professional beekeeper Amanda John.
1. Grow plenty of pollinator-friendly plants
Planting arange of wildflowers throughout spring,summer and autumn is essential, so bees can harvest as much nectar and pollen as they need, creating honey stores in their hive for the winter,says John.
2. Create leaf and twig piles
Build piles of leaves and twigs for bumble bees, to offer them acosy shelter from the elements. Youcould also build or buy abee hotel for your garden, to help replace and restore lost habitat.
In open environments, bumble bees and other insects may form colonies under compost heaps and leaves. Avoid moving these, if you’re likely to spend your time inside.
Expert view: “Honey bees are the only bee species in the UK thatovercome winter as acolony,” John explains. “In other species of bees, only the queen survives winter
“Honey bees cope very well in cold weather; they form acluster inside the hive and sort of ‘shiver’tokeep warm. In milder spells, the bees will flyaround the entrance of the hiveto orientate, and go on cleansing flightstorelieve any waste.
“There is very little forage for the bees in the winter months, until the early-flowering plants bloom in spring. Therefore, the bees must collect enough food in the spring and summer to last the winter,which is why our continued support is so important.”
1. Givethem easy access to water
While placing water in atray or basin, ensure separate trays for all
Bee keeperAmanda John.
wild species, she advises. While birds may be able to drink water from basins, bees can’t swim and can drown.
“Place shallow trays, with pebbles abovethe water level, so that bees can lay on them as they drink water,” says John. “Alternatively, fill buckets with water and create landing pads, using bark and branches.”
As individual bees struggle to survive without the support of their colony,leave parts of your garden untamed. For example, if astraggler were to leave its colony,small piles of woody prunings can provide shelter for the bee.
As abee’s main diet comprises pollen and nectar,planting pollinator-friendly flowers in your garden will help support them significantly.However,ifthisisnot possible, providing a50/50 sugar and water solution would also help, offering aone-off energy boost.
Expert view: “Honey bees cope pretty well in hot weather.The internal colony temperature is around 35 degrees Celsius, so they are used to working in warm conditions. When it’s hot outside, they collect more water and fan their wings at the entrance to cool down the hive,” John explains.
“If the colony is large in asmall space, bees will beard (clump together) outside their hive’s entrance, to keep the internal temperature cool.”
Jones advises planting up your beds and borders densely “More dense vegetation will provide shade and be abit more resilient. Youcan help provide water and nectar for bees, by ensuring your garden is appropriately watered.”
n To find out more, visit Rowse’s Hives ForLives programme (rowsehoney.co.uk/hives-for-lives), to protect bees and beekeepers worldwide.
Abbey Kitchens wasestablished29years ago in Abbey Foregate, Shrewsbury by asinglefamily who still runittoday. Dedicatedtothe highest levels of service, we delightindeliveringthe kitchenyou’ve alwaysdreamtof.
We pride ourselves on supplyinghighquality kitchens, cabinets and doorswith over 100 years of collectiveexperience in design, planning and after-care, meaning we deliver an exceptional standard of product and service to our clients.
Youcan alsosee your new virtual kitchen and geta feel for space on ourtop of the range CAD system This puts you in the driving seat, ensuringyou getthe perfect kitchen for you andyourfamily to make memories in for many years to come.
Itmay not be able to compete with Shropshire towns like Shrewsbury and Ludlow in terms of size, but Ironbridge is arguably themost important of all.
The so-called birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, it became part of aUNESCOWorld Heritage Site in 1986, covering the wider Ironbridge Gorge Area. It has since become amajor tourist attraction and welcomed the late Queen Elizabeth II and the late Duke of Edinburgh.
Its fame owes everything to the idea that Abraham Darby perfected the technique of smelting iron with coke, in Coalbrookdale, allowing much
cheaper production of iron. However, the industrial revolution did not begin in any one place.Darby’s iron smelting was but onesmall part of this generalised revolution and was soon superseded by the great iron-smelting areas. However, the bridge –being the first of its kind fabricated from cast iron, andone of the few which have survived to the present day –remains an important symbol representative of the dawn of the industrialage.
The grandson of the first Abraham Darby,Abraham DarbyIII, built the bridge –originally designed by Thomas Farnolls Pritchard –tolink thetwo areas. Construction began in 1779,
and the bridge opened on New Year’s Day 1781. Soonafterwards the ancient Madeley market was relocated to the new purpose-built square and Georgian Butter Cross. The former dispersed settlement of Madeley Wood gained a planned urban focus as Ironbridge, the commercial andadministrative centre of the Coalbrookdale coalfield.
The beautiful Ironbridge now stands as one of the greatest symbols of where the Industrial Revolution started. Tourists have flocked there since 1779 to marvel at an extraordinary structure that dominates the small town that takes its name.
The Iron Bridge proprietors also built the Tontine Hotel to accommodate
visitors to the new bridge and the industrial sites of the Severn Gorge. Across asquare facing the hotel, stands Ironbridge’s war memorial, which was erected in 1924. It is abronzestatue of aFirst World Warsoldier in marching order,sculpted by Arthur George Walker, whose signature appears as does that of A.B. Burton, the foundry worker who erected it.
The history of Ironbridge is curated by the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust. Thecollections at the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust (IGMT) total more than 135,000 objects and includes buildings and monuments, archival material, books, and costume, as well as collections relating to the decorative arts, industry and engineering, localhistory,transport, and natural history.
IGMT also has aReference Library and Archive which hold an extensive range of materials relating to these subjects. All of the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust’scollections are designated as being of national significance by Arts Council England andcan be accessed for free.
The area boasts arange of attractions, from Blists Hill VictorianTown to Enginuity,from the TarTunnel to Jackfield Tile Museum, from Coalport China Museum to Broseley Pipeworks, and from Coalbrookdale Museum of Iron to Darby Houses.
The tile museum is particularly notable.
Jackfield was once at the very heart of British tile production and there visitors can see why.They can walk among the very best examples in-situ at arecreated pub, tube station, church and more. They can also see stunning friezes, epic storytelling panels and aworld-class gallery dedicated to British tiles.
Ironbridge’s historydoesn’t extend to Abraham
Darby and Victorian tilemakers, however In more recent times, Merrythought Teddy Bears have become synonymous with the area.
The story of Merrythought began in 1930. William Gordon Holmes, owner of aspinning mill in Yorkshire called ‘Holmes &Laxton’, recognised the opportunity to make premium soft toys from the luxurious natural fibres they sourced. He found abeautiful brick foundry building in Ironbridge, home of the industrial revolution, and with the help of ateamofskilled local seamstresses, Merrythought was born.
The first collection was designed by Florence Attwood, aremarkable pattern maker who overcame many challenges associated with being deaf and unable to speak, to create some of Merrythought’s most iconic designs. They included the original Merrythought and Magnet teddy bears, which still have astrong influence upon the designs created today
CLOCKWISE FROM TOPLEFT: The Museum of Iron in Coalbrookdale; sign outside Enginuity; one of the Darby Houses, Coalbrookdale; aMerrythought teddy bear; Ironbridge Coracle Trust ladies getting some last minute practice on the River Severn ready for Coracle Regatta; pipes at Broseley Pipeworks. Photo:TheIronbridgeGorge MuseumTrust;Jackfield Tile Museum; Blists Hill Victorian Town; TheTontine Hotel, Ironbridge.Merrythought’sheritage is something its owners are immensely proud of, and the original factory in Ironbridge, Shropshire, remains Merrythought’s home to this day; amagical place where each teddy bear is brought to life using the finest materials and traditional craftsmanship that has been handed down the four generations of the company
Today the Merrythought teddy bear is still widely regarded as the ultimate childhood toy,treasured by children and adult collectors across the globe. The company timeless traditional characters continue to be hand-made in the original factory,alongside stunning limited edition bears that commemorative occasions such as the Olympic Games and Royal Weddings.
Merrythought created special commemorativeteddy bearstomark thebirth of His Royal Highness Prince George of Cambridge and each of his siblings, Prince Louis and Princess Charlotte. Abearto celebrate the arrival of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s first child, Archie, was alater addition to theseriesafter his birth in 2019. Merrythought was also commissioned to produceexclusive Royal Baby teddy bears for the Royal Collection Trust, operator of theofficial Buckingham Palace Shop, with number one of each limited edition being gifted to the respective Prince or Princess.
To celebrateHer Majesty The Queen’s 90th Birthday in 2016,
Merrythought designed and produced a splendid limited-edition teddy bear that really encapsulated Queen Elizabeth’s grace and refined sense of dress. Through studying the designs of her preferred dressmaker,a beautifully authentic overcoat andmatching hat were created from the finest lilac silk, one of her favourite colours.
The area has adiscernible buzz through summer and an annual Coracle Regatta is held in August on the River Severn at Ironbridge, along with many other events throughout theyear.The event originated because the coraclemaking family of Rogers lived in Ironbridge for several generations. Just outside Ironbridge in Coalbrookdale is the Ironbridge Institute, apartnership between the University of Birmingham and the Ironbridge Gorge Museum Trust offering postgraduate and professional development in heritage. With plenty of cafes, pubs and restaurants, there’s something to please all-comers.
Based in Telford, ShedsNow offers acomprehensive rangeofgardening products andsheds forclients across Shropshire, the West Midlands and the surrounding areas.Clients come to the garden shed experts foravarietyofreasons– some looking for storage options, otherstoinstall ahomeoffice on their land –but whateverthe reason, the specialists have the stockand expertise to help them achievetheir goal
Each handcraftedinEngland, the companyhas a fantasticselection of sheds to choose from,including apexsheds,pottingshedsand combinationsheds,as well as animal housing options, such as dogkennels, chicken and duckhousesand rabbit hutches. All available products aredisabilityfriendly and wheelchair accessible.
Thejudges were particularlyimpressedbythe bespoke options on offer at ShedsNow,who have designers and expertsonhandtohelp constructyour dream shed. Clients areinvited to provide their specificrequirements and budget,while the team work hand-in-hand to ensure the final productticks everybox.
Allshedscomewith aminimum of six foot eaves on apexshedsand thelower sideofpentsheds as standardand the friendly salesteamare always on hand to discuss the bestoptions available.Sheds Nowalso offer amazing children’s playhousesatvery affordable prices.
ANEW TRAINING FACILITY IN TELFORD
IS AIMING TO PLUG THE SKILLS GAPS IN ENGINEERING AND MANUFACTURING. MATT PANTER TAKESUPTHE STORY
Itfeels like the perfect location. Abusiness park brimming with opportunity,just afew miles away from the home of the industrial revolution. In-Comm Training’s new £3m technical academy in Telford is on amission to help Shropshireand surrounding areas plug skills gaps in engineering and manufacturing.
To do so, it is looking to train more than 350 apprentices and upskill 2,500 existing workers at its new T54 academy over the next twelve months.
Youget the feeling In-Comm will succeed. It is, after all, an ‘Ofsted Outstanding’ provider.
In Telford, it has created 20,000 sq ft of manufacturing training space, fitting it out with new equipment and state-ofthe-art technology,spanning from the latest CNC machines, robotics, fluid power and material testingtowelding, electrical, lathes, millers, CAD/CAM and metrology equipment.
Ateam of 20 expert trainers –all with considerable experience in industry –will be on hand to guide the engineers of the future and to deliver best practice courses that will help local companies future-proof employees for years to come.
“It’s afantastic facility,near the birthplace of the Industrial
Revolution and theepicentre for industry for the north Marches region,” says Gareth Jones, managing director for In-Comm Training.
“That’s why we chose to bring it here. The work starts now and we want to work with manufacturing and engineering organisations and really understand their values, engaging with them on strategy and growth.
“Post-pandemic, there have been more early retirees which
has accentuated the skills gap.
“Wehave to plug the gap that has emerged with initiatives to bring new blood into the pipeline as well as reskilling existing employees for new job roles. We have got amassivepart to playinthe development of the industry.”
Bridgnorth’s James Morgan, 24, InComm Training’s Apprentice of the Year, officially opened the Telford Technical Academy.He is now working full-time at Torus, over the road from theacademy,as a product engineer.
“Without the courses and programmes and being pushed outside my comfort zone, Iwouldn’t be in the position Iam now with Torus,” he explains. “It hasset me up for the future.”
Gareth adds: “We’ve been operating in Shropshire since 2015 andall ofour clients have been saying to us that Telford has been crying out for adedicated manufacturingtraining centre for years.
“Our approach, being very much employer-led, meant we had to act on this, so we decided to make a£3million investment into taking on the building on T54 and creating atruly world-class technical academy for the thousands of manufacturers operating in the town and county
“Telford is just afew minutes away from where the first industrial revolution started and industry is going through the next one, with digital transformation firmly on the agenda and amove to more sustainable production high on the list of priorities.
“Companies must act to make sure they have the skills in place to support this transition and this Technical Academy will play an important role in generatingthe talent of the future.
FROM TOP: Bekki Phillips, In-Comms Training’sCOO, ClaireCritchell, Business Support at Telford& Wrekin Council, James Morgan, In-Comm’s apprentice of the year (cutting ribbon), Gareth Jones, MD of In-Comm Training, Georgina Barnard, MD of the Black Country and Marches Institute of Technology and Kathryn Jones, Head of Partnerships at Marches Local Enterprise Partnership; apprentice Annabelle Wood,aged 16, is broadening her skill set at the new Telfordacademy; In-Comm Telford.
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Gareth Jones, MD of In-Comm Training, Selina Graham, High Sherriff of Shropshire, James Morgan, In-Comm’sapprentice of the year andBekki Phillips, In-Comms Training’sCOO; apprentice Abbie Clinton, 16, is benefiting from In-Comm.
“Our manufacturers have amajor role to play in this and we are using the opening as arallying call to getmore strategic partners involved in how we deliver training in the area.”
The centre will be home to the Marches spoke of the Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology,which is pioneering anew approach to delivering today’s higher technical education for tomorrow’s careers.
The aim is to create avibrant learning environment that boots the capabilities of academia, employers, and higher education –all geared towards providing high quality training opportunity with clear pathways to skilled jobs in automotive, advanced engineering, aerospace, construction, medical and renewables.
There will also be astrong focus on delivering upskilling and managed services from Telford, as well as expert consultancy on safety and quality compliance, leadership and management and continuous improvement.
Bekki Phillips, chief operating officer at In-Comm Training, said: “There’s no escaping thetough economic climate. But, at the same time, local manufacturers have some great opportunities through reshoring and leading theelectrification race.
“Protecting the skills of today and future developing the skills required for tomorrow will be key in turning the potential into reality
“A strong UK economy needs a buoyant manufacturing sector,and we’ll only achieve this by growing engineering
and industrial skills. If we achieve this, our innovative companies will no longer have to worryabout gaining access to the talent they need to lead the world.”
In-Comm Training marked the open day by inviting senior delegates, including Selina Graham,the High Sheriff of Shropshire, Claire Critchell, of Telford & Wrekin Council and Kathryn Jones, from Marches LEP,toattend.
Andthe High Sheriff ’s words will hopefully resonate with manytalented youngsters, moving forward, as they look to embark on their journeys.
“It’s important to provide young people with the ability to be creative, resilient and to add value to the world they are inheriting,” she said.
“Atthisnew base, you have training that equips the apprentices with the skills and confidence required to make areal impact.
“They are replicating real-world manufacturing environments with state-of-the art equipment unrivalled in the UK. We want Shropshireto be the best it can be –wherepeoplework, live and learn. We can lead the world but not without world-class training and this will be the critical factor in capturing competitive advantage.”
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Morethan 200 people turned out at the launch; among them Bekki Phillips, InComms TrainingCOO, James Morgan, In-Comm’sapprentice of the year,Georgina Barnard, MD of the Black Country and Marches Institute of Technology, Selina Graham, High Sheriff of Shropshire, Kathryn Jones, Head of Partnerships at Marches Local Enterprise Partnership and Claire Critchell, Business Support at Telford& Wrekin Council.
With roots going back to the medieval period and the traditions of the craftsmen who built theera’s castles, cathedrals andother centres of worship, Freemasonry stands as one of the world’s oldest social organisations.
Part of aglobal society built around the guiding principles of integrity,friendship, respect and charity,members of Masonic lodges across theUKband together in aspirit of fellowship, selfimprovement and outreach.
Charitable work is acornerstone of what it means to be a Freemason, with the organisation working proudly to support worthy causes on an international, national and locallevel. And in Shropshire, said work has been making waves for some time
“There are about 200,000 FreemasonsinEngland and Wales, about 1,200 of us in Shropshire,” said Stephen Rogers, Communications Officer for Shropshire Freemasons
“We’re formed into 36 individual lodges. They vary in strength between about 35 and 60 members. Each of those lodges has aprovisionwhereby when you sign up to be aFreemason you will make such regular donations to charity as you can
afford, and these are directed through the ShropshireMasonic Charitable Association (SMCA).
“Every lodge will make acontribution towards the association, as well as making individual and separate lodge donations. Aportion of what we pay as our membership fee to our lodges also goes to the nationally-run Masonic Charitable Foundation, which will pool and donate national funding to worthy communitycauses.”
Last year,the lodges of Shropshire were responsible for an impressive collective donation that directly benefitted alarge number of causes that operate in the area. In all, through a combination of donations by the SMCA, the Masonic Charitable Foundation and individual lodges, Shropshire Freemasons donated some £75,000 to local causes.
“During 2022, £36,400 was distributed by the SMCA to 36 locally-based charities,” said Stephen. “They ranged from causes like Hope House Children’s Hospice to smaller charitieslike The Harry Johnson Trust.
“Of the £36,400, £10,000was specifically given to the Shrewsbury Food Hub. Shropshire Freemasonshave been
At the Shrewsbury Masonic Hall areMaster Russell Price, past MasterShaunWillocks,and Chaplin of the Lodge David Foulkes.supporting them alot, particularly during the pandemic when the distribution offood to people was becoming really critical. One lodge gave enough funding for them to buy aminibus. In Shropshire in particular,weare also big supporters of ascheme called Teddies ForLoving Care. Fora number of years now around the country,Freemasons have been providing teddy bears to children who are taken into hospital. The scheme didn’t start here in Shropshire, but we are particularly enthusiastic supporters of it. Children are often frightened when they go into hospital, and through the TeddiesFor Loving Care appeal, we provide the emergency departments at thehospitals in Shrewsbury,Telford and Gobowen as well as Hope House Hospice with teddy bears that can givethem abit of comfort. The feedback that we get is brilliant –itishugely appreciated by the hospitals,the children and their families.”
With Freemasonryalso supportingorganisations such as The British Red Cross with important international initiatives (re-uniting Ukrainian families and an emergency grant to the Turkish earthquake appeal being recent and poignant examples), charitable work at every level is at the heart of Masonic life.
Yetitis aspirit of fraternity –and now,indeed, sorority
across theorganisation that drives this passion for good work.
“There’s afeeling of togetherness thatyou get from Freemasonry that is not always easy to find anywhere else,” said Stephen. “Wetendtomeet in the evenings, six to eight times ayear. The meeting will consist firstly of abusiness part, and this will include the ceremonialstuff,where new people might come in or existing lodge members will ascend to different levels of masonry.” It is here of course thatFreemasonry’s somewhat fabled traditions –including the infamous Masonic handshake –come into play.“Freemasonryhas got its roots in medieval stonemasonry,” explained Stephen. “Centuries ago, masons would travel from place to place building cathedrals, castles, great houses, etc, and in theirline of work they used asystem of progression and recognition that we use today
“Stonemasons would begin their career as an apprentice. Once they had served their time and learned their skills they wouldbecome abit more experienced, ascending to thelevel of ‘craftsman’. And after ayear or two of that, they would eventually
become amaster mason. Accomplished master stonemasons had very special ways of doing things, and they would not necessarily want those below them to know the secrets of their techniques before they had served their time as this might mean their skills would become less prized. This is where the history of the Masonic handshake comes from. Stonemasons would use certain handshakes between each other to indicate their level of expertise, and we use this tradition for our members to identify their level as aFreemason.
“Our different handshakes arethe only things in Freemasonry that, in theory,aren’t now open for discussion in public. But they are only used inside lodge rooms and areonly part of the short ceremonial side of what we do.”
The traditions of Freemasonry may haverelaxed somewhat over time, but the core philosophies behind the organisation stand strong. When new members are admitted to alodge, it is around these guiding values that their pledge is made.
“When you join theFreemasons you undertake to be agood person, to improve yourself and to help other people improve themselves,” said Stephen. “This is part of the ceremony for new members and has been for centuries. Themeeting will then, however,move on –theremightthen be atalkaboutanaspectof Freemasonry or on another subject–and then there’s asit-down meal. Lodge members will chat, havea beer or aglass of wine, and there is agreat deal of fun and fellowship. Nobody takes themselves too seriously,and we don’t discuss or debate politics and religion.” And as Stephen relates, the organisation is no longer restricted to male-only membership. “There are women’s Masonic lodges,” he said. “There are two umbrella organisations run from London for women Freemasons and they are hugely active. They are exactly the same in terms of their ethos and they do the same work, but they have women members. So any woman who is interested in Freemasonry can find out about it andcan join it –there arewomen’s lodges around the country,including those operating in Shropshire, which are enthusiastically and fully supported.”
Indeed, Freemasonry membership in the modern day is not restrictive by design, with the organisation priding itself on bringing people together irrespective of their race, religion or other perceived differences that can lead to division. What seems to matter is simply having the right attitude.
“Wehave members from every occupation, or none at all,” said Stephen. “And thegreat thingis, if you asked me –and I’ve been in my lodge now since 1985 –I’m notsureIcould actually tell you what everybody did for aliving. It just doesn’t come up and isn’t about any differences between us on that score. Lodges
are full of members from different backgrounds who are united because they want to do some good and benefiteach other and the community. Foranybody who is generally interested, basically all you have to want to be is somebody who feels that they want to be involved in doing something with other people, for other people, that involves enjoying yourself at the sametime. That is what Freemasonry is all about.”
n Formore information on Freemasonry in Shropshire, visit www.shropshiremasons.org.uk
Money raised from aFreemasons Hog Roast in the Squarein Shrewsbury was been presented to ShareShrewsbury. Pictured are Colin Sharp, atrustee of ShareShrewsbury, with former Mayor Jane Mackenzie who set up the charity in memory of her daughter,and Terry Evans, aMaster Mason who did the cooking on the day; Freemasons of Shrewsbury with the van for the Shrewsbury Food Hub after a £60K fundraising collection in lockdown. Pictured areBryan Owen, Katy Anderson (Shrewsbury Food Hub), TomKiely,David Fryand Roger Pemberton; past Master Shaun Willocks, Chaplin of the Lodge David Foulkes and Master Russell Price outside Shrewsbury Masonic Hall which used to be achurch, and nowhouses the Salopian Lodge of Charity; ShropshireFreemasons with adonation forShropshire Air Ambulance; the Cavalier Centre, ahorse riding centrewhere the Freemasons were donating £10,000. Pictured areDaveKettle (Chair of ShropshireMasonic Charity Association), Roger Pemberton (Leader of ShropshireFreemasons Provincial), Rachel Lambert-Jones (Centre Manager), Sion the horse and High Sheriff of ShropshireSelina Graham; Freemasons of Oswestry donating £1,000 to Oswestry Foodbank.
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WehighlightedintheNovember issuehowthelawtreats unmarriedcohabitingcoupleswhoare separatingwhenitcomestolandand propertyrights.Ultimately,thereisno provisioninlawforfinancialorders tobemadebetweenaseparating, unmarriedcoupleand‘whogets what’turnsonthelegalandbeneficial ownershipofrelevantproperty Butwhataboutotherassets?Property isoftennottheonlyassettoconsider whenacoupleareseparating.
Theremaybeabusinessthatis co-ownedand/orranbetweena cohabitingcouple,acohabiteewho hasworkedwithintheirpartner’s/ partner’sfamilybusiness,orfinancial investmentsorloansmadeeither solelyorjointlytowardsabusiness. Onthebreakdownofacohabiting relationship,thestartingpointasto howbusinessinterestsaredealtwith willbethetermsofrelevantformal legaldocumentation(thatshould beinplacewhencohabiteesare involvedinbusinesstogether),suchas employmentcontracts,shareholder’s agreements,partnershipagreements orloanagreements.Thereisno automaticrightforaformercohabitee tobenefitfromanybusinesspurely basedontheirrelationship.Ifthereis adisagreement,thencorporateand commerciallegaladviceshouldbe soughttonavigatethecomplexities whichabusinessdisputeofteninvolves.
Whereasmarriedcouplescanseek toclaimashareoftheirspouse’s pensiononbreakdownofthemarriage, cohabitingcouplesdonothave entitlementtoashareoftheirpartner’s pensiononseparation.Theymayonly beabletobenefitonthedeathofthe pensionholderiftheyarenamedasa ‘nominatedbeneficiary’orconsidered tobeadependentwithinthepension scheme’srules.
Moneythatisheldinajointbank accountispresumedtobeheldinequal sharesregardlessofwhocontributed what.Ifthereisevidencethattherewas anintentionforthefundstobeheldin proportionsotherthaninequalshares thenitmaybefundscanbedividedin unequalamounts.Itisimportantthat stepsaretakentoprotectthefunds inajointaccountimmediatelyupona relationshipbreakdown(i.e.byfreezing theaccount)toavoidonecohabitant removingfundsunilaterallybeforean agreementisreached.
Chattelsareanytangibleitems,other thanlandorproperty,suchaspersonal belongings.Thedivisionofchattels betweenacohabitingcoupleisbased onownershipandnotofneed.The startingpointisthepersonthatowns theitemisentitledtoitonseparation. However,iftheotherpersoncanprove thattheycontributedtothepurchase ortherewasanagreementtoalter
theownership,itmaybepossibleto establishthattheyshouldbeentitledto itinstead.
Gifts(includingmoney)areconsidered toremainthepropertyoftherecipient, unlessthereisevidencetoprovesuch itemswerealoan.Mereusageofan itemwillnotnecessarilybeenoughto satisfyagiftwasmade.
Resolvingfinancialdisputesuponthe breakdownofacohabitingrelationship isacomplexareaofthelawandyou shouldseeklegaladviceifyouhave recentlyseparatedfromyourpartner andthereareassetstobeconsidered. Legaladvicecanalsobesoughtifyou areinacohabitingrelationshipandyou wishtoensureassetsareprotected.
HEATHER LARGE CHATSTOA VEGAN COOKBOOK AUTHOR ABOUT HER DETERMINATION TO SHAREINCREDIBLE FLAVOURS FROM HER TRAVELS AROUND THE GLOBE
Asa teenager Niki Webster loved to experiment in the kitchen with different flavours and spices.
Growing up with adairy intolerance and dislike of meat meant she was mainly eating avegandiet.
But Niki had struggled to find food that she reallyenjoyed until she started cooking plant-based dishes for herself
This ignited alove of food that continued to flourish and travels around India, the Middle East and the FarEast further fuelled her creativity as she attempted to replicate the cuisine at home.
After leaving university,she worked infood marketing and social media before launching herown vegan food blog, Rebel Recipes, in 2015
It would be the start of new career and lead to her becoming the author of five cookbooks; thelatest, Around the World Vegan Cookbook: The young person’s guide to plant-based family feasts, has recently been published by Wellbeck.
At the time of starting herblog, she says avegan diet was mostly associated with things you couldn’t eat and considered by many to be rather bland.
Niki was determined to share some of the “incredible and inspirational” flavours she had discovered during her travels to countries that have alonghistory of eating plant-based foods.
“I always had adesire to be more creative and work for myself with a backdrop of this massive love of vegan and plant-based food,” she tells Weekend.
“I started the blog not necessarily thinking it would enable achange of career but because Iwanted acreative outlet for all my recipes.
“When Istarted, there were no vegan options available. Nut roastsand hummus was the best you could hope for
“The reason Icalledmyblog Rebel Recipes was at the time people thought vegan food was really boring, uninspiring and dull.
“I thought there was some amazing plant-based food out there,”explains Niki, who lives in Shrewsbury
Her recipes are packed full of thelikes of vegetables, fruits, beans and pulses as well as enticing flavours, textures and colours.
When it comes to fresh ingredients
Difficulty –Medium•Makes 10-12
Prep –15minutes •Cooking –40minutes
For the balsamic onions
2large redonions
2tbsp oliveoil
3garliccloves
2tbsp balsamic vinegar
Big pinch of sea salt
1. Peel and slice the onions into thin rings.
2. Add them along with the oil to apan and fry for 10 minutes until very soft
3. Add the garlic and fry for afurther minute.
4. Add the balsamic and salt and stir to combine.
For the fritters
120g plain flour
1tsp baking powder
4tbsp nutritional yeast
1tsp salt
2thyme sprigs
275ml water
200g cooked spaghetti
1tbsp oliveoil
4tbsp vegetable oil
1. In alarge bowl, add all dry ingredients then add the water
2. Stir to form athick batter
3. Add the cooked onions and spaghetti and mix well to coat. Allowtosit for 15 minutes.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in alarge non-stick frying pan so thereisa shallowlayer of oil.
5. Spoon 2tbsp of the mix into the pan, then press down.
she likes to use what’s in season and says ordering aveg box or browsing the produce stalls at the market hall provides inspiration. “It helps me to be creative,” she explains.
“I always like usingbeans and pulses. They are very versatile, cheap andnutritiousand Ithink they taste delicious,” adds Niki.
When it comes to crafting new recipes, alot of trial and error goes into creating theperfect dish.
If Niki is inspired by something she’s eaten while travelling or in arestaurant, shewill start by working out its key ingredients before attempting to recreate it.
“My process of developing arecipe is to haveitinmyhead or write it down so Ihave something to work from,” she explains.
She then heads to the kitchen to test out her ideas, making changes as shegoes until she’s happy with the finished recipe.
Once it’s been tested afew more times, Niki will post it on her blog and social media channels for people to try at home.
8. Fry for 4-5 minutes on this side until crispy and golden. Flip and repeat with the rest of the mix.
For the sauce
1red onion, sliced
2tbsp oliveoil
2garlic cloves, sliced
1tsp smoked paprika
1tsp sweet paprika
1tsp driedoregano
4tomatoes, sliced
2tbsp tomatopaste
50ml water
Sea salt flakes and black pepper
Toppings: Freshherbs –dill, thyme
1. Add the onion and oil to apan. Fryfor 8-10 minutes until caramelised.
2. Add the garlic and spices and stir to combine. Fryfor aminute or so.
3. Add the tomato paste, tomatoes and water,and simmer for 10 minutes until the tomato has broken down.
4. Add salt and pepper
5. Servethe crispy fritters with the sticky tomato and toppings.
Niki Webster with adishofbruschetta.“I once published arecipefor mushroom wraps and within half an hour lots of people had made them –it completely blows me away,” she tells Weekend.
Little did she know that not long after she started her Rebel Recipes blog, veganism would become more and more popular
Supermarkets are stocking everincreasing numbers and types of products, and restaurants and fast food chainsoffer afar widerchoice of meals.
“It’s grown and there aresomany options, fake meats and cheese, everything you can imagine in the supermarket,” says Niki, who has workedwith brands including Waitrose, Holland &Barrett and Wholefoods.
She pitched the idea for her first cookbook, Rebel Recipes, which was published by Bloomsbury in 2019, amid the growing interest in veganism.
“It’s all about timing. It generated alot of interest and amazingly there was abit of abidding war,” explains Niki.
Since then she has written four further books, including Be More Vegan, My Vegan Year and Rainbow Bowls.
Her most recent, Around the World Vegan Cookbook: The Young Person’s Guide to Plant-based Family Feasts, was published just afew weeks ago.
It features more than 75 easy-to-make dishes specially created for young adult readers, inspired by her international travels.
“I’ve tried to make sure the instructions are as simple as possible and easy to understand,” explains Niki.
The recipes include spaghetti fritters with sticky tomatoes; sunflower seed muhamara with za’atar flatbread; spring greens spanakopita pie; bunny chow with sweet potato and chickpea curry; and ginger malva pudding.
Niki says the latter is one of her favourite recipes in the book, adding: “It’s like asticky toffee pudding but less complicated and made with apricot jam. It’s really sticky,gooey and lovely.”
n Around the World Vegan Cookbook: The young person’s guide to plant-based family feasts by Niki Webster (£14.99, Welbeck Children’s) available now
Spring greens spanakopita pie.
Difficulty –Easy• Makes 12 slices
Prep –5minutes •Cooking –25minutes
Dry ingredients
250g plain flour
200g light brownsugar
2tsp baking powder
1tsp baking soda
3tsp ground ginger
Pinch of salt
Wetingredients
1tbsp applecider vinegar
125ml plant-based milk
5tbsp apricot jam
50ml vegetable oil
1. Preheat the ovento180C(350F).
2. Line asmall baking tray with baking paper
3. Add the dry ingredients to abowland mix together
4. In asmall jug, add the vinegar to the plant-based milk and let it curdle.
5. Add this along with the jam and oil to the dry mix, and mix well to form a batter
6. Transfer the batter to the baking tray and smooth to the edges.
7. Bakefor 25 minutes.
For the sauce
80g vegan butter
80g light brownsugar
250g coconut cream
1tsp vanilla extract
1. Add the butter to asaucepan and allowtomelt. Add the sugar and coconut cream and heat together until it reaches asimmer,stirring continuously.
2. Remove from the heat and add the vanilla extract.
3. When the cakecomes out of the oven, prick the top with atoothpick and then pour the sauce over, making sureit’s distributed evenly.
4. Allowthe sauce to sink in, and then cut into squares.
There are numerous walks in and around Ironbridge. Telford & Wrekin Council is among the supporters of footpaths that link avariety of sites and give people the opportunity to visit.
The Sabbath Walks Trail runs for 3km and starts at Dale End Car Park, in Coalbrookdale, before passing through woodland paths.
Apath linking Ironbridge to Blists Hill Victorian Town begins at Station Yard Card Park and runs for around 3.5km, with steps and undulating terrain.
The Loamhole Dingle provides history beneath the feet of walkers as it crosses woodland paths for 3km.
The Limetrail of Benthall Edge starts at Station Yard Car Park and covers 3km with some steep hills and lots of steps.
The Iron Trail, meanwhile, is a favourite that takes in the bridge itself, providing great photoopportunities.
There are also numerous walks from Dale End.
One of the area’s shortest walks starts at Dale End Park and covers a flat riverside section of just 1.2km. From the rear of the car park turn right and walk along the riverside to the Edward Albert Bridge, turn and walk back through the park.
Alonger walk through Coalbrookdale begins at the Dale End Car Park. From the car park cross theBuildwas Road, turn left and the take the first right into Station Road. Walk through to Coalbrookdale –site of the Museum of Iron, Enginuity and the Darby Houses. Turn left uphill and left again into the Arboretum. Keep through Cinder Hill woods to cross a minor road and walk around the edge of Strethill Lodge. Here there are excellent views of the south Shropshire Hills.
Return downhill along the route of an old tramway,acrossthe railway and down to the Buildwas Road to complete the walk.
Awoodland walk that starts at Dale End features asteep descent of 209 steps. Turn right out of the car park onto Buildwas Road. Take the second road on the left (Paradise) alongside the shop. Keep to the right and walk on paths up to the top of Lincoln Hill. The brick base here is the remains of the Rotunda. The view over the fence down to the Ironbridge is magnificent in all seasons. Descend back to the road and car park via the 209 steps from the back of the viewing platform. The walk covers adistance of 2km and takes an hour
Abeautiful walk from the Wharfage takes in Dale Coppice and Lincoln Hill. It offers an excellent view and there are plenty of steps, once more.
Walk to the road and turn left. Take the first right into Paradise, immediately before the shop. Walk up the road, taking the right fork into the woods. Walk right through Dale Coppice and at Church Road take aright then left into thearea of The Sabbath Walks. Turn rightup the bank to the top and then turn right backacross the road and continue to the Rotunda. After admiring the view of Ironbridge descend the 209 steps and return to The Wharfage.
Benthall Edge. Photo:BeccyBradburn
PRUDENCE WADE TALKS TO THECHEF ABOUT WRITER’S BLOCK, GETTING CREATIVE IN ACAMPERVAN, AND WHATHECOOKS FOR CHINESE NEW YEAR
Chef Kwoklyn Wanbought a campervan two years ago, and you can be sure he hasn’t been cooking up basic fare on the road.
“Wewere eating so well –itwas quite funny,actually.We’d look over to the people next door,and they were having their typical beans, bangers and bacon and stuff like that –and we were having squids and Macanese curry,and all these other bits and bobs,” Wanremembers with palpable glee.
Wokcooking is abig part of Chinese cuisine, and that requires a fierce heat –something that’s tricky to replicate out the back of acampervan.“We solved that problem by having an electric hook-up and taking an induction cooker with us,” the chef reveals –keentogive his cooking “a bit more oomph”.
Even so, cooking outofacampervan isn’t quite the same as being in a professional kitchen –and it required Wan, 49, to think abit differently about his normal recipes.
“I thought, how could we simplify these dishes to make it really easy for cooking in acampervanand caravan?” –and so he began developing more one-pot or wok meals, which is the basis for his latest book.
One Wok, One PotisWan’s sixth cookbook –and he’s written them at a remarkablerate, having released his first in 2019. While Wanadmits “I do get writer’s block”, alove of food spurs him on.
“I’m abig guy. I’ve enjoyed food my entire life –Igrew up around food, in restaurants andtakeaways. When there’s aspecial occasion, we eat, when there’s not aspecial occasion, we eat,” he reflects. “So, it made it [writing the books] very simple in asense that we were always hungry –Iwas always hungry
“I try to pen between 10 and12 recipes aday when I’m writing. It sounds crazy.WhatIdo, Iwrite the recipe –I might see something, whether that is on social media or on TV,and then Ithink, ‘How would Idothat? How would I change it?’ And Iwrite arecipe.
“Once I’ve written the recipes, Ithen go into the kitchen andtest them. Isay, ‘OK, this didn’t work, or that flavour didn’t work, or you’ve got to add this at a certain time’.”
“Pretty much ‘anything goes’ when it comes to fried rice,” says Kwoklyn Wan. “But asimpleChinese takeaway classic is the spicy Singapore-style, with its signaturecurry powder taste.”
Ingredients: (Serves2-3)
2tbsp vegetable oil
1onion, finely diced 2garlic cloves, roughly chopped 2red bird’s-eyechillies, roughly chopped 500g cooked long-grain or basmati rice
150g frozen mixed baby vegetables, defrosted
2tbsp Chinese curry powder,or useyour favourite
1tbsp light soysauce
1tspdark soysauce
Pinch of white pepper
Salt, to taste
Method:
1. Place awok over amedium-high heat, add the oil and, once smoking, add the onion and garlic and fry until golden brown, being careful not to let the garlic burn. Add the chopped chillies and fry for afurther 30 seconds until fragrant, then add the cooked rice and continue to fry
for two to three minutes; you want the rice grains to toast slightly, which will give your dish aslightly nutty flavour,sodon’t stir the ingredients constantly.
2. Nowadd the thawed frozen vegetables along with the curry powder,light and dark soysaucesand white pepper and toss gently to combine with the rice. Once the ingredients arefully heated through, taste the rice and adjust the seasoning with salt if required. Servepiping hot.
“Contrary to what the name would suggest, the chicken in this noodle dish is not drenched in alcohol,” says Kwoklyn Wan. “A common theory behind the Thai name (Pad Kee Mao) is that they aresimply a perfect recovery dish for the day after the night before.”
Ingredients:
(Serves2)
400g fresh flat rice noodles (ho fun)
2tbsp vegetable oil
350g boneless skin-on chicken thighs, cut into 2.5cm pieces
2garlic cloves, minced
3spring onions, cut into 5cm lengths,
whites and greens separated Thumb-sized piece of ginger,peeledand sliced
300g choysum, cut into 5cm lengths, stalks and leaves separated
3tbsp oyster sauce
2tbsp light soysauce
1tbsp dark soysauce
2tspchicken powder
125ml redwine
1tbsp cornflour mixed with 2tbsp water
1tsp sesame oil
Method:
1. Place the noodles in acolander or sieve (strainer) and loosen under hot water,drain and set to one side.
2. Heat awok with the oil over amediumhigh heat, then add the chicken thighs and cook for about 12–18 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brownand cooked through. Nowadd the garlic and ginger and fry until fragrant, then add the spring onion whites and choysum stalks along with the oyster sauce, light and dark soysauces, chicken powder and redwine. Bring to the boil, then add the softened noodles, spring onion greens and choysum leaves and combine. Givethe cornflour mixturea stir and pour into the noodle sauce, mixing continuously until the sauce reachesyour desired consistency. Turn off the heat and drizzle with the sesame oil.
Now he’s onto book six, Wanhas to think abit more creatively.“The first couple of books, Iwas writing Chinese takeaway dishes –things you canpretty much have regardless of whether you’re sitting in the middle of London, Manchester,oreven if you’re in New York –you’ll get similar dishes.
“But as the books haveprogressed, I’ve obviously had to start thinking outside of the box –especiallywith One Wok, One Pot, because Iwas thinking, ‘How can we create these dishes that are going to be substantial enough to class them as aone-pot dish?’ We can always do achicken stir-fry in awok, but that’s been written 1,000 times. So, how canwedo achicken stir-fry that’s actually got some body to it?”
While Wanmight be best known for his cookbooks and TV appearances nowadays, he’s been working in Chinese restaurants and takeaways for more than 30 years –and he’s picked up useful tips and tricks along the way for home cooks
“Preparation” is his toppiece of advice. “When you work in any commercial kitchen, you’ll find everything’s out andready foryou –you’re not having to worry aboutwhether the onions are chopped, or the meat’s been sliced into pieces, or even if it’s
been velveted –a Chinese technique we use, where we tenderise the meat first, so everything’s been pre-done.
“When you’re cooking at home, especially if you’re thinking, ‘We’vegot an hour,Iwant to try to get dinner on the table’ –you’re goingtotry to fitall of that into your cooking time. Wokcooking is pretty minimal anyway–we’re talking acouple of minutes –but the prep will sometimes take you 45 minutes.”
Wanspent his childhood in takeaways (the family ran takeaways and aCantonese Restaurant in Leicester), andsome of his fondest memories are around Chinese New Year.He remembers a“party atmosphere” thatwas “very chaotic” in the restaurant in the weeks building up to the big event, saying: “And then at the end of it all, on Chinese New Year’s Day,my dad would invite his entire family –and there’s alot, eight of them, Ithink,and they’ve all got children.
“The restaurant would be filled with all of my extended family,and my dad –well, the chefs –would create this amazing banquet for us all to sit down and eat.”
Chinese New Year falls in January,and now Wan’s parents are older,his cousin has taken thereins.
“He organises abig Chinese New Year party,hehires asmall village hall and invites the family,” Wansays. “He’s an amazing chef –hecooks all the food, but this year they’ve asked me to create two or three dishes for them.”
So, what was Wandue to be cooking up for his fortunate family members?
“I’d probably do it more in line with aWestern tastebud, because my cousins have had children now and they’re very much immersed within the British culture.
“I might do something simple, such as spring rolls…I’ll try to wing it where I’m not in the kitchen for 14 hours cooking up dishes. Itry to keep it as simple as possible.”
n One Wok, One PotbyKwoklyn Wanispublished by Quadrille, priced £16.99.
Photography by Sam Folan.
“Growing up in Chinese restaurants and takeaways, we ate alot of banana fritters, especially on Saturday nights at the end of avery busy service,” remembers Kwoklyn Wan.
“Dad would cook abig plateful (always drizzled with Lyle’s golden syrup) as his way of thanking the staff for their hard work.”
Ingredients: (Serves4)
4ripe bananas
Vegetable oil, for deep-frying
Maple syrup, honey or golden syrup
Icing sugar
For the batter:
95g self-raising flour
25g cornflour
1egg
1tbsp vegetable oil
½tsp baking powder
250ml cold water
Method:
1. Cut the bananas into 2.5cm chunks.
2. Place all the batter ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth.
3. Heat the oil in adeep-sided saucepan or wok to 170°C (340°F).
4. Dip the chopped bananas into the batter and then carefully fry them in batches in the oil until golden brown. Drain on awirerack.
5. Arrange on your serving plate, pour overyoursyrup and dust with icing sugar to serve.
WARNING! Allowtocool slightly before eating as the bananas will be extremely hot when they first come out of the pan.
‘Wok cooking is pretty minimal –we’re talking acouple of minutes –but the prep will sometimes takeyou 45 minutes’
TO START THE DAY, TO KEEP YOUGOING, IN THOSE QUIET MOMENTS OR CATCHING UP WITH FRIENDS, ENJOYING AGOOD CUP OF COFFEE IS ONE OF LIFE’S SIMPLE PLEASURES. THIS MONTH ED THOMAS FINDSOUT MORE ABOUTASUSTAINABLE COFFEE ROASTERY RIGHT IN THE HEART OF THE BEAUTIFUL SHROPSHIRE HILLS
Apostle Coffee was created by Jon Stanford, his wife Charlotte and his father Colin, aretired local doctor.They wanted to share their interest in true sustainability and love of adecent cup of coffee. They wanted to create organic coffee with the environment at heart.
Jon and Charlotte, originally from Shropshire, were living in and shaping their careers in London. Enjoying a coffee in one of their favourite haunts the Roasting Shed in Hackney Wick they found out the team there were looking to expand and an opportunity arose to buy their coffee roaster.The deal was done, and after some intensive training and plenty of experimentation, the dream was beginning to become areality
Opting to returntotheir rootstheir new,tothem, 1980s vintage Probat coffee roaster was loaded in to ahorse trailer and moved along with them back to
Shropshire in 2019. Returning to South Shropshire would give Jon and Charlotte the chance to give their own family ataste of their childhoods in thearea, and the opportunity to switch pace after years in London where Jon worked in creative industries and film production.
Apostle Coffee now nestles in the Shropshire Hills between Church Stretton and Craven Arms. They are truly off grid, with all power on site produced from awind turbine and solar photovoltaic panels. The converted stable provides abase for roasting, grinding, packing and dispatching fully organic coffee.
Sustainability is akey feature of the vibrant business. In addition to being off grid, Apostle Coffee is fully carbon neutral accredited. This stringent accreditation includes afull audit of the whole lifecycle of your cup of coffee, from growing thebeans through to
consumption and ultimately composting the packaging and coffee grinds. The carbon neutral certification is provided by Climate Partners. Organic certification comes from the Soil Association which ensures stringent farming practices are met and principles upheld. Afurther sustainability certification is provided by Ethy,this means all of Apostle’s environmental claims have been checked and endorsed.
Jon sources coffee through wholesalers from personally selected farms and cooperatives. The wholesalers ensure organically certified coffee beans have been grown in asustainable way and where farmers have been paid afair price. Alot of Apostle’s coffees come from Colombia and Sumatra, but Jon is always on the hunt for new flavour profiles from other parts of the world, new coffees that might just become part of the Apostle family
So how does the coffee end up in your cup. Having been sourced from all over the world green coffee beans arrive in Shropshire from the wholesaler ready to be roasted. Roasting takes place in small five kilo batches which take between 15 and 20 minutes. Jonand his father Colin, who also helps roast the coffee, work to roasting profiles. Each batch of beans is subtly different so, much like a winemaker dealing with different varieties of grapes in different vintages, aroaster’s own touch very much comes in to it so
this is where you will taste Apostle’s unique way of doing things, along with the influence of small variations between batches as well as between different origins that form the full range.
Having been roasted, the coffee may then be packaged as whole beans, or it is ground to order.Customers can select from arange of six grades, the finest grinds for an espresso machine, or acourser grind for acafetière. The beans, or ground coffee are packaged in fully compostable packaging, that is printed using vegetable inks,and dispatched to customers. Customers are then encouraged, or even expected, to compost their packaging and the grinds themselves.
The Apostle range includes three foundation coffees. The Devil’s Chair –the signature blend which is well balanced and full bodied with caramel and citrus notes. Ippikin’s Rock –a rich andsmooth bodied House blend, and finally The Needle’s Eye –adecafblend with butterscotchand nutmeg tones. Discovery and Exceptional range coffees are only available as part of Apostle’s innovative subscription services. These special organic coffees showcasing different coffee-growing regions and styles of coffee
The Apostle story would not be complete without rounding off the sustainability loop with some tree planting. Focusing totally on native
British species, Jon and theApostle team have plantedover100 blackpoplars close to theroastery.Black Poplars are considered endangered across the British Isles so this dedicated cluster makes areal difference. Afurther 500 more native trees and shrubs have been planted at Pam’s Pools, apermaculture and rewilding site close to Bridgnorth.This project is in partnership with the Wildlife Trust and another tree is planted for each new member of their subscription service, where customers receive adifferent coffee each time. So far more than 1,000 trees and shrubs have been planted.
The subscription service was apre curser for anew invitation-only coffee community.This community is being built for themost conscientious and sustainably-minded coffee drinkers
So next time you’re enjoying acoffee, just take amoment to consider whether it should be more sustainable and more delicious.
Spring is just around the corner And in Shropshire, that means the advent of anew season as nature bursts into life.
Crops are afew weeks earlier than they once were, the result of climate change, and it’s hard for farmers and producers to manage that change.
We’re still amonth or so away from the explosion of new produce that comes as the days lengthen, the sunstarts to shine and temperatures improve. But there’s plenty to enjoy over the next month, as farm shops fill with the last of the root crops and hardy winter vegetables, like artichokes, beetroot, cabbage, celeriac, kale, leeks, onions and parsnips.
Perhaps the first telling change in our county is the advent of spring lamb. The fields up and down the county are becoming increasingly full of lambs that leap like Tigger,their legs seemingly filled with springs, as they channel their energy and grow at real pace.
The county has its own breed of sheep, the aptly-named Shropshire Sheep, which is the oldest registered breed in the UK. They remain popular and far from being outdated, their strengths make them suited to the modern era. They thrive on pasture and produce meat of excellent quality,being both good terminal sires and excellent mothers. They have wool that is good enough for hand knitting. And they are the “tree-friendly”breed, being
able to graze tree plantations andorchards without damaging the trees.
Sue Shimwell, Presidentofthe ShropshireSheep Breeders’ Association and Flock Book Society from 2001 to 2004, says: “The exact origins of today’s ShropshireDown are unclear but generally agreed to be as aresult of the improvement of the indigenous sheep of the Staffordshireand Shropshire border areas. These were hardy stock, not prone to footrot or scab, and produced wool of a superior quality
“The fleece however only weighed about 2-2.5 lbs and the sheep were slow to mature to asuitable butcher’s weight. Following the achievements of stockbreeders such as Robert Bakewell
with the rapidly maturing NewLeicester and improvements of the Southdown by John Ellman, the sheep of The Long Mynd in Shropshire, Cannock Chase in Staffordshire and Morfe Common on the borders of Shropshire, Staffordshire and Worcestershire became subject to improvement during the first half of the 1800s.”
Due to continuing promotional work by the SSBA the Shropshire Down is enjoying aresurgence in popularity and is once again being recognised for the commercial attributes proven over many decades in many countries.
Ms Shimwell added: “Another quality of the purebred Shropshire is utilised by Christmas tree growers who, with careful management, value
the breed’s ability to graze in conifer plantations without damagingtrees. Avoiding the use of chemical weedkillers satisfies the demands of today’s environmentally aware market for which asteady European export trade is being developed.”
Shropshire isn’t alone in having its own breed of sheep. The Clun Forest Sheep Breeders Society exists to promote that particularly breed.
The Clun Forest breed takes its name from the old town of Clun and the surrounding forests. It is situated in the southwest corner of Shropshire and is bordered by Montgomeryshire and Radnorshire. At the beginning of the 19th centurythere were 12,000acres of common land in this
area. The greater part of this land rose to an altitude of 1,500ft and has theremains of “pounds”, “druid circles” and “Offas Dyke”.
At this time both theforest and common lands were inhabited by this breed of sheep hence the name. It is likely that pastoral or semi-nomadic shepherds who lived in the forest about 1,000 years ago originally bred these sheep.
The Clun Breed peaked as the most popular breed in the UK, until the fashion for hybids and continental breeds took over However,the current age of austerity and people demanding value for money,means the Clun is abreed for the current economic climate.
Of course, the presence of great lamb in our county requires agood network of local, independent butchers, who work with farmers and slaughterhouses to make
Clun Forest sheep; belowsheep in Hope Bowdler Photo:PeterSteggles Pedigree Shropshirelamb.it available to local customers. Across the county,there are numerous highquality butchers, many with such good reputations that people travel considerable distances to visit.
Paddy Ryan, at Much Wenlock, is a goodexample. Paddy and Sue Ryan have been running the business since 1983 along with their sons Mike and Sam Ryan since early 2000. More recently,in2014 Mike’s wife Amber joined the business. The shop prides itself on being a traditional butcher and piemaker.A spokesman said: “Wemake all our own pastry and we use all natural ingredients, sourcing our supplies as locally as possible.
“Weproduce awiderange of products including porkpies, gravy pies, quiches, and individual savoury items, as well as our new additions to the range, sweet puddings, and baked goods, that are made on-site and cooked fresh daily.Wealso cure our own bacon and make our all own sausage along with producing the majority of our cooked meat range.”
Ludlow has anumber of great butchers, including thebrilliant DW Wall &Son, whose shop is as pretty as a picture, with stringsofpheasants hung outside to cure. It is oneofShropshire’s best-knownfamily butchers and has been preparing and supplying high-quality meat for many years.
And then there’s thebrilliant Ludlow Farm Shop, just afew miles from the south Shropshiretown.
It serves Oakly Park Estate, an 8,000acre holding, which uses 6,500 acres for farming, with 3,500 devoted to arable and 3,000 to livestock.
The Estate has abusy time of it at this time of year.Ithas 2,500 ewes, made up of five breeds, with the desired effect of getting the best confirmation, growth levels and birth weights (survivability), good mothers and good feet (sheep suffer from foot rot alot). Theyideally hope to get two lambs per year per ewe, so overall 5,000 lambs in total.
BELOW: Shropshirebutchers Paddy Ryans in Much Wenlock, and D.W.Wall &Son, Ludlow
ABOVE AND RIGHT: LudlowFood Centre.
When the spring is slow to arrive there’s nothing better than acomforting glass of red.
Thoughts are still withcomfort food, feel-good recipes and great tasting wines. Even more so if you’ve abstained through the winter months…
Asda ExtraSpecial Merlot 2021, Colchagua Valley, Chile, £7, Asda Abeautifully smooth merlot which strikes the perfect balance between ripe, juicy red berry fruit and caressing tannins. Loaded with layers of dark plummy fruit, cherry, touch of dark chocolate and vanilla, think sausage and tomato bake or hearty pasta. It’s great value too
M&S Classics Pinotage 2021, £8, South Africa, Marks &Spencer, in-store
South Africa’s signature red grape variety displays big, bold fruit and this bighearted red more than delivers with its smooth, gutsy flavours of blackcurrants and cherries. Lightly-oaked and fruit driven, it’s one for lamb kebabs, burgers, steak pie and rich gravy. Yummy
Cairenne Cru des Côtes du Rhône ReserveHospitaliers 2020, Rhône, France, £9, Waitrose Downright delicious from word go, this Southern Rhône sweet-fruited red sings from the glass with dark, fruity grenache bolstered by asplash of syrah.Rich and harmoniouswith concentration and balance, florals,cassis, pepper,sweet spice and brambly fruits draw you in, finishing warming, ripe and moreish. Perfect with beef bourguignon.
Finca Constancia Seleccion 2019, Toledo, Spain, £12, Ocado Adeftly blended Spanish beauty, tempranillo, cabernetsauvignon,syrah and cabernet francleadthe charge and mingle magnificently in this smooth, plump red. The wine spends eight months in oak and features acore of complex plum, cherry and strawberry flavourswith touches of spice and tobacco leaf on the lasting finish. Pair with slowcooked pork casserole or bangers and mash with onion gravy.
Wynns Coonawarra Estate Shiraz 2021, Coonawarra,Australia, £15, or £12 to mix six, Majestic
Ared to rave about, this famous label offers outstanding value –and proveshow Australian shiraz is at thetop of its game. Arhapsody of blackberry fruits, rich yet polished, floral, peppery,silky fruits show plenty of freshness with soft acidity and gentle tannins. Impressive to thelast drop with asmooth, lingering finish, pair with roast meats, pizza or ribs.
Saracosa Governo Rosso 2021, Toscana IGT,Italy, £20, Laithwaites
Aspecial treat, especially if you’ve been looking forward to the firstdrop of red wine this year –may as well make it a wine to remember.Awarded 98 points by aleading Italian wine critic,this tip top Tuscan offers rich, well-defined flavours of black cherry,violets and sweet spice, with lingering echoesof mocha and vanilla. Areal foodies red, think pappardelle pasta with slow-cooked beef and mushrooms, or anything in ared wine sauce.
The Ribera del Duero DO stretches 115km from Valladolid and Peñafiel to Aranda in the east, along, broad valley south of Burgos.
Originally afairly poor and demanding agricultural area about a hundred miles north of Madrid, it became renowned as the home of Vega Sicilia, Spain’s globally recognised ‘premier wine’. The investment opportunities of the 1980s encouraged asort of ‘Gold Rush’ to the region as folk battled to grab apart of the Vega Sicilia legend, their efforts showing potential while often retaining arustic edge.
The substrata are silty clay over limestone with poor alluvial deposits nearer the river,and finer chalk at higher altitude. This is ahigh frost risk area, costs are higher than the world average and vintages are more variable than in Rioja.
However,the intensity of flavours and density of Ribera wines make them more age-worthy and certainly acounterpoint to their famous neighbour,while being ‘Spanish’ in their warmth and generosity
Today Ribera del Duero is producing some fantastic, world-classwines –taste them and you will not be disappointed.
Robert BoutflowerwithJosé and Carlos Carrasco of Abadía de Acón.
Domino Basconcillos vineyards.
Dominio Basconcillos was probably the most exciting find we made just before the pandemic took hold of our lives, and what a find it was! Among the many delights of visiting vineyards is sitting down to lunchwith your hosts and really getting to grips with what makes them tick.
Iwas lucky enough to meet José Maria Basconcillos,headofthe clan at DominioBasconcillos, and his enthusiasm for his region was palpable; his face beamed as his arm moved round the horizon before exclaiming, “Altitude!”.
Set above the plain of Ribera, north of Aranda del Duero, José Maria’s vineyards lie at 960m above sea level, at least 100 metres higher thanhis neighbours. This means his wines benefitfrom: lower temperature, adegreeless per 100m of climb; higher UV exposure to make thicker skins therefore giving a darker colour; wider diurnal (day/night) temperature range ensuring aslower, more stable growing and ripening period; and more breeze, improving health and restricting moulds and rot.
There is also the risk that temperaturesg abit lower,sothe cold can restrict ripening, but in general it seems the benefits outweigh the problems.
Using sustainable and environmentally friendly methods and with more Cabernet Sauvignon andMerlot planted than their neighbours, this is atop bodega with intentions to be awine of reference in Ribera del Duero for the future.
By way of contrast, we also feature a bodega based five miles south and down on the valley floor,Abadia de Acon. Run by charming brothers Carlos andJosé Carrasco, who have reinvigorated their grandfather’s business with modern tech and better vineyard health, you’ll find their wines are dense and chunky in feel with claret-like tannins.There’s still afreshness and balance, due to better vineyard management according to Carlos, and that typically satisfying Ribera richness. The oak is alittle more pronounced than Basconcillos, compensating for the extra weight of fruit
–these are big wines, if that’s the style you seek.
Probably the second most famous name in Ribera del Duero is that of Pesquera, abodega established before the rush in the early 1970s. Based in the heart of the DO near Penafiel,winemaker Alejandro Fernandez was making concentrated, well-balanced with plenty of density and some class. He sent a sample to US critic, Robert Parker,who labelled it ‘the Pétrus of Spain’, ensuring fame and fortune world-wide.
Alejandro died in 2021 but his legacy continues in the hands of five granddaughters and three wineries, all producing great wines.
Pesquera Crianza is perhaps the best balanced of their range, with soft fruit married to gentle, spicy oak flavours.
Jesús Madrazo was the man behind the fabulous ImperialRiojas at famous Rioja house, Contino. Leaving afew years ago to set up hisown business, he embarked on various winemaking projects makingparcels of wine in different locations. Ribera del Duero was anaturalprogression for this dynamic winemaker,and we are delighted to get asmall allocation of his ‘Seleccion’ red made near Aranda del Duero at the brand new bodega, TerritorioLuthier
Jesús believes in minimal use of oak, so his wine shows layers of silky
fruit which age magnificently,adding complexity to the immediate intensity of flavour you experience on tasting them.
It’s adifferent style to the three previous growers, butwill complete your experience of the best of Ribera del Duero.
In summary,Ribera del Duero is one of the top red wine regions of Spain, producing world-class, concentrated and age-worthy wines with density,intensity and character.
While there aremany in the UK now to choose from, theseexampleswill demonstrate the improvements we have seen over the last decade or so, and the joy of drinking this style of rich, substantial red wine.
Now is the time to Reach for Ribera.
Pesquera’sAlejandro Fernandez. Dominio Basconcillos Vineyards.TAKING THE HOLISTIC APPROACH TO WELLNESS CAN HELP REDUCE THE RISK OF ILLNESS IN THE FUTURE. HEATHER LARGE FINDSOUT MORE FROM AN EXPERT IN THE FIELD
Melissa Pugh, from Shrewsbury, who has set up a new wellness facility in Dogpole, Shrewsbury Her new business, The Wellness
Atelier, are providers of comprehensive care such as fitness/yoga, nutrition, injectables, IV therapy, laser and skin rejuvenation
From the moment acustomer first walks through thedoor of her wellness hub, Melissa Pugh wants them to feel welcome and relaxed.
After eight years working in the NHS and aesthetics industryinLondon, Melissa has returned to Shropshire with the aim of helping people to be ‘the best versions of themselves’.
She has fulfilled along-held dream to open aclinic that takes an holistic approach, offering arange of treatments and services that support physical, mental and social health.
The Wellness Atelier,located within aGeorgian townhouse in Dogpole, Shrewsbury,started welcoming customers at the beginning of January
Alongside awide range of aesthetics treatments, it also offers customers a yoga, pilates and fitness studio, weight management support and nutritional therapy as well as laboratory tests and screenings to allow them to keep on top of their medical needs.
“I wanted to come back to Shropshire to build awellness hub that is welcoming for absolutely everyone to feel asense of comfortand peace knowing they are bettering themselves,” explains Melissa.
Melissa graduated with aBachelor of Science degree in registered nursing from King’s College university before beginning her first nursing post at the world-renowned St Thomas’s Hospital in London.
Later,she moved into the aesthetics industry,working alongside leading plastic surgeons in the capital’s Harley Street.
Alongside continuing to provide support for NHSservices and running The Wellness Atelier,she is atrainer at Interface Aesthetics and an ambassador for the melanoma andnon-melanoma skin cancer charity Skcin.
Melissa also regularly attends educational workshops to ensure she
can educate andpromote safer practice within the aesthetics sector.Among the services offered by The Wellness Atelier are anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers and laser/IPL treatment forunwanted hair,pigmentation, broken capillaries and thread veins.
“Aesthetics is only one element of the clinic but unfortunately the industry is not well regulated and there is ahuge amount of misinformation when it comes to treatments and skincare online.
“Aesthetic treatments should only be conducted by medically trained professionals who understand facial anatomy and how to deal with complications, not only that, medical professionals can alsosupport individuals
who may be suffering with Body Dysmorphic Disorder –a disorder which has sky-rocketed since the use of social media.
“I wanted to create asafe haven where people can come to knowing that they are being treated both safely and ethically
“I have found that there was agap in Shropshire for wellness and therefore created this serene space which focuses on all aspects of health andweare committed to supporting individuals through their whole wellness journey,” she explains.
Melissa believes prevention is always better than cure and that by taking an holistic approach to both physical and mental heath, it canhelpreduce the risk of illness in the future.
“After being diagnosed with alongterm health condition at the age of 11 which completely changed my life, I saw the damaging effects it was having, not just to my physical health but my emotional and social health.
“When Ientered my nursing degree, it became very evident to me the importance of treating patients with an holistic approach, meaning we consider all aspects of health including physical, social, emotional and intellectual.
“When one element of health is affected, you can see the cascading effects it has on our complete system, depression and anxiety may arise and individuals easily end up with co-morbidities that could have been prevented in the first place.
“It is apparent that as anation, we do not provide enough support and education to prevent ill health from occurring in the first place and unfortunately treat ill health when it arises.
“More needs to be done to support
individuals in actively making better choices to optimise health and well-being but ultimately to prevent ill health or disease before it occurs,” she explains.
Melissa is also keen to support the increasing numbers of people choosing to proactively take steps to improve their health and wellbeing, especially in the wake of the Covid pandemic and growing pressures on the NHS.
“Biohacking is aconcept by which individuals take ownership of their health and make incremental changes to their bodies through diet, lifestyle, treatments, exercise etc. to improve their health and wellbeing. We essentially support people in doing this to help prevent ill health,” she explains.
Making adifferencetopeople’s lives is the most enjoyable and rewarding part of Melissa’s work and she’s looking forward to helping more people in Shropshire. “I love the transformation in terms of people’s journeys. I’ve helped so many people transform their lives and feel better about themselves. It’s amazing to see the difference in people,” she says.
Since opening, the clinic and its team of medical staff and instructors have received apositive response from the community.“The feedback has been amazing. People say it looks beautiful, which is very nice. Ihave tried very hard to create avery calming environment for people,” says Melissa. “No matter what their reason for coming to the clinic is,we can support them.”
n Formore information, see www thewellnessatelier.co.uk
After more than 30 years together,keeping her marriage healthy and self-care go handin-hand for Lorraine Kelly.
“You’ve got to have awee bit of ‘me time’, just to breathe, just to exhale,” says the Glasgow-bornTVpresenter
“Me and my husband –weobviously get on well, we’ve been together for such along time –but he needshis own space and so do I, and Ithink that’s absolutely vital,” adds Kelly,63, who’s been married to cameraman Steve Smithsince 1992.
“He’s really sporty and goes off to football, golf,hegoes for giant walks and does all of that, and I’ll sit curled up with abook.”
She admits prioritising time for herself is “relatively new”though –“because I’m abit of aworkaholic”, says Kelly,who’s been fronting her eponymous ITV morningshowsince 2010.
“But Ilove what Ido, so Idon’t consider it working. [I get to] read books before they’re out, see movies before they come out, interview interesting people. Ilearn something new every day,which keeps you mentally active, and that to me is ajoy
“But Iwas very guiltyinthe past of just work, work, work, work, work, without taking abreath.”
These days, she also makes time for regular online workout classes and plenty of walks with beloved border terrier Angus,near their home in Buckinghamshire (“He’s agreat listener!” she notes, with alaugh). As well as being precious ‘me time’, it’s partofher commitment to maintaining ahealthy lifestyle.
Kelly joined WW (WeightWatchers) early last year,unhappy with her weight after gainingastone-and-a-half during lockdown. Continuing her role as an ambassador for the brand, she’s just filmed acook-along with chef Zena
THE ITV PRESENTER TALKSTO ABI JACKSON ABOUT TAKING AGENTLE APPROACH TO HEALTH KICKS, AND WHY IT’S ALL ABOUT FEELING GOOD IN YOUR SKINKamgaing, which sees theduo whip up healthier versions of some of the nation’s favourite comfort foods: aheartySunday roast and gooey cheese toastie.
Asurvey by WW (which quizzed 2,000 people) found four out of five people want to eat healthier but don’t want to sacrifice fun and flavour.Twothirds also admit it’s hard to resist their favourite foods, with over half (53%) saying they comfort-eat.
Kelly can relate –which is whyshe’s all about taking agentle approach to eating healthier
“I think it’s crazy to suddenly say, ‘I’m going for a10-mile run’, or going on astupid,faddy diet, because they don’t work. We know diets don’t work –you will lose weight, but you’ll just put it all back on again becauseit’snot sustainable.
“It’s great to have goals,” she adds, “but make it realistic. Becausesomany people are just like, ‘Oh forget it’, and that’s sad.”
Forher now, it’s about an ongoing “lifestyle choice” –which includes room to “cut yourself awee bit of slack” here and there, and to enjoy life.
“Like everybody over Christmas, we do indulge ourselves abit more thanany other time of the year and we hunker down and make excuses alittle bit. Ihave continued with the plan that I’ve been on –but of course, when I’ve been totting my points up, I’ve been over it afew times, that’s just how things are.”
She says she’s getting “backontrack”
now but it’s “not as dramatic” as when she first started on her WW plan in early 2022.
“Last year,Ireally needed help,” says Kelly,addingshe finds the WW app particularly helpful.
“Also, for me, one of the big things has been the community.Social media gets a really bad name, but on the app and using the fact there’s so many of us embarking on this together,sharing experiences and tips and lifting each other up is really, really good.
“I think that’s what it’sall about these days –supporting each other.Weall just want to be as healthy and happy as we can be.”
One thing she doesn’t like about social media however is the “unrealistic expectations” it can set in terms of body image, especially for teenagers.
“I was lucky because my daughter [Rosie Smith] is 28 now,so shekindof missed alot of that –Instagram filters, unrealistic expectations –and I’m very glad about that because Ithink that’s absolutely toxic for young kids, Ireallydo.
“For girls andboys –that whole thing of perfection, because there’s no such thing!” she exclaims. “And what you think is beautiful, somebody else doesn’t –it’s so subjective. Butthis is the one thing Ithink is verydangerous about social media, that whole idea of perfection.”
Besides, Kelly’s job has taught her that everyone has their shareofinsecurities anyway,regardless of how ‘perfect’ they might appear
“I remember talking to [Nineties supermodel] Cindy Crawford, who is gorgeous –she was on the show and she’s like, ‘Ohhh Idon’t like my thighs’, and you’re like, ‘What?! You’re aGoddess!’
“So even people that we think are perfect, they’re not, and we’re all
different,” she reflects. “I thinkit’s about accepting your body.I’ve got lumps and bumps and scars and all the rest of it –but it’s OK, it’s alright. It’s about feeling healthy
“It’s about feeling better in yourself,” adds Kelly.“There really isn’t one size and that’s what you’re supposed to be. But there is asize that you are at your best.”
n Lorraine Kelly is abrand ambassador for WW.Losing weight with WeightWatchers just got easier with an updated, simplified program that helps you to lose weight, keep it off, and still enjoy the food you love. Visit weightwatchers.com
Lorraine with husband SteveSmith after being made aCBE in December,2021.
Lorraine at the Women Of The Year Awards 2022
The traybakeSunday roast made during Lorraine’s cook-along
After aroaringstarttotheir first auction of the year,the team at TrevanionAuctioneers & Valuers are looking forward to abusy2023.
Many of the top results of the day came from the furniture section, which included a fine Jacobean chest of drawers and atwo-section chest of the same period, which made £2,200 and £1,500.
“Furniture of the Jacobean period isn’t always the most popular, but the chests in the auction really stood out,” says auctioneer Ian Woodward. “The chest of drawers are notable in particular,due to thelarge size and three-drawer interior Both had few alterations, they looked smart with fine quality carving, and
ultimately are very practical.”
Further lots of note include a19th century testerbed which fetched £1,900, apair of Howard type armchairs which took £1,000, and aVictorian satin birch armchair which made £2,700.
Reflecting on the successes of the day, Ian said: “The furniture market seems to be on asteady upward trajectory.The post-pandemic market has had peaks and troughs, but we are still seeing recordbreaking results for rare and exceptional items –thingsof unusual size, shape or composition,which are well constructed and in great condition.”
Another strong performer in the sale was 20thcentury art, with an early work by iconic Welsh artist Sir KyffinWilliams OBE RA (1918-2006)leading the way
“Pen YGaer is adramatic early work depicting abrooding mountain view from the artist’s house,” explains picture valuer Simon Grover.“The work formed part of KyffinWilliams’s legendary debut show at the Colnaghi gallery in 1949, where it was acquired by prolificcollector L.G. Duke. It was awonderful surprise to remove the picture from the frame and find notes in Leonard Duke’s own handwriting on the mount. Given its provenance, it was not a surprisewhen the work made £1,400.”
Another 20th century art success came with asigned print by the perennially popular L.S. Lowry,titled His Family.
“The work was apparently inspired by awell-dressed family Lowry spotted at abus stopone day,” says Simon. “He appears to have been struck by the fact that, although clearly ‘a family’, each of the figures occupies their own space, showing no interest in the other members. Lowry himself appears at the far right of the picture, surreptitiously observing the family over hisshoulder.”
The print raced away on sale day to make its top estimateof£1,600.
Results from the vintage toys section may have you digging around your old toy
chest, after aboxed LEGO 7730 Electric Goods Trainset made £280 +Buyer’s Premium.
“The vintage toy market is driven by nostalgia and rarity,” says specialist Charlie Whittingham. “The interest in vintage LEGO sets has been growing since the 1980s, as brick-obsessed kids are maturing into sentimental collectors. As aresult, the LEGO market is going from strength to strength –recent studies suggest that the average price of an unopened standard LEGO set on the secondary market can grow by as muchas11% annually Some research suggests that many LEGO sets are providing ahigher return on investment than more traditional collectables such as fine art, antiques, and even gold!”
As with any investment, it is important to do your research first and bear in mind value can vary greatly,with anegative return on investment quite possible if you buy the wrong set at the wrong price. “The most valuable sets are those relating to movies –especially Star Wars,” says Charlie. “Sets of famous or notable buildings can also perform well, such as 1980smedieval castle models in yellow boxes, can sell particularly well, as can very early 1950s garages and filling stations. Rarity is also afactor –larger and more specialist LEGO sets are produced in limited numbers, and after these sets are retired, the number available on the secondary market is fairly small, driving up their value. And as always, condition is everything; it is important that sets have all their bricks, original instructions and boxes, ideally with the brick bags unopened.”
If you havea collection you are considering selling or would like to find out what your items could be worth, call us on 01948 800 202 or email info@ trevanion.com and speak to amemberof our valuationsteam. Our next Fine Art & Antique auction will be held on March 22.
Jacobean chest of drawers sold for £2,200 Charlie Whittingham with the Lego 7730 Electric Goods trainset. Sir KyffinWilliams OBE, “Pen YGaer”.
When thinking about building up an art collection, or even just seeking that perfect statement piece for your wall, buying at auction can be areally cost-effective option.
Not only is auction usually more affordable than buying from agallery,but it is avery transparent method to seewhat other buyers and the market as awhole is prepared to pay for that artist’s work.
One of the most important considerations when looking to buy an art piece is to trust your own judgement. Buy something that you actually like! Art by nature is subjective, if it is going to hang on your wall, you need to choose something that you connect with and want to look at every day
Pictured here are three paintings that may tick someof the boxes for collectors of Victorian paintings or works with a country theme. They date from the 19th centuryand aresome of
the highlights of asale of paintings and watercolours in the Fine Paintings and Antiques and Jewellery sale on March 22.
Gerry Berwyn-Jones, who is the head of fine art at Halls Auctioneers, said: “Three key things Iwould always advise anyone to consider about an artwork before reaching for their wallet are Condition, Provenance and Rarity.This sale represents agreat opportunity to buy awork thatticks all of the boxes from aselection of good Victorian art by an interesting cross-section of listed artists.”
‘Alfred de Breanski (British, 1852-1928), Stronachlacher, a fisherman on aloch with cattle at thewater’s edge in the foreground, signed lower left and titled and signed verso ‘Stronachlacher...The Birthplace of Rob Roy,Alfred de Breanski RBA’, oil on canvas, 77 x127cm’.
“This is asuper example of de Breanski senior’s work, with the added allure of depicting Rob Roy’s birthplace –estimate £6,000-£8,000.”
‘Walter Hunt (English, 1861-1941), otter hounds giving chase, with huntsman behind and ariver in the middle distance, signed and dated ‘1912’ lower left, old lot label and sale information verso ‘876, 280302, Glen’, oil on canvas, 102 x 153cm’
“Breeders and owners of otter hounds take note.This wonderful painting shows apack at work in alandscape –estimate £12,000-£18,000.”
‘Thomas Sidney Cooper R.A. (British, 1803-1902), cattle resting by awillow-line river with sheep on the opposite side, signed and dated lower right ‘T.Sidney Cooper R.A. 1887’, oil on canvas, 76.5 x124cm.’
“A delightful Thomas Sidney Cooper work depicting cattle and sheep. This is achance to buy agood example by this Royal Academician –estimate£8,000-£12,000.”
These items will feature in the upcoming Halls Fine Art Auction to be held online and at theHalls sales room in Battlefield in Shrewsbury on March 22.
n Formore details, please call Gerry on 01743 450700 or visit https://fineart.hallsgb.com/
Cattlerestingbyawillow-linedriver,signedanddated.Thomas Sidney Cooper R.A. (1803-1902) oil on canvas. Stronachlacher...TheBirthplaceofRobRoy,Alfred de Breanski RBA, oil on canvas.
Just days before the Six Nations kicked off aShropshire school welcomed in arugby legend for aseries of motivational talks and coaching sessions.
Former Welsh rugby International player Scott Quinnell visited Wrekin College just two days before England and Wales stepped out for their opening games of the tournament.
Scott, now anationally-renowned rugby commentator and motivational speaker,talked to pupils about his experience with dyslexia and how he refused to let it impact his ambitions to play sports for his country
The school invited children who have adiagnosis of dyslexia, show possible signs of dyslexia, or face challenges when it comes to learning to join aspecial workshop. Many of those taking part have also shown akeen interest in sport.
Both boys and girls were involved from across the year groups.
During the event Scott joined a coaching session for theU14 players and met with the school’s 1stXV.
Children as young as 10 from Old Hall School were also given thechance to meet with Scott.
“Children are inspired when they get to hear from those who have faced similar issues to themselves and have gone on to succeed and to achieve ambitions that sometimes may seem out of reach,” said Darran Tunnah, Head of Support for Learning and DSL at Wrekin College.
“Wewere so delighted to welcome Scott for this visit particularly as excitement built for the Six Nations and the game of rugby stepped into the spotlight.
“Sport is agreat motivator for those who want to challenge themselves in the classroom. Having apositive time on the playing field can boost achild’s confidence. We do want to encourage that relationship and Scott,as patron of the Welsh Dyslexic Association,has been pivotal in terms of raising awareness and encouraging young people to see it is no barrier to anything they may want to achieve.
“Allowing people to talk about
challenges they may face and to hear from others on how they have overcome those challenges is awonderful thing to be able to do and particularly important for schools to encouragethose opportunities.”
Scott started playing rugby for Llanelli Juniors at eight years old going on to play for Wales 52 times, scoring 12 tries during that time.
He joined the British Lions tours in 1997 and 2001 and now works within the media appearing on shows such as Sky Sports, Real Radio, The One Show and AQuestion of Sport.
Jonathan Mather,Director of Rugby at Wrekin College,said the coaching session looked at the role of forward play from aset piece.
“It is an exciting time for rugbysothis was an excellent opportunity for many of our keenest players to gain an insight into what it takes to play at the highest level.”
n Youcan find out more about Wrekin at itsOpen Morning on Saturday,March 18. Book online at www.wrekincollege.com
We are officially EXCELLENT in all areas (ISI Inspection Nov 22) Whole SchoolOpenDay
Thursday9th March
All through, all girl ages 4-18 Girls first. Always.
Arrange your visit at shrewsburyhigh.gdst.net
The name is Burnell and Burnell has been given the title of ambassador.Heisthe mascot teddy bear at Shropshire’s Concord College and within days of arriving in the main hall has become a centrepiece for students and staff alike.
This is no ordinary teddy bear –Burnell’s massive. Forthe bear weighs approximately 70kg and its height in a sitting position is 150cm. Burnell is the biggest teddy bear that Merrythought has handmade during their 92-year history in theWorld Heritage Site of Ironbridge where the company spans four generations of soft toy manufacturing
Burnell’s owners Concord College were involved in the bear’s design as well selecting thefabrics which feature alight gold outer plush. The bear has chestnut brown cotton velvet paws with the college
logo neatly embroidered on the right paw.
Merrythought’s current Managing Director Sarah Holmes said that thesize of Burnell, who took ateam of skilled operators four days to manufacture, presented them with quite a‘technical engineering challenge’.
ForBurnell couldn’t be made the same way as one of their traditional teddy bears.
“The cut pieces of fabric had to be reinforced with two different types of backing material and two people spent a whole day stuffing the bear by hand due to Burnell being too largefor our stuffing machine.
“The bear has been filled with recycled fibre and the main material is light gold mohair plush which is anatural material. The bear was built around a metal frame due to the weight of its limbs.
“The team at Merrythought has thoroughly enjoyed collaborating and working closely with Concord on this very special one-off teddy bear,” said Sarah.
Concord marketing team member Suzanne Trusssaid the college was ‘delighted’ to have engaged with Merrythought in the production of the bear,having employees with links to the manufacturer
“Merrythought, like Concord, is a well-established brand name which is deep rooted in Shropshire, but known throughout the world.
“Wewanted to collaborate with alocal business and it’s been marvellous of the company to help us with the bear who was named after students and staff got together to discuss.
“There was alovely selection of ideas that captured the bear’s role in the Concord community and the principal chose Burnell after thevillage of Acton Burnell which is hometothe college.”
Suzanne added: “The bear has become instantly popular with students and staff alike.”
The Merrythought team is currently busy hand-making avariety of their traditional and collectable teddy bears in time for Christmas, alongside planning ahead for abusy 2023.
Akey focus will be their King’s Coronation Teddy Bear,since the company is known around the world for creating premium commemorative royal bears.
They recently launched the HM Queen Elizabeth II Celebration Bear which is available to pre-order now from www.merrythought.com
Here at Birchfield School, we believe that education is the greatest gift that you can give your child. A first-class education gives your child thefoundation for afulfillinglife.
At Birchfield we spend time helping each child discover their talents and passion. Whether thisisinthe science laboratory,out of the sports fields, or in the music room, we encourage and nurture each child to develop their own unique talents.
Learning is not just limited to the classroom, but takes place across all that we do. Skills aren’t just reading, writing, and arithmetic, though we value these highly,but also resilience, perseverance and integrity.The skills that your child willneedtosucceed in life, are built upon here at Birchfield School.
We believe that finance shouldn’t be a limiting factor in your desire to give your child a first-classeducation.Our fees are set to be affordable and achievable for many families.
We maintain ouraffordable fees through supportfrom our governing body,StPhilips Education Group, giving us access to key professionals to ensure
the smooth running of ourschool.
With ongoing investment in the facilities and buildings, we continue to expand the provision to all of our pupils.
From Prep School masterclasses to sporting sessions on theAstroturf,our pupils benefitfrom all that Birchfield School has to offer
If you are looking for affordable senior
school entry,whether into Year 7, 8, or 9, we have limited places available. The best way to see why Birchfield School is the right school for your child is to come for avisit
We always welcome families for personal tours ofour school giving you time to appreciate our school, askany questions that you may have, and meet teachers and students. We offer taster days to all prospective pupils so that your child can experience first-hand life at Birchfield School. We also hold Open Mornings throughout the year,giving you the chance for afull personal tour of the school.
If you are interested in giving your child the best opportunity to flourish, with affordable fees, small class sizes, specialist teachers,and endless extracurricular activities, then why not book a personal tour?
Our next Open Morning is Saturday, March 4, 10am to 12.30pm. To book your place for an Open Morning, please contact us at admissions@birchfieldschool.co.uk or by phone on 01902 372534.
We offerover 300 courses across Herefordshireand Shropshireand areproud of our outstanding behaviours and attitudes across all our Colleges (Ofsted 2022).
Areyou lookingtodevelop your skills, learn anew hobby or become anapprentice?
Youcan also utilise our dedicated children’snurseries,restaurants, hair and beautysalons during the week. Browse our widerange of ALevels, apprenticeships, land-based and vocational courses, includingagriculture, arts, humanities, maths, sciences, languages, sports and more!
FULL-TIME & PART-TIME COURSES
HIGHER EDUCATION
DID YOUKNOW THAT WE TEACH OVER 10,000 PEOPLE AYEAR?
FURTHER EDUCATION
FREE ADULTCOURSES AVAILABLE!
To find out moreabout thecoursesweoffer across our eightsites,visit: www.hlnsc.ac.uk or telephone: 0800 032 1986
WE OFFER 100S OF APPRENTICESHIPS ACROSS MOST SECTORS
SCAN THE QR CODE TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE
One of the UK’s most successful business executives who has proved that women can ‘have it all’ combiningaseat at the boardroom table with hands-on motherhood is the keynote speaker at the annual Moreton Hall Business Lunch.
Ernst Young TaxPartner and UK Private Client ServiceLeader,Victoria Price heads the UK and Ireland private client tax team within EY Private, advising her clients on awide range of tax affairs from estate planning and running family offices.
In 2021, Victoria was named as one of the UK’s top‘power part-timers’ in the Timewise Power List, celebrating 25 of the most successful senior-level executives in the UK, who work parttime. With ayoung son and as the main carer for her grandmother,Victoria joined EY on apart-time basis at age 23, and nine years later made Partner.She has worked part time throughouther career to help balance her work and home life with her three children.
Victoria says: “I have never been afraid to be open and honest about how important both my home andwork life is to me. Ibelieve that striking the right, yet flexible balance, has allowed me to successfully build my entire career
“Becoming amum at 18 showed me that there will always be something more important than my job, yet it drives me to succeed. Having flexibility means that the kids are in no doubt that they are the priority and thatI’llalways be there at the
important times of their lives.”
Addressing an audience of regional business professionals at theconference in the Holroyd Community Theatre in March, Victoria will be talking about her personal journey,as well as reflecting on her role as as co-leader of the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year, aglobal programme that recognises entrepreneurial achievement among individuals and companies that demonstrate vision, leadership and success –and worktoimprovethe quality of life in their communities, countries and around the world.
As part of her talk, Victoria will be in conversation with entrepreneur and Director of one of the UK’s fastest growing online retail business, Public Desire, Tayyab Akjlaq. Public Desire’s mission with their fast-growing online footwear brands is “to tread ever so stylishly where other retailers don’t”. Together they will discuss growing an award-winning global brand.
Join us to hear from two inspirational business people about their individual and collaborative success
Please register to attendonFriday, March 17, 11.30am at www./moretonhall. org/business-lunch or call 01691776069
Moreton Hall Business Lunch takes place this month. Victoria Price
ShropshireChamber of Commerce officially launched its 2023 business awards at Salop Leisure.
Acapacity audience of morethan 100 business people attended the event in Shrewsbury to hear from organisers, judges, previous winners and sponsors.
Launched in 2001, the ShropshireChamber Business Awards haveattracted audiences of morethan 900 people for the black-tie celebration.
Aico of Oswestry won the coveted Company of the Year awardlast summer –retaining its title. Previous Company of the Year winners include McConnel of Ludlow, Grainger &Worrall from Bridgnorth, Grocontinental of Whitchurch, and Salop Leisureand Caterpillar from Shrewsbury, Pave Aways from Knockin, CJ WildbirdFoods of Upton Magna, and Telford-based businesses McPhillips, Dodd Group, Smartwater,Lyreco and Reconomy.
Photos: SteveLeath
Marcus Matthews from MakeYour Life Count, Rhea Alton from J&PR, Chantelle SparefromChantelle SparePhotography.
Judy Bourne from Monks, ClaireCritchell from Telford& Wrekin Council.
Mark Bebb from Salop Leisure, Host Carl Jones, ShropshireChamber boss RichardSheehan.
Launch of the ShropshireChamber Business Awards.
Adam Corbett, Millie Laundon from 7Video.
Helen ScurrfromLittle Stars Charity, Chris Henderson from New EraPrint.
Members of the Rotary Club of TelfordCentrecame together to host aBurns Night supper
Thirty-fivepeople enjoyedtraditional fareof cock-a-leekie soup; haggis, neeps and tatties; and cranachan.
The event, which took place at The Pheasant in Admaston raised morethan £500, which has been donated to needy families in Telford.
Chris Mackrell, of the Rotary Club, said: “This is first Burns supper we have held sincebeforelockdown and we look forwardtoarranging another next year on an even larger scale.”
Photos: Bob Eatough
Sue Avis delivers “Toast to the Laddies”.
Kurt Jacobs, Fiona Moore, EiraMoore, Telford CentreClub President Chris Moore, Paul Crutchley.
“Toasting the Haggis with aWee Dram”.
Gill Eatough, Sonia Mackrell
“Auld Lang Syne”toend the evening.
Sarah Nash, Marilyn West, Sue Avis, Geoff Avis, Irene Del Grosso, Josh Langley, Joanna West.
Hilary Rounsley, Jim Rounsley, Gill Eatough, Nigel Montgomery, Simon Rex, Jenny Montgomery, Sarah Rex.
Chef Patron of the Pheasant, Richard Fletcher presents the haggis.
Sally Price, David Price, Brian Reilly, Nick Burn, Ruth Burn, David Brown, Marcia Brown.
Alongside the rise of ‘skintellectuals’, with their carefully curated skincare collections and endless thirst for beauty knowledge, in the past few years there’s been a huge trend for DIY face massagetechniques.
Devotees –who include celebrities such as Goop guru Gwyneth Paltrow,model Miranda Kerr andsinger Lizzo –claim that devices such as thegua sha (a flat,heart-shaped tool that originates in Chinese medicine), jade roller or ice globes, are the key to glowing skin and snatched contours.
Impressive before and after videos from facialists, show how gentle strokes with the fingertips can seemingly smooth away forehead lines, plump cheeks, and sharpen cheekbones.
But does face massage help in the long-run, or is it just atemporary fix?
“It absolutely makes adifference, not only to the skin but to your collagen functions and facial muscles,” says Inge Theron (below), founder of FaceGym (facegym.com), the skincare brand with 12 skin studios around the world, providing ‘workouts’ not facials.
Face massageworks by strengthening the fibroblasts in our skin, the cells responsible for collagen production, which have to be kept under tension to workat their optimal level.
“Asweage, our fibroblasts start to lose this tension, andtheir efficiency begins to decrease. By using facial massage techniques, you are stretching out these fibroblasts, effectively waking them up, and stimulating them to work on collagen production.”
Plus, it can help with natural skin functions, she says: “Increasing circulation, boosting the lymphatic system and releasing tension –all resulting in firmer,toned muscles, enhanced contours and alifted, radiant complexion.”
Others aren’t so convinced that massage will transform your looks.
“There’s limited research to show whether tools, such as agua sha, can change your face shape or remove fine lines and wrinkles,” says Salome Dharamshi, dermatologist and founder of Sky Clinic (skyclinic.co.uk).
“However,there are short-term benefits to these tools. They can minimise puffiness through cooling (ice rollers) and lymphatic drainage, boost circulation, and minimise pores and puffiness.”
Dr Ross Perry(right), medical director of Cosmedics skin clinics (cosmedics.co.uk), says there are
Want to sculpt and smooth your complexion? These tools and oils will get you started.
both direct and indirect effects: “Feeling relaxed and allowing yourself to destress does wonders for the skin. Done correctly, facial massage can help with blood flow and circulation.”
But you can’t expect afew swipes with agua shatocounteract lots of late nights and not enough sleep, he continues: “Eating ahealthy diet, drinking plenty of water,avoiding alcohol and cigarettes, agood skin routine, and exercise will contribute to great-looking skin.”
“Before any of these tools are used, you need to start with athoroughly cleansed face, and aserum or moisturiser,toensure theskin is moist,” says Perry, who suggests watching an online video, and copying the movements an expert uses.
Dharamshi recommends using afacialoil: “It is important
not to drag the skin, or use too much pressure, as this canresult in minor bruising, bleeding or even burst blood vessels.”
Youdon’t have to spend hours slaving away in front of amirror,Perry adds: “If you have time to incorporate aface massage once aweekintoyour skin routine, then do so. It can be very relaxing.”
Theron recommends the little and often approach: “Even just afew minutes aday can offer big results. If you’re a beginner,start by trying out thehand movements from knuckling, to cheek hooks and eye lifts.”
Once you’ve mastered the basics, try using agua shaalongside ahydrating face oil. “This is your all-in-one tool, it helps define contours, release facial tension, de-puff,drain waterretention, and much more,” she says.
“My top tip is to keep it in the fridge, for additional cooling and soothing benefits.”
ESPArose quartz gua sha tool, £40. FaceGym face coach lifting Q10 +mastic tree enzymaticallyactivated face oil, £50. Botanics ice rollers, £12, Boots. Yu Ling Rollers jade facial roller, £22, Cult Beauty. Murad multi-vitamin infusion oil, £42. B t i i ll £12 B t
THESE ARE THE SNEAKERS YOU SHOULD BE SPORTING THIS SEASON, SAYS KATIE WRIGHT
Akey part of any modern wardrobe, trainers areessential for work and weekends, holidays and hiking –and everything in between.
No longer the last thing you think about when planning an outfit, sneakers are at the forefront of fashion, with macro and micro trends popping up all the time.
So how should you be accessorising your ensembles right now? We asked sportswear experts for their predictions on the trends that will be big this year
“We saw the revival of classic soccer silhouettes last year and that’s something I think we’ll see continue,” says Derek Morrison (right), general manager EMEA at StockX (stockx com). “The Adidas Samba – arguably the most classic style – is booming on StockX ”
Football was a major talking point at the end of 2022, and that looks set to continue
“Trades of the Argentina Samba saw an uptick during the World Cup final,” Morrison says “With more exciting football events like the Women’s World Cup taking place this summer, we ’ re expecting an even bigger focus on the sport in 2023 ”
As trends come and go faster than ever, sneakerheads are constantly on the hunt for the next big thing
“With Dunks and Jordans fatigue setting in, we are seeing a massive rise in brands championing comfort, like Salomon, proving substance can be stylish,” says George Sullivan (right), CEO and Founder of The Sole Supplier (thesolesupplier co uk)
“Our new UNTIED Report shows ‘ gorpcore ’ is a huge trend, with sneakers incorporating GORE-TEX technology for performance styles and a rugged aesthetic ”
Gorp stands for ‘good old raisins and peanuts’, AKA the trail mix munched by outdoor enthusiasts Urbanites are adopting the hiking look and making it their own, with ‘ugly’ trainers top of their wishlists
Salomon XT-6 RECUT Monument Phantom, £155, The Sole Supplier The gorpcorelook, featuringSalomon trainers. Adidas Samba Team Argentina, available for auction, StockX Nike Zoom Mercurial Vapor 15 Academy TF turf football shoes £7495Minimalism takes a back seat this year as attention-grabbing kicks come to the fore
“Shapes and colours are experimental for 2023, which will give an effortless elevation to looks,” says Donna Hill (left), PR and marketing director at Gola (gola co uk)
“Styles are served up with classic sports luxe detailing combined with distinctive heritage call-outs and unique material combinations ”
Make a pair of colourful kicks your everyday go-to, she says “With trainers now ever more prevalent in daily styling, the boundaries of the smart-casual wardrobe will be pushed even further ”
Looking for a shortcut to trainer cool? Get yourself a pair of New Balance 550s, says Morrison: “Dubbed the ‘dad trainer’, the 550s have been spotted on some of the trendiest celebs including Kendall Jenner, Justin Bieber, and Bella Hadid ”
Available in tons of colours from laidback neutrals to bold blues and reds, these basketball-inspired kicks are a 2023 must-have
“The silhouette manages to retain its clout due to the many colourways and iterations released, including collabs with Aimé Leon Dore and Comme Des Garçons,” Morrison says “We expect new variations of the 550s this year that further elevate the silhouette ”
Adidas ADI2000 blue/bold blue/bright blue shoes, £6750
Gola Classics women’s raventrainers, £95.
Gola Classics women ’ s raven trainers, £95
550 white green, from £193, StockX.
Oliver Bonas hoff art tiger trainer, £130
FROM BRIGHT COLOURS TO RACY CUTOUTS, THESE ARE THE WORKOUT CLOTHES WE’LL BE SPORTING THIS SEASON
Whether getting fitwas one of your resolutions or not, now is the perfect time to try something new
Maybe it’s going to that dance class you’ve been eyeing up, or finally figuring out what the fuss around Pilates is all about.
If you do want to trysomething new –or just want that extra motivation to get to the gym –a fresh set of workout clothes will be just the thing you need.
As we head into spring, there are plenty of exciting activewear trends to get moving in…
Disco fabulous Fewthings will actually motivate y you to exercise more than the perfect gear –and that’s where disco-inspired workout clothes come in.
Think shiny leggings, tops and sports bras laced with gold and silver –anything to bring abit of that party spirit to the gym.
Plus, chuck atrench coat or more formal jacket over thetop, and you can definitely get away w with these looks when not working out too.
Hush Beth Star activebra,£45 SEFI discobra in smoke pine,£42, and disco leggings in smokepine,£62.Cutouts are ahuge trend in fashion right now,making its way from the runways to the high street. Now, fitnessstyle is having ago with artful slashes on bralettes and gym tops. It doesn’t really matter what your cutouts are –they can range from subtle keyhole designs to racy flashes of skin –it’s just about bringing abit of glamour to your workout.
Revolvealine sports brainroyal purple,
PUMA XModibodi 7/8recycled activelegging in aubergine, £46.50, Modibodi.
TALA Skinluxe cutout long sleeve top in black, £38, ASOS
£64
It’s the age-old question: what should you put on top of your workout gear after hitting the gym? Particularly if you can’t be bothered to change, a fleece could be your best option.
Keep things simple and chic in neutral-toned fleeces –they’ll go especially well with any brightly coloured or patterned gym kit you might be wearing.
Taking its cuefrom style stars like Kim Kardashian, in recent years athleisure has become somewhat muted in colour
We’re talking beiges, stones, creams, greys –chic, but not awhole lot of fun. However,that looks to be changing, and this season we predict to see alot more colour in fitness wear. Think animal print leggings and bright tops –anything to inject abit of life into your workout and help you boost your mood with dopamine dressing.
Gym + Coffee Industry fleece pullover in soft cloud, £75
F&F Activecream half zipfleece, £14, Next.
BAM women’s noveacrewneck base layer,£44, and Enduro7/8 deep waistband leggings, £44.
26th June 2023
8Nights All Inclusive
Cabin Types (Based on two people sharing)
Interior Rooms (Grade I) - £1569 Per Person
Ocean View (Grade E) - £1788 PerPerson
Superior Ocean View (GradeB)- £2144 PerPerson
Single Ocean View (Grade K) - £3236 Per Person
27th July 2023
8Nights All Inclusive
Cabin Types (Based on two people sharing)
Interior Rooms (Grade I) - £1529Per Person
Ocean View (Grade E) - £1789 Per Person
Superior Ocean View (Grade B) - £2234 Per Person
Single Ocean View (Grade K) - £3236 Per Person
26th August 2023
5Nights All Inclusive
Cabin Types (Based on two people sharing)
Interior Rooms (Grade I) - £859 Per Person
Ocean View (Grade E) - £992Per Person
Superior Ocean View (GradeB)- £1289 PerPerson
SingleOcean View (Grade K) - £1919Per Person
Borealis, has capacity for less than 1,400 guests but is larger in overall size than the other vessels in the Fred. Olsen fleet.
This means when you come on board for amemorable cruise holiday, to relax and enjoy apremium level of comfort –aswell as Fred. Olsen’s renowned personal service –inthe elegant public areas, lounges, bars and dining venues, you have evenmore space in which to do so.
With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and timeless style, and classic open deck spaces providing aplace to fully immerse yourself in the magic of ocean cruising, Borealis is very much in keeping with what guests have come to expect from a Fred. Olsen ship.
ANEW PILGRIMAGE TRAIL IS SET TO MAKE THIS MOUNTAIN KINGDOM EVEN MORE MAGICAL,SAYS SARAH MARSHALL
It’s hard not to smile in one of the world’s most mystifying and charismatic countries, autopian mountain kingdom where GDP has been ditched in favour of Gross National Happiness as ameasure for charting the country’s development.
First open to tourists in 1974, Bhutan is ahidden Himalayan Kingdom –which sits between India and China –and hasattracted asteady stream of curious visitors intrigued by the country’s strong spiritual beliefs, social cohesion and fondness for outlandish, folkloric tales.
Now there’s even more reason to explore Bhutan’s steep mountains and deep valleys, with the launch of anew pilgrimage trail.
Once used by Himalayan traders and garps (royal messengers) in the 16th century,a network of trails connectedthe country from east to west, providing a means of communication which played an important role in the unification of Bhutan in 1907.Whenroads arrived in the 1960s, these trails fell out of use. But an ambitious project instigated by Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck –also akeen hiker –has been undertaken to repair and restore these historic routes.
“I think this may be the greatest, long-distance trail in the world,” says Sam Blyth,co-founder and chair of charity the Bhutan Canada Foundation, who
worked alongside the Royal Bhutanese Government and the Tourism Council of Bhutan to complete the new 403km Trans Bhutan trail.
When we meet at theKhang Residency hotel in Bhutan’s surprisingly modern capital Thimphu,Sam speaks enthusiastically about an ancient network ofpathways he’d heard about 40 years ago and always dreamed of walking.
“There’s not another country in the world where you could build a400km trail in three years,” he enthuses, praising the 1,000-strong team of Bhutanese DeSuung members (a voluntary organisation empowering unemployed people to become guardians of the peace) who “hand-cut 10,000 stone steps and built 18 bridges”.
It would take around 30 days to do the full trail, but tour operator GAdventures has condensed some of the best sections into an escorted group tour led by Dorji Bidha, one of Bhutan’s few female guides.
“My grandparents meteach other crossing these valleys,” says the petite 32-year-old, who has temporarily swapped her national dress of akira (a wraparound robe) for hiking gear andamachete slung loosely around her waist. “My grandfather would bring meat, cheese and butter to barter for rice.”
FROM TOP:
Campsite on the TransBhutan trail; DeSuung volunteers who help maintain the trails; hikers on a section of the Trans Bhutan trail.
PAGE 115 FROM TOP:
Tiger’sNestinBhutan; an elderly lady using prayer wheels at a temple on the TransBhutantrail.
Our first 13km trekbegins 3,000 metres above sea level at theDochula Pass, an historic crossroads where 108 memorial stones –knownaschortens –commemorate soldiers killed in a2003 conflict with Indian insurgents.
Downhill all the way,Istep over thick carpets of moss sprouting with mushrooms and wander through tunnels of twisted hemlock trees draped in garlands of lichens. Dressed in orange boiler suits, volunteers from the DeSuung are pulling back branches to keep paths clear –ajob, Isuspect, which will keep them busy for some time.
Almost 70% of Bhutan is covered in forest, providing ahaven for Bengal tigers, black bears and takins (an oddly put together animal resembling an antelope and agoat). In abrave move, authorities recently introduced acontroversial daily tourism levy of $200USD per person to bolster sustainable development. The only country in the world to confidently declare itself carbon negative, it’s aplace where nature remains apriority
Throughout our week of treks, the only dangerous creatures we encounter are needle-thin leeches who have atalent
for wriggling into my hiking boots. But storiesof flying monks and cannibalistic demonesses are enough to keep dreams dramatic during anight spent camping on valley slopes, metres away from agushing river swollen with monsoon rain.
Although endless stretches of fairy-tale scenery are abig selling point for the Trans Bhutan trail, community encounters and an opportunity to learn about myths and legends is justas important. Iexchangesmiles with elderly women spinning prayer wheels outside temples, sharelunch with afamily sat cross-legged in afarmhouse, and receive ablessing atashrineset below aweeping cypress tree in theplayground of aremote primary school.
Several temples and dzongs can be found along the Trans-Bhutan trail, but one of the country’s most iconic religious sites requires asmall, worthwhile detour Carved into asheer rockface overlooking Paro, the Tiger’s Nest monastery is an architectural marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Within easy reachofParo airport, it’s atrip Imanage to squeeze in before making the long journey home.
Winding through forests where hydro-powered prayer wheels chime and prayer flags flutter in thebreeze, we climb steep pathways andhundreds of steps to reach the complex. Wrapped in maroon robes, young monks scurrybetween prayer rooms, disappearing into wafts of incense smoke. Farfrom theroar of trafficand hum of mobile ringtones, they practisetraditions cherished for hundreds of years.
In the five centuries since trails were
first built in Bhutan, the country has changed dramatically,but there’s still a deep respect for the past. In decades to come, I’ve no doubt valleys will still be smothered in forests, and candles will continue to burn in precipitous temples.
GAdventures(gadventures.com; 0207313 6953)offersan11-day escortedCampthe TransBhutanTrail itineraryfor £3,449pp, including amixture of camping, hotels andhomestays,and thedaily Sustainable Developmentfee.Internationalflights extra.
BY TED WELFORD,PRESS ASSOCIATION
What you’re looking at here isVauxhall’s most powerful car.Yes, now the ridiculously fun VXR8 is no more, the quickest model from this brand is actually ahybrid SUV,with the Grandland GSe.
GSe, standing for ‘grand sport electric’, is Vauxhall’s new sporty subbrand, and it’ll be focusing purely on hybrids and EVs as the brand increasingly pushes towards full electrification in its
line-up. Already,it’sonly the Crossland that stops Vauxhall offering every car it sells as ahybrid or EV.One of the first GSe models we’re seeing is the Grandland, but is it worthchoosing?
The Grandland has been around since 2017, when it arrived as along-awaited Nissan Qashqai rival, and has proven popular since, with Vauxhall heavily revising it in 2021.
It’s been around for afew years as aplug-in hybrid too, with uptake
for electrified versions increasing in momentum, Vauxhall hopes the GSe will continue that. It’s alittle more than just a Grandland with more power and aslightly sportier look, with Vauxhall giving the model asportier suspension setup and revised steering to hopefully liven up the experience.
It slightly lessens the GSe’s impact when you learn that the Grandland has previously been offered with this powertrain that makes it the brand’s most powerful car,and in fact it’sbeenaround since 2020.
But nevertheless, it pairs a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol engine with two electric motors that enable it to be Vauxhall’s only current four-wheel-drive model. An eight-speed automatic gearbox is adopted too.
The performance figures aren’t to be sniffed at, with its combined 296bhp and 520Nm of torque allowing for a 5.9-second 0-60mph time, and 146mph top speed. A14.2kWh battery allows for up to 41 miles of electric driving ability, pushing CO2 emissions down to 27g/ km. It can alsobecharged in under two hours if you choose the optional 7.4kW charging, or double that timewith the standard 3.7kW
Previously the 296bhp Grandland had the same behavioural characteristics as an unruly child –put your foot down
and it felt unnecessarily fast, but without the dynamics to back up theperformance on offer.Tweaks to the chassis have undoubtedly helped, with the Grandland no longer feeling like it’s about to topple over if pushed hard around acorner It’s still very brisk, and it’s able to getup to speed much faster than you’d expect afamily crossover like this to –itwill certainly raise eyebrows, even if you do have to contend with the indecisive gearbox and unpleasant engine noise.
The sportier suspension is not so welcome, however,feeling unsettled over bumps, even on relatively smooth Spanish roads. We also found the seats, which are said to have been approved by an organisation for ‘healthier backs’, to be unpleasantly solid and unforgiving, while offering little support under hard cornering.
Vauxhall really smartened the Grandland up with the 2022 update, giving it its new ‘Vizor’front end, encompassing ablack grille strip housing the Vauxhall emblem and LED lighting. It remains an eye-catching, but not overthe-top choice, which has been subtly smartened up for this GSe guise.
There’s new 19-inch ‘Monza’ alloy wheels, along with various black styling and ablack roof.Note that the black bonnet option, which reminds us of an old banger that had amismatched bonnet
fitted on the cheap, is not being offered on UK cars.
The Grandland’s interior might seem abit ‘old Vauxhall’ in places, such as on theclimate controls and general layout, but theergonomics are generally very good, with an easy-to-use 10-inch touchscreen and clear 12-inch digital dials that offer plenty of scope for various configurations.
As we’ve mentioned we’re not afan of the seats, though the Alcantaratrimming on them and the door cards helps to add a sportier feel to thecabin. It scores plenty of marks when it comes to interior space as well. There’s plenty of room in the rear,even for taller adults, while despite arelatively largebattery being fitted, the boot still offers plenty of space.
The Grandland GSe sits right at the top of this SUV’s line-up, and that bodes well when it comes to theequipment front. It is jam-packed full of equipment, including park assist, a360-degree camera, clever pixel LED headlights, keyless entry and an electric boot.
All this brings theGrandland GSe’s price up to £43,700, which is most certainly not an insignificant figure, but it’s only £1,340 more than the 222bhp Grandland plug-in hybrid model, and which lacks four-wheel-drive. The better Hyundai Tucson PHEV is available for a few thousand pounds less, though.
There’s alot to admirethe Vauxhall Grandland for,and it’s most certainly amodel that’s got better with time. It’s smarter to look at than when it first
launched and has amuch-improved interior,yet retains an impressive level of practicality that will suit families perfectly
This GSe model doesn’t show the Grandland at its finest, though, and despite welcome changes to the steering and suspension, it’s still along way from being the performance SUV it’s labelled at. Stick with the regular Grandland hybrid if you’re set on aVauxhall, though there are better rivals out there in the form of the Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage PHEVs if you’re happy to forgo the performance pretences.
VauxhallGrandlandGSe
Price:£43,700
Engine:16-litrepetrolenginewith electricmotor
Power:296bhp
Torque:520Nm
0-60mph:59seconds
Topspeed:146mph
Economy:2354mpg
Emissions:27g/km
Electricrange:41miles
BY HEATHER LARGE
The days are getting brighter and signs of spring are popping up all over thecounty.Byearly March, the birds are treating us to their morning melodies and flowers such as daffodils and wood anemones have started making awelcome appearance.
Astronomically,the equinox –when daylight anddark hours become equal –marks the first day of spring.
This usually takes place on March 20,or one dayeither side. While meteorologistssplit the year into quarters based on annual temperature cycles for statistical purposes, with spring starting on March 1and lasting until May 31
One thing is certain, at this time of year theweather is still very unpredictable and can throw everything at us from sunny days filled with blue sky to frosts and cutting winds to lashing rain showers.
But it’sthe time of year when many people start getting out and about after spending the winter monthshibernating indoors.
Seasonal sights startopening up andeveryone wants to make the most of the longer days.
Members of the Severn Valley Railway Society swing into action at their headquarters at Bridgnorth Station, laying 200 yards of track as part of their plan to reopen the Bridgnorth to Hampton Loade line in March, 1968.
Old lorries on the dual carriageway at Aqueduct near Madeley on the main Wellington to Bridgnorth road on March 19, 1963
Father and son team Mr John Davies and John Davies junior out on the River Severn in coracles in March 1984 in the shadowofthe Welsh Bridge, S Shreewssburyy.The e Daaviees faamily y ofOOld d Heeath weere e weell knoown foortheeir skills as coracle makers. Originally 33-year-old John Davies and his son were planning to spend Easter paddling down the Severn, from Shrewsbury to Bristol, in the tiny round craft But they were being joined by the oldest member of the family, 66-year-old John senior
Another new skyline was emerging in Bridgnorth in March 1980 as these old properties in Cliff Road were demolished in an effort to makethe access to the town’s sports and leisurecentreeasier. The former narrow entrance was ahazardfor service vehicles.
Highley’snew telephone exchange officially came into use in March 1976. The exchange in Bridgnorth Road took several yearstobuild. Preparing for the opening aretelephone engineers,fromleft,Paul Rawlings, Alan Edwards and Russell Morris.
of alandslide in Bridgnorth, March 5, 1977. The two homes affected were 8Ebenezer Row, the home of Mr and Mrs Harry Tolley andtheir twoyear-old daughter,and number 9, the home of Mr and Mrs Ken Mason. Harry Tolley looksatthe huge pile of rubble which coveredhis garden.
Mrs LPerkins (left), Commandant of Bridgnorth 28 Detachment, Red Cross, is pictured receivingthe ViscountessBridgeman Bowl, awarded annually for the most efficient detachment, from Mrs TUrwick, honorary county VicePresident, at the Civil Defence HQ, Shrewsbury, on March 25, 1965.
Bridgnorth flooding at Underhill Street, March 1947.
The aftermath
The procession of officials at the AGM of The College of Preceptors at Oldbury Wells School, Bridgnorth, on March 14, 1981.
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1. The first provincial ITV station started broadcasting in the Midlands
2. Newcastle United beat Portsmouth 2-0 in the first floodlit league match
3. Britain exiled Archbishop Makarios from Cyprus to Mahe Island in the Seychelles
4. The Queen opened Britain’s first full-scale nuclear power station
1. Alexander Solzhenitsyn won the Nobel Prize for literature
2. Prince Charles was awarded a2:2 by theUniversity of Cambridge
3. Lester Piggott rodeNijinsky to victoryinthe Derby
4. Theminimum fare on the London Underground rose by 50% to one shilling
1. ATottenham Hotspur own goal gave Coventry City a3-2 victory in the FA Cup Final
2. The World’s population reached approximately five billion
3. The IRAbombed aRemembrance Day parade in Enniskillen
4. A fire engulfed King’s Cross tube station
1. Juan Carlos becameKing of Spain following the death of General Franco
2. The Suez Canal reopened after eight years
3. The House of Commons was broadcast live on radio for the first time
4. Pele signed a3-year contract with theNew York Cosmos for $7 million
1. Jamaica became an independent state after 307years of British rule
THE FOLLOWING EVENTS ALL OCCURRED IN AYEAR IN LIVING MEMORY.CAN YOUGUESS WHICH ONE? 1 2 3 4 5
2. Fidel Castro was excommunicated by the Pope
3. The world’s first passenger hovercraft service, travelling between Rhyl and Moreton Beach, opened
4. Sonny Liston knocked out Floyd Patterson to become world heavyweight
WHO… recorded the live album Rust Never Sleeps?
WHAT… is the forename of the wife of the former Prime Minister John Major?
WHERE… in Scotland are the rocky mountains called the Cuillin?
WHEN… did Bobby Moore win his 100th cap for England?
WHO… directed the 1947 versionofthe film Brighton Rock?
WHAT… was the approximate majority achieved by David Cameron in the Tory leadership ballot –Two-Thirds, ThreeQuarters or Four-Fifths?
WHERE… in England is the marshy area the Pevensey Levels?
WHEN… was the Babington Plot?
WHO… starred as Dr.Mark Sloan in the television series
Diagnosis: Murder?
WHAT… football club is known by the nickname of The Wee Gers?
WHERE… in Kent is The Pantiles?
WHEN… was Johns Hopkins University opened in Baltimore, Maryland, US?
WHO… directed the 1990 film Wild At Heart?
WHAT… was the first name of thecivil servant who invented the Bailey Bridge?
WHERE… in the US is the Painted Desert?
WHEN… did George Bernard Shaw die?
WHO… played the title role in the film Bugsy Malone?
WHAT was Dodie Smith’s Dear Octopus in her play of that title?
WHERE… do Everton F.C. play their home fixtures? WHEN… did the comedian Kenneth Williams die?
1 2 3 4 5 6
WHO… wrote the play Wrecks?
WHAT… is the value of the letter Xinthe game of scrabble?
WHERE… in England was the National Football Museum originally situated?
WHEN… did the football manager Bill Shankly die?
THE WORD MAYSOUND FAMILIAR, WHATDOES IT MEAN?
1. CHARNEL
A Burial place. B Spanish sweet wine. C Figure in Greek mythology
2. DOMINICAL
A Overbearing. B Belonging to the Lord.
C Belonging to the Dominican order
3. ENDEMIC
A Upset stomach due to food poisoning.
B Applied directly to the skin. C Confined to aparticular area.
4. FAMULUS
A Attendant to amagician. B Basket for sowing corn.
C Ancient lighthouse or beacon
5. GONFALON
A Pedantic style of writing. B An ancient continent. C Ensign or standard with streamers.
6. KILDERKIN
A Smallbarrel. B An African grass. C Furnace for firing clay bricks.
championAcross
7. Think (5)
8. Spectre (7)
9. Inbred (7)
10. Loop (5)
12. Ornamental (10)
15. Assortment (10)
18. Clamorous (5)
19. Segment (7)
21. Forebode (7)
22. Sufficient (5)
Down
1. Rustic (10)
2. Origin (5)
3. Rip (4)
4. Sun-god (6)
5. Keep up (8)
6. Deputised (5,2)
11. Impartial (4-6)
13. Commonplace (8)
14. Had ambition (7)
16. Hear (6)
17. Frosty (5)
20. Applaud (4)
CRYPTIC
Across 7&8Ac. Another pine Itransplanted outside (2,3,4,3)
8. See 7Across
9. Being hampered, made painful progress (7)
10. It is brought in to beat Hyperion (5)
12. See 21 Across
15. One who’s celebrated for lack of skill? (10)
18. Confidently expect credit (5)
19. Walter’s turned into aspendthrift (7)
21, 11Dn &12Ac. Now can’t be matched, we’re told (5,2,2,4,4,3,7)
22. Dismiss about fifty for being unconscientious (5)
Down
1. There may well be acatch in this (7,3)
2. Alarge container in the ship for cigarette-ends (5)
3. See 17 Down
4. Support what robbers do on the way (4,2)
5. Let’s beat crashes –use it when travelling (4-4)
6. The normal restrictions for political groups (7)
11. See 21 Across
13. Regulars making asmall section in the Colours (8)
14. More resolute, having put on weight (7)
16. Most inferior variety of towels (6)
17 &3Dn. It’s used to make atremendous impression for the United Kingdom! (5,4)
20. It’s only fair to hear broadcast twice (2-2)
1 2 3
An actor,Iwas born in London in 1953. In 2004 Iplayed the part of Tevye in the Broadway production of Fiddler on the Roof,and Ihave played detective Hercule Poirot on US TV.My most prominent role in recent years was that of bad guy Doc Ock in Spider-Man 2.
An author,Iwas born in Surrey in 1894. By my 20s Iwas already anoted satirist andsocial thinker Iemigrated to the US, but was denied citizenship due to my well-known pacifism and my philosophical beliefs. My novel, Brave New World, provides avisionofafuture dystopia without any sort of diversity
Acampaigner,Iwas born in Warwickshire in 1910. My concern about the decline of moral standards in Great Britain in the1960s led me to create the Clean Up TV campaign in 1964. My numerous letters to the Prime Minister were reportedly often intentionally “lost”. In the1980sand 90s my name was used in the title of atopical comedy show on TV and radio.
4 5
An actress, Iwas born in New York in 1949. IamaUScitizen,but have lived in the UK since the 1950s when my filmmaker father was blacklisted by the House Un-American Activities Committee. My famous roles include Madam Hooch in Harry Potter,and Susan Harper in the BBCseries My Family
Amusician, Iwas born in Illinois in 1926. Iamwidely associated with post-World WarTwo developments in jazz, and am famed for my trumpet skills. In 1955 Ibecame one fifth of a famous jazz quintet, which also included John Coltrane, Paul Chambers, Red Garland and Philly Joe Jones.
STARTING FROM 1, FILL IN THE GRID IN ACLOCKWISE DIRECTION WITH FOUR-LETTER WORDS. THE LAST LETTER OF EACH WORD BECOMES THE FIRST LETTER OF THE NEXT WORD. IF YOUHAVECORRECTLYFILLED IN THE GRID THERE SHOULD BE ASEVEN-LETTER KEYWORD READING ACROSS FROM 8.
1. Hearing organs 2. House type 3. Notion 4. Eager,astir 5. To pant 6. Close friends 7. Fizzy water 8. Fever 9. Repeated sound 10. Hop-drying kiln 11. No longer wild 12. Verge 13 Long, thin fishes 14. Mop 15. Unruly child 16. Cylinder
Key word clue: Canadian province
1. Leap 2. Quick or furtive look 3. Stopper 4. Spiritual guide 5. Unfasten 6. Finished 7. Housetop 8. Revolting 9. Pass the tongue over 10. Eager 11. Require 12. Unable to hear 13 People in general 14. Hit with the foot 15. New Zealand bird 16. Article
Key word clue: Surname
“This triangle’s area is exactly three times its perimeter,” said Bill.
“The long side is 2cm more than twice the short side, and that’s just 8cm less than themiddle side.”
What were the dimensions?
Harry breathed deeply.“Ienvyyou living out here,” he said. “But why don’t you keep acow or two?”
“Not worth it. I’m very happy with only my few pigs and geese,” replied Mike. “That’s 90 legs and 37 heads.”
How many pigs did he have?
“So you bought abit of land,” said Fred Harrysmiled. “Yes, it’s arectangular plot, just 9009 square feet, and enough for asmall house.”
“Sounds good!” Fred commented. “What frontage?”
“I forget exactly.” Harry shook his head. “But it’s 40 feet less than the depth.”
What is thefrontage?
“Yes, they’re my three grandchildren,” said Don, slipping the photo back into his wallet. “Spaced one year apart, with the girl in the middle.”
Peter smiled. “Nice and close together.How old are they now?”
“That’s asking!” replied Don. “Brian’s theyoungest. If you add his age to the square of Eve’s and to the cube of Bob’s age, you get the square of my age,and I’m in my seventies.”
1 2 3 4 5
How old are the grandchildren?
“So Susan is three-quarters what you’ll be in ayear That makes her just twice Peter’s age, eh?” said Harry Steve nodded. “That’s right,and in ayear Betty will be one third what my age was ayear ago,” he replied. “Incidentally our four ages total exactly 76 years.”
What were theages?
1. Ship’s company 2. Small forest 3. Household dirt 4. Chore 5. Highland dress item 6. Story 7. Finishes 8. Cummerbund 9. Quieten 10. Embraces 11. Headless bolt 12.
Key word clue: Musical term
ANSWERS ON PAGE 128
Aquatic bird 13. Door handle 14. Party,slang 15. Opposite of low 16. Ring of lightThe international bestselling author of Wintering will talk about her new book Enchantment at An Evening With Katherine May at Booka Bookshop, Church Street, Oswestry
Our sense of enchantment is not only sparked by grand things. The awe-inspiring, the numinous, is all around us, all the time. It is transformed by our deliberate attention.
The magic is of our own conjuring. Feeling bone-tired,anxious and overwhelmed by the rolling news cycle and the pandemic age, Katherine May seeks to unravel the threads of alife wound too tightly.Could there be another way to live –one that feels more meaningful, more grounded in the places beneath our feet? One that would allow us to feel more connected, more rested and at ease, even as seismic changes unfold on the planet?
Craving a different path, May explores the restorative properties of the natural world and begins to rekindle her sense of wonder.Itisa journey that takes her from sacred wells to wild moors, from cradling seas to starfalls.
Through deliberate attention and ritual, she finds nourishment and amore hopeful relationship to the world around
her.Enchantment is an invitation to each of us to experience life in all its sensual complexity and to find thebeauty waiting for us there.
Tickets cost £7. More details at www bookabookshop.co.uk
9Comedian TomAllen brings his new show TomAllen –Completely to Oakengates Theatre, Telford.
Tomhas finally moved out of his parents’ house, which has been great news for him, better news for department stores andevenbetter news for his latest stand-uptour as he’s eager to share his life updates, get your opinions on his vegetable patch and delve into the protocol of inviting friends with children for dinner
The household name with his signature acerbic wit andriotous storytelling, Tomisthe host of The Apprentice: You’re Fired and co-hosts Cooking With The Stars, Like Minded Friends and he is also aregularon Bake Off: An Extra Slice and There’s Something About Movies.
Tom’s lasttour sold in excess of 50,000 tickets including his sell-out show at The London Palladium where he recorded his special.
Tickets cost £24.50. Formore details visit www.telfordtheatre.com/whats-on
11
ELO AGAIN visit Festival Drayton Centre, Market Drayton, with their stunning ‘Re-Discovery Tour’ celebrating the truly universal music of Jeff Lynne and the Electric Light Orchestra
ELO AGAIN give fans adramatic taste of what alegendary ELO concert would have been like back in their heyday The whole experience is professionally reenacted with agreat sound reproduction, light show and visual effects.
As the UK’s No.1 tribute show, ELO AGAIN provide fans with the spectacular live effect of ELO’s famous orchestrations, soaringstrings and vocals. They certainly know how to entertain too, as thehits just keep on coming. Their version of Mr Blue Sky is breathtaking, full of passion and fervour
Tickets cost£25. Visit www. festivaldraytoncentre.com/whatson for more details.
The free lunch-hour concert series at St Chad’s Church, Shrewsbury, continue this month.
These are concerts by students from Packwood Haugh, March 17; Chetham’s School of Music, March 24; Soprano YunqingJiangn from the Birmingham Royal Conservatoire, March 31.
Concerts begin at 12.30pm. They last just 40 minutes and there is alight lunch served after each concert in the church hall.
Concert-goers can park from noon to 2pm free of chargeatthe church, space permitting.
Full listings, including programmes of forthcoming concerts, canbe found on the church website at www stchadschurchshrewsbury.com
Gordon Hendricks –One Night
With Youcomes to Oakengates Theatre, Telford.
In 2020, when the Government announced lockdown, Gordon Hendricks decided to appear as himself and present shows on Facebook. These were so successful that he performed every two weeks throughoutlockdown, performing around 1,000 songs throughoutthe period –noother Elvistribute artist could perform such awide selection of Elvis songs.
The response from fans has been amazing with the numbers increasing 12-fold to over 2,000 logging in to see his show from all over the world.
He is now bringing those shows to the stage adding superb live musicians and combining hishighly successful format.
Within this show,Gordon takes fans on avocal journey featuring such diverse performers as Roy Orbison, Billy Fury,Cliff Richard, Bruce Springsteen, Travelling Wilbury’s, Bee Gees, Mavericks, UB40 and manymore fantastic classic artistes… and, of course, Elvis.
Tickets cost £25. Visit www telfordtheatre.com/whats-on for more information.
21Menopause The Musical 2comes to Oakengates Theatre, Telford.
Starring Mary Byrne (X Factor), Jessica Martin (Copycats), Rebecca Wheatley (Casualty) and Susie Fenwick (West End Star), everyone is welcome to Menopause the Musical2–Cruising Through Menopause.
In this hilarious sequel to the smashhit Menopause the Musical, the action fast forwards five years to catch up with the same four characters for tales of their lives, loves and losses as they set off on the high seas.
Featuring hot flushes, mood swings, memory lapses and weight gain, Cruising Through Menopause is truly funny, heartfelt and reassuring look atthe “joys” of menopause. When your life is abumpy ride full of twists and turns, it’s hard to find and keep true friends. But step on board and the characters will take you on atrip of self-discovery,love and friendship all backed by asoundtrack of hysterical parodied hits.
Tickets cost £32. Formore details visit www.telfordtheatre.com/whats-on
The exhibition Charles Darwin –The Making Of AMarvellous Mind continues at Shrewsbury Museum & Art Gallery until March26.
The Making of aMarvellous Mind is afascinating exhibition accompanying the book of the same name by local author Jon King.
The exhibition focuses on Charles Darwin’s childhood and upbringing in Shrewsbury.Itexamines his obsession and fascination of the natural world –setting him on apath to become one of the greatest naturalists the world has ever known.
More details from www shropshiremuseums.org.uk/events/ Free entry
25Rossini’s Stabat Mater and Rachmaninoff ’s Piano Concerto No.2 are set to delight audiences at aShrewsbury Abbey concert by Shrewsbury Choral, starting at 7.30pm. Members of Shrewsbury Choral, accompanied by Shrewsbury Sinfonia, led by Ann Tuplin will be singing Rossini’s Stabat Mater.And prize-winning pianist Yuxuan Zhao will perform Sergei Rachmaninoff ’s Piano Concerto No.2.
Jenny Worley,Chair of Shrewsbury Choral, said: “The Stabat Mater is a13th century Christian hymn to Mary,which portrays her suffering as Jesus Christ’s mother during his crucifixion. It is one of Pergolesi’s most celebrated sacred works, achieving great popularityafter the composer’s death, and Joseph Eybler added achoir to replace some of the duets.”
Shrewsbury Choral members are looking forward to singing thework by Gioachino Rossini, based on the traditional structure of the Stabat Mater sequence for chorus and soloists, that he completed in 1841. This celebrated work will be adelight to the audience.
Also performing is theprize-winning and extremely talented young pianist Yuxuan Zhao from the Royal Northern College of Music to provide adifferent and exciting element to the evening’s entertainment.
This concert promises two amazing experiences that will build on the distinguished reputation of Shrewsbury Choral, led by conductor and musical director Dr Martin Charles Cook.
Tickets for the performance are
available online at shrewsburychoral.org. uk/buytickets, via www.shrewsburychoral. org.uk or from PengwernBooks, Fish Street, Shrewsbury,tel:01743 232236, from choir members or on the door on the night.
28Shropshire Festivalsisbringing asense of fun into the business arena with anew festival for the 2023 calendar,Shropshire Business Festival,on March 28 at Wrekin College,Wellington.
This free festival turns conventional networking on its head by offering an informal, fun setting for Shropshire’s professionals to come together in a relaxed, festival atmosphere.
Previous business festivals run by Shropshire Festivalsattracted around 600 businesses and due to the central location, it promises to appeal to awider business
community across thecounty
Beth Heath, Director of Fun at Shropshire Festivals,comments: “Business doesn’t have to be serious, we are all about seriously good fun and we areinjecting this into Shropshire Business Festival. Expect informative seminars, hands-on workshops, professional advice and of course, lots of networking opportunities mixed in with the festival vibe that you associate with Shropshire Festivals.
“This will be different to standard networking events with street food, have-a-go lorry drivingthanks to Dulson Training, speed networking, professional headshot photographs,or take some time out in the health andwellbeing zone.
“After many years running my events business, Itruly appreciate the value of networking. The contacts you make
REMEMBER WHEN: 1.1956. 2.1970. 3.1987. 4.1975.
5.1962.
FOUR Ws: 1.NeilYoung &Crazy Horse; Norma; Skye; 1973.
2.John Boulting; Two-Thirds; East Sussex; 1586. 3.Dick Van Dyke; Berwick Rangers; Royal Tunbridge Wells; 1876. 4.David Lynch; Donald; Arizona; 1950. 5.Scott Baio; One’s Family; Goodison Park; 1988. 6.NeilLaBute; 8points;Deepdale Stadium, Preston; 1981.
WORDWISE: 1.A 2.B 3.C 4.A 5.C 6.A
CROSSWORD: QUICK SOLUTIONS
Across: 7 Opine; 8 Phantom; 9 Natural; 10 Noose;
12 Decorative; 15 Miscellany; 18 Noisy; 19 Section; 21 Presage;
22 Ample. Down: 1 Countryman; 2 Birth; 3 Tear; 4 Apollo;
5 Maintain; 6 Stood in; 11 Even-handed; 13 Everyday;
14 Aspired; 16 Listen; 17 Nippy; 20 Clap. CRYPTIC
Across: 7 In the; 8 Open air; 9 Hobbled;
locally can have asignificant impact on the success of your business. Ibelieve that by bringing together the businesses in our area, we can help each other to grow and prosper and keep Shropshirebusiness thriving!”
As well as an opportunity to rub shoulders with Shropshire’s business elite, the event will feature trade stands, oneto-one meetings with business experts, and hands-on marketingworkshops. There will also be the chancetoshowcase businesses in ‘Exhibitor zone’ at the venue.
Sponsors are being encouraged to get involved in this free entry event with plenty of opportunities available.
Visit shropshirebusinessfestival.co.uk to secure your place at one of the biggest networking events in thecounty
Prize-winning pianist Yuxuan Zhao will perform Sergei Rachmaninoff’s PianoConcerto No2atShrewsbury Abbey; TimFirth, headmaster at Wrekin College, with Beth Heath, Director of Fun, ShropshireFestivals.
