Llanferres News & Views Dec 2013

Issue 176

December 2013/ January 2014

Llanferres

Yo ur se loca cu rity l sp ec ial ist Intruder Alarms Closed Circuit TV Automatic Gates & Barriers Takeover Maintenance and Service

In the UK we spend more time and money on our homes than anywhere else in the world

Is yours protected ?

For advice and support call AGS today !

01352 707888 t: 01352 707888 f: 01352 707889

Field Way Denbigh Road Mold Flintshire CH7 1BP

e: info@ags-security.co.uk www.ags-security.co.uk

News & Views 3

Welcome Welcome to the December/January flowed in recently too - it certainly edition of News & Views. helps make sure the magazine can continue each month.

It’s hard to believe that another year is nearly over. This month’s lovely Very best wishes for the festive period front page photograph was supplied and here’s to a happy and peaceful

by Tim & June Healy, so thank you New Year! very much to them.

Merry Christmas December is always a busy month, with lots going on in the run up to Paul & Siobhan Christmas - not least the News & Views Christmas Quiz of course on December 18!

We would like to thank all the contributors who faithfully send in their news and articles each month.

And of course the many distributors who deliver News & Views, whatever the weather. A Merry Christmas to you all and thank you for all the financial contributions that have

Professional, reliable service Telephone: 01352 750342 Mobile: 07933 803 972 Email: arfontrevor@tiscali.co.uk Address: 28 Parc Hendy Mold CH7 1TH

Contact: Paul & Siobhan Gothorp 2 Cae Gwyn Llanferres Mold CH7 5SL Tel: (01352) 810566 Email: newsandviews@llanferres.org www.llanferres.org

4 News & Views

Notices Happy Birthday to the following

December Birthdays

Dave Ivanoff on 1st December William Fellows who will be 14 on 8th December Julie Dolan on 10th December Gwyneth Logan on 13th December Sheila Hawkes on 14th December Steve Clarke on 18th December Ian Logan on 19th December Dylan Rhys Cookson who will be 5 on 21st December Holly Brisco on 22nd December Lizamin Gothorp who will be 16 on 28th December Luke Givelin who will be 18 on 28th December Charlie Baines who will be 17 on 31st December

January Birthdays Chloe Lewis who will be 15 on 3rd January Ewan Thomas who will be 3 on 5th January Declan Bonar who will be 16 on 6th January Deborah Joanne Lovell who will be 18 on 9th January Joshua Carney who will be 18 on 10th January Harry Edwards on 12th January Angharad Ivanoff on 18th January Dave Moore on 18th January Ellie Ashworth on 21st January Alun Edwards on 23rd January Nick Prtak who will be 16 on 24th January Jack Lewis who will be 18 on 25th January Yvonne McCorry on 25th January Suzie Moore on 27th January Rebecca Clarke who will be 19 on 27th January Hafina Cordiner who will be 16 on 27th January Helen Llewellyn on 27th January Gary Myles on 28th January Sam Shillito on 29th January Elise La Flamme on 29th January Louis Carney who will be 17 on 30th January If you would like a birthday or special announcement included in News &Views please send the details to: newsandviews@llanferrres.org or 2 Cae Gwyn, Llanferres, CH7 5SL

News & Views 5

Llanferres Over 60's Club LLANFERRES OVER 60's Club Our November meeting was very well attended, due in part, to the return visit of our speaker, Mr. Mark Baker, the architectural historian who brings history to life. His subjects was Plas Teg, the house at Pontblyddyn from its development as the family home and estate of the Trevor family to its present day ownership by the National Trust. It can be visited on Sundays and Bank Holidays and is well worth a visit.

We learned that we live in an area of North Wales known as the Tuscany of Wales because of the number of comparable estates.

Our next meeting is our Christmas celebration with Party Fayre and Choral entertainment.

If you would like to join us at any time please ring either Olive Parry or Betty Cook.

Contact: Betty 01352 810 722

Olive 01352 810 294.

Awarded

Best B&B in Britain

By Period Living Magazine

Bryn Tirion is a snug and cosy 17th Century cottage in beautiful surroundings with panoramic views in an area of outstanding natural beauty, making it a paradise for walkers and nature lovers.

Private parking, heating and all electricity are inclusive to all our rates of stay, plus colour television and all linen.

FREE wi-fi.

For further details contact Mrs Sylvia Hughes

Telephone: (01352) 810444 Email: sylvia@bryn-tirion.com Website: www.bryn-tirion.com We apologise that we allow no pets, and the cottage is strictly no smoking

6 News & Views

December Diary Dates 1st 2nd

Sun 9.30am Morning Worship, St. Berres’ Church 2.00pm Music Monday, Caffi Florence Mon 7.00pm Whist evening, Village Hall

3rd

Tue 7.00pm Bowls Club, Village Hall

4th

Wed

5th

Thu

6th

Fri

7th

Sat Older Person’s Christmas Lunch, Druid Inn

8th 9th

Sun 9.30am Christingle Service, St. Berres’ Church Mon 7.00pm Whist evening, Village Hall

10th

Tue 7.00pm Bowls Club, Village Hall

11th

Wed

12th

Thu 7.30pm Community Council Meeting

13th 14th 15th

Fri Sat Sun 9.30am Holy Communion, St. Berres’ Church

16th

Mon 7.00pm Whist evening, Village Hall

17th

Tue 7.00pm Bowls Club, Village Hall

18th

Wed

22nd

2.00pm Decorating the church 7.30pm News & Views Quiz Night, Druid Inn Thu 7.00pm Carol Service, St. Berres’ Church Fri Schools break up for Christmas Sat 9.30am Morning Worship, St. Berres’ Church Sun

23rd

Mon

19th 20th 21st

24th 25th 26th 27th 28th 29th 30th 31st

5.15 pm Crib and Christmas Story Service 11.30 pm First Communion of Christmas Christmas Day Wed 9.30am Christmas Morning Communion Thu Boxing Day Tue

Fri

Blue recycling day

Sat Sun 10.30am Group Communion Service, Nannerch Mon Tue

News & Views 7

“Better than a Five Star Hotel�* Hafan Deg is a unique house, full of character, offering high quality accommodation.

Family Friendly FREE WiFi Dog Friendly Walkers Welcome Bikers Welcome

Planning a family Christmas gathering but have no room at the inn?!!!

Why not let us help solve the problem.

Beautiful deluxe accommodation with log burning stoves and plenty of Christmas cheer!

Have all the family around this year without *Comment from a recent guest. the hard work!

Whether on holiday or business, guests are sure of a warm and personal welcome from For an extra special gift idea why not give a Catriona and David. For more information, Hafan Deg gift voucher? Ideal for a joint gift idea - packages available. photographs and comments from guests Call Cat for more information. see our website: www.hafandeg.co.uk

Hafan Deg, Maeshafn, Mold. Call us on 01352 810465

8 News & Views

Congratulations Dr Jac Armstrong on being Called to the Bar of England and Wales by the Honourable Society of Inner Temple. Good luck Jac with your future career.

From family and friends.

GARDENING or DOG WALKING Do you need help with either of these?

Then call me on

Call Danny LaFlamme 01352 810350 07791 674216 Or visit www.moneysavingtoday.co.uk

News & Views 9

Jim, Julie, El and the Team at the Druid wish all our neighbours and friends a very

Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

Christmas Holiday Opening Times We will, as always, be opening all day for food and drink from Friday December 20th until Sunday January 5th.

Christmas Day: Open for drinks from 12 - 2 Boxing Day: Open for food and drinks 12 - 7ish New Year’s Eve : Menu will be served until 9pm. Why not join us for a drink afterwards.

News & Views Christmas Quiz Wednesday December 18

Your chance to pit your wits against those of your neighbours. Come along and enjoy a quiz evening with proceeds in aid of News & Views.

Special Quiz Night menu and food available as usual

Loyalty Cards

rinker A. Beerd

Would you like to pay as little as ÂŁ2.75 per pint (For Burton bitter).

Call in and collect your loyalty card now - equivalent savings on all draught beers and individual

As the nights draw in why not call in for a steak on a Thursday or Friday night, or a curry after 5pm on a Sunday

D INN THE DRUI www.thedruidinn.com

Llanferres Tel: 810225

10 News & Views

Cyngor y Cymuned -Llanferres

1.

2.

3.

4.

From the minutes of the October meeting:- Present: Cllr. David Jones (Chair), Cllr. John Almond, Cllr. Rob Arnstrong, Cllr. Rob Jones, Cllr.

Margaret Davies, the Clerk Mrs Gwyneth Dillon and County Councillor Martyn Holland.

Apologies: Cllr. Olive Parry, Cllr. Jac Armstrong, Cllr. David Twomey.

Declarations of Interest: None declared.

Meeting open to the public for ten minutes: No matters raised.

County Councillors report: Councillor Holland reported a) that he had had meetings with Highways Department and Ty'n Llan was to be resurfaced during the half term holiday in February 2014. The residents of Ty'n Llan will be notified in advance. He has asked whether anything can be done regarding parking and access for large vehicles. Double yellow lines on the road were an option but he was not in favour of them. b) The problem with flooding on Forestry Road, all landowners and the County Council were keen to resolve the problem which might be due to a blocked drain.

If so the County had special equipment which might clear the drain. c) Aberduna Quarry had submitted their final restoration plans. d) He had received a complaint regarding a car rally which passed through Maeshafn on the evening of October 31st. Cars were travelling at speed and as it was Halloween night there were children about. The organisers of the rally should have given the County Council advance notice of the event but had not done so. e) Officers from the County Council had inspected the work being carried out on a cottage at Pant Rhedynog and confirmed they were in accordance with the granted planning permission. Because of the narrowness

October

of the track, the Fire Service will inspect the site and put it on their list for a small tender to be sent should an emergency arise. f) Councillor Holland supported a ban on Chinese lanterns because of the fire hazard they created. g) Local Governments have been hit by Central Governments over Grant Support. Cuts are based on population and the population of Denbighshire has been overestimated.

There will be a cut of about 5% in Grant Support. So far, there have been no big job losses in Denbighshire and an agreement has been reached, with the manual workforce, over more flexible working practices.

5. Minutes of the October Meeting: The minutes for the October meeting were signed as a true record.

6. Matters Arising: It was agreed that the Councillor's dinner be held on January 23rd 2014.

7. Reports from other meetings: Chairman, David Jones gave a brief report on the meeting he had attended with the Vice Chair, John Almond. This was concerned with planning issues and possible impact on the "The Welsh language and the social and cultural fabric of the community".

8. Maintenance in the Community: Nothing to report.

9. Risk Assessment: Nothing to report.

10. Landscape project - Memorial Stone: Ongoing.

11. Red Telephone Kiosk: The telephone kiosk at Tafarn y Gelyn has been painted by Mr Tony Winfield with paint kindly donated by Cllr. Margaret Davies.

Quotations have been obtained for the replacement of the glass.

12. Website for the Community Council: The Clerk was asked to apply for the Welsh Government funding for setting up council websites and to obtain

News & Views 11

Meeting

Llanferres - Community Council

further information for the next evening with Leader and Chief meeting.

Executive of County Council on 13. Bills: HMRC £29.40; External audit Wednesday 20th November. £210.00; 17. Other Matters that have been 14. Planning Matters: 21/2013/0797 brought to Councillors Attention: Proposal: Erection of pitched-roof None. dormer-style extension at rear and 18. Date of Next Meeting: the date of the conservatory at side of dwelling. next Meeting will be Thursday 12th Location: Erw Las, Pant Du Road, December 2013 in the Village Hall.

Eryrys - Notification of an Appeal, Welsh Office Ref No. R6830/A/13/2206179 John Almond, Vice Chairman CERTIFICATE OF DECISION 21/2013/1090.

Proposal: Replace existing conservatory with single storey pitched roof extension.

Location: 1 Bryn Eithin, Llanferres.

GRANTED 15. Maeshafn Playing Field: A cheque for Parent & £134 will be sent to the Council's Solicitor for him to instigate a search.

Toddler Group 16. Correspondence: Invitation for Clerk and Chairman to attend a special Meets every Thursday morning in

the Village Hall from 9.15 to 11.15.

Having a function, children’s party or a BBQ in the park?

Give Jay a call on 0756 833 0629 to ensure that the ice cream van calls!

The cost is £1.50 to cover the hire of the hall, refreshments and other expenses.

Contact details: Mrs Daryl Austin: tel. 810611 or Email: daryl.austin4@gmail.com

Need any sewing work done?

Curtains,Valances, Pelmets, Blinds, Cushions, Clothing alterations Give Barbara a call on 01352 810485

12 News & Views

Church News Services in December 1st 9.30 am Morning Worship 8th 9.30 am Christingle Service 15th 9.30 am Holy Communion 19th (Thursday) 7.00 pm Carol Service 22nd 9.30 Morning Worship 24th Christmas Eve 5.15 pm Crib and Christmas Story Service 11.30 pm First Communion of Christmas 25th 9.30 am Christmas Morning Communion 29th 10.30 am Group Communion at Nannerch The January Services will follow the usual pattern at 9.30 am every Sunday.

Church Stall at Craft Fair in November Very many thanks to all those who supported our stall by bringing along produce, purchasing items and helping to sell. £172.32 was raised for church funds. Many thanks, also, to the organisers of the Craft Fair, which gave us the opportunity to have a stall and created a good social occasion for the community.

Sponsored Walk The final total for last October's event is an astonishing £1,011.50. Again thanks are due not only to the walkers (who really just enjoyed the fellowship) but also to those who sponsored them. The church is delighted to donate £500 to the Mold Community Hospital X-Ray fund.

Christingle Service This service, held on Sunday 8th December at 9.30 am, is for the children to enjoy and to prepare for Christmas. Each child and most of the congregation will be given a Christingle orange to take home to remind them of Christ's light in the world.

Chef Armstrong demonstrates his skills If you are able to help prepare these oranges please come along to Gwernaffield Church Hall on Friday morning, 6th December soon after 9 am, where we enjoy the company, whilst getting sticky, and make the oranges for both Llanferres and Gwernaffield. Please bring sharp knife and scissors.

Carol Service Our Carol Service will be held on Thursday 19th December at 7 pm and will be followed, as is our tradition, by sherry and mince pies. Come along to prepare yourself for Christmas by singing carols and listening to the much loved Bible readings.

Decorating the Church We shall need extra help this year as Gay will be incapacitated - though well enough to direct our efforts! Please come along at 2 pm on Wednesday afternoon

News & Views 13

Church News 18th December bringing secateurs for trimming the flowers.

REMEMBRANCE SUNDAY

Some Sad News

A Thank You

Many will have been aware of the Our service in Church and then at the reported death on Anglesey of the Memorial Stone was suitably solemn and Revd Hubert Bevan. poignant. Whilst we stood at the The circumstances were tragic and memorial stone, three young boys on Revd Bevan had died many months bicycles were playing around the village. before his body was discovered in As they approached our small crowd they the house where he lived with his immediately stopped cycling, stood wife. Revd Hubert was Rector of the parish of Llanferres from 1978 to quietly and without a sound waited 1980. We of course want, in our several minutes until the service ended. prayers, to give thanks for his life and Then, they quietly cycled away from the to pray for the health and healing of group. They showed such spontaneous his wife. respect, it was touching. Well done boys, your sensitive behaviour was much appreciated.

● Gas ● Solid Fuel ● Electric ● Central Heating

Family Run Business Honest and expert advice Building and Chimney Work Supply Surrounds in all Materials (Wood, Marble, Stone etc.)

All major brands of solid fuel stoves and gas and electric fires Customers own stoves fitted Yeoman ● Stovax ● Brosley ● Dovre ● Meg ● Esse ● Packray ● Hunter ● Cannon● Pevex ● AGA ● Morzo

CHIMNEY SWEEPING AND SERVICING STOVES The Old Chapel, 91 Wrexham Street, Mold, CH7 1HQ

Tel: 01352 700105 Mob: 07956 597199

All work certified by a

GAS SAFE

REGISTERED engineer

14 News & Views

CAFFI FLORENCE Loggerheads A great place to eat and drink

Open everyday 10am - 5pm MID WEEK LUNCH OFFER Mid week lunches throughout December, January & February (excl school holidays) for just £9.50 for 2 courses. Our offer includes starter and main or main and sweet, plus tea or coffee and free parking for up to 2 hours. All our delicious homemade food, with locally sourced ingredients.

WORKSHOP PROGRAMME Our full programme of workshops is available on our website.

Those with places left this month are : Nov 29 Tapas Dec 5 Herbals : spice up your life Dec 10 Bread Making Part 2 Dec 13 Foodie Gifts for Christmas Workshops make great gifts and we have gift tokens available for our 2014 workshops

MUSIC MONDAYS : Monday 2 Dec Our music Monday programme continues in December with singer, songwriter and guitarist Pamela Wynne Shannon. 2-4pm

CHRISTMAS at LOGGERHEADS ● Festive afternoon tea available throughout December with delicious sandwiches, spiced scones, mince pies and mulled wine. ● Christmas lunches with local turkey and all the trimmings for groups of 10 or more throughout December ● Friday 6 Dec : late night opening for lots of activities, food and Christmas Trees (until 7pm, food served until 6.30) ● Foodie Festive Fun for Children : Sat 7, Sun 8 Sat 13 Sun 14 Sat 21 Sun 22 & Mon 23 10 - 11am and 2 - 3pm. £2 book to be sure or just turn up. www.caffiflorence.co.uk 01352 810397 info@caffiflorence.co.uk

fresh • local

• seasonal • homemade

News & Views 15

Monthly recipe from CAFFI FLORENCE SQUASH, LENTIL AND CHESTNUT SOUP This was a recipe we made on our recent soups workshop and of 4 delicious soups made that morning this was by far the favourite. We are still getting wonderful squash from Mostyn Gardens and the chestnuts give this soup a real taste of Christmas. It would make a great soup for lunch after a walk on Boxing Day. It will freeze well.

1 pumpkin or squash 225g red lentils 1 litre vegetable stock 2 onions Sprig thyme & sage 1 small pack of vacuum packed chestnuts 2 tbsp olive oil salt & pepper

Sautee chopped onions in oil. Add chopped, peeled and scooped out squash and lentils and stir for 2 - 3 minutes, then add the chestnuts. Add stock and herbs and continue to cook for a further 30 minutes until squash is soft. Remove stalks from thyme. Puree, taste and season.

www.caffiflorence.co.uk 01352 810397 info@caffiflorence.co.uk

fresh • local

• seasonal • homemade

16 News & Views

CHRISTMAS TREES

in Maeshafn FOR SALE Nordmans

up to 7ft.*(Opposite the Miners Arms pub)*

Only ÂŁ37.50 (Larger sizes also available)

FREE Local Delivery!

Quality trees at affordable prices.

Pre order now with Lesley on 01352 810315 Or come and pick your own from lst December.

Once you've picked your perfect tree why not call at the Miners Arms and treat yourself to a mulled wine and mince pie in front of a roaring fire.

Pub Opening Times Monday - Tuesday from 6pm to close Wednesday to Friday 12noon - 3pm & 6pm to close Saturday & Sunday 12noon to 12midnight

Christmas Tree Opening Times 2pm - 7pm Monday to Friday 8am - 8pm Saturday and Sunday

(while stocks last)

News & Views 17

Gardening Club news

Llanferres Parish Gardening Club Our Annual General meeting due to be held on Monday November 11th had to be postponed due to members being indisposed or on holiday. We wish those under the weather a speedy recovery.

The A.G.M. has now been rescheduled for Monday January 13th 2014.

Our usual Sunday Lunch will be on January 12th at Plas Hafod. Details from the Hon. Secretary.

On November 7th members attended the funeral of Eluned Jones who had died suddenly on October 30th. A former Show Secretary of the club, Eluned had continued to give her great support even after she moved from Llanferres. Our sympathy is with her husband Basil and all their family.

May I wish all members and supporters The Complements of the Season.

Best wishes Hon Secretary Mrs Joan Almond ( 810808

Produce your own eggs P.o.l. Pullets /Growers/Day old pullets to order.

Pure breeds. Cross breed layers. Trio’s.

Your Eggs hatched to order. Then reared till off heat if Rqd.

Alan Clinton. 01352 810507 Bryn Teg.

Maeshafn.

18 News & Views

Llanferres in the Great War Christmas Truce 1914 August next year marks the centenary of the start of the Great War and there have already been many news articles about the commemorations planned.

bully beef and plum duff from the British side - one story was that at Cuincy (France) a polite note was received back from the Germans to the effect that they enjoyed the beef, but no more puddings - thanks.

The war, of course, touched our own parishes, and many families suffered losses More dangerously the Germans would in that period, and in later conflicts hold up tins for the British snipers and precipitated by the Great War. cheer a hit or boo a near miss. In short, the vast majority of soldiers on all sides simply Whilst, without doubt, it was a period of didn't want to be there, and almost any great barbarism with new weaponry used entertainment to relieve the boredom was on an industrial scale; poison gases, welcomed. flamethrowers, machine guns and artillery; there were times also of great humanity.

Whilst the truce appeared to break out piece-meal, sporadically and It is easy to think of the German soldier, in spontaneously, it centred around particular, at that time as the unfeeling Ploegsteert ("Plugstreet") in Belgium, and enemy, but the common soldier, on all the famous football match that is alleged to sides, was fighting for what he believed as have taken place between the Lancashire a just cause evidenced by German belt Fusiliers and Saxons at nearby Le Touquet. buckles which carried the words "Gott mit There is still much disagreement as to what uns" - God is with us or God speed. actually did happen - it was certainly a quiet sector of the front and therefore not Probably the best known manifestation of as damaged by shells, and footballs were the human spirit was the Christmas Truce commonplace in the trenches, and there are in 1914 which seemed to be a spontaneous numerous eye witness accounts, including act started by the Germans, but which a recorded score of 3-2 to the Germans. quickly spread to many areas of the Front and lasted in some instances for several Having visited the area, now much adorned weeks. with football scarves, footballs and other inappropriate memorabilia, I remain The truce however was not an isolated unconvinced, but would like to think that it incident; leading up to that first Christmas did actually happen (although I suspect at there were numerous instances of a "live least two of the German goals were and let live" policy - stretcher bearers were offside) as a further example of the human allowed to collect the dead and wounded in spirit in that most desperate of times. full sight of the enemy and warning shots fired when it had to cease. Impromptu Fraternisation took place from Messines singing and concerts would regularly take Ridge near Ypres in Belgium down to just place to thunderous applause and shouts of north of La BassĂŠe in France with many encore from the opposing trenches. Where meetings and exchange of cigarettes, cigars the trenches were close together food and other gifts in no-mans land; sharing of parcels were thrown over and exchanged, meals and even an exchange of barrels of invariably sausage from the Germans and beer for the ubiquitous plum puddings -

News & Views 19 Men of the London Rifle Brigade fraternising with Saxons of the 104th and 106th regiments.

Near Armentieres there were stories of troops being entertained by a German juggler and even an unknown "Tommy" having his hair cut in an opposing trench by his pre-war London barber! events involving not only the ordinary ranks but frequently as high as captain (and even two majors). Sadly, there were also incidents of mistrust, with soldiers on both sides shot when leaving or returning to their trenches, or using the opportunity to spy, but mostly it was a time of peace and mutual respect.

The higher authorities, mostly safe many miles behind the lines, were slow to react through incredulity, amazed the "offensive spirit" was not being maintained, and slowly but surely the truce came to an end and the killing started again, although not until well into the New Year in some areas.

There were many threats of disciplinary action; very little seems to have actually taken place, but similar muted attempts at an armistice in 1915 were largely crushed in advance by threats of any fraternisation

being considered punishable as high treason.

Perhaps the best summary of that amazing period came from a national newspaper on January 2nd 1915; "The soldier's heart has rarely any hatred in it. He goes out to fight because that is his job. What came before - the causes for the war and the why and wherefore - bother him little. He fights for his country and against his country's enemies. Collectively, they are to be condemned and blown to pieces.

Individually, he knows they are not bad sorts" Noel Headley headley889@btinternet.com Tel 01352 810224 Llwyn-y-Moelyn Rectory Lane Llanferres CH7 5SR

MTH Preservations Ltd Building and Maintenance Contractors

Tim Healy Tel: 01352 810264 Mob: 07786 444461 Email: mthpreservations@btconnect.com

20 News & Views

Local News

Pre-Christmas Craft Fair Thank you to all who supported our Fair, which proved to be a most successful social event.

Thank you to all who gave so generously of their time, effort and money; the stall holders, all helpers and of course all supporters. Without your help, our event would never happen.

Collectively we raised over ÂŁ1,000, of which ÂŁ546 is for Diabetes Research and Wellness.

We are always humbled by the generous and caring nature of so many of our residents.

THANK YOU and our best wishes for a happy Christmas.

Pat and Rob P.S. there is a raffle prize not claimed. It is number 153, if you still have that number contact Pat Armstrong (810259).

News & Views 21

Christmas Greetings Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year - Cyfarchion y Tymor.

Best wishes from Dave & Eleri Wishing our friends and neighbours a Merry Christmas!

Christine & Edward (Donations in lieu of cards to Brain Tumour UK)

Tim, June, Tom and Jess would like to wish all their friends and neighbours a Very Happy Christmas and a Peaceful New Year (a donation will be made to Alzheimer’s Research and Nightingale House in lieu of cards)

Merry Christmas to all our contributors, distributors and readers and best wishes for the New Year Paul & Siobhan

Nadolig Llawen a Blwyddyn Newydd Dda oddi wrth Sean Llywela, Ceri, Iwan a Alec Lynn & Brian Hughes (18 Cae Derwen) Send Seasonal Greetings to their friends & neighbours in Llanferres and Good Wishes for 2014.

Chris & Josh would like to wish all our friends and neighbours a fantastic festive season.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our friends and neighbours Love from Elaine; Aislingh, Alistair, Adam & Mason; Lauren & Ruby Merry Christmas and have a great New Year to all our friends in Llanferres.

Love & best wishes from Don & Yvonne, Teal and Fig

22 News & Views

Local News

’For All Your Winter Needs’’ ‘No Job too BIG or small’ ‘KEEPING YOU WARM WITH LOGS, COAL, STICKS AND FIRE LIGHTERS DELIVERED TO KEEPING YOU SAFE! TREE FELLING, YOUR DOOR’ DURING WINTER. PRUNING, HEDGE Bulk Deliveries Available GRITTING, SNOW TRIMMING, CLEARING, GRIT GARDEN CLEARING SALES, SNOW & DRIVEWAY SHOVELS AND MAINTENANCE SLEDGES! CALL FOR A QUOTE! MAN WITH A VAN, TRAILER & MINI DIGGER, DELIVERY AND COLLECTION SERVICE. HOUSE CLEARANCE

J. Reid Services 07968772384

LEWIS & HUNTER Contracting Ltd ~Surfacing ~ Paving ~ Ground Works ~ Paths ~ Drives ~ Roads ~ Car Parks

News & Views 23

24 News & Views

News & Views Christmas Quiz on Wednesday 18th December at the Druid Inn, 7.30pm start Teams of up to 5 people.

Lots of prizes and festive fun!

If you can’t make it - raffle prizes will be gratefully received! £2.50 per person entry Proceeds in aid of News & Views

Snack packs

Tasty bakes and celebration cakes made to order

6 pack brownies, flapjacks, homemade biscuits or scones

From £1.40

1lb Loaf Cakes

Summer specials include: lemon drizzle loaf, apple and blueberry loaf or Chocilla loaf cake (chocolate and vanilla marble cake with chocolate ganache topping) From £2.00

7” Sponge Cake

A light chocolate sponge filled with buttercream icing or a tasty carrot cake with a sweet orange mascarpone cream, many flavours possible just let me know what you fancy!

From £2.25

Celebration cakes

Bespoke cupcakes, individually decorated mini cakes (serving 1 to 2) or large novelty cakes

Call or text Ffion on 07741250529 or email ffions_fancies@hotmail.co.uk

News & Views 25

YSGOL BRO FAMAU 100 CLUB PRIZE DRAW SEPTEMBER 2013 1ST PRIZE 2ND PRIZE 3RD PRIZE

£25 Jenny Hunt £13 Sally Harris £5 Diana Griffiths

OCTOBER 2013 1ST PRIZE 2ND PRIZE 3RD PRIZE

£25 Lois Fuller £13 Diana Griffiths £5 Moira Bonar

NOVEMBER 2013 1ST PRIZE 2ND PRIZE 3RD PRIZE

£25 Cat Smith £13 Maureen Hill £5 Betty Thorp

CARPET - UPHOLSTERY CLEANERS Quality cleaning at affordable prices Reliable family run business since 1991 Commercial work undertaken

Call Debbie on 01352 752944

FLINTSHIRE DRIVING SCHOOL þ Patient and friendly instruction þ Advice and assistance for theory test

L

þ Free first lesson þ Lessons tailored to suit your individual needs þ Free handouts at the end of every lesson to get to test standard sooner Ring Simon: 01352 741915 Mobile: 07748078746 Local DSA approved instructor

If you would like a birthday, special announcement or event included in News &Views please send the details to: newsandviews@llanferrres.org or 2 Cae Gwyn, Llanferres, CH7 5SL or visit

www.llanferres.org

26 News & Views

Maeshafn Cricket Club Its official! Maeshafn CC have been During 2013 we gave 20 LBW decisions promoted for the first time in our history! against our batsmen. The league We are now proud members of North champions, Bodedern 2nds, gave just 2.

Wales League Division 4 having finished Either this means our batsmen are 2nd in Division 5 by 1 point. rubbish and have a habit of standing in Not only that but our ageing wicket front of their wickets and missing the ball keeper defied all the odds and managed with the bat, or our umpires are more to jointly win the Wicketkeeping award generous with the interpretation of the for the league (he has to share it with a LBW rule. As an 72 year old one-legged wicket keeper umpire I suspect a bit of both... from Halkyn with arthritic knees). Four of our bowlers finished in the top 20 for the As an umpire I have to say that my league, our batsman were up there in judgment is often clouded by who is their multitudes and our fielders took batting. For example, if the batsman has countless catches between them given me out LBW in a previous match I am always tempted to give them out at finishing in all the top spots. the first opportunity.

So well done to Steve Pugh our wicket keeper for his ability to stop the cricket Similarly if Steve Pugh has stuck me into ball with his head, chest, ears, legs, bat at number 10 or 11 then he probably midriff and groin. Occasionally he has shouldn't expect a very long innings (as used his hands as well (16 catches and he discovered in the last match of the season when I gave him out LBW before stumpings in 2013). the bowler appealed after 3 balls).

On the negative side our captain, Stu Applewhite from Gwernaffield, was so Our club now has a fully qualified first worried about how honest we are as a aider (me), a Level 1 coach (me) and a team (compared with others not so nice Child Welfare Officer (me). I have been as ourselves) he sat down and worked on a coaching course where I learnt that out how many LBWs we had given our former captain (Dave Williams) against ourselves. The Leg Before Wicket should probably not have thrown rule is a great source of contention for spanners at us during training. This is anyone who plays the game. Every considered emotional and physical bowler thinks each time the ball hits the abuse. I have also been on a first aid pads it is LBW and every batsman thinks course where I have learnt how to resuscitate players, but that if they have it isn't.

News & Views 27

Maeshafn Cricket Club a moustache and have eaten pickled onions in the tea break then I am at liberty to decline to do mouth to mouth.

We are now a safe, responsible club taking the game seriously, and as the qualified first aider I have decided to put a stop to players polishing off a 6 pack of cider before Batting.

Winter nets start in January (10th to be precise) and run fortnightly on Friday nights from 7.45-9.45pm. All new players welcome, particularly those with league experience wanting to join a nice friendly but competitive club. Lifts available.

Division 4 here we come!

Jonathan Fagan Maeshafn Cricket Club.

VILLAGE HALL WHIST EVENINGS 7pm. at the Village Hall.

The Whist continues to be enjoyed by many.

Recent winners are: Oct.21st. Sheila Bird and Tony Griffiths Nov. 4th. Pat Armstrong and Morfudd Nov. 18th. Joan Almond and Rob Armstrong Dates for Dec. 2nd 9th 16th.(Special Christmas event) Whist will continue in 2014 beginning on Jan20th and then the 27th.

Many thanks for your continued support New Members, whatever level, are always welcome

Tim Griffiths Sales & Design Tel: 07736 544 736 or (01352) 758484 Email: Enquiries@artisanwindows.co.uk

For inspiration visit www.artisanconservatories.co.uk

28 News & Views

News & Views 29

January Diary Dates 1st

Wed New Year's Day

2nd

Thu

3rd

Fri

4th

Sat

5th

Sun 9.30 Morning Worship

6th

Mon

7th

Tue

8th 9th

Wed Thu Blue Recycling Day

10th

Fri

11th

Sat

Green Recycling Day

Schools reopen 7.00pm Bowls Club, Village Hall

13th 14th 15th

9.30 Morning Worship Gardening Club Sunday Lunch Mon Gardening Club AGM Tue 7.00pm Bowls Club, Village Hall Wed

16th

Thu Gree Recycling Day

17th

Fri

18th

Sat

19th 20th 21st

Sun 9.30 Holy Communion Mon 7.00pm Whist evening, Village Hall Tue 7.00pm Bowls Club, Village Hall

22nd

Wed

23rd

Thu Blue Recycling Day

24th

Fri

25th

Sat

26th

Sun 9.30 Morning Worship

27th

Mon 7.00pm Whist evening, Village Hall

28th 29th 30th 31st

Tue 7.00pm Bowls Club, Village Hall Wed Thu Green Recycling Day Fri

12th

Sun

30 News & Views

A note from your County Councillor As I am writing this article the first snow of winter is falling outside and I am hoping that we do not get the same amount of snow this winter as we did earlier this year. With that in mind, please do not forget to be good neighbours, especially at this time of year and keep an eye out for those residents who may need a little more support when the weather is bad.

As you all know the new LDP is now in place and any new housing developments should have an element of affordable housing included in that development. All new housing in hamlets can only be affordable.

It is important that people looking for affordable housing to buy or rent register their interest with the county on www.denbighshire.gov.uk. This information is used to determine the demand for such housing in an area and if you have children who want to stay in your village it is important that they register as soon as I have been contacted by a number of possible. people about surface water on the forestry road near Tafarn y Gellin. I am pleased to Ruthin Community hospital sadly no longer say that the County is working with the provides minor injury or x-ray support and local land owners, who have been these services are now based in Denbigh. extremely helpful, in trying to resolve this They do provide a number of other services problem before the winter freeze begins. which include clinics for Pain, Diabetes, Retinopathy, Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm There has been some concern expressed AAA Wales, Continence, Renal, Ear Nose and about access to properties on the Miners Throat, Ophthalmic, Obstetrics, Orthoptist Lane in Maeshafn. The lane is very narrow and Paediatric services. There are still and I have asked the Fire Service to concerns that the hospital is understaffed undertake a survey on behalf of the and that not all beds are being used.We emergency services. Where access is may lose this facility all together if it is not difficult they will note their records used to its full capacity. accordingly and in the case of a fire, smaller fire tenders will be used.

I have also received complaints about the It is always important that when you are recent classic car rally through our villages reporting a fire you ensure that the held on the same night as Halloween. If emergency services are told if you live up a stewards are used, the event should be narrow or difficult lane. Please let me know authorised by the county. It is important if you have similar concerns about the area that people enjoy themselves but I would you live in. ask that evenings such as Halloween be avoided at all costs because of the number At last we have been given a date for the of children out and about. resurfacing of Tyn Llan. This will happen during the half term in February next year As this is the last news letter before the end and all residents will receive notification of the year, I would like to take the prior to the work commencing to ensure all opportunity to wish you all a Merry cars are off the road while the work is Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New completed. We still need to resolve the Year. ongoing issue of cars parked on both sides of the road which may again cause problems for emergency services accessing Best wishes, the school or other properties in the area.

Martyn

News & Views 31

32 News & Views

Do you have an open fire or a log burning stove?

If so, NOW is the perfect time to buy your logs for Autumn/Winter!

OUR hardwood logs are sourced from our own environmentally managed woodland here in North Wales and include oak, ash, beech etc. in mixed loads or half loads.

Delivery is free within 12 miles of Mold .

Ring Jeff TODAY on 07501707949 (note the new number) for details of current stocks and delivery arrangements or visit our website www.thelogmen.co.uk Email: thelogmen@gmail.com

The Log Men

North Wales

Buy LOCAL and support the area's economy!

News & Views 33

clic on www.fortunewoods.co.uk

fab oak bedrooms order online save £100’s

VIEW THE REAL THING AT PINE & OAK DIRECT

BY RUTHIN TESCO, RUTHIN 0800 731 1490

34 News & Views

News & Views 35

Nature Notes Walking under some Oak trees in a local wood I noticed the ground liberally sprinkled with small whitish disks about 3/5mm diameter. These were the Spangled galls of a tiny wasp, itself only about 2½mm long, with the impressive name of Neuroterus quercusbaccarum. These insects have a complex lifestyle. Eggs are laid in April on the male catkins of either Sessile or Pedunculate oak which cause the Oak tree to produce rich tissue, forming 'Currant galls' which hang like Red currants on the catkins. In these, the emergent grubs develop and pupate and eventually a sexual generation emerges. These mate and the females lay eggs on the underside of Oak leaves causing the tree to create the Spangled galls.

There can be as many as 100 galls on a single leaf. They remain on the leaf, with the wasp grubs developing inside, until the leaves begin to fade in the autumn when they drop to the ground. If they do not detach before the leaf dies, the gall wasp grub also dies.

Once on the ground and amongst the leaf litter, the grub continues to develop over winter, unless predated by birds or small rodents. In April parthenogenetic females emerge to lay eggs on the male Oak catkins and a new cycle begins. ( Parthenogenesis reproduction without fertilization).

grazed by animals. Nearby were two youngish Oak trees with about 20cm diameter trunks one of which had grown at an angle and been rubbed against the other by the wind. The bark had been damaged by the rubbing and eventually the two trees had fused together forming a natural graft. If either of the trees were to be cut off below the graft, the top section would have been able to continue to grow, being supplied with nutrients from the root of the other.

As winter approaches I am reminded of Percy Bysshe Shelley who wrote in 'Ode to the West Wind', "If winter comes, can spring be far behind?"

Already one can see tentative signs of spring with tips of Snowdrops and Daffodils peeping through the soil, male catkins forming on the Hazel trees and even the occasional Primrose flowering. We have the winter to come but these are signs of warmer times to look forward to.

May I wish all readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Peaceful New Year. I would also like to thank everyone who has contacted me over the last year with observations and questions, some of which I have been able to answer, and I hope I have been of help. I am always pleased to hear from my readers so please do get in touch if you see anything of interest I also observed the vast quantity of or you have a query. acorns on the ground and noted that many had already begun to germinate, showing conspicuous root shoots - testament to the mild and damp conditions of the past month or so. If they all grow there will soon be a dense Oak forest but most will be John Almond 01352 810808

36 News & Views

Graham Johns

David I. Smith Chartered Certified Accountant

Building and Plastering Specialising in:

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

20 years experience

Internal Skimming Internal Rendering External Rendering Dry Lining Pebble Dashing Fibrous & Decorative Coving

t: 01352 810924 m: 07816 877998 NO JOBS TOO SMALL

● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Accountancy and bookkeeping Income tax/self assessment returns Corporation tax Value added tax (V.A.T.) Payroll/C.I.S. Business start up/company formations General business advice Free initial consultation Fixed fees Home visits

Call 01352 740166 or 07748 417261 d.smith989@btinternet.com

ALYN Kennels & Cattery Ÿ Set in the beautiful Alyn Valley Ÿ Quality Care Ÿ Fully licensed & insured

Contact: Lorraine Hughes Alyn Kennels & Cattery Tan-y-Craig Leete Walk Pantymwyn Mold CH7 5EP Tel: 01352 740171

Family business providing all types of soft landscaping for domestic gardens.

Including Lawn Care, Tree Work, Hedge Cutting, Weeding, Borders and Garden Clearance High quality professional workmanship, reliable, clean, tidy and fully insured.

News & Views 37

Local Councillors Martyn Holland, Denbighshire County Councillor for Llanferres, Llanarmon yn Ial & Llandegla. 01824 780703 martyn.holland@denbighshire.gov.uk Gwyneth Dillon, Clerk to Llanferres Community Council, 01978 790269 Llanferres Community Councillors David Jones, Chairman, 01352 810511 John Almond, Vice Chairman, 01352 810808 Rob Armstrong, 01352 810259 Jac Armstrong, 01352 810259 Margaret Davies, 01352 810491 Yvonne Foden-McCorry, 01352 810867 Rob Jones, 01352 810500 Olive Parry, 01352 810294 Dave Twomey, 01352 810690 Please contact any of the above if you have anything you would like to be brought to the attention of your Community Council.

‘Llain Hir’ – 4-bedroom house, sleeps 8 (+cot). Situated on seafront with first floor balcony providing superb views of St Tudwal’s islands and the Cambrian coastline. The house is literally a stone’s throw from the beach, within walking distance of the town centre, Pwllheli Golf Club, the leisure centre and the marina.

All bed linen provided along with well equipped kitchen, colour TV, washing machine, dishwasher etc and barbecue area to the rear.

Pets welcome by prior arrangement.

For bookings or enquiries please Available all year round for weekly lets or ring Simon or June Lovell. mid week/long weekend breaks.

Tel: 01352 810582

Mob: 07900 404767

38 News & Views

Village Organisations Badminton Club - June Healy Tel: 810264 Bowling Club - Every Tuesday in the village hall, 7pm - 9pm Contact Dave Twomey Tel: 810690.

Church - Rev'd Adrian Copping, The New Rectory, Rectory Lane, Llanferres Mold, CH7 5SR Email: adriancopping@hotmail.com. Tel: 810936 Rector's Warden - Mr. Brian Skelhorn 16 Cae Gwyn. Tel: 810422 People's Warden - Mrs Anne Woodward, Cysgodfa, Tafarn-y-Gelyn, Llanferres, CH7 5SQ, Tel: 810270 Clwydian Conservation Campaign - Pen y Chwareli, Pant Ddu Road, Nercwys CH7 4DD Gardening Club - Mrs Joan Almond, 20 Cae Derwen, Llanferres.

Tel: 810808 Llanferres Alcoholic Mountain Biking Soc. (LAMBS) - Gordon Jones Tel: 810305 Llanferres Community Council - Mrs Gwyneth Dillon, Rhosddigre, Llandegla, LL11 3AU Tel: 01978 790269 Llanferres Playing Field & Recreation Association - Secretary, Simon Hodge.

Tel: 810686 Maeshafn Cricket Club - Secretary: Jonathan Fagan. Tel: 810824 Old People's Welfare Committee - Secretary, Yvonne Foden-McCorry Tel: 810867 PTFA Ysgol Bro Famau - Chair, Kym Willis 07578392305 / 01824 780888 Llanferres Over 60s Club - Olive Parry. Tel: 810294 Village Hall Booking Secretary - Gilly Carney. Tel 077413 16349 Village Hall Management Committee - Chairman, Rob Armstrong. 810259

News & Views: Paul & Siobhan Gothorp 2 Cae Gwyn, Llanferres, Mold, CH7 5SL Tel: (01352) 810566 Email: newsandviews@llanferres.org www.llanferres.org Deadline is 20th of the month prior to publication

News & Views 39

40 News & Views

We offer a complete home care & cleaning service to make life easier for you, some of our services are listed below:REGULAR, ONE OFF & SPRING CLEANING SERVICES Weekly, fortnightly, monthly & one off visits tailored to meet your requirements RENTAL PROPERTIES Landlords, Tenants, Agents - all areas of rental property maintenance catered for, cleaned and presented to a standard for book out and letting TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF MOVING Have the property you are leaving or moving to cleaned OVEN CLEANING Have your oven, hob, Aga or range looking like new Extractors also cleaned and filters replaced OTHER SERVICES INCLUDE Full builders cleans and small office contracts Curtain cleaning Professional carpet, rug & upholstery cleaning ALL CLEANING PRODUCTS SUPPLIED FULLY TRAINED, INSURED & UNIFORMED MEMBERS OF STAFF

For a no obligation quotation No job too small A fully insured & reliable service

01352 756552 Mobile 0790 425 5044 Email: qualitycleaning@tiscali.co.uk www.qualitycleaning.info Unit 4, Oaktree Business Park, Queens Lane, Mold CH7 1XB