NWM - November 2022

NOVEMBER 2022

!

EE FR

MAGAZINE

Caring for the climate GWYNEDD GROUPS CAMPAIGN TOGETHER

What’s On?

The best events taking place this November

Wonderful Walks ESS & THE S P SIN

SPRING

TASTING

2022 GOLD

BUSINES ITS S IR

E DRINKS B TH U

Seven autumn afternoon strolls

20

WORLD SPIRITS COMPETITION

22

H A N D C R A F T E D I N WA L ES

B R E W E D W I T H S N O W D O N I A WAT E R

MAGAZINE We want to hear from you!

DEAR READER

Welcome to November – the month you tend to either love or hate…

And, since I’m a glass-half-full kinda person, let’s look at the positives that this autumnal month brings!

How about long woodland strolls where

November also sees some pretty fabulous

the kids can kick the leaves about, brisk

shows come to our local theatres – and what

beach walks that blow the cobwebs away

better way to spend a dark evening than

and ambles around lakes that simply glisten

to be thoroughly entertained? Check out

in the autumn sunshine to start with? All

our What’s On? listings on page 7 for more

of which absolutely have to be followed by

inspiration on what to watch…

either a pub lunch or a rather decadent piece of cake in a local tearoom!

We have got seven short walking routes for you to try on page 15, as well as a slightly more detailed walk on page 63, so there is no excuse not to get your walking boots on and

Kate Hamilton Founding Editor

J Are you organising or taking part in an event that should be covered in our what’s on listings? Then make sure you tell us! whatson@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Keep in touch. Send in your contributions, letters, photos and press releases and becomepart of the North Wales Magazine family. editorial@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Subscribe. If you want to ensure that you receive each and every copy of North Wales Magazine then why not subscribe? All you pay for is the post and packaging. subscribe@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk J Advertise. If you own a business in North Wales and want to get your message in front of 20,000 local readers every month then drop us a line. Prices start from just £80. sales@ northwalesmagazine.co.uk

get out and about!

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NWM 2022 Page 3

Page 4 NWM 2022

Contents

MAGAZINE

11 EDITOR

Kate Hamilton PUBLISHER

Grant Hamilton

15

ART DIRECTOR

Simon Marriott ACCOUNTS

07 What’s On

The best events taking place in North Wales this November

11 The Big Picture

Sian Roberts

37 An Indigo Summer Letting creativity heal

FEATURE WRITER

James Ayshford

39 A Luxury Hotel

Plas Dinas ups the ante

The historic Harlech castle

CONTACT US editorial@northwalesmagazine.co.uk sales@northwalesmagazine.co.uk subscribe@northwalesmagazine.co.uk whatson@northwalesmagazine.co.uk

41 Recipes

13 You & Your Pet

A proper winter warmer

How to help winter wildlife

47 In Business

15 Walking Tall

Where to stretch your legs this autumn

19 Go North Wales

Why the region is a good place to host a conference

21 It’s Panto Time…

North Wales Magazine is an independent, regional monthly magazine produced

by KSG Publishing. It is available to pick up from a wide range of independent outlets throughout Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham, Gwynedd and the Isle of Anglesey.

Business news and advice

53 Education

Learning in North Wales

59 Community News

A roundup of regional happenings

61 Losing a Pet

Oh yes it is!

Helpful advice after losing a four-legged friend

23 A Tale of Two Men

Pondering the past in Caernarfon

27 Top Spots For a Festive Day Out Plan your Christmas days out now

63 Walking World

Big Pool Wood near Gronant

66 Horoscopes

29 It’s Show Time!

What does November have in store for you?

What’s on at Pontio Bangor

31 Fighting Climate Change

Watch a community come together

Disclaimer: All rights reserved.

Reproduction in whole or in part (electronically or in print) without written permission by North Wales Magazine is strictly prohibited. Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content, and any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of North Wales Magazine.

Please note that some of the authors and companies featured may have paid in order to write their column or article. The publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in, or as a result of, any offer, competition, information, editorial or advertisement contained within the magazine. North Wales Magazine does not endorse any of the advertisements featured, or any of the author’s opinions.

All words and images remain the property of their respective owners and all copyrights are observed. North Wales Magazine is not associated with any newspaper group.

Privacy Notice. You can read North Wales Magazine’s Privacy Notice in full at www.northwalesmagazine.com

27

COVID-19 DISCLAIMER

31

North Wales Magazine is produced in advance. While we take every care to ensure that our content is up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in regards to current COVID-19 restrictions. We absolutely do not encourage travel where local rules forbid it, so please check with both your local council, and the council of your destination, before planning any days out in order to ensure that your journey is legal and in line with current guidelines.

NWM 2022 Page 5

MAGAZINE

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n o s ’ t Wha The biggest and best events taking place in North Wales this November...

Ends Sunday 6th

Penrhyn’s Pineapple Journey Head to National Trust property, Penrhyn Castle in Bangor, for this family day out of following the pineapple as a fun way to explore the magnificent castle.

Wednesday 2nd

Jurassic Earth

Monday 7th

This family-friendly show of mega animatronic dinosaurs

Lunch on the fly

and epic storytelling is a captivating time. As seen on ITV’s

Have a go at dancing in a waist harness. This taster workshop

Dancing on Ice, be gripped by this pre-historic experience

at Pontio will teach you how to jump vertically and even fly.

at Rhyl Pavilion.

Thursday 3rd

Tuesday 8th & Wednesday 9th

Magic Light Productions,

Jenni will be holding another of

the people behind Theatr

her spinning masterclass sessions

Colwyn’s panto, bring

at Afonwen today, where under

you this one-hour family

Jenni’s guidance you can learn the

workshop on creating and

basics of this wonderful craft

Puppet Making Workshop and Show

Spinning Masterclass with Jenni Frost

performing with a sock puppet at Venue Cymru. Why not stay for the afternoon UV puppet show too.

Thursday 3rd

The Nutcracker Open the Christmas season with a trip to see this iconic festive ballet at Venue Cymru

Thursday 10th

An Audience with Manchester United Legends Brian Robson, Brian McClair and Andrew Cole will be in discussion with Jed Stone to lead an evening of footballing tales at Venue Cymru. Learn of how they came to play on Old Trafford’s Turf.

Saturday 5th

Mini Music Festival For the first time ever, head to Venue Cymru this

Friday 11th

Birdwatching at The Spinnies Join local experts and North Wales Wildlife Trust staff to discover some of the tremendous variety

Saturday afternoon, starting at 1pm to hear great

of birds that can be seen on and around this

music by local artists and a brilliant Ed Sheeran

wonderful little nature reserve

tribute act.

NWM 2022 Page 7

MAGAZINE

Saturday 12th

Wildlife Walk – with dogs!

Bring your pooch and learn about conservation at Marford Quarry Nature Reserve today

Saturday 12th

BBC Radio Cymru’s World Cup Concert

Starts Friday 25th

Head to Pontio for an evening with BBC Now and BBC Radio

Zipmas

Cymru celebrating all things Welsh football ahead of the World

Head to Zipworld, Llechwedd for a Santa experience like

Cup season.

no other. Head underground to the festively lit caverns to meet Mr Claus. Why not try Grotto Golf too or you could even

Thursday 17th

Winter woodland bird walk

have a go at decorating a slate bauble.

With the change in seasons there will be birds returning for the winter on the Wrexham Industrial Estate – come and see them for yourselves on this group walk

Saturday 26th

Lacey Lecture: “What is Progress?”

‘What is Progress?’ ... a public lecture in Colwyn Bay by

Thursday 17th & Friday 18th

Local artist Tracey Davies Tracey paints from photographs, mainly in watercolour, and

The North Wales Wildlife Trusts’ inspirational leader, Craig Bennett, addressing current concerns about the environment and the economy.

can be pets or humans, or even special places to preserve cherished memories. She is at Afonwen today

Saturday 26th

Ruthin Artisan Market A special Christmas market is

Friday 18th

Showstopper! The Improvised Musical This Olivier Award-winning show from the West-end is now

on at Ruthin Gaol today.

Saturday 26th & Sunday 27th

heading to Pontio. Every night is unique and unforgettable being

Marie at Earth Deva

made entirely from scratch using audience suggestions.

Marie has many quirky handmade bowls and statues, with some having a mythical theme, as well as some Egyptian themed and silk and gemstone jewellery. She is exhibiting at

Friday 18th

Afonwen today

A night of exclusive magical acts at Rhyl

Sunday 27th

Illusion: Impossible Pavilion by five of the UK’s best magicians

Bodnant Artisan Market

including Britain’s Got Talent runner up, Jamie Raven.

The Artisan Market Company’ is coming to Bodnant Welsh Food Centre for a special Christmas Artisan Market today. Join them for this exclusive festive market and discover beautiful Artisan crafts

Saturday 19th

Christmas with Aled Jones & Russell Watson

in a stunning location nestled in the heart of the Conwy Valley.

Watch two of the UK’s biggest music artists come together at Venue Cymru as they perform a mix of carols and Christmas hits from their album.

Saturday 19th

Colwyn Bay Artisan Market Visit North Wales’ biggest Artisan Market and enjoy live music, sweet treats, cocktails, hot food, street

Starts Tuesday 29th

entertainment and free fun for the

The Osmond’s: A New Musical

kids all whilst shopping for the very

Grab a ticket for this night at Venue Cymru where you will be

best arts, crafts and creations!

immersed in the 60s,70s and 80s hits of this boy band and learn of the story of how they came to fame.

Page 8 NWM 2022

The dinner dance of the year is ON !

17th November 2022 St. George’s Hotel, Llandudno.

7pm The Gwledd Dewi Sant is back and raising funds for several local charities supporting vulnerable people this winter across the County of Conwy.

Fizz and canapes Gastro three course meal £75 per person Get your tickets by emailing gwledddewisant@gmail.com for a night to remember or phone the Gwledd team at BOCS Storage on 01492 544244.

If you can’t make it and would like to make a donation please contact us.

Whether it's some family fun, a special gift, a winter treat or a relaxing scenic steam-hauled train ride - there's something for everyone during this festive season at the F&WHR...

Santa Trains & Grotto Join Santa on our special trains from Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu - or visit him in his Grotto at Porthmadog.

See our website for the latest details and to book tickets.

Seasonal Snowdonia: We will be running steam trains in December - so come along and enjoy a scenic ride in one of our comfortable, heated carriages. Book your festive train tickets online.

Christmas Gifts: Our shops stock a wide range of bespoke souvenirs, railway items, books, DVDs - plus a range of vouchers.

You can also shop online at www.festshop.co.uk

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the

BIG

picture

Harlech Castle cost £8,190 to build, making it one of Edward I’s cheaper investments. It was also constructed in record time, between 1283 and 1295, by an army of nearly a thousand workers. The castle boasts two rings of walls and towers, with an incredibly strong east gatehouse making it virtually impenetrable from every direction. In addition, a 200-foot long stairway joined the castle to the cliff base, meaning that supplies were easy to access. When Harlech Castle was first built a channel would have connected the castle and the sea, meaning that a boat could sail up to the moat. Seven hundred years later, the sea has receded and the castle is now land locked...

NWM 2022 Page 11

MAGAZINE

Page 12 NWM 2022

You & Your

Pet

HOW TO HELP WINTER WILDLIFE

As the winter creeps in and the hours in our days become

Nest boxes are great for creating a place for birds to take

darker, the idea of going outside seems less appealing – our

shelter during the winter, they will need to be cleaned out

wildlife have no choice but to adapt and continue with their

before their new occupants move in. Wondering what to feed

daily activities in the outdoors.

wild birds in the winter? Fat balls are a perfect source of energy, supporting their metabolism throughout the colder

We can help them get through these gruelling winter months

months. Sunflower hearts are another great example of feed

in a variety of ways. Finding out what small creatures may be

for your wild birds. A great energy booster filled with protein

residing in your area is a great place to start.

will result in happy and healthy birds. Sunflower hearts will also speed up feeding time which means birds won’t be as

Hedgehogs

vulnerable to predators.

Some of our furry friends will be hibernating but that doesn’t mean they have disappeared. Hedgehogs love an unkempt

Reptiles and Amphibians

garden and can often be found hiding under piles of leaves,

Often some that are forgotten in the winter months are frogs,

compost heaps, bonfires, parks, sheds or cemeteries.

newts and toads. These small creatures go into hibernation during the winter months and can be found under piles of

Although hedgehogs are one small animal that is known

leaves, compost heaps, in old plant pots, piles of wood and

for going into hibernation, these spiky creatures have been

sometimes in the bottom of ponds. If you suspect there might

known to wander when you would least expect them to.

be a frog visiting your pond, put a ping-pong ball or a small

Reasons hedgehogs may awaken might be because their

floating device that will prevent the water from freezing over

nesting spot has become too cold or they may simply just need

and allow the passage of oxygen, they are most likely seeing

to reposition themselves in their nest.

the winter out from inside a burrow or nearby compost heap.

If there are suspicions of a spiky resident, leaving out fresh

If you have any further questions or concerns about how to

water and small portions of hedgehog food should help any

help winter wildlife then please get in touch with us either

winter wanderers. If you have room in your garden why not

via our social channels or pop into one of our stores and have

purchase a hedgehog house or create your own? This may

a chat with a team member.

n

encourage them to come back to the same spot the following year.

Wild Birds You may begin to notice your gardens are becoming a little quieter but they are certainly not still. With flocks of birds arriving from the Arctic and Northern Europe they will be needing energy and shelter to help them through the winter.

Birds can be found anywhere from local fields, woodlands, estuaries, gardens, lakes and as well as the coast.

Ashlee is the social media and marketing assistant at petplace. Animal obsessed, she has a fondness for all living things and the environment using her creativity to build awareness.

If you follow petplace on social media you will no doubt have interacted with Ashlee, she loves engaging with their customers and, most importantly, seeing all your wonderful pets.

NWM 2022 Page 13

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A wild horse on Ynys Llanddwyn

The

Secret Seven Some of the best afternoons in North Wales, says Jamie Ayshford, are those strolls of misty Novembers.

So here’s a collection of seven afternoon outings that are just perfect for this autumnal month…

Just because the clocks have turned back doesn’t mean to say that you have to hang up your walking boots. These shorter routes easily rival those thrill-seeking elevated trails, and will have you back in plenty of time for your Sunday dinner. So don the

What’s more, we’ve made routing out your starting point easier than ever before by adding their ‘what3words’ location.

bobble hat, pretend you are a Welsh dragon as your breath is visible in the cold air, top up the vitamin D and head out to make the most of this colourful month.

The lakeside colours at Llyn Geirionydd are a top destination for witnessing Wales in autumn

Llyn Geirionydd and Llyn Crafnant circular walk

Just outside of Llanwrst, this afternoon walk makes for the perfect Sunday reset. Take the marked trail around these lakes where mustard bracken is a jumble with blonde larch, while thick conifers prop up in the distance. Follow the blue path markers all the way as you leave Geirionydd towards Crafnant. Take a moment to enjoy the entrancing stillness around these lakes at this time of year; it feels noisy from the sound of nothing. This Gywdir Forest Park jaunt is

Rhaedr Fawr pumping with water at Coedydd Aber National Nature Reserve

Aber Falls

There is a silver lining in the amount of

a mixed terrain of gravel, tight forest footpaths and

rain North Wales receives at this time of

lanes. Be cautious on the steep slopes. Toilets and

year in the epic array of falls that come

parking located here:

into full force in the season. This clear

nametag.joined.polar

yellow marked path has plenty of rest

Aberglaslyn path to Beddgelert

If you are after a walk with quick impact, this trail to quaint Beddgelert showcases North Wales autumn in style. This is a perfect walk if, just like a Sunday roast, you like ‘a bit of everything’. Marvel

benches and is wheelchair accessible (from the top car park) and leads you on The Aberglaslyn riverside path which takes you into the village of Beddgelert

a simple afternoon autumn stroll with an incredible finale – the tumbling Rhaeadr Fawr. Wonder (or squint amidst the spray) at water which has flowed right across

at the mighty slab of Aberglaslyn gorge and its

the Carneddau range. Feeling more

turbulent river where branches dapple over the

ambitious? Head a bit further east and you

water’s edge. If you’re lucky, the huff of steam from

can tick the smaller Rhaeadr Fach off your

the passing Ffestiniog railway above will intensify

autumn bucket list too. On your way back,

the refreshing autumn air. Leave the car park for

walk in tandom with the sheep along a

the woodland before taking care as you follow

runway of turning bracken and deciduous

the river upstream into the village (it is difficult

woodland. Full waterproofs are advised

and lofty in places). On arrival, be sure to peek inside St Mary’s Church where the

and don’t forget £5 (in coins) to park.

setting autumn sun enhances the glass windows, or admire the beautifully carved

Choose a quiet time as the busy car parks

bench of owls around the corner. After a refuel at one of the cafés in the village,

are reflective of how fulfilling a ramble this

turn around and walk with the flow of the river back to the car. Toilets and parking

one is. Here’s your starting spot:

located at:

emulating.massing.glares

resonated.walked.steaming

NWM 2022 Page 15

The slab bridge over the teal Watkin path waterfall waters

Watkin Path Waterfalls

Don’t be misled by thinking you are taking on Snowdon’s trickiest summit path in its entirety here. This is a double-back jaunt of the path’s first few kilometres (the best bit!). Whilst a moderate climb, it is as magnificent as it is manageable.

Cross the road from the car park and trail the ancient woodland in fitting with Narnia. Open the wide farm gate and join the satisfyingly chunky path. Carefully view the slab bridge on your right which looks like a natural game of Jenga.

Continue climbing and peer down at the adjacent domino of teal falls. This walk could be mistaken for a Bali travel brochure. Once you reach the National Trust’s micro hydro-electric feature, it’s a good marker to turn-around. This one isn’t repetitive despite being linear. The descent feels just as novel as you amble back to the car in a half-pipe of auburn slopes to enjoy stretching views back across Snowdonia farmlands.

There is pay and display parking available at:

notes.highs.cured

Llanrwst

Leave the walking boots to dry for this one and mix it up with a market town stroll. Once you’ve perused the shops, veer away from the high street and make for the pavement which overlooks the rustic road-bridge. Stand beside the riverbanks of the river Conwy, where the slushing water through the reeds will leave you feeling like Ratty and Moley on a Wind in the Willows grand autumn day out (the North Wales edition!). This one is great The vine-lain Tu Hwnt I’r Bont Tea-room beneath the conifers of Gwydir Forest

whatever the weather as the misty rains make the vine-covered Tu Hwnt I’r Bont tea rooms beneath the conifers of Gwydir Forest a photo worthy for the family calendar.

Park at the town’s library:

spoil.firebird.motels

Ynys Llanddwyn, Newborough

For a mindful reset, stroll along sandy pine trails akin to that southern France holiday before island hopping to be with wild horses and lighthouses synonymous with a Greek island. Leave the car park to track westwards in the forest or along Newborough’s shore towards the stone hut, which marks the start of Ynys LLanddwyn. As the chunky swirled wooden gate clangs behind you with umph, that’s your klaxon to explore the crunchy shell paths of this magical island. Hunt for the old canon, The Pilot Cottages, and the ruins of St Dwynwen’s before the reaching the iconic chalky lighthouses. That’s if you are not distracted by choosing which of the many coves you would bagsy as your secluded sunbathing spec for next summer. A jaunt on the west side paths is particularly rousing as the water often slams against the lower rocks. Watch out for the tide times as you don’t want to find yourself wading back onto the mainland. ANPR parking with a pay-on-exit can be found here.

Cwm Idwal

If you are after a Snowdonia quick-fix, Cwm Idwal is a top choice. This one, especially during autumn, confirms how the low-level views of North Wales’ peaks can in fact be more enchanting

vented.award.pairings

The satisfyingly chunky slab path which takes you around Cwm Idwal The pine entry prior to the shores of Newborough Beach

than those summit sights. Feel grounded as you follow the lakeside track, a mere scratch in this bowl of a landscape carved out by a glacial past.

If the attraction of coming across a shingle beach in the mountains here isn’t enough, the area is also known for captivating Charles Darwin and his glacial theories. Pay and display parking with a little hatch café and toilets are here:

laughs.huddled.charts

Page 16 NWM 2022

Jamie Ayshford is a freelance journalist, Snowdonia National Park Ambassador and personal trainer based in North Wales.

When not out running on the trails, mountain biking or exploring hidden gems with his twin brother and border terriers, he loves to research and write about this fabulous region.

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NORTH WALES: WHERE THE MOUNTAINS MEET THE SEA. WEVENTS IN BEAUTIFUL SURROUNDINGS CLOSE TO NATURE

Already an established holiday destination, North Wales is also an ideal location for events, with good quality accommodation and conference venues, and team building and incentive experiences under one roof, or in the great outdoors.

North Wales offers versatile venues and accommodation

down time or the adrenaline for your delegates. North Wales

for conferences and meetings, with rugged landscapes and

is fast becoming the adventure capital, so if it’s zip lining or

breathtaking coastline as backdrops. Adrenaline fuelled

surfing, water sports or mountain walks, your team have a

activities also offer unforgettable experiences for team building

choice of world class activities to try. For a more leisurely team

and incentives.

building, walking the mountains and beaches or an historic Italian village set within the Snowdonia landscape are just some

North Wales boasts a purpose-built conference and events

of the amazing incentives on offer in North Wales.

centre; a university world-renowned for research in environmental sciences, engineering and human sciences;

For smaller groups, why not extend your stay and enjoy one of

incentive experiences ranging from the sedate to adrenaline-

the many quaint towns surrounding North Wales, enjoy a locally

pumping; accommodation in beautiful natural surroundings; and

brewed beer within a medieval walled town or a walk along one

innovative food and drink suppliers.

of North Wales promenades or piers, enjoy top quality locally sourced food at a number of the region’s top quality restaurants.

From large conference facilities to small meeting rooms or even a quirky venue, North Wales can offer those unparalleled

With an excellent selection of venues, accommodation and

views, unique atmospheres and even the opportunity for a

experiences, North Wales will truly inspire your delegates.

conference followed by an unforgettable incentive experience

North Wales is a renowned area of outstanding natural

at the same location!

beauty, with mountainous backdrops and sweeping bays, this rich natural landscape provides the most tranquil yet

North Wales, a destination for Conferences, Meetings and

exceptional setting for our venues and activities. These

Incentive Travel

natural features stand alongside ancient world heritage sites

North Wales is rapidly growing as a popular destination for

that are truly inspirational. The myths and legends that enrich

Conferences, Business Events and Incentive Travel experiences.

the North Wales culture can be seen everywhere from the

If you are looking for that perfect venue where you can hold

service to the food and even the greetings at a hotel. North

anything from a small board meeting to a large conference then

Wales is enriched by these legends and thus making it a

North Wales could be the location you’ve been looking for.

destination like no other.

North Wales will provide you with a venue like no other. The

With beautiful surroundings close to nature and offering

breath taking scenery of North Wales will provide any event

competitive pricing and increased value for money, North

with a truly unforgettable backdrop. Our venues offer first class

Wales is easily accessible from both the north of England and

dedicated staff that will ensure conferences, events, meetings

the Republic of Ireland.

and incentive days run smoothly and that all your delegates are provided with the full North Wales experience.

The team at Meet North Wales provides expert knowledge of North Wales and all it has to offer. We work closely with you to

North Wales for Incentive Experiences

understand your requirements and source the ideal location,

Team building and incentive days are a great way to motivate,

accommodation, and experience for

engage and reward your team. North Wales is home to a large

your next business event, providing

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North Wales is a destination For amazing incentive experiences, North Wales is home to a

like no other and your delegates

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NWM 2022 Page 19

MAGAZINE

Page 20 NWM 2022

Clockwise from top left: Rebecca, John, Jason and James

A magical moment

Panto season is nearly here! We caught up with the stars of Venue Cymru’s Beauty and the Beast to find out what Christmas magic they have up their sleeves…

As Venue Cymru invites you all for a most ‘Beauty – full’ family

Rebecca: I love that interaction with the audience when

pantomime this year with Beauty and the Beast from 10th –

they’re joining in, belly laughing or completely silent because

31st December, we caught up with Jason Marc-Williams who

they’re caught in that magical moment.

will playing Nanna Nina, John Evans who plays Simon Le Bon

John: We also just have a real laugh together!

Bon, James Lusted who will play Bob and Rebecca Keatley playing Belle to find out a little bit more about them and what we can expect this pantomime season…

Q: Are any of you superstitious or do you have any strange pre-show routines?

Rebecca: This is less of a superstition, but I always have to eat Q: Jason – tell us a little bit about what you hope to bring to

before I go on stage. I’ve been known to run off in the interval

the stage?

to have a roast dinner!

Jason: What I can guarantee is super high energy. This year

John: Yeah and last year James had a really strange routine

I’m back to my roots playing Dame which I absolutely love so

too… he used to forget all his lines!! Well, my routines have

expect a lot of fun… lots of physical comedy.

never changed I have eight pints of Guinness and four sausage rolls and I’m off!

Q: James, John and Jason you’ve all played Venue Cymru before – it sounds like the Llandudno audiences know exactly what to expect from you?!

Q: Is there anything you would like for Christmas this year?

John: Love and peace for the whole world.

Jason: Yes, John especially because this is his 400th year isn’t

James: Arggh you stole the best answer! To be honest just to

it John?

put a smile on people’s faces this Christmas…

John: Actually I think it’s my 450th! [Ed: It’s actually John’s 12th panto at Llandudno…]

Q: What can audiences expect on stage this year?

Rebecca: It’s going to be beautiful production with knock

Q: And although you’ve been performing in panto for some

out songs, spectacular costumes, genius comic moments,

time Rebecca this will be your first in Llandudno?

wonderful sets, luscious lighting and the full magic of panto.

Rebecca: That’s right. I’ve been doing panto for years ever

We are really going to bring it this year!

since I was a little girl back in Port Talbot. I think this is my

Jason: High energy, high impact, classy, enthusiastic,

tenth professional panto but my first in Llandudno and, in

humorous entertainment…

fact, my first in Wales. I’ve been desperately wanting to do

John: I just want everyone to leave the theatre feeling happy

a pantomime in Wales so when this opportunity came up I

having enjoyed the ride! They will just have a fantastic time –

jumped at the chance. I can’t wait!

otherwise I’ll be kept in the theatre until they do! n

Q: Clearly you all love panto. What is it that keeps you

Beauty and the Beast will be sure to make you laugh,

James: It’s so magical seeing the children’s faces and when

characters – so book your tickets now and discover if Belle

coming back year after year?

you step out and hear them all screaming their heads off and just going for it!

cry and fall in love with a host of hilarious and hairy

can see beyond appearances and learn to love a beast!

Tickets are on sale now at venuecymru.co.uk

NWM 2022 Page 21

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So it’s November and we’ve turned the clocks backwards an hour. British summer time... what a lovely, heart warming, evocative phrase... until it’s officially over and suddenly the afternoons are shorter and darker.

Morgan Lloyd – there’s a bold image of the former politician on the pub which bears his name

The original idea of ‘changing the clocks’ was ‘daylight

to improving the education system in Wales. Throughout

saving’, to give us all more time in the morning to get out of

the 1830s and 1840s he was a pioneer of higher education,

bed and get to work. ‘Early to bed and early to rise’... it was

advocating a policy of teacher training, helping to establish

the American president Benjamin Franklin who coined the

Normal College in Bangor and a college specifically for young

phrase, so that we’d all be ‘healthy and wealthy and wise’.

women teachers in Swansea – and he founded the university

Now it’s wintertime, and people complain that the number

of Aberystwyth. In 1867 he formed a committee to buy the old

of road accidents increases as commuters come home from

Castle Hotel in Aberystwyth as its main building, and by 1872

work, tired and frazzled and impatient in queues of traffic, in

the university was opened.

the gloom of late afternoon.

Sir Huw worked tirelessly to raise the necessary funds, to So it’s dark in Caernarfon town square, or the ‘maes’ as it’s

clear the debts already incurred and secure the future of

known, and it’s six o’clock on a Saturday evening. It’s so dark,

the university. He was knighted in 1881, but he died a few

it could be three o’clock in the morning. But the square is

months later. Now his statue stands on Caernarfon town

busy with people, young and not so young, in the early stages

square. The town’s secondary school is named in his honour,

of what’s going to be a long session of merry carousing,

Ysgol Syr Huw Owen. But somehow, despite his eminence and

migrating from pub to pub, from drink to drink until midnight

outstanding philanthropy, he cuts a melancholy figure, with a

and beyond.

seagull on his head.

Two eminent men of Caernarfon face each other across the

Not so, the other eminent man of Caernarfon, who glares

square. One of them is solemn and somewhat soberly forlorn,

at him from the other side of the square. Morgan Lloyd –

poorly lit by a flickering neon bulb... a bronze statue, horribly

there’s a big bold image of him on the pub which bears his

splashed all over his head and shoulders and his long frock

name. A contemporary of Sir Huw Owen, he was first of all

coat by the messes of a thousand seagulls. Indeed, right now,

a lawyer and Justice of the Peace, later elected as Member

as I pause to look at him and read the words engraved on the

of Parliament for Beaumaris in 1874, as a Welsh Liberal. I’m

plinth, there’s a gull perched on top of his head.

struck by how different these two men seem to be, in their demeanour and the personality they project nearly 150 years

He’s Sir Huw Owen, ‘a tireless philanthropist’. He was a

since they lived. Sir Huw stands quietly alone, his head

formidable campaigner and activist, devoting a long career

lowered, as though lost in his memories of an extraordinarily

NWM 2021 Page 23

Credit: Lukassek / Shutterstock.com

Caernarfon town square

to Sir Huw Owen stands proudly the right of Y Castell Hotel

ck.com

Credit: j Lukassek / Shuttersto

THE TOWN’S SECONDARY SCHOOL IS NAMED IN HIS HONOUR, YSGOL SYR HUW OWEN busy life. Morgan Lloyd is defiant, challenging the world to remember him for his political achievements. Indeed, on this Saturday night in November, he’s brightly lit and there’s a throng of youngsters at the door of the pub... they’re raising their glasses and quaffing their beer with the unquenchable appetite of youth, as though they’re toasting the man whose

The dunnock, to give him his real name, the most modest

face looms over them.

and unobtrusively busy of all birds... without a sound, he picks up the crumbs of my burger and disappears into the

Prodesse quam conspici... the phrase comes to me, all of

hedgerow. How different, these two marvellous birds, in

a sudden. It was the motto of the school I went to, Rydal

their essential being.

School in Colwyn Bay. Literally, ‘to accomplish rather than be conspicuous,’ it encouraged us to do our best without boasting

We stop at Padarn Lake on our circuitous drive home. A family

of our achievements, to understand that we might be known

of tourists are tossing their leftover chips onto the water, and

for what we do rather than what we claim to have done.

there’s a flock of black-headed gulls screeching around their heads. The birds drop to the water and squabble like greedy

It’s Saturday night in Caernarfon. The rain starts to fall.

children... and then there’s a swirl and a flashing of silvery

The slate glistens on the rooftops and on the wet, slippery

flanks, when a fish comes to the surface.

pavements. Sir Huw Owen ponders his achievements with modest satisfaction, while Morgan Lloyd is toasted in a glare

The gulls, in a squall of vigorous competition... and the char

of the streetlights by a crowd of rumbustious drinkers. Two

in the deep lake, silent in the perpetual darkness, unchanged

eminent men, remembered by the people of Caernarfon in

since the glaciers of the Ice Age gouged the mountains and

quite different ways.

rivers and lakes... how different in their ways of living.

Next day, my wife and I go out for burgers and chips, on

It’s dark by the time we return to Caernarfon. It’s a Sunday

Pentir roundabout not far from Bangor. It’s a drive-thru, so

evening, only six o’clock and the square is almost deserted. A

we sit in the car and fall silent as we relish the juicy red

gull whirls by the floodlit walls of the castle, pauses as though

meat, the saltiness of the fries and the strangely exotic tang

to alight on the bowed head of a statue and then glides past.

of a gerkin. Messy me, I’ve got a lapful of breadcrumbs, so

No crowds outside the pub on the other side of the square,

I buzz down the window and scatter them outside. In less

only a couple of solitary smokers. Summertime, and Saturday

than a minute, there’s a magpie, so brash and greedy he’s

night, seem a long time ago…n

banging the side of the car with his great dagger of a beak. A swaggering, handsome fellow... not only black and white and unmistakeable, but shining metallic blues and greens in the autumn sunlight.

But then he’s gone, in a flurry of clattering and fluttering. And in his place, as secret as a mouse, there’s a hedge sparrow.

Page 24 NWM 2022

Stephen Gregory’s first novel, The Cormorant, which he wrote in Snowdonia 35 years ago, has been published several times in both the UK and the USA, and translated into German, Polish and Italian.

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Top spots for a festive day out Christmas is a time for togetherness so gather your loved ones and step in from the cold as you enjoy plenty of festive cheer with National Trust Cymru.

Bodnant Garden, Conwy: Blow away the winter cobwebs with a festive stroll through the accessible winter garden with its sensational display of foliage, flower and scent, or follow the longer route around Furnace Hill. Both will leave you hungry for some delicious festive treats from the tea rooms.

Chirk Castle, Wrexham: This magnificent medieval fortress is bursting with extravagant decorations and ornate Christmas trees that are guaranteed to add some sparkle your festivities. Outside, wrap up warm and enjoy a wintery walk through the 480-acre parkland – it’s spectacular with a fine dusting of winter frost.

Erddig, Wrexham: Admire wreaths, garlands and natural decorations created by a talented team of volunteers or visit the garden where a new ‘advent window’ will shine out from the mansion each day. With an outdoor trail that’s perfect for little explorers, there’s something for everyone at Erddig this Christmas.

‘Tis the season for giving:

Penrhyn Castle and Garden, Bangor: Celebrate all the traditions that

Enjoy the gift of giving by donating to the Wrexham or Oswestry Borders foodbanks this Christmas. Chirk Castle and Erddig will be taking food donations daily throughout December, but Father Christmas will be there to thank you at weekends from 3rd December. What better way is there to make the nice list?

bring us together over the festive period as you head into this dramatic castle that’s bursting with ornate decorations. Try your hand at popular holiday pastimes and hobbies and don’t miss the Victorian Kitchen where the smell of festive baked treats fills the air.

Plas Newydd House and Garden, Anglesey: At weekends, wrap up warm and explore the beautiful grounds at Plas Newydd with their breath-taking views out to Snowdonia. Enjoy the winter decorations throughout the garden before warming up with a festive treat in the café.

Powis Castle and Garden, Welshpool: Taking inspiration from its

@NTWales

treasures within, Powis Castle’s spectacular State Rooms are bursting with over-the-top Christmas trees and festive fireplaces which will transport you to magical locations across the globe. Outside, the Hawys the Hedgehog trail is perfect for younger visitors. n

For further information, dates and opening times, please visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/christmas-in-wales

NWM 2022 Page 27

As funeral directors in Llandudno, North Wales Chris Lord-Brown and Jonathen Harty have over fifty years of combined experience. Serving both local and neighbouring communities, their expertise and knowledge combined with their extensive contacts have led to numerous families entrusting them to arrange and conduct the funeral services of their loved ones.

Together they run Lord-Brown & Harty Ltd. This independent, privately owned and professionally qualified funeral directors and monumental masons is situated in the heart of Llandudno on the North Wales coast.

They are proud member of The National Association of Funeral Directors (NAFD), undergo regular inspections of premises and paperwork to ensure compliance, and abide by the NAFD's Code of Practice.

CHRIS LORD-BROWN B.Ed(Hons) DipFD

JONATHEN HARTY B.Ed(Hons) DipHE FRAS

chris@lbandh.co.uk

jonathen@lbandh.co.uk

www.lbandh.co.uk

12 Trinity Square, Llandudno, Conwy, LL30 2RA

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N’FAMADY KOUYATÉ + Lisa Jên 25.11.22

A fusion of Mandingue African with western jazz, pop, indie, and funk influences provided by an ever-evolving collective of musicians. Instrumentation includes balafon, keyboards, drumkit, djembe, guitar, bass, kora, doundoun, congas, saxophone, trumpet, & callabash. N’famady’s performances create amazing atmospheres and vibrations wherever he goes, and audiences are charmed by his infectious enthusiasm and joy.

MARED WILLIAMS A’R BAND 08.12.22

This Christmas, join Mared Williams and band in Theatr Bryn Terfel as they bring warmth and joy to Cabaret Pontio nights! Having performed in the West End in Les Misèrables, a member of Welsh of the West End, Welsh Language Album of the Year winner in 2021 with Y Drefn, don’t miss the opportunity to see Mared live, for a sublime night of music with a full band this Christmas.

Welsh National Opera Orchestra RETURN TO VIENNA The perfect soundtrack to kick-start the New Year Following three hugely triumphant tours, WNO Orchestra’s sparklingly satisfying New Year’s concert returns in January 2023. In a programme which celebrates the very best of Viennese music, enjoy the famous Blue Danube

by Strauss II, Strauss I’s rollicking Radetzky March, Korngold’s nostalgic Straussiana Polka, and more. Under the direction of Leader and Concertmaster David Adams and joined by WNO’s latest Associate Artist, this lively and heart-warming concert will have you waltzing into the new year in style.

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GwyrddNi staff at Dyffryn Nantlle

Actionstations

Sianed and Méabh - two of the youngest members of the Dyffryn Nantlle Assembly

GwyrddNi is a climate action movement based in Gwynedd.

Casia Wiliam explains a little bit more about this community led programme, and what it means for this North Wales region…

It might be strange to open an article in North Wales

“We wanted to host and facilitate a neutral space, where

Magazine with a quote from an American, but it was

anyone – whatever their ideas about climate change –

Margaret Mead, the cultural anthropologist from Philadelphia

could come and talk about it with others from the area,”

in the US who said: “Never doubt that a small group of

explains Grant Peisley, GwyrddNi’s director. “After a lot of

thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed,

research we decided to go for Community Assemblies on

it is the only thing that ever has.”

the Climate. They’re similar to a Citizen’s Jury or Citizens Assembly which have been used elsewhere, but what we

It was with these words in mind that GwyrddNi, a Climate

are doing differently is, rather than preparing or reviewing

Action Movement based in Gwynedd, set to work.

climate policies for local or national government, the aim of the GwyrddNi assemblies is to create a local Action Plan.

The Movement is funded by the National Lottery’s Climate

This will include a host of ideas on how we together, as

Action Fund, and delivered in partnership with six local,

communities, can take climate action in each specific local

community organisations; Datblygiadau Egni Gwledig (DEG)

area.”

in Caernarfon, Partneriaeth Ogwen in Dyffryn Ogwen, Cyd Ynni in Dyffryn Peris, Siop Griffiths in Dyffryn Nantlle,

Over 22,000 invites were sent out across Dyffryn Ogwen,

Cwmni Bro in Bro Ffestiniog, and Ynni Llŷn in Pen Llŷn.

Dyffryn Nantlle, Dyffryn Peris, Pen Llŷn and Bro Ffestiniog,

All organisations that are grounded and rooted in their communities, delivering for the people of the area.

GwyrddNi’s aim is to inspire and support climate

Bro Ffestiniog Assembly talk on biodiversity

action across Gwynedd, but in order to ensure longterm, sustainable change, a good deal of discussion, thought and planning must happen first. So how do you bring together entire communities to have one big conversation?

NEVER DOUBT THAT A SMALL GROUP OF THOUGHTFUL, COMMITTED, CITIZENS CAN CHANGE THE WORLD. INDEED, IT IS THE ONLY THING THAT EVER HAS

NWM 2022 Page 31

MAGAZINE

Group discussion

Eluned from the Dyffryn Ogwen Assembly

“Coming to this assembly has changed my life a little bit.

I’ve started getting a veg box delivered to my house and I feel like I’m being healthier and doing something that’s better for the planet too.”

NOW THAT WE’VE GOT THIS FIRM FOUNDATION WE’LL BE MOVING INTO THE NEXT PHASE TO GENERATE CLIMATE ACTION PROJECTS AND IDEAS

Gwenno from the Dyffryn Peris Assembly

“I feel like a lot of ideas are starting to emerge and are surfacing together. I feel quite excited and full of hope. It’s really nice as someone who

inviting residents to express an interest in joining the

has moved into the area, it’s nice to make deeper

assembly, with information about the expected commitment,

connections and really get to know people.”

and payment at the end as acknowledgement of their time and dedication. Applications flooded in and representatives from across the communities were selected. A series of

and economic development sector for over a decade. “We’ll

four assemblies will be held in each area, with the process

be hearing from children and young people who have been

already half way, and set to be completed by the end of next

taking part in GwyrddNi’s education programme too, and

spring.

working up and fleshing all of these out together to make sure they work for everyone and are future-proof. We’re

“In the first assemblies we’ve taken time to look at what

seeing a mix of big and small ideas starting to come out of

assets, projects and resources already exist locally,” explains

the sessions, from renewable energy initiatives, things like

Nina Bentley, GwyrddNi’s facilitator in Bro Ffestiniog. “We’ve

seaweed farming and ideas for insulation for old buildings, to

also heard about people’s personal experiences of climate

repair cafés, local allotments and swap shops.”

change, and held inspiring sessions to envision the future we would like to see for our community in 10, 20 and 30

There’s so much energy and hope in the assemblies too. As

years time, before we co-create the map that will get us

Nina in Bro Ffestiniog concludes: “It’s going to be so exciting

there.”

to see these action plans come to life very soon. I can’t wait!” n

The assembly members in all areas have also heard from

Want to know more?

a raft of speakers, from other community-led organisations

Head over to www.gwyrddni.cymru for more information,

such as the Bude Climate Partnership in Cornwall, to local

or visit www.bit.ly/AddewidGwyrddNiPledge to sign the

experts on biodiversity, climate change scientists, local food-

pledge to receive the final Action Plans. The more people

growing initiatives and community owned energy ventures.

who stand ready to support a sustainable future for the communities of north Wales, the more likely it is to happen.

“Now that we’ve got this firm foundation we’ll be moving into the next phase to generate climate action projects and ideas,”

twitter.com/GwyrddNi & Facebook.com/GwyrddNi &

continues Grant, who has been working in the community

Instagram.com/GwyrddNi_

Page 32 NWM 2022

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An Indigo Summer Local artist Ellie Evelyn Orrell has released her first book, An Indigo Summer, which has been cited as an absorbing and lyrical mediation on art, rural life and roots, grief, and creativity…

One summer, a mother and daughter are reunited in the small village of Betws Gwerful Goch in North Wales following the death of a father and grandfather.

Ellie returned from studying at university, while Jeanette had

WITHOUT MAKING, WITHOUT CREATIVE PRACTICES, HEALING IS FAR MORE DIFFICULT – PERHAPS EVEN IMPOSSIBLE

been studying the art of indigo dyeing in Japan. gardening, knitting, illustrating and reading – are an In this lyrical memoir, Ellie Evelyn Orrell transports readers to

important, often overlooked, backdrop to the art we create.

their hillside garden, reflecting on a summer spent learning to work with indigo, and witnessing the power and process of

“There is a certain feeling – standing between rows of richly

creativity in moments of mourning and recovery.

dyed blue cloth – that you are within an enclave of protection, that within this ocean you can feel calm; a separation from the

An Indigo Summer weaves together stories of resettling

outside world,” explains Ellie. n

in a once-familiar landscape; the healing powers of art; the historical, mythological and present date properties of

Ellie Evelyn Orrell is an artist and designer who spent her

indigo; and the presence of this indelible colour in the Welsh

childhood in a small village set between two hills in North

landscape.

Wales. She currently splits her time between Wales and London. She has written for ‘Santes Dwynwen’, ‘Our Isles’

Including original photography and artwork from the author,

and Craftspace among other

An Indigo Summer is a beautiful meditation on the artistic

publications. An Indigo Summer

process – how creativity evolves and blooms over time and

is Ellie’s first book, and it is

how the patterns and routines of our daily lives – cooking,

published by Calon.

NWM 2022 Page 37

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A STAR IS BORN Plas Dinas Country House near Caernarfon is celebrating its well-earned five gold star recognition from the AA…

5* Plas Dinas Country House, the former home of the

require a second visit to achieve that. Special mentions

remarkable Lord Snowdon, offers ten individually styled

were made about the incredible designs, the dedicated

bedrooms, beautiful grounds, award-winning Gunroom

housekeeping team with impeccable standards and Severine

Restaurant, and attention to detail that rivals the best.

who is a senior manager.

Due to Covid, many hotels and restaurants are currently

The house has been lovingly restored by owners Daniel and

awaiting to be assessed by the AA. A hospitality standards

Annie Perks during recent lockdowns, each room designed to

agency that rates hotels and restaurants and is of huge

represent a role or person within the Armstrong-Jones family.

importance to the industry. Businesses are assessed through

The Gunroom Restaurant, headed up by Daniel ap Geraint

a mystery visit or stay and the owners are never aware of

creates a monthly changing menu using only the freshest

their arrival or presence during their stay until the end,

seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. Distinct choices

where the result is announced.

of starter, main and dessert are interspersed with delicious hidden courses creating a unique dining, that balances

Last week the owners and team at Plas Dinas Country House

sumptuous indulgence with individual variety. The Gunroom

were made aware that they had just been visited, it sadly

Restaurant was recently added to the Michelin Guide and is

came after the awards ceremony that took place a few weeks

certainly a restaurant to add to the list to visit.

earlier, but the results were most fabulous and certainly worth waiting three years for.

It is recommended that you arrive half an hour before so you can enjoy a pre-dinner drink and canapés in either the

Development work and redesigns took place on the entire

beautiful Drawing Room or intimate Gunroom Bar, which

experience since September 2019 when Daniel and Annie

features a selection of trendy cocktails and delectable gins

took over the business. Daniel ap Geraint, a renowned local

as well as other spirits and wines. Plas Dinas Country House

head chef, Cosmin a very talented sous and their team of

also serves a delightful afternoon tea that is available daily

incredible chefs have pushed and pushed to develop the

in various settings throughout the house, with a choice of

dining experience on offer at The Gunroom Restaurant. The

unique loose tea blends, delicious homemade cakes and

dedicated team have now been awarded 5 GOLD stars, the

dainty savouries. n

highest rating they can possibly get, a breakfast award for exceptional breakfasts and 2 rosettes putting The Gunroom in

Plas Dinas is an award-winning historic Country House set

the top 5% of restaurants in the UK. The inspector mentioned

in the heart of Snowdonia. Further information can be found

that 3 rosettes are within touching distance, but would

at www.plasdinas.co.uk

NWM 2022 Page 39

BREWERY SHOP OPEN FOR CANS, MERCH, VOUCHERS & CHRISTMAS GIFTS. Unit 4, Cae Bach, Builder St, Llandudno, LL30 1DR // Wildhorsebrewing.co.uk

Go

At No tra r th cti on Wa of les the 2 ye 021 ar !

Distillery and Shop

open 7 days a week.

To book your tour, visit our website or call us on

SHOP

TOURS

01492 701530

MASTERCLASSES

www.penderyn.wales/llandudno Penderyn Distillery, Lloyd Street, Llandudno, LL30 2YG

Food for thought

I’m sure there’s something I have to remember in November. Around the fifth, I think. No, it’s gone. I’m sure it will come to me. Perhaps it was a

reminder to think of all the lovely things that we can enjoy in November, despite its rather dismal reputation.

This is very much the time for donning the wellies and going out into the North Wales countryside trudging through conker-strewn lanes, ideally en route to a pub with a fire crackling away in the hearth.

There’s also the immense pleasure one can take in defiantly resisting any mention of Christmas until the first day of next month, thwarting the best efforts of supermarkets trying to sell you mince pies with expiry dates that don’t even take them past Bonfire Night (oh, that’s right, now I remember).

For me, November is all about the kind of slow cooked meals that make you glow like something from an old Ready Brek commercial. The French are masters of this. Cassoulets and Bakeofes are staples over there in the autumn.

CARBONADE DE BOEUF Serves 4 hungry souls

I recently made a variation on a recipe Mum used to make in Paysanne called a Carbonade de Boeuf, which is based on a Flemish recipe, given a local touch by using Clogwyn Gold ale instead of Dutch beer…

J Olive oil J 800g braising steak. I used some bavette steak from R. Evans in

Preheat the oven to about 150˚C (FAN). You’ll need a good quality casserole

Llandudno, which had been trimmed

(with a lid) that you can put over a direct heat. Heat some olive oil in the

and cut into large chunks

casserole and patiently brown the beef chunks three at a time. Put the

J Plain flour

browned meat into a separate bowl while you repeat the process. Once all

J 1 500ml bottle of beer or ale – your

the beef is in that bowl, toss the onion slices into the casserole and cook

choice!

slowly golden. Add the chopped garlic and stir in.

J 1 large onion, peeled and sliced J 2 cloves of garlic, finely chopped

Then put the beef back into the casserole and mix everything up.

J 2 Bay leaves

Sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour and stir until all the juices have been absorbed. Then add the beer, heat until is all starts to bubble, give it one last stir, then add the bay leaves, some salt and pepper, and pop the lid on.

Cai Ross is co-owner and

Maitre d’ of the award-winning

Stick it in the oven for about two and a half hours

Paysanne Bistro in Deganwy,

and let it fill the house with drool-inducing aromas. I

which has been serving French

think this is best served with a mashed potato dish

country-style food to the fine

like Colcannon, and perhaps some carrots (which you

people of North Wales since

can even stir in at the end). You can steal a tip from

1988. He also writes for Calibre

Delia and make some toasted croutes with mustard

Magazine, BBC Good Food,

spread on top to give it that je ne sais quoi. n

HeyUGuys.com and The North Wales Weekly News

Don’t fancy cooking?

01492 582079 / @PaysanneDeganwy / www.paysannedeganwy.co.uk

NWM 2022 Page 41

MAGAZINE

The Selling & Letting Agents

Sales / Lettings - 3 Lancaster Square, Conwy LL32 8HT • Tel: 01492 583100 Sales - 1a Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea LL28 4PS • Tel: 01492 549178 email: conwy@fletcherpoole.com

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

RHOS ON SEA

PENRHYN BAY £159,950

£89,950

• One Bedroom Second Floor Apartment • Part Of A Well Maintained Development • Enjoys Spectacular Sea Views • Allocated Parking Space

• NO CHAIN • One Bedroom First Floor Retirement Apartment • Convenient Location & Close To Local Amenities • Part Of A Well Maintained Development RP2854 EPC Band C

EPC

F

COLWYN BAY

RHOS ON SEA £139,950

Reduced From £149,950

• NO CHAIN • One Bedroom Ground Floor Apartment • Situated Close To The Amenities Of Rhos on Sea • Garden To Front & Rear

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

£359,950

• Beautifully Presented Four Bedroom Detached House • Modern Open Plan Kitchen/Diner • Situated Close To Local Amenities • Off Road Parking & Garage

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.15-5.00 SATURDAY 9.30-4.00

INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS

Page 42 NWM 2022

VALUATION - If you are thinking of moving at anytime in the near future please do not hesitate to ask for a FREE SALES VALUATION www.fletcherpoole.com

The Selling & Letting Agents

Sales / Lettings - 3 Lancaster Square, Conwy LL32 8HT • Tel: 01492 583100 Sales - 1a Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea LL28 4PS • Tel: 01492 549178 email: conwy@fletcherpoole.com

email: rhos@fletcherpoole.com

LLANDUDNO JUNCTION

LLANDUDNO JUNCTION £395,000

£450,000

• Four Bedroom Detached Home With Garage • Open Plan Living Space With Conservatory • Immaculately Presented • Situated In A Popular And Convenient Location

• Immaculately Presented Four Bedroom Detached Home • Situated In A Highly Sought After Location • South Facing Rear Garden • Good Size Driveway & Double Garage With Electric Car Charging Point

EPC

LLANDUDNO JUNCTION £380,000

• Four Bedroom Detached Home With Garage • Open Plan Living Space With Conservatory • Immaculately Presented • Situated In A Popular And Convenient Location

website: www.fletcherpoole.com

F

LLANDUDNO JUNCTION offers over £290,000

• • • •

Immaculate Two Bedroom Detached Bungalow Situated On The Edge Of The Village Beautiful Landscaped Gardens Views Over Conwy Mountain And Marl Hall Woods

OPENING HOURS: MONDAY – FRIDAY 9.15-5.00 SATURDAY 9.30-4.00

INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENTS VALUATION - If you are thinking of moving at anytime in the near future please do not hesitate to ask for a FREE SALES VALUATION www.fletcherpoole.com

NWM 2022 Page 43

MAGAZINE

£350,000

Abergele

Ref: WR11200

Betws Gwerfil Goch Ref: RH1697

£1,400,000

• Four Bedroom Detached House

• Castle Green Development

• Gorgeous Detached Extended Farmhouse

• Approx 10 Acres of Land

• Off Street Parking & Integral Garage

• Open-Plan Living

• Stables and Menage

• Private and Rural Location

• Large Rear Garden

• Within Close Proximity to A55

• Outstanding Hillside Views

• Immaculate Throughout

• Well Presented & Modern Throughout

• EPC Rating – B 84

• Having Undergone Recent Renovations

• EPC Rating – TBC

Gwernymynydd

Offers in Excess of

£250,000

Ref: WM1192 • Two Bedroom Semi Detached Family Home

• Additional Loft Room

• Walking Distance to Loggerheads Country Park • Off Street Parking • Benefitting a Modern Kitchen with Breakfast Area • Well Presented Throughout • Lovely Rear Courtyard

Page 44 NWM 2022

• EPC Rating - TBC

£495,000 Tremeirchion

Lleweni

Ref: WE7444

£349,000

Ref: WE7437

• Five Bedroom Property

• Contemporary Converted Corn Barn

• Four Bedroom Stone Built Cottage

• Full of Character Throughout

• Set Within Private Landscaped Gardens

• Quiet, Rural Location

• Gorgeous Views of the Welsh Countryside

• Sought After Village Location

• Gorgeous Views Towards the Clwydian Hills

• Double Garage

• Private Rear Gardens

• Open-Plan Kitchen/Living Room

• Master Bedroom with Ensuite

• EPC Rating – D 60

• Two Sitting Rooms

• EPC Rating – E 45

Mostyn

From

£174,950

Ref: WP9611 • Recently Renovated into Five Luxury Homes

• Semi-Rural Location

• Enjoying Panoramic Views of the Dee Estuary

• Allocated Parking

• All Individually Designed for Modern Day Living

• Close to Amenities

• All Appreciating Their Own Individual Characteristics

• EPC Rating - TBC

NWM 2022 Page 45

DEWCH O HYD I’CH CWRS PERFFAITH

byddwch yn rhan ohono

be part of it

choose

find your perfect course wgu.ac.uk/ bepartofit

Business NEWS Are you ready to take your business to the next level?

The government-backed Help to Grow: Management course is delivered in collaboration with industry experts and experienced entrepreneurs. You’ll create a bespoke growth plan to help your business reach its full potential.

The course, which is 90% subsidised by government and costs just £750 will include:

Rydal Penrhos hosts wedding awards Rydal Penrhos was thrilled to host the 2022 North Wales Wedding Guide Awards, which is an annual occasion organised by Wedding Guide Wales magazine. This took place on Sunday 23rd October and is the first time the awards have been held in person following recent COVID-19 restrictions.

The glamorous occasion was held in the newly refurbished Osborn Hall, the Grade II Listed jewel in Rydal Penrhos’ crown that has been transformed into an area that pupils can use

J 1:1 support from a mentor to apply what you’ve learned to your business

J Learn from peers and network with businesses just like yours

J You can take part around existing work commitments and access learning through a blend of online and faceto-face sessions

J If your business employs between ten and 249 people, you can send up to two participants on the course

J Previous participants on the Small Business Leadership Programme can also join the course

J The course is 90% subsidised by government and costs

to hold events, where guest speakers can come and talk to

just £750. It is aimed at senior leaders of small and

pupils and play a leading part in major gatherings alongside

medium sized businesses

the Memorial Hall. The first few weddings are already in place within the Osborn Hall and we are delighted to be able to offer this new venue to couples on Saturdays and throughout the holidays. The awards were a remarkable success, showcasing the best North Wales weddings have to offer in one of the most picturesque settings imaginable.

J Give your business a competitive edge with 1:1 mentoring, peer networking, and tailored in-depth training For more information contact Nicola Sturrs, Business

Development Manager at Bangor Business School on 01248 383024 / n.sturrs@bangor.ac.uk

Free podcast gives advice on small claims court Experts at a North Wales law firm are seeing a big rise in people looking to pursue cases in small claims court as individuals and businesses battle with the cost of living crisis. Dispute resolution specialists at Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors in Conwy have recorded a podcast where they explain the small claims process to help people who may be considering making a claim. Katie Baker (pictured), of the dispute resolution department in Conwy, said: “One of the key factors of small claims court is that it only awards very limited costs to the successful party, so a claim is usually run by a Litigant in Person rather than a solicitor, to cut down on legal fees. That’s one of the main reasons we wanted to do this podcast, because people are often unfamiliar with the process and need some support. If you decide to make a claim, the first thing you should do is write to the other party to set out the issues which you believe gives rise to the claim for payment or reimbursement. The pre-action stage is vital to any case, whatever the value of the claim, so it’s worth seeking advice to make sure you get this right to avoid any delays.”

NWM 2022 Page 47

Weddings & Events at Rydal Penrhos

Enquire now events@rydalpenrhos.com • 01492 530155 rydalpenrhos.com

Location, location

Organising an internal event or perhaps even an external one for clients or the wider industry you operate in can be difficult. But such occasions are an excellent tool for improving communication and Rydal Penrhos has everything you might be looking for.

If you are arranging this specifically for your staff, it is a superb method of improving productivity, company culture and morale. When working day in and day out, it can be easy to fall out of love with your profession.

This might seem like a hassle, especially with the ongoing stresses of a working environment now that offices are bustling once again following a significant period of disruption due to COVID-19. What better way to get everyone back into the swing of things than hosting a team-building event to get everyone singing from the same hymn sheet.

Rydal Penrhos recently opened its exceptional campus to

Rydal Penrhos caters for these occasions, too. Their vast

such events, which have been hugely popular and a roaring

campus and sporting facilities are the perfect places for

success so far. The school boasts spacious meeting and

team building exercises or a corporate away day. They also

conference rooms that can host anywhere between 5-250

have a 25-metre swimming pool, a large sports hall and large

guests and come complete with state of the art AV equipment

outdoor spaces available for hire with a multitude of different

for presentations or other interactive tools.

possibilities.

Their facilities include smaller rooms, ideal for group training,

The staff team will be happy to assist with the planning

the Dining Hall and the Memorial Hall which are available for

aspect of such events to ease the burden. They are helpful,

larger conferences and for refreshments in-between sessions

vastly experienced and go above and beyond the call of duty

courtesy of Rydal Penrhos’ exceptional catering team.

to ensure your stay will be everything you hoped for and more.

Team building in the workplace is the process of creating a

The school has accommodation available for those looking to

team that is cohesively working together towards a common

organise weekend activities, with Rydal Penrhos fortunate

goal. The importance of team building is to create a strong

to be situated in a fantastic location close to the beach, with

team through forming bonds and connections.

some prominent North Wales landmarks also within close distance and a nearby railway station in Colwyn Bay just a

Creating these bonds through team building is very beneficial

stone’s throw from the A55 expressway.

to businesses and organisations. The benefits of team building include increased communication, planning skills, employee

Rydal Penrhos is proud to be at the heartbeat of the local area

motivation, and employee collaboration.

and we look forward to welcoming many more organisations, businesses, clubs and societies in the coming months. n

Fun activities that help people see each other in a different light allow them to connect in a different setting. People on

Anyone wishing to enquire about booking Rydal Penrhos’

your team are asked to think about the implications of these

exceptional facilities, contact 01492 530155 or emailevents@

activities at their workplace.

rydalpenrhos.com for more information.

NWM 2022 Page 49

MAGAZINE

CYFREITHWYR•SOLICITORS

Ein Pobl, Eich Tîm Our People, Your Team Yma i helpu…

Here to Help…

Mae ein swyddfeydd agor ar gyfer cyfarfodydd sydd wedi eu trefnu o flaen llaw ac er mwyn gollwng dogfennau. Rydym eisoes yn cynnig cyfarfodydd dros y ffôn a thrwy fideo.

Our offices are open for pre-arranged appointments and to drop off documents, we continue to offer meetings via telephone and video.

Rydym ni’n cynnig ystod eang o wasanaethau cyfreithiol, sy’n cynnwys:

Offering a wide range of legal services including:

• • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • •

Eiddo Masnachol a Phreswyl Amaethyddiaeth Ewyllysiau, Ymddiriedolaethau a Phrofiant Cyfraith Teulu Cyflogaeth Corfforaethol a Masnachol Anghydfodau Troseddau Moduro Niwed Personol ac Esgeulustod Meddygol

Commercial & Residential Property Agriculture Wills, Trusts & Probate Family Law Employment Corporate & Commercial Disputes Motoring Offences Personal Injury & Medical Negligence

Swyddfa Conwy Office 1 & 2 Connaught House, Riverside Business Park, Benarth Road, Conwy LL32 8UB

01492 557070 info@lblaw.co.uk www.lblaw.co.uk

Page 50 NWM 2022

Yr Amwythig • Bromyard • Conwy • Henffordd • Llwydlo • Croesoswallt • Telford Shrewsbury • Bromyard • Conwy • Hereford • Ludlow • Oswestry • Telford

Friendly team of residential property specialists is expanding to meet demand in North Wales Since opening their doors in Conwy in 2019, the residential property department at Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors has gone from strength to strength.

Starting with just one conveyancer back in 2019, Vicky

clients is testimony to the service we offer. Despite the current

Clishem joined the department less than a year later in

uncertainty in the world with rising interest rates, a national

February 2020. A month later, Covid hit our shores, and the

cost of living crisis, the property market currently remains

country plummeted into lockdown along with a new way of

quite steady, with the team remaining busy with plenty of

living of which we had never encountered before.

new instructions.

Ruth Edwards, residential property team leader at Lanyon

“The new Land Transaction Tax rates introduced by the

Bowdler in Conwy, explains what that meant for the property

Welsh Revenue Authority came into force on 10th October,

market here in North Wales…

whilst the impact this may have on the market remains to be seen, we hope that it is likely to have a positive impact on the

“The fears regarding the future of the property market

market particularly for first time buyers.”

were rife, with many worried that the market would take a downward turn. However, the extreme opposite occurred, the

Lanyon Bowdler’s residential property team in Conwy consists

market flourished with the property market experiencing

of solicitors Ruth Edwards, Vicky Clishem and Niamh O’Toole,

an all-time boom,” she explained. “The market has remained

legal executive Emma Lewis, with Sara Harris and Amy

unprecedentedly buoyant ever since, with property demand

Hughes assisting and supporting. The team deals with all

leading to escalating prices and mortgage rates remaining low.

types of properties all over the country including new builds

The team here at Lanyon Bowdler have embraced the tide,

and leaseholds.

and a team of two lawyers and one assistant quickly grew to meet demand - now we are a team of six!

“We are a friendly bunch who enjoy assisting and looking after our clients at a time which can be unsettling and

“We pride ourselves on a quality personal service with

stressful,” concluded Ruth. n

someone always at the end of the phone to discuss any concerns. We like to think that the number of returning

Why not give the team a call on 01492 557070 or visit www.lblaw.co.uk for more information.

NWM 2022 Page 51

Sixth Form Information Evening Thursday 17 November 18:00 admissions@rydalpenrhos.com • 01492 530155 rydalpenrhos.com

Learning by heart Although moving up from Senior School to Rydal Penrhos Sixth Form is obviously exciting, this can also be a daunting prospect for Year 11 upon finishing their GCSEs. In addition to the exam pressures, they must also mentally prepare for making the transition into a more independent way of learning while also making plans for the next step of their respective journeys at university or within the working world.

Rydal Penrhos combines academic development at a crucial period with preparing each pupil for what lies ahead.

Specialist transition days, career events and bonding with their peers during team-building activities are just some of the strategic methods implemented by the school, which are proven to build the right foundations for a successful final two years before moving on.

We understand that Sixth Formers are older and more independent – but there are still people on hand to guide and help as they navigate their way through classes, exams and

This is something that our teaching staff are mindful of very

what comes next.

early in the process. They acknowledge the strains that any changes might have on young learners and go above and

Starting your A Levels can be a strange and stressful time.

beyond the call of duty to ensure each pupil is fully prepared

You’ve spent the last two years building up to your GCSEs only

for any challenges coming their way.

to find that actually a bigger, more important, nastier set of exams has sprung up on the horizon.

Our Sixth Form pupils know they are lucky and as such, they work hard to represent the school as exemplary ambassadors,

While this is again a challenging proposition, teaching staff

giving back to the school and wider community with

ease the pressure by introducing each pupil gradually into the

boundless energy and enthusiasm. Becoming role models to

A Level curriculum, ensuring they select the right subjects in

younger pupils is a source of great pride for them all – skills

keeping with their potential career path and providing expert

they take through into later life as part of the exceptional

advice in pursuit of putting pupils’ best interests at heart.

foundations they receive at Rydal Penrhos.

The evidence is there to further indicate how this care The Sixth Form experience comes with a proven ethos of

assists. Rydal Penrhos has a rich and proud history of

teamwork, leadership and service underpinned by a sense

examination results, extra-curricular accomplishments are

of intellectual curiosity. Effective teacher/pupil ratios and

vast and the school is held in the highest regard throughout

bespoke pastoral care ensure that pupils move forward ready

the Colwyn Bay and Conwy regions.

and willing to contribute their skills to the wider world around them, maintaining strong well-being and confidence at an

However, the best example of all comes from our Sixth

integral stage in a safe, happy environment.

Formers themselves, not the statistics to which they are attached. A glowing representation of everything good at

Tutor groups are deliberately small and caring, meaning tutors

Rydal Penrhos School. n

can take the time to know their pupils, forging relationships that will challenge them to fulfil their ambitions.

These elements make it more relaxing for those in Year 11 to

John Waszek is the Principal of Rydal Penrhos

make their own transitions. Studying for GCSE examinations is hard enough without the added sense of knowing things are going to change drastically almost immediately after.

NWM 2022 Page 53

Independent Boarding & Day School Ages 9-19

AHOEC ASSOCIATION OF HEADS OF OUTDOOR EDUCATION CENTRES

Award winning education set in a 30 acre Tudor Estate, nestled between Snowdonia National Park and the North Wales coastline

ADMISSIONS FOR SEPTEMBER 2023 OPEN Upcoming Open Days: 11th February 2023 | 20th May 2023

FIND OUT MORE AT WWW.STDAVIDSCOLLEGE.CO.UK GLODDAETH HALL, LLANDUDNO LL30 1RD | ADMISSIONS@STDAVIDSCOLLEGE.CO.UK | TEL: +44 (0)1492 875974

@stdavidscollege

@stdavidscollege_llandudno

@StDavidsCollege

St David’s College News

College announces awards success

Ski team wins Welsh Schools Championships Last month in Llangranog, the St David’s College

St David’s College, based just outside Llandudno, has won

ski team were in winning ways. The boys Team

the Independent School of the Year Innovation Award for

A held off stiff competition from schools from all

an Outstanding New Initiative for 2022.

over Wales to be crowned as the Welsh School Champions! The Team consisting of Louis Barclay

Independent Schools of the Year 2022 is an awards

(yr9), Olivier “Biv” Gilmartin (yr10), and Hudson

programme that has been created to promote the

Lamb (yr8) beat a field of approximately 50 boys

exceptional student experience that our independent

in 10 teams to bring the title back to Llandudno

schools offer while showcasing the success stories that

for the first time in our school’s history. The Girls

come from the sector. The 22 different award categories

team came home with a silver in their competition

capture the range and variety of a pupil’s experience in the

narrowly missing out on top spot. Mya Ditchfield

independent education industry. At the award ceremony at

(yr7), Teagan Girling (yr10), Olivia Bartwicki (yr9),

the Royal Thames Yacht Club in London, St David’s edged

and Agatha Favill (yr9) skied as part of a team with

out strong competition from all over the country to bring

Lucy Duncalf skiing as an independent. The Boys

the coveted honour back home to North Wales.

Team B made up of Will Greenhalgh (yr10), George Greenhalgh (yr7), and Archie Dunn (yr11) finished

St David’s College was awarded the prize for its “…

5th overall which is impressive as George only

fascinating and innovative approach to supporting highly

came into the team on Thursday afternoon and

dyspraxic pupils in sport.” Director of Sport at St David’s

it was Will and Archie’s first race of the season.

College, Mr. Dan Lycett said: “We’re all really proud that as

Olivier “Biv” Gilmartin (yr10) also finished as the

a department and school our investment into a different

fastest non-registered racer with Hudson Lamb

way of delivering sport and PE has been recognised. It

(yr8) finishing as third fastest. “We’re incredibly

goes a long way to highlight the success of a more holistic

proud of all our skiers,” commented headmaster

and inclusive approach that is anchored in co-creation

Mr Andrew Russell. “They’ve worked hard and

and driven by the individual needs of pupils. Our jobs are

demonstrated that ‘never give up’ spirit that

to constantly reflect and adjust to make better personal

encapsulates everything we do here at St David’s

experiences. So, we want to keep talking, researching, and

College. I’m really thrilled that the Boys Team A won

sharing with anyone who can help make PE the subject we

the championship for our school for the first time.

all want it to be.”

It’s a tremendous honour for them and something that can never be taken away.”

NWM 2022 Page 55

MAGAZINE

Digwyddiadau Agored Open Events Mae digwyddiadau agored yn gyfle i weld ein campysau a'n cyfleusterau tan gamp, i gyfarfod a'r tiwtoriaid ac i ddod i wybod rhagor am y dewis eang o gyrsiau rydym yn eu cynnig.

Open events are an opportunity to explore our campuses, discover our outstanding facilities, meet the tutors and find out about our wide range of courses.

Pwllheli

10/11/22

17:30 - 19:00

Pwllheli - Hafan (Peirianneg / Engineering)

10/11/22

17:30 - 19:00

Abergele

14/11/22

17:30 - 19:00

Llandrillo-yn-Rhos / Rhos-on-Sea

14/11/22

17:30 - 19:00

Bangor

15/11/22

16:30 - 19:00

Y Rhyl / Rhyl

15/11/22

17:30 - 19:00

Llangefni

16/11/22

16:30 - 19:00

Parc Menai (Celf a Dylunio / Art & Design)

17/11/22

16:30 - 19:00

Dolgellau

17/11/22

17:30 - 19:00

Dolgellau - CaMDA (Adeiladu a Pheirianneg / Construction and Engineering)

17/11/22

17:30 - 19:00

Glynllifon

26/11/22

09:00 - 13:00

Archebwch eich lle heddiw!

Book your place today!

Page 56 NWM 2022

gllm.ac.uk/events

Rydym yn croesawu ymholiadau yn Gymraeg neu Saesneg We welcome enquiries in Welsh or English

EDUCATION NEWS Wrexham Glyndwr part of new climate change project

Wrexham Glyndwr University is playing a key part in a multi-million-pound project taking an innovative approach to tackling climate change. The Royal College of Art’s (RCA) Ecological Citizens project has secured a £3.3 million grant to promote sustainable change through the digital economy.

WGU is working alongside the University of York’s Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) on the four-year EPSRC Digital Economy Programme to establish the Ecological Citizens NetworkPlus. The network has the potential to cover a wide range of pressing topics from biomaterials and wildlife corridors to local manufacturing and repair, and will draw on expertise from across the RCA, as well as academic and non-academic partners including Glyndwr.

Rydal Penrhos students sail to success

Rydal Penrhos sailors have secured a significant number of achievements regionally, nationally and even during prestigious international competitions in recent years.

Grŵp Llandrillo Menai announces November open events

under the experienced eye of the school’s training staff, with the programme organised

Grŵp Llandrillo Menai’s colleges

competed against other gifted talents from across the country at the RYA Cymru Wales

have announced their latest

Welsh Youth and Junior Championships, which took place at Pwllheli Sailing Club. Llion

suite of on-site open events

Morris, Sailing Commodore at the school, turned in a fantastic effort to secure the ILCA 7

across their campuses for

Welsh championship to further enhance his credentials ahead of a busy winter training

November 2022. Open events

programme with national squads. There was further cause for celebration as Freddie

are the perfect opportunity

MacLaverty, who recently represented Team GB at the ILCA World Championships in

to explore their campuses,

Portugal, finished first in the ILCA 6 Welsh Championship event, making it a memorable

discover their outstanding

double for two superb sailors in a competitive environment. Tom Sinfield, Ben Sinfield,

facilities, meet the tutors and

Millie Greenhalgh, Fflur Pierce and Keira Luke have also had an exceptional year.

Pupils develop their skills exceptionally by Petrina Blomeley, sailing principal. A large number of aspiring stars

find out about the wide range of courses. Coleg Llandrillo, Coleg Menai and Coleg MeirionDwyfor have 1,000s of options to

Ben Hay Presented With Worldskills Hoodie Former St David’s pupil Ben Hay has been presented with

suit your needs and to help you

his Team Wales hoodie as he prepared to represent Wales in

fulfil your potential, including

the WorldSkills National Finals in Mechanical Engineering:

the widest choice of full-time,

CAD in Middlesborough on 14th November. Ben, who left St

part-time, apprenticeships and

David’s College last year, has worked extremely hard to get

degree courses in North Wales.

to the finals and in the earlier rounds had to compete against

They offer over 30 AS/A Level

some seriously talented individuals who currently work in

courses, delivered by highly-

industry or are students on higher education courses. Ben

qualified and experienced

is unique in that he has acquired his skills and knowledge

tutors. With such a wide range

whilst still in the sixth form at a secondary school. Indeed,

of choice available, you can be

he has gained quite a reputation for himself for being one

sure to find the right subjects

of the best in the business and thoroughly deserving of his

for you.

place in the National Competition.

NWM 2022 Page 57

israddedig

DIWRNODAU AGORED

Darganfyddwch pam mae Prifysgol Glyndŵr Wrecsam yn iawn i chi – archebwch eich lle diwrnod agored heddiw.

wgu.ac.uk/agored

Methu mynychu diwrnod agored? Cymerwch ein taith rithwir ac archwilio’r campws o ble bynnag rwyt ti yn y byd:

wgu.ac.uk/Rhithdaith 1af yn Lloegr a Chymru am foddhad myfyrwyr The Complete University Guide 2023

UNDERGRADUATE

OPEN DAYS

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Can’t make it to an open day? Take our virtual tour and explore the campus from wherever you are in the world:

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Community

News Rooted in Wales Siop Mostyn’s new retail showcase exhibition, Rooted

Awards success for Lavinia Stamps

Lavinia Stamps in Ruthin are

in Wales, is open now until 21st January, and offers an

delighted to be finalists in

opportunity to explore a wealth of contemporary craft,

the West Cheshire and North

design and print during the festive season. Located within

Wales Chamber of Commerce

the Mostyn Gallery in Llandudno, a few minutes from

Recognition Awards for 2022

the station and the Parc

in the Business of the Year

Llandudno retail park, it

Award Category sponsored

presents a curated collection

by ellis+co and Export and

of artists and makers who

International Trade Award

all share a connection to

Category sponsored by

Wales, be it through birth,

ITAS. Lavinia Stamps was

location or study. Working

established in 2005 when founder artist Tracey Dutton

across a variety of mediums

started to design stamps for the card making industry and

including printmaking, jewellery, textiles and ceramics, it’s

they have never looked back. )ver the last year Lavinia

the perfect place to start your Christmas shopping! Mostyn

Stamps have increased their business and now export to over

is part of the Collectorplan scheme, which allows you to

40 countries worldwide, direct to individual retail customers,

buy unique pieces of contemporary art and craft over a

and specialist independent retailers. Trading predominantly

period of twelve months interest free, and is available on all

online with a small retail shop and gallery, their customer

purchases over £50.

base has grown significantly which has benefited from an increased presence on social media platforms.

Colwyn Bay Artisan Market returns Join the Colwyn Bay Artisan Market on Saturday November 19th for North Wales’ biggest Artisan Market and enjoy live music, sweet treats, cocktails, hot food, street entertainment and free fun for the kids all while shopping for the very best arts, crafts and creations! Start your Christmas shopping here and you’ll be buying unique and authentic gifts whilst supporting small creative businesses in your local community.

You can help a young refugee Every year around 36 million young people are displaced globally because of conflict and violence. More than 100 of these young refugees will come to Wales every year seeking shelter and support. Many local authority foster carers are already providing vital support, but more are needed to address the ongoing crisis. One local authority foster carer, who provided support for a young refugee in North Wales said: “When the young woman left my home, she left happy. She told me that when she grows up, she is going to foster too! That was so nice to hear. It meant that she understood and appreciated what we did for her. I feel very satisfied that I could help someone, even for a short period of time, I could help.” All 22 local authorities in Wales, as Foster Wales, are issuing an urgent call for people to come forward to help these young people in need. Your help can make a big difference to their lives. To find out how you can support a young refugee in Flintshire visit: fosterwales.gov. wales/you-can-help-a-young-refugee, or call 01352 701965.

NWM 2022 Page 59

Abbeyfield Colwyn Bay Abbeyfield offer a fully inclusive life, including all your heating and food bills in a sheltered housing setting Why not try our guest/respite room to see if you would enjoy staying in an Abbeyfield House Ring Anna on 01492 533724 for more information Your family are welcome to visit you in your accommodation at any time, all flats and bedsits have door entry systems.

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For more information contact General Manager Anna Hamblett on 01492 533724 or email abbeyfieldcolwynbay@gmail.com

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Abbeyfield.com

Cassie, dearly missed by Jackie Roberts. “Our lovely Cassie was taken on a long walk, never to return to us.

It’s almost two years and we miss her still.”

Coping with the loss of a pet

Our pets are a huge part of our families. If you ever have to say goodbye to a pet, it can be a difficult and emotional time. Here at Tom Owen and Son, we experienced first-hand our own bereavement on 8th November 2021, when we lost our pet cat, Jeffrey. This article discusses pet bereavement and how we can cope with the grief.

The depth of the relationship between a family and their pet

Supporting a child through a pet bereavement

is deep and complex; animals become part of the fabric of

When a pet dies, it may be the first experience of loss for a

our lives. Pets bring companionship, fun and joy to our lives.

child. Many children love their pets deeply, especially if they

They offer comfort during the challenges in your life, and

have been around since they were young. It’s perfectly normal

they also form part of your day, creating a structure of social

for a child to feel scared that another animal or people may

and physical activities. It is therefore natural to feel immense

leave them. They may also feel angry about the death. To help

grief and sadness when a pet dies. The loss may also trigger

your child through the loss, the following may help:

painful and difficult emotions regarding other bereavements

J Be honest with your child. Don’t say ‘went to sleep’ or

you may have suffered.

pretend that the pet has run away. This will only cause confusion and feelings of betrayal if they learn the truth at

Coping with the loss of a pet

a later date;

J You should never feel embarrassed about the death of a pet. Others may not understand how you feel, but that’s ok;

J Feel free to cry, be angry, laugh and share memories; J Speak to others who have lost pets and will be able to

J Allow your child to express their own grief. Remind them that it is ok to show compassion and care about their pets;

J Provide reassurance to your child about the death of the pet, remind them that it wasn’t anyone’s fault and allow them to express their concerns and worries;

understand how you are feeling;

J Create a memorial, plant a tree or compile a scrapbook of photos and memories to celebrate their life;

J Take care of yourself – be sure to get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy diet, exercise and practice self-care.

J Involve your child in the process, allowing them to spend time with their pet and to say goodbye in their own way;

J Don’t rush into getting another pet which can suggest when someone dies we get over it by replacement;

J Encourage the child to create memories of your pet, such The grief associated with the death of a pet can become more

as a photo album or collage. Maybe a memory box of their

complicated when we have to make the decision to put them

collar, some of their fur, their favourite toy etc. Memorial

down. For many, this is the only time we are confronted with

jewellery is another way to always keep your pet close by;

a life-or-death decision and is compounded by the fact we cannot ask them what they want.

J Consider holding a memorial service for your pet, allowing them to choose songs and readings.

If you have any questions that you would like answering

Sophie the cocker spaniel, the beloved rescue dog of Fiona Edwards.

“Sophie was taken too soon due to the selfishness of others. I’ll never get over her.”

please send them to info@tomowenandson.com

Kelly Owen is the first female funeral director at Tom Owen and Son – an award-winning, family run, independent community Funeral Director situated in Llandudno. They provide a modern fresh approach to organising funerals that empowers you to have a unique funeral that is fitting for the person that has died.

For more information, please get in touch with one of the team by calling 01492 860 280 or visit the blog and website at https://www.tomowenandson.com/

NWM 2022 Page 61

allwch chi wneud gwahaniaeth i fywydau plant a phobl ifanc lleol yn sir y fflint? could you make a difference to the lives of local children and young people in flintshire?

Mae yna blant yn Sir y Fflint angen cartref maeth.

Lle diogel, lle i ddysgu, a lle i chwerthin.

Lle llawn cariad.

There are children in Flintshire who need a foster home.

A safe place, a place to learn, and a place to laugh.

A place to be loved.

I ddarganfod mwy: www.maethucymru.siryfflint.gov.uk Discover more at: www.fosterwales.flintshire.gov.uk

Sir y Fflint

c w

Flintshire

ydweithio i adeiladu gwell dyfodol i blant lleol orking together to build better futures for local children

The beautiful purple hairstreak butterfly can be spotted on this gentle walk © Philip Precey

Walking

world

Marford Quarry, near Wrexham This easy-going walk explores North Wales

Wildlife Trust’s Marford Quarry Nature reserve near Wrexham.

With over 1,000 recorded species, this nature reserve is an unexpected oasis of ‘wildness’ and one of the best places in Wales for invertebrates.

As its name suggests, the site was quarried for many years (supplying aggregate for the construction of the Mersey Tunnel) but, now that nature has truly reclaimed it for herself, insects thrive in the mix of post-industrial habitats.

Discover rare plants like wild liquorice (not the edible kind!), slow-worms and gorgeous butterflies such as the purple hairstreak.

Things you need to know

The route is very easy-going – even suitable for all-terrain pushchairs.

J Directions: Marford Quarry is located 2.5 miles north-east of Wrexham. Heading south into the village of Marford on the B5445, turn right onto Pant Lane in the village centre (immediately after the Red Lion pub). There is free parking at Maes y Pant car park, approximately 415 metres down Pant Lane (SJ 354 551; LL12 8HB).

J Time: 1-2 hours J Distance: 1.5 miles (2.8km) J OS Explorer Map: 256 What3words ///joys.rejects.removal

NWM 2022 Page 63

© David Tipling 2020 Vision © Philip Precey

7. Just before the next benches ahead on the right, turn left and left again – from here on in, you are starting to retrace your steps. Plenty of dead wood is left to rot on the reserve as habitat for invertebrates – see if you can

THE ROUTE

spot the striking ruby-tailed wasp as you walk. Very soon is another junction of paths. You should take the left-hand route, which returns you down the long straight path, the way you came in. Turn right out of the footpath onto Pant Lane to return to the car park.

1. Turn left out of the car park onto Pant Lane and walk along the left-hand pavement until you see a finger-post pointing left (shortly after crossing Quarry Brow). Follow this lovely

Although your guided walk finishes here, you are also

leafy path, noticing the huge, smooth-barked beech trees

free to explore the paths of Maes y Pant. The highlight is

among the sycamores.

the viewing area: to reach this, turn right past the Maes y Pant welcome sign and carry on along the track until you

2. When you come to the junction in paths (after about 300

reach a set of steep steps on the right. Climb the steps for

metres), take the right-hand path, passing a bench on the left

panoramic views over the trees and distant hills – on a

and carrying straight on. Ignore other paths leading off the track.

clear day you can even see Liverpool, 25 miles away. As you retrace your steps to the car park, look out for green

3. At the next fork, take the right-hand path, which climbs

and great spotted woodpeckers. n

steeply uphill. Notice the change in vegetation to ash, hawthorn and birch as you gain height, whilst the atmosphere becomes drier and the soil sandier. (If you wish to spot dragonflies and look for smooth newts, frogs and toads, dip down the left-hand path at the next junction to visit the pond – retrace your steps to return.)

4. The path carries on looping around the top of the reserve, skirting a fenced area. The fence prevents rabbits nibbling special plants such as bee orchid, pyramidal orchid and wild liquorice. In summer you

Discover more ‘Wildlife Walks’ across North Wales J Explore 23 walking routes in six counties J Visit 25 North Wales Wildlife Trust nature reserves

J Enjoy gentle strolls and whole-day rambles

J Full descriptive text and maps supplied

smell wafts of evening primrose and hear the repetitive song of the chiffchaff.

5. Continue along this path past a hedge of Lawson cypress, with glimpses of open countryside between the trees. Look out for alder, with their distinctive

RRP £7.50 from www.northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/shop Special offer to North Wales Magazine readers!

Get the Wild Walks book for FREE when you

become a member of North Wales Wildlife Trust.

cones; and mature hawthorns, with their red berries in

Just select ‘North Wales Magazine WB’ in the ‘how

autumn and white blossom in May. In summer you hear

did you hear from us’ section of the online form to

the loud chirring of grasshoppers. Growing around the

receive your free book.

path is wood sage, which smells pungent if you crush

northwaleswildlifetrust.org.uk/membership

the leaves. Before the path drops down, enjoy gorgeous views over the lush trees of the quarry – in autumn, the colours are spectacular.

6.The path loops around a second fenced area: in summer, see if you can spot the bubblegum-pink flowers of common centaury in the open area to the right of the path. Pass the circular benches on the right and take the mesh path leading left.

Page 64 NWM 2022

A WORD OF CAUTION

Walking in the outdoors can be a strenuous activity and it is up to you to ensure that you are fit and healthy enough to undertake the route described and to approach the venture with caution and care. You should wear appropriate footwear and suitable clothing, take along food and drink plus carry the relevant map and a compass and be able to use it. The details given here are believed to be correct at the time of going to press. However, neither North Wales Magazine nor the author can accept responsibility for inaccuracies encountered.

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MAGAZINE

IN THE

STARS...

While everyone remembers Russell Grant from his Breakfast TV appearances in the 1980’s, most people don’t realise that Russell was the first astrologer in over 300 years to present a horoscope forecast to a member of the Royal Family (HRH Queen Mother). Now dubbed the “Royal Astrologer” Russell has appeared on numerous television shows, including Strictly Come Dancing. He divides his time between London and his North Wales home near Portmeirion. www.russellgrant.com

November’s horoscopes brought to you by Russell Grant ARIES (March 21st – April 20th) A stern boss undermines your enjoyment of a work project on the 6th, causing you to reconsider whether you still want to work together. The Lunar Eclipse on the 8th brings an end to a steady income source, inviting you to strategise about attracting other money-making opportunities. Professional talks go nowhere on the 9th; postpone meaningful work conversations for another day.

LIBRA (September 24th – October 23rd) Resist the temptation to indulge in retail therapy on the 5th; the comfort you seek comes from spiritual pursuits. Don’t let a gloomy romance rain on your parade on the 6th; you don’t need anyone’s permission to be happy.

The Lunar Eclipse on the 8th marks the conclusion of a turbulent business or romantic relationship; embrace your freedom. A fantastic job opportunity arrives on the 10th.

TAURUS (April 21st – May 21st) Erratic behaviour creates havoc in a close relationship on the 5th; don’t make any rash decisions without talking to your best friend, romantic partner, or business colleague. The tension between your personal and professional lives on the 6th prompts you to work smarter, not harder. On the 8th, the Lunar Eclipse warns against making any significant changes to your appearance.

SCORPIO (October 24th – November 22nd) Don’t let an erratic person in your inner circle break your stride on the 5th; stay on the path that makes you happiest. A stern relative doesn’t approve of your passionate ways on the 6th, but that’s their problem. On the 8th, the Lunar Eclipse puts an end to a painful relationship dynamic, allowing you to come into your personal power. An exciting flirtation makes the 10th lift your spirits.

GEMINI (May 22nd – June 21st) Don’t take a boss’s criticism about your work to heart on the 5th; it’s simply the product of jealousy. On the 8th, the Lunar Eclipse marks the end of a period of isolation that makes you self-conscious; prepare for a happier, healthier future. Don’t obsess over a disapproving expert on the 9th; have the courage of your convictions as a world-class thinker.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23rd – December 21st) On the 8th, the Lunar Eclipse throws a tedious job out of your orbit; set your sights on a career path that allows a lot more adventure. The 10th allows you to withdraw from public life to recharge your batteries. Home is where the heart is on the 12th; invite your nearest and dearest over for a movie marathon. Starting on the 14th, you’ll attract admiring glances wherever you go.

CANCER (June 22nd – July 23rd) The Lunar Eclipse on the 8th sends shock waves through your social circle; it’s time to distance yourself from people whose values clash with your own.

The 10th is a great time to venture out of your nook and meet someone special or book a luxurious trip with the one you love. A caring business or romantic partner comes to your rescue on the 12th; accept their help with an open and grateful heart.

CAPRICORN (December 22nd – January 20th) Financial limitations cause problems with a friend on the 6th; don’t assume they can afford an expensive outing. The Lunar Eclipse on the 8th brings a period of rest and relaxation to a close; it’s time to jump back into the social pool. The 9th warns against entering salary negotiations; it’s best to postpone these talks until the second half of November. Arguments with friends could erupt on the 10th.

LEO (July 24th – August 23rd) The 5th isn’t a good time to make drastic decisions about relocating for work. The tension between your family and personal life erupts on the 6th; it’s important to protect your right to love who and what you want. On the 8th, the Lunar Eclipse brings an end to a nerve-wracking career matter; you can breathe a sigh of relief. Your wounded heart begins to heal on the 10th.

AQUARIUS (January 21st – February 19th) Don’t let an emotional upheaval affect your public image on the 5th; wait a full day before responding to upsetting posts on social media. Shaming someone on the 6th will be a waste of time; send them love and compassion instead.

The Lunar Eclipse on the 8th prompts you to change your approach to a provocative relative; it may be time to cut off this relationship.

VIRGO (August 24th – September 23rd) On the 8th, the Lunar Eclipse marks the end to a painful legal situation that drained your energy; rejoice in the knowledge you have been set free from this struggle. Be compassionate with a business that experiences staffing shortages on the 9th; kind words yield surprising rewards. Your best friend or romantic partner gives you positive reinforcement on the 10th.

PISCES (February 20th – March 20th) On the 8th, the Lunar Eclipse will send a disruptive message about a travel or learning opportunity; be as flexible as possible when rescheduling. The 10th is ideal for showing off your creative abilities, preferably to experts who really appreciate your talent. Signing a contract or contacting a prospective client is possible on the 12th. Your allure turns heads on the 14th.

Page 66 NWM 2020

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