• Spring Weddings • Mother’s Day • Out and About • Homes & Gardens • Legal & Finance • Education • Motoring • Pets • Experts
Gazette & Diary Magazine
What’s on at
Pandy
Wedding Showcase Sunday 20th March 2016 11am - 4pm
PREVIEW THE PARK HOTEL AS YOUR WEDDING VENUE Exclusive suppliers by invitation only
CANAPÉS & PROSECCO ON ARRIVAL SUNDAY LUNCH AVAILABLE - Booking essential Please register your interest at www.theparkhotelwales.co.uk A tribute to
Karen
Carpenter
Saturday 26th March Two course dinner including Entertainment One not to be missed by a Karen Carpenter fan Laurie Briggs £25.00 per adult inclusive
Booking essential: Jane or Jemma The Park Hotel, Pandy, Abergavenny
Telephone: 01873 890 271
enquiries@theparkhotelwales.com - www.theparkhotelwales.com 2 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue
Welcome . . .
H
ERE at the Gazette and Diary we've heard it said that 'Mums are like buttons because they hold everything together.' We're not usually ones to take slogans for truths but in this case we'll make an exception... And we're sure you will too. As usual we have a range of different and exciting features ranging from weddings and education to homes and local
events in our ‘diary dates' column. In short you will find everything you need here to navigate the coming month. The most important date of which is March 6th! So take a look at our Mother's Day feature for ideas how best to show your appreciation to that loving all-knowing matriarch who, whatever the problem, knows how to solve it. Enjoy the read and we'll see you next month.
in association with
The Abergavenny Chronicle For information on how to advertise in the next issue, please contact: Jenna Hopkins 01873 852187 Ext 35 jenna@abergavennychronicle.com
Part of the Tindle Newspaper Group
Published by the Abergavenny Chronicle, Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Gwent NP7 5AA Printed by Trinity Mirror plc
Nick Ramsay AM
Assembly Member for Monmouth Hospitals - Schools - Transport Environment - Housing Write to: Nick Ramsay AM, Constituency Office, 16 Maryport Street, Usk, Monmouthshire, NP15 1AB
01291 674898
For Nicholas.Ramsay@Assembly.Wales further information call: 03002089 200 7211 01291 674 898 orTel:029 8735
O U T L E T
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March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 3
Gazette & Diary Magazine
4 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue
Spring Weddings
Make it last forever Wedding season is almost upon us, but how do you make that honeymoon period last a lifetime? Top family lawyer Mary Banham-Hall shares her insights
W
INTER will soon be over - hurrah! But the new seasons don't just bring sunnier days; many of us can prepare for a shower of wedding invites too. Of course, as brides and grooms are frequently reminded, it's once the party's over and the newlyweds have waltzed off into the sunshine that the hard work of maintaining a marriage really begins. In the UK, the average marriage is expected to last 32 years, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), which is three long decades of arguing over whose turn it is to do the washing up. And that's only if you make it that far. The ONS' figures estimate that 42 per cent of marriages end in divorce, with 34 per cent expected to end by their 20th wedding anniversary, and only 16 per cent lasting until the diamond 60th wedding anniversary. So how can husbands and wives-to-be ensure their marriage goes the distance? There's probably no simple answer, but for starters, Mary Banham-Hall - a lawyer and mediator with more than three decades' experience, and author of new book Love Lose Live: Divorce Is A Rollercoaster - offers up these top tips for couples tying the knot... ◆ TALK ABOUT HAVING CHILDREN Do you want any - if so, when. Never assume your partner feels the same way as you do, or merrily think that if you disagree, the problem will go away. It probably won't. Babies can make or break your relationship. You need to start in the same place. ◆ HAVE THE MONEY CHAT Are you both debt averse or is just one of you? Think how you will run your finances. Even if you have separate accounts, if one saves and the other spends, it causes friction. Talk this through carefully. Who will pay what? Try and make it feel fair, so you each have about the same level of disposable income. Anticipating problems helps you avoid them. ◆ DECIDE WHERE TO LIVE Town or country, old or new, garden or
decked courtyard, high-maintenance or easy life? It's best to try and work out a lifestyle you both like, as if you hate gardening you won't want to spend hours a week doing it. But if the big outdoors is essential to your happiness, then a 10thfloor luxury flat will be torture. These things matter on a daily basis more than you think. ◆ CONFLICT RESOLUTION Make sure you can resolve disagreements and problems without having highly charged emotional rows. Each of you should feel able to express your feelings and beliefs without being ridiculed or attacked. Learn to listen to each other, not just think what you're going to say when you argue back and try to make the other person do what you want. Sometimes you should do what they want. ◆ SET SOME HOUSE RULES Both of you need to feel comfortable with how you live, and neither of you has a right to impose your rules on the other. This must be a fair and mutually respectful negotiation. For example, if you both work, then household tasks should be fairly shared. If one does the lion's share while the other relaxes, this can be very destructive to your relationship. Silent resentment is a marriage wrecker. ◆ CLASHING DEMANDS You probably both have relatives who you want to spend time with, but you must start to put your new family unit first. However, combine this with being supportive and understanding of each other's family ties and be fair. Don't cut one family off. This can breed resentment and be destructive. ◆ WEDDING V MARRIAGE The wedding is just one very special day, it's precious, and you'll remember it forever, but the marriage is the nuts and bolts of life and you want it to last forever. You need to invest even more time and money in nurturing your marriage year in year out than you did the wedding. It costs little or nothing to go for a walk together, and talking and listening are better for you than a new bike or handbag.
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1/2 year full membership
£250
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Officially the Highest Golf Club in Great Britain set in an attractive rural location overlooking the Brecon Beacons there are spectacular views over the Gwent, Powys and Monmouthshire countryside. The 14th tee is the highest point of the course, standing at over 1500 ft above sea level. Established in 1906, the course design by Ben Sayer offers a challenging test of golf. West Monmouthshire Golf Club benefits from good access via the Heads of the valley trunk road, and is thirty minutes from Cardiff and only twenty minutes from Newport’s Celtic Manor
Come and enjoy our facilities:
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West Monmouthshire Golf Club, Golf Road, Ebbw Vale Gwent, NP23 4QT. Tel: (01495) 310233 • E-Mail: care@westmongolfclub.co.uk
March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 5
Gazette & Diary Magazine
IT’S the one day of the year when hard working mums get a cup of tea in bed, a slap up lunch and are generally pampered and fussed over. Mothering Sunday or Mother’s Day rolls around again on March 6 ignore it at your peril.
Loving Mum
My Mum
LOVE R U O Y ! M U M
Why not buy your mum a plant for the garden so she can see how much you love her for years to come. Try www.giftaplant.com, which has a wealth of feminine-named roses including Penelope, Sarah, Nicola, Lisa, Jill and Carol, as well as a host of other plants including wild geraniums, camellia, agapanthus and hibiscus named after women. Perhaps the perfect choice is the hybrid tea rose 'Mum in a Million', a pink variety with perfumed blooms from summer through to autumn, available from specialist rose grower Style Roses (bare root £11.95; bush rose potted, £13.95, www.styleroses.co.uk; 01406 424089) . 'Loving Mum', a vibrant, lightly-scented orange tea rose, and 'My Mum', a floribunda with red blooms and silver reverse, are also ideal gifts from Style Roses.
A warm welcome awaits you o from Vera Watkins & Family ily.
Mum in a Million
nantyderry garden centre
All homemade!
Beautiful plants for the home & garden Fresh flower bouquets and baskets Terracotta and glazed pots Garden Vouchers and giftware
CAKES SOUP TOASTIES SANDWICHES
Take the Chainbridge turn off the A4042 Abergavenny - Pontypool road - and follow the brown signs
Open 7 days a week 10am -5pm
01873 880377
Find us at The Old Police Station on Baker Street (across the road from Baker Street Cinema in Abergavenny)
Open: from 10am to 4pm Tuesday-Saturday
www.nantyderryGC.co.uk
6 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue
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2
10:19
Love Your Mum
LOVE YOUR ! M U M
BOOTYLICIOUS BUBBLES... The average glass of wine is the calorie equivalent of a Cornetto. And though most of us wouldn't dream of eating three ice creams after dinner, a trio of vinos can be the norm, especially at the weekend. This can be a problem if mum is watching her waistline, but worry no more. Skinny Prosecco is about to please a plethora of people, all desperate to lose a few pounds for summer without blocking booze from their diet. Containing just 67 calories per 100ml glass, Thomson & Scott Skinny Prosecco, £17.99, launching exclusively at Selfridges, contains less than half the sugar content of standard Prosecco.
THIS Butterfly Link Personalised Bracelet is a gorgeous piece of jewellery perfect for every day wear, just for special occasions or as a lovely gift for someone special! The large toggle clasp makes it easy to put the bracelet on and take it off again with no tiny, finicky fastenings in sight! The main part of the design is a flat heart shaped charm which can be personalised with a word of your choice (up to 8 letters or numbers including spaces) – Alongside the flat heart charm is a puffed heart charm and an adorable butterfly charm with the words 'created for you' on the back of it. £13.45 online from Polly@Prezzybox
MOTHERING Sunday always falls on the fourth BROWSING AROUND... Sunday in Lent when traditionally, in centuries past, FIVE OF THE BEST churchgoers would gather at their MUMMY BLOGGERS ‘mother’ church - the main church or cathedral in the area. Inevitably the FOR MOTHER'S DAY return to the ‘mother’ church became an occasion for ● Hilarious observations - with added family reunions. stickman cartoons - from Brightonbased gin-lover and mum of two Katie. Hurrahforgin.com ● Tons of activities, games, craft ideas, recipes and more from the hugely popular Mum in the Mad House. Muminthemadhouse.com ● Musings on single mummy life by journalist-turned-blogger Jo. Slummysinglemummy.com ● Money-saving tips and tricks from Mrs Frugal and Family. Frugalfamily.co.uk ● Travel, food and funny stuff from a West Midlands mum. Thestickyfingersblog.com L'OCCITANE SHEA FACE COMFORTING OIL £29 (www.loccitane.com) Scoring 5/5 in tests this face oil is packed with shea and marula oils that leaves skin soft, supple and silky smooth, without any sticky or shiny residue. Use just a couple of drops at a time, warming it up in your hands before applying to your face. You can use it before your regular moisturiser but the oil is so nourishing you may not need to bother.
INDULGE HER ... The Mother's Day Sleekster, contains 27 of their most popular chocolates in milk, white and dark, £22, Hotel Chocolat (www.hotelchocolat.com)
VISI T
Pat tio fruit tr rees
T SALLY’S TEA A R S
MS OO
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Spring g Spe p cia als
2 fo or £15 5.00
Chunky Culinary C C Herbs 2 for £5 5 Miracle G M Grow Com mpost 3 for£12 2 special offers s on furniture f e Mamhilad Opening Hours: Mon - Sat 9.00am-5.00pm Sun - 10.30am-4.30 0pm
Telephone: 01495-785237 www.thesecretga g rdenwales.co.uk
March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 7
Gazette & Diary Magazine
Easter is on its way and if you want to join in with some chocolatey fun get out and about to find the bunny!
Friday March 25 - Monday March 28 Cadbury's Easter Egg Hunt at Tredegar House and Park, Newport NP10 8YW, 11am - 4pm. Hunt through the gardens to discover clues for the Cadbury's Easter Egg Hunt and win your chocolatey prize. The Easter Bunny has been up to his old tricks again. He's hidden his precious choccy eggs and has left a set of clues around the garden. Plus Easter crafts and activities to keep all the family entertained.
ch r a e s n I of the y nn u B r e t E as
Tredegar House Enjoy the annual Medieval Easter celebrations. Join in the Easter egg hunt, have a go at a range of family friendly activities archery, falconry, medieval characters, face painting and lots more! Sunday March 27 Easter Egg Hunt at White Castle between Monmouth and Abergavenny Hop along to White Castle this Easter Sunday and participate in an Easter Egg Hunt.
Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway
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Family Butcher & Delicatessen
Family Business since 1975 01873 810405 | www.cashells.co.uk
OPEN
m 8.00am - 5.30p ay rd Monday - Satu
Supporting Local Farmers and Local Produce
Sunday March 27 Hoppy Easter! at National Roman Legion Museum Caerleon NP18 1A. Join in with the Easter bunny for an Easter Egg Hunt around the museum and garden.
Friday March 25 - Monday March 28 Easter Bunnies at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway. The Easter Bunny will be on hand to welcome everyone to the start of a new season at the railway. There will be an Easter Egg for every child ÂŁ5 - ÂŁ10. Saturday March 26 - Monday March 28 Easter Eggstravaganza at Raglan Castle, Usk NP15 2BT
Raglan Castle
Triley Fieldss Equestrian Cen ntre Upper Triley Farm Tel: 01873 890523 Email: suzanne@trifec.com m (On the A465 to Hereford, 3.5 miles north of Abergavenny)
Riding Lessons, BHS Exam training, Live eries and Pony Loans, P L Sh Show Jumping J Shows, Sh Dressa D age Shows.
Cross Country and Working Hunter C Courses available for hire 8 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue
Out & About
“MAGNIFICENTLY INTENSE”
Dates for your Diary March 1 - Borough Theatre, Abergavenny St David’s Day Concert with Blaenavon Male Voice Choir and guest artists. Tickets from theatre box office on 01873 850805 5 - 7.30pm in the Melville Theatre: Nest of Poets, presented by Frank Olding. A fundraiser for the National Eisteddfod 2016 Published poets: William Ayot, Ann Drysdale, Paul Groves and Chris Meredith, read from their work and Ric Hool talks about the Abergavenny poetry scene. See www.literaturewales.org for more information about the poets. To book tickets [£10, under 18s £5] ring 01873 853167 or email melvillecentre@outlook.com 6 - 'Seedy Sunday 2016' - seed & plant swap 11am-3pm, Abergavenny Community Centre in former Park St school. Stalls, refreshments, kid's activities. Free entry. More info: richard@middleninfa.co.uk" 12 – Llangynidr Hall, Beaufort Male Choir and Welsh Regiment Band. 7.30pm. Bar available. Tel: 01874 730287, 730228, 730469. 17 - Abergavenny Local History Society. Rhianydd Beibrach will talk about Cartooning the Great War, Borough Theatre, 7.30pm. Non-members are welcome to join on the night. 19 – Pandy & Monnowside Ploughing Society Fun Bingo, Pandy Hall. 7.30pm for 8pm. All Welcome. 01873 890591.
JONATHAN ROSS P U B L A N D L O R D , W O R C E S T E R
“AN AMAZING PRODUCTION” BARRY NORMAN R E A L A L E L O V E R , H E R E F O R D
“ONE I COULD ENJOY TIME AND AGAIN” JAMES KING P U B R E G U L A R , G R E AT M A LV E R N
THIS MARCH, coming to a good pub near you, an EXCLUSIVE MONTH-LONG PREVIEW of WYE VALLEY BREWERY’S brand new bar-busting production, THE HOPFATHER. Starring JESTER and UK CHINOOK HOPS – with Herefordshire’s very own GOLDINGS HOPS playing a supporting role – this smooth bodied ale features a spicy honey-pine and to die for. 3.9% ABV facebook.com/wyevalleybrewery
@wyevalleybrew
www.WyeValleyBrewery.co.uk
There’s always something happening at
OUR 2016 SEASON STARTS ON SUNDAY 20TH MARCH THE CASTLE, GARDENS & PARKLAND WILL OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Louise Price
Integrative Hypnotherapist Reiki Master Practioner
Watch our Garden Grow With a Season Ticket you Zip along the Wire can visit the Gardens as Go on Swings in the trees often as you like from Get Lost in the Maze now right through to and Waterfall Wet when the leaves change (if you please!) colour late in October
Exotic Animal and Bird Encounters with Trevor Hill Good Friday 25th March to Thursday 31st March Plus Wednesday 6th & Thursday 7th April
Enter the amazing world of Exotic Animals, Reptiles, Insects and Birds. These encounters will bring you up close and personal with Meerkats, Skunks, Spiders and Lizards to name just a few! From Armadillos to Tarantulas and Baby Owls to Snakes, these amazing Animal Encounters have something for everyone. This really is a close encounter and a chance for you to get hands on with some unusual creatures. Fun for all the family!
Sharon’s Craft Workshop and Easter Trail Good Friday 25th March to Sunday 10th April
(L Lis sted un
Visit Sharon’s Craft Workshop in the Arkwright Courtyard where our younger visitors can get creative. There will also be a trail for families to follow around the glorious Gardens
www.hamptoncourt.org.uk | Tel: 01568 797 777 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 9
Gazette & Diary Magazine
A selection of work from the 2015 Open Art exhibition
Crickhowell Open Art Competition
A
RT will once again be arriving from far and wide at the Oriel CRiC Gallery in Crickhowell. The gallery has for the past eight years been the driving force behind the popular
annual Crickhowell Open Studio weekend (28 to 30 May 2016). Initiating the competition created the additional opportunity in 2014 and 2015 to mount an exciting exhibition of selected work from well over four hundred entries by both professional, emerging and amateur artists. Suzette Pratten said: “We were overwhelmed by the tremendous response to the competition in its first two years and by the exceptionally high standard of entries. Offering a range of prizes is an added incentive while creating an opportunity for artists to be part of an exhibition that attracts thousands of visitors and which adds to the vibrancy and excitement of the weekend. A prize will again be awarded in the 18 to 25 age bracket to
encourage younger artists in their artistic endeavours. In the centre’s tenth year the staff and volunteers are in a particularly celebratory mood and look forward to entries arriving by the closing date of 20 March and to welcoming artists and visitors to the much admired gallery space.” She added: “The event has become a feature of the Spring Bank Holiday weekend in Crickhowell and the surrounding area as numerous artists open their doors to welcome visitors to their studios or other venues. Art can be found in many an unexpected spot as businesses in Crickhowell embrace the event by offering window display space for artists thereby making the town a veritable feast for the eyes and pointing visitors in the direction
A creative opportunity for all of exceptional art and craftsmanship much of which is inspired by the Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains. What better way to enjoy the rich heritage and beauty of the area?” Entry forms and guidelines with terms and conditions can be downloaded from www.visitcrickhowell.co.uk or collected from the gallery which is upstairs in the Resource & Information Centre, Beaufort Street, Crickhowell or contact the gallery on 01873 813669 or openart@visitcrickhowell.co.uk
THE COMPLETE GARDEN SERVICE Get your lawn off to a great start this Spring Professional Lawn Aeration hollow or solid tine Scarifica ation moss an and nd thatch remo remova a al
CALL NOW 01 873 831 738 8 for a FREE no O Obligation quotation rccinfo@ @btinternet com @btinternet.co RCS Wales Ltd Timbercraft Ind dustrial Park Llan ngattock NP8 1HW W 10 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue
Gazette & Diary Magazine
01686 414000 Order online www.hafrenfurnishers.co.uk
Wales’ Largest Independent Furniture Store
Wales’ largest independent furniture retailer
W
Mon-Fri 9am - 6pm | Sat 9am - 5:30pm Open Thursdays until 8pm | Closed Sundays
ITH 50 years expertise furnishing homes, Hafren Furnishers of Llanidloes have reason to celebrate. Mike Morgan, proprietor, spotted a gap in the market for the sale of quality furniture at affordable prices. Whilst working as a milkman, he began to sell chairs, tables or stools on the back of his milk float. Thus the Hafren Furnishers concept was born and the business philosophy remains the same today. Maintaining their enviable position as Wales ’ largest Independent Furniture Retailer is testament to Mike, his family and team of dedicated, friendly staff providing an unrivalled personalised service. Located off the A470 in Llanidloes, Powys in Mid Wales, an hour from Shrewsbury , Hereford , Dolgellau, Ceredigion and Brecon or two hours from Manchester , Liverpool, Birmingham, Bristol , Cardiff and Swansea .
The vast showroom displays seven floors of furniture encompassing; beds/bedroom furniture, living room, dining room and home office. Styles range from contemporary, to vintage or traditional furniture. All leading brands are available such as, Gplan, Parker Knoll, Himolla, Stressless, Duresta, Ercol and Tempur plus hundreds more. Their modern Bed Studio, Wales’ largest, offers the widest range of beds and mattresses. Discover the latest Stressless range of sofas and chairs in Wales ’ first Ekornes Studio. Delivery within England and Wales remains FREE; another reason to shop there. CarpetRight and Hammonds Fitted Bedrooms concessions, and the Border Café are conveniently located in store. Customers can shop online using the website www.hafrenfurnisher.co.uk or contact the team on 01686 414000.
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www.stonewaypaving.co.uk March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 11
Spring Homes & Gardens
Green Park Power - Batteries and Solar Power
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Celtic Computer Systems New Laptops with manufacturers 12 mnth warranties wherever you are in the UK New intel laptops, £250
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Servicing, Repairs, Updates, Virus Problems
AVE you ever wanted to be more independent from the National Grid? Battery storage may be the answer. Batteries capture surplus electricity generated by your solar PV system and allow you to store it for use later in the day, reducing your electricity bill. Local renewable company Green Park Power can fit Storage systems alongside a new PV installation or ‘retrospectively’ fitted to an existing system. They can be ON or OFF Grid – the following information applies to On (National) Grid. TYPES OF STORAGE SYSTEM Simple Reservoir If you’re installing a solar PV system with batteries from scratch this is a very cost effective and efficient option. Typically these systems will not operate in a power-cut. Parallel ‘Islanding’ This system has ‘off-grid’ functionality, providing a limited amount of power to your home, or to essential equipment in a
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power cut. This system can readily be added to an existing solar PV system, giving some energy security whilst reducing energy bills. In-line ‘Islanding’ This is the ultimate in battery solutions and the one usually pictured by householders. This system separates the whole property from the grid and supplies electricity for a considerable time. Sounds great, but requires a second inverter and large battery bank. A very advanced system using Tesla batteries is available for new PV installations. This system is best for remote properties that experience regular black-outs, or if the ultimate in Solar Power plus storage is desired. There are two main types of battery; lithium-ion and leadacid batteries. We only recommend Lithiumion as they are lighter, more efficient, can discharge more stored energy more quickly and have a long lifetime. Finally, if you have an immersion tank, the ul-
timate in efficient energy storage, at low cost, is to put any spare energy into your water heating using ‘Smart Switching’. There is no industry standard for battery storage systems. You should look for an MCS-certified installation company, such as Green Park Power, to design a system to meet your needs. Surveys and designs are free and without obligation just call Green Park Power 01873 269031
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Gazette & Diary Magazine
Grow your own chips! I
F you're already 'chitting' your seed potatoes and waiting for those valuable shoots to appear on the tubers before planting out, be aware that this process may be the least of your worries. While potatoes are generally pretty easy veg to grow given the right soil and situation, some gardeners end up with rotten tubers which will need disposing of as soon as they are out of the ground. The most common problem is potato blight, a disease which causes brown or black patches to appear on young leaves from June onwards. The disease spreads rapidly to stems and finally the plant collapses. Spores are washed down to the tubers, resulting in a reddish brown rot and leaving the potatoes a soggy mass. If you spot it early enough, you can remove infected leaves straight away to stop it spreading and 'earth up' or mulch rows with a thick layer of straw or hay. To reduce the risk of blight, practise crop rotation - don't grow potatoes on the same piece of land more than once every four years - and use deep earthing up to protect the tubers. Grow early potatoes, which are lifted before blight appears, or those which show some blight resistance, includ-
ing 'Sarpo Mira', 'Colleen' and 'Cosmos'. Make sure you always buy certified seed potatoes and don't save your own tubers. ● Find out if there's a Potato Day near you - many events are publicised online - organised by your local garden club or society, offering growers an ever-expanding choice, advice on dealing with pests and diseases and the chance to talk potatoes with fellow enthusiasts. Events nationwide run through to March.
uPVC Windows General Building Roofing Carpentry Fibreglass and Rubber Roofing Traditional Windows & Door Leadwork Specialists Kitchens & Bathrooms ●
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FIRST PHASE ELECTRICAL CONTRACTORS
CENTRAL
Based in New Tredegar South Wales, we provide full electrical services all over South Wales and surrounding areas. All electrical work is carried out by our fully qualified electricians to the highest of standards and latest of regulations.
Roofing & Building Services Ltd At First Phase Electrical we believe our success is down to our expanding list of clients including Domestic Properties, Landlords, Hotels, Shops, Licensed Premises, Offices and Industrial Installations - all work is fully insured to give complete peace of mind. Looking for a reliable sub contrator for domestic, commercial and industrial work? At First Phase Electrical we can take on all surplus electrical work. Helping out with labour and overseeing the contract meaning you don't let your customers down. Jobs taken at short notice. TRUST MARK Government Endorsed Standards www.trustmark.org.uk
12 Elliot Street, Elliots Town NEW TREDEGAR, NP24 6DP Telephone: 07832 168 370 E-mail: firstphaseelectrical@gmail.com Web: www.firstphaseelectricalwales.co.uk March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 13
LEGAL AND FINANCE
Who can we turn to when managing money?
N
EW research suggests that more than one in three of us will ask a family member for advice on money matters we are struggling to understand. However, this may not be such a great
help, as the survey, from Treasury-backed savings provider NS&I, has found that many people feel out of their depth when it comes to managing money on a day-today basis - and for the future. Some 31 per cent of people surveyed say they were never formally taught
Services Include:Personal tax returns Sole trader and limited company accounts Vat returns Payroll Property accounts
New office open in Neville Street, Abergavenny. Main Office: 01981-241000 Abergavenny Office: 01873-515000 Email: info@gvaccountancy.co.uk Website: www.gvaccountancy.co.uk Association of Chartered Certified Accountants
about managing their money, but wish they had been. One in four believe that if they had received formal financial education, it would have helped them save more. The survey also found that women are more likely than men to turn to other family members when confronted with a financial issue they don't understand. Of those who did say they received some form of financial education, only 36 per cent said they got advice about the importance of saving money. Jill Waters, retail director at NS&I, says: "Our research illustrates millions of us may be struggling without a basic knowledge of money, savings and how to plan for different life stages. Getting a good understanding of personal finance will help people make more informed decisions. "We'd always suggest to people to do their research when it comes to making a financial decision, speak to a t r u s t e d a d v i s e r i f appropriate and choose a product that best suits your needs. Having a savings pot easily accessible is a good way to cope financially should an emergency occur." The research found that making a budget is seen as the most important financial topic, followed by the importance of saving and planning or saving for retirement. On the other hand, handling a redundancy, understanding what benefits someone might be entitled to and making a will were seen as the least important financial subjects, according to the survey of more than 2,000 people. When it comes to the trickiest topics to master, investing in stocks and shares came out top, with 27 per cent of people choosing this.
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Planning for retirement was another subject seen as particularly complex, with many people admitting to struggling with this. Despite the confusion, there is some hope however that the next generation may find it easier to get to grips with financial matters. Financial education was introduced to the national curriculum in England in 2014, bringing it into line with the rest of the UK. Caroline Rookes, chief executive of the Money Advice Service, a free, independent body offering money tips, says: "Working with the next generation in schools is a great start but we have to help people at every stage in life, from infancy to retirement."
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14 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue
5
Education Matters
HABERDASHERS’ MONMOUTH SCHOOLS A life-changing education is closer than you think Reasons to choose the Monmouth Schools: With a 400-year track record of delivering educational excellence, the Haberdashers’ Monmouth Schools are geared to realise the full potential of girls and boys aged 3 to 18. The Schools passionately believe that: Each child’s talents and strengths should be nurtured alongside achieving the best academic results possible. - All of our pupils should go on to lead happy, fulfilled lives, gaining access to their first choice universities. - Developing confidence and a love of learning is the key to academic success, with specialist subject teachers and small class sizes. - We strive to deliver the best. This was recognised by recent ESTYN inspections, which praised the Schools for their sectorleading practice, declaring them excellent in each category. - Girls and boys learn differently, and yet their development is enhanced by interaction. - Accessibility should be as broad as possible - we offer competitive fees and generous bursaries and scholarships. - Sport enhances life outside academia - over 60 pupils have national sporting honours. - Creativity and outstanding educational opportunities inspire young people to express themselves through music, drama and art. For more information on the 7th May Open Day, please go to www.habs-monmouth.org, call 01600 710 433 for Monmouth School, 01600 711104 for HMSG, or 01600 713970 for Agincourt School & Nursery.
HABERDASHERS’ MONMOUTH SCHOOLS Day and Boarding Boys 3 - 18 Girls 3 - 18
excellent ESTYN reports published February 2016 & April 2014
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Sector-leading practice and a passion for educational excellence have been recognised in Estyn’s glowing report on HMSG and its prep school, Inglefield House. In 2014, the inspectors also scored Monmouth School and The Grange as EXCELLENT in every category.
OPEN MORNING 7 May 2016 9.30am - 12.00 noon www.habs-monmouth.org March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 15
Grwp o Golegau NPTC Group of Colleges ^
Local You won’t need to move away from home to study making it and family life.
Affordable Less travel costs and no need to move away from home. This can keep your living costs down to a manageable level.
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Supportive Class sizes are smaller than receive more individual attention and guidance from your tutor.
“Accelerate your earning potential. Gaining a higher level edge when looking for career and promotional opportunities. You gain higher level employability
Jo Rickets
You don’t have to travel far to gain a What does NPTC Group of Colleges’ university degree! Brecon Beacon Campus have to offer? BA (Hons) Degree in Business Management & IT At NPTC Group of Colleges we have developed a BA (Hons) Degree in English & History number of wide- ranging of Degrees with a number Foundation Degree in Care Studies of prestigious Higher Education Institutions. All our Foundation Degree in Childhood Studies Higher Education courses have been designed with Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching and your employment and future careers in mind and Performance we strive to give our graduates the best experience and knowledge to equip them for the working world. We are very proud of the quality of our courses and the staff who teach them. We have some
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We also offer a number of Access to higher education courses at our Brecon Beacons Campus.
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www.nptcgroup.ac.uk NPTCGroup 16 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue
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SPRING is in the air!
I
f ever James Norton was ever to become a diva, now would be the time to do so. From the brooding hero of BBC One's recent all-out adaptation of War And Peace and psychopathic Tommy in the chilling Happy Valley, to the spurned blue blood husband of the eponymous heroine in Lady Chatterley's Lover and charming vicar Sidney in ITV's grittier-than-you'd-think Grantchester, he has practically dominated British television over the last two years. But as much he is in demand, 30-year-old Norton, who lives in Peckham in South London, seems unaffected, today treating all the Grantchester crew on set to ice cream as a surprise - and cutting his precious lunch break short to squeeze in interviews. Outwardly, his star continues to rise, but the actor - who will begin a stint in West End show Bug this month - confesses that he still feels "slightly nervous" that the work will dry up. "I think it's that thing about being brave to sit and wait, and spend some time making sure that it's the right one," he says, of the never-ending quest to line up jobs. "Already, I'm calling my agent every so often, going, 'Should I be getting worried about this year? Can we get an audition or two?' And she's like, 'No, let's wait, wait, wait'." The son of two teachers, who Norton notes are the "perfect antidote" to the showbiz circles he now moves in, he counts wild swimming as one of his hobbies and was brought up in Yorkshire, where he attended Ampleforth College. Despite an interest in acting, he went on to study theology at Cambridge University, and then went travelling before enrolling at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. Since then, Norton has chalked up an impressive roll call of work, beginning with a brief appearance in Carey Mulligan's breakthrough movie An Education, along with the pin-up status, which he says is "weird but flattering". Mind you, it sounds as though his family can help keep any inflating ego in check. Recalling a lunch for his grandfather's 90th birthday, Norton reveals how his great-aunt piped up with her thoughts on his looks...
JAMES Norton as vicar Sidney Chambers in the new series of Grantchester
The man of the moment "She said, 'I don't get it. You're much better looking on film than you are in real life'," he says with a short laugh. He believes his ever-changing hair is the reason he's rarely recognised in public, before admitting that his mum wasn't too happy about him getting a buzz cut for the new series of Happy Valley. "She said, 'Can you not speak to the producers and make it a little bit longer?'" After a spell of playing psychopath Tommy, going back
Adoption Open Afternoon The South East Wales Adoption Service is holding an informal information afternoon where you can meet the children waiting for adoption and ask any questions you may have about adoption. Join us on the 2nd of April 2016* at the North Wing, 2nd Floor, Block B, Mamhilad House, Mamhilad Park Estate, Pontypool (NP4 0YT). Drop in any time between 2pm - 4pm. Refreshments will be served and children of all ages are welcome.
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to Cambridge to shoot Grantchester was a pleasant change in pace. With a new addition in Neil Morrissey, who plays a grieving father, as well as Robson Green who returns as gruff police inspector Geordie, this series begins in 1954, when murderers were still hanged, and sees Sidney and Geordie facing up to the consequences of becoming such an accomplished crime-fighting duo. The pair soon attracted attention when they filmed on the university city's King's Parade. "We had about six or seven rows of people with their cameras, which was quite disconcerting," Norton reveals. Like Grantchester, Happy Valley is now in its second series (but has been lambasted with complaints about poor sound quality), and Norton admits there were nerves about matching its success. "The last series, we were the underdog, we had everything to prove so nothing to lose. But now, with the success of the first series, of course there's that inevitable second series fear," he explains. "I think Sarah Lancashire, who plays series lead Sergeant Catherine Cawood, takes on so much responsibility. She takes the brunt of it and it's emotional, physically exhausting for her. I know why she's nervous because it's gruelling. "It can never be exactly what it was, the tone of it is different. Sally Wainwright's such a talented writer, I think she's taken intentional steps to make it a slightly different feel, different structure. It's as good. I think it's as powerful, if not better. That's why I wanted to be in more of it." And it's the opportunity to work with the Wainwrights of this world here in the UK, that puts Norton off laying down roots in the US. "I'd go there to work and happily live out there to do a job, but at the moment, I would never want to move. I love London and my family are here and my friends. I like LA in doses, but don't think I could live there. "I don't have any desperate need to rush over there and attach myself to a seven-year deal," Norton adds. "It's all about variety." â—? Grantchester begins on ITV on Wednesday, March 2
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March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 17
Gazette & Diary Magazine
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IAMOND Home Support opened an office in Abergavenny in 2014 and we’re bringing back the Home
Help! Due to Local Authority budget cuts many elderly and disabled people now have to find their own domestic support. Our Home Assist Service provides vital support for the elderly and less able in a friendly, caring and professional manner. We aim to challenge the preconceptions of domestic care by providing a client-led rather than a company-led service. All of our workers are thoroughly vetted and are chosen more for their personality, ethos and attitude than anything else. They are given plenty of time between appointments, so there is never the need for visits to be cut short in order for the worker to be on time for their next appointment. The same worker visits each week, month or fortnight, allowing the client and the worker to build trust and develop a relationship.
Loss of independence can be humiliating and frustrating, and we therefore aim to make the experience as friendly and personal as possible. We visit all potential clients in their own homes so that we can talk them through the service, explain exactly how things work and answer any questions which they may have. Relatives need not be concerned that their family members will be pushed into signing up for our services if they are unsure as to whether or not it is right for them. We respect the fact that each individual, however old, frail or disabled, has the right to consider the pros and cons of our services before signing on the dotted line and, to this end, we are happy to visit more than once should that be necessary. We guarantee ongoing support; we are always available to discuss any problems, issues or concerns which may arise and will do our utmost to resolve these in the best way possible. So, out with the old, and in with the new!
Home Assist Service
The Home Help is Back! Helping you to remain independent We offer the following services: Escorting to appointments and social activities Cleaning, gardening, ironing and laundry Light meal preparation Bed making/changing Respite sitting service Medication reminders Companionship Shopping Please note we do not offer personal care
01873 859 289 or 07581 747 328 heidi@diamondhomesupport.com
18 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue
GOLDEN YEARS
The State Pension system is changing T
HE State Pension is a regular payment from the government most of us can claim when we reach State Pension age. It is part of the National Insurance system. On 6 April 2016, the new State Pension will be introduced for women born on or after 6 April 1953, and men born on or after 6 April 1951. The new State Pension system will make State Pensions less complicated in the future. If you were born before these dates, you’ll continue to receive your State Pension under the current system, even if you defer claiming it. State Pension ages are also changing. By 2018, women’s State Pension age will rise to 65, and by 2020 both men’s and women’s State Pension age will have increased to 66. By 2028, both men’s and women’s State Pension age will have increased to 67. You can check yours by searching for ‘State Pension age calculator’ on GOV.UK.
contracted-out of. The actual amount you’ll receive from your contracted-out pension scheme will depend on the scheme.
How can i increase my State Pension? You may be able to increase your new State Pension if: ● You can pay voluntary contributions to fill gaps you may have for recent years on your NI record. Check your position before you do this to ensure you can benefit. ● You are working and paying NI contributions. ● You choose to defer claiming your new State Pension when you reach State Pension age. Not everyone can defer – please check whether you are eligible. ● You receive NI credits which can help fill gaps in your NI record. You can get credits in various circumstances which might include: ● Caring for one or more disabled people, for at least 20 hours a week. ● Receiving certain benefits, such as Jobseeker’s Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance or Carer’s Allowance. ● Caring for a grandchild or other family member under age 12.
How much will you get?
How much State Pension will I get? This will depend on your National Insurance (NI) record so not everyone will get the same amount. You’ll normally need at least 10 qualifying years to get any new State Pension. These can be from before or after 6 April 2016, and don’t have to be ten years in a row. For most people, each extra year added to their National Insurance record from April 2016 will add 1/35th of £155.65 (the 2016/17 rate) to their future new State Pension, until they reach State Pension age or the full rate. No one who qualifies for the new State Pension should get less than they would have received under the old system, based on their own contributions to April 2016.
What if you are or were in a ‘contracted-out’ private pension scheme? If you are or were in a salary-related pension scheme at work (for example, ‘final salary’ or ‘career average’), or you were in another type of pension scheme at work before April 2012, you are likely to have been ‘contracted-out’ of the Additional State Pension (this is part of the current State Pension system). Some stakeholder and personal pension schemes were also ‘contracted-out’. If you have been contracted-out of the Additional State Pension this means you paid less into the NI system and built up some private pension instead to replace part of your State Pension. The lower NI you (and your employer) paid to the State at that time, reflected the fact that you opted out of some of the State Pension. Your private pension should include an amount that, in most cases, will be at least equivalent to the Additional State Pension you
Find out what this means for you by visiting www.gov.uk/yourstatepension If you are aged 55 or over you can ask for a State Pension statement for an estimate of your new State Pension.
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Put the sparkle back into Your kitchen today! March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 19
Gazette & Diary Magazine
L
IKE headaches, sore throats and runny noses, coughs are extremely common and most of the time, nothing to really worry about. Colds and minor infections are often a cough-causing culprit, but conditions like allergies and asthma - as well as things like the weather, environment and smoking can also come into play. But if a cough doesn't clear up after a few weeks, how can you tell whether there's possibly something more serious going on? IS IT CHRONIC? Professor Alyn Morice, cough expert and head of Cardiorespiratory Studies at Hull York Medical School, explains that coughs fall into two categories: acute and chronic. Acute coughs are short-term, lasting up to three weeks, and are usually the result of an upper respiratory tract infection, such as the common cold. Chronic coughs are persistent and may be the result of a condition such as asthma, or a lower respiratory tract infection like bronchitis. "If your cough lasts longer than eight weeks, you should seek medical advice," advises Morice. "There are also certain 'red flags', such as coughing up blood, a wheeze which won't go away or chest pain, all of which warrant a trip to the doctor." There's always a chance that so-called 'red flag' symptoms are due to something entirely harmless, but such symptoms should never be ignored and it's always best to get them checked, sooner rather than later. Plus, Morice adds: "Anyone who feels very ill, is losing weight, or is very lethargic should also consider that something else may be wrong."
Is your cough a cause for concern? If you're unsure how to treat a cough in the meantime, or your cough doesn't seem serious but is irritating, speak to your pharmacist for advice. WHAT TYPE OF COUGH DO I HAVE? Here's a list of acute and chronic coughs you might encounter: ● Chesty cough Causes: A chesty cough is caused by excessive mucus in the chest, produced to help clear the airways. The body's natural response is to cough up the mucus and expel it from the body. Symptoms: A heavy and tight chest, a rattling feeling within the chest, coughing up sticky mucus, and excess mucus in the airways. Treatment: If the cough is causing irritation, an expectorant cough mixture can be used to help loosen the phlegm and make it easier to cough up. ● Dry tickly cough Causes: A dry cough which tickles the throat doesn't produce mucus and is usually a result of throat irritation. Symptoms: The throat can become sore when swallowing due to inflammation in the upper airways. Treatment: A demulcent which can help by coating the throat and soothing the passage of the upper respiratory tract. ● Post-viral cough Causes: A post-viral cough is the most common symptom of an upper respiratory tract infection, such as a cold or flu. It can linger long after the cold virus has gone due to throat inflammation.
Symptoms: The throat becomes irritated and the cough is trigged by persistent sensitivity of the nerves. Treatment: Most cases aren't bacterial, so antibiotics won't help. Look for a cough syrup with one of the key active ingredients, dextromethorphan and menthol, suggests Professor Morice. ● Whooping Cough Causes: Symptoms usually appear around a week after infection, although this delay can last up to 21 days. Symptoms: Initial mild, cold-like symptoms that develop over weeks into severe coughing fits that end with a 'whooping' sound and bringing up thick phlegm. Babies and young children may also vomit after coughing. Treatment: Vaccination is the key to controlling this disease, which can be very dangerous in young children. It's much less serious in older children and is rare in adults, and can be treated with antibiotics and over-the-counter remedies.
pains can be treated with paracetamol, and over-the-counter medicines that line your throat can help. "Antibiotics should be reserved for those with chronic chest disease since it is almost invariably a virus in normal folk," he advises. ● Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Causes: The primary cause is smoking. The smoke scars the lungs and causes the airways to thicken and more mucus is produced. Symptoms: Breathlessness on exercise, a persistent phlegmy cough and frequent chest infections. Treatment: Stop smoking. Become more active and eat a healthy diet to prevent infections.
● Bronchitis Causes: An infection of the large airways and lungs, causing inflammation. Symptoms: A hacking cough that brings up yellow-grey phlegm, and cold-like symptoms including a blocked nose, headache and tiredness. Treatment: Professor Morice says most bronchitis symptoms can be managed at home with bed rest and lots of fluids to prevent dehydration and thin the mucus. Aches and
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20 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue
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Gazette & Diary MOTORING
WHEELS & DEALS L UXURY car manufacturer Aston Martin has announced that its production will remain in the UK. The carmaker confirmed last week that it had chosen the St Athan facility in Wales to hand-build the new DBX model. The SUV crossover and its new home is part of a £200 million investment in products and facilities, which will also fund the production line for the DB11 sports car at the British luxury carmaker's headquarters in Gaydon, creating an estimated total 1,000 UK jobs. The Welsh facility, currently home to RAF St Athen, is spread across 90 acres. Conversion of the Welsh base begins next year. It is expected that by 2020 the hi-tech manufacturing plant will be producing the DBX models. Aston Martin CEO Dr Andy Palmer said: “During our 103-year history, Aston Martin has become famous for making beautiful hand-crafted cars in England. “Through a detailed evaluation of over 20 potential global locations, we were consistently impressed with the focus on quality, cost and speed from the Welsh Government.
The new Aston Martin DBX model “As a great British company, we look forward to St Athan joining Gaydon as our second centre of hand-crafted manufacturing excellence.' Prime Minister David Cameron added his support to Aston Martin's decision to retain vehicle production in the UK. He said: “With our economic strengths and easy access to European markets, the UK automotive sector is thriving.It is one of the biggest in Europe – and the most productive – and Aston's creation of up to 1,000 jobs is welcome news.”
2015
65
2014 14 2013 13 2011 2010 Due In Due In
11 60 11 60
2014 14 2013 63 2016 65
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March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 21
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Wood treatment is a hot topic, and one local, family run company is telling you about their procedures of effectively treating and selling timber for fencing. Woodland Services, based on Hereford Road, Abergavenny, has been trading for over 50 years with the current owners entering their fourth year in the business and are ensuring the quality continues. They specialise in providing quality, locally sourced and appropriately treated wood for both agricultural and domestic use, and pride themselves on their endeavour to bring their treatment process as up to date as possible with a lot of money invested into their programme for machinery and tools. Tracey O’Leary from Woodland Services said, “Before we treat our timber in house in our fully upgraded, computerised treatment plant we ensure that the wood is dried to 28% or less moisture content. It is then pressure treated soil or fresh water contact using Koppers Celcure AC500 – giving it a 15
year life. This whole process is computer linked and closely monitored by our treatment suppliers Koppers who support the projected 15 year life of the product. “Even though certain chemicals have been removed from the treatment solution by EU legislation in the past, this means that it is very important that the wood is dried to 28% or less moisture content then the penetration and the treatment will be as effective as it was prior to the change, and here at Woodland Services we ensure this procedure is adhered to.” Tracey has spoken about her experience with peoples concerned about the treatment of wood, and wants to let the people of the local area know that at Woodland Services they can get properly treated wood from them for a great price. A high percentage of our business is repeat business which makes it even more important that we maintain the quality of our treatment process. Tracey said, “I go to market on
22 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue
Wednesdays and I hear a lot of peoples concerns about timber treatment, so we wanted to show that we have put a lot of time, money and expertise into our treatment programme and assure people that our service is safe and effective.” They also put a lot of emphasis on locally sourcing their timber that they prepare and treat, to go back to the local community. Tracey said, “When dealing with natural resources, it is important to stay as local as you can, and by using local businesses in our supply chain it benefits the whole community.”
So to find out more about their work, contact Woodland Services (Abergavenny) Ltd on 01873 855431 or email Tracey on tracey@woodland-sa.co.uk.
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To advertise please call Jenna Hopkins on 01873 852187 Ext 35 jenna@abergavenny chronicle.com
PRECIOUS PETS
Travelling with your pet
T
RAVELLING with your pet has never been easier. The pet travel scheme (PETS) has been around for over fifteen years and in general has been seen as a positice step forward for animal welfare; avoiding as it does the prolonged quaratine period. However the scheme is almost becoming a victim of its own success by making pet travel too easy that the system is now being abused by animals traders. The arrangements for pet travel are simple enough as long as you have over 3 weeks notice then we can prepare dogs, cats (and ferrets!) for travel to EU countries and those who participate in the Pet Travel Scheme. Whatever you feeling about the UK’s EU membership, the member countries created a very simple scheme for pet travel that avoided quarantine. However, a growing concern with animal welfare charities is importation into the UK pet trade of animals from the EU raised in
horrendous conditions on puppy and kitten farms. Last year nearly 26,000 dogs for commercial sale were imported into the UK, a 13fold increase on the figure in 2013. So whilst the pet travel scheme is good news for genuine pet-lovers who simply cannot bear to be apart from their pets whilst on holiday, the ease with which puppies and kittens can be shipped across the EU is being abused by unscrupulous dealers who certainly do not have the animals’ best welfare at heart. My advice is whenever buying a pet, ask to see the mother, it is a better sign if both parents are available to meet. Trust your gut feeling and common sense about the surroundings they have been raised in as an indicator of their welfare. Do not buy puppies imported from abroad unless you have an absolutely genuine reason - I can think of very few indeed.
Wyndee Kennels Individual Care~Attention Guaranteed Open 9am-6pm Newbury, Abergavenny, Blaenavon 01495 790571
“A caring, friendly, professional vets”
Puppy & Kitten Starter Packs £49.99 Puppy & Kitten Starter Packs..............................................£49.99 PetPlan nominated Practice & Vet of the Year 2014
PetPlanBritish nominated Practice Association & Vet of the Year 2013 Dog Groomers’ Salon British Dog Groomers’ Association Salon
24 hour Onsite Nursing Care 24hr Onsite Nursing Grooming Room nowCare open Appointments 0900 1830hrs (Mon Fri) 0900 -- 1230 1230 (Sat) (Sat) Appointments 0900 - 1830hrs (Mon-Fri) 0900 www.abbeyvets.co.uk 01873852391 852391 www.abbeyvets.co.uk •● Tel: Tel 01873 March/April 2016 - The Spring Issue 23