July Gazette and Diary 2016 by jenna hopkins

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Animal Madness ● Summer Homes and Gardens ● Motoring ● Golden Years ● Experts and more

Gazette and Diary Magazine

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www.stonewaypaving.co.uk 2 July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Matters Diary Magazine Gazette andEducation

Welcome ...

HE first National Eisteddfod for over a century is set to descend on Abergavenny at the tail end of the month. Already the Castle Meadows is a hive of activity, the din of the workers giving the town a much needed facelift is yet to abate and as always the cacophony of traffic is omnipresent. We can be forgiven therefore if all the excitement gets the better of us and the stresses of navigating the ever-changing streets of town make us want to escape - to head out and about and have some ‘Fun in the Sun’.

As always, being the all-knowing oracles that we are, we have preempted your needs and have you covered with our special summer supplement entitled exactly that. But wait! There’s more! Animal Madness, Motors, Golden Years, Homes and Gardens, are to name but a few of the other exciting features in this month’s pages of the Gazette and Diary Monthly. As always, all that’s left to do is wish you all the best for the month and cross our fingers that the weather behaves. Until next time. The Gazette and Diary team.

in association with

MONMOUTH MP DAVID DAVIES

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

holds regular advice surgeries throughout the constituency. To make an appointment telephone 01291 672817 or email daviesd@parliament.uk www.david-daviesmp.co.uk

Published by the Abergavenny Chronicle, Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Gwent NP7 5AA Printed by Trinity Mirror plc

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July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue 3

Gazette & Diary Magazine

Living and breathing a wonderful job

common question I am asked by clients is whether I saw the vet programme on TV the night before. Now, obviously apart from the fact it is a half an hour busman’s holiday with ad breaks, I do admittedly sit through an episode per series of “Supervet” or “The Yorkshire Vet” to keep my finger on the veterinary media pulse. Now those two programmes in particularly demonstrate the gulf that is developing in the veterinary industry between the remarkable strides into the future of modern medicine of the Irish wonder and a modern form James Heriot. Indeed the care that Prof Fitzpatrick provides it is fair to say must rival any orthopaedic institution in the Western world. The “Supervet’ himself is described as a “thought leader in his field of expertise”. More interesting to SUPERVET Prof Noel me is the fact Fitzpatrick

he has an a c t i n g q u a l i fi c a tion and has starred in a movie and Casualty - a true polymath indeed! The York- YORKSHIRE VET Julian shire Vet is Norton a different beast altogether and currently heads the ratings battle on Channel 5. At this point I must reveal a conflict of interest as, believe it or not from my boylike looks, Julian Norton MRCVS aka“Tuh’ York-shire Vet” was in my year at vet school and I find it hard to see past the innocent but frequently boisterous young pup of a man I still have as a Facebook friend. What the two characters have in common and I can vouch personally on Jules’ behalf is an absolute passion for their work and the animals they care for. I would suspect the one thing that a television career and media speculation can quickly establish is those vets that are acting the role and those that truly live and breath this wonderful job.

Barking up A

WARD-winning garden designer Paul Hervey-Brookes has three dogs - two Spaniels, Honey and Arthur and a Japanese Chin called Nina none of whom have yet trashed his beautiful garden in the Cotswolds. But then Hervey-Brookes is confident that you can easily share your space with your pooches without having them dig up the lawn or eat your prized flowers. His show garden, A Dog's Life for this year's Hampton Court Flower Show should give owners food for thought. Features include sniffer tracks weaving through the herbaceous borders for dogs to forage and sniff out treats, a woodland area which incorporates a ramp over a raised wall for agility, while leaf litter areas within the planting allows dogs to dig and scratch. "Arthur is a bit more boisterous than the other two and likes to run around and through things, which is what gave us the idea of making these little weaving paths," Hervey-Brookes explains. "The damage that was happening was

accidental, because of his excitement, so we looked at how we could accommodate that in a way that keeps the garden looking attractive, not ruined."

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4 July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

A brand new, purpose built, boarding cattery “Cats on Vacation” is located just outside Llanarth, between Abergavenny and Raglan with easy access from Abergavenny, Raglan, Monmouth, USK, the Heads of the Valleys and surrounding areas, Postcode NP15 2LY

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Animal Madness

the right tree Honey likes rolling around in the gravel or on grass, while Nina enjoys foraging for little chews and treats which her master leaves hidden for her to find in the garden. "She'd find them and chew and have a little sleep, just to help calm her down. We used a lot of planting in the garden which has that calming quality, like lavender, so that going out for a walk became much more of a place where they run and bound. Going into the garden is much more gentle exercise. There's a bit of training there." His dogs have been trained to do their business at a particular point on a gravel path, which makes it easier to clean up. Amateur gardeners could make raised beds incorporating tunnels under them, so their dogs have things to run through. "As long as that inquisitive characteristic is being channelled, the chances are they're not going to get bored and just dig in one place. "Dogs don't destructively dig things up just for the sake of it. If a foliage is scented, they might rub up against it or have a little nibble, but nine times out of 10 that's as far as it goes.” Retain a good structural backbone of shrubs, which will keep the garden looking neat all year round, he advises. "Use robust, hard-working perennials which are going to have a long season of interest and don't

OFFICIALLY released last Friday, The Secret Life of Pets grossed £9.5m on its first weekend, beating the Independence Day sequel into second place. The lastest product from the makers of Mnions is a comedy that imagines what house pets get up to when the humans are out. Comedians Louis CK, Kevin Hart and Steve Coogan are among those who provide voices for its collection of cartoon critters.

mind taking the odd knock. There's no point using very delicate plants which your pet might damage because you're just going to get cross with the dog. "We plant agastache because it's self-supporting, with robust foliage and a lot of flower for a long season, monarda and alchemilla, as opposed to using things like delicate aquilegia which won't stand up to a garden being used." Avoid anything poisonous - a list from The Dogs Trust (www.dogstrust.org.uk) is available online - like foxglove, holly (the berries are poisonous), and achillea (the foliage is poisonous to dogs). ● RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show runs from July 5-10. For details, visit www.rhs.org.uk

Newbridge Farm Park has lots to offer for family fun

New for 2016, toddlers will love the improved indoor playbarn, whilst adults supervising them can enjoy our improved selection of hot and cold food and drinks. Visitors can also enjoy a free tractor ride, a hands-on pet session with fluffy animals and large insects, animal feeding and pony rides. Play facilities are suitable for all ages, offering trampolines, zip wire, rope swing, hay bale tunnels, giant sandpits and more. Open Monday- Saturday during holiday time, Wednesday Saturday during term time, through till October half term, closed every Sunday. We take school and party bookings, and offer exclusive after hours hire, enquire for details. There is also a Bouncing Bunnies toddler morning every first Wednesday of the month (term time only) for under 5s and their parent or carer, offering an extra activity and free hot drink for accompanying adult. Check the website for more details.

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July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue 5

Caring for an extra special lady

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Gazette & Diary Magazine

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RACKER is just one of the many equines in desperate need and who was found at a couple of days old sheltering alongside a wall on a windswept common. Her mother was nowhere to be found. Suffering from severe dehydration and exhaustion she was terrified when found by a kind member of the public who contacted SWHP, who responded immediately. Such was the concern for the foal’s health, it was really a life or death situation. The foal was taken straight to Abbey Equine near Abergavenny. Her instinct for survival kicked in and despite her frailty she subsequently bit and kicked vet Emma Jones who named her a 'real little fire cracker' and so Cracker's road to recovery had started. With an intravenous drip fitted she was taken to SWHP's base at the MacGregor Centre near Monmouth. In addition to the ten litres of saline she required every day she also had special milk replacer. Three times she was not expected to pull through and everyone feared the worst but with her determination and the skilled and dedicated care she received she has made a wonderful recovery and is now out playing in the field with her companion Dillon , another orphan foal,

Society for the Welfare of Horses and Ponies The MacGregor Centre, Coxstone, St. Maughan’s, Monmouth, NP25 5QF Tel: 01600 750 233 | Website: www.swhp.co.uk

Cracker being nursed back to health by SWHP under the careful and watchful eye of Lily, an aged mare who adores foals and plays the very important role of Nanny at Coxstone. Cracker is just one of the many sick, injured or abandoned equines taken in to the care of the charity. Founded back in the 1970s by Jenny MacGregor MBE and her late husband Alasdair the charity has rescued in the region of 2000 equines. In addition to the horses and ponies at Coxstone, SWHP are responsible for almost 400 in adopted homes. The charity is always looking for suitable homes under the adoption scheme, no

equine is ever sold to ensure the animal is never put at risk again. Some horses are rehomed as companions, others to ride at all levels but they always remain in the ownership of the charity. SWHP takes in equines from all over South Wales and the borders and is wholly reliant on fundraising, legacies and donations. The annual summer Open Day is at Coxstone, St. Maughans on Sunday 10th July from 11 am - 4 pm when there is the opportunity to meet Cracker and her friends. For further information telephone 01600 750 233 or www.swhp.co.uk

Qualified

Pampered Paws Dog Groming Salon

For an appointment please contact us:

Tel: 01873 832728 www.pamperedpawssw.co.uk Cracker’ nursed back to health by the SWHP, now 11 months old.

Please support our charity.

‘Chance,’ another orphaned foal found in a sinkhole in Llangynidr mountain, only a few days old, now being nursed back nursed back to health by the SWHP

We currently have fifty five horses and ponies receiving care at Coxstone.’ ‘Meet the animals in our care, including orphaned foals, at our

ANNUAL OPEN DAY, SUNDAY 10th JULY There’ll be refreshments, Tombola, Crafts, Gifts and more!

6 July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

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Summer Homes & Gardens

Customer service has made Sarah a winner

Wireless control for your heating HAVE maximum control over your boiler with the Honeywell Sundial RF2 Pack 2 Wireless Timeswitch (£159.49, Screwfix), which can be used on existing systems (it brings them into compliance with Building Regulations Part L), as well as new installations. You get both a wireless-enabled programmer (to be fitted by a qualified electrician) and a wireless room thermostat, which communicate with each other wirelessly and offer so many settings you're spoilt for choice. For example, you can program your heating and hot water differently every day to whatever suits you and your lifestyle. The Honeywell has a holiday mode, which is perfect for this time of year and ensures you don't waste heating and hot water when you're away, while the Extra Hour function enables you to switch the heating or hot water on for up to three extra hours without altering your usual settings, which could be very useful in winter.

ARAH Chandler, from Sarah, 40, who trades Usk has seen off comunder the name SLC Home petition from tradesImprovements, thinks her men and women across customer service, dedicaWales to be selected as one tion and commitment will of five regional finalists in help her to stand out from the annual search by Screwthe crowd. fix to find and reward She said: “I recently reBritain’s Top Tradesperson. trained to become a multiShe is now one step closer trader and set up my own to heading to the national business just a couple of final at Wembley where the years ago, but, I have to say, overall winner will receive I now love doing what I do. the coveted title, along with S A R A H Chandler of Meeting different people a brand new Toyota Proace SLC Home Improvements every day and seeing how or Hilux worth£32,000. happy I make them with my Before then, however, Sarah has to im- work really gives me such great job satis press the judges at the regional final. faction.”

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July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue 7

Gazette & Diary Magazine

Companion planting for better crops

E all want to be picking plenty of veg or have beautiful blooms in our borders and containers - but there are ways to maximise the chances of a better harvest. Companion planting works on the premise that planting certain things together will free one or the other plant from pests, or boost productivity. Scent and sacrifice play a big part in this equation. The strong scent of one plant can help prevent pests homing in on another which you consider more valuable. What you plant with your crops can have a significant impact on your harvest. So, how can we reap the richest rewards? ● French and runner beans: Grow sweet peas to climb up wigwams and other stakes among your bean plants and you should do well. Pollinating insects will be attracted to the sweet pea flowers and are then likely to pollinate your beans, plus they'll make the area look prettier. ● Cabbages: Mix your cabbages with French bean plants, nasturtiums or Shungiku, the edible chrysanthemum, which can reduce attacks by caterpillars. ● Hyssop: Plant strong-scented hyssop among brassicas to ward off cabbage white butterflies. Artemisia is also effec-

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tive for this, preferably in a sheltered spot so the wind doesn't carry the strong smell away. ● Mint: If you have an ant infestation in your greenhouse, tear off a bunch of mint and place it where the ants are congregating. They should disappear fast, but replace the bunches of mint every couple of days to ensure they don't return. ● Leeks: Pungent crops such as leeks, garlic and chives can confuse insects including carrot flies, onion flies and leek moths, so plant them with carrots if you want to stop carrot fly ruining your crops. When leeks and carrots are planted together, their scents act as repellents for each other's pests. ● Nasturtiums: These pretty annuals secrete a mustard oil that insects love. Use them as a sacrificial crop to save your brassicas, while in the greenhouse they'll protect your tomatoes and cucumbers from whitefly. ● Pot marigolds: You can reap much greater harvests by planting annuals which are attractive to pollinating insects close to your fruiting vegetables such as courgettes, beans and tomatoes. ● Plant garlic among roses to ward off aphids

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8 July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Summer Homes & Gardens

Coastal

BLUES

S an island nation, it's hardly surprising we're drawn to the sea, and the trend for coastal style decor returns with the regularity of the tide every summer. It's clean, crisp look is so appealing, and lifts spirits by bringing to mind memories of sun, sea and sand holidays. Happily, taking the plunge and conjuring this easy-on-the-eye look isn't difficult,

and it's a perfect way to revamp rooms suffering a decor winter hangover. So get on board and cruise into a full-on captain's cabin look, complete with anchor motifs and a ship's wheel, conjure the sand-between-your-toes informality of a beach hut, or simply be inspired by the natural landscape of the seashore with a neutral palette and swooping seabirds imagery. Salute a classic coastal look with a seaspray white and blue scheme, with nautical touches. "The spirit of the British seaside is alive in our coastal collection, where the warmth of nostalgia is given a fresh, modern update," says Caroline Driver, designer at John Lewis. "Relaxed textures, simple stripes and plainly crafted pieces reflect the comfort and informality of a home by the sea. We've enjoyed reminiscing about our

Sea shell votives £6 Monty’s Vintage Shop; ship’s wheel £20 House of Fraser; coastal clock £14 Sainsburys; mermaid antique mirror tray £10 George Home; mackerel lampshades from £48 Cream Cornwall; Vegas LED metal circus light £39 Cult Furniture

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July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue 9

Gazette & Diary Magazine

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July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Education Matters /EastnorCastle

@EastnorCastle

Visit Eastnor

this Summer

Six weeks of summer fun at Eastnor

HE six weeks of the school summer holidays are set to be fun-packed at Eastnor Castle as they roll out their annual Summer Holiday programme which will include two brand new events to keep families entertained whilst the children are off school. Eastnor Castle will be open every Sunday through to Thursday from July 24 until August 25, then again for the bank holiday weekend on Sunday August 28 and Monday 29. Activities include a few family favourites such as Budding Bakers with Easy Peasy Cookery School, Pottery Workshops with Eastnor’s very own Flying Potter and Mad Science which was a huge hit last year. Brand new for this year are a Dinosaur Show with a life-like walking, roaring T-Rex and Space Workshops where children will be able to become an astranout, fly a rocket and discover aliens in workshops run by Carnival Arts. Finishing off the summer will be a Bank Holiday Bounce & Boing event where children can let off a final bit of steam on giant inflatables before starting back at school.

David Littlewood, General Manager at Eastnor Castle said: “We’re thrilled to be able to offer such an exciting range of summer holiday events this year and are looking forward to the new events, as well as welcoming back some of the old family favourites. All of these events are included in our entrance price so alongside all of our permanent attractions, we’re sure our visitors will have a fantastic day out here at Eastnor.” Eastnor built a brand new Woodland Play Area to add to their collection of permanent attractions earlier this year which includes a maze, junior assault course, adventure playground and tree-top walkway already in existence. All of these, alongside the castle, arboretum, tea room, ice cream parlour and gift shop will be available every day they are open. Opening times are 11am until 5.30pm and prices are adults: £7, children: £5, families: £19 (grounds only admission, castle upgrades are available). Fast-track tickets are available online along with a full list of summer holiday activities at www.eastnorcastle.com or call 01531 633160.

COUNTRYSIDE DISPLAYS SHOWING OF HORSES•LIVESTOCK POULTRY & DOGS•FOOD HALL 100’S OF TRADESTANDS•SHOPPING MALL•HOME & GARDEN DISPLAYS CHILDREN’S ENTERTAINMENT

THURSDAY 25th AUGUST 2016 A great day out for all the family!

New date from 2017 - 1st Saturday in July

Monmouth Showground NP25 4LG

Tel: 01873 890365 www.monmouthshow.co.uk July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Castle • Arboretum • Adventure Playground • Tree-top Walkway Junior Obstacle Course • Knights’ Maze • Woodland Play Area Lakeside Walks • Land Rover Little Off-Roaders* Adult £7 • Child £5 • Family £19 (Castle upgrades available).

Also included in the entrance price: Sun 24th – Wed 27th July

Budding Bakers Sun 31st July – Thurs 4th August

Pottery

Buy fast-trac k

tickets o nline

with the Flying Potter Sun 7th – Thurs 11th August

Dinosaur Show

Sun 14th – Thurs 18th August

Mad Science

Sun 21st – Thurs 25th August

Carnival Arts:

Space Workshops Sun 28th – Mon 29th August

Bounce & Boing *Additional charges apply

eastnorcastle.com

Boat and canoe hire at Brecon Canal Basin

Boats by the day, half day or by the hour

Beacon Park Day Boats

0800 612 2890 FUN IN THE SUN

Celebrating ten years of a vibrant community hub

HE construction of a new building in the heart of Crickhowell ten years ago led to the establishment of the Crickhowell Resource and Information Centre (CRiC) - now a vibrant community hub and visitor attraction which houses the Oriel Cric Gallery with its growing reputation for showcasing art of outstanding quality. Centre manager Jan Morgan said: “You are invited to join CRiC staff, volunteers and trustees at our Open Day on Saturday, July 9, as we celebrate our tenth year of welcoming around half a million visitors to the town and serving the local community with the many office and technical services and facilities. “During the Open Day we will be serving free Black Mountain Roast Coffee to welcome our visitors. Tasters, testers and demonstrations throughout the day are sure to entice you to browse the locally

The centre is a welcoming place to linger over a cup of coffee while shopping or planning a day out made gifts and produce such as jams, chutneys, juices, chocolate and ice-cream. In the afternoon at 2.30pm CRiC’s Chairman David Thomas will launch the Oriel Cric Galler y ’s new summer exhibition “Celebrate” which includes work by “Seven14” a group of artists from Cardiff who will be exhibiting printmaking, textiles and ceramics. This year’s art display by senior students of the Crickhowell High School in collaboration with The

Rotary Club of Crickhowell will also be much needed funds for Tenovus cancer unveiled by Rotary President Hywel Bevan. care and for CRiC. Tickets will be availThe “Celebrate” exhibition will continue able to purchase from CRiC at the Open Day and thereafter. until September 12.” To find out more about the activities She added: “There will be opportunities during the Open Day or about during the day to view CRiC’s Studio space volunteering at CRiC email at Beaufort Chambers – an additional jan@visitcrickhowell.co.uk space to hire for your course, workshop, talk or pop-up exhibition. “Come along on July 9 as we celebrate our successes and look forward with our volunteer team to the next 10 years of supporting Crickhowell’s businesses, community and all the visitors who come from far and wide to explore our beautiful area within the Brecon Beacons National Park.” CRiC will continue it celebratory year by hosting a Charity The exhibition in the Oriel CRiC Gallery will include Gala dinner at The Manor work by a group of artists from Cardiff including Hotel in September to raise ceramics by Christine Gittins

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)

Cuddle & Cw wttch Riding Lessons, BHS Exam training, Live eries and Pony Loans, P L Sh Show J Jumping Sh Shows, D Dressa age Shows.

Cross Country and Working Hunter C Courses available for hire

FUN IN THE SUN

July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Wild Wednesdays Summer fun at the Old Railway Line Garden Centre

RAFTY youngsters are invited to visit the award winning, Old Railway Line Garden Centre to enjoy a series of seven fun filled workshops this summer school break. The Old Railway Line Garden Centre, located between Brecon and Hay-on-Wye, host a different workshop for children every Wednesday of the school holidays. Manager, Katie Eckley explained: “We know it can be hard to keep the children entertained during the school holidays which is why we introduced our popular ‘Wild Wednesdays’ a couple of years ago. “This summer sees the return of some Wild Wednesday favourites including Miniature Gardens on 20th July, The Rainforest Roadshow on 27th July and Circus Skills on 17th August. We have also introduced new workshops this year including a Mad Hatters Tea Party, Scratch Art, Mu-

sical Crafts and Our Solar System! “We are already looking forward to this summer’s ‘Wild Wednesdays’ and we hope you are too!” The workshops cost just £4 per child including all materials needed to take part. Pre-booking is required on-line or by calling 01497 847055 as spaces are limited and please be aware that all children must be accompanied by an adult. The workshops start at 10.30am, 11.30am and 12.30pm. For more information about the Old Railway Line Garden Centre, crowned ‘Best Garden Centre in Wales and the West’ for four consecutive years, or the Wild Wednesday workshop please contact the Old Railway Line directly by calling 01497 847055 or visiting their website www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk.

Wild i d Wednesdays Fun workshops to keep the children enterttained every Wednesday during the school holidays! 20th July Miniature Gardens

17th August Circus Skills

27th July Ra ainfo orestt Roadshow

24th August Musical Craftts

3rd August Mad Hattters Te ea Party

31st August Our Solar Systtem

10th August Scratch Art

BOOKING RE EQU UIR RE ED

01497 847055 / www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk Three Cocks, Brecon, Powys, LD3 0SG

Workshops costt just £4 per child. All children mustt be accompanied by an adult at all times.

July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

FUN IN THE SUN

North Island Wanderer

A view of New Zealand by Nigel Heath

Trekking in the Tongariro National Park

to the great outdoors!

3 CROFT COURT (off Broad Street) ROSS-ON-WYE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; (01989) 565676

MAGINE this holiday nightmare scene. large party of Japanese tourists had I was at an Auckland airport desk queuing checked out at the same time and their to collect our New Zealand touring car luggage had been scattered all over the when my wife Jenny suddenly demanded hotel forecourt prior to being loaded into in a panic: "Where's the black case a coach going to who knows where. Thank goodness, our case was still sitting because it's not in the taxi?" We had flown in from Sydney the previous there all by itself and I had learned a hard evening and had stayed in a local hotel lesson about the importance of always prior to taking a taxi back to the airport to double checking that you have all your possessions with you when you are on a pick up our transport. I had been so intent on helping the touring holiday. With me driving and Jenny map reading driver load our two heavy red cases into his boot that I had left the much smaller we soon found our way out onto New black travel case on the hotel forecourt. Inside it were ÂŁ1,000 in New Zealand dollars and our entire North and South Island itinerary plus emailed holiday vouchers which had taken Jenny many hours to source. Heart thumping, I leapt into the taxi which luckily had not driven off and we sped back to the hotel with me hoping against hope that our case would still be there. The trouble was that a The famous, and rather beautiful toilets at Kawakawa

All homemade! CAKES SOUP TOASTIES SANDWICHES

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

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July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Zealand's Highway One and a delightful day's driving brought us to our first B&B stopover at Kerikeri in the beautiful Bay of Islands. Our thoughtful hosts had provided us with a list of sights to see on our way north and, strangely, one of them was the famous grass roofed toilets in the township of Kawakawa. They were designed by famous Austrian artist and architect Frederick Hundertwasser who believed that toilets, like churches, are a good place to meditate. His materials included gold balls, ceramic tiles, bottle glass windows, mosaic tiling, cobblestone flooring, individual sculptures and even a living tree. So by the time we reached our holiday host's well appointed bungalow set in a large and luxuriant tropical garden we were really in the touring holiday mood. Ahead of us were ten glorious days exploring the area and gradually making our way south to Wellington prior to boarding the ferry across the Cook Strait to Picton, which was to be the jumping off point for our two week tour of the much more mountainous and dramatic South Island. That night our hosts booked us into a colonial style restaurant set amid tropical trees where we feasted on locally caught fish under the stars with sweet scented lamps burning to fend off the insects who had also come to dine. We were staying in Kerikeri for three nights so the following morning we drove to nearby Paihia for a scenic boat cruise around the Bay of Islands, landing at the picturesque early settlement of Russell for lunch. This delightfully quaint, sleepy and colonial style township was the first permanent European settlement and sea port in New Zealand and was served by the local Maori population who supplied food and timber in exchange for firearms, alcohol and other goods. As it grew it gained a reputation for lawlessness and prostitution and became known as the Hell Hole of the Pacific while ironically its Maori name when translated meant How Sweet is the Penguin! The following morning we toured the coastline, dotted

Education Matters

Nigel and Jenny Heath under the 3,000-year-old giant Kauri Tree

AP NT P

W I N G CS HIRE

, MONMOUTH

with deserted sandy beaches, and climbed a rounded hill overlooking the ocean to visit the sombre memorial to the Rainbow Warrior. She was the Greenpeace boat blown up by French agents to stop its campaigning crew from interfering with nuclear tests far out in the Pacific. Then it was farewell to Kerikeri and we drove south in search of the North Island's famous giant, 3,000-year-old Kauri Tree which is indeed so awe inspiring a sight that it can often move those who gaze upon it to tears. Not far away is a fabulous museum devoted to the history of these magnificent trees which once covered most of the island. The highly versatile wood was used extensively by the early settlers. But the undoubted highlight of our North Island tour with its breathtaking scenery, friendly people, excellent food and quiet roads was our visit to the mountainous Tongariro National Park, which has dual World Heritage status, to complete the famous alpine crossing. This trek, amid towering volcanic peaks and awe-inspiring natural scenery, is heralded as the best one-day walk in New Zealand, while others say it ranks among the top ten best in the world. We checked in at the comfortable Powderhorn Lodge, were collected by bus the following morning, taken to the start of the walk and then picked up from the other end in the late afternoon. Hundreds of people do this stunning and extremely well marked seven hour 19.4 kilometre trail over still active volcanic terrain every day and as long as you have a stout pair of boots, appropriate walking gear and a reasonable level of fitness then it is an experience not to be missed. From Tongariro we made our way south to Wellington to board a ferry for the spectacular three hour voyage across the Cook Strait to South Island and the start of the second half of our month long tour of New Zealand. Nigel Heath will describe his sightseeing journey through South Island in another feature to be published later in the year.

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July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

FUN IN THE SUN

HE second Saturday in September is Usk Show Day. This year it falls on 10th September. Held at The Usk Showground (NP15 1DD), the Show maintains its reputation as a traditional agricultural show by only accepting agricultural exhibits from Usk Farmers’Club members farming within the old County of Gwent. However, there is so much more to this Show Day than just livestock. Alongside the cows, sheep, pigs and goats, you can see horses and show jumping, visit the poultry, rabbits, Horticulture and Homecraft Marquees. There are vintage tractors, a Steam Corner, plus a fun Companion Dog Show that is open to all. Children can join in the free makeand-take crafts and circus activities at the Junkfish tent. We also have inflatables, fair rides and side

g ethin m o S for at yone r e v e

USK SHOW

shows, plus 300 traders outside and under canvas, selling everything from agricultural supplies to fashion. New for this year in the Main Ring we are welcoming the Kangaroo Kids, Matt Coulter and Paul Hannam from the Australian Gold Coast, with their quad bike stunt show. The traditional Parade of Hounds will be made by the Curre and Llangibby Hunt once again and the Grand Parade of Livestock and Horses gives visitors the chance to celebrate our local farmers. The exhibitors in the Vintage Tractor Section will parade in the Main Ring too. The Countryside Ring is jam-packed with displays throughout the day from The Welsh Axemen, Black Mountain Falconry, Rowan Working Horses, Usk Valley Working Gundogs, The Ferguson Club, Amazing Alpacas and Woolaston Bassetts. We are thrilled to be welcoming the South East Wales Military Vehicle Trust whose members will be bringing along their vintage military vehicles. The Showground is easily accessible from the A449 and only five minutes outside Usk. We have plenty of free car parking on-site. You can also catch the free shuttle bus that runs from Usk Square, or use our free park & ride service at County Hall,The Rhadyr. Full details and discount tickets are available now at www.uskshow.co.uk.

“

e Best Show In South Wales!”

SATURDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER USK SHOWGROUND, NP15 1DD MAIN RING & COUNTRYSIDE ARENA DEMONSTRATIONS THROUGHOUT THE DAY

Livestock Horses Show Jumping Companion Dog Show Goats Poultry Rabbits Homecraft & Horticulture Vintage Tractors Steam Corner Food Hall Shopping Mall Craft Fayre

Full Details & Pre-Show Discount Tickets Available Now At www.uskshow.co.uk 8

FUN IN THE SUN

July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Dates for your Diary - July 7,14,21,28 - Govilon Car Boot. Main Road, every Thursday. Morning, weather permitting. 01873 830834. 1 – Phoenix Singers, Baptist Chapel Govilon, 7.30pm. Music from nine decades of Elizabeth II, supporting the Mons Eisteddfod Appeal Fund. Tickets £5 Tel: 01873 830417 or at door. 2 – Shire Horse Show including Miniature Horses, 10.30am Bailey Park, Abergavenny. Tel: 01291 621469. 2 - Gwent Bach Society Choral Concert Music for a Summer’s Evening to include works by Schubert, Brahms, Holst, Lauridsen and Whitacre. Conductor Roger Langford 7.30pm at the Priory Rooms, St Mary’s Priory Church Abergavenny Tickets £10 from Abergavenny Music / 01873 890259 3 – Tabernacle Baptist Chapel Grwyne Vawr Valley Forest Coalpit Sankey Hymn Singing at 6.30pm. All welcome. 6 – Abergavenny & District PSC presents the Wales Premier of the film 'Occupation of the American Mind' narrated by Roger Waters 7pm Melville Theatre. Free Entry. 8 – Summer Concert, Gateway Church, Abergavenny, 700pm. Synergy, Male Acapella choir, Sing With Us Choir, Gemma Davies-Soloist. All proceeds to Tenovus Cancer Care, Tickets £8. marion.ashton@tenovuscancercare.org.uk, or Tel: 07835952754. 8 – Abergavenny Alzheimers Fundraising

Group Market Stall, 8am to 3.30pm. Loads of Bargains. All Welcome. 9 – Daytime Trip Bath Theatre “Present Laughter” £40 or shopping only £16. Phone 01873 857367. 9 - All Creatures Great & Small Animal Sanctuary, Llanfrechfa, Cwmbran NP44 8AD Open Day 11-5pm. Entertainment, Dog Show., Stalls, Raffle and Ferret Racing. Tel: 01633 866144, enquiries@allcreaturesgreatandsmall.org.uk 9 – The 28th Cwmdu Show at The Wern Farm Cwmdu. Classes for Sheep, Cattle, Horses and Handicrafts, Cookery & Horticulture. Schedules from 01874 730351, 01874 711738. 13 – Abergavenny Action 50+ Forum Speaker is Sarah Rochira. Doors open 9.30am for registration/refreshments. Admission £2. Non-members welcome. 10am -12 noon, Trinity Church Hall, Baker Street, Abergavenny. Delia 01873 855944. 30 - 6th Aug – Aber Art Group 79th Anniversary Exhibition Holy Trinity Church Hall, Baker St (behind the library) 10am to 5pm. Free entry.

August

6 - Crickhowell Vintage & Antique Fair 10am Clarence Hall, Crickhowell NP8 1BN. Entry £1 under 16 free. Vintage Tea Shop. Supporting Wales Air Ambulance. 07977 846509.

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wyevalleybrewery

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Three unmissable performances over three days in the idyllic grounds of Abergavenny Castle 1

Theatre at the Castle

ust 9 Aug , y a d Tues at 7pm

A ug day, m s e n at 7p Wed

1 ust 1 A ug y a d s Thur at 3pm

0 ust 1

Bring a rug, a picnic and the whole family

Promoted by

Gates open an hour before each performance Tickets for all performances from the Borough Theatre Box Office on 01873 850805 or on the gate July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

FUN IN THE SUN

10:49

Order online www.hafrenfurnishers.co.uk

Wales’ Largest Independent Furniture Store

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016 686 414000

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ITH 50 years’ expertise in furnishing homes, Hafren Furnishers of Llanidloes have reason to cele-

brate. Their vast showroom, covering seven floors, is a destination in itself for visitors to the scenic town on the River Severn. Every room in the house is covered, from the smallest to the largest, from family rooms to home offices, from bedrooms to conser vatories. Every style is catered for, f r o m traditional and v i n t a g e t o contemporary. Still a familyrun business, Hafren Furnishers pride themselves on being experts in the field, and as they’re entirely non-commission based, on offering impartial advice that you can trust. As well as the personal attention and expertise, Hafren are rarely beaten price, plus they offer free delivery in England and Wales and can offer interest-free credit. Home to Wales’ largest Bed Studio, as well as a host of famous brands and a range of bed styles, Hafren have recently brought in a new exciting product from Hypnos – the hidden divan safe. Sleep peacefully at night in the knowledge that your valuables are in a discreet

safe hidden behind a drawer front under your bed! Soft furnishings are catered for, too – as well as the Carpet Right concession, there is also a new Curtain Express display in store, meaning you can get customised curtains and blinds in seven days. With a wide range of colours and styles available, you can choose your furniture and then get curtains to match, or just brighten up your home with new blinds, made up in just a week. Also new in store is the Halo Living Studio where you can browse the latest range of Halo Living luxury handmade dining and living furniture. Plus, of course, Hafren stock all the leading names such as Gplan, Parker Knoll, Himolla, Stressless, Duresta, Ercol and Tempur plus hundreds more. Everything you need for your home is here, from floor to ceiling. And when you’ve finished browsing – or if you just need some time to think! – you can take a break in the in-store café, with its impressive views. Visit www.hafrenfurnishers.co.uk or call 01686 414000.

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July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Education Matters

Top quality jazz ▲ Tina May BRECON Jazz Club has been promoting top quality live jazz in Brecon since the 1970s, the last four years working with Orchard Media to put on high profile concerts during the annual Jazz Festival - with no intention of taking a break in 2016! Fortunately, Brecon Town Council, Arts Council of Wales and many other organisations agree. This year, they have been working in a ‘partnership group’ to seek funding and develop a series of programmes - the outcome is the ‘Brecon Jazz Weekend 2016’, a feast of events, music, activities and happenings indoors and out - with a true sense of ‘celebration’, focusing specifically on the relationship of jazz to Brecon.

For this reason, one of their concerts at the Brecon Guildhall is called ‘Those Special Places’ - a tribute to favourite and iconic locations and spaces, with Welsh musicians guitarist Trefor Owen and vocalist Megan Thomas, with Andy Hulme and Erika Lyons. On Sunday evening, chill out in The Muse to the Celtic sounds of Dublin-based Maria & Carole (vocals, piano). And starting off on Friday (in The Castle) will be the Teddy Smith Big Band, vocalist Elaina Hoss, the Swing Dancers, and a host of soloists including Gethin Liddington (trumpet), Dominic Norcross (sax). Also on Friday at The Castle, a very special guest appearance by international jazz pianist Geoff Eales making a welcome return to Brecon Jazz with a new trio line-up. Two more major headline concerts include: Saturday evening in The Guildhall, ‘Tina May sings the music of Brazil’ with the WalesLatin Jazz Ensemble, featuring

Jonathan Crespo (trumpet), Pedro Asencio (piano), Gui Tavares (guitar), Cathy Jones & Lloyd Haines (percussion/drums), Alexa Dene (flute/vocals), Aidan Thorne (double bass). Unmissable. Sunday’s Guildhall evening headline will be North Wales BeBop Quintet Brownfield-Byrne (trumpet, sax), with guest Trish Clowes (sax). We hope you will find lots of things to go to. There will be music-making workshops for all, sessions on guitar, voice and percussion, with many other entertainments over the jazz weekend, and a special exhibition with material on loan from the Swansea Jazz Archive, opening Friday 12th August. “We are very grateful to Brecon Town Council, Arts Council of Wales, Powys County Council, Castle of Brecon Hotel, Brecon Chamber of Trade, The Muse and the Brecon & Radnor Express for supporting our work in programming the above events.” Brecon Jazz Club.

▲ Brownfield Byrne

BRECON JAZZ WEEKEND 2016 VISIT.ENJOY.SHARE

Come hear the music of ‘Brazil’, the sounds of a Big Band with vocals & dancing, join workshops for all ages and levels, in guitar, voice, percussion, and ‘music-making for everyone’, there’s a film screening and discussion, exhibitions on music and social contexts around jazz and so much to do, to taste, to enjoy in the town. Concerts & shows • Workshops • Young musician showcase Market stalls • Street music • Town parade Film & exhibitions • Cathedral concerts & Sunday jazz service Headline artists include UK national names of jazz, with award-winning young stars of the new generation of jazz talent.

FRI 12 - SUN 14

AUGUST

Concert venues include Guildhall, Theatr Brycheiniog, the Cathedral, Muse and Castle of Brecon Hotel, with a full range of Fringe events throughout the town and including the Market Hall Programme - see local press for details

BOOKMARK & PARTICIPATE Contact: info@breconjazzclub.org

www.breconjazz.com

July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

FUN IN THE SUN

Saturday 6th August 20 016 at Court Fa arm, Llanth hony,, NP7 7NN H Horses, Sheep, Flo owers, Vegetables, Produce, Side Shows, Fell Race, Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sports, Decorated Floats and Fancy Dress, Gy Gymkhana, Showju umping, Raffle, Refreshments, Ponyy Rodeo, Va alley Showcasse Marquee, Shearing Demonstrattio on, Monmouth Hunt Hound Parade. Show to o be opened by the President, Mr Douglas Wright. Pony Judging to commence at 9.00am and d Showjumping at 9.30am promptt (In orde er to enter any of the produce oduce classes, all entries must be b in the produce tent byy 10.30am on show da ay) y)

Admission n ÂŁ5 (Children 10 a and under Free)

For more infor rmation visit our webp page: www..llantthonyshow..co.u uk or find us on Fa Facebook: www w..facebook.com//llanthonyshow w// 12

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July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Gazette and Diary Magazine Matters Education

Celebrity GOSSIP

Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley reprise their roles as Edina and Patsy

Absolutely fabulous sweetie darling ...

■ THE organisers of the Oscars have invited a record number of new people to vote for next year's Academy Awards following the row over a lack of diversity. Luther star Idris Elba, Star Wars actor John Boyega and rapperIce Cube are among 683 people who have been invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences - more than double the total invited the previous year. The move comes after a lack of diversity among the nominees at this year's Oscars sparked a huge debate about race in the film industry. None of the nominees for the best actor and actress and best supporting actor and actress categories was from an ethnic minority, prompting film star Will Smith and director Spike Lee to boycott the ceremony in February. The hashtag #OscarSoWhite also became a rallying cry on social media for dissatisfied film stars and fans. The academy has pledged to double the number of "women and diverse members" by 2020.

T its peak in the mid-1990s, Absolutely Fabulous was a scalpel-sharp satire of bloated celebrity culture that lived up to the effusive self-congratulations of the title. Joanna Lumley's distinguished career was resuscitated as a booze-soaked, chain-smoking, sex-crazed vamp, and Jennifer Saunders reaffirmed her talent as a writer of hilariously grotesque characters and impeccably tailored one-liners. More than 20 years later, the on-screen rapport between the central double-act still sparkles like freshly uncorked champagne and the script boasts vignettes of comic genius including a turbulent showdown between Lumley's lush and Rebel Wilson as a ballsy budget airline stewardess. Don’t cross Kate Moss! Life is tough for PR doyenne Edina Monsoon To celebrate the add the supermodel to her dwindling client roster before arch (Saunders). release of Absolutely Fabulous: rival Claudia Bing (Celia Imrie). Her client list has The Movie Stolichnaya Vodka This hare-brained scheme goes tragically awry and the thinned to Lulu (currently £14 down from £20, 70cl, fashion world points the finger of blame for Kate Moss' deand Emma Sainsbury's) partnered with Fox Searchlight mise at Edina and Patsy. Bunton and Pictures to create a series of suitably marvellous "Manslaughter charges might be brought," confirms a she continues cocktails that were served at the film premiere's detective (Robert Webb), who is dating Saffy. to clash with fabulous after-party to welcome back Edina and When ditzy secretary Bubble (Jane Horstrait-laced Patsy in style... TRY PINK ROMANCE rocks) vanishes too, Edina and Patsy flee to daughter 50ml Stolichnaya Vodka the Cote d'Azur to snag wealthy husbands. Saffy (Julia 15ml Cocchi Americano Vermouth "Living well is the best revenge," affirms Sawalha), 15ml Pamplemousse (pink grapefruit) liqueur Patsy with a lipstick-smeared grin. who struggles Garnish: Pink grapefruit zest Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie trades to protect her Add all the ingredients to a chilled mixing heavily on nostalgia and Saunders merrily 13-year-old glass full of cubed ice. Stir for 15 seconds shoehorns familiar faces from the TV series daughter (Lola and strain into chilled martini glasses. into her ramshackle plot including Edina's Donaldson-Holness) Add the zest and serve. mother (June Whitfield) and ferocious from Edina's negative magazine editor Magda (Kathy Burke). influence. A few gags fall horribly flat but there are To add insult to injury, Edina's lualso well-placed pokes in the ribs for curcrative book deal for her memoir collapses rent fads, like when Edina sighs, "Can you when an editor (Mark Gatiss) points out be quiet, darling, I'm trying to do my mindthat she has nothing to say. lessness." "I put Sting in a rainforest, I put Bono beSawalha is the emotional heart of the hind yellow glasses," splutters Edina, "I film, leading to unexpected mothergave celebrities Aids!" daughter bonding that threatens to test Thankfully, best friend Patsy Stone (Lumthe cast's and the target audience's waterley) is in the media eye and her magazine proof mascara. is sponsoring a lavish party for enigmatic designer Huki Muki (Janette Tough). ● Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie is in Kate Moss, who is between publicists, is cinemas now due to attend the soiree and Edina vows to

■ CORONATION Street will be broadcast six times a week from late 2017, ITV has announced. The popular soap will be transmitted for an extra episode each week, although no information about when the additional episode will air has been released. Last year the soap celebrated its 60th anniversary with a live episode, and also announced new management in the form of Emmerdale producer Kate Oates. ITV's director of television, Kevin Lygo, said the news is a reflection of the broadcaster's commitment to "high quality soap" for a "hugely loyal audience". ■ ROLLING Stone Keith Richards will swap concert arenas for the streets of Kent for a new BBC documentary about growing up in post-war Britain. The guitarist will journey back to his formative years in the hour-long film, Keith Richards - The Origin Of The Species for BBC Two. The documentary will be the centrepiece of the broadcaster's yearlong My Generation season charting the history of pop music across the decades, and will air in July.

July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue 23

Gazette and Diary Magazine

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Matters Education Gazette and Diary Magazine

HE spring catwalks were ablaze with bright, fiery colours, perfect for hot summer days and nights. There wasn't just one highlight hue on the SS16 catwalks, but a beautiful range encompassing the kind of rich, fiery shades only visible as the sun goes down. Prabal Gurung set the bar high in New York with a gorgeous collection full of amber and tangerine midi dresses, while Altuzarra's tie-dye prints looked like they'd be pinched from a perfect Instagram sunset snap, and Oscar de la Renta and Valentino favoured golden-yellows for eveningwear. It all adds up to a very seductive colour palette - but one from which you should choose wisely, because citrine and vermilion are not for everyone. Here's how to select your best shades from the sunset spectrum... SET THE NIGHT ON FIRE Stand out among a sea of pastels (weddings) or black (cocktail parties) with a scorching catwalk-inspired frock for your next dress-up occasion. "Blondes, harmonise your lighter, delicate colouring by opting for clearer shades of yellow," says Cliff Bashforth, managing director at Colour Me Beautiful. "Tones such as primrose or pale daffodil will balance your colouring perfectly. Avoid deeper reds and oranges as these will overpower your look." Brunettes should "choose the darkest and richest shades of Forever Unique Rue oranges and reds to enhance your colouring", while paler Lime Pleated Maxi shades can be super-flattering for those with grey hair. Dress, £260 (LittleBlackDress.co.uk) SWIM INTO THE SUNSET Break out of your monochrome beachwear look and discover the mood-lifting effects of citrus-hued swimmers. The same colour-matching rules apply, so blondes and silverhaired ladies should opt for chartreuse or lemon yellow, while brunettes and raven-haired beauties can pull off everything from scarlet to Baywatch orange (and those incredibly high-cut swimsuits are back in vogue, if you dare). STRIKE A MATCH How to pair up these punchy hues, if don't fancy head-to-toe hazard orange or sunflower yellow? Whatever your hair colour, you need to decide whether you want to tone down the blazing brights or amp them up, says Bashworth. "Redheads, wear neutrals such as khaki, bronze and taupe to look chic, but add lime, turquoise or claret for a knock 'em dead look. Blondes, team your yellow with neutrals such as taupe, stone or light navy to ensure an 'expensive' look, but for something more bold, mix either violet, aqua or peppermint in order to turn heads! Pistol Panties Jane "Brunettes, add neutrals such as navy, black or soft white for a Fluro Coin Swimsuit, low-key look, or purple, lime or fuchsia when you want to stand currently reduced to out from the crowd. If you've got grey hair, pairing light yellows £89.40 from £149, with grey, navy or pure white will ensure these shades work for (www.pistolpanties.com) you, as will 'cooler' hues, such as violet, teal blue or aqua."

Make it fit IN news that won't come as a surprise to many, a new survey reveals that over a third of women wear the same two bras on rotation, despite having lots more to choose from in their underwear drawer. What's more, more than 30 per cent have been wearing the same two bras for more than 10 years, according to the research by Rigby & Peller, and another third frequently discard a bra immediately after purchase because it doesn't fit properly. That's why proper bra fittings - free at lingerie and department stores - are a must, so you can expand your bra repertoire.

In the nude The term 'nude' is used in fashion all the time to describe flesh-coloured fabrics, but for many people, it's actually no where near their skin tone. Now, Hanro has unveiled Invisible Cotton, a new range of underwear in five shades, from 'powder' to 'mahogany'. Available in four styles (thong to maxi brief ), the super-soft knickers are ideal for wearing under sheer or lace summer dresses. Prices start from £11 (www.hanro.co.uk).

Sunset Splash STYLE STEAL

Those designer sunnies you've been eyeing for months but can't justify splurging on? They're now within reach as the Sunglasses Shop sale has started, with discounts of up to 60% across a range of big name brands. We love the Miu Miu 13NS Noir Red Sunglasses, £127 (RRP £205). To eye them up, head to SunglassesShop.co.uk/sale

She’s got the look

T'S well-known that the Duchess of Cambridge re-wears her designer threads, but this might be a new record: at the East Anglia's Children's Hospices' gala dinner recently, the everstylish royal wore a blush pink sequinned Jenny Packham number more than five years after she debuted it at an event in LA. The original is no longer in shops obviously, but this lookalike Jane Norman Nude Strapless Lace Sequin Maxi Dress, £110, is available now ( w w w. j a n e n o r man.co.uk).

July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue 25

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Driving with bad habits?

RIVERS aged 25-34 most likely to have bad driving habits, according to a survey by AA Tyres. Although younger drivers may be generally considered to be the most dangerous on the roads, the poll found that so-called 'Generation Y' drivers (those born in the Eighties and Nineties) were most likely to have 11 of the 12 'bad habits' included in the survey, including eating or drinking behind the wheel and hard braking. Almost nine in 10 people in this age group admitted to regularly adjusting in-car tech, such as radios and satellite navigation systems, while driving, and almost as many were guilty of braking hard and late, and driving while tired. The survey also found roughly two-thirds regularly fail to indicate at the appropriate time, such as when leaving roundabouts, and more than half are often found driving in the middle lane of the motorway when the inside lane is clear. Despite these results, there were one or two mitigating circumstances for Generation Y's motorists. For three of the 12 bad habits investigated (not

indicating, tailgating and rubbernecking), 18 to 24-yearolds were just as likely to be found guilty, and for one bad habit - littering - the younger age group was deemed the most likely offender. It wasn't just the youngsters saving some of Generation Y's blushes, either, as the older generation were the most likely to break the speed limit. A massive 90 per cent of those aged 45-64 admitted to regularly speeding.

EACHING their kids to drive is one of the most stressful things a parent can do, with more than four in 10 afraid they'll end up injured in an accident. A survey of 1,000 parents has revealed that almost four out of five parents are worried about the consequences of putting their offspring in the driver's seat. The most common fear was damage to the car, closely followed by 43 per cent who said they feared injury to themselves in the event of a crash. One of the biggest frustrations was that kids simply don't want to listen to the guidance of parents with teenage tantrums or moody silences the result of parent-child driving lessons. Compared to other stressful life experiences, 29 per cent of the parents in the survey said they'd rather go to the dentist than teach their kids to drive, 22 per cent said they'd rather put themselves through a job interview and 40 per cent said they'd rather organise a wedding or family holiday. Unsurprisingly, 75per cent said they footed the bill - not just for the extra insurance and petrol for their child's lessons at home - but also for professional lessons!

Keep on running ...

TYRE with a new kind of cooling technology that allows it to continue much further with greater safety in the event of a puncture has won a Product of the Year award from Auto Express magazine. Bridgestone DriveGuard tyres are the first to be available for most cars fitted with a tyre pressure monitoring system, as opposed to regular run-flats, which are designed for specific cars only due to the unique suspension setup their stiff sidewalls need.

26 July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

DriveGuard tyres are lighter than conventional run-flats and their patented cooling fins help reduce temperature build-up in the carcass after a puncture, allowing drivers to carry on for up to 50 miles at 50mph. Most run-flats only allow 30 miles of travel at most, and some enforce even stricter speed limits. Combined with an A rating for wet grip, a commendable C for rolling resistance and affordable pricing, Auto Express Magazine felt the tyre was worthy of its prize.

Motoring Matters

HE F-Type should definitely be on your radar by now. First launched in 2014 and revised just last year, it is the Porsche-worrying coupe and roadster that gave Jaguar a true successor to the EType, as well as a halo effect on the rest of the range. Now the SVO department has turned their attentions to it to create the F-Type SVR. The changes are detailed and wideranging, with more power and torque from the 5.0-litre V8 engine, reduced drag and increased downforce thanks to the new rear wing, diffuser and front valance. There's also retuned suspension, less weight and unlikely as it may seem, an even louder exhaust system made from titanium and aircraft-spec alloy. ● LOOKS AND IMAGE You can have an F-Type SVR in Roadster or Coupe form, just like the R version it's based on, and arguably it is the latter that's the best-looking of the two. The exterior changes certainly add aggression to what was an elegant and pretty shape, and you're left in no doubt that the SVR means business. Pick of the colour chart is the sharp blue shade that shows off the strong lines to best effect. The F-Type and Jaguars in general have come a long way in the image stakes in just a few years thanks to an expanded range and exciting designs, and SVR as a sub-brand now has a second model to boost it's recognition. The F-Type SVR is the fastest series production Jaguar ever and can crack 200mph; that's a potent image to project. ● SPACE AND PRACTICALITY There's no loss of cabin space in the SVR

and pushing the SVR hard above 100mph. With the freedom of the track to explore its full potential the SVR remains pleasingly rear-drive in its balance; you can feel the front wheels helping out occasionally but this is a car that can be sideways into, through and on the exit of a bend if you so wish. To call it fun would be a gross understatement.

Purring happily in the new Jaguar F-Type transformation but it remains a strict twoseater with an intimate, rather than spacious, cabin. Even so, six-footers can be comfortably accommodated in the supportive sports seats, the glovebox and storage bins will swallow plenty of oddments and the boot on the Coupe is big enough for a medium suitcase, as well as some smaller bags too. The Roadster's boot is inevitably smaller but space is freed up by opting for the tyre repair kit over a spare, and putting the roof down doesn't impact on boot space. ● BEHIND THE WHEEL The tweaks beneath the skin are significant to the point where Jaguar developed a new read suspension knuckle to improve the suspension response, and developed bespoke tyres with Pirelli just for this car.

In normal driving, the first thing you notice is that it rides surprisingly well; even this most extreme car in the whole range retains this familiar Jaguar quality, and it's clearly designed to be used every day. It's even relatively quiet in the standard driving mode too. But the SVR is best enjoyed when driven with a little more aggression. Switch into Dynamic mode and the most notable difference is the firmed up suspension, although the driver can tweak the individual settings for the steering, engine and gearbox. It feels extra sharp, responding with even more immediacy to inputs and stays flat, true and firm. The engine dominates the experience, crackling and rasping with even more volume than the already-loud R Coupe,

● VALUE FOR MONEY In Coupe form the SVR checks in at exactly £110,000, with another £5k required for the Roadster. That makes it almost £20,000 more than the R model, but for that you get the extra power and torque, the exterior changes including the aero upgrades and unique alloy wheels, the bespoke suspension upgrades, the 25kg weight loss including the lightweight exhaust and some interior fillips. That seems like good value to us. ● WHO WOULD BUY ONE? Jaguar is billing the F-Type SVR as an allweather supercar rather than a track warrior, but the fact it dealt so well with all these scenarios means there's a lot to be said for its capability to deal with daily use. 911 Turbo owners might see it as something of an upstart, but it has presence, is sufficiently comfortable and acceptably practical whilst crucially being a complete blast to drive when the circumstances permit. It's also relatively inexpensive for a car that can top 200mph... This car summed up in a single word: Snarly If this car was a... cat, it would purr happily before tearing a B-road to shreds.

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2011 DISCOVERY 4 3.0 SDV6 COMMERCIAL 38,358 Grey Automatic Ebony Black ........................................................... £21,995 + VAT 2012 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PURE TECH 5 35,478 Grey Automatic Ebony Black ..........................................................£25,495 2015 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PURE TECH 5 4,605 Red Automatic Ebony Black .............................................................£33,995 2015 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PRESTIGE 5 10,548 Grey Manual Ebony Black ................£32,995 VAT CONTENT RECLAIMABLE 2015 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PURE TECH 5 12,216 Brown/Beige Automatic Ebony Black .............................................£33,495 2014 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 DYNAMIC 5 24,713 Red Automatic Ebony Black Oxford Perforated ..................................£32,995 2013 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PRESTIGE 5 27,915 Brown/Beige Automatic Ivory Premium ............................................£31,995 2013 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PRESTIGE 5 16,571 Grey Automatic Ivory Premium .........................................................£31,995 2014 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PRESTIGE 5 24,026 Black Manual Ebony Black ...............................................................£27,995 2012 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 TD4 PRESTIGE 5 32,856 Grey Manual Ivory Premium .............................................................£25,995 2013 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 DYNAMIC LUX 22,447 Red Automatic Ebony Black .........................................................£32,495 2013 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PRESTIGE 5 23,595 Black Automatic Cirrus ....................................................................£32,495 2015 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PURE TECH 5 3,954 Black Automatic Ebony Black ..........................................................£33,495 2015 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PURE TECH 10,336 Red Manual Ebony Black ..................£29,995 VAT CONTENT RECLAIMABLE 2012 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 PRESTIGE 5 25,736 Brown/Beige Automatic Tan .............................................................£29,895 2012 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 TD4 PURE 5 DOOR 23,012 Blue Manual Almond .....................................................................£24,995 2013 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 DYNAMIC 5 22,199 Red Automatic Ebony Black ..............................................................£37,995 2014 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE DYNAMIC 26,015 Grey Automatic Ivory ....................................................................£58,995 2013 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE BLACK 43,247 Blue Automatic Almond Premium .....................................................£35,995 2015 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE 4,863 Black Automatic Ivory .....................................£67,495 VAT CONTENT RECLAIMABLE 2015 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE 22,102 Blue Automatic Ivory ....................................................................................£55,995 2013 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE LUXURY 22,282 Grey Automatic Ebony Black...........................................................£37,995 2015 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE DYNAMIC 23,504 Grey Automatic Ivory ....................................................................£64,495 2013 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE BLACK 35,225 Grey Automatic Ebony Black .............................................................£38,995 2015 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE 11,473 Black Automatic Ivory ...................................................................................£58,995 2012 RANGE ROVER EVOQUE 2.2 SD4 DYNAMIC 5 12,058 Blue Automatic Ivory/ Lunar..............................................................£30,495 2012 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE LUXURY 34,269 Grey Automatic Ebony Black...........................................................£32,995 2012 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE LUXURY 57,081 Blue Automatic Ivory ......................................................................£29,995 2013 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE BLACK 45,269 Black Automatic Ebony Black ...........................................................£33,995 2009 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 TDV6 HSE 41,476 Brown/ Beige Automatic Interior Colour: Ebony Black....................................£24,995 2012 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE 47,746 Grey Automatic Ivory Premium .....................................................................£32,995 2014 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 HSE DYNAMIC 6,142 Blue Automatic Lunar.....................................................................£60,995 2012 RANGE ROVER SPORT 3.0 SDV6 SE Blue Automatic Almond 49,209...................................................................................£32,995

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July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue 27

Gazette & Diary Magazine

Delicious NEW summer menu from Wiltshire Farm Foods is here A

S the days get warmer and the evenings lighter, we’ve put together a NEW collection of seasonal recipes to get you feeling summery. Using only quality ingredients, the new collection is the perfect complement to the great British summer. Filled with light and vibrant flavours, dishes such as our Mediterranean Fish

SUMMER DELIGHT: Blackcurrant & Clotted Cream Ice Cream and, right, Lamb Tagine

Casserole, Lamb Tagine and Barbecue Pulled Pork are perfect for those warm al fresco evenings. For afters why not try our gorgeous Pineapple Upside Down Pudding topped with a sweet and tangy pineapple sauce or a cooling Blackcurrant & Clotted Cream Ice Cream! The new Summer Menu Pack features seven meals and three desserts for just £29.95. Plus you’ll receive a FREE large cake of your choice! We hope you’ll enjoy it as much as us! Meals are delivered FREE of charge and direct to your door by our caring, policechecked drivers and if you wish, your driver will even pop the meals in the freezer for you. Simply heat your meal from frozen in an oven or microwave and enjoy! Brian and Sara and their award winning team at your local Wiltshire Farm Foods have earned a reputation for delivering quality meals and outstanding customer service. Give the team a call on 01600 892855 – they’ll be happy to take your order or answer any questions you may have. They can also arrange to send you your own copy of the free full colour Spring & Summer 2016 brochure.

HOW CAN WE HELP? The award-winning local team at Wiltshire Farm Foods

Our u NEW N seasonal nall menu for the great British summer ummer Summer Menu Pack only £29.95

* FREE Large Cake of your choice

7 Main Courses with vegetables: • Barbecue Pulled Pork • Chicken & Chorizo Casserole o • Chicken with Tomato & Basil Sauce • Mediterranean Fish Casserole • Lamb Tagine • Chicken & Spring Vegetable e Casserole • Cumberland Sausages 3 Desserts: • Black kcurrant & Clotted Cream Ice Cream • Lemon Sponge • Pin neapple Upside Down Cake

FREE* large Cake worrth £2.75 every Summer Menu Pack. Quote Offer Code when orde ering: SUM5 – with FREE Larg ge Country o y Cak SUM6 – with FREE Large Lemon Drizzle Cake SUM7 – with FREE Large Cherry & Almond Cake SUM8 – with FREE Large Ginger Drizzle Cake *With every Summer Menu Pack ordered.

28 July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Summer is absolutely my favourite time of the yearr, I just love sitting out in the garden on those warm sunny even nings. And this year, mealtimes are a bree eze as I’ve just ordered the e Summer Menu Pack from Wiltshire Farm Foods. oods Our Head Chef Phil and his team h have put together a delicious new range that really captures the essence of summer. W Wiltshire Farm Foods, you can choose from ov With ver 300 ready m meals, each made with tasty ingredients that are q quick-frozen to lo ock the goodness in. It’s all available no-contract, no-commitment a with free delivery. Heaven! and To order the new Summer Menu Pack call

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Golden Years

MONMOUTHSHIRE & POWYS THE POWER OF TWO

O you have an elderly relative who is struggling with domestic chores and is increasingly relying on you for help? Are you finding it difficult to provide that help and support? Do you feel guilty and overwhelmed? Then let us help. Diamond Home Support have now been in Abergavenny for a year, and our Home Assist Service has already transformed the lives of many of our elderly clients and their relatives. This service provides vital support for the elderly and less able in a friendly, caring and professional manner. We challenge the preconceptions of domestic care by providing a client-led rather than a company-led service. 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 is humiliating and frustrating, and we therefore aim to make the experience as friendly and personal as possible. All potential clients are visited in their own homes. We talk them through the service, explain exactly how things work and answer any questions which they may have. We encourage relatives to be present at this visit so that they can satisfy themselves that their family members are not pushed into signing up for our services if they are unsure as to whether or not it is right for them. We appreciate 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 so we are happy to visit more than once should that be necessary. We appreciate that people lead busy lives and often find it difficult (if not virtually impossible) to provide the amount of support which their elderly relatives require. This leads to stress and guilt, with relationships becoming fractured and sometimes damaged beyond repair. Don’t suffer in silence; pick up the phone and use the power of two.

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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

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www.havenmobility.com Unit 14, Avondale Industrial Estate, Cwmbran NP44 1UG

July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue 29

Gazette & Diary Magazine

Get in the swim

Can you afford to get older? HERE are some tips from Experian for taking control of your money management in and approaching retirement: ◆ Know what you can afford. Make use of online budgeting tools or get help from bodies such as Citizens Advice Bureau if you need help in planning your finances. ◆ Don’t be the Bank of Mum and Dad if you can’t afford it. One in six of those who have supported someone else saying they are ‘not financially comfortable’ themselves. ◆ Just because you retire doesn't mean your credit score does. Although you might have paid off your mortgage and be virtually debt-free, you may wish to access small amounts of credit in the future. Keep your credit score in shape by regularly checking your credit report and consider using a small amount of credit wisely each month. ◆ Be fraud aware. Fraudsters are increasingly targeting older people with scams to invest cash into fake schemes that can seem convincing. Be extra-vigilant in protecting your information online - always use strong, unique passwords for your online accounts, never share bank or other sensitive details via email, and check your bank statements and credit report for unusual activity.

T'S one of the most popular forms of exercise - and for good reason. For starters, swimming's the best all-round workout, ticking the cardio box and fullbody strengthening - which is great for older people - it's a life skill; and widely accessible. "Swimming is the one activity you can do throughout your life, from birth through to older age," says Ian Freeman, coaching system technical lead at the Amateur Swimming Association. "As well as being great at relaxing the mind and providing a social environment, because water supports up to 90 per cent of the body's weight, swimming is the perfect way for people with impairments, injuries or illnesses to stay active." This is a big part of why swimming's the most popular exercise among older age groups. Freeman notes that the ASA has also developed Dementia Friendly Swimming sessions to support people living with dementia, and their carers, in staying active. Despite these benefits one in five UK adults can't swim or don’t feel confident in the water. Building confidence in the water might take time, but it's possible, and group or one-on-one lessons and coaching's widely available - sometimes for free. Enquire at your local leisure centre, visit the ASA

website and check out www.fusionlifestyle.com/adultswim. Also, Speedo is offering free 60-minute swim fitness sessions with instructors across the UK until October (www.speedo.co.uk/dive-in). A gentle swim can burn over 200 calories in half an hour - more than double that of walking - while a faster swim would see that indulgent chocolate bar gone quicker than if you went running or cycling. Plus, because exercising in water makes your body work harder, 30 minutes in a pool is worth 45 minutes of the same activity on land. By combining 30 minutes of swimming three or more times per week alongside a balanced, healthy diet and lifestyle is one of the best ways to reduce body fat and

This is Sarah. She’s busy cleaning her oven...

maximise weight losses and maintain a positive mental wellbeing. Scottish swimmer Michael Jamieson, who scooped silver at London 2012 in the men's 200m breaststroke and is now a Speedo Dive In ambassador, has these top three tips... "Work on the rhythm of your breathing. This will allow you to swim for longer, and makes it easier as it doesn't sap your energy so much. Secondly, work on your leg kick with freestyle. Kicks are really important, taking the stress and strain off your shoulders and sending you through the water faster. "And thirdly, swim at a lower intensity for longer, rather than trying to swim fast but as far."

YEARS 2006 - 2016

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Sarah called the domestic oven cleaning specialists, so she could relax and enjoy a coffee while it’s done!

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30 July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue

Clever Sarah!

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fencing services

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

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.

● Fast response ● Reasonable rates ● Wasp nests treated within 24 hours

TELEPHONE 01873 830204 Fernybank, Quarry Road, Clydach, Nr Abergavenny July/August 2016 - The Summer Issue 31

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