To look after your hair it is important that you have the right tools to hand and of course a brush is essential for many of us. So I was pleased to try & test this radial brush from mdlondon. It is 32mm diameter, has nylon bristles and a ceramic coated metal barrel, I loved it. It does take me a few goes before I get used to a brush, but this one was impressive and easy to use, which is all I need.
Designed by hair expert Michael Douglas who has a range of Radial 3 brushes, plus a Vent brush so that you can create your ultimate blow dry in your own home. The Radial 3 brush is great for working with short hair styles, the Radial 2, ideal for medium length hair and the Radial 1 is a larger brush for longer hair.
In 2024 this Radial 3 brush won the Woman & Home Shine & Strength Awards for Best Styling Brush.
Michael says, “The power of a good hair brush has long been overlooked. If you want to create the smoothest, bounciest blow dry at home, it’s all about the tools and techniques. By investing in a good set of brushes, not only will it help create lift at the roots, it will ensure you capture every hair strand, reducing flyaways and leaving a frizz free finish.”
I also tried the vent brush from Michael’s 4-piece range, which works wonderfully for all hair types. I found the Vent brush really useful as it really helped me for detangling my hair and getting a lot of the wet out of it and I did stick to Michael’s suggestion of making sure my hair was 80% dry before using the Radial 3 brush. I’m sure this Vent brush would also be ideal for anyone who has short hair.
Michael’s top 5 tips for the perfect blow dry
Use Vent to detangle hair
Ensure hair is 80% dry before using a radial brush
Use the tapered end of the brush to divide hair into sections
Add the nozzle to the dryer and ensure it is pointing down the hair shaft to reduce frizz
Remove the heat but leave the brush in the hair to cool down and set the style
This is a super lightweight little brush and makes life easier for brushing through wet or dry hair without the brush getting tangled with your hair.
Michael has a creative studio in London but does not have a salon open to the public.
Price: £13.00 | Colour: Casal Blue | Visit: mdlondon.co.uk
Radial 1 – Perfect for longer length hair
Radial 2 – Ideal for shoulder length hair
Radial 3 – Suits short hair styles
Vent – Use for detangling on all hair lengths or styling shorter hair
Taken from the mdlondon website:
Meet mdlondon
Michael Douglas is on a mission – a mission to demystify the world of hair styling, to untangle the smoke and mirrors of salon- perfect hair and to empower people with the tools, knowledge and confidence to style their own hair at home. Welcome to mdlondon.
Michael has been in the hair industry for 35 years, but it wasn’t until lockdown, through his daily Instagram live Hair Clinics, that the inspiration for mdlondon crystallised. It became clear that people had lost the confidence to style their own hair and without access to a hairdresser, felt frustrated with their own lack of knowledge and technique. The most common message Michael received was “why won’t my hair look like it does when I leave the hairdressers?” During these daily chats with thousands of people online, Michael realised he had the solution and that everyone could enjoy beautiful hair every day, quickly and without fuss. What they needed was the right tools combined with the right education and guidance and…bingo! Salon perfect hair at home! mdlondon was born, with Michael putting his decades of experience in styling every hair type into his innovative hair tools, and in 2022 the BLOW hairdryer was launched. And he hasn’t stopped there, Michael and the team are busy developing even more products to make mdlondon your one stop shop for the hair you’ve always wanted.
The mdlondon tools, together with Michael’s curated edit of products and his DIY tutorials, will give you salon perfect hair straight from your bedroom. This is accessible luxury for everyday life, grounded in expertise. It’s about time we all had the best hair days, every day, so tell your friends, call your neighbours, shout it from the rooftops, join the mdlondon hair revolution – your hair needs you.
Meet Michael
I’ve been a hairdresser for 35 years and I still think it’s the best job in the world. I started out as a junior on the salon floor and worked my way up until I was styling hair for celebrities and supermodels, working on fashion shoots and catwalk shows and appearing as a hair expert on TV. It’s been an incredible ride.
But while I love the fun and glamour of that world, what’s always mattered most to me is making every person feel their best. If you’ve watched me on This Morning, GMB or on The One Show over the years, you’ll know I’m on a mission to prove you don’t need hours in the salon or loads of tools to have gorgeous hair. Trust me, it doesn’t have to be complicated, time-consuming or costly. You just need the right kit and a little bit of know-how – which is where I come in. I’m all about keeping things simple so that you can achieve the hair you want, quickly, and get on with your day!
Whether you love trying the latest trends or want to perfect a timeless style, I’ll help you get there. In videos here on the website and on my social channels, I’ll give you the knowledge and confidence to look after your own hair, without a professional hairdresser. Let’s find a future free from the hush-hush wizardry of salon secrets. Thanks for joining us.
M
Ryan Rix, a Carmarthen School of Art graduate from Coleg Sir Gâr is currently competing on ITV’s M&S: Dress the Nation showcasing his designs that focus on adaptability and accessibility.
Since graduating in 2023 with a degree in Fashion Design, Ryan has been growing his own business, showcasing collections, and refining his craft. His mission is to design accessible fashion, inspired by his experience of being born without a left forearm. Having struggled to find comfortable clothing growing up, Ryan is determined to create designs that empower people to feel confident and not concealed by their clothing.
Ryan prioritises accessibility in his designs, incorporating features such as jackets with zippers on the sleeves, which can be left on or removed for ease of use. He also frequently replaces traditional buttons with alternatives like Velcro and poppers, ensuring that people with disabilities can dress themselves independently.
Ryan will carry these values and techniques with him as he competes on Dress the Nation, showcasing his commitment to accessible and inclusive fashion. The competition offers a life-changing opportunity, with the winner securing a coveted design role at M&S and having their own bespoke collection featured in selected stores.
Ryan said on his Instagram:
“I remember the first day of filming I was so overwhelmed and nervous, but I am so proud of what I created and that I can represent people like me and disability in fashion. It’s so important! Adaptable and accessible fashion needs to be out there much more.”
See Ryan on M&S: Dress the Nation on ITV1 every Tuesday at 8pm.
The Open Spaces Society, Britain’s oldest national conservation body, has stressed that the Westminster and Welsh governments must show guts and invest in the public-path network and access. The society’s general secretary, Kate Ashbrook, writes about this in her ‘Opinion’, Guts—not cuts, in the latest issue of Open Space, published today 1 October.
Says Kate:
‘The government has so far been silent about access, but Labour’s manifesto promised to “improve responsible access to nature”, and to create nine new national river walks in England. These are great soundbites, but they won’t become real without guts.
‘It’s no good politicians believing they can achieve these by agreement with landowners. The experience of the Labour government 25 years ago was that one cannot bank on voluntary access—that is why we have part 1 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 [which gives the public the right to walk on mapped access-land], since most landowners will offer nothing unless compelled to do so.
‘Labour promised a white paper on access. We hope to welcome this—and soon—as a sign that ministers mean business. It must be premised on more and better freedom to roam, with existing laws or new ones to be used fearlessly when needed.
‘And ministers must determine how to beef up our rights of way, the prime means by which people can enjoy the countryside. Most will not go where a path is not obvious, meaning that many miles are unused because they have no signposts and waymarks, or are ploughed, cropped, overgrown, or otherwise abused.’
Kate suggests that an immediate money-saver would be the repeal of the 2031 cut-off for claims for historic paths, otherwise officials must spend many hours determining how it will work. The Welsh government already has the repeal in hand. However, Kate expresses her concern that cuts to the Welsh recreation agency, Natural Resources Wales, will have a severe effect on the provision of visitor services.
‘Of course we know that there is no spare money, but the Westminster and Welsh governments must realise that paths and access provide astonishing good value by reducing costs to the health service,’ Kate continues. ‘A 2023 report by the Ramblers and New Economics Foundation showed that the path network provides at least £2 billion-worth of well-being—over £33 per person—in England and Wales.
‘Small sums spent on maintaining paths produce massive returns. Ministers only need the guts to slash a few expensive road schemes and the path network could be transformed,’ Kate concludes.
Also in this issue of Open Space:
The Open Spaces Society fights at a public inquiry the proposed swap of land on Clyne Common on Gower, Swansea. This would allow part of this unique common to be destroyed for housing (page 3).
The society’s local correspondent, Chas Townley, is helping local people to save a valued open space at Stonehouse, Gloucestershire (pages 4-5).
The society backs campaigners who are joining court action to save Stoke Lodge playing field’s registration by Bristol City Council as a town green (page 6).
Two lost commons in Cornwall are rescued for the common-land register (page 8).
The society opposes plans for a leisure centre which would encroach on Brent River Park in the London Borough of Brent (page 9).
The society responds robustly to the government’s consultation on the National Planning Policy Framework, calling for better protection for green spaces (page 11).
The society highlights the byway-blockage epidemic in Wiltshire (page 13).
Coleg Ceredigion’s training restaurant Bwyty Maes y Parc has been awarded first place at this year’s Food Awards Wales for Cookery School of the Year taking place at Cardiff’s Coal Exchange Hotel.
The awards celebrate the finest culinary destinations in Wales, highlighting the dedication and hard work of those committed to delivering the country’s best products and services. By recognizing Wales’ rich and diverse food scene, the awards aim to encourage its continued growth and evolution.
To be shortlisted for the award, Bwyty Maes y Parc had to demonstrate exceptional quality, innovation, and consistency in delivering a memorable dining experience.
Nominations were decided by the general public, and Bwyty Maes y Parc received enough support to secure a spot on the shortlist. This led to an invitation to the award ceremony, where the restaurant joined others in celebrating the best in the industry.
It was at the awards that the top professionals came together to celebrate their achievements and make lasting business connections.
Bwyty Maes y Parc faced strong competition from six other cookery schools but went on to win the prestigious Cookery School of the Year award.
Film Cameras were set up on the platform, not an unusual sight at The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways’ Harbour Station but this time they weren’t focused on the loco, Merddyn Emrys, but on two familiar famous faces walking up the platform in stewards’ uniforms.
Earlier in the season we welcomed S4C’s Iaith ar Daith (Language on Tour) film crew to the Railway as well as the two stars of an episode for the new season, Welsh comedian and presenter Tudur Owen and Spanish and Welsh Comedian, Ignacio Lopez.
Each episode in the popular TV series follows a Welsh first language celebrity, this time Tudur and a non-Welsh speaking celebrity as they try to ‘Dysgu Cymraeg’ (learn Welsh) in the programme.
For this episode Ignacio, a regular on shows such as ‘Live at the Apollo’ and ‘Have I got News for You’, joined Tudur to spend a day stewarding on the Mountain Spirit Service, from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog.
The pair were in the capable hands of staff member 18-year-old Mackenzie Diggons, in his second season on the staff at the Railway. Mackenzie, from nearby Criccieth is first language Welsh and works and volunteers at the railway part time while studying engineering.
The celebrities were tasked with working with Mackenzie and speaking to passengers in Welsh, as they served customers from the trolley service in the first class pullman carriage.
Mackenzie said:
“The two stars were really energetic and ready to get on with the job of stewarding.
“It was the first time for them trying to serve drinks on a moving train so that was quite funny.
“Ignacio got on very well speaking Welsh, it was like he was a pro at it.
“There were a few words he didn’t understand but easily enough he asked how to pronounce things, but otherwise he was very good at speaking Welsh and serving the customers!
“People pay a lot of money to go and see these comedians and today on the train I was paid to see them…here at work!”
This episode has been aired on S4C on 29th September at 20:00 and is available on the S4C Clic app on catch up.
Unlike some more well-known infrastructure projects, the Shropshire Union Canal Society’s contract to rebuild Crickheath Tramway Wharf and restore nearly 400m of the Montgomery Canal is coming in under budget and ahead of schedule. The work is being funded from the Shropshire Council Rural Prosperity Fund which sets stringent conditions for completion of the work.
Given the progress that has been made, the Fund has authorised additional work preparing a further 130m for subsequent restoration.
As all work funded by the RPF must be complete by April 2025, further work must be paid for from the Restore the Monty Appeal so fundraising continues apace.
Project manager, Tom Fulda, (who is too modest to mention his own project management skills) said,
“I put this success down to ‘relentlessly frugal purchasing’ and our ability to attract a skilled volunteer workforce”.
This project was recently featured in a report by Shropshire Council on the benefits of the RPF in which Mark Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for growth and regeneration, said of the scheme:
“It is proving to be such a great success that we hope that similar funding will be made available to us beyond 2025.”
Curating an exhibition of contemporary abstract art brings a unique joy. It offers a dynamic exploration of form, colour, and emotion beyond representational boundaries. My process starts with selecting pieces that defy expectations, pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Abstract art and sculpture, with their bold shapes, non-representational forms, and experimental use of materials, invite deeper contemplation, leaving interpretation open to the viewer’s imagination. The original watercolour shown here by Amanda Webster takes me back to the Tate Modern Show celebrating Cezanne in 2022. It was the first time I’d experienced Cezanne’s watercolours up close and they took my breath away.
Paul Cezanne Still Life with Milk Jug (watercolour on paper)
My Curatorial Journey
I find my curatorial journey is thrilling in this context, especially within our latest Life: Full Colour gallery. As abstract works challenge conventional notions of art and evoke more visceral, emotional responses. Each painting or sculpture selected must harmonise with others in a way that enhances the exhibition’s overall mood. Often creating an atmosphere that feels more immersive than that of a traditional show. The placement of each work, and how viewers navigate the space, become part of the storytelling process. Lighting, texture, and even the scale of the pieces can dramatically impact the audience’s experience. Since we opened the Abstract Show on 28th September visitors have remarked on a ‘sea of colour’, the ’emotional impact’ and ‘challenge’ from our artists’ work.
The Contemporary Abstract Art show at Life: Full Colour
Inviting Personal Interpretation
The true joy arrives as visitors engage with the abstract art, often grappling with its meaning or feeling its energy on a more intuitive level. The lack of clear representation invites personal interpretation, allowing each viewer to connect with the art in a deeply individual way. As a curator, facilitating these moments of discovery is deeply rewarding, fostering a space where abstract art and sculpture can provoke thought, conversation, and inspiration in fresh, unexpected ways.
This is a company I love as I have tried some of their range before and had great results but I also approve of the ethos of the company as well. This beautiful balm contains soothing arnica, skin nourishing oils and also essential oils of lavender, rosemary and ginger. This lovely arnica massage balm is perfect for a deep tissue massage after you’ve done your exercise. Arnica is well known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to relieve bruises and soothe aching muscles. The benefits of arnica are endless and I’d say it is one of my go-to products for aches and pains. But in case you are not aware of arnica it is a really soothing balm to apply as soon as you have aching muscles, bruises or you have simply given yourself a knock or done too much gardening or perhaps a tough work out at the gym. This is the perfect product for post-exercise and deep tissue massages just to get rid of all those aches and pains. I’ve been a fan of arnica for decades and love that Nourish London have created this arnica massage balm.
This is another lovely massage balm that contains stimulating essential oils of ginger, juniper, pine, lemon and lavender to soothe your tired, hardworking muscles and ease discomfort when massaged into your skin. Your skin will feel so nourished and much smoother. This balm is perfect for relieving any tension you might have and will also help you to relax, particularly after exercise. It is a massage balm that cleverly combines the therapeutic properties of ginger, pine, lemon and lavender to provide you with a soothing, warming massage, ease any discomfort and help you chill out!
This skin-softening massage balm is for you if you are looking for something that will simply clear your head. It’s a balm with an invigorating blend of pine, rosemary, tea tree and eucalyptus essential oils. This is a deeply aromatic balm nourishes your skin as it softens and moisturises it. It also provides a refreshing experience too!
I found it fascinating to learn more about this company and hope you do too!
Taken from the Nourish London website:
Grown by nature
Formulated by us
Independently certified
We’re not very good at compromising, so we don’t.
We don’t think you should have to either.
It’s why we make all our own skincare. So we can be sure everything is as good as it can possibly be. Then we ask the strictest independent experts we can find to certify it. So you know our skincare meets the highest quality standards. For your health and wellbeing, ours, the growers and the planet as a whole.
Organically grown natural goodness.
These logos are your reassurance the product carrying them is made with pure natural ingredients organically-grown to protect wildlife, biodiversity and you.
Renowned as the world’s strictest organic authorising body, gaining Soil Association COSMOS Organic approval is no mean feat.
Every ingredient is checked before being certified organic – looking at how it’s grown, harvested, processed and traded.
Every product is then examined, checking that every ingredient that can be organic is organic, there are no GM ingredients, petrochemicals, fake colours or fragrances… (their list of no-go ingredients is almost as long as ours!) and that there’s minimal packaging with recycled content.
Then there’s the annual company audit. Every year they scrutinise how we do things, making sure we’re walking the talk.
Which is why you’ll see this hard-won logo displayed with such pride.
Pure and natural with absolutely no nasties.
The world of natural cosmetics can feel a little bit like the wild west at times, with all sorts of dubious claims being made.
‘Greenwashing’ as it’s known, is when a product shouts about being ‘natural’ when it contains only the tiniest drop of a natural ingredient, or worse, contains ingredients we think should be banned from ever touching your skin.
Soil Association COSMOS Natural certification guarantees a product contains at least 98% natural origin ingredients, with no ‘nasties’ like parabens or phthalates, synthetic colours, fragrances or genetically modified (GM) ingredients, and hasn’t been tested on animals.
Products such as toners, masks and bath salts that are made with high levels of pure natural water, clay and salt – none of which can be ‘grown’ and so can’t be certified organic.
Made without animals to be loved by everybody.
We never look for an easy ride, only the highest possible standards. Which is why we ask The Vegan Society, the world’s oldest and probably strictest vegan organisation, to certify our products.
To do this, they inspect each product ingredient by ingredient, checking it contains no animal ingredients, no genetically modified organisms (GMO) and has undergone no animal testing.
Only then will they certify it suitable for use by vegans, vegetarians and anyone wanting to avoid animal products.
It’s a lot of work for the Vegan Society and for us, but we think it’s important and worth it. We hope you agree.
No animal testing. We don’t want that on our conscience or our skin.
Nourish London has never, and will never, test any of our skincare on animals. It’s unnecessary, cruel and in our opinion, just plain wrong.
The globally recognised Cruelty Free International leaping bunny is your reassurance that our products have met their high standards, which go way above legal requirements.
And it’s not just us who need to meet their standards, our suppliers do as well. We check that they’ve done this, then Cruelty Free International check our checking. Then they audit both us and our suppliers.
Which is fine with us. We hope it gives you some comfort too.
How we make our skincare is just as important as what we make.
Your guarantee of our high quality products.
Achieving the snappily entitled ISO 22716 standard indicates we have Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and meet stringent regulations. Basically that our products are high quality and safe for you to use, having been made to their high manufacturing standards. This means every step of the process, from production through control, storage and distribution, has been checked and approved.
Detailed annual audits also reassure you that service levels are high, the manufacturing process is safe and the safety, quality and excellence of your product has been thoroughly checked and approved.
Proudly made in London
If you want something done right, do it yourself. That’s why we make all our products in our own factory in London.
From raw ingredient to finished award-winning skincare, we do it all ourselves.
Our ambition is to make the world’s purest, highest quality, most health-boosting natural skincare and wellbeing products.
To achieve our ambition, our products need to be made to the highest standards possible, the ones we set for ourselves.
Nobody else would be as tough on us as we are. Which is why we make our products ourselves in our London skincare factory. This way we can check every single ingredient and every step of our manufacturing process, from raw ingredient to finished beautifully packaged product.
Only when we’re completely happy is it allowed to leave our clutches. We’re a bit precious. And very proud.
One of the great cultural peculiarities of living in the British Isles is our intrinsic relationship with the weather. Close connections with the elements are not particularly unusual in themselves: just ask the Canadian farmer working to the coming of the snows, or the African herdsman carefully avoiding the full heat of the day. The relationship between British people, on the other hand, and the weather, is so peculiar because, for something that seems so innocuous and inconspicuous to us, we seem to spend an awful lot of time obsessing about it.
In that typical, middle-of the-road politeness so characteristic of the folks of these isles, the weather is drafted in as a filler in conversational lulls: “Doing much the weekend, if the weather holds?”, a greeting that keeps awkwardness at arm’s length: “Morning! Lovely day!”, and even yardstick for temporal musings: “This time last year was absolutely glorious with sunshine. Remember?”, and I suppose that in this respect, I am not immune either. There are, however, times when the weather gives up its role as bit-part support act and comes to the fore to take centre stage, filling every thought and even action and even dominating the news headlines.
Summer was over, or so we thought. Over the last weeks of August and well into September we soaked up what seemed to be the last drops of sunshine, enjoyed those warm, dry evenings in the garden with a civilised glass of wine and kept the shrubs and flowers well-watered until the air turned cooler, the evenings began to close in, the sky lowered and the rain came, as it surely would any time soon. But it didn’t. Everything seemed stunned into a becalmed stupor and, despite the rigging-like creak of the garden parasol in the tiny, infrequent puffs of gentle tepid breezes and the bustling appearance of a red admiral, nothing seemed able to prompt the weather into continuing its journey through the seasons, leaving us like Coleridge’s ancient mariner, “as idle as a painted ship/upon a painted ocean”.
The walk to work remained coatless; the extra loads of washing we were able to dry totted up the bonus sunshine hours, abacus-like, and the garden retained its summer livery, adding unexpected colour to our days and conversations but, rather than basking in our good fortune, we seemed to look to the skies with a hint of distrust and a tinge of disbelief. Surely, we should have had the first proper bit of seasonal rain by now? The warmth trimmed away all extraneous frippery and became our everything as we watched forecasts waiting for the change, it continued to guide conversations, to dictate what activities we undertook and when we did so; it filled our waking hours and disturbed our sleeping ones; slumber remained beyond us. The stifling air seeped in through the open windows at night and kept us tossing and turning so that when we woke in the mornings, we were as tired as when we’d laid down to rest all those hours before, until finally, one night…
Wakeful and restless, I was alerted to the change as soon as it began. The absolute, almost digital, blankness of the heat had left us with no aural reference points, an unbroken sequence of bare noiselessness, but then, sometime after midnight, the quietus started in gently, slowly, becoming steady and persistent while it shifted with the changes materialising all around the house, a readiness for something to come next, the loud shush of a needle tracking along vinyl in between songs of an ongoing seasonal soundtrack.
I lay there, wide awake now, startled by the change as the misty drizzle found its resolve and hardened into rain, a foreign and glamorous interloper that we had forgotten we knew, the distant cousin of tides and rivers, aquifers and tarns, descending upon us suddenly as a visitor out of the night, bringing a million showery stories from a thousand elsewheres.
I remained like that for a long time, listening to the rain as it simply fell, marking my hours of sleeplessness like a water clock, the tick-tick-tick of drips from eaves and leaves marking every wakeful second that passed through the open window and vanished into the night until eventually, my eyelids started to weigh heavy, my mind lulled by the now constant ssssssh.
Even as I fell asleep, the rain washed through my thoughts as I pictured it seeping into the bone-dry ground, working its way already to the rivers on its fly-by-night journey, re-energising, rehydrating as it went, dripping from the washing line in the garden, from the surrounding gables and branches, and from the last blackberries up in the hills. At break of day, the world outside my window would finally wake to a fresh reality, to the perfume of wet earth and a season made anew.
Recent convert to running, Molly Williams, an Accounts Assistant with Ashmole & Co, will be taking on Cardiff Half Marathon next month to help raise funds for the south Wales accountancy firm’s charity of the year – Tenovus Cancer Care.
Molly is fairly new to running but has started to enjoy pounding the pavements, early in the morning, before she heads to work at the firm’s Abergavenny office. Her first half marathon was last year’s Cardiff Half and she hopes to complete the gruelling 13 mile course in a faster time on Sunday, 6 October.
With Ashmole & Co Molly prepares VAT returns, Tax return information, as well as general office duties such as answering calls and assisting clients who visit the office. She loves being organised and making sure everything is in order for clients. A lot of her time is spent using various accounting programmes such as Sage.
Mark Gould, Partner in Ashmole and Co’s Abergavenny, Haverfordwest, Carmarthen and Ammanford offices, said,
“It’s great that Molly is using her new love of running to help us raise funds for Tenovus Cancer Care. We are very proud of all the staff doing what they can to help raise funds for our charity of the year. We hope our clients and friends will help us raise as much money as possible for this extremely worthy cause.”
Molly has worked with Ashmole & Co since completing her GCSEs in 2012. She worked for the accountancy firm during her holidays while studying for her A Levels and then her Degree. Molly gained a Business Management Degree from Swansea University, then went on to do a Masters degree in Accounting at the University of South Wales in Pontypridd while working part time with Ashmole & Co. She is currently working full time for Ashmole & Co and studying for her final ACCA exams with the University of South Wales in Newport.
Elin Murphy, Tenovus Cancer Care’s Regional Fundraising Manager for south west Wales, said,
“Ashmole & Co are going all out to raise funds with staff signing up to do so many events out of their comfort zone. We are very grateful to Molly for choosing to help raise funds for Tenovus Cancer Care by taking part in the Cardiff Half Marathon. Donations mean that we can continue to support cancer patients and their loved ones with our services and actively campaign to improve outcomes and give a voice to all affected by cancer in Wales.”
Tenovus Cancer Care are a Wales-based charity which gives help, hope and a voice to everyone affected by cancer. Tenovus is there for anyone affected by cancer. Together with its inspiring community of supporters, volunteers and fundraisers, the charity is determined to be there for everyone affected today, tomorrow and beyond.
This is an interesting product as it is Marine Beauty Collagen with hyaluronic acid that comes in 5 sachets and are ready for you to drink. The Marine Bioactive Collagen Peptides that are used by Proto-Col have a unique structure that is easily absorbed and easy for your body to use. Absorption isn’t about the product format, drink, gel, powder, or capsules, but it is about targeting the collagen-producing cells with the correct molecular weight so that these cells can be stimulated to produce more collagen. After all this is what it is all about isn’t it?
The single helix structure of Marine Collagen Peptides (the drill-like molecules) is actually formulated so it travels through your gut wall intact. This means that they can survive the digestive enzymes to reach and stimulate the collagen-producing cells in the skin and the body.
The Marine Collagen Peptides in the Marine Beauty Collagen have been clinically proven to stimulate the collagen-producing cells in skin, hair & nails. I know that is quite a lot to take in but the important worry for me was, what was the taste like, was it dreadful? Absolutely not which was a relief to me, in fact the taste was lovely, a delicious Red Berry flavour. Actually in your mouth it feels like you just have a burst of berries – lovely. You can easily incorporate Marine Beauty Collagen into your daily beauty routine as you just take one sachet a day; consume on-the-go, straight from the sachet or mix into water or a smoothie. But once opened, do consume within 24 hours.
This is a product you have been waiting for and it is so easy to incorporate into your day.
Size & Price: One time purchase: £31.95. You can also subscribe and a 30 day subscription saves you £12.78 with an extra discount at checkout.
2 boxes every 30 days, £1.70 per day.
Free shipping with each and every order.
Easily swap, skip, or cancel deliveries in your portal.
Unlike other marine collagen drinks on the market, our Marine Beauty Collagen sachet doesn’t leave an unpleasant aftertaste. Our development team has worked effortlessly to deliver a marine collagen supplement that provides you with multiple benefits and tastes delicious.
Do I get my daily required amounts of vitamins and minerals per serving?
You get everything you need to support, your hair, skin and nails – one 30ml sachet provides:
Vitamin B6, C and Biotin (Vit B7) – 100% of your daily requirement
Vitamin E – 100% of your daily requirement
Copper and zinc – 15% of your daily requirement
How long until I see results?
Your unique body, lifestyle and individual circumstances will determine this but the clinical result indicated that it’s 8 weeks
Intense Hydration Night Cream
This is a rich and nourishing collagen night cream that cleverly recharges your skin overnight to reveal a more radiant, plump and smooth complexion in the morning. It has a unique formulation of ingredients, such as a triple blend of algae with added hyaluronic acid and vitamins C & E that help to recharge and revive your skin whilst promoting cell renewal. It’s an impressive anti-ageing cream that is clinically proven to increase your skin hydration by 45%. You’ll awaken to hydrated, radiant and replenished skin that has been recharging and it has revived your skin whilst promoting cell renewal through the night. It balances sebaceous activity (controls sebum) and also features triple algae blend rich in amino acids and abundant in antioxidant properties.
Just apply every evening using 1-2 pumps over your face and neck. But do avoid contact with your eyes.
It is suitable for all skin types and especially recommended for those who are targeting wrinkles/fine lines, dry and dehydrated skin.
Eye creams are out in the beauty market in abundance and as I have tried a lot, I can assure you they are not all the same! This one is a lovely refreshing collagen eye cream that has been formulated to strengthen your delicate eye area while nourishing and protecting that area. It helps with those early signs of ageing, it helps reduce puffiness and dark circles and also gives an instant hydration boost. Those pesky crow’s feet have to watch out as this eye cream hydrates those as well. It is suitable for sensitive skin as it has nourishing sweet almond oil. Just gently pat a small amount around the eye area until absorbed and please do avoid dragging your skin as skin around the eye area is so delicate.
I loved this eye cream as it has been expertly formulated with plant collagen, vitamins B5 & E and hyaluronic acid, this eye cream targets fine lines and wrinkles while nourishing and protecting the skin around the eyes. One to try.
Landsker Business Solutions are offering farming and agricultural businesses free on site clinics to help businesses in the areas of diversification and marketing.
The clinics, run in conjunction with Farming Connect, will be carried out by one of twenty Landsker experts at the farm or place of business, to give advice and recommendations on how to start a diversification project, how to develop ideas and how to reach target audiences using simple and adaptable marketing techniques and social media.
Senior Business Consultant, Liz King said,
“We’re very excited to be hosting these clinics again after the success of last time. They’re invaluable to business owners who are ready to take the next steps in growing or promoting their business but aren’t sure how to go about it. One of our panel of experts would be delighted to give you some advice so do get in touch if you think we could be of assistance”.
For more information about our Marketing and Diversification clinics please get in touch: hello@ landsker.co.uk or call the office on 01994 240 631.
Practical ways of implementing sustainable practices within your business for the benefit of the wider community
Definitions for the term sustainability vary from source to source, but usually refer to three dimensions which are; environmental, economic and social. Peter’s Food Service Ltd. in partnership with FareShare Cymru are addressing these dimensions with great effect.
According to FareShare Cymru, in Wales circa 400,000 tonnes of food are wasted each year. If only 1% of that is edible, it is enough to contribute to over 9 million meals.
Dafydd Davies, Safety, Health, Environmental & Training Manager for Peter’s Food Service Ltd. was well aware of the need to implement a strategy to address waste and is proud of the partnership that’s been developed between Peter’s food Service and FareShare Cymru.
Dafydd Davies says:
“As a food manufacturer, we are constantly looking at ways of operating in a more sustainable way. Corporate responsibility in terms of food waste and the impact it has on the planet has high priority. Working with FareShare Cymru enables us to donate surplus stock and distribute it to a wide network of community groups and charities.”
Established in 2010, FareShare Cymru uses quality, and in date surplus food which would otherwise have gone to waste, and turn an environmental problem into a social solution.
Dafydd continues:
“We’ve been working with FareShare Cymru since April 2023. Rather than send limited shelf life food to waste, this is a further avenue available to us to now donate.”
Carmai Chung, Regional Food Sourcing Lead for Fareshare Cymru said:
“FareShare Cymru would like to express our appreciation and gratitude to Peter’s Food Service Ltd for their continued support. Their generous donations have made a positive impact on local communities and charities across Wales. We thoroughly look forward to continuing our partnership to reduce waste and combat hunger.”
FareShare Cymru in partnership with Peter’s Food Service Ltd. reported the following in their Annual Impact Report 2023:
10 tonnes of food donated
157 Charities helped
23.9k Equivalent Meals
30.9 Tonnes of CO2e saved
Fare Share Cymru’s boast some impressive statistics for 2023 – 24 and they include:
824 tonnes of food redistributed to charities and community groups across Wales, of which 707 tonnes was surplus
175 charities and community groups supported
1,964,242 meals provided to vulnerable people
2186 tonnes of CO2 emissions saved
Dafydd’s participation on the Sustainability Training provided by Food & Drink Skills Wales on behalf of the Welsh Government, has improved his awareness of sustainability issues and how steps, however small they may be – can contribute to longer term solutions.
Another example of sustainability driven change at Peter’s Food Service Ltd. is the recent investment in a more efficient transport fleet.
Dafydd says:
“We are pleased to report that we are fully operational with our trunker/HGV fleet of new vehicles and that plans to finalise purchase and get our smaller LGV vehicles operational for our food service division, are nearly complete. These vehicles are replacements and more fuel efficient with associated technology for maintaining optimum efficiency.”
As a result of new legislation coupled with significant market demand, buyers and consumers increasingly seek out products and brands with positive environmental and social performance.
Food & Drink Skills Wales regularly delivers free online courses focusing on sustainability, that equips attendees with the knowledge and skill to implement desired changes within their business.
The next cohort of this free training, specifically designed for food and drink companies will commence in January 2025. Find out more today!
Inspiration, I find, being personal and wherever you might trip over it is never difficult to find on Preseli.
A sweeping vista perhaps. A peculiar/remarkable rock formation. Maybe something utile, left behind and seemingly forgotten as it rusts or peels: reclaimed by nature’s tangle. The shape of birds as they swing about in a moody sky. Light itself. The light following a sun-shower being the best light there is. Maybe. The most elusive quality. Something worth sticking around for when it’s cold ’n’ wet, and the wind’s got needles in it, whipping round your very corners ’n’ creases: as it often does. How that unfettered light moves now through cleansed air, dust and dirt beaten hard to the ground so that un-diffracted photons proceed, minus any impediment, to your cones and rods. Colours then, being as sincere as they ever will, the land’s texture at its most explicit. Preseli, to me, offering all this. The weight of all time gathered thickly in nook and cranny. Patient silence older than rock waits only on the wind’s passing, the rhythmic drum of blood flooding through your ears. And there’s peace to be found, I find, in the space between thoughts where life’s anxieties may be suspended minus the frustrations of effort/concentration.
All this on Preseli. A few images then, of what eventually will turn into a book of some variety.
One of the top work-based learning providers in Wales is celebrating after receiving a glowing report from Estyn, following an inspection this summer.
Senior leaders at Welshpool-based Cambrian Training Company, which has offices across Wales, are recognised for establishing “a clear vision and strategic objectives to meet the needs of its learners and employers”.
“The vision, which has been aligned with the company’s core values, clearly supports the current and future sustainability of the provider and its provision by working particularly well with key employer representative groups,” says the report.
Inspectors were so impressed by the way the company’s senior leaders engage with and influence the hospitality, food and drink sectors that the business has been asked to prepare a best practice case study for Estyn’s website.
Faith O’Brien, Cambrian Training Company’s Managing Director, said:
“We are incredibly proud of the positive Estyn inspection and report. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to knowing our learners, meeting their individual support needs and ensuring every learner has the tools to succeed.
“We take great pride in offering a broad range of opportunities, including specialist courses tailored to meet the unique requirements of both learners and employers. This report highlights our dedication to delivering high quality training that prepares our learners for success in their chosen fields and future careers.”
In partnership with 10 subcontractors, Cambrian Training Company delivers apprenticeships from Levels 2 to 5 for Medr across the whole of Wales.
The majority of the company’s 2,100 apprentices work in the hospitality and catering, health, public services and care sectors.
Past and current Cambrian Training Company apprentices with staff.
Apprenticeships are also delivered in food and drink manufacture, butchery, children’s early years, leadership and management, engineering and manufacturing technologies, hair and beauty, digital marketing, leisure and sport, business administration, retail and customer service and sustainable resource management.
The company is praised for learner-focused training and developing learners in the workplace with strong support from employers.
“Most learners develop practical skills relevant to their job role and use these to become productive and valued members of their workplace,” says the report. “Many learners are ambitious to progress within their careers and to higher level apprenticeship programme.
“This is achieved because training officers are industry practitioners who integrate real workplace contexts into learners’ training and assessment plans well.
“All training officers benefit from a broad range of opportunities to update their professional and occupational skills by returning to industry and undertaking specialist courses to meet their individual needs.
“The provider and its subcontractors engage well with long established and new employers offering apprenticeship opportunities to meet their recruitment and training needs.”
The company and its partners are also recognised for their very strong ethos of care and support for their learners and staff.
“Training officers know their learners well,” adds the report. “They maintain regular contact with their learners and are flexible in meeting their personal support needs, both inside and outside planned sessions.”
In response to Estyn’s recommendations, Cambrian Training Company has an action plan to improve framework success and completion rates, target setting and self-evaluation.
The company’s subcontractors are Apprenticeship Group Wales, Call of the Wild, Clybiau Plant Cymru, Inspiro, Lifetime Training, NTG Training, Portal Training, Progression Training, Sirius Skills and Work Based Training Agency.
Feature image: Cambrian Training Company Executive Chairman Arwyn Watkins, OBE with managing director Faith O’Brien.
I am rather cross with myself, as I am trying out the 5 Multi Hot Beverage machine which is actually an All-In-One hot beverage machine from Haier. The reason I am cross with myself is I have never heard of this company, despite Haier being one of the leading global appliance brands. Yes, Haier are global!! Goodness knows how I have missed out on this major brand so I am now having to play catch-up and find out how much I have been missing out on. However I am really delighted to have been given the opportunity to learn about this top global brand and also have the chance to make sure my readers haven’t missed out on Haier too!
This Multi Beverage machine is a new concept for me but I really enjoyed putting this machine through its paces, it was such a treat. I was able to make tasty hot drinks using the ingredients I preferred and I went from the basic instant coffee and then onto my much-loved ground coffee. I also tried this machine with tea bags and leaf tea too. As a chocolate addict, one of my real fun try-outs was using my much-loved chocolate that I broke into squares and made the most beautiful hot chocolate drink. This was a lovely treat before going to bed! Having the ability to make tasty hot drinks using the type of milk that I preferred was another big plus point. It was an eye-opener for me realising how easy it was to make so many different drinks from this incredibly clever Multi Beverage machine, using ingredients that I preferred.
So let me tell you a little bit more about my new favourite machine. It has a space saving, compact design which is important if you are living with a small kitchen. The non-stick jug comes in black and it genuinely is non-stick, so it is easy to switch from tea, to coffee and then onto chocolate, if that is what you need to do and it shows the versatility you have with this machine. I’m sure most families, like mine, don’t all enjoy the same drink, which is another reason this machine quickly became our family favourite. Having a non-stick interior also allows you to clean the jug quickly and easily in the sink with the cleaning brush that is supplied. Just take care not to immerse the underside in water, as you need to protect the heating element.
There is a tailor made metal filter included for preparing ground coffee or loose leaf teas. The filter has fine holes to ensure your drink has maximum flavour and minimal residues. I was also impressed that my Multi Beverage Series 5 has an Overheat Safety Control System so you can always heat your drinks to the correct temperature, but without burning them. You operate it by using the modern, sleek LED touch controls. So whether you prefer loose leaf tea, Americano or Cappuccino, this Home Barista is ready to do the work for you with its 6 dedicated functions. All drinks are ready for you at the touch of a button and as explained, cleaning is so easy thanks to the non-stick interior of the jug.
Another massive, massive plus point for me was that I am delighted that I can ditch my coffee capsules so I am not wasting plastic or aluminium. That is really important to be as I hate creating more waste, when we drink so much coffee at home. Now all my beverages can be made using natural ingredients, so that does make me feel I’m helping the climate with this change too. Plus the joy of being able to make my favourite café-style hot drinks at home was brilliant and so cost effective. Also included in the Series 5 Multi Beverage is a measuring scoop as well as the cleaning brush. Both tools have a magnetic end that allows them to be stored on the side of the appliance, which for me is another touch of genius as I would be annoyed if had to spend ages searching for these tools. Even the family found it easy to get into the habit of storing them on the side of the machine – hence my saying this is a genius product!!! There is also a 2 Year Warranty with this machine.
My Multi Beverage machine arrived beautifully packaged and follows is a summary of this marvellous machine:
1x Haier I-Master Series 5 Home Barista
1x User manual
1x Jug
1x Whisk
1x Metal filter
1x Scoop
1x Cleaning brush
0.35L Capacity: Perfect for a single cup
Eco-friendly: no need for single-use pods
Sleek dark metal design
Accessories included: metal filter, scoop, cleaning brush
Space-saving compact design
Effortless cleaning with a non-stick jug
Ergonomic handle
Integrated and removable frother
Integrated cord
Rubberized handle
Anti-slip feet
Auto switch off
Automatic settings
I thoroughly enjoyed using this brilliant machine and as the festive season approaches I was thinking how this would make a great gift. It would also be a brilliant engagement and wedding gift, or perhaps you’d like to spoil someone who is off to university, mind you that ‘lucky’ person would end up being the University Barista!
If you have any free time please do browse the Haier website www.haier-europe.com where you can view their huge product range from air fryers to fridge freezers, kettles to washing machines and lots, lots more.
For more than 30 years, Haier has devoted its energy and expertise to developing the best appliances in order to satisfy our most discerning customers.
Haier company history: since its creation in 1984, the company has been run by the same CEO, Zhang Ruimin, who has always had a clear objective: to build high-quality, reliable products. Within the first year of his appointment, in response to complaints about faulty fridges, his radical action of smashing the fridges with a hammer in front of employees has been recognised as an important cornerstone of the brand.
Since then, the company has evolved with the changing requirements of the modern world and of today’s consumer, capitalising on its core values of quality and reliability to offer premium, innovative and modern products.
We understand that it’s only by being close to our customers and by listening to their needs and desires that we can make their lives easier. Our commitment to continually update and expand our product range has made us a life partner of our customers and the worldwide number one home appliances brand for ten years running.
At Haier, our aim is to deliver premium quality, state-of-the-art products that respond to the constantly changing needs of the modern home, ultimately giving consumers more time to do the things that matter to them.
In order to ensure we are responding to real consumer needs, we believe that the home should be the primary research center. Only in real homes can we observe and truly understand consumers’ constantly changing domestic habits and demands. Through this closeness, Haier is able to maintain “Zero Distance” between our engineers’ innovations and our consumers’ lives.
By placing the focus on the home in this way, we’re able to fulfill our ultimate aim: giving our customers more time to do the things that matter to them. Our products, built with premium materials by highly-skilled engineers, contain the very latest innovations in technology that have been designed to make them easy to use, efficient and, in the end, time-saving.
We have R&D centres on all five continents of the world whose sole mission is to create the solutions that will give our customers their precious time back. It’s why 4% of our turnover is reinvested in innovation alone.
Zero distance with the consumer
Our Zero Distance approach is what ensures we are constantly able to provide our customers with products that help them with the evolving necessities of daily life. It is through this philosophy that we’re able to continually develop our product range and make sure that it can adapt to the everchanging rhythms of the modern home.
About Haier UK
Haier history: the Haier group’s relationship with Europe, as regards the home appliances division, commenced more than 13 years ago when its first products were introduced on the European market. Building on European success Haier launched in the UK in 2007 and is growing rapidly. In fact, in 2021 Haier have been identified as one of the top 30 fastest-growing Chinese businesses in the UK. (Source: The Grant Thornton Tou Ying Tracker).
Although Haier has only been in the UK since 2007, we have been manufacturing for 27 years during which time we have made some notable achievements. These include being the world’s number one brand in refrigeration, the world’s number one brand in laundry and the world’s number one brand in electric wine coolers. This has culminated in Haier becoming the world’s number one brand in major appliances for 12 consecutive years. (source: Euromonitor International Limited: retail volume sales in units based on 2021 data). We have an extensive range of beautifully designed and intelligently connected products, so whether you are looking for a new washing machine, side by side refrigerator, dishwasher, tumble dryer or wine cooler, we encourage you to discover how our products can help make your life easier and better. Haier UK also has one of the largest service networks in the UK, giving you complete peace of mind when purchasing one of our products. Throughout the history of Haier, providing the best service has been incredibly important and will continue to be so. Haier UK is also a proud member of AMDEA, the UK trade association for the manufacturers of small and large domestic appliances which represents over 80% of the appliance industry. We align with AMDEA’s values of being a relevant, credible and influential source of trusted information.
When technology meets design
Give your kitchen a touch of style with Haier’s new small kitchen appliances, created to take you on a culinary journey that combines elegance with innovation and redefine your dining experience. Immerse yourself in a world where cutting-edge technology, energy efficiency and functional design converge perfectly. This collection of small kitchen appliances is designed to be the perfect ally to express your creativity in the kitchen, for a tailor-made experience.
Visitors will be learning more about the natural wonders of a community orchard as green-fingered volunteers continue a grassroots drive to develop a haven for nature.
The Harlech Community Orchard Project has seen a not-for-profit group of volunteers unite to transform an unused part of a local field into an important spot for wildlife.
And thanks to new funding, the group will be able to further spread the message about what the project at the town’s King George V Playing Fields is all about.
The group has been awarded a £1,000 grant from a Community Fund Initiative established by Go North Wales tourism group and holiday homes specialists holidaycottages.co.uk.
According to Joe Patton from the orchard project, the funding would be essential in educating more people about the benefits of the scheme, particularly its ambition to champion wildflowers native to North Wales.
He said:
“We are truly delighted about the award. Our group has no funds. We can only provide what we provide for the community through sheer goodwill.
“We plan to utilise the funding to install a public noticeboard which will serve as an educational tool. Our goal is to engage visitors and foster an appreciation for our project and the significance of this natural space.
“The noticeboard will feature images that help identify the planted species and the pollinators they attract. By emphasising the well-being benefits of spending time in this area, we hope to encourage people to relax here and connect with nature.
“Additionally, we’re committed to supporting local businesses, and thus, we’ll select a sign-maker from environmentally-friendly manufacturers based in North Wales.
“The funding will allow us to effectively communicate with and attract visitors to this area. Additionally, it will enable our existing budget to concentrate on the funding of wildflowers, trees, and habitat houses for pollinators.
“Meanwhile, our collaborative project with pupils from Ysgol Ardudwy aims to create a dedicated natural space for nature by planting wildflowers that are native to North Wales including the rare Orange Welsh Poppy, Welsh Daffodil and Welsh Bluebell.
“We’ve already secured funding for wildflowers and trees. The pupils will actively participate in the design phase, determining the placement of footpaths, meadow grass, wildflowers, and trees.
“Then come November they’ll contribute to the planting and sowing process. Additionally, they will assist in creating the bilingual noticeboard featuring pictures of the planted species along with explanations of their environmental benefits.”
The Community Fund Initiative was launched to support regional groups that make North Wales so special.
Charities and organisations in the region were invited to apply for one of three £1,000 grants to support their important work.
Dozens of groups applied for the funding and after much discussion judges chose the Harlech Community Orchard Project as one of the successful applicants.
The other recipients of the support from the Community Fund Initiative were the North Wales Crusaders Wheelchair Rugby League & Disability Sports Association and the Friends of Mostyn Street & FOMS Kidz in Llandudno.
“At holidaycottages.co.uk, we are honoured to have supported the North Wales community through our partnership with Go North Wales and the North Wales Community Fund.
“The level of passion and dedication shown by all the applicants was truly inspiring, making the selection process a challenging one.
“I applaud the incredible work being done by local organisations and community groups to improve the region.
“Through these grants, we hope to contribute to meaningful initiatives that preserve North Wales’s unique culture and environment, benefiting both residents and visitors for years to come.”
Jim Jones, chief executive of North Wales Tourism, said:
“It has been a real pleasure to partner with Holiday Cottages to roll out this community fund, one of a number of projects we are running as part of the strategic partnerships we have established for 2024.
“Looking ahead, our focus remains on securing additional funding to sustain and expand this community fund. We are committed to supporting future initiatives that contribute to the growth and well-being of our local community and the tourism industry.”
Feature image: Harlech Community Orchard Group volunteers who have received funding to transform an unused area of a local field into a haven for nature and an educational notice board. Pictured (L/R) volunteers Margaret Buttigieg, Jon Millward, Kate Heath, Kate Millward and Joe Patton.
I think this product is one many you will find that is just the one you have been looking for!! It is a highly concentrated, vitamin C Serum supercharged with Colloidal Gold, Ferulic Acid and boosted with Torricelumn. It has been created to release and infuse fresh vitamin C into the skin all day and a overnight. I found it impressive as it is such a high-performance concentrated serum that targeted the appearance of fine lines, deep wrinkles, age spots and dull, tired looking skin. It is such a clever product that also helps to revitalize, repair and rejuvenate the look of your skin. It is a super product and one that is well worth trying.
To apply just pump 1 -2 drops and apply directly on dark spots morning and night. Follow up with moisturiser if needed. Best for skin that are dehydrated, normal/combination, oily, dry or sensitive skin.
In 1948 London, England, it was unusual for women to run a business. That didn’t stop Elizabeth Grant. She had something revolutionary to share with the world.
Near the end of the Second World War, Elizabeth’s face suffered severe damage after a bomb blast. She tried it all in an effort to heal her skin and restore her self-confidence. As she researched, she discovered a natural substance used to treat war wounds. She commissioned a special serum with this substance and used it to treat her damaged skin.
What she had created was life-changing. Within eight months, her skin improved remarkably—she started living again. Suddenly something that brought her shame became the source of compliments. Everyone needed to know her skin care secret.
The rest, as they say, is history. This miracle blend, Torricelumn™, along with Elizabeth’s vision, transformed the company from a small home-based business into a global sensation. Our line has grown from our Supreme Essence of Torricelumn™ into a multi-product line for all concerns, from hyperpigmentation to fine lines and redness.
Today, Elizabeth Grant Skin Care remains a family-owned business with all operations happening under one roof in Toronto, Canada. From development to manufacturing, we keep it all in-house to protect the quality we have become known for over the years and to eliminate unnecessary costs that add to higher pricing.
The Brecon Beacons Food Festival, one of the oldest food festivals in Wales, is set to return on Saturday 5th October 2024, from 9:30am at Brecon Market Hall. Founded in 1997, this annual celebration of local food and drink continues to be a key event in Wales’ culinary calendar, attracting thousands of visitors eager to sample the finest local produce.
A Celebration of Local Welsh Produce
The 2024 festival promises a fantastic mix of over 60 exhibitors, showcasing everything from freshly baked bread, artisan cheeses, and handcrafted beers, to local meats, preserves, cakes, and much more. With most items travelling fewer miles than the visitors themselves, it’s the perfect opportunity to support local producers and indulge in the best that Welsh cuisine has to offer.
Event organiser Andrew Powell shared his excitement for the upcoming festival, stating:
“The Food Festival is always a popular event, drawing thousands of visitors to Brecon each year. It’s an enjoyable day out for everyone, and our visitors go home with their shopping bags full of delicious Welsh produce. We’re thrilled to announce that exhibitor numbers have already reached capacity. This year is going to be better than ever!”
Exciting New Additions for 2024
This year’s event will see the introduction of exciting new features, including an exclusive Tasting Table hosted by renowned S4C chef Nerys Howell, where visitors can sample a range of local treats, all prepared by the chef herself.
Another new addition is the Cookery Theatre, a collaboration with NPTC Group and CK Deli, featuring live cooking demonstrations in Bethel Square. Led by Shaun Bailey, BBC Celebrity Chef and Head Lecturer, along with students from Powys, the theatre offers festival-goers the chance to pick up new recipes and cooking techniques in a vibrant outdoor setting.
Headline Sponsors and Community Support
The Brecon Beacons Food Festival has also confirmed support from several local businesses, including headline sponsors Beacon Foods, Castell Howell, and WW Bowen Ltd. Their contributions, alongside the efforts of exhibitors and local producers, ensure that this year’s event will be a true celebration of the region’s culinary talent.
A Day of Free, Family-Friendly Fun
Entry to the festival is free, making it a fun and accessible day out for all ages. In addition to the Tasting Table and Cookery Theatre, visitors can look forward to live music, and a huge range of food stalls to explore throughout the day.
Don’t miss out on this year’s Brecon Beacons Food Festival—an unmissable event for food lovers, families, and anyone with a passion for supporting local Welsh businesses. For more information on confirmed exhibitors, sponsors, entertainment, and how you can support this year’s event, visit www.breconbeaconsfoodfestival.co.uk.
Nine Ashmole & Co staff will take on the ultimate thrill-seeking challenge next month to help raise funds for Tenovus Cancer Care. Nine of the accountancy firm’s staff, from across south Wales, have agreed to do a tandem skydive!
Just weeks after walking twelve miles along the Swansea coastal path to raise funds, the group of staff are now gearing up to do something they have never done before – a tandem skydive over the Gower coastline.
Karl Wilcox, Partner in Ashmole and Co’s Cardigan office and one of those doing the skydive said,
“We recently launched a year of fundraising in aid of Tenovus Cancer Care. Everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer or has a family member receiving treatment themselves. We were keen to support a cancer charity based in Wales and all the funds raised would be used to support those affected by cancer in Wales. We hope our clients and friends will help us raise as much money as possible for this extremely worthy cause.”
Skydiving is the ultimate thrill-seeking challenge where you enjoy the exhilarating and unforgettable feeling of flying through the clouds from over 10,000ft at up to 120 mph! For tandem skydives, participants can complete their training and jump on the same day. They can let a British Parachuting Association instructor do all the work while they enjoy the ride!
Those taking part in this thrill-seeking adventure on Saturday, 5 October, are: Karl Wilcox, Partner and Max Geary, Trainee Accountant from the Cardigan office; Eirian Evans, Payroll & HR Manager, based in Carmarthen; Vinal Patel, Partner, based in Ammanford and Carmarthen; Sam Jones, Accountant and Gareth Thomas, Trainee Accountant from the Llandeilo office; Kane Williams, Accountant from the Ammanford office; Rachel Jones, Payroll Clerk and Matthew Price, Payroll Assistant from the Haverfordwest office.
Any donations to support Ashmole & Co’s fundraising for Tenovus Cancer Care, would be very gratefully received. Here is the link to the Just Giving page, or you can donate directly to any member of staff or at any office: Ashmole and co is fundraising for Tenovus Cancer Care (justgiving.com)
Elin Murphy, Tenovus Cancer Care’s Regional Fundraising Manager for south west Wales, said,
“Ashmole & Co are going all out to raise funds with staff signing up to do so many events out of their comfort zone. We are very grateful to everyone for choosing to help raise funds for Tenovus Cancer Care. Donations mean that we can continue to support cancer patients and their loved ones with our services and actively campaign to improve outcomes and give a voice to all affected by cancer in Wales.”
Tenovus Cancer Care are a Wales-based charity which gives help, hope and a voice to everyone affected by cancer. Tenovus is there for anyone affected by cancer. Together with its inspiring community of supporters, volunteers and fundraisers, the charity is determined to be there for everyone affected today, tomorrow and beyond.
Brecon Food Music, Shakespeare wrote “if music be the food of love play on”, possibly this should be twisted with relation to the upcoming Brecon Beacons Food Festival, as “for those that love food there is great music”.
The Brecon Beacons Food Festival which takes place in the market hall in the centre of Brecon on Saturday 5th October has always supported the town and aspects thereof.
2024 in this way is no different but the musical line up is. Brecon Food Music has amongst its line up Brecon Men’s Shed. This is part of a national organisation Men’s Shed which is best described in their own words. Happy & Healthy Men Connection, conversation and creation – that’s what joining a Men’s Shed is all about. Men’s Sheds encourage people to come together to make, repair and repurpose, supporting projects in their local communities. Improving wellbeing, reducing loneliness and combatting social isolation. Brecon Men’s Shed choir is very much an amateur ensemble whose primary aim is creating a great mentally easy place for their members whilst singing.
Brecon Mens Shed
Another local choir that is a regular performer at the Brecon Beacons Food Festival is the Brecon Male Voice Choir also known as Côr Meibion Aberhonddu. With around 40 voices they keep the tradition of the Welsh male voice choir singing at the heart of Welsh culture. Their repertoire is wide and varied from West End pieces to famous operettas and not forgetting the traditional Welsh hymns.
Brecon Male Voice Choir
The themes of inclusivity, community and charity continue with the Builth Wells Ladies Choir. This wonderful choir is a community-based choir that combines their love for music with a commitment to charitable giving. Their annual charity concerts are a testament to their dedication to supporting various causes and fostering community spirit. They bring a wide mixture of music to the food festival which is always much appreciated.
Builth Wells Ladies Choir
Brecon Food Music has another new dimension to it for 2024 with the melodic voices of members of the Brecon Cathedral Choir. Having been enhancing worship in Brecon Cathedral for 900 years but their repertoire now encompasses far more than Psalms and canticles. A little more back ground to the choir shows how they are very much part of Brecon and the wider community
There are between 14 and 18 Choristers, children aged between 8 and 13 who sing the Soprano or Treble line in the choir. They attend local schools and come to the cathedral to rehearse after school on three afternoons every week during term time and sing an early evening service (usually Evensong) on Fridays in addition to two choral services on Sundays. The Brecon Cathedral Choir Trust was set up in 2003, with the aim of ’empowering young people through the gift of music’, enabling the choristers to receive free music tuition. Places are available for year-4 children each September, with auditions held in early June.
The adults and teenagers who sing alto, tenor and bass in the choir are called Lay Clerks and Choral Scholars. They rehearse on Thursday evenings and join with the choristers to sing evensong on Fridays, for the two Sunday services and some external performances. They do so as volunteers, and some travel considerable distances (from as far away as Neath, Abergavenny, Newport and Bristol) to sing with the choir on a regular basis.
Brecon Cathedral Choir
The Brecon Beacons Food Festival has had the pleasure of welcoming Affinity Female Voice Choir previously. Brecon Food Music is made all the more magical with Affinity which as it says on the can is an all female choir, founded in 2012 by the Musical Director, Diane Wright. The choir based in Cardiff has recently appointed Ryan Wood as their deputy musical director who normally resides behind the keyboard with the choir but brings so much experience from other musical groups around south Wales. The choir performs an eclectic range of music from a variety of genres including musical theatre, pop and light classical.
Importantly Affinity is a non-auditioned choir with around 50 members ranging in age from 18-80, and no previous experience is required but enthusiasm and love of music is essential.
Diane Wright herself a musical tour de force in South Wales brings another of her groups to the food festival this year, Tawe Voices. This female choir is based in Ystradgynlais, where no auditions or experience necessary are necessary to join. In addition to their visit to the Brecon Beacons Food Festival they perform 2 main concerts a year in winter and summer, singing a variety of repertoire each term.
Brecon Food Music just demonstrates the wonderful atmosphere inclusivity and community that emanates from the Brecon Beacons Food Festival with the very best of food drink and music.
We are thrilled to announce that our Dà Mhìle Organic Absinthe has been awarded the prestigious 3-star rating at the 2024 Great Taste Awards. Out of more than 14,000 entries, our absinthe stood out for its exceptional quality and flavour, earning a place among the finest products in the world. This recognition is a true testament to the craftsmanship, passion, and dedication that goes into each bottle we produce.
A Decade of Collaboration and Innovation
Our absinthe is the result of a decade-long journey, a labour of love that began with our founder, John Savage, and evolved into something truly special with the help of three incredibly talented French exchange students—Sebastien Claus, Etienne Boulanger, and Richard Ducret. Working alongside our head distiller, this team spent over 10 years perfecting the recipe, honing the balance of flavours to create what we believe is a unique and exceptional spirit.
Crafted at 69% ABV, our absinthe is both bold and complex, capturing the rich history of absinthe with a distinctly modern, organic twist. Each batch we produce is under 200 bottles, allowing us to focus on the small details that make all the difference in quality. Every bottle is made from the finest organic ingredients, ensuring the highest possible standards.
We are immensely proud to see this hard work recognised with such a prestigious award.
Why the Great Taste 3-Star Award Is So Special
The Great Taste Awards are known as the “Oscars” of the food and drink industry, and a 3-star rating is the highest honour a product can achieve. To put it into perspective, fewer than 2% of all entries earn this accolade, making it an incredibly rare and prestigious achievement. Our absinthe was blind-tasted by over 500 judges, including top chefs, food critics, and writers, who were impressed by its depth of flavour, balance, and overall quality.
Nigel Barden Heritage Award and Welsh Golden Fork Nominee
In addition to our 3-star win, we are also honoured to have been nominated for the Welsh Golden Fork Award and to have won the Nigel Barden Heritage Award. The Golden Fork is a major recognition in Welsh food and drink, celebrating the best that Wales has to offer. We take immense pride in representing our country on such a prestigious stage.
Winning the Nigel Barden Heritage Award is a particularly special moment for us. Nigel Barden is a renowned food and drink broadcaster with over 30 years of experience, known for his passion for quality and his championing of exceptional products. To have our absinthe recognised with an award bearing his name is a huge honour. Nigel’s long career includes time at BBC Radio, TV appearances, live consumer events, food festivals, and numerous judging roles, making this award a reflection of his deep understanding and love of great food and drink.
A Celebration of Organic and Small-Batch Craftsmanship
Our absinthe is not just a product; it is a reflection of our values as a distillery. Each batch is produced in small quantities of fewer than 200 bottles, ensuring we can give every step of the process the attention it deserves. From selecting organic ingredients to distillation and bottling, we carefully monitor every detail to maintain the highest quality.
For us, organic production is about more than just creating a clean and authentic product. It’s about supporting sustainable farming practices and doing our part to protect the environment. We believe that organic, responsibly sourced ingredients make for a better spirit—one that is not only delicious but also aligns with our values of sustainability and ethical production.
What This Win Means for Dà Mhìle
Winning a 3-star rating at the Great Taste Awards is a milestone for Dà Mhìle. It affirms our commitment to producing spirits of the highest quality and underscores the dedication of our entire team. We are incredibly proud of this achievement, which we believe will help us reach new customers who are looking for exceptional, organic spirits.
This recognition also strengthens our position within the craft distilling community, particularly in the organic spirits market. It will allow us to continue growing, bringing our products to new retailers and restaurants, while always staying true to the values that have guided us from the very beginning.
Looking to the Future
As we celebrate this fantastic win, we are already looking ahead. The recognition we’ve received at the Great Taste Awards, along with the Welsh Golden Fork nomination and Nigel Barden Heritage Award, motivates us to keep pushing boundaries. We will continue to innovate, create and refine our range of organic spirits, always striving to produce the very best.
Our absinthe is just one part of our story, and we are excited to share more of our journey with you in the months and years to come. We remain committed to delivering exceptional spirits that reflect the care, quality, and organic ethos that define Dà Mhìle.
Thank you for supporting us on this journey. Here’s to many more milestones together!
The year 2024 has been one of triumph for Caws Teifi, as we proudly took home the Gold Award at the Global Cheese Awards, held in Frome, Somerset. This prestigious accolade was awarded for our innovative Caws Teifi cheese with added Flavours, a product that beautifully showcases our commitment to both tradition and creativity. Alongside this golden victory, we also won Bronze for our Saval cheese, marking another proud moment in our journey of cheesemaking excellence.
A Brief History of the Global Cheese Awards
The Global Cheese Awards, one of the oldest and most respected cheese competitions in the world, has been a cornerstone of the international cheese community since its inception in 1861. Initially created to celebrate the skills of local cheesemakers, the competition has evolved over the decades to attract producers from all corners of the globe. Held as part of the Frome Agricultural and Cheese Show, the awards highlight the rich agricultural traditions of the UK while recognizing the art of cheesemaking at its highest level.
Each year, the Global Cheese Awards draw entries from small-scale artisanal producers to large commercial dairies, offering a diverse array of cheeses for a panel of seasoned judges to evaluate. The competition is known for its rigorous standards, making a win at this event a significant achievement for any cheesemaker. With categories ranging from traditional cheddars to more experimental creations, the awards celebrate innovation, flavour, and quality.
For Caws Teifi, participating in these awards has always been about more than just competition—it’s about showcasing our deep-rooted passion for cheesemaking and the hard work that goes into every batch of cheese we produce.
The Gold-Winning Caws Teifi with Added Flavours
At Caws Teifi, we are known for our dedication to traditional cheesemaking techniques, but we are equally passionate about experimenting with new flavours and approaches. Our Caws Teifi cheese with added Flavours, which took home the Gold Award this year, is a perfect example of this balance between tradition and innovation.
Crafted from organic, raw milk sourced from local farms in West Wales, this particular cheese stands out not only for its smooth texture and rich, creamy base but also for the carefully selected Flavours that elevate its taste profile. By introducing natural ingredients like herbs, spices, and botanicals, we’ve created a cheese that offers a unique and delightful sensory experience. The added Flavours complement the cheese without overwhelming its natural, milky sweetness, resulting in a product that is both familiar and exciting.
Winning Gold in this category is a testament to the skill of our team, who have perfected the art of incorporating additional flavours into our cheese without compromising the quality and texture that Caws Teifi is known for. The judges at the Global Cheese Awards praised the balance of flavours and the innovative approach to cheesemaking that this product embodies. We are incredibly proud to have this recognition, as it affirms our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what cheese can be while staying true to our Welsh heritage.
Saval Cheese: A Bronze-Winning Creation
While our flavoured Caws Teifi cheese stole the spotlight with its Gold Award, our Saval cheese also garnered attention, winning Bronze in its category. The Saval is a soft, washed-rind cheese that has become a standout in our collection. Its earthy, savoury flavours develop beautifully as it matures, offering a depth and complexity that resonates with both cheese connoisseurs and casual cheese lovers alike.
The Saval cheese represents the same dedication to traditional methods that have defined Caws Teifi’s success over the years. Made from the same high-quality organic milk as our other cheeses, it carries a distinctive flavour that is both robust and nuanced. Winning a Bronze medal for this cheese is a recognition of the diverse range of flavours we offer and further cements our place among the world’s top cheesemakers.
The Importance of Flavour in Cheesemaking
For many, the idea of adding Flavours to cheese may seem like a modern trend, but in reality, cheesemakers have been experimenting with flavour-enhanced cheeses for centuries. Herbs, spices, and other natural ingredients were historically used not only to add flavour but also to preserve cheeses for longer periods. Today, flavoured cheeses are celebrated for their creativity and the way they allow cheesemakers to explore new frontiers of taste.
At Caws Teifi, we approach flavour experimentation with care and respect for the cheese itself. The key is always balance—ensuring that the added ingredients complement rather than overpower the core taste of the cheese. Our flavoured Caws Teifi cheese, which earned us the Gold Award, is a perfect representation of how natural ingredients can enhance the cheese’s flavour while still allowing its creamy, delicate character to shine through.
A Testament to Craftsmanship and Tradition
These awards serve as a testament to the passion, dedication, and hard work that go into every cheese we produce. Winning at the Global Cheese Awards is not just an honour for our team but also a celebration of the rich cheesemaking traditions that we carry forward with each wheel of cheese we produce.
The recognition of both our flavoured Caws Teifi and Saval cheese at such a prestigious event reinforces our commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. We believe that great cheese is the result of respecting tradition while embracing new ideas, and these awards highlight the success of that philosophy.
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Tradition of Excellence
The success at the Global Cheese Awards 2024 inspires us to keep striving for excellence in everything we do. While we are thrilled with the Gold and Bronze medals we have won this year, we view them as milestones on a much larger journey of exploration and growth. We remain committed to crafting the highest-quality cheeses, experimenting with new flavours, and ensuring that every product we create reflects the passion and care we pour into our work.
We extend our deepest thanks to our loyal customers, the farmers we work with, and our community, whose support makes moments like this possible. Without their trust and encouragement, we wouldn’t be able to push the boundaries of what cheesemaking can achieve.
As we look to the future, we invite everyone to try our award-winning Caws Teifi with added Flavours and Saval cheese. Each bite tells the story of our dedication to quality and our respect for the cheesemaking traditions that inspire us. We are excited to continue sharing our passion for cheese with the world and look forward to more award-winning moments in the years to come.
The winner of Aberystwyth Arts Centre Ian McKellen Award 2024 has been announced, following recent interviews. The 2024 winner is Rhys Nutting. Rhys is one of the successful applications who will be studying a BA(Hons) in Sound Technology at The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) from September 2024. He will be awarded £500 to go towards the cost of his studies as part of this special award that was set up with funds donated during Sir Ian McKellen’s visit to the Arts Centre in 2019.
Rhys said:
“I am honoured to receive the 2024 Sir Ian McKellen Award. I have to say a huge thankyou to the Aberystwyth Arts Centre and to Sir Ian McKellen for this opportunity. The award’s recognition of the technical side of the industry is truly inspiring and will motivate me to thrive in the industry whilst i study my BA(Hons) in Sound Technology at LIPA. Aberystwyth Arts Centre ignited my passion for the creative arts, making it a privilege to be selected for this award.”
Rhys attended Ysgol Bro Caereinion in Welshpool where he studied Welsh (First language), Music and Welsh Baccalaureate at A Level. He also gained work experience at Aberystwyth Arts Centre, with mentorship from the late Nick Bache.
Rhys was the unanimous choice from the Award’s interview panel, who were once again bowled over by the calibre of applicants for the award, Creative Learning Coordinator Laura Oliver said:
“The standard of applications for the 2024 Award was again incredibly high, the panel were impressed by the skills and passion of all the award applicants. Rhys stood out as being particularly passionate and focused on his chosen career, having already achieved so much. He has a bright future ahead of him and we wish him every success.”
Dame Elan Closs Stephens DBE, member of the interview panel and Arts Centre advisory board said:
“This award came about through the generosity of Sir Ian McKellen who visited Aberystwyth Arts Centre as part of his 80th birthday tour. Once again, we have found a young person who is dedicated, passionate and more than worthy to receive this important award. The Panel were very impressed by Rhys and wish him well as he takes the next step in his career.”
Rhys follows in the footsteps of previous year’s winners. Gruffydd Rhys Evans (2023) who is currently studying a BA Hons in Acting at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts (RADA). Tom Mathias (2022) first violinist in the Kuttner Quartet-in-residence at the Jacobs School of Music, Indiana University, for the 2022-2023 season, who is studying a Solo Violin Performer Diploma at Indiana University, Jacobs School of Music. Osian Pearson (2021) who studied an MA in Editing at the prestigious National Film and Television School (NFTS), Cerys Havana Hickman (2020) who studied for a degree in Music (BMus) at Goldsmiths, University of London, and joint winners (2019) Owain Gruffydd, who studied at the University of Northampton studying for a BA Hons Degree in Acting, and Laura Baker who gained a BA Hons Degree in Ballet Education at the Royal Academy of Dance.
When Sir Ian McKellen came to perform at the Arts Centre in February 2019, all the money raised from ticket sales and donations during his visit was kept safe to be used for supporting the Arts Centre’s important work with young people. A special prize was established, the Aberystwyth Arts Centre’s Ian McKellen Award, open to a young person between the ages of 16 – 25 who intends to continue their vocational training in the creative arts – including, but not limited to, theatre, dance, and the visual arts. £500 is available annually to award for candidates who can demonstrate artistic promise and the passion for their artform, and who are in receipt of a place for study during the following academic year.
NFU Cymru has welcomed the strong farmer and farm vet representation on the new Welsh Government Bovine TB Programme Board.
The Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies has this week announced that he has appointed Sharon Hammond as the Chair of the Board which will oversee and provide guidance to Welsh Government on their TB eradication programme. Sharon, who is also a member of the NFU Cymru TB focus group will be joined by fellow focus group members Roger Lewis and Evan Roberts on the Programme Board along with an NFU Cymru staff representative, who along with other representation from farmers and the veterinary profession, will provide strategic advice to the Welsh Chief Veterinary Office and Welsh Ministers.
In response to the announcement, NFU Cymru President Aled Jones said:
“It is welcome news that the Cabinet Secretary has appointed Sharron Hammond as Chair of the Bovine TB Programme Board, alongside Roger who Chairs the NFU Cymru TB Focus Group and Evan. All four have significant expertise in Bovine TB and have been actively involved in our TB Focus Group for a number of years now. Following the appointment of the Bovine TB Technical Advisory Group (TAG) earlier in the year, the Programme Board is the final important piece in the governance structure for Welsh Government’s TB policy. It is positive to see strong farmer and veterinary representation around the table, as it is farming families and their own private farm vets who are at the front line of dealing with this dreadful disease so their views on future TB policy are vital.
“The Programme Board has incredibly important work to do in driving forward a route to eradication of this terrible disease, something the future generations of cattle farmers in Wales depend on. In the period from April 2023 to March 2024, over 11,000 cattle were slaughtered because of bovine TB in Wales, a sobering statistic that we cannot allow to continue. In this respect NFU Cymru continue to call for a comprehensive disease eradication strategy that tackles this disease wherever it exists.
“Three years ago, the NFU Cymru TB Focus Group was formed to help inform our views on TB policy and to identify where improvements could be made to policy without risking disease control. We stand ready to use our seat on the Programme Board to take forward the views of our membership to the board, whether those views be from farmers where TB is present on the farm or is threatening at the door.”
I am a massive fan of the Margaret Dabbs foot range and was delighted when she showed her expertise on hands and legs as well. Margaret Dabbs has created her range of products by ensuring her range blends the best of medical science with the best of beauty. I love my nails looking good so Margaret’s vegan nail strengthening treatment is one product I cannot and will not do without. This is a unique nail hardener that is proven to harden and strengthen your nails. It is such a clever treatment that promotes nail growth and nail health, whilst giving your nails a beautiful groomed look. Margaret and her talented team have created this treatment for anyone who has weak, brittle, peeling, splitting or cracking nails. There are many types of product on the market that say they can improve your nails, but for me this one is definitely my favourite because I could see visible results within two weeks and by the third week my nails looked superb! Now this is praise indeed after all the gardening and decorating I have been doing! Before I started with this strengthening treatment I took down my nail length which Margaret suggests. This nail strengthener contains Neonyca™, which is a naturally derived celery seed complex, it is a ‘super ingredient’ that contains vitamins vital to nail health, as well as fatty acids that are deeply hydrating. Neonyca will aid your nail recovery as it strengthens, rehydrates and supports your nail growth and smoothness. Once applied it instantly smooths any ridges you might have on your nails. I had a couple of fingers which had those horrid ridges and a couple that were also splitting, it was no wonder my nails were really annoying me. Thankfully even after one coat my nails had a much more even finish. Margaret suggests that you can use her potent nail hardener in three ways:
alone as a treatment on bare nails, with a delicate nail colour.
as a natural pink gloss with two coats.
as a strengthening treatment base coat under any nail polish.
Well to ensure I was giving this treatment a good work out I tried all three ways and cannot argue with Margaret as they all worked. I really loved the natural pink gloss when I applied two coats, as it actually gave the appearance that I spent ages doing my nails, when it most certainly hadn’t taken long at all!
When you use this strengthening treatment you will be thrilled to find that it does the following:
helping to reduce the occurrence of splitting and cracking fingernails.
smoothing the nail surface and preventing ridges.
restoring fingernails to their natural health
rejuvenating the nails.
protecting against further nail damage.
This treatment is easy to use as you can apply one or two coats of nail strengthener twice a week. Then:
Remove with nail polish remover before reapplying.
Apply using the brush as you would a nail polish in straight, even strokes lengthways from the cuticle to the edge.
Gently brush the nail strengthener at the nail edge, from left to right, to seal and secure the treatment.
If you’re using this treatment as a nail-strengthening clear polish, you can apply Margaret’s Longwear Top Coat to lock it in.
You can also apply this treatment as a base coat under your favourite polish – just apply as normal and, once dried, apply your polish and top coat.
Can be removed with nail polish remover if needed.
This is Margaret’s advice: – “You will find that your nails will grow much quicker than normal when using this Nail Strengthening Treatment, so it is a good idea initially to keep your nails short to allow the distal end of the nail to strengthen. Initially as the nail lengthens and grows you may find that the free end of the nail is splitting as the nail grows and strengthens from the proximal end forward and as you continue to use the treatment and the nail continues to grow through, your nails will get stronger and stronger until you find that you can keep your natural nails at a nice length without them splitting or breaking”
Many people find that their cuticles are difficult to care for and I was one of those until I tried Margaret’s powerful nail & cuticle serum. This serum has a unique formulation to help hydrate, strengthen and protect your nails & cuticles. This is such a clever product as it helps to promote healthy nail growth so your nails not only look their best but are healthy and strong. This is Margaret’s best-selling serum as it rejuvenates your dry, damaged, splitting, flaky, ridged and inflamed nails & cuticles and also helps to protect your nails against infection. This serum is so good it is a Beauty Bible award-winning product. It absorbs quickly, it’s lightweight and will transform the appearance of your nails & cuticles from the first application.
This is another must-have product in my manicure kit and I’d rate these two products as magical but know Margaret would correct and remind me that her range blends the best of medical science with the best of beauty. Anyway I’m so happy that I know about the Margaret Dabbs range for fabulous feet, hands and legs. Plus I would suggest that when you have time, please visit Margaret’s website and check out all products in her range. You’ll find treats for yourself and also for gifting.
Our vegan-friendly feet and hand products are formulated with concentrated, cruelty-free active botanicals, and natural plant extracts.
Formulated to transform the way your feet & hands look and feel.
Margaret Dabbs London is the globally recognised brand that fuses together the best of medical science and podiatry, with the best of beauty to produce a unique and unrivalled range of effective, results-driven, credible yet luxurious clinic treatments and retail products for Feet, Hands & Legs.
At the heart of the business is Margaret herself who as our founder has guided the business and infused her own philosophy and beliefs into all of our products and treatments. She alone has put feet and hands where they belong – at the forefront of the beauty industry.
Most recently Margaret was awarded an OBE in the 2023 New Year’s Honours List in recognition of her services to Business and Podiatry, her entrepreneurial ability and for creating a brand-new wellness category within beauty for the care of Feet, Hands and Legs.
The Margaret Dabbs London Foot Products are where it all began, with the Intensive Hydrating Foot Lotion, which delivers that “Walking on Air” feeling that you can only ever get from a Margaret Dabbs London Foot product. The ‘Miracle in a Pot’ Foot Hygiene Cream followed, and has delighted customers, who have been simply blown away by the instant results it gives, with even the most unruly feet being transformed overnight. Our range has since expanded, combining the most effective ingredients with our podiatry expertise to deliver products that really work.
Alongside our hero Feet range are our award-winning Hands and Legs products. Our unique range of products for the hands are formulated with concentrated anti-ageing ingredients usually reserved for facial products including Hempseed Oil, Kelp and White Water Lily, and are treatment remedies which deliver instant visible improvements to the skin of your hands. For legs, our powerful and innovative formulations with trademarked ingredients are clinically proven to tone, firm and tighten the skin, refine the dispose tissue (cellulite), reduce water retention and puffiness, stimulate circulation, promote venous decongestion and deliver you better looking and more comfortable legs.
The Margaret Dabbs London Product range is sold at some of the world’s most iconic retailers worldwide, including Harrods and Liberty London, and are also available to purchase here at our Official Site, arriving in beautiful branded packaging and with the option of a gift box and a personalised postcard, straight to you. Our gorgeous gift sets and gift cards also make the perfect present, and will be a lovely surprise for a friend or family member to receive with a hand-written note guaranteed to leave a smile on their face.
Our products are also used in our own Branded Clinics forming the exclusive protocol of our specialist treatments. Our branded manicure and pedicure treatments are also performed at leading hotels and spas globally, and have gained a huge following with loyal local customers and A-list celebrities alike. Once you experience the world renowned Margaret Dabbs London Medical Pedicure, you will wonder why you didn’t discover it sooner.
Margaret Dabbs London now consists of eleven clinics in the UK and three outside the UK in A Coruña, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Find the products of your choice and find your local clinic today.
Regular readers will know that I am a huge fan of Nails Inc and it is not just the variety of colours that I love, it is more for the brush which has been cleverly shaped so that it fits into the base of your nail and three swift strokes and that’s one nail done! Plus I find that Nails Inc colours last much longer than other brands and that is important when our lives are so busy. Do check out their website because whatever problems you have with your nails Nails Inc have the solutions and the choice of shades is always impressive.
1. Chiltern Street Gel Effect
Chiltern Street is a beautiful baby pink shade and I really want to make sure that you are aware of the bestselling Gel Effect polish range from Nails Inc. This gel effect has been formulated with revolutionary plasticiser technology so that you can get a flawless manicure at home. You can create an ultra-glossy, high-shine gel effect finish without the need of a UV lamp or the boring bit waiting for you old polish to be soaked off. This is a new and very clever improved Gel Effect formulation that also features nourishing flower extract to help condition and strengthen the nails. I am so impressed with the gel effect range as it glides on effortlessly and the extra wide brush ensures makes it so easy to apply. Nails Inc are noted for their brilliant brushes and if you haven’t tried this brand you are seriously missing out. This range is highly pigmented so it will give you exceptional coverage, plus it has a plumping agent to level out any imperfections on your nail.
As the Shropshire Union Canal Society busily restore the Montgomery canal and close the Shropshire Gap, they are not only bringing the waterway back to life, but also uncovering long forgotten local stories, for as a digger shaped the canal channel at Crickheath Tramway Wharf, it came across ironwork from a narrowboat deep in the earth. All the woodwork had long since rotted away but the iron skeleton remained bent but not broken.
It turns out that the sunken vessel was, almost certainly, the Usk, a ‘Narrer-narrer’, slang for narrow-narrowboat, and she is said to be haunted by the boatman who skippered her and was killed in an accident nearly one hundred and fifty years ago.
However, the story doesn’t start at Crickheath on the Montgomery canal but at Hadley Park Lock on the Trench Arm of the Shrewsbury and Newport canal in what is now, Telford. (The canal was abandoned many years ago.) The Trench arm built as a small coal canal with the lock being only 6’ 7” (2 metres) wide, so could only take tub boats or ‘narrer-narrers’, no wider than 6’4” (1.93 metres).
The dreadful accident happened as dusk was falling on Monday 26th July in the year of our Lord 1887, as the last boat of the day, the Usk, was slipping gently into Hadley Park Lock. The locks on the Trench arm, just south of Wappenshall Junction, were unusual as the bottom gates had a guillotine mechanism with the gates going up and down with a counterweight box, rather than swinging side to side. The top gates were the usual ‘mitre’ arrangement. They looked like something from the French revolution.
George Benbow was skipper of the Usk with thirteen-year-old, William Evanson as his crew and it appears that as the boat passed under the lock gate, George did not duck and was hit and killed by the counterweight box.
William later said at the inquest into George’s death,
“We were coming through Hadley Park Lock, and George shouted to me to drop the gate. I was by the horse at the time, but I ran to do as requested. As I lowered the gate George did not stoop at all and so caught his head against the weight box. George then got onto the cabin and cried ‘murder, murder’. I asked him what was wrong, but he did not speak again, and it was then that I saw the blood coming from his ears and he dropped down on top of the cabin.”
Hadley Park Lock
The Lockkeeper, John Chilton looked after the locks south of Wappenshall also gave testimony,
“I was following the Usk as she was the last boat of the day, and I needed to see that the locks were left in the right position. I was close to the boat when the accident happened and saw that George was looking behind to see how the boat was coming on – he ought to have stooped but instead he stood straight up and as the gate was lowered I heard a strange noise and the boy said, ‘He’s hurt, he’s bleeding’, and I asked George to lie down but he fell onto the deck and died within ten minutes – before assistance came.”
From that very day, the Usk was doomed, an unlucky, haunted boat that many boatmen would not work aboard, so she was sold and traded on the smaller canals on the Shropshire Union system, but the luck did not improve so she was finally abandoned and sank on the Montgomery canal near Crickheath, probably in the early 1890s, and there she lies to this very day, a ghostly reminder of a tragedy long ago.
The Usk and George Benbow may have long since sunk beneath the earth, but it is fascinating that restoring the Montgomery canal has given us a glimpse into the past and allowed this story to re-surface so that George, and his ghostly boat, the Usk, can be remembered.
‘Ghost Boat’ notes and research by Sue Ball & Jan Johnstone
Thomas Clayton (Oldbury) Ltd, one of the most well-known of the canal carrying fleets, ran narrowboats widely over the entire network but especially over those in the northwest of England. Nicknamed ‘the tar boats’ they were immediately recognisable, not only for their holds covered by boards level with the gunwales, but also for their high standards and immediately recognisable paintwork, lettering and design on cabins and hulls.
Father William first established the carrying company in 1842 at West Drayton, Middlesex but had moved to a base at Salford Bridge, Birmingham, by the late 1840s. Initially carrying paving stones, drainpipes and timber, steady growth led to a further move to Saltley, on the Birmingham & Warwick Junction Canal, by 1862.
Around Saltley were several canal side gasworks; Adderley (now known as Camp Hill) 1844; Saltley 1858; Nechells 1881. Thus there emerged a high demand for coal, and for tar and other waste products to be taken away. By 1863 William was carrying tar to London as well as around the BCN and further afield, and ‘gas water,’ rich in ammonia, to burgeoning chemical industries engaged in fertilizer production. Initially, these were carried in barrels but, at this point, William began experimenting by converting some boats to ‘liquid carriers’, sectioning the hold into two or three compartments and covering with rigid planking. In time Claytons served virtually all gasworks which had reasonable canal access both delivering coal and removing the by-products of gas production.
William died in 1882 aged 73 and son Thomas assumed control.
Although part of ‘Claytons’ was transferred to Fellows Morton & Co in 1889, forming that other well-known carrying company, Fellows, Morton & Clayton, Thomas Clayton retained the 31 liquid carriers as well as other narrow boats and moved to his new base at Oldbury.
1954 shipping form
Claytons had begun naming their boats after rivers as early as 1853, the first one being Wye. This practice continued with only a few exceptions throughout. As boats were replaced in the fleet their names were regularly re-used, sometimes with the same fleet number as well. The fleet was also entirely horse drawn until 1937.
As far as the Shropshire canals are concerned there are references to Clayton boats collecting tar from Shrewsbury Gas works for carriage back to Oldbury, taking creosote from Oldbury to Cefn Mawr on the Welsh Branch and being regular visitors until 1927 – although reporting that the canals were already in poor condition by then.
Thomas Clayton (Oldbury) Limited Fleet List (1) shows two narrowboats named Usk:
Usk Fleet No 7 Joined fleet 09.1903 Registered Birmingham 1143 built FMC Uxbridge
Usk Fleet No 94 Joined fleet 01 1939 Registered Oldbury 6 built FMC Uxbridge
(Motorboat)
Clearly neither of these is our ‘Usk.’ And yet the boat newly built in 1903 was possibly a replacement for a previous Usk, this being Clayton’s usual practice. If so, what had happened to the previous Usk?
It could have been scrapped or sold on?
At the time of our accident George Salmon, boatman, was identified as the owner or, at least, operator of the ‘accident’ boat. He was not with the boat /crew on the day of the accident otherwise he would have been called to give evidence at the inquest. We have found no further trace of George Salmon.
The Usk & Mole in 1954 at Chester
If our boat was a Clayton boat and was sold on prior to the accident it appears to have kept its Clayton name. Would this have been allowed?
Conversely, if it wasn’t a Clayton Boat is it unusual it has a name that fits the Clayton profile and was operating on canals that Claytons were also operating on? The ‘accident’ boat was returning from Ellesmere Port via the SU main line and the Shrewsbury & Newport Canal. Ellesmere Port was a recipient of many waterborne goods, not least those destined for the developing chemical industries along the Mersey/Weaver. What had the boat carried to Ellesmere Port? What was it carrying back to Shropshire? The SU in particular was a busy route between Birmingham and Ellesmere Port. Presumably there would not/could not have been two boats with the same name operating over largely the same route? Or could there?
Had George Salmon purchased this boat or was he simply a small operator, leasing boats under contract to Claytons?
Or…?
Hadley Lock, Trench Arm of the Shrewsbury Canal
The locks on the Shrewsbury Canal were unlike most of the other locks on the canal network.
They were longer than usual, at 81ft long, and were also narrower at just 6ft 7ins wide, being designed to take four ‘tub boats’ at a time. Tub boats were the small, 3 ton wooden boats, less than 20ft long, 6ft 4in wide with a draught of 1ft 6ins that were standard on the canal system of the East Shropshire coalfield.
In addition, whilst the top gates of the Shrewsbury Canal were of the conventional swing type, the bottom gates of the locks were of the ‘guillotine’ type, vertical lifting gates. These were operated by counterbalancing a suspended central weight, a wooden box full of stones, attached to chains running round a horizontal wooden axle supported on the gate frame.
*It is this counterbalance weight/box that George Benbow struck his head on.
The Trench Arm runs from the Wappenshall Junction on the Shrewsbury & Newport Canal to Trench. There, an inclined plane was built to connect with the coalfield canals 75ft above. Inclined planes were fairly numerous on the Shropshire coalfield canals but they were of the ‘small’ variety. Narrowboats could not use these inclined planes. Thus tub boats brought their loads of coal to the head of the incline and were despatched down to the narrowboats waiting below for onward transit either to Shrewsbury or elsewhere on the national canal network.
It is clear our narrowboat, Usk, was heading to Trench to load with coal.
But narrowboats navigating the Trench Arm would have to be narrower than ‘normal’ narrowboats to pass through the locks on the arm. At other times tub boats would journey to Wappenshall for transhipment of cargo there. The Shropshire Union Railway and Canal Co had about 24 of these ay one point. (2)
So, given that it was navigating the Trench Arm, was our ‘accident’ boat a SUR&CC boat?
Also, as there was no winding (turning) capacity at the bottom of Trench Inclined Plane narrowboats had to make the journey there from Wappenshall helm first.
Jack Roberts on the Usk
Born in 1894 (3) Jack spent his working boat life on the canals of Shropshire, with an especial fondness for the Montgomery Canal. His memory was absolutely phenomenal and, with encouragement from family and friends, he committed his recollections to paper in 1960, eventually being published in 2015, long after Jack’s death in 1972.
Describing his first trip to Newtown with his father, aged 10 (so 1904?), Jack refers to a boat sunk just beyond the limestone wharf at Crickheath. “…practically a skeleton but you could see the name, the knees and the helm.” Jack names it as the Usk. Thus, there is a definite identification, primary evidence.
Jack confirms boats that went to Trench were ‘…seventy feet long but having only a six-foot-wide beam and a very low cabin’ and that boats going down to Trench went helm first.
His further comments about Usk, ‘…loading at the Gas Works (Shrewsbury) was a Thomas Clayton Boat, The Usk, a tank boat loading coal…) definitely identify a Clayton’s tank boat, probably Fleet No 7, built September 1903 (see above). Again, ’…Usk was worked by husband and wife Harry and Polly who had no family.’ As Jack was predominantly writing about boating experiences 1904 to 1921 this coincides exactly with the era in which wives and families joined husbands as crew and narrowboats became family homes in an effort to make canal carrying more competitive. Contrast this with the time of the ‘accident’ when boat crews were largely male.
In 1969 on an SUCS walk from Frankton to Crickheath Jack was still telling the same story!
The 2009 Dig
Tony Lewery (yes, he of ‘Narrow Boat Painting’) was called in when WRG volunteers unearthed the remains of a boat at Crickheath Wharf in 2009. Tony clearly knew of Jack Roberts and his autobiography – well he would, being so immersed in canals for so many years – although it had not yet been printed/published. He also clearly used it as the basis of his interpretation of the remains unearthed at Crickheath. Ironwork details apart he came to the conclusion that the imprint left ‘… was certain that it was a very round sided boat as many of the SU fly boats were’ but that it was impossible to measure the width.
Thus, there is no primary evidence that this boat could have navigated up to Trench. But there’s no evidence it couldn’t either?
Erm, would simply add – would an SU fly boat have been carrying coal? My understanding is, fly boats carried high value/priority delivery goods. Doubt coal would have been in this category?
After the accident
At some time after the accident the boat was sold to Thomas Moody, of the Moody family, canal carriers in Ellesmere who used it to trade coal from Black Park Colliery, Chirk, through to Newtown. At what point this happened is not known.
Like most of us, boat people would have been very sensitive to tragedy happening and then being required to go on working where it had happened. The likelihood is the boat would have been used in the normal way for a while but distaste would have built up and crews could have become increasingly reluctant to work it. Jack Roberts says ‘After the tragedy no SU boatman would work on the Usk…’ It must have reached the point where the owner considered the only possible solution was to sell the boat on. Jack Roberts comments ‘…it was afterwards considered to be jinxed.’
Was this George Salmon who sold it on to the Moodys because he couldn’t get the crews?
Was it Thomas Clayton or the SUR&CCC who could no longer get men to work it?
Did the Moodys find the same aura clung to the boat where tragedy had happened?
Finally, Jack tells us ‘After a few years and the worse for wear, it was placed to sink at Crickheath andthe remains arestill there.’
Or they were…
Sources:
Thomas Clayton (Oldbury) Ltd: Fleet List. Alan Faulkner 2006 Narrow Boat Inland Waterways Heritage Magazine
Canals of Shropshire: Richard K Morriss 1991 Shropshire Books
Shropshire Union Fly-boats: Jack Roberts Autobiography 2015
Without doubt – we believe:
On Monday 26 July 1887 nb Usk was travelling from Wappenshall towards, ‘the Trench’ on the Shrewsbury Canal. No idea of cargo? But at this point in history several inferences can be deduced?
From Wappenshall the locks are climbing.
The boat had travelled from Ellesmere Port and was heading toward ‘the Trench’, uphill in lock terms.
The boats going along the Trench Arm, ‘have to navigate in reverse’ as there is no room to wind at the end of the arm – which is the base of the Trench Inclined Plane.
It was towards the end of the day –‘it was light enough for him to see.’ Inquest July 1887.
The lock keeper, John Chilton, was following the boat, ‘as it was the last one and he needed to see thelocks were right.
The guillotine gate (ie the bottom gate) into Hadley Park Lock had been raised. George Benbow, in charge of the boat, was ‘looking behind him, to see how the boat was coming on.’
The guillotine gate was counterbalanced by a ‘box, full of stones.’ This hung lower than the gate.
Boatmen knew (by experience?) to duck to get into the lock. On this occasion George Benbow did not do this: ’Deceased did not stoop at all and in consequence caught his head against the box. The deceased was looking behind him to see how the boat was coming on. He ought to have stooped but instead stood straight up.’
George Benbow was not decapitated. He did not hit his head on a bridge. Or any other folk tale.
He simply forgot to duck. A momentary lapse of concentration, remembrance.
Who, amongst us, has not been guilty of that.
Most of us survive. He, sadly, did not.
We have visited his burial site, said a prayer and blessed him.
We hope he rests in peace.
We surmise the boat was abandoned sometime twixt 1890 – 1900, probably earlier in the decade, given Jack Roberts description of the remains in 1904ish.
In a bid to raise money for BBC Children in Need, founders of Millbrook Dairy, David Evans and Kevin Beer, are driving a Tuk-Tuk adorned with a giant wedge of cheese from their headquarters in Bideford, Devon to the Orkney Islands in Scotland, covering 1,600 miles and making 29 stops along the way.
One special stop in Wales was visiting the nation’s largest co-operative dairy, South Caernarfon Creameries (SCC), in Pwllheli on Sunday 15th September.
Shon Jones of SCC said,
“It was a great sight watching them arrive. As master cheese graders, they had the opportunity to meet our team, taste our cheeses, and share our passion for high-quality dairy products.
“It’s a great challenge and we wish them all the best on the rest of their journey up to the Highlands. Safe travels!”
Kevin Beer, Co-Founder and Director at Millbrook Dairy Company, said,
“It was great visiting South Caernarfon Creameries – what a wonderful part of the world.
“The story behind our journey is that it’s our fifth birthday this year, and we wanted to do something different where we can give back to society – hence our crazy Tuk-Tuk idea!
“Our Tuk-Tuk is easily recognisable. As well as raising money for BBC Children In Need, we are keen to have some fun with this and so we’d love people to get involved and share their photos on our social media if they spot the Tuk-Tuk. We are @millbrookdairy on Instagram #TukTukChallenge.
“As well as raising money for a fantastic cause, we are sampling some amazing cheeses along the way too from the very best of UK producers. We are loving every moment, although it has made us appreciate the comfort, we all take for granted in our normal vehicles.”
David Evans, Co-Founder and Director at Millbrook Dairy Company, added, “So far, we have raised over £10,000 for Children in Need which is an amazing charity that helps fund thousands of projects in every corner of the UK. Our family and friends have already sponsored us, and some of our wonderful suppliers and customers have supported us too, and we are hoping that our fund raising will continue to grow throughout and after our trip. If you would like to sponsor us, our JustGiving page is: bit.ly/MillbrookTukTukChallenge.”
Feature image: Millbrook Dairy David and Kevin with Shon and Trystan from SCC
Landsker Business Consultant, Wayne Evans, helped secure £40,000 in funding to allow former fashion buyer, Bethan Thomas, to buy her dream business, Susie’s Sheepskin Boots.
Susie’s Sheepskin Boots have been keeping toes toasty in Pembrokeshire for 45 years, having been set up in Narberth by Susie Lincoln in the 1970’s. Bethan has fond memories childhood memories of the boots saying,
“All the cool kids were wearing them and I was so excited when my parents treated me to a pair too. I moved away from Pembrokeshire for work and enjoyed a thriving career as a fashion buyer working with brands such as Kurt Geiger and JD Sports, but once my son was born I knew I wanted to bring him up by the sea. When I realised Susie’s Sheepskin Boots was on the market, all those fond childhood memories came flooding back and with my background in fashion it seemed like a logical fit, but I knew I’d need some help, particularly with funding”.
Ruth Petersen (staff member) and Bethan Thomas
Bethan heard about Landsker Business Solutions at a drop-in at the Bridge Innovation Centre, where she met Consultant Wayne, and Director David Selwyn. She said,
“My experience with the Landsker team was nothing but excellent. Their experience and expertise into local and national grants and funding, has been pivotal to me being able to buy and grow Susie’s Sheepskin Boots. Wayne was my direct contact, and he provided me with huge support in building my business plan, financial plans and generally helping me answer business questions and issues that I had. Wayne’s easy to talk to and I felt like I could pick up the phone to call or message him without judgement. Wayne G David helped greatly with the funding application and the ‘Dragons’ Den’ style interview that I had been previously worried about, and I always felt they were in my corner to grow the business and shared my passion and vision for Susie’s Sheepskin Boots”.
Landsker Business Consultant, Wayne said,
“It was a pleasure to be able to help Bethan realise her dream and keep such a well-known Pembrokeshire brand thriving. Many business owners aren’t aware of the support and guidance we’re able to give here at Landsker, so I’d like to encourage anyone who needs a bit of business support to get in touch for a chat about how we might be able to help them too”.
Building work has now commenced on the iconic, 167 year old, Grade II listed County Buildings in Wrexham city centre – the home of Wrexham Museum since 1996.
When the building reopens to the public in 2026 it will be home to an enhanced and expanded Wrexham Museum, alongside Wales’ first ever football museum.
With new, state of the art galleries and a fully refurbished and extended building, the museum is set to be a world-class new national attraction for Wrexham, drawing thousands of visitors from all over Wales – and beyond!
As well as the construction work there’s been plenty happening behind the scenes! Plus there’s some exciting news to share on how you can access the museum’s services while the building is closed!
Initial work included the demolition of the modern alterations to the building as part of creating the new atrium and the new gallery spaces on the ground and first floors.
For anyone familiar with the museum building, the biggest changes to the building are the removal of the roof over the old main gallery to re-create the original inner courtyard space, while at the front of the building the glazed extension has been carefully dismantled to allow work to proceed on the front façade of the building.
The big crane on St Mark’s Road has assisted with these tasks, though its work is only just beginning!
As well as developing a fantastic new museum, this is also very mush a conservation project that will see one of Wrexham’s most famous buildings restored to its former glory.
The Museum is being developed by Wrexham Council’s museum team in association with museum designers, Haley Sharpe Design and architects, Purcell.
Funding support for the new museum is being delivered by Wrexham Council, Welsh Government, National Lottery Heritage Fund and the Wolfson Foundation. The Museum of Two Halves project has also received £1.3 million from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).
Major funding secured
You may have heard the fantastic news we received in August: the Museum of Two Halves project is to receive a £2.7m grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund!
The grant will fund fitting out the museum with the displays that the visitors experience, as well as providing the means to deliver a series of activities, events and other museum programmes over the next four years across Wrexham County Borough and elsewhere in Wales.
The grant has also enabled the museum to go ahead with the purchase of a significant Welsh football collection previously held in a private collection. This includes an unrivalled collection of material relating to Cardiff City’s 1927 FA Cup final victory and an impressive variety of Wales men’s international match programmes, the earliest dated 1901.
Visit our Pop-up Museum
The museum now has a temporary base on Queen’s Square in Wrexham city centre!
You can visit the pop-up museum to view all the latest design plans for the Museum of Two Halves and to contact the museum team. We’ll be hosting children’s activities here during half term and school holidays, as well as other public outreach events.
The museum shop is also based here, where you can purchase a range of unique gifts, books, cards and more, all inspired by Wrexham’s local history.
Opening times: Mon-Fri, 10am-5pm.
Courtyard Café
Our much loved Courtyard Café have now settled in to their temporary home in the food court at Wrexham’s multi-award winning markets, arts & community hub, Tŷ Pawb.
You’ll be glad to hear their still serving the same delicious range of home-made light meals, coffees, sandwiches, soups, cakes and irresistible desserts.
Wrexham Archives & Local Studies now have a new, permanent home at Wrexham Library. You can email them on archives@wrexham.gov.uk.
‘Huge appetite’ for Wrexham’s new museum
Councillor Paul Roberts, Wrexham Council’s Lead Member for Partnerships, said:
“There is a real buzz starting to build around this project now that construction work has begun and the scale of the ambitious plan for the new museum is becoming visible.
“The football museum’s stall at the recent National Eisteddfod in Pontypridd was massive hit, with thousands of people from all over the country visiting to find out more about the plans – an indication of the huge appetite there is for Wales to have its own football museum.
“The expanded Wrexham Museum will benefit from state-of-the-art galleries to tell the story of our city and the county borough at a time when global interest in Wrexham is skyrocketing.”
“The new museum is set to open in 2026. In the meantime I would encourage everyone visiting the city centre to go and take a look at the new pop-up museum on Queen’s Square where they can view some beautifully illustrated plans for the new museum and find out more about this exciting new development for Wrexham.”
The National Garden Scheme are happy to announce Owen Hughes has been appointed the new County Organiser for South Powys. Chris Carrow (previous County Organiser) and her husband Steve (previous Treasurer) have both stepped down from their roles after eleven busy and rewarding years. They said “We have loved being involved with The NGS but feel we need a break due to family and health reasons. Hopefully we will return in the future.”
We extend a warm welcome to Owen, who has lived in South Powys for over 20 years and works for the local Health Board, where he sees at first hand the benefits the money raised by the National Garden Scheme has on people’s lives. We are looking for volunteers to join Owen in his work for the NGS. Please email him owen.hughes@ngs.org.uk if interested.
Pictured presenting Chris and Steve Carrow (centre) with their commemorative NGS teapot are Susan Paynton (Regional Chair Wales & The Marches, County Organiser North Powys & Trustee of The National Garden Scheme) and Owen Hughes at the handover meeting.
We still have several gardens open by arrangement for groups until the end of September for you to enjoy the early autumn colours. These include Cwm Sidwell (Kerry), Dugoed Bach (Machynlleth), Glanoer (Llandrindod Wells), The Hymns (Presteigne), Plas Dinam (Llandinam), Tranquility Haven (Knighton) and Willowbrook (Presteigne). Please visit the National Garden Scheme website www.ngs.org.uk for information & contact details.
Dà Mhìle Distillery is an organic distillery located on a farm near Llandysul, Ceredigion. Established in 2012, it’s known for producing a variety of high-quality, organic spirits, including whisky, gin, rum, and liqueurs.
With a focus on sustainability and traditional distillation techniques, using only organic ingredients sourced from their farm and surrounding areas, their 3-stars hand-crafted Absinthe has a natural warm-green colour and umami flavour. In addition to its Absinthe, the distillery also picked up 1-star for its Dark Skies Rum, and also its Apple Brandy.
Preserving the craftmanship of spirit making, John Savage-Onstwedder, founder of Dà Mhìle believes their approach reflects a deep respect for the past while producing exceptional award-winning spirits.
“We are truly honoured to receive the Nigel Barden Heritage Award for our Absinthe. We are committed to only using traditional methods in our production process to ensure the highest quality and flavour. By employing age-old distillation techniques and organic ingredients, we maintain the authenticity and rich flavours.
“We would like to thank the whole team at Dà Mhìle for their hard work. We are delighted!”
Black Mountains Smokery is celebrating after winning one of the food and drink industry’s most prestigious awards.
The Great Taste Awards, referred to as the Oscars of the food world, saw the Crickhowell based company’s Smoked Duck Breast taking the Golden Fork from Wales award.
In another victory for Wales, Dà Mhìle Distillery’s Absinthe from Ceredigion, also earned the Nigel Barden Heritage Award for highlighting traditional production methods and heritage.
Organised by the Guild of Fine Food, the Great Taste Awards are the acknowledged benchmark for the speciality food and drink sector. In this year’s awards, Black Mountains Smokery was awarded 3-stars for their Smoked Duck Breast, as well as a 1-star for their Peppered Oak Roasted Salmon.
Black Mountains Smokery is a renowned family-run business located near Crickhowell. They specialise in producing a wide range of delicious oak smoked foods, including smoked salmon, smoked fish, meats, cheese as well as food gifts and luxury Welsh hampers. Their products are crafted using traditional methods and the finest ingredients, ensuring exceptional taste and quality.
L to R Jo Carthew & Millie Stott
Their Smoked Gressingham Duck Breast is lightly cured and gently hot smoked over Welsh oak and is their bestselling product. The judges described the product as “a plump, attractive duck breast which has an enticing pink blush and a distinct oak smoked aroma. The balance of the cure and smoke is well-judged to enhance the clean flavour of the duck. This shows great finesse. It really is as good as it gets – simple, pure and all about the duck.”
Jo Carthew of Black Mountains Smokery is incredibly proud of their achievements,
“We are thrilled with our Great Taste success this year. To have 3-stars for our smoked Duck Breast and a 1-star for our Peppered Oak Roasted Salmon is a huge achievement in itself but being named Golden Fork from Wales is amazing.
“The awards are a reflection of the whole team’s dedication to quality and passion for creating exceptional, truly artisan, smoked food products. We are proud to be able to call ourselves Great Taste producers.”
Congratulating them on their achievement, Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies said,
“I’d like to congratulate Black Mountains Smokery and Dà Mhìle Distillery on their success in the Great Taste Awards. It is a shining example of the excellence and innovation that our Welsh food producers bring to the table.
“The Welsh food and drink industry is a vital part of the economy and seeing so many products from across Wales get recognised in these awards, proves that food and drink from Wales has a deserved reputation for quality and taste. We are proud to support our producers and celebrate their achievements on such a prestigious platform.”
In a remarkable showcase of culinary prowess, 149 products from across Wales were winners at this year’s awards with 97 products achieving 1-star, 45 receiving 2-stars and 7 earning the gold stamp of approval with 3-stars.
Great Taste, organised by the Guild of Fine Food, is the world’s largest and most trusted food and drink accreditation scheme that tests both food and drink. The awards are globally recognised as a mark of excellence and eagerly sought after by producers and food-lovers alike. Each entry was meticulously blind tasted by the Guild’s expert judging panel of over 500 food critics, chefs, recipe creators, buyers, retailers, and other specialists in the field of food and drink. Entries were analysed across 92 judging days, each receiving detailed feedback, whether or not they obtained an award.
These Great Taste award winners can now proudly display the iconic black and gold Great Taste logo as a symbol of outstanding quality.
It’s a big weekend for the ‘Kalahari’ team at Dinas as the newly restored NG15- 134 joins in the Welsh Highland Railway’s Super-Power event for the first time. While K1, the original FfWHR Garratt travels the line the NG15 –134 is scheduled to make her debut in steam at Dinas. The restoration work has spanned 25 years.
Adrian Strachan spoke to us ahead of the event:
“It was a momentous day on Wednesday this week when 134 moved under its own steam at Dinas for the first time in over 30 years. All the volunteers and staff involved in the rebuild can be very proud that the loco looks so good and performed very well during the first test moves. We are looking forward to showing off the fruits of our efforts at the Superpower weekend before further trials and running-in will take place on the railway”
Tell us about the origins of the loco?
“The class of NG15 locos were built in several batches, designed by Henschel in Germany to requirements from German South-West Africa (now Namibia) at the time, where there was a very long line that ran from the coast up to the mines. It was called the Otavi Railway and this loco worked there with the rest of the class. The locos were then all moved to South Africa in the 1960’s when the Otavi line was regauged to the wider Cape gauge. The locos were almost as powerful as the NGG16 Garratts working there and capable of working at higher speeds, achieving higher mileages per day and moving more goods”
How did you get involved?
“When I first used to drive on the Railway I would pass by this engine twice an hour, more or less, while driving the Garratt loco’s! I was always a fan of the NG15 as were many of the volunteers at the time. We would see it rusting in the siding and hoped it would run one day.
“Different groups had tried to progress the renovation but it was often in the shadow of rebuilding the Welsh Highland Railway through to Porthmadog and the FRCo’s NGG16 loco policy for the WHR.
“Around three years ago I was approached to take over the renovations, as the previous project leader had sadly passed away. I said that I was interested but as someone who likes to get things done, I didn’t want this to be a long-term project for me so I am really pleased at where we are now just three years later.
“This period has seen enormous commitment and effort from the volunteers and there has been good support from staff at the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways who also do skilled work on the project for us. This is paid for by the Welsh Highland Society.”
Festiniog Railway Company
Sefydlwyd 23 Mai 1832 gan Ddeddf Seneddol / Established 23rd May 1832 by Act of Parliament
“For myself, this is the interesting phase as we have made a number of modifications and tried to overhaul the loco to the highest standard we can. Now we are going to see if it can perform on the Welsh Highland just as well as the Garratts and haul the regular trains alongside them”
Have there been any alterations needed to make it suitable for WHR?
“Strictly speaking the Loco could run as it was in South Africa, as we don’t have any curves less than 50 meters on the WHR main line. The loco has 3 fixed driving axles in the frame as does the Garratt. There are some sharper curves in the Boston Lodge Carriage Shed so we have made some modifications to meet those requirements.
“There are some other changes we have made to improve the locos performance particularly as on the WHR it will run much of its time backwards uphill, differently to Africa where the class mainly ran in the forward direction, so we have centered the dome in the boiler whereas it was historically at the front of the boiler. Moving the dome gives us an inch and half of additional water margin for the fireman to mortgage on a return journey up the steep hill in Beddgelert Forest”
“We have also improved the safety of the cab design by extending the floor to remove the fallplate in the original design, enclosing the space with doors, and also modified certain key controls so they operate in the same manner as our NGG16 Garratts.
“After such a long project we hope the NG15 -134 delights everyone who gets to travel behind her on the railway in the future.”
An identification initiative launched to raise the profile of Welsh sea bass is providing a financial boost for Welsh fishermen and fish wholesalers.
Prized for its quality and flavour, sea bass is one of the main fin fish species caught around the Welsh coast, and in 2022, some 53 tonnes of bass were landed in Wales.
Launched as a trial in 2023, the #WelshSeafood tagged sea bass pilot scheme saw fishermen begin tagging their responsibly caught seabass. This provides customers with sustainability and traceability assurance and helps preserve fish stocks for future generations.
Each tag has a unique number, and customers can find out where the individual bass was caught – and learn more about the fishermen and their commitment to the Welsh fishing industry.
Since its introduction, fish wholesalers say they have been achieving higher prices for the tagged sea bass, a testament to the collective effort of the Welsh fishing community working together for sustainability and economic prosperity.
One wholesaler who has seen the benefits of the scheme is Jake Davies, managing director of Atlantic Edge Shellfish Ltd in Pembrokeshire. He said,
“The seabass tags highlight the provenance of Welsh seafood well, and we find that we can get a better price for those that have the tags as the customers can see where they’re from.”
Seven Welsh fishermen are participating in the Welsh Government’s Food and Drink Wales Seafood Cluster tagging scheme. Mainly line caught, the fish must be of a minimum size and quality, and fishing is only permitted during the sea bass season. The seabass fishing season runs from 1st April to 31st January in Wales to allow closed season for spawning.
Seafood Cluster Manager Chris Parker said,
“The seabass tagging project highlights the provenance and quality of wild sea bass caught in Welsh waters. Seabass fishing in Wales is low-impact, small-scale, and completely traceable. Buying local Welsh seabass helps to support fishermen in coastal communities throughout Wales.”
The #WelshSeafood tagged sea bass scheme follows in the footsteps of the #WelshSeafood lobster branding initiative. The scheme provides customers with traceability and enables them to identify Welsh lobsters at the point of sale. The fishermen pledge to use pots designed to allow undersized lobsters to escape and release any breeding female lobsters.
The #WelshSeafood tagged sea bass scheme’s success also chimes with research on consumer food and drink preferences, which show a rising trend in support for Welsh produce.
Published last autumn, ‘The Value of Welshness’ consumer research is carried out by the Welsh Government’s Food & Drink Wales Insight Programmeand analyses customer attitudes towards Welsh food and drink.
The research found that three-quarters of shoppers believed it important for retailers to have a greater range of Welsh brands, with two-thirds of those surveyed wishing to see more Welsh products in store.
Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, said:
“It is wonderful that Wales’ fishing sector is already benefitting from the #WelshSeafood tagged sea bass scheme.
“We know that consumers are increasingly seeking Welsh produce, and the tags are an easy way to identify the quality fish and shellfish available around our shores.”
Did you know that Stuck in Plastic was currently taking part in an exhibition at The Hermitage in Amsterdam when I wrote A Knights Tale. If not, go an read all about it here . Since taking part in this exhibition, my thoughts keep on reverting back to the history that surrounds my own town of Pembroke and how Kings and Knights once roamed the land.
And I decided to create my own Knights Tale.
The Historic Castle of Pembroke
The Castle sits on the medieval fortress towering above the Penfro River. As history reveals one of the most famous Kings was born here, known as King Henry VII.
However, this fascinating story began almost 200 years earlier around 1093 when the castle was built as a wooden structure by Arnulf of Montgomery. And between 1102 and 1135, King Henry I, squashed a rebellion and seized the castle into Royal possession.
Based on a True Story
However, King Henry I, later dies and his succession was contested, the Castle remained in Royal possession until 1138. Eventually King Stephen created the Earldom. The Earldom of Pembroke was given to Gilbert de Clare, a fearless fighter who became known as ‘Strongbow.’ His son, Richard ‘Strongbow’ became the 2nd Earl. And I had to go back in history and get him in front of my camera.
Gilbert de Clare known as ‘Strongbow’
Richard de Clare also known as ‘Strongbow’
Richard is best remembered for his involvement in the invasion of Ireland. However, alarmed by his increasing strength, the new King of England, Henry II ordered Richard to return from Ireland. Eventually he was able to regain King Henry’s favour before he died. Without an heir, the castle fell to the Crown.
William Marshal
In 1189, William Marshal had come to the attention of several Kings and was awarded the title of the Earl of Pembroke. And in 1200 The castle passed into his hands. Marshal set about turning the wooden structure into a powerful stone castle. This stone structure came in handy much later during the reign of King Charles I, when the castle was attacked by the Royalists and the Roundheads. For the purpose of this story and because all Minifigure heads are round, I have decided to call them the ‘Ravens’.
A Knight gaining the attention of several Kings
Knights of the Crown
Inside the castle, the Knights of the Crown were getting ready to defend another day. Nest had a restless night; her intuition was telling her there was trouble up ahead. She mentioned it to her fellow Knight about her dream. Marshal decided to increase the protection as he knew that she was perceptive.
The Fearless Knight
Let the tournament commence
Marshal was a fearless knight and served five English Kings. He was knighted and made a good living from winning tournaments.
Trusted brave soldier. William Marshal
He championed the causes of both Richard and John, in which he advised them on the Magna Carta. In his recognition, this trusted brave soldier was promise for his loyalty, the marriage to Isabel de Clare, Strongbow’s only daughter. And this made him a very wealthy and powerful man.
During 1389 the Castle was passed back into the hands of the Crown and reverted back to Richard II and it fell into disrepair.
A Castle in Wales
Over Centuries
Over Centuries fighting often broke out between the Welsh Princes and the English Kings, and the Tudor family supported the Welsh Princes. Then around 1405, the Castle needed defending against a rebellion lead by Owain Glyndŵr’s uprising.
Fighting between the Ravens and the Crown
The Crown under attack
This left the Crown under attack. However, the life of the youngest son of the family, Owain ap Maredudd ap Tudur was saved.
The Raven Knights were of the chivalric order of the rebellion, known more commonly as the Knights of the Raven. This knightly order is dedicated to Glyndŵr’s uprising.
The Rebellion
Valiant Knight dedicated to serving the King
He went onto serve the King Henry V and fought with the him. After his death. Owain ap Maredudd ap Tudur got married in secret to his widowed Queen, Catherine of France. He then became Owen Tudor. They had children together and Jasper Tudor was given the title of Earl of Pembroke by his half-brother Henry VI.
On this day I thee wed
Jasper Tudor later married his brother, Edmund Tudor’s wife, Lady Margaret Beaufort. She was 13 years old and pregnant, so Jasper offered her his protection. Born within the safety of the Castle, on the 28th January 1457 was Henry Tudor. This baby would become King Henry VII.
Pembroke Castle the Birthplace of King Henry VII
The Beginning of the Tudor Dynasty
Henry Tudor was the son of Edmund Tudor and nephew of Jasper Tudor. He was the first monarch of the Tudor Dynasty. When Henry was four years old the Yorkists Ravens took control of the Castle while his uncle Jasper was away fighting for the Lancastrians.
The Raven Knights aka my version of the Yorkists
When Henry was 14 years old, Jasper was concerned about his safety and decided to take him to Europe. Upon their return 14 years later, Henry and Jasper made a voyage in which Henry became victorious after slaying Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth and declared himself as King. He was crowned on October 30th, 1485 as King Henry VII. He married Elizabeth York and had four children including Henry VIII.
The new King of England, Henry VII
Forwarding the years of the Tudor Dynasty from 1485 until 1603. During these years in 1509, Henry VIII was crowned King. He was well known for his 6 wives and in 1510 he gifted the castle to his second wife, Anne Boleyn; she then became known as Marchioness of Pembroke.
Henry VIII loved the women
Parliamentary Forces
For years the Kings ruled, and many battles were won, eventually replaced by King Charles I. Then in 1648, during the Civil War, Oliver Cromwell introduced a new model Army and sided with the Ravens (Roundheads) and left London with the aim to besiege and destroy the Castle by Parliamentary forces.
Many battles won
The Raven Knights (Fictional name given for the purpose of story-telling)
The Raven Knights lived in the forest just outside the walls of the castle that sat upon the hill. Their aim was to take control of the Welsh fortress. The knights were guided by their spirit animal. Each evening about one hour before dark, the Ravens would return home and rest amongst the tree until the morning or, so we are led to believe.
During the Civil War, this bloody battle saw so many casualties and the castle was surrendered in July 1648.
The Civil War casualties
Nowadays the historic Castle is open to the public. And many different events take place within the castle walls, such as weddings and live concert events.
It is a great place to visit. Along with the historic Pembroke Castle. Some of the town streets make reference to the historic names and there is a comprehensive school known as Ysgol Harri Tudur named after the king himself.
I hope that you have enjoyed A Knights Tale. It was triggered by our exhibition at the Hermitage in Amsterdam and the true story of Pembroke Castle which intertwines with my own roots, and this is why I had to create this epic tale of Knights at Pembroke Castle using Lego minifigures.
Montys brew business expansion, Monty’s Brewery based in Montgomery, Powys, have picked up a variety of awards for their outstanding range of products in recent years, including Insider’s prestigious Made in Wales Award within the Food & Drink category, as well a Gold Award in the Wales and West SIBA competition for their famous Monty’s Red IPA.
Monty’s Brewery, award-winning brewers of Welsh beers, ales, and stouts, is delighted to share news of investment from renowned entrepreneur, Mike Harris, who has acquired a 51% stake in the company in line with ambitious growth plans.
All products currently produced by Monty’s Brewery, including their various ales, stouts, and gluten-free beers, will continue to be produced and will still be available through existing outlets, with plans for further growth on a national scale currently in the works, emphasising that Montys brew business expansion.
The acquisition is the first brewing acquisition made by Mike Harris’s investment vehicle, Ubuntu Business Holdings Ltd, with others expected on the Horizon. It follows Harris’s recent acquisition of Welshpool’s award-winning distillery, Henstone Distillery, as Ubuntu continue to expand on their operations across Wales and beyond.
Speaking on his excitement, Founder of Ubuntu Business Holdings Ltd and Chairman at The New Saints FC, said:
“This is a really exciting day for both myself and the team at Ubuntu Business Holdings Ltd. Monty’s Brewery has an excellent range of products on offer, frequently enjoyed by those across Powys and beyond.
“As one of the region’s most popular breweries, I’m excited to help Monty’s Brewery increase production and distribution on a national scale.”
Also speaking on the acquisition, Russ Honeyman, Commercial Director at Monty’s Brewery, said:
“This is a fantastic opportunity for us here at Monty’s Brewery. Mike has always had strong visions for the local area and community, as highlighted through his incredible work with The New Saints FC.
We are looking forward to sharing our multi-award winning beers with a wider audience and creating new products to add to The Monty’s Range.”
Montys brew business expansion comes after other much smaller collaborations in the past such as brewing a Navigation Ale to support the restoration of the Montgomery Canal.
Another celebration was the re-enactment of the Treaty of Montgomery organised by the Montgomery Town Council celebrating this historic meeting on September 29, 1267 between King Henry III and Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, Prince of Gwynedd, at Rhydwhyman Ford, Caerhowell was the first and only time that an English ruler has recognised the right of a Welsh prince to rule over Wales. Monty’s Brewery brewed a celebratory brew to mark the occasion and celebratory weekend.
Waste Baling enabled with Landsker Business Solutions as the Carmarthenshire Business Consultancy Secures £100,000 for Recycling Entrepreneur make his unique waste baling business idea a reality.
Pembrokeshire Lottery and the Development Bank of Wales both supported the applications made by Landsker’s Senior Business Consultant, Matthew Davies, on behalf of Engineer, Dan Thomas who was looking to expand his business. As a result of the funding, Dan was able to bring Waste Baling Machines to fruition, expanding the business to work with clients such as Bluestone, Tan y Castell and Live Nation. Waste baling and compacting is the process of compressing down recyclable materials into compact and manageable bales. Waste baling reduces the volume of waste by up to 80% making it easier and cheaper to store and transport, and helps increase recycling rates.
Landsker Consultant Matthew said,
“It is always an honour to help our small business owners secure funding for something they’re so passionate about, and the fact that Dan’s business offers a tangible solution to the very real and prominent issue of waste disposal costs which is a huge benefit to the environment too, makes it all the more worthwhile”.
Dan Thomas, Owner of Waste Baling Machines said,
“Working with Landsker, and Matthew Davies particularly, has been invaluable. As a result I’ve been able to expedite the growth of Waste Baling Machines to ensure a sustainable future and commit long-term to helping our customers reduce the volume of waste by up to 80%, decreasing both their storage requirements and removal costs, as well as increasing their recycling potential”.
Landsker Business solutions has assisted over 2500 Welsh businesses in areas including HR, marketing, planning and finance, and has secured funding for these enterprises of over £150 million. Landsker have also contributed to the creation of more than 6000 jobs across the country and helped 750 start-ups build their brands. If you’re interested in finding out how Landsker could help your business get in touch via the website
Celebrate Local Flavours at Brecon Beacons Food Festival 2024 when the highly anticipated Festival is set to return with even more exciting components for food and drink lovers. Taking place on Saturday 5th October 2024, from 9:30am to 4:30pm at Brecon Market Hall, this year’s festival promises to be a vibrant celebration of local food and drink, with something for everyone to enjoy.
One can Celebrate Local Flavours with the Exclusive Tasting Table with Nerys Howell, S4C Chef
One of the highlights of this year’s event is the exclusive Tasting Table to help, featuring renowned S4C chef, Nerys Howell. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to sample an array of food and drink offerings, including canapés, cocktails, and more, all prepared and presented by Howells herself. This interactive experience allows festival-goers to taste before they buy, ensuring they leave with their favourite local delicacies. The Tasting Table will be located in Brecon Market Hall, where visitors can enjoy a relaxed and flavoursome experience.
New Cookery Theatre Collaboration with NPTC Group and CK Deli
In an exciting new collaboration, the Brecon Beacons Food Festival has teamed up with NPTC Group and CK Deli, to introduce a brand-new Cookery Theatre in the heart of the town, located in Bethel Square. Organised by Shaun Bailey, Head Lecturer and Celebrity Chef from BBC, this culinary theatre will run from 10:00am to 4:00pm, featuring live demonstrations and cooking sessions.
Shaun Bailey will be joined by students from Powys, who will showcase their skills and passion for the culinary arts. This initiative not only offers festival attendees a chance to learn new recipes and cooking techniques but also provides a platform for the next generation of chefs to shine. The Cookery Theatre will be an engaging space where the community can come together to celebrate local flavours and talent, whilst enjoying live cooking in a dynamic, outdoor setting.
Andrew Powell, the event organiser, expressed his excitement for the upcoming festival:
“We’re incredibly proud to be expanding the Brecon Beacons Food Festival this year with new, interactive features like the Tasting Table and Cookery Theatre. These additions not only highlight the exceptional talent we have in Wales but also create a unique experience for visitors. It’s about celebrating our local producers, fostering community spirit, and giving everyone a chance to enjoy the incredible flavours of our region.”
Celebrate Local Flavours
The Brecon Beacons Food Festival is known for its diverse range of food and drink exhibitors, and this year is no exception. With over 60 local producers offering everything from artisan cheeses to handcrafted spirits, the festival is a true celebration of Welsh culinary excellence. Whether you’re a foodie, a family looking for a fun day out, or simply in search of the best local produce, there’s something for everyone at this year’s event.
Free Entry and Family-Friendly Fun
The festival offers free entry, making it an accessible and enjoyable day out for all. In addition to the Tasting Table and Cookery Theatre, visitors can explore a variety of stalls, enjoy live music, and participate in family-friendly activities throughout the day.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to experience the best of Welsh food and drink. Join us at the Brecon Beacons Food Festival on Saturday 5th October 2024, and indulge in a day of culinary delights, interactive experiences, and community spirit. For more information visit www.breconbeaconsfoodfestival.co.uk.
This richly-illustrated book explores and describes the rich diversity of decoration found in domestic wall paintings, the materials used, the craftsmen responsible and the costs involved.
In the late sixteenth century and first decade or so of the seventeenth century, most households, even those of limited means, had painted decoration in their homes, in the form of wall paintings. This short-lived but widespread phenomenon offers rare insights into the lives of ordinary people, the visual culture of the time, the nature of art and design in the domestic context, and the messages that house owners wished to communicate through the commissioning and displaying of wall paintings.
Sample spreads
This book considers the types of decoration found in domestic wall paintings, the materials used, the local craftsmen likely to have done the paintings and the costs involved. Using extensive research, wall paintings are explored through reference to probate inventories, craftsmen with painting skills, painting techniques, materials and pigments and design sources. A detailed gazetteer, covering a broad sweep of the Welsh Marches – from Gloucestershire through Monmouthshire and Radnorshire to Cheshire – includes photographs of the paintings, and places them in their building context.
As Professor Malcolm Airs expounds, the book is: ‘meticulously researched and beautifully illustrated. It should be read by all who are interested in the social and cultural history of the Tudor and Stuart age.’
Dr Kathryn Davies works as an independent consultant for planning and historic environment issues, including work for Historic England, historic buildings advice, conservation area work and advising on wall paintings.
Sample spreads
Format: 320 pages, 260 x 204 mm, c. 200 colour photographs ISBN: 978-1-910839-70-6 Publication: 2008, revised & updated edition August 2024 Available on Logaston Press website: logastonpress.co.uk/product/artisan-art/ | £25.00
Pre-publicity quotes:
This is a fascinating study of the distinctive decoration that once adorned the houses lived in by people from all social levels during the Early Modern period. Although its principal focus is on the Welsh Marches it places the numerous surviving examples of wall paintings in a national context which explores the iconography and individual messages of those who commissioned them as well as the craftsmen who executed them and the techniques that they employed. The book is meticulously researched and beautifully illustrated. It should be read by all who are interested in the social and cultural history of the Tudor and Stuart age. – Professor Malcolm Airs, author of The Buildings of Britain: Tudor and Jacobean
Through her meticulous research and analysis, Kathryn Davies paints a vivid picture of these little- known examples of interior decoration. By drawing together the art, architecture and cultural values of the period, she raises our appreciation of their value and need to conserve these rare fragments of social history. – David McDonald, Chair, Institute of Historic Building Conservation
Kathryn Davies’ book is essential reading for anyone wanting to understand, conserve or even find wall paintings – because there are more than we know of, even with the expanded gazetteer in this new edition. The author knows her subject and makes connections with social and economic history high and low. Though rooted in the Marches, this study is based on wide reading and long practical experience. The material culture of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, often bold, crude, snobbish and demonstrative, is revealed as both more colourful and quirkier than we usually suppose. – David Brock, Historic England
Tenovus Cancer Care benefit as Ashmole & Co staff swop calculators for walking boots.
Tenovus Cancer Care benefit as Ashmole & Co’s staff from across south and mid Wales will be swopping their calculators for walking boots later this month to hike 12 miles along the Mumbles Coastal Path to help raise funds for the charity.
With thirteen offices spread across mid and south Wales, approximately 100 staff, including Partners from Ashmole & Co, are currently in training to walk approximately 12 miles from Mumbles to Swansea and back again.
Sharon George, Partner with Ashmole and Co said, “We recently launched a year of fundraising in aid of Tenovus Cancer Care. Everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer or has a family member receiving treatment themselves. We were keen to support a cancer charity based in Wales and all the funds raised would be used to support those affected by cancer in Wales. We hope our clients and friends will help us raise as much money as possible for this extremely worthy cause.”
Any donations to support Ashmole & Co’s fundraising for their walk which is taking place on Friday, 20 September 2024, would be very gratefully received. Here is the link to the Just Giving page, or you can donate directly to any member of staff or at any office: Ashmole and co is fundraising for Tenovus Cancer Care (justgiving.com)
Elin Murphy, Tenovus Cancer Care’s Regional Fundraising Manager for south west Wales, said, “We are very grateful to Ashmole & Co for choosing to help raise funds for Tenovus Cancer Care over the next 12 months. Your donations will mean that we can continue to support cancer patients and their loved ones with our services and actively campaign to improve outcomes and give a voice to all affected by cancer in Wales.”
Tenovus Cancer Care are a Wales-based charity which gives help, hope and a voice to everyone affected by cancer. Tenovus is there for anyone affected by cancer. Together with its inspiring community of supporters, volunteers and fundraisers, the charity is determined to be there for everyone affected today, tomorrow and beyond.
Award-winning British wellbeing brand BetterYou®, a company rooted in Science, they have for many years been recognised as the market leader in magnesium innovation. My interest was hooked as their range is pill-free! So I was fascinated with their latest launch, a brand new range of Magnesium Waters. I knew very little about Magnesium so keen to learn much more about it and to discover how magnesium water and electrolytes can optimise mental and physical performance, energy and sleep. I had three varieties to try and started with the Hydrate version which is perfect for hot summer days as magnesium can help with electrolyte balance as we tend to get dehydrated in hot weather. Plus magnesium can help with relaxation, sleep and muscle aches and pains. I’m not keen on taking tablets so to have a drink that can boost my health and my hydration, certainly makes sense to me. I would also urge you to visit BetterYou’s website as there is so much information on their range, including a kids range, oral sprays, magnesium flakes and they also run a Rewards System, so lots of reading there!
Magnesium Water Hydrate is a high-dosage magnesium drink to support the replenishment of key minerals which are lost when you are exerting yourself mentally and physically. It contains a unique high-strength triple-blend of magnesium citrate, glycinate and Irish Sea minerals. Each 250ml can contains 180mg of elemental magnesium (48% of the NRV), Magnesium glycinate, magnesium citrate & Irish sea minerals, expertly formulated to maximise absorption. It also has a refreshing blend of citrus and botanicals. When your body has plenty of magnesium, you will find that your body is stronger, more flexible and better able to recover from exercise and everyday stresses. Niacin, vitamin B6, biotin, Vitamin B12 have also been added. The still flavour lime and bergamot.
Size & Price: 250ml/12 pack £23.88. Plus a tree is planted with every order. | Visit: betteryou.com
Energy Magnesium Water
If you are feeling tired then this Magnesium Walter Energy drink is well worth you trying. This will help unlock the power of natural and sustained oxygenated energy production as it contains a blend of magnesium, nitrates and essential B vitamins to energise every cell in your body. Each can contains 180mg of elemental magnesium (48% of the NRV). Magnesium glycinate, magnesium citrate & Irish Sea minerals, have been expertly formulated to maximise absorption and an electric, non-carbonated blend of pomegranate & rhubarb. Each can contains 180mg of elemental magnesium (48% of the NRV)
This is a quick, easy and a great tasting way to ensure you meet your body’s daily magnesium requirements. An electrolyte-rich blend of key minerals to replenish those lost during even the most intense days. This energy drink contains a unique high-strength triple-blend of magnesium citrate, glycinate and Irish Sea minerals. When your body is magnesium-rich body, you’ll feel stronger, more flexible and it will be easier to recover from intense activity and stress. The still flavour is lime and bergamot. This drink rapidly replaces the magnesium lost through exercise and daily stress and with a triple-blend of magnesium and Irish Sea minerals are fuelling every cell in the body.
BetterYou as a company is working hard to ensure their product range makes the least possible impact on the planet and we’re proud to say all our products are palm oil and palm oil derivative free and come packaging in planet-friendly packaging – all 100% recyclable.
Size & Price: 250ml/12 pack £23.88. Plus a tree is planted with every order. | Visit: betteryou.com
Focus Magnesium Water
Enhance your alertness and support your mental clarity when you need it most with a blend of magnesium, naturally sourced caffeine and essential B vitamins – sharpening every cell in your body. Each 250ml can contains 180mg of elemental magnesium (48% of the NRV), Magnesium glycinate, magnesium citrate & Irish Sea minerals, expertly formulated to maximise absorption. Green coffee bean extract, niacin, vitamin B6, biotin, vitamin B12 have also been added. The flavour is a very invigorating non-carbonated blend of blueberry & mint.
Magnesium Water Focus is a high-dosage magnesium drink that enhances alertness and supports mental clarity by replenishing key minerals lost during the day ensuring you stay sharp and alert. It contains a unique high-strength triple-blend of magnesium citrate, glycinate and Irish Sea minerals. This is such an easy, effective way and great-tasting way to ensure you meet your body’s daily magnesium requirements. If you hate taking tablets as I do then I found drinking focus magnesium water is the best way for me to look after myself. You will find as your body gets more magnesium that you feel invigorated, alert and much more able to cope with stress. I also loved that a tree is planted for every order received.
Size & Price: 250ml/12 pack £23.88. Plus a tree is planted with every order. | Visit: betteryou.com
Taken from their website:
Dr Naomi Newman-Beinart, Nutritionist and PhD says: “Electrolytes play a pivotal role in keeping our bodies finely tuned and energised. They carry an electric charge that regulates nerve and muscle function, maintains fluid balance, and supports overall cellular vitality. Picture a busy day filled with activities, and suddenly, you find yourself low on electrolytes. What happens next? Your body may start experiencing symptoms such as fatigue, muscle cramps, dizziness, and even confusion and an irregular heartbeat. Electrolyte imbalances can occur due to various factors, including intense physical activity, excessive sweating, illness, or an inadequate diet. In hot weather, as we sweat, we lose precious electrolytes vital for nerve impulses, muscle contractions, and maintaining proper hydration levels. Electrolyte drinks help to prevent the onset of symptoms like fatigue, muscle cramps, and dizziness. We source electrolytes from our diets, so eating a healthy, balanced diet is essential. Magnesium supplements can encourage your recovery from sports and exercise. This is because magnesium contributes to electrolyte balance. BetterYou have also launched their new range of Magnesium waters in three varieties to support Hydration, Energy and Focus. The delicious drinks contain a unique triple-blend of magnesium to maximise absorption in the body.”
BetterYou® Magnesium Water™, is designed to refresh, hydrate, and optimise mental and physical performance. Boost your wellbeing with the power of magnesium!
BetterYou Magnesium Water provides the optimal level of essential magnesium (180mg per serving) in three great-tasting flavours, all designed with a specific health focus.
Two longstanding friends have chosen to run their first ever TCS London Marathon for two “amazing charities” close to their hearts, next year.
Rachel Herbert and Katy Godsell, both from Welshpool, who have been friends since classmates at Llanfyllin High School, have teamed up to support each other to raise as much money as possible for their chosen charities.
Rachel is supporting the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital Lingen Davies Cancer Centre which supports people in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin and Mid-Wales, whilst Katy is raising funds for Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
Both women and their families have received treatment and support from the charities at the toughness times of their lives.
“I am running the London Marathon in 2025 in memory of my brother, Matthew Turner,” said Rachel. “He was just 43 when diagnosed with cancer and died aged 44.
“After his diagnosis, I took Matthew to many of his chemotherapy and immunotherapy appointments. The staff were absolutely amazing to my brother and, whilst he was there having treatment, he was comfortable and well looked after.
“I’m looking forward to taking on the challenge and raising as much money as I can. I chose Lingen Davies because of their amazing work in the community to raise awareness and provide support. I want to give back and hopefully help raise funds to help others.”
Katy said:
“I am honoured to be running the London Marathon for Birmingham Children’s Hospital, as our daughter Eleri has received so much ongoing support and treatment for a rare bowel condition, Hertzsprungs.
“At birth, she had lifesaving surgery and she continues to receive treatment to support her growth as a toddler. I am very excited to be running my first marathon and we, as a family, just want to be able to give something back and say a huge thank you to all the truly amazing staff at Birmingham Children’s Hospital.”
James Lunney, Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity’s challenge events manager, said:
“Katy and family have raised over £7,000 for us in the past, all to say thank you for the amazing care their daughter, Eleri, has received at our hospital.
“We’re excited to see Katy take on her first marathon in London 2025 and incredibly grateful for her passion to fundraise and inspire others to donate. 100,000 sick kids are treated at our hospital every year and together, with the help of people like Katy, we can transform their experience.”
As an ex-breast cancer patient herself, Katy has experienced first-hand the amazing work Lingen Davies Cancer Centre does for patients across Mid Wales and Shropshire, and she’s therefore keen to support Rachel.
Likewise, Rachel has a connection to Birmingham Children’s Hospital where one of her sons is currently receiving treatment.
Tarrah Lewis, Lingen Davies fundraiser, says runners taking part in the London Marathon have raised more than £150,000 for local cancer services over the last decade.
“Running the London Marathon is many people’s dream and we have a limited number of places every year – they’re highly sought after,” she said. “We had lots of applications and Rachel’s was tremendously strong, as she will be running in memory of her brother, Matt.
“Rachel has already raised more than £2,500 in sponsorship and wants to double that. We know she’ll make her whole family proud and has the support of the whole Mid Wales community behind her. We wish her all the very best.
“Lingen Davies exists to support cancer patients throughout Mid Wales and Shropshire. We want to make sure that local people can access excellent local cancer services at the Lingen Davies Cancer Centre.”
Rachel and Katy are planning a series of fundraising events, including a Spinnathon on October 5 at Flash Leisure Centre, quiz nights, raffles, a Family Fun Day and lots more throughout the year.
Local businesses supporting the pair include WPG (Welshpool Printing Group), Phil Blagg, Photographer, Figure and Face, Serendipity, Vintage Barbers, Rikki Lloyd, The Hair Studio, Cornstore, Powis Castle, Welshpool, Parkhall Farm, Whittingham and Hoo Zoo Dinosaur World, Telford. Many of these businesses have donated raffle prizes to forthcoming raffles.
Anyone wishing to add their support can contact Rachel on her Facebook page and Katy by emailing: bonkerskaty@me.com
Feature image: Katy Godsell (right) and Rachel Herbert.
We’ll be flying the 999 Flag on Monday, September 9 to mark Emergency Services Day.
What is 999 Emergency Services Day?
#999Day promotes the work of the emergency services, promotes using the emergency services responsibly, educates the public about basic lifesaving skills, and promotes the many career and volunteering opportunities available.
Promotes our 999 heroes who serve/have served.
Promotes career and volunteer opportunities across the emergency services.
Promotes using the emergency services responsibly.
Educates the public on essential life-saving skills.
Promotes emergency services charities and the work they do.
Promotes campaigns being run by frontline emergency services.
Leader of the Council, Cllr Mark Pritchard, said:
“On behalf of everyone in Wrexham I would like to thank every serving and former member of the emergency services for their selfless dedication to duty, their bravery and their passion for the job they do here in Wrexham and across the country.”
Chief Executive, Ian Bancroft, echoed these words and said:
“There can be no doubt that when we are at our most vulnerable the 999 services are always there to help. They put their lives on the line frequently for ourselves, our communities and families to live in a safe and secure environment.
With just days to go until the very first Gower Food and Drink Festival, which will take place this Saturday (September 7th) at Pennard Playing Fields, organisers are promising a jam-packed day full of fun for all the family.
As well as featuring over 40 fantastic exhibitors – set to tempt the taste buds with an array of sweet and savoury treats, moreish meats, scrumptious ciders, vegetarian varieties, perfect preserves and so much more – the festival, which is funded by the Rural Anchor Fund at Swansea Council will have plenty more to entertain throughout the day.
The Gower Society will be dropping by to chat all about local art and history, alongside the RSPB and Southgate Archery Club.
Youngsters will enjoy choosing their fun ‘festival faces’ with Shani’s glitter and paints, activities and games including hook a duck, great photo opportunities with Swansea Command Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue’s on-site fire engine and can select a treat from the festival’s toy stall.
Spin the Wheel with Travel House will give festival goers the chance to win some great holiday- related goodies and with live music planned throughout the afternoon, there’s guaranteed to be a great atmosphere.
Dogs on leads are welcome and nearby parking is available at Pennard Primary School.
Speaking ahead of the event, Gower Food and Drink Festival manager Tracy James-Lieberman said:
“I can’t believe the festival is now only a few days away and we’re really looking forward to welcoming everyone to join us at this first for the Gower.
“There is so much planned throughout the day – such a variety of exhibitors and with the family fun planned along with the live music, there’s guaranteed to be a fantastic atmosphere; we can’t wait for the weekend!”
The festival will take place on Saturday 7th September (10am-6pm) at Pennard Playing Fields, Park Road, Pennard SA3 2AQ
In 1840, the first building to be roofed in Welsh slate in Adelaide, South Australia, was the Friends’ Meeting House; remembering John Greaves’s family’s association with Quakers, it was a most appropriate beginning!
From Porthmadog, slate was exported by sea to destinations around the world; production expanded from 2,900 tonnes of finished slate in 1851 to 7,600 tonnes in 1863. A dedicated wharf was built at Porthmadog to accommodate the fleet of sailing boats for this expanding market.
The great properties of Llechwedd slate were further advanced by the prizes it won at various exhibitions, including the Great Exhibition at Crystal Palace in 1851, where it was awarded a Class 1 Prize Medal. As its popularity grew, it was also given a contract to supply slate to Kensington Palace.
Further successes were achieved at the London Exhibition in 1862, and the Paris Exhibition in 1867; Welsh slate was also promoted in Australia, at exhibitions in Sydney and Melbourne in 1879 and 1880. In 1910, it won the Gold Medal at the Beunos Aires World Fair in Argentina, which resulted in many more orders from South America.
Although mainly used for roofing, slate proved a versatile and durable material; thicker slabs made excellent flooring and worktop surfaces, and memorial headstones. In 1851, during the gold rush in the State of Victoria in Australia, whole houses were made of Welsh slate slabs; what a wonderful material slate is!
John Greaves’ partner, Edwin Shelton, had died in 1848, but Greaves continued to work the Glynrhonwy quarry until 1862. He continued his close association with the Ffestiniog Railway, acting as Treasurer from 1843-47, and twice holding the position of Chairman, firstly from 1843-47 and again from 1850-57.
Very labour intensive, and at the height of its success the slate industry in Wales employed more than 17,000 men, and by the end of the 19th century, their hand-split slates were being exported all over the world.
Phil Jones splitting slate
Today, visitors to Llechwedd Slate Caverns in Blaenau Ffestiniog enjoy an interesting and informative time exploring this fascinating underground world and learning how slate was mined and the slabs then split by hand and prepared for use.
Alicia Enston and Phil Jones are both charismatic and highly experienced Historic Tour Guides.
Alicia is an archaeologist, and apart from acting as a guide for visitors, she is also involved in the developing the educational aspect of the site, creating a fascinating facility for children.
Phil Jones is a musician and song writer, and the fifth-generation member of his family to work at the mine. His family were farriers, looking after the horses, with their skills handed down from father to son, to their grandchildren and to their great grandchildren. They were also blacksmiths, ensuring the tools were kept sharpened and prepared for re-shoeing the horses. Although horses did not work underground, it was important they were kept in fine fettle.
Horses travelled down the line to Porthmadog in “dandy” wagons and, after the slate wagons had been unloaded, they then hauled the empty wagons back up to the mine, ready to be refilled with more dressed slate.
Phil Jones dressing slate (to make a perfect tile)
In the 1800s, sleds were used, and when the carts and wagons were loaded, the miners would wrap their hands in the horse’s manes, so they would not lose contact with the horses.
The men were steeped in the life and tradition of the slate mines. Working days were long and hard – the twelve-hour shifts began at 6.00 a.m. and ended at 6.00 p.m., with a half-day on Saturdays. People went to Church or Chapel three times on Sundays; apart from the services, the children also went to Sunday School, where they learned to read and write, so their attendance was not just for faith.
Quarrymen worked in teams of up to 8; first prospecting for the slate, and then agreeing a contract to extract it, they were known as “Bargain Gangs.” “Rockmen” blasted the rock, producing blocks; they worked at an angle of 30 – 40 degrees, and the deeper they went into the mine, the better the quality of slate they extracted, but mining was a very dangerous job.
“Splitters” had the task of cleaving the blocks with a hammer and chisel, and “dressers” completed the work of trimming the slate into the sizes required for roofing.
Other members of the team included a “Rybelwr” – usually a young worker offering to help the gangs, and in the process learn his trade.. “Bad Rockmen” did not mean they were not good at their job! Their task was to remove the unworkable rock from the face of the mine, and the “Rubbish Men” cleared waste from the galleries; this slate formed the waste tips surrounding the quarry.
Apart from the inherent hazards of mining, men splitting and dressing the slate also fell ill with silicosis, a long-term lung disease caused by breathing in the fine crystalline silica dust produced by working the slate.
Phil Jones gives demonstrations of slate splitting by hand, using the old techniques used by the Romans; in his witty and wonderfully informative talks, giving a clear picture of the miners’ arduous and dangerous work, he makes those early miners come to life.
Phil explains:
“If the slate is of poor quality, it is a hard job; but with good slate, it’s a pleasure!” Slate splitting chisels are held against the top edge of the slate, and tapped gently into it with a hammer; if it is a good piece, as the slate is cleaved, it will split cleanly, and open up, “like a book.” Then the slate is dressed, to turn it into a roofing slate; again, a very hard, long and laborious – and very dusty – job.”
In the early days, there was 90% waste of the slate, but now this is reversed, and there is only 10% that is not used.
John Greaves took out a patent for a dressing machine, consisting of two rotating blades, which gave the required chamfered edge for the tiles; a great improvement on the original methods.
Sizing sticks used by the miners measured 36” x 4 ½”, and most of the slate sizes were given female names. Some were named after noblewomen, for example, Empress, Princess and Duchess, although whether other names – such as Broad Countess, Broad Lady and Wide Lady – caused offence, could be open to discussion!
Murals in the Oakeley Arms Hotel by Welsh artist Sian Elan
Slate sizes
John Greaves also formed a partnership with Lord Newborough and William Edward Oakeley. William Oakeley was the landowner of Allt-fawr; he inherited the Plas Tan y Bwlch estate in 1868 from the widow of his father’s cousin, who had died childless.
Penrhyn and Dinorwig were the two largest slate quarries in the world, and in 1878, William Oakeley amalgamated them into a single business; the Oakeley mine at Blaenau Ffestiniog was the largest underground slate mine in the world.
When William Oakeley died on 1st February 1912, his coffin was taken by rail from his home at Cliffe House to Blaenau Ffestiniog, and finally by lorry to St Twrog’s Church in Maentwrog. Hundreds of miners from the Oakeley quarry followed the lorry, and William Oakeley was interred in the Church cemetery. His death was reported in The Times, and a report of the funeral procession appeared a few days later.
Alexandra outside the Oakeley Arms Hotel
For visitors to Blaenau Ffestiniog wishing to immerse themselves in history and some wonderfully detailed murals depicting slate miners at work – painted by a talented Welsh artist called Sian Elan – they could do no better than to visit The Oakeley Arms Hotel, a grade II listed building near Maentwrog.
Because it belonged to the Tan y Bwlch Estate, the hotel was originally known as the Tan y Bwlch Inn, and the original building dates back to the 17th century.
Enjoying a leisurely lunch, or a longer stay at the hotel, surrounded by Sian Elan’s atmospheric art work, gives people the opportunity to learn and absorb more information about the life of the slate miners of Blaenau Ffestiniog. It has truly earned its title of “The Town that Roofed the World.”
Feature image: Phil Jones, a fifth-generation member of his family to work at the mine, in his workshop
Collagen Re-Inforce 3D Advanced Face Lift Night Cream
This is such a clever hydrating night cream. It has been formulated with a synergic combination of advanced actives, phyto-collagen, marine collagen, bio-advanced peptides, and Torricelumn™ to help fortify your skin and visibly improve the appearance of skin firmness, facial contours and it also helps to reduce the visible signs of ageing. This night cream helps to fortify and rebuild your skin by promoting the appearance of healthier, firmer and a more hydrated skin. It is a lovely lightweight and fast absorbing formula giving optimal efficacy and results. With regular use, your skin will appear thicker, fuller and more resilient. So if you are seeing sagginess, lines, wrinkles or just the loss of firmness and elasticity then this night cream is one to try. Plus it is suitable for all skin types and I’m also sure you’ll love the light botanical scent. Elizabeth Grant has only recently launched in the UK and I am so glad that they have.
Use in the evening, after you’ve cleansed your skin, apply a tiny size amount of cream and gently massage into skin in an upward motion. I found this night cream amazing and hope you will too.
The following clinical results have been taken from their website.
Clinical Results:
In the course of clinical studies conducted in Germany by DermaConsult GmbH among 20 participants for 28 days:
100% of participants saw an increase in skin hydration
100% of participants saw an increase in skin firmness
85% of participants saw an increase in skin elasticity
85% of participants saw an increase in skin smoothness
So often it is the eye area that many of us are unhappy with and understandably so as it really does age us. So I was delighted to try this exceptionally powerful eye cream that helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and deep wrinkles and rejuvenates your eye area. I’ve tried many eye creams over the years but am of the opinion that all eye creams are not the same, this for me is a winner! It has a pleasant light botanical scent and when you apply it the sesame protein provides an immediate tightening and smoothing effect. With continued use, Torricelumn™, collagen and peptides will help deliver more dramatic results. I noticed that the contours of my eye area appeared firmer, nourished and more resilient. Having been formulated with a synergic combination of advanced actives, phyto-collagen, marine collagen, bio-advanced peptides, and Torricelumn™, this serum helps to reduce the visible signs of aging. It also helps to fortify and rebuild skin, promoting the appearance of healthier, firmer and more hydrated skin. It is light-weight and absorbs quickly and works well on oily, normal, dry and combination skin.
Apply a pea-sized amount of serum using your ring finger and gently pat into your under-eye area using an upward motion.
The following clinical results have been taken from their website.
Clinical Results:
In the course of clinical studies conducted in Germany by DermaConsult GmbH among 20 participants for 28 days:
95% of participants saw an increase in skin firmness
90% of participants saw an increase in skin elasticity
95% of participants saw a decrease in wrinkle depth
Growing Mid Wales has collaborated with mobile analysts Streetwave to map mobile coverage across the region using waste collection vehicles. Mobile network quality is now being surveyed across every road in the area on a weekly basis.
Growing Mid Wales is making the results available to local residents and businesses with a groundbreaking coverage checker.
In June 2024, data-capturing devices were installed in waste collection vehicles across Powys and Ceredigion. These devices have been making weekly mobile coverage surveys across every address in Mid Wales.
Network coverage has been continuously analysed across the four main mobile networks in the UK: EE, O2, Three, and Vodafone. These surveys collect information on throughput speeds, signal strength, and network generation.
Mobile speeds can vary drastically, even across 3G, 4G and 5G – actual speeds will vary due to a range of factors.
Growing Mid Wales is therefore making available the results of our mapping to assist residents and businesses to make informed choices about their mobile connectivity options.
It is important to note that the data in our mobile coverage checker is not definitive and should only be used as an additional tool alongside other sources of information.
The data is updated monthly when the waste collection vehicles repeat their services to ensure the latest throughput speeds are shown. Residents can use the checker to see the exact download and upload speeds that EE, Vodafone, Three, and O2 offer within a 30m radius outside their homes or businesses. Residents need only enter their postcode and select their address to see results. The coverage checker works for addresses within Ceredigion and Powys.
Councillor James Gibson-Watt, Leader of Powys County Council, and Councillor Bryan Davies, Leader of Ceredigion County Council, Co-Chairs of the Growing Mid Wales Board, stated:
“This initiative demonstrates our commitment to enhancing digital connectivity across our region. By providing residents and businesses with real mobile coverage data results, we empower them to make informed decisions and improve their access to reliable network services.”
The coverage checker is part of the Growing Mid Wales mobile mapping project that is supported by local authorities in Powys and Ceredigion and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund from the UK Government.
Updates on the project’s progress will be shared regularly, and interested parties can sign up for the GMW newsletter for more information, growingmidwales@ceredigion.gov.uk.
Salt Beef by Trailhead: cured to perfection to bring you a mouth-watering, savoury delight!
Inspired by our sister brand, Get Jerky, the team have been hard at work to bring you another great tasting twist on Welsh beef.
Each joint is hand-selected with care, using only GI Welsh Silverside, which can be traced right back to the Welsh farm it came from. It’s then cured for 4-6 days (depending on size) – in house in a water/brine mixture – giving the beef its excellent salty flavours.
Our 1kg joints are packed and then frozen the day they come out of the cure and have a 12 months shelf life.
Online customers can choose to buy a frozen 1 kg joint or two frozen 1kg joints. A 1kg joint is perfect for a family of 4 with leftovers for sandwiches.
Online orders are sent out to your door via overnight courier in a fully recyclable wool lined box, packed with ice/gel packs to ensure it arrives with you in perfect condition! We even include cooking instructions and recipe ideas so you can make the most out of your salty, savoury delight.
Boil / steam in the bag, to give you some delicious, juicy slices.
Oven cook from frozen, remembering to oven coat in your favourite marinade following the frozen cooking times.
Defrost overnight in the fridge, marinade and cook in the oven following the defrosted cooking times.
Our favourite marinades and dry rubs:
Coat in 50g mustard & 50g dark brown sugar prior to oven cooking!
Whisk 1 cup vegetable/olive oil, ¾ cup soy sauce, ½ cup lemon juice, ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce, ¼ cup Dijon mustard and 1 minced clove garlic together and coat in the marinade and season with black pepper before oven cooking
Choose your favourite spices and seasonings and mix together and apply the dry rub to your beef and leave it for 12 hours in the fridge. A mix of ground cinnamon, cumin and sugar lend a lingering earthy warmth.
Try our Salt Beef Reuben Sandwich!
A cheesy, salty, melted lunch from heaven – here’s our take on the classic Reuben Sandwich:
You will need:
Salt Beef by Trailhead
Sourdough Bread
Thousand Island Dressing
Swiss Cheese
Sauerkraut
Method:
Oven cook your salt beef at 180°C for 30 mins per 500g + 20 mins for medium rare
Once cooled, slice!
Butter the outsides of your bread, for a tasty golden crunch
Load up your sandwich with the salt beef, cheese, sauerkraut & thousand island dressing & TOAST!
With prior notice we can also cut and cure to customers’ requests, if you can collect your joint from us directly at our premises in Welshpool. Fresh joints have a 10 days shelf life.
Follow our socials to keep up to date with our latest recipes!
If you’re thinking of incorporating it into your business, please visit our website at www.getjerky.wales or get in touch with our Head of Sales, Emma Morris: sales@getjerky.wales
The Old Railway Line Garden Centre, nestled in Three Cocks between Brecon and Hay-on-Wye, hosted a Charity Bingo Night on Friday 30th August, raising a triumphant £925 in support of two charities: Be More Frank (a special named fund of the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust Registered Charity) and Ewing’s Sarcoma Research Trust.
Matt Lewis, Events Manager, expressed his joy at the success of the event, stating,
“We are thrilled to announce that we’ve raised a total of £925, which will be split between our chosen charities of the year, Be More Frank and Ewing’s Sarcoma Research Trust. We extend our gratitude to all attendees who contributed to this wonderful cause through turning up and taking part in our half time raffle. We raised £405 from the raffle alone. Congratulations to all our winners, who collectively claimed £210 worth of cash and voucher prizes!”
He continued,
“Supporting the local community is a fundamental part of our company values and we’re proud to be able to host these events with such a great community around us to turn up and join in to support too. We wouldn’t be able to raise as much as we do without our amazing family of loyal customers.”
Be More Frank is a special named fund of the Grace Kelly Childhood Cancer Trust. Funds raised in Frank’s name provide financial assistance to families with a child diagnosed with cancer in Herefordshire, Powys, Monmouthshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire. Ewing’s Sarcoma Research Trust are the leading charity dedicated to fighting primary bone cancer and are uniquely placed to make a difference through research, information, awareness and support.
For more information about upcoming events at The Old Railway Line Garden Centre, call them directly or visit their website at www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk. To learn more about Be More Frank and Ewing’s Sarcoma Research Trust, visit their websites at www.bemorefrank.org and www.bcrt.org.uk.
I glance up from my garden-table breakfast to the source of that piercing racket and see there, on the roof, the baby herring gull. Clearly, it’s hungry.
I am not normally a fan of gulls. In context, at the beach, they’re absolutely fine as they pick their way along the sand, jabbing at a broken razor clam here, a stranded sandeel there, but here on the coast they tend to stray further inland looking for easier pickings, growing fat on discarded chips and sandwich crusts, rifling through bins. Often, they can be so bold as to swoop down from a clear blue sky and steal food right out of our hands, as happened twice in the space of two minutes, to my daughter Elle as she was trying to have a snack while we walked to her scheduled driver’s theory test in Swansea just the other day.
Shree! Shree! Shree!
Eventually, one of the parents clatters down onto the roof and regurgitates a little breakfast, perhaps a stolen pasty or a salvaged sausage roll from the nearby town centre shops, keeping the chick quiet for a matter of seconds before
Shree! Shree! Shree!
It’s no use – there’s absolutely no way I can concentrate on reading with all that noise. I put my book down and watch the avian comings and goings of our rooftop tenants.
“Hi”. Ah, here she comes, sauntering into the garden, the epitome of oblivious elegance draped in that effortless, carefree ease of the young.
“I was just thinking about you.”
“What are you up to?”
“Trying to read.” I point down at the book, then up at the chick, which, as though on cue, begins to pipe up once again.
Shree! Shree! Shree!
“Ugh. That’s annoying. I don’t know how you can stand that,” and just like that, she is off again, likely to chat to her friends through some online platform or another, or to rifle through the fridge for a snack. I turn my attention back to the gull just as another feathered parent stops to make a food drop.
One thing I can’t begrudge those gulls though, I think as I watch them, is their parenting skills. Every summer the rooftops around here are all inhabited by fluffy grey and black puffballs as the gulls hatch out their next brood, and then spend the ensuing weeks flying around, gathering food and attentively feeding the chicks until they are ready to fly the nest. Sometimes, if the earliest attempts at flight go wrong, the chicks will flutter to the ground where they will stroll around bewildered for a day or two until they finally achieve lift-off, the parents watching over them diligently in this vulnerable state, dive-bombing anyone, or anything, that dares come near their offspring.
Shree! Shree! Shree!
Our chick is excitable today, and it’s getting big too. The parents have done a good job this year. As I look up to the roof from my garden vantage point, to where the chick is pacing back and forth, I catch a glimpse of the empty washing line slicing across the sky and a sudden, involuntary flashback catches me off guard. The years peel away until a string of white Babygros, freshly laundered, adorns that line again, flapping and tugging at a breeze from the past.
It seems trite to wonder where the years have gone, and yet all parents eventually ask themselves the same question. ‘Enjoy them now, because they grow up quickly’, people advise. How right they are. It literally feels like yesterday that I was scooting back and forth along the motorway to the hospital where my wife and child lay in their respective beds, so vulnerable, fetching, carrying, washing and drying and flapping all the while about whether I would be any good at parenting. ‘If you wait until you’re ready to be a parent, you’ll never be ready’, is another of those nuggets of advice often handed down. Correct again. I spent at least the first six months of Elle’s life feeling as though someone had snuck up behind me and just deposited a piece of fine china in my arms.
“It’s stopped. Thank God for that!” Elle re-emerges from the house, looking up at the roof.
“So it has.” I watch her again, propelled back into the present as this grown woman strolls unhurriedly over to the garden chair next to me, flumping down onto the seat cushion. I look at her.
“What?! What are you looking at?” she asks, a half-smile playing on her face.
“Oh, nothing” I reply, thinking of recent events – an eighteenth birthday, a passed theory test, A-Level results and university just around the corner.
“You’re strange sometimes” she laughs, turning back to messaging her friends on her phone. Now it is my turn to smile.
Glancing skyward again, I notice the reason for the gull chick’s silence. Finally, it has mastered flight, swooping overhead, prescribing a looping circle over the gardens and the rooftops, looking effortless in the face of this next adventure. There, as always, the diligent parents watch over, following in its trail, never far away.
I am such a huge fan of Molton Brown. All the products that I have tried and tested have never disappointed me, hence this company is usually my go-to if I have a gift to buy because I know that that gift will be appreciated. But also, if I am totally honest, I think this upmarket range from Molton Brown always adds a touch of class to my bathroom, shower room and the downstairs loo! Yes OK, I am a show-off but they do look good in those situations!
With a nature-inspired formula for noticeably healthier hair, this invigorating, fresh shampoo is suitable for all hair types and gives lovely silky-soft touch hair with a super shine. Infused with refreshing notes of rosemary, geranium and patchouli, it has a nature-inspired formula for noticeably healthier hair.
This lovely bottle has a push-down dispenser which I much prefer as I find it less messy and pleased that this shampoo is 100% Vegetarian, cruelty and paraben free, with responsible manufacturing and also made in England.
The Fragrance offers an awakening ritual, inspired by aromatherapy. Herbaceous handfuls of fresh rosemary and enlivening eucalyptus essential oil instil mood lifting clarity and confidence. It is a ‘breathe in, breathe out’ rhythm of balancing geranium, rich patchouli and grounding cedarwood notes unite for an invigorating essence. You can reset the mind and body; revive and thrive with a nature inspired, with a perfumed pick me up.
Perhaps when you have time you might browse the Molton Brown website and discover what a superb range they have on offer.
This is the perfect partner for the Reviving Rosemary Shampoo. The formula is a nature-driven conditioner that detangles all hair types, taming strands for a deeply moisturised, silky feel; entwined with enlivening notes of refreshing rosemary, balancing geranium and rich patchouli, the fragrance as it is with the shampoo, wonderfully gorgeous. Herbaceous handfuls of fresh rosemary and enlivening eucalyptus essential oil instil mood lifting clarity and confidence. A ‘breathe in, breathe out’ rhythm of balancing geranium, rich patchouli and grounding cedarwood notes unite for an invigorating essence. Reset your mind and body; and simply revive and thrive with a nature inspired, perfumed pick me up.
Even as a child, Julie had an innate talent for identifying scents. She began her career as a chemist in the French birthplace of fragrance, Grasse, then stayed to train at the prestigious Grasse Institute of Perfumery. A nature-lover and passionate flamenco dancer, she has a penchant for unearthing the emotional intensities of fragrance.
Taken from the Molton Brown website:
Who We Are
British Makers Of Fragrance, Created With Care
Born on South Molton Street, London in 1971, Molton Brown is an icon of uniquely British style. True to our founders’ values, we live by an ‘individual first’ ethos, with uncompromising care at the heart of everything we do.
We’re Passionate About Quality
It’s why our products have been ‘Made in England’ since day one – and we’re committed to this for our future. We source only the best ingredients in exceptional fragrance concentrations, so you can discover long-lasting fragrances that uplift, refresh or unwind your senses. Our quality has awarded us with a Royal Warrant from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
We Treasure The World Around Us
As pioneers of positive luxury, we want to be responsible for the path our products take to come into your hands. We never have and never will test on animals, we run our own manufacturing facility in Elsenham and we champion beauty that’s kinder to the environment. We’re devoted to doing good while making you feel good.
“There was this feeling of care. That’s really been the essence of what Molton Brown stood for and why the products developed.”
Caroline Burstein, Co-founder and a friend of Molton Brown
We Celebrate Individuality
Our home, London, inspires us with its diverse, progressive and open-minded attitude. It’s brought to life in the way we work side-by-side with our eclectic set of perfumers, and it’s how we empower you by making distinctive fragrances you’ll love.
The Great Taste Awards 2024 has once again highlighted the exceptional quality of Welsh food and drink, with numerous producers being recognised for their outstanding products.
In a remarkable showcase of culinary prowess, Welsh producers have been honoured with a remarkable 149 awards, with 97 products achieving 1-star, 45 receiving 2-stars and 7 earning the gold stamp of approval with 3-stars.
The awards come following recent statistics showing the food and drink industry in Wales grew by 10% in the last year, with businesses in the sector having a total turnover of £24.6bn in 2023, compared to £22.3bn in 2022.
Welsh Government Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, Huw Irranca-Davies, has expressed his delight at the success:
“The remarkable success of our producers at the Great Taste Awards is a clear reflection of the exceptional quality and innovation that our producers bring to the global food and drink scene.
“These awards are not just accolades; they are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and rich culinary heritage that Wales is known for. I look forward to working with these producers into the future as we continue building on the recent successes of the industry and elevating Wales as a beacon of food and drink excellence.”
Dà Mhìle Absinthe
Among the extraordinary Welsh products awarded 3 stars are:
Anglesey Fine Foods Ltd – Black Label Shoulder of Anglesey Fat-Tail Lamb
Black Mountains Smokery Ltd – Smoked Duck Breast
Black Welsh Lamb – Organic, pasture-fed mutton shoulder
Great Taste, organised by the Guild of Fine Food, is the world’s largest and most trusted food and drink accreditation scheme that tests both food and drink. The awards are globally recognised as a mark of excellence and eagerly sought after by producers and food-lovers alike. Each entry was meticulously blind tasted by the Guild’s expert judging panel of over 500 food critics, chefs, recipe creators, buyers, retailers, and other specialists in the field of food and drink. Entries were analysed across 92 judging days, each receiving detailed feedback, whether or not they obtained an award.
These Great Taste award winners can now proudly display the iconic black and gold Great Taste logo as a symbol of outstanding quality.
John Farrand, managing director of the Guild of Fine Food comments:
“It’s hugely important to us at the Guild to inject some positivity into the speciality food & drink industry. Given the economic headwinds that both independent retailers and small & medium producers are facing, the announcement of the 2024 crop of Great Taste stars is now an annual fillip for us all. And it’s not just excellence from the UK, but from across the world, as we celebrate the best from 115 countries. We’re doing our bit for cultural relations across the planet when there is so much legislation trying to prevent it. It’s a real privilege to support and underpin independent makers through the process of Great Taste.”
Gwenyn Gruffydd Welsh Wildflower Honey
Those that have received 3-stars went on to be judged in a further stage of the competition. The best of those 3-stars from each country or region have now been nominated for a Golden Fork, an ‘Oscar of the food and drink world’.
The three nominees for the regional title of Golden Fork for Wales include Smoked Duck Breast from Black Mountains Smokery Ltd; Dá Mhile Absinthe from Dá Mhile Distillery and Chorizo from Moch Coch. The Great Taste Golden Fork winners will be announced at a special awards ceremony and tasting at the Battersea Arts Centre in London on Tuesday 10 September 2024.
A Swansea teenager is gearing up for her very first public singing gig, preparing to take to the stage at this year’s Gower Food and Drink Festival, which will take place on Saturday September 7th at Pennard Playing Fields.
Having only taken up the guitar last year, armed with her favourite electro-acoustic version fourteen year-old Seren Ellis from Loughor will perform a varied playlist of some of her favourite songs – all completely self-taught and learned purely from listening to the tracks and having a go!
Penyrheol Comprehensive pupil Seren is described by mum Michelle as generally very shy with music allowing her to express herself in a whole new way.
“Seren has always been musical with a really good ear; nurtured by my lovely mother-in-law who is now sadly battling a terminal illness but still such a positive influence, she took up piano at the age of five and made it her aim to pass her exams for mamgu.
“Outside of her music, she really is so unassuming but in the last twelve months has blossomed with the instruments she’s now enjoying including drums and of course, the guitar. It’s been such a confidence builder and to see her about to take to the stage at the Gower Food and Drink Festival is just amazing.
“The school has been so supportive, encouraging Seren to find her way with the music and express herself; she really enjoys her music lessons but so much is also self-taught, particularly with the guitar.
“She had it mastered within a week of us managing to get hold of one for just £10 from marketplace and then other versions that her grandad has scooped from car boot sales!
“Singing and being behind an instrument just seems to bring Seren completely out of herself and as a family – myself, Seren’s dad Stephen and brothers Ash and Jake – we couldn’t be prouder.
“It’s like a suit of armour for her – so much so that I nearly fainted when she asked me earlier this year if she could try busking!
“That’s why I was so delighted to see the festival asking for local artists to come forward; it’ll be her first event outside of school concerts and shows so a local community event will be great for her to do and hopefully a real stepping stone.”
Seren – whose taste ranges from sixties / seventies classics right up to current favourites – will take to the stage at the festival in the 4pm slot, performing her versions of songs from artists including Oasis, Amy Winehouse, The Cranberries and Arctic Monkeys.
Speaking about her upcoming performance, Seren said:
“I’m really excited about the festival – I’m a bit nervous but I love my music so much and I’m looking forward to seeing what everyone thinks of it on the day; I’d love to maybe make this a career – hopefully everyone will like it!”
Other local artists set to perform at the festival include Saxology, Hermione Wild, Robyn Benge, John Davies and Set the Tone.
Over 40 fantastic exhibitors are set to tempt the taste buds with an array of sweet and savoury treats, moreish meats, scrumptious ciders, vegetarian varieties, perfect preserves and so much more.
The festival – which is funded by the Rural Anchor Fund at Swansea Council – promises fun for all the family with something to suit all diets, ages and interests, children’s activities and also the great live music planned throughout the afternoon
Gower Food and Drink Festival manager Tracy James-Lieberman added:
“It’s always fantastic to be able to showcase young talent and we’re delighted to have Seren with us at the event, along with all the other amazing local artists.
“This is a first for the Gower and we’re looking forward to welcoming all our festival goers on September 7th for a great day of all round entertainment!”
The festival will take place on Saturday 7th September (10am-6pm) at Pennard Playing Fields, Park Road, Pennard SA3 2AQ
A very successful Cardigan River and Food Festival took place on Saturday, 17th August. Julian Beynon-Lewis, CEO of Menter Aberteifi Cyf. and main organiser of the Festival said,
“We would like to thank everyone who came to support us at the Cardigan River and Food Festival, in this our 24th year. The weather was kind to us, against all the odds this Summer, with overcast skies and sunny intervals but importantly, no wind or rain ! Over 100 exhibitors were present and we had plenty of Welsh Food and Drink and locally made Crafts on offer for the around 7,000 visitors to the event, making it the second largest Festival yet.”
“Huge thanks to all our many exhibitors, our demonstrators: Mandy Walters and Orinda Roberts, and all our local suppliers and our funders, Cardigan Town Council, Ceredigion County Council & The Welsh Government – Food and Drink Wales, for their financial support.”
Local performers Sharron Wooley’s Bara Brith Country Band, Kirilee Lynne Dermott-Williams, Dreams Dance School, Backtrax Wales, Hari Llewelyn, and JBL Disco, entertained the crowds through the day.
All but one of the above exhibitors, entertainers and suppliers are Welsh based businesses, and the majority from the local area, supporting the circular economy and keeping the money going around in Wales.
“Demand for stalls and pitches was high this year and we turned away more than a dozen, because we ran out of room. Many of the stalls sold out completely, so we can say that it was successful day.”
The Mayor of Cardigan, Cllr. Olwen Davies was thanked for opening the Festival and judging the awards; and the organisers offered congratulations to Manucca, Afal Y Graig, Bee Welsh Honey, and The Pembrokeshire Soap Co, who were award winners on the day.
Julian said,
“A huge thank you must go out to all our staff and volunteers who worked tirelessly, for very long hours to make the day a success, we couldn’t have done it without you. Each year we try to learn from the last one and try to improve the Festival and it’s been a long way back from the Covid enforced break, but we are now getting back to where we should be. We’ll be back in 2025 promoting Welsh Food and Drink and supporting local businesses.”
Regular readers will know I am a huge fan of aroma reeds, perhaps it is because we have a dog or maybe it is just that it’s important to me that our house has a lovely fragrance. But let’s face it reeds are so easy to use. The diffuser comes with eight reeds and it is obviously your choice as to how many reeds work for you and your room. All you have to do is to turn the reeds whenever you need more fragrance.
This is Molton Brown’s classic, delectable home fragrance and I have one in the sitting room, one in the kitchen and one in the hallway, greedy I know but I don’t want our home smelling like a dog kennel! This lovely fragrance is an irresistible recipe of rhubarb and gentle rose with bright citrus notes. The Top notes are of grapefruit, yuzu and lemongrass. The heart is of rhubarb leaf, rose and spearmint all on a base of vanilla, musk and spun sugar. This fragrance reminds me of a slice of crimson summer tart, with freshly picked roses on my pantry table. This is a gorgeous fragrance, not too sweet as it has a clever citrus twist.
I also love gifting aroma reed diffusers, rather than a bunch of flowers, as reeds last such a long time, so for me they are great value for money.
As a child, Vanessa picked up an early passion for natural scents during horseback rides in the French Normandy countryside. Her love of nature, food and travel brings a diverse, sensitive side to her perfumery.
Who We Are
British Makers Of Fragrance, Created With Care
Born on South Molton Street, London in 1971, Molton Brown is an icon of uniquely British style. True to our founders’ values, we live by an ‘individual first’ ethos, with uncompromising care at the heart of everything we do.
We’re Passionate About Quality
It’s why our products have been made in England since day one – and we’re committed to this for our future. We source only the best ingredients in exceptional fragrance concentrations, so you can discover long-lasting fragrances that uplift, refresh or unwind your senses. Our quality has awarded us with a Royal Warrant from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
We Treasure The World Around Us
As pioneers of positive luxury, we want to be responsible for the path our products take to come into your hands. We never have and never will test on animals, we run our own manufacturing facility in Elsenham and we champion beauty that’s kinder to the environment. We’re devoted to doing good while making you feel good.
“There was this feeling of care. That’s really been the essence of what Molton Brown stood for and why the products developed.”
Caroline Burstein, Co-founder and a friend of Molton Brown
We Celebrate Individuality
Our home, London, inspires us with its diverse, progressive and open-minded attitude. It’s brought to life in the way we work side-by-side with our eclectic set of perfumers, and it’s how we empower you by making distinctive fragrances you’ll love.
Cherilee Freeman, Volunteer Facilitator for Ponthafren at Powis Castle gardens, was recently presented with a plaque by Susan Paynton, North Powys County Organiser for The National Garden Scheme. This marked a Community Garden Grant award of £2,611.83 in 2023 which was used to build additional raised beds, erect a greenhouse and purchase new water butts.
Ponthafren is a registered charity which provides two wellness, learning & recovery centres in North Powys to help bring communities together and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. The facility at Powis Castle is on a hitherto unused part of the walled garden leased to Ponthafren until 2027. Every Thursday the group come together to tend the garden, undertake various projects, learn new skills and make lasting friendships.
Currently there are five regular attendees with space for up to five more. They all agreed that gaining confidence, getting outside in the fresh air, and receiving training were just three of the benefits of being part of the Ponthafren team at Powis Castle. If you are interested in joining them, please contact Rachael Harris, Operations Manager, on 01686 621586 (admin@ponthafren.org.uk).
The 2025 National Garden Scheme Community Garden Grants will be open for applications from Monday 9th September until noon on 28th October 2024 on www.ngs.org.uk
Applicants must be a fully set up community group or registered charity with a functioning non-personal bank account. Applications from groups successful in the prior year, schools or Local Authorities will not be eligible. Individual grants are between £1,000 and £5,000 and each application must itemise the details of the costs they are planning to cover.
Feature image: (L t0 R) Rachael Harris (Operations Manager), Brian Bowen (volunteer), Cherilee Freeman (Facilitator), Trevor Whitehead (volunteer), Susan Paynton (NGS Area Organiser) and AJ Angland (volunteer).
Coleg Sir Gâr is this year piloting a new initiative for A-level science students who are thinking of studying degrees in the varying areas that support the medical and health sector.
The aim of the initiative, called the Medical Field Programme, is to give students with an interest in healthcare and medicine, practical experience and knowledge about the degree courses available to them.
In partnership with Swansea University, the college and university will be delivering bespoke taster sessions, allowing students to explore careers in both health and medical fields that they may have been unaware of such as biochemistry, healthcare sciences, audiology, rehab engineering, radiography, medical genetics, pharmacology, osteopathy, psychology and more.
The project is free and will comprise of four sessions, held during student’s tutorial time and will therefore not encroach on any teaching sessions. Each session will include a talk by a specialist in their field, followed by a workshop on that career path. Students will be given the opportunity to use the university’s state of the art facilities and take part in practical activities, offering them hands-on opportunities to explore the chemical, clinical skills required for this type of career. There will also be plenty of bespoke support on the UCAS application process and university life.
Coleg Sir Gâr A-level lecturer Dr Susan Ford, is leading the initiative with Swansea University. She said:
“We are really excited to be launching this new, bespoke Medical Field Programme with our partner university.
“So often students start their A levels with no idea of the career path they wish to pursue. They often want to do something science based, but unless family members are working in this area, they have no idea about the wealth of science jobs available to them in the medical field. We hope to use this programme to highlight career roles that surround the medical profession such as geneticist, healthcare scientist, sleep scientist. There are so many “behind the scenes jobs” that support our national health and private medical systems open to them.
“Subject choice at A-level can be crucial, as often students don’t realise the entry requirements to apply for these types of courses. Students assume biology is essential, however it is chemistry A-level that is usually specified, for this type of degree course. Therefore, we also hope to engage with year 11 students from our feeder comprehensive schools.
“This bespoke programme with Coleg Sir Gâr is open to all students who meet the current A-level entry requirements at the college which are six GCSEs at grades A* to C.
“Give it a go, come and study sciences with us and we’ll show you a range of opportunities that exist in this exciting field of work.”
Feature image: A-level lecturer Dr Susan Ford, is leading the initiative with Swansea University.
When summer’s end is nighing And skies at evening cloud, I muse on change and fortune And all the feats I vowed When I was young and proud.
The weathercock at sunset Would lose the slanted ray, And I would climb the beacon That looked to Wales away And saw the last of day.
A.E. Housman (1859-1936)
We are heading inexorably into the final quarter of the year and spring freshness, is a memory long past. Although leaf fall is not yet upon us, they have already dulled in colour and texture and seem to be anticipating their demise.
The great majority of ornamental trees and shrubs produce their flowers in spring or early summer, there are however a few select trees that hold back their displays until summer is in full flow and then produce a show to rival any of their more precocious brethren. The Eucryphias from the southern hemisphere have exquisite, fragrant, white flowers in mid-August and though of relatively short duration they earn their place in any garden. Some are of large size and not suitable for small gardens but E.intermedia, in the variety ‘Rostrevor’ (feature image) makes a delightful small evergreen tree for most situations. I find it easy to grow in my mild situation but I could not recommend it for areas that suffer excessive hard frosts. They prefer an acid soil with plenty of humus and are slow to start flowering but worth the wait. Freely available on line, they are also stocked by superior garden centres.
Eucryphia intermedia ‘Rostrevor’
Albizia julibrissen is small deciduous tree of distinctly exotic appearance. It has small mimosa like leaves on an umbrella shaped head with spreading branches which are adorned with cherry pink powder puff flowers. It always invokes comment during its August flowering and incredulity that it is relatively hardy, even away from my sheltered site. It is tolerant of most well drained soils and requires little attention, although I give it occasional boosts with tomato fertiliser to encourage flower production. There is a spectacular form called ’Summer Chocolate’ (with foliage of an obvious colour) which I tried but failed to grow. I personally prefer the form I grow, called ‘Ombrella’, which survived the “Beast from the East” without damage. Both forms are frequently available in good garden centres and on line.
Albizia julibrissen ‘Ombrella’
One might expect that autumn would result in a reduction of gardens open under the National Garden Scheme, however there are still opportunities to visit gardens which deliver a colourful reward at an often pleasant time of year.
Highfield Farm
Highfield Farm which sits within 3 acres of majestic Monmouthshire landscape is a celebration of plants. It provides interest across the seasons with a diverse array of herbaceous, shrubs and trees. There are narrow walks through tall perennials, an experimental collection of hot and tender plants, a garden of 8ft’giants’, and late summer quadrants of asters and grasses and a new mysterious ‘madness garden’. I can also personally recommend the excellent homemade refreshments which my wife and I enjoyed on a recent visit in July.
Highfield Farm has an open day which you can find in our Open Gardens diary and by arrangement visits from May to September which you can find in our Long Term Open Gardens diary.
Treborth Botanic Garden
The Treborth Botanic Garden is owned by Bangor University and provides a resource for teaching, research, public education and enjoyment. Sited in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and including a Site of Special Scientific Interest along the shore of the Menai Strait, it contains more than 3000 native and exotic species in varied landscape areas.
It now has increased interest with the recent transfer of a Gold medal winning Chelsea Flower Show garden designed by Dan Bristow of ’Studio Bristow’ from Bethesda in the shape of Wales. It contains some of Wales’s rarest plants and has the title Size of Wales after the eponymously named charity. This biodiverse garden also won best in category in the ‘All About Plants‘ category. The garden contains 313 native species, reflecting the number of tree species growing in one hectare of threatened tropical forest. It is hoped that this will provoke recognition that our own home landscapes are also under threat.
Treborth Botanic Garden has an open day which you can find in our Open Gardens diary.
Closer to home is Glenview, Mumbles which is accessed via a strip of woodland that borders Underhill Park. Recently improved this woodland has a large number of recently planted trees and shrubs. Following the path through the woods will lead to a gravel garden in a hidden location.
Glenview has an open day which you can find in our Open Gardens diary.
Willowbrook
Willowbrook, in Powys has been developed since 2013 by the owners own work and design. On a medium sized plot, of irregular shape and mainly south facing, yew and beech hedging has created garden rooms and vistas. Enjoy the late summer ‘hot’ borders with countryside views from a summerhouse. The cottage garden has roses, a large pond, rill, box parterre and sunken garden. The kitchen garden ensures we are almost self-sufficient in vegetables!
Willowbrook has an open day which you can find in our Open Gardens diary and by arrangement visits from 20 May to 30 September which you can find in our Long Term Open Gardens diary.
Grove of Narberth
In a woodland setting framed by ancient oaks and towering beeches with views to the Preseli Hills, the 26 acres of Grove of Narberth contains woodland, meadows and gardens. Features include a historic walled garden, kitchen garden, and cut flower garden. There are extensive woodland walks and the trees, especially the Japanese cherries, are beginning to glow red and yellow in the autumn sunlight.
Grove of Narberth has an open day which you can find in our Open Gardens diary. Pre-booking is essential.
With the advent of Autumn we must all consider taking our annual precautions to protect against frost, although after last winter’s perpetual deluges, improving drainage is probably of equal importance!
NGS Open Gardens
Welsh Country has two NGS open garden sections. The first ‘Open Gardens’ are gardens that are open on specific days and the ‘Long Term Open Gardens’ which are by appointment only. There is a search facility on each page so simply search for a garden name or an area of Wales (i.e. Swansea) you’d like to visit.
Caerphilly County Borough Council’s Penallta Reuse Shop opened in partnership with South Wales based charity, Wastesavers Charitable Trust Ltd. in October 2022. The shop provides an opportunity for items once destined for the Household Recycling Centre to be reused and sold at bargain prices.
Since opening, the Shop has gone from strength to strength, not only diverting items from the waste stream, but also joining forces with local projects and charities to offer community projects. These include a partnership with mental health charity Growing Space to run a recycling programme that delivers new skills, employment support, and volunteer opportunities for residents across the borough, and partnership with Caerphilly Uniform Exchange to offer pre-loved school uniforms to Caerphilly County Borough residents free of charge.
The social enterprise is now celebrating being the top-performing reuse shop in the Wastesavers catalogue, in terms of diverting items from the waste stream, with an average of 550 items being diverted every week!
Wastesavers currently have nine Reuse Shops in operation throughout South Wales.
Councillor Chris Morgan, Cabinet Member for Waste, Leisure & Green spaces said:
“When we opened Penallta Reuse Shop in 2022, it was important to us that the Shop became a social asset, demonstrating the social and economic benefits that reuse has on a community.
“We are thrilled to say that we have been able to achieve this with the various community projects that Penallta Reuse Shop has to offer, whilst also being able to make real strides in diverting goods from the waste stream.
“I would like to thank all of those involved in this project, you have all played a part in making Penallta Reuse Shop the success it is.”
Penny Goodwin CEO Wastesavers Charitable Trust said:
“We are proud to be part of Caerphilly’s work to increase the circular economy.
“As an environmental charity, our aims are to reduce what we throw away and to put these items to use in our local community. The Penallta Reuse Shop has done just that, diverting around three tonnes a month from disposal and supporting many local families and community groups.
“We would like to thank all those residents of Caerphilly for donating their items to us rather than throwing them away, and a big thanks must go to our staff and tremendous volunteers who work so hard finding treasures in the donations every day”.
Penallta Reuse Shop is located at Penallta Industrial Estate, South Road, Hengoed, CF82 7ST and is open seven days a week, 9:00-4:00. For more information visit: www.caerphilly.gov.uk/penallta-reuse-shop
The Welsh Society of Western New England is dedicated to celebrating and learning about all things Welsh. We meet at least quarterly and share a meal and an interesting subject or presentation relating to Wales. Many of our members have Welsh heritage or were born in Wales and others are drawn to gatherings through their interest in the country, language and culture.
Newsletter overview:
2024 Heritage Medallion – The North America Wales Foundation is pleased to announce that the 2024 recipient of its Heritage Medallion is the Welsh Women’s Peace Petition Partnership, which includes Heddwch Nain/Mamgu US (Our Grandmother’s Peace US).
Welsh History – There are over two hundred episodes of the Welsh History Podcast available for free.
Owain Glyndwr Event
Whisky From Wales – Few would claim that Wales is well known for whiskey—or whisky, as it is known in Wales and Scotland. Yet the country has played its part in distilling history.
Training Ships in the Menai Strait
Welsh Cooking – Cheesy Baked Leeks with Ham
Welsh Indiana Jones – Ioan Lord of Cwm Rheidol near Aberystwyth in mid-Wales, gave a fabulous presentation to the WSWNE genealogy group on May 14th. Ioan specializes in the ore field of central Wales.
Upcoming Events
To find out more about what’s happening read or download the newsletter below.
Our meetings and activities occur at various locations around Western New England. Past WSWNE events have included:
Gatherings and luncheons in towns in Western Massachusetts and Connecticut
Monthly genealogy research workshops and presentations
Welsh language classes
St. David’s Day celebrations, with a presenter
Christmas Holiday luncheons, with a presenter
Welsh Afternoon Teas and a Wine & Welsh Cheese Tasting event
Watching Welsh films and Wales’ Rugby team play
Trips to Welsh events in New York City and other nearby states
Annual attendance at the North American Festival of Wales (NAFOW) thewnaa.org
WSWNE is organized by many volunteers, but we incur expenses by hosting events, publishing newsletters, maintaining this website. We depend on memberships as our primary source of funding. Please visit our Membership Page to find out how to become a member.
In addition, we greatly appreciate donations–from either members or non-members–in support of what we do to advance the knowledge and appreciation of all things Welsh.
We encourage you to be a part of our growing group! Check out our Membership page if you’d like to join us and our Events page for upcoming meetings.
The restoration of the Tramway Wharf Wall at Crickheath is now complete and it feels like ‘the end of an era’, as we say goodbye to John and Paul the dry-stone wallers.
Work to repair the former tramway wharf wall is now complete. Starting in April last year, we have been privileged to have support from members of the Dry-Stone Walling Association led by stalwarts John and Paul. There have been plenty of challenges along the way, not least from the condition of the wall but most notably from a site that steadfastly remained under water much longer than expected due to the extraordinarily wet winter. But by Saturday teatime, the remaining 15 metres of copings had been placed and off went John and Paul, accompanied by a few cans of Navigation Pale Ale. A big thank you to all the wallers and Society volunteers who have helped, especially Graham the plant operator. The result looks impressive!
Before work started at Crickheath Wharf
Tramway Wharf wall - complete
On Friday, we were joined by nine corporate volunteers from Practice Plan in Oswestry. With careful direction provided by Fred, they undertook valuable vegetation clearance work around recently planted hedging whips. With the Society’s regular volunteers fully occupied with channel and towpath restoration activities, this was an enormous help. Fred also took the opportunity to provide them with a site tour and explain ‘all things restoration’. Thanks to all of them for their hard work. So far this year, 44corporate volunteers have joined us for a day which must be something of a record.
Channel works were focused on Phase 1A. Despite deep mud in the bed of the channel, the area where the remaining copings had been placed has now been profiled, the banks above the wharf wall have been tidied along the full length and the channel bed has been flattened down to grade. Profiling the channel in 1A is now all but complete. The southern end is ready for lining and blocking; the northern end does not require waterproofing.
Practice Plan volunteers with Fred
Practice Plan Volunteers
Whilst plant operations in the channel were underway, other volunteers worked on the towpath in 1A. Great progress has been made. A further 60 metres was completed during this work party adding to the 40 metres previously constructed. We are now over halfway in this section. The final wear course of quarry dust will be applied once the entire length has been constructed.
And finally, a footnote to the wharf wall repairs. Following tradition, a current year coin (2024 King Charles III 50p) has been hidden somewhere in the repaired wall. The location will remain secret until it may be found by future restorers. It is 227 years since the wharf was originally built. Will the secret remain for a further 227 years?
We are always looking for new volunteers and members, go to shropshireunion.org.uk for more details.
If your lips are feeling sore, with flaky skin, dry and not at all comfortable, then your lips are in need of some TLC and I’m sure you’ll thank me when you try Medplus balm. Blistex are a company that are the experts on lips and I certainly agree with that. It is annoying having sore lips, whatever the weather and I found this little pot was perfect remedy for repairing my lips. Thanks to conditioning cocoa butter, cooling menthol and also camphor, this combination helped to restore my lips and I loved that they looked healthy once again! I was impressed and amazed in equal measure as my lips are constantly looking flaky and dry which makes me keep licking them, which of course made them even worse!
Simple to use all, just gently apply the balm evenly all over your lips and then re-apply as often as necessary, especially when your lips are feeling feel sore and dry, or if you’re out and about in dry, cold or sunny weather, your lips need protection too. Medplus comes in a pot so it is easy to pop into your bag or just slip into a pocket. Never underestimate the effect our weather has on our lips and I am happy that Blistex are there to help me look after my lips.
Size & Price: Pack of 5 /£11.46 | Visit: amazon.co.uk
Ultra SPF 50+ from Blistex
This Blistex Ultra SPF 50+ provides very high sun protection which will help to defend your lips from UVA and UVB rays. It is infused with antioxidants, vitamins C & E and it helps seal in moisture to keep your lips hydrated, whilst protecting them from the sun.
It comes in a handy tube so it’s easy to apply, just gently massage this Ultra SPF 50+ all over your lips every day but apply the product 30 mins before you venture outside. You can of course re-apply as often as you like, especially if you’re out and about in dry, cold or sunny weather. The Ultra SPF 50+ is perfect for any winter or summer holidays.
Conquerabia: The Struggle for Identity is an exhilarating plunge into the tumultuous and captivating history of Trinidad. From the moment Christopher Columbus set foot on its shores in 1498 to the spectacular handover from Spanish rule to Britain’s Ralph Abercromby, this masterfully fictionalised account breathes life into the birth of a nation, illuminating the pivotal events that forged its path.
Step into the shoes of Trinidad’s earliest settlers and feel the weight of history as you navigate through the island’s most dramatic episodes. Experience the chilling reign of the island’s first British governor, Thomas Picton, whose ruthless governance cast a dark shadow over the fledgling colony. Feel the tension and the triumph as the shackles of slavery are broken, transforming the island and igniting the indomitable spirit of its people.
As you turn each page, you’ll be transported to an era often eclipsed by tales of America, Jamaica, or Haiti. Conquerabia: The Struggle for Identity offers an unparalleled exploration of Trinidad’s rich history, capturing the essence of a significant epoch in the island’s journey to becoming the vibrant, affluent paradise it is today. This novel is not just an historical recount; it is a living, breathing tribute to the resilience and fortitude of Trinidad’s people.
With every twist and turn, Conquerabia immerses you in the trials and triumphs of a nation in the making. It’s a compelling testament to the spirit of Trinidad and a vivid portrayal of the enduring struggle for identity. Get ready to be enthralled by a story that’s as dynamic and spirited as the island itself.
About the Author
“Conquerabia” draws inspiration from author Diane Hinds’ life on the island from 1975 to 1979. Her father, Rev. Kenneth Hinds, and her mother, Lenore Dottin, emigrated to the UK for Kenneth to train at a theological college. After his ordination at St Albans Abbey by Archbishop Bob Runcie, the family returned to their homeland, where Kenneth served as a Clerk in Holy Orders. This vibrant four-year chapter deeply influenced Diane, fuelling her creativity.
Diane Hinds is an accomplished entertainment publicist whose career could be a fascinating story in its own right. She is also a mother of two adult children and lives with Sickle Cell Disease.
As the Bank Holiday weekend begins, there’s nothing quite like kicking off your sandals and feeling the warm, grainy sand beneath your feet. The beach is a haven, a sanctuary where time seems to slow down, and the worries of the world are carried away by the gentle breeze. You find the perfect spot, just far enough from the water’s edge to hear the soothing rhythm of the waves, but close enough to feel the salty mist on your skin.
Escape Into Another World
With a contented sigh, you lie back on a towel, stretching out under the clear blue sky. The sun casts a golden glow, its warmth enveloping you like a cozy blanket. You reach into your bag and pull out a book, its familiar weight a comfort in your hands. As you open it to the first page, a sense of calm washes over you. This is your time, your moment to escape into another world, to leave behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Unwind And Recharge
With a contented sigh, you lie back on a towel, stretching out under the clear blue sky. The sun casts a golden glow, its warmth enveloping you like a cozy blanket. You reach into your bag and pull out a book, its familiar weight a comfort in your hands. As you open it to the first page, a sense of calm washes over you. This is your time, your moment to escape into another world, to leave behind the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Gold Bathing
‘Beneath the sun’s warm, golden glow,
Where gentle waves dance to and fro,
I lie on sands, so soft and wide,
The ocean’s lullaby by my side.’
Gold Bathing by Jill Jones FRSA
Happy Bank Holiday weekend from all of us at Life: Full Colour – we’re taking a short break, back open 29th August in Caernarfon. You can browse & buy any time online here.
A mighty oak tree on the famous Gregynog Estate in Mid Wales that’s at least 500 years old has been named as Wales’ nomination for the Woodland Trust’s Tree of the Year competition.
Located in the Great Wood at Gregynog, the tree is up against 11 other amazing oaks from across the UK. Voting is open until 11.59pm on October 21 and the Woodland Trust will announce this year’s UK winner on October 29. The winner goes on to the European Tree of the Year competition.
One of Wales’ premier country house estates, Gregynog Hall is located on the edge of Tregynon village, near Newtown and is now run by The Gregynog Trust. The 750–acre estate is designated a National Nature Reserve, considered to be one of Wales’ most important ancient parklands and wood pasture habitats
Lydia Bassett, the trust’s director of business development, said:
“The magnificent Gregynog Oak stands alongside several mammoth trees in the Great Wood in the grounds of Gregynog Hall.
“We are so excited to be named as Wales’ nomination for Tree of the Year. Gregynog Oak is a brilliant reminder of estate’s incredible history since the first house was built here in the 12th century.
“Our woodland is a globally significant area of Specific Scientific Interest with rare lichens in the ancient oak forest as well as redstarts, pied fly catchers and three types of woodpecker.
“Gregynog Trust, a charity which took over the management the hall and estate from the University of Wales in 2019, is working with the Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust to study the exceptionally biodiverse nature on the estate.
“The woodland at the hall has just been awarded the status of being part of Wales’ National Forest.
“Thought to be at least 500 years old, the impressive Gregynog Oak hosts countless species including important lichens. With many esteemed visitors to the hall over the years, the likes of Gustav Holst, George Bernard Shaw and Prime Minister Stanley Baldwin may have admired this incredible tree. There is a footpath to the Gregynog Oak from the hall through the Great Wood.”
The estate is open every day with miles of woodland paths to explore and a brilliant café to visit. A £3 parking fee helps maintain the gardens and woodland.
Gregynog Hall is best known as the home of sisters Gwendoline and Margaret Davies, remarkable Welsh women who had a revolutionary vision to create a place in Wales which would be a true cultural and artistic centre.
While still young, they amassed one of the great art collections of the 20th century. They bequeathed 260 Old Masters, 18th and 19th century British, Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings and sculptures to the National Museum of Wales in 1951 and 1963, completely transforming its art collection in character, quality and range.
The sisters’ achievements and the events that took place at Gregynog helped shape the history of Wales. The helped found a national university, the foundations of the Arts Council of Great Britain, a national library, a national museum, make huge strides towards improved public health and the Council of the League of Nations.
As Ffestiniog Travel marks 50 years as a leading rail holiday specialist the company remembers a remarkable lady who had an idea which, by chance became the start of a business which has organised holidays for thousands of rail enthusiasts over the last half century.
Mair Watson was originally recruited to work at the Ffestiniog Railway. Founder and Director of Ffestiniog Travel, Alan Heywood, explained how the overseas railway travel company which now employs 8 staff and runs more than 40 tours a year, began.
Alan, who is now retired but works on a voluntary basis, started as traffic manager at the Ffestiniog Railway in 1969 and explained not very long afterwards they were looking for somebody who could help them in the booking office.
“It was all of course done manually in those days.” he said.
Mair, had been working at Butlins before she joined as the booking clerk at Harbour Station. Alan said:
“One of the things we did apart from selling tickets for the FR was to sell British Rail tickets.
“This arrangement had been in existence since the mid-sixties after the Dr Beeching cuts. “British Rail wanted to de-staff the stations along the line but not to close the railway.
“This was a bit of a political hot potato. People perceived it as wanting to close the Cambrian line but what British Rail wanted to do was to save money and close the booking offices.
“So, they asked the Ffestiniog Railway to take over as a type of clearing house for ticketing. Mair and I inherited this task, together with the late Alan Skellern”.
Alan added:
“In a way Ffestiniog Travel’s owes its very existence to something Mair said.
“We were selling domestic rail tickets for the UK, but people who were on holiday here particularly from the Netherlands and we have no idea why the Netherlands would come to the booking office and ask for travel to get home.”
“Mair was able to get them as far as the ferry port at Harwich but no further.
“She came to me and said can we apply for a licence to sell the Sealink ferries and continental rail?
“I said well, we can ask…and we did!”
Ffestiniog Travel team 2024
At the time British Rail were dubious about the request and felt there wasn’t enough business to be had in a rural area such as Porthmadog, as setting up an international rail bureau would mean training a team and new equipment and systems.
Alan wasn’t to be defeated and persuaded them they could do it.
“I had at the back of my mind that the Ffestiniog Railway Society had about 5 thousand members and they would undoubtedly support us when it came to booking tickets at continental railways as railway enthusiasts, then we weren’t just relying on local people.”
“We should pay tribute to Mair as in a manner of speaking it was the start of where we are now.”
Mair was with the company until she retired and worked very closely with Alan and built up a huge amount of experience selling continental rail journeys and running the ticket office.
Alan remembers Mair, who passed away in 2009 with affection.
“We nick named her Auntie Mair as I was 29 when we started working together and she was older than all of us and in her 30s.”
Granddaughter, Leah Watson is now the manager of the FfWHR’s Spooners bar and restaurant. She remembers Mair, her nan or ‘nain’ would put her and her brother and sister on the train in the summer holidays and send them up to Blaenau Ffestiniog with money for a Mars bar and drink.
Leah said:
“Nain would be waiting for us on the platform when we got back and check with the guard we had been good!”
Mair was also a kind and thoughtful colleague and friend to all who knew her. Whenever help was needed, somebody to work late or cover a Saturday duty, or even babysit for colleagues with young families, Mair was first to volunteer.
Beddgelert Station Mistress, Sarah Buchanan remembers ‘Auntie Mair’ handing out hydration drinks to the loco crew in the guards’ room on hot days and insisting they drank it all, however nasty it tasted.
“She was a whizz with numbers and knew all of the jobs in the booking office inside out. She was able to work out in moments why figures weren’t adding up when anyone else would have been pouring over them for ages.”
Although Ffestiniog Travel’s existence is thanks to Mair she wasn’t one to travel for work and turned down the offer to run tours, preferring to run the ship or the railway back at base.
This October, there is a celebration tour to the same destination in Switzerland as the original tour in 1974.
Alan added:
“We are taking a group out to Switzerland which was our first destination. Not quite the original itinerary with no Eurostar in those days! I am looking forward to leading the very special celebration tour. “
Maria Cook is the General Manager of Ffestiniog Travel. She said:
“Over the years we have earned a reputation that is second to none. The Team work hard to keep it, ensuring that customers receive the highest level of customer satisfaction and a quality product with every booking.
“As a result, growth has been an organic process and we have managed to stay true to our roots as a small specialist operator specialising in rail holidays.
“We are extremely proud to boast that we have around 60% repeat business, which is a rarity in the travel industry. However, we are victims of our own success as we must deliver a tour programme every year that includes something new for our regulars. At the last count, the total number of countries visited was over 60!
“Ffestiniog Travel has developed into a company that offers escorted and tailor-made holidays in the UK, Europe and worldwide destinations, specialist private group tours plus rail and flight tickets. We have an average annual turnover of £2.5M and have donated £1.3M to the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways to date.
“Ffestiniog Travel has had to evolve over the years to survive but one fundamental area of the business has always been the European Ticketing department, Auntie Mair’s legacy!”
You can find out more about taking your own railway adventures abroad with Ffestiniog Travel Rail Holidays of the world here.
What is being done to help Eurasian Curlew in Montgomeryshire and North Radnorshire?
By Maia Jayasuriya, CCW Community and Engagement Officer, GWCT Cymru
Eurasian Curlew are one of the most iconic birds of the Welsh Countryside. Many who grew up in the 1960s and 70s will remember them for their long bills and distinctive bubbling call. Unfortunately, sightings of curlew in Wales are now extremely rare and are likely to become even more so as the population continues to decline at a rate of 6% every year. There are a range of reasons for this decline, including but not limited to: habitat fragmentation, lack of food availability, and excessive predation. If nothing is done to help these birds, they are predicted to be extinct as a breeding population in Wales by 2033.
This may sound bleak but not all hope is lost. Curlew Connections Wales (CCW) is working tirelessly to tackle the key issues driving curlew population decline. The project is a collaboration between the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Wales, the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape, and Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. Over a span of three years, CCW, which launched in the Summer of 2023, is dedicated to addressing the many issues facing breeding curlews in Wales through on-the-ground conservation initiatives and farmer and community engagement. GWCT Wales aims to work closely with farmers on the ground and provide advice and support across Montgomeryshire and North Radnorshire.
There are no quick fixes when it comes to wildlife conservation, however, CCW Curlew and People Officer, Katie Appleby, is delighted to announce some positive news:
“I am thrilled by the results of our first season, just knowing we have some chicks that have successfully fledged is a huge boost for the local curlew population. None of which could have been possible without the support of farmers, contractors and volunteers across the ICA. I hope to continue to build on this as the project progresses and develop a greater community appreciation for curlew.”
Katie covers Important Curlew Area (ICA) 9 – Montgomeryshire and North Radnorshire. During the 2024 breeding season, 23 curlew nests were identified in the area. 30 chicks were known to hatch from the located nests and a further 12 hatched from unidentified nests. 4 chicks fledged from one brood and were seen flying on site, which was very encouraging to witness in the first year of the project. Approximately 9 chicks fledged in total.
Infographic showing number of hatched and fledged curlew chicks in ICA 9 (Montgomeryshire and North Radnorshire) in the 2024 breeding season.
CCW Project Manager, Julieanne Quinlan, is excited about our progress:
“We are thrilled to learn of the outcomes of the first nesting season. The knowledge gained over the past year in Curlew Connections Wales is invaluable for approaching the task of understanding the challenges curlew face across the Welsh landscape. The knowledge we have ascertained across the project areas would not have been possible without the welcomed support from the local farmers, landowners and communities of Montgomeryshire and Radnorshire.”
Our ongoing aims include tackling the issues behind the low breeding success of curlew through monitoring curlew populations, as well as implementing predator management and habitat works. Given the deep-rooted culture surrounding curlews in Wales, the project endeavours to instil a sense of pride into our local communities around curlew and the Welsh landscape.
While we are pleased with our first season on the ground, there is still a long way to go. You can join in by signing up to volunteer with us. Just as important as volunteering is reporting any curlew sightings. This only takes a couple of minutes and it’s incredibly useful for us as it can help us to track our efforts.
We want to see curlew thriving in Wales once again, if you feel the same, please help us spread the word. We are on Instagram and Facebook @curlewconnectionswales if you’d like to keep up to date with what we are doing in your area.
If you have any questions, would like to book a talk or get involved, don’t hesitate to get in touch: kappleby@gwct.org.uk / 07458 147148.
Curlew Connections Wales is a Partnership Project with GWCT Cymru, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape and Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund and the Welsh Government.
Feature image: Adult male curlew in flight. Inset: curlew chick. (Both images: Katie Appleby).
Forged in a crucible of over 500 million years, slate is a marvelous material. From its beginnings as mud on the seabed, to compressions and heat and volcanic upheaval, at last it rests in seams far above the sea, ready to be mined or quarried and used by those able to release it from the embrace of the rock in which it lies. Proof of its watery origins can be found in fossils left embedded in the slate, such as white trilobites, sometimes referred to as “milk spots” by the miners. Although their presence means a slate will not split properly, they remain a delicate confirmation of how slate began its life.
Slate deposits in Wales are found from three geological ages: the Cambrian, which dates from 541 – 485.4 million years ago; the Ordovician, dating from 485.4 – 443.8 million years ago; and the Silurian period, dating from 443.8 – 419.2 million years ago. It is the Ordovician deposits that were found and mined in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Welsh slate has been extracted for over three thousand years. The Romans also knew of its properties and during the first century, it was they who used slate that was split as roofing material for their villas.
Two men in particular were involved in the finding, and then transportation of Welsh slate across the world.
The first, John Whitehead Greaves, was born in 1807, into a Quaker family in Radford, Warwickshire. He had a great sense of adventure, and first planned to emigrate to Canada, but later decided to postpone that ambition, and went into partnership with Edwin Shelton, to search for slate in Wales. They took out what was called a “Take Note” option, which was a short-term exploratory lease for 21 years; John Greaves was in charge at Bowydd, with Edwin Shelton taking control at Glynrhonwy.
Greaves soon realised there had to be large slate deposits under the area of Llechwedd y eyd, and turned his attention to that area.
Dramatic scenery at Llechwedd
He opened the Llechwedd slate quarry in Blaenau Ffestiniog in 1846 but after three years of having had no success, his bank would not lend him any more money; the enterprise almost bankrupted him.
This lack of funds meant he could not pay his men, but some of them had faith in Greaves’ vision, and carried on working for nothing. Their trust paid off; a few weeks later, the large vein, known as the “Old Merioneth Vein,” was found.
The different veins of slate have been given appropriate names, imaginatively and creatively illustrating their properties, such as the New Vein; the Back Vein; the Pig’s Vein (so difficult to extract!) and the Red Vein – with iron pirates, sometimes referred to as Fool’s Gold; but in the Merioneth Vein was a prize deposit, creating such great industrial success for Blaenau Ffestiniog.
The second man to have a great impact on the slate industry was William Alexander Maddocks. He was born in 1773 and, although his family originally hailed from Denbighshire, he was brought up in London, and became a wealthy London MP. He had bought various parcels of land in Wales, and conceived a grand plan of building a sea wall – the Cob – to reclaim land for agriculture. He built the towns of Porthmadog (originally called Port Madoc, it has also been referenced as Port Maddox!) and Tremadog.
The cob was constructed between 1807 and 1811; at first, William Maddocks hoped that it would be included in the route for shipping bound for Ireland, but when an improved road, passing through Snowdonia and Holyhead, was developed instead, that dream was thwarted.
However, the diversion of the River Glaswyn resulted in a change of direction in its flow, and caused it to scour out a deeper trench; this formed a natural harbour, deep enough to enable small ocean-going sailing ships to dock and be loaded with slate for export to America and other countries overseas. Porthmadog itself evolved into a very successful port, and in 1825, public wharves were built.
Crossing The Cob
William Maddocks died in 1828, before the construction of the Ffestiniog Railway; after the railway was brought into operation, for the last 1.5 km of the journey, the narrow-gauge trains crossed the Cob, bringing large shipments of slate to the port.
In 1831, Government duty was abolished on Welsh slate, and in 1832, an Act of Parliament, called the Festiniog Railway Act (the spelling with a single “F” is the official title of the company in the local act) was passed. Most of the capital was raised in Dublin by Henry Archer, the company’s first Secretary and Managing Director, and the railway was constructed between 1833 and 1836. In 1921, most railways were amalgamated into four regional groups (which in 1948 became British Railways), but the Festiniog Railway Company remained independent; it also owns the Welsh Highland Railway.
Nowadays, heritage narrow-gauge trains still use the Cob, to the delight of passengers enjoying excursions provided by the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways.
The Cob Toll House operated from 1811 but from about 1900, it was taken over to be used as an office for the Parc and Croesor slate quarries, and was clad in slate to show off their wares. In 1978, The Rebecca Trust (a local body that had been opposed to tolls), bought the rights, and a toll of 5p per vehicle continued for 25 years, with surplus funds distributed to local good causes. When the Welsh Government bought the Cob from the Trust, the tolls ended on 29 March 2003. Now called Bridge Cottage, it is a Grade II listed building.
The train exit from the mine.
The Great Fire of Hamburg
Following the Great Fire of Hamburg, the rebuilding of the city created an unprecedented demand for Welsh slate.
Reminiscent of the Great Fire of London in 1666, in the spring of 1842 a devastating fire swept through the port city of Hamburg in Germany; it began in a cigar factory in Deichstrasse in the Altstadt area of the city. The alarm was raised at about 1.00 a.m. on 5th May 1842, but the weather had been very dry, with strong and changeable winds, and the fire spread swiftly, consuming the wooden and half-timbered houses; by dawn, much of the Altstadt was in flames.
After three days and nights, and a blessed shift in the wind, the fire was at last extinguished on 8th May; by the time it was out, 51 people – including 22 firefighters – had lost their lives. 1,700 houses, as well as major public buildings, had been destroyed, leaving approximately 20,000 people homeless.
The city would be rebuilt quickly; a Technical Commission was established, with a British engineer, William Lindley, included on the panel. He proposed a reconstruction plan that maintained property lines, building with brick; building with wood was no longer allowed, and firewalls and fireproof gables were authorised. It was also decided to use slate for the new buildings, which led Germany to becoming an important market for Ffestiniog slate.
From there, the fame of the unique properties of slate spread to other countries in Europe, to the Americas and further afield, to the other side of the world, in Australia.
After the Ffestiniog Railway opened in 1836, following the discovery of the Merrioneth vein in 1846 an incline was completed in 1848, connecting the railway to the quarry. This enabled the transportation of Llechwedd slate from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog in wagons, using gravity to travel down the rail lines to the harbour.
Feature image: Wagons loaded with slate. Gravity takes them on their way to Porthmadog.
Presented in a lovely, made-to-last 100% recycled aluminium bottle which contains Molton Brown’s bestselling woody-spicy body wash. This will surely awaken your senses as it contains an enticing medley of spicy pink pepper, lively ginger and rich patchouli. This is a glorious fragrance that Molton Brown describe as smouldering, sultry and stirring, and I must say I totally agree with that description. This is my morning favourite shower gel but I also often use it in my bath too. My problem with Molton Brown and it is a good problem to have is I have yet to find one of their fragrances that I don’t like! When I have reached the last pump of fiery pink pepper I now use Molton Brown’s sustainable, waste-reducing refill pouch. I am keen to use refills whenever I can because respecting the planet is so important and I am delighted this company are on board with that too. Refills are most certainly a treat for you and the planet. Plus there’s such a saving to be had with refills.
Another reason I am such a huge fan of Molton Brown is that whenever I am stuck searching for a gift idea, I do tend to visit Molton Brown’s website because they always have a brilliant selection and, let’s be frank, who doesn’t love Molton Brown? Well no-one in my family and friends group, so that’s why Molton Brown is my go-to company!
By using refills you are treating yourself and treating our planet. This fragrance is another favourite of mine with its smouldering spicy pink pepper, lively ginger and rich patchouli. All you need to do is pour this pouch into your plastic or Infinite Bottle and enjoy…you’re also saving money too!
A humid sunset simmers in a paradise of lush slopes. The warm, crushed sweet spice of jewel-like pink pepper, lively ginger and jasmine drifts over colourful rooftops. A dramatic dusk of rich patchouli, cedarwood and oakmoss deepens. Rouse your senses; entice curiosity with aromatic adventure.
Meet The Perfumer
Carla Chabert, Senior Perfumer
As the daughter of Jacques Chabert, world-renowned Master Perfumer and creator of our most iconic scents, Carla has fragrance woven into her very DNA. Inspired by colour and punctuated with playful, deliberate flaws, her creations are far from ordinary.
Did You Know?
When creating this collection, we wanted to do the right thing and not just something that looks right. After doing a Life Cycle Analysis (which compares the environmental impact of packaging solutions), we learnt that aluminium needs to be made from at least 75% recycled material to be more sustainable than plastic.
We went even further. Our Infinite Bottle is made from 100% recycled aluminium which reduces energy use by 95% and CO2 emissions by 83% compared to virgin aluminium.
The Butchers shop has been enjoying a revival thanks to recent consumer campaigns to buy local and butchers providing exceptional customer service and adapting their offer to customers’ changing needs.
“To ensure the future longevity of our butchers more effort needs to be made to promote butchery as a career and invest in butchery apprenticeships. This is why Cambrian Training Company sponsors the Welsh Craft Butcher of the Year,” says Faith O’Brien, Managing Director of Cambrian Training Company.
Butchers Buck Economic Downturn to Grow Their Businesses
Between 1995 – 2019, the number of independent butchers in the UK mirrored the decline of the high street and had fallen by 60% to approximately 6,000 premises (Office for National Statistics). However recently increasing numbers of customers are choosing to return to the high street and buy locally reared, ethically produced fresh meat with a traceable origin and a low carbon footprint. Professionally trained butchers will also provide customers with expert advice on preparing and cooking meat and how to safely store meat and will cut the meat to a customer’s specific requirements. There’s also a bigger choice of fresh meat from lamb’s liver to roasted crackled belly pork squares to a wide range of house-made sausages as well as convenient oven and BBQ ready ranges. Thanks to marketing campaigns by Hybi Cig Cymru (HCC) – Meat Promotion Wales, customers understand the vital role butchers play supporting local economic development, promoting local produce, buying from the local Farms that in turn use their local abattoirs, supporting the fresh meat supply chain. Last year loose beef and lamb sales outperformed pre-packed sales. In the last four years the rate of decline in butchers shops has been significantly reduced, so in 2023 there were 5,637 butcher shops in the UK. Results of the Big British Butchers Survey 2023 by membership body National Craft Butchers confirm the revival with the majority of the butchers surveyed stating they had grown their businesses in 2022 – “pointing to a steady revival of one of the cornerstones of the struggling UK high street”.
A key threat faced by the butchery sector in the UK including Wales however is its ageing population, with 50% of surveyed business owners in the Big British Butchers Survey 2023, aged 56 or above and 26% planning to retire in the next five years. Of the butchers surveyed, only 33% currently employ an apprentice although 82% of respondents said they would welcome one.
“It’s vitally important to train the next generation of butchers and promote butchery careers and apprenticeships to ensure we don’t lose these skills,” says Faith O’Brien.
Cambrian Training Company (CTC) is the biggest work-based learning provider of butchery apprenticeships in Wales and recognises the importance of promoting the sector. This is why the company is the official sponsor of the Welsh Craft Butcher of the Year competition, organised by the Culinary Association of Wales (CAW) and also supports CAW’s Craft Butchery Team Wales, made up of the country’s top butchery apprentices. CTC’s Butchery Training Officer, Craig Holly, has competed in the Craft Butchery Team Wales in America. He said:
“It was a great honour to represent my country and showcase my professional skills on the world stage. These opportunities to compete are important because they inject new ways of thinking that can be applied in the shop environment. Without these competitions, the butchery scene is closed off to innovation and progression. Being part of these competitions also boosts the confidence of the competitors and helps promote their business and increase customer numbers. With more people taking notice of where they shop, being a part of this process can set them apart.”
Ben Roberts, 32, a CTC protege has successfully completed a series of butchery apprenticeships progressing from a Foundation Apprenticeship in Food Manufacturing all the way through to a Higher Apprenticeship (Level 4) and then a Higher Apprenticeship in Business Management. In January this year, he successfully opened his own butcher’s shop Astely & Stratton Ltd. in Farndon, replacing the retiring Griffiths Butchers shop which had been based on High Street for 200 years.
Ben’s apprenticeship journey not only enabled him to learn a trade and set up his own business, it gave him the opportunity to showcase his craft and excel in his field. He’s competed for his country in the Craft Butchery Team Wales and finished third at the 2021 WorldSkills UK butchery competition and second in the Welsh Butcher of the Year in the same week he opened his new business. Ben’s growing list of honours includes: Apprentice of the Year at both the Wales Food and Drink Awards and Cambrian Training Company Awards 2022 and he’s also been appointed a Skills Excellence in Wales Ambassador. Ben is very keen to support the next generation of butchers.
“My long-term goal is to establish an apprenticeship programme in the shop, so that young butchers can experience the same things that I have had the privilege of experiencing in my career to date,” said Ben.
UK Government Investing in the High Street and the Butchery Sector
The UK government are taking steps to reverse the decline and regenerate UK’s local high streets. The government has set up a High Streets Task Force and created a £1 billion Future High Streets Fund and £2.6 billion Towns Fund to support the renewal and reshaping of our high streets and town centres. Wales Government funded Menter a Busnes is producing bilingual schools education resources to raise awareness and promote careers in Butchery in Welsh schools for Progression Steps 3 and 4, targeting GCSE Food Technology students.
Showcasing our Best Butchers in the UK and on the World Stage
Wales has a rich heritage of meat farming and previous Welsh Craft Butchery teams have achieved a string of accolades: winners of Butchery WorldSkills UK, Premier Butcher winners and Welsh butchers have been selected to represent team UK in international Butchery competitions, which have all helped promote butchery apprenticeships and careers.
“We are very proud that Craig and Ben and their apprentice peers have achieved career success. Cambrian Training will be doing all it can so future Welsh butchery apprentices also have the opportunity to compete against the best and showcase their craft and help the success and vibrancy of the butchery sector,” says Faith O’Brien.
Stephen talks about his trip to Bala and the history of the popular tourist town.
My wife and I, heading from Dorset to north Wales for a week, needed somewhere to stop over on a Friday evening. I chose Bala (Y Bala) in Snowdonia National Park.
The White Lion Royal Hotel, occupying a prominent position in the main street, awaited us. It is an imposing black and white building with two chunky white lions either side of the main entrance. The ‘Royal’ is because Queen Victoria stayed.
After a quiet night, we were down for breakfast early. I knew we were on a winner here as English travel writer George Borrow stated in ‘Wild Wales’ that the breakfast was the best he experienced in his Welsh walking tour of 1854.
The White Lion Royal Hotel
The town was in full flow in the tree-lined main street of ‘Stryd Fawr’ (Great Street or High Street), Bala being basically one long thoroughfare. A feeling of satisfaction from a good night’s sleep continued as my wife found a thimble in a Victorian ironmongers, adding to her collection.
Bala is a ‘gateway’ to Snowdonia, so its quietness during our brief September stay and resident population of some 2,000 must be contrasted with the summer when it welcomes crowds of sightseers and walkers (Bala is a “Walkers Are Welcome” town). This is hardly surprising as there are at least three camping grounds / caravan sites within four miles. The annual music festival, ‘Wa Bala’, also brings crowds. Tourism vies with farming as the main industry. Bala is proudly Welsh with some 80% Welsh speaking including 95% of those attending junior school. It is a rare place in the World where learning the harp is part of the curriculum.
The town was founded in the early 14th Century and became famous in the 18th for manufacturing gloves, flannel, stockings and hosiery, with local people employed as ‘knitters’. There are notable buildings from that era, including Theological Methodist College and grammar school, founded in 1712.
MP Tom Ellis, close to David Lloyd George around the end of the 19th Century was a key figure in the independence movement. Ellis made a speech in Bala in 1890 calling for a legislative assembly. The statue in the main street is his. One of Ellis’s friends was Michael Daniel Jones, founder of a Welsh colony in Patagonia in 1865.
Statue of Liberal MP Tom Ellis
Betsi Cadwaladr, left the town aged 14 and went on to work with Florence Nightingale in the Crimea. Christopher Timothy, who starred in ‘All Creatures Great and Small’, was born in Bala and lived here until the age of five.
We left town to circumnavigate Bala’s main attraction, Bala Lake, Wales’s largest natural lake at four miles long, ¾ mile wide and 40 metres deep. The Welsh word ‘bala’ refers to the outflow of a lake and it didn’t disappoint, surrounded by hills and a haven for boats and ducks. It was created during the last Ice Age, glaciers blocking up the valley of the River Dee (Afon Dyfrdwy). It’s good to have a local legend and this one has the valley home to a cruel, despicable prince, ‘Tegid Foel’. The court harpist allegedly heard a bird urging him to flee the palace. The harpist climbed a hilltop, fell asleep, waking to find palace and the evil prince drowned beneath the new lake. You can’t beat a good story.
Ironically there is a real-life drowning too. Capel Celyn was submerged by waters rising behind the Llyn Celyn dam in 1965, built to regulate the flow of the Dee, providing Liverpool’s main source of drinking water. In dry summers the chapel, school and farms of the lost village rise above the water like silent sentinels.
The lake is the only known home of the ‘gwyniad’, a species of whitefish trapped at the end of the last Ice Age (likened to a landlocked herring). The lake has also been known to freeze occasionally (1947 and 1963).
Bala Lake
With all this water, there is a proliferation of water-borne activities, including, fishing, swimming, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and white-water rafting on the ‘Afon Tryweryn’ river. Bala Sailing Club, with predominately south westerly winds, provides ideal sailing conditions. There is also mountain biking, rock climbing and abseiling for those preferring a toehold on ‘terra firma’.
The Bala Lake Railway (Rheilffordd Llyn Tegid), first opened in 1868, is a two-foot narrow gauge line. Llanuwchllyn (‘the village above the lake’), with fine station building, is pretty, including a red telephone box masquerading as a ‘planter’. This is where the railway has its HQ, although there are also stations at Bala, Llangower and Pentrepiod, the latter a request stop.
The railway follows the route of the former Bala – Dolgellau Great Western Railway along the lake shore over 4½-miles, and is open from Easter until the end of September. The journey takes 25 minutes one way, with a 35 minute stop for coal and water. The line is a preservation success, as following line closure in 1965; this section was re-opened in 1971.
We had a lovely week to follow up on the north coast. Fabulous as it was, nothing left a greater impression than Bala with its homely main street, fabulous lake and narrow gauge railway. We hope to return sometime.
Words & Pictures: Stephen Roberts
Feature image: The station at Llanuwchllyn
First published in Welsh Country Magazine Mar-Apr 2018
The afternoon sun shone after a damp start to the day, as Llanfyllin Show welcomed a large crowd and record entries.
Show president Doug Williams:
“The show went very well with a strong attendance. We were fortunate that the sun shone early afternoon to provide a wonderful day in the stunning setting of Bodfach Park.
“There was so much for people to see at the show and everyone worked so hard to ensure it was successful. I don’t think I have ever walked so much in a day presenting trophies to the winners in all the different sections, ably assisted by my wife, Janet.”
Show secretary Sian Lewis revealed bumper entries across most sections. The entries included 1,000 in the horticulture and cookery sections, 350 in the horses section, 350 in the sheep sections, 130 in the sheep dog trials and 100 in the dog show.
In addition, 1,000 lambs were shorn in the Welsh Lamb Shearing Circuit and YFC speed shearing competitions and there were 70 trade stands for showgoers to attend.
This year’s show chairman was Peter Lewis, of Green Hall, Llanfyllin. The show was held at Bodfach Hall on land owned by Christopher and Laura Acton and Janet Jones, Parc. Main show sponsor was GNJ Steel Framed Building Ltd of Llanfyllin.
Attractions include a Mini Pony Show – Equestrian Razzle Dazzle, In Miniature!, dog agility displays, the traditional Village Green with activities for children, Porthywaen Silver Band, a Punch and Judy Show, a fun fair, vintage machinery parade and terrier racing. Showjumping took place in the main ring.
The cup winners were: Horses. Shire horses: Exhibitor gaining most points in the heavy horse section, C. D. Morris. Best exhibit, Susan Thomas; Exhibitor gaining most points in the open heavy horse section, Parkhall Shires. Best exhibit in foal section, C. D. Morris.
Janet Williams presents the Llanfyllin Show cup for best garden to Glenys Lloyd
Welsh Cobs: Best local mare or gelding, Kate Jones. Best exhibit, Julie Evans. Hunters: Best exhibit and best working hunter, Lilli Harries. Veteran champion, Izzy Ykinvig. Shetland: Champion Miniature Shetland, Jasmin Teague. Children’s riding class: Best lead rein and overall winner, Poppy Jackson. Local novice pony or mare, never to have won a first prize, Ruby Rayner. Child who tried hardest in the children’s riding classes, Jasmine Ruscoe.
Showjumping: Lead rein cross poles assisted, Jack Jones. Up to 90cm, Jack Stockton. Up to 100cm, Victoria Wadlow. Up to 110cm, Annie Dalton. In hand: Best In Hand section exhibit, Lee Ann Bellfield.
Cookery: Most points, Iestyn Evans, Llanfechain. Best exhibit in open section and best rich fruit cake, Ceri Griffiths. Most points in yeast classes, Margaret Herbert. Most points in preserves section, Jean Gittins. Children’s cookery: Most points four years and under, Isabella Price. Most points five to eight years, Ruby Hartshorn. Most points nine to 12 years, Guto Tomlinson. Seniors 13 – 17: Local exhibitor with most points, Ruby Evans. YFC most points, Tonicha Horn.
Handicrafts: Most points in open sections, Sue Hughes. Local children with most points, Emmy Nazar and Elin Jones. Best exhibit in children’s section, Emmy Nazar. Most points in under four years, Harri Lloyd. Best exhibit five to nine years, Huw Roberts. Photography: Best exhibit, Seren Wilson.
Horticulture: Most points in sections B and C, Barry Price. Most points in section A, John Langham. Best onion exhibit: Barry Price. Best carrot exhibit, Will Denne. Children’s classes: Best exhibit, Eira Tampsan. Best collection of wild flowers and grasses, Alice Roberts. Best exhibit in classes 670 – 676, Elis Morris. Most points in classes 670 – 676, Beca Morris. Best exhibit in class 677, Beca Morris. Garden competition: Best exhibit, Glyn and Glenys Lloyd.
Sheepdog trials: Open, Gethin Jones; Class 2, Alan Ll. Jones. Agriculture Cup for local person gaining most points in agricultural classes, Davies family, Gornal Flock.
Agricultural produce: Best bale of hay, Katy Howells. Best Vintage Machinery Exhibit, Peter Brown. Best commercial stand, Montgomeryshire Beekeepers Association.
Feature image: Janet Williams presents a cup to Barry Price for most points in horticulture sections B and C at Llanfyllin Show.
Do you know someone in Powys aged 50+ who served in the Armed Forces? Tell them about the new services for Veterans from Age Cymru Powys to help support our Armed Forces community.
Age Cymru Powys is asking the Powys community to get behind them and make a pledge to spread the word about their new services, to help the charity identify and support older Veterans.
Many older Veterans in Powys are missing out on money and specialist Veterans support that is rightfully theirs. Many services have moved online, but if Veterans are unfamiliar with the internet, this can also leave them cut off from help.
Gail Colbridge, Chief Officer of Age Cymru Powys, explains why the new Veterans services are particularly needed in Powys:
“Older Veterans in Powys tell us that accessing Veteran-specific services and social activities can be challenging, particularly for those living with disabilities or mobility issues, due to the long journeys and limited transport. Many are not aware of entitlements, resulting in financial hardship.”
“That’s why Age Cymru Powys is proud to be funded by and working with The Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust for the Veterans MOT and Camaraderie Club. We offer home visits and a telephone social group, to ensure that no Powys Veterans are forgotten.”
The charity is asking local people to tell their family, friends, colleagues and neighbours who have military connections about the two new services for Powys Veterans:
Camaraderie Club – a new social telephone club for Veterans aged 50+. Regular group calls to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and be part of a great community. No technology or equipment is needed – just a landline or mobile phone.
Veterans MOT – A new ‘Check-Up’ service for Veterans aged 65+. Covering all aspects of getting older, supporting Veterans to enjoy later life. Help with the Cost-of-Living; health and wellbeing; support at home; future planning; connections to Veterans services.
Gavin, 58, in Llangammarch Wells, said about the Camaraderie Club:
“I enjoy the camaraderie and shared experiences with the other Veterans. It’s great to have a space to talk about topics of interest and things that only other Veterans can understand, without even having to leave the house.”
Meirion Davies, 83, and his wife Anne, 76, live in Meifod. Both have a military background. They were very pleased to share the outcome of their recent Veterans MOT:
“We had two visits from Gwyneth – her knowledge of Veterans’ services, allowances, housing and wellbeing was extremely helpful to myself and my husband, her help has been exceptional.”
How can you help spread the word to Veterans living in Powys?
Tell people you know who have military connections about the new Veterans services
Share the leaflets and posters in your village hall, noticeboard, or local shop
Volunteer with Age Cymru Powys to support Veterans in your community
Include a description of our Veterans services in your newsletter
Book a talk by Gwyneth, ACP Veterans Officer, for your social group
Gwyneth Barrowclough, Veterans Officer at Age Cymru Powys, is a Veteran herself and is leading both Veterans services for the charity. Gwyneth is urging local Veterans to get in touch:
“You have nothing to lose by having a chat Veteran-to-Veteran. One phone call could make it worthwhile. You served our country, now it’s our turn to ensure you have the support you need in your later life.”
Who is a ‘Veteran’ in the UK? Anyone who has served for at least one day in Her Majesty’s Armed Forces (Regular or Reserve) or Merchant Mariners who have seen duty on legally defined military operations.
If you, or any Veterans you know, could benefit from the new Veterans services, or if you would like some Veterans leaflets and posters to share, then get in touch with Age Cymru Powys.
Gwyneth Barrowclough, Veterans Officer, Age Cymru Powys, Old Warehouse, Parkers Lane, Newtown, Powys SY16 2LT
Call: 01686 623707 | Email: enquiries@acpowys.org.uk | Website: www.agecymru.org.uk/powys
A partnership helping local businesses and community groups promote healthy and sustainable food has been given a national award.
Torfaen Food4Growth aims to increase locally produced food by creating a network of food producers and suppliers, providing grants to help food businesses diversity, and supporting organisations to find sustainable solutions to food poverty.
The partnership has now been given a silver award by the UK Sustainable Food Places programme, which recognises areas that are driving innovation and best practice on all aspects of healthy and sustainable food.
Leon Ballin, the Sustainable Food Places Programme Manager, said:
“The Torfaen Food Partnership has shown just what can be achieved when creative and committed people work together to make healthy and sustainable food a defining characteristic of where they live.
“While there is still much to do and many challenges to overcome, Torfaen Food Partnership has helped to set a benchmark for the other members of the UK Sustainable Food Places Network to follow.
“They should be very proud of the work that they have been doing to transform our collective food culture and food system for the better.”
This year, the council’s food resilience team has given grants to 34 community groups and 13 businesses through the Food4Growth partnership.
The Cwmbran Centre for Young People received a community grant to provide young people with cooking lessons, as well as lessons in preserving food, bread making and butter churning.
The centre has also used the grant to buy ingredients from Monachty Farm Shop, which has also received a grant to develop new food products and techniques, and support jobs, at their farm shop in Mamhilad.
Councillor Sue Morgan, Executive Member for Waste and Sustainability, said:
“What the team has achieved to date is brilliant, and I know they are working hard to work with as many food-related groups as possible.
“I would like to congratulate them for winning this award, it goes to show what hard work and dedication can achieve.”
The Torfaen Food4Growth partnership includes Torfaen Council, Torfaen Voluntary Association, Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, as well as 80 businesses and community organisations.
The Food Resilience Programme is funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund and Welsh Government.
I love that this wonderful bath and shower gel is now available in a sophisticated Infinite Bottle, I’m trying very hard to respect our planet and this certainly helps. This Infinite bottle is a more sustainable, longer-lasting bottle and has been crafted from 100% recycled aluminium. I also think this bottle looks so classy in our bathroom that I now want one on our downstairs loo too!
But moving on from the bottle, the contents are really special too. This bath and shower gel invigorates your senses with Molton Brown’s iconic woody fragrance of piquant black pepper, spicy coriander and earthy vetiver. It is an energising fragrance which I so enjoy using.
Now this is a simple way to treat yourself and our planet and this refill saves you money too! This is Molton Brown’s iconic woody body wash in a waste-reducing Refill with their clever fusion of energising black pepper, spicy coriander and earthy vetiver. I am impressed that Molton Brow are encouraging us to have a lower impact on our planet and this Refill is so easy to fill up your plastic or Infinite Bottle.
The off-road trek from rocky peaks to savannah grass canyons. A spice-spiked shot of heated black pepper kicks into the subtle woodiness of coriander. Robust and complex, earthy vetiver is grounded by deep, assured oakmoss. Re-charge your routine; conquer the adventure with our iconic fragrance.
Meet The Perfumer
Jacques Chabert, Master Perfumer
With 50 years’ experience, Jacques is the expert architect behind our iconic Re-charge Black Pepper and Heavenly Gingerlily collections. His fragrant flair is one he’s passed onto his perfumer daughters, Carla and Elsa, who have created some of our other signature fragrances.
Did You Know?
When creating this collection, we wanted to do the right thing and not just something that looks right. After doing a Life Cycle Analysis (which compares the environmental impact of packaging solutions), we learnt that aluminium needs to be made from at least 75% recycled material to be more sustainable than plastic.
We don’t need to tell you how important rugby is to the Welsh way of life; it starts from a young age. Our nation’s commitment to nurturing young talent is evident in the numerous rugby camps available during the summer, which provide budding players with the perfect opportunity to develop their skills.
Summer Rugby Camps Across Wales
Wales offers a variety of summer rugby camps for players of all ages and skill levels, run by professional clubs, schools, and specialised organisations.
Cardiff Rugby Summer Camps: These camps for ages 6-14 focus on skill development through fun activities at various locations, including Cardiff Arms Park.
Dragons Rugby Skills Camps: Designed for ages 7-12, these camps offer skill development at multiple venues within the Dragons’ region.
While Wales is home to many prestigious rugby camps, Llandovery College deserves special mention due to its historical significance and the calibre of players it has produced, many of whom have contributed significantly to rugby scores and results at the international level.
The school’s partnership with Thrive Sports Co to host a summer rugby residential camp provides an unparalleled opportunity for young players to train in a professional environment. Running from 12th to 16th August, this camp offers participants not only advanced coaching, but also a taste of what it takes to progress to the highest levels of the sport.
Legacy of Llandovery College
Llandovery College has an illustrious record of producing over 50 international rugby players who have significantly shaped Welsh rugby on the global stage. Here are some of its most distinguished:
George North, known for his incredible speed and strength, has earned over 100 caps for Wales and has been a key player in multiple Six Nations Championships and British & Irish Lions tours.
Josh Adams, another product of Llandovery, emerged as a prolific try-scorer, especially during the 2019 Rugby World Cup, where he finished as the tournament’s top try-scorer.
Gareth Davies, renowned for his agility and sharp instincts as a scrum-half, has consistently delivered match-winning performances for Wales, particularly in the Six Nations.
Alun Wyn Jones, perhaps the most iconic of them all, has captained Wales and the British & Irish Lions, becoming the world’s most-capped rugby player, and leading his team to numerous victories on the international stage.
Conclusion
Welsh rugby starts at school, and the opportunities provided by summer rugby camps across the country are instrumental in nurturing the next generation of rugby stars. Whether at Llandovery College or other renowned institutions and clubs, these camps offer young players the chance to develop their skills, gain valuable experience, and step onto the path towards donning the red jersey.
Monty’s Brewery, based in Montgomery, have now sold over 20,000 pints of their Navigation Pale Ale and each pint resulted in a donation to support the restoration of the Montgomery Canal.
The ale, a 4.0 per cent strength light bitter, was introduced in April 2023 and was promoted by Shropshire Union Canal Society volunteers visiting pubs and explaining the idea to publicans.
Waterside pubs around the Shropshire network were targeted first but now the beer is sold by distributors in Wales, Lancashire and the Midlands. Initially sold in casks, it is now also available bottled and is being sold both in selected off-licences and online directly from Monty’s Brewery.
Anticipated yearly donations from beer sales are from £1,200 to £1,500. This sum will be used in applications to grant-giving bodies for what is called matched funding — Societies applying for grants are expected to raise a given amount themselves, normally 10 per cent.
“Working with enthusiastic volunteers enhances our business; they promote the beer and give us regular communication on how the money is spent. Watching the progress made on the canal and being part of a great project is a real boost to our business”.
Dave Carter, Chairman of Shropshire Union Canal Society said,
“Working with local companies is a win–win situation; we both raise funds whilst helping economic growth. The volunteers love the beer as an extra bonus”.
Archaeologists have uncovered a Roman settlement and what is thought to be an extremely rare early Medieval longhouse in North East Wales.
The team from the University of Chester, Heneb: the Trust for Welsh Archaeology (Clwyd-Powys region), and the Portable Antiquities Scheme unearthed important structural features and materials dating to the Roman era and, from initial indications, the early Medieval period, during an excavation at a site near the Holt Roman tile and pottery works, in Wrexham.
The archaeological dig, earlier in the summer, was part of a wider University of Chester-funded project investigating Roman Wrexham which began with the first-ever discovery of the remains of a Roman villa in North East Wales.
The team, which included University of Chester students and local volunteers, appear to have found the structure of an early Medieval longhouse – a long, narrow, building for communal dwelling – and a trackway, structures, building materials, ceramics, including a stamped legionary tile, and a fragment of a brooch, revealing there was also a Roman settlement at the site.
The project was led by Chris Matthews of Heneb, Dr Caroline Pudney of the University of Chester and Steve Grenter, former county archaeologist and Heritage Services Manager at Wrexham Council, with support from Dr Susie White, Finds Liaison Officer for the Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS Cymru).
A short documentary on the excavations and discoveries is due to be released later this year.
Dr Pudney, Senior Lecturer in Archaeology at the University of Chester said:
“We were very hopeful of finding evidence of Roman life due to previous discoveries and geophysical surveys in the area, not to mention the presence of the legionary tileworks a few fields away, but did not expect our excavations to uncover what is believed to be an early Medieval longhouse.
“The discovery of a Roman settlement is extremely important in building a bigger picture of Roman Wrexham and although early Medieval longhouses have been found in other parts of Wales, to unearth evidence of such a building in North East Wales is extremely rare.”
Mr Matthews, Project Archaeologist and Geophysicist with Heneb, added:
“While we are yet to begin the post-excavation investigations, during which all the findings will be analysed, the samples processed and scientific dating obtained, this is potentially a very exciting new find for the region, which could help us to fill in current gaps in understanding about the construction and use of Medieval longhouses.”
The dig followed trial trenching carried out by the Holt Local History Society between 2013 and 2017, during which a significant quantity of Roman ceramics and other objects were recovered. An examination of these artefacts, some of which are now held by Wrexham Museum, led to Heneb and the University of Chester undertaking geophysical surveys which further enhanced the site’s archaeological potential.
Despite unfavourable geological conditions, the surveys, which comprised high-resolution magnetometry, revealed a clear outline of a gridded settlement and road system, as well as distinct rectangular structures just outside the settlement boundaries.
I am a huge fan of Neom and the reason for that is I have yet to try a product from them that doesn’t do what Neom say it does, definitely a company I can rely on and trust. So I am sure you’ll love this new luxury cocooning shower cream. Quite often my showering is included in the daily rush of things to do, but on my first try with this lovely shower cream I didn’t hurry in the shower but took my time to thoroughly enjoy such a creamy cleanser. It worked really well to cleanse and nourish my skin whilst also helping create some real moments of calm in my showering routine. My skin felt much softer and soothed thanks to the moisturising evening primrose oil and the aloe vera which softened and soothed my skin. The sunflower seed and soybean oils worked to maintain my skin barrier and support its ability to retain moisture. Also it contained a calming blend of chamomile, fennel and hops, along with lavender to help soothe, geranium to help uplift your spirits, cedarwood to help de-stress and chamomile to help reduce any tension.
I must say that I agree with a survey that Neom undertook with the feedback saying 81% saying “it feels like a quick wellbeing treat when time is precious.
When we arrived in Llandudno we initially ignored the thrills of the excellent tramway; we did that in the afternoon. In the morning we went up the Great Orme by car because we were looking for a grave. It is what we do. We went to the graveyard of St Tudnos Church in its spectacular but rather exposed location, high above the sea, looking out towards the Lancashire coast. It took a while but we found where Walter Beaumont is remembered, up in the top corner next to the boundary wall. It is small and unassuming, a neat panel mounted on a piece of rough stone.
Professor Walter Beaumont. Died August 1924.
Aged 69 years.
Natus es Natandum Mortem ex undis rapuisti.
It means ‘Born to swim – Death snatched from the waves.’ A fine epitaph for a life-saver.
Walter was born in London in 1855 and showed an early proficiency in swimming. At the age of ten he rescued two brothers who fell into a canal and so found his vocation. He first went to work in the merchant navy as a ship’s engineer but appears to have spent much of his time keeping the unfortunate afloat in the oceans of the world. Not all of us find out what we are good at, but he was lucky. He did.
Walter Beaumont’s gravestone, St Tudnos Church, Llandudno
By 1880 he had become a professional swimmer and in addition to working as a lifeguard in Llandudno, he developed a career as an entertainer touring the world with his own troupe of female swimmers, which included his own daughter Alice. Like manic goldfish, they provided thrills and spills inside a glorified fish tank.
The lucky residents of Rockhampton in Australia were thrilled in October 1892 by the crystal glass tank, ‘heated and illuminated,’ in which Walter – the ‘Man-Fish’ – sat at the bottom and played a game of cards whilst smoking a cigar. ‘The cards over, Lily Vane, ‘The Amphibious Queen,’ did some fancy work, and then Little Alice went through some very clever tumbling feats. Professor Beaumont was immersed for 3 mins. 28 sec.’
His act on other occasions might involve drinking a bottle of milk underwater, or he might escape from a weighted sack in which he had been tied or he might pick up over forty coins from the bottom of the tank, store them in his mouth and then surface to count them out in front of the astonished audience. How you wish you could have been there.
Eventually Walter claimed to hold five world records. He said he held the record for saving lives from drowning, the world record for picking up coins from the bottom of a tank, ‘the best record in the world for scientific and ornamental swimming’ and he said he was the fastest swimmer in the world, holding the I00 yards record. Oh yes, and he also claimed another world record by staying underwater for 4 minutes 35 seconds at the Alhambra Theatre in Melbourne in December 1893. Afterwards he was examined by a doctor who said that the circulation had stopped in his head above the ears, a condition which didn’t seem to trouble him much. Walter said that he felt fine and went straight to his dressing room after lifting his tired daughters out of the tank.
Exciting as this was, life didn’t always go swimmingly. In 1888 he was summoned in a paternity case by one of his swimming troupe, Lily Mason. She was nineteen and was demanding maintenance for a child. He denied it was his, though he had sent his brother to try and buy her off. She told the court that his behaviour was a little unsettling. He could sometimes be found hiding under the beds of the girls in the swimming troupe, which generally is not conducive to a restful night’s sleep. He explained his difficulties by telling the court that he was concerned that the diving tank was cracked and he was worried about how it could be replaced. The judge smiled sympathetically and ordered him to pay maintenance of five shillings a week.
Of course as a performer you live and die by your publicity and his schemes sometimes got him into trouble. In 1890 his ten year old daughter Alice was detained on a charge of disorderly conduct when she began to undress prior to jumping into the Thames from London Bridge in a publicity stunt. Her parents were charged with aiding and abetting by Detective Roper who had intervened, announcing rather grandly, ‘I am a police officer and shall stop her going over this bridge.’ A crowd had gathered and the Beaumont’s argued, quite convincingly, that any obstruction had actually been caused by the policeman arresting them and anyway what was the problem? Alice was a professional swimmer who had been throwing herself off Llandudno Pier for years.
The judge was less charitable. He could not understand how they could endanger Alice’s life ‘simply for the sake of notoriety or pecuniary advantage.’ They were bound over to keep the peace for six months. But launching themselves off bridges was what the family did. Walter himself once dived from a height of 82 feet from the top of Conwy Bridge to raise money for the families of four boatmen who drowned in the estuary.
Walter Beaumont eventually gave up touring and settled in Llandudno in 1895 where, in addition to acting as the ever-alert lifeguard and offering swimming lessons, he and Little Alice gave afternoon exhibitions of ‘ornamental swimming’ in the sea and high diving from the pier. He would treat the crowd to his ‘Handcuff Dive’, when he would dive into the sea secured in police handcuffs like Houdini, and then surface with his hands free. His ‘Fire Dive’ was performed at twilight. He would be wrapped in a sack which was set alight and then thrown into the sea .He would then emerge like Neptune from the depths. He continued to amaze the public with his underwater displays in the glass-sided tank in the Egyptian Hall at the Pier Pavilion where he sometimes challenged young men in the audience to submerge themselves in his tank and then peel an apple underwater in a race against the clock – or presumably drowning.
He was given the rather grand title of ‘Rescuer of the Beach’ by the Town Commissioners of Llandudno in 1903 when he was presented with an illuminated scroll for saving of 113 people from drowning in his lifetime, including, in 1897, a sheep which chose to run into the sea rather than continue its march to the butchers. How grateful the sheep was for the Professor’s intervention isn’t recorded. He was also official keeper of the town dog ‘Jack Brown’ though he was prosecuted for allowing it to wander around Llandudno unattended. He eventually became a member of the Urban District Council but he could do little to improve his finances.
There was little money to be made by holding your breath for long periods and as Walter became older he moved into hotel management. He took over the Kings Head pub in 1898 but he was not a businessman and bankruptcy proceedings for debts amounting to £596 were eventually brought against him in 1910 by the brewers Ind Coope. Bankruptcy cannot have come as a surprise, as it was revealed that ‘he kept no books or accounts and had been aware of his insolvency for six or seven years.’ Walter blamed his problems on ill-health and was bemused by the laughter in court when he told them that he bet large sums on horses, but only when the horse told him it was going to win.
When he died in 1924, Walter was living quietly as the licencee of the Ferry Hotel in Tal-Y-Cafn in the Conwy Valley. He also operated a small pleasure craft on the River Conwy and they say that on the day it ran into difficulties, Walter made sure that everyone was returned safely to the river bank. However he was in the cold water for much too long. He caught a chill and died. He was 69.
How can you sum up such an unusual life, the sort of life that it would be so unlikely today?’. He found a vocation which suited him perfectly and not everyone manages to do that, but Walter was never so happy or so comfortable as when he was in the water. Everybody, he said, should learn to swim, for swimming was just as easy as walking. If he had a journey to go he would rather swim it than walk.
Perhaps though I should leave the last word with the people of Llandudno: ‘A more useful life’s work than that of Professor Beaumont it would be hard to find.’
This is a clinically-proven brightening eye cream from Farmacy that instantly reduces the look of dark circles, puffiness under the eyes and also smooths fine lines as it contains vitamin C and hydrating honey. Encapsulated caffeine and upcycled cranberry peptide in this honey eye cream helps smooth crow’s feet and also fights wrinkles over time. This is such a gentle vitamin C eye cream that is safe to use around your entire eye area, including eyelids. It has been dermatologically tested and ophthalmologist approved.
I really did enjoy using this eye product as it really does brighten the eye area in minutes. The skin around the eye area is so delicate so this gentle, yet potent vitamin C eye cream was superb. It has been formulated with tetrahexyldecyl (THD) ascorbate, a highly stable and antioxidant-rich derivative of vitamin C that basically gives your eye area a much brighter appearance as it cleverly reduces the size and the intensity of dark circles over time. Dark circles have been a problem for me for what seems like forever and I am sure that this is the best eye cream I have found! It has encapsulated caffeine and upcycled cranberry peptide that penetrates your skin to help combat these very annoying dark circles, fine lines and de puff any maddening bags under your eyes. This antioxidant-rich honey blend soothes and moisturises, whilst hyaluronic acid delivers instant hydration. This is such a lovely silky cream that gives your eye a perfect canvas for your make-up.
To use, tap and gently smooth a pea-size amount, which is sufficient to cover both eyes, of the vitamin C eye cream onto your under eye, your outer eye as well as your eyelid up to the brow bone. Use AM & PM and apply after your moisturiser.
Oliver Bennett, Stephen Greig and Chris Harrison first became involved with the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways (F&WHR), as young volunteers in 1999.
The trio have now each clocked up 25 years working and volunteering on the railway.
Stephen, Chris and Ollie joined as members of ‘Young Volunteers Week’ (known then as “Kids’ Week”) in their early teens.
On the exact anniversary, 4th August 2024, the three teamed up to run the 10:40 ‘Mountain Spirit’ departure from Harbour Station.
Stephen as Guard, Chris as a volunteer Driver, with Oliver as On-Train Steward.
Stephen, who is now the F&WHR Visitor Experience Manager, said:
“The team working on the then “Kids’ Week” were passionate about making the railway as inclusive and open as possible to volunteers.
“Group leader Eileen Clayton MBE, encouraged and engaged people at a level that was suitable and safe for them, ensuring that volunteering on the railway was made possible for everyone once they were too old for children’s activities – matching peoples’ skill sets and levels of ability to volunteering roles.”
Stephen added:
“It is especially important to not only say just how much our volunteers do for the railway, but the other way around as well. The railway has taught all three of us many skills, life lessons and experiences.
“It is thanks to these skills that Oliver and I have had the opportunity to work here full time. Chris was also a paid staff member but moved on to drive for other railway companies – again, using the skills that he learnt on the F&WHR.”
Oliver, now F&WHR On Train Services Supervisor, added:
“I did not expect, when I started all those years ago, to work my way up to a senior position. It is fun working here and busy – and one thing about it, you make lifelong friendships.”
Chris Harrison, who drives for mainline TOC ‘Great Western Railway’ in his day job, added:
“The best thing about being here, as well as the friends, has been qualifying as a driver – that was what I wanted to do when I first visited the railway.”
In fact, back in 2007, Chris became the railway’s then youngest qualified steam loco driver.
He added:
“It is really a cool thing to do and very nostalgic to get together with Ollie and Stephen to run the train today. I am looking forward now to clocking up 30 years as a volunteer!”
Also marking a milestone in the same week is Guard, Matt Hall.
Matt joined at just under 14 years old in 2004, he was too young to take part properly in the Young Person’s volunteer week, so had to bring his mum along.
Undeterred, he has gone on to be a key member of the volunteering staff!
Festiniog Railway Company, Sefydlwyd 23 Mai 1832 gan Ddeddf Seneddol / Established 23rd May 1832 by Act of Parliament
Matt said:
“Having Linda haul ‘The Quarryman’ on my 20th anniversary was also nostalgically appropriate, as her fellow Penrhyn Lady ‘Blanche’ hauled the Induction Train on my first Kids’ Week twenty years ago as well!
“Passengers on ‘The Quarryman’ really added to the occasion – as I walked through the train checking tickets each carriage applauded once they learnt the significance of the day to me. “Not going to lie, it did feel a bit emotional at this point. A timely reminder of why everyone here does what they do.”
General Manager of the F&WHR, Paul Lewin said: “Congratulations to Stephen, Oliver, Chris and Matt, they are a real asset to our railway. I hope the 2024 cohort from ‘Young Volunteers Week’ follow in their footsteps.
“Volunteering is how I began my career many years ago. I would encourage anyone thinking about volunteering here, to give it a go and become part of something special.”
There’s information about ‘Young Volunteers’ week and other ways to volunteer on the Ffestiniog Railway Society’s website here.
Diane Hinds is a dynamic PR Director known for her vibrant personality and exceptional talent in supporting a diverse range of domestic and international clients. Passionate about empowering independent writers and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with essential Public Relations skills, Diane’s influence extends across multiple creative industries.
With a strong foundation in music PR, Diane has successfully represented clients in the operatic, literary, and mainstream arenas. Her expertise and dedication have made her a trusted partner for artists, concert promoters, record labels, publishers and authors alike.
Diane’s academic journey is as inspiring as her professional one. At the age of 51, she earned her Master’s in 2014. Her achievements in education led to an invitation to join the University of Westminster as a Visiting Lecturer. There, she has been instrumental in teaching the Campaigning & Persuasive Skills module within the UK’s top-rated Public Relations & Advertising course, according to the Guardian League table in 2015 and 2016.
From 2014 to 2018, Diane expanded her influence internationally, serving as a Guest Visitor at UCLA’s Extension Writers’ Program. She imparted her PR expertise to students in the Personal Essay (Writing and Getting Published) course, led by Victoria Zackheim.
Beyond academia, Diane has made significant contributions to the literary world through her collaboration with best-selling author Anne Perry. She devised and produced a series of instructional writing films, including Put Your Heart On The Page: An Introduction To Writing, Plotting To Enrich Your Back Story, and Developing Your Characters, all available on Amazon. The National Council of Libraries in the US praised these films for their utility in supporting high school and college creative writing curricula.
Diane’s passion for knowledge-sharing doesn’t stop there. She created her own pocket guide book, How To Promote Your Book, which debuted at the Love Is Murder literary festival in Chicago in 2015. The book’s success led to invitations to speak at libraries, literary festivals, Business & IP Centres (BIPCs), and writer’s groups across the UK and the US, including Southern Nevada and California.
Diane Hinds continues to inspire and empower through her work, leaving an indelible mark on both the public relations and literary communities
Grubs are a new company to me and I am cross with myself for missing out on this brand when I’m such a horse and dog lover person. That’s a great mistake by me and even more so when I learned more about this company that is loved around the world. It is a family business which has evolved through generations of the Foster family who can trace their history back to 1776. The company initially was making for the local community, specialising in the new sports starting up in Victorian and Edwardian Britain, this was the springboard to a global brand. Grubs have a mission to identify and bring to market products that make outdoor sports more enjoyable and their tradition has guided them to provide you with the best gear available – so don’t be silly like me and get checking them out.
Well that back story was all I needed to try and test their Frostline 5.0 Classic which is an insulated and fully waterproof boot that has outstanding grip. Well boots that are waterproof, warm, and comfortable and have a superb grip tick my boxes. I also loved that there is 5MM Insu-Foam Ultra that gave my feet all round foot comfort and insulation. There is also 6mm Nitrocell footbed that provided a soft cushioning and gave rather an athletic shoe feel, plus a million microscopic nitrogen bubbles insulate your feet from cold surfaces. So many plus points to these boots which sounded unbelievable to me, but take my word for it I have never had wellies that were so comfy and a treat for my feet. These Frostline boots have what the company call an Underfoot Chassis to ensure that the wearer has a sure-footed platform. Wearing boots all day around the stable yard or farm yard, your feet must be comfortable and these boots have Hexzorb technology which absorbs heel strike shock to your feet so they don’t feel tired and sore. They also have a Trax outsole which gives you a superior grip on a variety of surfaces and this tread is designed to work with the action of your foot. My final love was the Superdri lining which I found to be hard wearing, as this lining wicks moister away from your foot so your boots don’t end up being sweaty and uncomfortable, it’s fungus and rot proof so will not smell like ordinary cotton-lined boots. Anyone working outside in all weathers will get great comfort from this range of boots. I would urge you to visit their website as there is so much detail about their range.
Black
Tawny Red
Violet
I am regularly on my local beaches dog walking and a favourite walk is to clamber across the sand dunes, heading for the beach and the sea. We talk about the ‘British Summer’ but we all know that can often surprise showers and your feet are wet! Well not with these wonderful wellies. Recently I saw some families struggling on one of our local campsites and others at a very soggy music festival, so forgive me for feeling smug with my lovely warm and dry feet, comfortably cushioned in my fabulous Frostline boots! With lots of bright colours to choose from you can even wear them to the pub after your beach walk.
It also makes sense that you take care of your boots, by hosing down after each wear and every month wash off any excess dirt with just water, but for a deep clean use water with a mild soap. Gently scrub with a soft bristle brush until your boots are clean, then leave the boots to air dry naturally and not on a direct heat source. Once dry, apply a rubber conditioner or natural oil to replace the lost plasticising agents in the rubber areas of the boot, taking extra care around the flex points of the toe and ankle areas. The company recommend customers buy the Revivex rubber care spray which can be found on grubswarehouse.com.
So the message to care for these beautiful boots is: BRUSH ME! WASH ME! OIL ME!
Sizes: 3 – 8 | Colours: bell weather blue, tawny red, violet, black and green
Price: £109.95 | Visit: grubswarehouse.com
Take from their website:
Eight generations of our family have been crafting the finest sports footwear since 1776.
Joe Foster, my Great Grandfather, was a founding member of AAA, hand making shoes for the Olympic stars of 1924; Harold Abrams and Eric Liddell, featured in ‘Chariots of Fire’.
My Father and Uncle founded Reebok in 1960 and I was part of the team that created the iconic aerobic and fitness shoes that the company is renowned for.
My wife, Jan and I created the neoprene revolution in sports and agricultural boots back in 2000.
At Grubs® our tradition guides us to provide you with the most comfortable performance footwear available today.
We stand out by being an innovator of products that represent new levels of comfort and practicality. We are connected to our history and its timeless traditions, but our focus is on making products that will endure into the future. To keep us on the cutting edge we create revolutionary designs that make our competition obsolete. We continue to go beyond the expected to create the most functional, yet elegant products available, so that they become the benchmark by which others are measured.
Please note that our Wellington Boots have a 15mm allowance for wool blend/combination socks. With this in mind, we would recommend purchasing the same size you are in your everyday comfortable footwear. For half-sizing due to the allowance we would recommend sizing down.
Sometimes you have to just drop it all and head on out. In our case, this meant throwing together a picnic and heading out to the back end of Margam country park.
Stopping at the wooden adventure playground to allow my daughter some time to play, we leisurely munched our way through salads and sandwiches, and basked a little in the afternoon’s warmth.
“Look at those ducks, dad! Can I go and have a look?!” she asked, pointing to a flock of Canada geese milling around at the edge of a nearby lake. I saw no harm in it, so told her she could go, at which she bounded over without a second thought. She walked over to within eight or nine feet of where they stood and, due to the packet of crisps in her hand, immediately had their attention. Without thinking, she walked a few feet closer to them and then emptied the remainder of the packet onto the grass, and it was only when they began waddling in Elle’s direction that I noticed how they were standing.
Those keenest to reach the free offerings, who hadn’t taken their eyes off the little pile were a horde of soft brown goslings. But as they spread out and moved forward, I noticed a small ring of adults around them – males, all on guard duty. A crèche, then. The little ones seemed to strain to investigate what had been left for them, but the wise old heads simply shuffled a little left here, slightly to the right there, herding the youngsters back to the safety of the water’s edge where they continued to graze.
A couple of confident rooks detached themselves from the bedlam of the rookery in the treetops behind us. Unhurried, the geese guided their charges slowly further around the lake, signalling time for us to move on.
We rounded the lake, all the while laughing and keeping our eyes on the geese keeping their eyes on us, until we neared the path up to the hill trails. We rounded some bushes and there, not twenty feet away from us, five roe deer lifted their heads suddenly. They’re not an uncommon sight and are used to human contact, so they didn’t bolt as we approached. Nevertheless, I moved my family outward to give the deer a wide berth until we were up the gentle gradient and sitting near the path, about a hundred yards or so from the deer.
Teas all round. I poured from the flask and handed Elle a chocolate biscuit. As we began to get stuck in to our refreshments, we watched on as two stags emerged from the bushes less than ten yards from where we had just passed the does. They must have known we were nearby earlier, and decided that we were no threat, but still I couldn’t help but consider it a close thing.
“Look at those, dad!” Elle said, pointing down at them.
“Yes love, handsome, aren’t they?” I replied, pulling her in slightly closer to my side.
Devils Bridge Dark Cherry Liqueur is the new product that has excited the market so much that their first batch ran out very quickly and now are putting together a second batch.
The Devils Bridge Dark Cherry Liqueur will continue to be made in small limited batches. Crafted from the richest dark cherries and premium rum, each bottle being a masterpiece of deep cherry flavours intertwined with whispers of cinnamon and spice.
Prior to the first batch being made Devils Bridge Rum wanted to make sure that the new Devils Bridge Dark Cherry Liqueur was up to their usual demanding high quality standards. They did not have to worry with the testers commenting:
“Amazing product! Felt a lot of nostalgia reminding me of cherry drops from when I was younger”
“I got a sample and it’s wonderful. I use it on cocktails in place of other cherry liqueurs now”
“This cherry liqueur is just the right kind of sweet. Love sipping it on its own, but it’s also great in a cocktail.”
Well that first batch of 500 bottles rapidly sold out with orders being limited to each buyer at a price of £28.00 for a 70cl bottle.
The Devils Bridge Dark Cherry Liqueur is a versatile drink. Brilliant on the rocks, but with the addition of a mixer such a coke of lemonade becomes a succulent longer drink. In addition though this versatile liqueur can become the heart of a cocktail with one possibility joining with its base of further Devils Bridge Spiced Rum.
The Devils Bridge Spiced rum has to date won 9 global awards and this new Devils Bridge Dark Cherry Liqueur is sure to follow.
As the next batch is in preparation the best way to purchase your bottle of The Devils Bridge Dark Cherry Liqueur is to sign up to the Devils Bridge Newsletter.
To sign up for the newsletter is easy appearing at the bottom of each of their website pages and that way you will be the first to know when the next batch of Devils Bridge Dark Cherry Liqueur is available.
Around 400,000 tonnes of food goes to waste in Wales each year, much of it still good to eat. If just 1% of that was saved, it could be used to provide over 9 million meals—enough to provide three meals to every person in Wales. Simultaneously, a quarter of the population of Wales is facing poverty and struggling to access quality, nutritious food. Thousands of people across the country are experiencing food insecurity and are regularly going hungry.
FareShare Cymru was established in 2010 and delivers surplus, good to eat food that might otherwise go to waste to charities and community groups in every corner of Wales. Today FareShare Cymru has distributed tonnes of surplus food to a network of groups and organisations across Wales that provide food and other essential services to people in need. From cookery classes and lunch clubs in community centres, to school breakfast clubs, stocking the shelves of community pantries and providing hearty meals in homelessness shelters, food redistributed by FareShare Cymru is used by charities in a variety of ways. It enables these groups to bring people together and continue offering their essential support services.
One of those groups we support is the Ystradowen Community Centre CGYCC, a centre that works extremely hard to build and maintain a crucial sense of community in the area. The community hub covers 3 counties and caters to everybody from all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
Emily, a project support officer involved in managing the centre, describes its inclusive nature:
“We cover as many areas as we can, we have no boundaries. It’s here for everyone to use, anyone who needs the services. It’s open to anybody and everybody”. Despite the challenges faced by the community centre, they continually strive to provide the local community with services and events that they need.
There’s over 18 clubs and services that are run from the centre including a ‘Ti a Fi’ childcare group, a gardening club, a book club, and a lunch service for senior members of the community. The centre also provides transport for the community including a shuttle bus to and from their clubs, hospital transfers, and trips to various locations across the country; public transport infrastructure is poor in the area, so this part of their service is extremely valuable and helps people get to and from places they might struggle to reach: “We have a minibus and a community car so the centre is accessible to all. We only get 3 or 4 public buses a day.”
Dai, a volunteer for over 10 years, comments on the range of services offered:
“If there’s a gap in community provision, we’ll try our best to fill that gap. If anybody comes up with an idea, it doesn’t matter what it is or where the people are from, we’ll try our best to help.”
Covering numerous local towns and villages, the centre has adapted to rising demand.
“There isn’t a centre nearby that does the same as what we do. We do what we can. The demand falls on us, and we try our best. There’s always a need for change.”
The services run at the centre are informed by community feedback and a good rapport with those that live in the area. The centre can also be rented by the community to host their own events.
The food provided by FareShare Cymru enables the community centre to run its lunch club, offering patrons a three-course meal for just £5. For some, these meals are the only hot meals they will have all week. Beyond just providing food, the meals offer an opportunity for social interaction amongst elderly members of the community:
“The meals provide a big social benefit. They come here for the hot meal but they get to socialise at the same time. It reduces isolation and loneliness. When they have food here, it helps combat poverty because they save on heating and food. It ties in to other issues a lot really.”
Amid the ongoing cost of living crisis, particularly challenging for those on lower incomes or in rural areas, services like the lunch club are invaluable for their wide-ranging benefits.
The food provided by FareShare Cymru also support various events at the centre, from Bingo afternoons to community BBQs. Funds raised by these events are reinvested into the charity, helping sustain the services and events that bring the community together.
Gower Food Festival…A brand-new feast for foodies!
In a fabulous first for foodies, The Gower Food and Drink Festival will launch on Saturday September 7th 2024; over 40 fantastic exhibitors set to tempt the taste buds with an array of sweet and savoury treats, moreish meats, scrumptious ciders, vegetarian varieties, perfect preserves and so much more.
Hosted at the Pennard Playing Fields, the festival – which is funded by the Rural Anchor Fund at Swansea Council – promises fun for all the family with something to suit all diets, ages and interests, children’s activities and also great live music courtesy of some talented local bands and artists planned throughout the afternoon.
Favourites on the Swansea food scene including Distill and Fill with their beautifully bottled cocktails, Babita’s Spice Deli, Tir a Mor Bakes, Gower Preserves and Private Chef Christos – hot on the heels of the opening of the gorgeous Gower Deli – will be joined by a whole host of other Welsh producers at this exciting new addition to the festival calendar.
Whether it’s for the banging buffalo burgers, beers and spirits, ‘Hipi Hipi’ healthy shakes, international inspirations or spicy sensations, The Gower Food and Drink Festival is set to make its mark this year.
Alongside all the fabulous food and drink, locally handcrafted jewellery will also be on the menu and promising a great day, festival manager Tracy James-Lieberman said:
“We’re so excited to be able to bring this Gower Food Festival to the region – it’s always great to offer something new to enjoy and we’re sure it will prove a huge hit.
“Such a variety of exhibitors and with the family fun planned along with the live music, there’s guaranteed to be a fantastic atmosphere; we’re really looking forward to welcoming festival goers in a few weeks’ time and here’s to many more!”
TheGower Food Festivalwill take place on Saturday 7th September 2024 (10am-6pm) at Pennard Playing Fields, Park Road, Pennard SA3 2AQ
The Victoria Cross Trust, a small charity that dedicates it’s time to cleaning and restoring graves and memorials of Victoria Cross recipients and other military personnel first came to Wrexham in 2023 to restore the grave of Percy Whelton MC.
They recently returned to clean a small memorial to David Lord VC which is adjacent to the Royal Welch Fusiliers memorial. As part of the planning they added the RWF memorial alongside a restoration of Major Guy Egon Rene de Miremont DSO MC and Brigadier General Robert Henry William Dunn also of the RWF. Both of these memorials are in Wrexham cemetery close to Percy Whelton MC.
Upon arrival they also identified two further military memorials associated with the RWF in the cemetery and with the permission of the cemetery team cleaned those as well.
In total the team cleaned:
David Lord VC memorial
Major Guy Egon Rene de Miremont DSO MC
Brigadier General Robert Henry William Dunn
Quarter Master Sergeant JC Widenbar
Corporal Thomas Bowman
RWF Memroial
DDay Memorial
Falklands War Memorial
Burma Memorial
Korean War memorial
Enroute to Wrexham they also cleaned the grave of Ernest Egerton VC and the war memorial both at Forsbrook church in Blythe Bridge.
The organisation would like to stress that they only use specialist steam cleaning equipment to protect the stone (not chemicals or jet wash that could damage the memorials) and do not charge for any of their work. However donations are always welcome via their JustGiving page available on their website.
Cllr Beverly Parry Jones, Armed Forces Champion at Wrexham Council said:
“I visited members of the charity on their most recent visit to Wrexham, to thank them on behalf of Wrexham for their work.
“A huge debt of gratitude is owed to our war heroes and organisations such as The Victoria Cross Trust who work tirelessly to keep their memory alive are invaluable in making sure that we remember those who made the ultimate sacrifices.”
This is an AHA/BHA exfoliating night serum from Farmacy that is clinically proven to reduce the look of fine lines and pores revealing smooth, glowing skin by morning. It contains 17% AHA/BHA acid blend that instantly hydrates and plumps your skin. This resurfacing acid serum also exfoliates and reduces pore size, along with buckwheat honey to offer your skin moisturisation and nourishment.
I really did enjoy using this acid serum because in the morning it gave my skin such a glow. I’d love you to give this a try and to experience the 5 glowing benefits with this honey face serum after just 3 uses. Use every other night for 5 nights and you’ll notice a smoother skin texture, a reduced pore visibility, exfoliation and then the glow and hydration of your skin.
To use just apply a layer of AHA/BHA serum, 1-2 pumps to your clean skin at night, but do avoid your eyes and lips. Use 2-4 times a week but you can build up to more frequent use. You might experience a slight tingling upon application.
Lois Williams (25), Technical Compliance Officer at South Caernarfon Creameries (SCC), recently graduated with a Master of Science (MSc) in BioInnovation from Aberystwyth University. Lois is now set to be a part of measuring the creamery’s baseline carbon footprint by working closely with its farmer members and continue achieving the Welsh Green Dragon Environmental Standard Level 4.
With her new qualification, Lois brings cutting-edge sustainability practices and technologies to the table, along with the communication skills to share this knowledge effectively.
As Wales’s largest dairy co-operative, SCC is already committed to sustainability, working on projects to minimise environmental impact by measuring carbon footprint, reducing energy use, and collaborating with suppliers to enhance packaging recyclability.
In her role Lois ensures quality and safety across the creamery and helps liaise with farmer members. Lois said,
“I’ve been working at SCC since I graduated from my degree in Animal Science in 2020. I began in the laboratory as a Quality Assurance Technician, and then got a promotion to be a Technical Compliance Officer in 2022.
“My recent postgraduate qualification will now help me assist farmers in reducing carbon footprint and support SCC’s sustainability goals. I’m looking forward to putting all my learnings into practice.”
Alan Wyn Jones, Managing Director of SCC added,
“We would like to congratulate Lois on her recent success, a fantastic achievement. Our investments in more efficient equipment, buildings and vehicles demonstrates our commitment and proactive approach to protecting the environment and driving sustainable practises within our supply chains. With Lois’ knowledge and skills, she will continue to be play an important part in developing our sustainable strategies for the future.”
Age Cymru Powys is revving up to empower rural communities with the launch of an innovative mobile advice service – a brightly branded van packed with expert guidance for people aged 65 and over.
Transformed into a mobile office, the van will be crisscrossing Powys, offering free, confidential advice on everything from tackling the Cost-of-Living Crisis to loneliness to navigating social care options.
Living in rural Powys offers beautiful scenery and a peaceful atmosphere, but accessing essential services can be challenging for many older residents. Particularly those living with disabilities or mobility issues, due to the long journeys and limited transport.
The Powys Rural Advice Van offers a solution: face-to-face support from friendly, trained experts in your local area.
Gail Colbridge, Chief Officer of Age Cymru Powys, said:
“We are very excited to be able to support more older people, where they are. We have been listening to older people in our rural communities who are struggling to know where to get advice, and we are proud to introduce this new local offer. The Advice Van is kindly funded by Independent Age to enable Age Cymru Powys to meet the rising demand from local older people impacted by the increased costs of living.”
Age Cymru Powys holds the Welsh Government Advice Accreditation, and their staff are experts in matters that affect your quality of life, including:
Maximising income
Navigating social care
Finding/funding help at home
Housing issues and options
Loneliness & social support
Cost-savings
Home Energy Advice
Support for carers
Health & wellbeing
Local services across Powys
And much more…
Gwynfor, 82, from Llanfyllin, Powys, praised the new service, saying:
“The Advice Van is a lifeline for older Powys residents living in the countryside.”
Many older people are missing out on money that is rightfully theirs. Every year, it’s estimated that more than £200m worth of Pension Credit and other state benefits goes unclaimed by older people in Wales.
Even if you own your home, have savings, or are claiming benefits, you may still qualify for additional financial support and entitlements.
Many services have moved online, but if you are unfamiliar with the internet, this can also leave you cut off from help.
The Rural Advice Van delivers a one-stop advice shop in your local community, including a free, confidential check to ensure you’re receiving all of the money and support that you are entitled to.
Steve Cadwallader-Jones, Rural Advice Officer at Age Cymru Powys, is taking the van on the road. Steve explains why it’s needed in Powys:
“Imagine living in a beautiful, remote village, but struggling to access essential support. That’s the reality for many older people in Powys. Our mobile advice service shatters this barrier, bringing a friendly face and expert advice directly to local communities. It’s about ensuring no one, especially our most vulnerable residents, feels isolated or left behind.”
Look out for the Rural Advice Van in your community or call Age Cymru Powys to see when they’re next in your area. Why not drop in for a chat and see how they can help you?
Talented photographer and tutor, Brad Carr, has launched personalised one-to-one tuition and group workshops through his School of Photography.
Dedicated to what he describes as the “spiritual practice of the art of photography”, Brad says his new initiative is designed to help foster a deep reconnection with nature.
His tuition and workshops offer “a unique and transformative approach to photography”. Brad’s next ‘Introduction to Nature Photography’ workshop will be held at Gregynog Hall, Tregynon, near Newtown on Saturday, October 26.
“The foundation of photography is the technical understanding of the camera,” he said. “My mission is to harness the transformational power of photography and creativity, allowing participants to experience their own sense of catharsis and deep healing through the lens of their camera.”
Moving from a corporate career that left a deep sense of emptiness and longing for another life, Brad, who lives in Welshpool, found solace and purpose in photography and the natural world. This journey of soul-searching, reconnection and self-creation has inspired him to guide others onto a similar path.
‘‘The art of photography has completely transformed my life and has introduced me to a side of myself that was unknown to me for 26 years,” he added. “The camera has been a tool for deep healing and has allowed me to express many of the emotions that were repressed during a turbulent and chaotic childhood.”
He is eager to introduce international tourists to Wales’ natural beauty and sacred landscapes and has recently invited clients from the USA and Canada and as far as Australia for multi-day tours.
Photographer Brad Carr running one of his group workshops in the woods at Gregynog Hall.
These workshops and tuition sessions are set against the backdrop of Wales’ mystical scenery, offering participants an immersive experience that blends nature, psychology, philosophy and spirituality under the umbrella of art.
Through his art, Brad is hoping to shine light on Wales and enhance the country’s reputation to a worldwide audience. His work has been published in national magazines and he is excited about an upcoming feature in a reputable American magazine.
Next summer, he will present his national exhibition ‘Finding Light’ in prestigious Welsh galleries.
Brad is available for public speaking engagements, having delivered talks for the Royal Photographic Society, camera clubs, online photography communities, care homes and local community groups.
Next March, he will speak on ‘Finding Light: A Journey into Nature to Find My Soul’ at Gregynog Hall. Copies of the A5 zine ‘A Year Amongst Trees’ and limited-edition prints are available to purchase online via www.bradcarrphotography.co.uk .
For more information about a tutoring session or group workshop, or to book Brad for a speaking engagement, visit Brad’s website or contact him on Tel: 07479 503324.
Brad is a member of MWT Cymru, an independent organisation that represents around 550 tourism and hospitality businesses across Powys, Ceredigion and Southern Eryri (Snowdonia).
This company are focused on scalp care, as healthy hair starts at the root with a healthy scalp microbiome. These towels are a must-have if you are aware of how important your scalp is. This extra-large hair towel fits and holds all of your hair after you have washed it and it works to also cut your drying time in half. This microfibre towel is highly absorbent, helps to reduce friction, but is also very gentle on your hair. It has a sturdy elastic strap to securely hold your hair in place. Now this strap was important to me because with my hair safely out of the way and drying itself I could crack on and get a few household jobs done.
I’m a fan of microfibre as this fabric is highly-absorbent and can hold up to seven times its weight. It is known for its smoothing properties that reduce flyaways and frizz. Even the bag it arrives in is made from PLA which is 100% biodegradable.
To use simply wash your hair and then thoroughly rinse. When that is done, tilt your head forward and place the towel on your head with the strap and tag at the back of your head, close to the neck. Then wrap your hair up and secure the end of the towel into a strap and that is it get on with your day.
The company is eco-friendly, doesn’t use silicones, parabens or sulphates and are vegan and cruelty free.
I enjoyed using these towels and will certainly keep them in mind as they are a great gift idea.
Thomas Winstone is an amateur photographer from south Wales. He has a diverse interest in photography revolving round his family and work life.
Thomas is an aviation fan and what better place to spot planes than up in north Wales in an area locally known as the Mach(ynlleth) Loop. This is an area of low fly training used by the RAF and the USAF plus visits from other nations including the Belgians. Flying the loop is done in a anti clockwise motion, anything can be seen there from helicopters, fast jets and heavy lifters like Hercules.
Going up the Loop takes Thomas about 2 and 1/4 hours to drive up through the Welsh countryside. Once there, there is a variety of hills to climb to view the aircraft. Some hills are tougher than others and usually very wet under foot. Thomas carries with him a 300mm lens, and a 70-200mm for the larger aircraft, stool, wet weather gear, food for the day and warm clothing. The average weight is about 15kg. The views once up at the top are stunning and the snowy backdrops are some of his favourites. Being up the loop isn’t always guaranteed to see aircraft, there is no timetable and flying is Monday to Friday. From a photo point of view anytime in daylight hours can be good however they also fly at night. The main factor stopping aircraft flights are poor visibility and strong winds so if you visit take that into consideration.
To see more of my work and the stunning wildlife that thrives here in Wales, please visit my Flickr page and social media accounts:
This Saturday’s Llanfyllin Show is on course to be a record-breaker with entries in virtually every section well up on last year which set new records.
Show secretary Sian Lewis has had to order more sheep pens because of the rising entries while she expects there to be around 900 entries in the horticulture, cookery classes and handicrafts.
Horse and children’s riding entries, which increased last year, have risen again. Sian stressed that entries for the horses section and dog show will still be taken on show day.
The number of trade exhibitors is also expected to set a new record and a bumper entry is expected in the sheep shearing competitions, as the show is the final one on the Welsh Lamb Shearing Circuit.
Last year, many of the circuit’s top shearers stayed on to compete in the Montgomery Young Farmers Clubs’ evening speed shearing competition, which attracts around 60 competitors. More than 1,000 lambs are being prepared for shearing on show day.
“Entries in the sheep section are about 50 per cent up on last year and there were so many entries in the horticulture and cookery sections that I ran out of tickets – and I ordered 800!” said Sian. “The cookery section and photography entries, especially, are much higher than previous years.
“We are keeping our fingers crossed for a record-break attendance on Saturday, as our reputation as the “friendly show” continues to grow by word of mouth.”
Doug Williams, of Bryn Vyrnwy Holiday Park, Llansantffraid, is show president and Sian’s father, Peter Lewis, of Green Hall, Llanfyllin, is chairman this year.
The show opens at 9am at Bodfach Hall on land owned by Christopher and Laura Acton and Janet Jones, Parc. Main show sponsor is GNJ Steel Framed Building Ltd of Llanfyllin.
Attractions include a Mini Pony Show – Equestrian Razzle Dazzle, In Miniature!, dog agility displays, the traditional Village Green with activities for children, Porthywaen Silver Band, a Punch and Judy Show, a fun fair, vintage machinery parade and terrier racing.
Showjumping will also take place in the main ring this year and there are show classes for horticulture, floral art, cookery and crafts, sheep shearing, sheepdog trials, horses and sheep, a dog show and children’s sports classes.
There will also be a wide selection of trade stands, food vendors and a bar for showgoers to visit.
