essentials mag, rossett, october 2014
DESCRIPTION
The latest digital edition for Rossett.TRANSCRIPT
OCTOBER 2014 · DELIVERED FREE
YOUR MONTHLY INSIGHT INTO LOCAL LIVING COVERINGROSSETT, MARFORD, GRESFORD, PULFORD AND SURROUNDING AREAS
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1.
at a glance
GRESFORD
DISASTER
JOGLE 2014
SUMMER BOOK
BUZZ 2014
POPPY APPEAL
A HIDDEN GEM
Tel: 01244 571 602email: [email protected]....................................................................................
DISCLAIMERThe opinions and views expressed in articles and advertisements published in this issue of essentiallyours are not necessarily the views held by the editors....................................................................................
All facts and figures are correct at time of going to press....................................................................................
Whilst every effort is taken to ensure accuracy in this publication, we cannot accept any responsibility for any error or omissions that may have occurred....................................................................................
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Printed by EWS Colourprintwww.ewsprint.co.uk 01244 545 829....................................................................................
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Front cover image Marford Quarry© Maurice Roberts
THE PROPERTY SPECIALISTSLocal. Trusted. Recommended.
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Welcome
I had a lovely time delivering the magazines in Pulford at the beginning of September. In fact it was such a beautiful day everyone was out attending to their gardens so it was nice to see and talk to a
good few people on my travels. I did well after a day’s delivery; I came home with a cucumber, some tomatoes, some cooking apples, oh and a sun tan! Thank you to the kind local residents for the home produce goodies. The tired feet come as standard with the delivering aspect of the magazine work, as I’m sure the lovely team of local boys and girls that help out can vouch for.
It was particularly lovely to meet and chat with Derek Venables last month whilst out delivering. He has lived in the area for a good few years and he was telling me there used to be 3 or 4 times the number of local farms there are today. He noticed how much land we have lost to housing. He reminded me of all the change that has happened over the years, but there’s such a lot happening at present too. I don’t know how our local councillors keep up, there’s certainly far more activity than you would expect for a village area. Starting with the new houses in Lavister that I referred to last month, they are sneaking up behind the Nags Head pub, and not at the Huskisson’s garage site. Thank you to Neil, the local resident who corrected my reference to the
old ‘Hutchison’ garage when it should have been ‘Huskisson’s ‘garage last month . No comment!
Our pubs are all at sixes and sevens again too. I believe the Butchers Arms is under new management, the Plough has just changed hands, the Griffin Inn Trevalyn is undergoing change again, the Golden Grove has just been sold, and all change at the Nags head too I believe. Forgive me if I’m not quite accurate with all of this, it’s just very difficult to keep up with it all! It really is a difficult industry these days and a completely different ball game to many years ago. And whilst it’s all gone quiet on the proposed convenience store since the application was passed for the Red Lion car park, I’m sure it’s still very active behind the scenes. Not forgetting ATS, who have left the site now at the bottom of Marford Hill. I’m wondering what will become of that location.
And whilst we’re talking about change it’s quite fitting to welcome back Ian Hart, local resident, who is back doing what he knows best, selling houses. I’m sure you remember his local housing market articles from a few years ago, although it feels like yesterday! I’ve been doing this magazine too long if a few years ago feels like yesterday! And on that note...........
Have a lovely month of October.
All the best., Jill
24call out
80th Anniversary Gresford Colliery Disaster 1934-2014 LOCAL STONE MASON SUPPORTS GRESFORD MINING CAUSE
A new group has been set up to help preserve the memory of the miners killed in the biggest disaster in north Wales.
The ‘Friends of the Gresford Colliery Disaster Memorial’ intends to ensure that the annual service of remembrance is perpetuated for all time.
A key member of the group is Ruby McBurney, daughter of William Crump who was killed in the disaster. Ruby ran a successful campaign to raise funds to pay for the plaque at the memorial containing the names of the 266 men who were killed.
Support has already been forthcoming from a generous Wrexham businessman. John Burton of JB stonemasonry based on Wrexham Industrial Estate has very kindly
agreed to make a special flower planter at the site of the memorial wheel in Gresford.
John said “ I am local and understand how the disaster affected so many families and communities in Wrexham and the surrounding villages. It will be an honour to contribute to the lasting memory of these brave men. ”
Ruby said “I can now rest happy as people have always wanted to show their respect by placing flowers at the site and now they can do this properly”
The piece will be hand made from local Cefn sandstone and will be in place by the 22nd September in time for the memorial service at the Gresford wheel.
Broadoak Level Crossing Network Rail is unrivalled in its incompetence on this project. Having circulated residents to say that they would be closing the crossing for 5 days at the end of September, they then change their minds. This whole project has been badly planned and poorly implemented from the very start. They still do not have a long-term solution for this crossing and we await further developments.
A483/A55 Roadworks I recently held a meeting with UK Highway Agency, Arriva, Cheshire West and Wrexham CBC officials. This was the first time that Arriva had been invited to meet with the UKHA to discuss the options. For the month of October the bus service will run as normal except for between 21.00 and 0500 hours when services to Chester will route via Eccleston and Handbridge to the business park and then continue their normal route. Buses from Chester will not be affected. When the B5445 is closed in the direction of Chester there will be a revised system which will involve a roundabout at Rake Lane enabling buses to return and then route down the A483. Certain buses will route from ATS via the A483 directly. This is likely to happen in November. I have asked Arriva to put on an extra bus for Darland School to relieve the pressure on Rossett residents. Full details will be posted on the Wrexham CBC web site and I hope Rossett Community Council web site. I persuaded our officers to place a 40mph speed limit on the B5102
whilst the work is in progress. I hope this will prove the worth of moving to a permanent 40mph limit.
Budget Consultation The Council is currently consulting Wrexham residents over the difficult financial decisions we are having to make over the coming year. We have to find £45m in the next three years, of which £11m will come from next year’s budget. Have your say at www.wrexham.gov.uk/english/consultation/budget/index.htm
Burton Road I have now had the returns from the speed survey carried out during the summer. The average speed recorded was 24 mph and 85 percent of the speed was 29 mph. I have asked for a speed alert indicator to be located on the road and will meet with officers to agree a location.
Hugh Jones
CONTACT DETAILS:e-mail
[email protected] 07769 706999
@hugh_wre
Councillor for Rossett
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Become a “Friend of GDCL” and support Gresford LibrarySupport the library by making a donation on an annual or monthly basis, whichever you prefer. If you become a Friend the amount you donate will be entirely up to you; we will be grateful for anything you can aff ord. The only thing we would ask is that you make it a commitment so that we know how much funding we can raise in this way and can rely upon it.
There are two ways you can become a Friend and donate:OPTION 1: by making monthly/annual payments directly into our GDCL bank account
OPTION 2: by setting up a Standing Order from your account into ours
Please call into the library to collect a form.
GRESFORD & DISTRICTCOMMUNITY LIBRARY
[email protected]. 01978 852627
‘Friends of GDCL’ group
We hope we will provide the library with a predictable and reliable source of income to secure the library’s future. Knowing that we have this funding will take some of the anxiety out of our operation and will enable us to plan for future developments; for example, we would like to replace the, rather ancient, computers we have so that the service we provide is enhanced but we obviously cannot think about new computers before we know we can pay the gas bill!
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I called in at St Margarets in Acton last Thursday to see what happens at a tea dance. Steve Nicholas, a local man, has been playing music on the Keyboard for Sequence and Ballroom dancing since he was a youngster with his family’s dance band,
and has been up and down the UK providing professional live music for Sequence & Ballroom
Dancing Events. Locally he and his wife Sharon have run dances for several years at different venues around Wrexham, Chester and the North West and provides the live music for everyone to dance to and goes by the name of Steve Sound.
I chatted to a few people there, and it’s lovely that not all come to dance. There’s a cup of tea and conversation on offer and dancing is optional. It’s more of a community than a tea dance and if you want to join in you can. You can also be a
complete beginner at dancing and will be perfectly welcome to attend and learn.
I can’t stress enough that all are welcome regardless of age and dancing
ability. You don’t need to come as a couple, individuals welcome.
Sequence & Ballroom Dance Events with a Great Family AtmosphereDancing to Steve Sound
Steve Sound Keyboard EntertainerMusic for Sequence, Ballroom, Latin & Jive dances
Steve is also available for private booking, Birthdays, Anniversaries etc and also a jazz trumpet player.
A variety of Dance Holidays all year roundCoach pick up points from Rossett/Marford/Gresford and local area
Tel: 01978 290810 • Mob: 0771 2957047E.mail: [email protected] • www.stevesound.co.uk
UPCOMING EVENTS
Llay Royal British Legion Dance Nights - Sat 4th October and Sat 22nd November 8pm-11pm, Raffles in aid of Marie Curie
Wrexham Memorial Hall - Tea Dance, Mondays 2pm-4pm
St Margarets Thursday Afternoon Tea Dance, 2pm-4pm
New Year’s Eve Dance (Ticket only Dance) - St Margarets Church Hall, Wrexham
Please ring Steve for information and to confirm events.
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m: 07922 923 206 | t: 01691 773 393 e: [email protected] w: www.g-construction.org.ukUnit F5, Bank Top Industrial Estate,
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At 10.34am on July 7th, Ian (Dr Happs) and his son Jonathan got on their bikes at John o’ Groats. In Jonathan’s case, his back wheel was actually in the sea, making sure he’d really started at ‘Land’s Beginning’. 15 days and 986 miles later, they stood under the finger post at Land’s End, while the 3rd stage support crew took photos and everyone began to take in the fact that They’d Done It! and what’s more, They’d Enjoyed It!!
If you read the article in July’s Essentials, you’ll know that this trip was dreamed up by Ian, who wanted to a challenge to ‘celebrate’ his 50th birthday this summer. Jonathan agreed to go along for the ride, which meant fitting it in between his university finals and his graduation. That’s why they started at the top and went south, rather than the more usual ‘LEJOG’. They knew it was possible they might need to finish after Jonathan’s graduation, and it made no sense
to be in the Highlands of Scotland when graduation was in Southampton. (Someone asked if it was really because it’s!
If you’d like to read their adventures, the ‘blog’ Jonathan wrote is at jogle14.wordpress.com!
The main purpose of this article is to say a very big thank you to everyone who has given donations to the charities they were supporting, Hope House Children’s Hospices and the RNLI. The original target was to raise £2000 - roughly a pound a mile each - but their final total including Gift Aid is £4816. This is absolutely fantastic, and Ian and Jonathan and the charities are tremendously grateful to everyone who has contributed so generously. Thank you all!
They Did It!Ian and Jonathan’s JOGLE 2014
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Every year large numbers of livestock are either injured or killed in dog attacks. This results in horrendous suffering by the animals, which can die an agonising death. There is also a huge financial loss to the farming community. Any dog has the ability to worry livestock! If you are walking your dog where there are farm animals, ALWAYS keep your dog on a lead.
If your dog worries livestock you may be liable to prosecution, and subject of a fine. The courts also have the power to place a control or even a destruction order on your dog.
Under The Animals Act 1971 If a dog is caught by the Landowner in the act of worrying livestock, the dog may be shot.
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ALWAYS KEEP YOUR DOG ON A LEAD AROUND LIVESTOCK.
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 is intended to prevent dogs terrorising and chasing farm animals. Sections 1 and 2 provides an offence for the owner of a dog to allow it to worry livestock on agricultural land. It states:
1(1) Subject to the provisions of this section, if a dog worries livestock on any agricultural land, the owner of the dog, and, if it is in the charge of a person other than its owner, that person also, shall be guilty of an offence under this Act.
1(2) For the purposes of this Act "worrying livestock" means -
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Every year large numbers of livestock are either injured or killed in dog attacks. This results in horrendous suffering by the animals, which can die an agonising death. There is also a huge financial loss to the farming community. Any dog has the ability to worry livestock! If you are walking your dog where there are farm animals, ALWAYS keep your dog on a lead.
If your dog worries livestock you may be liable to prosecution, and subject of a fine. The courts also have the power to place a control or even a destruction order on your dog.
Under The Animals Act 1971 If a dog is caught by the Landowner in the act of worrying livestock, the dog may be shot.
THINK!DO YOU REALLY WANT THAT !
ALWAYS KEEP YOUR DOG ON A LEAD AROUND LIVESTOCK.
The Dogs (Protection of Livestock) Act 1953 is intended to prevent dogs terrorising and chasing farm animals. Sections 1 and 2 provides an offence for the owner of a dog to allow it to worry livestock on agricultural land. It states:
1(1) Subject to the provisions of this section, if a dog worries livestock on any agricultural land, the owner of the dog, and, if it is in the charge of a person other than its owner, that person also, shall be guilty of an offence under this Act.
1(2) For the purposes of this Act "worrying livestock" means -
(a) attacking livestock, OR
(b) chasing livestock in such a way as may reasonably be expected to cause injury or suffering to the livestock or, in the case of females, abortion, or loss of or diminution in their produce, OR
(c) being at large (that is to say not on a lead or otherwise under close control) in a field or enclosure in which there are sheep.
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MAILBOX Your views, comments and thoughts.
Hi Jill,I love following the ramblings of our various councillors through Essentials but Hugh Jones latest offering left me thinking is he mad or what!
I refer to his ramblings on Network Rail who at long last have been given to money to upgrade our railway line between Wrexham and Chester. To me this is brilliant news and can only enhance our area of North Wales allowing quicker and easier access to all parts of the UK.
I do recall a movement to have the former railway station at Rossett re-instated but met local opposition! I assume the local opposition won and we have been condemned to sitting in the daily traffic chaos in the mornings trying to get out into England!
However I digress, my amazement was in councillor Jones comments in that he has requested that the site of the former railway station be ‘DONATED’ with a view for it to be made available for a new Doctor’s Surgery.
Reading between the line the ‘Community’ would then ‘donate’ this site to Alyn Family Doctors? I always thought Alyn Family Doctors is a ‘private business’ although funded by the state.
It is my opinion that the service this practice provides to the community is barely adequate unless you live and work in the village.
You have to guess when you are going to be ill as getting an appointment usually takes at least a week or more by which time you have recovered or died.
If you work outside the village you have to take time off work with potentially a loss of income or loss of holidays. There is no provision for appointments at weekends or evenings when most working people would require them. As for house visits…………..well that’s why Wrexham Maelor Casualty is inundated.
The old days where you were assigned a GP and he knew your history when you did require his services are long gone, now you are assessed on whatever note has been put in your computer notes and most times the GP you see doesn’t know you from Adam.
So you can see why I am aghast that our councillor wants to ‘donate’ a site to our local Doctor’s practice, talk about rewarding poor performance.
If the practice is going to serve the community and that means exactly that, not them opening and closing when it suits them, but being open when the community needs them then great I may be swayed but in the meantime we would all be better off with a railway station!
This would reduce pollution from all the cars that short circuit through Rossett in the morning going to Chester as all the people could travel by trains which would be quicker and more frequent. You watch over the next few months whilst the highways department upgrade the end of the A483 I bet your post bag grows then! And all this work will just allow even more cars to come through our village and pollute us all a bit more and then we will all need the attention of the doctor!
Come on Mr Jones do some joined up thinking, we’d be better off with a station!
Regards, name and address supplied
Your views, comments and thoughts.
Response from councillor Hugh to resident letter
Dear local resident,Firstly I support the partial upgrade of the line between Wrexham and Chester, although AMs from all opposition parties in the Assembly have questioned whether the £44 million to be spent on the scaled back scheme will deliver the anticipated benefits. It is believed the reason the scheme was cut back was to fund the M4 relief road. My concerns surround their implementation of the work that leaves a great deal to be desired. I make no apology for the fact that I have criticised them for failing to properly plan the project and their failure to properly engage with residents. By their own admission they handled the introduction of the project badly, they have consistently given promises to residents which within 24 hours have been reversed. They planned the upgrade with no clear understanding of the complexities of the Broadoak crossing, which they should have known about. Such that the solution might now be to spend another £3 million of Welsh Government (our) money on a bridge which will look an eyesore in a rural area. The alternative is not to deliver the planned improvement to the line speeds for which the Welsh Government have contracted them. At the end of the day this is our money that is being spent and both Network Rail and the Welsh Government need to be held to account for the way in which they spend it.
On the issue of the Station Site, it can never again be a station because of two fundamentals, firstly Station Road could not cope with the traffic and secondly to justify a station would need direct access from the A483; due to the location of the site that is not possible without building a large and expensive infrastructure. Any future station would need to be built between Rossett and Marford. This means that a large area of the site would become redundant and therefore I believe it should be used to provide the people of Rossett with a modern and efficient surgery. My understanding is that larger premises would support more Doctors and therefore a better service an aspiration which I support and will work to achieve.
I would make one further point on the station, the £44 million is being spent to dual 5.5 miles of track which may provide a marginal increase in the journey times, to spend another £x million on a station would then reduce the speeds gained from the dualling. I am not sure how that would improve our services.
I am happy to discuss the matter further if your correspondent wishes
Redwither Business Centre, Redwither Business Park, Wrexham, LL13 9XR
Tel: 01978 356500 [email protected] www.blueprintarchitectural.com
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIALNEW BUILDING • PLANNING & BUILDING REGULATIONS
Speed Limit Marford Hill Many people have been in touch to agree that the speed limit should be reduced from 40mph to 30mph on the hill. The junctions and the pedestrian crossing are particular concerns. Only one resident has expressed their opposition to any further speed restrictions in the village.
Gresford Community Council will debate speeding on Marford Hill at its October meeting.
PCSO for Marford The local Inspector hopes to appoint a Police Community Support Officer for Marford soon.
Roads, Lights etc. I am pleased that the top of Marford Hill near the pedestrian crossing and the junction of Hayfield Drive and Hillock Lane have finally been resurfaced as promised. I know that there are still other places in the village in need of attention. Which do you think should have priority?
The Community Council has agreed to reconnect the light on Pistyll Hill.
Marford and Gresford Luncheon Club We are meeting for a meal and a chat on 7th and 21st October at 12.30pm at Marford Community Centre and again on 4th and 18th November and 9th and 16th December. Please ring Beryl Blackmore on 01978 855691 to book a meal.
We would welcome more helpers to serve the meals (and wash up!) please.
Marford Community Centre We hope to have progress with the lease soon. More volunteers will then be needed
to join the Marford Community Group who will take over the running of the centre.
Maes Y Pant Woodland Much of the meadow has now been cleared although there are plenty of blackberry bushes still left. Volunteers will be working on Sunday mornings in October when tidying round the pond will be done. Please check the website www.maes-y-pant.com
The maintenance of this much-used facility depends on your support. If you would like to join the “Friends of Maes y Pant”, please contact me for an application form.
Trevor Arms I am really pleased that this lovely pub is open and serving tasty meals again. I wish them well and hope both they and the Red Lion will be well used.
Council Contact Please continue to report light failures, potholes etc. on the Council website http://www.wrexham.gov.uk , by telephone (01978 298989) or in person at the Contact Centre in Lord St.
I look forward to hearing from you..
Mike Edwards
CONTACT DETAILS:e-mail
[email protected] 01978 854992
Councillor for Marford & Hoseley
Trevor C Harmer
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Not everyone needs to be able to sew as we need dressers who would help set up the fashion shows, also people who can decorate hats and make accessories.
We meet in Borras near Wrexham every Thursday evening 7pm – 9pm
Edwards & Jones Coal MerchantsEstablished for over 80 years, family run business
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Coal and most smokeless fuels supplied in open sacks (50kg) or pre-packed (25kg)
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The new football season is up and running and things could not be better! The majority of village teams have benefited from finding new sponsors but it is not just the off-pitch activities that are keeping
everyone in a buoyant mood…….
At Marford and Gresford Albion, it is the Under 12 side led by Tony
Roberts that is grabbing all of the headlines. They are currently topping the table, having had a 100% winning start. It is a true adage that “one man does not make a team”, but leading their attack is Toby Rees-Slawson and with the campaign only one month old he already has 12 goals to his credit. He’s
pictured opposite with two match balls after converting a double hat-trick against Johnstown Youth. This team has been sponsored by AST
Plastic Containers. Graeme Sutcliffe is the new man at the helm of the Under 7 team and he has secured a sponsorship deal with MBNA.
Making a really massive impact though, is our village senior side
Gresford Athletic, which has signed a new sponsorship arrangement with North Wales Beds. They are sitting in joint pole position in the Welsh National League Premier Division, something they have not done for some considerable time. They have had an almost
unblemished start and are undefeated in the League, winning successive ties in the Welsh Cup and Welsh Trophy. Much of the success must be credited to the new management pairing of Eddie Maurice Jones and his player-coach Josh Griffith, who have really turned things around with new Chairman Julian Davies.
Also pulling their weight are Gresford Athletic Reserves under the new
stewardship of Steve Halliwell, who have gone unbeaten since the narrow opening-day defeat at Ruthin Town. Steve has been able to secure a new sponsorship deal with City Electrical Factors.
Switching sports for a moment, it was a delight to be invited to the annual Awards Presentation of the Junior section
at Gresford Cricket Club. Club stalwart John Bell and his team always ensure I have the warmest of welcomes. Guest of honour making the presentations was Fraser Murdoch, who in his teenage years played his cricket in the village but nowadays is a professional footballer at Crewe Alex, and he was on hand to make presentations to Jack Billington who was player of the season at Under 11 level. Dan Parry won the Under 13 Award and as well as being the Under 15 winner, Matthew Thompson was the overall player of the season. Special credit was given to Jenny Billington who was the girls’ player of the season and is currently on the verge of achieving Welsh International honours.
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LADIES & GENTS
MOBILE HAIRDRESSING
The Gresford and District Community Library (GDCL) Summer Book Buzz was a great success. 32 children – 20 girls and 12 boys - from all three local primary schools took part. A mighty lot of books were read and enjoyed – more than 200 books borrowed, read and enjoyed during the school holidays.
But it wasn’t just about the number of books the children read; after all, reading’s a joy, not a
race. The library was definitely buzzing a lot of the time with the sound of children talking about books - the books they’d enjoyed most, what they liked about them and which books they were going to choose next. It was good to see that a wide range of choices were made – fiction and non-
fiction were both well represented – and there was a great spread of ages too – from Reception to Year 6.
All the Book Buzzers received a certificate which was presented to them in their schools. Six Super Book Buzzers each received a £5 book token (what else?) in recognition of their massive commitment to the project.
We’d like to thank all the children for making the Summer holidays such fun for the volunteers in the library and we congratulate them all, especially the six Super BBs. We’d also like to thank the Mums, Dads and grandparents for bringing the children along, the very kind members of the community who donated money so that we could buy the book tokens and the three primary schools for supporting and promoting the Book Buzz, with special thanks to All Saints School for designing and printing the record cards and certificates for us.
Gresford and District Community Library
Summer Book Buzz 2014
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We are now almost half way to our target of £45,000 to carry out the refurbishment of our church. We have been fortunate to have help from across the community, as well as our own members giving their time and talents to achieve our goal.
The next important event is a concert on Saturday 4th October at 7.30pm when the young people of our congregation will present a concert entitled “Harvest of Creative Gifts”. The church will be decorated for our harvest festival service on Sunday 5th October. The entrance fee is £5 - £1 for accompanied children under 16, and there will be light refreshments.
Other events will be a talk by a father and son from a John O’Groats to Lands End charity bike ride, and a local author who has an interesting tale to tell. We hope to see you at one of these evenings between now and the festive season.
Gill Tanner – Gresford Methodist Church
Gresford Methodist Church Refurbishment Project
The Poppy Appeal for 2014 is rapidly approaching, in this the year we commemorate the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War and the 70th anniversary of D-Day.
The 2014 Poppy Appeal runs from 25 October until 10 November with Rememberance Sunday on 9 November and Armistice Day on 11 November. Last year we collected over £55,000 in Wrexham to support our service men and women, past and present, and their families.
We need your help with this years Appeal. Each and every volunteer makes a significant difference, so if you are able to help in any capacity or if you know a Shop, Pub, Club or Business that would be willing to take a tray of Poppies, please let me know.
Please contact me via [email protected] or 01244-571304.
Thank you for supporting the Poppy Appeal. Dave HylandsWrexham Poppy Appeal OrganiserKDA19
Poppy Appeal 2014
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We welcome you to our friendly ladies boutique. Enjoy our new range of ladies clothing, accessories and beauty products.
IN THE VILLAGE OF FARNDON
Wrexham Council has been awarded an environmental excellence award for the £1.2 environmental improvements on King Street. John Mather, Honorary Secretary of ICE Wales Cymru, North Wales Branch presented the award to Council Leader, Cllr Neil Rogers.The project received an “excellent” rating” with a score of 85.3% against a set of criteria. The project was funded by the European Regional Development Fund which provided new lighting, seating, pavements, litter bins and planting. New CCTV was also installed.
John Mather, said: “It has been a pleasure to be in Wrexham today to present this well earned Whole Project Award to the King Street Environmental Improvement Project Team. It’s always good to see clients, designers and constructors working together in partnership to deliver successful projects and being recognized for their efforts.”
Cllr Neil Rogers, Leader of Wrexham Council, said: “Delighted that the team has been awarded this prestigious award. It demonstrates our commitment to improving the environment in the town centre for the benefit of traders and shoppers alike.
CEEQUAL Celebration for CouncilNEWS
These works are being undertaken by the Highways Agency, the Highway Authority responsible for the A55 Trunk Road in England.
The works form part of the national pinch point programme and is aimed to address existing problems with congestion at the A55/A483 Interchange that results in significant queues and delays at peak times on both the A55 and A483. The works involved with the scheme are considerable
and will necessitate road closures and diversions during the construction phase, which is due to commence on 22nd September 2014 and be completed by the end of March 2015. However please be aware that the majority of these closures will take place between 9:00pm and 5:00am Monday to Friday.
If you require further information please contact the Highways Agency by either emailing [email protected] or calling 0300 123 5000.
A55/A483 Interchange pinch-point works, ChesterNEWS
01978 853886 [email protected] www.delmarworld.co.uk
Hard decisions Wrexham Council faces very tough decisions in its budget and is consulting on proposals for up to £13m of cuts for the 2015-2016 financial year. After many workshops and debates (ably facilitated by the then lead member for finance, Councillor Malcolm King), we have now reached the stage of one of the widest consultations Wrexham Council has ever undertaken and you can have your say before October24th. Hard copies of the Difficult Decisions document can be obtained from the Guildhall, or to access digital copies please email [email protected] To complete an online survey go to www.wrexham.gov/english/consultation/budget/index.htm
Planning an event The very successful (if wet!) festival in Gresford showed just how many people are involved in doing so many things in our area and there will be a mini celebration of that in October. These groups organise events to fundraise or publicise their work and I am not the only one who sometimes has to make a hard choice, or do a shuttle between venues. So to help in the organising and publicity of your group, the community council website is organising an events calendar where you can publicise your forthcoming function or check, whilst it is still in the planning stage, if there may be a clash. Contact [email protected] to get further details.
Poignant commemoration Part of the festival marked the hundred years since the First World War started
and another part marked the eightieth anniversary of the Gresford Colliery Disaster. September 22nd saw two services at the memorial and in Gresford church to commemorate the disaster and a group has been set up to preserve the memorial and to ensure the story and memory of the1934 event is never forgotten in our community. It is led by Rev Canon David Griffiths and to become a friend email [email protected] or phone 01978 357458
”No such thing as a free lunch” Maybe not - but if you are in receipt of certain support payments, your child in school may be entitled to a Free School Meal ,which in these austere times could make a vital difference in managing your budget. Please do not hesitate to contact Support Services on 01978 297413 or your local school and they will advise you of your eligibility. This will be dealt with in total confidence and there is absolutely no stigma attached in applying or in the School Meals service itself.
Andrew Bailey
CONTACT DETAILS:Woodvale, Pant Lane, Gresford,
Wrexham. LL12 8EU e-mail
[email protected] tel 01978 855144
County Councillor for Gresford
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Hi Readers,
Well folks, I made it at last; my long awaited annual trip to Scotland, and what a trip it was! As I tap away on my och aye pad on the banks of Loch Lomond, with the sun glistening on the water, I think this is heaven. My arrival in the Highlands was somewhat traumatic, having missed my grooming appointment; Himself insisted that I could not be seen in public looking less than my best. I was immediately hauled off to a grooming parlour where two wee gals attended to my every need. I was groomed and bathed and even had a pedicure. I did draw the line however, when they tried to pop a worming tablet doon my throat. I had to inform them that gentlemen of refinement do not have worms - that is for lesser breeds.
On my return from the grooming parlour, I was greeted by several pairs of West Highland White Terriers. Mostly they came in twos, seeking an audience. Several asked for my autograph and even presented copies of Essentials Mag to be signed.
It is amazing how much you can pack into a week. I was taken on a cruise on the “Sir Walter Scott”, a 113 year old steamer that sails Loch Katerine. They insisted that I visited the Lodge on the Loch that was
prepared for Queen Victoria. That was a funny story - having gone ashore to the lodge where she was to spend the night, they fired a 21 gun salute and shattered all the window glass! Alas, Her Majesty had to return to Sterling Castle. Needless to say there was no 21 gun salute for my visit, however I WAS taken to Sterling Castle. Regular readers will know that walking is not my favourite pastime. However, Himself insisted that I had my picture taken walking the West Highland Way. I think I managed about just one of the 96 miles, though I did of course christen several of the marker posts in passing. En route to Oban, I stopped at a hostelry. I was immediately shown into a tartan-carpeted lounge, where mine host serenaded me with the Skye Boat song on the mandolin. I was provided with a bowl of Highland Spring Water (I think there might just have been a wee dram in it).
The timing of my trip coincided with the Referendum. Everywhere there was buzzing; flags and banners were flying and I was continually asked by each side to declare my allegiance. I of course opted for the “Better Together” side. Well, I had to - after all my supply of treaties comes from Wales and I am of course a canny Scottish Gentleman.
Ah well, back to normality, Douglas x
A diary of Douglas the Westie
West Highland Ramblings
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FIREWORK DISPLAY
Fri 31st OctClappers LaneGresfordGates open 6pm
FIREWORKS DISPLAY7:15pm
Hot Dogs, Burgers and Soft Drinks and lots of glowing novelty items.
Incorporating children’s entertainerPROFESSOR HUMO
This is followed by a Halloween Disco and a licensed bar is available for the adults.
For further details call Phil on 07525 824 679
The Queen’s Lower School for girls aged 4-11 is a uniquely nurturing environment enabling girls to embrace an adventurous and exciting curriculum. From the outset pupils are taught to be independent, articulate, questioning learners; both in the classroom or using one of the many outdoor learning environments. Strong pastoral care sees girls grow in confidence and ability, whether their talents lay in learning Mandarin, performing Shakespeare, rowing, gymnastics or explaining the workings of the solar system.
Why not come along to our Open Morning on November 8th or to our Christmas Cracker event on Saturday December 6th to soak up the atmosphere for yourself. Email: [email protected]
She’s soaking it all up...
Where girls shine
From the outset pupils are taught to be independent, articulate, questioning learners; both in the classroom
using one of the many outdoor learning environments.
More than half (53.4%) of students achieved the Level 2+ Threshold indicator which means at least 5 A*-C passes including English or Welsh (first language) and Maths. This is a significant increase on last year’s performance of 50%. More than three quarters (77%) of pupils in Wrexham schools achieved the Level 2 Threshold (at least 5 passes at A*-C), which has maintained the improvement made last year.
In total, 1209 pupils sat a broad range of GCSE, vocational and skills qualifications. Of these, 96% achieved the Level 1 Threshold (at least 5 passes at A*-G) which
is an improvement of 5% on last year’s performance.
Councillor Michael Williams, Lead Member for Children’s Services and Education, said: “These are very pleasing results and I congratulate our pupils for their diligence and hard work. I wish them well as they move to the next stage of their lives be it further education, training or employment. I am particularly pleased to see the significant improvements made at the schools we have worked most closely with over the past 18 months. We will continue to support our schools as together we aspire to achieve educational excellence for young people in Wrexham.”
Best Ever GCSE Results for 2014NEWS
Bright Futures
Queen’s sixth form is a unique environment which allows students to learn and grow to reach their own individual potential. Girls are treated as young adults with interactive tutorial-style learning and a wide range of enrichment activities to develop debating and presentation skills and encourage leadership and teamwork. This, coupled with our tailored admissions and careers support, provides the ideal stepping stone to the best courses and to top universities: last year 98% of girls went to their chosen universities. Above all, girls enjoy the sixth form at Queen’s. They leave us well qualified, happy, confident, articulate and ready to seize all that life has to offer.*The Times A Level League Tables 2014
Email: [email protected]
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Be your best
Queen’s sixth form is a unique environment which allows students to learn and grow to reach their own individual potential. Girls are treated as young adults with interactive tutorial-style learning and a wide range of enrichment activities to develop
You may remember last month Peter and Sally “got serious” with the review of their pensions and investments.After we helped them identify which funds were working well and which were not, a little effort quickly had the job done. Peter and Sally for the first time have a real plan now, to target exactly what they want to achieve right through to retirement in 10/12 years time.We have agreed to meet every 6 months and at last they also got around to meet with their Solicitor to put some Wills in place.Peter and Sally’s conversations with their parents suggested that they too really could benefit from a closer understanding of exactly how effectively their finances were organised. We had our first meeting with Sally’s parents, Brian and Dot who are both 71.Brian and Dot were very clear about what they wanted to do and gave us a “hit list” of wishes as follows; enjoy their 70’s, go on holidays they fancied, help their grandchildren, understand how to reduce the threat of potential care costs and one day, leave the best legacy they could to their only daughter Sally. For the first time in a long time, we made a really good list of exactly what they held where and both Brian and Dot were quite surprised with the total we arrived at.
We also quickly established that Inheritance Tax is not a problem, as the total of all of their assets came to around £300,000 and the current allowances allow a married couple to leave up to £650,000 between them without this tax becoming an issue. Their home made up about £200,000 of the total and all of their savings just a little under £100,000.Brian and Dot want keep things straight forward so we put in place three simple steps. First we gathered together a couple of their existing accounts and invested £15,000 each to ISA for the current tax year looking to improve their growth prospects given the very poor interest rates seen.Next we looked at gifting opportunities and Brian and Dot decided to gift £3,000 to each of their grandchildren. (They could have gifted more for last year as well but £6,000 in total was enough for now). They plan to do this each tax year going forward for as long as it feels affordable. Brian particularly is adamant that he will not ‘leave all of his money on the shelf’. Dot just wants the grandchildren to have it – so long as she can still have her holiday!Last, we referred Brian and Dot to a local firm of Solicitors to consider carefully a review of their Wills to include some ideas around how their house should be owned – given Brian’s wish to protect as
The Taylors - Keeping it in the FamilyAdvertising Feature
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much of their wealth as possible. More to follow on this topic next month.The next meeting was with Peter and his mum Jean. Sadly, Jean was widowed nearly 2 years ago and having just turned 80, she is not in the best of health. Jean has been considering selling her large home and almost “out of the blue” she has been approached by a local builder with an offer to buy the house for £450,000. A little more negotiation is likely to see the house sold in the next couple of months and Jean has been to view a top quality apartment closer to town
that she is very keen to purchase for £250,000.Peter and Jean are very keen to explore exactly what they can do with the capital that she will raise especially given that Arthur who was a keen investor, had built up a portfolio of almost £350,000 that now all sits in Jean’s name. A lot to work on here – and by next month I will be able to tell you how we are getting on.Again, some of the above may sound familiar and we would be delighted to talk with you about your plans for your families.
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For many autumn is a love-it or hate-it time of the year - at best the gorgeous “season of mists and mellow fruitfulness”, described by Keats, or, at worst, the inevitable back-end first signs of winter, shortening days, falling leaves, chilly nights and the unwelcome appearance of spiders in the bath. Dew-spangled orb webs glistening in early morning light are some of nature’s most beautiful but lethal creations. For over
a week a Garden Spider remained motionless in its web near our front door until a hapless fly blundered in and was instantly wrapped as an arachnid packed lunch.
Keats ends his Ode to Autumn with “The redbreast whistles from a garden-croft, And gathering swallows twitter in the skies.” Solitary whistling Robins and gregarious twittering Swallows employ different strategies to prepare for winter. The Robin stakes out a personal territory to provide food and shelter which it claims by singing to deter competitors. Swallows, like many other species, are forced to migrate because insect food is no longer available in their breeding grounds. Our Swallows travel as
far as South Africa. Flocking provides some protection from predators, opportunities to share information about migration routes, food sources and weather conditions, passing lessons down the generations and so on. In our immediate area we have a variety of flocks. Several local residents have
observed skeins of geese flying to feeding sites early in the morning. In a Burton wood over 100 Jackdaws are roosting together. Members of the crow family often roost communally. The second
largest Raven roost in the world containing 1,800 birds was recorded in Anglesey’s Newborough Forest in January 1998.
During this month wintering migrants will be arriving. Continental Robins, Blackbirds and Chaffinches, Fieldfares, Redwings and Bramblings from Scandinavia, Blackcaps from central and eastern Europe and Starlings from as far away as Russia are all regular visitors. Gresford Flash can host unusual gulls such as Glaucous and Iceland and a good selection of wildfowl.
Jackdaw
Greylag Geese in flight
Garden Spider with prey
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Have you noticed how many really individually styled cars are on the road these days. Not really different models, but the same models with such a variety of trim and paintwork that makes them totally bespoke for their proud owners. I suppose the original Mini had much to do with this as there were so many accessories to be had for this popular model. Now, the Citroen DS models show what can be done, as well as the Vauxhall Adam and several others. However, some of the cars are special ‘designer’ models with subtle modifications by Orla Kiely, and the Gucci version of the
very good Fiat 500 is much sought after, with its instantly recognised red and green stripes, special interior trim and a host of Gucci related accessories.
A few years ago, Land Rover commissioned Victoria Beckham to add her design touches to one of their models, and ‘Posh’ really did make a good job of it. However, just about everything we do today has always been done before, and in the ‘50s and ‘60s another ‘Posh’ Lady was responsible for a series of glamorous creations that are still marvelled at.
Her name was Lady Nora Docker, third wife of Sir Bernard Docker who was Chairman of the Daimler Car Company, and she persuaded him to let her design a series of fabulous and very expensive Daimler models, commencing in 1951 with a gold plated Touring Limousine which had 7,000 gold stars painted on its special coachwork and a sumptuous interior trimmed with the most exotic materials. In 1954 she switched to a silver theme with her ‘Stardust’ models (Silver plated and silver starred), but a year later she produced her Golden Zebra 2-door coupe with gold plating, ivory dash and Zebra skin upholstery (“ because Mink is too hot to sit on” she famously commented.) Unfortunately, Sir Bernard and his wife’s flamboyant and expensive lifestyle (which
included their luxury yatch ‘Shemara’ and 35 crew members) caused such concern to the Daimler board, that he was voted off in 1956.
Many people derided the pink champagne loving Lady Nora, who spent much of her high life on the French Riviera and Monaco, for the huge amount of money she had spent on these cars at such a depressed time in Britain, but others said she brought a splash of colour to our drab lives. One of her 1954 ‘Stardust’ limousines was auctioned recently by Bonhams at the Goodwood Revival meeting, where it fetched £110,140. It had been found on a Welsh farm in 1980 and restored. I wonder if it still had the original blue-dyed lizard skin upholstery?
Terry Davies
‘Posh’ designers with feminine flare
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Hidden behind the trees by the Old Wrexham Road between Gresford and the Pant yr Ochain lies The Flash. Much of the time little disturbs the ducks and geese, save people stopping to feed them. On summer evenings and afternoons however, there are often signs of activity around an old wooden hut on the far side of the lake, home since 1959 to Gresford Sailing Club.
On Friday evenings up to 30 children from 8 to 18 take to the water learning to sail in Optimist dinghies and then progressing to Toppers and RS Feva racing dinghies. Some go on to join the RYA Welsh Squad and sail in UK, European and World Championships. On Thursday evenings children from Gresford School join the fun.
Club members race classic 1950s and 60s GP14, Enterprise, Mirror and Solo dinghies on Wednesday evenings and Sundays.
On Wednesday and Saturday afternoons, model boaters take to the water with their beautiful models of motor boats, ships, yachts and racing boats.
RYA Training CoursesThis year Gresford Sailing Club has been recognised by the Royal Yachting Association as a Training Establishment and is now running beginners’ sailing courses for adults as well as children. There are still some spaces available on forthcoming courses.
Bart’s BashOn 21st September, Gresford Sailing club joined over 6,300 other sailing clubs around the world to raise money for the Andrew “Bart” Simpson Sailing Foundation. “Bart’s Bash” is also a world record attempt for the world’s largest multi-site sailing event with over 3,300 entrants registered so far. Bart was a double Olympian, tragically killed last year while training for the America’s Cup. The foundation was set up in his memory to “inspire the next generation” of young sailors.
Bonfire Night on Bonfire NightEvery 5th November, the Sailing Club opens its gates to welcome guests and new friends for Bonfire Night by the Flash.
If you want to know more, then contact the club through its web site www.gresfordsailingclub.org.uk Or E mail: [email protected]
Gresford Sailing Club
A Hidden Gem
Unit 17 The Bridgeway Centre, Bridge Road Wrexham Industrial Estate, Wrexham LL13 9QS
Tel: 01978 660141Email: [email protected]
Shot Blasting • Powder Coating
Call us now on: 01978 798 024or email: [email protected]
www.sarahsembroidery.co.uk
• HOODIES• POLO SHIRTS• PLAYING KITS
• T-SHIRTS• PLUS MUCH MORE...
ALL PERSONALISED TO YOUR REQUIREMENTS
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Rossett Community Council has a limited budget
for Donations to local voluntary groups
Any group wishing to apply should apply to The Clerk,
Rossett Community Council at 9 Caernarvon Road, WrexhamLL12 7TT indicating the purpose
and amount required.Applications to be
received not later than 10th October 2014
The decision is to be made on 19th November.
Gresford Methodist Church
Come and join our Christmas Gift Coffee Morning
on October 18th between 10.30 and 1 pm at
Gresford Methodist Church. We will have various stalls selling
items that will make lovely Christmas presents as well as coffee/ tea and cake.
Admission/ tickets will be £3.00. We look forward to seeing you.
CONCERT 11th OCTOBER 7.30PM
St Dunawds ChurchBangor on Dee Community Choir
and Porthywaen Youth Training Band
Tickets £6, tel Johnsons on 01978 780417
or 01978 780735
PULFORD & POULTON LOCAL HISTORY GROUP
WEDNESDAY 15TH OCTOBER“Aspects of the Gresford Colliery
Disaster”An illustrated talk by Mr Vic Tyler-Jones
Admission: Members £2, non-members £3More information:
Hon. Sec. Jenny Nethercott 01244 571040
Wrexham Hospice and Cancer Support Centre Foundation Registered Charity Number 1035600
£500 was raised at the “Afternoon Tea With Attitude”
in Pulford Village Hall on Saturday 27th September
RIP PigeonWe were fortunate enough to see
thissuspected peregrine falcon outside Waterworld in Wrexham this evening. It was right by the
front doors and had a little crowd of onlookers.
It didn’t seem in the slightest bit bothered by its audience and sat quite still for a good while. By the time we left the gym it had made
quite a mess of the pigeon!Kind regards Alex Rea
COFFEE MORNINGto raise funds for
Gresford and District Community Library (GDCL)
SATURDAY 25TH OCTOBER10 – 1 At Church House, GresfordRaffle..Tea/coffee...Toasted teacakes£2 entrance – what’s not to like?
Come and join us – everybody’s very welcome!
For more information about places please contact CLAIRE or RACHEL
01244 571872www.activechildcare.co.ukRossett House Nursery, Llay Road, Rossett, Wrexham LL12 0HT
ROSSETT HOUSE NURSERY“Teaching children about the natural world should be seen as one of the most important events in their lives.”Thomas Berry