gazette and diary magazine november 2012

The Winter IssueNovember / December

Issue 20 / 2012£1.50 - where sold

■ Style & Fashion ■ Homes and Gardens ■ Local Events

■ Call the Experts ■ Preparing for Christmas ... and much more ...

With the

Abergavenny

Chronicle

FREE

02 ● The Winter Issue ● November / December

Christmas Finger Buffet 2012£7.50 per head

A Selection of sandwiches to include the following Fillings:Prawn and Marie Rose Sauce

Egg and WatercressTurkey and Stuffing

Y-Fenni cheese and chutney

A selection of wraps to include the following fillings:Honey Roast Ham, salad and tomato

Brie and cranberryHoney and mustard Cocktail Sausages

Leek and caerphilly savoury tartsBBQ chicken skewers

Mince PiesSelection of H J Edwards award winning pies

Christmas Menu 2012Three Course £21.00 per person

Menu available Lunchtime and EveningBasket of Rustic Bead on Each Table

STARTERPea and Mint Soup with Crème frachie

Chicken Liver Pate with pendenderyn whiskyGarlic mushrooms in a white wine & creamy garlic sauce

served with local soda breadKing prawns skewers with lime and coriander served with

salad and homemade chilli jam

MAINRoast Turkey with sage and onion stuffing, sausage and

apple stuffing, pigs in blankets and roast PotatoesFillet of salmon with sautéed leeks and cockles with white

wine and chive sauceBelly Pork stuffed with caramelised onions with a sage

mustard and red wine saucePant-ys-gawn goats cheese and mediterranean vegetable filo

basket with caramelised red onions (v)

All Main Courses served with seasonal vegetables andpotatoes

DESERTSChristmas pudding with brandy sauce

Cheese Plates with homemade chutneys and homemadeoatcakes

Homemade Chocolate brownie with honeycomb ice creamand mulled fruit compote

Plus Tea, Coffee &Mince Pies

Prices includes table covering, napkins, crackers, crockery &cutlery, staff to set up serve and clear.

Please ensure adequate setting up time at your chosen venue.

For Local venues please see our website –www.sugarloafcatering.co.uk

A kitchen area to serve from is required.

Lunchtime Christmas MenuTwo Courses £14.00 per personThree Courses £16.50 per person

If the two course option is wanted the whole party mustorder the same two courses – either starter & main course or

main & Desert

Menu available at lunchtime onlyBasket of Rustic Bread on Each Table

STARTERLeek, Potato and chive soup with Crème fraicheHam hock terrine with spiced apple chutney

Oak roast salmon fish cakes served with salad andhomemade chilli jam

Melon and fresh fruit with sorbet

MAINRoast turkey with all the trimmings

Fresh baked with mediterranean vegetables with a herbcrust and a saffron sauce served

Slow cooked wye valley beef in red wine and mushroomsauce with chive and mash

Leek and goats cheese puff pastry tart with caramelisedonions and a mustard dressing

All main courses served with Seasonal Vegetables andpotatoes

DESERTSHomemade christmas puddings with brandy sauce

A selection of welsh cheese and homemade chutneys andoatcakes

White and dark chocolate roulade served with a mulled fruitcompote

Tea / coffee served with homemade mince pies

Plus Tea, Coffee &Mince Pies

Prices includes table covering, napkins, crackers, crockery &cutlery, staff to set up serve and clear. Please ensure adequate

setting up time at your chosen venue.

Sugar Loaf Catering

www.chefinthefreezer.co.ukWe now have a new easy to use online shop, with pictures of all our meals at

Tel: 07814401117 Email: [email protected]

2 ways to orderOver the phone by calling: 07814401117Online at: www.foodworkshopabergavenny.co.uk

● www.sugarloafcatering.co.uk ● Please call 01873 737755

03● The Winter Issue ● November / December

PUBLISHING:Printed and distributed by NWN Media.www.nwnmedia.co.ukMold Business Park, Wrexham Road, Mold, CH7 1XY.

At NWN Media we are committed to addressing the keyenvironmental impacts of printing and the production process, andpreserving the environment for future generations. Ourenvironmental policy is achieved through continuous monitoring,annual targets and action plans.

The sourcing of newsprint is a major environmental concern forpublishers and we at NWN Media source our newsprint from UPMKymmene in Deeside, utilising their 100% recycled paper, which isproduced as a natural, renewable and recyclable fibre fromsustainable, responsibly managed forests. UPM is committed toforest management and forest harvesting practices based on theinternationally accepted principles of sustainable forestmanagement.

UPM Kymmene is just a mile from the press site, which alsokeeps carbon footprint to a minimum in the obtaining of our paper.All newsprint waste is taken back to UPMʼs site and fully recycled.

When you have finishedreading the Gazette & DiaryMagazine - please recycle it.

In association with

The Abergavenny Chronicle

DESIGNERS:Dave [email protected]

John [email protected]

ADVERTISING:Jenna Hopkins ext 35For information on how to advertise in our next issue,contact: [email protected] or telephone01873 852187 ext 35

GENERAL MANAGER - Mary Purcell

Welcome to the November issue of the Gazette and Diarywhich as always is jam packed with interesting articles andlocal features. With everyone gearing up for a sparklingbonfire night we have some top tips about how to staysafe and sound and looking further ahead to Christmas

some great ideas for gifts for the whole family. With the dark nights upon us what better way to spend a few hoursthan with a mug of steaming hot chocolate and your Gazette and Dairy.

Welcome...

Page 05AbergavennyChristmas FoodFestival

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Page 09Germany'sChristmasMarkets

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Page 22Create the bedroomof your dreams

Page 17Watching thebirdies thisAutumn

▲ Page 20Time to callin thearchitects

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Inside...

Page 26Bonfire NightSafety

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Page 07Spotlight on AbergavennyMarket

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Page 12Christmas Charity

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E.D. MARKETS ☎ 077680 00854

Traders from all over Great Britain attend this market● Large Car Park & Coach Park

● Picnic Area and Kiddie’s Inflatables● Coach Parties Welcome

Car Boots Restarted!

CHEPSTOWSUNDAY

MEERKAT?

Nick Ramsay AMAssembly Member for Monmouth

Hospitals - Schools - Transport -Environment - Housing

Write to: Nick Ramsay AM, Constituency Office,16 Maryport Street, Usk, Monmouthshire, NP15 1AB

E-mail: [email protected]

For further information call:01291 674 898 or 029 2089 8735


Festive Feasting all wrapped up at the Abergavenny FoodFestival Christmas Food & Drink FairYou’re already planning ahead for theperfect festive celebrations and lookingforward to time out with friends andfamily. The third Abergavenny FoodFestival Christmas Food and Drink Fairtakes place on Sunday 9 December(10.00am – 5.00pm) Sponsored byBrewin Dolphin - one of the UK’s largestindependent private clientinvestment managers - it’syour chance to geteverything sorted on theculinary front.

With over ninety hand-pickedexhibitors, the focus is firmlyon Christmas food (no tinselside-shows). Entry is via astroller ticket - just £3.50 for adults, butentirely free for children if accompanied byan adult. Buy online atwww.abergavennyfoodfestival.com andthrough the Borough Theatre (01873850805) from 6 November.

But your stroller ticket doesn’t just buyaccess to the markets. There’s also a rollingprogramme of free seasonal chef dems inthe Market Hall on the Robert PriceKitchen Stage featuring local talentalongside some festival regulars. Thesebite-size sessions (half-an-hour) giving youa chance to draw inspiration from culinaryclass acts.

Fancy dishing up pot-roasted pheasant forinstance? Matt Tebbutt, chef-proprietor ofThe Foxhunter and presenter of Channel 4’s‘Food Unwrapped’ shows you how. JaneBaxter of the award-winning Riverford FieldKitchen has a traditional fish recipe that’sperfect for feeding large numbers: salmonin pastry with currants and ginger - a smartsolution for Boxing Day; and ‘WineChap’Tom Harrow says be bold, and comes upwith surprise wines to pair with festivefood. Michelin Star chef James Sommerin(Crown at Whitebrook) takes inspirationfrom abroad to conjure up ‘somethingcompletely different’; Simon King of 1861deconstructs Christmas pudding; IainSampson (head chef, The Bear, Crickhowell)goes game with venison; and RoisinBallinger (The Burren Bread Company)whips up a last minute Christmas Cake.

There’s also a complementary programmeof special individually ticketed TutoredTastings priced between £6.00 and £7.50.Take time out from shopping and join somevery special culinary bright lights as theycreate fabulous festive treats for you tosample in a relaxed and intimateenvironment. There’s just one event on theSaturday evening. Join Tom Harrow aka‘WineChap’ and top affineur Eric Charriauxwho’ll be pairing white wines with cheesein the Homes of Elegance fabulousshowrooms in Mill Street.

On the Sunday The Angel Hotel will hostfour events in the stunning ballroom. Firstup: Paul Grimwood of Ultracomida andSpanish wine expert Jose Velo-Rego of C &D Wines for a sampling of the sherries andfortified wines of Jerez and Malagaalongside artisan foods imported fromSpain. Then Lindy Wildsmith of the Chef’s

Room Cookery School,Blaenavon introduces simpleand delicious treats that canbe made in advance andserved at the drop of a hat.Great for advance partyplanning.

Whisky evangelist EddieLudlow offers a unique

opportunity to taste the Whisky Lounge’scurrent Single Cask Series - ‘a differentflavour conundrum waiting to be unlocked’;and Master chocolatier Barry Colensojourneys from bean to bar through the artand science of chocolate making –including tempering and decoration.

Tempted to taste? Limited ticket

availability for these special events.Remember, box office goes live on 6November. More details and times onlineat www.abergavennyfoodfestival.com

■ Jane Baxter ■ James Sommerin

■ Matt Tebbutt


Hotel - Restaurant - Wedding Venue - Events

ChristmasPartyNightsLive tribute band and 2course festive dinner £25per person 7pm untilmidnight

JohnnyTrashed

WeddingFayre

Friday 12th October 2012£20 per person including a Two Course

dinner and entertainment, 7pm - midnight

Friday 30th November 2012£25 per person including a Two Course Dinner

7pm – 12 midnightMenu available, bookings advisable

Sunday 28th October 2012For more information please contactHilarys Floral Design 01873 853086

The Park Hotel is the perfect setting for your wedding day andevening celebration. With a romantic back drop for the perfectphotographic images to capture and remember your special day.

‘A Tribute to theman in Black’

TributeNight

TributeNight

An Evening with

KarenCarpenter

For more information please contact Jane or Jemmaon 01873 890271 or visit our website

www.theparkhotelwales.com


CHRISTMAS MENU

The Coach & Horses InnTracey & Ken extend a warmwelcome to customers old andnew A great atmosphere and

friendly staff await you

facebook usCoach andHorses,Llangynidr

Cwm Crawnon Road, Llangynidr, NP8 1LS

Telephone: 01874 730235

For more information contact us on: [email protected]

STARTERSLEEK AND POTATO SOUP

DUCK PATE SERVED WITH A SPICED PLUM COMPOTE, AND TOASTSALMON & ASPARAGUS ROULADE, WITH A LEMON AND CAPER

DRESSINGSUNDRIED TOMATO, BASIL & RICOTTA MOUSSE WITH PARMESSAN

CRISPS

MAIN COURSESROAST TURKEY WITH ALL THE TRIMMINGS

BREAST OF VENISON WITH A CRANBERRY STUFFING AND PARSNIP MASHTUNA STEAK WITH ROASTED MED VEGETABLE AND RED PEPPER PESTOPOTATO GNOCCHI WITH ASPARAGUS & ROASTED CHESTNUTS, WITH A

CREAMY MUSHROOM SAUCE

DESSERTSCHRISTMAS PUDDING WITH BRANDY SAUCEMILK CHOCOLATE & BUTTERSCOTCH ALASKA

CHOCOLATE & CHERRY TERRINE WITH AN ORANGE LIQUOUR SAUCECHEESE AND BISCUITS (£1 supplement)

Tea or Coffee with a mince pie to finish

2 courses £15.95 3 courses £19.95

Christmas Eve lunch12-3pm - Evening drinks only

Christmas Day12-2 drinks only

Boxing Day lunch12-3pm - Evening drinks only

New Years Eve lunch12-3 - Evening drinks onlyFree karaoke till late

New Years Day lunch12-3 - Evening meals 6-9

ABERGAVENNY

MARKETSituated in the middle of the town known as the Gateway to Wales, Abergavenny

Tuesday Market is well known as one of the major markets in Wales.

MMAARKEETTSS EVEERRYY TUEESSDDAAY,

WWEEDNEESSDDAY,, FFRRIIDAYY && SATTUURRDDAYYSS

CCrraafftt FFaaiirrssSSuunnddaayy 1100tthh NNoovveemmbbeerr

AAnnttiiqquuee FFaaiirrSSuunnddaayy 1188tthh NNoovveemmbbeerr

FFaarrmmeerrss MMaarrkkeettTThhuurrssddaayy 2222nndd NNoovveemmbbeerr

For further

details contact

Geoff Harris

01873 735811

Spotlight on Abergavenny MarketaAbergavenny Market Hall, modern-day venue foreverything from the Tuesday produce market tofair trade events, antiques and craft fairs, farmer’smarkets and the internationally-acclaimed annualFood Festival, boasts a fascinating history.The town’s first market place occupied a wedge ofland alongside Nevill Street.

In the early 17th century a timber-framed markethouse was built in the middle of Cross Street -opposite the main entrance to the present-daycovered market and town hall.By the end of the 18th century, however, it was in adecayed state and obstructing traffic and the decisionwas taken to demolish it.

The Abergavenny Improvement Commissioners, whocontrolled the affairs of the town from 1794 to 1894,instituted a new courtyard produce market on the siteof the present building in 1796.

Two pubs, The Dog and Bull and the Plume of Feathers,and four shops were pulled down to accommodate it.The market had a classical front, a covered cornmarket and an open courtyard surrounded by stalls, letat a monthly rent of £1.11s.6d. As well as corn, thegoods sold there included flour, meat, fish, poultry,butter, cheese and vegetables.

The building was designed by John Nash - who laterbecame famous as George IV’s own architect and forcreating Regent Street, The Haymarket Theatre andBrighton Pavilion as well as many other landmarks. The old town wall at the back was raised to 14 feet toprotect the market from the north wind.

By the middle of the 19th century, despiteimprovements made over the years, it was decided thatthe Nash building was proving too costly to maintainand that there was still insufficient space undercoverand a decision was taken to completely rebuild. Thearchitects chosen were Wilson and Wilcox of Bath.

The new market hall with the town hall in front, in thestyle of the continental Hotel de Ville, was built from1869-71. It was a dramatic statement of Victoriancivic pride and prosperity.

The clock was donated by Crawshay Bailey, theironmaster who lived at Llanfoist. Its verdigris tower isnow a landmark from all the surrounding hills.The clock has four faces, three white and one black,the latter apparently in remembrance of QueenVictoria’s late husband, Prince Albert.

Today the impressive building retains its Victorian‘character’ - but over the years the main Tuesdayproduce market has extended both its range of goodsand its size. Stalls now sell clothes, books, cakes,sweets, flowers, plants, vegetables, toys, crockery andkitchenware, jewellery and other accessories, shoes,textiles and a host of other goods.


Christmas dinner with all the trimmings and not a saucepan in sightWhat more could you want for Christmas?Christmas is a time for relaxing, so leavemealtimes to us. We have created a range ofclassic Christmas meals and desserts tocelebrate the festive season that will reallyexcite your taste-buds, all delivered by yourregular local driver.

Our Hearty Roast Turkey with all the trimmings,followed by a Luxury Christmas Pudding, is theperfect choice for a winter meal.

If you fancy something different this Christmas,we offer a delicious Steak in Creamy PepperSauce - tender feather steak with creamypepper sauce, thyme roast potatoes, carrots &Romano beans. For dessert our Sherry Trifle issure to hit the spot, layers of silky custard, fruityraspberry jelly and sherry soaked sponge,topped with cream. A delicious way to celebratethe season!

The Wiltshire Farm Foods ServiceEstablished for more than 20 years, WiltshireFarm Foods creates and delivers a delicious rangeof frozen meals that can be cooked in minutes.From the field, to the freezer, every detail isconsidered in order to offer nutrition, value,flavour and award-winning personal service.

Ingredients are selected from carefully-approved suppliers and are then prepared by ateam of nutritionists and award-winning chefsin our Wiltshire kitchens. Once cooked, themeals are placed into handy trays that fit easilyinto the freezer, then frozen almostimmediately to lock in the freshness.

Convenience is a key part of the Wiltshire FarmFoods offering. All meals can be ordered overthe phone or online. They’re then delivered by afriendly, local delivery driver, who is alwayshappy to put meals away in the freezer for ourcustomers, if preferred.

With the freezer stocked up, a hot meal is onlyever a few minutes away. Most dishes take 8-12minutes in the microwave or 35 minutes in theoven. As they are cooked in their trays, there is nopreparation, no pots and pans, just delicious mealsto enjoy any time. So our customers can relax thisChristmas and let Wiltshire Farm Foods do all thehard work! It’s the perfect yuletide treat.

A Perfect Christmas MenuOur tasty festive recipes have been created byour talented chefs, ensuring that the mealscombine nutritious, flavoursome ingredientswith recipes ideal for the Christmas period.

Wiltshire Farm Foods head chef Phil Rimmerexplains: “This Christmas we have brought backlots of your seasonal favourites, and introducedsome delicious new choices. I would recommendthe Roast Pork with Cranberry and Nut Stuffing -succulent pork loin with a port sauce, andseasonal vegetables, a great alternative to turkey.I do hope you enjoy the range.”

To start you off, you might like to order ourChristmas Selection Pack, with 6 festive mealsand 4 desserts plus a free Christmas tea towel(available while stocks last) all for just £29.95!It’s a great way to try a variety of our favouritemeals.

Your Local ServiceEstablished 21 years ago, Wiltshire Farm Foodsregularly delivers meals to many satisfiedcustomers living throughout Abergavenny andsurrounding towns and villages ofMonmouthshire.

Brian and Sara from Wiltshire Farm FoodsMonmouth comments: “Whether it’s a simple-to-prepare, delicious main meal or puddingyou’re after, you are sure to find many choices

to savour in our range. Our Christmas menucaters for diabetic and gluten free dietary needstoo, so all our customers can enjoy our mealswith confidence.”

For a free copy of our Wiltshire Farm FoodsChristmas Menu 2012 or to order theChristmas Selection Pack for £29.95 phone01600 892855 or visitwww.wiltshirefarmfoods.com to shop online.We look forward to hearing from you.


Treats galore in Germany’s super marketsOn a tour of Germany's best Christmasmarkets, Laura Wurzal hunts for unusualgifts. When it comes to Christmas shopping,few countries can hold a candle to Germany.Its traditional Christmas markets have beencreating the wow factor for more than sixcenturies.

Back in medieval times, end-of-year marketssprung up as social gatherings where peoplecould enjoy a little excess before the onset ofbitter weather.

They traded preserved fruit, jams, home-madewine and heavy fruit cakes, all designed to keepfamilies going during the long cold weeksahead. It was only during the 15th century thatthese gatherings came to be identified withChristmas.

Today, Germany's Christmas markets open onthe first day of Advent in mid-November. Inmost places, the routine has hardly changed fora century or so.

Set against the backdrop of beautiful historiccities, market squares bulge with beautifully-decorated wooden stalls full of traditional food,local delicacies, good quality hand-made goodsand wooden traditional toys and decorations.

Each region in Germany has its own style, so Itargeted Thuringia, north of Bavaria andbetween Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt. Touroperator Dertour fixed flights into Frankfurt forspeedy ICE train links to Eisenach, Erfurt andDresden.

At Eisenach, with its wonderfully preserved OldTown, the Christmas market is in WartburgCastle, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritagebuilding dating to 1067 and perched on top ofa large hill overlooking the town.

Here, in 1522, Martin Luther found refuge for300 days after he was declared a heretic and

outlaw at the Diet of Worms. In secure andcomfortable rooms, he translated the bible intoGerman.

Nearly five centuries later, this historic settingis perfect for the market, the stalls overladenwith food, jewellery, clothes, glassware, sweetsand hand-made Christmas decorations.

One thing you don't find in most GermanChristmas markets are mass-produced cheapplastic toys. Everything is traditional and hand-made regionally, the quality so high that even a'little something' is likely to be treasured.

We found Christmas pyramids, jewellery,candleholders from the Erzgebirge Mountains,indigo-dyed printed textile gifts, pottery,gingerbread, lace products, glass advent stars,blown glass tree decorations and hand puppets.

Wood carvers, glass blowers and bakersdemonstrated their skills and a cute 'bakerycrèche' looked after the toddlers while parentsshopped. Bakers showed the children how tomake biscuit dough, rolling and cutting it intoshapes at lightning fast speed.

Stallholders in Victorian dress sell traditionalwooden and tin toys, puppets, glassware, giftsand decorations. Incredible aromas abound fromstalls selling crepes, hot waffles, sugar-roastedalmonds, marzipan, nougat and baked apples.

Many visitors to Dresden also find time for thenearby Meissen porcelain factory. On a guidedtour, we saw how crockery, figurines, vases andeven jewellery are created from a lump of clay.

We lunched at Meissen's oldest restaurant, theVincenz Richter. The charming house was builtin 1523 and in 1873 Richter, a general in theemperor's army, opened a family-run restaurantbusiness which to this days serves wonderful,locally-sourced food.

The advantage of visiting Christmasmarkets with Dertour is that mostpackages are tailor-made, with hotels,restaurants, rail tickets, flights and car hirefixed to suit your individual timetable.

The company is part of a mighty Germanconglomerate which has the muscle todeliver some keen prices at a time whenmany centres in Germany are heavingwith tourists.

Key facts - German Christmas markets■ Best for: Traditional, beautifully-made gifts.■ Time to go: End of Oct to third week of Dec.■ Don't miss: The Gluhwein at market stalls will fill

you with Christmas spirit.■ Need to know: Some German airports don't allow

food products like jams, preserves, spices andhome-made food in jars to be carried in handluggage. Check beforehand.

■ Don't forget: Plenty of cash, plus winter coat andboots. It's very cold at this time of year.

Traditional Spiced Mulled WineIngredients:● 2 bottles medium or full-bodied red wine (Bulgarian Cabernet

Sauvignon is ideal)● 1.5 litres water● 1 orange, studded with 10 cloves● 2 oranges and 2 lemons, sliced● 6 tbsp sugar or honey● 5cm cinnamon stick● 2 tsp finely grated fresh root

ginger● 2 tbsp fruit liqueur such as

cointreau, grand marnier,calvados or cherry brandy

Meathod:Mix all the mulled wine ingredientstogether in a slow cooker or a largesaucepan. Heat very gently forabout 20 minutes. Do not boil, oryou will boil off the alcohol. Stir gently to ensure that the sugar or honey has dissolved.Serve with a ladle and keep warm over a low heat.

Recipe Corner

Enjoy a home made tipplethis Christmas Makes 24glasses or12 half-pint mugs


The Bailey Bar & Kitchen12 Hereford Road 01873 561 097

Bar Menu

BAR OPENING TIMES

Monday 4-11

Tuesday - Saturday11am-11pm

Sunday 12 noon-10:30pm

KITCHEN OPENING TIMES

Monday 4pm-9pm

Tuesday - Saturday11:30am-9pm

Sunday 12 Noon-7pm

ALL MAJOR SPORTINGEVENTS SHOWN.

3D GLASSES AVAILABLE ATTHE BAR.

LARGE PROJECTIONSCREEN AND MULTIPLEFLAT SCREENS AROUND

THE BAR.

FREE WI-FI

MILITARY /EMERGENCY

SERVICES ON FOODWITH VALID I.D.

POOL &DARTS

20%OFF

TUESDAY QUIZ & WING NIGHTSTARTING SOON!

DRAGON WING CHALLENGECOMING SOON

(ASK STAFF FOR DETAILS)

Homemade Scotch Bonnet Salsa with Tortilla Chips£1.50

Bowl of Chilli with Bread & Cheese £4.25

Tuna Salad Sandwich with a Kick, served with Fries£4.50

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad £5.75

American Style Chicken Wings (6)- Piri Piri, BBQ,Garilc, Mayo, Sweet Thai Chilli, Sweet Curry, Hot orplain all with Celery and Blue Cheese Dip £4.50

(Ask About the Dragon Wing Challenge)American Slider(5oz Burger) With Cheese and Fries

£5.00

Hellish Slider. Topped with Jalapenos Hot sauce andCheese served with fries £5.25

Italian Stallion Sandwich.Grilled Ham, Pepperoni and Salami with Cheese

served with fries £4.75

Basket of fries £1.50 Chilli Cheese Fries £3.00

St. Mary’s Bakery

DDelicious FFinger BBuffets fforBirthdays, CChristenings,

Weddings, FFunerals, CChildren’sParties oor bbusiness llunches.

WWhhaatteevveerr tthhee OOccccaassiioonn wwee ccaannppuutt ttooggeetthheerr aa ttaassttyy sseelleeccttiioonn ooffSSaannddwwiicchheess,, SSaavvoouurriieess,, FFrruuiittss aanndd

ccoonnffeeccttiioonnaarryy ttoo yyoouurrssppeecciiffiiccaattiioonn..

NNoo mmaatttteerr hhooww llaarrggee oorr ssmmaallll tthhee oorrddeerr,, bbuuffffeettss ssttaarrtt aatt jjuusstt

£3.75 per head.

For mmore iinformation pop iinto tthe bbakery oor ccall:

01873 268183St. MMary’s BBakery,

15 FFrogmore SSt, AAbergavenny

Outside Catering:

Boost charity coffers this ChristmasBy Jeremy Gates

As savings rates collapse and share prices gosideways, even the wealthy are feeling the squeezeand cutting back on donations to charities and goodcauses.

According to the Coutts Million Pound Donors Reportpublished this week, compiled by private bankers Coutts& Co (its branches stretch from Sheffield to Exeter) andthe University of Kent, the number of big donations inBritain hit a low in 2010, with only 174 handouts of £1million or more.

Entrepreneurs usually make their biggest gifts whenthey sell their companies - and those sales have sloweddrastically during the recession. In 2010, high-net-worthindividuals stumped up £782 million of donations.

Meanwhile, the UK Giving 2011 report says the publicgave £11 billion to charity in 2010/11, but the averageamount given per month is falling.

In real terms, donations are worth £90 million less thanthe amount given in 2007/08, just before the recessionhit.

John Low, chief executive of the Charities AidFoundation (CAF), says: "It's really encouraging thatdespite sharp rises in cost of living, more people aresupporting charities.

"Though the downturn means more people ask for help,charities are struggling against rising costs, so everypound is really needed."

For anybody who donates to charity, saysunbiased.co.uk, the professional advice website, thegolden rule is to tick the box for Gift Aid - to enable a

charity to reclaim basic tax on a donation from HMRevenue & Customs (HMRC) on the 'gross' figure, theamount before basic rate tax (20%) is deducted.

For every one pound you donate, HMRC gives an extra25p to charity. But CAF fears around £750 million ofGift Aid goes unclaimed each year.

Rule two, says unbiased.co.uk, is to investigate PayrollGiving (Give As You Earn). Under the scheme, paymentsare taken from your salary by your employer before taxis deducted, so if an employee on basic rate tax at 20%donates £10, the actual cost is only £8.If 40% taxpayers donate £10, the cost of their donationis only £6.

However, CAF, which works with donors, companies andcharities to encourage a culture of giving, lists manyother ways of help good causes.

They include:■ Give as you shop: If you avoid busy high streets todo your shopping online, sign up to sites such aswww.givingabit.com or www.giveasyoulive.com.

Retailers give these sites commission for directingpeople to their websites to make purchases and this isthen donated to the charity of your choice. It's easy andfree to sign up.

Alternatively, if you are shopping on eBay thisChristmas, small donations to charities can be made atthe eBay checkout.

■ Volunteering: You could help in a homeless shelter,offer to visit someone living alone, or volunteer in yourlocal charity shop.

Applicants can put their postcode into a website to findnearby charities which need help and support. Two goodwebsites to visit are www.timebank.org.uk or www.do-it.org.uk.■ Open a CAF Charity Account: The accountoperates rather like a bank account, but forcharitable donations.

All money held in a CAF Charity Account receivesGift Aid automatically and can be directed toany good cause by using a charitychequebook, charity card, or going onlinethrough the CAF website. Cheques canalso be used to sponsor friends andfamilies taking part in sponsored events,or put in the collection plate at church.

A CAF Charity Account can be opened bysetting up a direct debit for £10 or more amonth, or a one off donation of £100.Alternatively, you can fund your accountthrough Give As You Earn.

■ Give pennies: The Pennies Foundation'selectronic charity box allows you to donate'loose change' when you pay with your cardonline, or in shops of participating retailers.All you need to do is click on the donatebutton. For more information, visitwww.pennies.org.uk.

■ Give while you surf: Switch your search engine toeveryclick.com and raise money for your favourite UKcharity at no cost to you, or your charity.Everyclick.com donates 50% of its advertising revenueto charity.

■ Remember that helping charities can begin at home:If you are looking for ways to help charities but are cash

or time poor, then you might get some ideas atwww.helpfromhome.org.

The site list various ways of helping charities fromhome and includes a "pyjama rating" which lets

you judge how easily the activities can be done.

■ Update your phone with the latest charityapps: The Orange Do Some Good app helpslocate charitable activities that take around

five minutes from micro-volunteering tofilling in a charity survey. Just visit theapp store on your phone to download.

For those who struggle to get out ofbed each morning, the Let Give snooze

app pledges a donation to charityevery time you press the snooze

button. Although it's only open for gifts toUS charities at the moment, UK-basedcharities should be able to sign up soon.

■ Pet presents: As we spend£100 million on Christmas gifts for pets,choose something suitable for a cuddlycompanion from a charity.

The Dogs Trust (www.dogstrust.org.uk) doesa range of grooming products that make great

presents, while Cats Protection has lots ofpresent ideas with cats in mind.Animal welfare charities are always looking for toys, soyou might buy an extra one and donate it to your localcentre.

■ Buy gifts from charity shops: They are useful huntinggrounds for gifts and generate vital income for charities.Many charities sell gifts which you can purchase fromtheir website, such as tea towels or cushions, or you can

Money news, advice and predictions for savers and spenders.


offers a competitive exchange rate but goes a bitfurther to ensure customers are fairly rewarded.

"We introduced the 1% cashback this summer and it isnow a permanent feature on our cards. Besides that, wehave also scrapped ATM withdrawal fees on all three ofour cards, and to top it off, customers escapecommission too."

My Travel Cash (www.mytravelcash.com) offers threeprepaid MasterCard cards in multi-currency (sterling),euros and US dollars. The cards work like a pay-as-you-go mobile phone, in that you load them with moneybefore you travel and top them up when needed, so youspend only what you have loaded earlier.

The Express Delivery option means you can get yours intime for your trip, unlike other prepaid currency cardproviders which can take five to 10 working days. Orderyour prepaid card and take advantage of thecompetitive exchange rates at www.mytravelcash.com.

■ Around 20% of Britons expect to be pushed intodebt or further into debt by Christmas spending,research from comparison site MoneySupermarket.comreveals.

Just over half of Britons (57%) have enough saved tocover Christmas bills this year, some 6%below the 2010 figure.

The research found 40% ofpeople are currently in debt,excluding mortgage andstudent loans, so theyenter the Christmasperiod with financesalready stretched.

Of those already indebt, some 36% sayChristmas will pushthem further intothe red, while a fifth(20%) will use their

December salary to pay for Christmas. Among those notyet in debt, some one in 10 could be pushed intoarrears by this festive period.

Overall, for those going into debt or further into debt,69% said they will resort to spending on a credit card,23% plan to use an overdraft and 9% will take out aloan to tide them over.

Tim Moss, head of loans and debt atMoneySupermarket.com, says: With many people beingpaid early in December, January payday may seem along way off, so planning ahead is vital to avoid carryingover the debt burden into next year.

"For the large number of people who are unable to save,there are a number of ways they can reduce theChristmas spending hangover by the new year, and it isessential to use the right product to meet their needs.For example, a credit card offering 0% interest onpurchases might be the sensible option if they are ableto pay off the balance in full within the 0% period."

Scotland was the region with the greatest increase ofconsumers in debt against last year: some 47% findthemselves owing money against 38% in 2010.Best savers & borrowers

buy food for a family, or help educate achild. To find a local charity shop, visitwww.charityshops.org.uk/locator.

■ Donate unwanted gifts tocharity shops: Gift Aid cannow also be claimed bycharity shops on itemssold, so if you are a UKtaxpayer ensure they areaware. They take yourdetails and contact youto ensure that you are stilla taxpayer when thedonated item is sold.

■ Help a charity when youswitch your insurer: On thewebsitewww.donatesomeback.com,you can search a number ofproviders of home, car andpersonal cover which donate up to £25to the charity of your choice when you switchyour policy to them.

■ Always try to vote in building society AGMs, if acharity might benefit: Nationwide Building Society hasgiven 20p per vote cast since 2006, with memberssupporting either Macmillan Cancer Support, Shelter orAlzheimer's Society.

The total raised so far is £1.14 million, with£203,237.40 raised from the 2011 AGM vote alone.Macmillan Cancer Support has earned £836,089 overfour years of donations from the AGM member voting.

■ Open an account with Charity Bank: It acts like anyother savings account, except that interest earnedallows Charity Bank to offer affordable loans tocharities, voluntary organisations and social enterprises.For further details, visit www.charitybank.org.

■ Information: Charities Aid Foundation (CAF): 03000123 214 and www.cafonline.org; details of Give As YouEarn can be found at atwww.cafonline.org/giveasyouearn; Cats Protection(03000 121 212 and www.cats.org.uk.

Poundnotes■ The latest research from Governor Money, theonline cash savings platform, suggests savers lose asmuch as £12 billion a year in lost interest because ofapathy and inertia.

The analysis found almost half of savers think there'slittle point in searching for better deals with ratesgenerally so low.

The average adult holds £13,520 in savings, with athird (34%) never moving their savings, either from acash savings bank account or a savings product such asa cash ISA. Another 24% had only moved money oncein their lifetime.

Some 43% of savers said there was no point going tothe hassle of switching accounts because of low rates,while only 3% of cash savers have moved money intoshares and other investment funds.

The research revealed that 56% of adults with lessthan £2,000 in savings had never moved accounts, andthat women, on average, have less in cash savingsaccounts (on average men have £17,060, women have£10,120).

However, Governor Money says there are still decentdeals to be had, particularly if you can lock moneyaway for a fixed term or use a cash ISA allowance toshelter interest from tax. The Bank of Ireland's five-yearcash ISA offers a 4.50% fix.

With Governor Money, one accountoffers access to multiple rates

for savers who spread savingsand cash ISA allowances.

John-Paul Booth, chiefexecutive at GovernorMoney, says:"Overwhelmed for solong by low bases rateand inflation, it is perhapsnot surprising savers havegiven up."

Governor Money helpssavers to spread moneyacross short, medium andlong-term products totake advantage of variousrates and maintain

flexibility. All banks andbuilding societies available

through Governor Money areprotected by the UK Financial Services

Compensation Scheme.

■ Although the latest inflation figures show theConsumer Prices Index (CPI) fell in November from 5%to 4.8%, a basic rate taxpayer at 20% still needs tofind a savings account paying 6% per annum, while ahigher rate taxpayer at 40% needs to find an accountpaying 8%, to keep ahead of inflation, saysMoneyfacts.co.uk.

Yet there isn't a single savings account for taxpayerswhich outpaces current tax and inflation levels,whether it is CPI at 4.8% or RPI at 5.2%.

Inflation means that £10,000 invested five years ago,allowing for average interest and tax at 20%, has thespending power of just £9,210 today.

Sylvia Waycot, at Moneyfacts.co.uk, says: "Today's rateof inflation means hundreds of thousands of saversneed an account paying a staggering 6% before theyearn a real rate of return on their savings, yet theaverage no notice savings account pays a miserly0.93%.

"Already, some £800 has been wiped off the spendingpower of £10,000 in only five years. During the lastyear the number of accounts which beat inflation forbasic rate taxpayers has dropped successively from 57to nil, leaving many wondering why they save at all."

■ Britons who travel abroad or visit overseas websitesfor Christmas shopping could pocket an accumulative£8.6 million as my Travel Cash - the prepaidMasterCard currency card - gives customers the gift ofcashback.

My Travel Cash recently added a new reward for allcustomers: a 1% unlimited cashback on everythingpurchased, paid directly to a prepaid card account thefollowing month.

Research from Santander shows that with the averageBriton spending £359 on Christmas presents, some 4.2million people spend 23% of their budget abroad and afurther 4.2 million spend 35% of their Christmasbudget on overseas websites. All these purchases wouldcreate a cashback reward of £8.6 million if everybodyused a my Travel Cash currency card.

Myles Stephenson, chief executive at my Travel Cash,says: "More people are heading to European Christmasmarkets or further afield to New York or LA, so a largepercentage of the population purchase from overseaswebsites.

"For both types of customers, my Travel Cash not only


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Your life in the starsFind out what's written in the stars.Week commencing October 29, 2012.By Cassandra Nye

ARIES (March 21 - April 20) In a week thatstarts with a Full Moon in Taurus, the emphasis isfirmly on money. Seek it out, save it and manageit. Developing good relationships with workcolleagues and the boss has never been moreimportant. Any romantic liaisons in this area,however, need treating with caution. Decisionsare driven by practical needs and it is necessaryto curb an overactive imagination.

TAURUS (April 21 - May 21) A creative weekoffers the chance to take up a new interest orhobby. Do this in a social setting rather thanalone if possible. Take any advantage of anyopportunities to socialise. Communications andrelationships are still good but do need that littlebit of extra input to shine. Finances need carefulhandling as usual. This is a universal problem andso you need not feel alone.

GEMINI (May 22 - June 21) Cash should beeasier to come by. For various reasons, however,check out the source. Try to get a balancebetween what you are willing to do and what isreally against your principles or beliefs. Acomfortable life is not a good exchange forpeace of mind! Temptations come in manyforms and some bring excitement. Still, just howmuch of this do you want?

CANCER (June 22 - July 23) A romantic interestfrom the past is likely to be triggered byMonday's Full Moon in Taurus. If there iscurrently no one special in your life, there is atemptation here. However, rose-tinted glassesare not a good idea as far as this person isconcerned. Remember their faults also. Gettingfinances organised, if you have not already doneso, is a very good idea.

LEO (July 24 - August 23) This week is all aboutnot overdoing anything in any area of your life.Work is busy but don't get overtired. A romanceneeds to move on but don't rush intocommitment. Finances should be good but avoidspending too much. Arranging something funand unusual at the weekend leads to a closer linkwith young relatives. Who would have thoughtthat it could be so delightful?

VIRGO (August 24 - September 23) Tall storiesand active imaginations run through the week.This could be triggered by the Taurus Full Moon.Indeed, someone from your romantic past maydecide that you are right for them after all! Idon't want to be a grouch, but take care. Ofcourse you are irresistible but could there beanother motive? Tongue in cheek and pursefirmly closed, please.

LIBRA (September 24 - October 23) What aninteresting week! Planning a festive meeting orweekend getaway sets your head spinning. Inamong all of the coming and going, however,

hold on to those finances. A last-minute bill or some other shock tothe household budget is likely.Loved ones see the funny side oflife. Can you do the same? Could beworth the effort.

SCORPIO (October 24 - November22) This week should be an exercise instress avoidance. Jettison that idea thatseems to be getting more and morecomplicated. Avoid that person who is bringingyour spirits down. Delay spending on a new itemwhen you could get it just as well second-hand.Time will be kind if you give it a chance. Whatseems a problem today will melt into the past.

SAGITTARIUS (November 23 - December 21)A contact that you made in the second week ofthis month comes into their own. They can helpin some way, perhaps by having knowledge. In abusy time at work it is tempting to just say noto invitations. Accept a few, though, to break upthe week. A good laugh with friends is the beststress reliever. There are plenty of quiet evenings.You won't have to look for them.

CAPRICORN (December 22 - January 20) Arecent journey seems to have had a big effect onyour love life. Although you may not be able toget away again for a while, planning ahead canbe fun. At work it would be quite easy to gettasks done by yourself. However, having to worktogether with colleagues brings you all closer.

Never underestimate the power of a sharedpurpose.

AQUARIUS (January 21 - February 19) Thereare lots of flights of fancy taking off this week.Many of your friends may be on them. Avoidleaping aboard. It is a super week to socialise andperhaps plan a holiday trip. Some seasonalinvitations may have already been proffered. Trynot to tie yourself down on these just yet. Thereare more offers and people yet to come yourway! Hold fire.

PISCES (February 20 - March 20) As romanceblossoms it may seem that your path is set. Keepan open mind on this. There is likely to be aniggling doubt in your mind about your currentsituation. You could choose to ignore it for now.Remember that what you are willing to settle for


CashbrokersWondering what to buy for that specialperson in your life this Christmas? – ThenCashbrokers in Abergavenny could havethe answer.

Cashbrokers Abergavenny represents Pawnbroking in the 21st Century. The store iswarm and welcoming offering discreet andprofessional service to all its customers.Since opening its doors last year it has builtup a reputation for offering top prices forsilver and gold and the best rates in town forloans and cheque cashing.

The owners, Dean & Iolanda Jackson-Johnsbelieve in offering A1 customer service andare continuing to build upon their initialsuccess with much repeat business.

The range of products on offer include thebuying and selling of gold and jewellery, andthey have a fantastic range of pre-ownedjewellery for sale without the huge mark-upyou pay on new jewellery. That specialChristmas gift could be sitting in the windowright now. You can also pay in easyinstalments at no extra cost.

The store sells electrical items such asphones, iPods, laptops, TVs etc throughCashbrokers website on E-Baywww.cashbrokers.co.uk or ask in store.

Cashbrokers can offer Gold & Jewellerypurchase, Pawn broking and Buy-Back Loans,Cheque Cashing and Payday Advance, and ofcourse Christmas gifts at bargain prices tohelp you through the festive period.

The store is open Monday to Friday 9am –5pm and Saturday 9am – 3pm. You can beassured of a warm welcome and there isparking available opposite the store inBrewery Yard Car Park at the rear of theindoor market.

For more information call us on:Tel: 01873 850006 E-mail: [email protected], www.cashbrokers.co.uk

may not be what you originally wanted.Am I right? Time will tell, of course. Justdon't cement yourself in.

Monday's Birthday Luck: HappyBirthday! Lonely moments as theautumn progresses bring deep thought.Rewards come with long-term effort sodon't be put off by any slow progress,Scorpio. Have faith.

Tuesday's Birthday Luck: HappyBirthday! Reassess what you want thiswinter as a speedy start to next yeardemands concentration and decisions.Progress may then stall but slowprogress is better than none, Scorpio.

Wednesday's Birthday Luck: HappyBirthday! Start to change your situationwithout waiting for the new year.Success favours the brave but also thepatient. Edgy moments can bedissipated by exercise and learningsomething new.

Thursday's Birthday Luck: HappyBirthday! Look to settle any familydisputes quickly to give the new year afresh start. At times progress will bebetter defined if you are stress-free.Take a more philosophical view,Scorpio.

Friday's Birthday Luck: HappyBirthday! Start now as you mean to goon, especially where work is concerned.Be decisive. In a time of intense activity,find the time to relax and really unwind,Scorpio. Factor in some fun.

Saturday's Birthday Luck: Happy Birthday! Waitingaround for others to make decisions will see youdisappointed. Sometimes you simply have to make astart yourself. Having started, Scorpio, you go apace.Watch the cash, though.

Sunday's Birthday Luck: Happy Birthday! Take fulladvantage of good offers, especially in business. Theymay not come again for some time. To succeed youneed to encourage confidence in yourself. Keep learning.

Sudoku Challenge

Solution on page 22


www.theredlion1.vpweb.co.uk

Christmas MenuTO BOOK 01874 730223

The Red Lion, Llangynidr

Homemade Mushroom, Stilton & Port Soup served with a crusty roll

Homemade Chicken Liver Pate with a Cranberry Compote servedwith Toast & Salad Garnish

Welsh Rarebit Tart with Tomato & Chilli Chutney served with a Salad Garnish

Bacon & Black Pudding Salad with French Dressing--------------------------

Roast Turkey with all the festive trimmings

Honey Baked Ham with Cumberland Sauce, New Potatoes & Vegetables

Smoked Haddock, Spinach, Mash Potato & Mature Cheddar Cheese Sauce

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Mushroom, Brie & Cranberry Wellington on a bed of Ricewith a Creamy White Wine Sauce

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Available throughout December for small or large groups,orders must be placed in advance

2011 & 2012 Camra Good Beer Guide. Good Food, Real Ales,Open Fire, Games Room, Childrens Play Area.

£18.95 - 3 Course £15.50 - 2 Course £11.95 - 1 Course

Children’s ClothingUnit 2 Croftcourt, Ross onWye, HR9 7AB01989 218131

If you are looking for something fun todo with the kids why not take a closerlook at our feathered freinds.

To get you started, the Royal Society forthe Protection of Birds (RSPB) could havejust what you are looking for.

Why not joing the world’s most excitingwildlife club and become an RSPB WildlifeExplorer.

When you join you will receive a greatmembership pack, including posters,stickers, a bird snapper, a membership cardand a Get Wild funbook.

There is also a colourful magazine, sixtimes a year, plus the chance to entercompetitions and take part in activitiesand wildlife holidays.

If you want to start birdwatching, youdon’t need a lot of equipment – you canstart in your own back garden.

A lot of the fun of birdwatching is beingable to identify the birds that you see.

There are a lot to choose from – over 240birds are seen regularly in our gardens sodon’t be surprised if you can’t recognisethem all.

Identifying birds for the first time can isconfusing, but do not worry, everybirdwatcher has goes through it.

You will find that it will not take longbefore you can start to identify thecommoner species, and the others willsoon follow.

Most of us can recognise several speciesof bird. A small brown bird on a birdtable with ared breast and a short, thin bill is a robin.

Identification of birds can be that simple.

To identify any species, all you have to dois follow some basic guidelines, though youwill need a guide of native birds to helpyou do this.

A good field guide will give you the bestchance of correctly identifying the birdsyou see but what you will really need islots of practice, loads of patience – justkeep at it and you will soon find you have avery rewarding hobby that will give youlots of pleasure throughout the rest of yourlife.

● Become familiar with the names of different parts of a bird’s body. Thiswill help when writing your notes or when you are describing the bird to others.

● Use a notebook to record your sightings. This will develop your powers of observation and eyefor detail.

● Keep your ears open. Many birds are heard before they are seen, so try to learn their calls. Also lookfor sudden movements to show you where to look for the bird.● Do not frighten a bird to get a better view – the bird’s welfare must always come first. ● Get to know the birds of your local area – when you know what is common, then the uncommon will

become noticeable. ● Be aware of the possibility of albinos and escaped cage birds. A bird

with a strange combination of colours, such as a finch with a red beak)will most likely be a cage bird. Unexpected white markings in an otherwisefamiliar bird are likely to indicate a partly albino bird.

● Try to find someone who knows their birds and would be willing to passon their knowledge.

● Before you make up your mind on the identity of the bird, check to makesure that the species you think the bird is, is actually found in this country.

Watching thebirdies thisAutumn

For more details visitwww.rspb.org.uk/youth

Watching thebirdies thisAutumn

Birdwatchingtop tips


The Bear HotelHigh Street ● Crickhowell ● NP8 1BW

01873 810408

Christmas 2012 PartyMenu now availableEvening and Lunch Parties

catered for throughoutDecember

Please phone of email for your copy

Come and enjoy the atmosphere in the award winning Bear Hotel.Excellent bar food with a family bar, restaurant and accomodation.Autumn flowering baskets and log fires add to the charming surroundings.

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EExxeerrcciissiinngg CChhrriissttmmaass ssppiirriittAll those extra treats can add inches to yourwaistline come the New Year. Don't panic! Thisfeature reveals how putting just a little extraeffort into your home and the presentshopping will soon blitz those calories.

By Susan Griffin

While we all like to sparkle over the Christmasperiod, sometimes we can end up looking morelike Santa, than the fairy on top of the tree.

Instead of allowing the Christmas televisionschedule to control your waistline, think aboutactive ways to revel in the festive season, whicharen't entirely chocolate-based.

Clean up your actBefore the hordes of family and friends descendon your home, it's worth thinking about how youcan make the cleaning more than just a seasonalchore. Use the blitz on your home as a way to burnlots of calories.

❆ Hoovering for an hour can burn 194calories. Lunge while you hoover and mop totone up your legs and bum. Even a little lightdusting will take off 174 calories.

❆ Mopping is great way to keep fit, burning194 calories an hour, and ironing will shave offa further 113 calories. If youplay music while you clean,you'll work harder and it'll getyou into the festive mood.

❆ A great way to loseweight is by cleaning yourwindows, which will help youlose 118 calories. Plan thecleaning mission so you haveto use the stairs as much aspossible. An hour of traipsingup and down will burn awhopping 516 calories.

❆ While you're tidying up,put the remote somewherehard to reach and keep itthere, so you'll have to get upoff the sofa to change thechannel over Christmas.

Shop your way into shapeYou might think doing theChristmas shopping is aninhumane exercise, fraughtwith tension, sharp elbowsand levels of spending whichonly Victoria Beckham canjustify. But if you think aboutit as a way to lose physicalpounds, as well as paper ones,then the challenge becomesslightly more rewarding.

It's true there are few tasksmore stressful than trudgingup and down the high streetlooking for Christmas gifts.But the rare plus point is thatleaving the car (and heels) athome, and donning yourtrainers instead, can bringwaist-whittling rewards.

❆ At a moderate walkingpace you can burn around287 calories - and that'swithout counting theworkout you'll give your armsas you haul those bags upand down the high street.

❆ Look for chances toworkout even harder, such astreating the crowds as aslalom course instead! Whipin and out of the shoppersand give yourself a full bodyworkout.

❆ Don't be tempted to takeany shortcuts while on themove. Avoid the lifts and walkup and down the escalatorsremembering that everycalorie counts.

❆ Use as much of your bodyas you can when you walkand be conscious of yourmuscles. Walk tall, with yourshoulders back, abdomentight and buttocks clenched.

❆ After the shop, bring inthe carrier bags one or two ata time rather than trying tobalance the whole lot in one go. You'll burn

more calories going back and forth.

Trim as the treeDefinitely one of the most enjoyable activitiesof the festive season, decorating your tree is agreat time to start your Christmas workout.

The work starts when youhaul your tree home from thelocal garden centre, or climbup to the attic to grab thepretend one you've hadforever.

❆ Just 30 minutes ofclimbing stairs or laddersamounts to around 294calories burned.

❆ Go for the stretch whendangling those lights, tinseland baubles to tone yourback and upper arm muscles.

❆ Make life difficult foryourself and instead of havingsomeone pass thedecorations up to you, keepclimbing up and down theladder to hang those baubles,or head back and forth to thedining table where they're alllaid out.

❆ If it's all seeming a little bittoo easy, go for broke andinvent a reason to stay onyour toes. Don't resort tosmall decorative statements,go for the burn and hang biggarlands, cards and lightsfrom every surface. If findyourself not needing a ladder,or to crouch down low, you'rejust not being festive enough!

Cooking up a stormWhen you're concocting amenu which will probablycome in around the billioncalorie mark, slip in a fewexercises while slaving at thehot stove.

Even chopping the veg canburn calories. Make sure yousquat down to grabsaucepans, stretch up tocupboards for ingredients andalternate your hands whenwhisking and stirring to giveyour arms a full workout.

❆ Treat your time at the hoblike your very own steamroom and wear an extra layer.Sweating is a great way torelease toxins from the body- although this look is notrecommended for whenyou're welcoming guests!

❆ Make sure you replace anylost fluids by drinking lots (andthat doesn't include mulledwine). You should aim foreight glasses of water a day,even when it's cold outside, toensure glowing skin.

❆ Impress friends and familywith your toned arms bymaking your own bread.Kneading dough is very hardwork and you'll also win

applause for your culinary skills.


Screen Test1. Which award winning writer penned the scripts for “Only Fools and

Horses”?

2. Which actor went from chasing criminals on peaceful Jersey to solvingmurders in sleepy Midsommer.

3. Which famous comedian has the catchphrase: “How tickled I am”?

4. In which year did Independent Television start transmitting programmeswith advertisements in Great Britain?

5. Which television programme first hit the screens on December 9,1960?

6. Which lady writer originated the Prime Suspect series?

7. Who plays lady investigator Hetty Wainthrop?

8. Which show introduced Arthur Daley to television audiences?

9. Which American actor starred in the films The MagnificentSeven, Bullitt and Papillon?

10.Who is the only current Coronation Street character to have been inthe programme from the very first episode? Blushers, bronzers,highlighters – where should they all go?

Answers - 1. John Sullivan; 2. John Nettles; 3. Ken Dodd; 4. 1955;5. Coronation Street; 6. Lynda La Plante; 7. Patricia Routledge; 8. Minder;9. Steve McQueen; 10. Ken Barlow.


01873 851712

MacCormac Construction LtdCrowfield Mill, Crowfield CourtRoss Road, AbergavennyMonmouthshire. NP7 8NH

[email protected]

www.maccormac.co.uk

MacCormac Construction are based in the markettown of Abergavenny and serve theMonmouthshire, Greater Gwent and Cardiff areas.We have over 25 years experience in theconstruction industry carrying out bespokeresidential, graded building restoration, barnrenovations, commercial and civil engineeringprojects.

MacCormac Construction have developed anoutstanding reputation within our local communityfor the quality of our workmanship andprofessionalism. Our tradesman are fully qualifiedand work to our exacting standards to ensure thefinished quality of our completed projects.

MacCormac Construction can offer acomprehensive service from start to finish.From design to completeness we provide thehighest quality service and workmanship at everystage of the process, turning ideas into reality andtaking the stress out of the project.Our friendly and professional team are dedicatedto ensuring our customers are 100% satisfied.

Contact us:Head Office: 01633 245020E-Mail: [email protected]

Our Locations:Newport126 Caerleon Road, Newport,Wales, NP19 7GS

Abergavenny10 Johns Street, Abergavenny,Wales, NP7 5RT

The practice was set up in 1997. Fourteen years on, JDW architects has established a reputationin south Wales, London and the north west for producing individual and unique architecture of thehighest quality, tailored to the buildings users requirements and the environment.

The practice's longstanding aim is to provide intelligent rigorous architecture which is practical aswell as affordable and which can add value throughimagination, innovative and positive design solutions.

With design and management services fromfeasibility through to production information andcontract administration, JDW Architects hassuccessfully delivered affordable housing, private,multi story apartments and individual privateresidences, offices and commercial spaces, industrialwarehousing and leisure facilities.

Working as a close knit team in close collaborationwith clients, consultants, and contractors, ourcommitment and understanding of the nature of thesite, materials, careful detailing and the needs of thebuilding's users, results in a responsive, original andsuccessful architecture.

Time to call in the expertsGet those jobs done with a littlehelp from DIY guru Julia Gray. Thisweek: She talks of asking for anexperts advice and why theirknowledge is second to none

While architects can be expensive, they don'thave to be and their knowledge andexperience can be worth its weight in gold.

As well as offering design expertise, architectscan add value in lots of other ways.

They have technical knowledge, can help younegotiate the building-regulations, party-walland planning process and can manage theproject from start to finish, if you want themto, including finding and managing thebuilder, subcontractors and consultants.

As they use these people regularly forprojects, they may be able to get betterprices than you can. They can help financiallyin other ways, too, such as devising the bestdesign for your budget, improving energyefficiency and increasing your home'ssaleability and value.

A good first step is to go to the 'find anarchitect' section of the Royal Institute ofBritish Architects' (RIBA) website -

www.architecture.com.

When you've found some suitable candidates,find out if they're interested in your projectand what sort of ideas and relevantexperience they have. If you can see similarprojects they've done, this will obviously giveyou a good idea of what to expect.

Bear in mind that it's really important tohave a good relationship with your architect,as how you get on and work together canplay a big part in the success, or not, of theproject.

Once you've chosen an architect, drawing upa contract and giving them a clear brief isvital. Another important thing to establish ishow you'll be paying them. Many architectstake a percentage of the total cost of theproject, but some charge for the time theyspend on it and others charge a flat fee.

This is how Architect Your Home works, acompany that has its head office inRichmond, south-west London, but haslicensees all over the country.

Set up in 2001 by architects Hugo and JudeTugman, it makes architectural services moretransparent and accessible to homeownersbecause they just pay for what they need (by

the hour or per service), as and when theyneed it.

The process starts with a four or seven-hourhome visit, during which the architectmeasures up, discusses the project with youand comes up with some solutions (anddrawings), which you can discuss and refine

with them then and there.If you decide not to go ahead, you don't haveto, or if you want to continue, you can choosefrom a menu of services, some of which youmay be able to do yourself; others you won't.

"People don't necessarily want an architectto do everything - they are perfectly capable

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Remember When...The following events all occurred in a year in living memory.Can you guess the year?

of doing some of it themselves, they just needsome help," says Hugo Tugman.He admits that homeowners can be daunted atthe prospect of using an architect, but shouldn'tbe.

"Yes, we can help people to avoid getting theirfingers burnt with cowboy builders and yes, wecan help with statutory consents, but the mainreason to use an architect is to make sure thatyou're not spending your money unwisely," hesays.

"People are spending a lot of money and wewant to make sure that they get the bestpossible result.

"We have a lot of instances where people saythat they wish they'd used an architect. I saw acouple in Teddington, south-west London, whohad a two-bedroom house and a second childon the way. They didn't want to move, butreally needed a third bedroom and couldn'tthink of a way of getting one. I was able tocome up with three solutions to give them athird bedroom.

"That's the kind of thing we get a lot - 'I neverthought of that'."

Product of the weekDark walls are all the rage, but youprobably don't think you can get the look inyour kitchen or bathroom and still protectyour walls adequately.

Well, you can, with Crown Kitchen &Bathroom Emulsion in Slate Grey (£23.98for 2.5ltr, B&Q), a deliciously dark grey thatcomes in a contemporary matt finish andlooks stunning.

It makes quite a statement, but it's alsoreally practical. Stain resistant and steamproof, the paint has 'mouldguard' for extraprotection and can even be used on woodand metal, as well as walls and ceilings.

If you're not feeling that bold, paint afeature wall in Slate Grey and do the rest inCrown Kitchen & Bathroom Emulsion inPure Brilliant White (£19.98 for 2.5ltr, B&Q).This is available in both matt and mid-sheen finishes and makes the perfectpartner for gorgeous Slate Grey.

How-to tipHairline cracks can be a recurring problem,especially in period properties, but you canfill them quickly and easily (especially wideones) with Polycell Polyfilla Stick (£4.87,Homebase).

It works like a glue stick - you smear it intothe crack and wipe rub off any excess (littleor no sanding required). For finer cracks,Polycell Crack-Free Ceilings (from £21.98for 2.5ltr, B&Q) works well and is alsodesigned to cover stains - just paint it onlike emulsion.

1. Muppets creator JimHenson was born

2. Charlie Chaplin starredin Modern Times

3. Amy Johnson made areturn flight from Londonto Cape Town in recordtime

4. Russian physiologistIvan Pavlov died

Answer: 1936

1. Humphrey Bogartstarred in The MalteseFalcon

2. Virginia Woolf died

3. The British governmentissued a recipe for 'BlitzBroth'

4. Noel Coward's BlitheSpirit was premiered inLondon

Answer: 1941

1. Actress Kathy Bates wasborn

2. Alec Guinness starred inOliver Twist

3. The UK's railways werenationalised

4. Director SergeiEisenstein died

Answer: 1948


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Bedrooms should be a sanctuary where we can relaxas well as sleep and cold winter days and darkevenings make them even more appealing as aretreat. Gabrielle Fagan sources essential ingredientsfor sensual, luxurious boudoir style.

As winter approaches there's no better time totransform your bedroom into a luxurious bolthole, whereyou can relax as well as sleep.

You'll ensure sweet dreams if you literally allow yourimagination to run wild and indulge your taste to createa sanctuary that soothes your senses.

"When it comes to creating the perfect winter retreat,you need to make sure it's as snug and as inviting aspossible," says Damian Topping at bed specialists,Dreams.

"We're demanding far more of this room than everbefore, because it's often used as another 'lounge' wherewe sit and relax, watch television, and generally enjoyprivate time.

"Nowadays, we find people have very definite ideasabout their style. They've often stayed in hotels andwant to replicate a look they've liked, whether it'sultra-traditional, romantic or a sophisticated, 'hotel'style which leans to the contemporary."

The bed is usually the largest piece of furniture in abedroom and will dominate the space, so careneeds to be taken in choosing its scale, design andstyle. But equally important is making the rightdecor choice, says colour and design manager atDulux Rebecca Thompson.

"Colour affects our mood and is particularly key insetting this room's atmosphere. While soft neutralsconjure a serene, restful space, that doesn't meanyou can't have colour which is so popular in homescurrently," she says.

"Greens and blues are popular, and I'd favour arising star in the colour palette, indigo. It's a striking,rich statement shade inspired by dreamy, oceanlandscapes hidden from everyone but deep seadivers.

"It tones with warm neutrals or other soothingtones of blue or purple."

If a makeover's beyond the budget, simply optingfor new bedding to welcome winter can be just aseffective, advises interiors specialist, Alison Cork.

"Good bed linen can totally transform not only thelook of your bedroom but also your sleep quality,"she says.

"A beautiful set of crisp white soft sheets will give a

bed an instant lift, and the comfort and texture canhelp you drift off more comfortably too."

Romantic styleFour-poster beds, buttoned headboards andsumptuous fabrics are all key ingredients of a roomwhere indulgence and sensuality rule."This is a room which is a visual feast and pleasesthe senses," says Rachael Offer, senior designer atAshley Wilde, who have a variety of celebrity bedlinen brands.

"Mix sumptuous faux fur cushions with silky satinand velvet fabrics to create a full-on luxury feel.Little details count as well, from gilded mirrors toglass ornaments which catch the light, andlighting's all important.

"Give a soft flattering glow with fairy lights, sidelamps or candles."

Country styleThe essence of country style is pared-backdecoration, with the emphasis on texture andquality and natural materials.

Decor should be simple with painted or tongue-and-groove panelled walls, or wallpaper featuringnature to help set a rustic scene.

"Keep clashing patterns to a minimum and insteadlayer textured soft furnishings, quilts and cushionsto give a snuggly feel," says Damian Topping.

"Use a large rug, such as a sheepskin, to addwarmth on wooden floorboards or hard floors. Addto the air of informality by using, instead of abedside table, books stacked in a small tower by thebedside. Opt for functional, practical lights and afew well-chosen prints for the walls. Fussyembellishment has no place in these rooms."

Hotel chicFor contemporary hotel design invest in neutral bedlinen, in crisp cotton and natural fabrics, a qualityduvet, and pile up fluffy pillows, says Topping.

"A plain decor scheme can be enlivened with a wallof pattern whose colours tie in with the neutralshades on the wall," he says.

"Opt, ideally, for a generous sized headboard andstreamlined furniture to add subtle but understatedstyle. Overdress the bed, with an abundance ofcovers, quilts and a runner to create a lavish effect."

Minimise clutter, he advises, and enhance the room

with soft lighting using sidelighters and dimmers."This style of room should cocoon you and black-out blinds and inter-lined curtains will avoid anychinks of light from disturbing your sleep."The White Company has made this 'hotel' style itsown with its range of classic headboards andbeautiful bedroom furniture.

Create the bedroom of your dreams

Sudoku Solution


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Beryl’s Diary

The nearest farm to us on the mountainwas owned by a middle-aged couple whohad never had children and had no ideahow to deal with them. They never mixedwith anyone either.

Our contact with them was very limited. Ifwe did see one of them, it was generally thewife making her way home from chapel orthe village shop. She was always dressedentirely in black and had a funny walk.

If by some chance she had to pass uschildren she'd go right to the edge of thetrack so she would not have any contactwith us, saying 'Oh dear, dear, dear, dear.'She soon became known to us as Mrs Dear,dear. We could not understand her one littlebit, but dad made sure we were never rudeto her. Although he had a lot of friction withher husband, he always doffed his cap to her.

Her husband was a very different kettle offish. My dad said he was a belligerant oldb*****d, although not in my mum'shearing. Dad used to encounter him as hetravelled up and down the mountain ridingan old farm horse, milk jack tied either sideof the horse to carry drinking water hometo his farm. Wearing a long black coat,leather leggings and old trilby hat he wouldbe quoting passages from the Bible. With awhip in his hand he resembled Lee Marvinin Paint your Wagon!

They did all their own farming and you veryoften saw her ploughing. Looking back, shemust have worked very hard but if wechildren so much as put one foot on theirland, he would come running at us crackinghis whip.

Dad and him never got on in all the yearswe lived up there. I remember the day someof our sheep strayed on to his land. Whenmy dad went to get them back he ran atdad with a pitchfork.

My father was always saying, 'That man’snot stable. I'll give him a wallop one ofthese days’ but my mother, always thepeacemaker, told dad just to ignore him.

Then came an afternoon when dad rushed

in all excited, saying, 'I've got him Brenda, I've got theold b***** at last. His bull just walked down ourtrack like he was a full-time boarder. Don’t let thechildren open the loose box door, I've got his bullpenned up there.' Mum said, 'Don't talk daft Bill, lethis bull go’ but father was adamant that the bullstayed put and he would lie in wait for the ‘boyo’from the other farm to come and repossess it.

It was late that night when he came creeping downthe track to our yard. Dad lay in wait and all uschildren lay in bed, one ear listening for the fireworksto start. We did not have to wait long. All hell brokeloose.

'So you’ve come sneaking on to my farm,' shouteddad and, fists up, started to prance around hisintended victim. Windows flew up as us kids hungout of them. Through the light coming out of thekitchen door, two ghostly figures danced around ouryard. Not one blow was landed but, arms flailing,there were some near misses - that is until my mumcame out.

Without raising her voice she turned to thebelligerent one and said, 'You - get out of here andtake that old bull with you.'

The bull then made his appearance, travelling at apace that he had not used since his hay days. Withdad ten feet behind him the belligerant one joined inthe mad rush for freedom as mum looked up at uschildren and said, just as quietly, 'you lot, back intoyour beds.'

Recipe Corner

Chicken, plums, soyIngredients:■ 8 bone-in, skin-on, free-range

chicken thighs (or 1 small free-range chicken, jointed into 8pieces)

■ 1 tbsp sunflower oil■ 1-4 red, mild-to-medium hot,

fleshy chillies, to taste(optional)

■ 4 garlic cloves, sliced■ A thumb-sized piece of ginger,

peeled and coarsely grated orthinly sliced (optional)

■ 8 plums, halved and stoned■ 3 tbsp soy sauce■ A small bunch of coriander,

leaves only, chopped (optional)■ Sea salt and freshly ground

black pepper

Method:1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/Gas 6.

Put the chicken thighs in aroasting tray, trickle with the oiland season well with salt andpepper. Roast for 30 minutes,turning once or twice.

2. Meanwhile, halve and deseed thechillies, if using, then cut each into1cm strips. After its 30 minutes,take the chicken out of the ovenand add the sliced chillies, garlicand ginger, if using, to the roastingtray. Turn the chicken again tomake sure the aromatics areevenly distributed around andunder the pieces. Roast for afurther 10 minutes.

3. Tuck the plum halves around thechicken pieces and trickle over thesoy. If there doesn't seem to bemuch liquid in the tray, add a few

tablespoons of water. Return to the oven for10-15 minutes until the plums are soft andyielding their juices.

4. Baste the chicken and plums with the panjuices, then leave to rest in a warm place for10 minutes. Finish with a scattering ofchopped coriander, if you like. Serve withnoodles or plain rice.

5. Top tip: For a store cupboard version of thisdish, you could use prunes or dried apricots(ideally the plump, ready-to eat ones) insteadof fresh plums.

Serves 4


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Annual CwmduEisteddfod, atCwmdu VillageHall, afternoonat 1pm, Eveningapprox 6.30pm.Tel: 01874730282

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AbergavennyAlzheimer’sCarers MeetingAngel Hotel7.30pm til late.All Welcome

Crickhowell andDistrict HistorySociety –Rachel Rogers“A History ofAbergavenny in50ish Objects”.Dragon Hotel,High Street,Crickhowell ,7.30. AllWelcome.

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K H S Old Boy’s Annual ReunionDinner, Angel Hotel, Abergavenny.7.30pm. Reserve your place01873 854237

Blaenavon Male Voice Choir, StPeters Church, Goytre 7pm (in aidof Jack & Jill’s Preschool). Tickets£8 including glass mulled wine.Tel: 01873 880948 or [email protected]

Abergavenny Alzheimer’s Groupfundraising at Market Hall 9am –4pm. Come and support us.

Wales Festival ofRemembrance, StDavid’s Hall, Cardiff.Coach/Hall £35 perperson. Bookingadvised. Tel: 01873852567

Gwent Bach SocietyMendelssohn’s Elijah7. 30 pm at St Mary’sPriory Church,Abergavenny. Tickets£15. 01873 890259

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Bonfire Night SafetyAutumn's here! Bonfire Night celebrations willsoon be upon us, So take a look at our firework and bonfire andsafety tips to make sure you and your familystay safe and have fun this autumn. If you'reorganising your own firework display, take a lookat our handy firework safety tips to keep yourfamily, friends and pets safe.

Store fireworks safely If you're organised and have bought your fireworks inadvance of Bonfire Night, ensure that you store them in asafe place until they’re needed. Always store fireworks in aclosed metal box and keep them well away from openflames.

Take care when setting off fireworks It's a good idea to avoid drinking alcohol if you're going tobe responsible for lighting fireworks. Keep a bucket of water


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on hand to put out small fires and to keep usedsparklers in. Read the instructions carefully before youlight each firework – fireworks such as Catherine wheelsand rockets require different supports and launchers.Light fireworks at arm's length using a taper and neverreturn to a lit firework.

Be careful with sparklers Children and adults alike love sparklers, so it's importantto know how to stay safe with them on Bonfire Night.Remember to light sparklers one at a time and protectyour hands from any stray sparks by wearing gloves.Always supervise children with sparklers and never givea sparkler to children under 5 years of age.If you're planning to build a bonfire in your garden,there’s a few things you'll need to consider before youput on your wellies and get out your matches.

Before you light your bonfire If you're inviting friends and family round for abonfire, it's polite to let your neighbours know inadvance (this may also reduce the chance thatthey'll complain about the smoke!)Choose dry materials to build your bonfire and avoidusing damp wood – this will produce more smokewhen it burns. Always choose an open spot for yourbonfire and never build it close to sheds, fences ortrees.

When you've lit your bonfire Once your bonfire's burning steadily, keep a closeeye on it and never leave it unattended. It's a goodidea to keep a bucket of water or garden hosenearby, just in case the bonfire gets out of control.

Once your bonfire has died down As soon as your bonfire's died down, it's importantto make sure that the flames have completely goneout. You can help to prevent your bonfire re-ignitingby spraying the embers with water.

Cyfarthfa Castle Museum &Art GalleryApril-September. 10am-5.30pm (Last Admission 5pm) 7days a week.

October-March. Tuesday-Friday. 10am-4pm. Weekends. Noon-4pm.Closed Mondays.www.cyfarthfa.com www.museums.merthyr.gov.uk

e-mail: [email protected]

Tel: 01685 727371

Free Admission Park & MuseumCyfarthfa Park open from 7am until dusk.

Cyfarthfa Castle, Brecon Road, Merthyr Tydfil. CF47 8RE

Cyfarthfa CastleMuseum &Art Gallery

NOVEMBER 1st – 31stGeorgetownAn exhibition that uses the photos of Tony Hyde andhistorical research to tell the story of Georgetown

DECEMBER 8TH & 9THChristmas Craft FairFind the perfect gift at our Christmas craft fair.On both Saturday and Sunday stalls will be openfrom 10:30am and close at 4:00pm

DECEMBER 11TH & 12THChristmas at CyfarthfaTake part in festive craft activities and meet FatherChristmas in this beautiful Victorian setting.Cost is £3.50 per child (present included).

BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL& there are twosessions, one at 5:00pm & another at 6:00pm

Winter Events

The ‘Ironmaster’William Crawshay commissioned Cyfarthfa Castle in 1824 to overlook hissuccessful ironworks. Today, the museum houses extensive fine and decorative art

collections and atmospheric social and industrial history galleries. Set in beautiful parklandwith relaxing woodland walks, a state of the art splash pad and lakeside miniature railway.

gazette and diary magazine november 2012

Documents

personthree courses

coffee mince piesprices

homemade mince piesplus

chive soup

mediterranean vegetables

gawn goats cheese

red wine saucepantys

caramelised onions