Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

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YOUR MONTHLY INSIGHT INTO LOCAL LIVING COVERING BANGOR ON DEE, OVERTON, CROSS LANES AND SURROUNDING AREAS APRIL 2014 · DELIVERED FREE

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Page 1: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

YOUR MONTHLY INSIGHT INTO LOCAL LIVING COVERINGBANGOR ON DEE, OVERTON, CROSS LANES AND SURROUNDING AREAS

APRIL 2014 · DELIVERED FREE

Page 2: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

EssentiallyoursTel: 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....................................................................................

ESSENTIALLYOURS LtdRegistration No. 6048593....................................................................................

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at a glance

THE WEATHER

CAR SHAPE &

BRISTOL FASHION

HAYFEVER

BUDGET 2014

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I’m so pleased April has arrived, and we can start to look forward to some brighter days and sunshine. It’s just like coming out of hibernation after the winter as the nights

get lighter and the days get warmer, and at least we didn’t have the snow we had last year. Sorry kids, I know you don’t quite see it the way I do! I’ll be back from skiing as this lands on your mats and hopefully I won’t have any broken bones! It’s my first time too so I’m a little apprehensive as I type, to say the least. I much prefer to keep my feet on good old familiar ground, but I did a day lesson at the Chill factor in Trafford Park, Manchester, to break myself into it gently. I can’t say I feel any more comfortable on the snow than before I went, although I have to say the winter olympics did inspire me. I couldn’t believe how young the snow boarders looked!

The last couple of months when I’ve driven from Worthenbury to Tallarn Green whilst out delivering, a few of the lanes have been flooded and I’ve feared it was too high to even contemplate driving through. Mind you it’s one of those situations where you don’t want to have to reverse back down a single lane country lane for quite some way, so chancing the flood is the lesser of 2 evils.

So you start to drive, then you look out and see that the water is coming up the side of the car higher than you thought and it looks like the car is going to flood and cut out. At that moment when it’s too late you wish you’d taken the sensible option and gone for the reverse option. Anyway I made it but didn’t learn my lesson and chanced it a few times, having quite a panic each time. I’m sure it wasn’t worth the stress!

My mature years focus on the budget these days, not that I understand pensions, like most of us probably, but that seems to be the main point that arose this time. The only bit I can remember is that you now have more flexibility in taking your pension money out. I have a vision of a load of old age pensioners going on a mad spending spree and ending up destitute! I’m sure it’s more complicated than that and I’m sure our finance experts will explain it all to us. It’s just a good job I’m not giving financial advice, that’s all I have to say.

Wishing you all a lovely Easter.

All the best, Jill

Telephone 01244 571 [email protected]

Welcome

Editor’s Letter

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King’s Junior Discovery Days2nd, 9th and 16th May 2014

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The terrible storms and wind that we have experienced in January and February this year was nothing new to the parishioners of Bangor not so very long ago. Until the mid 1960s when the work at Bala was completed the village regularly flooded at least once or twice each year. Smithy Cottage and Old Smithy Cottage and other properties in Bangor would often have water coming in over the window sills as several people can testify. So we can sympathise with the people of the West Country, in particular Somerset, in their distress as many of them have never experienced such an extended period of flooding before. We can be thankful that in 2002/3 the Environment

Agency Wales strengthened and extended the bulwark to keep Bangor safe from flooding ( fingers crossed!). There have been many storms that have wrecked several bridges in the Maelor area and one storm in particular caused someone to send in a report to The Wrexham Advertiser. ‘In July 1880 a great storm created havoc in many parts of the country and it did not leave the Bangor area untouched. At about twelve o’clock at night the large and massive stone bridge on the main road between Ruabon and Bangor was swept away by the stream, which flows beneath being abnormally swollen.

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Such an accident under such circumstances might have been attended with most dire consequences but for the prompt action of Mr Haycocks of the Wagoner’s Inn, who built fires on both sides of the chasm, and saved a horse from instant destruction, by his efforts. Mr Haycocks deserves many thanks, if not something more tangible, for his service.’ I wonder if he ever did receive anything for his timely action?

The severe weather in January 1892 caused a gardener in the village to report that a hard frost had registered 22 degrees fahrenheit of frost on his thermometer. A large number of people had taken advantage of the snow that year and had been seen sledging down the hill behind Deeside.

Among those noted enjoying the exercise Mr Royd of Deeside, the Hon Mrs Mostyn of Maesynant, Mrs Richmond of Plas Fron and Mr Ormond of Pickhill Hall all no doubt on their smart sledges. The ordinary villagers also enjoyed themselves on their more makeshift efforts and it was reported that they sailed along with amazing speed. Whenever a particularly hard frost occurred skating would often take place on a shallow pond in the field belonging to the Red Lion Inn, where Abbeygate Walk is now. The Groes field across the river was also used as a skating rink if it was covered with water and a hard frost had occurred. No doubt many of the older residents have memories of taking part in the activity.

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Racing driver Anthony Crook, who sadly died in January at the age of 93, drove many of these Bristol engined racing cars, giving the likes of Mike Hawthorn, Roy Salvadori and Stirling Moss a run for their money. Indeed, it was in 1955 racing against Moss at Goodwood that his car skidded on oil and crashed into Stirling’s car, causing Tony to be admitted to hospital with his injuries, and to retire from racing. Then he founded Anthony Crook Motors of Kensington, London, where he was sole concessionaire for that delectable range of Bristol cars, becoming a director of the company in 1960 under the Chairmanship of Sir George White, and taking it over completely in 1973.

I went to interview him in 1970 and he loaned me his Bristol 411 test car with the Reg. No. 100 MPH. Powered by a 6.3 litre Chrysler V-8 engine mated to a three speed automatic transmission, it could reach 50 M.P.H. in 5.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 143 M.P.H. It cost £6,997, though good ones sell for around £50,000 today! Mr. Jimmie McAlpine of Gerwyn Hall had two of them in the ‘70s, though the last one I have seen in this area was at Phil Smith’s Garage in Marchwiel around 12 months ago. It was owned by classic car enthusiast Stuart Orr of Wrexham who has owned five Bristol cars, the latter one now in Austria. It’s always worth a look as you pass Marchwiel Garage as Phil often seems to have something interesting parked on the forecourt!

TERRY DAVIES

Car shape and Bristol fashion

In 1910, the British and Colonial Aeroplane Company was set up at Filton, Bristol, becoming the Bristol Aeroplane Company in 1920. Since then a stream of significant aircraft have been built there- some names spring to mind such as the Bristol Fighter of the First World War; the Bristol Bulldog fighter between the wars, and the Bristol Blenheim, Beaufort and Beaufighter of the second World War, during which some 14,000 aircraft were built. Then in 1949 came the huge Bristol Brabazon air liner, which alas was superseded by such jet airliners as the De Havilland Comet and the Boeing 707 before it was introduced. In 1960, the Bristol Aeroplane

Company and other aircraft manufacturers merged to become the British Aircraft Corporation, now British Aerospace. In 1946, the company also diversified into car production having been awarded the remains of B.M.W. by the War Reparations Board, and the first Bristol car - the 400 - was modelled on the lines of the very successful pre-war B.M.W. 328, and its German designer, Dr. Fielder, was persuaded to join the new company and to develop its engine into what became the famous Bristol 2- litre, favoured by many racing cars of the times, such as the Cooper Bristols.

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Page 10: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014
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Page 12: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

HayfeverSome common remedies

for hay fever:Allium Cepa:

Streaming eyes & nose with frequent and severe sneezing. Throat & nose feel raw.

Worse in the morning and indoors.

Arsen Alb: Nose tickles violently. Sneezing that is

violent and painful with a watery burning discharge, making the upper

lip sore.

Euphrasia: Eyes burn, itch and water constantly. Runny nose with much sneezing. Also

available in tincture to be used as a soothing eye wash/bath.

Pulsatilla: Copious thick bland or yellow

coloured catarrh and sneezing. Relieved by open air.

Sabadilla: Catarrh with constant sneezing;

sensation of great rawness, stuffiness & burning in the nose. Even thinking of

grass and flowers causes sneezing.

Wyethia: Extreme itching of the nose,

palate & throat.

Many health food stores and high street chemists stock a range of homeopathic

remedies. When self prescribing use either 6c or 30c potency. If there is no

relief within 12 hours try another remedy or consult a qualified homeopath.

Carol Lloyd

At this time of year we all look forward to the arrival of spring after the long dark days of winter. However, for some, the arrival of warmer weather brings with it the misery of hay fever, an inflammatory condition caused by grass and other pollens. Every year approximately 15-20% of the population suffer in some way and reactions vary from mild to debilitating. Incessant itching of the eyes, nose and throat, runny nose and streaming eyes are just a few of the symptoms; there may also be a feeling of tightness and wheezing in the chest. Standard treatments include anti-histamine tablets, decongestant nasal sprays and saline eye drops. These ease the misery for a short time but symptoms return when the medication is stopped.

Many people are turning to homeopathy for an alternative treatment. Homeopathy can not only help with the symptoms it can also help to lessen an individual’s susceptibility to hay fever. In the long term, following a homeopathic protocol for three winters can lead to a total elimination of hay fever. However, this treatment can only be prescribed by a qualified homeopath.

In the short term over the counter remedies can be tried at home and may alleviate some of the worse symptoms.

Page 13: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

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Page 14: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

To celebrate Thinking day, which is an important day in the Guiding calendar, because it reminds us about Brownies & Guides around the world, we had an evening of different activities. Granny owl talked to the girls about the history of Guiding, the girls made Welsh daffodils, they made passports for our forthcoming trip to Belfast & they made trefoils out of copper coins. The coins were collected up & £11.48 was sent to W.A.G.G.G.S. which is a worldwide Guiding charity.

Guiding calendar, because it reminds us about Brownies

made Welsh daffodils, they made

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Page 15: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

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Lynne Maurice

Police AdviceI would like to say a big thank you to all who attended the Bike Marking Event last month at Marchwiel Village Hall. It was a great success and the attendance was up on last year from 23 to 37 this time. It takes quite a bit of organising and it’s nice to see that all my efforts and time were not in vain. Also my colleague Sue Holmes kindly gave up her time attending to mark the bikes and scooters for us as she came from Mold. So thanks again it’s much appreciated. Whilst out and about on patrols recently I’ve noticed that there are some people leaving cars for sale near the turning into Station Road in Marchwiel, sometimes for days on end. This is not acceptable as it is a

deceleration lane, not a lay-by and should not be used for this purpose, so please do not leave your vehicles ‘for sale’ at this location.

I would also like to bring to your attention, if you have not already noticed the new speeding signs that are now in situ through the village of Marchwiel and surrounding areas. The new speed is now all ’30 mph’ not 30 & 40 as was previously. Also the speeds on the Overton Road have been reduced to 50 mph (and 40 mph in some places), as opposed to the old 60 mph. Please be vigilant and mindful of these new speeding regulations as we will be out and about with the speed gun in the near future in these areas. Thank you for your co-operation in advance on this matter.

CONTACT NUMBERSPCSO 0151 Lynne Maurice Blackberry 07854 352 815

PCSO 2858 Phil Jones Mobile 07854 389056Overton, Hanmer, Bettisfield, Horeseman’s, Green & Penley

PCSO 2610 Robina Ahmed Mobile 07854 334279Cross Lanes, Bangor on Dee, Bronington, Worthenbury & Tallarn Green

Overton Police Station 01978 348 425CALL 101 which is a 24 hour number for non emergency calls ie.

threatening and abusive behaviour, drunk and rowdy groups, drug related anti-social behaviour.

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Not Sure? Don’t Open the Door!How to stop unsolicited telephone calls and mail Older people may receive a disproportionate number of telephone calls. These can be from a variety of sources but all have in common the fact they are unsolicited and may also appear to be from an ‘official’ organisation or a company selling goods and/or services. In most cases the caller will be seeking information such as personal details including bank details; usage rates (if they say they are from a utility company) or other personal information.

Many of these types of calls can be reduced by removing your personal details from publically available sources.

Registering with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)The TPS is a free service that gives you the opportunity to select who contacts you by telephone. Once registration is complete telemarketers are legally bound not to call you. Registration takes about a month to become effective and can be made online at www.tpsonline.org.uk or via the telephone on 0845 070 0707. You will remain registered unless you change your telephone number or personal details.

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Page 18: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

A man from Cardiff has been arrested after HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) seized over 169,000 litres of illicit alcohol, in what is believed to be the largest ever seizure of its kind in Wales. It is estimated that the wine, beer and spirits are worth £303,000 in lost duty and taxes.

HMRC officers searched an industrial unit in a business park in Cardiff on Tuesday (18 March) where they discovered enough illicit alcohol to fill over eight 40ft containers. The alcohol was packed onto pallets, which HMRC suspects were ready to be distributed throughout South Wales.

Colin Spinks, Assistant Director, Criminal Investigation, HMRC, said:“This seizure has prevented nearly 170,000 litres of illicit alcohol entering the legitimate market, helping to protect honest businesses whose livelihoods are threatened by this unregulated activity.

“We are committed to stopping this criminal activity that costs the taxpayer around £1.2 billion in unpaid revenue each year and I would urge anyone with any information on the sale of illegal alcohol to contact us on the Customs’ Hotline on 0800 59 5000.”

The man has been released on bail and investigations are continuing.

© HMRC

Largest ever illicit alcohol haul seized in Wales

Page 19: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

400 TICKETS ONLY FOR EACH DAY - AVAILABLE MID FEBRUARYTickets May 9th - £20

May 10th - £25Saturday evening from 6pm - £20

Weekender - £35Advance tickets to be purchased by May 3rd for £5 reduction

Camping available + WCs£5 per person per night (5 mins walk )

Caravan site available at Bank Farm, Bangor on Dee.Call Mr and Mrs L Done - 01978 780275 (5 mins walk)Minibus available to local hotels, b&bs in 4 mile radius.

Apply by post for tickets and camping vouchers to the Buck House Hotel with a cheque made out to The Buck House Hotel.

Please include a stamped addressed envelope.Credit card applications with PayPal - call The Buck House on

01978 780336 or email [email protected] organised by Goin’ Up The Country Blues & Roots Club,

Worthenburywww.hookerblues.co.uk

The 4th Bangor on Dee Blues & Real Ale Festival

The Buck House Hotel, Bangor on Dee, Wrexham LL13 0BU

In a large, warm dry marquee in the hotel grounds - chairs available but bring your own.

Twenty-plus real ales and ciders, food available all day plus comfortable seating within hotel.

All profits go back into the local community e.g. the playgroup, church, senior citizens group, playing

fields etc

Friday May 9th 7.30pm start

Saturday May 10th 2pm startThe Sean Webster BandWooden HorseSteve “Pablo” Jones & Bad Moon Main Sponsors

Wrexham Lager

The 4th Bangor on Dee Blues & Real Ale Festival

Main Sponsors

at The Buck House Hotel, Bangor on Dee, Wrexham LL13 0BU

The Ian Parker BandThe Blues Duo + Guests

(Tommy Allen & Johnny Hewitt)Rosco Levee & The Southern Slide

David Migden &The Twisted RootsSwampcandy (from the USA)The Lyndon Anderson Band

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The aim of the day is to raise awareness of the armed forces and the sacrifices they and their families make in their service to our country.Confirmed so far is a Griffin Helicopter which will be on Llwyn Isaf Green and a Fly Past by a Spitfire. Planned entertainment will take the form of circus performers, choirs, singers and bands! There will also be a military village with a climbing wall and military vehicles and veteran associations will be on hand to offer advice and help to former and serving armed forces personnel. There will be a

parade by representatives of the three armed forces from the Barracks starting at 11.30 am which will be led by the band of the Royal Welsh and will include cadets and veterans in addition to serving armed forces personnel. The parade will march into town and form up on Llwyn Isaf Green where a Drumhead service will take place. After the formal service and silence everyone will be invited to enjoy the entertainment available on the green and Queen’s Square. Everyone is invited to share in this year’s North Wales celebration of our armed forces.

north wales armed forces day

21st June • Wrexham town centre • 10am - 4pm

Page 23: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

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Page 24: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

Lamb Chops with Balsamic Reduction

Recipe of the month

How you do itIn a small bowl or cup, mix together the rosemary, basil, thyme, salt and pepper. Rub this mixture onto the lamb chops on both sides. Place them on a plate, cover and set aside for 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place lamb chops in the skillet, and cook for about 3 1/2 minutes per side for medium rare, or continue to cook to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet, and keep warm on a serving platter.

Add shallots to the skillet, and cook for a few minutes, just until browned. Stir in vinegar, scraping any bits of lamb from the bottom of the skillet, then stir in the chicken broth. Continue to cook and stir over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, until the sauce has reduced by half. If you don’t, the sauce will be runny and not good. Remove from heat, and stir in the butter. Pour over the lamb chops, and serve.

What you need3/4 teaspoon dried rosemary

1/4 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

salt and pepper to taste

4 lamb chops (3/4 inch thick)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/4 cup minced shallots

1/3 cup aged balsamic vinegar

3/4 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon butter

Serves4

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Page 25: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

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The Mayor of Wrexham welcomed some very special four-legged friends to the Guildhall recently. Three Guide Dogs and volunteers from Guide Dogs Cymru were invited to the Mayor’s Parlour to receive a personal donation of £500 from Cllr I David Bithell MBE, and his wife and Mayoress, Virginia.

The undoubted star of the show was 12-week-old Nutmeg, a black Labrador puppy with bundles of energy!

Cllr Bithell said: “There are over 4,700 guide dog owners in the UK and they offer a lifeline for blind and partially sighted people. As well as providing a safe and effective way for people to get about independently and confidently, Guide dogs are extremely loyal and offer companionship.

“Guide Dogs Cymru is a charity that’s very close to mine and the Mayoress’ heart and it was a pleasure to welcome

everybody to the Guildhall, including little Nutmeg.”

The charity provides all essential equipment and training for people who are in need of a guide dog. Guide Dogs Cymru can also cover the cost of vet bills and dog food if people wish.

Alison Hourihane, Community Fundraiser for Guide Dogs Cymru, said: “Guide dogs are making a huge difference to the lives of blind and partially sighted people right here in Wrexham, and this generous donation will help many more to regain their independence. Local people can also help us by volunteering their time - it’s fun and rewarding. Anyone interested is encouraged to ring 07881 269572 to find out

Mayor makes £500 donation to Guide Dogs CymruNEWS

“Guide Dogs Cymru is a charity that’s very close

everybody to the Guildhall,

Page 27: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014
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BAR * BISTRO * CAFÉ

The Boathouse Restaurant, Mereside, Ellesmere, Shropshire SY12 0PA

01691 623 852 www.ellesmereboathouse.co.uk

Café 9.30 – 6pm Restaurant 12 – 3pm for lunch, 3 – 5pm afternoon tea

Early evening dining & tapas style selection Thursday, Friday & Saturday from 1st May

We are launching Traditional Afternoon Tea 3 – 5pm £19.95 for two people

Bring this advertisement with you to receive a 25% discount on afternoon tea throughout April. One per household

The best of Wrexham’s rural food producers, shops and restaurants are invited to be part of a new “food trail” designed to showcase the best produce in the area.

A trail leaflet and website will be designed as part of the project which will celebrate and highlight the provenance of real food and drink to their customers.

Jo Edwards, owner of Aballu Artisan Chocolatier & Chairperson of the Local Food Producers Forum said:“Having seen the impact that a food trail can have in other areas, I think having one

in Wrexham is a fantastic idea. We’ve got such a lot to offer, and we should be shouting it from the rooftops! Introducing a food trail, gives us the chance to promote ourselves to a wider audience and build some great relationships with other businesses. There is still a preconception of Wrexham as being industrial and not at all foodie, but there are some real quality producers, restaurants and shops, as well as some great tourist sites. So, I hope it will help to break this image. I can’t wait!”

The project has received funding through the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-2013, which is funded by the Welsh Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development.

Northern Marches Cymru (NMC) is the delivery body for rural regeneration programmes in Wrexham.

New trail set to showcase the best of rural food suppliersNEWS

Page 29: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

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Spring time special offersCollection & delivery service avaliable.Service repair & sharpen any makes and modelsTrade ins welcome

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Page 30: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

In the recent Budget statement the Chancellor announced far reaching reforms of pensions and savings. A lot has already been written on the subject - but, is there more to it than meets the eye?

First, a very short recap of the talking points on the topics above;

ISA changes - nice and simple. One new limit for all adults of £15,000 for the 14/15 tax year that you can use to shelter any combination of cash or stocks and shares for the future. The Junior ISA (and Child Trust Fund) limit will increase to £4000 for the under 18’s.

ISA flexibility also improved. You can now (as always) switch Cash ISA into investment ISA - but the Chancellor announced that you will now be able to also switch the other way. That’s helpful when interest rates are very modest for savers.

Pension changes - some immediate changes were announced and a lot of proposals were made for the Government to consider further for 2015.

In short, most of the changes were about access and again flexibility.

For example, if you have total pension funds worth less than £30,000 new rules come into force allowing easier access. The consultation for 2015 will consider the detail of extending these rules to much larger funds as well. An alternative to the traditional annuity approach - where at some point you had to use most of your pension pot to take an income - is on the

cards, and has been largely positively welcomed.

So, back to today’s title - is there more to this than meets the eye?

Most of this budget appears to say - ‘look after yourselves’. The improved flexibility and particularly the easier access perhaps comes with a good degree of extra responsibility.

This government, and the ones to come, simply know that pension reforms just have to happen. The current state system alone will not support our younger audience - who might one day be ‘retired’ for 30 years or more.

The encouragement to build a pot of funds (pension funds, ISA funds, savings etc) has never been greater.

With this comes other opportunities. For example, the chance to gift to younger generations. Junior ISAs and pension contributions for children and grandchildren (tax relief for kids - how good is that?) will surely see a big increase.

Savers and particularly retired savers perhaps without mortgages have been battered by 5 years of very modest interest rates. Well at least the new ISA limit helps (pretty much double the limit of only 6 years ago). The message here is simple. Use it or lose it.

If you would like our detailed Budget Report or arrange to meet to discuss your opportunities please do send us an email or call the office.

More than meets the eye?Advertising Feature

Contributed by Warren Hadlow & Medwyn Edwards,Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited.

Telephone: 01978 311611 – e-mail [email protected] Edwards Wealth Management Limited represents only St. James’s Place Wealth

Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details

of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products

Page 31: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014
Page 32: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

Taking the lawn into your own hands

Gardening Tips

Mow lawns when necessary - whenever the grass is growing - the aim is to maintain a constant height throughout the year.

Add the clippings to the compost heap in thin layers (too much grass all at once is likely to be very wet and poorly aerated, resulting in smelly slime rather than compost).

Use a half-moon edging iron or spade to create a 7.5cm (3in) ‘gutter’ around the lawn edge. This will prevent grass creeping from the lawn into borders.

Sowing new lawns or over-seeding dead patches can be carried out from mid-April to early May. If the soil is very wet or cold germination will be poor, so delay until the weather improves. Prepare the ground for sowing, by cultivating, levelling and lightly firming beforehand.

Do not walk over or mow newly sown grass until it has reached a height of 5-7.5cm (2-3in), and then only give it a light trim at the highest setting.

Apply a high nitrogen spring lawn fertiliser at the beginning of the month to encourage good, strong growth. If moss is a problem choose a combined fertiliser and mosskiller.

April is the best month to apply lawn weedkiller.

Lightly rake lawns with a spring-tine rake to remove old plant debris. This can also be done to rake out dead moss a couple of weeks after applying a chemical moss killer.

Repair bumps and hollows by peeling back the turf, removing or adding soil, and then replacing the turf.

It is still a good time to sow a wildflower meadow.

Lane End Interiors Green Lane, Shocklack, Malpas SY14 7BN01829 250407 • 07899 948608 • 07717 350931

• Leading name fabric's all on show in our new Showroom• Made to measure curtains, blinds and all soft furnishings • Fitting service available • Free quotes without obligation

Eve W��ey & Barbara Whitley

Page 33: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014
Page 34: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

George Osborne presented his Budget on 19 March 2014 against the backdrop of economic recovery, rising property values and increasing wage rates. Even so, the Chancellor continued with austerity measures in a bid to ensure that the economic recovery is sustainable.Our summary outlines the changes happening in the coming weeks and months for individuals and small business owners.

INDIVIDUALSPersonal Tax AllowanceThere was good news in that the personal allowance, which has risen to £10,000 this April, will increase further in April 2015 to £10,500. A transferable married couples’ allowance of £1,050 will also help basic rate taxpayers from 6 April 2015.

SavingsThis was definitely a Budget to encourage saving:• ISA threshold rises to £15,000 from £11,520

from 1 July 2014 and all of the money can be invested in cash

• Maximum that can be invested in Premium Bonds rises from £30,000 to £40,000 on 1 June 2014 and to £50,000 in tax year 2015-16. There will also be one additional tax free prizes at the maximum level of £1 million awarded each month from August 2014.

• Two fixed rate Pensioner Savings Bonds will be launched in January 2015 to help people aged 65 and over who have seen their incomes cut by low interest rates.

Pensions From April 2015, savers will be given total freedom over how they withdraw pension money. In the meantime, temporary measures will be put in place to ease the strain on those seeking a retirement income. The temporary measures already in place include:• The total pension savings which can be

taken as a lump sum will increase from £18,000 to £30,000.

• The maximum size of a small pension pot which can be taken as a lump sum (regardless of total pension wealth) will increase from £2,000 to £10,000

• The number of personal pots that can be taken under these small pot rules will increase from two to three.

• A person who wishes to take their pension as “draw-down” instead of buying an annuity will now need £12,000 of other income in retirement, rather than £20,000 previously and

• The capped drawdown withdrawal limit will increase from 120% to 150% of an equivalent annuity.

SMALL BUSINESSESEmployers and Youth EmploymentThe Government has taken a number of steps to reduce the cost of employing staff and encourage them to employ young people:• Apprenticeship grants for small

businesses have been extended

Budget 2014Shona Hambleton, SimplyTax&Accounts

Page 35: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

• Employers with employees under 21 will no longer be required to pay Class 1 National Insurance contribution (NIC) up to the upper earning limit for those employees and

• From April 2014 an allowance of £2,000 per year is available for businesses and charities to offset against the cost of employer’s class 1 national insurance contributions.

Annual Investment AllowanceBusinesses looking to invest have been given a boost. The Annual Investment Allowance, which enables firms to invest in new plant and machinery and receive 100% tax relief, will now be available until 2015 with the maximum businesses can deduct from taxable profits raised to £500,000 Research and Development (R&D)

Companies can claim enhanced deductions for expenditure on R&D projects .

VATFrom 1 April 2014 the turnover threshold, which determines whether a person must be registered for VAT, was increased from £79,000 to £81,000.

If you require additional information regarding how the Budget affects you as an individual or a small business please contact us on 01978 310600 or email [email protected].

Page 36: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014
Page 37: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014
Page 38: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

OVERTON ON DEE AMATEUR

DRAMATIC SOCIETYpresents

CONFUSIONSby

Alan Ayckbourn

in Overton on Dee Village HallFriday and Saturday 11 and 12 April 2014

at 7.30 pmTickets on the Door

Refreshments Available

PROPERTIES TO RENT

LOVELY 2 BED TERRACE COTTAGE WITH LOVELY VIEWS IN COEDPOETH

Gas central heating and double glazing2 double bedrooms and

2 receptions roomsModern fitted kitchen and bathroom

Street parking outside house

Contact Richard on

07967 432546

ForSale

2005 plate, metallic blue Vauxhall CorsaAutomatic, 1.4 engine

Only 15000 miles, old lady has recently gone into home

Immaculate and nearly new!£3000

Contact Richard on 07967 432546

Concertin aid of

St. Dunawd’s ChurchBangor on Dee

Saturday 26th April 2014at 7.30 pm

SILVER RING Mixed Choir (from Bath)Supported by

BRYMBO Male Voice Choir

Tickets available from:Peter Furber 01978 780243

Jane Johnson 01978 780417 Basket Shop

Brian Neale 01978 780736

Page 39: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

Cash Bingoon

Sat 12th April 20147pm start

at Marchwiel Village Hall

Worthenbury W.I. Celebrated its 60th birthday, with a meal and entertainment by singer Hannah Grace of Wem. The event was attended by the Shropshire

W.I. Chairperson, Sue Bradley and members from neighbouring W.I.’s.

Our next meeting will be on Tues. 8th April, the speaker being

David Lock, on Chirk Castle Gardens. Come and have a taster meeting £4,

you would be very welcome.

An Open meeting will be held on 30th April, when Robert Stone of

Wilsons Auction House, Nantwich, will talk about being auctioneer on the T.V.

shows “Bargain Hunt” and Flog it”, entrance £5.

TALLARN GREEN METHODIST CHURCH

Lenten lunches continue on the 2nd April, Martin Woodhall will talk about the Chapel website, 9th April, David Young on the expansion of the primitive Methodists in North Wales.

Commences at 12noon.

Good Friday service at 7p.m. led by Rev. Rob Weir, followed by hotcross

buns. Easter Sunday (one service only), led by Rev. David J Hudson with Holy

Communion, and activities for children.

Playgroup Placements for

September 2014Bangor-On-Dee Playgroup is an

established Playgroup, which has been operating for 42 years.

It is an Early Education Funding Entitlement setting, and is regularly inspected by the Care Social Services

Inspectorate of Wales (CSSIW).

We are currently reviewing our numbers for the September 2014 Autumn Term, and are very interested to here from any families who are thinking of

using our setting at that time.

To place your child’s/children’s name on our register please contact

Cheryl Reeves on 07792561345 before April 4th.

Page 40: Essentiallyours Bangor on Dee, April 2014

We love having fun outdoors at Little Scholars Nursery

For further details and availabilitycall CATRIN or BECCA

01978 [email protected]

Little Scholars Day NurseryThe Centre for the Child,

Glyndwr University, Mold Road, Wrexham LL11 2AW