Welcome to our February issue!
After the buzz of the New Year and settling back into everyday routines, February has always felt like a month to pause, take a moment, and catch our breath. The days may still be short and the weather often cold and damp, but there’s a quiet sense of optimism in the air.
Spring is just around the corner, bringing with it longer days and a feeling of renewal. Even small signs of change can lift the mood at this time of year.
February also brings plenty to reflect on and celebrate. It’s LGBTQ History Month, recognising the history and achievements of the LGBTQ community. We also have St Valentine’s Day on the 14th, Half Term for many families, and Random Acts of Kindness Day on the 17th - encouraging people to perform spontaneous acts of goodwill to spread positivity!
If previous years are anything to go by, February will fly by in the blink of an eye. Whatever this month has in store for you, I send you my warmest wishes.
All the best, Vicky Heathfield
Your go-to magazine for Wrexham and the bordering Cheshire villages.
We’ve got the local area covered!
NORTH EDITION: Hand-delivered to 6,500 homes in these villages: Rossett, Marford, Gresford, Holt, Farndon, Churton, Aldford, Eccleston, Lavister, Poulton, Pulford, Dodleston, Burton and Golly. Also available at 30+ pick-up points across the region
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March copy deadlines: Editorial - 10 February Advertising - 13 February
Two editions of EssentialsMAG are published each month - North and South Wrexham. Total circulation 15,500 copies
Local News
Warm Welcome Spaces Across the UK
Warm Welcome Spaces is a UK-wide initiative offering free, welcoming places where people can go to keep warm during the colder months. Run by community venues, such as libraries, community centres and churches, they provide a heated space to spend time, and connect with others, helping to reduce isolation and support people affected by rising living costs. Many Warm Spaces offer activities for children, young people, and adults, such as arts and crafts, games, and keep fit, and some offer guests a free hot drink and a meal.
Monday
• Rhostyllen Parish Hall, 10am - 1pm
• St Margaret’s Hall, (Acton), 10am - 12pm
• Wrexham Miners Project, 11am - 12:30pm
Tuesday
• Rhostyllen Parish Hall, 10am - 12pm
• We are Plas Madoc’s Homegrown Hub, (51 Peris), 5pm - 7pm
• UareUK, (Wellbeing Hub), 10am - 2pm
• Offa Community Council, (Maesgwyn Community Hall), 10am - 12pm
• Offa Community Council, (Luke O’Connor House, Hightown), 1pm - 3pm
• The Rainbow Foundation, (Little Acton Community Centre), 11am - 1pm
• The Rainbow Foundation, (Penley Rainbow Centre), 12.30pm - 2.30pm
• Wrexham Miners Project, 6pm - 8pm
Wednesday
• UareUK, (Wellbeing Hub), 10am - 2pm
• Brymbo & Tanyfron Regeneration Trust, (Brymbo Enterprise Centre), 10am - 2pm
• Cefn Soups r’us, (George Edwards Hall, Cefn Mawr), 10am - 2pm
• Hwb yr Orsedd, (Rossett), 11.30am - 3.30pm
• Caia Park Partnership, 9.30am - 2.30pm
• Wrexham Miners Project, 11am - 12:30pm
Thursday
• Rhostyllen Parish Hall, 10am - 1pm
• Caia Park Food Club, (St Mark’s Church), 10am - 1pm
• Pentre Gwyn Older People’s Group (Happy Hedgehog Cafe), 10am - 2pm
• Offa Community Council, (Maesgwyn Community Hall), 10am - 12pm
• Offa Community Council, (Parciau Bellevue), 1pm - 3pm
• Ty Pawb, 9am - 5pm
• The Wellbeing Hub, 10am - 2pm
• The Rainbow Foundation, (Gwersyllt Resource Centre), 11am - 1pm
• Caia Park Partnership, 10am - 2pm
• Isycoed Community Hub, 10am - 3pm
Friday
• Penycae Community Centre, 9am - 11am
• The Rainbow Foundation, (Marchwiel Piercy Hall), 1.30pm - 3.30pm
Warm Spaces are running until the end of March 2026, but it’s best to check with individual venues, as dates may change.
The local list above is not exhaustive. For more information, including an online directory and a UK-wide map, please visit: www.warmwelcome.uk
St David’s Day/Dydd Gŵyl Dewi
March 1st is a special date in Wales, celebrating our rich culture and heritage. To mark St David’s Day, the Harddu Group, under the umbrella of IMAGE, (Improve Marford and Gresford's Environment), hopes to recreate last summer’s successful decorating of Marford and Gresford (and surrounding villages) to welcome the Eisteddfod.
In the run-up to March 1st, residents, shops, businesses, schools and community groups, are encouraged to decorate their homes and premises with Welsh flags, bunting, dragons, leeks, daffodils - or anything that represents Wales and Welsh culture. One of St David’s teachings is the importance of ‘the little things’, and even the smallest decoration will be warmly appreciated.
There will also be a range of St David’s Day celebrations taking place in Wrexham and surrounding areas, so keep an eye out for local notices.
Free Sensory Room Sessions for Families
Families can now book sessions for their children in the Wrexham Wellbeing Hub’s sensory room, until March 2026. The room is equipped with a mirror disco ball, magic rainbow tube, KopyKat memory game, Vibro Plinth, music, and a variety of sensory toys and resources. It also features a ceiling track hoist for those who need it. Exclusive use of the room can be booked in 30-minute sessions, and longer visits can be arranged by speaking to a member of the team. Sessions can be booked up to a week in advance, with early booking recommended.
To book a session, contact the Wellbeing Hub team on 01978 298110 or email wellbeinghub@wrexham.gov.uk. Sessions can also be arranged via the Wrexham Wellbeing Hub Facebook page: @wellbeinghubwrexham
Deadline for March issue is 10 February. Email your local story to: vicky@essentialsmag.co.uk
Can You Find The EssentialsMAG Mice?
Hidden throughout this magazine are five mice, just like the one here (but smaller), waiting for you to find them!
WIN £25
Find the five hidden mice for a chance to win £25! (PLUS this cute felt mouse toy)
HOW TO ENTER:
1. Read this magazine cover-to-cover and find the five hidden mice.
2. Visit: www.essentialsmag.co.uk/mice and complete the competition form with your answers.
3. Closing date: Tuesday 24 February 2026 at 12pm The first correct entry drawn at random will win. The usual EssentialsMAG competition terms and conditions apply.
February Self-Love
By HELEN CONWAY
February often invites us to think about love, but not just the romantic kind. It’s a quiet, powerful time to practise self-love, especially in the depths of winter when energy can feel low and the pull to stay bundled up indoors is strong.
Mind and body
Self-love in February isn’t about grand gestures or dramatic change. It’s about listening to what your body and mind need right now. Cold, dark days ask for a different pace - one that balances rest with gentle activity, warmth with movement, and kindness with consistency.
Caring for yourself during winter starts with honouring your energy. Extra sleep, nourishing meals, and moments of stillness are not indulgences. They are essential.
Simple rituals can make a big difference: a warm drink before the day begins, a stretch to ease stiff joints, or a few quiet breaths to reset a busy mind. These small acts remind you that you are worth tending to, even when motivation feels thin.
Don’t forget to move
Movement plays a key role in winter selfcare, but it doesn’t need to be intense to be effective. Gentle, regular activity helps maintain circulation, mobility and mood, counteracting the sluggishness that cold weather can bring.
A short walk, a Pilates session, or five minutes of mindful movement at home can shift how you feel both physically and emotionally. The goal isn’t to push, but to keep the body engaged and supported.
Habit-forming
Healthy habits also help carry us through these colder weeks. Eating warming, nutrient-rich foods, staying hydrated, and spending time in natural daylight, even briefly, all support energy levels and mental wellbeing. Creating routines that feel supportive rather than restrictive, makes them far easier to sustain.
February self-love is about choosing care over criticism. It’s recognising that winter is a season of maintenance, restoration and quiet resilience.
By looking after yourself now, gently, consistently and with compassion, you create a strong, steady foundation that will support you long after the cold days begin to soften.
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The Physio & Therapy Clinic, Gwenfro, Unit 10, Wrexham Technology Park, Wrexham LL13 7YP Tel: 01978 312 407 / Email: info@thephysioclinic.org.uk
The Problem With Amalgam Fillings
By SATISH CHAPPITI, Arc Healthcare Dental Services
For more than 150 years, dental amalgam fillings were widely used to restore decayed teeth. While they played an important role historically, advances in dental science, materials, and patient expectations have made amalgam fillings largely outdated for use in modern dental care.
One of the primary reasons amalgam is falling out of favour is its mercury content. Dental amalgam is composed of a mixture of metals, including approximately 50% mercury. Although many regulatory bodies state that amalgam is “safe” for the general population, mercury is a known neurotoxin. As a result, concerns remain regarding cumulative exposure, particularly for children, pregnant women, and medically vulnerable patients. Modern dentistry increasingly prioritises biocompatibility and minimising unnecessary exposure to potentially harmful substances.
From a structural perspective, amalgam fillings have significant limitations. Unlike modern adhesive materials, amalgam does not bond to tooth structure. To retain an amalgam filling, dentists must remove additional healthy tooth tissue to create mechanical retention. This weakens the remaining tooth and increases the risk of fractures over time. In contrast, contemporary composite and ceramic materials bond directly to enamel and dentine, allowing for minimally
invasive dentistry that preserves natural tooth structure.
Amalgam fillings are dark and highly visible, often leading to cosmetic concerns for patients. Over time, amalgam can also cause discolouration of the surrounding tooth structure, resulting in a grey or black appearance.
Thermal expansion is an additional issue. Amalgam expands and contracts at a different rate to natural tooth tissue when exposed to hot and cold temperatures. This repeated movement can contribute to microcracks in the tooth, increasing the likelihood of leakage, recurrent decay, and eventual tooth failure.
Finally, dentistry has evolved to emphasise preventive, conservative, and patient-centred care. With the availability of strong, durable, mercury-free alternatives, amalgam no longer represents the best option for most patients. While existing amalgam fillings do not always need immediate replacement, their routine use is increasingly inconsistent with modern standards of dental care.
In today’s dental practice, safer materials, improved aesthetics, and preservation of natural tooth structure make amalgam fillings a technology of the past rather than the future.
By Satish Chappiti from Arc Healthcare, 2 Watergate
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Dates for your Diary
EVERY WEEK
Erddig Nordic Walkers
Come and try out Nordic Walking and enjoy the benefits of the activity. Three regular walks per week on Mondays, Wednesdays & Saturdays. New members at Erddig on the first Saturday of every month throughout the year. erddignordicwalkers.co.uk
EVERY WEDNESDAY & SATURDAY
Marford Karate Club
Marford Community Centre, Pant Lane, Marford LL12 8SH
Traditional Shotokan style Karate for adults & children. First two sessions are free. Beginners welcome.
6:30pm (Wednesday) 10:30am (Saturday)
£5.00 adult/£4.00 U/16
Tel: 07708 404043 (Jerry)
EVERY THURSDAY
Breathwork & Meditation
Homestead @ The Old Police Station, 76 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NT
Guided breathwork and meditation sessions designed to support relaxation and healing, held in a calming environment. 7pm - 8pm
£10.00 a session
Tel: 07841 533666 (Sarah)
WED 4 & 18 FEBRUARY
Coffee and Chat
The Lemon Tree Restaurant, 29 Rhosddu Rd, Wrexham LL11 2LP
Coffee and chat - meeting on the first and the third Wednesday of the month. A friendly group and a warm welcome awaits.
10:30am
Cost as per menu
Tel: 07960 720299 (Caroline)
WED 4 FEBRUARY
The Northop Silver Band
The Maelor School Hall, Penley LL13 0LU
Expect a varied programme of great brass playing and plenty of foot tapping numbers to go with the traditional fare.
7:30pm gcmason47@yahoo.co.uk
4 - 7 FEBRUARY
Play: A Midsummer Night's Dream
Grove Park Theatre, Hill Street, Wrexham LL11 1SN
Enter a world of magic, mischief, and romance in William Shakespeare’s enchanting comedy, A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
7pm
£6.00
www.groveparktheatre.co.uk
THUR 5 FEBRUARY
Burton & Rossett ShortMat Indoor Bowling Club Open Event
Rossett & Burton Village Hall, Station Road, Rossett LL12 0HE
Burton & Rossett Short-Mat Indoor Bowling Club are holding a free open event for people to come and have a try at indoor bowling.
1:30pm - 3:30pm (drop in)
Tel: 07944 020855 (Julie)
FRI 6 FEBRUARY
Pop-Up Library
Hwb Yr Orsedd, The Green, Rossett LL12 0DS
Pop-Up Library will visit the Rossett Community Hub every 4 weeks, where you will be able to collect your pre-ordered library book. Bring proof of address to be able to sign up.
10am - 11:15am
Tel: 01978 667286 (Lloyd)
TUE 10 FEBRUARY
Wrexham National Trust Association Autumn Talks
St John's Church Hall, Herbert Jennings Avenue LL12 7YF
A talk by Peter Evans on “Resurrection River - River Alyn”.
6:30pm
£5.00
jeggoldstraw@btinternet.com
While every effort has been made to ensure all the details are correct at the time of going to print, it is advisable to check details with the venue concerned.
12 - 14 FEBRUARY
Pantomime: Rapunzel
Dodleston Village Hall, Pulford Lane, Dodleston, Chester CH4 9NN
Dodleston Players present Rapunzel - pantomime with loads of laughs!
7:30pm/2pm (Saturday)
£11.00 adults/£6.50 U/14 www.dodlestonplayers.org
TUE 17 FEBRUARY
The Friends of Wrexham Museum Lecture
Wrexham Memorial Hall, Wrexham LL12 7AG
The speaker is bus expert, Ron Hughes, talking about the “Old Buses of Wrexham.” 7pm
£5.00 (non-members) asandra66@hotmail.co.uk
WED 18 FEBRUARY
Pulford & Poulton
Local History Group
Pulford Village Hall, off Burganey Court, Pulford, Chester CH4 9ES
A talk by Paul Williams: "Our Local Weather from the Middle Ages to the Present Day". With concerns over climate change this talk will show how local weather patterns have changed over the centuries.
7:30pm
£3.00 members/£5.00 non pplhg.org.uk
THUR 19 FEBRUARY
Dodleston Local History Group
Dodleston Village Hall, Pulford Lane, Dodleston, Chester CH4 9NN
“The Bodelwyddan RiotsThe Canadian Riots at Kinmel Camp”, a talk by Celia Drew.
7:30pm
£5.00 (incl. refreshments) dlhgtalkslectures@gmail.com
21, 22 & 24 FEBRUARY
Gresford: Up From Underground Opera
Stiwt Theatre, Broad St, Wrexham LL14 1RB
This opera aims to ensure that the story of Gresford, and the tragic explosion of 1934, is never forgotten.
7:30pm (Saturday)
4:00pm (Sunday)
10:30am (Tuesday)
£20.00 adult/£10 child www.stiwt.com
WED 25 FEBRUARY
Students from Chetham’s Music School
The Maelor School Hall, Penley LL13 0LU
Outstanding young musicians from Chetham’s specialist music school in Manchester will perform.
7:30pm gcmason47@yahoo.co.uk
THUR 26 FEBRUARY
The Take That Experience
William Aston Hall, Wrexham University, Mold Road LL11 2AW
Popular and recognised Take That tribute act. This show is a must for any TT fan!
7:30pm
£28.50
williamastonwrexham.com
THUR 26 FEBRUARY
Holt Local History Society
Holt Community Centre, Chapel Street, Holt, Wrexham LL13 9DJ
HLHS lecture by Jonathon Gammond, “The Survivor: From Militia Depot to the Museum of Two Halves Project”.
7:30pm
£5.00 (visitors)
Tel: 01829 270562 (Brian)
SAT 28 FEBRUARY
Overton Twinning Association Wine Tasting Evening
Overton Village Hall, Pen-Y-Llan St, Overton, Wrexham LL13 0EE
Fun evening with a lovely selection of wines, competition, table quiz, raffle and a delicious twocourse buffet. All welcome. 7pm
£25.00 overtontwinning@gmail.com
Business Spotlight
By VICKY HEATHFIELD
Wrexham Plumbers Merchants
Wrexham Plumbers Merchants Limited is based on Foundry Road, right in the heart of Wrexham. The independent business specialises in the wholesale supply of plumbing, heating and hardware equipment, serving both trade professionals and retail customers across North Wales.
Since opening its doors, Wrexham Plumbers Merchants has built a reputation for reliability, quality, and excellent customer service. Director Paul Edwards has led the business from strength to strength - and credits EssentialsMAG with helping the company reach a wider audience and grow its customer base.
“I’ve always enjoyed reading EssentialsMAG and know many people who say the same,” said Paul. “Although I’d never advertised before, I decided to give EssentialsMAG a try - and I’ve been astonished by the results.”
From trade to retail
In the eight years since Wrexham Plumbers first advertised in EssentialsMAG, Paul has noticed a significant change in his customer base. Originally catering mostly to trade professionals, he’s now seeing a surge in
Want to make your business a local household name and reach more potential customers? Call Vicky at EssentialsMAG to find out how an effective advertising campaign can boost your business profile: 01978 855459.
retail customers travelling from areas such as Bangor-on-Dee, Overton, Penley, Cross Lanes, Worthenbury and closer to home.
“Our ad in EssentialsMAG has helped us attract a whole new audience,” Paul explained. “We’ve seen more homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and small businesses discovering us thanks to the magazine’s local reach.”
Supporting local businesses When asked if he would recommend EssentialsMAG to other local businesses, Paul didn’t hesitate: “Yes - and I already have! EssentialsMAG is perfect for anyone in the Wrexham area who wants to promote their business locally. It’s not just advertising - it’s part of the community, and a good read too!”
www.essentialsmag.co.uk
Dodleston Local History Group
By BERNARD DENNIS, MBE, Chairman, Dodleston Local History Group
The Royal British Bowmen
In 1787, Sir Foster Cunliffe, Third Baronet of Acton Park, Wrexham was invited to a party at Norton Priory, Cheshire, the house of his good friend Sir Richard Brooke where he saw for himself the pleasures of archery and the benefits, mainly social, of such a sport. Sir Richard had erected butts (targets) for both ladies and gentlemen and provided bows and arrows to enable them to experience the joy of an ancient sport.
Returning home to Acton Park, Sir Foster Cunliffe enjoyed the day so much, he wrote in a letter to a friend “when we returned home, we were so delighted with the amusement that we communicated with our neighbours and proposed the establishment of an archery society to be confined to the families in the neighbourhood of Wrexham.”
The society was first named ‘The Society of British Bowmen’, but soon after its inauguration was honoured with royal patronage by the Prince of Wales (later King George IV). It became then The Royal British Bowmen (RBB) and was the first archery society to admit ladies as members.
Confining the society to a small neighbourhood did not last for long. It soon included major, landed families, in Denbighshire, Flintshire, Montgomeryshire, Shropshire and Cheshire. Meetings, including a well-documented lunch of cold cuts and common wine, were held fortnightly from April to October at local venues such as Acton Park, Wynnstay, Ruabon, Erddig,
Gwersyllt, Trevallyn Hall Rossett, Hawarden Rectory, Plas Teg and Eaton Hall, to name but a few.
At these meetings, and especially after imbibing wine at lunch, songs would be sung composed by talented members. One such member, being Rev Reginald Heber, was renowned as a great composer of hymns. There’s even a song about the River Alyn that features a line “Where Egerton oft twangs the Yew” Egerton being from the Gresford line and ‘Yew’ being the wood used to make the bow.
The RBB disbanded during the Napoleonic War period but was re-established in 1820. A meeting in September 1822 at Erddig is clearly defined in a small print that still hangs in the basement room of Erddig.
There is also a magnificent depiction of an RBB meeting at Eaton Hall in October 1832 showing RBB members in their finery. Included in the foreground is a young Princess Victoria, her mother the Duchess of York, plus The First Marquis of Westminster and his wife Countess Eleanor, who at the time was also the Lady Paramour of the RBB. Sadly, the RBB was disbanded again in 1880 as it became too expensive to entertain an ever-growing number of members. Tennis was gaining popularity. Fortunately, archery continues to thrive and the history of the bow has a fascinating back story..
Dodleston Local History Group
For further information please contact: Bernard Dennis on 07966 436073, or email: bernarddennis531@gmail.com
Rest. Assured. For Peace of Mind
By ANN ANGLESEA, Delmar World
Why peace of mind is the best part of any holiday
Booking a holiday should be exciting - not stressful. Yet with online booking sites, travellers are often left navigating complex terms, call centres, and unexpected problems alone. That’s where Rest. Assured. comes in.
Rest. Assured.
At Delmar World and Perfect Cruises, Rest. Assured. is our concierge-style service designed to give clients complete peace of mind from the moment they start planning, right through to their return home.
Unlike booking online, our clients have a dedicated Travel Specialist who truly understands their holiday - not a different person every time they call. We take the time to get to know preferences, expectations, and what really matters, creating tailor-made holidays rather than one-size-fits-all packages.
The benefits extend well beyond booking. If flights change, hotels are amended, or the unexpected happens while you’re away, we handle it so that you can enjoy your well-deserved time away.
Rest. Assured. also means expert advice you can trust. With decades of experience and first-hand destination knowledge,
we help clients avoid common pitfalls, select the right accommodation, choose the best cabins or routes, and ensure holidays are properly protected - something online booking sites often overlook.
Most importantly, our service doesn’t end once payment is taken. We remain responsible for your holiday throughout, offering support, advocacy, and reassurance when it matters most.
In an age of online convenience, Rest. Assured. is about something more valuable: confidence, care, and knowing you’re never on your own.
For travel advice you can trust and support you can rely on, visit your local Delmar World or Perfect Cruises team and discover the difference Rest. Assured. makes.
Delmar World are leading travel experts in Worldwide tailor-made holidays & cruises. Tel: 01978 853 886, www.delmarworld.com 54-56 Chester Road, Gresford, Wrexham LL12 8NE
Wrexham Tourism News
By JOE BICKERTON, Tourism Manager, Wrexham County Borough Council
I hope everyone’s had a good start to the new year and for us, we enter a busy period of project delivery. This has started with the installation of a magnificent new piece of art - our ‘WRECSAM’ letters, expertly crafted over the last year by local artist, Simon O’Rourke. I chatted about three years ago to Simon about this idea, and his vision to bring it to life has been so inspiring. Fortune came about last January, when a large oak tree fell in Trevalyn, and we successfully secured some funding from Welsh Government to get it over the line. Since then, Simon has crafted the letters and Phil Salmon at AEC Engineering has made the steel structure that they sit upon. The tree dates back almost 200 years, and includes a date ring coinciding with Wrexham AFC’s formation in 1864 and Wrexham’s Year of Wonder in 1876.
Alongside this, Simon has carved a map of Wrexham County across the letters, featuring different villages and landmarks. It’s truly a brilliant piece of art - and for us, it creates an iconic new landmark for photographs, especially as it’ll pop up in different places over the coming years. Visit the letters now on Queens Square, outside the Old Library.
After the launch of the letters, we move into trade show season - and throughout February, we have a number of tourism shows where we hit the road to promote tours and visits to the county, trying to support hospitality and further investment in our
local area. Working alongside Visit Wales, we know how in-demand Wrexham currently is, so our aim is increasing the length of stay and showcasing that our county has a lot to offer!
Other projects over the next few months include working with Transport for Wales to dress Wrexham General and make more of a welcome to passengers arriving here, with new maps at Ruabon and Chirk stationsplus, we’ll be hosting more travel trade press visits and our ‘This is Wrecsam’ tourism team will be launching our official new improved website at www.thisiswrexham.co.uk
Our winter/spring 2026 brochure is also now out, which you can download via the QR code below.
Finally, 2016 is the 10th anniversary since the Wrexham Sheep Trail was launched - and yes… we’ll be bringing 20 new sheep, backed by local businesses, to the trail this summer - so look out for these launching in spectacular style ahead of the school holidays!
So much is happening, so much to do and so much to look forward to in 2026!
See you next month.
By Joe Bickerton, Tourism Manager at Wrexham County Borough Council
T. 01978
292015
www.thisiswrexham.co.uk
Useful Marketing, Fresh Start
By JULIE GREGORY
February often feels like a gentle reset. The rush of January has settled, routines are starting to stick, and many of us are thinking more carefully about the choices we make — from how we spend our time to which brands we welcome into our lives. It’s also a moment when marketing, done well, can quietly become more helpful than we might expect.
Marketing doesn’t always have the best reputation. We’ve all experienced pop-ups, interruptions and messages that miss the mark. But things are changing. More and more, marketing is shifting away from pressure and towards usefulness — helping people make confident, informed decisions without feeling overwhelmed.
Today’s consumers value clarity. We want information that’s easy to understand, relevant to our lives and respectful of our time. Good marketing now focuses on answering the questions we’re already asking: What is this? Is it right for me? And does it fit my lifestyle? When brands communicate clearly, the experience feels supportive rather than sales-driven.
For readers of EssentialsMAG, this is becoming increasingly noticeable. A welldesigned website can make browsing feel effortless. Thoughtful social media content can inspire ideas instead of demanding attention. Even emails, when sent with care, can highlight products or services that genuinely match our interests
— particularly useful at this time of year, when many people are refining habits or exploring something new.
February also brings a renewed appreciation for honesty and simplicity. Consumers are drawn to brands that communicate openly about pricing, values and what they stand for. Straightforward language builds trust, and trust makes decisions easier — especially when we’re trying to be more intentional about where we spend our money.
There’s also growing warmth towards smaller and local businesses that communicate with personality and authenticity. These brands often rely on clear, thoughtful messaging to connect with their audiences. Support from experienced teams like Time for Marketing helps them communicate in a way that feels natural, human and useful — not pushy.
As the year unfolds, marketing is becoming more conversational and less noisy. Short, relevant messages. More listening, less shouting. And content that fits seamlessly into everyday life.
When marketing puts people first, everyone benefits. It helps consumers discover what matters to them, make choices with confidence, and start the year feeling informed — not sold to. And that feels like the right tone for February.
EssentialsMAG marketing contributor is Julie Gregory of Time For Marketing
julie@timeformarketing.org
Tel: 07474 333004
Would You Know What to Do?
By DAVE JONES, Red Dragon Ventures
Keeping a First Aid casualty warm and dry can significantly improve their chances of recovery. Emergency Services and Mountain Rescue teams report that there is a massive difference in outcome if casualties have been well looked after. By making sure your casualty is kept warm and dry, you can help maintain their body temperature, which is crucial for survival. Keeping the casualty dry can prevent further injury or infection, which can occur if the casualty is left exposed to the elements.
What to do?
We always emphasise the importance of keeping our casualties warm and dry on our Outdoor courses. Every practical scenario starts with these basic reminders:
• Where will they lose heat from and get wet?
• What do I have to keep my casualty warm and dry?
We lose massive amounts of heat from our points of contact with the ground, so get something for the casualty to sit or lie on - a blanket or coat. We also lose great amounts of heat from our head and hands, so ask them to pull their hood up, put a hat on, or use other items of clothing to cover their head. Ask them to put gloves on, put their hands in their pockets, or under their armpits - it’s always nice and warm there!
Be prepared!
That fine Scout motto. A foil blanket is packaged nice and small. It can easily
fit in your glove compartment or bag. They are not expensive - we sell them for £2.90, so shop around. A blanket in your car is a good addition. A survival bag, or even bin bags, can be used to make an improvised shelter around your casualty to keep the rain off.
Practice and share
You will be surprised at the difference a foil blanket and sit mat make. Don’t just take my word for it - have a go, then share and tell others. Spread the life saving skills.
Is that it?
No, of course not, but it’s a start and you could save a life. What if your casualty has a fracture or a spine injury? What if the Emergency Services are delayed? If you want to learn more, please get in touch and book some First Aid training with Dave@RedDragonVentures.co.uk and like and follow our Facebook page.
Red Dragon Ventures
Based in Hollywell, Red Dragon Ventures provides expert First Aid training, helping people gain the skills and confidence to save lives in everyday and outdoor situations.
By Dave WW Jones Red Dragon Ventures Ltd
wrexham@monopolybuysellrent.co.uk
AWARD WINNING LOCAL ESTATE AGENT DELIVERING EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE
At Monopoly Buy Sell Rent Wrexham, we offer an expert service with a personal touch.
As a multi-award-winning agency, we’re known for our exceptional customer care. Our team of 8 professionals, with over 100 years of combined experience (including 5 full-time valuers), are here to support you 24/7, 365 days a year.
We’re proud to be Wrexham County’s number one selling agent for 2023, 2024 and 2025, also covering Chester, Flintshire, and North Shropshire.
With state-of-the-art IT systems and Giraffe 360 Cameras for high-quality property photos, floor plans, and virtual tours, we make sure your property stands out.
If you are thinking of selling or renting your property please get in touch today for a free-of-charge property appraisal/valuation - we’re here to help you move forward with confidence!
Growing Together at Agri-cation CIC
By CHERYL REEVES, Agri-cation CIC
The past year has been an incredible journey for everyone involved with Agri-cation CIC, and we are so proud of the positive impact we’ve made across our community. What started as a vision to reconnect people with food, farming and wellbeing has continued to grow into something truly special.
Over the last year, we’ve welcomed families, schools, community groups and individuals onto the farm to learn, connect and thrive. From hands-on school visits that introduced children to where food comes from, to family-friendly farm events that brought laughter and learning together, our land has been alive with curiosity and conversation.
Our ‘Wellness in Wellies’ sessions created safe, supportive spaces for people to slow down, enjoy nature and focus on their mental wellbeing, while our community projects tackled food confidence, sustainability and inclusion head-on.
Our work around women’s health and wellbeing, particularly menopause awareness, has helped open up important conversations, reduce isolation and empower people with knowledge and support. Alongside this, our practical woodwork sessions offered a chance to build skills, confidence and friendships.
Looking ahead to this year, we’re excited to be expanding our programme even further with an amazing range of workshops and activities designed for all ages and stages of life.
Coming up, we’ll be hosting:
• Menopause Circles – supportive, friendly sessions to share experiences and learn together.
• Menopause Taster Sessions – a gentle introduction for those curious but unsure where to start.
• Woodwork Sessions – practical, confidence-building workshops for men and women.
• Wellness in Wellies – time outdoors focused on mental health, connection and calm.
• Yoga on the Farm – movement, breath and relaxation surrounded by nature.
• Family Farm Visits – fun, educational experiences that help families reconnect with food and farming.
Everything we do is rooted in community, kindness and accessibility. Whether you’re looking to learn something new, improve your wellbeing, support your family or simply enjoy being outdoors, there’s a place for you at Agri-cation CIC.
To keep up to date with events, workshops and opportunities, follow our Facebook page @Agri-cation@enjoyableducation for the latest news and booking information. If you’d like to get involved, ask a question or find out more, please contact Cheryl at info@agrication.co.uk
By Cheryl Reeves, Agri-cation CIC
T. 07792 561345
www.agrication.co.uk info@agrication.co.uk
Gardening Tips and Advice
February - Spring is in Sight
This month, there are signs of the approaching spring, with bulbs appearing and wildlife waking up as light levels and temperatures increase. There's plenty to do indoors this month to prepare for the season ahead. Outdoors, as the garden comes to life again, it's time to prune shrubs and climbers, such as Wisteria, as well as evergreen hedges.
TOP 10 JOBS TO DO IN THE GARDEN THIS MONTH
1. Prepare vegetable seed beds and sow some vegetables under cover
2. Chit potato tubers
3. Protect blossom on apricots, nectarines and peaches
4. Net fruit and vegetable crops to keep the birds off
5. Prune winter-flowering shrubs that have finished flowering
6. Divide bulbs such as snowdrops and plant those that need planting 'in the green'
7. Prune Wisteria
8. Prune hardy evergreen hedges and renovate overgrown deciduous hedges
9. Prune conservatory climbers such as Bougainvillea
10. Cut back deciduous grasses left uncut over the winter, remove dead grass from evergreen grasses.
Lamb Massaman Curry
A Massaman curry is comfort in its richest form - mellow heat, warm spices, and slow cooked tenderness. Using diced lamb rump gives this version a luxurious depth, turning a simple midweek curry into something quietly special. Lamb can be substituted with beef, chicken, or vegetables such as cauliflower or sweet potato.
INGREDIENTS:
400g diced lamb rump
2 tbsp neutral oil
4 tbsp Thai Massaman curry paste
8 peeled baby shallots
400ml coconut milk
250ml chicken stock
2 medium potatoes, peeled & cut into chunks
1 tbsp sugar
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 cinnamon stick
2–3 cardamom pods (optional, but lovely!)
1 tbsp tamarind paste, or juice of ½ lime
Small handful roasted peanuts
Fresh coriander to finish
CHEF’S NOTE:
If you can, use an authentic Thai Massaman paste from a Thai food specialist (there are two in Wrexham: Try Thai & Tack Thai food).
If you have time, cook it a day ahead - the flavours deepen and mellow overnight.
PREP: 15 minutes SERVES: 4
COOK: 90 minutes
METHOD:
Brown the lamb. Heat the oil in a heavy pan. Season the lamb lightly and brown it on all sides until caramelised. Lift out and set aside.
Build the base. In the same pan, add the shallots and cook until golden. Stir in the Massaman paste, frying gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Simmer the curry. Return the lamb to the pan. Pour in the coconut milk and stock, then add the potatoes, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, sugar, and fish sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Slow cook to tenderness. Cover and cook on low heat for 1–1½ hours, or until the lamb is tender and the potatoes have softened. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water if needed.
Balance the flavours. Stir in the tamarind paste or lime juice. Taste and adjust - you’re looking for a harmony of sweet, salty, tangy, and warm spice.
Finish and serve. Scatter with roasted peanuts and fresh coriander. Serve with steamed jasmine rice or warm roti.
Trying out our recipe? Share your photos with us on Facebook @EssentialsMag Wrexham
Recipe by ADAM GAUNT-EVANS
Adam is a local chef and cookery teacher. Follow Adam’s cooking, news & events through instagram: @adam_gaunt_evans
Seasonal Treats in February
Bring some cheer to meal times in the depths of winter with these seasonal superstars…
Cauliflower
With a mild flavour when properly cooked, cauliflower can easily take on the taste of any ingredients it’s used with. There is, of course, the comforting classic of cauliflower cheese – steam cook then drain before generously covering in Cheddar cheese sauce and baking until the cheese is bubbling and turning golden. Its meaty texture also makes cauliflower a perfect replacement for vegetarian dishes – cut into 5cm-thick steaks, steam until just tender, then add to a hot frying pan and sear in butter before roasting for 10 minutes until caramelised.
Forced rhubarb
When there isn’t much fresh produce around, forced rhubarb brings a touch of brightness to winter menus. It is traditionally grown in almost complete darkness in heated sheds inside the fabled Yorkshire Rhubarb Triangle (nine square miles between Rothwell, Morley and Wakefield) and hand-picked between January and March by candlelight.
Forced rhubarb’s eccentric cultivation results in pretty pink stalks that need no peeling, as they are far more tender than the outdoor-
grown version, and they keep their shape better when cooked, too – and without a hint of stringiness. To prep, simply trim and remove the toxic leaves before cooking or freezing.
Jerusalem artichoke
Jerusalem artichoke is a small, lumpy tuber that’s no relation to its rather more gorgeous globe namesake. But what it lacks in the looks department, it more than makes up for in taste.
With a nutty, earthy flavour, it can be used both raw and cooked, but you do need to cook or serve it fast once you’ve trimmed and sliced it, as otherwise it starts to oxidise and lose its depth of flavour. It goes well with earthy fish, or white meat like chicken or pork.
Try it sliced and fried in butter, spiralised in a crunchy salad, or roasted.
February Shopping List
Brussels Sprouts, Cabbages (all types), Carrots, Cauliflower, Celeriac, Chard, Chicory/Endive, Forced Rhubarb, Jerusalem Artichoke, Kale, Kohlrabi, Leeks, Mussels, Onions, Parsnips, Potatoes, Purple Sprouting Broccoli Rabbit, Spinach, Spring Greens, Swede, Turnips, Venison.
The Ritual of Coffee
By LAURA PEILL, Tired Mums Coffee
If you’d asked me five years ago what coffee meant to me as a new parent, I’d probably have said survival - a caffeine fix to get through the day. But it quickly became more than that. Coffee turned into a comforting ritual, a small moment of calm; something I could look forward to each day. It was often shared with friends too. When becoming a parent can feel isolating, those moments of connection really mattered.
Where the idea began
Tired Mums Coffee started with two local mums trying to balance NHS work, family, and self-care. One day, we began to wonder: could we create a coffee range that understands your day, connects parents, and supports their wellbeing?
We did our research and the same themes kept coming up. Brewing café-quality specialty coffee at home felt intimidating. Espresso machines felt complicated and overwhelming for those new to “real” coffee. And many people were adding sugar simply to hide the bitter after-taste of their coffee.
Coffee that understands your day
That’s when the idea really took shape and we set about developing coffee blends that are high-quality, enjoyable anytime, and easy to make however you brew at home. All our coffees are ethically sourced and roasted with care in North Wales, focusing on smooth, balanced flavours that don’t need sugar to mask bitterness.
From Party All Night to Nobody’s Listening to Me, Are You Sure It’s Decaf?, and Comfort
After Chaos hot chocolate. Every sip is designed to be the perfect companionwhatever the time of day or night.
Supporting others
We donate 1% of coffee sales, along with coffee, to charities supporting parents and their wellbeing. It’s used to fund vital projects, reward volunteers, and support fundraising efforts. So far, we’ve proudly supported seven incredible organisationsand we’re just getting started.
Join us
Today, Tired Mums Coffee is proudly based in Marford and entirely run by me! What began with cold cups of coffee and shared struggles has grown into something I’m incredibly proud of - a brand built on comfort, connection, and really good coffee that helps you to breathe, reset, and feel a little more like yourself again.
Find Tired Mums Coffee online and enjoy 10% off with code ESSENTIALS10 until the end of February 2026.
Or pick up a bag locally at Rackery Farm Shop in Llay, and Bellis Brothers Farm Shop in Holt.
For more information, please contact Laura Peill, Tired Mums Coffee Limited www.tiredmumscoffee.co.uk
The Power of Having a Tax Plan
By WARREN HADLOW
A tax plan has the power to reduce your tax bill, boost your income, and preserve your wealth. It can help you prepare for those milestone moments like buying your first home, retiring, and passing on wealth.
Keep more of your hard-earned money
We all need to pay tax, but there are ways to be more efficient so that you can keep more of your money. For example, some high earners can get caught by the 60% tax trap. But smart tax planning can help you back into the 40% tax bracket and potentially unlock other allowances like tax-free childcare.
A well-structured tax plan takes a holistic view; helping you be more resilient and cope with whatever changes the government announces, such as the upcoming two percentage point increase to the tax rates on most dividends, property and savings income this April.
Boosting savings & investments
Taking advantage of the tax and savings
allowances should form part of your tax plan, where appropriate.
The ISA allowance means you can save up to £20,000 each tax year tax-efficiently and up to £9,000 for your children. If you’re under 40, you can currently still open a Lifetime ISA to save up to £4000 each year for your first home or retirement, which comes with a 25% government bonus.
Note that for under 65s, the overall £20,000 ISA allowance will remain the same, but you will only be able to put up to £12,000 into a cash ISA from April 2027. The rest must be in a stocks and shares ISA.
There is also the possibility to use the personal savings allowance, dividend allowance, and/or capital gains tax exemption amounts too, although these depend much more on individual circumstances.
Prepare for retirement
Contributing to a pension is one of the most tax-savvy ways to save for retirement. But, you’ll
need to be aware of myriad rules – from the maximum amount you can pay into a pension each tax year to how pensions are taxed once you retire.
From April 2029, if you pay into a salary sacrifice scheme, the exemption from National Insurance contributions will be capped at £2,000 a year. A tax plan can help you prepare for this and potentially highlight other ways to save taxefficiently in order to beat the tax changes and keep your retirement plans on track.
Passing on wealth tax-efficiently Inheritance tax is becoming a concern for many families due to the frozen £325,000 tax-free allowance (aka the nil-rate band) and the additional £175,000 Residence Nil-Rate Band until at least 2031. Whilst house prices continue to rise, and pension funds become subject to IHT from April 2027, these frozen allowances mean people will see their IHT liability increase.
By planning ahead - making lifetime gifts, creating trusts or using life insurance policies to fund the liability - more of your wealth can
By Warren Hadlow of Hadlow Edwards Wealth Management Limited
hadlow.edwards@sjpp.co.uk
Tel: 01978 311 611
www.hadlowedwards.co.uk
go towards supporting your loved ones, and less to HMRC.
Tax is unavoidable but overpaying it is not. With the right plan in place, you can take control of your money, your future and your peace of mind. If you would like to make a tax plan for your financial future, get in touch for a noobligation conversation today.
The value of an investment with St. James's Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and the value may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.
The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs from taxation, can change at any time and are generally dependent on individual circumstances.
Trusts are not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Please note that Cash and Lifetime ISAs are not available through St. James's Place.
An Introduction to Family Mediation
By JOANNE BRASSEY, Mediator at Let's Mediate
My own journey through divorce, and my experience of family mediation a few years ago, inspired me to establish my own family mediation practice here in Wrexham. Going through the process myself gave me a real understanding of how emotionally challenging and overwhelming relationship breakdowns can be, and how valuable the right support can be at such a difficult time.
I wanted to create a service that feels supportive, approachable and fair, offering family mediation at affordable prices without compromising on care or professionalism. This led me to open Let’s Mediate, a practice built on empathy, understanding and practical solutions, helping families find a calmer, more constructive way forward.
What is Family Mediation?
Family in mediation terms covers couples going through divorce or separation, parents, children, brother, sister, grandparents etc. generally anyone within the family remit that has an ongoing dispute.
Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process in which a neutral third party, (the mediator), facilitates communication and negotiation between parties involved in a dispute. The goal is for the parties to reach a mutually acceptable resolution themselves, rather than having a decision imposed by the court. Mediation can be used for a
variety of disputes, including those related to family matters, workplaces, neighbours, communities, and commercial issues.
In recent years, family mediation has increasingly been used more and recommended by solicitors and the court. In cases concerning children, where parents are seeking to resolve arrangements following separation, it is common in most cases for the court to request that both parties engage in mediation prior to commencing legal proceedings. Further, the Ministry of Justice is providing £500 to eligible parents for mediation to help resolve child-related issues.
Even when separation is amicable, it still creates emotions, financial and practical challenges, but family mediation is not just about separation and divorce, it can also be about family disputes, communication between parents, siblings, children and grandchildren. Mediation helps to make the transition from one place to another more constructive and less overwhelming, it can help open those doors and move forward. Mediation supports better communication between clients, is less stressful then going to court, it allows flexibility, moves at the client’s pace, and can reduce time and save money compared to other Court dispute-resolution options.
For information on family mediation, contact Joanne Brassey at Let’s Mediate. joanneb.mediation@gmail.com www.letsmediatewales.co.uk
PC Ollie Thompson 3573 Community Beat Manager
Since becoming the Community Beat Manager for your area in July 2025, I have been getting out on regular foot patrols and speaking with residents and councillors. I have worked with the North Wales Police Road Traffic Unit and carried out speed checks at various times and locations. Speeding and parking are clearly concerns and, where poor parking is seen, the driver is spoken to and educated.
Parking enforcement - who is responsible?
North Wales Police receive many reports about parking each year, but not all of these are matters for the Police. Many issues fall under the council’s responsibility, which is why we work collaboratively with them to manage parking fairly and safely, encouraging consideration for all road users.
Below is a list of common parking issues and who should be contacted to report them:
Report the following to the Police:
• Parking on zigzag lines or pedestrian crossings
• Parking that prevents access for emergency vehicles
• Dangerous parking.
Report the following to your local council:
• Parking opposite or within ten metres of a junction
• Parking on double yellow lines
• Parking in Blue Badge, resident parking, or motorbike spaces
• Parking in taxi bays, cycle lanes or on red lines
• Parking near school entrances or bus stops
• Parking over a dropped kerb.
If parking does not fall within these categories, it is classed as ‘inconsiderate’ and is a civil matter.
Parking on pavements
Unlike in London, parking on a pavement is not automatically illegal unless there is signage or the vehicle causes a dangerous obstruction. Parking on the kerb is dealt with on a case-by-case basis. In some streets it may be unavoidable, but where access for vulnerable people is restricted, the Police may intervene.
Penalties & fines
Penalties vary depending on whether they are issued by the Police or the local council, but can range from £50 to £130.
Reporting to Wrexham Council (WCBC) Visit: www.wrexham.gov.uk and complete the form on the “Report it” page. Or get in touch with their Parking Services team by email: parking@wrexham.gov.uk, or call 01978 292000 to report general issues in council car parks.
Working with the community I will continue to work collaboratively with residents on issues that matter to them. If you see me on patrol, please say hello!
• Accident & Injury
• Agriculture & Estates
• Business Structure & Issues
• Children
• Clinical Negligence
• Commercial Property
• Company & Commercial
• Court of Protection
• Crime, Regulatory & Prison Law
• Employment Law
• Family & Matrimonial
• Litigation & Dispute Resolution
• Mental Health
• Probate, Wills, Tax & Trust
• Professional Negligence
• Residential Property
• Spinal Injuries
Alyn Family Doctors Latest News
As qualified healthcare professionals, Pharmacists are experts in medicine who can help you with minor health concerns.
Pharmacists can dispense prescribed medication, offer free clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines for a range of common ailments.
Pharmacies throughout Wales offer a Common Ailments Service. This service is free of charge and offers patients a consultation and medication for common ailments that cannot be managed by selfcare alone, offering an alternative to making an appointment with the GP or an out-ofhours doctor.
The conditions are:
Acne, Diarrhoea, Nappy rash, Athletes Foot, Dry Eye, Oral thrush, Backache (acute), Haemorrhoids, Ringworm, Chickenpox, Hay fever, Scabies, Cold sores, Head Lice, Sore throat, Colic, Indigestion, Teething, Conjunctivitis (bacterial), Intertrigo, Threadworm, Constipation, Ingrowing toenail, Vaginal thrush, Dermatitis (dry skin), Mouth Ulcers, and Verruca.
The Pharmacist Independent Prescribing services is also available at selected pharmacies locally, where suitably qualified and competent pharmacists can prescribe for a range of minor illnesses not covered by the common ailment service, and for routine contraception.
These independent prescribers can now offer advice and treatment for the following conditions:
Urinary Tract Infections, Skin infections - impetigo, rash, Ear infections, Sinusitis and sinus pain, Sore throat and tonsillitis, Eczema/dermatitis, and Shingles.
Pharmacies offering the ‘sore throat test and treat’ service can assess your symptoms, and where appropriate, preform a test using a quick and pain free test where they will swab your throat. Not everyone will need a throat swab, for example if your symptoms suggest it is a viral infection. Following a consultation and assessment by the pharmacist, medication may be supplied for those patients where an antibiotic is required.
To utilise any of these services, you will require an appointment with a pharmacist at your selected pharmacy for an assessment and treatment. Simply call them to arrange an appointment for this service or visit https://111.wales.nhs.uk/localservices/ to see live availability at local pharmacies.
Most pharmacies also provide a range of other services, such as emergency contraception, emergency medicines supply, health checks, needle exchange facilities, and over the counter medication.
Tel: 0333 332 3260
www.alynfamilydoctors.co.uk
www.facebook.com/alynfamilydoctors
Lesley Griffiths MS Member of the Senedd for Wrexham
Readers may be aware that after finishing runners up in 2025, there has been a determination in Wrexham to build on that success and momentum and to bid for the UK City of Culture title in 2029.
The campaign has been gathering pace culminating with the newly created Culture Board officially launching Wrexham’s bid at the end of October.
Wrexham is in the spotlight like never before and securing this prestigious title will have a lasting impact on our region, creating jobs, attracting investment and inspiring future generations.
After meeting with members of the committee and taking part in a special five-day live stream – ‘Wrexham 24/7’ – hosted by 73 Degree Films, I know there is a huge amount of work going on in the background.
The campaign also has a new focal point with the beautiful Old Library on Queen’s Square reopening at the end of last year. It was a pleasure to attend the official opening of the Grade II Listed building, which has been brought back to life after receiving financial support from the Welsh Government’s Transforming Towns programme. Our city is in a great position after performing so admirably in 2025 and I will continue to champion Wrexham’s cause down in the Senedd.
It was great to catch up with Marcus Fair, Managing Director and Founder of Eternal Media, at their HQ on Borras Road and to congratulate him on receiving a prestigious award.
As part of its 30th anniversary celebrations, the National Lottery awarded 30 ‘Game Changer’ awards from nominations across the UK, with Marcus being a worthy recipient for his outstanding work in the community.
Marcus survived 25 years of drug addiction, homelessness and multiple prison sentences before turning his life around and founding Eternal Media. The not-for-profit enterprise is an award-winning provider of training in media and filmmaking for individuals who have overcome addiction.
As part of the national celebration, seven of the chosen game changers were invited to sit for portraits painted by the artist Luis Gomez De Teran. The portraits were exhibited at the Blue Bridge in St James’ Park in London and Marcus’ now sits proudly at Eternal Media’s base in Borras. Incredibly, the awards have kept on coming as Marcus was also recognised in the King’s New Year’s Honours list, being awarded an MBE. I first met Marcus a few years ago and he should be immensely proud of everything he has achieved.
If you’re a constituent in Wrexham and there’s an issue I could help you with, please contact me via the details below.
Tel: 01978 355743
Lesley.Griffiths@senedd.wales www.lesleygriffiths.co.uk
Facebook & Twitter: @lesley4wrexham
Hugh Jones & Ross Shepherd Councillors for Rossett
Blocked drains
Street Scene Services have been attending a number of blocked and overflowing gullies in the area. Unfortunately, when the ditches are full, water backs up meaning the gullies and drains cannot cope which causes localised flooding and surface water. All gullies in the County Borough are checked on a regular cycle and this is monitored electronically with vehicle tracking data.
Llay Road
A number of sunken drains and manhole covers have been repaired on the Llay Road. Hopefully this will ensure a smoother journey on this section of road.
Gritting
The Council uses a system of priority routes and, based on the weather forecast, deploys gritting machines. The priority one routes include hospitals, schools and main routes. A significant area of the County is above the ‘snow line’ and are included.
Missed dustbin collections
The gritting team are from the Environment Department and include the refuse collection team. When the forecasts require gritting, these impact on the delivery of the collection service. Whilst the recent Storm Goretti did not affect Rossett, there was significant snow and ice at higher levels.
It can appear frustrating when bins are not collected and weather events do not occur as forecasted. However, the Council has to follow Met Office guidance. It is helpful if
residents are able to sign up to the Environment Departments updating system which send out reminders of waste collections.
The
Rossett Co-op
Due to a high volume of shoplifting from the village shop, Rossett Community Council have put forward the creation of a shopwatch scheme (to work in a similar way to a pub-watch scheme) which would see anyone banned from the Co-op also banned from all businesses in the watch group.
The council are looking at ways to support the business, working closely with the police to help and resolve the issue. If this continual problem continues, it will make the shop financially unviable.
The Green
The road markings at the T junction of The Green and Holt Road have been slightly adjusted to help with making turns. This was sanctioned after a number of concerns were raised with the previous markings after resurfacing.
Hugh: Tel: 07769 706999
hugh.jones@wrexham.gov.uk
Ross: Tel: 07715 473776
ross.shepherd@wrexham.gov.uk
Beryl Blackmore Councillor for Marford & Hoseley
Snow, snow and more snow and ice, wow what a start to 2026. I am sure it means we will be in for an amazing Summer.
I am taking of note of Vicky's idea and setting challenges for myself and the community. Here goes - I am going to fit in art classes and walk more, that's enough for me. I can reflect on my progress in a couple of months.
For the community, I have suggested to the Marford and Gresford exercise group that meets every Tuesday in Gresford Methodist Church Hall, that we extend the time by two hours, from 12-midday till 2pm. We can have a light lunch of soup, bread, cheese, cake and hot drinks - enjoy the company and a good chat.
Mandy, our Community Agent, is keen to get involved. Mandy can support the elderly in many ways, so a good chance to engage. I hope that we run until 24 March.
Can you cast your mind back to last August? Wrexham welcomed the Eisteddfod, it was a big success.
We need to build on the interest in Welsh History. Marford and Gresford were highly praised for our effort to decorate the route from Rossett Interchange, up the hill, right along to Gresford roundabout.
PLEASE can all the Residents along that route put some Bunting up for St David's Day? Dragons, daffodils and leeks would be amazing too! A challenge too, is to plant some daffodil bulbs ready for the coming
years - it's all in your hands. I am confident Gresford Community Council will get involved, we just need the shops, schools and childcare facilities to help too.
The double yellow lines on Claypit Lane will be extended. The footway in Mareilian Avenue, Marford, will hopefully have been resurfaced. I did a walk a while ago with Street Scene and I will do another. One area that needs sorting is the cut through opposite The Rofft School. The double yellow lines are covered in mud and rubbish, and I’m not sure how that area is going to work with such major works at the new house as it's a well used route. Let me know if you are experiencing problems.
Marford crossing is still on the agenda. I need people to let me know, via email, of any near misses - they are happening regularly. Two local residents are engaging with the community council with their own expertise. I hope The Rofft School will engage too, I have an idea for them and their parents.
All the Best everyone, I have plenty of shows booked and days out, pop to Chapel on a Tuesday morning and check them outplease don't be lonely, live life to the full!
Tel: 07933 201731
beryl.blackmore@wrexham.gov.uk
Jeremy Kent Councillor for Gresford
2026 has certainly made its presence felt, with the poor weather continuing to impact across the village. Prolonged rain, snow, strong winds, and colder conditions have caused disruption in a number of areas, from waterlogged ground to debris on footpaths and roads. Thank you to everyone for your patience during what has been a challenging start to the year, and for reporting issues as they arise - it really does help us respond more effectively.
Parking on Old Wrexham Road
One ongoing concern that has been raised with me is parking on Old Wrexham Road. Poor or inconsiderate parking in this area can make it difficult for traffic to pass safely and causes frustration for residents, particularly at busier times of the day. I would ask everyone to please be mindful of how and where they park, ensuring junctions, driveways, and pavements are kept clear. These small considerations make a big difference to safety and access for all.
St David’s Day – Dydd G
ŵyl
Dewi
As we look ahead to St David’s Day, I’d love to see the village decorated to celebrate our Welsh identity.
Os oes gennych addurniadau neu faneri, byddai’n hyfryd eu gweld yn cael eu rhoi allan yn yr wythnos cyn Dydd Gŵyl Dewi. If you have any decorations or flags, please consider putting them out in the week leading up to St David’s Day.
There is also the Criw Harddu, who have some supplies available and will be looking for volunteers to help decorate the village.
Bydd croeso mawr i unrhyw un sy’n gallu helpu. If you’re able to spare some time, please do get in touch - many hands make light work, and it’s a great way to show community pride.
Street Scene walkabout
Recently, I carried out a walkabout with the Street Scene Supervisor, during which a number of issues were raised and followed up. These included loose kerbstones, areas where footpaths need clearing or attention, and general maintenance concerns. It was a useful opportunity to see issues first-hand and ensure they are logged and progressed appropriately.
I have also raised complaints with the Waste Collection Manager regarding the mess sometimes left behind after crews have completed collections. This is something residents should not have to deal with, and I will continue to push for improvements in this area.
In closing
As always, thank you for your continued engagement and support. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch if there’s something you’d like to raise - together, we can keep Gresford moving forward.
Fun Time For Kids..!
Welcome to your February colouring adventure! Grab your crayons, felt tips, or pencils, and let your imagination run wild. Have fun, and get creative!
Please share your colouring creations with us with us on Facebook: @EssentialsMag Wrexham
What’s your favourite colour?
Horoscope
Your Forecast for February
by Warren Starling
Aries 21 March-19 April
Creative blocks lift early. Prepare for new responsibilities as Saturn enters. Personal accountability and discipline build a grounded, intentional future.
Cancer 21 June-22 July
February highlights professional legacy and financial security. A solar eclipse brings potential windfalls or career shifts. Master skills, set boundaries to protect energy.
Libra 23 Sept-22 Oct
Romantic connections deepen. Leadership qualities shine after the eighteenth. Saturn's influence on relationships requires clear boundaries for balance.
Capricorn 22 Dec-19 Jan
Focus on your budget early this month. New income sources may appear near the eclipse. Saturn fosters discipline in domestic life.
Taurus 20 April-20 May
This is a good time for finances. Expect breakthroughs in wealth and stability. Embrace career opportunities and prioritise emotional grounding during the eclipse.
Leo 23 July-22 Aug
Relationships take centre stage as the eclipse triggers breakthroughs. Leadership shines after the eighteenth. Prioritise long-term financial security.
Scorpio 23 Oct-21 Nov
February is good for travel and selfexpression. Resolve old creative blocks. Focus on family harmony and organise daily routines for growth.
Aquarius 20 Jan-18 Feb
The solar eclipse signals a powerful personal reset. Embrace your authentic self. Financial discipline becomes essential as the month ends.
Gemini 21 May-20 June
Saturn restructures social circles, urging focus on dreams. Career momentum builds after the sixth. Refine communication, and avoid impulsive decisions because of Mercury's retrograde.
Virgo 23 Aug-22 Sept
Prioritise self-care early to manage stress. The eclipse offers a major promotion. Refine your craft and let go of perfectionism for fulfilment.
Sagittarius 22 Nov-21 Dec
An active social calendar brings short trips and events. Romance becomes serious after the thirteenth. Prioritise financial stability for secure goals.
Pisces 19 Feb-20 March
Start the month with reflection as old limitations fade. Confidence soars after the eighteenth. Be mindful of words and focus on financial self-worth.
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Puzzle Page...
Just For Fun
Crossword
ACROSS
1 In an inactive way; with no particular purpose (4)
3 Formed a mental concept of (8)
9 Prompts (7)
10 Word of farewell (5)
11 Five lines on which music is written (5)
12 Existing at the beginning (7)
13 Frankly (6)
15 Set of instructions (6)
17 Strut about (7)
18 Tortilla topped with cheese (5)
20 Relay device (5)
21 Secures; ties in place (7)
22 Went beyond a quota (8)
23 Heavenly body (4)
DOWN
1 Untrustworthy (13)
2 Assumed proposition (5)
4 Group of mountains (6)
5 Courtesy (12)
6 Less quiet (7)
7 Betrayer (6-7)
Classic Sudoku
8 Ability to acquire and apply knowledge (12)
14 Flexible (7)
16 Cold dessert (6)
19 Divided into two (5)
If you’d like to know the answers, they will be published in next month’s edition.
Here are the answers from January:
