NWM - June 2026

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DEAR READER

Well with the fabulous weather that we had at the end of May, one can’t help but look forward to what the summer may hold for us here in North Wales.

With the first day of the season officially starting this month, on June 21st no less, there is a lot to look forward to – both weather and event wise…

Turn to page seven to take a look at our What’s On section and you’ll begin to see what I mean. From theatre productions to beach cleans, there is literally something for everyone this month.

I can also recommend Llandudno for a day out – it simply has all of the components needed for a spectacular day. Read all about Llandudno on page 15, and what there is to do there on page 19.

However if you are one of those people (like myself!) who doesn’t fare too well

in the heat, then fear not as we have got plenty of fascinating reads to keep you company while you put your feet up in a nice shady spot in the garden…

From the journey of the River Dee to the story of William Maddocks, and how he changed the face of beautiful Porthmadog, we have it all going on in this issue.

However you spend the beginning of your summer, I hope that you use your copy of North Wales Magazine to get the very best out of the region at this beautiful time of year.

Kate Hamilton Editor

We want to hear from you!

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07 What’s On?

The best events taking place this June

10 The Big Picture

Wildlife rich Puffin Island

13 It’s Showtime

Mean Girls is heading to Venue Cymru

15 Town in Focus

Exploring Llandudno

23 Picture Perfect

Capturing Welsh beauty in art

25 Running River

The story of the River Dee

31 Summer Breaks

Where to stay this summer

35 Summer Days Out

Explore the best of North Wales with your family

38 Culture Shock

The different cultures found on our doorstep

41 Wonderful Ruins

Exploring the motte-and-bailey’s of North Wales

45 William Maddocks

Discover how one man changed a town

51 The Joshua Tree

Learn more about one local charity

53 Food & Drink

The Welsh wining, dining and culinary scene

64 Homes & Property

Get inspired by homes that are on the market

73 Community News

A roundup of regional happenings

82 Puzzle Corner

Can you solve our brainteaser?

North Wales Magazine is an independent, regional monthly magazine produced by KSG Publishing. It is available to pick up from a wide range of independent outlets throughout Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Wrexham, Gwynedd and the Isle of Anglesey.

Disclaimer: All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part (electronically or in print) without written permission by North Wales Magazine is strictly prohibited. Every attempt has been made to ensure the accuracy of published content, and any views or opinions presented are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of North Wales Magazine. Please note that some of the authors and companies featured may have paid in order to write their column or article. The publishers assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from participation in, or as a result of, any offer, competition, information, editorial or advertisement contained within the magazine. North Wales Magazine does not endorse any of the advertisements featured, or any of the author’s opinions. All words and images remain the property of their respective owners and all copyrights are observed. North Wales Magazine is not associated with any newspaper group.

What’s On

YOUR LOCAL LIVE MUSIC VENUE

JUNE

Saturday 6th Twin Lizzy + Faith Healer

Friday 12th Open mic – an acoustic evening in the bar

Saturday 13th Billy Bibby (Catfish & The Bottlemen Founder)

Wednesday 17th Sisters Doll + Midnite City

Friday 19th ZZ Topp’d + Sunspy

Saturday 20th Ozz Best + Support tbc

Friday 26th Garage Nights – Underground Breaking Bands

Sunday 28th pm Sunday Sessions – a chilled afternoon

JULY

Friday 10th Open mic – an acoustic evening in the bar

Saturday 11th Mad Haven + Nafira + support

Friday 17th Whitesnake UK + Fugitive

Saturday 18th Kira Mac + support

Friday 24th Garage Nights – Underground Breaking Bands

Sunday 26th Sunday Sessions – a chilled afternoon

Friday 31st Red Hot Chili Peppers UK + Support

AUGUST

Saturday 1st Crissy Rock – From Benidorm to Llandudno

Friday 14th Van Roth (A tribute to Dave Lee Roth and Van Halen)

Saturday 15th The Darkniss – The Darkness Tribute

Sunday 16th Brad Stuart & Brian Allison (Country duo from USA)

Friday 21st Garage Nights – Underground Breaking Bands

Saturday 22nd Bryan Adams Experience

Thursday 27th Guitar Heads – Golden Era of Electric Guitar

Saturday 29th To be announced

Sunday 30th Kickin’ Valentina + Support

See Our Website for More Events

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The Motorsport Lounge, Builder Street, Llandudno, LL30 1DR

What’s on

The biggest and best events taking place in North Wales this June ...

1st – 6th

The Bodyguard Tour 2026

Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from an unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge – what they don’t expect is to fall in love. Come and see this fabulous musical for yourself at Venue Cymru

Monday 1st

St David’s Hospice

Golf Day 2026

This golf day is the perfect opportunity

to enjoy great golf, great company and raise vital funds for St David’s Hospice

Thursday 4th

Textile Artist Di Brown

Di uses a range of felting techniques to make her pictures, shawls, 3d objects, jewellery and cards, using predominantly Welsh or UK fleece, and then natural dyes to colour the fleece. She is at Afonwen today

Sunday 7th

Beach clean and shark egg case hunt

Join North Wales Wildlife Trust on Kinmel Bay beach for a beach clean, and help find and identify the many different shark egg cases you may find

11th & 12th

Local Artist Tracey Davies

Tracey offers a pet portrait service, where she draws and paints your furry friends to cherish forever. Come and see her at Afonwen

12th – 14th

Bluey’s Big Play

Back by popular demand Bluey, Bingo, Bandit and Chilli are returning to Venue Cymru in the Olivier award-nominated live stage show, Bluey’s Big Play

13th – 14th

Ceramic Wales

Pop along to Bodrhyddan Hall to experience this pots, plants and food festival. Established by a group of potters based in and around North Wales in 2015, Ceramic Wales promises to bring you the best in local pottery

13th – 20th

Heroes Exhibition

A Heroes Exhibition is taking place at St Trillo Church, Rhos on Sea this week. The event, inside the historic 13th Century church, will remember and celebrate the lives of many heroes from all walks of life that have an association with the church

Sunday 14th

Spring flower walk

Join North Wales Wildlife Trust on an exploration of the fascinating Aberderfyn Nature Reserve –home to many interesting plants and insects

Sunday 14th

Bodnant Artisan Market

Come and visit this superb handmade craft & food market at this gorgeous location. Get ready for an exciting day of shopping, eating and celebrating the very best of North Wales’ local produce and talent!

18th & 19th

Handmade Jewellery by Jackie at Jewels

Jackie makes her jewellery to suit most ages, in many different designs and materials for which she is constantly updating and to keep her pieces fresh and interesting. Pop in and see her work for yourself while she is at Afonwen

Saturday 20th

The big butterfly-orchid count

Help North Wales Wildlife Trust count the greater butterfly-orchids and take part in a botanical survey with their friendly group of staff and volunteers. At Caeau Tan-y-bwlch Nature Reserve

Saturday 20th

St David’s Hospice Dragon Boat Festival 2026

The Dragon Boat Festival is a great day out for friends, family, colleagues, community groups and anyone who is up for some paddling fun – and it’s all in support of Llandudno’s St David’s Hospice

Saturday 20th

Contemporary Craft Fair

The first Pop-up North Wales Contemporary Craft Fair of 2026 will be held at Mostyn Gallery in Llandudno today. With free entry for visitors, it’s a fantastic opportunity to buy beautiful and affordable art directly from the artists

Saturday 20th

Johns’ Boys Male Chorus

The only British male choir ever to be crowned Choir of the World, Johns’ Boys Welsh Male Choir return to Venue Cymru today with their 10 Year Anniversary Tour, following a year of sold-out concerts across the UK and a triumphant tour of Canada

Saturday 20th

The Vale of Clwyd Singers

The Vale of Clwyd Singers will be singing choral music featured on both the big and small screens at St Giles Church, Wrexham, tonight

Friday 26th

Endless Love The Show

Endless Love The Show brings two legends together in one unmissable live celebration of Diana Ross and Lionel Richie. At Venue Cymru tonight

26th, 27th & 28th

Workshops with Becky Adams

Ruthin Craft Centre is hosting three different workshops with artist Becky Adams this weekend, to accompany her show that is currently on at the centre

27th & 28th

Local Sculptor Clair Young Clair is a ceramic sculptor, and gets much inspiration from her love of animals, the beautiful North Wales scenery, and her many sailing trips where she has been able to see native birds in their natural habitat. She’ll be at Afonwen this weekend

Sunday 28th

Discover Cemlyn: a walk with the wardens

Join the Cemlyn wardens for a guided walk around the amazing Cemlyn Nature Reserve on the north west tip of Anglesey. Organised by North Wales Wildlife Trust

North Wales Eye Specialist Centre

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BIG the picture

Puffin Island, also known as Ynys Seiriol, lies off the eastern tip of Anglesey. This small island is famous for its rich wildlife, dramatic coastal scenery and historic remains. Despite its name, puffins are now rarely seen there, although the island once supported a large puffin population. Today, it is home to thousands of seabirds, including cormorants, guillemots and razorbills. Visitors often take boat trips around the island to spot grey seals and enjoy views of Eryri and the Menai Strait. Puffin Island also contains the ruins of a 12th Century monastery, adding historical interest to its natural beauty.

Get in loser!

The smash-hit musical comedy

Mean Girls is coming to Llandudno this summer…

Mean Girls is heading to Venue Cymru this July, bringing one of the West End’s biggest comedy hits to the North Wales coast. Winner of Best New Musical at the WhatsOnStage Awards, this smash-hit production features a brilliant creative team led by Tina Fey, alongside composer Jeff Richmond, lyricist Nell Benjamin and director and choreographer Casey Nicholaw.

The story follows Cady Heron, a teenager who has spent her life being home-schooled in Africa by her zoologist parents. Arriving at North Shore High, she quickly discovers that teenage survival is far more dangerous than life on the savannah. At the centre of it all are The Plastics — Regina, Gretchen and Karen — the school’s most feared and fashionable clique. When Cady attempts to take down Regina’s reign, she learns that crossing the queen bee comes with serious consequences.

Packed with iconic characters, razor-sharp humour and unforgettable songs, Mean Girls is smart, savage and hilariously entertaining. Grab your friends — this is going to be fetch, Llandudno! n

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Visitors travelling to Llandudno we offer scooter hire service to suit everyones requirements delivery to all hotels in Llandudno

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Llandudno Exploring

When you think of Llandudno, pictures of its wooden pier stretching out into the sea, elegant seafront guesthouses and bold coloured buckets and spades spring to mind. It’s a place steeped in history and nostalgia, full to the brim with charm. Much of its magic lives on through these familiar scenes, yet there is far more to explore beneath the surface, a town where the past and present blend beautifully together.

If you’re after a day-trippable coastal escape, Llandudno is often one of the first places suggested, and for good reason. There’s plenty to do in every season and whatever the weather. On warmer days, the beaches invite visitors to spread out a towel and settle in for the afternoon, while cooler days are best spent wandering the promenade, dipping into independent shops or lingering in cosy cafés tucked beneath ornate Victorian facades.

Although Llandudno is often regarded as one of the best places in North Wales to retire, there’s an energy to the town that appeals to all generations. In recent years, it has quietly reinvented itself, welcoming a fresh wave of coffee spots, independent boutiques and contemporary eateries that sit comfortably alongside the traditional tea rooms and oldfashioned arcades.

It feels familiar even on a first visit, with enough happening to keep you exploring while still holding onto a sense of calm.

The two-mile curving promenade is perhaps the heart of the town. Running alongside the North Shore, it offers uninterrupted sea views framed by neat rows of pastel hotels and grand Victorian architecture. It’s the perfect place for a slow morning stroll with a coffee in hand, though you’ll also find joggers, cyclists and families making the most of the fresh sea air. The promenade leads naturally towards Llandudno Pier, the longest pier in Wales, which has easily become one of the town’s most recognisable landmarks.

A few years back, I visited Llandudno with my now fiancé while travelling around various North Wales towns, cities and islands (hello Anglesey) and it ended up being one of our favourite stops. There’s something comforting about the place.

Originally opened in 1878, the Victorian pier remains wonderfully nostalgic, lined with traditional kiosks, amusement arcades and food stalls that feel delightfully

unchanged by time. Walking its length is almost a rite of passage when visiting the town, especially at sunset. Yet even here, there’s a sense of renewal, with independent food vendors and small businesses adding fresh life to the historic structure.

Towering above the town is the Great Orme, the limestone headland that gives Llandudno much of its dramatic scenery. Rich in mythology and history, the Great Orme is far more than simply a scenic viewpoint. Its roots stretch back thousands of years, with evidence of Bronze Age copper mining making it one of the most significant prehistoric mining sites in the world. Visitors can explore the fascinating ancient tunnels at the Great Orme Mines or travel to the summit via the historic Great Orme Tramway, Britain’s only surviving cable-hauled street tramway.

At the summit, panoramic views unfold across the coastline, mountains and Irish Sea, while wandering trails reveal grazing Kashmiri goats, wildflowers and hidden viewpoints along the rugged cliffs. The Great Orme also played an important role during the Second World War, when the summit hotel was requisitioned by the RAF and used as a radar station.

Back down in the town centre, Llandudno’s appeal continues through its streets. Much of the architecture has been carefully preserved within a designated conservation area, allowing the town to retain its distinctive character. Bay-windowed hotels, decorative ironwork and colourful shopfronts line the streets, while smaller side roads reveal independent bookshops, galleries, bakeries and modern coffee houses tucked into historic buildings. The town is also home to several museums and cultural attractions that offer a glimpse into its past.

Of course, no visit would be complete without spending time on the beaches themselves. North Shore Beach is the livelier of the two, drawing visitors with its classic seaside atmosphere and easy access from the promenade. But on the far side of the headland lies West Shore Beach, a quieter stretch of sand backed by rolling dunes, providing a peaceful contrast to neighbouring North Shore Beach and its (mainly) shingle shoreline.

Affectionately known as the “Queen of the Welsh Resorts,” Llandudno was transformed during the mid-19th Century from a small mining and fishing settlement into a celebrated Victorian holiday destination, though its roots stretch back as far as the Stone and Bronze Ages. Today, that rich history still lingers in its streets, seafront and architecture, yet Llandudno feels far from stuck in the past. Instead, it is quietly evolving; preserving the elegance and nostalgia people have always loved while embracing a growing collection of independent cafés, shops and contemporary eateries that continue to breathe fresh life into this much-loved Welsh seaside gem. n

Bethany Birch is a freelance writer who often seeks inspiration from the beauty of North Wales. Chasing beautiful beaches and the invigorating sea air, she loves to write by the water’s edge. Watching the sunset by the sea, glass in hand, is her ultimate bliss...

Saturday

Saturday

Saturday

Saturday

What to do in

Llandudno

Take a land train

Set against the stunning backdrop of the North Wales coastline, Llandudno’s Land Trains offer visitors one of the most enjoyable and memorable ways to explore the Queen of Welsh Resorts. Combining breathtaking scenery, fascinating local history and traditional seaside charm, the iconic road trains have become a much-loved attraction for families, couples and coach groups alike. The popular Great Orme Tour takes passengers on a spectacular guided journey around the famous limestone headland, travelling along the scenic cliffside Marine Drive with unrivalled views across the Irish Sea, Anglesey, Snowdonia and Conwy Castle. Along the way, visitors can discover the Great Orme’s rich history, unique wildlife and famous landmarks through entertaining live commentary, with time to stop at the Rest and Be Thankful viewpoint high above the lighthouse. For those wanting to soak up the atmosphere of the town itself, the Town Tour provides a relaxing trip through Llandudno’s elegant streets and past many of its historic attractions with stops near Craig-Y-Don and West Shore. www.llandundolandtrains.co.uk

Take a short break

Escape Boutique B&B is Llandudno’s highly acclaimed and leading contemporary boutique bed & breakfast hotel offering exclusive, stylish and luxurious accommodation in a unique Victorian Villa. The B&B is a short distance from the town’s vibrant centre, beautiful beaches, and scenic landscapes, making it a perfect base for both relaxation and adventure. Offering exclusive, stylish, and luxurious accommodation, Escape provides guests with a distinctive experience in a charming setting. Each room at Escape is thoughtfully designed to blend modern aesthetics with the villa’s historic charm, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities and personalised services tailored to enhance their visit. https://escapebandb.co.uk/

Take a longer break

Situated on the promenade in Llandudno No 9 Palm Court Seafront Holiday Flats boast magnificent views of the sweeping bay and the Great Orme. All three apartments are large and fully self-contained with their own well equipped kitchens, lounge and bathrooms. Ideal for couples or families who want to enjoy Llandudno for that little bit longer… https://no9.wales/

Go to a gig

Everyone deserves a night out in a place that feels a bit special. Llandudno’s The Motorsport Lounge is that place! This motorsport themed venue offers live music, events and hire. Bar included, of course. The Motorsport Lounge is a dedicated grassroots music venue, where great music and good company meet to create unforgettable experiences. The friendly and welcoming bar combines rustic charm with a modern motorsport twist, making it a unique destination for music lovers and social butterflies alike. www.themotorsportlounge.com

Spoil yourself

Nestled on the sweeping promenade of the charming Victorian seaside town of Llandudno, The Oasis offers the perfect blend of comfort, convenience and warm hospitality. This welcoming bed and breakfast is ideally positioned for visitors looking to experience the very best of North Wales, whether for a relaxing coastal escape, a family holiday or a business trip. Guests can choose from a wide range of accommodation options, including single, double, twin, triple and family rooms, all thoughtfully designed to provide a comfortable and relaxing stay. For larger groups or families seeking extra space, the impressive two-bedroom apartment comfortably sleeps up to six guests, offering a true home-from-home experience. Location is one of The Oasis’s greatest strengths. Just minutes from the town’s bustling shops, cafés and restaurants, guests are perfectly placed to enjoy everything Llandudno has to offer. The property is also conveniently situated only 300 metres from Venue Cymru theatre and conference centre, making it an excellent choice for theatre-goers, conference delegates and holidaymakers alike. www.theoasiswales.co.uk

Make the most of the promenade

Visiting Llandudno? Need a scooter for a few days? The Llandudno Mobility Centre offers affordable, reliable rentals – perfect for exploring the promenade, shops, and sights without worrying about parking or fatigue. Run by Nick, the Llandudno Mobility Centre offers friendly, no fuss day rentals. Nick is your local go-to for honest advice and reliable mobility scooters, whether you’re here for the day or live around the corner, he offers sales, trades, and daily rentals. All scooters are fully charged, easy to use, and ready when you are. The best part, renting is a doddle – just pop in and you’ll be wheeling away shortly after in comfort and style. Alternatively, a delivery and pickup service is also available. Direct to all hotels in Llandudno, Nick will arrange delivery and pick up for short- or long-term hires. www.llandudnomobilitycentre.co.uk

Watch The Celtic Cup

Embark on a chocolatey odyssey

The Llandudno Chocolate Experience spans over 5,000 years of chocolate history. Journey through the fascinating story of one of the world’s most beloved foods. From the sacred cacao rituals of the ancient peoples of Central America to the chocolate bars and treats we know today. Explore nine immersive eras brought to life through themed sets and displays, including an Aztec temple, a pirate ship, and even a replica World War One trench. Along the way, discover how chocolate has influenced trade, culture, industry, and everyday life across the centuries. The experience is packed with surprising stories, fascinating artefacts, and, of course, delicious chocolate tasting throughout your visit. Just a minute’s walk from the museum, you can also visit Maisie’s Chocolate Shop, a family-run chocolate shop and a true haven for chocolate lovers. Filled with handcrafted chocolates, luxury treats and unique gifts. Many of the products are made locally in Llandudno at their own chocolate factory, bringing fresh Welsh made chocolate directly from our kitchen to the shop shelves. https://llandudnochocolateexperience.co.uk

The Celtic Cup arrives in Llandudno on Sunday 28th June 2026, bringing together athletes from Wales, Scotland and Ireland in a unique nation versus nation triathlon competition. Hosted in one of the UK’s most iconic coastal locations, the event will see age group athletes representing their country across a Standard Distance Triathlon featuring a sea swim, bike course and run route around the beautiful North Wales coastline. Spectators can expect an exciting atmosphere as Team Cymru takes on Scotland and Ireland in a true international sporting occasion. More than just a race, the Celtic Cup is designed to celebrate community, culture and participation. Alongside the competition itself, Triathlon Cymru is working with schools, clubs, leisure centres and community groups across Conwy to encourage more people to get active and be part of the event build up through creative projects, participation challenges and volunteer opportunities. The Celtic Cup is free to watch and promises to be a fantastic day for families, sports fans and the local community as Llandudno welcomes an international celebration of triathlon and Team Cymru. https://welshtriathlon.org/events/celtic-cup

Visit a gallery

Mostyn is a public art gallery in the heart of Llandudno, witwh a programme of contemporary art exhibitions on a par with those in major global art centres. This summer sees the Ffocws exhibition, a dynamic series of changing showcases that shine a spotlight on artists living and working in the region. Each curated display presents an exciting opportunity to discover and purchase artworks from the gifted artists of North Wales. Buying art is easy and affordable with Own Art. Spread the cost of your purchase over ten months, completely interest free, no deposit necessary. Own Art is a Creative United initiative supported by Arts Council of Wales. Credit is subject to status and affordability. Terms and Conditions apply.

www.ownart.org.uk/gallery/mostyn-gallery

Renowned artist captures Welsh icon

A world-renowned artist has taken inspiration for her latest work from one of North Wales’ most famous and most-photographed natural landmarks.

Known simply as The Lonely Tree, the solitary figure standing beside Llyn Padarn, with Snowdonia (Eryri) rising behind it, has become a global visual icon, drawing photographers, social-media influencers and visitors from around the world to capture its striking silhouette in a constantly shifting landscape.

The landmark has now been immortalised in paint by Lucy Pittaway, whose new artwork The Lonely Tree forms part of her latest collection, The Great Outdoors. Lucy’s painting depicts the tree glowing with warmth and colour against dramatic skies, rooted quietly at the water’s edge as the mountains sit softly in the distance.

The piece captures both the calm beauty of the setting and the quiet strength for which the tree has become known, echoing the stillness and escapism found in the Welsh outdoors.

The Lonely Tree’s popularity comes with an underlying fragility. It is widely understood that the tree’s roots are regularly submerged, prompting concern that it may have a reduced lifespan and may not survive beyond the next decade.

Lucy Pittaway became nationally and internationally renowned following the success of her painting of Sycamore

Gap, released after that iconic tree’s cruel and criminal felling in 2023. That artwork struck a powerful emotional chord with the public, transforming a symbol of loss into one of remembrance and renewal. In creating the painting, Lucy pledged to plant a tree for every print of Sycamore Gap sold –a commitment she has since expanded to planting a tree for every print of every one of her artworks sold.

Speaking about The Lonely Tree and its significance, Lucy said: “There’s something incredibly moving about this tree. It stands so quietly in a landscape that so many people feel deeply connected to, and yet it may not be there forever.

“I wanted to capture not just how it looks, but how it feels – that sense of calm, resilience and reflection. Painting it felt like a way of preserving something special, while also reminding us why protecting these places matters so much.”

The Lonely Tree is one of six new works in The Great Outdoors, a collection celebrating Britain’s wild spaces, coastlines and moments of peaceful escape. Other paintings in the series feature Lucy’s signature use of colour and warmth, with subjects ranging from coastal landmarks to countryside scenes, some welcoming the return of her much-loved sheep characters. n

Lucy Pittaway is based in Yorkshire, where her work is displayed and available for sale in her galleries across the North of England, including York, Richmond, Keswick and Yarm. The Great Outdoors collection, including The Lonely Tree, is available as original paintings, open edition prints and canvases, and can be viewed online at www.lucypittaway.co.uk.

From Eryri to the Sea

High in the lonely uplands of Dduallt in Eryri, the River Dee is born. This is an untamed landscape of crags and scree slopes, peat-dark pools, and rugged moorland, where buzzards soar above the mountain ridges and the raven’s cronking call haunts the rocky outcrops. In this elemental land of hidden springs and trickling streams, the infant river picks its tentative way through moss, moor, and stone.

Known in Welsh as Afon Dyfrdwy, a name linked to sacred or divine water, the river runs for around 70 miles (110 km) from its mountain cradle to the Dee Estuary and the Irish Sea beyond, passing through some of the most varied landscapes in Britain on its way.

Towards Llyn Tegid

From its rising in the slopes above Llanuwchllyn, the river gathers strength before flowing into Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake), the largest natural lake in Wales. These deep, still waters are home to the gwyniad, a rare whitefish found nowhere else on earth. A living relic of the Ice Age, it has survived here since the glaciers retreated around ten thousand years ago. Acting as a natural reservoir, Llyn Tegid absorbs rainfall from the surrounding hills and moderates the river’s flow, before the Dee emerges at its northern end to continue its onward journey.

Into the Valley

From here, the river flows through Corwen into the heart of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley National Landscape, where the brooding ruins of Castell Dinas Brân have gazed down from their hilltop vantage since the 13th Century. Upstream of Llangollen, the river spills over the Horseshoe Falls (Rheadr y Bedol), a crescent-shaped weir completed in 1808 to feed the Llangollen Canal, before gathering pace on its descent towards the town. Around Llangollen, the Dee becomes one of the great whitewater rivers of Wales, drawing watersports enthusiasts from across Britain, particularly during the higher waters of winter and spring. The river here

is muscular and unpredictable, running fast over exposed bedrock and dropping through a series of natural rapids that demand both skill and respect to navigate. Beneath the old stone bridge, the water rushes and boils ingreat, churning eddies, green and white and fierce, drawing onlookers to watch open-mouthed as kayakers spin and brace in the spray and chaos below.

Beyond Borders

Leaving Llangollen, the Dee enters the fringes of the northeast Wales coalfield and the wider landscape around Wrexham, once one of the most intensively industrial corners of North Wales. Through this stretch, the river forms part of the border between Wales and England, threading between the two countries as it has for centuries. Though the river does not pass through the city of Wrexham itself, the Dee catchment was the lifeblood of the region's industries, driving watermills, supplying collieries, and sustaining the dense network of workshops and foundries that once made this corner of Wales hum with productivity. Today that industrial world is largely gone, and the Dee moves through a quieter countryside of broad floodplain and wooded river bends, gathering the waters of tributaries like the Clywedog before its onward journey towards Chester.

Chester: A City Built on the Dee

The Romans chose this site precisely because of the river, navigable, defensible, and strategically placed. They established Deva Victrix here in the 70s AD, one of three great legionary fortresses of Roman Britain, built to house up to five thousand soldiers and equipped with bathhouses and the largest known Roman amphitheatre in Britain. Deva is believed to derive from the same root as the Latin dea or diva, meaning ‘goddess’. The second element, Victrix, most likely honours the Legio XX Valeria Victrix, the legion later garrisoned here. Chester's city walls, the most complete in Britain, trace the outline of that Roman fortress in a two-mile circuit of warm red sandstone. The Dee still flows beneath those walls. Now tidal and unhurried, its character is transformed, no longer the tumbling upland river of Llangollen but something altogether wider and more deliberate, feeling the first pull of the sea.

Salmon and Sail Making

Leaving Chester, the Dee eventually flows past the town of Connah’s Quay, a once thriving maritime port whose identity was shaped by the Dee’s tidal rhythms. Here, the river was not only a living ecosystem, but a working waterway. Shipbuilding yards and associated trades lined the docks, all dependent on the river’s steady flow, the air carrying the smell of fresh-cut timber and hot tar. Vessels were built, repaired, and launched into the water, carrying various cargoes including timber, slate, and coal, either upriver to Chester on the turning tide, or seaward through the widening estuary. The Dee here was also renowned for its salmon fishing, and for generations many fishermen made a living from its waters. The fish became both livelihood and symbol, so deeply woven into local identity that the town's coat of arms bears its image, a steadfast emblem of the community's bond with its river.

The Dee Estuary and the Irish Sea

Approaching the final stage of its journey, the Dee broadens and slows, opening into the wide, shallow bowl of the estuary. It is a landscape wholly different in character from the mountains and valleys upstream, a vast space of open skies, mudflats and saltmarsh. The light here is remarkable, shifting constantly with the tide and the season, turning the exposed flats to silver at low water and flooding the marshes with soft gold in the evenings of late summer. The Dee Estuary

is one of the most environmentally important in Britain and Europe. The intertidal mudflats, exposed twice daily as the tide retreats, are extraordinarily rich in lugworms, ragworms, cockles and tiny crustaceans, the invertebrate abundance that underpins the entire food web. In winter, birds gather here in numbers that can be breathtaking, arriving from their Arctic breeding grounds and wheeling over the mudflats in huge flocks. Grey and Common seals haul out on remote sandbanks or surface quietly in the tidal channels, regarding the world with their characteristic curiosity, while harbour porpoises may sometimes be seen at high tide as they move between their feeding grounds.

Myth and Memory

One of the great rivers of Wales, the River Dee flows not only through the physical land, but through the country's mythological landscape, too. In Welsh tradition, the river takes the form of Aerfen, a shadowy Celtic goddess of fate and warfare. She is the personification of the river itself, so entwined with the Dee that in early Welsh poetry, the river bore her name. In the fifteenth century, Llyn Tegid was recorded as Llyn Aerfen, suggesting a presence that permeated the whole of the waterway, from source to sea. A shrine or sacred grove to Aerfen is said to have stood on the banks of the Dee at Glyndyfrdwy, the same ground where in 1400, Owain Glyndŵr would declare himself Prince of Wales. Aerfen may be forgotten by most today, but the river she embodies runs on regardless.

From its rising in the hidden uplands of Dduallt to its meeting with the restless tides of the Irish Sea, the River Dee carries continuity and connection, its course linking people and place, past and present, in water always moving, always returning, a river and a story without end. n

Sonia Goulding is a freelance writer and content creator who lives and works in North East Wales. She is constantly inspired by the countryside, and the people, of this beautiful area.

Hidden

Treasures

Have you ever wanted to know what that unworn gold and silver jewellery was worth? Well now is your chance to find out…

If you have a little bit of jewellery lying about that you don’t wear anymore it’s worth taking it along to your local Gold & Silver Roadshow to get a free valuation.

Attending events throughout the UK, the Gold & Silver Roadshow provides valuations, and cash, for jewellery and other unwanted items. Accepting items in all conditions, their jewellery buyers will honestly appraise whatever you send their way.

As industry experts with more than 40 years’ experience, they have a vast knowledge of all kinds of products, enabling them to provide no-obligation instant cash quotes. Coins and old currency, medals, watches, writing implements and silver tableware and photo frames will all be considered – making this a fabulous opportunity for you to turn items that you no longer use into cash.

With Gold & Silver Roadshow you’re always guaranteed a fair price, with experienced jewellery buyers on hand to provide

AS INDUSTRY EXPERTS WITH MORE THAN 40 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE, THEY HAVE A VAST KNOWLEDGE OF ALL KINDS OF PRODUCTS, ENABLING THEM TO PROVIDE NO-OBLIGATION INSTANT CASH QUOTES

a trustworthy one-on-one appraisal. If you like the valuation, their expert will make you the same offer in cash which you can accept or decline at no cost to yourself.

Make sure that you visit the next Gold & Silver Roadshow when it next comes to town and unlock your hidden treasures! n

Telephone 07378 965411 www.goldandsilverroadshow.co.uk

GOLD & SILVER ROADSHOW

FRIDAY 12th JUNE & TUESDAY 23rd JUNE from 10.30 to 16.00

Llandudno. The Promenade. Vaughan St. Llandudno, LL30 1AP.

Jewellery and Coin Roadshow

A very lucky couple called at one of our recent roadshow events with a couple of old gold chains and a silver charm bracelet and a bag of old silver sh coins. We paid them over £1600.00 just for the coins alone . They turned out to be pre 1947 silver coins that were normal currency a few years ago and are now highly collected.

Like most people, who can only dream of winning the a hidden treasure of old gold jewellery, silver jewellery, teapots, trophies, trays and old objets d’art.

roadshow. There is no queing and our expert will give you a one-on-one appraisal of the value of your treasured possessions in a private area, where there are no prying eyes, watching the process evolve.

same offer in cash which you can accept or decline at no cost to yourself

THURSDAY 4th JUNE & SATURDAY 13th JUNE

Royal Oak Pub & Premier Inn High Street, Bromborough, Wirral, CH62 7EZ

watches or pocket watches. All chains, bracelets, rings and bangles broken or not and in any conditon. If you think it is a diamond ring, bring it along and we will confirm it to be genuine. If you have an old trophy or tankard or any silver coloured items, let us value them for you.

Coins & Medals Urgently Wanted

Old war medals and old Masonic medals can be very valuable. You will be surprised to hear that we have paid THOUSANDS of pounds for certain war medals and even the General Service Medal group is worth bringing especially if you have the original box and le ers to accompany them. Also of great interest are old military uniforms, tunics, hats and any army, navy or RAF field gear

There are rarely any queues at our events and we can normally end to every caller within a few minutes.

with a cash offer, there and then.

You can accept or decline our offer, so come along and see what we can offer for your old gold or silver jewellery, coins and collectables.

FRIDAY

Discovered

Get looking NOW in your old drawers, cupboards, and jewellery boxes. Look in the c and the cellar, even old broken or squashed item of jewellery and silver are valuable and worth having appraised at these free roadshows.

Will make you an instant CASH offer to buy your old jewellery, gold and silver or any old silver or coins that you may

OF PARTICULAR INTEREST

cases, Vesta Cases, thimbles, things silver are needed. Pocket watches in gold and silver and all wristwatches by: Rolex, er, Omega, Longine, IWC are cularly collected

Static Caravan Holidays in

Aberystwyth

All static caravans are meticulously maintained

We welcome dogs in most caravans

Excellent on-site facilities to suit the entire family !

We have a wide range of static caravan holiday homes in the picturesque Mid Wales area

Summer Breaks

Just because you’re lucky enough to live in North Wales doesn’t mean that you can’t holiday here too! Here are some of our favourite local mini breaks to enjoy this summer…

Jones Holidays

Gaerhyfryd

Gaerhyfryd is a small family run caravan and motorhome site in North Wales that also has a range of self-catering holiday-let properties, sleeping from two to 22 guests. Situated on the outskirts of Corwen, Denbighshire, just off the A5, Gaerhyfryd is a Caravan and Motorhome Club affiliated site that offers 37 fully-serviced hardstanding pitches. It welcomes non-members, and both caravans and motorhomes up to eight metres. Meanwhile, all of the holiday-let properties have been recently renovated, and boast hot tubs with stunning views... www.gaerhyfryd.com

Jones Holidays believe that life is made for exploring, and they are thrilled to invite you to discover their exciting range of holidays. Packed with unforgettable adventures, their collection of holidays is your gateway to stunning destinations across the UK, Ireland and Europe – from the rugged beauty of the Welsh countryside to the picturesque villages and timeless landscapes of East Anglia, and the vibrant charm of European cities. Once on board, sit back and relax in comfort as they take care of every detail, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re dreaming of cruising through the serene Lake District, soaking up the history and culture of Ireland, or sharing the joy of a special event with loved ones, there’s a Jones Holiday that’s perfect for you. www.jonesholidays.co.uk

Mid Wales Caravan Holidays

If you are looking to travel a bit further afield for your autumn break, Mid Wales Caravan Holidays, located in Aberystwyth, offers a wide selection of static caravan holiday homes in the picturesque Mid Wales area. Discover a wealth of activities and attractions in Mid Wales, from scenic coastal walks to thrilling surfing and jet skiing adventures. Immerse yourself in local culture at museums, tee off at picturesque golf courses, or unwind by fishing in tranquil rivers. Keep an eye out for enchanting dolphin sightings, adding a touch of magic to your Mid Wales experience. www.aberystwyth-caravan-holidays.co.uk

The Rocks at Plas Curig

For family friendly, affordable escapes in the heart of Eryri…

As more families choose to holiday closer to home this year, North Wales continues to shine as one of the UK’s most exciting destinations for adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable family memories.

Set in the heart of Eryri (Snowdonia), The Rocks at Plas Curig offers something increasingly important to today’s travellers: a comfortable, welcoming base that makes exploring North Wales easy, accessible, and enjoyable for the whole family.

Perfectly positioned between Betws-y-Coed, Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), Zip World, Adventure Parc, beautiful beaches, castles, lakes, and endless walking routes, The Rocks has become a favourite for families looking to pack plenty into a UK break without the stress and expense of overseas travel.

“We’re seeing more families wanting quality time together, outdoor adventures, and experiences that don’t involve airports, queues, or huge travel costs,” says the team at The Rocks. “North Wales gives people all of that — and we’re right in the heart of it.”

The Rocks combines the character and charm of a historic property with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Spacious accommodation, family rooms, well-equipped self-catering facilities, and easy access to local attractions make it an ideal base for both short breaks and longer stays.

For parents, convenience matters and staying centrally means less time travelling and more time enjoying the area.

Families can spend the morning exploring waterfalls or mountain trails, the afternoon at an adventure attraction, and still be back in time to relax together in comfort or toasting marshmallows around the outdoor fire-pit.

The growing popularity of “staycations” has also encouraged visitors to rediscover just how much North Wales has to offer. From adrenaline activities and scenic railways to castles, lakeside picnics, and coastal days out, the region caters to every age and interest. Importantly, many families are becoming more mindful about how they spend on holidays. Rather than compromising on experiences, they are looking for destinations that offer genuine value, places where they can enjoy quality accommodation, incredible scenery, and memorable activities all within easy reach.

That is exactly where The Rocks at Plas Curig stands out. Its location allows guests to experience multiple attractions without spending hours driving across the region, helping families make the most of both their time and travel spend. Combined with warm Welsh hospitality and a focus on relaxed, practical stays, it’s easy to see why more visitors are choosing North Wales over hopping on a plane this summer.

Whether it’s climbing mountains, exploring forests, visiting historic sites, or simply slowing down and reconnecting, The Rocks at Plas Curig offers families a gateway to everything that makes North Wales special. And for many this year, the perfect holiday may be much closer to home than they think. n

July 4th & 5th 2026

The indoor market is open every Wednesday, Friday & Saturday & the outdoor market every Wednesday & Saturday

We also hold the Artisan Market on the last Friday of every month.

CHARITY MARKET - JUNE 5TH COMMUNITY GAMES - JUNE 7TH NMTF YOUNG TRADERS MARKET - JUNE 10TH

OSWESTRY GREEN DAY - JUNE 13TH

BULGARIAN COMMUNITY EVENT - JUNE 14TH

BANDS IN THE

- JUNE 21ST

OSWESTRY PRIDE PARADE - JUNE 27TH

YOUNG TRADERS REGIONAL FINAL - JUNE 27TH BANDS IN THE PARK - JUNE 28TH BALLOON CARNIVAL - AUGUST 22ND & 23RD

Looking for a birthday party with a twist?

Choose from a range of unique themed birthday parties for all ages!

Enjoy access to 85+ interactive exhibits, fun hands-on activities, and a dedicated party host

Summer days out

North Wales is full of exciting destinations that are ideal for the whole family. Here are six of our favourites…

Xplore!’s brand new planetarium is now open

Whether fascinated by the night sky or simply eager to explore something new, the Planetarium shows bring the wonders of space to life for visitors of all ages. The first show, From Earth to the Universe, explores how the night sky has inspired awe, myths, and curiosity for thousands of years. Humanity has long sought to understand the Universe, and only recently has it begun to grasp its place within it. The show follows this journey from ancient Greek astronomers to today’s powerful telescopes. This experience is suitable for ages 7+, with additional Planetarium shows for a wider audience coming soon. The Planetarium can be booked as an add-on to a General Admission visit, or as a standalone experience for those wishing to visit just for a show. www.xplorescience.co.uk

Have an educational day out at Greenfield Valley

Love Your Local Markets

Markets have been in the heart of Oswestry town centre for generations, and we love them. If you’re looking for fresh produce, unique finds, crafts, local producers and everyday essentials, you’ll find it all at Oswestry Markets:

Indoor Market – Wednesday, Friday & Saturday

Outdoor Market – Wednesday & Saturday

Artisan and Late-Night Indoor Market – Last Friday of the month

Follow Oswestry Town Market on Facebook or to find out what’s happening and meet your friendly market traders.

Nestled in the heart of North Wales, Greenfield Valley Heritage Park offers a rich blend of natural beauty, history, and family-friendly experiences. For first-time visitors, it’s an inviting destination where scenic landscapes meet centuries of industrial heritage. The valley stretches through woodlands, flowing streams, and open green spaces, making it ideal for peaceful walks, picnics, or simply unwinding in nature. What makes Greenfield Valley particularly special is its living history. The park is home to restored mills, workshops, and traditional buildings that bring the area’s industrial past to life. Visitors can visit the Museum to see buildings, exhibits, and hands-on activities that appeal to both adults and children. It’s not just educational – it’s engaging and interactive. Families will find plenty to enjoy, from playgrounds and open spaces to seasonal events and craft activities. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts will appreciate the stories of the valley’s role in Britain’s industrial development. With its mix of relaxation, discovery, and accessibility, Greenfield Valley is a rewarding day out for anyone looking to experience a lesser-known but deeply charming corner of Wales. Open daily from April till early November, 10am – 4.30pm www.greenfieldvalley.com

Journey to Wales’ Highest Peak

Take a one-of-a-kind journey to the summit of Yr Wyddfa aboard the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Britain’s only public rack-and-pinion railway, it is not only one of the UK’s most distinctive attractions but also widely celebrated as one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world. This year marks 130 years since the railway first carried passengers to the highest peak in Wales, a tradition that continues to captivate visitors today. Departing from the picturesque village of Llanberis, the line winds through the rugged heart of Eryri, with breathtaking scenery unfolding across mountains, lakes and valleys. Passengers can choose the Heritage Steam Service for the romance of a Victorian locomotive or opt for the Traditional Diesel Service, each providing a unique way to experience this iconic journey.

At the top, climb the steps to the summit cairn and soak in the panoramic views, then fuel up at the UK’s highest visitor centre, Hafod Eryri, before descending back to Llanberis. Commemorating this milestone anniversary, visitors are invited to rediscover the railway’s rich legacy and experience a journey like no other. Advance booking is highly recommended to secure your seat on this landmark year. snowdonrailway.co.uk

Unleash your curiosity at Jodrell Bank

Situated on the doorstep of North Wales in the heart of the Cheshire countryside, Jodrell Bank – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the UK’s largest radio telescope – promises an unforgettable day out for the whole family. As part of Jodrell’s Curious Universe series, this June there are two new immersive Space Dome Shows to enjoy. Join Niyah on an adventure across alternate worlds (with her future self!) in Niyah and the Multiverse or uncover the enigmatic mysteries at the heart of black holes in Supermassive Black Holes: Uncovering the Invisible! Round off your quantum journey with Cosmic Titans, an awe-inspiring exhibition where art and science collide. The displayed pieces include spectacular sculptures and photography, created in collaboration between artists and leading scientists from the University of Nottingham. Each artwork explores the extreme corners of our reality, from gravitational waves and black holes to dark matter and the early universe.

Looking for some green space amidst all the outer space? Stroll through the scenic arboretum, run wild on the new Constellation Playground, or bring you dog along and enjoy our exclusive ‘Tails and Telescopes’ (28th June) and fill your space passport with the popular stamp-collector trail. www.jodrellbank.net

Discover a piece of history at Great Orme Mines

This June, step into the world of prehistoric mining at Great Orme Mines and discover how Welsh copper helped shape Bronze Age Europe. Among the artefacts on display in the visitor centre is a Group II mid-ribbed palstave axe dating from around 3,600–3,400 years ago. Found in Caernarfon, the axe is on loan to Great Orme Mines from Kevin Williams and Ifan Jones. Produced during the Middle Bronze Age this distinctive style of axe has become closely linked with Great Orme copper. Scientific analysis has shown that 96% of Group II mid-ribbed palstaves examined from Britain are consistent with copper mined at Great Orme. Even more remarkably, Bronze Age copper from the mine has been traced over 1,200 miles to Hönö in Sweden, revealing the extraordinary reach of prehistoric trade networks! These discoveries confirm Great Orme’s place as one of the most significant prehistoric copper mining sites in Europe. www.greatormemines.info

Greenfield Valley Heritage Park

Open: April - OCTOBER Time: 10am - 4 30pm

Admission: Adult £9 00 / Child £5 75 / Family £24 50

Explore an exciting 70 acres of woodland and 2000 years of history with lakes, streams, ancient monuments and historic mills around every corner. Visit the Museum and Visitor Centre to read more of our amazing story and heritage. Find out about agriculture, social and industrial history.

Phone: 01352 714172 Email: info@greenfieldvalley.com www.greenfieldvalley.com

Culture lives here

Lucy Devereux attended a photo shoot in Felinheli and uncovered a close Sudanese community that stretches across North Wales…

On a grey February afternoon in Felinheli, I arrived at Iman and Tarig Abdalla’s home with my camera. I had come to photograph a fashion shoot. What unfolded felt closer to testimony – as silk lifted and settled, culture and craftsmanship met quietly in a room...

Designer Hiba Rahma began making toubs in Sudan in 2010, building a celebrated fashion business in collaboration with Italian textile houses and honouring the elegance and resilience of Sudanese women. In April 2023, war destroyed her Khartoum showroom and more than a decade of work. She relocated to Scotland with her husband and young daughter and began again.

That act of beginning again ran quietly through the day. It shimmered in the jewellery layered over the silk – striking pieces by Sudanese designer Nisreen Kuku, now rebuilding in France, each one shaped by displacement yet rooted in tradition, a testament to resilience, continuity and the persistence of craft across borders.

Hiba’s reputation travelled ahead of her; she is widely known within the diaspora, with Michaela Coel having worn her designs to the 2025 International Film Festival, paired with gold jewellery by Kuku, a tribute to Sudanese woman.

There was anticipation as each woman arrived. Iman, who offered her home, was not simply hosting – she was holding space. Iman came to North Wales in 1996, pregnant with her eldest daughter, Allaa, joining her husband while he completed attachment training at Ysbysty Gwynedd. Before it ended, he was offered a permanent role. What was meant to be temporary became a life, strengthened by a close Sudanese community stretching across North Wales.

A second daughter, Noone, followed. Both girls grew up speaking Welsh not as achievement but as inheritance, their voices moving easily between Welsh, Arabic and English. I hadn’t realised it at first, but that day I learned I had photographed Allaa more than a decade ago for her school prom. When she greeted me by name, it was a small

exchange that echoed through the room, a lovely reminder of continuity.

Allaa and Noone had travelled from Manchester and London to model, joined by Aya Hashim, raised in Holyhead before moving south, and Siham from Colwyn Bay and Noore who studies design engineering at Bangor University, following in the footsteps of her cousin, wildlife cameraman and broadcaster Hamza Yassin, a Bangor graduate who won the twentieth series of the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing!

It was quite something to watch this network take shape in real time – a web of women connected by fabric, language and shared ground. Among them stood my own daughter, Rosie –so warmly welcomed, wrapped in silk, another quiet thread stitching together family and home…

Photographing it felt like a gift. As I stepped back from the lens, what I saw was not contrast, but cohesion. The Welsh weather offered its usual drama – brooding skies, softened light shifting across the Menai Straits and the silk seemed to breathe in it.

These were pieces from Hiba’s latest haute collection: structured and luminous, works of art. The models were extraordinary – generous with their time, their trust, their presence and working with them felt effortless. Watching Rosie among them, six foot tall, blonde and welcomed without hesitation. When I later shared the photographs, their response was immediate and warm. They saw themselves in them. And I felt it too.

I reflected again that this was more than a shoot; it was community in motion. It unfolded in a family home alive with colour and conversation. Arabic, Welsh and English overlapping.

Outside that living room, public conversation too easily slips into division, circling endlessly around belonging as though it were fragile, conditional.

Inside, it was something stronger, weaving its own story… One of integration and collaboration.

Of daughters raised.

Of sisterhood.

Of craft and creativity.

Of survival.

Of loss.

Of love.

This is not an exception in Britain. It is Britain – culture lived in our homes, carried in the fabrics we wear, the languages we speak, and the pride in our heritage that travels with us. Culture lives here, in North Wales. nw

Lucy Devereux is a North Wales based portrait photographer, creating work that explores people, place, and lived connection.

North Wales The historical lumps and bumps of

North Wales is full of lumps and bumps, and most are just that, hills created millions of years ago, but there are some created by men to help them conquer a country – giving them a foothold on the land they claimed to be theirs.

The phrase “motte and bailey” refers to a type of medieval castle design that became especially common following the 1066 Norman Conquest as Norman lords pushed into the Welsh borders. The reason behind this type of building was simple: they were quick to erect, being of only timber and earth and with angry Welshman nearby, it was essential that they had somewhere ‘safe’ to hide behind while they took control of the lands. They were never meant to be permanent, basically, a roof over their heads while they began to organise the construction of stone castles.

Because they were made of timber, there is nothing left to look at except the earthworks and the ditches – and some of those are historically interesting and impressive to find, even after hundreds of years, as you can see the process of medieval fortification.

Twthill in Rhuddlan is considered the clearest classic motte and because of its closeness to Rhuddlan castle, you can see the ‘before and after’ comparison. It is still an impressive

motte, accessible to the public and is a perfect representation of a Norman fortification built in the late 11th Century.

Erected by Robert of Rhuddlan, a kinsman of Hugh d’Avranches, the Earl of Chester, for its strategic location near the River Clwyd, it allowed the Normans to control key trade routes in and out of North Wales. The stone castle was built around a century later, so Twthill motte and bailey must have been fairly comfortable and easy to protect to remain this long.

One of the best-preserved earthworks is Tomen y Rhodwydd, near Llanarmon yn Ial, Denbighshire, and is considered the finest surviving motte in North Wales, having a deep ditch, and a strong outline shape that is still visible. It was built during the 12th Century by Owain Gwynedd, Prince of Gwynedd and the site occupies a commanding position overlooking the Dee valley. He built it to assert control over the north east of Wales as from this position he could monitor the comings and goings between Powys and Gwynedd. Sadly,

the Normans captured it, refortified it and archaeologists have discovered how the Normans designed and built while adapting to the Welsh terrain.

The site illustrates perfectly the shifting control between Welsh princes and Norman forces in the 12th Century. Its association with Owain Gwynedd, one of medieval Wales’s most prominent rulers, adds to its historical importance. Tomen y Rhodwydd motte is approximately six meters high and is surrounded by a broad ditch and an adjoining bailey enclosure to the south. Little masonry remains but the earthworks are considered well preserved and it is impressive and can be seen from the A525 between Ruthin and Wrexham Road; it is on private land. A smaller motte and bailey a mile from Llanarmon yn Lal, Tomon y Faedre is next to a bridle path and accessible to the public.

One of the best-preserved motte-and-bailey castles in North Wales that was later strengthened using stone is Aberlleiniog Castle at Llanddona, Anglesey. It was built in the late 11th Century and is believed to have been built by Hugh d’Avranches, Earl of Chester.

Overlooking the Menai Straits, and easily accessible to the public via a footpath, this is one of the oldest surviving Norman strongholds on the island and is an early medieval earthwork and timber fortification. Around a century later, the Normans changed the timber to stone fortifications and timber defences were replaced with stone curtain walls, and a stone tower was also added within the bailey, before Llewellyn the

Great reasserted dominance over Anglesey in the early 13th Century. With its close proximity to Beaumaris castle, again, we see a motte-and-bailey being used, before Edward I built his massive castles to establish complete domination over the Welsh people.

And last but not least, I must mention, Bailey Hill in Mold, my hometown. The motte-and-bailey castle, known as ‘Bailey Hill’ or ‘Bryn y Beili’ can be found easily at the top of town and is a medieval motte-and-bailey earthwork. The impressive mound is surrounded by woodland and parts of this 11th Century Norman site have been turned into a bowling green and park. This fortress once controlled the Alyn Valley.

The motte-and-bailey is believed to have been founded by a Norman lord called, Robert de Montalt to secure this area. It comprised of a high motte topped by timber, with some stone structures added later, with baileys and defensive ditches below. The site changed hands repeatedly between Norman and Welsh rulers and remained strategically important into the late Middle Ages.

There is little evidence of the stone above ground; the key visible features are the steep motte, surrounding ditches, and level bailey areas. Bodies were discovered during early excavations in the 19th Century, but all trace of them seems to have vanished, like their bones. Supernatural goings on have often been reported by those who live near the site and along with the Gorsedd stone circle, Bailey Hill is certainly an interesting historical visit.n

Paula Roscoe is the best-selling author of ‘Survive Grief & Come Back to Life: Memoir of a survivor’ and the multi award-winning historical thrillers writing under P.J. Roscoe. She is also the Editor & Founder of Everyday Woman, an online women’s magazine that supports, heals, educates and celebrates all that woman is; written by women –for women. www.pjroscoe.co.uk

Cordelia Weedon

‘Hidden Ruthin’

Selected photographs at The Old Courthouse, Ruthin 9 – 20 June 2026

Check our website for opening times Part of the Ruthin Festival 2026 (Gŵyl Rhuthun)

Why not make a day of it!

Ruthin Festival’s Top of the Town event on Saturday 4 July is also RCC’s new exhibitions preview day between 2pm – 4pm.

Ruthin Craft Centre, The Centre for the Applied Arts Park Road, Ruthin, Denbighshire, Wales UK, LL15 1BB. Tel: +44 (0)1824 774801 FREE admission. FREE on-site parking. Open Tuesday – Sunday, 10am – 5.30pm www.ruthincraftcentre.org.uk Instagram @ruthincrafts

The legacies of

William Madocks

Dene Bebbington discovers the impact that one man made in Porthmadog…

Have you ever driven, walked or rode a train over the Cob embankment at Porthmadog and wondered how long it's been there? A little over two centuries ago it didn't exist. This manmade narrow stretch of land on Traeth Mawr, meaning large beach, was built to make crossing the estuary safer and more convenient. For this engineering marvel we can thank a man with Welsh roots who was born in London in June 1773.

Scion of a well-to-do family, William Madocks' bloodline traced Welsh roots in the Vale of Clywd several hundred years back and the family owned a property in Llangwyfan, a few miles east of Denbigh. The surname Madoc which derives from the Old Welsh word “Matauc” meaning “good, fortunate” occurs in his family tree.

Though a sociable young man who studied at Oxford University, North Wales constantly drew him back to where he enjoyed exploring remote areas of Denbighshire. Thanks to money inherited after his father's death, in 1796 he bought the Dolmelynllyn Estate near Ganllwyd, now owned by the National Trust, where he built a cottage. He prettified the landscape with things like an ornamental farm and entertained friends in his new rural getaway.

Splendid scenery and farming possibilities around the Traeth Mawr estuary, on which some land had already been reclaimed from the sea, worked on Madocks' imagination. A couple of years later he bought the Tan-yr-Allt farms on the western side near Penmorfa and then built a two-mile semicircular embankment. Fashioned from sand and turf across an inlet it inspired him to think bigger and invest accordingly. That breakwater turned out to be a forerunner of a much more difficult and expensive project that he'd eventually be most remembered for.

A treacherous gap between land on either side of the Mawr occasionally sucked the unwary into quicksands never to be seen again, but at times the sand could be walked on at low tide with a guide or sailed across in a small boat when the tide came in. Madocks had the vision of an embankment to provide a better crossing which would be a costly project needing robust material capable of holding back daily tides and irregular storms.

Unlike previous localised banks, an act of Parliament was needed to build one bisecting the Traeth. After the first failed vote in 1806, another one passed the following year. Parliament was only one of several hurdles though. His engineer had died, as had his older brother John who'd have helped finance the work estimated at £23,500 – equivalent to nearly £2m today.

Outflow from the River Glaslyn coupled with inflowing sea tides washed away stone that had been quarried nearby and laid down in the estuary. A solution from Lincolnshire lay in rush matting onto which the stone could be placed. Inevitably, with such a big project in a remote area various

setbacks like shortage of labour slowed down progress. Finally, in September 1811 the Cob completed at a cost of over two and a half times the original estimate! Then disaster struck less than a year later when a storm breached a section, and hundreds of men were needed to repair the rupture and prevent it from widening.

Creation of the Cob diverted the River Glaslyn which fortuitously scoured out a natural harbour suitable for smaller ships to dock and load slate for exporting. Named Portmadoc after Madocks, the port town grew with expansion boosted by the abolition of duty on coal and slate in 1831, plus the Ffestiniog Railway opening five years later which could bring slate down from quarries. The boom time saw Portmadoc's population rise by over 2,000 in a period of just 40 years. Life as a commercial port ended during the First World War and since then the town's transitioned into a tourist draw, and was renamed to Porthmadog in 1974.

Madocks also founded nearby Tremadog, previously Tremadoc. He envisaged it as a small coaching town built on reclaimed land, but some of his views on how it should be

laid out reflected the times – he wanted “a neat row of small thatched cottages” that would “look very well” out of sight of to those travelling along the turnpike. In other words, the modest buildings should be out of sight from travellers coming along the road, unlike those grander ones having slate roofs which were to be front row. Despite a vain concern for Tremadog's appearance from the road, Madocks gave to the local people a church and chapel for the different faiths, though he wasn't a moral reformer.

The wonderful thing about history is that one bygone person can leave a legacy still enjoyed today. If not for William Madocks then neither Porthmadog or Tremadog would have those place names, and the Cob wouldn't have been built until much later – if at all. n

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The love continuesstory at Caer Rhun Hall

Caer Rhun Hall has so many fascinating stories to tell. Situated on the banks of the River Conwy at the north-eastern edge of Eryri National Park, this impressive Grade II manor house dates from the late-nineteenth century, but its story is far older.

Built in 1895 on the site of Plas Caerhun, a seventeenthcentury manor house with medieval origins, and adjacent to Canovium, the first-century Roman fort, the history of this place spans two millennia. Yet Caer Rhun Hall is perhaps best remembered locally as a wedding venue from the more recent past. Barely a week goes by without a visitor to the hotel or its social media platforms fondly sharing anecdotes from their own wedding or those of friends and family from the past few decades. Now, following a period of closure and a major refurbishment project under its new ownership, Caer Rhun Hall once again promises to be one of the most desirable places in North Wales to say, ‘I do’.

As it turns out, rather fittingly, this manor house has a romantic wedding story of its own.

Although the construction of Caer Rhun Hall in 1895 is

usually attributed to Major General Hugh Sutlej Gough, strictly speaking, the estate came into his possession via his wife, the socialite Beatrice Sophia Hemming – a descendent of the Davies-Griffith family of Caerhun, and further back, so the story goes, of King Maelgwn of Gwynedd. As a débutante, Beatrice was presented to Queen Victoria in 1879, and later, Beatrice and Hugh enjoyed celebrity couple status.

Their wedding in London, at St Peter’s Church, Eaton Square on 29th January 1886, caused quite a stir in both the local and national press. Society gossip columnists reported a glittering guest list of British upper-class notables, including H.R.H. Albert Victor, Duke of Clarence, son of the future King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra. Readers were treated to detailed descriptions of Beatrice’s bridal ensemble; the height of Victorian wedding fashion with its ‘train of the richest white satin duchesse’, ‘trails of orange blossom and diamonds’ and a ‘tulle veil with diamond stars.’ That afternoon, Hugh and Beatrice departed by train for Chester, then onto Llandudno Junction en route to the first stop on their honeymoon; Beatrice dressed in her ‘travelling gown’ (a must-have for the newlywed Society bride) of cashmere tweed trimmed and embroidered with gold braid.

Arriving at Caer Rhun Hall, the pair were greeted as VIPs: national newspapers reported, ‘great public rejoicings in the village of Tynygroes, Conway.’ On hearing that ‘the happy couple had determined to spend their honeymoon at the ancient and picturesque family mansion’, local well-wishers decided to ‘give them a right royal welcome’: cannons were fired in celebration, flags were flown, houses were illuminated in their honour, and, for the rest of the evening, it was reported in the local press, ‘singing and dancing was indulged in, in front of the hall.’

Fast-forward to the mid-2020s, and Caer Rhun Hall is once again the scene of joyful wedding celebrations. It continues to grow in popularity with engaged couples looking for their perfect venue; hardly surprising since this manor house really does have it all: a wonderful combination of original historic charm and modern interior design, luxury guest accommodation, versatile spaces, 17-acre gardens, and breathtaking views of Eryri National Park. A collaboration with local multi-award-winning wedding and event caterers, Outside, means that the food offering is spot-on too. The venue is licensed to hold marriage ceremonies anywhere in the house or grounds, so couples can choose to exchange vows indoors, in the Great Hall with its historic oak panelling, or the more intimate Morning Room overlooking the gardens; or, when the weather allows, in any part of the grounds, including in the shade of a 230-year-old cedar tree. Grade I listed medieval church, St Mary’s, Caerhun, is also available for marriage services and is just a short stroll across the neighbouring field.

Following the reopening of Caer Rhun Hall in 2023, the first wedding took place in the summer of 2024, after which, a permanent marquee was added, with room for celebrations of up to 200 guests; a bright and airy space that can be opened up directly onto the gardens and which is tucked away in a wooded corner, allowing both the marquee and the house uninterrupted views over the expansive lawns, and across the surrounding countryside. As the sun sets, guests are treated to glorious golden hour views and wonderful photo opportunities, and there are so many other dreamy, Instagrammable corners of the house and gardens to enjoy, from the original sweeping staircase with double-height leaded windows, to the simple stone archway leading to the gardens.

Following their glamorous Society wedding 140 years ago, it was Caer Rhun Hall that Hugh and Beatrice chose as the first port of call on their honeymoon. Reports in the local press describe their arrival by carriage, ‘drawn by tenants and well-wishers, followed by hundreds of spectators.’ Addressing the crowds, Hugh remarked that ‘we shall ever remember with pride and happiness the manner in which we have been received at the home in which my wife’s ancestors have so long resided.’ He praised Beatrice for having ‘the rare and happy knack of bringing sunshine and happiness wherever

she goes’, describing his affection for the ‘beautiful country’ of Wales, and his ‘great and good fortune to marry one of the fairest and best of Welsh women’, who, he told well-wishers, was ‘deeply attached to this historical old estate.’

Within a few years, the couple would embark on their project to re-build Caer Rhun Hall and create their new family home. What would Hugh and Beatrice make of the house today? Caer Rhun Hall, it seems, was purpose-built for romance, so it’s tempting to think they would approve of its new lease of life as a magical place for wedding celebrations and honeymoon nights. n

Are you planning a wedding? To be part of Caer Rhun Hall’s continuing love story, email events@caerrhun.co.uk to request a wedding brochure, arrange a private viewing, or to book onto Caer Rhun Hall’s wedding open day on Sunday 14th June 2026. www.caerrhun.co.uk

AUCTIONEERS AND VALUERS

Maeth Naturiol / Nature’s Nurture

The Joshua Tree

In North Wales, support from The Joshua Tree continues to grow, ensuring families can access essential services closer to home.

Their support centre in Colwyn Bay offers a welcoming and safe space where children, young people, parents, grandparents and siblings can come together.

The Joshua Tree understands that cancer doesn’t just affect the individual diagnosed, it impacts the entire family, which is why their support is designed to be flexible, inclusive and tailored to each family’s needs.

Their services span three key areas: family support, wellness, and emotional wellbeing. Families can take part in group sessions such as Stay & Play and After School Clubs, helping to rebuild confidence, reduce isolation and create moments of normality during an incredibly challenging time.

Alongside this, they offer one-to-one support, including counselling, play therapy and complementary therapies, helping individuals process their experiences in a way that works for them. Their wellness support also places a strong focus on physical health, with access to gym-based sessions and personalised PT support. These sessions are designed to help manage fatigue, rebuild strength and confidence, and support overall wellbeing in a safe and supportive environment.

The Joshua Tree supports families affected by childhood cancer across the UK, with a focus on the emotional health and wellbeing of the whole family. From diagnosis, through treatment and beyond, they provide the right support, at the right time, in the right setting.

Who they support

• Children, teenagers and young adults on treatment

• Parents and carers

• Siblings and friends

• Grandparents and wider family

How they deliver support

• National support for families across the UK

• Two support centres

• An outreach vehicle

• A bank of remote counsellors

• A digital offering

We know that not every family can access a support centre easily, which is why we also provide outreach and digital support, ensuring families across North Wales and beyond can still benefit from our services. Our aim is simple, to make sure every family affected by childhood cancer has access to the support they need, wherever they are.

As The Joshua Tree continues to grow, they are reaching more families than ever before. This expansion is made possible by the incredible support of our community, partners and fundraisers, enabling them to provide their services free of charge to families. There are many ways to get involved, whether by taking part in one of their events, hosting your own fundraiser, or helping to spread awareness.

From community events like Walk Tall, to challenges such as overseas treks and fundraising campaigns like Tea for the Tree, there are opportunities for everyone to play a part. Every event helps The Joshua Tree expand their reach, develop their services and ensure more families can access the support they deserve. n

See how you can get involved at: https://thejoshuatree.org.uk/events/

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Best of our Beaches

Three North Wales beaches retain ranking among Wales’ best in prestigious Wales Coast Awards 2026.

Three North Wales beaches have once again been named among the best coastal locations in Wales in the prestigious Wales Coast Awards 2025.

Environmental charity Keep Wales Tidy today announced the recipients of the much-coveted annual awards, with Prestatyn Central and Rhyl East in Denbighshire each receiving the Seaside Award, and Silver Bay in Rhoscolyn on Ynys Môn (Anglesey) receiving a Green Coast Award.

A total of 48 beaches across Wales were recognised in the awards, which play a vital role in protecting our precious marine environment and are known around the world as a symbol of quality.

Prestatyn Central and Rhyl East were among 15 beaches across Wales to be awarded the Seaside Award. This is a UK-only beach award available in England, Northern Ireland and Wales, with its distinctive yellow and blue flag signifying a clean, attractive and well-managed coastal stretch, with a good standard of water quality, public facilities, safety provision and management.

Both beaches are much-loved tourist destinations, with Prestatyn Central popular for its wide, sandy beach and water sports including surfing, sailing and windsurfing; while Rhyl East is a long sandy stretch of coastline with a dedicated zone for beach sport activities including kite surfing, wind surfing and kayaking.

The Seaside Award signifies both Prestatyn Central and Rhyl East are clean, attractive and well-managed coastal stretches with good public facilities.

The North Wales sites join other Seaside Award-winning beaches across Wales including Aberystwyth South and North, Penarth and Barry Island’s Whitmore Bay in the Vale of Glamorgan, and Aberavon in Neath Port Talbot.

Silver Bay in Rhoscolyn on Anglesey is one of 13 locations in Wales to achieve a Green Coast Award, which celebrate the ‘hidden gems’ of the Welsh coastline. Silver Bay is a private beach located at Silver Bay Holiday Park and was the first private business in Wales to apply for this award on behalf of a beach.

The Green Coast Award marks Silver Bay as an exceptional place to enjoy stunning scenery, rich coastal heritage and diversity. It joins the likes of Mwnt and Penbryn in Ceredigion

and Freshwater East and Manobier in Pembrokeshire in being commended for unspoilt beauty, excellent water quality and a high standard of environmental education.

Elsewhere in Wales, 20 beaches achieved Blue Flag status, one of the world’s most recognised awards for beaches, marinas and boats, signalling high water quality, amenities, environmental education, safety and access, and site management. This includes Tenby South beaches, Poppit Sands and Broadhaven North in Pembrokeshire, and Caswell Bay, Langland Bay and Port Eynon in Swansea.

The Blue Flag Award is one of the world’s most recognised awards for beaches, marinas and tourism boats, recognising not only the highest standards of water quality, but also high-quality amenities, sustainable development of tourism, information provision, environmental education, safety and access, and site management. Awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), beaches must adhere to specific criteria ensuring the beach or marina is clean, safe, and wellmanaged, promoting sustainability and attracting visitors.

The Wales Coast Awards have been managed by Keep Wales Tidy for more than 20 years and signify that a beach or marina meets and maintains the highest environmental standards and achieves tough water quality targets, as well as ensuring high standards of information provision, environmental education, safety, and site management.

The Awards are voluntary and recognise the huge effort of staff and volunteers across Wales who are committed to protecting and preserving our natural landscape in the face of increasingly challenging circumstances.

Owen Derbyshire, Chief Executive of Keep Wales Tidy congratulated North Wales on its award-winning coastal locations.

“Once again, North Wales has shown us it is home to some of the most beautiful and well-kept beaches in Wales,” said Owen Derbyshire, Chief Executive of Keep Wales Tidy. “The Wales Coast Awards are a fantastic celebration of Wales’ beautiful and diverse coastline, recognising high and consistent standards and we would like to thank staff, volunteers and everyone else at sites across Wales who work so hard to protect and preserve our natural landscape in the face of increasingly challenging circumstances. All of these places are beautiful but seeing that flag flying means visitors can be assured that they are clean, safe and well-managed with excellent facilities too.” n

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Abbey eld Colwyn Bay

Meet The Business…

The Hand at Llanarmon

What is your name & the name of your business?

Jonathan Greatorex, Managing Director of The Hand at Llanarmon, a rural hotel, restaurant and wedding venue nestled in the beautiful Ceiriog Valley right here in North Wales.

What makes your business stand out from the crowd?

The Hand is intimate, personal and genuinely warm. As a wedding venue, it’s perfect for those small celebrations. I think it’s the feeling people get when they arrive. We’re not a “wedding factory” turning over huge numbers of events every weekend. Couples very quickly feel as though the place becomes theirs for the day. With roaring fires, stunning countryside, beautiful food and a team who genuinely care, we specialise in relaxed, elegant weddings where no request is too much trouble.

We’re also incredibly proud of the standards we offer. Our restaurant holds two AA Rosettes for culinary excellence and our accommodation has been awarded AA Four Star Gold status, which reflects the quality, comfort and attention to detail we strive for throughout the whole guest experience. We can host up to 45 guests for an exclusive and wonderfully personal celebration.

What’s the best piece of business advice that you’ve ever received?

Look after people properly and the business will usually look after itself. Hospitality is ultimately about human beings. Guests remember how you made them feel long after they’ve forgotten what colour the napkins were.

And what advice would you pass on to young entrepreneurs?

Don’t be frightened of hard work, don’t expect overnight success and never forget that; turnover is vanity, profit is sanity, cash is the reality. Social media can make business ownership look glamorous but, in reality, it’s consistency, resilience and showing up every day that matter. Also, never underestimate the value of good manners and answering emails promptly!

What keeps you motivated?

Seeing people create memories. Whether it’s a wedding, anniversary, birthday or simply someone escaping for a peaceful weekend in the countryside, it’s incredibly rewarding knowing you’ve played a small part in moments people will remember for years.

What’s the best thing about owning a business?

The ability to shape something with personality and soul. Independent businesses can reflect the people behind them. At The Hand, we’re able to create an experience that feels authentic, welcoming and uniquely ours.

What do you love about your job?

No two days are ever the same. One minute you’re discussing wedding flowers, the next you’re helping choose wines, solving a plumbing issue or chatting to guests beside the fire. Hospitality keeps you humble, keeps you busy and certainly keeps you on your toes.

What business achievement are you most proud of?

I’m incredibly proud that The Hand was recognised by The Times as one of the UK’s best pubs with spas. For a small rural independent business in North Wales to receive that sort of recognition was a very special moment for all of us.

How can people get in touch?

The best place to start is our website www.thehandhotel.co.uk where you can see all about us and couples can explore our wedding offering, or alternatively give us a call for an informal chat. We absolutely love showing people around and helping them imagine their perfect day here.

Meet The Business…

Blasus Deli

What is your name and the name of your business

My name is Katherine Wright and my shop in Mold is called Blasus!

What’s makes your business stand out from the crowd?

There is room enough in any town for more than one deli, but where I stand out is that Blasus! is an artisan deli. The word ‘Artisan’ is bandied about a lot these days and is often misused, but the origin of the word dates back over 500 years and refers to a skilled worker who, when making food, uses only high-quality produce to invent and create exquisite items through traditional methods.

I will only stock high quality food and drink and I take the time to find out the origin of not only each item but the story of the supplier, the provenance. I want to know the history, the story and the journey of the food that I offer and I enjoy being able to share this with my customers. This means that I can have complete confidence in what I am selling and I know that my customers will enjoy their purchase. The majority of my stock is exclusive to me, it cannot be purchased elsewhere in town and that again is important to me. I also sell a good range of crafts and artwork from local artisan creators which is also proving to be popular.

There is a lack of choice in high end Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten Free products and this is something that I am striving to rectify. There are so many wonderful choices out there and I am taking time to seek them out, talk to the suppliers and find tempting and tasty food.

What’s the best piece of business advice that you’ve ever received?

I have spoken to so many people and had so much help from Business Wales and Development Banc of Wales, but the one thing that I cling to and which I would tell my younger self is to have belief and to follow your dreams. I am totally invested in Blasus!, both financially and emotionally, and this business failing is simply not an option. I WILL succeed in this.  In my younger days I lacked the confidence but I now doggedly chase my dreams and won’t take no for an answer. I can, and will succeed.  It is really hard work, much harder than I thought, but I will not give in. I only opened at the end of January, possibly the worst time to open, but I have every confidence in Blasus! and myself.

What keeps you motivated?

The reviews and kind comments that I get almost daily, particularly over the food that I provide and present, I am told constantly that my passion shines through, this makes me ten foot tall and glow from inside! Blasus! Motivates me.

What’s the best thing about owning a business?

Never in a million years did I ever think that I would own my own business, but here I am, the wrong side of 50, having taken a huge leap of faith, with a ‘what could possibly go wrong’ and a sprinkling of ‘you only live once’ attitude, and I am slowly stopping pinching myself that this really is it! We did it and here’s to many years of happy trading.

What do you love about your job?

Every single little bit of it. I am the happiest I have been, I am sharing this amazing experience with someone very, very special. I am doing what I love, chatting all day, surrounded by food and eating cheese! What more is there in life?

How can people get in touch?

People can get in touch by phone (01352 744949) email (info@blasusartisandeli.co.uk) or via Facebook (Blasus Deli).

Food for thought

Quay. That was a few months ago. Now, Orca II has sailed across the Conwy river and found a new home in the Marina. Such was the worldwide curiosity and the subsequent queues of onlookers that, to paraphrase a well-known line, it needed a bigger berth.

There, with the four distinctive yellow barrels on her bow, rests the brain-child of Jon Fieldhouse, who like me has been a Jaws fan since childhood. He very kindly allowed me on board, let me take a seat and teleport myself mentally into some of my favourite ever movie scenes. “She’s the only fullsized replica in the world,” he told me. “This is twelve tons of proper, real boat. Someone actually sailed this across the Atlantic to get it to me.”

The attention to detail is frankly astonishing. If you’re the kind of Jaws fan who knows what brand of beer Quint drinks when he crushes the can, you’ll be in seventh heaven. In fact, there’s the can next to the bottle of Old Spice that Brody uses to mask the smell of the chum! Plus, Jon reckons he may have

got his hands on the actual galley cooker from the actual film.

“It took three years to get all the bits and pieces together. I lived in Manchester when I started it, so I had the barrels, the shark cage, the shark, the mast and pulpit. They were all in the back garden of my little terraced house. We got a few funny looks from our neighbours. Now I live here so I’m a local, and the boat is where it should be: Conwy is the Amity of the UK.

“The hard part was getting hold of the actual boat. Then it was a case of having to get the balance right. It needed to be as close to the original that Jaws fans would be impressed, but not so identical that Universal Studios would send their

lawyers out, and also not so over-restored that I ended up wrecking what is in any case a beautiful old boat – it’s actually older than the boat they used in Jaws back in ’74/75.

“Despite all the difficulties in putting it all together and the money it’s cost, it’s worth it just to see the looks on people’s faces when they see it. They don’t even have to be massive Jaws fans, people have a really emotive reaction to it. An 89-year-old lady saw it recently. She literally leapt onto the boat and the next thing I know, she was in the shark cage! All walks of life have been on board, which makes it all worthwhile.”

When you book an hour on board, Jon will show you around this stunning tribute to a lifetime’s love affair with a movie masterpiece – he’ll even treat you to a perfect rendition of

Corned Beef Hash à la Captain Quint

Ingredients

(Serves 4)

Good sized knob of butter

1 large onion, finely chopped

500g potato, skin-on and diced into chunks

600ml beef stock

320g tin of corned beef, cut up into little chunks (And yes it does still have an old-school key to open it!)

200g peas (optional)

1 tbsp wholegrain mustard

2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Pre-heat your grill. Melt the butter in a frying pan over a medium heat. Fry the onion until it’s golden, then stir in the potatoes and keep stirring for a few minutes until everything is coated in the butter. Pour in the stock and simmer for about 20 minutes until the stock has all but evaporated.

Stir in the corned beef, peas, mustard and Worcestershire sauce. stirring occasionally until everything is heated through. Now, carefully slide the pan under the grill for about five minutes until the top is crisp and golden. For added je ne sais quoi, fry up some eggs and serve them atop each portion of hash. Recite Quint’s poem about Mary Lee, and tuck in.

Quint’s Indianapolis speech. “Jaws stays with you all your life,” said Jon. “It’s the first scary film I ever saw but it just gets better every time you see it. You always see something new.”

The last time I saw it, I noticed that in the galley scene, the aqua-phobic land-lubber Brody hasn’t touched his supper. I always wanted to know what they actually ate that night. After much digging around and freeze-framing, I’ve concluded that it was a corned beef hash. Seeing the tiny cooker for the first time, I’m pretty sure it came out of a tin. To make a slightly more refined version, and amaze yourself with how delicious this rather forgotten old staple is, try this recipe. Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the kitchen…

www.sharkboat.co.uk

North Wales Fish & Seafood, is out now.

Whether it’s your own private island by the sea, a quirky hot-tub lodge, or a dog-friendly retreat in the hills, we’ve got a cottage waiting in your favourite spot, whatever the occasion.

Explore the magic of North Wales with the region’s favourite holiday letting agency.

Book a holiday or let your cottage by heading to www.menaiholidays.co.uk

Cocktail of the month The Zombie

The Zombie is pretty close to my heart, as it’s one of the first cocktails that I had in the UK (I’m from South Africa), and first one that I learnt to make. The drink is tall but fruity with a citric zing, and definitely has a nice boozy punch to it.

Background behind the Zombie

The Zombie is a tiki cocktail made of fruit juice, liqueurs and various rums, and it was invented by Donn Beach at his Hollywood Donn the Beachcomber restaurant in 1934.

Rumours say that he invented the cocktail for a hungover customer to get him through his business meetings. Apparently the customer returned a few days later and told Donn that he’d felt like a complete zombie for the rest of his trip there, as the smoothness from the juice concealed the heavy amount of rum. From then on Donn set a limit so that customers could only have a maximum of two per visit due to the high alcohol content… any more and patrons turned into

Beach was very cautious with the recipes of his original cocktails. His instructions for his bartenders contained coded references to ingredients, the contents of which were only known to him. To protect his intellectual property, Donn invented an elaborate system of camouflage. He did this in two ways, first he striped all commercial labels off and simply labelled them Bottle 1 or Bottle A. His specs would say: 1oz Donn ’s mix 1, with ½ oz bottle B. however it got so confusing that even his own staff had no idea on what they were mixing together.

The Zombie is closely associated with the broader tiki culture inspired by romanticized visions of the South Pacific,

The Number 25 version on the Zombie

So, as we now know that no one really knows Domm’s recipe except himself, and as we don’t really want to turn people into the walking dead and send them off down the prom, our version of the Zombe is a little bit lighter.

Our spec

In a hurricane glass we will build it up:

15ml Sugar

20ml Lime

20ml Passionfruit Puree

10ml Wray and Nephew

10ml Bacardi

10ml Ferlanum

10ml Mount Gay

10ml Grand Marnier

5ml Barti Float

And a sprinkle of Grenadine

Final sip

This is a great fruity drink that’s served with passionfruit. It offers a bit of a sweet and sour flavour with a slight boozy punch, making it a great way to start off the night! The Zombie is sure to put a smile on your face, and if you love rum then this is definitely the one for you. n

Alex Van der Merwe is the bar manager at Number 25 in Rhos-on-Sea. This local bar and bistro is home to a cosy restaurant upstairs and a welcoming cocktail bar downstairs – making it the ideal venue, whatever the occasion.

Sales & Lettings - 1a Penrhyn Avenue, Rhos-on-Sea LL28 4PS Sales: 01492 549178 • Lettings: 01492 583 100 email: rhos@ etcherpoole.com website: www. etcherpoole.com

HOURS: Mon-Fri 9:30am to 5pm and Saturday 9:30am to 4pm.

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Renewable energy systems for your home

Ellesmere based Princes LHS are MCS approved installers of renewable energy systems, including Solar PV, Battery storage, Solar Thermal, Air Source and Ground Source Heat Pumps. As well as Renewable energy installers they are also NICEIC electrical contractors, Gas Safe & OFTEC accredited heating contractors.

Over the last few months energy prices have become very unpredictable, with significant rises in energy prices compared to previous years. This has made solar PV and battery storage even more attractive and means payback can be achieved in anywhere between 5 and 10 years which is a bonus when considering you are also helping to reduce your carbon footprint. As well as storing solar energy generated by the solar panels a battery can also be charged from the grid using cheap off peak electricity tariffs, making payback even quicker. Some of the battery systems can even provide back up power in the event of a power cut, meaning your solar system is still operational, helping power your home and stay off grid even longer.

Princes LHS are approved installers of the market leading Tesla Powerwall battery storage system, (www.TeslaPowerwall.co.uk) which they have on display in their renewable energy showroom in Ellesmere “Low Carbon Home Systems” as well as being installers of other battery systems such as GivEnergy, SAJ, and Pylontech amongst others. There are incentives available for anyone who exports the electricity they produce, with some of the larger energy providers now offering in excess of 15 pence per kWh for any electricity sold back to the grid using the “smart Export Guarantee” (SEG), which is currently only available when having your system installed by an MCS accredited company such as Princes LHS.

A sensible option to fit alongside a Solar PV system due to it being powered by electricity is a heat pump which heats your home replacing your fossil fuel boiler and connecting to your wet central heating system. There is a £7,500 grant to go towards the installation of an air source or ground source heat pump. If you have gas, oil, LPG, or electric heating you are eligible for the BUS (Boiler Upgrade Scheme) Grant which as MCS accredited contractors, Princes LHS can apply for on your behalf.

An air source heat pump works by extracting heat from the outside air. This heat can then be used to heat the home via radiators or underfloor heating and also provides all of the hot water required in the home. Equally important is the fact that it is able to operate when outside temperatures drop as low as -20°C. Typically a heat pump can achieve efficiencies of 400% meaning for every 1kw of electricity consumed it will produce 4kw of heat, compared to a fossil fuel boiler being somewhere between 75% and 90% efficient. Alternatively, a ground source heat pump is like a traditional central heating boiler, but, instead of using oil or gas, it uses heat extracted from the earth. Rather than buying fossil fuels from a supplier, you would be using renewable energy for your heating and hot water meaning you will not only be doing your bit to help the environment, you will also save money on your heating bills.

The Low Carbon Home Systems Renewable Energy showroom in Ellesmere has been open for three years and displays a number of the latest innovative products including working examples of solar PV and Air Source Heat Pumps. There are Eco Forest and CTC ground source heat pumps, various models of Air Source Heat Pumps including Mitsubishi, Samsung and Midea. There are Solar PV panels on display – both integrated and above the roof, and solar thermal hot water panels. There is nothing like seeing the products in person so that you can get a feel for their look and size.

If you are considering changing your car to electric, you will need to consider a home charger. Installing a purpose-made charging point will reduce your charge time and manage your energy usage. Princes LHS are able to supply and install your charger which can also be integrated with electricity produced by solar energy to help “squeeze out” every last drop of energy being produced by the solar panels.

Princes LHS are able to offer a full home solution and have helped many customers on their “self-build home” journey. From below the ground to above the roof and everything in between Princes LHS can offer the full package, including electrical installation, LED Lighting, plumbing & heating, bathroom installation, underfloor heating, MVHR (mechanical ventilation heat recovery), radiators, Solar PV, Battery storage, Solar thermal and Heat pumps. n

For more information please give Princes LHS a call on 01691 624336, or drop by the Ellesmere showroom for an informal chat to see what they can offer and how they can assist you on your low carbon home journey. www.lowcarbonhomesystems.co.uk

Yma i helpu. Here to Help.

Rydym yn gallu cynnal cyfarfodydd trwy ffon a fideo,a wrth gwrs rydym yn cynnig cyfarfodydd wyneb I wyneb hefyd. Cysylltwch a ni am fwy o wybodaeth a fydd aelod o staff yn hapus I helpu.

We can hold meetings via telephone and video and, of course, we are also able to offer meetings in person. Please contact us and a member of our team will be happy to help.

Rydym ni’n cynnig ystod eang o wasanaethau cyfreithiol, sy’n cynnwys: Offering a wide range of legal services including:

Eiddo Masnachol a Phreswyl

· Ystadau ac Amaethyddiaeth

· Ewyllysiau, Ymddiriedolaethau a Phrofiant

· Cyfraith Teulu

· Cyflogaeth

· Corfforaethol a Masnachol

· Anghydfodau

· Niwed Personol ac Esgeulustod Meddygol

· Hamdden a Thwristiaeth

· Landed Estates & Agriculture

· Wills, Trusts & Probate

· Family Law

· Employment

· Corporate & Commercial

· Disputes

· Personal Injury & Medical Negligence

· Leisure & Tourism

Tel: 01492 557070

Family secures future of popular Anglesey attraction with business purchase

The future of one of Anglesey’s best-loved family attractions has been secured after a local family completed the purchase of Pili Palas Nature World.

The popular visitor attraction, which includes a small zoo, cafés, shop, indoor soft play area and outdoor park, has welcomed families from across North Wales and beyond for the past 40 years.

Its previous owners recently decided to retire, prompting a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” for the new owners, Endaf and Sally Ap Ieuan – whose family connection with Pili Palas stretches back many years.

The family were supported by Conwy-based Lanyon Bowdler Solicitors throughout the transaction and Dr Ap Ieuan, a semiretired GP, said the purchase was driven by both a personal connection to the attraction and a desire to safeguard its future.

“Our daughter started working at Pili Palas as a teenager, and that experience inspired her to go on and study animal conservation and animal studies at university,” he said.

“Four years ago, she was offered the role of zoo manager here, so the business has already been a huge part of our family’s lives for a long time. When the previous owners approached us in June last year to ask whether we would be interested in buying the business, it felt like a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to continue something very special.”

He said the family hoped to preserve the attraction’s reputation while building for the future.

“Pili Palas means a great deal to local families and visitors to Anglesey, and we wanted to make sure it continued to thrive,” he added. “We hope this will become something that

stays within the family for generations to come, with our daughters and potentially the next generation helping to carry it forward.”

Dr Ap Ieuan praised the professional support received during the transaction from Lanyon Bowdler’s corporate and commercial team in Conwy.

“We were incredibly pleased with the service they provided,” he said. “They were very careful and thorough throughout the process, but also friendly and approachable at what can be quite a stressful time.

“We were pushing hard to complete before April 1 for the financial year-end, at a time when plenty of other businesses were trying to do exactly the same thing, but the team just knuckled down and got it done.”

Edward Nutting, head of Lanyon Bowdler’s Conwy office, said the firm was delighted to support the family with the acquisition.

“Pili Palas is a hugely popular attraction which has been enjoyed by families for many years, so it’s wonderful to see it pass into the hands of people with such a genuine passion and connection to the business,” he said.

“Buying a business is always a significant step, particularly when there is such a strong sense of responsibility for its future, and we were very pleased to help guide the family through the process. We wish them every success as they begin this exciting new chapter for Pili Palas.” n

Meet The Business…

Hartey Wealth Management

What is your name & the name of your business?

My name is Karl Hartey and I’m Chairman and Co-Founder of Hartey Wealth Management.

What’s makes your business stand out from the crowd?

We believe financial advice should be personal, not transactional. Many of our clients have been with us for decades and, in many cases, we now advise multiple generations of the same family. That trust means everything to us. We combine professional expertise with straight-talking advice and long-term thinking. Our job isn’t just about investments - it’s about helping people make confident decisions about their future.

What’s the best piece of business advice that you’ve ever received?

“Always do the right thing, even when nobody’s watching.” In financial services, trust is everything. Your reputation takes years to build and minutes to destroy.

And what advice would you pass on to young entrepreneurs?

Be patient. Too many people want overnight success. Most successful businesses are built quietly over many years through consistency, resilience and relationships. And never underestimate the value of turning up and doing what you said you would do.

What keeps you motivated?

Helping people achieve financial peace of mind. Money affects families, businesses, retirements and futures. Knowing the advice we give can genuinely improve somebody’s life is incredibly rewarding. I’m also motivated by continuing to grow a business culture where both clients and team members feel valued and supported.

What’s the best thing about owning a business?

Building something meaningful. You get the opportunity to create a culture, support your local community and build a business that reflects your own values and standards.

What do you love about your job?

The relationships. We’re often involved in some of the most important moments in people’s lives – retirement, selling a business, inheritance planning, helping children and grandchildren – and it’s a privilege to be trusted with that responsibility.

What business achievement are you most proud of?

Being inducted into the Financial Hall of Fame® in 2025 was a proud moment. But honestly, what I’m most proud of is building a business that clients trust enough to recommend to their friends, children and grandchildren. Long-term trust means more to me than any award.

How can people get in touch?

Call us on 0808 168 5866, email info@harteywm.co.uk or visit

www.harteywm.co.uk

Datgloi eich Potensial

Cyrsiau Rhan-amser i Oedolion

Dydy hi byth yn rhy hwyr i ddychwelyd i addysg - felly os ydych chi’n dymuno gwella’ch rhagolygon gyrfa, adfywio’ch sgiliau Saesneg a Mathemateg, neu ddysgu sgil newydd mewn amgylchedd cyfeillgar, mae gennym gwrs i chi. Mae cyrsiau’n cynnwys:

• Sgiliau Cyfrifiadurol

• Celfyddydau Creadigol

• Saesneg a Mathemateg

• Lles

• Sgiliau ar gyfer Bywyd a Gwaith

• A llawer mwy!

Mae llawer o’n cyrsiau am ddim. I gael gwybod rhagor cer i’n gwefan.

Unlock your Potential

Part-time Courses for Adults

It’s never too late to return to education - so if you are looking to improve your career prospects, want to brush up on your English and Maths, or you want to learn a new skill in a friendly environment, we have a course for you. Courses include:

• Computer Skills

• Creative Arts

• English & Maths

• Wellbeing

• Skills for Life & Work

• And many more!

Many of our courses are free. Visit our website to find out more.

I gael rhagor o wybodaeth cysylltwch â | For more information contact: generalenquiries@gllm.ac.uk 01492 542 338

News Community

Why fewer people are pursuing personal injury claims and why that matters In recent years the number of personal injury claims in the UK has declined significantly. At first glance this may appear to be a positive development suggesting safer workplaces, improved road conditions and fewer accidents overall. However, the reality is far more complex. Much of this reduction can be attributed to legal reforms, particularly changes to whiplash claims and the introduction of the Official Injury Claim portal. While these measures were designed to streamline the process and reduce fraudulent claims they have also made it more challenging for individuals to pursue legitimate cases without legal support. As a result, many people may now be choosing not to bring claims at all even where they have suffered injury through no fault of their own. This raises important questions about access to justice and whether those affected are receiving the support they need. The above was provided by Zoey Smith T/A Baines Solicitors. www.baines-law.uk

Hartey Wealth Management secures long-term future with move to Salop House Hartey Wealth Management has announced the next chapter in its history with the purchase of new office premises at Salop House in Oswestry. The company will relocate from 9 - 11 Salop Road, where it has been based for the past 11 years, to neighbouring premises at Salop House. Whilst geographically the move is small, the significance for the business is substantial. Karl Hartey has been supporting clients in Oswestry since 1992. Over more than three decades, the business has grown steadily whilst building a reputation for long-term financial planning and wealth management for individuals, families, and business owners. The move to Salop House represents the sixth office move during that period and marks the first time the premises have been purchased outright, helping secure the future stability and independence of the business. www.harteywm.co.uk

Porter’s stocks new artisan food

Create your own crafts with ThreadABead ust a few steps from the seafront on 22 Madoc Street, Llandudno, ThreadABead is a bright, design-led bead shop where visitors can browse, create, and leave with something uniquely their own. Inside, it’s a world of colour, texture, and creativity – from tiny glass beads and jewellery supplies to original bead patterns and beginnerfriendly kits designed in-house. Many visitors find themselves sitting down to make a beaded pen, keyring, bookmark, bracelet, or small personalised gift there and then, with friendly staff always happy to help. Alongside its playful “make your own” experience, ThreadABead is also known internationally for its distinctive, easy-to-follow bead patterns and carefully curated range of materials for jewellery-making, bead weaving, and creative projects of all kinds.

www.threadabead.com

Porter’s have over 1,500 quality products available in their delicatessen on Market Street, Llangollen, and have recently started stocking a range of products from two new exciting artisan producers. If you’re hunting for artisan, game-changing bakes rather than the standard supermarket fare, MamGu Welsh Cakes are exactly what you are looking for. From their specialised bakery, based in St David’s, they take a beloved Welsh Cake classic and elevate it with bold, balanced, unconventional flavours like Marmite & Cheese, Rhubarb & Custard, Cheese & Leek, Cherry Bakewell, Lime & Coconut… to name a few, the Traditional Welsh Cake is also available and is expertly crafted. They are also stocking Sea Sisters, the first British Conservas, a craft cannery based in Dorset who are passionate about preserving the finest, ethically sourced British fish and seafood… stocking interesting varieties like, Oak Smoked Rainbow Trout, Cuttlefish with Basil & Lime and Welsh Cockles… pop in to see the full range. As well as the delicious flavours Sea Sisters packaging is a work of art… and is 100% recyclable. www.portersdeli.co.uk

Artisan market returns to Bodnant Welsh Food

The June artisan market is back at Bodnant Welsh Food on Sunday 14th June. Bring your whole family (and your dog) to enjoy a splendid Sunday browsing 50 fantastic stalls selling the finest arts, crafts, ceramics, skincare, jewellery, vintage, cheese, cakes, candles, booze and so much more! So pop along to this fabulous venue with stunning views across the Conwy Valley, and explore their highly acclaimed farm shop, indulge in quality food at their café and restaurant, enjoy a drink or two in the bar and peruse and discover the many fabulous artisan stalls for unique and authentic gifts, treats and local produce. www.theartisanmarketcompany.co.uk

Law firm backs regenerative farming conference

A Conwy-based law firm has once again supported the Da Byw Conference as part of its ongoing commitment to the agricultural sector in North Wales and beyond. The conference is held on the Coed Coch Estate and brings together farmers, scientists and industry experts to discuss regenerative farming and sustainable livestock production. The event was recently highlighted in an episode of Lanyon Bowdler’s Legal Lounge podcast series, Grounded in Agriculture, where senior associate solicitor Katie Baker spoke with Coed Coch’s Davina Fetherstonhaugh about the estate’s journey from a traditional sheep enterprise to a regenerative farming system. www.lblaw.co.uk

Shop with zero waste

The North Wales Eye Specialist Centre can help preserve sight Glaucoma is a chronic eye condition that gradually damages the optic nerve, often due to increased pressure inside the eye. It’s one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, but early detection and treatment can slow its progression. People often don’t notice symptoms early on, as vision loss begins peripherally. Common risk factors include age, family history, and ethnicity. Treatments range from eye drops to laser procedures and surgery, all aimed at lowering eye pressure. Regular eye tests are vital for early detection, especially for those at higher risk. By catching glaucoma early, the North Wales Eye Specialist Centre can help preserve sight and maintain quality of life. northwaleseyespecialist.co.uk

Discover Tweedmill, one of the regions most popular shopping destinations

Tweedmill is one of North Wales’ favourite shopping destinations, offering far more than just a day out shopping. From fashion and home inspiration to delicious food and beautiful seasonal displays, there is always something new to discover — and this summer is no exception. One of the latest additions is the new canopy in the Garden Centre. Designed to make the space even more welcoming and enjoyable whatever the weather, the canopy provides shelter and shade while customers browse the colourful selection of plants and garden accessories. Across the store, departments are filled with fresh seasonal collections including stylish ladieswear and quality menswear, inspiring Home & Lifestyle furniture and accessories, and a charming range of outdoor living products perfect for the months ahead. The food offering continues to be a huge draw too, with Blas Clwyd serving delicious meals, cakes and indulgent ice cream sundaes that have quickly become a customer favourite. With new arrivals daily and plenty to explore throughout the store, there has never been a better time to visit Tweedmill and enjoy everything the store has to offer. https://tweedmill.co.uk

Maeth Naturiol / Nature’s Nurture is a zero waste eco store situated in the centre of the historic town of Blaenau Ffestiniog, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Opened only a month ago, this family owned and run store is creating a real buzz in the area, both at the heart of the local community and also attracting customers from far and wide who are enjoying the high-quality produce and low prices as its reputation grows. The store prides itself on its customer care and its friendliness, offering a range of organic vegetables and fruit, local Welsh produce such as cheeses, organic milk, Kimchi, yoghurts, free range eggs and Welsh produced oils. Household and personal cleaning products, all eco-friendly, are available in re-useable bottles or as refills for you to bring your own containers. The ethos is of sustainability, minimal waste and re-useable or bio-degradable packaging, to lessen the impact on the environment and enable all of us to contribute our little bit for the benefit of the planet. 07878 615467

Welsh film coming to cinemas this month

Effi o Blaenau is coming to cinemas across Wales from Friday 19th June. Based on Gary Owen’s much lauded and widely performed monodrama, Iphigenia in Splott, Effi o Blaenau is director Marc Evans’ cinematic interpretation set against the open landscapes of North Wales.  The film follows Effi (Leisa Gwenllian), a young woman who learns firsthand the personal costs of our societal shortcomings. Grappling with her weekly loop of unemployment, clubbing and hangovers, Effi has a chance encounter in a Llandudno nightclub with injured soldier Lee (Tom Rhys Harries), briefly opening a door to something better. For a moment, Effi glimpses a life she never imagined. The reality that follows is far tougher. EffiFilm.co.uk

Last chance to see Ruthin Craft Centre exhibition

Come and see The P&O Makower Trust Collection from Amgueddfa Cymru before it closes at the Ruthin Craft Centre. The exhibition contains the work of 13 Silversmiths, along with the work of Rauni Higson in our CELF gallery until Sunday 14th June. As part of the Ruthin Festival, the centre will be displaying in the Old Courthouse a collection of Cordelia Weedon’s Hidden Ruthin photographs. These will be on display from the 9th to 20th June. The current exhibitions by Claire Curneen, Jane Perryman, Becky Adams, Peter Bodenham & Nick Membery will close on the 28th June, and then brand-new exhibitions will be opening on the 4th July with exhibiting the works of Halima Cassell, Darren Ball, Verity Pulford & Jonathan Le Vay.  www.ruthincraftcentre.org.uk

Johns’ Boys returns to Llandudno

Ffenestri Cymru Windows brings life back to your property

Established in 1990, Ffenestri Cymru Windows is a trusted, family-run business based on Anglesey, proudly serving homes across Bangor, Gwynedd and the surrounding areas for over 35 years.

Specialising in high-quality REHAU uPVC, Residence Collections, windows, doors and conservatories, they combine style, security, and energy efficiency to deliver tailored solutions that enhance every property. www.ffenestricymruwindows.com

Johns’ Boys Choir are delighted to be returning to Venue Cymru as part of their 10th Anniversary Tour, celebrating a remarkable journey for Johns’ Boys Welsh Male Voice Choir. In 2019, Johns’ Boys made history as the first British male voice choir to win the prestigious Choir of the World. Their national profile continued to rise following their appearances on Britain’s Got Talent, where their performances captured the hearts of millions, leading to an invitation to perform at the Royal Variety Performance. Alongside these achievements, the choir has enjoyed chart success with a number one EP and continues to sell out venues across the UK, building a loyal and ever-growing audience. Their return to Llandudno promises an uplifting evening of music, showcasing the power, warmth and versatility that have become their hallmark. Blending musical theatre favourites, contemporary classics and traditional Welsh repertoire, Johns’ Boys offer a concert experience that resonates long after the final note. johnsboys.co.uk

Pine & Oak Direct

Pine & Oak Direct is a trusted independent furniture retailer, based in the idyllic town of Ruthin, who have been supplying furniture and upholstery throughout North Wales for over 36 years. Come and see one of the largest selections of oak, painted and pine furniture in North Wales. Pine & Oak Direct pride themselves on offering a service which is second to none, carrying large stock so your home can be made beautiful with no delay. Along with a great selection of bedrooms, mattresses, dining and occasional furniture they also offer an extensive range of top-quality sofas and recliners including brands such as Sherborne and Celebrity. Also available is the option of a free home trial on lift and rise recliners. They have up to 20 of these in various sizes and colours in stock ready for immediate delivery with prices starting from as little as £799 (ex VAT). Hundreds of items of giftware also grace the showroom to help give you a pleasurable visit. pineandoak.wales

Not All Traditions Need to Stay the Same

For centuries, funerals in the UK have followed a familiar pattern. Black clothing, top hats and solemn faces in a strictly formal atmosphere with a sense that there was a ‘right way’ to say goodbye. But things are changing. More families are moving away from tradition, not to reject it, but to create something that feels more personal, meaningful and reflective of the person that has died. A funeral doesn’t have to follow a template, it just has to feel right.

Moving Beyond “What We Should Do”

Traditional funerals still have their place, for some families that structure brings comfort. But for others, there is a growing feeling that it doesn’t quite fit. One example is that we are seeing more people choosing music that means something to them. From powerful anthems like Calon Lân, sung by a chapel full of rugby players to quieter, more personal pieces such as a jazz track by Hugh Laurie that brought back shared memories.

support this, and it keeps the cost simple and accessible. It’s a thoughtful alternative to more traditional media options, and often feels more personal as a result.

The Details You Feel, Not Just See

Some of the most powerful moments are the ones not immediately noticed. A funeral director wearing a fox brooch as it was the person’s favourite animal, taking a different route to pass a place that meant something or the person’s favourite music playing quietly during time spent with them in the chapel of rest. These aren’t grand gestures but they stay with people.

Venues are changing too. Alongside the crematoria and churches, we’ve supported services in places that have meant something, including a local pub for a landlord who had spent his life at the heart of his community, or a natural burial at Boduan Sanctuary’s Eternal Forest, surrounded by nature.

It’s

Often the Smallest Details

Personalisation isn’t about doing more. Often, it’s about doing less but doing it thoughtfully. We’ve created service booklets that reflect a lifetime of interests, whether that’s a subtle nod to film and gaming through a snowy, cinematic backdrop or combining passions of trains, fishing and shooting into a personal design.

And sometimes, the most meaningful choice is restraint. For Tristan’s grandad, the booklet only included small, considered details. Colours he liked, familiar phrases and nothing overdone. We could have added more but it wouldn’t have felt like him.

Capturing Memories in a Different Way

We’ve also seen a noticeable increase in families choosing to create their own video tributes. These can be incredibly personal; photos, short clips and favourite music put together by the people who knew them best. Often, that process becomes part of the farewell itself, as families sit together, choosing moments and remembering. We’re always happy to

What Matters Most Now

We are also seeing a shift in the values behind the choices people make. Sustainability matters more to many families than it once did, simplicity matters too. Natural burials, more thoughtful choices around materials and the rise of unattended funerals all reflect a desire for something that feels right. Not all traditions need to stay the same, what matters is creating something that feels appropriate, personal and unforced.

In the end, what matters most is not whether a funeral follows tradition perfectly, but whether it feels right for the person who has died and for the people saying goodbye.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at kelly@tomowenandson.com..n

Kelly Owen is a funeral director at Tom Owen and Son – an awardwinning, family-run, independent community Funeral Director in Llandudno. They provide the highest level of care when organising funerals, empowering you to create a unique service fitting for your loved one. To find out more, call 01492 860 280 or visit www.tomowenandson.com

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Nestled within a historic Welsh estate dating back to the 11th century, Rhug Bistro is one of North Wales' most-loved dining destinations. What began as a humble butcher's counter in 1998 has grown into a celebrated restaurant, where our chef prepares every dish fresh using quality ingredients, served in a truly special setting.

Open daily 8:30am–5pm (kitchen closes 4pm), serving breakfast, brunch and lunch. Walk-ins are always welcome, or call to reserve your table. Our Sunday dinners are particularly popular - highly rated and not to be missed.

Also on the estate: browse the Farm Shop for organic, local or unique produce and gifts, or grab something from the Takeaway and Drive-Thru if you're short on time.

I keep the wheels turning behind the scenes, so you can focus your energy on winning clients, landing projects, and growing the business.

Fancy a chat? Letʼs talk.

savvysally.co.uk

Sally@savvysally.co.uk

Across

3 Very evil (7)

8 Feeling of guilt (6)

9 Norway’s “Tiger City” (4)

10 Statute (3)

11 Like a shirt or guitar (8)

12 A long way off (4)

16 Save a bit (3,4)

19 Rectify sin so as to expose a former President’s wife (7)

20 Outs partner (3)

21 American ornithologist and artist (7)

23 Spicy Spanish banger (7)

24 Civil aeronautics overseer (1,1,1)

25 Unsettled (2,5)

26 Governments in power (7)

30 World-beating writer who was also a WW2 fighter pilot (4) 34 Old records (8) 36 Type of raid (3)

Neck and neck (4) 38 Calculate (6) 39 Indignity (7)

1 Global women’s empowerment organization (1,1,1,1)

2 How some suspects are released (2,4) 3 Refuses to admit (6) 4 Financial wherewithal (5) 5 Military partnership (1,1,1,1)

Sago, 17 Yiddish, 18 Since, 19 Oscar, 22 Best, 27 Escort, 28 Idiocy, 29 Mambo, 31 Amin, 32 Leda, 33 Prof, 35 Eros.

Across: 3 Demonic, 8 Twinge, 9 Oslo, 10 Act, 11 Hawaiian, 12 Afar, 16 Pay less, 19 Onassis, 20 Ins, 21 Audubon, 23 Chorizo, 24 C A A, 25 At issue, 26 Regimes, 30 Dahl, 34 Archives, 36 Ram, 37 Tied, 38 Reckon, 39 Affront. Down: 1 Y W C A, 2 On bail, 3 Denies, 4 Means, 5 N A T O, 6 Cola, 7 Elba, 11 Haphazard, 13 Fascism, 14 Responses,

6 Fizzy drink (4)

7 Napoleon escaped from here (4) 11 All over the shop (9)

13 Totalitarian type of government (7) 14 Presses on in chaos to get answers (9) 15 Pudding sounds like a way to start something (4)

17 European Jewish vernacular (7)

18 Because (5)

19 Richard’s “Sound of Music” collaborator (5)

22 Defeat (4)

27 An accompanist, perhaps? (6) 28 Foolishness (6)

29 Cuban dance (5)

31 Ugandan despot (4)

32 “--- and the Swan” (Greek mythology) (4)

33 Faculty senior, in short (4)

35 Cupid (4)