Welsh Country - Issue88 - May - Jun 19

May - Jun 2019 Issue 88 £2.95
COUNTRYSIDE OUT & ABOUT MEET, EAT, DRINK & SLEEP LIFESTYLE
PLUS: Walking Fishing Stories in Stone
Arts & Crafts Music Pamper
Bookshelf Puzzles
GARDENING
WELSH KITCHEN
BEST OF WELSH
NOTHING TO WEAR

50 Rhosmaen Street
Llandeilo
Carmarthenshire
SA19 6HA
Bob Jones - Prytherch & Co.
Chartered Surveyors, Estate Agents, Auctioneers & Valuers
Professionals in Land & Property
E-mail: llandeilo@bjpco.com
Web: www.bjpco.com 01558 822468
Cross Hands
• Detached bungalow
• Set in 12 acres
• Useful outbuildings
• Fitted kitchen
• Convenient location
• Oil fired central heating
• Double glazing
• 3 bedrooms
• Garage
• EPC rating 'F'
Offers in
the region of
£300,000
Llangadog
• An detached dormer residence with annexe
• Set in beautiful location, a short distance from the
village of Llangadog
• Magnificent views over neighbouring farmland
• Standing in well presented grounds with summer
house
• 2 bedrooms, study 3 bathrooms & 2 receptions
• Annexe with kitchen/living Room, 2 bedrooms with
en suites
• Upvc double glazing & oil fired central
heating
• Detached garage/workshop
Offers in
the region of
£395,000
Porthyrhyd, Llanwrda
• A superb residential holding with approx. 4 acres
• Excellent general purpose building in a wonderful
courtyard setting
• Spectacular southerly views across the rolling
countryside of the Towy Valley
• Retains much of the original charm & character
• 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms & 2 receptions
• Excellent pasture paddock
• Extensive lawned garden to rear & paved patio to front
Offers in
the region of
£395,000
Upper Brynamman, Ammanford
• Set in a fabulous south facing location on the fringe
of The Black Mountain in the Brecon Beacons
National Park
• Commanding magnificent views over wonderful
countryside
• A choice smallholding of 3.5 acres with recently
refurbished farmhouse
• 2 reception rooms & 3 bedrooms
• Solid fuel central heating. Triple glazing
• Grazing rights on Black Mountain for
26 sheep and 3 cattle
• EPC rating 'E'
Offers in
the region of
£329,500
Talley, Llandeilo
• A delightful country cottage set in idyllic location
within this historic village
• Retains many attractive original features
• 3 bedrooms, bathroom & 2 reception rooms
• Delightful gardens with attractive areas of lawn with
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• Decked patio.
• Greenhouse and garden shed
• Viewing highly recommended
Offers in
the region of
£229,500
Meidrim, Carmarthen
• Village location
• Victorian detached cottage
• 2 beds & bathroom
• Lounge & conservatory
• Kitchen
• DG & Oil central heating
• Front garden
• EPC rating 'D'
Offers in
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£145,000
Upper Tumble
• Detached period house
• Kitchen/living room & utility
• Lounge/dining room
• Sitting room & office
• 2/3 bedrooms & bathroom
• Oil fired C.H. & D.G.
• Spacious rear garden
• Parking & double garage
Manordeilo, Llandeilo
• Superb 0.50 acre holding
• Towy Valley location
• Wonderful views
• Refurbished bungalow
• 2 receptions & kitchen
• 4 bedrooms & bathroom
• EPC rating 'D'
Llanfynydd, Carmarthen
• A superb residential smallholding of 5 acres
• Set in a wonderful secluded location nestled in
glorious surroundings above the village of Llanfynydd
• Period farmhouse with wonderful recent extension
and range of traditional buildings which has planning
consent for a 3, 2 and 1 bedroom holiday cottages
• 4 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms & 3 reception rooms
• Upvc double glazing. Electric heating
• Pasture paddocks and amenity wildlife woodland
2
www.welshcountry.co.uk
Offers in
the region of
£239,500
Offers in
the region of
£265,000
• Attractive stone range
• Summer house
Offers in
the region of
£445,000

WELCOME
Croeso Welcome
Issue 88, May - June 2019
A
s I start trying to put some
thoughts together for this
piece my mind keeps thinking
about the weather. The last few
months have been weird, weatherwise
and of course my concerns are
always with those involved in our
Welsh tourism sector and know I will
not be alone in crossing my fingers
and hoping for a repeat of last year’s
stunning summer. I’m hoping more
people will decide to forget the gamble
on a foreign holiday with possible
currency worries and that they’ll
plump for a stay-cation, to holiday
at home and perhaps on their list of
possible destinations Wales will be
at the top of their list for this year. I
have to trust that Visit Wales has got
all their plans in place and are not
just focusing their efforts on getting
people from abroad to visit our shores.
Visit Wales must be targeting the UK
and Ireland and also not forget the
people already living here in Wales to
visit another area of the country. I’m
puzzled that many people in the north
rarely visit the south and vice versa
and of course that applies west to east
as well. Forgive me for mentioning
tourism on a regular basis but most
of us are aware how vital tourism is to
the Welsh economy.
Now back to my very favourite
topic and that’s Welsh food and drink
and I’m always looking forward to
May which is when our food festival
season kicks off. I was hoping for a
break for the Spring Bank holiday, but
the reality means I’ll be working and
visiting the Cowbridge Food & Drink
Festival and also the Really Wild Food
& Countryside Festival in St Davids,
Pembrokeshire. I’m delighted to see
that Really Wild is back in a new
venue after a lull for a couple of years
as it has always been a fun family
event with an emphasis on foraging,
whilst Cowbridge grows from strength
to strength as a festival and this year
has a focus on Veganism. Both these
festivals are favourites of mine and
hopefully you might be able to get to
one of them and if you do please come
and say hello.
As we run so early it’s quite a
struggle getting in ideas for Father’s
Day as companies are still sending
me press releases about Mother’s
Day and Easter! But I’ve got some
suggestions for Dad’s Day, so please
don’t forget to use our artists and
craft makers or maybe visit one of our
lovely restaurants or eateries or even
book a weekend away. We’ve lots of
suggestions for you.
Until next time…
Kath Rhodes, Editor
kath@welshcountry.co.uk
May - Jun 2019 3

Contents
11
16
COUNTRYSIDE
6 HEALTH - Many people in Wales
unaware of cancer care support services.
11 FISHING - Tony Rees Tony Rees is
happy as fishing on most lakes and
reservoirs has already commenced.
OUT & ABOUT
7 STORIES IN STONE - Geoff Brookes
shares the story of Gwenllian, our very
own fighting princess.
12 WELSH CONNECTIONS - Fishing
Folk. The Hickses of Angle, Pembrokshire,
in the 1950s/60s.
14 NATURE - Explaining how Golden
Eagles are being re-introduced into
Snowdonia.
16 WALKING IN WALES - Tom Hutton
goes on a lovely walk that starts in low,
lush woodland then climbs steadily
through colourful gorse that eventually
delivers you on the 2 highest summits in
the national park.
20 NEWSROUND - A snapshot of what’s
happening around Wales.
MEET, EAT, DRINK & SLEEP
22 BEST OF WELSH & BORDERS FOOD
GUIDE - Our easy way to source some of the
best food and drink in Wales & the Borders.
28 FOOD LARDER - News from our Best of Welsh
& Border producers.
29 FOOD FESTIVALS - Festival News.
30 WELSH FOOD & DRINK - Taking a look at the
Welsh Horticulture Industry.
32 WELSH KITCHEN - BerryWorld Blueberry,
Oat and Pecan Pancakes, British Asparagus &
Lamb Chop Tray Bake, Thai Style Chantenay
& Beef Salad, BerryWorld Gooseberry and Nut
Crumble.
34 HOT FROM THE KITCHEN - Super chef
Gareth Johns is delighted it’s the time of year
when we can look forward to a whole bunch of
good things.
34 LOCAL PRODUCE MARKETS - Please
support our local markets - Buy Local - Eat Local.
35 WHERE TO EAT - Fabulous food, much of it
local, in our super selection of bistros, inns pubs
and restaurants.
56 STAY A WHILE - Treat yourself to a break at
one of our perfect places.
4
www.welshcountry.co.uk

CONTENTS
32
67
38
Thai Style Chantenay
& Beef Salad
56
LIFESTYLE
36 PARSON & THE PUBLICAN
Our dynamic duo head visit
Hereford Cathedral & Diego's
Café.
38 PICTORIAL WALES - Talented
photographer Craig Kirkwood
showcases some of his work and his
new book.
43 ARTS - The latest news from some
of our artists.
46 PAMPER - Focus on Father's Day
and some beauty treats.
52 POTTING SHED - Ezra Bay
leaves the UK to traverse the globe
to visit his daughter and family in
New Zealand.
53 GARDENING - The National
Gardening Scheme takes a look at
the Early Summer Garden.
60 BOOKSHELF - Three varied book
reviews to perhaps take on holiday.
61 MUSIC - Some marvellous music
for you to enjoy.
61 GRUMPY OLD GEEZER -
Grumpy Old Geezer wonders
where Councils would be without
car parking cash?
62 COFFEE BREAK -Test your skills
with our crossword and sudoku
puzzles.
66 HOROSCOPES - Christine
Chalklin gives her forecast for May
and June.
67 NOTHING TO WEAR? -
Clothing temptation from:
Chatham, Jack Wolfskin, Mountain
Warehouse and Weird Fish.
22
REGULAR FEATURES
64 WELSH COUNTRY MARKETPLACE
Welsh Country is produced, published
and printed in Wales.
May - Jun 2019 5

Jonathan Dimbleby Chair of Dimbleby Cancer Care
Front Cover Image:
Golden Eagle by Lewis Phillips - read the full article on
page 14.
Address:
Aberbanc, Llandysul, Ceredigion, SA44 5NP
Tel: 01559 372010
E-mail: info@welshcountry.co.uk
Website: welshcountry.co.uk
To e-mail a member of staff:
use first name@welshcountry.co.uk
Editor: Kath Rhodes
Commercial Manager: Ian Mole
Artistic Designer: Russ Clarke-Wildeman
Illustrators: Richard Stockton, Charlotte Wood
Regular Writers / Photographers:
Ezra Bay, Geoff Brookes, Ian Charlesworth, Christine
Chalklin, Robert Dyer, Tom Hutton, Gareth Johns,
Anthony Rees MBE, Richard Stockton
Additional Writers / Photographers:
Dimbleby Cancer Care, Andrew Thomas, Lewis Phillips,
Craig Kirkwood
Publisher: Equine Marketing Ltd
Next Issue: On sale 1 st July
Subscriptions: Standard (UK) price for 6 issues per year
£14.00 inc p&p.
Welsh Country magazine is a family owned, independent
lifestyle magazine that’s available throughout Wales and
also on subscription. Welsh Country does not belong
to a newspaper group and is not funded by the Welsh
Government.
Welsh Country can be purchased from over 780 outlets,
including Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose.
Please call us on 01559 372010 if you have difficulty
purchasing a copy.
Cancer Support & Services
Unsure about cancer support and advice services in your
area? You’re not alone.
New research has revealed that people in Wales aren’t aware
of what support services are available to help them, their
family or friends, after a cancer diagnosis. For example,
over half of people in the region weren’t aware of emotional
support services, such as talking therapy or support groups,
while over three quarters also weren’t sure about the
availability of practical support.
However, a new resource is now available to help.
Charity Dimbleby Cancer Care has recently launched the
cancercaremap.org, an interactive directory to help those who
need it find local support services at the click of a button.
Developed over the past year, with the input of current and
former cancer patients, carers and clinical staff, the onestop-shop
features everything from NHS centres, charity
and community led groups to local businesses offering
special discounts.
“Five years ago, a friend asked me to find cancer services
for his wife. I realised very quickly that this was frighteningly
difficult to do, and that there was no comprehensive
resource to help me,” explains Jonathan Dimbleby chair
of Dimbleby Cancer Care and creator of the map. “We
wanted to create our own site to ensure that nobody facing
cancer, goes without the care they need; all you would
need is an internet connection and a postcode. The site
has already grown tremendously over the past year, and
we’re now incredibly excited to be officially launching the
cancercaremap.org and helping raise awareness across the
country of these much-needed services.”
You can find out more about the map, or let the team know
if there’s a service in your area you would like to add, here:
cancercaremap.org
6
www.welshcountry.co.uk

STORIES IN STONE
Gwenllian - Warrior Princess
“
The myth
tells us that she
was a warrior,
Wales’ own
Boadicea
”
Outside the castle in the heart of
the lovely town of Kidwelly, you
will find a fine Celtic memorial,
unveiled by Gwynfor Evans in 1991. It
stands there defiantly, as if confronting
the bulk of the Norman castle before it.
This memorial represents a fascinating and
unexpected story, even though it happened
so long ago, at a time when history and
myth are almost impossible to separate.
Because this is the story of Gwenllian, our
very own fighting princess.
The myth tells us that she was a warrior,
Wales’ own Boadicea, a beautiful wife
and mother, cut down too soon, who died
defending her people. The perfect flower
of a perfect race, assassinated by cynical,
leering foreigners, swinging her severed
head by her beautiful bloodstained curls, a
brutal death which has always represented
the oppression and the subjugation of the
Welsh. But she was never just a symbol.
She was a real person, living in difficult and
brutal times.
After the defeat of the English at the
Battle of Hastings in 1066, the Normans
spread unchecked across the whole of the
country, pushing ever further westwards and
on into Wales. For them this was a wild land
- remote, mountainous, threatening, sadly
the Welsh, typically perhaps, could find little
unity amongst themselves with which to face
a common enemy. For victory, the Normans
needed to do very little, other than to ensure
that the Welsh continued to disagree with
each other. Any minor victories the Welsh
had were always temporary ones and slowly
they were pushed out and replaced. The
Norman presence slowly but inevitably
changed parts of Wales forever.
This is how nations are truly defeated;
their culture is destroyed or driven
underground. It happened in Wales
when Flemish settlers were granted land,
particularly across the south, which loosened
the grip of the Welsh on their own country.
The clock could never be turned back.
May - Jun 2019 7

There were rebellions, with brutal attacks and brutal
reprisals. But only unity could effectively confront the
invaders and Gwenllian was the means by which just such
an alliance between north and south was briefly created.
Gwenllian was the youngest daughter of Gruffudd ap
Cynan, the king of Gwynedd and she married Gruffudd
ap Rhys, the son of Rhys ap Tewdur, king of Deheubarth,
in modern-day Carmarthenshire. It was a political alliance
but also, so legend has it, a love match too. She was born
on Anglesey at Aberffraw in 1097 and spent much of her
childhood in political exile in Ireland. She was born into
politics, into a family of Vikings and Irish kings. There are
those who believe that she was a tomboy, with long blonde
ringlets, who joined with her brothers in military training.
Of course this is complete conjecture, fanciful myth-making
that goes way beyond the historical record. No one can ever
know.
But over time, the myth of Gwenllian has been enriched
by so many romantic images. They say she eloped with her
lover, the charismatic Gruffudd ap Rhys, after he travelled
north to meet her father. This part might be a romantic
embellishment but it was certainly a politically astute union,
bringing together north and south.
They lived initially at the family home in Dinefwr and they
had to fight to maintain their position. Gruffudd ap Rhys’
success and reputation
grew in.attacks
on Carmarthen
and Kidwelly,
especially
“
Her name became a rallying
cry throughout the great
rebellion of 1136. “Revenge for
Gwenllian” was a chant that
accompanied the sacking of
Aberystwyth castle by troops
lead by her brothers.
”
since he re-distributed the wealth within the towns to the
local people. But a serious defeat at Plas Crug just outside
Aberystwyth sent the family into hiding in the hills and the
forests.
The unexpected death of Henry 1 in 1135 brought about
a confused and chaotic succession. Would it be Stephen or
Matilda? The response to this in Wales was the great revolt
of 1136.
It began in the south with the defeat of the Normans
at Penllergaer, on the edge of Gower, and it soon spread
throughout Wales. Perhaps this was the moment they had
been waiting for, when they could drive out the invaders.
Gruffudd went north to meet with his father-in -law
to plan their strategy, leaving Gwenllian behind. At this
moment, reinforcements for the Norman troops in
Kidwelly Castle under Maurice de Londres, landed in
Glamorgan and advanced westwards.
8
www.welshcountry.co.uk

STORIES IN STONE
Gwenllian, with her two youngest sons Maelgwn, 16, and
Morgan, 18, led out a force to intercept them. This is the
only known example of a medieval woman leading an army
of Welshmen into battle.
They marched secretly through the forest of Ystrad Tywi
to Kidwelly and camped two miles upstream alongside
the river Gwendraeth, at the foot of Mynydd y Garreg
and waited. She sent out detachments to intercept the reinforcements.
Legend has it however that they were betrayed by a local
called Gruffudd ap Llewelyn. In such fragmented and
uncertain politics there was always treachery. It was in truth
always going to be difficult. The Welsh were completely out
manoeuvred. Not only did the Normans evade the Welsh
detachment but also they circled around the encampment
and took up a position on Mynydd y Garreg. They attacked
at speed down the hill, whilst Maurice advanced from the
castle.
Gwenllian was trapped with her back to the river and the
remnants of her army were quickly hacked to pieces. It is
believed that Maelgwyn was killed when he threw his own
body in front of his mother to protect her. Morgan was
wounded and captured. He could only watch as Gwenllian
was taken prisoner and immediately beheaded.
The field where it took place is known as Maes Gwenllian,
a small piece of flat land between hill and river.
It was a brief and a bloody encounter, entirely successful
as far as the Normans were concerned, and of no more
importance than so many others. The victors write the
history after all. But for the Welsh the death of Gwenllian
had much greater significance. She became a nationalist
symbol. The warrior princess fighting for her family and
her country. There were legends, of course. A spring welled
up on the spot where her head fell. Her headless ghost
haunted the battlefield looking for her missing head. She
only found peace when her skull was recovered and buried.
An oppressed people needed a romantic heroine. But it is
unlikely that she ever was what the myths say, “A queen of
the Amazons”, riding out at the head of an army.
Her name became a rallying cry throughout the great
rebellion of 1136. “Revenge for Gwenllian”
was a chant that accompanied
the sacking of Aberystwyth castle by troops lead by her
brothers. Her name remained a badge of identity for
centuries after her death.
But history moved on. Her father and her husband
both died in 1137. Her story soon only survived in an oral
tradition, passed on by the travelling bards in the distant
valleys where the Welsh survived, in opposition to Norman
rule. And although it was Norman culture which represented
the future, outside their castles an older culture survived,
believing in symbols and portents, waiting for the spirits of
King Arthur and of Merlin to arise from their slumbers and
drive out the invaders, crying out, perhaps, “Revenge for
Gwenllian!”
She became part of their common heritage, a part of the
stubborn individuality and identity of the Welsh, always
ready to defy the odds.
As a symbolic figure her name carried more weight with
our ancestors than it does generally today. She features in the
ancestral line of the Tudor line of the present Royal family,
but with little recognition. She is just a name, with little of
the significance that she once possessed.
But she is remembered in Kidwelly. Hers has always been
a popular name there, and is remembered in the quieter lives
that are remembered more conventionally in the churchyard.
There is a school in her name, a street - Llys Gwenllian - a
Community Hall, a hotel. And a farm with the field in which
she died.
The site of the battle is a little way upstream along the
Gwendraeth river that curls around the foot of the castle. It
is just a field now, green and marshy, where a mother
and a son died and a legend was born, and then
slowly forgotten.
Words: Geoff Brookes
Illustration: Charlotte Wood
In Knives We Trust by Geoff Brookes
In this atmospheric murder mystery set in Swansea in 1880, the search is on to find Daniel
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dangerous conspiracy. The first in or a series visit featuring www.welshcountry.co.uk
Inspector Rumsey Bucke.
Available in popular
bookshops or online:
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£8.99
May - Jun 2019 9

Gwyl Tyddyn a Chefn Gwlad
Smallholding & Countryside Festival
18 & 19 Mai / May 2019
KIDS
GO FREE
OPEN
LATE
SATURDAY
Dathliad o dyddynnu a bywyd gweledig
A celebration of smallholding and rural life
#GŵylTyddyn #SmallholdingFestival cafc.cymru rwas.wales
28 - 29 May 2017 28 - 29 May 2017
e5638 Petersens 2019 RWAS Pembrokeshire
141x95mm Welsh Country.indd 1 15/01/2019 16:55
Fish Week Festival
Wythnos Bysgod
Sir Benfro 2019
Saturday 22 June - Sunday 30 June
Dydd Sadwrn 22 Mehefin - Dydd Sul 30 Mehefin
28 - 29 May 2017
Pembrokeshirefishweek
@Pembsfishweek
#fishweek
10
www.pembrokeshirefishweek.co.uk
www.welshcountry.co.uk

FISHING
Iron Blue Dun
picture by
Gavin Jehu
As I write this, storm Freya has been forecast as coming
in and the weather has turned from almost summer
conditions back to wild and wet.
Fishing on most lakes and reservoirs has already
commenced with Rainbow Trout being the quarry as the
season for brown trout on lakes and reservoirs came in on
20th March. The rivers however opened on the 3rd March
but the above storm will put a damper on any fishing as water
levels in the rivers will rise very quickly.
A popular fishing beat on the river Usk at Abergavenny
came on the market where Monmouth Council were looking
for someone to run the fishing and at the same time make it
available to the local people. Interested parties were asked to
put in a tender and three local angling clubs keen to keep it as
a local fishery were successful in the tender. Working together,
Merthyr Tydfil Angling Alliance, Gwent Angling, and Isca
Anglers, who all have other fishing close to Abergavenny,
were successful. In keeping with the requirements permits
for the day, week, and season they will be available at the
Keith Price Volvo dealership in Abergavenny and at the petrol
station kiosk. Permits are also available through the Wye Usk
Foundation.
This is a first in Wales where three associations have come
together in a joint bid that will benefit their members but at
the same time keep the fishing for the local residents.
Moving on we are now into May and the start of the
evening fishing. With longer days but still the chance of cold
spells when the Iron Blue Dun, a fly not spoken of as much
these days, is well worth a try as is the Snipe and purple.
During the day a floating sedge in and under the trees along
the river bank can be a deadly pattern. It is amazing how the
way we fish for trout on the fly has changed with the advent
of more man made materials that were not available years ago.
In those days the materials were silk, fur, and feather with the
oval and flat tinsel in various sizes in silver and gold and most
flies tied by hand. In contrast to today the array of materials
and styles of fishing almost need a university degree to be able
to do justice to their use.
The Salmon and Trout Conservation is based in England
but has a Welsh Branch Salmon and Trout conservation
Cymru contact wales@salmon-trout.org. They have been
working on a scientific approved river census in Wales over
the last three years and their findings give cause for concern
regarding what are the hidden dangers of losing some of our
most important: Insects (which make up 97% of all animal
species) have declined 59% since 1970. The following is taken
from a recent mailing:
They are the Foundation of life: Small but all-sustaining,
insects are food for our wild fish, birds and mammals. Without
invertebrates, the food web would collapse. They are:
The Foundation of Life
“
Small but all-sustaining, insects
are food for our wild fish, birds and
mammals. Without invertebrates,
the
food web would collapse.
”
Long-term health indicators: As nymphs, insects are
constantly exposed to the water, sometimes for years. A water
sample would only give you river health information for a
single point in time.
Excellent storytellers: Every invertebrate is unique,
thriving in a specific set of conditions. The types of bugs
present and absent from a sample indicate what pressures a
river may be experiencing.
Anglers have been aware for many years of the importance
of carrying out Fly monitoring and many sources of pollution
have been pin pointed by anglers carrying out this work.
The problem of agricultural pollution is still a major topic
in Wales and it does not look as though this will go away
in the short term. The Rivers Trusts in Wales through their
CEO Dr Stephen Marsh Smith OBE wrote to the European
Commissioner to complain about the problem in Wales. The
complaint has been registered and it was only then that the
Welsh Assembly Government seemed to take notice.
The inquiry into the new Welsh Salmon Bylaws has taken
place and due to the snowy weather it was postponed for
a month so consequently it will be a month late before the
inspectors report would be available. England took the
common sense approach but here in Wales the Minister went
for the public inquiry. We must ask in these times of austerity
whether the cost will justify the result. All this has done is to
make relations between anglers and Natural Resources Wales
more fragile when they really needed to be working together
to protect our precious natural environment.
A damming report from the Welsh Assembly indicates how
badly run and the waste of money that Natural Resources
Wales have presided over since it was formed, as well as the
loss of highly qualified staff.
Words: Tony Rees
Picture: Ceri Thomas
May - Jun 2019 11

Fishing Folk
the Hickses of Angle,
Pembrokeshire,
in the 1950s/60s
Angle lies in a shallow valley, on the
tip of the Pembroke peninsula, and
is practically surrounded by the sea,
the Milford Haven waterway to the north and
the Atlantic to the south. You can’t go on: the
next stop is Ireland, miss that and you end up
in New York!
The Hickses lived in a flat-roofed,
castellated house overlooking a tidal creek
which fed into Angle Bay, a convenient
situation as Cecil, the father of the family,
had once been a coxswain of the Angle
lifeboat, the house he and his family occupied
was built in 1909 so as to be near the
station.
Later it became an even more convenient location for
earning a living as they were fishing folk, selling their catch
throughout the village.
The family, when I knew them in the 1950s/60s, consisted
of Cecil, his son Alastair, and daughters Margie and
Audrey, though other offspring had flown the nest. One
son, Billy, went to Plymouth and visited Angle, particularly
at Christmas, bringing two pretty daughters with him, they
kindly providing some of the pictures for this article.
Cecil and Margie I knew well as they both sang, like me,
in the Angle church choir, the former an old man who was
hard of hearing and often, though he had a fine bass voice,
singing a bar or two behind everyone else which didn't
Freshwater West laver-weed hut by Roger MacCallam
The Hicks family
please his daughter. She gave him a stern look from her
choir stall to the one behind where my brother, Peter, sat
next to Cecil, he finding the pages in Hymns Ancient and
Modern for him.
He was a lovely-natured old man. A pipe smoker, he smelt
of tobacco and had a sweet smile. He wore navy-blue serge
trousers and a blue woollen pullover, peaked sailors' cap, and
a broad belt with an integral money pouch.
Not that, I suppose, he had much money; but he kept at
home a bottle of rum, providing me with my first experience
of alcohol.
Visiting him on one occasion with my father, the village
parson, I recoiled when plied with some of this potent liquor,
a reaction which amused both Cecil and my father as they
drank the contents of their glasses happily enough.
The fish the Hickses mostly caught (and it would have
been Alastair who did the catching, his father, Cecil,
mending the nets draped over the wall) were flatfish, caught
in Angle Bay. They were delivered by Margie, alive and
kicking, for my mother to deal with: the head first, and then
the guts!
But it wasn't only fish they caught: the womenfolk
rode their bikes to nearby Freshwater West where they
collected the laver weed from the rocks and brought it back,
distributing the strange black stuff to those of us who loved
it, an acquired taste as I find it's only people from Swansea
westwards who like it.
12
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welsh connections
“
In many ways the
Hickses family practised
subsistence farming,
a way of life just about
engaged in in the postwar
Angle I knew.
They were the last of a
hardy people, experts
at what they did.
”
Back in the day when the
weed gathering was more of a local
industry, it was dried in huts, one
of which has been restored and which is now a
well-known landmark overlooking the magnificent bay.
It was the Hickses who operated the last hut. There
were once as many as twenty from which the laver weed
was transported by horse and cart, and later by lorry, to
Pembroke station.
In many ways the Hickses family practised subsistence
farming, a way of life just about engaged in in the post-war
Angle I knew. They were the last of a hardy people, experts
at what they did.
But what a benefit to those of us who ate what they caught
and garnered, fresh food from out of the sea and rocks
surrounding us.
Years later, I wrote a poem about the Hickses, imagining
myself as Cecil in old age:
Old fisherman
Cecil Hicks
Too old now I sit in the evening sun
and watch the slow tide flooding in and out.
I mend the high draped nets when I can
though my joints won't stoop down to the lobster pots.
My son Billy takes all the boats out now;
I've told him where the fattest flatfish lie
and where the mackerel are and where to row.
He'll soon be home on the late evening tide.
The girls they work the rocks some miles away,
stripping the strewn black laver-weed,
a way of life that nowadays doesn't pay;
but I like it for supper, oatmealed, fried.
It's chilly here. When will the children come?
Ah, Billy's home: I hear his outboard's hum.
Words: Andrew Thomas
Audrey, Cecil, Alastair, Sidney
Angle Bay by Roger MacCallum
May - Jun 2019 13

Re-Introducing Eagles
Back Into Snowdonia
Two years ago I wrote a piece wondering about the chances of
re-introducing Eagles back into Wales. Since then, a lot of
work has been undertaken and an exciting project has
been proposed by Wilder Britain to re-introduce the Golden
Eagle, Aquila Chrysaetos.
The proposed area for the project would be the
mountains of Snowdonia. The name Snowdonia is
historic proof that the Golden Eagle once graced these
mountains and the name Snowdonia was derived from
the term abode/land of eagles. Indeed around twenty
towns and villages in Wales actually have an association
with eagles.
Golden Eagles are an apex predator yet they have a
shy presence. The Golden Eagle is a bird that would
stay well clear of human activity. During their lifetime
once they have bonded with another eagle they will mate
for life. They have their own home range and advertise
this space with long soaring flights notifying other eagles
of their territory. Each home range hosts a number of night
dwellings known as eyries, normally found on high craggy
peaks. They rely on birds and mammals for their main income of
food, however they are also a carrion eating bird, providing us with
a natural dustman of the countryside. These eagles are also very agile
and while they don’t do this too often Golden Eagles have been documented
covering speeds in a stoop of 150 mph to attack their prey.
14
www.welshcountry.co.uk

NATURE
The eagles are only part of a much larger project, one
small piece of the jigsaw puzzle towards a greater goal,
upland restoration. Wilder Britain wants to successfully
re-introduce the birds and use them as an icon towards this
goal. Currently our uplands need complete restoration, with
tree management, wild meadows, good river systems and
other apex species to improve a currently poor ecosystem.
Wilder Britain along with Lancaster university have been
undertaking a number of studies to see if the environment in
Snowdonia will be fit to release a small population of Golden
Eagles back into the wild. These birds will be monitored
daily and have the most up to date GPS tracking systems for
monitoring.
Not only would this be a great step towards a high profile
re introduction but it would improve tourism, the economy
and assist the Welsh Government to meet its biodiversity
commitments.
The next steps will be to hold a number of local public
consultations with stakeholders and the general public for
engagement. In these meetings a number of things will be
discussed to find out will livestock be affected and what
could it mean for the local economies and of course the
safety of the birds. It could set a precedent for conservation
in Wales and maybe return an icon to the Welsh skies.
For more info on this project visit www.wilderbritain.com
Words & Pictures: Lewis Phillips
“
Not only would this be a great
step towards a high profile
re-introduction but it would
improve tourism, the economy and
assist the Welsh Government to
meet its biodiversity commitments.
”
May - Jun 2019 15

The views are spectacular
in all directions
2
1
5
The BRECON
BEACONS
3
4
©Crown copyright 2019 Ordnance Survey. Media 041/19
16
www.welshcountry.co.uk

WALKING IN WALES
The Brecon Beacons
You’ll often hear the phrase ‘Pen y Fan
Horseshoe’ or ‘Brecon Beacons Horseshoe’
yet th ere are actually quite a few contenders
for these titles, with this one being one of the more
esoteric. It’s a lovely walk though, starting low, in lush
woodland, full of life, and climbing steadily through
colourful gorse onto an airy ridge that eventually
delivers you on the 2 highest summits in the national
park. The views are spectacular in all directions from
here, as is the descent path - a steep, rocky rampart
that feels daring but is never difficult. More ridgeline
walking follows before a pioneering section off the
beaten track gets you back to where you started.
1
6
2
3
4
5
6
Keep heading up the track with the
stream down to your left and you’ll
soon see another track leading off sharp
right. Take this, bear left at the top of
the ramp and continue to a stile in the
corner. Now stay with the footpath,
crossing a succession of stiles to some
buildings, which you keep to your left.
Follow the left hand field edge and
continue over two more stiles onto a
hedged track.
1
2
3
4
5
May - Jun 2019 17

1
6
2
1
3
4
5
6
Turn left onto this, pass a
Pen Milan National Trust
and continue out onto
open hillside. Keep heading
straight up, although there’s
no discernible path to start
with, and then break right
into a deep groove that
then traverses the steep
hillside. This eventually
makes a sharp switchback
to climb steeply onto Pen
Milan. Stay with the path
at the top and continue
south, following either the
grassy ridge top track or
the clearer path that runs
along the escarpment edge.
Continue past the Tommy
Jones Memorial - a place to
stop and reflect - and carry
on up onto the rock-topped
summit of Corn Du, which
offers wonderful views
back north to Cwm Llwch
and your approach path,
as well as your first look at
the southern cwms and the
Neuadd Reservoirs.
1
2
6
3
2
1
4
3
5
2
4
5
6
Scramble easily down
the steep sandstone steps
and as it levels, walk right
slightly to take in the full
scale of the imposing north
face - this is regularly
scaled when covered with
snow and ice in winter.
Now continue easily along
the ridge top – delightful
walking – eventually
climbing to pt. 701m.
Drop again and then, just
as the path starts to climb
once more, fork left onto
a grassy path that leads to
the quarry ruins of Cwar
Mawr. Continue down this
path for a few more metres
and then break left to
freelance over the bilberry
to the spur of Twyn y
Dyfnant. This is a great
spot with plenty of rocky
shelves to shelter behind
and spectacular views back
south to the summits.
3
4
5
2
1
3
2
4
5
6
With the first peak in
the bag, the bulk of the
work is done so head east
into the broad col that
divides the two summits
and then climb easily on
a well-surfaced path onto
the summit of Pen y Fan
– marked with a National
Trust plaque. Head south
from the summit to peer
over the precipitous northeast
face, and then locate
a steep and rough descent
path, due north of the
summit cairn.
3
4
5
18
www.welshcountry.co.uk

WALKING IN WALES
3
2
4
3
5
4
6
Now follow a faint and very
steep path down the
apex of the spur eventually
reaching a gate at the
bottom. Go through and
bear right and then left
to follow the edge of the
woodland down to an old
wall at the bottom. Turn left
and then right to continue
downwards with a fence to
your right. At the bottom
you’ll join a good track
that leads through a gate
and over the stream to
deliver you back to the
parking area.
5
Distance:
Time:
Start/Finish:
Paths:
Maps:
Nearest Town:
Tourist Information:
6 miles (10km)
4 hours
Nant Cwm Llwch SO006244
Mainly easy going on clear paths over high
mountains but one steep rocky descent
and a couple of untracked sections, where
careful navigation may be required.
OS Explorer Series (1:25 000) OL12
Brecon
Brecon - Tel: (01874) 622485
Words & Pictures: Tom Hutton
May - Jun 2019 19

Newsround
Wales’ Report Roundup - Compiled by Kath Rhodes
'Cream Of The Crop'
Employers and
inspirational individuals
who have excelled in
apprenticeship, skills and
employment training
programmes delivered by
one of Wales’ top training
companies were recognised
at an annual awards night.
Cambrian Training
Company (CTC),
which has its head
office in Welshpool and
offices in Builth Wells,
Holyhead, Colwyn Bay
and Llanelli, held its third
annual Apprenticeship,
Employment and Skills
Awards at the International
Pavilion on the Royal Welsh
Showground, Builth Wells.
Fifteen companies and
learners from across Wales
who are engaged with
programmes delivered by
the company had been
shortlisted, with CTC
Managing Director, Arwyn
Watkins OBE, describing
them as the “cream of the
crop” from more than
2,500 apprentices and
600 employers currently
working with their support.
Winners of each category
will have the chance to
be put forward for the
prestigious Apprenticeship
Awards Cymru, which
are jointly organised by
the National Training
Federation for Wales and
the Welsh Government later
this year.
2019 Winners
Large Employer of the Year:
Powys County Council’s Waste and
Recycling Department: Brecon
Medium Employer of the Year:
Radnor Hills, Knighton
Small Employer of the Year:
Brød – The Danish Bakery, Cardiff
Foundation Learner of the Year:
Andrew Bennett, Bryson Recycling,
Abergele
Apprentice of the Year:
Rebekah Chatfield, Brød – The
Danish Bakery, Cardiff
Higher Apprentice of the Year:
Angharad Price-Evans, Stena Line,
Holyhead
Visit: cambriantraining.com
Events Recycling
Llanwrtyd Wells Community Transport and Events
Recycling is a voluntary ‘not for profit’ organisation that
became operational in 2002. The initial aim was to provide
transport for all, because public transport is somewhat
limited in this area. To become self-funding, the company
branched out and is now registered as a professional dealer/
broker of controlled waste. It has been responsible for
providing recycling at many events, not least The Royal
Welsh Showground.
To bring in more revenue a glass imploder was purchased
to make the recycled glass into sharp free cullet in sizes from
250 micron dust to 10mm, which has many uses including
landscaping and when mixed with concrete or resin, makes
home and garden ornaments to sell.
The organisation provides the following services to the
community and surrounding areas: Daily Shoppa buses,
volunteer drivers using their own vehicles to take people
to medical appointments etc., monthly day trips, the
community garden and Tuesday and Thursday Drop-Ins at
the Community Centre based at Llanwrtyd Station where
there are also facilities for meetings and seminars.
For further details visit: lanwrtydcommunitytransport.org.uk
or 01982 552727/551295.
Ysgol Pontfadog
Lessons end at Ysgol Pontfadog
in the Ceiriog Valley this summer
after a last-ditch legal bid to save it
failed. Despite a four-and-a-half hour
court hearing in Cardiff last month,
a challenge against the closure was
unsuccessful. Wrexham councillors
decided to close the English-medium primary school at an
emotionally-charged meeting in last August. It came despite
more than 1,300 objections against the plan to send pupils
to the dual-language Ysgol Cynddelw two miles away. The
authority said demand for English-medium education was
falling, but campaigners disputed that claim as most families
in the area spoke English rather than Welsh.
Following a meeting, senior Wrexham councillors had
indicated they were "willing to consider gifting the school
and grounds to the local community in the long-term". Now
Glyntraian Community Council, which took part in the
campaign to save the school, will now consult local residents
about options for the future use of the building. According
to the Local Democracy Reporting Service this school
closure is expected to save Wrexham County Borough
Council almost £100,000.
20
www.welshcountry.co.uk

NEWSROUND
New Name & Spring Menu At yrEos
Nanteos Mansion in Ceredigion has announced a new
name for their restaurant, yrEos, alongside the launch of a
new spring menu. Eos means the nightingale bird, which
reflects the nightingales that once lived near the stream on
the estate.
The new spring menu includes starters of salt baked
beetroot and cured pork belly, with starters priced from
£7. Main courses include cannon of Welsh lamb, Welsh
lamb navarin, traditional fish and chips, slow cooked rib
of beef and Welsh rib eye steak. Main courses are priced
from £13.50 to £23.50.
Built in 1738, Nanteos is a beautiful 22-bedroom
Georgian house located on a 30-acre country estate close
to Aberystwyth. The estate consists of woodland and
private parkland and the historic house sits against the
backdrop of the rugged Cambrian Mountains. The hotel
boasts unrivalled views of the lake and surrounding Welsh
countryside.
yrEos is open for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner every day. Sunday lunch is served from
12 until 2.30pm, with a traditional roast that changes weekly.
Head chef, Gerwyn Jones, began work at Nanteos in 2013, under chef patron, Nigel
Jones. Gerwyn went on to work at Ynyshir for several years, before returning to Nanteos as
head chef in 2016. Gerwyn is originally from West Wales and grew up in the local area, he
aims to source produce from local suppliers wherever possible, focusing on the best tasting
ingredients. His signature dish is cured pork belly with apple terrine which is featured on the
five course tasting menu. There are five and eight course tasting menus available every day,
starting from £50 per person. All menus change with the seasons.
Tel: 01970 600522 to book a table or visit :www.nanteos.com
Environmental Improvements
A Gwynedd councillor has recently teamed up with various agencies to improve his village’s local environment and amenities.
Councillor Peter Garlick, Bontnewydd, has led on the project to clear litter in his ward and has also transformed a former
roadside recycle centre on the outskirts of the village into an attractive sitting area for locals and passers-by on the busy road
nearby. Councillor Garlick has been busy collecting litter throughout his ward since being elected and has recently teamed up
with Keep Wales Tidy and Gwynedd Council’s Tidy Towns, who both supported his efforts and supplied him with equipment.
The local housing association Cartrefi Cymunedol Gwynedd have also been part of the partnership helping the councillor to
tidy up and transform the redundant recycle centre, together with the local
primary school children from Ysgol Bontnewydd and local PCSOs.
Councillor Garlick said: “There is great potential in our village and we all
need communities that we can be proud of. It’s surprising what can be done
by doing the little things, such as litter picking, cutting grass and also, with
a little imagination, transforming a bit of an eyesore into an amenity area
for the community. This was all done quite easily really and, as residents, we
are very grateful for the charitable donations and co-operation with all the
agencies involved, together with the community councils.”
May - Jun 2019 21

Best of Welsh
and Borders
Our Best of Welsh and Borders listing
is your guide to sourcing a mouth
watering array of produce from Wales
and its Borders. Most producers have
mail order services available or you
can meet our producers, passionate
about their wonderful produce, at
your local food markets and food
festivals throughout the year. You can
also visit our website where you can
read their latest news and find links
straight through to them.Welcome to
the cream of the Welsh crop…
North Wales Mid Wales
South West Wales South Wales
BUY LOCAL - EAT LOCAL
north wales
Welsh Lady Preserves
Gwynedd
We have been proudly creating jams, curds,
chutneys, mustards and sauces since 1966.
Lovingly handmade in open copper pans,
our award-winning preserves are made with
care by our family to yours.
+44 (0)1766 810496
www.welshladypreserves.com
Maggie's Exotic Foods
Gwynedd
A Taste of the Soul of Africa from the heart
of Maggie. Vegan and vegetarian friendly,
free from gluten, eggs, dairy and nuts.
Spice mixes, sauces.
chilli@maggiesexotic.com
www.maggies-exotic-foods.com
Purple Moose Brewery
Gwynedd
Award-winning brewery producing five
beers in cask conditioned & bottled format.
Also a new craft range introduced in 2017.
Available throughout Wales and beyond,
but also from our online shop.
+44 (0)1766 515571
www.purplemoose.co.uk
The Coconut Kitchen
Gwynedd
Developed, over 11 years, by Head Chef
Preechaya from The Coconut Kitchen
restaurant in Abersoch. All her best dishes
are available in retail packs, fully seasoned
and ready to cook in minutes.
L coconut1kitchen
www.thecoconutkitchen.co.uk
Daffodil Foods
Gwynedd
Award winning Welsh cultured products
- luscious yogurts, desserts and soured
cream - made with fresh Welsh milk are
sold across Wales in Asda, Morrisons,
independent shops and distributors.
+44 (0)1758 770005
www.daffodilfoods.co.uk
South Caernarfon Creameries
Gwynedd
Wales’ oldest farmer-owned dairy cooperative.
Nestling in the foothills of
Snowdonia, we are dedicated, quality
cheese makers and distributors of Welsh
dairy products under the Dragon brand.
+44 (0)1766 810251
www.dragonwales.co.uk
Forte’s Ice Cream
Conwy
We make each of our ice creams from our
original 1926 recipe using only the finest
ingredients. 35 amazing flavours of ice
creams, sorbets and frozen yoghurts on
offer!
+44 (0)1492 876739
www.fortesicecream.co.uk
Llaeth y Llan
Conwy
Family run business taking local Welsh
wholesome milk and creating yummy
artisan yogurts in all kinds of flavours
and sizes. They’re available through
independent shops, delis, multi-retailers
and wholesalers throughout Wales.
+44 (0)1745 540256
villagedairy.co.uk
Blas ar Fwyd
Conwy
Blas ar Fwyd is a North Wales based fine
food & wine retailer, wholesaler & caterer
with a Wales-wide distribution network,
quality delicatessen and cafe-bar.
+44 (0)1492 640215
www.blasarfwyd.com
Conwy Brewery
Conwy
Cask and bottled ales of the highest quality
with the best range in north Wales. We
are proud of our Welsh roots; all beers are
brewed and bottled at our brewery.
+44 (0)1492 514305
www.conwybrewery.co.uk
Siwgr a Sbeis,
Conwy
Based in Llanrwst at the heart of Snowdonia.
Producers of traditionally-made cakes,
desserts and quiches, with many recognised
awards for both products and business.
Chilled deliveries throughout North Wales,
Mid Wales and the Borders.
+44 (0)1492 641940
www.siwgrasbeis.co.uk
The Little Cheesemonger,
Denbighshire
A specialist Cheese shop full of Artisan
goodies. A wide selection of fine cheese
from Wales to Europe. Gift hampers,
Wedding Cheese Towers and hand selected
foods from small producers.
+44 (0)1745 591906
www.thelittlecheesmonger.co.uk
22
www.welshcountry.co.uk

est of welsh & borders
Celtic Spirit Company
Anglesey
The oldest spirit company in Wales.
Producer of high quality spirits and liqueurs
from family recipes, dating back to the
1890s, including award-winning Black
Mountain and Danzy Jones liqueurs.
+44 (0)1407 730021
www.celticspirit.co.uk
Toffoc Ltd
Anglesey
Triple distilled finest UK grain vodka, infused
with our unique toffee, giving that golden
taste only found in TOFFOC. Available from
all Welsh ASDA stores.
+44 (0)1248 852921
www.toffoc.com
Condessa Welsh Liqueurs
Anglesey
Situated on the Isle of Anglesey, Condessa
specialise in the production of awardwinning
liqueurs: Original Welsh Cream,
Praline Welsh Cream, Apricot, Black Cherry
& Sloe Gin.
+44 (0)1407 730021
www.condessa.co.uk
Cariad Bakery
Anglesey
“Love Gluten Free” award winning scrummy
cakes, bakes and natural confectionery
handmade with love not gluten by mother
and daughter team. Loved by Coeliacs, with
dairy free cakes available too.
+44 (0)1248 471080
https://cariadbakery.cymru
The Hut
Flintshire
Our custom-made shepherd’s hut is located
on the slopes of Moel Famau, serving
artisan coffee and homemade cakes to
hungry walkers and cyclists. Opening hours
vary (see website for details)
+44 (0)7906 402 074
www.thehutmoelfamau.com
Hufenfa’r Castell
Harlech
Delectable dilemmas of delicious ice cream,
Welsh whole milk, double cream, British
sugar blended with fresh fruits and flowers
from the hills & gardens of Harlech. Magical
flavours from spring to autumn.
+44 (0)7810 164547
www.hufenfa.co.uk
MID WALES
T Samways
Ceredigion
A high class, PGI registered, butcher with
traditional values using modern technology
to help produce meat that tastes as it used
to, but surpassing the rigorous modern food
safety standards.
+44 (0)1239 621225
C T Samways High Class Butcher
Merlin Cheeses
Ceredigion
Offering a range of handmade and unique
tasting cow’s milk Cheddar cheeses
created by infusing different herbs, spices
and fruits. We sell to wholesale, to shops, at
Food Festivals and online.
+44 (0)1974 282808
www.merlincheeses.com
Tŷ Nant Spring Water Limited
Ceredigion
Award winning Tŷ Nant Natural Mineral
Water in iconic cobalt and crimson bottles,
a unique ripple-effect plastic range, and
TAU Spring Water in clear bottles, enjoying
a deserved reputation for world-wide
excellence.
+44 (0)1974 272 111
www.tynant.com
The Big Bite
Ceredigion
Delicious home-made baguettes,
sandwiches and cakes all made using
quality ingredients. We also stock artisan
scotch eggs & sausage rolls , and made to
order gourmet salad pots, all great food for
on the go!
+44 (0)1239 613006
thebigbite29b@hotmail.co.uk
Da Mhile Distillery
Ceredigion
Independent award winning farmhouse
distillery and tasting gallery in west Wales
producing organic whisky, gins and orange
33 liqueur. Wales distilled. Tours available:
Mon-Fri: start 3pm.
+44 (0)1239 851528
www.damhile.co.uk
Cardigan Bay Brownies
Ceredigion
The home of the best chocolate brownies in
west Wales! Succulent moist brownies in the
most delicious flavours from traditional choc
& salted caramel to Turkish delight & Nutella.
+44 (0)7403624801
nerys1971@icloud.com
Llanllyr SOURCE
Ceredigion
Llanllyr water is one of the finest and most
perfectly balanced spring waters in the world.
Plus our range of ginger ale and beers, tonics,
lemonade, bitter lemon and club soda.
+44 (0)1570 470788
www.llanllyrsource.com
Cnwcy Manal Cakes
Ceredigion
Bespoke bakes in Wales. Specialising in
custom made cakes, cupcakes & baked
bouquets for all occasions to make your
special day extra special ..... Made with love
just for you.
+44 (0)1239 810213
C Cnwcymanal Cupcakes
Conti’s Café
Ceredigion
Now opened at the National Trust
Tearooms in Llanerchaeron and open every
day from 10:30 until 4:30. Serving freshly
cooked meals using local produce, our
award winning ice cream. Free parking.
+44 (0)1570 422223
www.contisicecream.com
New Quay Honey Farm
Ceredigion
We produce coarse filtered raw honey &
traditional aged honey mead, with high
quality and special taste. With Live Hives
Exhibition, Shop & Tea room See website
for times.
+44 (0)1545 560822
www.thehoneyfarm.co.uk
Queens Bakery
Ceredigion
Traditional bakers with wide range of
breads to suit all tastes. Delicious range of
cakes/ pastries always available. With local
beers speciality gins artisan cheeses great
for gifts or to treat yourself.
+44 (0)1239 612110
Welsh Gluten Free Bakery Products
Ceredigion
Gluten Free Bakery products for Coeliacs,
a range of breads, tarts and other options
from shops in the area. Try our Great Taste
Award 2017 Brown Seeded bread or try our
new bloomer bread and Italian flat breads.
+44 (0)1559 363766
www.wgfbakeryproducts.co.uk
May - Jun 2019 23

Caffi Carn Alw Market Hall
Ceredigion
Serving lite bites, quality coffee and
speciality teas. Good wholesome food,
homemade by us, served to a high standard
and always a warm welcome. New Carvery
served 12 - 2pm.
+44 (0)1239 621695
C Caffi Carn Alw Upper Market Hall
The People’s Market
Ceredigion
Created to show case local food drink & craft
producers in and around Lampeter, held at
the Victoria Hall every 2nd and 4th Saturday
of the month between 10am and 1pm
+44 (0)7891 632614
C The People’s Market, Lampeter
Deli Delights
Ceredigion
The Deli Delights Kitchen Cookery
Workshops for Adults and Children, also
available at a venue to suit you. Now offering
Residential cookery holidays, see website
for details.
+44 (0)1239 810928
www.delidelightswales.co.uk
Teifi Farmhouse Cheese
Ceredigion
We use traditional methods, using organic
raw milk and local ingredients, to make high
quality multi award-winning artisan cheeses.
In fact, Teifi Cheese are the most highly
awarded cheesemakers in Britain.
+44 (0)1239 851528
www.teificheese.co.uk
Cegin Mam Gu
Ceredigion
Vegan/Vegetarian caterer producing
delicious food using natural flavours and
spices, using locally sourced ingredients and
eco friendly packaging. Catering for small
dinner parties, celebrations & events.
+44 (0)7376 113621
C @ceginmamgu
Montgomeryshire Spring Water Co
Powys
Spring waters of outstanding natural taste.
The hills of Montgomeryshire provide
an excellent variety of minerals which
contribute to the fine taste of our still,
sparkling and flavoured water.
+44 (0)1588 622900
www.montgomeryspring.co.uk
Monty’s Brewery
Powys
Founded near Montgomery, Monty’s
Brewery produces a range of regular and
seasonal beers. Specialising in gluten free
beers including award winning Dark Secret,
Masquerade and new low alcohol beer 1267.
+44 (0)1686 668933
www.montysbrewery.co.uk
Pennant Valley Game
Powys
Game Meat products locally and ethically
sourced from the beautiful surroundings
of Mid Wales. Tradition and innovation
meet to provide quality, unique, tasty Welsh
produce.
+44 (0)1691 860297
https://wildwelshmeat.co.uk
Beacons Farm Shop
Powys
Welsh Venison Centre, offers a range of
home produced venison, beef, lamb, local
bread, eggs, cheese and other deli items.
There is also a coffee shop with stunning
views.
Shop: Mon - Sat 7:30 - 5:00 or online.
+44 (0)1874 730929
www.beaconsfarmshop.co.uk
Bee Welsh Honey
Powys
A professional apiarist producing honey
from his own bee hives around Mid Wales.
A winner at many UK and international
competitions and awards, including Best in
Show at the Royal Welsh.
+44 (0)7794 564286
beewelshhoney@gmail.com
Derwen Farm Shop
Powys
Specialising in quality local fresh free-range
meat, local & international cheeses & daily
deliveries of fresh fruit and vegetables, local
& seasonal. An in-store kitchen produces
mouth-watering cakes, pies, pastries &
quiches.
+44 (0)1938 551586
www.derwenfarmshop.co.uk
Welsh Sausage Company
Powys
Award-winning Welsh farmhouse sausages
using Welsh pork, beef & lamb. Available
in a range of flavour combinations from
Traditional to Mediterranean & Indian
inspired. Sausages as they used to be!
+44 (0)1938 553365
www.langfords-foodhall.co.uk
Morgan’s Brew Tea
Powys
We have a tea selection of 46 teas to
tickle your taste buds. From black tea to
caffeine free, from Herbal Infusions to Fruit
infusions, all mixed for your enjoyment.
(0)1938 552303
www.morgansbrewtea.co.uk
Ty Mawr Kitchen Garden
Powys
Offering a wide range of our own fresh
produce and preserves, as well as that
of other local and some certified organic
suppliers. Organic gardening courses are
also available.
+44 (0)7949 396589
www.lime.org.uk/products/the-kitchengarden.html
Fingers and Forks
Powys
A family run catering business operating
throughout mid Wales and the Marches.
We are dedicated to using only the finest
ingredients and whenever possible source
from local producers, many of whom are
organic.
+44 (0)1597 850095
www.fingersandforks.com
Radnor Preserves
Powys
An artisan manufacturer of handmade
preserves creating exquisite marmalades,
chutneys, jellies and preserves, using the
finest natural ingredients of the highest
quality, sourced locally as far as possible.
+44 (0)1497 870007
www.radnorpreserves.com
Ty Gwyn Cider
Herefordshire
Award winning farm cider served in many of
Monmouthshire and Herefordshire’s leading
gastro pubs and restaurants. Purchase
from their cider shop/licensed cider bar or
from specialist retailers. Trade enquiries
welcome.
+44 (0)1981 241181
www.tygwyncider.co.uk
Landsker Business Solutions provides business support
and advice to organisations throughout Wales
Whitland 01994 240631 | Email: hello@landsker.co.uk
Please call us for an
initial, confidential
discussion to see
how we can help.
24
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est of welsh & borders
SOUTH WEST wales
Cothi Valley
Carmarthenshire
Delicious baked goods, croissants, pasties,
tarts, made with goats’ milk, cheese or
meat. Pork pies, sausage rolls & Christmas
pork hampers. The home of ‘Goatylicious’
fresh, raw goats’ milk.
Richardbeard01@btconnect.com
C @cothivalley
Cusan Liqueurs
Carmarthenshire
Homemade cream low-alcohol drinks
based on fine spirits with fresh cream,
which offers an amazingly smooth &
delicious taste!
There is a range of 12 different flavours.
cusancreamliqueur@icloud.com
C cusanliqueurs
Rhosyn Farm Produce
Carmarthenshire
Welsh Meat supplier of the year in Wales
2017/ 2018. Old Spot pork, sausages,
bacon, Herdwick lamb and mutton and
Guernsey goat. Box scheme, farm gate and
telephone sales. Reared and butchered on
our farm!
+44 (0)7976703554
rhosynfarm@gmail.com
Caws Cenarth
Carmarthenshire
First-class cheese made from locally
sourced organic milk using traditional
methods. Suitable for vegetarians. Winner
of many gold awards! Visit and watch the
cheese-making process or
buy online.
+44 (0)1239 710432
www.cawscenarth.co.uk
Welsh Cottage Cakes
Carmarthenshire
Producing and distributing the most
popular Bara Brith in Wales along with a
wide range of tasty cakes in two sizes.
Traditional Taste, True Value and Excellent
Service throughout the Principality.
+44 (0)1558 824213
www.welshcottagecakes.co.uk
Carmarthenshire Dairy Products
Carmarthenshire
Manufacturer of a wide range of award
winning cheeses available Wholesale, Retail
and at shows and events.
www.carmarthenshirecheese.co.uk.
+44 (0)1267 221168
sales@carmarthenshirecheese.co.uk
Ty Te
Carmarthenshire
Delightful, traditional tea shop serving great
homemade meals, cream teas, delicious
cakes and light lunches. We also offer a
fantastic outside catering service for any
event or gathering.
+44 (0)1239 712881 / 07779 590470
www.cenarthtearooms.co.uk
Aardvark Alternatives
Carmarthenshire
Shop & Cafe, Supplying Local & Welsh
produce. Catering for Vegan, Gluten free &
other dietary requirements.
+44 (0)1267 233445
C AardvarkAlternatives
Cowpots Luxury Jersey Ice Cream
Carmarthenshire
Local jersey milk / cream makes Cowpots
farmhouse dairy products- available from
our shop Shake Jacket Roll, Mill Street,
Carmarthen, + The Cowshed Bistro on the
farm and other good stockists.
+44 (0)1994 240434
www.cowpotsicecream.co.uk
Gerwyn’s Fruit & Veg
Carmarthenshire
As well as fresh fruit & vegetables to the
wholesale & retail market, their specialist
container grown box & bay trees will make
your property that bit special.
+44 (0)1558 824000
Myddfai Market
Carmarthenshire
Myddfai Community Hall & Visitor Centre
has a wide selection of locally made crafts
and art, over 70 artisans and a lovely cafe
with home-made dishes using local produce.
+44 (0) 1550 720 449
www.myddfai.org
Shirgar Welsh Butter
Carmarthenshire
Shirgar Welsh Butter is an award winning
premium Welsh Butter, traditionally salted
for a rich taste. Freshly churned and packed
in the dairy county of Carmarthenshire.
+44 (0)1269 846958
www.shirgar.co.uk
Jin Talog
Carmarthenshire
Distilled on their farm in rural
Carmarthenshire by Anthony and David, Jin
Talog is an organic, small (30 bottle) batch,
single botanical Juniper gin designed for
lovers of classic gins.
+44 (0)1994 284011
www@jintalog.wales
Pembrokeshire Sea Salt Company
Pembrokeshire
If you give a flying fish about your flavours,
don't just add salt. Add Great Taste Award
winning Pembrokeshire Sea Salt,
hand-harvested from the crystal clear
waters at Cwm-yr-Eglwys.
+44 (0)1348 811136
www.pembrokeshireseasalt.co.uk
Daioni Organic
Pembrokeshire
Family run organic dairy producing a full
range of fresh and long-life dairy products
including award winning flavoured organic
milk drinks. Daioni means ‘Goodness’ in
Welsh, and Daioni Organic cows happily
graze free range on lush and fertile pastures.
+44 (0)1239 682572
www.daioni.co.uk
Dolwerdd Dairy Sheep
Pembrokeshire
A selection of hard and soft cheeses, yogurt
and ice-cream from their own sheep milk
giving a sweeter taste and higher nutritional
content compared to cows milk.
C Defaid Dolwerdd Dairy Sheep
defaiddolwerdd@gmail.com
Cardigan Bay Shellfish
Pembrokeshire
Family run boat fishing cardigan bay, for crab,
lobster, scallops, spider crab, hand line sea
bass, mackerel, coracle caught Teifi sewin and
salmon and other products when available.
+44 (0)1239 621043
www.cardiganbayfish.co.uk
Crwst
Pembrokeshire
Crwst is a newly established micro-bakery
based in a small home kitchen nestled
in the Preseli hills. We proudly produce
handmade organic breads and seasonal
patisserie style bakes.
+44 (0)1239 842 338
www.crwst.cymru
Gwaun Valley Meats
Pembrokeshire
Award winning Traditional Butchers, quality
meats, and homemade sausages, burgers &
faggots.Order online via our Website also.
+44 (0)1348 840838
www.gwaunvalleymeats.co.uk
May - Jun 2019 25

Puffin Produce
Pembrokeshire
Blas Y Tir, home of Welsh Produce, where
we work with our team of expert growers
to bring you a variety of award-winning
potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
+44 (0)1437 766716
www.blasytir.com
Tan Y Castell
Pembrokeshire
Award-winning Welshcakes & Bara Brith
baked to traditional Pembrokeshire
recipes using the finest natural ingredients.
Available for retail, wholesale, ambient &
frozen markets.
+44 (0)1834 861997
www.welshcakes.com
Andrew J Rees & Sons Ltd
Pembrokeshire
Quality wholesale and retail butchers with a
Pig Roast and BBQ service. With customer
service a priority, you can guarantee the
right meat for your needs.
+44 (0)1834 861892
www.andrewreesbutchers.co.uk
Celtic Wines Ltd
Pembrokeshire
Wine merchants supplying the highest
quality wines, spirits and beers. Well over
500 different wines from all four corners of
the world ranging from the unusual to the
sublime.
+44 (0)1646 681369
www.celticwines.com
Farmers Food At Home
Pembrokeshire
Great Taste Award winning Chilli Jam is
just one of the many Homemade Jams
(such as Strawberry & Pimms), Chutneys
and Pickles, all made from homegrown,
hedgerow foraged or local produce.
+44 (0)7960 093716
www.farmersfoodathome.co.uk
C Farmers Food at Home
Cwm Deri Vineyard
Pembrokeshire
Producing an extensive range of grape
& traditional country fruit wines, liqueurs
& mead. Vineyard, shop & stunning
conservatory restaurant open all year. Mail
order available. Come & taste!
+44 (0)1834 891274
www.cwm-deri.co.uk
T Glyn Davies
Pembrokeshire
Traditional local butchers specialising in
local meat, poultry and game. Also offering
a good selection of marinated and rubbed
meats – perfect for the grill or BBQ.
+44 (0)1239 820246
t.glyn.davies@googlemail.com
Bluestone Brewing
Pembrokeshire
Using their own Preseli spring water this
family Farm brewery produces a selection
of award winning ales with bold flavours.
Visit the onsite tap house & visitor facility
to try for yourself.
+44 (0)1239 820 833
www.bluestonebrewing.co.uk
Templeton Direct
Pembrokeshire
The bespoke online retail arm at Templeton
Beer Wine & Spirit Co, supplying the home
drinking connoisseur with the great beers
& wines you enjoy at your favourite pub or
restaurant.
+44 (0)1834 860992
www.templetondirect.co.uk
Robins and Sons Chocolatiers
Swansea
Luxury online chocolatiers creating
‘Deliciously Different’ treats using natural
plant and fruit oils, with no artificial colours
or flavours. Gift Bars, Boxes, Hampers and
Seasonal specialities. Corporate service
available, B2B.
+44 (0)1792 202696
www.RobinsandSons.com
Oscar’s Kitchen
Swansea
Homemade chutneys, relishes, pickles,
jams, jellies and marmalades, syrups and
chilli sauces. Made in Wales by a Welsh
woman! Firm favourites are caramelised
red onion chutney, lemon chutney and
apple and ginger chutney.
+44 (0)7540 377400
C Oscar’s Kitchen
Welsh Brew Tea
Swansea
Special blend of quality African and Indian
teas perfectly complement Welsh waters
yielding flavour/colour relished by tea
drinkers. Also full range of speciality teas,
coffee and drinking chocolate.
+44 (0)1792 363391
www.welshbrewtea.co.uk
Nonna Lina
Swansea
Made in Wales - the ultimate pasta sauce
made from authentic Italian recipes straight
from Nonna’s kitchen and using the finest
ingredients. Our original sauce is free from
dairy, nuts and seeds, with no added sugar.
nonna_lina_uk
www.nonna-lina.co.uk
Hugh Phillips Butchers
Swansea
A family company founded in 1878
when current owner Catherine’s great
grandfather John Hughes sold from
his farm. Now superb quality pgi meats
available from Swansea Market & online.
C Hugh Phillips Gower Butcher
http://bestonlinebutcher.co.uk
SOUTH wales
White Castle Vineyard
Monmouthshire
Wales' premier Welsh wine producer,
offering vineyard tours, wine tasting
and accompanying Welsh artisan
platters. Visitors are warmly invited to
visit our tranquil setting in the beautiful
Monmouthshire countryside. Corporate
days welcome.
+44 (0)1873 821443
www.whitecastlevineyard.com
Claire’s Kitchen
Monmouthshire
Homemade quality preserves traditionally
produced in small batches at home in
Claire’s kitchen. A vast range of chutney,
jam, marmalade, fruit vinegar and curds.
Wales True Taste Gold Winner 2012-13.
+44 (0)1291 624506
claires-kitchen@hotmail.co.uk
26
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est of welsh & borders
Apple County Cider Co
Monmouthshire
Award winning cider producer specialising
in single variety ciders made from 100%
apple juice. Available in bottles or straight
from the vat. Orchard walks, cider tasting
and farm shop open for visitors. Simply
Scrumptious!
+44 (0)1600 750835
www.applecountycider.co.uk
Gwynt Y Ddraig Cider,
Rhondda Cynon Taf
Our award winning range of ciders are
produced using established recipes. Each
cider has a contemporary and unique
flavour - we have something to suit every
taste! Mail orders available via the website.
+44 (0)1443 209852
www.gwyntcider.com
Delicia Tea Emporium,
Rhondda Cynon Taf
Exquisite Tea Emporium, with a wonderful
array of loose leaf teas from around the
world, teapots and gifts its a true treasure
trove for all tea lovers, plus blending service.
www.deliciacakesandteas.co.uk
+44 (0)1443 230069
Samosaco
Rhondda Cynon Taf
Experts at producing a variety of nutritious
& authentic Indian snacks & meals using
locally sourced ingredients. Based in a
purpose built accredited facility in south
Wales.
+44 (0)1443 800554
www.samosaco.co.uk
Drwytho
Rhondda Cynon Taf
Evolving from a love of herbs and a passion
for cooking. Our herb infused oils can
be used in so many ways, along with our
vinegars, dressings and Harissa.
+44 (0)1685 877349
www.drwytho.co.uk
Cwm Rhondda Ales,
Rhondda Cynon Taf
Producing highest quality craft ales full of
flavour that are firmly rooted in the rugged,
natural environment in which they are
brewed. Representing the latest step in the
Jones family farm.
+44 (0)1443 777491
www.cwmrhonddaales.co.uk
Miss Daisy’s Kitchen
Blaenau Gwent
Multi award winning jam and chutney
producer, specialising in vintage recipes
that are handcut and homemade.
3 star Great Taste award winner 2017.
We're quirky and we know it.
+44 (0)7799 360012
www.missdaisyskitchen.co.uk
Clams Cakes
Blaenau Gwent
Great Taste Awards winning cakes,
available nationwide, hand made
and decorated from traditional and
contemporary recipes plus vegan. Available
for catering and retail including loaf, round,
muffins, tray bakes, scones and macarons.
+44 (0)1495 357620
www.clamscakes.co.uk
Blaenafon Cheddar Company
Torfaen
An award winning Food Tourism
Destination; Family business producing
handmade cheeses.
Visit us Mon-Sat 10-4pm. Pwll Mawr our
Mature Cheddar is aged in Big Pit Mining
Museum. A free visitor attraction.
+44 (0)1495 793123
www.chunkofcheese.co.uk
Cwm Farm Charcuterie
Neath Port Talbot
Artisan producers of award winning salami.
Great Taste Award winning laverbread
salami and 23 Gold Awards at the Royal
Welsh. Find them at numerous local
farmers’ markets and Cardiff Riverside or
shop online.
+44 (0)7446 555102
www.cwmfarm.co.uk
A Bit of a Pickle
Vale of Glamorgan
Welsh artisan homemade preserves.
As well as your ‘normal’ type preserves,
we do many unusual items & limited edition
products and some super hot, such as
Tan-Y-Ddraig Pickle.
+44 (0)7967 565308
abitofapickle@hotmail.co.uk
Daisy Graze
Vale of Glamorgan
A small individually run business which
produces Artisan Preserves and Conserves
made from natures bounty. Hand cut Jams,
Chutneys, Fruit Vinegars, Wild Garlic Oil and
silky smooth extremely chocolaty Fudge.
+44 (0)800 0025422
enquiries@daisygraze.co.uk
Vale of Glamorgan Farmers’ Market
Vale of Glamorgan
Holds markets 1st and 3rd Saturday
at Cowbridge and every 4th Saturday
at Penarth. 9.00am - 1.00pm. Offering
shoppers a wide range of quality local
produce direct from the producer.
valeglamfarmersmarket@gmail.com
www.valefarmersmarket.com
Ancillary Trades & Training
Cambrian Training Company
Powys
They are one of the leading training
providers in Wales and specialise in
delivering Apprenticeships and Jobs
Growth Wales opportunities across a
range of industries to support employers &
individuals.
+44 (0)1938 555893
www.cambriantraining.com
Food Centre Wales
Ceredigion
Food Technology Centre offering
advice, technical services & training to
business start-ups, SME’s & existing
food manufacturers. With expert Food
Technologists & a specialist Research and
Development building.
+44 (0)1559 362230
www.foodcentrewales.org.uk
SAI Global
Provides food manufacturers, processors
and retailers with assurance services such
as training and audits to 2nd party and 3rd
party GFSI schemes - BRC, FSSC and IFS
as well as ISO 9001/ 14001
+44 (0)7807 835942
www.saiglobal.com/assurance
May - Jun 2019 27

Food Larder
Conti’s Lampeter
With the push for their home
town of Lampeter and many of
the surrounding towns to become
plastic free, Conti’s have taken a
look at their sustainability and how
they as a business can reduce their
environmental impact and make a
difference in the community.
Early in 2018 they made the swap
to bio degradable and recyclable
takeaway containers, paper straws and
making sure their waste is recycled
or disposed of responsibly. They also
switched their coffee to the amazing,
ethically directed, Extract Coffee
Roasters from Bristol.
Their commitment to the
environment is an ongoing progression
and they are constantly looking for
ways to reduce and support their local
area and wider afield. Earlier in January
they went a step further to build on
their current sustainability with their
500ml ice cream packaging, making the
swap from plastic to a biodegradable/
compostable alternative. Their new
eco-friendly tubs can be found in
Conti’s Café in Lampeter or from a
number of outlets detailed on their
website.
For the latest news visit:
contisicecream.com
Siwgr a Sbeis
It is a
milestone year
for North Wales
bakery, Siwgr a
Sbeis, which is
celebrating its
30th anniversary.
Since opening
a small shop
in Llanrwst, it
has become an award-winning business with a customer base
stretching across Wales and beyond.
Owners Rhian Owen and Rhian Williams met at school, both
had a passion for cooking and studied at college before pursuing
careers in catering and hospitality. But their dream was running
their own bakery and they took the leap in 1989. Today the
business is located in a 5,000sq ft, purpose-built bakery on the
outskirts of the town producing a wide range of cakes, bakes and
desserts.
Rhian Owen explains, “We still use traditional methods
though, just on a larger scale, so more people get to enjoy the
things we bake.”
Memorable experiences along the way include supplying
Harrods, sending luxury Christmas puddings to Australia and
creating a cake for a wedding in France. Also, attending the
National Eisteddfod around Wales – with the event making its
return after 30 years to the town this summer. Rhian continues,
“We’ve met so many people over the past 30 years and have also
made some really good friends.”
Check out their website: siwgrasbeis.co.uk
10th Anniversary
White Castle vineyard are
planning to celebrate their
10th anniversary, a dream that
became reality when they planted
the first 4000 vines on May 11th
2009 and to mark this milestone
a further planting of 2000 vines
is due to take place early in
May 2019 when Cabernet Franc and more Pinot Noir
Précoce shall be planted.
Owners Robb and Nicola Merchant have tasted the
fruits of their labour from vintage 2019 and plans to
release their renowned Gwin gwyn and Siegerrebe are
on the grapevine, Red wine lovers will be pleased that
vintage 2017 Pinot Noir will also be released as all good
things come to those who wait and no better timing than
for the 10th Anniversary celebrations.
Every year brings exciting and new opportunities
for Robb and Nicola and they pride themselves on
producing quality Welsh wines. The Cellar Door, open
Friday - Sunday including Bank Holidays now offers
a choice of artisan platters to accompany the wine and
make your visitor experience well worth going that
extra mile for. The celebrations will continue into Welsh
Wine Week which this year runs from 25th May - 2nd
June and events already scheduled will be listed on their
website. For Welsh Wine Week only daily free vineyard
tours are available to their visitors at 3pm.
Keep up-to-date with the latest news by visiting:
whitecastlevineyard.com
28
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Food Festivals
food FOOD lARDER LARDER
Cowbridge Food & Drink Festival
26 th & 27 th May
As the Cowbridge Food & Drink Festival
gets set to celebrate its fifteenth anniversary
this May Bank Holiday (26th -27th), a new
and exciting addition is planned in the form
of the festival’s first dedicated vegan site.
Situated in the Duke of Wellington
Car Park and free to enter to event ticket
holders, visitors will be able to sample a
range of products including foraged and
homegrown syrups – lilac, rhubarb and sugar
free lavender - from Tast Natur; speciality
botanical beers courtesy of Tomos a Lilford;
an array of Indian delights from Samosaco
and a vegan range of shampoo bars and
conditioners from Rush Organics. The new
vegan site is a real plus for the festival as they
always strive to offer something for everyone
and are sure visitors will enjoy sampling some
of these great products.
The festival has also formed a brand new
partnership with Nathaniel Cars – specialists
in new and used vehicles across both
Bridgend and Cardiff – the company comes
on board as main sponsor. As well as cars
positioned in main areas, the local dealership
will also be located at the children’s activities
area in the Old Hall Gardens and will
also supply fleet vehicles to help transport
equipment across the various venues.
Speaking ahead of the event, Cowbridge
Food & Drink Festival event organiser,
Polly Bamford said: “We’re delighted that
Nathaniel Cars has chosen to team up with
us in this way – they are a local company
so keen to be involved in a local event and
already lending support way over and above.
It’s a relationship we’re both very keen to
build on and develop further in the future
and we’re looking forward to having the
Nathaniel team on site for what is set to be a
great milestone in the festival’s history.”
Nathan Griffiths, Sales Manager for
Nathaniel Cars added:
“The Cowbridge Food & Drink Festival is
such a good event and we’re so pleased to be
a part of it this year as main sponsor.
“We’ll have a presence on site across the
weekend and the team is very much looking
forward to meeting festival goers as they soak
up what is sure to be a great atmosphere. Our
reputation over the last 35 years has been
built on providing the best customer service
and we encourage customers to expect
more from their car dealership experience.
The Cowbridge Food & Drink Festival is a
fantastic fit for us in that way and there’s so
much to appeal to everyone and we are very
much looking forward to continuing our
partnership.”
For the latest news visit:
cowbridgefoodanddrink.org
Samosaco
Nathaniel Cars
Pembrokeshire Fish Week
22 nd - 30 th June
This year, the county is once again
celebrating its sparkling seas and fresh locallycaught
fish and shellfish in the Pembrokeshire
Fish Week festival. Some 200 events will
be taking place from cookery demos and a
celebrity chef evening with Bryn Williams
and friends, to coastal foraging, filleting
workshops, seafood tasting, and much more.
All week, restaurants and cafes will be
putting their fresh local ‘catch of the day’ at
centre stage – from delicious tapas evenings to
chowder trails, seafood extravaganzas or good
old traditional fish and chips. New this year
is a barbecue trail at Tenby, with cafes and
restaurants dishing up delicious local produce
outside their establishments for passers-by to
tuck into as they stroll around the walled town
and harbour.
Plenty for families to enjoy including raft
races at Goodwick Harbour, seashore activities
and a fresh fish barbecue at Saundersfoot,
plus beach safaris, crabbing, guided coastal
walks and much more.
Anglers and those who would love to learn
to fish also have lots to choose from, with
angling lessons and competitions for all ages
and abilities held throughout the week.
The festival opens on Saturday, June 22nd
with Milford Fish Festival - a free familyfriendly
fun day at Milford Haven’s Mackerel
Quay with street food, live music, family boat
trips, children’s activities and much more.
Pembrokeshire Fish Week is co-ordinated
by Pembrokeshire County Council’s Food
Development Team, part-funded by Welsh
Government and supported by various
organisations. For more information view:
pembrokeshirefishweek.co.uk.
Bryn Williams
May - Jun 2019 29

Welsh Horticulture Industry
Living in Wales we are spoilt with our green open
spaces and I’m pleased that the Welsh Government is
working through a number of projects to support a
sustainable horticulture industry that benefits the people and
environment. The Welsh Horticulture Cluster has identified
ways in which the horticulture supply-chain can work
together to meet the challenges that the industry is constantly
facing. It is so important that there are opportunities for
farmers to diversify and that farmers who wish to diversify
are aware of the support available and literally make the most
of it. It’s vital that existing growers are able to develop their
businesses further and provide a wider variety of fruit and
vegetables. If this can be achieved it will reduce our reliance
on imports, which makes Wales greener, but also builds solid
businesses in the horticultural sector. There is now such an
increasing demand for local food and that of course includes
fruit and vegetables, so I’m encouraged to see Wales backing
such an exciting challenge for this industry.
Kath Rhodes
Tyfu Cymru -
Supporting business growth in the Welsh horticulture sector
Tyfu Cymru is an
exciting programme,
led by Lantra Wales,
offering targeted, bespoke
fully funded support to
generate growth in the
horticulture industry.
Through training and
development Tyfu Cymru
aims to develop the sector
as well as to promote Welsh
horticulture businesses. The
project offers 100% funding
to Welsh businesses through
the Welsh Government
Rural Communities - Rural
Development Programme
2014-2020, which is funded
by the European Agricultural
Fund for Rural Development
and the Welsh Government.
With a range of
strategic, leadership, skills
development, training and
support, Tyfu Cymru’s
services are tailored to the
industry’s requirements,
and are drawn on evidence
gained from Welsh growers,
expert horizon scanning and
an analysis of business needs.
A survey of 120
grower businesses in
Wales undertaken by Tyfu
Cymru found Brexit as a
key concern for the Welsh
horticulture industry,
however many growers
identified that Brexit
may offer expanding
market opportunities for
horticultural products.
Potential opportunities
include developing existing
and new crops, and potential
advancements in extending
the growing season.
So, with Brexit cited
by many growers as an
opportunity to grow, national
campaigns promoting
vegetable consumption and
British grown plants and
flowers making headlines
and with consumer trends
showing an uplift in the
consumer interest in local
produce, food miles and
the environmental impact
of their shopping choices, it
certainly feels like a perfect
time to embrace growth
opportunities in the Welsh
horticulture sector.
But this is not about
growth at any cost. Access to
natural and finite resources,
such as land, energy and
water, are vital to growing
edible and ornamental
produce and the careful
management of these natural
resources is needed to openup
opportunities to expand
horticulture in Wales.
There are also obstacles
to overcome – with many
growers operating on a
small scale, having the
skillsets required to grow
commercially, adapting
growing methods, increasing
production and having the
ability to understand, add
value and market products
according to consumer
demands can be a real
challenge.
Tyfu Cymru aims to work
with growers and producers
across Wales to help them
adapt for the future and
position themselves to
capitalise on development
and these growth
opportunities.
Support is tailored to
each business and managed
through Tyfu Cymru.
Training is available in areas
such as technical advice
through to business support
and available across the
horticulture sector in Wales,
including ornamentals and
edibles.
Through supporting
the innovative and
sustainable development of
the horticulture industry
in Wales, Tyfu Cymru
envisages businesses that are
equipped with the knowledge
and practical skills for green
growth, as well as ensuring
the industry adopts practices
that support natural resource
and waste management,
biodiversity, public
health and the economic
regeneration of rural Wales.
It certainly is an exciting
time to play a part in the
horticulture industry in
Wales…
For more information on
Tyfu Cymru please visit:
tyfucymru.co.uk
30
www.welshcountry.co.uk

welsh food & drink
Support for Horticultural business
Free bespoke support for horticultural businesses
across Wales? Sounds too good to be true? Then
think again. Horticulture Wales is a Pan Wales project,
providing support, advice and guidance to help growers and
producers reduce waste, improve shelf life, sustainability,
and profit.
Funded by the Welsh Government and the European
Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, the project
undertakes research, signposts businesses to funding, offers
free promotion, and enables collaboration - identifying and
developing horticultural
clusters of businesses, which
can benefit one another.
What does that actually
mean though?
Three businesses supported
by Horticulture Wales
explain how the project has
helped them:
Linda & Steve,
The Woodland Farm,
Nr. Haverfordwest,
Pembrokeshire
We are celebrating a
revival in Welsh grown
flowers following a surge of
interest in local flowers for
weddings and events.
Working with
Horticulture Wales last year,
we promoted our flowers at
the Pembrokeshire County
Show and came away with
the accolade of Best Small
Trade Stand, as people fell
in love with the wild styling
and heady scents of real
flowers.
British Flowers have
continued to grow in
popularity and year on year
we’re seeing more people
Paul Whitlam,
New Leaf Nurseries,
Anglesey
My business grew out
of a passion for growing
herbs and vegetables and
cooking with the fruits of
our labour. The business
is built around the idea of
having a year-round income
in an industry where the
majority of sales take place
during the spring and
summer months. Roughly
split into three sales periods,
we supply seed for late
winter and early spring,
plants from spring into
autumn and then Grow
Your Own Meal boxes and
horticultural gifts from
autumn into Christmas.
Horticulture Wales first
got in touch with us late
Joyce Noble,
Bryn Cocyn Organic,
Llanefydd
Bryn Cocyn has been in my
family for three generations.
Farming organically since
1978, our aim is to grow in
a way that adds as little as
we can to climate change,
whilst contributing good
food to our economy.
Farmers’ markets have
been the catalyst to change
our farming towards the
more balanced, mixed
system we’ve always
wanted. We have vegetables,
soft fruit, apples, apple
juice, beef and lamb on
our market stalls and sell
apple juice in local shops.
Everything we sell, is grown
on the farm.
Our local Horticulture
Wales team introduced
themselves to us at a local
food fair and subsequently
have visited us at the farm a
number of times.
They were immediately
sensitive to the direction
in which we wanted to
develop our family business.
We were given useful links
to other similar projects,
help in developing new
outlets for our apple juice
and introducing us to other
regional food networks.
They’ve also promoted
our business on their social
media channels. It’s good
just to be able to talk over
our ideas with the team and
use all their experience and
resources. We’ve definitely
benefited from their
support and their belief
and enthusiasm for our
products.
seeking out natural and
bee-friendly, garden-style
flowers. Many requests are
from people who just want
to remember the flowers
they grew up with. To have
seasonal flowers that are
gorgeously delicate and
beautifully scented is so
important.
We supplied flowers and
floristry at more than 40
weddings in Pembrokeshire
last year as well as gift
bouquets, markets, fairs and
other events. With more
than 20 beehives on the
farm, we are also expanding
our wildflower meadows
to help more bees and
butterflies thrive.
last year and have been
fantastic in offering support,
offering new ideas and
putting us in touch with
potential new clients - being
a young business this help is
invaluable.
For more details visit:
horticulturewales.co.uk or
email: horticulturewales@
glyndwr.ac.uk
May - Jun 2019 31

Thai Style Chantenay
& Beef Salad
British Asparagus &
Lamb Chop Tray Bake
The perfect alternative to a Sunday roast for Spring
time. Just 5 ingredients, this has little preparation time
and will seriously deliver on flavour. Serves: 2
You’ll need
250g white potatoes
4 lamb chops
A few sprigs of rosemary
250g British asparagus
260g frozen peas
What next?
1 Pre heat the oven to 200 degrees.
2 Place a medium pan of water onto boil while you chop
your potatoes into 3-4cm chunks. Add the potatoes to
boiling water and cook for 10 minutes, then drain.
3 Place a large frying pan on the heat and add a drizzle
of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the lamb chops
and sear on all sides until browned.
4 Place the potatoes into a medium sized oven tray
and nestle the lamb chops in amongst them. Add the
rosemary, asparagus spears and peas and roast in the
oven for 10 minutes until the asparagus is cooked and
the potatoes are crispy.
5 Serve immediately.
For more recipes visit: britishasparagus.com
This dish is packed full of
fresh ingredients and bursting with flavour.
The sweet, Asian flavours in this hearty salad make it
ideal for a quick lunch. Serves: 4
You’ll need
30 Chantenay carrots
2 rib eye steaks
3 tbsp masaman red curry paste
3 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tsp light brown sugar
1 tbsp olive oil
2 250g packs ready cooked jasmine rice
1 red chilli, sliced
½ pack basil, chopped
I tbsp toasted sesame seeds
To serve: Soy sauce and hot sauce (optional)
What next?
1 Gently steam the Chantenay carrots until just tender.
2 Smear the steaks in the masaman paste and set to one side.
3 Whisk together the vegetable oil, fish sauce and light
brown sugar to make a dressing.
4 Heat a frying pan until really hot, then brush the steaks
with the olive oil and cook for 2 minutes each side,
remove to a board to rest.
5 In a big salad bowl mix the rice, chillies and basil, toss
through the dressing.
6 Slice the steaks finely and top the rice with them.
7 Add the Chantenay carrots and toasted sesame seeds and
serve with soy sauce and chilli sauce.
For more recipes visit: chantenay.co.uk
32
www.welshcountry.co.uk

welsh kitchen
BerryWorld Blueberry,
Oat and Pecan Pancakes
Light, fluffy and oozing with
the goodness of blueberries, these pancakes
make a perfect breakfast treat. They are quick to make
and the oats and pecans help sustain you through a busy
morning. Serves: 4
BerryWorld Gooseberry
and Nut Crumble
You’ll need
For the Blueberry Sauce:
200g blueberries
25g caster sugar
For the pancakes:
2 free range eggs, separated
50g self-raising flour
50g rolled oats
150ml semi skimmed milk
25g caster sugar
100g BerryWorld blueberries
25g pecans, roughly chopped
1tbsp sunflower oil
What next?
1 First make the blueberry sauce by placing the
blueberries in a saucepan with the sugar and 2 tbsp
water, gently heat until softened and syrupy but still
holding their shape, keep warm.
2 Whisk the egg whites in a clean bowl until stiff. In
another bowl beat the egg yolks, flour, oats, milk and
sugar together until smooth.
3 Fold in the blueberries and pecans, followed by the
whisked egg white.
4 Heat a non-stick frying pan with a little of the oil. Place
tablespoons of the batter in to make small pancakes,
cook for a few minutes each side until golden, keep
warm whilst cooking the remaining batter.
5 Serve piled up with the blueberry sauce poured over.
Gooseberries have a subtle but sharp flavour when at
their best, so the aromatic sweetness of ginger is a great
combination. Serves: 4-5
You’ll need
250g BerryWorld gooseberries
4-5tbsp sugar or to taste
½ tsp ground ginger
1 whole stem ginger, chopped
75g unsalted butter
75g plain flour
50g flaked almonds
25g rolled oats
25-50g soft light brown sugar
What next?
1 Top and tail the gooseberries and put in a small pan
with the sugar and ground ginger. Cook gently until
the sugar has dissolved. Place in an ovenproof dish, stir
in the chopped ginger and set aside.
2 Preheat the oven 180C/350F/gas Mark 4. Rub together
the butter and flour. Add in the nuts, oats and brown
sugar.
3 Sprinkle the topping evenly over the fruit and bake for
about 30 minutes until the topping is golden. Serve
with ice cream, thick cream or custard.
For more recipes visit: berryworld.com
For more recipes visit berryworld.com
May - Jun 2019 33

Market Dates
not to miss
Aberystwyth Farmers’ Market
North Parade
4 th and 18 th May
1 st and 15 th June
from 10am - 2pm
.................
Cowbridge Farmers’ Market
Arthur John’s Car Park
4 th and 18 th May
1 st and 15 th June
from 9am - 1pm
.................
Lampeter Peoples’ Market
Victoria Hall, Lampeter
11 th and 25 th May
8 th and 22 nd June
from 10am - 1pm
.................
Myddfai Farmers’ Market
Myddfai Community Hall
29 th May and 26 th June
from 9am - 1pm
.................
Penarth Farmers’ Market
West Bourne School
25 th May and 22 nd June
from 9am - 1pm
Still hot from
the kitchen
'April showers
bring forth May flowers’
even though the seasons are a little topsy-turvy at the
moment, there’s talk of strawberries being up to a month
early, for goodness’ sake!! - it’s the time of year when we can
look forward to a whole bunch of good things and not only
flowers, although elderflower fritters are a terrific seasonal
treat!! Top of my list has to be British asparagus, which I will
use in every way I can for it’s all too brief season, and at NO
other time of year!! There’s a lot of truth in the old saying
that one should first put the water on to boil, run down the
garden, cut the asparagus and run back even faster to boil and
eat it. Whilst we may not all have a garden and for sure air
freighting it half - way around the world does asparagus no
favours, so please make the effort to enjoy it at its best. Team
it up with some of our wonderful Pembroke earlies, or Gower,
if you must! to accompany the Prince of Welsh fish - sewin
or sea trout - May sees the start of the netting season and I
urge everyone to support our fishermen. It’s a way of life that
is sadly fast disappearing and our tables are the poorer for it.
Look out, too for local crab and lobster, we don’t want to lose
it all abroad!! Simplicity is the key here, please don’t mask
Nature’s good handiwork with too strong flavours.
It’s the time for the earliest of broad beans and peas a little
later, then the rest of the Summer veg comes in, a cook’s
delight, courgettes, summer cabbage and salad leaves to
stimulate the creative and gastric juices. Use them wisely to
accompany Summer lamb and grass-finished beef, too, or just
enjoy them for their own sake.
Those most British of fruits, rhubarb, gooseberries and
strawberries will follow each other in delicious succession, each
with their own devoted following and favourite serving ideas
and there may even be a few early cherries around, too late for
the Easter duck, alas, but a promise of good things to come.
Do keep a look out for Farmers’ Markets and Food
Festivals too, there’s often a chance for a tasting before you
buy and you never know, if you’re in the right place, I may
even be there to cook it for you!
Happy cooking, and eating, too!
Gareth Johns is chef at
The Wynnstay Hotel, Machynlleth, Powys
Picture: Charles Dark
Gareth
34
www.welshcountry.co.uk

Where to Eat
WHERE TO EAT
Restaurant,
Pembrokeshire College
Experience the difference between
eating out and dining at The Restaurant
at Pembrokeshire College. Training
for careers in some of the UK’s top
establishments, our hospitality students
aim to provide first class customer
service alongside mouth-watering
cuisine. Restaurant open on Thursday
evenings, term-time only. Go to the
website for full menu and events.
Pembs College, Haverfordwest, SA61 1SZ
restaurant.pembrokeshire.ac.uk
+44 (0)1437 753 165
The Coach House
The cafe serves fresh, local, seasonal
homemade food. Alongside a selection
of Welsh gifts/produce, local artists
regularly exhibit. The Coach House
sits in the grounds of St Dogmael’s
Abbey and hosts an award winning local
producers market every Tuesday. We
are open every day 10-4 and dogs are
very welcome.
Shinrig, St Dogmaels, Pembs, SA43 3DX
www.stdogmaelsabbey.org.uk
+44 (0)1239 615389
Food For Thought
An established family run café
with a passion for our menu and
mouthwatering daily specials including
vegan and gluten-free choices. From full
English breakfast to afternoon teas. Inhouse
baked yummy cakes,Tea Pig Teas,
speciality coffees and hot chocolates
can be enjoyed in our cosy coffee
lounge or unique dining area.
13 Pendre, Cardigan, Ceredigion,
SA43 1JL
C Food For Thought
+44 (0)1239 621863
Blas Restaurant
Twr y Felin Hotel’s AA Two Rosette
restaurant Blas – meaning ‘Taste’ in
Welsh – offers a menu influenced by
the season and locality, with dishes
designed to reflect Wales and its
produce. Open daily for breakfast,
brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and
drinks, we welcome resident and nonresident
guests alike.
Blas Restaurant, Twr y Felin Hotel, St
Davids, SA62 6QT
www.twryfelinhotel.com/dining
+44 (0)1437 725555
Conti’s Tea Room
Spring has arrived and Conti’s at
Llanerchaeron tea rooms are ready to
welcome you. We have delicious food
made from local ingredients, barista
quality coffee, a wide selection of tea
time treats, and our award-winning ice
cream. Open 7 days a week from April
until October. Free car parking and entry
to the café .
The Hive
The Hive Bar & Grill and award winning
honey ice cream. Situated in a historic
converted wharf overlooking the
picturesque harbour town of Aberaeron.
American style food with an European
influence. Our menu includes local crab
& chilli risotto, Hive burgers, ribs, steaks
& more. Check out our website for full
menu & events.
Ty Morgans
Ty Morgan’s is situated in the small, but
busy town of Rhayader, the gateway
town of the beautiful Elan Valley Dams.
There’s a day time menu, a bistro and
an evening bar menu with a varied
selection of wonderful food. There’s
a coffee shop, a bar area and outside
courtyard.
Slebech Park Restaurant
At Slebech Park the food is designed
to complement our beautiful natural
surroundings. We offer a relaxed and
'Graceful' dining experience in our river
view 2 Rosette restaurant. Our kitchen
team is passionate about showcasing
the finest of local & Welsh produce,
some of it sourced from our own
Organic Vintage kitchen gardens.
Llanercaerhon, Ciliau Aeron, SA48 8DG
www.contisicecream.com
+44 (0)1545 573023
The Hive, Aberaeron, Ceredigion,
SA46 0BU
www.thehiveaberaeron.com
+44 (0)1545 570445
Rhayader, Powys, LD6 5BH
www.tymorgans.com
+44 (0) 1597 811666
Slebech Park Estate, The Rhos,
Haverfordwest, SA62 4AX
www.slebech.co.uk
+44 (0)1437 752000
For more information and
special offers from these
establishments see...
C Welsh Country Magazine
welshcountry.co.uk
M @welshcountry
May - Jun 2019 35

The
and the
Parson
In the words of the Parson
Publican
In the dim recesses of
my memory I seem
to recall as a child
being brought to Hereford
Cathedral to see a funny
looking map. This map,
decorated with strange
looking animals and such
like, was to found around
the back of the organ. It
was behind glass and there
was a button to press that
turned on the light. One
then peered through the
reflections at a rather dark
and largely impenetrable
“thing” whilst being told by
accompanying adult with
educational tendencies that
it was a most remarkable
“thing”. The light would
then go off and if we were
lucky we could press the
button to make it come
on again. Children
being what they are, and I
being as I am, the best bit
was putting light on.
No more. Now the Mappi
Mundi is recognised as
“An outstanding treasure
of the Medieval World.”
It is housed in a chamber
designed entirely for that
purpose with controlled
light levels and reverent
silence. The approach is
through the cloisters and
an exhibition explaining
the place of the map in its
own world and the unique
contribution it makes to
our understanding of the
medieval mind. So a casual
observer would have found
the Old Licensed Victualler
(OLV) and I peering at
what appears to be half
man, half parsnip and is
in fact a Mandrake.
visit Hereford Cathedral
& Diego's Café
For the dim recesses of the
mind were not so mistaken;
when we do see the original
Mappa Mundi time and
lighting make it hard to
discern the details. It matters
little; it is enough to stand
and stare at this remarkable
survival from another time.
The past is indeed another
country, indeed another
planet if the geography of
this map is anything to go by.
The exhibition that leads one
towards the viewing is very
good. By the time we reach
the hallowed portals of the
viewing chamber we have
gleaned something of the
world in which the map was
created and the philosophy it
represents. I like maps and I
like a map to tell me not only
how to get where I want to
go but to give me some idea
of what I might see en route.
With Jerusalem at the centre
of a very flat earth I am not
sure that I would trust the
map to get me anywhere
but I would really like to see
some of what is on the way.
A very good facsimile with
original colouring allows us
to understand the map and
we spend a long time with
noses pressed close, almost
touching in the OLV's case,
to appreciate the details and
mythical beasts.
36
www.welshcountry.co.uk
“
This really is a remarkable space and
we dwell for some time in appreciation
before making our way to lunch.
”

We make our way through
the gift shop and into the
body of the Cathedral. I
must confess that it always
seems to me more striking
to come into a space such
as this from the smaller
confines of cloister or shop.
I am always impressed by
the way the space opens
up, how the light suddenly
brightens the eye and the
architecture makes an
immediate impact. Here
it is the Norman columns
striding from the west
becoming increasingly more
decorated as they approach
the central crossing.
The two transepts provide
a wonderful contrast of
styles. In the north high
pointed arches rise above
the wonderfully restored
and colourful tomb of
Thomas Cantilupe whilst in
the south solid Norman is
a cliff face of stone broken
by three tapestries by John
Piper. This juxtaposition
of old and relatively recent
is carried through most
successfully in the Audley
Chapel.
Up in the Lady Chapel
behind the High Altar a
little chantry chapel offers
the greatest surprise of our
visit. Bearing the traces
of rich decoration on the
outside we enter a short
narrow passage into the low
vaulted space and then the
place erupts with colour.
Four windows by Thomas
Denny celebrating the life
of Herefordshire priest and
poet Thomas Treherne
radiate colour and are full of
details that gradually emerge
from the background. This
really is a remarkable space
and we dwell for some
time in appreciation before
making our way to lunch.
“...he says that it was only because
he was able to get some fine plump fruit
that the dish was on the Special’s Board.
Their well thought out and executed dishes
are excellent value.
”
In the words of the Publican
The substantial terra
cotta stone façade
of the ‘Felinfach
Griffin’ appeared through
the mist as we pulled off
the main road. Plastic signs
of excellence and inclusion
in a myriad of guides
adorned the window as
we approached the door.
A crackling fire at waist
height split the formal
from us heartier mortals
in the bar area. We sat in
a pleasant alcove with our
drinks looking down across
the low leather settees with
colourful scatter cushions,
through the fire place into
a busy little dining area
beyond. Cheerful staff
bought us menus and a
wooden board with slices
of warm soda bread and
butter. They took our
indecisive order; such a
choice, and brought more
goodies; tiny light cheese
pastry morsels.
The décor is kind of quirky;
the Mediterranean blue
match boarding under the
dado rail goes well with
the soft gold painted walls
above. Unusual gifts in
display dressers vie with
tasteful prints and black
and white photographs all
under the canopy of the
original beamed ceilings.
We are brought to order
by the arrival of our first
course. I just knew he
would choose the house
cured salmon on another
board with pink slices of
fish, celeriac coleslaw and a
slice of sourdough. I threw
him with my brown shrimp
cocktail served in a tall glass
with Melba toast.
Now this is serious food,
like the Inn itself selfassured
and confident; it
gets better. The venison
sausage cassoulet is full of
flavour and not too much
even with the bruschetta;
the old codger’s corned beef
hash is a revelation with
a smooth patty of hash,
a perfectly shaped and
poached egg on spinach
with a large tear drop of
tomato sauce. I just had to
try some of that, the hash
crumbling into morsels of
fried potato and char grilled
parson & the publican
beef when he was looking
inadvertently out of the
window.
The menu is refreshingly
different. Puddings sounded
classic but we were beaten
so settled for coffee.
Two old codgers cogitating
the important things in
life, we linger and watch
the diners slowly dwindle
and the fire glow on its
embers. We don’t agree on
everything my old chum
and I but we do thank
the cheerful staff for a
memorable lunch as we
make our way to the door.
Outside the light is fading
and we hear the blackbirds
pinking and the crows
hurrying back to their roosts
through the mist. I hope he
invites me in for a cup of
tea and who knows a hot
buttered muffin in front of
another fire.
The Parson is the
Reverend Ian Charlesworth.
His co-writer and navigator
is watercolourist and former
innkeeper Richard Stockton.
May - Jun 2019 37

38
www.welshcountry.co.uk

Pictorial Wales
Wales'
Irresistable
Light
Craig Kirkwood Photography
There’s something about the light here in Wales that is
irresistible to photographers. In Australia, where I’m from,
the light is intense and pervasive. In Wales, the sun is much
lower in the sky and, in the cooler months, throws deep shadows
with a watery, evocative light. But of course it’s also a land of some
drama. I lived in Aberystwyth for several years and watched as
rising sea levels battered the promenade with alarming frequency.
The tidal swing is so great that the ocean appears passive and calm
one day, then ruthless and furious the next!
I live in Cardiff now and my interest
has moved a little more towards people,
performance and urban spaces rather than
landscapes but I still love to get out into the
the beautiful Brecon Beacons or down by
the sea as often as I can.
Images 1, 2 & 3 feature in:
The Book of Cardiff
Author: Craig Kirkwood
Publisher: Moonlet Press / £19.95
craigkirkwood.com
May - Jun 2019 39

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Pictorial Wales
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Fisheye Castle – Cardiff Castle motte through a fisheye lens (page 38&39).
Beaded Clouds – LLyn Barfog, the bearded lake, in Happy Valley, near Aberdyfi.
Aber Sunset – A stunning sunset over Cardigan Bay from the Aberystwyth promenade.
Bluebell Butterfly – a butterfly in Bluebell Woods, Aberystwyth.
Hungry Squirrel – a squirrel feeds on fruit in Cardiff’s Bute Park.
Storm Fishing – a fisherman braves dark skies in Aberystwyth.
May - Jun 2019 41

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Dragon’s Rest – iconic dragon-tail seats in Aberystwyth.
Aber Tulips – tulips catch the afternoon light
in Aberystwyth.
Evening Castle – Aberystwyth castle and
St Michael’s church.
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Arts and Crafts
Arts and crafts
Sarah Jane Brown To Feature In Guild Artists Exhibition
The Appetite for Adventure
Contemporary landscape
painter Sarah Jane Brown has
been invited to exhibit three
of her original oil paintings,
'The Appetite for Adventure',
'Forecast' and 'Returning',
at the annual Guild Artists
Exhibition in May.
Hosted by the Guild Society of
Artists together with the Fine
Art Trade Guild, the exhibition
begins at the Crowne Plaza
Hotel in Stratford-upon-Avon
on the 18th May from 1pm to
5.30pm, before moving on to
the Guild Gallery in London
from 20th to 27th May, open
daily from 10am to 6pm.
The Guild Society of Artists
select a painting from the
exhibition to win the Best
in Show Award, based on
online votes combined with
votes received at the preview
in Stratford-upon-Avon.
To vote online, please visit:
fineart.co.uk/guild-artistsexhibition-2019.
Sarah Jane's upcoming Welsh
exhibitions include the North
Pembrokeshire Open Studios
Trail from 24th August to
8th September. You can meet
Sarah Jane at Etcetera Gallery
in St Davids, Pembrokeshire,
where she will be painting
daily between 11am to 4pm
during the Trail. You can also
see her work at a special Open
Studios Exhibition at The
Gallery - Yr Oriel in Newport,
Pembrokeshire during this
time.
For further information please
visit: sjbfineart.com.
Trefriw Woollen Mills
Canolfan Ucheldre Centre
The Weaver’s Garden at
Trefriw Woollen Mills is a
display of plants connected
with textiles. They are all
labelled showing their uses.
There are fibre plants: flax,
New Zealand flax, dye
plants: woad, weld madder,
dyer’s broom, plants which
supply dye fixatives, tannin
from tormentil, oxalic acid
from wood sorrel, plants for
washing wool: soapwort, yucca,
moth repellents: tansy,
camphor plant, plants
used for textile tools,
teasles to brush the wool,
spindle tree for making
spindles, bamboo used
to make reeds for looms.
They also have a few
plants with quirky uses:-
lords and ladies supplied
starch for stiffening
Elizabethan ruffs, Lady’s
bedstraw was used for
stuffing mattresses. The
colour pink was named
after the flower which
in turn was named after
the Tudor fashion of
‘pinking’ (cutting slashes
and frills into clothing). Lamb’s
ears are no use for human
textile workers but Carder bees
collect the ‘wool’ and use it to
line their nests.
The garden is at its best
between June and September
and can be viewed during shop
hours.
Visit: t-w-m.co.uk
Ucheldre is a converted chapel
that’s now a dedicated Arts
Centre and situated at the
top of the harbour town of
Holyhead on the beautiful Isle
of Anglesey. With Spring now
well and truly in the air and
Summer on the way, Ucheldre
has much to offer locals and
visitors alike.
Outdoor spaces boast a
laburnum arch, a sculpture
garden where peace and quiet
can be enjoyed, as well as
tasty home-made fare from
Ucheldre’s café. Nestling in its
lovely surrounding garden is an
amphitheatre where summer
plays and festivals are held.
Within the building, spaces are
filled with clubs and classes for
children and adults. During
school holidays workshops and
performance opportunities for
young people abound.
So much to do!
In Ucheldre’s theatre space
many live performances are
staged. There are film nights
and screenings of the live
broadcasts from the Royal
Opera House, National
Theatre, The RSC, Met and
Glyndbourne. This season
Ucheldre’s gallery spaces
are filled with wonderful
patchwork and applique quilts
and hangings. Many made by
those who attend classes at the
Centre.
So much to see!
All in all, Ucheldre is a little
gem you cannot afford to miss
from your list of places to visit.
For further information visit:
ucheldre.org or telephone:
01407 763361.
May - Jun 2019 43

Arts and Crafts
Waterfront Gallery
A charity and social enterprise, dedicated
to promoting and supporting artists and
craft workers in South West Wales.
Showing an eclectic mix of 2D and 3D
work from gallery artists and makers in
exhibitions throughout the year. 18th Apr
- 30th May "Colours of Pembrokeshire",
6th Jun - 13th Jul "Black & White", 18th
Jul - 31st Aug "Landscape Legends".
Tuesday to Saturday 10.30am till 4.00pm.
Cwmchwefru Wool
Knitwear is designed and created by
Lesley on the farm in between looking
after special sheep, carefully cross-bred
over many generations to provide
high quality wool in natural colours.
Also available: woven throws, fleece
for spinners and hand-knitting wool.
Nothing is dyed, very low fibre miles,
totally eco-friendly.
Carn Alw Pottery
I’m Cilla and I’ve been potting and
teaching pottery for 30 years, producing
simple but eye catching designs, often
with a sense of humour. You can see
a selection of my work in the Guildhall
Market Cardigan but I also produce
bespoke work creating the most
wonderful gifts with a personal meaning.
Sarah Jane Brown
Expressive artist Sarah Jane specialises
in painting landscapes influenced by
personal experiences walking the
Pembrokeshire coastline and her
background of working on the sea.
Originals are available to view in new
gallery Oriel Coffi in Llanidloes Powys,
Etcetera Gallery in St Davids and Off
The Wall Gallery in Cardiff.
The Old Sail Loft, Discovery Quay,
Milford Haven Docks, SA73 3AF
www.thewaterfrontgallery.co.uk
+44 (0)1646 695699
Cwmchwefru Farm, Builth Wells
LD2 3PW
www.lesleywickham.co.uk
+44 (0)1597 860244
Cilla Lewis, Cardigan, Ceredigion
Wilson.mike@sky.com
+44 (0)1239 621695
C @sjbfineart
www.sjbfineart.com
sarah@sjbfineart.com
Christopher Wyn Brown
Christopher produces vitreous
enamelled jewellery and sculptures,
using copper as the base. Each piece
is unique as it is handmade, but
variations in firing temperature and
time affect the finished item. The next
event Christopher will be attending is
Llangollen International Eisteddfod with
Artisans Wales.
Brynsawdde, Llangadog,
Carmarthenshire, SA19 9PR
www.christopher-wyn-brown.co.uk
+44 (0)1550 777574
CHARLOTTE WOOD
Passionate illustrator produces
work for advertising, book covers,
greetings cards, packaging, editorial for
companies and private commissions.
Inspired by nature and impressionists,
illustrations are full of sensitivity and
experimentation. Exhibited in shows in
Wales and London. A unique drawing
style which has led to working with the
likes of famous illustrator Quentin Blake.
Orleton, Ludlow, Shropshire, SY8 4HU
Charlotte.wood1@hotmail.co.uk
www.charlottewoodillustrator.com
+44 (0)7503 024183
Tweedies
“Meet our newest patchwork bears
‘Bethan and Meira’, handcrafted in
Welsh tweeds from Trefriw Woollen
Mill. Colourful, fun, original and award
winning, Tweedies are created with a
whole lot of love”.
Wonderful colours and great attention
to detail. Beautiful, unique gifts to
treasure always. See website for latest
designs and information.
Orleton, Ludlow, Shropshire, SY8 4HU
www.tweedies.biz
+44 (0)7917 264237
Julia Harris
My latest painting ‘The Welsh Can
Can’ - high kicks to the Grand Slam to
celebrate Wales winning the 6 Nations
and to kick start my ‘Art in the Park’
workshops May 18/19th and June
8/9th at Craig y Nos Park. 10am - 4pm.
£45.00 per day, £70.00 weekend,
including materials. Book on-line -
limited spaces.
The Studio at Ty Newydd, Dan y Fron,
Abercraf, Swansea Valley SA9 1XX
www.juliaharris.wales
+44 (0)1639 731222 / +44 (0)7973
717207
Oriel King Street Gallery
A destination for contemporary,
fine and applied art collectors. Bimonthly
exhibitions of new work being
showcased with the Spotlight room
highlighting a different member each
month & the Chate room available
for rent to artists staging their own
exhibitions. Vacancies for new Members
in all fine and applied art disciplines.
TREFRIW WOOLLEN MILLS
Manufacturers of traditional Welsh
tapestry bedspreads, travelling rugs and
tweeds from the raw wool. Our pure
wool fabrics are made up into throws,
cushion covers, bags and purses.
Visit our website to order online.
Visitors can view the weaving and water
powered turbine (Monday – Friday
except Bank Holidays, mid February –
mid December).
Trefriw Woollen Mills, Main Road,
Trefriw, Conwy Valley, LL27 0NQ
www.t-w-m.co.uk
+44 (0)1492 640462
ORIEL PLAS GLYN-Y-WEDDW
One of Wales’ most picturesque
art venues, nestling in the village of
Llanbedrog on the Llŷn Peninsula, within
an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Wedding venue, 12 acre woodland with
headland walks, outdoor theatre and
self catering unit sleeping 10.
Custard and Rhubarb
We screen print tea towels, aprons and
bags using our own original country
designs, water based eco inks and
recyclable packaging.
We also sell mugs and cards and will in
the future be expanding our range to
include oven gloves, seat pads, coasters
and fridge magnets.
33 King Street, Carmarthen SA31 1BS
www.kingstreetgallery.co.uk
+44 (0)1267 220121
Llanbedrog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd,
LL53 7TT
www.oriel.org.uk
+44 (0)1758 740763
Talgarth, Brecon, Powys, LD3 0RL
www.custardandrhubarb.co.uk
+44 (0)1874 711 688
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To Showcase Your Work Here
Contact Ian: 01559 372010
Arts and crafts
Crafts from the Valley
A fantastic selection of crafts made in
Wales including many wooden products
many made from British Oak. Lovingly
made craft items that make the home
so much more homely or make ideal
gifts. With a cute little craft & gift shop
in Craig-y-Nos Country Park we also
visit many events as well.
Craig-y-Nos Country Park,
Pen-y-Cae, SA9 1GL
C @craftsfromthevalley
craftsfromthevalley@yahoo.co.uk
+44 (0)7460 835344
Tyddewi Gallery
Pembrokeshire’s only gallery showing
original paintings by artist Pauline
Beynon. Showcasing a constantly
changing selection of paintings,
ceramics, glass and bronzes, from local
and invited artists. ‘A jewel in the artistic
landscape’. Something for everyone,
from serious collectors to those
sourcing unique, tempting, affordable
art.
St. Davids, Pembrokeshire, SA62 6NS
www.tyddewi.com
+44 (0)1437 720386
Olwen Jones
- Animal Portraits
Original horses, livestock, wildlife
and pet portraits in pastels or oils.
Immortalise your special pets and
companions in fine art so that you
and future generations can enjoy
and remember. Items available for
personalisation include prints, mugs,
cards, key rings, and magnets. Contact
Olwen to discuss your requirements.
Gwyddelwern, Denbighshire, LL21 9DU
olwenjoneshbc@googlemail.com
+44 (0)1490 412472
Dorothy Morris Fine Art
Greenspace Gallery & Tearooms
has moved and I am delighted that
members from South Wales Potters join
me to show their work in the 3D room,
plus Swansea Print Workshop members
show their work in the lounge, and many
talented artists in the main gallery. Tea
Room art / textile / pottery classes
continue.
21 Blue Street, Carmarthen, SA31 3LE
www.dorothymorris.co.uk
+44 (0)1267 267652 / +44 (0)7969
273577
Telynau Teifi Harps
A not-for-profit community business
based in the lovely Teifi valley. Using
traditional methods as well as modern
technology, producing beautiful harps
with exceptional sound quality. We
welcome visits to our workshops so
that you can see how your harp is made:
from choosing the wood, to adding our
acclaimed levers.
Gwili Pottery
Have you ever wanted to try making a
pot on the potters wheel?
We will help you gain new skills and
enjoy learning to make pots on the
wheel, which you can then return a few
days later to paint and we will then fire
them for you. Booking Essential!
Llandysul, Carmarthenshire, SA44 4DT
C @TeifiHarps
www.teifiharps.com
+44 (0)1559 363222
Llangeler, Llandysul, Carmarthenshire,
SA44 5ET
gwilipottery.com
+44 (0)1267 253449
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throughout the year...
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www.welshcountry.co.uk
May - Jun 2019 45

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Father's Day
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Sunday June 16th
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John Masters Organics
This is a new brand to Welsh Country magazine and one I’m sure you’ll love.
The range is formulated without sulphates, parabens, GMOs, DEAs MEAs,
TEAs and artificial colours & fragrances and all safe for coloured hair. To
learn more and to purchase visit: johnmastersorganics.co.uk
3 Shampoo For Normal Hair With Lavender & Rosemary
There is no high water content with this natural organic shampoo. Water
is replaced with aloe vera and infused with pure essential oils of organic
French lavender and rosemary; the perfect power duo to revitalise your
hair. Brilliant to help maintain a clean healthy scalp, slow hair loss and
add volume and shine. This is a must-try. £19. johnmastersorganics.co.uk
4 Hair Mask For Normal Hair With Rose & Apricot.
This natural, organic hair treatment is what your hair is ‘asking’ for. It’s
a silky, rich mask which literally works wonders. In less than 5 minutes
it helps rebalance moisture levels, repairs split ends, nourishes and
stimulates your scalp. Hair is left looking super shiny, nourished and
manageable. An easy and effective mask to use. £29.
johnmastersorganics.co.uk
5 Hair Milk With Rose & Apricot
A clever lightweight leave-in treatment that that gives your hair major
moisture and shine using a blend of botanical oils and extracts. Say
goodbye to frizz and hello to shiny hair that feels stronger and is much
more manageable. £29. johnmastersorganics.co.uk
1 Embossed Wash Bag
For Dad’s planning their summer holiday this generously sized wash bag
makes a perfect present for Father’s Day. It’s beautifully embossed with
Acanthus from the William Morris archives. £24. heathcote-ivory.com
2 Travel Duo (Boxed)
This super shampoo revitalises grey, white and also blonde hair whilst
it reduces unwanted yellow tones. Helps thicken hair and cares for your
scalp, plus it’s free from any nasties. A good treat for Dad on Father’s
Day. 250ml/£5.99. boots.com
6 Trevor Sorbie Mg - Male Grooming - Silver Caffeine Shampoo
This super shampoo revitalises grey, white and also blonde hair whilst
it reduces unwanted yellow tones. Helps thicken hair and cares for your
scalp, plus it’s free from any nasties. A good treat for Dad on Father’s
Day. 250ml/£5.99. boots.com
7 Heath Hand Salve (Boxed)
This hard-working salve works fast, without fuss and is just what’s
needed for hard-working hands and only a pea-sized amount is needed.
It’s non-greasy cream with anti-pollution benefits to moisture and
protect – it’s a winner. £10. heathlondon.co.uk
8 Moisturising Foot Cream from O’Keeffe’s
This has a unique formula of moisturising ingredients that are
guaranteed to improve dry, cracked skin. This works and comes with
a 100% Money Back Guarantee. Perfect for dry cracked feet. Tube &
Pot/£6.37.boots.com
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PAMPER
Father's Day
1 Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin
Do treat Dad to this new gin. It’s triple-distilled and handcrafted
in the foothills of the Himalayas at one of India's oldest
distilleries. It’s a recipe that combines the ancient knowledge
of herbs and spices, vibrant juniper berries and handpicked
botanicals from all four corners of India. ABV: 43%.
70cl/£34.45. thewhiskyexchange.com
2 Glen Moray Fired Oak Cask 10-year-old Single Malt (Boxed)
A Father’s Day gift for all whisky lovers, but this one is sweeter than others from Glen
Moray, it’s a sweet shop in a glass! Barley sugars, pineapple chunks and butter toffee,
with blackcurrant jam and chewy liquorice toffee. Pleasantly sweet and spicy with
layers of vanilla bark. Then as dark chocolate dissolves over the tongue, it fades leaving
a hint of smokiness and toasted vanilla.70cl/£39.99. ABV: 40% thewhiskyexchange.com
3 Oral-B 3D White Whitening Therapy (Boxed)
This is the latest innovation to help you achieve a whiter, brighter smile.
Available in two variations: whitening therapy enamel care & white
whitening therapy sensitivity care. Designed to remove surface stains and
whiten teeth but also works to strengthen your enamel, giving you stronger
teeth that look naturally whiter. £5. Available in store and online nationwide.
4 Oral-B Genius 9000 (Boxed)
Its clever visual pressure sensor stops you brushing too hard. The brush
oscillates, rotates and pulsates to remove and sweep plaque away with 8,800
rotations, 40,000 pulsations per minute and 6 cleaning modes. This rotary
action performs way better than some sonic brushes I’ve tried. Connects
with the Oral-B app via Bluetooth and comes with smart travel case & 2 year
limited warranty. £150. Price at retailers’ discretion. boots.com
May - Jun 2019 47

Must Try
1 Daisy Garland Hand Wash & Lotion Set (Boxed)
The RHS has worked in close collaboration
with Heathcote & Ivory and the result is this
luxurious hand care set. It’s enriched w ith
daisy flower and marigold extracts, housed in
a beautiful rigid keepsake box finished with
leaf tag and garden twine. 2 x 300ml/£22.
heathcote-ivory.com
2 Liquid Gold With Glycolic Acid (Boxed)
Understandably this is an award-winning
overnight facial that will renew your tired and
sun-damaged complexion whilst improving
skin texture and tone. Clinically proven to
decrease wrinkle depth, reduce roughness and
increase moisture within your skin. You’ll love
liquid gold because it works, it’s one of my
desert island products. £33.50 alpha-h.com
3 Essential Skin Perfecting Moisturiser (Boxed)
A multi-dimensional formulation with SPF15
that combines revolutionary anti-ageing
peptides and environmental defenders to
protect your skin against daily damage. That
sounds complicated but quite simply, this
moisturises, primes, shields against blue light,
pollution and filters UV light all in one easy
step. A clever product. £39.99. alpha-h.com
4 MANTA Brush (Boxed)
What a brilliant brush! It has patented Flexguard
technology on the base so each bristle has complete 360
degree motion to gently release knots and lessen breakage.
The brush moulds to the shape of your hand & scalp, so
you’re creating less tension with each stroke. It stimulates
the scalp and so promotes healthy hair growth. It’s a clever
invention that all Mums with children will love! £25.
mantahair.com
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These Work
1 Pro-Collagen Definition Face & Neck Serum (Boxed)
A clinically proven redefining serum that leaves skin
looking more defined and toned, smoother and firmer,
thanks to the advanced formula that is powered by up to
1.5 million plant stem cells, which help to target loss of
density. Trust Elemis to have created another skin miracle.
£92. elemis.com
2 Hollywood Blockbuster Lipstick (Boxed)
Its unique stiletto shape makes it easy to outline your lips
with the tip of the bullet and fill in with the wide flat side.
Colour is rich with a satin finish; a complex of vitamins
and hyaluronic acid that magically transforms your lips
which is the key to setting the colour and pigment in place
for long wear. Plus absolutely no bleeding or feathering! 3
shades available. £21.87. QVC
3 Westmore Beauty Body Coverage Perfector (Boxed)
This illuminator/camouflage is a long-wear concealing
makeup designed especially for legs and body – and
it lasts! It’s easy to camouflage skin imperfections and
discolorations, including varicose veins, bruises, acne,
surgical scars, age spots and cellulite. The dual-action
mitt makes it easy to apply. £30.15 & mitt/£9.06
westmorebeauty.com
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Temple Spa
PAMPER
The Temple Spa story began almost two decades ago and after years of creating businesses and products for others, the company
wanted to have their own brand and infuse it with joy, passion and excellence. They’re a British brand but with a Mediterranean soul
and I really wanted to make you aware of this beautiful brand. Visit: templespa.com
1 In The Beginning - Deep Cleansing Melt (Boxed)
Ideal for parched, dehydrated lacklustre skin. This concentrated
balm gives an intense cleanse whilst gently exfoliating and leaving
your complexion feeling really soft and smooth. Comes with
two muslin cloths. You’ll look and feel as though you’ve had a
professional facial. It’s a must-try! £30.
2 Glint Shadow Concealer (Boxed)
If you’re looking for a miracle, something to spot conceal dark
circles, fine lines, shadows or imperfections, then this is it. With
its multitasking formula and a lightweight feel, coverage is quick
and effective. Just paint or pat your flaws away. Available in 2
colours so give it a try. £20.
2
3 Gorgeous Glow All-In-One Bronze & Blush (Boxed)
A quick sweep will bring sunshine to your complexion. The
soft-focus powder base, the super fine pigments leaves your skin
looking healthy and natural. £30.
4 Stroke Of Genius Serum Mascara (Boxed)
This is the perfect little black dress for your lashes as it’s a lash
treatment with colour and it strengthens and treats each lash. I
loved the twisted wire brush which gives coverage from the root
to tip and natural volume with each coat. It’s easy to build too if
you prefer voluptuous lashes. £20.
3
4
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The Eyes Have It
1 Lash & Brow Enhancing Serum (Boxed)
A high performance formula that improves your lash length
and condition of your brows so you can embrace a natural
look. The serum contains clinically proven ingredients such as
Capixyl and Fision KeraVeg18, a vegetable-based alternative
to animal keratin. For best results used for 28 consecutive days.
£55. monatglobal.com/uk
2 Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick (Boxed)
I love these as they are idiot-proof. If you can use a pencil,
these are for you. They glide on, stay put and give a lovely
matte finish. Mineral oil free, they contain Vitamins C and E to
help protect the delicate skin around the eye. Dermatologist &
ophthalmologist tested & fragrance free. Colours shown: taupe
& truffle. £23.50. bobbibrown.co.uk
3 Westmore Beauty Red Carpet Lashes (Boxed)
A 3-in-1 mascara that adds length, volume and curl in just a
few swipes thanks to Westmore’s proprietary LVC Complex
system of ingredients that gives that ‘Red Carpet Ready’ look.
With no clumping or flaking this mascara is a winner. £19.82.
westmorebeauty.com
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May - Jun 2019
49

You'll Love These
1 Compact Lip Balm (Boxed)
This Fifties-style mirrored compact is so cute. It’s a mango
flavoured beeswax lip balm that’s enriched with olive oil,
vitamin E, cocoa and shea butters. Left lips feeling soft with just
a hint of shine. £7. heathcote-ivory.com
2 Mini Hand Creams (Boxed)
Fabulous Fifties-style creams which are the perfect size for
popping in your bag, desk drawer or glove box. They are
enriched with shea butter and vitamin E and have the joyous
fragrance of creamy white tuberose, amber, vetiver and
seductive woods. 3 x 30ml/£5. heathcote-ivory.com
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3 Hollywood Flawless Filter (Boxed)
Inspired by technology, this clever product is part primer, part
highlighter and part sheer foundation, not full coverage, or wear it
alone. The result is a seriously dewy look – it’s simply skin glow in a
bottle. This is a must-try-buy. £30. charlottetilbury.com
4 Magic Away Liquid Concealer (Boxed)
There are lots of concealers on the market but nothing I’ve tested
betters this one. Often dubbed ‘spanx for eyes,’ it cleverly hides
and smooths any under-eye issues, blemishes and imperfections.
It contains a buildable pigment to use wherever you have issues,
giving you a fresher-looking second skin in an instant. I loved it.
£24. charlottetilbury.com
5 Trinity Tri Colour Lip Tints (Boxed)
These unique lip tints have been created to nourish
and gloss with just a pinch of gorgeous ombré
colour. Coconut oil, jojoba and beeswax give you
5
the intense lip hydration that your lips need. These
feel and look gorgeous. Colours shown: pride &
lust. £8.50. beautyblvd.com/shop/trinity
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Gadgets & Gizmos
Starter Spice Set from Rooted Spices
A clever set that comes in a box with dividers, a magnetic
flap closure and prompted me to have an over-due spice
shelf clear-out. This nine spice set is perfect for starter
cooking and to take on your self-catering holiday. The
set includes: ground kashmiri chilli, ground turmeric, hot
smoked paprika, all 40g, ground cumin, tellicherry black
peppercorns, house blend, ground coriander, whole fennel
seeds, all 35g and ground cinnamon 25g. A treat for for
Father’s Day. £32.50. rootedspices.com
Deep Dry Mat from Simply Dry Dog
This was my dog’s
favourite Christmas
pressie as we are
often out dog
walking - although
with the car! After
a wet and muddy
walk, jumping back into the car, he’s able to snuggle down
on the deep dry mat and relax as the oodles of microfibre
noodles cleverly absorb all the mud and water. Not sure how
I managed without this as it’s now also used after bath time
too. Size: 90x60cm. £17.99. ancol.co.uk
George Foreman 4-Portion Family Health Grill
Such a simple way to cook
healthy food for the family
as the angled grill takes
the fat and grease into the
drip tray. There’s a floating
hinge for extra thick food
and non-stick coated grill
plates, so no hassle cleaning.
I prefer grilled food and
this machine just makes life
easy. £29.99.
robertdyas.co.uk
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NOSON AGORED
OPEN EVENING
04.07.2019
NOS IAU 5 - 7.30PM THURSDAY
RHYDAMAN | Y GELLI AUR | Y GRAIG | FFYNNON JOB | PIBWRLWYD
AMMANFORD | GELLI AUR | GRAIG | JOBS WELL | PIBWRLW YD
BAFTA Cymru Qualifying Film Festival
27-30 May 2019
Screening films from all around the
World
Many European and UK Premières
BAFTA Cymru Qualifying Film Festival
Free Admission
Ffwrnes Theatre, Park Street
Llanelli, SA15 3YE
01554 748179
admissions@colegsirgar.ac.uk www.colegsirgar.ac.uk
Cardigan Bay Collective
...more than just crafters setting up craft fairs,
it is a growing group of skilled tradespeople who
enjoy showing their skills and sharing their
unique items with you, our customers.
BAFTA Cymru Qualifying Film Festival
13 th - 19 th May
Cardigan Bay Collective, Corn Exchange, within the Guildhall
For more information Tel: Cilla Lewis on 01239 621695
St Davids Cathedral Festival
Gwyl Eglwys Gadeiriol Tyddewi
24 May – 31 May 2019
BBC National Orchestra of Wales – Daniel Blendulf (conductor)
David Briggs (organ) – The Art of Transcription
British Sinfonietta • Marsyas Trio – Shadows of Time
Jack Liebeck (violin) and Friends (chamber orchestra)
Calan Welsh Folk • Emily India Evans (organ scholar)
Cathedral Singers • Young Musician of Dyfed
St Davids Cathedral Choir
Children’s Festival Chorus with BBC NOW
Male Voice Choir • Vox Angelica
Choral Evensong broadcast live on BBC Radio 3 on Wednesday 29 May
stdavidscathedralfestival.co.uk
Tickets on sale from 8 March
07506 117901
festival@stdavidscathedral.org.uk

From the
Potting
Shed
It is late March and I am digging tatties. The sun beats
down from a sky as blue as a cornflower in summer. It
is yet mid-morning but the temperature must be well
into the 70's. I bend my back turning the dry, friable loam
to reveal small golden nuggets of new potatoes from under
the withering green tops. Bees and hover flies still taking the
nectar from the pretty purple and white discarded flowers.
Small friendly dark brown Fantails flit along the low branches
of overhanging shrubs and peach trees; promiscuously
flouncing their creamy white fanned tails like cheeky girls
dancing the can – can. They continually chatter in a metallic
cacophony imploring me to disturb more sand flies upon
which they greedily gorge. Along the shrubbery and distant
woodlands the Bellbird sings his echoing refrain. Captain
Cook described its melody as 'seeming like small bells most
exquisitely tuned'. His dark olive green feathers showing an
almost purple sheen as he flies amongst the native shrub.
Along with his comrade the Tui they form a significant part of
the early morning symphony much noted by early settlers to
New Zealand.
For I have forsaken my beloved Potting Shed and leaving
the icy Easterly winds bearing snow we have traversed the
globe to visit our daughter and family, recently settled in the
north western area of South Island amongst the lakes, rivers
and mountains that make up the Nelson National Park.
“
Captain Cook described its
melody as 'seeming like small bells
most exquisitely tuned'
”
For them it is late Summer coming into early Autumn but
we are in the middle of a heatwave. By noon it is too hot to toil
so we sit on the deck in faded wicker chairs sipping icy water
drawn from their deep well. The property is isolated sitting
neatly on a knoll overlooking the verdant valley. The red tin
roof and white lap board house visible for miles around. As
we sit and look at the odd cloud shadow crossing the dark
green mountainside before us we wonder at the silence. The
tin on the roofs of house and barns tick in the heat; across
the meadow a timber truck crosses along the shingle road
the trailer almost disappearing in the swirling white dust. The
chickens have taken shelter amongst the outbuildings. Some
perching on the covered log pile their feathers puffed out
trying to lose heat. Others in the untidy workshop resting on
old doors and discarded window frames. Colin the pig dozes
in his cot too hot to move, the droning flies settling on his
brown bristling flank undisturbed.
Towards evening we stir
ourselves watering the pots of roses
and honeysuckle scrambling up the
posts around the decking, spilling
over onto the bright tin roof.
“
”
Towards evening we stir ourselves watering the pots of
roses and honeysuckle scrambling up the posts around the
decking, spilling over onto the bright tin roof. Brilliant red
geraniums shedding petals amongst the pure white Cosmos
their lacy leaves wilting. I collect the potatoes, French beans
and herbs required by the catering department.
Another deck offers a brilliant sun set down the valley.
The trees on the mountains darken as the shadows lengthen
beneath the apricot sky. A couple of fishermen amble along
the riverbank making their way back to the bridge. A red deer
stag roars further up the valley restless amongst his hinds.
With just the sound of the river murmuring softly my mind
momentarily returns to the far away Potting Shed where
perhaps Uncle Dick is opening up and lighting the little wood
burner watched by a shivering Monty the whippet. Starting
the very same day that we are just ending.
Words: Ezra Bay
Illustration: Richard Stockton
52
www.welshcountry.co.uk

Our first marital
home was a small
bungalow with an
equally small front garden,
which contained the only
inherited plant of any
consequence - a paeony.
I now realise that it was
probably Paeonia officinalis
‘Rubra Plena’ which has
long been in cultivation and
in its original single form
was commonly called the
apothecaries paeony. My
introduction to paeonies
was not a propitious one,
since although ‘Rubra Plena’
flowered copiously with a
heady fragrance, its double
flowers were overlarge for
their stems, short flowering
and flopped to the ground at
the slightest hint of moisture.
I was not impressed!
Since those days I have
undergone a Damascene
conversion, initially sparked
by a visit to the Bermeja
National Park in Spain,
where acres of rocky
ground were smothered
by luminous pink Paeonia
broteroi and subsequently
by a magnificent plant of
Paeonia wittmanniana in
R.H.S. Garden Rosemoor
which took my breath away.
I have now turned into a
zealot and have over a dozen
of both tree (really shrubs)
and herbaceous varieties.
The
Early Summer
Paeonia ludlowii
Virtually all of these have
single flowers, which enables
them to better withstand
the vagaries of my windy
maritime garden.
One of the first I acquired
was Paeonia ludlowii, a so
called tree paeony, which
grows so well in my present
garden that it is self seeding.
It has large single flowers
in a bright golden yellow
on 5 foot stems which
sucker readily from the
base, forming a vase shape
after several years. It is easy
to grow in any reasonable
humus rich soil in any
sheltered aspect except
constant shade.
Another easy paeony is
Paeonia delavayi, which
is virtually identical to the
Paeonia ’Flame’
former plant except that its
flowers, in their best form,
are a rich shade of deep
maroon. It is best bought
in flower since it is variable
from seed- yellow to a
muddy brown.
Although most of my
paeonies are species, I grow
several hybrids, of which the
brightest and most vigorous
is Paeonia ’Flame’ which
has bright green foliage
and flamboyant red flowers
with a bright yellow boss of
stamens. When in flower it is
an eye catcher!
For many years the holy
grail of paeony growers
was Paeonia rockii from
China, where it grows
GARDENING
Garden
Paeonia rockii
in mountainous and
inaccessible valleys. Initially
difficult to source, it has
become more available
and my own plant was
tissue cultured. It makes
a substantial shrub with
large white ruffled flowers
with a maroon blotch at the
base of each petal and is
magnificent in flower.
All the above and a number
of others can be seen in my
garden The Boarlands,
Port Eynon which is open
under the National Garden
Scheme on 16th June
together with The Bays
Farm, Overton.
Bwlchau Duon
May - Jun 2019 53

“
Come we to the summer, to the summer we will come,
For the woods are full of bluebells, and the hedges full of bloom,
And the crow is on the oak a-building of her nest,
And love is burning diamonds in my true lover’s breast;
”
John Clare (1793-1864)
Bryngwyn
Among other gardens open
under the NGS is Bwlchau
Duon, set in the Cambrian
Mountains at 1100ft. This
is a plantaholics haven
where borders are full of
unusual plants mixed with
old favourites. There are
vegetable gardens, a 100ft
herbaceous border and
winding paths which lead
to natural bog areas with
magnificent views of the
Cothi valley.
Rockfield Park, picture by Katie Palmer
Bryngwyn near
Aberystwyth appeals to
lovers of the natural world
with traditional wildflower
rich hay meadows with
mown paths. As a result
of conservation grazing,
hedgerow renovation,
tree planting and a pond,
habitat has been restored for
wildlife. There is also a small
orchard with Welsh heritage
apples and pears.
Moving eastward,
Rockfield Park dates
from the 17th century,
and is situated in the heart
of the Monmouthshire
countryside on the banks
of the River Monnow. The
extensive grounds comprise
formal gardens, a kitchen
garden, meadows and
woodland. A steep water
feature, featuring ancient
acers, leads to riverside
lawns and walks where you
can picnic.
Aptly named Tranquillity
Haven near Knighton
embodies the essence of
a Japanese Stroll Garden
but with borrowed views of
Offa’s Dyke. Winding paths
pass small pools and lead
to Japanese bridges over a
natural stream with dippers
and kingfishers. Enjoy peace
and tranquillity from one of
the seats or the Japanese Tea
House. Oriental planting
with cornus, acers, azaleas,
unusual bamboos and
wonderful cloud pruning.
54
www.welshcountry.co.uk
Tranquillity Haven

GARDENING
Dolhyfryd
In the north, just outside
Denbigh, we have the
established garden of
Dolhyfryd set in the small
valley of the River Ystrad.
In summer rhododendrons,
azaleas and wisteria flourish
around the Regency house
and white viburnums
flower spectacularly among
the backdrop of beeches
followed by a display of
white hydrangeas. The
meadows are filled with
wild flowers and children
are encouraged to discover
the area and its abundant
birdlife.
In the Llŷn peninsula north of
Pwllheli, is the ¾acre garden
of Pen y Bryn with an
eclectic mix of wildlife and lily
ponds, gravel gardens, mixed
borders, orchard, dell and
bog garden, potager garden
and fountain interlaced with
meandering paths. Secluded
seating areas afford distant
vistas of Garn Fadryn, Garn
Boduan and the coast.
Gardens are building up to
their summer crescendo...
a time to enjoy a visit.
Words: Rob Dyer
Pictures: National Garden
Scheme & Rob Dyer
Gardens Open - May & June
1 st & 2 nd June 2-5pm
Tranquillity Haven, Knighton, Powys LD7 1NJ
Admission £4, children free
Also by arrangement May-Sept individuals/groups up to 20
Val Brown 01547 560070
9 th June 11am-5pm
Rockfield Park, Monmouth, Gwent NP25 5QB
Admission £5, children free
Also by arrangement May-June groups up to 30
Mark & Melanie Molyneux 07803 952027
15 th & 22 nd June 10:30am-4:30pm
Bryngwyn, Capel Seion, Aberystwyth SY23 4EE
Admission £3.50, children free
16 th June 2-5:30pm
6 The Boarlands & The Bays Farm
Overton & Port Eynon, Swansea SA3 1NX
Admission £4.50, children free
29 th & 30 th June 11am-5pm
Pen y Bryn, Boduan, Pwllheli LL53 8UY
Admission £3.50, children free
Also by arrangement Apr-Aug groups 5-10
Sandra and Stephen Deer 01758 721436
30 th June 2-6pm
Bwlchau Duon, Llanwrda, Carmarthenshire SA19 8JJ
Admission £3.50, children free
Also by arrangement July & Aug.
Brenda & Allan Timms 01558 650187
By arrangement
Dolhyfryd, Denbigh LL16 4SU
Adult £5, children £2
Feb-Nov groups up to 30
Captain & Mrs Michael Cunningham 01745 814805
Pen y Bryn
May - Jun 2019 55

Stay a While
H Hotel
B Bed & Breakfast
G Guest House
S Self Catering
C Camping
T Touring
R Restaurant with Rooms
# Dog Friendly
Wales has a magical blend of
landscapes, beaches, historic villages,
market towns and cities and boasts
some fabulous places to stay so you can
relax and explore. From little gems to
country house hotels, we’ve found some
perfect havens to escape to and enjoy
the best Wales has to offer.
Trefloyne Manor HS
Penally, Tenby, Pembrokeshire, SA70 7RG
An elegant house situated in the heart of the
Pembrokeshire countryside. Combining a country club
setting and the elegance of a homely hotel with the
picturesque views of the countryside. Designed to
provide you with a memorable experience, whether
it be an evening meal, weekend stay, a cherished and
luxurious wedding or even business meeting.
+44 (0)1834 842165
www.trefloyne.com
Y Garth Boutique B&B BG
Dinas Cross Newport Pembrokeshire SA42 0XR
Enjoy a blissful getaway in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park. Y Garth is
decorated with statement wallpapers and plush fabrics and is an affordable 5 star
boutique B&B offering exclusive, stylish and luxurious accommodation, ensuring
guests are happy, relaxed and pampered. Visit Wales Gold Award for the last 8 years.
Wide ranging award winning breakfasts are made from local Pembrokeshire produce.
Private parking. Free Wi-Fi. An ideal base from which to explore Pembrokeshire’s
spectacular coastline - being within a short walking distance of the coastpath and
within a half hour drive to the smallest city of St Davids.
+44 (0)1348 811777
www.bedandbreakfast-pembrokeshire.co.uk
The Cammarch GS#
Llangammarch Wells, Powys, LD4 4BY
Offering you a warm and friendly welcome, this wonderful AA 4 star guest
accommodation is set in stunning countryside and close to Builth Wells and Brecon
Beacons National Park. Our new bar area offers local beers, traditional bar meals and
bar games. A great place from which to explore and enjoy the best that Wales has to
offer.
+44 (0)1591 620545
www.cammarch.com
The Castle Cottage Restaurant
with Rooms R
Harlech, Gwynedd, LL46 2YL
Rugged 450-year-old exterior belies the
contemporary interior & modern design bringing
together natural materials and up-to-date fixtures
and fittings. A warm welcome, excellent food and
wine are the hallmarks of this family run 5 star
establishment. Winner of True Taste Award 2009.
Visit Wales Gold Award 2011/12/13/14/15/17/18
+44 (0)1766 780479
www.castlecottageharlech.co.uk
Ceridwen Centre BSC#
Llandysul, Carmarthenshire, SA44 5XE
Much more than an organic farm in North Carmarthenshire with varied conventional & glamping accommodation
for up to 60 people, Ceridwen now also offers pizza nights, a bar, regular foodie events, workshop & meeting
spaces, catering for weddings and all family and business occasions. CLA Rural Business Highly Commended 2017.
Visit Wales Gold Award for Glamping Accommodation 2018 - Bus.
+44 (0)1559 370517
www.ceridwencentre.co.uk
56
www.welshcountry.co.uk

Stay a while
Tal y Bryn B
Llannefydd, Denbigh. LL16 5DR
Luxury 5 star accommodation nestled on the outskirts
of Denbigh with wonderful views of the Clwydian
Hills. You’ll receive a very warm welcome from Falmai
Roberts the proprietor. With an excellent breakfast on
offer, including the delicious Llaeth y Llan Welsh yogurt
which are produced on the premises. It also boasts a
wonderful garden which guests love to explore, you
may never want to leave this idyllic hidden gem.
+44 (0)1745 540208
falmai@villagedairy.co.uk
Parc-Le-Breos House BG
Parkmill, Gower, Swansea, SA3 2HA
A beautifully appointed Victorian hunting lodge in
the grounds of the old deer park, twenty minutes
walk from Three Cliffs Bay. Beautifully furnished
throughout and full of character. Enjoy locally
sourced food in our evening restaurant or indulge
in an afternoon tea overlooking the extensive
gardens and views beyond.
+44 (0)1792 371636
www.parc-le-breos.co.uk
West Arms Country Inn & Dining HR#
Lllanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog, Nr Llangollen LL20 7LD
Relax in the breathtaking backdrop of the Ceiriog Valley,
enjoying local produce cooked to perfection in this
charming country inn. Chef, Grant Williams, ensures
that each and every plate is served with the passion
and creativity he is known for. Offering a refined and
innovative menu or relax with top quality classics and
local ales in our lounge bar or garden. Roaring fires, slate
floors and century’s old exposed beams and our sixteen
individual rooms reflect the same character and charm.
+44 (0)1691 600665 www.thewestarms.com
Gregynog Hall BR#
Tregynon, Nr Newtown Powys. SY16 3PL
Gregynog Hall is an Historic House set in 750 acres with Grade 1 listed gardens in the heart of Mid Wales, with 16
En-suite rooms and 22 Historic Rooms with shared bathrooms and spectacular views of the gardens, prices start
from £73.50 per room based on 2 people sharing a double/ twin room. We also have a cottage in the grounds
that sleeps 12 which can be hired out on a self catering basis, prices start from £117.45 per night (min of a 2 night
stay). We have lots of walks within the grounds and a green gym for the more energetic of you. Our Courtyard Café
is open every day from 10am – 4pm serving light lunches and homemade cakes using locally sourced produce.
Gregynog is also a popular Conference Centre, Wedding & Events venue and hosts an all year round events
programme. Please see our website for further details.
+44(0)1686 650224
www.gregynog.org
Rooms at Blas B
Newport, Pembrokeshire, SA42 OPH
Situated in the heart of the popular village of Newport,
behind the superb café Blas @ Fronlas. Rooms at Blas
has a selection of 3 rooms – double, twin and a cosy
double, either ensuite or with its own bathroom. All
rooms have a digital tv, towels, dressing gowns, mineral
water and tea/coffee making facilities. Included in
the room prices is breakfast served in the café and is
available from 8.30am onwards.
+44 (0)1239 820065
www.blasatfronlas.com
Penrhiw Hotel B
St Davids, Pembrokeshire SA62 6PG
AA Five Star Gold Penrhiw Hotel, offers luxury
accommodation, fine dining at two Rosette Blas
Restaurant at our sister hotel, Twr y Felin, and is the
perfect location to explore Pembrokeshire. Close
to Whitesands beach and the cathedral in Britain’s
smallest city, St Davids. Stay on a bed and breakfast
basis or take exclusive use.
+44 (0)1437 725588
www.penrhiwhotel.com
Penbontbren Luxury Bed &
Breakfast BS#
Llandysul, Ceredigion, SA44 6PE
A 5 Star, ‘Visit Wales’ luxurious Bed and Breakfast and
self-catering cottage situated in 32 acres of beautiful
west Wales countryside. Recently refurbished and
beaming with character, each suite boasts a spacious
sitting room, private gardens and sumptuous décor.
Penbontbren is the perfect base to make the most of the
beaches, towns and attractions west Wales has to offer.
+44 (0)1239 810248
www.penbontbren.com
The Stackpole Inn R
Stackpole, Nr Pembroke, Pembrokeshire. SA71 5DF
Winning both the Pembrokeshire Tourism Best Eating
Out Experience 2016 & the ‘Best Pub & Bar in Wales’ at
the National Pub and Bar awards, eating out & staying
in Pembrokeshire has never been so good, with quality
food such as fresh locally line-caught fish, wine, real ale
& accommodation in a beautiful location.
+44 (0)1646 672324
www.stackpoleinn.co.uk
May - Jun 2019 57

Plas Dolau Country Estate GS#
Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 3HP
Plas Dolau is set in 25 acres of peaceful countryside
in the heart of the Rheidol Valley, 3 miles from the sea
and the town of Aberystwyth. Looking for a quiet break
in the country? Why not come and unwind at our farm
guest house or stay at our country house hostel.
+44 (0)1970 617834
www.plasdolau.co.uk
SLEBECH PARK COUNTRY ESTATE H#
Haverfordwest, SA62 4AX
Nestled in the heart of the Pembrokeshire National Park, Slebech Park Estate has been welcoming the weary
traveller for a millennia. Runners up in the AA ‘Unique Accommodation’’ awards for the UK in 2018, The Estate
offers award winning Five Gold star Luxurious accommodation & fine foods in our 2 Rosette riverside restaurant
supplemented from our organic kitchen gardens.
Slebech Park is one of Wales’s most important historical and ecological country estates with breath taking views &
walks perfect to relax & unwind in, leaving the rigours of the modern world far behind you.
+44 (0)1437 752000
www.slebech.co.uk
Oakeley Arms Hotel HS
Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd, LL41 3YU
Hotel with six recently renovated charming self-catering
Cottages. Situated in the pretty village of Maentwrog and surrounded by the lush green hills of the Vale of Ffestiniog
in the very centre of Snowdonia National Park this is the perfect base to enjoy endless excursions and activities
such as the close by, Zip World, Ffestiniog Railway, Portmeirion and of course your choice of water sports, walking,
climbing and cycling both on the road & mountain biking. Being fully licensed, food and drink can be enjoyed either
in the bar, the restaurant or in the beer garden.
+44 (0)1766 590277
www.oakeleyarms.co.uk
Roch Castle B
Roch, Pembrokeshire, SA62 6AQ
Roch Castle, Welsh Hospitality Awards Hotel of
the Year sits high above the landscape offering
panoramic views of Pembrokeshire. Choose a
bed and breakfast stay, or take exclusive use and
indulge in unique accommodation, fine dining at two
Rosette Blas Restaurant, at our sister hotel, Twr y Felin.
The perfect location to explore Pembrokeshire.
+44 (0)1437 725566
www.rochcastle.com
Croft Farm and Celtic Cottages S#
Nr Cardigan, Pembrokeshire, SA43 3NT
Wake on the farm, and help feed the animals. These 5
& 4 star holiday cottages are the perfect location for
family breaks. Just 4 miles from Pembrokeshire coast
with sandy beaches and bays; on-site luxury leisure
facilities including heated indoor swimming pool, sauna,
gym, soft play, pool table;indoor and outdoor play areas.
Short breaks available.
+44 (0)1239 615179
www.croft-holiday-cottages.co.uk
Nanteos Mansion H#
Rhydyfelin, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion,
SY23 4LU
This outstanding Grade I listed 18th century Georgian
manor house with resplendent gardens, has thirteen
sumptuous rooms plus a 4-bedroomed serviced mews
house, with many original ornate, decorative features
and contemporary fittings. The Nightingale restaurant
and library bar provide innovative, refined menus using
locally sourced produce to showcase the best cuisine
in the region. Guests will receive the highest levels of
personal service.
+44 (0)1970 600522
www.nanteos.com
58
www.welshcountry.co.uk

Stay a while
Steeple View B&B B
Newport, Pembrokeshire, SA42 0PH
Award-winning boutique B&B, offering luxurious,
accommodation for visitors to enjoy the beauty and
magic of Pembrokeshire. Nestled at the foot of the
Newport’s castle opposite St Mary’s church, a quiet
location in the heart of the village. Just a one minute
walk from the popular restaurants and cafes for which
Newport is renowned.
+44 (0)1239 821553
www.steepleviewpembrokeshire.co.uk
The Plough Inn H#
Rhosmaen, Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, SA19 6NP
Relax in tranquil surroundings at this charming 4 star boutique hotel and AA rosette awarded restaurant. Idyllically
set in the Towy valley, where a traditional Welsh welcome awaits you. 23 well-appointed en-suite rooms with queen
sized beds, wireless broadband internet access, sofas and disabled facilities, all impeccably serviced, with attention
to detail. Leisure facilities include gymnasium and sauna. Visit our website for current offers.
+44 (0)1558 823431
www.ploughrhosmaen.com
Twr y Felin HBR
St Davids Pembrokeshire SA62 6QT
Twr y Felin, AA Hotel of the Year Wales 2017 - 2018 is a former windmill and Wales’ first contemporary art hotel,
located in Britain’s smallest city, St Davids, offers a ‘Croeso Cynnes Cymreig’ – ‘warm Welsh welcome’. Stay on bed and
breakfast basis in one of 21 ensuite luxury bedrooms, or choose to dine at two Rosette Blas restaurant, which offers a
menu influenced by the season and locality. Open daily for breakfast, brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and drinks.
+44 (0)1437 725555
www.twryfelinhotel.com
Great Parton farm B
Green Lane Carriage, Herefordshire, HR3 6NX
Vintage Railway carriage, skilfully renovated to include
modern facilities. With views towards the Black
Mountains this delightful holiday home is private and
secluded yet within easy reach of the historic of Hereford,
the town of books Hay-on-Wye and interesting towns of
Leominster, Kington & Ross plus the Welsh Marches.
+44 (0)1544 327244
www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/19044641
The Oyster Farm caravan site C#
Dwyran, Llanfairpwll, Isle of Anglesey, LL61 6UU
Love Food, Love Shell fish, then this is the campsite for
you. In the grounds of Menai Oysters this new caravan
& camp site offers space with only 20 pitches in 7 acres
and a brand new toilet and shower block.
+44 (0)1248 430878
C Menai-Oysters
Priskilly Forest Country House B Castlemorris, Pembrokeshire, SA62 5EH
Offers the opportunity to stay in a Visit Wales Award Winning traditional Pembrokeshire home, which is unique
with some stunning architectural features and set in 400 acres. With all the comforts and expectations of a Welsh
Country House Hotel, it is perfect for a restful holiday, golfing break, or a base to explore the Pembrokeshire Coast
National Park. Celebrating our 3rd decade of golf, our 9 hole course is a hidden gem nestled amongst matured trees,
rhododendrons and picturesque landscape. The course boasts panoramic views of the coast and country from
Strumble Head to the Preseli Mountains. Open all year we offer tuition, memberships and pay-as-you-play facilities for
visitors and members alike. Non-golfers are encouraged to walk our woodland, run on bridleways, take coffee, taste
Welsh beer, sip wine, sample hearty soups or simply enjoy an afternoon tea. Later enjoy a refreshing drink, freshly
ground coffee or home cooked fare in Y Cabin Café Bar, which is also an ideal venue for functions/celebrations.
+44 (0)1348 840276
www.priskilly-forest.co.uk
May - Jun 2019 59

Bookshelf
Here is our latest selection of book reviews
Editor's Choice
Title: Tapas and other Spanish plates to share
Publisher: Ryland, Peters & Small / £9.99
Many of us after a holiday in Spain wish to try Spanish
food at home and this collection of over 60 tasty recipes
for small plates to share, will help you greatly. It includes
all the classics including Patatas Bravas, Chorizo in
Red Wine and Spanish Omelette and of course Paella
Tortilla, all packed full of flavour. An additional bonus is
that many of these dishes can be made in advance so you
enjoy lots of fun with your friends.
Title:
Author:
Publisher:
My Sister’s Lies
S.D. Roberts
Avon Books / £8.99
Married to Mark, Hannah
has a great and child-free
existence only marred by
a fall out with her sister
Diane over a decade ago.
Then Diane turns up at her
door with teenage daughter
Mia asking if Mia can stay
for a few days and Hannah
is fine with that. But when
days turn into weeks
Hannah is worried and she’s
no knowledge of Diane’s
devastating secret, a secret
that will destroy her pretty
perfect life. You don’t realise
how quickly this story
draws you in and then takes
you on an emotional roller
coaster ride.
Title:
Author:
Publisher:
Anatomy Of A Scandal
Sarah Vaughan
Simon & Schuster / £7.99
This is a page-turner so
don’t think you’ll read a
chapter in bed and that
will suffice - it will not. The
plot continually twists and
turns but for me the crunch
was the gender and sexual
politics that made this thriller
compelling to read. It is a
cunning exploration of our
justice system. The author
has researched her topic
brilliantly and with so many
scandals, it is an exceptional
read and understandably a
best seller.
60
www.welshcountry.co.uk

Music
Coming Home To You
Michael Ball
After two joint albums with Alfie
Boe it’s taken Michael Ball four
years to record this solo album. But
it’s been worth the wait, because
for the first time he presents a
handful of self-penned tracks,
including title track ‘Home To You’, which is already a classic
with its easy-rolling, country-tinged rhythm. You’ll also enjoy
the classics from the 1960s to the present day.
Changeable Heart
Ruth Notman & Sam Kelly
This pair have joined forces to
record a dynamic duo album that
will get the folk scene very excited
this year. Kelly scooped the 2016
BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards ‘Horizon’
title for best emerging talent. Ruth
plays piano and accordion whilst Kelly plays guitar, tenor
guitar and electric tenor guitar. This pair are very much the
dream team.
Piano
Sir Karl Jenkins
The most performed living
composer is celebrating his 75th
birthday and this album has Karl
for the first time at the keyboard
performing original piano versions
of his best-loved works as well as
two new compositions. His amazing career spans the worlds
of classical, jazz, TV and film music but this album is enjoyable
as it is back to his origins of where it all started.
Dreams About Falling
Jamie Freeman
Jamie Freeman is a respected guy
within the Americana music scene
since he released his debut record
in 2011. This album is out on 17th
May and is remarkably honest as
he tackles subjects of parental
expectations, childhood potential and the fear of falling short
of those inspirations. This is an album well worth listening too.
Save His Calm
Mike Vass
He was named Composer of the Year
at the 2012 Scots Trad Music Awards,
and this release is his first album of
self-penned songs. Two years to
complete but an important project
for him as it’s drawn from key events
from his life over the last few years. He’s a fine fiddler and multiinstrumentalist
and also nominated for Instrumentalist of the
Year at the Scots Trad Music Awards 2018.
Grumpy
Old Geezer
Where Would Councils
Be Without Car
Parking Cash?
grumpy old geezer
It’s not the first time
I’ve had a rant about car
parking charges and it’s
certainly a topic that gets
my Beloved Editor (BE) blowing a gasket. But I shall be
brave and blame her for raising my blood pressure again
on this ongoing subject of car parking charges. My BE sent
me some figures she’d asked for from Ceredigion County
Council and it is only fair of me to share them with you.
In 2017/18 Ceredigion County Council's car park income
was £874,996.23, ex VAT and for 2018/19 with 3 weeks
still to run, that income stands at £898,747.03 ex VAT.
Only £327,794.69 of that was spent on maintenance of car
parks, the remainder went into the overall Council budget
pot. Of course you’ll all know that Ceredigion isn’t alone
in their quest for car park cash as all 22 Welsh Councils
are on the same band wagon treating their car parks as a
very generous cash–cow. Luckily my BE had kept figures
she’d requested for car parking charges in 2013/14 which
totalled £287,000 but now these figures have topped
over £900k. That’s some increase isn’t it? Of course
the whacking £600k hike can be explained by Councils
deciding to milk the cash cow further by increasing car
parking fees. Add to that the fact that many bus services in
Ceredigion are declining when in rural Wales a car is vital
for people to get to work, go shopping, ferry children and
care for elderly parents etc.
When tackled on car park charges, Councils always say
the Government has cut our budget, we’ve to save money
where we can. Well I’ve a suggestion for them, if that’s the
case, why not abolish free car parking for council office
workers and make them pay an hourly or daily fee just like
most of us that go to work have to do. Why should council
workers be allowed to park at their place of work for
free? Cardigan shop owners have been fighting a fruitless
battle to get the Council to agree to a couple of hour’s
free parking for shoppers and they’d also like the perk of
free parking as the council workers do. I still maintain that
council workers should have their free parking taken as
a Benefits in Kind by Mr Tax Man, but as yet that’s not
happened.
I am perturbed how Councils across Wales cannot see
how car parking charges relate hugely to the slow tortuous
death of our High Streets. Encouraging people and
our visitors to shop locally is how our High Streets can
blossom again. This situation is too important for Councils
to ignore, but I’m sure they’ll not listen.
May - Jun 2019 61

Coffee Break
Try our puzzles to test your logic skills
Crossword
Use the clues given below the crosswords to fill in the
answers and complete the grids as best as you can.
ACROSS
DOWN
ACROSS
DOWN
1 Country which borders the USA (6)
5 Warning (3-3)
8 Version still being developed (4)
9 Boss (8)
10 Packages (7)
11 Literary work (4)
13 Donkey (5,2,6)
16 Close (4)
17 Commander in chief of a fleet (7)
20 Parasol (8)
21 Wicked (4)
22 Gorge (6)
23 Loftier (6)
2 Lift up (7)
3 Hebrew patriarch (5)
4 Fail to notice (8)
5 Class (4)
6 Flourish (7)
7 Eats (5)
12 Submissive to authority (8)
14 Soft and moist (7)
15 Scrutinise (7)
16 Sweatbox (5)
18 Standard of perfection (5)
19 Futile (4)
1 Apparel (5)
4 Viscera (5)
7 Capital of Azerbaijan (4)
8 Engrossed (8)
9 Church songbook (7)
10 Hidden store (5)
12 Fine cigar (6)
14 Windcheater (6)
16 Shrink (5)
18 Version (7)
21 Clubman (8)
22 Hairy man of Genesis (4)
23 Ardent male lover (5)
24 Cowboy display (5)
1 Jordan's end (4,3)
2 Peer (5)
3 Astronaut (8)
4 Expel (4)
5 Motley assortment (7)
6 Bloodsucking worm (5)
11 Horticulturalist (8)
13 Praise vociferously (7)
15 Pear-shaped fruit (7)
17 Scrub (5)
19 Cornered (5)
20 2.2 pounds approximately (4)
62
www.welshcountry.co.uk
1
2

puzzles
Sudoko
The goal of Sudoku is to fill in a 9 x 9 grid with numbers
so that each column, row, and 3 x 3 section contain the
numbers between 1 to 9. Your task is to use logic to fill in the
missing numbers and complete the grid.
8
5
6
4
3
7
1
2
5
9
7
4
9
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6
2
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9
Puzzle by websudoku.com
1
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Puzzle by websudoku.com
2
May - Jun 2019 63

Marketplace
carmarthenbayfilmfestival.org
27 th - 30 th May. One of the UK’s fastest growing film festivals, founded
by Kelvin Guy in 2011, now showing at Y Ffwrnes in Llanelli with
100’s of submissions from over 50 countries.
www.stdavidscathedralfestival.co.uk
24 th May - 31 st May 2019 with a wide selection of music and choral
works performed in the wonderful cathedral setting.
Tickets on sale 8 th March.
www.rwas.wales
Today our work includes providing support for business, social welfare
and education in rural communities, and the organisation and staging of
Society events; the Smallholding and Countryside Festival, the Summer
Show and the Winter Fair.
www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk
27 - 28 April 2019 at Royal Welsh Showground
showcasing the best in wool and natural fibre with a
fantastic range of Welsh and British wool and artisan
products – hands-on Woolschool workshops and displays.
www.cowbridgefoodanddrink.org
Cowbridge Food and Drink Festival May 2018. With over 100 exhibition
stands this event works with the town of Cowbridge to make a festival
weekend for all the family. Free Park & Ride facility. 27 th - 28 th May 18.
C
Festivals & Shows
Gŵyl Fwyd Crymych Food Festival
The emphasis is very much on local produce. A variety of food and drink
including meats, cheese, bread, honey, wine and ice cream, plus original
and interesting crafts from local artists. 2 nd September.
www.welovemerthyr.co.uk
With a wonderful selection of food stalls, chef’s demonstrations,
live entertainment, craft stalls, children’s activities, the family food
zone and much more.
www.cardigan-food-festival.co.uk
Saturday 17 th August 2019 will be the Cardigan River and Food
Festival, showcasing the very best of Welsh food and drink, plus
a brand new programme of entertainment and river events.
www.lampeterfoodfestival.org.uk
Lampeter Food festival runs again in 2019 in the grounds of
Lampeter University on Saturday 27 th July with over 60
Food & drink stands plus much more.
Aberystwyth Sea2Shore Food Festival
Celebrating the Cardigan Bay Coastal Heritage and all that is
good in Wales, the Aberystwyth Sea2Shore Food Festival is
again planning for the 2019 festival on 11th August.
breconbeaconsfoodfestival.co.uk
Brecon Beacons Food Festival bringing the best food and drink
producers in and around the Beacons, plus a wide range of
entertainment and chef demonstrations. A free entry event!
5th October 2019.
Hay Winter Food Festival
Bringing the best of food & drink to Hay on Wye on Saturday 30th
November from 10am transforming the Memorial Car Park into a
dazzling al-fresco marketplace bursting with Welsh flavour.
Countryside Organisations
www.cprw.org.uk
Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales stands up for the
people and places of rural Wales, protecting unique landscapes,
defending wild spaces from destructive development, creating
and promoting sustainable rural communities.
Arts & Publishing
www.AManInAShed.co.uk
In Pencarreg you will find a treasure trove of handcrafted items
all made from our ethically sourced local wood...
Oak, Yew and Beech to name just a few.
www.midwalesopera.co.uk
Touring Mrs Peachum’s Guide to Love and Marriage, based on the
Beggar’s Opera - MWO SmallStages,
November 7 th - December 7 th 2019. All details on website.
www.aberystwythartscentre.co.uk
Wales’ most vibrant arts centre and a national centre
for arts development. Its wide-ranging programme
across all art forms makes it a national flagship for the arts.
www.ucheldre.org
The Ucheldre Centre in Holyhead on the Isle of Anglesey is one of the
leading arts centres in the country. The diverse programming weaves
together two major strands: performers and artists of international standing.
www.hiraeth.me
Hiraeth is a story told in three parts. Dark Celtic fantasy novels about a
hidden Druid community. Set in modern day Wales and Ireland, Hiraeth is
strongly influenced by Celtic history and mythology.
Learning
www.llyfrgell.cymru and www.library.wales
Books, maps, manuscripts, archives, bibliography, pictures, and
photographs dealing with Welsh history and culture. Located in
Aberystwyth, Ceredigion.
www1.bridgend.ac.uk
Horticultural Courses from part time introduction to
practical horticulture skills and landscaping techniques
to a full time HND for those wanting more academic
learning suitable for all ages from 16 to 80.
www.mwmac.co.uk
mwmac a leading Welsh Training and Assessment specialist
for the Land-Based Industries; including Agriculture, Amenity
Operations, Arboriculture, Forestry, Forest Machinery,
Grounds Maintenance, Horticulture, Landscaping, Plant
Machinery, Trees & Timber, Utility Arboriculture.
64
www.welshcountry.co.uk

To Showcase Your Business Here
Contact Ian: 01559 372010
marketplace
Home & Gardening
www.oldrailwaylinegc.co.uk
A family run, independent Garden Centre, Farm Shop and
Restaurant, awarded ‘Best Garden Centre in the UK’
in 2019, offering the best quality products alongside
delicious, fresh, local food and drink.
www.calor.co.uk
LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) is used as an alternative to mains
gas in rural off grid areas across the UK - with thousands of homes
enjoying the benefits of its efficiency, versatility, controllability,
convenience and green credentials.
www.trefhedyn.co.uk
Locally run garden centre in Newcastle Emlyn,
Trefhedyn grow their own plants in the nursery
allowing control of quality and prices. You can buy either from their nursery or in store.
www.showertraydoctor.co.uk
Shower Tray Doctor offers a mobile (visit to site),
economic and professional service to repair
broken or cracked shower trays in Caravans,
Motorhomes and Static Homes.
horticulturewales.co.uk
We support Welsh Horticultural Businesses in promoting short
supply chains and encouraging collaborative Clusters to optimise
economic returns; we aim to help reduce food waste and single
use plastic waste.
Travel & Recreation
www.mtaa.co.uk
Merthyr Tydfil Angling Alliance fishing for wild Brown Trout in South
Wales, on some of the of the best rivers available, the River Taff and
the Usk; From £10 per Day, £65 Season. Email: sec.mtaa@gmail.com
www.pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk
Castell Henllys Iron Age Village set within thirty acres of beautiful
woodland and river meadows. Home to expertly-recreated Iron
Age roundhouses from 2,000 years ago, part of the
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
www.gwili-railway.co.uk
Gwili Steam Railway is a standard gauge preserved railway from
Bronwydd (near Carmarthen) along a short section of the former
Carmarthen to Aberystwyth railway. We hold regular special
events throughout the year.
www.festrail.co.uk
Our award-winning railways in the heart of Snowdonia offer
outstanding scenery, comfortable carriages and historic steam
engines. Glorious coastlines, ancient oak woodlands, mountains,
rivers and castles to enjoy on your journey.
www.llanwrtydcommunitytransport.org.uk
We are a community transport organisation, which has broadened
its activities to include glass and recycling waste collection from
local sources including many events in Mid Wales.
In Knives We
Trust by Geoff Brookes
In this atmospheric murder mystery set
in Swansea in 1880, the search is on to
find Daniel Guy who has attempted to
murder his wife. Soon other murders
expose dark secrets and a dangerous
conspiracy. The first in a series featuring
Inspector Rumsey Bucke.
Available in popular bookshops
or online: geoffbrookes.co.uk
£8.99
Coffee Break Solutions
1
ACROSS
1 Mexico, 5 Tip-off, 8 Beta,
9 Employer, 10 Parcels, 11 Opus,
13 Beast of burden, 16 Shut,
17 Admiral, 20 Sunshade, 21 Evil,
22 Canyon, 23 Taller.
DOWN
2 Elevate, 3 Isaac, 4 Overlook,
5 Type, 6 Prosper, 7 Feeds,
12 Obedient, 14 Squishy,
15 Examine, 16 Sauna,
18 Ideal, 19 Vain.
9
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9
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8
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Crossword Solutions
4
9
2
1
7
8
3
6
5
Sudoku Solutions
1
6
3
9
4
5
7
8
2
8
5
7
6
3
2
9
1
4
Puzzle by websudoku.com
LEGALESE: Welsh Country is published bi-monthly by Equine Marketing Ltd.
at Aberbanc, Llandysul, Ceredigion, SA44 5NP. Reproduction of any material,
in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without prior written consent of the
publishers. All material is sent at owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken,
Welsh Country will not accept liability for loss or damage. Dates, information
and prices quoted are believed to be correct at the time of going to press but are
subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions.
Neither the editor or publisher accepts responsibility for any material submitted,
whether photographic or otherwise. All rights reserved ISSN no: 1746 - 4080
2
ACROSS
1 Dress, 4 Offal, 7 Baku,
8 Absorbed, 9 Psalter, 10 Cache,
12 Havana, 14 Anorak, 16 Psych,
18 Edition, 21 Rotarian, 22 Esau,
23 Romeo, 24 Rodeo.
DOWN
1 Dead sea, 2 Equal, 3 Spaceman,
4 Oust, 5 Farrago, 6 Leech,
11 Gardener, 13 Acclaim,
15 Avocado, 17 Scour, 19 Treed,
20 Kilo.
7
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9
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2
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4
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2
7
1
6
8
4
5
3
9
Puzzle by websudoku.com
May - Jun 2019 65

Horoscopes
Your forecast for May and June
Christine Chalklin
Inspirational Astrologer
and Life Coach
The down to earth sign of
Taurus the bull is now in
the spotlight; constructive
and practical energy is at its
highpoint and can be used
beneficially to keep your
projects going at a steady
pace. The love planet Venus is
enthusiastic and passionate
in the energetic sign of Aries
until the 14th: romance is at
an all-time high! A brilliant
alignment between expansive
Jupiter in Sagittarius and
Mercury in Aries suggests that
some big ideas can flourish
if you have the courage to
see them through. The new
moon is in Taurus on the 4th
and the full moon is in Scorpio
on the 18th. June begins
energetically as our radiant Sun
and communicative Mercury
are both occupying the
inquisitive sign of Gemini. Good
communication and much
needed positive discussion
is high on the global agenda.
The love planet Venus arrives
in Gemini on the 9th, offering
excellent potential for some
outdoor fun and games! The
June full moon in Sagittarius,
also known as the Christ moon,
falls on the 17th; this is a special
lunar phase, bringing blessings
and powerful healing energies
to all.
NAVIGATE YOUR WAY TO
SUCCESS with in-depth
knowledge and cosmic
awareness. Tune into positive
and productive planetary
cycles and become more
successful in life and in
business. Contact me now for
a personal astrological reading
and/or a transformational
coaching consultation.
Christine Chalklin
Inspirational Astrologer and
Life Coach,
www.restyleyourlife.co.uk
Christine_chalklin@hotmail.com
Telephone: 07813 483549
ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20
Energetic Mars, your ruler,
remains in Gemini until the 16th.
Plans and projects are gathering
momentum now as many new
ideas become apparent and
communication is at its best.
June offers exciting potential in
financial matters but review your
options carefully before making
a big decision. Mars, your ruler,
remains in Cancer all month,
bringing the gift of heightened
imagination and intuition.
TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21
The Sun is in your sign until
the 21st and continues to give
you an extra boost of vitality.
Venus arrives in your sign on
the 15th and offers a chance to
clear up some emotional matters
that have been holding you back.
June suggests that your money
making skills are in the spotlight.
With Venus in your sign until
the 9th this looks like a period of
reward.
GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21
This month brings vibrant
and dynamic energy to anything
involving your friends, business
associates and your social circle.
The Scorpio full moon on the
18th illuminates a challenge
around an ambitious project.
June is your birthday month and
with Venus arriving in your sign
on the 9th this could turn out to
be just the lucky break that you
have been waiting for.
CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22
This month suggests that
a totally different dynamic is
on offer as your career moves
into the spotlight. Strong Aries
energy places your confidence
at an all-time high and pushes
you forward to go after what
you want. June is an important
month for Cancerians, the
energetic planet Mars remains in
your sign all month. Both high
energy and renewed vitality are
on offer, make the most of it.
LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23
This month the emphasis is
on travel and broadening your
horizons. Some journeys could
be work related, particularly
after the important Taurus new
moon on the 4th. Relationships
may be the most exciting part of
your life during June, as a deep
friendship, or even a love affair
could be on the cards. The month
is full of surprises as abundant
Jupiter in Sagittarius ensures that
your thinking is expansive and
innovative.
VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPT 22
Energetic Mars is powerful
at the highest point of your
chart, illuminating the way
for brighter career prospects.
Try to avoid wasting energy
on trivia as Mars in Gemini is
easily distracted. June suggests
excitement and new beginnings,
as the love planet Venus arrives in
Gemini on the 9th. Mars offers a
welcome burst of vitality in your
financial dealings brining new
opportunities your way.
LIBRA SEPT 23 - OCT 23
Further education and some
long distance travel are in the
spotlight until the 15th. Take this
opportunity to further develop
any new projects as this is the
perfect time to make a lasting
impression on those around you.
June is all about communication
and making new plans for the
future. Jupiter paves the way for
some brilliant ideas, enhanced
by the Sagittarius full moon on
the 17th.
SCORPIO OCT 24 - NOV 22
The new moon in your
opposite sign on the 4th clarifies
the important decisions that you
have taken in recent months.
Work related issues are on a roll
as new projects coincide with
your determination to succeed.
The love planet Venus remains in
your opposite sign until the 8th,
relax and enjoy this opportunity
to express yourself in a more
optimistic and enthusiastic
manner.
SAGITTARIUS NOV 23 - DEC 21
Your love life enters the
spotlight in May, as romantic
Venus starts the month in
the passionate sign of Aries.
Romance and relationships
should flourish under these
current trends. June draws your
attention to a powerful full moon
in your sign on the 17th. Joined
by optimistic and abundant
Jupiter, you now have the power
to make some amazing changes,
if you are ready and willing.
CAPRICORN DEC 22 - JAN 20
May brings a new sense of
adventure and exciting new
possibilities as the Sun and
impulsive Uranus occupy pivotal
positions in your chart, ensuring
that you enjoy popularity and
recognition. Dynamic Mars is
in your opposite sign all through
June as new found courage and
determination boost your high
profile. These positive current
trends show that you’ll find
yourself in the right place at the
right time.
AQUARIUS JAN 21 - FEB 18
During May your home
becomes one of your top
priorities; now is a brilliant
time to apply your energies to
constructive pursuits and also
for developing new contacts.
June is the perfect month to be
enjoying social activities as the
sun shines on new friendships or
a new romance. The 3rd offers a
turning point as the Gemini new
moon suggests that you bring
your deepest needs into focus.
PISCES FEB 19 - MARCH 20
The Sun joins maverick planet
Uranus in the communication
sector of your chart, apply your
energies to constructive pursuits
and be sure to connect with
influential people. Dynamic Mars
boosts your confidence during
June, particularly around the 13th
as it makes an important contact
with Neptune, your ruling planet.
Try be clear about what you
want as the full moon on the 17th
offers a brilliant opportunity for
success.
66
www.welshcountry.co.uk

SECTION TITLE IN COLOUR
Nothing to wear?
Mountain Warehouse - Exodus Printed Softshell
This is perfect for the
summer season as its light
layer works for every day use
and your outdoor activities.
It’s water-resistant and
windproof and has a soft
bonded lining to offer you
extra comfort and essential
for me - zipped pockets as I
do have a tendency to lose car
keys whilst dog walking! You
can adjust the fit on cuffs,
hood and hem so the fit works
for you. A super lightweight
jacket that’s comfortable to
wear and great for travelling,
plus it’s easy to pack if you’re
off on your travels.
Sizes: 12 - 24
Colours: navy, teal
Website: mountainwarehouse.com
RRP: £69.99
Jack Wolfskin - Midnight Moon Men
This is a warm, robust jacket made from recycled fleece that
you will enjoy wearing anywhere from hiking to trekking,
out to the pub or dog walking on the beach. The zip system
is clever as it allows you to zip the jacket into a compatible
shell jacket, so that’s useful for wintery weather. This is a
hardwearing Nanuk 150 fleece and has an
adjustable hem plus two
hand pockets. Perhaps the
family can club together
to get this for Dad for
Father’s Day.
Sizes:
Colours:
Stockist:
s – xxxl
black, ebony
0800 96537546
Website:
RRP:
jack-wolfskin.co.uk
£70.00
Chatham - Men’s G2 Deck II
This British-designed lace up boat shoe is a classic that has
frequently been copied but certainly never beaten. They’re
known for being long-lasting and high quality which is just
what’s needed. Crafted from premium walnut leather with
an enhanced grip sole, they have a moccasin-construction
for an optimal fit, handstitched on the last and features
a new sole spring poron performance cushioning, which
is anti-bacterial and offers maximum comfort and shock
absorption and it comes with Chatham’s unique 2-year
manufacturer's guarantee,
Dad’s will love these as
a Father’s
Day gift.
Sizes:
Colours:
Stockist:
Website:
RRP:
6 – 15 (inc. ½ sizes)
red brown, walnut
01392 822981
chatham.co.uk
£105.00
Weird Fish - Tallahassee Printed Jersey Dress
Cut above the knee their
best-selling dress is back
but with new season prints.
This dress is a winner as it
combines style, versatility
and is comfortable to wear
all day long. Made from
super-soft jersey fabric it
offers a flattering fit. With
short sleeves, a round
neck with contrasting
coloured facing, a buttonup
fastening down the
centre back and two small
patch pockets. Its simple
style allows you to dress up
or dress down - whatever
works for you for work
or play.
Sizes:
Colours:
Stockist:
Website:
RRP:
8 - 20
dark navy,
light cream, shell
01242 539535
weirdfish.co.uk
£35.00
May - Jun 2019 67

50 Rhosmaen Street
Llandeilo
Carmarthenshire
SA19 6HA
Bob Jones - Prytherch & Co.
Chartered Surveyors, Estate Agents, Auctioneers & Valuers
Professionals in Land & Property
E-mail: llandeilo@bjpco.com
Web: www.bjpco.com 01558 822468
Ffairfach, Llandeilo
• Superb residential holding
• 18 acres set in a glorious location within the Brecon
Beacons National Park and just 3 miles from the country
market town of Llandeilo
• Far reaching views over Towy Valley
• Beautifully presented farmhouse & landscaped grounds
• 2 reception rooms
• Kitchen/Living Room
• 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms
• Oil fired central heating & Upvc double glazing
• Sweeping driveway leading to spacious courtyard
around which the buildings are arranged which provide
workshops, garages and implement stores
• Pasture paddocks and mature woodland
• EPC Rating 'E'
Tel: 01558 822468
E-mail: llandeilo@bjpco.com
Web: www.bjpco.com
Offers in the region of
£565,000
68
www.welshcountry.co.uk