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Shrewsbury and Oswestry SYone Magazine early summer 2026

Welcome to your fantastic Spring edition of the SYone magazine. Packed with great features, what's on, recipes, puzzles, where to go, health and wellbeing and much more! To be in and of our Summer 2026 editions please contact Sarah on 01952 780058 or email sarah@scenelocal.co.uk

Welcome to your fantastic Spring edition of the SYone magazine. Packed with great features, what's on, recipes, puzzles, where to go, health and wellbeing and much more! To be in and of our Summer 2026 editions please contact Sarah on 01952 780058 or email sarah@scenelocal.co.uk

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SHREWSBURY

one

Magazine

YOUR

FREE

COPY

early summer 2026

Inside... Mental Health Awareness Month, the magic of Japan, Father’s Day inspiration,

local festivals and events, an interview with Jeff Goldblum, summer recipes, pet first aid,

plus all our regular features and much more...


First

Biker on

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Training

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A practical three

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anyone who might

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Book your

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Sunday 17th

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Join more

than 6,000 bikers on

one of the UK’s biggest ride outs,

from Shrewsbury to the Bike4Life

Festival at Weston Park:

Celebrity guests - Arena displays

Exhibitions - Food festival

Live music - Kids’ zone

Bike4Life

Route Map

Meole Brace

Start point

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M54

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elford

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All proceeds go to the lifesaving work of

Book your tickets now:

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Or follow the updates on:

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Tel: 07538 960618

or: 01743 626144

Luxury Living for

the Later Years

Residential nursing care that nourishes,

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Find out more at www.maesbrook.com

Or call our friendly team on: 01743 241474

Church Road, Meole Brace, Shrewsbury SY3 9HQ

Follow our news on

67


42 & 43

Float all your troubles

away with Somatic

SoundWave Healing

6 & 7 - Bring colour into 51 - Dribbz talks

your home with Frith Rugs about mens mental

12 & 13 - Hear the sounds

of the summer with Hear in

Wombourne

24 - An interview with

Jeff Goldblum

health and its ok to

rest.

Contents

www.scene-local.co.uk

FEATURES

18 - 29 Festivals and

what’s on this Summer

30 & 31 Fathers Day

40 & 41 Pets & first aid

42 - 53 Care, health

& wellbeing

57 - 65 - House, Home

& Garden

32-35

62

A butcher’s

success story

54 & 55 WGS Sixth

Form opening day

58 & 60 Delicious

summer recipes

The magic of Japan

and best places to

66 Puzzle page

to visit

......................................................................................................................................

This magazine is published by:

Scene Local Media Ltd,

Tel: 01952 780058

Email: Sarah@scenelocal.co.uk

Director: Sarah Williams

To advertise in our next edition contact Sarah on:

01952 780058 or email sarah@scenelocal.co.uk

The publisher shall not be held liable for any loss occasioned by failure of an advertisement to

appear, or any damage or inconvenience caused by errors, omissions and misprints.

All information correct at time of going to press.

......................................................................................................................................


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Building Better:

Turning Houses into

Homes with H & A Home

Improvement

In today’s fast-paced world,

our homes have become

more than just places to

live, they are spaces to relax,

work, entertain and grow.

Whether it’s a long-overdue

kitchen upgrade, a muchneeded

extension or a

complete home refresh,

choosing the right building team can make all the

difference between a stressful project and an

exciting transformation.

opportunity. Measurements are taken, existing

features are assessed and potential

improvements are explored, whether that means

increasing natural light, improving functionality

or simply making better use of the available

space. Expert guidance is offered throughout,

with practical suggestions tailored to both taste

and budget.

Extensions remain one of the most popular ways

to enhance a property, and for good reason. A

well-designed extension can completely

transform how a home feels, creating light-filled

living areas and adding long-term value. From

loft conversions to side or rear extensions,

understanding planning permissions, building

regulations and cost implications is essential and

having experienced professionals on hand offers

invaluable peace of mind.

Family-run businesses continue to stand out in

the home improvement sector, and H & A

Building is a perfect example of why. Specialising

in all aspects of home renovation, they combine

skilled craftsmanship with a personal, honest

approach that many homeowners value deeply.

From kitchens and bathrooms to extensions,

patios, flooring and carpentry, their services

cover the full spectrum of modern home

improvement needs.

“Listening is where every successful

renovation truly begins.”

One of the most important and often overlooked

stages of any renovation is the initial

consultation. At H & A Building, this is where the

journey truly begins. Rather than arriving with

fixed ideas, their team focuses on listening.

Homeowners are encouraged to share their

vision, lifestyle needs and any concerns they may

have, ensuring the final design reflects how the

space will actually be used day to day.

During an in-home consultation, careful

attention is given to layout, flow and

What truly sets H & A Building apart, however, is

their commitment to quality and communication.

Clients consistently praise being kept informed

and consulted at every stage, with projects

delivered by trusted tradespeople who go the

extra mile. It’s this attention to detail and

customer care that turns first-time clients into

repeat customers.

Ultimately, renovating your home should feel

exciting, not overwhelming. With the right team,

expert advice and a clear plan, even the most

ambitious ideas can be brought to life smoothly

and successfully. For homeowners dreaming of a

space that better reflects their personality,

lifestyle and future plans, the first step is simply

starting the conversation, because every dream

home begins with a well-planned consultation.

Testimonial:

“We were nervous about extending, but the team

guided us every step of the way. The result is a

bright, beautiful space that feels like it’s always

been part of our home.”

Judy - Shrewsbury


H&A HOME

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H&A Home

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All aspects of home improvements

Kitchens

Bathrooms

Plastering

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Flooring Specialists

01952 936414

office@handahome.co.uk

QUALITY STANDARDS

YOU CAN TRUST


UNDERSTANDING THE

CAUSES OF HEARING LOSS

Hearing loss can affect anyone,

at any age, and for a multitude

of reasons. At our family run

clinics Hear in Hagley, Hear in

Wombourne and Hear in Rubery

we believe that understanding

the causes of hearing loss is the

first step towards effective

management a better quality

of listening life. While some

causes are unavoidable, many

can be mitigated with proper

care and awareness.

Ear Infections

Ear infections can cause temporary hearing

loss and, if left untreated, may lead to

permanent damage. Children are

particularly susceptible to ear infections.

Ototoxic Medications

Certain medications, including some

antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and

aspirin, can damage the inner ear and

cause hearing loss. Always discuss potential

side effects with your doctor.

Family History

In some cases, hearing loss is inherited.

Genetic factors can contribute to various

types of hearing loss, including congenital

hearing loss (present at birth).

Age-Related Hearing Loss (Presbycusis)

This is the most common cause of hearing

loss, affecting millions worldwide. As we

age, the delicate structures within our inner

ear naturally deteriorate, leading to a

gradual decline in hearing sensitivity.

Typically, high-frequency sounds are the

first to be affected. These are responsible

for clarity so often things will be loud

enough but not clear so we often blame

others for mumbling or speaking too quickly

when in fact it's our ears that are the issue

and not them!

Noise-Induced Hearing Loss

Exposure to loud noises, whether from

machinery, concerts, or even everyday

activities like using power tools, can

damage the hair cells in the inner ear. This

type of hearing loss is often preventable by

wearing appropriate hearing protection.

Earwax Buildup

While earwax is a natural protective

substance, excessive buildup can block the

ear canal and impair hearing. Please avoid

using cotton buds or other objects to

remove earwax, as this can push it further

in. Our clinics offer safe, professional and

effective wax removal services.

The Importance of Professional Audiology

Assessment

If you're experiencing hearing difficulties,

it's essential to seek professional help. At

one of our clinics. Our experienced

audiologists can conduct a comprehensive

hearing assessment to determine the cause

and extent of your hearing loss. We'll then

work with you to develop a treatment plan,

which may include hearing aids, assistive

listening devices, or other interventions.

Understanding the causes of hearing loss

empowers you to take proactive steps to

protect or improve your hearing. You can

play a significant role in your hearing

health. Don't hesitate to contact us at Hear

In Hagley and Wombourne for expert

advice and support.

HAGLEY/RUBERY CLINIC

01562 884400

hagley@lifestylehearingsolutions.co.uk

WOMBOURNE CLINIC

01902 302266

wombourne@lifestylehearingsolutions.co.uk

www.lifestylehearingsolutions.co.uk


SOUNDS OF

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17


What’s on

Dates for your diary

Make the most of the season

From family days out and foodie

favourites to theatre nights, race

days and cultural highlights,

there’s plenty happening across

Shropshire and Wolverhampton

as we head into summer.

Whether you’re planning a

relaxed weekend, a date night or

a fun day out with the family,

here are some of the standout

events to add to your diary over

the coming weeks.

EDITOR’S PICKS

RAF Cosford Air Show 2026

RAF Cosford | Sunday 14 June

A major regional highlight and one

of the area’s biggest summer events,

with thrilling flying displays,

aircraft, attractions and a brilliant

family atmosphere.

Shrewsbury Food Festival

The Quarry, Shrewsbury | 27–28

June

A firm local favourite, bringing

together street food, chef demos,

artisan producers, family fun and a

fantastic summer buzz.

Mean Girls

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre |

23–27 June

The smash-hit musical arrives in

Wolverhampton for a fun, feel-good

week packed with iconic moments

and seriously catchy songs.

AlderFest 2026

Alderford Lake, Whitchurch | 3–4

July

A lively, family-friendly lakeside

festival with music, entertainment,

outdoor fun and a real feel-good

summer atmosphere.

Oswestry Hot Air Balloon

Festival

Oswestry | 4–5 July

A colourful early-July crowd-pleaser

and a lovely option for a memorable

family day out

THEATRE & LIVE

The Cat in the Hat

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury | 10

May

A playful family favourite brought to

life on stage, perfect for younger

audiences and nostalgic grown-ups

alike.

Shall We Dance?

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury | 10

May

A lively local dance showcase

celebrating musical favourites and

feel-good performance.

Cassidy Janson Sings Carole

King

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury | 12

May

A polished and uplifting tribute

evening celebrating the timeless

songs of Carole King.

Session A9

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury | 13

May

A high-energy night of Scottish folk

music with brilliant musicianship

and plenty of atmosphere.

Simon Reeve: To The Ends of

the Earth

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre | 10

May

An inspiring evening of travel

stories, adventure and behind-thescenes

insight from one of Britain’s

best-loved broadcasters.

Le Ballet Trockadero de Monte

Carlo

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre | 15–

16 May

A brilliantly entertaining ballet

company known for comedy, camp

and extraordinary technical talent.

Waitress

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre | 1–

6 June

The much-loved musical serves up

heart, humour and unforgettable

songs in a feel-good theatre week.

Al Murray – All You Need Is

Guv

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre | 7

June

A big night of sharp stand-up and

crowd-pleasing comedy from the

ever-popular Pub Landlord.

BalletBoyz

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury | 19

June

Dynamic contemporary dance from

the acclaimed company known for

bold, modern performance.

Adriana Brownlee – Death Zone

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury | 20

June

An inspiring live talk from the

mountaineer sharing stories from

some of the world’s toughest climbs.

Andy Warhol: Art Star

Wolverhampton Art Gallery | From

23 May

A major exhibition celebrating one

of the world’s most iconic artists.

Wolverhampton’s official listings

currently show Andy Warhol: Art

Star opening 23 May 2026 and

running into October.

By Sarah Williams


SUMMER SEASON 2026

t: 01746 766477

BOOK ON LINE at www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk

STRICTLY ABBA!!

Friday 15th May 2026 - Saturday 16th May 2026

Strictly Abba is one of the most authentic and accurate tributes to Abba

This Abba Tribute surpasses all others with the motto The Winner Takes It All! .Tickets £18

FIRST MEN IN THE MOON

Saturday 30th May 2026

A high spirited and rollicking scientific romance that sees our two protagonists go boldly where no Victorians

have gone before. To the moon! Though the surface of the strange celestial body is challenging enough, what

untold horrors may lurk beneath? Jonathan Goodwin both writes and performs this one-man show. Tickets £12

BONNIE & CLYDE - THE MUSICAL

Saturday 13th June 2026 - Saturday 20th June 2026

At the height of the Great Depression, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow went from two small-town nobodies in

West Texas to America's most renowned folk heroes and the Texas law enforcement's worst nightmares.

Fearless, shameless, and alluring, the Tony-nominated Bonnie & Clyde is the electrifying story of love, adventure

and crime that captured the attention of an entire country.Tickets from £13

TOTAL REX

Saturday 27th June 2026

Total-REX T-REX Tribute is a sensational show capturing the rock sound of Marc Bolan and T Rex. A must see for all

Bolan, Glam Rock and 70s Music fans alike, the show features all the T Rex big hits from 1970s along with firm

album track favourites - and much much more! The band are T Rex fanatics and know their stuff!!. Tickets £15

ROMEO AND JULIET

Friday 03rd July 2026

In Verona, two star-cross'd lovers defy the ancient blood feud between their warring houses, only for their

forbidden passion to ignite a catastrophic tragedy that consumes them both. Tickets from £10

KILLER RHAPSODY - A NIGHT OF QUEEN

Saturday 18th July 2026 - Sunday 19th July 2026

The hottest and most riveting tribute to Freddie Mercury and Queen. Performing a spectacular show, running for

over 2 hours long; featuring both the mega hits and deeper cuts such as: Last Horizon, I'm In Love With My Car,

Brighton Rock and more... Tickets £18

TOWN HALL, HIGH STREET, BRIDGNORTH

www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk


Best Festival

in the West

Midlands

Shrewsbury Food

Festival has been

crowned Festival of

the Year at the West

Midlands Tourism

Awards for three

years running. It’s

back in Shrewsbury’s

Quarry Park on June

27th and 28th.

The award-winning two day festival

returns with a full lineup of foodie,

family fun. Top chefs will lead

demonstrations, there will be over

180 food, drink and home stalls to

peruse, bars run by local drink

producers, and delicious street food

with world cuisine.

Shropshire Lad from Embers Café,

Tat Effby – The Caketoonist, who

has just released a new book: ‘Bake

Your Sweet Time’, and James

Sherwin from Wild Shropshire, who

recently appeared on Great British

Menu.

At the Teach and Taste Stage, you

can sample food, as well as get

hands-on experience preparing

dishes. Shrewsbury Food Hub will

be running this area to raise

awareness of reducing food waste.

After the success of last year’s

evening concert, the Saturday of the

festival will be opening late again,

until 8.30pm, with cheaper eveningonly

tickets available. Local charity,

Shropshire Rural Support, will be at

the event raising funds and

awareness as this year’s festival

charity. Shropshire Rural Support

works to improve the wellbeing of

Shropshire’s farming and rural

communities.

this year, meaning they have been

booked up earlier than ever. “Join us

for a day of foodie fun with friends

and family – we’ll be showcasing the

best producers in the region,” she

said.

“The quality of exhibitors this year is

fantastic – you’ll uncover some

wonderful products, drinks and food

to try, so come hungry!

“There’s something for everyone at

Shrewsbury Food Festival, and

there’s a reason why this event has

been named ‘Festival of the Year’ in

the West Midlands for the last three

years running. We hope you’ll come

and see it for yourself – a good time

is guaranteed!”

The festival is jam-packed with free

entertainment – a rocking live music

stage, family performances on the

bandstand, a field to fork interactive

zone, and a family entertainment

area will keep kids busy with free

activities, circus skills and rides,

offering excellent value for money.

New this year will be a sports area

where you can try out different

activities and discover a new hobby.

This year’s chef lineup includes Nick

Bennett from Old Downton Lodge,

Stuart Collins from Docket

Restaurant, Adam Purnell – The

Beth Heath, Director of Fun at

Shropshire Festivals, said they have

seen an unprecedented number of

high-quality exhibitor applications

Shrewsbury Food

Festival is on June 27th

and 28th in the Quarry.

Buy tickets at...

www.shrewsburyfoodfestival.co.uk


SHREWSBURY

FOOD

FESTIVAL

27 & 28 JUNE 2026

THE QUARRY PARK

SHREWSBURY

West Midlands

Tourism

Award Winners

‘Festival of the Year’

2024, 2025, 2026

It’s way more than a food festival,

it’s a great day out for all with...

• Chef demos

• 2 stages of live entertainment

• 180 food, drink & homeware stalls

• Street food & bars

• Free kids activities

• Field to fork area

• Teach and Taste stage

...plus much more!

Championing local, quality

producers and performers.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

shrewsburyfoodfestival.co.uk

BUY TICKETS


Dear Welshpool,

The Welshpool Country Music Festival is only

weeks away. We now need to recruit volunteers to

help make the festival another success. Can you

spare a few hours, a day, a weekend ? Could you

spare some time to help organise some essential

elements of the show ? We need team leaders and

day volunteers to help the show raise money to

keep the Heulwen Trust boats running free trips

along the Montgomery Canal for those less able.

Since the mid 80’s The Heulwen Trust has been

running day trips up and down The Montgomery

Canal. Our narrow boats are specially adapted to

assist wheel chair users on and off the boats and

on board we have easy access toilets and changing

facilities along with simple catering services. Our

annual running cost are met by the income from

the annual Welshpool Country Music Festival. We

provide daily trips entirely free as a result of a

successful annual show. By offering to volunteer

some of your over the week it takes to assemble &

dismantle the show, you will be helping us to

send another boat along the Monty and help put

some smiles on the faces of those less able as well

as the careers and family members who support

them.

Please email

chairman@HeulwenTrust.co.uk

if you can spare a few hours or a day or a

weekend or more.

Help us make a difference.

www.HeulwenTrust.co.uk

www.CountryWestern.org



After Still Blooming performed

so well here (No. 10 in UK Album

charts), are you excited to

perform these fan favourites, and

more, on your upcoming UK

tour?

The band and I can’t wait to perform

the new arrangements from Night

BIooms. It’s fun to do

such beloved songs like Over The

Rainbow and If I Only Had A Brain.

We’re still playing some of our

favorites from previous records, such

as The Kicker and Let’s Face The

Music And Dance. Audiences seem to

really connect with us when we close

the show with Everytime We Say

Goodbye. We’re going to perform

Tattoo mainly for our UK and

European audiences. It’s delightful to

do a beloved Eurovision song in a new

way.

From never having visited

Manchester to presenting Olivia

Dean with album of the year at

this year's BRIT awards, what

about Manchester are you

looking forward to revisiting?

Manchester is truly a fantastic city. It

has such rich history with music and

bands. I feel honored to even be a

small part of that. I participated in a

record signing event at HMV in

Manchester a few months ago. It was

invigorating and soul healing to talk to

and meet so many wonderful

Mancunians. I was honored to

perform a song in Manchester with the

brilliant Laufey. I’ve never seen an

audience so welcoming. I can’t wait to

perform for them again with my band.

Now releasing the companion

album Night Blooms on the 5th

June – what makes this album

stand apart from its predecessor?

In my opinion, Night Blooms is our

best album yet. The arrangements are,

I think, quite a step up. We recorded

with a live orchestra on many of the

tracks. The strings add a depth to

the music that raises the band and the

singers, I believe, to a new level. All

an interview with

JEFF GOLDBLUM

the special guests and collaborators

are otherworldly and in top form. I’m

brimming with excitement for the

world to hear Night Blooms.

Night Blooms is packed with

collaborations, including a team

up with your good and bad

witches Cynthia Erivo and Ariana

Grande. What was it like working

with them in this new musical

capacity compared to

filmmaking?

Cynthia and Ariana are two of the

most talented people alive. Doing

music with them feels like

an extension of acting. We sang so

much on the set of Wicked, that it

seemed only natural move it to the

recording studio. They are both

enormously gracious with their time

and amazing talent. I feel like the

luckiest guy in the world to be able to

make art with these two incredible

women.

On the topic of acting, how do

you balance filming demands

with your passion for music

making?

I’m wildly grateful to have a career in

acting and music. They work well

together and compliment each other.

Music is about practice and discipline.

On the set of Wicked I would practice

piano every morning in order to keep

up my chops. And while both worlds

offer different and unique creative

adventures, I often experience a lot of

craft overlap. Being present in the

moment, for instance, is certainly a

cornerstone of jazz music and acting.

Being signed to UMG’s Fontana

label alongside artists such as

Jacob Collier, Aurora and

Dodie—who also features on

Night Blooms of course —do you

feel a sense of belonging within

this musical family?

Wow - What a family that is! Fontana

has the most brilliant artists in the

world. I’m just grateful to be

mentioned along with these

heavyweights. I’ve been lucky enough

to record with Dodie, Melody Gardot,

and Gregory Porter. It sure would be

dreamy to record with Jacob Collier

and AURORA someday. Fontana

supports our band’s artistic vision, so

it’s always been very collaborative

with them. I can’t thank Tom Lewis

enough for allowing me to be a part of

such a glorious family.

On some tracks you let your

collaborators shine on the vocals.

When do you decide to take a step

back on your vocals, and when do

you enjoy taking centre stage?

All the singers we work with are

masterful. It just depends on the song.

For example, I think it

made sense to do a duet with Cynthia

on “If I Only Had A Brain”. We sing it

as a call and response to each other.

It’s easy for Charlie Puth to shine. He

sings five part harmonies that

sound like butter on “Bewitched

Bothered and Bewildered”. I wanted to

sing “Over The Rainbow’ because the

arrangement is so unexpected. It’s a

slow Bossa Nova with lush strings.

It’s such an iconic song, so we wanted

to do something completely new with

it.

This tour stops at the world

famous Royal Albert Hall, which

has hosted The Beatles, Frank

Sinatra, and others. How do you

feel walking in the footsteps of

these legends?

To ever be associated with Frank

Sinatra or The Beatles is a special

honor and a total treat. I was

lucky enough to meet Sir Paul

McCartney last year, so it’s even a

more personal honor now. This will be

our return to Royal Albert Hall. We

performed for the Royal Family on

Remembrance Day in 2019.

Performing within those sacred walls

was the thrill and privilege of a life

time. I can’t wait to do it again.

With more than 50 musicians set

to join you on stage, what can

audiences expect from this

performance?

I think audiences are in for a real

treat. This is a one of a kind

presentation. We are not just sculpting

an orchestra show around our band.

We started from scratch in order to

make the orchestra and the band one

entity. We also picked some new and

very fun songs. All the arrangers and

orchestrators are the best in the

world, and I’m overflowing with

gratitude for what they’ve achieved

with this harlequinade. We scatter in

songs from Wicked, Willy Wonka, and

there are several other surprise nods

to cinema. It’s truly moving for me to

be playing piano with a full orchestra.

The experience is kind of tough to put

into words. I’m getting misty just

thinking about it.

See Jeff on tour on 28 May

in Wolverhampton, at,

UW At The Halls

www.jeffgoldblum.decca.com


25


HERE FOR THE BEER:

STROUD BREWERY

The market town of Stroud is

located in Gloucestershire and

attracts visitors all year through.

The Cotswold area is known for

its outstanding, picturesque,

natural beauty. History dictates

that Stroud had woollen mills

which were powered by the

surrounding rivers flowing

through the valleys and

Cotswold sheep supplied the

wool. During the 19th century

Stroud was well-known for its

industrial and trading

connections. Some former

working mills now offer guided

tours. The Walled Garden

welcomes visitors, as does the

Farmers’ Market and the Local

Brewery, which is very proud to

be a B-Corp organic brewery.

Multi award-winning Stroud

Brewery (Est. 2006) is

renowned for the productions of

exceptional, organic craft beers

and is now one of Stroud’s

major attractions. Their beers

include ranges of core, specials

and more.

TOM LONG

(3.8% vol) is a

popular organic

amber bitter

beer – Smooth,

malty and

citrusy.

BUDDING

(4.5% vol)

comes across

(to me) as

floral and

zesty, for this

organic, pale

ale

production.

ALEDERFLOWER

(4.9% vol) organic

pale ale, I found to

be crisp and with

floral notes -

another, hugely

popular

production, from

the Stroud

Brewery

Company.

If a stout is

required, then BIG

CAT (4.5% vol)

organic stout does

not disappoint, in

any way. Rich,

with chocolate

overtones, makes

this a very

popular

selection for

stout lovers.

New additions to their ranges

are greatly appreciated and

ARCTIC CAT (4.5% vol) has

proved to be extremely popular

since launching. This organic,

white stout production (Limited

Edition) is full with flavour.

Notes of chocolate and coffee

are in abundance. Different,

with its colour. A superb

delectation.

The outstanding efforts and

achievements, of all staff at

Stroud Brewery, are now

recognised much further afield,

as the word spreads. Please view

their excellent and very

informative website for all

details and information. Online

ordering is available and easy.

Highly recommended.

Stroud Brewery,

Kingfisher Business Park,

London Road,

Thrupp,

Stroud,

Gloucestershire

GL5 2BY.

Tel: 01453 887122.

E-mail:

beer@stroudbrewery.co.uk

Web: www.stroudbrewery.co.uk

HOP DROP (4.5%

vol) is gluten free.

This much loved,

organic pale ale

production, I

recognised

as fruity and

hoppy, plus

citrusy.

If low alcohol is for you then

EASY PEASY (2.6% vol)

organic pale ale

‘ticks many boxes’.

This ‘session ale’

has a floral

bouquet and is

citrusy, to

satisfaction, with

flavours from

organic

elderflowers and

lemons.

As always, Enjoy!

Trevor Langley



Regeneration underway

Wellington’s regeneration is

progressing: At the former YMCA in

Walker Street apartments are occupied

and a new retailer is set to move into

the ground floor, while opposite the

former Planet of Beauty is being rebuilt

for 2026. In Wellington Market,

refurbishment continues with a new

outside food area – The Cowshed -

opening this summer. Public realm

upgrades around the town include new

town centre bins and benches.

Meanwhile at the Wellington Orbit the

newly refurbished upper floors launch

this summer, with the centrepiece being

the fantastic Fiona Hunter Studio – a

large dance studio - alongside versatile

exhibition and meeting rooms.

Supported by local groups, these

community spaces will host dance,

music and business events.

Goodbye Karen and welcome

Alison

Wellington Town Council bids a very

heartfelt farewell to retiring CEO, Karen

Roper, after eleven years of dedicated

service and guidance. Looking to the

future, the council are delighted to

welcome Alison Hinks as the new Town

Clerk. A true local, Alison grew up in

Arleston and brings 18 years of

experience in local government.

Charity Sunflower Walk from

Wellington

On Sunday 7 June there will be a

fundraising walk from Wellington to

Shifnal, via the Ercall and Telford Town

Park, and finishing at the Park House

Hotel in Shifnal for a celebratory BBQ.

The 13-mile route, using designated

walking paths, will be guided by

Günther Bedson – otherwise known as

‘The Shifnal Rambler’ and is being

organised by Love Wellington as a

fundraiser for the Lingen Davies

Sunflower Appeal raising funds for a

new cancer treatment centre serving

the people of Telford at the Princess

Royal Hospital. Places are going fast -

to register to walk please see this link:

lingendavies.beaconforms.com/form/02

deb4ea

Wellington Open Gardens

Wellington Open Gardens is back

offering the chance to discover hidden

gems raising funds for Community

Resource, a local Shropshire charity

supporting those facing difficulties

across the county. With at least ten

gardens to explore, including the

stunning grounds of Sunnycroft, this

year’s Wellington Open Gardens will

take place on the weekend of 27 & 28

June, with gardens open from 11am

until 4pm to explore over both days.

Wristbands and trail maps are available

for purchase using this link:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/wellingto

n-open-gardens-2026-tickets-

1983962694827

Midsummer Fayre

On Saturday 13 June Wellington will

celebrate its traditional annual

Midsummer Fayre; a feel-good parade

that fills the centre of Wellington with

food and craft stalls, music, dancing

and colourful costumes. The event is

inspired by the ancient June fayres first

sanctioned in the town's 1244 market

charter and the costumed processions

of the 1770s. Organised by Wellington

H2A and All Saints Church, it is funded

with support from Wellington Town

Council and local businesses. From

10am – 3pm.

Viva Italia as scooter day returns

The streets of Wellington will be

teeming with Italian scooters on

Saturday 4 July with the return of this

annual event now in its fifth year, the

Italian Scooter Day. The Italian

AutoMoto Club has joined forces with

Love Wellington to stage the gathering

which will see scooters of all types,

from rare vintage examples to current

models, with riders and enthusiasts

expected from across the Midlands.

Organiser David Morris said that he

was delighted that the rally was

returning, “This scooter event, which

brings footfall to Wellington giving local

businesses a boost, has become a

fixture in the calendar for the scooter

community. We expect Scooters to be

in Wellington from 9.30am and urge

people to arrive by mid-morning to

ensure they see the scooters and to

avoid any disappointment.”

Wellington Dates for Your Diary

Here are some of the events you can

look forward to in Wellington. Please

keep checking lovewellington.co.uk

for updates.

May

Saturday 2 - 25 Years of Wellington

Twinning

Sunday 3 - Start of Park Yoga in

Bowring Park (ends 13 September)

Wednesday 6 – Bayley Mile Road

Race

Saturday 9 - All Saints Concert -

VocaBella 10th Anniversary, evening

June

Saturday 6 - Prince of Egypt

performance @ All Saints 2.30pm &

7pm

Sunday 7 - Lingen Davies Walk from

Wellington to Shifnal

Saturday 13 – Wellington Midsummer

Fayre

Saturday 20 - All Saints Concert -

Matthew Richards Musical Memories –

afternoon

Sunday 21 - ODDSOCKS at Bowring

Park – Romeo and Juliet at 5pm

Saturday 27– Sunday 28 – Wellington

Open Gardens


& Nature Inspired Gift Shop

The UK’s Largest

Tropical Butterfly

Paradise!

Rain or shine walk among

some of the worlds’ most

beautiful butterflies in a

unique rainforest

environment; with tropical

blooms, splashing

waterfalls and

fish-filled pools

Open all year round

www.butterflyfarm.co.uk

Swan’s Nest Lane

Stratford-upon-Avon

Warwickshire

CV37 7LS

enquiries@butterflyfarm.co.uk

Tel:01789 299288

吀 e EMPORIUM has a vast array of

antiques, collectables and

memorabilia of all kinds. With a variety of

experienced and knowledgeable traders

specialising in many di 昀 erent items to suit

all tastes and pockets!

Open 7 days a week:

10am – 4pm

(Appointments can also be arranged outside

normal trading hours)

Follow us on Facebook to

see all our exciting new

arrivals!

The Shire Emporium

The Shire Emporium

29a Ennerdale Road, Shrewsbury SY1 3LD.

Email: theshireemporium@gmail.com

Tel: 07366 981 582

29


MAKE THE MOST OF

FATHER’S DAY

LOCAL GIFT & EXPERIENCE GUIDE

Father’s Day is a

wonderful opportunity to

celebrate the men who

show up, support us and

somehow always manage

to have the answer – or at

least the right tool – when

we need it most. Whether

you’re shopping for Dad,

Grandad, a stepdad,

partner or another

important father figure,

June offers the perfect

excuse to spoil him a little

and make the day feel

special.

The beauty of Father’s Day in

Shropshire and Wolverhampton is

that there are so many thoughtful

ways to celebrate locally. While

classic gifts will always have their

place, some of the best presents are

the ones that create a moment, a

memory or an experience to enjoy.

And in an area full of fantastic

independents, welcoming venues

and local gems, it’s easier than ever

to make the day feel personal.

For traditional gift-givers, local

shopping can offer something far

more meaningful than a last-minute

online order. Independent

menswear stores, grooming

specialists, local delis, artisan food

retailers and lifestyle shops often

have exactly the kind of elevated but

useful gifts that go down well. Think

quality shirts, leather accessories,

artisan coffee, local ales, handmade

treats, smart casualwear,

aftershaves, barbershop vouchers or

a carefully chosen bottle of

something special.

Food and drink are, of course,

always a winning Father’s Day

theme. A hearty Sunday lunch in a

country pub, a steak night, a beer

tasting, a relaxed brunch or a long

afternoon in a pub garden can all

feel wonderfully celebratory. Across

Shropshire, there’s no shortage of

charming pubs, farm shops and

restaurants where quality food and a

relaxed setting do all the hard work

for you. Wolverhampton,

meanwhile, offers plenty of great

dining options too, from stylish city

spots to casual favourites perfect for

family gatherings.

If your dad is more about

experiences than things, June is a

brilliant time to plan a day around

what he genuinely enjoys. For some,

that might be a round of golf, a

countryside walk followed by lunch,

a classic car event, a garden centre

browse, a trip to a local heritage site

or even a simple breakfast out

before the day begins. Others might

appreciate a brewery visit, tickets to

a local event, a sporting afternoon or

a practical but appreciated treat like

car valeting, detailing or a

barbershop experience.

What makes Father’s Day feel extra

special is often the thought behind

it. A carefully planned day, a meal

somewhere lovely, a small gift

chosen with care or simply time

spent together can mean more than

anything extravagant. For families

with young children, handmade

cards, breakfast in bed or a local

family day out can be just as

meaningful as a bigger gift.

It’s also worth remembering that

Father’s Day can look different for

everyone. For some, it’s about

celebrating grandads, stepdads or

supportive father figures who have

played an important role over the

years. For others, it may be a quieter

day of reflection or appreciation.

Whatever form it takes, it’s a lovely

reminder to pause and mark those

relationships with warmth and

gratitude.

So this June, think local, think

thoughtful and think experience-led.

Support the independent businesses

on your doorstep, choose gifts with

personality and plan a day that feels

relaxed, enjoyable and genuinely

memorable.

Because the best Father’s Day gifts

are rarely the most expensive. More

often, they’re the ones that say: we

know what you love, and today is all

about you.

By Sarah Williams


HAPPY FATHER’S DAY

PORK PIE

The perfect personalised gift for

any pork pie loving

Dad.

SHOP ONLINE FOR DELIVERY OR CALL OUR SHOP TO COLLECT

!"#$%&#'()'"'*#$+,(

A selection of our products including our Traditional Pork Pies,

Sausage Rolls, Ironbridge Pasties, Pork Scratchings and even our

popular Chilli Pork Pie. More information online.

#eleysporkpies

-+./(-$'(

Our pork pies are available in different

sizes, ideal for slicing up with some

English Mustard and Pickle.

ORDER ONLINE FOR UK DELIVERY

VISIT OUR SHOP : 13 TONTINE HILL, IRONBRIDGE, TELFORD, SHROPSHIRE, TF8 7AL

01952 432504 • INFO@ELEYSPORKPIES.CO.UK • WWW.ELEYSPORKPIES.CO.UK

@eleysporkpies


fortunate to be able to trade through it and to

welcome more customers; we started to deliver

locally to those who were unable to get to us and

had a hugely positive response not only to the

quality of our meat compared to that of the

supermarket, but also to the idea of more

localised shopping - 'the way Mum & Nan used to

shop' became a frequent saying!

This is us, Jason & Diane Bradley, the faces

behind the name and although behind the

scenes much of the time, we’re always

working hard to ensure that your experience

of our shop leaves you eager to return.

After running Beamans in LowTown Bridgnorth for

over 20 years, we had often talked about

opening another shop and the opportunity to

make Shrewsbury our base came in 2018

when the property on London Road

became vacant. It was a huge

project to kit out such a vast space

and we took time to make sure it

was just what we wanted.

We were able to open our doors

in March 2019 and set about reintroducing

local shopping to the

community. Open: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm

& Saturday 8am-4pm, we wanted to

make sure that we'd be accessible to

everyone including those who enjoy shopping

locally either on their way to or from work rather

than having to always visit a supermarket.

The business expanded in May 2022 when we

opened our coffee lounge on the mezzanine

level of the shop. Open 9am til 3pm Tuesday

to Saturday, the coffee lounge has

proven to be a real asset to the

local community with it’s

Espresso machine and relaxed

friendly vibe, we’re also dogfriendly

in this area of the shop

which you and your 4-legged

friends can access via the car

park as opposed to through the

shop itself.

2025 saw another modification to the

business with more production taking place on

site meaning that all of our pastry goods including

pork pies, meat pies & pasties are now made on

the premises - we even brought across our trusted

baker! This was another huge investment for us

but along with the expansion of our ready meal

range, we can already see the need for fresh,

homemade meal options.

We look forward to serving you in the future and

thank you for your continued support.

One of our greatest passions is supporting local

and the shop now showcases some of

Shropshire's finest suppliers and we're always on

the lookout for more.

Covid-19 hit everyone hard and we were so


Your

traditional

high quality

Butchers &

Delicatessen

with a vibrant

contemporary

forward thinking

twist

Local meat and produce of the highest quality

Bradley's coffee lounge

Also available

BBQ Packs, Meat Boxes

Afternoon Teas, Buffets,

celebration hampers,

gift vouchers, cakes,

ready meals, seasonal

wreath making workshops

Breakfast & Hot Carvery Sandwiches

available daily. 10% discount to all

college students with a valid ID

Your local butchers and deli offering the best quality meat, cheese and deli products. Our aim is to

showcase some of Shropshire's most sought-after suppliers all under one roof for the most convenient

shopping experience you could wish for. FREE parking at rear

Bradley's Butcher &

Delicatessen

Open: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm & Saturday 8am-4pm

1 London Road, Shrewsbury (On the Column roundabout)

Tel: 01743 622989

www.bradleysbutchers.com

email: shop@bradleysbutchers.com

@Bradleysbutchers


April 16th 2926 marks 25 years since Jason

Bradley took over the reins of Beaman & Sons in

Low Town, Bridgnorth. At that time the shop was

still in its relative infancy compared to the High

Street shop which opened it's doors in 1890. To

the everyday shopper nothing really changed, they

continued to sell Bridgnorth Beef reared at the

Beaman’s Farm and the High Street shop

continued to provide all of the cooked meats, pork

pies & meat filled pies knowing that customers

could trust the quality.

& his team are familiar faces to shoppers from

Bridgnorth & further afield who can be sure of a

warm welcome & a chat.

The closure of Beamans High Street shop brought

more challenges to deal with; Jason decided to

bring all of the pie making equipment, including

the baker, in house to safeguard the fantastic

reputation it had come to achieve, as well as

taking taking over production of the award

winning sausages & home-cured bacon. Again, to

the everyday shopper nothing has altered which is

just the way he likes it, here’s to another 25 years!

The past 25 years has seen the shop go from

strength to strength carefully navigating the everchanging

status of independent shops in the

community. Open 6 days a week from 7am, Jason

Beaman & Sons

45 Underhill Street, Bridgnorth, WV16 4BB

01746 767765

www.bridgnorthbutcher.co.uk



SUMMER ESCAPES

ON YOUR DOORSTEP

There’s a certain magic to

May and June. The days

are longer, the weather

feels full of promise and

suddenly the idea of

escaping for a while –

even just for an afternoon

– becomes irresistible.

The good news is that you

don’t need a passport or a

long journey to enjoy that

holiday feeling. Across

Shropshire and

Wolverhampton, there are

countless ways to create

your own June escape,

right here on your

doorstep

Sometimes, the most satisfying

getaways are the simplest. A

leisurely brunch in a pretty market

town, a scenic walk followed by

lunch in a country pub, an afternoon

tea in elegant surroundings or a spa

treatment that turns an ordinary

weekday into something far more

indulgent. These are the perfect

month to seek out those small

luxuries and remind ourselves that a

change of pace can be just as

refreshing as a full holiday.

Shropshire is made for this kind of

gentle escape. With its rolling

countryside, characterful towns and

hidden gems, it offers endless

opportunities to switch off and slow

down. A day in Ludlow brings

historic streets, independent shops

and a wonderfully foodie

atmosphere. Shrewsbury combines

beautiful architecture, riverside

charm and plenty of places to

browse, eat and linger. Bridgnorth,

with its steep streets and views, has

its own unique appeal, while

Ironbridge offers a blend of

heritage, scenery and easy summer

wandering.

For those craving countryside calm,

June is ideal for scenic drives,

garden visits and long lunches in

places where the pace feels naturally

slower. Think boutique inns, farm

shop cafés, pretty courtyards and

local spots where the setting is every

bit as lovely as the menu. These are

the kinds of places that make you

feel as though you’ve travelled much

further than you actually have.

Wolverhampton offers a different

but equally appealing version of

escape. Here, the joy often lies in

mixing city convenience with stylish

experiences. A beauty appointment

followed by brunch, a leisurely

afternoon of shopping, a visit to a

local cultural venue or a well-earned

dinner out can all become part of a

perfectly planned city escape. It’s

about carving out time to enjoy the

best of what’s around you, with

intention rather than urgency.

June is also a lovely time to think in

terms of experiences rather than

destinations. A spa day, a wellness

session, a floral workshop, an

evening tasting menu, a sunset

drink, a garden event or even a quiet

hour in a beautiful hotel lounge can

all deliver that “mini break” feeling.

These moments don’t need to be

extravagant to feel special – often

it’s the atmosphere, the setting and

the chance to be fully present that

matter most.

And for couples, friends or families,

local escapes can become the

highlights of the season. A planned

day out often creates the kind of

memories we remember most: a

gorgeous lunch, a hidden courtyard,

a walk with a view, a little shop

you’d never noticed before, or

simply the feeling of being

somewhere lovely together.

In a world that can often feel busy

and over-scheduled, there’s

something wonderfully restorative

about staying local and still feeling

as though you’ve had a break. June

reminds us that escape doesn’t

always mean distance. Sometimes, it

simply means choosing beauty, ease

and enjoyment a little more often.

So these months, make time for your

own doorstep getaway. Book the

lunch, take the scenic route, try

somewhere new and let yourself

enjoy the kind of local luxury that’s

closer than you think..

By Sarah Williams


Hire a Canoe

Shrewsbury

Canoe ~ Kayak ~ Paddleboard

• 1- 4 hour hire

• River day trips

• Guided group

bookings

www.hireacanoe.com

info@hireacanoe.com

Boutique Cakes

Pastries

Wedding Cakes

Stunning Cakes - For all occasions

Contact Maria The Cake Artist today on: 07762 847039

Email: mariathecakeartist@gmail.com I www.etsy.com/shop.MariaTheCakeArtist

Find me on Facebook @Maria The Cake Artist and

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37


Vintage football

programmes ‘score’

at auction

Vintage football programmes proved a big hit with

collectors when they went under the hammer in the

recent Specialist Collectors Auction at Staffordshire

auction house Cuttlestones.

Featuring a carefully curated selection of pre-war and

post-war matchday programmes, the football

memorabilia section attracted strong interest from

bidders both in the room and online – with several

historic examples achieving impressive prices.

Leading the lineup was Lot 109 – a 1921 FA Cup Final

programme for the match between Tottenham Hotspur

and Wolverhampton Wanderers, played at Stamford

Bridge on 23rd April 1921. The programme, made even

more desirable thanks to being autographed by the

entire Tottenham Hotspur team along with the manager,

sold for an impressive £1,400.

Another standout lot was a programme from arguably

football’s most famous match – the 1966 World Cup

Final between England and West Germany. Rich in

historical associations, the lot included signatures from

manager Alf Ramsey and ten of the England players who

featured in the final, alongside a signed photograph and

House of Lords letter from then Prime Minister Harold

Wilson, as well as a signed image of legendary

commentator Kenneth Wolstenholme. It sold for £750.

Early league football was also well represented in the

sale. A West Bromwich Albion v Oldham Athletic

programme from the 1921/22 season sold for £170,

while a Sunderland v Wolverhampton Wanderers

programme from the 1936/37 season achieved £160,

further demonstrating the enduring appeal of early

matchday memorabilia among collectors.

Cuttlestones is now inviting consignments for future

specialist and antiques sales. For a free, no obligation

valuation, email valuations@cuttlestones.co.uk, send

images via WhatsApp to 07949 603872, or call 01785

714905 to make an appointment.

SAPPHIRE SET YELLOW

METAL LINK BRACELET

SOLD £950

A HALLMARKED 9 CARAT

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Basic Dog First Aid

Every Owner Should Know

As dog owners, we all

hope we never face an

emergency with our

beloved pets. Whether

you have a playful

puppy, a curious rescue,

or a loyal older

companion, accidents

can happen when you

least expect them.

Knowing a few basic

first aid steps can make

all the difference while

you are waiting to get

professional veterinary

help.

solution. If there is bleeding, apply

gentle pressure with a clean cloth or

gauze for several minutes. Avoid

using creams or antiseptics made for

humans unless your vet has

specifically said they are safe. If the

wound is deep, continues to bleed,

or looks infected, contact your vet

immediately.

Burns can happen more easily than

many people realise, especially in

summer when pavements are hot, or

around barbecues, boiling water,

and household appliances. If your

dog suffers a burn, cool the area

with cool, not icy, running water for

several minutes. Do not apply

butter, oils, or any home remedies.

Cover the area loosely with a clean

damp cloth and seek veterinary

advice as soon as possible.

Choking is another frightening

situation. Signs can include pawing

at the mouth, difficulty breathing,

panic, or gagging. If your dog is still

able to breathe, keep them calm and

get to a vet straight away. If you can

clearly see an object in the mouth

and it is easy to remove, do so very

carefully. Never push your fingers

blindly into the throat, as this can

make things worse.

Heatstroke is a serious and

potentially life-threatening

emergency. Dogs can overheat very

quickly, especially in warm weather

or after too much exercise.

Symptoms include heavy panting,

drooling, weakness, vomiting,

confusion, or collapse. Move your

dog to a cool shaded area

immediately. Offer small amounts of

water and cool them gradually with

cool water on the paws, belly, and

chest. Do not use ice-cold water, as

this can shock the body. Then

contact your vet without delay.

If your dog has eaten something

poisonous, act quickly. Common

dangers include chocolate, grapes,

raisins, onions, xylitol, medications,

and some household cleaners. Do

not make your dog sick unless a vet

specifically tells you to. Keep the

packaging if possible and call your

vet right away so they know exactly

what has been swallowed.

It is important to remember that

first aid is not a replacement for a

vet. Its purpose is to keep your dog

as safe and stable as possible until

proper treatment can be given.

Staying calm is one of the most

important things you can do. Dogs

can pick up on our panic, which may

make them more frightened or

distressed.

One of the most common issues is

cuts or minor wounds. If your dog

has a small cut, gently clean the area

with warm water or a pet-safe saline

Every dog owner should keep a

simple pet first aid kit at home and

in the car. Essentials include gauze,

bandages, a clean towel, saline

solution, blunt-ended scissors,

tweezers, a digital thermometer, and

your vet’s phone number.

Most importantly, trust your

instincts. If your dog seems in pain,

is acting unusually, or you are

unsure what to do, always seek

professional advice. A little

knowledge, quick thinking, and calm

action can help protect your dog in

those crucial moments. First aid

does not have to be complicated, but

it can be lifesaving.

By Sarah Williams



Somatic Floating Soundbath:

A Journey to Calm

Imagine a gentle wave of soothing

vibrations washing over you, melting

away tension and inviting a deep

sense of calm. A somatic floating

soundbath is a unique healing

experience designed to support both

body and mind through the power of

sound, vibration, and deep

relaxation. As the sounds ripple

through the space and the water

gently moves beneath you, your body

begins to soften, release, and restore

in subtle yet powerful ways.

This deeply immersive practice is

known for its ability to help reduce

stress, calm the nervous system, and

create mental clarity. Many people

find that it lowers feelings of

overwhelm, enhances focus, and

encourages emotional balance. The

soothing vibrations can also support

natural pain relief, ease muscular

tension, and help the body settle

into a more restful state, making it

especially beneficial for those

struggling with stress, fatigue, or

poor sleep.

To prepare for your first session, it’s

best to wear comfortable clothing,

eat a light meal beforehand, and set

a gentle intention for what you’d like

to receive from the experience.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation,

emotional release, better sleep, or

simply a peaceful pause from

everyday life, a somatic floating

soundbath offers a beautiful way to

reconnect with yourself.

Many people choose to make sound

healing part of their regular wellness

routine by attending sessions

consistently, creating a calming

home space with singing bowls or

tuning forks, or using guided

recordings between treatments. It’s

a gentle yet powerful practice that

can bring lasting support for

relaxation, clarity, and overall

wellbeing.

Benefits of a Somatic

Floating Soundbath

A Somatic Floating Soundbath offers

a deeply calming experience for both

body and mind, using soothing

sound vibrations and gentle

movement to encourage relaxation,

balance, and restoration. Many

people find it to be a powerful way

to step away from daily stress and

reconnect with a sense of peace and

wellbeing.

• Enhances mental clarity

Creates space for a calmer, clearer

mind, helping you feel more focused,

grounded, and present.

• Encourages emotional balance

A gentle yet powerful practice that

can help ease emotional tension and

support a greater sense of inner

harmony.

• May ease aches, tension, and

discomfort

As the body softens and muscles

relax, many people notice relief from

areas that commonly hold stress,

such as the neck, shoulders, back,

and hips.

• Supports nervous system

regulation

The combination of sound,

vibration, and floating can help the

body feel safe, settled, and deeply

supported.

• Creates a meditative,

restorative experience

The rhythmic sounds may help

quieten mental chatter and guide

you into a peaceful, almost

dreamlike state of rest.

During a session, the body may

respond in beautifully restorative

ways. Muscles often begin to relax,

breathing becomes slower and

deeper, and the heart rate may

gently decrease as the body shifts

into a state of rest and repair. The

rhythmic sounds can help encourage

brainwave entrainment, allowing the

mind to quieten and the whole

system to feel more grounded, calm,

and connected.

Key Benefits

• Reduces stress and overwhelm

Helps calm the nervous system and

encourages the body to shift into a

more relaxed, restorative state.

• Promotes deep relaxation

The soothing vibrations can help

release physical tension and create a

sense of calm throughout the whole

body.

• Supports better sleep

By slowing the breath and

quietening the mind, sound healing

can help you unwind more easily and

enjoy deeper rest.

Somatic Sound Healing offer

sessions in Telford and Shrewsbury

along with private sessions.

For more information or to book

your place - find them on Facebook

or visit thier website:

www.somaticsoundwavehealing.com



Mental Health awareness

Lets stop the stigma!

May is Mental Health

Awareness Month, and

while conversations

around wellbeing have

certainly become more

open in recent years, there

is still one phrase – and

one attitude – that

continues to do far more

harm than many people

realise: “Just get on

with it.”

It is often

said without

malice.

Sometimes it

comes from a

generation

taught to

keep going

no matter

what. Sometimes it’s wrapped up in

the idea of being strong, staying

busy or not dwelling on things. But

for anyone living with anxiety,

depression, burnout, trauma, grief

or emotional overwhelm, those

words can feel quietly devastating.

They reduce real struggle to

something inconvenient. They imply

that if a person is finding life

difficult, they simply need to try

harder.

The truth is, mental health is not a

mindset issue. It is not a weakness, a

personality flaw or a lack of

resilience. It is health – just as real

and just as important as physical

health – and it deserves to be

treated with the same compassion,

seriousness and care.

We would never tell someone with a

broken arm to stop talking about it

and carry on as though nothing had

happened. We wouldn’t expect

someone with a virus to smile

through it, keep performing and

pretend they feel absolutely fine. Yet

when it comes to mental health,

many people still feel pressure to do

exactly that. To mask it. To

minimise it. To keep showing up as

though everything is under control.

And that pressure can be

deeply isolating.

Because mental health struggles do

not always look the way people

expect them to. They are not always

dramatic. They do not always come

with obvious warning signs. Often,

they are hidden in plain sight. They

look like the parent who keeps

everything moving but is completely

exhausted inside. The friend who

always says they’re “fine” because it

feels easier than explaining. The

colleague who is still meeting

deadlines while privately running on

empty. The person who is

functioning on the outside, but

silently falling apart behind closed

doors..

That is why Mental Health

Awareness Month matters so much.

Not because we need more hashtags

or well-meaning one-liners, but

because we still need to challenge

the damaging belief that emotional

pain is something people should

simply push through.

Yes, resilience matters. But

resilience is not silence. Strength is

not pretending. And “coping” is not

always the same as being well.

In fact, one of the most harmful

things about the “just get on with it”

mindset is that it teaches people to

ignore their own needs until they

reach breaking point. It tells them to

keep going when what they may

really need is rest, support,

boundaries, treatment or simply

someone to listen without

judgement.

Real support is often far simpler –

and far more powerful – than we

think. It is checking in and truly

listening to the answer. It is

allowing people to say they are

struggling without rushing to

dismiss, fix or compare. It is being

mindful of the language we use,

especially around children and

young people, who learn how to

interpret their emotions from the

adults around them.

It also means recognising that

asking for help is not failure.

Therapy, medication, time off,

honest conversations, support

groups, counselling, rest – these are

not signs of weakness. They are

signs that someone is trying to take

care of themselves in a world that

still too often expects them to suffer

quietly.

This May, perhaps the most

important thing we can do is move

beyond awareness and into

understanding. Stop assuming that

because someone looks “fine,” they

are fine. Stop praising people only

when they push through. Stop

treating mental health as something

people should hide in order to seem

strong.

Because “just get on with it”

has never been the answer.

Compassion is. Understanding is.

Support is.

And if we truly want to end the

stigma around mental health, that is

where the conversation has to begin

How To Support Someone Who

May Be Struggling

• Check in gently and ask how they

really are

• Listen without interrupting or

trying to “fix” everything

• Avoid phrases like “cheer up” or

“everyone feels like that”

• Let them know they are not a

burden

• Encourage professional support if

they need it

• Keep checking in – one

conversation may not be enough

Signs Someone May Be Finding

Things Hard

• Withdrawing from friends, family

or social plans

• Feeling more irritable, flat or

overwhelmed than usual

• Changes in sleep, appetite or

energy

• Struggling to focus or seeming

unusually forgetful

• Saying they’re “fine” but seeming

unlike themselves

• Constant tiredness, low motivation

or emotional exhaustion

By Sarah Williams


There comes a point in life where

we realise that simply getting

through the day is no longer

enough.

We may be functioning, coping,

ticking the boxes. But deep down,

something feels off. Energy is low,

sleep is broken and the nervous

system feels wired or worn. And

we begin to question, is this really

how it is meant to feel?

This is the space between

surviving and thriving. And it is a

powerful place to begin.

Many of us are living in a constant

low-level state of stress. It has

become so normal that we do not

even recognise it anymore. Busy

minds, poor sleep, irregular

eating, screen overload and

disconnection from nature, from

rhythm and from ourselves.

From a clinical perspective, this

can be described as a dysregulated

nervous system. From a holistic

lens, it may feel like our energy is

scattered or depleted.

Either way, the message is the

same.

We are running on empty.

Survival mode is not a failure. It is

the body doing its best to protect

us. But it was never designed to be

a permanent state.

The shift towards thriving does

not begin with doing more. It

begins with noticing more..

Noticing how you feel when you

wake up. Noticing your energy

dips. Noticing the quality of your

thoughts.

Noticing how your body responds

to your environment.

This awareness is not about

judgement. It is about

reconnection. Because once we

become aware, we create space for

choice.

Nourish & Flourish

Thriving is not about perfection. It

is about nourishment on every

level.

Physical nourishment includes

food that stabilises energy,

supports hormones and fuels the

body properly. Hydration, gentle

movement and sleep that truly

restores rather than simply

passing time.

Environmental nourishment

is often overlooked. The spaces we

live and sleep in matter more than

we think. Light, temperature,

textures and colours all influence

how the nervous system settles.

Emotional nourishment is

found in connection, boundaries

and kindness both to ourselves

and others. It is about letting go of

constant pressure and creating

space to breathe.

Energetic nourishment brings

in practices such as Reiki, colour,

stillness and grounding. Whether

viewed scientifically or spiritually,

these approaches help the body

shift from a state of alert to a state

of restoration.

Thriving is built through small,

consistent choices.

Going to bed a little earlier.

Stepping outside for natural light.

Taking five minutes to pause and

breathe.

Choosing foods that sustain rather

than spike.

Creating a routines that signal

safety to the body.

These are not small things. They

are foundational.

They tell the body that it is safe

enough to rest, repair and restore.

When the body is supported, when

the nervous system feels safe and

when the mind is not

overwhelmed, the body begins to

rebalance.

Energy improves. Sleep deepens.

Clarity returns. Resilience grows.

If you find yourself in survival

mode right now, know this. You

are not broken. You are not

failing.

You are responding.

But you are also allowed to want

more than survival.

What would it look like to truly

nourish yourself today?

Because when we nourish

consistently, gently and

intentionally, we do not just

survive and thrive.

We begin to flourish.

Allison is a Holistic Therapy

Practitioner, Reiki Master

Teacher, Health & Well-Being

enthusiast.

Follow her at Wholistic

Well-Being to find out more

about her courses & treatments

or whatsapp her on

07950 993380


DONNINGTON

PHARMACY

Donnington Pharmacy is the award-winning

pharmacy next to Donnington Medical

Practice. We aim to provide the best

pharmacy service we can, despite the

ongoing national stock shortages.

We try to put our patients first; our

extended opening hours enable you to

collect your prescription at a convenient

time. Services we provide include a FREE

prescription delivery service covering

Telford and Wrekin and we can text you

when your prescription is ready for

collection, call in for details.

We provide NHS treatments for selected

infections, infected insect bites, impetigo

and urine infections (females 16-64) we will

be able to treat Ear (under 18’s only), Nose

and Throat infections in adults and children

on the NHS and Shingles (adult only).

Private services available for period delay

and adult ear infections. Ask for details

and availability.

Scan the QR code

or see our NHS

website for details

of these and other

services we provide.

Find us: Donnington Pharmacy n Wrekin Drive n Donnington n Telford n TF2 8EA

(Next to the ambulance station)

Contact us: 01952 676556 I Email: donnington.pharmacy@nhs.net

www.donningtonpharmacy.co.uk




Wednesday – 5.30pm

& Thursday 9am

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real food, real support, real results

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49


Meet the New

Management

Team at Roden

Hall Care Home

Roden Hall Care Home is entering

an exciting new chapter with the

appointment of Home Manager

Chelsie Walne, who is leading a

passionate and dedicated

management team committed to

enriching the lives of residents.

Chelsie brings a strong focus on

creating a warm, welcoming

environment where residents feel

valued, supported and truly at home.

Working alongside her team, she is

focused on building a vibrant

community within the home, where

inspiring activities, exceptional care

and great food all play an important

role in daily life.

The home has also welcomed a new

administration team, helping to

ensure families and visitors receive a

warm welcome and excellent support

from the moment they arrive.

Samantha, part of the

administration team, will often be

the friendly face greeting visitors at

reception and helping them feel at

ease as they enter the home.

One area that has already seen some

exciting new initiatives is the

kitchen, led by the home’s talented

chef, Jack. With a passion for

creating enjoyable dining

experiences, Jack has been

introducing a variety of special

events and themed dining moments

that residents have thoroughly

enjoyed.

Recent highlights have included a

popular steak night, where residents

enjoyed a restaurant-style dining

experience, as well as beautifully

presented afternoon teas that have

become a firm favourite within the

home.

Jack has also been bringing fun and

interaction into the dining

experience. On Shrove Tuesday,

residents enjoyed a lively live

pancake-making session, where they

could watch the pancakes being

freshly prepared and served just the

way they like them.

Another sweet surprise came with

the delivery of delicate macarons,

which residents were delighted to

enjoy together over coffee and

conversation.

Chelsie believes these moments are

an important part of life at Roden

Hall. “Food has such a special way of

bringing people together,” she said.

“We want residents to enjoy not only

delicious meals but also the

experiences and social moments that

come with them.”

With a strong management team, a

dedicated staff group and exciting

new initiatives already taking place,

Roden Hall continues to focus on

creating a welcoming and supportive

community where residents can

truly feel at home.

Need care for

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Mental Health

“The Inability to Rest

Without Guilt: Why So

Many Men Struggle to

Switch Off”

Rest That Doesn’t Feel Like Rest

It’s a familiar scene: the day is

coming to an end, the to-do list is

technically done, and there’s finally

time to relax. But instead of feeling

relief, there’s a quiet discomfort.

A voice creeps in: You could be doing

more.

For many men that struggle with their

mental health, rest doesn’t feel

satisfying—it feels undeserved.

The Trap

Modern culture has blurred the line

between ambition and self-worth.

Being practical is no longer just about

getting things done—it’s quickly

become a measure of identity and rest

is starting to feel like you're falling

behind.

For men especially, whose sense of

value has often been tied to

providing, achieving, or progressing,

doing nothing can feel like doing

something wrong.

A Personal Moment

I remember the moment I realized I

didn’t know how to relax anymore.

I’d finally get some time to myself, sit

down, and within five minutes I’d feel

restless, I’d go and clean or sort a

cupboard —anything to feel like I

wasn’t wasting time.”

Nothing in my life is majorly

troubling me. But rest just seems to

come with a deep wave of anxiety that

I cant really explain.

Why Rest Feels Uncomfortable

For many when the distractions stop,

thoughts surface. This can come in

many forms, Uncertainty about the

future. Questions about purpose or

Lingering stress that hasn’t been

processed.

For men who aren’t used to engaging

with those thoughts directly, staying

busy can feel safer than slowing

down.

The Cost of Never Switching Off

The inability to rest doesn’t just affect

mood—it affects your mental health

more widely.

* The Constant low-level stress

becomes the bassline mood in general

* Your Sleep quality drops, even

when there’s time to rest

* Your Motivation begins to fade and

soon gets replaced by fatigue

Ironically, the drive to stay productive

can cause the very burnout that

destroys your get up and go

altogether.

Redefining Rest as Strength

The solution isn’t to abandon

ambition, it’s to rethink rest.

Rest is NOT you refusing to put the

effort on. It’s part of sustaining it.

Learning to rest without guilt means

separating self-worth from the

constant output of not doing enough.

It means recognizing that doing

nothing, at times, is not laziness, it’s

maintenance.

For many men, that shift doesn’t

come naturally. It has to be learned

and I genuinely hope you guys find

your own way of doing that.

The shift that changes everything

The turning point is subtle but can be

so powerful:

- Stop treating rest as a reward

- Start treating it as a requirement

Not:

“I’ll rest when I’ve done enough”

But:

“I rest so I can function properly”

That’s the difference between burnout

and sustainability.

Learn the difference between

real rest vs fake rest

A lot of people think they’re resting—

but aren’t.

Fake rest:

Scrolling social media

Half-watching TV while still checking

your phone

“Relaxing” but mentally still on work

Real rest:

No demands or expectations

No performance

No overload

Good examples:

Sitting outside doing absolutely

nothing

Walking without no goal or purpose

to where your heading

Listening to music, kicked back with

your eyes closed

If your brain still feels noisy

afterwards, it wasn’t rest—it was

distraction.

Lets re-phrase that guilt thought

When the thought appears:

“I should be doing something”

Don’t argue with it—just replace it:

“Resting is part of doing something”

“This is how I stay recharged in order

to be the best version of myself”

“Stopping to recharge now prevents

the burnout later”

You’re not trying to take away that

thought of feeling guilty—just rephrase

it to make you view it as

something positive.

Start small (seriously)

If you try to suddenly “be great at

resting,” it backfires (plus there's risk

of getting ear ache from your

partner.)

Start with:

10 minutes of real rest

No phone, no task

Do that consistently.

You’re training a habit, Not just

flipping a switch off

Make it predictable (not bigger

yet)

Before increasing anything, lock in

consistency.

-Same time

-Same type of rest

- Same duration (10–15 min)

Why does this even matter:

Your brain stops seeing rest as a

threat

It becomes something that is then

expected

Think:

“This is just what I do at 3pm”

Not: “Should I rest right now?”

Do this for a few days to a week until

this becomes your routine and I really

hope you guys start to feel the

benefits. Changing your mindset is

everything. When we do this, we

change everything.

Were all in this together so keep

fighting the fight X

Useful Links

www.mentalhealth.org.uk

www.mensmindsmatter.org

www.menwhotalk.org

Socials : Primal Instincts and Breath

Of Life

By Mental Health editor

- Dribbz


A Personal Journey

Can you both tell us a bit about

yourselves and your journey to

becoming co-directors of Female

Focus Telford CIC?

We are both from Telford and have

experienced, first-hand, many of the

challenges women face today.

Through both our personal journeys

and professional backgrounds, we

recognised a clear need for more

relatable, accessible support, which

led us to co-found Female Focus

Telford.

What inspired you both to create

and get involved in this

organisation?

Our inspiration came from lived

experience—both our own and the

stories shared by women around us.

We saw a pattern of low confidence,

mental health struggles, and a lack of

safe, supportive spaces, and felt

driven to create something that could

genuinely make a difference.

Was there a defining moment

that made you passionate about

supporting women in your

community?

Rather than one moment, it was a

build-up of experiences. Seeing so

many women struggling in silence

highlighted the need for change and

strengthened our commitment to

being part of that change.

How have your personal

experiences and professional

backgrounds shaped your

approach to this work?

Our approach is shaped by both lived

and professional experience. Jade

Robinson brings a background in

holistic therapy, while Nakita

Rutherford specialises in integrated

counselling. Together, we offer a

balanced, person-centred approach

that supports mental health,

emotional wellbeing, and physical

wellbeing, including the importance

of movement and fitness.

About Female Focus Telford CIC

For readers who may not know,

what is Female Focus Telford

CIC and what does it aim to

achieve?

Female Focus Telford CIC is a

community organisation dedicated to

empowering women to build

confidence, improve mental and

physical wellbeing, and pursue their

goals. Our aim is to create a

supportive environment where

women can grow, connect, and thrive.

What gaps in the community did

you identify before launching the

initiative?

While services do exist, many can feel

intimidating or carry stigma. We

identified a need for a more

approachable, inclusive space where

women feel comfortable seeking

support across mental health,

wellbeing, and fitness.

What makes your organisation

different from other support

networks for women?

We lead with authenticity. As women

with lived experience, we create a

welcoming, non-judgemental space,

supported by our combined

professional expertise in therapy,

counselling, and holistic wellbeing,

including fitness-focused support.

Community Impact

What are the biggest challenges

women in Telford are currently

facing?

Women are facing increasing

challenges around mental health,

confidence, financial pressures,

physical wellbeing, and domestic

abuse. There is also a clear need for

more accessible and welcoming

support services.

How do you believe your

organisation will support women

through these challenges?

We provide a safe and supportive

space where women feel heard and

empowered. Through our

programmes, including wellbeing

sessions, fitness activities, and

community events, we aim to build

confidence, improve overall health,

and encourage positive change.

What kind of feedback have you

received so far from women who

have engaged with your work?

The feedback has been

overwhelmingly positive, with many

women highlighting how welcomed,

supported, and comfortable they feel,

as well as how beneficial it is to have

a space that supports both mental

wellbeing and physical health.

How important is community

and connection in the work that

you do?

Community is central to everything

we do. Creating a sense of belonging,

alongside opportunities to engage in

wellbeing and fitness activities, is key

to building confidence, resilience, and

long-term wellbeing.

Vision & Future Plans

What are your goals for Female

Focus Telford CIC over the next

few years?

Our goal is to expand our reach,

develop impactful programmes across

mental health, wellbeing, and fitness,

and support more women across the

community.

Are there any upcoming projects

or initiatives you are particularly

excited about?

We are especially excited about our

upcoming launch event, which marks

the beginning of many future

initiatives focused on empowerment,

wellbeing, and accessible fitness

opportunities for women.

How can the wider community

get involved or support your

work?

The community can support us by

attending events, joining sessions,

collaborating, and helping to spread

awareness of our work.

What changes would you like to

see for women locally and

nationally?

We would like to see more accessible,

stigma-free support, including greater

access to mental health services and

inclusive fitness opportunities that

empower women to thrive.

For those looking to get involved

with Female Focus Telford CIC,

how can they find you?

You can find us on social media and

at our events, where we welcome

anyone who wants to be part of a

supportive, empowering, and

inclusive community.


Our additional

Piercer LUKE

is now available for

walk-ins on certain days.

Please see our Facebook

for latest dates.

By Garth

By Rob

GIFT

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By Anna

By Char

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Tattoo Artist

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By Amy Turner


WOLVERHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL

At Wolverhampton Grammar

School Sixth Form, exceptional

outcomes are at the heart of

everything we do. With 76% of

our most recent cohort

achieving A*–B at A Level and

100% of students gaining a

Merit or higher in Cambridge

Technicals, our results reflect a

culture of ambition, support

and high expectations, helping

every student to thrive both

academically and personally.

WGS Sixth Form offers a supportive

and challenging environment where

you can truly flourish.

• Outstanding results: Small

class sizes and dedicated teachers

mean you’ll benefit from individual

attention, more opportunities to ask

questions and the support needed to

excel.

• Wide subject choice:

Explore your passions with over 20

subjects on offer, leading to degrees

ranging from cutting-edge

Aerospace Engineering to thoughtprovoking

Law.

• Beyond the classroom: WGS

isn’t just about exams. Get involved

in a wide range of extracurricular

opportunities, from sports and

drama to volunteering and Pudding

Lectures.

• Specialist facilities and

teachers: Take advantage of our

subject specialist teachers, and firstclass

facilities, including science

labs, an art studio, theatre, sports

hall, and design and technology

suite.

• Support for your future:

Benefit from one-to-one careers

advice to help map out your pathway

to university and beyond.

You will study in small class sizes,

typically around 15 students or

fewer, ensuring a personalised

learning experience. Students join

us from a wide range of

independent, grammar and state

schools, and consistently highlight

the close rapport they build with

staff as one of the most valued

aspects of life at WGS.

School transport offers easy access

across the region, with routes from

Telford, Penkridge, Walsall,

Oldbury, Stourbridge and

Bridgnorth, alongside free parking

for students who drive.

WGS is a diverse and inclusive

community, guided by values of

individuality, respect, equity and

kindness. Students can get involved

with initiatives such as our Diversity

Champions, recently nominated for

a national award in recognition of

their work to make WGS a

welcoming and inclusive

environment.

Our leavers often secure places at

their first-choice offer from a

Russell Group university. Students’

progress to a wide range of courses

including Aerospace Engineering,

Law, Fine Art, Medicine, History,

Economics, English Language and

Linguistics, and Sports Journalism.

If you are considering applying, you

will be invited for an interview

before or after Christmas. We also

offer a Sixth Form Music

Scholarship (up to 25% fee

remission) and an OW Sports

Scholarship (up to 100% fee

remission for WV postcode students,

means tested).

Join us at our Sixth Form Open

Evening on Thursday 18th June

at 6.30pm to discover more

about what makes

Wolverhampton Grammar

School Sixth Form such a

distinctive and successful place

to study.



Day Beds: A versatile option that doubles as a seating

area during the day, perfect for creating a relaxed,

summery vibe.

Choosing a bed that suits your child’s personality can also

make bedtime more appealing, reducing resistance and

helping establish a positive routine.

As the days grow longer and evenings stay brighter, many

parents notice a familiar challenge getting children to

settle and stay asleep. Lighter summer nights can disrupt

natural sleep rhythms but with a few smart adjustment

ranging from bedroom setup to the right bed style, you can

create a space that encourages restful sleep all season long.

Block Out the Light

One of the biggest sleep disruptors in summer is excess

daylight. Children are especially sensitive to light when

falling asleep, so creating a darker environment is key.

Blackout blinds or curtains are one of the most effective

solutions. They help signal to your child’s body that it’s

time to wind down, even if the sun hasn’t fully set. For an

extra layer, consider blackout linings or portable options

for sleepovers and holidays.

You can also build a calming bedtime routine that

reinforces this signal. Dim lighting, quiet time and limiting

screens at least an hour before bed all help prepare the

brain for sleep.

Keep It Cool and Comfortable

Overheating is another common cause of restless nights.

Swap out heavy winter bedding for lightweight, breathable

options such as cotton or linen. A lower tog duvet (around

4.5 tog for summer) can make a big difference in comfort.

Look for bedding that promotes airflow and wicks

moisture away from the skin. Even small changes like

using a breathable mattress protector or a cooling pillow

can help maintain a comfortable sleep temperature. At

Newport Beds we stock the Nightlark Coverless Duvet kids

range which is a great all rounder with no covers to take on

and off, they are dry in 90 minutes and are an easy bed

making option too being lightweight.

Choose the Right Bed Style

A child’s bed isn’t just a place to sleep. It shapes how they

feel about their bedroom. In summer, lighter, more open

bed designs can contribute to

a fresher, airier environment.

Low Bed Frames: These create a sense of openness and

improve airflow around the bed, helping keep things

cooler.

Cabin Beds with Storage: Ideal for keeping the room

clutter-free, which can make the space feel calmer and

more relaxing at bedtime.

Bunk Beds: Great for shared rooms, but in warmer

months, ensure good ventilation—top bunks can get

warmer, so consider positioning near airflow.

Create a Summer-Ready Sleep Space

Think beyond the bed itself and consider the overall feel of

the room. Light, breathable fabrics for curtains and rugs

can help keep the room cool. Opt for soft, calming colours

like pale blues, greens, or neutrals to create a tranquil

atmosphere.

Good airflow is essential. Open windows where safe to do

so, or use a quiet fan to keep air circulating. Positioning

the bed away from direct sunlight during the day can also

help prevent heat build-up.

Stick to a Consistent Routine

Even when daylight lingers, maintaining a consistent

bedtime is crucial. Try to keep sleep and wake times

steady, even during holidays or weekends. This helps

regulate your child’s internal clock and makes it easier for

them to fall asleep naturally.

A predictable routine bath, story, bed can be especially

helpful during summer when external cues like darkness

are less reliable.

With the right combination of light control, breathable

bedding, and thoughtful bedroom design, you can

transform your child’s space into a cool, calming retreat.

Small changes can make a big difference, helping everyone

in the household enjoy better sleep even on the brightest

summer nights.

At Newport Beds we work with a few companies that

stock great bed options for kids. Pop into the showroom to

browse our showroom and brochures, for more ideas on

creating the ideal space for them

Unit 1 Springfield Ind. Estate. Newport,

TF10 7NB

Tel: 01952 820401

Email: beds@carpetloom.com

Web: www.newportbeds.co.uk


Paveline

Driveways Ltd

Driveways & Patios = Block Paving

Tarmac = Slabs = Fencing = Resin

Imprinted Concrete = Indian Stone

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Unit D,

Stafford Park 9,

Telford, TF3 3AF


summer recipes

Serving tip:

Serve chilled with grilled chicken, salmon or

alongside a summer buffet spread. It also looks

gorgeous styled on a large white platter for

entertaining.

Watermelon, Feta & Mint

Summer Salad

A fresh, colourful and effortlessly stylish summer

salad that’s perfect for lunches in the garden,

barbecues or as a light side dish for entertaining.

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• ½ medium watermelon, cut into bite-sized

...cubes

• 200g feta cheese, crumbled

• 1 small cucumber, sliced into half moons

• ½ small red onion, very finely sliced

• A handful of fresh mint leaves

• A handful of fresh basil leaves (optional)

• Juice of 1 lime

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• Salt and black pepper

• Optional: a handful of pomegranate seeds for

...extra colour

Method:

• Arrange the watermelon, cucumber and red

...onion on a large serving platter or in a shallow

...bowl.

• Scatter over the crumbled feta and fresh mint

...leaves.

• If using, add a few torn basil leaves and

...pomegranate seeds for extra texture and colour.

• In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice

...and olive oil.

• Drizzle the dressing over the salad as serving.

• Finish with a little black pepper and a tiny

...pinch of salt if needed (the feta is already salty).

Summer Strawberry &

Mint Spritz

A light, fruity and refreshing summer cocktail

that’s perfect for sunny afternoons, garden

gatherings or an easy weekend treat.

Serves 2

Ingredients:

• 200g strawberries, hulled

• Juice of 1 lime

• A few fresh mint leaves

• 50ml gin or vodka

• 150ml prosecco

• Ice

• Sparkling water (optional, to top up)

• Extra strawberries and mint to garnish

Method:

• Lightly mash the strawberries with the lime

...juice and mint leaves in a jug.

• Divide between two ice-filled glasses.

• Add the gin or vodka, then top with prosecco.

• Add a splash of sparkling water if you’d like it a

...little lighter.

• Stir gently and garnish with extra mint and

...sliced strawberries.


Brickwork services:

At Heritage Brickwork and Repointing, we

offer a wide range of services tailored to both

period and listed properties as well as modern

homes and builds. Whether you're restoring a

historic property, repairing structural damage,

or adding new features like structural

openings, patios, garden walls, or decorative

brickwork, our skilled team delivers high

quality craftsmanship with care and precision.

Heritage is at the heart of what we do - but

our experience extends across all styles and ages

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summer recipes

Easy Lemon & Raspberry

Summer Fool

Light, creamy and beautifully fresh, this easy

dessert is perfect for warm evenings and looks

lovely served in glasses.

Serves 4

Sticky Honey & Garlic BBQ

Chicken Skewers

A simple, flavour-packed summer BBQ favourite

that’s perfect for garden get-togethers, easy

entertaining or a relaxed weekend feast..

Serves 4

Ingredients:

• 500g chicken breast, cut into chunks

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp runny honey

• 300ml double cream

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 250g Greek yogurt

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 2 tbsp icing sugar

• 1 tbsp tomato purée

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 150g raspberries

• Juice of ½ lemon

• 2–3 crushed meringue nests (optional)

• Salt and black pepper

• Fresh mint to garnish

• Wooden or metal skewers

Method:

... cooking for extra sticky glaze.

Method:

• In a bowl, mix the olive oil, honey, garlic, soy

... sauce, tomato purée, smoked paprika & lemon

... juice.

• Add the chicken and coat well. Leave to

... marinate for at least 30 minutes if you have

... time.

• Thread the chicken onto skewers.

• Cook on the BBQ for 12–15 minutes, turning

... regularly, until cooked through and lightly

... charred.

• Brush with any leftover marinade during

• Whip the cream until it forms soft peaks.

• Fold in the Greek yogurt, icing sugar and lemon

...zest.

• Gently crush half the raspberries and ripple

...through the cream mixture.

• Spoon into serving glasses and top with the

...remaining raspberries.

• Add a little crushed meringue on top if using,

...then finish with fresh mint.

Serving tip:

Chill for 20 minutes before serving for an extra

refreshing summer dessert.

By Sarah Williams


JC

Garden Services

COVERING ALL YOUR GARDEN NEEDS

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Please contact JOSH for a free quote

07825 588284

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Reasons to Visit Japan:

Why It’s So Magical and the Best Places to Go

Japan is one of the most enchanting

destinations in the world – a country

where ancient traditions, futuristic

cities, stunning landscapes and

unforgettable food all come together

in one incredible experience. From

cherry blossom-lined streets to

peaceful temples, neon-lit skylines to

snow-capped mountains, Japan has a

way of making every moment feel

special. Whether you are drawn by

culture, scenery, cuisine or adventure,

here are some of the most magical

places to visit in Japan and why they

should be on your travel wish list.

Tokyo – The Exciting Heart of

Modern Japan

Tokyo is often the first stop on any

trip to Japan, and it is impossible not

to be captivated by its energy. This

vibrant capital is a city of contrasts,

where ultra-modern skyscrapers and

giant neon signs sit alongside historic

shrines and peaceful green spaces.

Districts such as Shibuya, Shinjuku

and Harajuku are packed with

fashion, food, nightlife and

unforgettable city scenes, making

Tokyo feel thrilling from the moment

you arrive. Yet hidden among the buzz

are moments of calm – quiet temples,

elegant gardens and traditional

corners that remind you Japan’s

heritage is never far away. Tokyo is

exciting, bold and endlessly

fascinating, making it the perfect

introduction to Japan.

old wooden streets and elegant tea

houses, all of which give the city a

graceful and unforgettable character.

Whether you are walking through the

historic Gion district or admiring a

temple surrounded by blossom, Kyoto

feels like stepping into another world.

Osaka – The City of Food, Fun

and Bright Lights

For a more playful and lively side of

Japan, Osaka is an absolute must.

Famous for its warm atmosphere and

incredible food scene, Osaka is often

known as Japan’s kitchen. It is the

place to try iconic dishes such as

takoyaki and okonomiyaki, best

enjoyed in the bright, bustling district

of Dotonbori, where giant neon signs

and glowing reflections create one of

the most iconic cityscapes in Japan.

Osaka has a friendly, energetic vibe

that feels a little more relaxed than

Tokyo, making it a fantastic stop for

travellers who want great food,

nightlife and plenty of personality. It

is colourful, exciting and full of

charm.

Mount Fuji & Hakone – Japan’s

Most Iconic View

in Japan’s natural beauty. Whether

viewed in crisp winter light, framed

by cherry blossom in spring or

mirrored in the water on a clear day,

Mount Fuji is a breathtaking

reminder of how stunning Japan can

be.shades of red and gold.

Nara – Peaceful Beauty and

Famous Deer

Just a short trip from Kyoto, Nara

offers a quieter, gentler side of Japan.

It is best known for Nara Park, where

friendly deer roam freely among

temples and gardens, creating one of

the country’s most charming and

memorable travel experiences. There

is something wonderfully peaceful

about Nara – from its tree-lined paths

to its historic sites such as Todai-ji

Temple, home to a giant bronze

Buddha. It is the kind of place that

invites you to slow down, wander and

simply take in the atmosphere. For

travellers who love serenity and

history, Nara is a beautiful addition to

any itinerary.

Hiroshima & Miyajima –

Reflection, History and Beauty

Hiroshima is a city that leaves a

lasting impression. While it is known

for its important history, it is also a

place of peace, resilience and quiet

beauty. The Peace Memorial Park is

deeply moving, while the city itself is

vibrant and welcoming. Nearby, the

island of Miyajima offers one of

Japan’s most magical sights – the

famous floating torii gate of

Itsukushima Shrine, rising from the

water in a scene that feels almost

unreal. Together, Hiroshima and

Miyajima offer a powerful mix of

reflection, culture and breathtaking

scenery, making them unforgettable

places to visit.

Kyoto – The Soul of Traditional

Japan

If Tokyo is Japan’s modern face,

Kyoto is its timeless soul. Known for

its rich history, stunning temples and

traditional charm, Kyoto is the place

where many travellers fall completely

in love with Japan. One of its most

magical sights is the famous

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where

towering green bamboo creates a

dreamy, almost cinematic

atmosphere. Kyoto is also home to

beautiful shrines, peaceful gardens,

No image captures the beauty of

Japan more perfectly than Mount

Fuji, especially when its snow-capped

peak is reflected in a still lake. It is

one of the most iconic sights in the

world, and seeing it in person is every

bit as magical as you imagine. The

surrounding Hakone area offers hot

springs, mountain scenery and

peaceful ryokan stays, making it the

perfect place to slow down and soak

From bamboo forests and neon city

lights to snow-capped Mount Fuji

reflected in a lake, Japan feels

magical at every turn.”

By Sarah Williams


ZERO 2

LANDFILL

SAME DAY

DISPATCH

100% RECYCLED

WASTE

FAMILY RUN

SERVICE

We cater for all types of Waste Management Solutions:

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Integrated Software

Cartwrights has specialised in Integrated Waste Management for

over 35 years covering Shropshire, West Midlands & surrounding areas

‘TFscene’ for offers


Home & Garden

Garden makeover with

Mark Pumford

STONEWORK & LANDSCAPING

Transforming gardens for over 30 years is

Mark Pumford Stonework & Landscaping,

Oswestry (MPS). Offering a professional,

quality service from start to finish, their

services include full landscaping, water

features, all stone work, decking, fencing,

patios, repairs and repointing.

Specialising in Stonework such as miniature stone

bridges, dry stone walling, repointing of stone houses

and all general stone work. They also offer modern day

stone cladding which is a great way of easily

transforming tired and dated brickwork.

If you are looking for a complete garden make over for

2018, then look no further than MPS. Working with you

to help design and plan your perfect garden, they will

clear your garden of all unwanted materials and create

your dream garden, no matter on shape or size. From

new turf, new patio, Dremel gravel, supplying and

planting of borders or even a spectacular water feature,

MPS have got it covered. Some people know exactly

what they want however others don’t, this is where

MPS’s expert advice can guide you through the process

giving you a range of options to choose from.

MPS’s services don’t stop there, bespoke fencing,

decking and carports are also on offer. Using top quality

products such as Hercules for decking, which is available

in many colours and features natural wood and a unique

non-repeating colour variation within each board,

ensuring a beautiful finish every time. Carports can be a

great addition to your home, helping to prevent frost on your car in the winter

months and keeping you dry from the rain when getting in and out of your car, they

also allow you to use garage space for other things!

Mark Pumford Stonework & Landscaping not only offer a wealth of experience but

also a friendly and professional service at competitive prices. Free and honest

advice and quotations are offered and a wide range of quality services and

landscaping available to suit your budget, no job is too big or small for Mark

and his team!

MPS cover areas such as ELLESMERE, OSWESTRY, SHREWSBURY,

WHITCHURCH, WREXHAM and further, distance is not an object!

Contact Mark Pumford on 01691 671849 or

07815 647421 for a free and detailed quotation

@ Mark Pumford Landscape Gardener and Stone Walling

Scene Local Media 01952 780058


MARK

PUMFORD

STONEWORK & LANDSCAPING

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PUZZLE TIME ¹

STARSPOT CROSSWORD

1 2 3 4 5

8

10

18

20

22

28

30

11

23

ACROSS

12

21

24

1. Thin, crisp biscuit (5)

4. Irrigated (7)

8. Sanctimoniously (7)

9. Italian city (5)

10. Assessed (5)

13. Wondrous (7)

17. Yes vote (3)

18. Underground

chamber (6)

19. Shrewd (6)

20. Light brown (3)

22. Atmospheric

conditions (7)

25. Bedeck (5)

28. Bream (anag.) (5)

29. Formal speech (7)

30. Small axe (7)

31. Recorded (5)

13

17

20

13

21

29

14

19

DOWN

9

25

31

15

6

26

16

7

17

27

1. Windscreen ----- (5)

2. Rime (5)

3. Demolished (5)

4. Lie in ambush (6)

5. American Indian tent (5)

6. Cowboy show (5)

7. Male duck (5)

11. Rouse (5)

12. Strive (5)

14. Anew (anag.) (4)

15. Positioned (5)

16. Engine (5)

17. Poker stake (4)

21. Downright (6)

22. Anger (5)

23. Principal monk (5)

24. Severe (5)

25. Examine accounts (5)

26. Having the advantage (3,2)

27. Pried (5)

NONAGRAM

How many words of four letters

or more can you make from this

Nonagram? Each word must use

the central letter, and each letter

may be used only once. At least

one word using all nine letters

can be found. Guidelines:

18 Good; 22 Very Good; 25 Excellent.

C A R

A T H

R I P

Any word found in the Concise Oxford English Dictionary is eligible with

the following exceptions: proper nouns; plural nouns, pronouns and

possessives; third person singular verbs; hyphenated words; contractions and

abbreviations; vulgar slang words; variant spellings of the same word (where

another variant is also eligible).

SUDOKU

4 9 1

6 8 9 3 4

5 8

4

9 5 3 8 7 1 2

1 5 2 8 6

1 6 2 9

2 9 5

3 7 8

WORD PYRAMID

Spell out a 15-letter word

or phrase by moving from

one chamber to another.

You may only enter each

chamber once and

may only proceed

through openings in

the walls. The first

letter may appear

in any of the

chambers.

I

H

T

O N A

W G K W

T R O N O

SOLUTIONS

Star Name: RAY WINSTONE

Nosed.

Harsh; 25 Audit; 26 One up; 27

21 Arrant; 22 Wrath; 23 Abbot; 24

Wean; 15 Sited; 16 Motor; 17 Ante;

Drake; 11 Awake; 12 Exert; 14

4 Waylay; 5 Tepee; 6 Rodeo; 7

Down – 1 Wiper; 2 Frost; 3 Rased;

Hatchet; 31 Taped.

Adorn; 28 Amber; 29 Address; 20

Astute; 20 Tan; 22 Weather; 25

Awesome; 17 Aye; 18 Cavern; 19

Piously; 9 Padua; 10 Rated; 13

Across – 1 Wafer; 4 Watered; 8

Starspot Crossword

Know a thing or two.

Word Pyramid

tich; trap; tricar; trip.

tachi; tahr; tapa; tapir; thrip; tiara;

pitch; pith; prat; raita; rapt; rata;

path; PATRIARCH; phatic; pita;

haptic; hart; itch; pact; part; patch;

catarrh; chapati; chart; chat; chit;

aitch; apart; artic; carat; cart;

Nonagram

7 2 3 8 5 4 6 9 1

6 1 8 7 9 3 5 2 4

5 9 4 2 6 1 3 8 7

2 8 6 4 1 7 9 3 5

9 4 5 3 8 6 7 1 2

1 3 7 5 2 9 8 4 6

8 5 1 6 3 2 4 7 9

4 6 2 9 7 8 1 5 3

3 7 9 1 4 5 2 6 8


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