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Shrewsbury and Oswestry SYone magazine October 2024

Your colourful October edition is out now! Packed with fantastic local businesses across Shropshire and The Midlands. Enjoy the read and support local! Next edition is CHRISTMAS edition - Covering November and December. To promote your business or event contact Sarah or Sam on 01952 780058 or email sarah@scenelocal.co.uk

Your colourful October edition is out now! Packed with fantastic local businesses across Shropshire and The Midlands. Enjoy the read and support local! Next edition is CHRISTMAS edition - Covering November and December. To promote your business or event contact Sarah or Sam on 01952 780058 or email sarah@scenelocal.co.uk

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SHREWSBURY<br />

YOUR<br />

FREE<br />

COPY<br />

Magazine<br />

AUTUMN EDITION <strong>2024</strong><br />

Inside... Oktoberfest, Halloween, stunning SY Homes, Cousins Autumn sale, health, beauty,<br />

fashion & well-being, house, home & garden, pets, motoring, what’s on plus much more...


Prestige Nursing & Care<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong><br />

Join us for our Branch Open Day<br />

At Prestige Nursing & Care, we have been providing specialist<br />

homecare to people in their own homes for nearly 80 years.<br />

Whether you're seeking care or looking for work, come say<br />

hello <strong>and</strong> learn how we can support you.<br />

This is also a great opportunity for us to showcase our br<strong>and</strong>new<br />

location!<br />

Date: Wednesday 18th<br />

September<br />

Time: 10AM - 4PM<br />

Address: Unit 7, The<br />

Courtyard, Yeomanry Road,<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong>, SY1 3EH


Page 30<br />

Meet the team:<br />

Sarah Williams<br />

Owner & Founder<br />

Sam Gater<br />

Sales Manager<br />

Katie Wilson<br />

Editorial<br />

Sir Frank William<br />

We’ve got you covered: 30,000 copies distributed throughout Local businesses,<br />

supermarkets & selected homes, right across Shropshire & the Midl<strong>and</strong>s<br />

......................................................................................................................................<br />

This <strong>magazine</strong> is published by:<br />

Scene Local Media Ltd,<br />

WELCOME TO YOUR AUTUMN<br />

EDITION FOR <strong>2024</strong><br />

Contents:<br />

Pages 4 & 5<br />

10% OFF fantastic treatments at Medispa<br />

Pages 10 & 11<br />

Stylish homes from SY Homes<br />

Pages 12 – 19<br />

All the latest what’s on<br />

Page 20<br />

Books to read this Autumn<br />

Page 21<br />

Harry Fisher Films<br />

Pages 22 – 26<br />

Family & Halloween<br />

Page 32<br />

Unlock the value of antiques<br />

Pages 36<br />

Motoring<br />

Pages 40 – 56<br />

Health, beauty & well-being<br />

Pages 58 & 59 The number 13?<br />

Pages 62 & 63<br />

Pets <strong>and</strong> vets<br />

Pages 64 & 66<br />

Autumn fashion<br />

Pages 68 – 73<br />

Education<br />

Page 74<br />

Sleep well with Newport Beds<br />

Page 78<br />

New hobby?<br />

Page 80<br />

Local news<br />

Page 84<br />

Interview with local Micky Bushell MBE<br />

Pages 81 – 99<br />

House, Home <strong>and</strong> Garden<br />

Page 86<br />

Politics – What is Labour promising?<br />

To be included within our Christmas<br />

editions covering November & December<br />

Contact Sarah or Sam 01952 780058<br />

Or email: sarah@scenelocal.co.uk<br />

All advertising is supported digitally across our sites:<br />

@scene.telford & @<strong>SYone</strong>.<strong>Shrewsbury</strong><br />

Scene & <strong>SYone</strong> <strong>magazine</strong>s<br />

@scene<strong>magazine</strong>s<br />

The publisher shall not be held liable for any<br />

loss occasioned by failure of an<br />

advertisement to appear, or any damage or<br />

inconvenience caused by errors, omissions<br />

<strong>and</strong> misprints. All information correct at time<br />

Tel: 01952 780058<br />

Email: Sarah@scenelocal.co.uk<br />

Director: Sarah Williams<br />

of going to press.<br />

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


w w w . t h e m e d i s p a . c o . u k<br />

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EMERALD<br />

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THE MEDISPA<br />

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BEFORE<br />

AFTER<br />

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HAIR REMOVAL<br />

Excel HR offers fast, safe, <strong>and</strong><br />

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The latest <strong>and</strong> most<br />

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BEFORE<br />

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The Medispa, Gatcombe Way, Telford TF2 9GZ<br />

NOW OPEN AT - 3rd Floor, The Tannary, Barker Street,<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong> SY1 1QJ (above Riverside Medical Practice)<br />

01952 984 888


Time to cosy up <strong>and</strong> embrace the season!<br />

AUTUMN<br />

SALE<br />

Extra Discounts Off All Sale Prices<br />

FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY<br />

0% APR representative. Credit subject to status. Deferred Interest Free Credit available on all orders over £500 in-store only. Subject to status. All balances must be paid by date speci 昀 ed<br />

at the time of purchase. Written details on request. Offer not available on clearance items, or in store concessions. This offer is subject to availability <strong>and</strong> changes without notice.


DINING BEDROOM FLOORING


Prepare Your<br />

Home for<br />

Autumn <strong>and</strong><br />

Beyond with<br />

Cousins<br />

Furniture<br />

As Autumn begins,<br />

it brings the perfect<br />

opportunity to<br />

refresh your home<br />

<strong>and</strong> prepare for the<br />

cosy season ahead.<br />

Cousins Furniture<br />

are excited to<br />

unveil their latest<br />

collections, now<br />

gracing their<br />

showrooms with<br />

fresh styles <strong>and</strong><br />

designs to elevate<br />

your home for the<br />

season.<br />

Autumn Arrivals <strong>and</strong> Seasonal<br />

Updates<br />

Step into Autumn with confidence by<br />

exploring new collections. From comfy<br />

recliner sofas to stylish dining sets <strong>and</strong><br />

beautiful bedroom furniture, Cousins’ latest<br />

arrivals offer something for every taste <strong>and</strong><br />

need. Their showrooms are brimming with<br />

inspiration, helping you create a space that<br />

perfectly reflects the warmth <strong>and</strong> beauty of<br />

the season, as well as functionality for the<br />

months ahead.<br />

Plan Ahead for Christmas<br />

We know you might not even be thinking of<br />

Christmas just yet, but as the festive season<br />

approaches, planning ahead is key to<br />

ensuring your home is Christmas-ready. If<br />

you’re eyeing made-to-order items for<br />

Christmas, now is the perfect time to place<br />

your orders. By doing so, you can guarantee<br />

pre-Christmas delivery, ensuring that your<br />

home is beautifully furnished <strong>and</strong> ready for<br />

family gatherings.<br />

Hosting <strong>and</strong> Entertaining Made<br />

Easy<br />

Autumn <strong>and</strong> Winter are wonderful times for<br />

hosting <strong>and</strong> entertaining, <strong>and</strong> Cousins are<br />

here to help you make the most of it.<br />

Whether you need versatile sofa beds for<br />

guest sleepovers, ample dining chairs, or<br />

extending tables for those large family<br />

meals, Cousins have you covered. Their<br />

selection ensures that you can comfortably<br />

accommodate guests <strong>and</strong> enjoy the season’s<br />

festivities with ease.<br />

As many nights will be spent settling down<br />

on the sofa, a comfortable seating<br />

arrangement does not go a miss. If you are<br />

looking to give your living room a restyle,<br />

Cousins offer a range of recliner sofas,<br />

chairs <strong>and</strong> corner groups.<br />

well as the high wear areas of a hallway,<br />

kitchen or staircase.<br />

For those who need immediate solutions,<br />

Cousins are pleased to offer express<br />

delivery on a wide range of best-sellers.<br />

Their stock is carefully managed to ensure<br />

that you have access to high-quality<br />

furniture <strong>and</strong> accessories with quick<br />

turnaround times.<br />

Discover Unbeatable Deals<br />

For those seeking even greater value,<br />

explore Cousins Outlet for incredible<br />

savings on br<strong>and</strong>-new furniture. The Outlet<br />

is stocked with a variety of out-of-box deals<br />

<strong>and</strong> special promotions that are available<br />

online <strong>and</strong> in-store while stocks last. Here,<br />

you can find fantastic prices <strong>and</strong> exclusive<br />

promotions with the added benefit of<br />

express delivery.<br />

As you prepare for Autumn <strong>and</strong> the festive<br />

season, let Cousins Furniture be your go-to<br />

destination for all your home furnishing<br />

needs. From new collections to seasonal<br />

promotions <strong>and</strong> convenient delivery options,<br />

they’re committed to helping you create a<br />

home that’s both stylish <strong>and</strong> inviting.<br />

Shop with Convenience<br />

Cousins Furniture underst<strong>and</strong>s the<br />

importance of having everything you need<br />

in one place. That’s why they're pleased to<br />

offer everything you need for your home, all<br />

under one roof. Their extensive range<br />

includes not only living, dining, <strong>and</strong><br />

bedroom furniture but also an array of home<br />

accessories to complete your look <strong>and</strong> add<br />

the finishing touch to your home. Plus, the<br />

Cousins Flooring department is able to meet<br />

your flooring needs, whether it’s for a main<br />

living space, dining room or bedroom, as<br />

Visit Today<br />

Visit one of their showrooms to discover<br />

how one of their friendly expert staff can<br />

help you refresh your home for Autumn <strong>and</strong><br />

beyond. With everything you need under<br />

one roof, it’s easier than ever to turn your<br />

home into a warm <strong>and</strong> welcoming space for<br />

the season’s festivities.<br />

www.cousinsfurniture.co.uk<br />

Birmingham | Dudley | Newcastle-<br />

Under-Lyme | <strong>Shrewsbury</strong>


HANDMADE RUGS<br />

ALL 1/2 PRICE!<br />

AT<br />

CLEARANCE EVENT<br />

NOW ON<br />

EVERY SHAPE, COLOUR & SIZE<br />

AVAILABLE AT 1/2 PRICE OR LESS!<br />

FrithRugs,<br />

19a Vanguard Way,<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong> SY1 3TG<br />

Open: Tues-Sat: 10-5, Sun & Bank Hols: 10-4<br />

Closed: 23rd, 24th, 25th & 26th Dec<br />

A528<br />

A528<br />

Broad Oak<br />

knights Way<br />

Harlescott Lane<br />

A5124<br />

Vanguard Way<br />

Harlescott Lane<br />

Harlescott Lane<br />

Tel: 01743 463 305<br />

FrithRugs is a trading name<br />

B&Q<br />

SAT NAV:<br />

Lidl<br />

SY1 3TG<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong> Centre<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong> Centre<br />

of G H Frith (Bodelwyddan) Ltd. Clearance Event ends 30/09/<strong>2024</strong><br />

PERSIAN | AFGHAN | CHINESE | INDIAN | PAKISTAN | MODERN | CONTEMPORARY | SHAGGY<br />

Vanguard Way<br />

Tesco<br />

Upper Battlefield<br />

A5124<br />

A5112<br />

A5112<br />

A49<br />

A53<br />

Astley<br />

A49


A charmed life in Old Coleham Court<br />

As the days grow shorter <strong>and</strong> Autumn<br />

arrives, <strong>Shrewsbury</strong>’s natural beauty reaches<br />

a whole new level of charm.<br />

This is the perfect time to consider Old<br />

Coleham Court, the most exciting new<br />

residence in <strong>Shrewsbury</strong>. Ready to move<br />

into in Spring 2025, 43 contemporary<br />

apartments, duplex <strong>and</strong> penthouses are<br />

now selling off-plan with over 20% already<br />

sold.<br />

Old Coleham Court promises an unparalleled<br />

living experience. Lift access to every floor <strong>and</strong><br />

step-free from the lobby or the elevated parking<br />

level, mean the building is future proofed. The<br />

open-air courtyard at the heart of the building is<br />

a calm space just for residents. Four select<br />

apartments open directly to the courtyard,<br />

seamlessly blending indoor <strong>and</strong> outdoor living.<br />

The eleven penthouses at Old Coleham Court are<br />

truly unrivalled in <strong>Shrewsbury</strong>. The generous roof<br />

terraces with glass balustrades are perfect for<br />

watching the autumn leaves fall or entertaining<br />

guests under the changing skies.<br />

Coleham is a charming area of <strong>Shrewsbury</strong> with a<br />

village-like ambiance. Stunning riverside views,<br />

the famous Quarry Park <strong>and</strong> the vibrant town<br />

centre are all a pleasant stroll away.<br />

In this prime location, Old Coleham Court st<strong>and</strong>s<br />

apart for its exceptional architecture <strong>and</strong><br />

stunning interior design. The building’s curves<br />

create a unique floorplan for every apartment,<br />

ensuring no two homes are alike.<br />

Floor-to-ceiling windows make every room feel<br />

bright <strong>and</strong> airy even as the days grow shorter.<br />

Watch the colours change <strong>and</strong> new vistas<br />

appear as the tree-tops <strong>and</strong> foliage move<br />

through the seasons. From the north-facing<br />

apartments in Old Coleham Court, wider views of<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong>’s 10th century Abbey are revealed as<br />

the leaves fall.<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong> is a town rich in arts <strong>and</strong> culture with a<br />

diverse social scene. From theatres <strong>and</strong> galleries<br />

to bars, pubs, restaurants, <strong>and</strong> shops, the town<br />

centre is vibrant no matter the season.<br />

The convenient rail access from <strong>Shrewsbury</strong> to<br />

Birmingham, Manchester, <strong>and</strong> London, add to<br />

the appeal of Old Coleham Court as a perfect<br />

base for both work <strong>and</strong> leisure.<br />

If you’re looking to shape a new chapter in your<br />

life, Old Coleham Court in <strong>Shrewsbury</strong> presents<br />

the perfect place to call home.<br />

For more information, visit www.syhomes.co.uk


<strong>Shrewsbury</strong>’s most exciting new riverside residence.<br />

• Eleven penthouses with roof terraces<br />

• Three duplex with cantilevered glass staircases<br />

• Four apartments open to the central courtyard<br />

• Six one-bedroom apartments<br />

• 21 two-bedroom apartments<br />

Our Sales Office is now open by appointment.<br />

Call Sharon on 01743 403131<br />

or email sharon@syhomes.co.uk<br />

www.syhomes.co.uk


WINES: FINDING SOME<br />

FAVOURITES<br />

Many people enjoy a favourite wine,<br />

either by itself or when<br />

accompanying foods. Certainly, in<br />

these modern times, there are<br />

numerous choices, including dry,<br />

medium, sweet <strong>and</strong> sparkling<br />

productions all being available, from<br />

supermarkets, independent wine<br />

merchants <strong>and</strong> online too. Red<br />

wines display ripe, juicy dark fruits<br />

<strong>and</strong> do pair with steaks, red meats<br />

<strong>and</strong> other dishes particularly well –<br />

<strong>and</strong> are very much enjoyed by<br />

themselves, perhaps in a quiet<br />

moment (or two). Sparkling wines<br />

have, for many years, been an<br />

absolute joy. Great for welcoming<br />

guests with, to accompany food <strong>and</strong><br />

fabulous for parties, celebrations<br />

<strong>and</strong> events, these delectations<br />

continue to grow in popularity,<br />

constantly. Also, sparkling wines are<br />

hugely popular, when a peaceful<br />

time occurs – away from today’s<br />

hustle <strong>and</strong> bustle.<br />

Dry red wines are very popular, with<br />

casual drinkers <strong>and</strong> connoisseurs<br />

having their own favourites. Pinot<br />

Noir is one of the grape varieties<br />

that produces excellent wines.<br />

Pinot Noir wine, are carefully h<strong>and</strong>picked.<br />

Baden – <strong>and</strong> a lot of<br />

Germany’s wine producing regions –<br />

offer many delights. I like this wine,<br />

very much indeed.<br />

From Italy, Primitivo Salento (14%<br />

vol) is highly appreciated <strong>and</strong><br />

enjoyed. Masseria Metrano produces<br />

excellent wines. This dry, red<br />

production is wonderful to<br />

accompany many dishes.<br />

Cava is a further immensely popular<br />

sparkling wine. Amorany (11.5% vol)<br />

pleases many <strong>and</strong> is widely used for<br />

celebrations <strong>and</strong> events. This<br />

Spanish brut delight is very much a<br />

major contender in the stakes for<br />

delightful, enticing sparkling wine<br />

productions.<br />

Alte Vogtei zu Ravensburg has most<br />

splendid wine productions. Their<br />

superb organic Pinot Noir (12.5%<br />

vol) dry wine is very popular. Wine<br />

making here is documented back to<br />

at least 1251. The grapes, for their<br />

Prosecco is<br />

much loved as<br />

a sparkling<br />

wine <strong>and</strong> Allini<br />

has a<br />

wonderful<br />

production<br />

(11% vol) from<br />

Treviso, Italy.<br />

This brut wine<br />

is presented in<br />

a very<br />

attractive goldcoloured<br />

bottle<br />

<strong>and</strong> makes a<br />

great ‘talking<br />

point’ at<br />

countless<br />

dining tables.<br />

I located these wines, plus an<br />

excellent selection of still white<br />

wines, at a Lidl store. It is most<br />

worthwhile, in my opinion, looking<br />

at the wines <strong>and</strong> other beverages in<br />

Lidl’s sections for drinks <strong>and</strong> instore<br />

advice is always available.<br />

Their website is very informative.<br />

www.lidl.co.uk<br />

As always, Enjoy!<br />

Trevor Langley


.<br />

What's on this Christmas!<br />

Festive Party Nights with<br />

Festive Menu <strong>and</strong> Disco £39pp.<br />

29th November, 6th, 7th, 13th,<br />

14th, 20th & 21st December<br />

Enjoy a drink in the Lounge Bar.<br />

Dinner is served at 7.30pm. Disco<br />

begins around 9.30pm until<br />

midnight.<br />

Family Christmas Day Carvery<br />

in the Manor Suite.<br />

Served from 12.30pm - 2.30pm.<br />

Adults £62.00. Children £31 (4-11 years).<br />

£20 deposit pp<br />

Buffet including:<br />

Prawns, Smoked Salmon, Pâté <strong>and</strong> a<br />

variety of Salads or Soup of The Day( v)<br />

Roast from the Carvery: Turkey, Beef<br />

<strong>and</strong> Ham<br />

Grilled Fillet of Salmon - with a<br />

sundried tomato & olive tapenade Brie<br />

<strong>and</strong> Cranberry Tart - with a Balsamic<br />

Glaze (v)<br />

Chefs Selection of Vegetables <strong>and</strong><br />

Potatoes<br />

Christmas Pudding - with Br<strong>and</strong>y Sauce<br />

or a selection of Desserts from the<br />

Buffet<br />

Freshly Brewed Coffee & Mince Pies<br />

with a Gift for all children<br />

Murder Mystery Dinner with<br />

Festive Menu £42pp<br />

Join us for an evening of mystery<br />

<strong>and</strong> intrigue...<br />

The story starts in the bar from<br />

7pm continuing throughout<br />

dinner, with the ‘Who dunnit’<br />

being revealed around 11pm.<br />

(please note there is NO disco<br />

following these events).<br />

Thursday 5th December A<br />

Christmas Killing<br />

Sunday 15th December<br />

Without a Clue<br />

Thursday 19th December<br />

Mistletoe Murders<br />

Traditional Christmas<br />

Day Lunch.<br />

Make this Christmas one to<br />

remember as you sit back <strong>and</strong><br />

relax while we do the hard work<br />

for you.<br />

Served from 12.30pm – 2.30pm.<br />

Adults £74.00. Children £37.00<br />

(4-11 years). £20 deposit pp.<br />

PLEASE SCAN QR CODE<br />

FOR FULL MENUS, T&C'S<br />

AND SPECIAL OFFERS<br />

Festive Afternoon Tea<br />

Available every day from 1pm to<br />

3.30pm (except 25th-26th Dec).<br />

Booking must be made at least 48<br />

hours in advance. Enjoy a selection<br />

of speciality teas <strong>and</strong> coffees.<br />

£21.50 per person.<br />

Gift Vouchers available online or<br />

from reception all year.<br />

Boxing Day<br />

Carvery Lunch.<br />

Make this Christmas one to<br />

remember as you sit back <strong>and</strong><br />

relax while we do the hard work<br />

for you. Served from 12.30pm to<br />

2.30pm<br />

Adults £36. Children £18.00 (4-11<br />

years). £10 deposit per person.<br />

Family New Years<br />

Eve Gala Buffet<br />

in the Manor Suite.<br />

Buffet served from 7.30pm. Disco<br />

starts at 9.30pm – 12.30am. Adults<br />

£59.00. Children £29.50 (4-11<br />

years). £20 deposit per person.<br />

01952 468 300<br />

www.haughtonhall.com | events@haughtonhall.com<br />

Haughton Hall Hotel & Leisure Club, Shifnal, TF11 8HG<br />

@HaughtonHallHotel<br />

@HaughtonHall


Shropshire's Biggest<br />

Party is Back!<br />

Get your lederhosen ready for Shropshire<br />

Oktoberfest in the Quarry on<br />

<strong>October</strong> 4th <strong>and</strong> 5th.<br />

“There’s no doubt about it, Shropshire Oktoberfest is<br />

a lot of fun”, said Beth Heath, Shropshire Festivals.<br />

“Our drinks tent is filled with local brewers, cider<br />

makers, distillers, winemakers <strong>and</strong> producers who<br />

proudly serve their tipples direct to the customers.<br />

It’s not the usual mainstream rubbish you so often<br />

get served at festivals, instead its real ales, lager,<br />

cider, gin, cocktails, fizz, wine <strong>and</strong> more.<br />

“We’ll fill your bellies with incredible street food from<br />

vendors such as Wild Street Kitchen <strong>and</strong> Señor Tigre,<br />

then you can dance your socks off in front of the<br />

live music stage or choose your own music in the<br />

silent disco.”<br />

CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) will be running the<br />

Hopportunity Bar with their top picks <strong>and</strong> unusual<br />

choices.<br />

Friday’s music lineup features Unit 47, The Founders,<br />

Supersonic - The Sound of Oasis, Lucas D & the<br />

Groove Ghetto, <strong>and</strong> Fee Fee & The Sentiments. On<br />

Saturday the stage will host Two Blank Pages,<br />

Something 4 the Weekend, Custard & Gunpowder,<br />

The Dirty Rockin Scoundrels, Thomas Atlas, Hot Rox,<br />

The Vertigo B<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> some Oompah.<br />

Festival goers can pick their own music in the silent<br />

disco tent <strong>and</strong> have 5 minutes of fame at Volvo<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong>’s Carpool Karaoke.<br />

The comedy tent will be open on Saturday, <strong>October</strong><br />

5th. Back by popular dem<strong>and</strong>, Daliso Chaponda<br />

returns to the comedy lineup. He shot to fame on<br />

Britain’s Got Talent <strong>and</strong> has since toured worldwide<br />

<strong>and</strong> appeared on Have I Got News For You, The<br />

Royal Variety Performance, QI, <strong>and</strong> The News Quiz.<br />

Award-winning st<strong>and</strong> up Sam Avery, aka The<br />

Learner Parent, will close the comedy show.<br />

Beth adds, “Dust off those lederhosen <strong>and</strong> get<br />

ready for the county’s best party!”<br />

Purchase tickets at<br />

www.shropshireoktoberfest.co.uk


4&5<br />

OCTOBER<br />

<strong>2024</strong><br />

AT<br />

SHREWSBURY<br />

QUARRY<br />

PARK<br />

Shropshire’s biggest party<br />

with over 150+ beers, ciders,<br />

gin, 昀 zz & cocktails, plus the<br />

best in live music, comedy<br />

& street food!<br />

Get<br />

your<br />

tickets<br />

SCAN ME<br />

shropshireoktoberfest.co.uk


WHAT’S ON<br />

Looking for ideas to plan some days out once schools<br />

return? Across <strong>Shrewsbury</strong>, Telford, <strong>and</strong><br />

Wolverhampton, there are a host exciting events coming<br />

up, offering something for everyone, no matter your age<br />

or interests.<br />

From vibrant festivals <strong>and</strong> captivating performances to<br />

engaging workshops <strong>and</strong> family-friendly activities, there's<br />

plenty to explore. Take a look through our list of<br />

upcoming experiences <strong>and</strong> you’re your perfect outings to<br />

create even more memorable experiences.<br />

Shropshire Way Festival of Walks -Saturday, 14th<br />

September - Sunday, 22nd September<br />

The Shropshire Way Festival of Walks <strong>2024</strong> invites<br />

nature enthusiasts <strong>and</strong> hiking lovers to explore the<br />

scenic beauty of Shropshire. The week-long event<br />

features a variety of guided walks through some of the<br />

region's most stunning l<strong>and</strong>scapes, including rolling<br />

hills, <strong>and</strong> picturesque villages.<br />

Participants can choose from several routes, catering to<br />

all fitness levels <strong>and</strong> interests. With experienced guides<br />

leading each walk, you will learn all about Shropshire's<br />

rich history, wildlife, <strong>and</strong> natural beauty. Whether<br />

you're a seasoned hiker or a casual walker who enjoys a<br />

view this festival is a fantastic opportunity to explore<br />

the outdoors <strong>and</strong> capture some stunning photos along<br />

the way. Book your place here:<br />

https://shropshireway.org.uk/festival<br />

M<strong>and</strong>ers Big Charity Day -Saturday 21st September<br />

– M<strong>and</strong>ers Centre, Wolverhampton<br />

M<strong>and</strong>ers Big Charity Day promises to be an exciting<br />

event for a great cause. Taking place at the M<strong>and</strong>ers<br />

Shopping Centre, the day will be filled with activities<br />

<strong>and</strong> entertainment for the whole family. Highlights<br />

include live music performances, funfair rides, a charity<br />

raffle with fantastic prizes, <strong>and</strong> a variety of food stalls<br />

offering delicious treats. Local businesses will showcase<br />

their products, with a portion of proceeds going to<br />

support community charities. Join the festivities <strong>and</strong><br />

make a difference in your community while enjoying a<br />

day of fun, food, <strong>and</strong> philanthropy.<br />

To find out more, click the link below:<br />

https://allevents.in/mobile/ampevent.php?event_id=200026857308826<br />

HEAL Music Festival -Saturday 21st September –<br />

West Mid Showground, <strong>Shrewsbury</strong><br />

The HEAL Music Festival promises a day of musical<br />

celebration <strong>and</strong> self-care experiences. Running from<br />

9:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., the festival hosts a diverse<br />

lineup of local artists, spanning genres from folk <strong>and</strong><br />

rock to electronic <strong>and</strong> jazz.<br />

In addition to live music, visitors, can take part in<br />

wellness workshops <strong>and</strong> view various food stalls offering<br />

delicious local cuisine. Set in the heart of <strong>Shrewsbury</strong>,<br />

the festival aims to promote community well-being <strong>and</strong><br />

cultural appreciation, making it an ideal event for music<br />

lovers <strong>and</strong> those seeking relaxation <strong>and</strong> inspiration.<br />

Book your tickets here:<br />

https://www.healfestival.co.uk/products/heal-festival-<br />

<strong>2024</strong>-tickets<br />

The-Rex – A Tribute to Marc Bolan <strong>and</strong> T.Rex<br />

Saturday 21st September – Hermon Arts, <strong>Oswestry</strong><br />

Celebrate the music <strong>and</strong> legacy of the iconic Marc Bolan,<br />

whose electrifying performances are still remembered<br />

by many! This tribute b<strong>and</strong> will perform T. Rex's<br />

greatest hits, including "Get It On" <strong>and</strong> "20th Century<br />

Boy," capturing the spirit of Bolan's original sound.<br />

Don't miss this chance to relive the magic of one of<br />

rock's greatest legends in the vibrant <strong>and</strong> intimate<br />

setting of Hermon Arts centre.<br />

Book your tickets here:<br />

https://www.oneoswestry.co.uk/event/the-rex-atribute-to-marc-bolan-<strong>and</strong>-t-rex-live-at-hermon-arts/<br />

fantastic night of fun <strong>and</strong> compassion!<br />

<strong>Oswestry</strong> Apple Day -Saturday 5th <strong>October</strong> – The<br />

Bailey Head, <strong>Oswestry</strong><br />

Join the annual Apple Day Celebration, featuring a<br />

variety of activities for the whole family. Sample local<br />

apple varieties, enjoy fresh apple cider, <strong>and</strong> participate<br />

in apple-themed games <strong>and</strong> crafts.<br />

The day includes live music, educational workshops on<br />

apple cultivation, <strong>and</strong> cooking demonstrations using<br />

apples in creative recipes. Vendors will offer local<br />

produce, artisanal goods, <strong>and</strong> tasty treats. Apple Day is<br />

the perfect opportunity to enjoy the autumn harvest <strong>and</strong><br />

embrace the charm of rural life.<br />

If you have home grown produce <strong>and</strong> want to book a<br />

stall, email: davidclough@oswestry-tc.gov.uk<br />

The Haven’s Masquerade Ball<br />

Saturday 12th <strong>October</strong> – Mount Hotel, Tettenhall<br />

Join the Haven’s Masquerade Ball for an unforgettable<br />

evening of glamour <strong>and</strong> generosity. This elegant event<br />

aims to raise funds for The Haven, supporting women<br />

<strong>and</strong> children affected by domestic abuse <strong>and</strong><br />

homelessness.<br />

Guests will enjoy a luxurious three-course meal, live<br />

entertainment, <strong>and</strong> the opportunity to dance the night<br />

away, with a black tie <strong>and</strong> traditional dress code. A<br />

charity auction will offer exclusive items <strong>and</strong><br />

experiences, providing additional support for this<br />

worthy cause. Step into your finest attire <strong>and</strong> mask for a<br />

fantastic night of fun <strong>and</strong> compassion!<br />

To find out more, please click the link below:<br />

www.havenrefuge.org.uk/event/masqueradeball/<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong> International Piano Recital: Alim<br />

Beisembayev<br />

Sunday 20th <strong>October</strong> – <strong>Shrewsbury</strong> School<br />

Experience an afternoon of exceptional music at the<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong> International Piano Recital featuring Alim<br />

Beisembayev. This performance showcases<br />

Beisembayev's virtuosity <strong>and</strong> emotional depth as he<br />

performs a captivating repertoire of classical piano<br />

masterpieces. Acclaimed for his technical skill <strong>and</strong><br />

expressive artistry, Beisembayev promises to deliver an<br />

unforgettable recital.<br />

The setting adds to the event's charm, providing a<br />

perfect backdrop for an inspiring musical journey. Don’t<br />

miss this chance to enjoy world-class piano music in the<br />

heart of <strong>Shrewsbury</strong>.<br />

Book your tickets here:<br />

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/smt<br />

By Katie Wilson


AUTUMN <strong>2024</strong><br />

t: 01746 766477<br />

BOOK ON LINE at www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk<br />

ALADDINSANE<br />

SATURDAY 14th SEPTEMBER <strong>2024</strong> 8:00 pm<br />

The Sound & Vision of Bowie, widely acclaimed as the best Bowie tribute in the UK.<br />

They b<strong>and</strong> have played theatres, festivals <strong>and</strong> venues throughout the UK for the past 12 years,<br />

with Paul Henderson performing as David Bowie,. Tickets £18<br />

The Rat Pack is Back!<br />

SATURDAY 21st SEPTEMBER <strong>2024</strong> 8:00 pm<br />

The Official UK No: 1 Tribute show as voted by The Agents Association of Great Britain for three successive years,<br />

comes direct From London’s Leicester Square Theatre, The 02 <strong>and</strong> a Royal Comm<strong>and</strong> Performance. The<br />

acclaimed David Alacey (Lovejoy & Inspector Alleyn) stars as Frank Sinatra alongside Paul Drakeley (Inside Out –<br />

BBC) as Dean Martin.. Tickets £22<br />

DEATHS AT SEA<br />

FRIDAY 27th SEPTEMBER <strong>2024</strong> 7:30 pm<br />

Deaths at Sea follows a small theatre company performing their new murder-mystery play ‘Death at Sea’, but<br />

despite their best efforts, everything goes wrong. Tickets from £14<br />

A NIGHT IN THE CANYON<br />

SATURDAY 28th SEPTEMBER <strong>2024</strong> 8:00 pm<br />

An homage to the golden age of American(a) music, featuring the timeless songs of James Taylor, Carole King,<br />

Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Buffalo Springfield, Eagles, Joni Mitchell<br />

<strong>and</strong> many more.Tickets £20<br />

DESPERADO<br />

FRIDAY 4th OCTOBER 8:00 pm to SATURDAY 5th OCTOBER 8:00 pm<br />

Desperado journey through the timeless legacy of your favourite Eagles songs with their characteristic precision<br />

<strong>and</strong> musicality. Interspersed with the gentle humour that has become their hallmark <strong>and</strong> guarantees a great<br />

night out for every audience. Tickets £20<br />

THE ADDAMS FAMILY MUSICAL<br />

THURSDAY 10th OCTOBER 7:30 pm to SATURDAY 19th OCTOBER 7:30 pm<br />

Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, is all grown up <strong>and</strong> has a shocking secret that only he<br />

father Gomez knows; she’s fallen in love with Lucas Beineke, a sweet, smart young man from a respectable<br />

family!.Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before - keep a secret from his beloved wife,<br />

Morticia. Tickets from £12<br />

TOWN HALL, HIGH STREET, BRIDGNORTH<br />

www.theatreonthesteps.co.uk


Books to read<br />

Top Books to Cosy Up With<br />

This Autumn<br />

As the leaves change colour <strong>and</strong> the<br />

days grow shorter, autumn is the<br />

perfect season to curl up with a good<br />

book.<br />

Whether you’re looking for a thrilling<br />

mystery, a heart-warming story, or a<br />

thought-provoking read, there’s<br />

something for everyone this autumn.<br />

Have a read of some top picks to<br />

consider adding to your reading list<br />

this season.<br />

escapes into the untamed wilderness, fleeing from a<br />

colonial settlement. As she navigates the dangers of the<br />

forest, Groff creates a tale of survival, spirituality, <strong>and</strong><br />

the haunting beauty of the natural world. Perfect for<br />

readers who enjoy rich, atmospheric writing, this book is<br />

sure to captivate this season.<br />

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver<br />

Barbara Kingsolver’s latest novel, Demon Copperhead, is<br />

a modern retelling of Charles Dickens’ David<br />

Copperfield set in the rural Appalachian Mountains.<br />

The story follows a boy born into poverty, navigating the<br />

challenges of addiction, ab<strong>and</strong>onment, <strong>and</strong> the search<br />

for identity.<br />

Kingsolver’s sharp social commentary <strong>and</strong> powerful<br />

storytelling bring a fresh perspective to this classic tale.<br />

It’s a deep, emotionally resonant book that offers both<br />

heartbreak <strong>and</strong> hope, making it a compelling read for<br />

autumn.<br />

The Fraud by Zadie Smith<br />

Zadie Smith’s The Fraud is a historical novel that delves<br />

into the world of Victorian Engl<strong>and</strong>, exploring themes of<br />

identity, authenticity, <strong>and</strong> societal expectations.<br />

Based on real events, the novel follows the life of Eliza<br />

Touchet, a widow living in London, as she becomes<br />

entangled in a sensational court case involving a man<br />

who claims to be the rightful heir to a fortune.<br />

Smith’s signature wit <strong>and</strong> keen observations of class <strong>and</strong><br />

race make this a thought-provoking read, perfect for<br />

fans of historical fiction.<br />

The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James<br />

McBride<br />

The Last Devil to Die by Richard Osman<br />

The fourth instalment of Richard Osman’s wildly<br />

popular Thursday Murder Club series is a must-read this<br />

autumn.<br />

Following a group of senior citizens who solve cold<br />

cases, this series has become a global sensation,<br />

combining clever mysteries with heart-warming<br />

friendship <strong>and</strong> humour.<br />

In "The Last Devil to Die," the stakes are higher than<br />

ever as the gang faces a new, dangerous case that will<br />

test their wits <strong>and</strong> their bond. Osman’s charming style<br />

<strong>and</strong> delightful characters make this an irresistible read<br />

for cosy autumn nights.<br />

The Vaster Wilds by Lauren Groff<br />

Lauren Groff, known for her lyrical style <strong>and</strong> deep<br />

explorations of human nature, returns with The Vaster<br />

Wilds, a novel that transports its readers to early<br />

America.<br />

This historical fiction follows a young servant girl who<br />

Set in a small Pennsylvania town during the 1930s, The<br />

Heaven & Earth Grocery Store by James McBride is a<br />

richly textured novel that explores the intersections of<br />

race, community, <strong>and</strong><br />

morality.<br />

The story centres<br />

around the lives of the<br />

residents of Chicken<br />

Hill, a neighbourhood<br />

where Jewish, Black,<br />

<strong>and</strong> immigrant families<br />

coexist. McBride,<br />

known for his ability to<br />

blend humour with<br />

profound social insight,<br />

crafts a narrative that is<br />

both deeply humane<br />

<strong>and</strong> utterly compelling.<br />

This novel is a poignant<br />

exploration of love,<br />

sacrifice, <strong>and</strong> the<br />

enduring power of community, making it an ideal choice<br />

for the reflective mood of autumn.<br />

By Katie Wilson


Weddings | Events | Promotional<br />

Harry Fisher Films specialises in documenting weddings <strong>and</strong> events, as well as<br />

helping promote local business with a cinematic touch. I have always had a love for<br />

individuals <strong>and</strong> their stories, so having the opportunity to capture those authentic<br />

moments is bothfulfilling <strong>and</strong> heartfelt. I piece together the best moments<br />

combining all that I have learnt over the years to creatively bring your story to life.<br />

Book your film today<br />

harryfisherfilms@gmail.com<br />

Find out more<br />

www.harryfisher.co.uk


Back to School<br />

Back to Reality: Getting<br />

Back into a Structure After<br />

the Summer<br />

As summer draws to a close, the<br />

carefree days of late mornings <strong>and</strong><br />

spontaneous adventures give way to<br />

the structured rhythm of school days<br />

<strong>and</strong> work routines.<br />

For many parents, this transition can<br />

be both a relief <strong>and</strong> a challenge.<br />

While the return to a predictable<br />

schedule is welcome, getting back<br />

into a routine after the summer break<br />

requires some adjustment.<br />

Have a read of some top tips to<br />

smoothly navigate this period <strong>and</strong><br />

re-establish a balanced daily routine.<br />

Organising Morning Routines<br />

Mornings can be a stressful part of the day, especially<br />

when the whole family is transitioning back to a school<br />

routine.<br />

To minimise morning chaos, establish a clear morning<br />

routine that everyone can follow. Prepare as much as<br />

possible the night before - lay out clothes, pack lunches,<br />

<strong>and</strong> organise school bags. Having a set morning<br />

schedule with designated times for waking up, getting<br />

dressed <strong>and</strong> having breakfast can really help to<br />

streamline the process.<br />

Encourage children to take on responsibilities<br />

appropriate for their age, such as making their beds or<br />

helping pack their lunch. This not only eases your<br />

morning workload but also teaches them valuable skills<br />

in time management <strong>and</strong> self-sufficiency.<br />

Setting Up After-School Routines<br />

After-school time can often be a rush of homework,<br />

activities, <strong>and</strong> family time. Creating a consistent afterschool<br />

routine can help children transition smoothly<br />

from school to home life. Mark any after school clubs on<br />

a calendar, set a designated time <strong>and</strong> quiet space for<br />

homework <strong>and</strong> ensure that this area is free from<br />

distractions. This helps children focus better <strong>and</strong> finish<br />

their work more efficiently.<br />

Incorporate some downtime after school to let kids<br />

unwind. Whether it’s a snack break, some playtime<br />

outside, or a few minutes of relaxation, this can help<br />

them recharge before diving into homework or<br />

extracurricular activities.<br />

Prioritise Family Time<br />

With the hustle <strong>and</strong> bustle of the school year, it’s easy to<br />

let family time fall by the wayside, despite being one of<br />

the things many of us enjoy the most about the summer.<br />

Re-establishing Sleep Schedules<br />

One of the biggest hurdles in returning to a routine is<br />

readjusting our sleep schedules. Over the summer,<br />

bedtimes often slip later, <strong>and</strong> mornings become more<br />

leisurely. Now that school is back in session, it’s<br />

important to reintroduce consistent bedtimes <strong>and</strong> wakeup<br />

times for both children <strong>and</strong> parents.<br />

Start by gradually shifting bedtime earlier by 15-30<br />

minutes each night until you reach the desired time.<br />

This gradual adjustment is less jarring <strong>and</strong> helps the<br />

body naturally acclimate to the new schedule.<br />

Additionally, creating a calming bedtime routine, such<br />

as reading or taking a warm bath, can signal to the body<br />

that it’s time to wind down. Also ensure that screen time<br />

is minimised an hour before bed to avoid any<br />

disruptions in sleep patterns.<br />

However, maintaining<br />

strong family<br />

connections is<br />

important for<br />

everyone’s well-being.<br />

Make it a point to<br />

carve out time each<br />

week for family<br />

activities, whether it’s<br />

a game night, a family<br />

walk, or simply sitting<br />

down to dinner<br />

together.<br />

Try to Stay Flexible<br />

While routines are essential, it’s also important to<br />

remain flexible. Life is unpredictable, <strong>and</strong> there will be<br />

days when things don’t go according to plan. Be patient<br />

with yourself <strong>and</strong> your family, <strong>and</strong> don’t be afraid to<br />

adjust routines as needed.<br />

By Katie Wilson


Ignite Your Star Power at PQA Wolverhampton!<br />

Have you always dreamed of<br />

st<strong>and</strong>ing in the spotlight?<br />

Whether you're drawn to the dramatic arts, the magic of<br />

musical theatre, or the thrill of filmmaking, PQA<br />

Wolverhampton can help you unleash your inner star.<br />

tunes. Maybe you have a keen eye for storytelling <strong>and</strong> a<br />

passion for capturing moments on camera. At PQA, you'll<br />

have the opportunity to explore all these passions <strong>and</strong><br />

more.<br />

Our classes are designed to be engaging <strong>and</strong> inspiring,<br />

with a focus on practical skills <strong>and</strong> real-world experience.<br />

You'll work on exciting projects, collaborate with talented<br />

peers, <strong>and</strong> build a strong portfolio to showcase your<br />

abilities. Plus,you'll have the chance to perform in our<br />

spectacular shows, giving you a taste of the professional<br />

world.<br />

Ready to take the next step? Join PQA Wolverhampton<br />

<strong>and</strong> embark on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery<br />

<strong>and</strong> creative expression. Visit our website at<br />

www.pqacademy.com/academies/wolverhampton<br />

to book YOUR FREE SESSION.<br />

Our academy is a vibrant hub for young creatives, offering<br />

a unique blend of fun, learning, <strong>and</strong> performance. You'll<br />

explore acting, singing, dancing, <strong>and</strong> filmmaking, all<br />

under the guidance of industry professionals. From<br />

building confidence to developing essential life skills, PQA<br />

is more than just a hobby – it's a platform for personal<br />

growth.<br />

Imagine yourself performing on stage, captivating<br />

audiences with your acting chops. Or perhaps you're a<br />

natural-born singer, ready to belt out your favourite<br />

MUCH MORE<br />

THAN JUST<br />

MUSICAL THEATRE.<br />

PQA WOLVERHAMPTON<br />

AT WOLVERHAMPTON GRAMMAR SCHOOL<br />

TRY A FULL SESSION FOR FREE!<br />

www.pqacademy.com


Trick or Treat?<br />

Halloween <strong>2024</strong>: Is Trickor-Treating<br />

a Thing of the<br />

Past?<br />

Trick-or-treating has been a beloved<br />

Halloween tradition for generations<br />

with children choosing fun or fearful<br />

costumes <strong>and</strong> going door-to-door for<br />

sweets.<br />

However, in recent years, there has<br />

been growing concern that this once<br />

popular activity might be on the<br />

decline. From shifting social norms<br />

to an increase in safety concerns, is<br />

trick-or-treating becoming a thing of<br />

the past?<br />

Safety Concerns <strong>and</strong> Changing Attitudes<br />

One of the most significant factors contributing to the<br />

decline of trick-or-treating is the increasing concern<br />

over safety. While incidents of contaminated sweets or<br />

other dangers are rare, the fear of potential harm has led<br />

many parents to reconsider letting their children roam<br />

the streets. The rise of online communities <strong>and</strong> social<br />

media has also made it easier for parents to be aware of<br />

<strong>and</strong> share such concerns, further amplifying parents’<br />

anxieties.<br />

Additionally, neighbourhoods themselves have changed.<br />

In many areas, the sense of community as it was years<br />

ago has diminished, making it less likely for neighbours<br />

to know each other well. This lack of community trust<br />

can make parents hesitant to let their children visit<br />

homes of people they may not know personally.<br />

The COVID-19 p<strong>and</strong>emic also had a profound impact on<br />

public gatherings, including Halloween. In 2020, many<br />

families opted out of trick-or-treating altogether due to<br />

health concerns <strong>and</strong> although some communities have<br />

seen a resurgence of the tradition post-p<strong>and</strong>emic, the<br />

lingering effects of the virus <strong>and</strong> heightened awareness<br />

of public health issues have altered how many people<br />

view it as a whole.<br />

Alternative Celebrations<br />

As traditional trick-or-treating wanes, alternative forms<br />

of Halloween celebrations have gained popularity.<br />

Community events, haunted houses, <strong>and</strong> themed parties<br />

provide safe, controlled environments where families<br />

can celebrate together. For some, these events offer a<br />

more structured <strong>and</strong> enjoyable experience than the<br />

unpredictability of trick-or-treating.<br />

The Evolution of Halloween<br />

Halloween, originally rooted in ancient Celtic traditions<br />

has evolved significantly over the centuries. By the 20th<br />

century, it had become a largely commercialised<br />

celebration in the United States, with trick-or-treating<br />

emerging as a central activity. For decades it was the<br />

highlight of the night for children who eagerly planned<br />

their costumes <strong>and</strong> anticipated the sweet treats they’d<br />

receive for their efforts.<br />

However, Halloween celebrations have continued to<br />

change over the years particularly in the past two<br />

decades. The rise of leaving sweets outside for children<br />

to collect shows a clear shift in how families approach<br />

the activity. This option is often seen as safer <strong>and</strong> a<br />

more convenient alternative to the traditional door-todoor<br />

trick-or-treating.<br />

Entertainment<br />

companies have also<br />

homed in on this<br />

shift, offering a wide<br />

range of Halloweenthemed<br />

activities<br />

from pumpkin<br />

patches <strong>and</strong> corn<br />

mazes to horror<br />

movie marathons<br />

<strong>and</strong> virtual events.<br />

These alternatives<br />

cater to a broader<br />

range of age groups<br />

<strong>and</strong> interests,<br />

making Halloween a<br />

more inclusive<br />

holiday for all.<br />

The Future of<br />

Trick-or-Treating<br />

While trick-or-treating may not be as universally<br />

practiced as it once was, it is far from extinct.<br />

However, it is clear that the ways in which Halloween is<br />

celebrated are changing. Whether this evolution leads to<br />

the end of trick-or-treating as we know it or simply to its<br />

adaptation in new forms is one we will just have to wait<br />

<strong>and</strong> find out.<br />

By Katie Wilson


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25


Halloween Fun<br />

Pumpkin Carving <strong>and</strong><br />

Decorating<br />

As the autumn arrives it won’t be<br />

long before Halloween <strong>and</strong> with that<br />

comes one of the most popular<br />

seasonal activities: pumpkin carving<br />

<strong>and</strong> decorating.<br />

Not only does it being out the<br />

creative spirit in people of all ages<br />

but also adds a festive touch to<br />

homes, celebrating the warmth <strong>and</strong><br />

magic of the season.<br />

Have a read of some of our top ways<br />

to enjoy pumpkin carving <strong>and</strong><br />

decorating this autumn:<br />

designs. Templates are widely available online <strong>and</strong> can<br />

be easily transferred onto the pumpkin using a push pin<br />

or marker.<br />

Host a Pumpkin Carving Party<br />

A great way of adding even more fun to the season is to<br />

gather your friends <strong>and</strong> family together for a pumpkin<br />

carving party!<br />

Set up a table with various tools, patterns, <strong>and</strong><br />

decorations. Consider having a friendly competition<br />

with categories like "Scariest Pumpkin," "Most Creative<br />

Design," or "Best Group Theme." Get competitive with<br />

your pumpkin carving fun <strong>and</strong> get the best family photos<br />

for you to look back on <strong>and</strong> remember. Don’t forget to<br />

have some seasonal snacks on h<strong>and</strong> to fuel the fun <strong>and</strong><br />

get everyone in the festive spirit.<br />

Pumpkin Decorating for Kids<br />

If you have young children that want to join in the fun,<br />

consider pumpkin painting instead of carving. This is a<br />

safe <strong>and</strong> fun alternative that allows kids to get creative<br />

without the need for sharp tools.<br />

Provide them with a variety of paints, markers, <strong>and</strong><br />

stickers to decorate their pumpkin <strong>and</strong> for a more<br />

interactive experience, use small, real pumpkins for a<br />

“pumpkin family” craft, where kids can create their own<br />

pumpkin characters complete with googly eyes, pipe<br />

cleaner arms, <strong>and</strong> other craft supplies.<br />

Decorating Alternatives<br />

Not everyone wants to wield a knife or deal with the<br />

mess of carving, <strong>and</strong> that’s where pumpkin decorating<br />

shines. Decorating your pumpkins is a popular<br />

alternative, allowing for a wide range of designs—from<br />

spooky faces to elegant patterns. Acrylic paint works<br />

best for this, providing bright, opaque coverage.<br />

Carving Techniques<br />

For a more sophisticated look, consider using metallic<br />

paints, glitter, or even decoupage techniques with<br />

decorative paper. Some decorators opt for natural<br />

elements like leaves, acorns, <strong>and</strong> dried flowers to adorn<br />

their pumpkins, creating a rustic centrepiece to display<br />

in your home.<br />

Carving a pumpkin is both an art <strong>and</strong> a science. After<br />

selecting your perfect pumpkin, the next step is to<br />

hollow it out. Cut a circular lid around the stem, angled<br />

slightly so the lid doesn’t fall in, <strong>and</strong> scoop out the seeds<br />

<strong>and</strong> pulp with a sturdy spoon. For a fun twist, save the<br />

seeds to roast for a delicious autumn treat.<br />

When it comes to the actual carving, there are numerous<br />

tools available, from simple kitchen knives to specialised<br />

pumpkin carving kits that include saws, drills, <strong>and</strong><br />

sculpting tools. For beginners, a basic kitchen knife<br />

works fine, but more detailed designs benefit from the<br />

precision of a carving kit.<br />

Designing the face or pattern is where creativity comes<br />

into play. Traditional jack-o'-lantern faces with<br />

triangular eyes <strong>and</strong> a toothy grin never go out of style<br />

but there are endless possibilities for more intricate<br />

By Katie Wilson


Last of the<br />

Market Late<br />

Nights<br />

The ever-popular<br />

Wellington Late Night<br />

Markets made a welcome return this<br />

summer with the final one scheduled for<br />

Saturday 28 September, 5-10pm, £2 entry.<br />

With live entertainment, delicious street<br />

food, <strong>and</strong> an all-round good vibe – these<br />

have drawn huge crowds over the summer.<br />

Inside the Wellington Market Food Court<br />

vendors include Park Street Kitchen,<br />

Bubbly’s Kitchen, Red Dragon Noodles,<br />

Gorgeous Pizza Company, Odd Pals, <strong>and</strong><br />

The Welldeck.<br />

Outside the Market Yard has a livelier vibe,<br />

with live entertainment <strong>and</strong> tasty food from<br />

Red Brick Craft Beer Bar & Food, Hungry<br />

Dogs, Jamaica No Problem Mon Caribbean,<br />

AJ’s Kitchen Bar & Food <strong>and</strong> pop up stalls.<br />

A ‘Summer of fun’ in Wellington<br />

Wellington has been a hive of activity over<br />

the summer with so many events including<br />

‘Saturdays in the Square’, the Midsummer<br />

Fayre, the first Green Festival, the Italian<br />

Scooter Day, the Wellington ‘Orbit Rocks’,<br />

plenty of late night markets <strong>and</strong> open air<br />

productions at The Bowring Park as well as<br />

the ‘Family Fun Days’ run by Wellington<br />

Town Council throughout the summer<br />

holidays. There really was – <strong>and</strong> is -<br />

‘something for everyone’ to enjoy in<br />

Wellington.<br />

Sustainable Sundays in<br />

Wellington<br />

Climate Action Hub Telford (CAHT) is a local<br />

charity focused on reducing carbon<br />

emissions <strong>and</strong> l<strong>and</strong>fill through promoting<br />

reduce, reuse, repair, share <strong>and</strong> recycling<br />

initiatives. CAHT holds monthly ‘Sustainable<br />

Sunday’ events at Belmont Hall in Wellington<br />

with the aim to provide local people with the<br />

opportunity to engage in climate <strong>and</strong> nature<br />

action whilst saving money. The events are<br />

free <strong>and</strong> have been made possible thanks to<br />

Telford & Wrekin Council’s Climate Change<br />

Fund Grant. Upcoming Sunday’s:<br />

Sun 22 Sept - Harvest Activities<br />

Sun 20 Oct - Go plastic free<br />

Sun 17 Nov - Repair, make & mend<br />

Sun 1 Dec - Sustainable Christmas<br />

Ideas<br />

Wellington Walking Festival<br />

The 13th Wellington Walking Festival<br />

will take place from 9-15 September<br />

<strong>and</strong> a festival programme can be<br />

downloaded from<br />

www.wellingtonwalkersarewelco<br />

me.org.uk<br />

Autumn Acoustics in Wellington<br />

As the days begin to draw in,<br />

Wellington will be looking forward to<br />

'Acoustic Autumn' events in the<br />

square, with waffles <strong>and</strong> warm drinks,<br />

bean bags, a portrait artist <strong>and</strong> an all<br />

round 'Saturday Autumn vibe'. The line<br />

up is as follows:<br />

Sat 7 Sept - Palomino Duo;<br />

Sat 14 Sept - The Beautiful<br />

Barley Boys<br />

Sat 21 Sept - Aaron Evans.<br />

Times 11.30-1.30pm<br />

Spooky fun for Wellington kids<br />

Over <strong>October</strong> half term families are<br />

invited to take part in the ‘Great<br />

Wellington Pumpkin Trail’ with children<br />

spotting pumpkins in shops throughout<br />

the town centre. Find the pumpkins,<br />

collect the clues <strong>and</strong> solve the riddle.<br />

Trail maps will be available from The<br />

Orbit from Saturday 26 <strong>October</strong> to<br />

Saturday 2 November <strong>and</strong> special<br />

Halloween Treats await those who<br />

complete the trail – thanks to<br />

Wellington Town Council <strong>and</strong> Love<br />

Wellington.


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29


Autumnal Well-Being<br />

With September now in fall swing<br />

we head out of the longer light<br />

filled Summer days & nights &<br />

head into <strong>October</strong> & the beginning<br />

of Autumn. With cooler days &<br />

light decreasing, we use these<br />

months to work with Mother<br />

Nature & harvest the crops that<br />

have grown during the warm<br />

summer months. It’s a good time<br />

of the year to check in where we<br />

are with our health & wellbeing so<br />

here are some areas to be aware of<br />

as we move into the season switch<br />

us in rhythm with seasonal foods<br />

Seasonal Supplements<br />

As this time of year is ‘go back to<br />

school’ time, coughs, colds & bugs<br />

tend to be on the increase in<br />

households as we gather inside<br />

with more people again. Add into<br />

that the time we spend outside is<br />

likely to be less due to darker<br />

nights & changes in weather.<br />

Taking good quality supplements<br />

such as Vitamin C & D can really<br />

boost the immune system & carry<br />

us through the season with<br />

minimal issues. We can stick with<br />

these right through until the new<br />

year<br />

This Arbonne flavoured drink has<br />

good coverage of both vitamins C<br />

& D & is great to add to your daily<br />

fluid intake. It tastes lovely!<br />

Visit<br />

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nne.com & apply code Arbonne10<br />

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tone & colour. When temperatures<br />

start to drop & humidity levels<br />

decrease, cold winds can strip<br />

away our natural oils. This,<br />

combined with dry, indoor heat,<br />

can wreak havoc on skin & cause<br />

dryness, dehydration, redness &<br />

flaking. When switching to your<br />

Autumn skincare regime,<br />

hydration will be key & increasing<br />

your skins intake of hero’s such as<br />

hyaluronic acid helps to replenish<br />

all the lost moisture<br />

Using a daily balm like the Neals<br />

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intensely nourishing one pot<br />

wonder balm for visibly enhanced<br />

radiance. With its organic wild<br />

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radiance & a rich blend of organic<br />

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the skin is left soft & supple with a<br />

natural glow. It’s really is a ONE<br />

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Skincare Transition<br />

Nurturing Nutrition<br />

According to Traditional Chinese<br />

Medicine (TCM) we need to start<br />

thinking about eating root<br />

vegetables as we head towards the<br />

colder months. These include<br />

things such as Squash, carrots,<br />

sweet potato & all go with the<br />

beautiful Autumnal tones too!<br />

Along with green veggies such as<br />

spinach, broccoli & kale &<br />

legumes made up of lentils, beans<br />

& chickpeas. Add some cinnamon,<br />

turmeric, ginger, thyme & dill<br />

spices for a warming taste.<br />

Orchard fruits are also at their<br />

best with apples & pears being<br />

harvested this time of year & keep<br />

As Mother Earth transitions<br />

through the seasons, so do we.<br />

During summer our skin has lots<br />

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31


Think auctions are all about antiques? Think again…<br />

Ben Gamble of Staffordshire<br />

auction house Cuttlestones<br />

explains why you might be<br />

surprised at what sells ‘under the<br />

hammer’.<br />

A common misconception about<br />

selling – or buying – at auction is<br />

that only old paintings, antique<br />

furniture, heirloom jewellery, stamps<br />

or ancient artefacts pass through the<br />

saleroom. In reality, this is far from<br />

the case.<br />

While we do sell plenty of such items,<br />

the world of collectables – items that<br />

are of interest to a specific audience –<br />

is hugely diverse, <strong>and</strong> serious<br />

collectors across all genres regularly<br />

scour auction catalogues to find the<br />

next item to add to their collection.<br />

Over the years we’ve successfully sold<br />

everything from pop & rock <strong>and</strong><br />

sporting memorabilia to vintage<br />

costume jewellery, clothing, modern<br />

designer watches <strong>and</strong> jewellery, fine<br />

wines & spirits, vintage toys, movie<br />

collectables, tribal art <strong>and</strong> much,<br />

much more. We once sold a collection<br />

of 2,000 comic books for a massive<br />

£49,000.<br />

This 1962 Marvel Comics ‘X-Men’ #1<br />

Comic Book sold for £907.50<br />

So, why sell at auction?<br />

The fact that all our auctions feature<br />

live online as well as in the room<br />

bidding, <strong>and</strong> that we have fully<br />

illustrated catalogues with in-depth<br />

condition reports for all lots, mean<br />

that we are ideally placed to reach<br />

niche audiences – <strong>and</strong> the right<br />

bidders – wherever they are in the<br />

world.<br />

This 1971 Jomoro child’s model F1<br />

racing car saw the hammer fall at<br />

£6,000<br />

Got something you’d like to sell? The<br />

best place to start is by sending us<br />

some images of what it is you’re<br />

interested in selling – via WhatsApp<br />

or email – <strong>and</strong> we will then tell you if<br />

we think our auction room is the right<br />

place to sell it. We can then arrange a<br />

free, no-obligation formal valuation<br />

with a view to consigning it into the<br />

next suitable sale <strong>and</strong> promoting to<br />

the most relevant audience.<br />

www.cuttlestones.co.uk<br />

info@cuttlestones,co.uk<br />

Tel: 01785 714905<br />

WhatsApp: 07949 603872<br />

unlocking<br />

true value<br />

From watches to jewellery, art, furniture,<br />

ceramics, clocks, silver, tribal art, medals, toys<br />

– <strong>and</strong> pretty much everything in between<br />

– our team of experts can help unlock the true<br />

value of your treasured items.<br />

Arrange a free, no obligation valuation now…<br />

Call 01785 714905 or email office@cuttlestones.co.uk<br />

to book your appointment<br />

Cuttlestones Ltd, Pinfold Lane, Penkridge, Staffordshire ST19 5AP<br />

www.cuttlestones.co.uk


Enjoy Autumn<br />

Make the Most of the<br />

Autumn: Enjoying the<br />

Outdoors<br />

Autumn is a magical time to immerse<br />

yourself in nature, with its crisp air,<br />

vibrant colours <strong>and</strong> delicious<br />

harvests. As the days grow shorter<br />

<strong>and</strong> the temperatures drop, there's no<br />

better season to switch off the<br />

gadgets, explore the outdoors <strong>and</strong><br />

reconnect with nature.<br />

Autumn Walks<br />

One of the simplest joys of autumn is a walk through a<br />

local park or forest. The changing leaves create a<br />

stunning mixture of reds, oranges, <strong>and</strong> yellows,<br />

transforming even the most familiar paths into beautiful<br />

l<strong>and</strong>scapes. Whether you're hiking, biking, or just taking<br />

a leisurely stroll, the cool weather makes it an ideal time<br />

to be active outdoors without the sweltering heat of<br />

summer. Here are our top three walks perfect for<br />

autumn:<br />

gardens, a deer park, <strong>and</strong> a traditionally decorated<br />

manor estate. The estate also includes a small shop <strong>and</strong><br />

café with outdoor seating to sit <strong>and</strong> enjoy the sunshine.<br />

It is the perfect spot for those wanting to explore some<br />

history or those just wanting to re-charge <strong>and</strong> enjoy the<br />

gorgeous seasonal colours of the Shropshire<br />

countryside.<br />

Haughmond Hill<br />

Haughmond is a shallow hill in <strong>Shrewsbury</strong> surrounded<br />

by woodl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> is a perfect spot if you’re looking to<br />

enjoy the crisp air <strong>and</strong> vibrant colours of the season.<br />

Haughmond Hill has an option of four different walking<br />

routes, two of which are suitable for scooters or buggies<br />

making it an accessible walk for all the family. With<br />

beautiful forest views <strong>and</strong> a stunning vantage point,<br />

Haughmond offers that re-connect with nature to really<br />

boost your positivity.<br />

Haughmond also features a café to re-fresh <strong>and</strong> socialise<br />

with plenty of seating opportunities for a delicious<br />

autumnal picnic.<br />

Carding Mill Valley<br />

For all hiking enthusiasts, Carding Mill Valley <strong>and</strong> the<br />

Long Mynd should definitely be on your list for this<br />

season. The valley is the perfect spot to enjoy the season<br />

<strong>and</strong> also features a wildlife-rich stream <strong>and</strong> heathl<strong>and</strong><br />

for you to spot local wildlife.<br />

Carding Mill Valley has a range of walks for you to<br />

choose from, dependent on ability <strong>and</strong> time. While the<br />

hill itself is steep, the top boasts beautiful views of the<br />

Shropshire Hills <strong>and</strong> Ludlow <strong>and</strong> is worth the trek this<br />

autumn.<br />

Seasonal Activities<br />

Autumn also invites us to enjoy seasonal activities<br />

unique to the time of year. Apple picking is a classic<br />

autumn tradition offering a chance to gather fresh fruit<br />

while enjoying the crisp air <strong>and</strong> scenic views. Pumpkin<br />

patches too are a family favourite where you can choose<br />

the perfect pumpkin for carving or decorating. Many<br />

farms also offer hayrides, corn mazes, <strong>and</strong> other festive<br />

activities that really add to the fun.<br />

Seasonal Picnic<br />

For those who enjoy a slower pace, autumn is perfect for<br />

a cosy outdoor picnic. Pack a blanket, some warm<br />

drinks, <strong>and</strong> a few autumn treats such as apple pie or<br />

roasted chestnuts <strong>and</strong> find a spot with a view of the<br />

colourful trees. It's a serene way to savour the season<br />

while soaking up the last warm rays of the sun.<br />

Attingham Park<br />

Attingham Park is a National Trust property situated<br />

near the village of Atcham <strong>and</strong> consists of four main<br />

walking trails varying between one <strong>and</strong> four miles long.<br />

Attingham offers beautiful autumnal views with walled<br />

Finally, don't forget to take the opportunity to stop <strong>and</strong><br />

appreciate the quieter moments that autumn offers.<br />

Whether it's watching the sunset, listening to the<br />

rustling leaves, or enjoying the smell of wood smoke on<br />

a chilly evening, these small experiences really capture<br />

the essence of the season.<br />

By Katie Wilson


We are a family run business in the heart of Telford, a<br />

stones throw away from the famous Ironbridge Gorge.<br />

3 We are Fully insured<br />

3 Full Guarantee on all works completed<br />

3 Pictures taken throughout the process<br />

3 Outst<strong>and</strong>ing Customer Service<br />

For all your roofing requirements get in<br />

Contact with the team for a free no obligation quote.<br />

Tel: 07464018309<br />

Email: info@hillspropertymgt.co.uk / www.hillspropertymgt.co.uk<br />

We guarentee... Honesty V Integrity V Clarity V Transparency V Reliability<br />

...<strong>and</strong> all at a respectable <strong>and</strong> affordable price.<br />

BEFORE DURING AFTER


Car Review<br />

VW Touareg e-Hybrid SUV<br />

By Sue Cooke<br />

updated <strong>and</strong> phone apps can now be integrated<br />

wirelessly.<br />

There is a large wide covered central storage area<br />

between the comfortable front seats which also acts<br />

as an arm rest. There is even padding on the centre<br />

console to cushion the driver’s knees from bumps. I<br />

found the storage areas are just the right size for<br />

holding two water bottles. There is a choice of four<br />

driver settings, Eco, Comfort, Normal <strong>and</strong> Sport.<br />

I like the optional panoramic sunroof, which has an<br />

electrically operated sunblind. This stretches the<br />

whole length of the car <strong>and</strong> rear passengers much<br />

appreciated the light airy cabin. The boot is huge<br />

<strong>and</strong> has a hidden compartment underneath <strong>and</strong> two<br />

useful hooks at the side for carrier bag h<strong>and</strong>les which<br />

kept shopping from falling out.<br />

Useful technology includes the 360 degree bird’s eye<br />

view of the area, which is useful when reversing.<br />

Park Assist Plus has remote parking capability so I<br />

could even remotely park st<strong>and</strong>ing outside the<br />

vehicle using the app.<br />

Poorly maintained UK roads <strong>and</strong><br />

increasing floods, makes a competent<br />

four by four a very attractive<br />

purchase. In 2002, the Touareg was<br />

the first SUV from Volkswagen, .as<br />

luxurious as a saloon <strong>and</strong> as agile as a<br />

sportscar. This third generation<br />

Touareg has excellent off road abilities<br />

<strong>and</strong> highly efficient engines.<br />

There are two plug-in hybrids versions, in addition to<br />

a turbocharged petrol engine. There is also a choice<br />

of two turbodiesel engines. All are paired as<br />

st<strong>and</strong>ard with an 8-speed automatic gearbox <strong>and</strong> a<br />

4MOTION permanent all-wheel drive.<br />

What I really like is that the Touareg comes with<br />

bright head lights that don’t dazzle. As someone who<br />

does not embrace driving at night but realise that on<br />

occasions, I have to, a lane of light ahead of me gives<br />

me fantastic visibility <strong>and</strong> confidence. 38,432 LEDs<br />

turn night into day but do not dazzle oncoming<br />

traffic. I can only say I wish oncoming cars had the<br />

same fantastic technology. VW says the Touareg<br />

offers one of the best lighting <strong>and</strong> night vision<br />

systems in the world.<br />

The new front end has a redesigned radiator grille,<br />

headlights <strong>and</strong> front apron. The rear end is sharper<br />

<strong>and</strong> has a gorgeous continuous horizontal LED strip<br />

for the taillight clusters. This LED strip incorporates<br />

a Volkswagen logo which is illuminated in red,<br />

making the new Touareg immediately recognisable.<br />

In the interior, there is a long list of hi tech<br />

enhancements <strong>and</strong> I found the sat nav system easy to<br />

use, with a 15 inch touchscreen <strong>and</strong> clear map<br />

display, which was repeated in the screen behind the<br />

steering wheel. The voice control system has been<br />

There is a long list of safety <strong>and</strong> security st<strong>and</strong>ard<br />

features.<br />

While road testing a plug-in hybrid in Eco mode,<br />

which reduces the climate temperature, I was amazed<br />

at the fantastic acceleration. 62mph from st<strong>and</strong>still<br />

was reached in 5.9 seconds.<br />

The large four by four is agile <strong>and</strong> sporty when quick<br />

overtaking is needed around town, but will cruise on<br />

the motorway, with a tranquil ambience.<br />

TheTouareg is easy to drive <strong>and</strong> sensors make it<br />

effortless to park.<br />

This Autumn, whether you’re looking for a rugged<br />

off-roader, a smooth long-distance cruiser or a<br />

towing workhorse with a choice of hybrids, the VW<br />

Touareg has the superior comfort <strong>and</strong> high-tech<br />

features you’d expect from Volkswagen’s flagship<br />

model.<br />

Facts at a Glance<br />

Model: VW Touareg Elegance plug in e-hybrid<br />

Price: £68,810 total RRP<br />

Engine: 3 litre TSI eHybrid 4 Motion<br />

Performance: 0-62mph in 5.9 seconds <strong>and</strong> on to a<br />

top speed of 155mph<br />

Combined fuel consumption: 128.4mpg (WLTP)<br />

CO2 emissions: 51g/km


Car Review<br />

Mazda2 Hybrid By Sue Cooke<br />

Until the disadvantages of range<br />

anxiety <strong>and</strong> available charging<br />

infrastructure are resolved, there will<br />

always be a place for the hybrid in the<br />

UK car market. If you are a company<br />

car driver, then the Government is<br />

encouraging your company to buy all<br />

electric powered vehicles, but there<br />

are no incentives for the retail<br />

customer <strong>and</strong> says Mazda, there is<br />

very little retail dem<strong>and</strong> for EVs, so is<br />

a hybrid the answer?<br />

In March <strong>2024</strong>, Mazda brought the Mazda 2 Hybrid to<br />

the UK, which is proving a popular addition to Mazda’s<br />

line up in the small hatchback market. The exterior of<br />

the hybrid has a very stylish improvement to the front<br />

bumper <strong>and</strong> grille design. Recognisable from the rear is<br />

a revised bumper shape <strong>and</strong> rear tailgate trim. I think<br />

this new styling gives the small hatchback a bigger<br />

presence on the road.<br />

In the interior, the 2 Hybrid adds connectivity <strong>and</strong><br />

entertainment upgrades including wireless Apple<br />

CarPlay <strong>and</strong> Android Auto, plus a new colour touch<br />

screen central display. There are four grades to choose<br />

from.<br />

At the launch of the hatchback, I drove the Homura top<br />

of the range grade, which features a new digital<br />

instrument binnacle <strong>and</strong> black roof lining, as well as<br />

auto folding mirrors, blind spot monitoring <strong>and</strong> there<br />

are front <strong>and</strong> rear parking sensors.<br />

The Mazda2 Hybrid is a self-charging full hybrid with a<br />

combined power output of 116ps, acceleration of 9.7<br />

seconds <strong>and</strong> CO2 emissions of 87-98g/km depending on<br />

the specification of 16” or 15” wheels. With a CVT<br />

automatic transmission, the Mazda2 Hybrid returns a<br />

WLTP combined cycle fuel economy of between 67.3 to<br />

74.3mpg<br />

The hybrid difference is that at start-up the small<br />

hatchback automatically runs in EV mode, offering<br />

smooth, seamless <strong>and</strong> quiet running on electric motor<br />

power in urban environments, with zero CO2, NOx <strong>and</strong><br />

particulate emissions.<br />

During normal driving in <strong>and</strong> around the urban<br />

environment, power allocation is adjusted between the<br />

petrol engine <strong>and</strong> electric motor for optimum<br />

performance <strong>and</strong> the best possible fuel efficiency. What<br />

I enjoy about driving this hybrid is that when going<br />

downhill or during deceleration, the kinetic energy is<br />

recovered as electrical energy <strong>and</strong> stored in the highperformance<br />

battery.<br />

I found that the Mazda 2 is surprisingly spacious <strong>and</strong><br />

comfortable for up to four adults. Boot space amounts to<br />

286 litres.<br />

At the launch of the Mazda 2 to UK journalists, I also<br />

had the opportunity to visit Plant Zero 1, to see the<br />

manufacture of the world’s first fully featured synthetic<br />

fuel produced from just air <strong>and</strong> water. Yes, really.<br />

Mazda uses Plant Zero Fuel, in its heritage fleet<br />

currently <strong>and</strong> there is a choice of unleaded, diesel or jet<br />

fuel for use by aeroplanes. Zero Fuel founded by<br />

Formula 1 engineer, Paddy Lowe has an interesting<br />

future <strong>and</strong> will offer another fuel alternative.<br />

The Mazda2 hybrid may be the smallest car produced by<br />

Mazda, with a new gorgeous exterior design but at the<br />

company heart there are big plans. Continuing to<br />

recreate the philosophy of Jinba-Ittai, the feeling<br />

between driver <strong>and</strong> machine working in harmony Mazda<br />

is an innovative company that is not afraid to look at<br />

alternatives such as synthetic fuel.<br />

Facts at a Glance<br />

Model: Mazda 2 Hybrid small hatchback Homura<br />

Price: £27,865 otr<br />

Engine: 1.5 litre 116PS hybrid petrol engine <strong>and</strong> lithium<br />

ion battery<br />

Performance: 0-62mph in 9.7 seconds <strong>and</strong> on to top<br />

speed of 109mph<br />

CO2 emissions: 97g/km<br />

Combined fuel consumption: (WLTP) 67.3mpg<br />

CO2 emissions: 185g/km combined (WLTP)


Paveline<br />

Driveways Ltd<br />

Driveways & Patios = Block Paving<br />

Tarmac = Slabs = Fencing = Resin<br />

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Contact us today for our<br />

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info@pavelinedrivewaysltd.co.uk<br />

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Unit D,<br />

Stafford Park 9,<br />

Telford, TF3 3AF


DONNINGTON<br />

PHARMACY<br />

Donnington Pharmacy is the award-winning<br />

pharmacy next to Donnington Medical<br />

Practice. We aim to provide the best<br />

pharmacy service we can, despite the post<br />

COVID pressures that we all face.<br />

We try to put our patients first; our<br />

extended opening hours enable you to<br />

collect your prescription at a convenient<br />

time. Services we provide include a FREE<br />

prescription delivery service covering<br />

Telford <strong>and</strong> Wrekin <strong>and</strong> we can text you<br />

when your prescription is ready for<br />

collection, call in for details.<br />

We provide NHS treatments for selected<br />

infections, infected insect bites, impetigo<br />

<strong>and</strong> urine infections (females 16-64) we will<br />

be able to treat Ear (under 18’s only), Nose<br />

<strong>and</strong> Throat infections in adults <strong>and</strong> children<br />

on the NHS <strong>and</strong> Shingles (adult only).<br />

Scan the QR code or see our NHS<br />

website for details of these <strong>and</strong> other<br />

services we provide.<br />

Flu Jabs will be available<br />

from mid September.<br />

No appointment necessary.<br />

Find us: Donnington Pharmacy n Wrekin Drive n Donnington n Telford n TF2 8EA<br />

(Next to the ambulance station)<br />

Contact us: 01952 676556 I Email: donnington.pharmacy@nhs.net<br />

www.donningtonpharmacy.co.uk


Family protection<br />

OFFERING HELP AND ADVICE<br />

Kevin Simmons, of Wolverhampton Wills, can<br />

come to you, at your home, at a time that is<br />

convenient to you <strong>and</strong> has been providing wills,<br />

estate planning, Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)<br />

<strong>and</strong> Family <strong>and</strong> Asset Trusts for many years.<br />

Wolverhampton Wills covers Wolverhampton,<br />

the wider West Midl<strong>and</strong>s, Staffordshire <strong>and</strong><br />

Shropshire. Whether you need advice<br />

concerning the issues surrounding the potential<br />

remarriage of a surviving spouse or protecting<br />

your home from third party claims, get in touch<br />

with Wolverhampton Wills.<br />

It is very important to plan estates well in<br />

advance, using Wills, Property Trusts <strong>and</strong> Family<br />

Asset Protection Trusts, to keep some of the<br />

most hard-earned assets, especially the home,<br />

firmly within the family.<br />

Having a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) helps<br />

to ensure your wishes are respected if you are<br />

lacking legal capacity.<br />

An LPA can ensure that it’s only people you<br />

trust that will help you with your financial or<br />

health affairs <strong>and</strong> prevents the involvement of<br />

The Court of Protection.<br />

Kevin, from Wolverhampton Wills, can come to<br />

you, at your home, at a time that is convenient<br />

to you <strong>and</strong> will help you create a Lasting Power<br />

of Attorney, placing family or friends as your<br />

attorney <strong>and</strong> spokesperson.<br />

For advice about whatever life throws at you or<br />

to arrange a home visit, contact<br />

Kevin on 07870 513218 or visit<br />

www.wolverhamptonwills.co.uk<br />

Wills<br />

We travel to you to provide clear helpful<br />

advice to draft your will.<br />

Lasting Power of Attorney<br />

Everyone needs a Lasting Power of Attorney to<br />

keep authority <strong>and</strong> decision making in the family<br />

if we lose our capacity.<br />

Asset Protection<br />

Protect your Home from third party claims <strong>and</strong><br />

reduce Probate fees, Ring fence Assets for your<br />

bloodline <strong>and</strong> pass them on intact to children<br />

<strong>and</strong> gr<strong>and</strong>children. Make sure you plan early for<br />

maximum protection.<br />

For Contact more information us to help your <strong>and</strong> to plan arrange ahead. your<br />

We offer a home home visit visit service contact: at no extra cost!<br />

Mobile: 07870 513 218<br />

Email: kgsimmons1@yahoo.co.uk<br />

www.wolverhamptonwills.co.uk<br />

Scene Local Media 01952 780058


Codsall, WV8 1PT | Tettenhall Road, WV3 9NB | Wednesfield, WV11 1SR


See like an Olympic<br />

Gold Medallist!<br />

At Flint Optometry, the UK’s foremost experts in sports vision!<br />

Whether you are a recreational or professional sports<br />

participant we have 20 years’ experience working with<br />

athletes at all levels including elite performers like<br />

Bryony Page, the Olympic Medallist, winning<br />

Gold in Paris <strong>2024</strong>.<br />

We offer assessments at all levels from our st<strong>and</strong>ard<br />

high quality eye examination to sports assessments,<br />

alongside an incredible range of products including the<br />

new Evil Eye prescription range, Oakley prescription <strong>and</strong><br />

sports ranges, specialist contact lenses <strong>and</strong> much more.<br />

For further details <strong>and</strong> appointments<br />

Just give us a shout!


Health - Breast Cancer<br />

Prioritise Your Health this<br />

Season: Underst<strong>and</strong>ing<br />

Breast Cancer <strong>and</strong><br />

Recognising the Signs<br />

Breast cancer is one of the most<br />

common cancers worldwide, affecting<br />

millions of women every year.<br />

Although it predominantly affects<br />

women, men can also develop breast<br />

cancer, albeit at a much lower rate.<br />

Underst<strong>and</strong>ing breast cancer <strong>and</strong><br />

recognising its early signs are crucial<br />

for timely diagnosis <strong>and</strong> effective<br />

treatment. Read on to find out more<br />

about breast cancer <strong>and</strong> the common<br />

symptoms people suffer from.<br />

common being ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) <strong>and</strong><br />

invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC).<br />

DCIS is a non-invasive cancer where cells are confined<br />

to the ducts <strong>and</strong> have not spread to surrounding tissues.<br />

IDC, on the other h<strong>and</strong>, is an invasive cancer that starts<br />

in the ducts but spreads to nearby tissue.<br />

Other less common types include invasive lobular<br />

carcinoma, inflammatory breast cancer, <strong>and</strong> triplenegative<br />

breast cancer, each with distinct characteristics<br />

<strong>and</strong> treatment challenges.<br />

Recognising the Signs of Breast Cancer<br />

Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves<br />

the chances of successful treatment. The most common<br />

symptoms to watch out for are:<br />

• Lump or thickening in the breast - The most common<br />

sign of breast cancer is a new lump or mass in the<br />

breast. While not all lumps are cancerous, any new,<br />

persistent lump should be evaluated by a healthcare<br />

professional.<br />

• Changes in breast shape or size - Any unexplained<br />

change in the size, shape, or appearance of the breast,<br />

including swelling or shrinkage, can be a sign of breast<br />

cancer.<br />

• Skin changes - Look for dimpling, puckering, or<br />

redness of the skin on the breast which may resemble<br />

the texture of an orange peel. This could indicate<br />

inflammatory breast cancer, a rare but aggressive form<br />

of the disease.<br />

• Nipple changes - Changes in the nipple, such as<br />

inversion (turning inward), discharge (especially if it is<br />

bloody), or a change in the colour or texture of the<br />

nipple, can be warning signs<br />

• Breast or nipple pain - Persistent pain in the breast or<br />

nipple that is not related to the menstrual cycle should<br />

be investigated, especially if it is accompanied by other<br />

symptoms.<br />

• Swelling in the armpit - Enlarged lymph nodes under<br />

the arm or around the collarbone can be an early sign of<br />

breast cancer, as cancer cells often spread to these nodes<br />

first.<br />

What is Breast Cancer?<br />

Breast cancer originates in the cells of the breast,<br />

typically in the ducts or the lobules (the gl<strong>and</strong>s that<br />

produce milk). Like all cancers, breast cancer occurs<br />

when cells begin to grow uncontrollably.<br />

These abnormal cells can form a tumour, which can be<br />

either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).<br />

Malignant tumours can invade surrounding tissues <strong>and</strong><br />

spread to other parts of the body, a process known as<br />

metastasis.<br />

Types of Breast Cancer<br />

There are several types of breast cancer, with the most<br />

The Importance of Regular Testing<br />

While recognising the signs is important, regular<br />

screening is key to early detection of breast cancer.<br />

Mammograms, which are X-ray images of the breast, can<br />

detect tumours that are too small to be felt. Women over<br />

the age of 40 are generally recommended to have annual<br />

mammograms though those with a higher risk may need<br />

to start earlier.<br />

Self-examinations, while not a substitute for<br />

professional screenings, can help you to become familiar<br />

with your breasts <strong>and</strong> notice any changes more quickly.<br />

By Katie Wilson


Find Freedom with Live-in Care for Adults<br />

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Health - Get a check up!<br />

Prioritise Your Health this<br />

Season: The Benefits of<br />

Regular Health Checks<br />

Regular health checks are a crucial<br />

part of maintaining our good health<br />

<strong>and</strong> well-being. In the UK, we benefit<br />

from a healthcare system that<br />

provides accessible services <strong>and</strong><br />

taking advantage of routine health<br />

assessments can significantly<br />

enhance your quality of life.<br />

Whether you’re feeling not quite right<br />

or just haven’t visited your doctor in<br />

a while, health checks play a vital role<br />

in the prevention of potential health<br />

problems. Have a read of some key<br />

benefits of regular health checks.<br />

personalised advice based on your individual health<br />

status.<br />

This can include guidance on diet, exercise, <strong>and</strong> lifestyle<br />

choices that are tailored to help you maintain or<br />

improve your health. For example, if you’re found to be<br />

at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, your doctor might<br />

advise you on dietary changes <strong>and</strong> physical activity to<br />

help manage your blood sugar levels. This personalised<br />

advice is crucial in helping you make informed decisions<br />

about your health <strong>and</strong> well-being going forward.<br />

Prevention <strong>and</strong> Managing Risk<br />

Health checks are not only about diagnosing existing<br />

issues but also about preventing future problems. By<br />

assessing your current health status, doctors can<br />

identify risk factors that could lead to health issues in<br />

the future.<br />

For example, if a health check reveals that you have high<br />

blood pressure or elevated cholesterol levels, lifestyle<br />

changes or medications can be recommended to reduce<br />

the risk of developing heart disease. Additionally,<br />

regular monitoring can help manage chronic conditions<br />

effectively, preventing them from worsening <strong>and</strong><br />

reducing the likelihood of future complications.<br />

Mental Health<br />

In recent years, the importance of mental health has<br />

gained recognition, <strong>and</strong> health checks now often include<br />

assessments of your mental well-being.<br />

These assessments can help identify signs of anxiety,<br />

depression, or other mental health issues that might<br />

otherwise go unnoticed. Early intervention <strong>and</strong><br />

appropriate treatment can significantly improve the<br />

quality of life for those struggling with mental health<br />

issues.<br />

Peace of Mind<br />

Early Detection of Diseases<br />

One of the primary advantages of health checks is the<br />

early detection of diseases. Many serious conditions,<br />

such as heart disease, diabetes, <strong>and</strong> cancer, can develop<br />

with minimal or no symptoms in their early stages.<br />

Regular screenings <strong>and</strong> tests, such as blood pressure<br />

checks, cholesterol levels, <strong>and</strong> cancer screenings allow<br />

for the identification of risk factors or early signs of<br />

disease. Early detection often leads to better outcomes<br />

as conditions caught early are usually more manageable<br />

<strong>and</strong> treatable. This proactive approach can save lives<br />

<strong>and</strong> reduce the need for more intensive treatments later<br />

on.<br />

Personalised Health Advice<br />

Health checks provide an opportunity to receive<br />

Regular health checks offer peace of mind knowing that<br />

you are taking proactive steps to monitor <strong>and</strong> maintain<br />

your health. If you’ve been experiencing tiredness or<br />

fatigue attending a health check may comfort you in<br />

finding out it’s not a symptom of anything serious, <strong>and</strong><br />

allow you to consider lifestyle changes to give you the<br />

rest your body<br />

needs.<br />

In a world<br />

where health<br />

concerns can be<br />

a significant<br />

source of<br />

anxiety, having<br />

regular checkups<br />

can<br />

alleviate worries<br />

<strong>and</strong> help reduce<br />

stress <strong>and</strong><br />

anxiety, leading<br />

to a better<br />

overall sense of<br />

well-being.<br />

By Katie Wilson


Twojays Corner<br />

Antiques & Vintage<br />

Is now located at<br />

Unit B5 Tweedale Ind. Estate<br />

Near Madeley, Telford TF7 4JR<br />

For more information <strong>and</strong> to read our current news <strong>and</strong><br />

stock follow us on Facebook, Instagram or X (Twitter),<br />

Etsy, Vinterior or Google us!<br />

Check out our website: www.twojayscorner.com<br />

Contact on 01952 462340<br />

We are open: Wed, Fri, Sat & Sun 11am to 4:30pm & by appointment


Health<br />

HEARING AIDS -<br />

NHS OR PRIVATE?<br />

It can be a really difficult decision when using<br />

the right provider for your hearing <strong>and</strong><br />

earcare needs. There are several factors to<br />

consider.<br />

In reality you have 3 choices;<br />

NHS<br />

• NHS<br />

• Private High Street Providers<br />

• Independent Hearing Care<br />

We are lucky to have an NHS hearing aid<br />

service in this country but we are all aware of<br />

the pressures the NHS are under <strong>and</strong> this also<br />

affects the audiology service.<br />

NHS hearing aids are free at the point of<br />

service, including fittings, follow-up<br />

appointments, <strong>and</strong> maintenance.<br />

The hearing aids are of a reasonable quality<br />

but tend to be older technology <strong>and</strong> the<br />

choice is very limited. The service is also being<br />

reduced in some areas now.<br />

offer ear wax removal. You may have to pay<br />

for ongoing maintenance <strong>and</strong> any necessary<br />

repairs, depending on the provider’s policy.<br />

Always check first<br />

Independent Hearing Care Specialists<br />

Independent providers like our HEAR IN clinics<br />

are not tied to any manufacturer <strong>and</strong> with<br />

over 100 different hearing aids to choose from<br />

at any one time we can offer great choice.<br />

We use only very latest in hearing aid<br />

technology including the most discreet<br />

hearing aids with Bluetooth connectivity, that<br />

are personalised to your listening needs, with<br />

a guarantee of up to 5years <strong>and</strong> lifetime of<br />

aftercare included.<br />

We offer the gold st<strong>and</strong>ard in ear wax<br />

removal using ENT microscopes.<br />

Service quality is key <strong>and</strong> our clinics are<br />

bespoke to hearing care with our clinical<br />

team all professionally trained experts<br />

supported by the friendliest receptionists<br />

guaranteed to make you feel welcome. We<br />

only do ears, nothing else!<br />

Follow-up services <strong>and</strong> maintenance are free,<br />

including any necessary adjustments, repairs,<br />

<strong>and</strong> battery replacements. There is, however,<br />

often a wait for aftercare <strong>and</strong> the service in<br />

general<br />

High Street Providers<br />

Most of the br<strong>and</strong>ed high street providers<br />

such as Boots, Specsavers etc are either<br />

owned by or have ties with certain suppliers.<br />

This can limit the choice you are offered as<br />

they will often guide you towards their own<br />

br<strong>and</strong> technology or to those suppliers they<br />

are affiliated with.<br />

They will have access to the latest<br />

technology, which might include more<br />

discreet options or higher sound quality. The<br />

price of the hearing aids will normally include<br />

fittings, follow-up appointments, <strong>and</strong> ongoing<br />

maintenance.<br />

Access to appointments <strong>and</strong> fittings will be<br />

quicker than the NHS. Some centres may also<br />

Recommendations:<br />

• If Budget is a Concern: NHS hearing<br />

aids are a good option. They provide good<br />

quality devices <strong>and</strong> free ongoing care.<br />

• If Advanced Technology is a<br />

Priority: Consider private hearing aids for the<br />

latest features, excellent technology <strong>and</strong><br />

more personalized service.<br />

It’s also worth consulting with an audiologist<br />

to discuss your specific hearing needs <strong>and</strong> get<br />

professional advice tailored to your situation.<br />

HAGLEY/RUBERY CLINIC<br />

01562 884400<br />

WOMBOURNE CLINIC<br />

01902 302266<br />

www.lifestylehearingsolutions.co.uk


Your local<br />

independent hearing<br />

care provider<br />

We offer FREE Hearing<br />

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Ear Wax Removal<br />

Tinnitus Support<br />

Noise Protection<br />

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Follow our news on<br />

51


Amazing teamwork – the faces behind<br />

Samantha Hague Optometry<br />

When it comes to caring for your vision, the team<br />

at Samantha Hague Optometry in Tettenhall<br />

proves that seeing clearly is only part of the<br />

picture.<br />

This dedicated group is the heart <strong>and</strong> soul of the<br />

practice, ensuring that each visit is as comfortable as it<br />

is comprehensive.<br />

From the warm greetings at reception to the expert<br />

h<strong>and</strong>s guiding you through your eye examination <strong>and</strong><br />

glasses dispensing, the SHO team knows how to blend<br />

professionalism with a personal touch.<br />

At Samantha Hague Optometry, they don’t just check<br />

your eyes; they check in on you, taking the time to<br />

underst<strong>and</strong> your lifestyle <strong>and</strong> needs. The team’s<br />

knowledge of the latest eyewear trends is rivalled only<br />

by their ability for helping you select the very best<br />

eyewear that feels <strong>and</strong> looks just right.<br />

At Samantha Hague Optometry, it’s clear that the<br />

team’s vision for quality care is 20/20—<strong>and</strong> that’s<br />

something everyone can appreciate!<br />

WWW.HAGUEOPTOMETRY.CO.UK


WWW.HAGUEOPTOMETRY.CO.UK<br />

Located in Tettennall<br />

Tel: 01902 757454


Crane Quality Counselling<br />

Supporting Relationships for You, Your Family <strong>and</strong> Friends<br />

Charity Commission Registration No: 1175610<br />

Background<br />

Following the demise of the national<br />

relationship charity Relate Shropshire,<br />

Herefordshire & North Staffordshire in<br />

<strong>October</strong> 2016 a group of individuals<br />

with over 30 years of experience in this<br />

area of work, who had retired in 2013<br />

from Relate decided to come out of<br />

retirement to look at the possibility of<br />

setting up a br<strong>and</strong>-new independent<br />

charity. They were very aware of the<br />

massive void that was left following<br />

Relate’s closure throughout Shropshire<br />

<strong>and</strong> the surrounding area.<br />

The four volunteers worked tirelessly<br />

for over a year holding consultation<br />

meetings for the general public <strong>and</strong><br />

statutory services.<br />

Following the meetings, it became clear<br />

that there was a need for a replacement<br />

service. The working group started to<br />

put into place all the legal<br />

requirements, applying to the Charity<br />

Commission for registration <strong>and</strong> at the<br />

same time holding small fund-raising<br />

events before opening their bank<br />

account.<br />

Trustees were appointed (currently 6<br />

persons) <strong>and</strong> additional volunteers<br />

helped with the day-to-day business, 6<br />

counsellors were also recruited.<br />

Crane Quality Counselling was<br />

launched <strong>and</strong> opened its doors in The<br />

Roy Fletcher Centre in <strong>October</strong> 2017.<br />

Where are we now?<br />

Crane Quality Counselling has over the<br />

past seven years exp<strong>and</strong>ed greatly due<br />

to the general public’s need for its’<br />

services. We are based in The Roy<br />

Fletcher Centre continually evolving<br />

<strong>and</strong> have increased our counselling<br />

rooms to four with additional<br />

counselling rooms in <strong>Oswestry</strong>, Telford<br />

<strong>and</strong> Shifnal. The administration team<br />

has increased to 4 salary-based admin<br />

staff who manage the client’s requests<br />

for help <strong>and</strong> arranging clients for our<br />

24 trained counsellors <strong>and</strong> 3 trainee<br />

placement counsellors.<br />

More information about<br />

Crane Quality Counselling<br />

The office currently operates Monday<br />

<strong>and</strong> Wednesday from 9am – 8pm,<br />

Tuesday <strong>and</strong> Thursday from 9am- 4pm<br />

<strong>and</strong> on Fridays 9am- 1pm with out of<br />

hours diverted calls to one of our oncall<br />

staff.<br />

We offer face to face appointments<br />

during the above hours but also offer<br />

telephone <strong>and</strong> Microsoft Teams<br />

appointments.<br />

The objectives of Crane<br />

Quality Counselling.<br />

1. To educate the public concerning the<br />

benefits of secure individual <strong>and</strong> couple<br />

relationships, marriage <strong>and</strong> family life<br />

in order to improve the emotional,<br />

sexual <strong>and</strong> spiritual wellbeing of<br />

individuals which is derived from<br />

committed relationships.<br />

2. To seek to enhance the good health,<br />

both mental <strong>and</strong> physical, of adults <strong>and</strong><br />

children by working to prevent poverty,<br />

hardship <strong>and</strong> distress caused by the<br />

breakdown of such relationships.<br />

3. To provide counselling <strong>and</strong> advice to<br />

adults <strong>and</strong>/or children in relation to<br />

any aspect of daily life or work which<br />

may prejudice their physical or mental<br />

wellbeing, or influence either directly<br />

or indirectly, their present or future<br />

family or couple relationship.<br />

4. To relieve those in need by reason of<br />

youth, age ill health, disability financial<br />

hardship or another disadvantage.<br />

5. To promote research into all of the<br />

above objectives <strong>and</strong> to make results<br />

available to the public<br />

Crane Quality Counselling is<br />

offering its services to:<br />

• Individuals<br />

• Couples<br />

• Young People<br />

• Parents<br />

• Siblings<br />

• Blended/Extended families<br />

• Armed Forces Veterans<br />

• Prisoners<br />

• Homeless<br />

Crane Quality Counselling will offer<br />

weekly counselling appointments<br />

following an initial assessment<br />

consultation.<br />

Counsellors do not take sides <strong>and</strong> will<br />

not tell you what to do. They will<br />

explore your concerns with you to<br />

resolve problems.<br />

All relationships are unique <strong>and</strong> have<br />

unique problems, but our counsellors<br />

are experienced relationship experts <strong>and</strong><br />

are specially trained to help resolve our<br />

client’s problems.<br />

Fundraising<br />

Crane Quality Counselling continues<br />

to apply to Parish Councils throughout<br />

Shropshire, Rotary Clubs, local Trusts<br />

<strong>and</strong> other fundraising bodies.<br />

At the beginning of the Covid-19<br />

p<strong>and</strong>emic we applied for a bereavement<br />

counselling contract with Shropshire<br />

Council <strong>and</strong> were successfully selected<br />

<strong>and</strong> continue to deliver support<br />

counselling to children <strong>and</strong> adults<br />

affected by Bereavement including<br />

Bereavement by Suicide.<br />

You will find us at:<br />

Suite A & B,<br />

The Roy Fletcher Centre,<br />

12-17 Cross Hill,<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong>,<br />

SY1 1JE<br />

Tel: 01743 240546


On 21st September <strong>2024</strong>, Roden Hall Care Home is<br />

hosting a Memory Walk to raise funds for the<br />

Alzheimer's Society, a cause close to the hearts of<br />

their staff, residents, <strong>and</strong> families. The event,<br />

organised by the dedicated Lifestyle Assistant Mia,<br />

promises a day of community spirit <strong>and</strong> support for an<br />

important cause.<br />

Participants will embark on a scenic walk from The Wrekin to<br />

Roden Hall Care Home, energised by homemade baked<br />

treats <strong>and</strong> goodie bags provided by the care home.<br />

The Memory Walk invites members of the community to join<br />

this meaningful endeavour. The group will meet at The<br />

Wrekin Forest Glen Car Park (TF6 5AL), at 9:00 am. Whether<br />

you’re a seasoned walker or just looking to contribute to a<br />

noble cause, your participation will make a difference.<br />

Alzheimer's Society works tirelessly to support those affected<br />

by dementia, funding crucial research <strong>and</strong> providing<br />

resources for families <strong>and</strong> caregivers. By joining the Memory<br />

Walk, you’re not only helping to raise vital funds but also<br />

showing solidarity with those whose lives are touched by<br />

Alzheimer’s.<br />

For more details or to participate, please contact Mia at<br />

07496567756. Additionally, donations are greatly appreciated<br />

<strong>and</strong> can be made by scanning the provided QR code. Every<br />

contribution, big or small, makes a difference <strong>and</strong> is met with<br />

immense gratitude. Join us, <strong>and</strong> let's walk together for a great<br />

cause!<br />

Operated by Rotherwood Healthcare, Roden Hall provides<br />

award-winning Residential <strong>and</strong> Nursing Care in the<br />

Shropshire countryside. For more information, visit<br />

www.rodenhall.care or call 01952 743159.<br />

Need care for<br />

yourself Need care for yourself<br />

or a loved or a one? loved one?<br />

We’d Arrange love for a visit you & to meet feel our at home wonderful in our team: home:<br />

Call: 01952 T: 01952 743 743 159 159 Visit: A: Roden, Roden, Telford, Telford, TF6 6BH TF6 6BH<br />

ROTHERWOOD-HEALTHCARE.CO.UK<br />

WWW.RODENHALL.CARE


Pass the Keys<br />

Unlock the power of<br />

short-letting<br />

Pass the Keys Shropshire is owned <strong>and</strong> run by local experts Vicky<br />

<strong>and</strong> Andy. We are a new kind of short let property management<br />

company. Offering a fully managed service to give the homeowners<br />

of Shropshire the ability to maximise their rental income.<br />

Contact Vicky or Andy: 01694 247832<br />

Facebook: @ptkshropshire<br />

Web: www.passthekeys.co.uk/midl<strong>and</strong>s/shropshire<br />

WCS Computers<br />

Laptop / Desktop sales<br />

<strong>and</strong> repairs.<br />

Viral / Malware solutions.<br />

Office 1, Spacestation Building<br />

(Formally Rentaspace). Battlefield Road,<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong>, SY1 4AN<br />

E: sales@wcscomputers.net<br />

W: www.wcscomputers.net<br />

07946 412734<br />

TEESTAR QUALITY LADIES & GENTS FOOTWEAR<br />

Footwear for comfort <strong>and</strong> style including wide fitting<br />

ladies <strong>and</strong> gents shoes. Slippers stocked all year.<br />

The popular Shake,<br />

available in many colours<br />

<strong>and</strong> width fittings<br />

Step out in<br />

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this Autumn<br />

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Find us Facebook<br />

57


The number 13.. lucky or unlucky?<br />

In ancient times we celebrated the natural cycles of<br />

nature, a 13 month year with 13 rotations of the moon<br />

but as the more patriarchal solar calendar began to<br />

dominate the number 13 become ‘unlucky’ so as to<br />

encourage people to move to the 12 month year!<br />

At the last supper there were 13 people around the<br />

table, Judas being number 13 – the betrayer.<br />

13 in numerology is also a karmic number, which<br />

means if the power of this number is misused or used<br />

for any selfish purposes then this number can bring a<br />

lot of problems to the person using it… another<br />

reason why it may be considered bad luck instead of<br />

the call for reverence <strong>and</strong> humility it truly is…<br />

We have just celebrated our 13th month<br />

of our wonderful women’s circles for<br />

witches <strong>and</strong> wild women, known as The<br />

Coven… so the number 13 has been at<br />

the forefront of our magic…<br />

Poor 13, she has such a bad reputation<br />

as a number.., she is the ‘unluckiest’,<br />

she is bad news, she gets rejected all<br />

the time, she is excluded from hotel<br />

floors, room numbers, house numbers,<br />

so many places leaving her out because<br />

she is considered such ‘bad luck’.<br />

But this is not the truth. Like so many things related<br />

to our abundance, power or the divine feminine it has<br />

been hijacked <strong>and</strong> inverted. Turned into a negative so<br />

people will learn it should be shunned.<br />

So what’s the truth about the number 13?<br />

Well it holds ancient power…. The number 13<br />

represents the divine feminine. It is a number of great<br />

power. It is the number of witches in a coven… it’s<br />

the number of full moons <strong>and</strong> new moons in a yearly<br />

cycle, <strong>and</strong> women have 13 menstrual cycles every<br />

year!<br />

Numerology teacher Dee Dee Pheonix also goes on<br />

to say..<br />

“The Number 13 in Numerology is all about feminine<br />

energy <strong>and</strong> it represents transformation, by ending<br />

the old processes <strong>and</strong> starting the new ones. The key<br />

however is to bring about transformation through<br />

patience <strong>and</strong> maintaining a positive approach since it<br />

does not allow short cuts or easy options. It is a<br />

combination of focus, pragmatism, independence,<br />

creativity in self-expression <strong>and</strong> building a secure<br />

future.


13 symbolizes the production of tangible outcomes in<br />

the world <strong>and</strong> the ability to form firm foundations for the<br />

future.<br />

Expressing oneself creatively is a major aspect for<br />

number 13 <strong>and</strong> yet at the same time, it has to also be<br />

very practical <strong>and</strong> organised.<br />

The number 13 helps us to stay strong in difficult<br />

situations <strong>and</strong> encourages <strong>and</strong> supports us along the<br />

way. In short, the whole meaning of number 13 is to turn<br />

things around <strong>and</strong> solve the difficult problems of life<br />

through persistence <strong>and</strong> never giving up.<br />

9. We have 13 Chakras not 7<br />

10. 13 is a prime number incorruptible in<br />

nature<br />

11. 13 major joints in the body<br />

12. 12 constellations around our sun<br />

making 13<br />

13. 13 is the most powerful number in<br />

observable nature<br />

Tarot Expert <strong>and</strong> Teacher Fauna Raine says<br />

“In the Tarot journey of the Fool card 13 - Death, is the<br />

demise of the fool’s old self. They must leave behind<br />

their old values'<br />

Traditionally left unnamed in some decks due to the<br />

superstition surrounding the Title 'Death' <strong>and</strong> the<br />

number 13, but also a nod to it's roots in more ancient<br />

decks such as the Marseille style <strong>and</strong> the parade of<br />

triumph. The Death card can refer to a death <strong>and</strong> rebirth<br />

of the old self, it signifies endings, transformation <strong>and</strong> of<br />

course new beginnings, so ultimately this is a card of<br />

change. In mystery schools, initiates had to experience<br />

a symbolic death at the end of one phase of esoteric<br />

underst<strong>and</strong>ing before entering a new one.<br />

The number 13 holds great power <strong>and</strong> magic… for<br />

women, mystics <strong>and</strong> witches everywhere.<br />

13 facts on the<br />

importance of the<br />

number 13<br />

1. Moon travels 13 degrees across the<br />

sky each day<br />

2. 13 weeks in each of the 4 seasons<br />

3. 13 lunar (menstrual) cycles a year<br />

4. 13 represents end of a cycle <strong>and</strong><br />

rebirth for a new cycle<br />

5. 13 weeks between equinoxes <strong>and</strong><br />

solstices<br />

6. 13 is a power number in nature <strong>and</strong><br />

spirit<br />

7. 13 is the only teen number in the<br />

Fibonacci sequence<br />

8. In religion: Jesus had 12 disciples<br />

making 13 of them, Buddha had 13<br />

disciples Islam has a prophet <strong>and</strong> 12<br />

imams making 13<br />

If you’d like to find out more we have<br />

a few courses<br />

that may help:<br />

10 week Numerology<br />

course starting Monday 16th September<br />

with DeeDee Pheonix.<br />

6 week Tarot for Beginners course starting<br />

Tuesday 15th <strong>October</strong> with Fauna Raine.<br />

All in our new programme of events at the<br />

wild women’s academy.<br />

Jessi Carrera-Maybury<br />

T: 07944 501998<br />

Charmed Healing Therapies<br />

& Wild Women’s Academy<br />

Reiki Master Teacher,<br />

Theta healing Practitioner


THE FUTURE OF<br />

FAT LOSS AND<br />

BODY SCULPTING<br />

New EMERALD Laser<br />

experience now available in<br />

Shropshire at The Medispa<br />

in Priorslee, Telford.<br />

15 minutes <strong>and</strong> then your back for 15 minutes.<br />

It's that easy!<br />

Use your own fat to get your health back by preserving<br />

the endocrine function of your cell unlike most other<br />

technologies in the market. Look great on outside, but<br />

also feel great on the inside as well.<br />

Visualisation of the fat cells shrinking<br />

WHAT IS THE EMERALD LASER EXPERIENCE ?<br />

The EMERALD LASER is a non-invasive <strong>and</strong> non thermal<br />

fat loss laser that works in tune with your body. It is the<br />

only technology in the world that has been given US FDA<br />

market clearance for overall body circumference<br />

reduction in patients +30 BMI.<br />

The laser works as a natural alternative for fat loss by<br />

using non-thermal low-level lasers to create a temporary<br />

pore in the fat cells, allowing the fatty liquids to seep out<br />

of the cell <strong>and</strong> be naturally flushed out through your<br />

lymphatic system.<br />

We carry out a full medical assessment before starting<br />

your treatment, so if you are not a suitable c<strong>and</strong>idate, we<br />

will find out before your programme begins.<br />

WHAT AREAS CAN BE TREATED<br />

The Emerald Laser can be used to treat several<br />

different body areas. Please examine the image below for<br />

the possible treatment options:<br />

BEFORE<br />

BEFORE<br />

AFTER<br />

AFTER<br />

BEFORE<br />

AFTER<br />

ABOUT THE TREATMENT<br />

The treatment with Emerald is quick <strong>and</strong> you can<br />

immediately return to normal daily activities after the<br />

treatment.<br />

You simply lie under the laser on your front for<br />

"Book now for a free consultation"<br />

For more information contact:<br />

The Medispa<br />

Priorslee, Telford TF2 9GZ<br />

T: 01952 984888<br />

E: info@themedispa.co.uk<br />

W: www.themedispa.co.uk


Great products. Great prices.<br />

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* Terms <strong>and</strong> Conditions apply. Sold as an agent of Euronics Limited. All rights reserved. All offers are subject to availability while stocks last. Delivery & Installation<br />

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Pets<br />

Caring for Your Pets over<br />

Autumn: Top Tips for a<br />

Happy <strong>and</strong> Healthy Season<br />

With cooler temperatures <strong>and</strong><br />

gorgeous warm shades, autumn<br />

brings a refreshing change for both<br />

humans <strong>and</strong> pets. However, with this<br />

change in season comes a set of<br />

unique challenges <strong>and</strong> opportunities<br />

when it comes to pet care.<br />

Whether you have a dog, cat, or<br />

smaller animals, preparing for the<br />

cooler months is crucial to ensuring<br />

your pets remain healthy <strong>and</strong><br />

comfortable. Here’s some of our top<br />

tips for caring for your pets in<br />

autumn.<br />

Beware of Hazards<br />

Autumn introduces some potential hazards that pet<br />

owners should be aware of. Fallen leaves can hide sharp<br />

objects or toxic items like mushrooms <strong>and</strong> certain<br />

plants.<br />

Keep a close eye on what your pet is sniffing or ingesting<br />

during walks <strong>and</strong> keep them on a lead in forestry areas.<br />

Be aware that antifreeze, which is more commonly used<br />

as the weather cools, is extremely toxic to pets. Even a<br />

small amount can be fatal, so store it securely <strong>and</strong> be<br />

sure to clean up any spills immediately.<br />

Autumn Allergies<br />

Just like humans, pets can suffer from seasonal allergies<br />

<strong>and</strong> autumn often brings an increase in mould, ragweed,<br />

<strong>and</strong> dust mites all of which can trigger allergic reactions<br />

in pets.<br />

If you notice your pet scratching more than usual,<br />

licking their paws, or experiencing watery eyes, they<br />

might be suffering with allergies. Regular grooming,<br />

frequently washing their bedding, <strong>and</strong> hoovering your<br />

home can help to reduce allergens. If symptoms persist,<br />

consult your veterinarian for appropriate treatments.<br />

Prepare for the Dark<br />

As the days get shorter, you may find yourself walking<br />

your dog in the early morning or evening when it’s still<br />

dark.<br />

Equip your pet with reflective gear or a light-up collar to<br />

ensure they are visible to drivers <strong>and</strong> other pedestrians.<br />

A flashlight can also be useful for keeping an eye on your<br />

pet in low-light conditions.<br />

Maintain a Healthy Diet <strong>and</strong> Exercise Routine<br />

With the cooler weather, it’s tempting to reduce outdoor<br />

activity, but maintaining a regular exercise routine is<br />

essential for your pet’s physical <strong>and</strong> mental health.<br />

Shorter, more frequent walks can help keep your dog<br />

active without overexposing them to the cold. For indoor<br />

cats, consider increasing playtime to help keep them<br />

stimulated during the cooler months.<br />

Autumn is also a time when some pets may gain weight<br />

as their activity levels decrease. Monitor your pet’s diet<br />

to prevent overeating. Consider incorporating seasonal<br />

vegetables like pumpkin into their meals, which is not<br />

only nutritious but also helps with digestion.<br />

Adjusting to Cooler Temperatures<br />

As the temperature drops, your pets might need some<br />

extra warmth, especially if they are accustomed to<br />

spending time outdoors. Short-haired breeds, older<br />

animals, <strong>and</strong> those with health issues might feel the cold<br />

more severely.<br />

Consider providing your pets with a cosy sweater or<br />

jacket for outdoor walks <strong>and</strong> ensure their bedding is<br />

warm, perhaps by adding a thicker blanket or moving it<br />

to a draft-free area inside your home.<br />

Flea Prevention<br />

Many pet owners assume that fleas are only a summer<br />

concern, but these pests can remain active well into the<br />

autumn months.<br />

Fleas thrive in moist, warm environments, <strong>and</strong> ticks are<br />

known to be active until the first frost. Continue using<br />

preventive treatments as recommended by your<br />

veterinarian <strong>and</strong> check your pet regularly, especially<br />

after walks in wooded or grassy areas.<br />

By Katie Wilson


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Men’s Fashion<br />

Autumn Fashion Tips for<br />

Men: Elevate Your<br />

Wardrobe this Season<br />

As the leaves turn <strong>and</strong> the<br />

temperature drops, autumn presents<br />

the perfect opportunity for men to<br />

really refine their wardrobes.<br />

Transitioning from the light fabrics of<br />

summer to the more robust layers of<br />

autumn requires thought <strong>and</strong><br />

considerations for both comfort <strong>and</strong><br />

style. Take a look at some key fashion<br />

tips to help men get through the<br />

season with style.<br />

For a more rugged look, consider a leather jacket, which<br />

can add an edge to your look while also providing<br />

excellent insulation against the seasonal chill.<br />

Layering<br />

Layering is not only practical for fluctuating<br />

temperatures, but it also allows for a more versatile <strong>and</strong><br />

dynamic look.<br />

Start with a base layer such as a well-fitted cotton or<br />

wool shirt which offer both comfort <strong>and</strong> breathability.<br />

On top of that, add a mid-layer such as a crewneck<br />

jumper or a flannel shirt.<br />

For your top piece, consider a tailored overcoat or a<br />

bomber jacket. Both of these pieces can be mixed <strong>and</strong><br />

matched to create a variety of outfits while also keeping<br />

you warm.<br />

Embrace Seasonal Colours<br />

Autumn is the season of warm, earthy tones such as<br />

shades of brown, burgundy, mustard, <strong>and</strong> forest green.<br />

Incorporate these colours into your wardrobe through<br />

jumpers, scarves, <strong>and</strong> even trousers. Rich hues like deep<br />

reds or burnt oranges are great for adding a seasonal<br />

flair without overpowering your look.<br />

For a more sophisticated touch, pair these with neutral<br />

tones like charcoal grey, navy, or beige all of which<br />

balance the outfit <strong>and</strong> keep it grounded.<br />

Shoes Are Important<br />

Footwear in autumn need to be both stylish <strong>and</strong><br />

practical. Swap out summer trainers for sturdier options<br />

like leather boots or brogues.<br />

Chelsea boots are a versatile choice, easily pairing with<br />

both casual <strong>and</strong> formal wear or you can opt for waterresistant<br />

materials if you anticipate rainy weather. Dark<br />

brown or black are both classic choices that match well<br />

with most autumn outfits.<br />

Consider Fabrics<br />

Autumn is the season to embrace heavier fabrics like<br />

wool, tweed, flannel, <strong>and</strong> corduroy.<br />

Invest in Quality Coats <strong>and</strong> Jackets<br />

As the season progresses, coats <strong>and</strong> jackets become a<br />

central component of any outfit. Investing in high<br />

quality options is essential for keeping you prepared for<br />

the weather while also looking fantastic.<br />

Classic options such as a trench coat, pea coat, or a<br />

waxed cotton jacket are timeless choices <strong>and</strong> can be<br />

dressed up or down. Earthy tones like olive, navy, or<br />

camel are particularly versatile <strong>and</strong> compliment the<br />

autumn colour palette.<br />

These materials not only offer warmth in the cooler<br />

temperatures but also add a rich texture to your outfits.<br />

A tweed blazer or a corduroy shirt jacket can be great<br />

statement pieces that bring both style <strong>and</strong> substance to<br />

your autumn wardrobe.<br />

Accessorise<br />

Accessories in autumn serve both functional <strong>and</strong><br />

stylistic purposes. Scarves, beanies, <strong>and</strong> gloves not only<br />

provide warmth but also add layers of texture <strong>and</strong> colour<br />

to your outfit.<br />

A chunky knit scarf in a contrasting colour can make a<br />

simple outfit st<strong>and</strong> out, while a wool beanie can add a<br />

casual, laid-back vibe.<br />

By Katie Wilson


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Women’s Autumn Fashion<br />

Make The Most of the Cosy<br />

Season: Top Autumn<br />

Fashion Tips for Women<br />

As the colours around us change <strong>and</strong><br />

the air takes on a crisp edge, it's time<br />

to refresh your wardrobe for the<br />

season.<br />

Autumn is all about layering, rich<br />

textures, <strong>and</strong> warm tones that mirror<br />

the changing l<strong>and</strong>scape of the season.<br />

Whether you're in the city streets or<br />

enjoying a weekend getaway, these<br />

autumn fashion tips will help you<br />

stay stylish <strong>and</strong> comfortable<br />

throughout the cooler months.<br />

vibe. Pair a velvet blazer with high-waisted jeans or opt<br />

for a corduroy skirt with a tucked-in blouse to embrace<br />

the season’s trends.<br />

Layer Like a Pro<br />

Autumn is the perfect time to experiment with layers.<br />

Start with a lightweight base, like a fitted turtleneck or a<br />

classic white shirt.<br />

From there, add a chunky knit jumper, an oversized<br />

cardigan, or a tailored blazer. Layering not only keeps<br />

you warm but also allows you to play with different<br />

textures <strong>and</strong> colours, creating depth in your outfits.<br />

Don’t be afraid to mix materials like wool, leather, <strong>and</strong><br />

denim for a sophisticated yet cosy look.<br />

Earthy Tones<br />

Autumn is synonymous with a palette of earthy tones—<br />

think deep burgundy, mustard yellow, olive green, <strong>and</strong><br />

rich browns. These colours not only reflect the season’s<br />

natural beauty but also create a warm <strong>and</strong> inviting look.<br />

Incorporate these shades into your wardrobe through<br />

key pieces like jumpers, scarves, <strong>and</strong> boots. For a chic<br />

outfit choice, try layering different shades of the same<br />

colour, such as pairing a camel coat with tan trousers<br />

<strong>and</strong> a beige sweater.<br />

Statement Coats <strong>and</strong> Jackets<br />

Your coat or jacket often becomes the centrepiece of<br />

your autumn wardrobe so it’s worth investing in a<br />

statement piece.<br />

A tailored trench coat is a timeless option that can<br />

elevate any outfit, casual or formal. For a more<br />

contemporary look, try a faux fur coat or a leather jacket<br />

with shearling details. These pieces not only keep you<br />

warm but also add a touch of luxury to your everyday<br />

style.<br />

Boots<br />

Footwear is a crucial component of any autumn outfit,<br />

<strong>and</strong> this season, boots reign supreme.<br />

Whether you prefer ankle boots, knee-highs, or the<br />

trendy over-the-knee style, there’s a pair to suit every<br />

outfit.<br />

For a versatile option, choose a classic black leather<br />

ankle boot that pairs well with both jeans <strong>and</strong> dresses. If<br />

you’re feeling bold, opt for a pair of animal print boots<br />

to add a statement to your ensemble.<br />

Balance Comfort with Style<br />

Experiment with Patterns <strong>and</strong> Textures<br />

This season, patterns like plaid, houndstooth, <strong>and</strong><br />

animal prints are making a really strong statement. A<br />

plaid skirt or houndstooth coat can add a classic touch<br />

to your ensemble, while a leopard print scarf or<br />

snakeskin boots introduce a bit of edge to your look.<br />

Textures such as velvet, corduroy, <strong>and</strong> suede bring a<br />

tactile element to your outfit, perfect for the autumn<br />

Finally, remember that autumn fashion is as much about<br />

comfort as it is about style. Choose fabrics that feel good<br />

against your skin, like soft knits, cashmere, <strong>and</strong> wool.<br />

Don’t shy away from oversized silhouettes that allow for<br />

easy movement <strong>and</strong> layering. The key is to find a balance<br />

between looking polished <strong>and</strong> feeling cosy.<br />

By Katie Wilson


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AFFORDABLE<br />

EDUCATION<br />

FOR CHANGING TIMES<br />

Here at Birch 昀 eld School, we believe in<br />

providing an affordable education for<br />

our pupils, giving them an exceptional<br />

all-round preparation for their future.<br />

With emphasis on working to 昀 nd<br />

each child’s unique potential, we offer<br />

ample opportunities, not only in the<br />

classroom. With an extensive program<br />

of enrichment, we give our pupils the<br />

chance to explore different areas <strong>and</strong><br />

昀 nd where their passion lies. From the<br />

beautiful sports 昀 elds located in our rural<br />

settings to our incredible music <strong>and</strong> arts<br />

provision, each child has the chance to<br />

昀 ourish.<br />

Labour’s 昀 agship policy to introduce VAT on independent<br />

school fees has been well documented. With their recent<br />

l<strong>and</strong>slide victory, the probability of this policy being<br />

introduced has become increasingly more likely. There<br />

will be extensive ripples throughout the education system<br />

as a result of this policy, but here at Birch 昀 eld School we<br />

are well placed to deal with turbulent times.<br />

Due to our excellent management <strong>and</strong> robust 昀 nancial<br />

position, we can offer an excellent, independent<br />

education at a surprisingly affordable cost. Our fees<br />

are extremely competitive when compared to many of<br />

the other independent schools in the area. Our sound<br />

昀 nancial position will help our parents weather the<br />

VAT storm.<br />

To ensure that<br />

we can provide a<br />

personal education<br />

to each child, we<br />

limit our class<br />

sizes, so that<br />

every child can<br />

receive support<br />

<strong>and</strong> inspirational<br />

teaching. We<br />

underst<strong>and</strong> that all children learn better when they are<br />

inspired <strong>and</strong> engaged, so we carefully recruit a wide range<br />

of teachers, who all bring their pro-active enthusiasm to our<br />

Birch 昀 eld family. We have invested in our facilities so that<br />

we can combine a high-quality teaching st<strong>and</strong>ard with the<br />

resources to deliver engaging <strong>and</strong> h<strong>and</strong>s-on activities.<br />

Here at Birch 昀 eld School, we believe that independent<br />

education should be affordable <strong>and</strong> accessible, which is<br />

why we are working hard to keep our fees at a manageable<br />

level, despite the dif 昀 cult economic background <strong>and</strong> the<br />

threat of the VAT policy. We provide education for girls <strong>and</strong><br />

boys from age 4 to 16 <strong>and</strong> with popular key entry points at<br />

Reception <strong>and</strong> Year 7, it is important to plan ahead to secure<br />

your child’s future.<br />

Book your place at our forthcoming Open Morning<br />

on Saturday 12th <strong>October</strong> <strong>2024</strong> by contacting the<br />

school by phone on 01902 372534 or by email<br />

to:admissions@birch 昀 eldschool.co.uk<br />

Birch 昀 eld School | Albrighton Nr Wolverhampton<br />

T: 01902 372534 | E: admissions@birch 昀 eldschool.co.uk<br />

www.birch 昀 eldschool.co.uk


Achieving<br />

excellence on<br />

their most<br />

important<br />

journey<br />

WELCOME TO BIRCHFIELD INDEPENDENT SCHOOL<br />

ISI ‘EXCELLENT’ ACROSS THE BOARD<br />

We are a vibrant rural preparatory <strong>and</strong> senior school in Albrighton, near<br />

Wolverhampton. Birchfeld School delivers frst class educational opportunities<br />

<strong>and</strong> outcomes for boys <strong>and</strong> girls from Reception upwards. With an ‘Excellent’<br />

ISI rating <strong>and</strong> a reputation for outst<strong>and</strong>ing education over its 88 year history,<br />

we are delighted to offer a complete educational experience up to Year 11 with<br />

a comprehensive GCSE programme of study, allowing us to provide affordable<br />

education for children aged 4 to 16.<br />

birchfieldschool.co.uk<br />

OPEN MORNING<br />

Saturday 12th <strong>October</strong> 10.00 am – 12.30 pm<br />

Please contact the school to book your place<br />

Birch 昀 eld School | Albrighton Nr Wolverhampton<br />

T: 01902 372534 | E: admissions@birch 昀 eldschool.co.uk


Discover how Wolverhampton Grammar School prepares pupils<br />

for a bright future at their Open Day<br />

On Saturday 5th <strong>October</strong>,<br />

Wolverhampton Grammar School<br />

(WGS) invites families from across the<br />

region to experience its inspirational<br />

<strong>and</strong> exciting learning environment<br />

during its annual Open Day. This event<br />

is an excellent opportunity for families<br />

to explore our school <strong>and</strong> learn more<br />

about what we can offer students aged<br />

4-18.<br />

We underst<strong>and</strong> that choosing the right<br />

education for your child is not easy, <strong>and</strong><br />

attending an Open Day allows you to<br />

gain a comprehensive underst<strong>and</strong>ing of<br />

what your child’s next steps would look<br />

like.<br />

Renowned for its academic excellence<br />

<strong>and</strong> inclusive community, WGS<br />

provides an enriching education from<br />

Reception through to Sixth Form,<br />

ensuring every child has the opportunity<br />

to succeed in all aspects of school life.<br />

Our commitment to fostering a nurturing<br />

<strong>and</strong> supportive environment is reflected<br />

in the achievements <strong>and</strong> personal<br />

growth of our students.<br />

As one of the region’s leading<br />

independent schools, WGS was<br />

founded in 1512, making it one of the<br />

oldest independent schools in the<br />

country. The school consistently<br />

achieves outst<strong>and</strong>ing exam results <strong>and</strong><br />

contributes significantly to the local<br />

community. Additionally, our small class<br />

sizes ensure personalised attention,<br />

enabling every child to reach their full<br />

potential. We also offer an extensive<br />

range of extracurricular activities, with<br />

over 100 clubs available to enrich the<br />

educational experience of your child.<br />

During your visit, you will be welcomed<br />

by the Head, Nic Anderson, <strong>and</strong> have<br />

the opportunity to meet current students<br />

<strong>and</strong> teachers. Student-led tours will<br />

enable you to enjoy our 25-acre site,<br />

including the impressive sports<br />

grounds, arts centre, <strong>and</strong> purpose-built<br />

music block. There will also be a range<br />

of fun <strong>and</strong> engaging activities for you<br />

<strong>and</strong> your family to take part in as you<br />

make your way around our school.<br />

Head, Nic Anderson, says ‘WGS offers<br />

an education that transforms lives as<br />

well as minds. Our unique approach to<br />

learning allows your child to develop<br />

skills in resilience, independence, <strong>and</strong><br />

confidence. They will form friendships<br />

<strong>and</strong> new interests <strong>and</strong> become more<br />

curious about the world around them.’<br />

Don't miss this opportunity to visit<br />

Wolverhampton Grammar School <strong>and</strong><br />

learn more about the entry process.<br />

Please register for the Open Day at<br />

wgs.org.uk/whole-school-open-day to<br />

secure a place. This event is not only<br />

an insight into the academic offerings<br />

but also a glimpse into the dynamic <strong>and</strong><br />

inclusive culture that WGS prides itself<br />

on, preparing students for a successful<br />

<strong>and</strong> fulfilling future.


Junior <strong>and</strong> Infant School<br />

– ages 4-11<br />

An Independent Day School for<br />

Boys <strong>and</strong> Girls ages 4 – 18 years<br />

WHOLE SCHOOL<br />

Open Day<br />

Senior School<br />

– ages 11-16<br />

Saturday 5th <strong>October</strong><br />

Tours are available at 9.30am or 11.30am<br />

Register <strong>and</strong> book a tour here:<br />

Sixth Form<br />

– ages 16-18<br />

An education that transforms<br />

lives as well as minds<br />

Wolverhampton Grammar School<br />

Compton Road, Wolverhampton, WV3 9RB<br />

Registered charity (Engl<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> Wales no. 1125268)<br />

01902 422939<br />

admissions@wgs-sch.net


Education<br />

Navigating New Beginnings:<br />

Noticing Changes in Your<br />

Child as they Start at a New<br />

School<br />

Starting at a new school can be a<br />

huge transition for a child of any age.<br />

Whether it’s moving from one year<br />

group to another, changing schools<br />

due to a new home, or transitioning<br />

from primary to secondary education,<br />

this shift brings a mix of excitement,<br />

anxiety, <strong>and</strong> adjustment.<br />

As a parent, it’s important to remain<br />

observant <strong>and</strong> look for any changes in<br />

your your child’s behaviour or mood.<br />

Noticing these changes early on can<br />

help you to support your child<br />

through this period, helping them to<br />

adapt smoothly to their new<br />

environment.<br />

test results during the first few months. If you notice a<br />

sudden drop in grades or if your child is spending<br />

significantly more time than usual on homework, it<br />

might be worth discussing this with their teacher to<br />

underst<strong>and</strong> what’s going on <strong>and</strong> how you can help.<br />

Emotional Changes<br />

One of the most noticeable changes might be in your<br />

child’s emotional state. A child who was previously<br />

confident <strong>and</strong> outgoing may suddenly seem more<br />

withdrawn or anxious after starting at a new school.<br />

This can show itself in a reluctance to go to school,<br />

unexplained irritability, or even complaints of feeling ill<br />

which while sometimes can be a way of trying to get out<br />

of attending, can also be a genuine consequence of stress<br />

or anxiety.<br />

On the other h<strong>and</strong>, your child might also show positive<br />

emotional changes, such as an increase in enthusiasm or<br />

a new sense of independence. They may talk more<br />

excitedly about their day, their new friends, or the<br />

subjects they’re learning. These positive changes can be<br />

a great sign that your child is beginning to settle in <strong>and</strong><br />

feel comfortable in their new environment.<br />

Behavioural Changes<br />

Be mindful of any significant behavioural changes in<br />

your child. A previously calm child might become more<br />

defiant or prone to outbursts which can be a sign of<br />

underlying stress. Alternatively, you might notice<br />

positive behavioural changes, such as increased maturity<br />

or responsibility as they adapt to new expectations <strong>and</strong><br />

challenges.<br />

It’s important to rationalise <strong>and</strong> be aware of the reasons<br />

behind these changes. Imagine how you would feel<br />

starting at a new place of work or leaving your friends or<br />

family behind. It’s vital to show your child that you<br />

underst<strong>and</strong> <strong>and</strong> appreciate how difficult the shift might<br />

be <strong>and</strong> be there to listen if they want to express how they<br />

feel.<br />

Social Dynamics<br />

School Performance<br />

A new school often means a different curriculum,<br />

teaching style, <strong>and</strong> expectation for your child. As a<br />

result, you might notice changes in their academic<br />

performance either way: some children thrive in a new<br />

academic setting <strong>and</strong> show marked improvement or<br />

engagement with their classes. However, others might<br />

struggle initially as they adjust to different teaching<br />

methods or a new pace of learning.<br />

It’s important to keep a close eye on their homework <strong>and</strong><br />

Social changes are also a key area to watch out for.<br />

Making new friends is a critical part of adjusting to a<br />

new school but it may not come without it’s challenges.<br />

Your child might come home feeling lonely or isolated if<br />

they haven’t yet found their social footing at their new<br />

school. Conversely, if your child quickly forms a new<br />

circle of friends, you might notice a boost in their overall<br />

mood <strong>and</strong> a new level of excitement about leaving in the<br />

mornings.<br />

Encourage your child to talk about their new friends <strong>and</strong><br />

social experiences as this can provide you with insights<br />

into how they’re navigating their new social<br />

environment. If they express concerns about fitting in or<br />

feeling left out, offer reassurance <strong>and</strong> consider arranging<br />

after school clubs or group settings to help them build<br />

friendships<br />

By Katie Wilson


Creative Learning Classes @<br />

The Dormston Centre, Sedgley<br />

Course Title Start Date Weeks Time Fees<br />

Spanish for Complete Beginners 25/09/<strong>2024</strong> 10 7.00-9.00pm £110.00<br />

This course is suitable for those who have never studied Spanish before <strong>and</strong> would like to be able to communicate<br />

effectively in everyday situations. It is specifically designed for those of you with little or no prior knowledge of the language.<br />

Spanish For Improvers 28/09/<strong>2024</strong> 10 Weeks 9.30am-11.30am £110.00<br />

This course is aimed at those of you who have attended at least 2-3 terms of our beginners’ program. During this improvers<br />

course you will re-visit basic topics extending vocabulary <strong>and</strong> enabling you to use a broader range of skills giving your own<br />

opinions, likes <strong>and</strong> dislikes.<br />

Spanish – Lower Intermediate 28/09/<strong>2024</strong> 10 Weeks 7.00pm-9.00pm £80.00<br />

This course is aimed at those of you who have attended at least 3 terms of our improvers program. During this improvers<br />

course you will again re-visit basic topics further extending vocabulary <strong>and</strong> enabling you to use an even broader range of<br />

skills giving your own opinions, likes <strong>and</strong> dislikes.<br />

Art - Introduction to Pastels 23/09/<strong>2024</strong> 8 Weeks 7.00pm-9.00pm £88.00<br />

This 8-week course is designed for beginners interested in exploring the vibrant <strong>and</strong> versatile medium of pastel painting. You will<br />

learn foundational techniques, colour theory, <strong>and</strong> composition while developing your unique artistic style.<br />

Art – Introduction to Acrylics 24/09/<strong>2024</strong> 8 Weeks 7.00pm-9.00pm £88.00<br />

This course introduces you to the vibrant world of acrylics, covering essential techniques, colour theory, <strong>and</strong> composition. The<br />

course includes practical projects like still life, l<strong>and</strong>scapes, <strong>and</strong> personal pieces, fostering individual style development.<br />

Art Introduction to Print Making 25/09/<strong>2024</strong> 8 Weeks 7.00-9.00pm £95.00<br />

An introduction to foundational skills <strong>and</strong> techniques in mono prints <strong>and</strong> Lino cuts. You will start with the basics of mono prints,<br />

exploring texture, composition, <strong>and</strong> layering. You will then learn Lino cutting, focusing on design, carving, <strong>and</strong> inking techniques.<br />

Flower Arranging for All 24/09/<strong>2024</strong> 5 Weeks 7.00pm-9.00pm £65.00<br />

Flower Arranging for All 05/11/<strong>2024</strong> 5 Weeks 7.00pm-9.00pm £65.00<br />

This class is designed for all abilities, taught in an easy, friendly manner with many laughs along the way, in fact the ideal way to<br />

relax <strong>and</strong> have a bit of me time, whilst learning something that could even turn out to be a new profession.<br />

Floristry Christmas Wreath Workshop 23/11/<strong>2024</strong> 1 Day 10.00am-1.00pm £60.00<br />

Come along <strong>and</strong> join us for a day of festive fun. Our class is for all abilities. Our tutor will guide you through how to create a<br />

Festive Door Wreath using seasonal foliage <strong>and</strong> a selection of festive adornments to dress your wreath.<br />

Introduction to Sign Language 23/09/<strong>2024</strong> 10 Weeks 7.00pm-9.00pm £100<br />

During this introduction course You will cover topics such as Greetings, Weather, Transport, Numbers <strong>and</strong> much more. It’s fun<br />

<strong>and</strong> interactive learning throughout, with no exams or assessments, unless you decide you want to.<br />

Sign Language Level 1 23/09/<strong>2024</strong> 33 weeks 7.00pm-9.00pm POA<br />

Achieving this qualification means that you will be able to communicate with Deaf people in British Sign Language on a range of<br />

themes that involve simple, everyday language use. You will gain basic skills <strong>and</strong> confidence in production <strong>and</strong> reception of BSL.<br />

Guitar Lessons for Complete Beginners 03/10/<strong>2024</strong> 10 Weeks 6.00pm-7.15pm £62.50<br />

Have you always had a fascination with the guitar but do not know how to get started? Take the first step with us here at<br />

Dormston by joining our Guitar for Absolute Beginners<br />

Guitar Lessons for Improvers 03/10/<strong>2024</strong> 10 Weeks 7.15pm-9.15pm £100.00<br />

This course is appropriate for nearly all skills levels with the minimum requirement of having the ability to change smoothly<br />

between a few basic major <strong>and</strong> minor chords <strong>and</strong> wish to build their knowledge<br />

Keep Fit for All 18/09/<strong>2024</strong> 12 Weeks 11.30am-12.30pm £65.00<br />

Come, join our nifty exercise class, <strong>and</strong> feel the benefits!<br />

Regular physical activity is important for so many reasons, not only can you gain improved mobility, balance, <strong>and</strong> coordination<br />

through carefully planned gentle exercise classes designed specifically for you, no matter what your ability!<br />

Boxercise 23/09/<strong>2024</strong> 10 Weeks 6.15pm-7.15pm £50.00<br />

Boxercise is a total body workout: It directly stimulates all your muscles, including your chest, shoulders, back, arms, legs, <strong>and</strong><br />

core muscles. Training in this style not only allows you to lose weight but also gives you a leaner <strong>and</strong> fitter physique.<br />

Pilates 26/09/<strong>2024</strong> 10 Weeks 6.15pm-7.15pm £50.00<br />

Pilates focuses on stretching <strong>and</strong> strengthening the whole body. It is a low impact class that aims to strengthen muscles while<br />

improving postural alignment <strong>and</strong> flexibility <strong>and</strong> is suitable for men <strong>and</strong> women of all ages, levels, or abilities. If you have been<br />

looking for a new workout routine that can give you a good balance of all the above, then Pilates may be the answer.<br />

Aerobics 24/09/<strong>2024</strong> 10 Weeks 7.00pm-8.00pm £50.00<br />

A great class set to dance music <strong>and</strong> led by our instructor who will take you through a variety of stretching <strong>and</strong> strength-training<br />

routines combined with aerobic exercise that works on all areas of your body.<br />

Yoga 25/09/<strong>2024</strong> 10 Weeks 6.00pm-7.15pm £55.00<br />

7.30pm-8.45pm<br />

Yoga – Hatha: Yoga is a workout designed to aid in relaxation <strong>and</strong> revitalisation of the mind <strong>and</strong> body. It also helps to improve<br />

<strong>and</strong> focus the alignment of your body. It is a low impact class, which maintains flexibility <strong>and</strong> increases suppleness.<br />

The Dormston Centre, Mill Bank, Sedgley, Dudley, DY3 1SN<br />

To enrol <strong>and</strong> secure your place Telephone 01384 816389<br />

email aeadmin@dormston.dudley.sch.uk Website www.thedormstoncentre.co.uk


Over Summer we have been<br />

adding to our ‘Your Sleep Matters’<br />

range in the Newport Beds<br />

showroom & we have some exciting<br />

new sleep products to share. These<br />

include new pillows & toppers that<br />

will help with better sleep quality &<br />

well-being. One of the newest<br />

innovations is Lavender infused<br />

mattresses, pillows & toppers.<br />

Lavender can lower anxiety, boost<br />

your mood, & help you relax by<br />

lowering your heart rate. Smelling<br />

lavender before & whilst you sleep<br />

can even make you feel more<br />

rested & alert when you wake up.<br />

As you can imagine they smell<br />

divine & are made from the most<br />

comfortable soft fillings & fabrics<br />

too. These are all from the Breasley<br />

‘Zen Sleep’ range & mattresses &<br />

toppers in all sizes are available to<br />

order &pillows are in stock too.<br />

These are great for the restless<br />

sleeper finding it hard to relax & get<br />

off to sleep<br />

We have also chosen to become<br />

stockists of the Rowl<strong>and</strong> Earthing<br />

Sheets. These sheets use highly<br />

conductive materials such as pure<br />

silver & copper combined with<br />

innovative Earthing technology,<br />

allowing you to be grounded during<br />

sleep. The health benefits of<br />

earthing are well documented with<br />

already 21 research studies in peerreviewed<br />

journals in areas from<br />

sleep, inflammation, pain, blood<br />

circulation, heart rate variability,<br />

mood & more. These are great for<br />

the ‘health benefits’ sleeper wanting<br />

to ensure sleep is of the utmost best<br />

quality with overall health benefits<br />

Our Bed Shop Manager is already<br />

sleeping on one of these & she<br />

reports its made a huge difference<br />

to her well-being already after just 2<br />

months of sleeping on one! Her<br />

back pain has eased a lot & this<br />

sheet along with a good quality<br />

mattress & bedding has made a<br />

huge difference to her overall wellbeing!<br />

Because ‘Your Sleep Matters’<br />

to us we decided to stock them to<br />

spread the word & share with our<br />

customers the benefits of getting<br />

good quality sleep whilst introducing<br />

the grounding as a real health<br />

benefit whilst sleeping.<br />

reverse is a luxurious cotton sateen<br />

cover with vented side walls<br />

ensuring its fully breathable. The<br />

Airflow topper also has a cooling<br />

knitted face fabric with air mesh<br />

walls which encourages air<br />

circulation & breathability.<br />

Generously filled with soft hollowfibre<br />

with hypoallergenic properties<br />

for added comfort.<br />

These are all available in our<br />

showroom to try out with all sizes<br />

available to order. Please do visit<br />

our Newport Beds showroom &<br />

share with us any other health &<br />

well-being products you would like<br />

to see us stocking!<br />

Unit 1 Springfield Ind. Est.<br />

Newport, TF10 7NB<br />

01952 820401<br />

(Option 2 for Newport Beds)<br />

www.newportbeds.co.uk<br />

For the hot sleeper, the Menopause<br />

pillow with an accompanying<br />

topper are also proving popular. The<br />

pillow has a unique cooling cover<br />

with a cooling neck panel to help<br />

alleviate night sweats whilst on the


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What does mental<br />

health mean to you?<br />

What if the support doesn't help?<br />

Firstly always remember, different things can help different<br />

people. Its important to be open to a range of approaches,<br />

always be committed <strong>and</strong> continue to be hopeful even when<br />

some things don't work out. I am very much aware of these<br />

long waiting lists but be hopeful that eventually you will get<br />

the support you need, sometimes with these services its he<br />

who shouts the loudest so if you don't feel like making<br />

regular calls then see if a friend or relative can make the call<br />

on your behalf. Be persistent with your calls, even if it means<br />

ringing them once a day every week until they are very much<br />

aware of you <strong>and</strong> what your looking to access.<br />

What treatments are available?<br />

I think mental health is such a broad spectrum, you can have<br />

people that reach out because they are struggling with the<br />

smallest of tasks, or you can have people that cant see any<br />

future for themselves. One thing I'm certain on is when this<br />

feeling is starting to take over your life <strong>and</strong> its starting to get<br />

in the way of things you would do with such ease. That is the<br />

time when you really need to consider looking into getting<br />

some form of support or reaching out to anyone that may<br />

lend an ear to listen. Mental health can include emotional,<br />

psychological <strong>and</strong> social well being, it can affect how we feel<br />

<strong>and</strong> act <strong>and</strong> it can determine healthy choices that we make for<br />

ourselves.<br />

How would you spot the signs that someone is<br />

struggling?<br />

Often there's not a single sign but a combination of things, A<br />

mental health disorder can start as a subtle change to their<br />

feelings, their thinking or their behaviour. If they have<br />

ongoing or significant changes it could be a sign that they are<br />

developing a mental health disorder. Anxiety can play a huge<br />

part in this, most people will get worried <strong>and</strong> stressed from<br />

time to time, but if the worry is constant <strong>and</strong> interferes with<br />

your daily activities it may lead someone to avoid certain<br />

situations. Then from the anxiety that can lead to depression.<br />

Also being more withdrawn then usual, that can also indicate<br />

someone is struggling. However in some cases, some of the<br />

loudest brightest <strong>and</strong> bubbliest people in society can be<br />

suffering behind closed doors <strong>and</strong> no one would have any<br />

idea of this, so signs <strong>and</strong> symptoms never follow a consistent<br />

pattern.<br />

There is a huge amount of ways we can support our mental<br />

health including support groups , therapy <strong>and</strong> medication<br />

where needed to name just a few. Self care is a huge way to<br />

support your mental health too alongside getting any<br />

medication or treatment that is required. Remember you can<br />

discuss your mental health with a professional. I'm very much<br />

aware of the long waiting lists but there is light at the end of<br />

the tunnel , they will be able to signpost you to the correct<br />

service you require. Whilst your sitting on these waiting lists<br />

set yourself the smallest of tasks, which can be something as<br />

simple as rising your head in the morning, getting showered<br />

<strong>and</strong> dressed. To someone dealing with depression that can be<br />

one of the hardest things they have to face each day. As you<br />

start to complete these small tasks, then increase them each<br />

time adding an extra task on. Hopefully by the time you do<br />

get to the top of these long waiting lists you would of<br />

increased your self care <strong>and</strong> in return be open to support<br />

available to you.<br />

Any last words?<br />

I just want to say to anyone out there that's dealing with<br />

mental health of any form that may be struggling, If no one<br />

else is then I'm proud of you for addressing your issue <strong>and</strong><br />

tackling this head on. Secondly, do not suffer in silence there<br />

is so many men out there who feel they have to put this<br />

masculine role on <strong>and</strong> never show any emotion. Take time for<br />

yourself because self care is so important, always be kind to<br />

yourself. Believe me you would not believe the number of<br />

men out there who are struggling in silence <strong>and</strong> want nothing<br />

more than an informal chat with someone who's struggling to,<br />

just to know they're not alone in their thoughts <strong>and</strong><br />

behaviours. One conversation could change someone's life.<br />

Useful Links<br />

www.me<strong>and</strong>mymind.nhs.uk<br />

www.mentalhealth.org.uk<br />

www.mind.org.uk<br />

www.thecalmzone.net<br />

www.primal-instincts.co.uk<br />

Dribbz


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Lanterns - Glass - Skylights<br />

While having your roof replaced with rubber or fibreglass why not<br />

treat yourself to a cost-effective upgrade at the same time.<br />

Consider one of our lantern or skylight roofs, which will give any<br />

room a sense of style, spaciousness <strong>and</strong> added light.<br />

Not only that but these features are guaranteed to increase the value<br />

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75


New Hobby?<br />

Embrace the Autumn: New<br />

Hobbies to Take Up This<br />

Season<br />

As the days grow shorter, autumn<br />

invites us to slow down, cosy up, <strong>and</strong><br />

explore new hobbies that align with<br />

the season’s pace.<br />

Whether you’re looking to indulge in<br />

creativity, enjoy the outdoors, or find<br />

a new way to unwind, autumn offers<br />

the perfect backdrop for diving into<br />

activities that nurture both mind <strong>and</strong><br />

spirit. Have a read of some top<br />

hobbies to take up this autumn.<br />

beautiful, h<strong>and</strong>crafted items you can use or gift.<br />

From cosy scarves <strong>and</strong> hats to intricate blankets, there’s<br />

a project for every skill level. Plus, it’s a hobby you can<br />

easily take on the go, making it perfect for those quiet<br />

moments at home or while traveling.<br />

Baking <strong>and</strong> Cooking<br />

Autumn is the perfect time for comfort food <strong>and</strong> what<br />

better way to embrace the season than by honing your<br />

baking or cooking skills?<br />

With an abundance of seasonal produce like apples,<br />

pumpkins, <strong>and</strong> squash, the opportunities really are<br />

endless. Try your h<strong>and</strong> at baking apple pies, pumpkin<br />

bread, or hearty soups that warm you from the inside<br />

out.<br />

Cooking <strong>and</strong> baking not only fill your home with<br />

delightful aromas but also offer a creative outlet that can<br />

be both rewarding <strong>and</strong> delicious.<br />

Photography<br />

Autumn’s rich colours <strong>and</strong> golden light create a<br />

photographer’s paradise. Whether you’re a seasoned<br />

professional or a beginner, autumn is a great time to<br />

explore with photography.<br />

Start with your smartphone or invest in a good camera<br />

<strong>and</strong> experiment with capturing the unique beauty of the<br />

season. Focus on l<strong>and</strong>scapes, close-up shots of leaves, or<br />

even c<strong>and</strong>id moments of people enjoying autumnal<br />

activities.<br />

Photography can also encourage you to get outside <strong>and</strong><br />

explore new places, making it a hobby that’s both<br />

creative <strong>and</strong> adventurous.<br />

Reading <strong>and</strong> Writing<br />

Nature Walks <strong>and</strong> Hiking<br />

Autumn’s vibrant colours of red, orange, <strong>and</strong> yellow<br />

beckons outdoor enthusiasts to lace up their boots <strong>and</strong><br />

hit the trails. Walking or hiking in nature is not only a<br />

fantastic way to stay active but also provides a<br />

meditative experience, allowing you to immerse yourself<br />

in the seasonal beauty.<br />

As the nights draw in, there’s a particular charm in<br />

settling down with a good book or starting a writing<br />

project. Whether it’s fiction, poetry, or journaling,<br />

writing allows you to explore your own thoughts <strong>and</strong><br />

creativity.<br />

Alternatively, diving into a new book can be the perfect<br />

escape. Create a cosy reading nook, complete with<br />

blankets <strong>and</strong> warm lighting, <strong>and</strong> let yourself be<br />

transported to different worlds. If you’re a social reader,<br />

consider joining a book club to share your love of<br />

literature with others.<br />

With cooler temperatures, it’s an ideal time to explore<br />

local parks, forests, or even plan a weekend getaway to a<br />

scenic spot. Bring along a camera to capture the<br />

stunning l<strong>and</strong>scapes or start a nature journal to<br />

document your observations.<br />

Knitting <strong>and</strong> Crocheting<br />

As the weather cools, there’s nothing quite like curling<br />

up with a pair of knitting needles or a crochet hook.<br />

Knitting <strong>and</strong> crocheting are not only soothing, repetitive<br />

activities that can reduce stress, but they also result in<br />

By Katie Wilson


Local News<br />

UK Riots: Fear in Local Communities with over<br />

100 Far-Right Protests Planned<br />

A Shropshire Police Boss has insisted that people committing violent<br />

disorder "do not speak for our communities" amid riots, violence<br />

<strong>and</strong> unrest across the country.<br />

Over the beginning of August, fights have taken place, shops have<br />

been trashed <strong>and</strong> police officers have been attached across<br />

Southport, Manchester, Sunderl<strong>and</strong>, Middlesbrough <strong>and</strong> Leeds.<br />

These riots were sparked by the murders of Bebe King, 6, Elsie Dot<br />

Stancombe, 7, <strong>and</strong> Alice Dasilva Aguiar, 9, in a multiple stabbing at a<br />

Taylor Swift-inspired dance class in Southport on 29 July. Eight other<br />

children sustained knife wounds with five left in a critical condition.<br />

Two adults were also critically hurt.<br />

The police are aware of further riots to continue across various<br />

locations <strong>and</strong> Chief Superintendent Edd Williams has said the<br />

following: “The public can <strong>and</strong> should be confident that we are<br />

working hard to keep our communities safe.”<br />

“We do not underestimate the fear <strong>and</strong> worry the violence in other<br />

parts of the country has caused <strong>and</strong> know these groups do not<br />

speak for our communities.”<br />

“We respect the democratic right to peaceful protest but will not<br />

tolerate violence <strong>and</strong> disorder <strong>and</strong> have robust plans in place to<br />

respond. We will take swift <strong>and</strong> decisive action against those who<br />

come into our cities <strong>and</strong> towns to commit violent disorder.”<br />

Up to 400 Homes Planned for The Edge of<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong><br />

Under the first stage of a new scheme, Shropshire Home have<br />

requested full permission to build 102 homes <strong>and</strong> an 80-bed care<br />

home in Bowbrook.<br />

Following a consultation even in July 2023, Shropshire Homes have<br />

assured the mixed responses of fifty seven residents have been<br />

taken into account <strong>and</strong> the plans are due to be decided by<br />

Shropshire Council.<br />

Bowbrook is an estate near to Royal <strong>Shrewsbury</strong> Hospital with<br />

hundreds of new homes as well as a new primary school. Shropshire<br />

Homes have said the scheme would “make a positive contribution<br />

towards meeting the needs for affordable <strong>and</strong> market housing,<br />

providing for a mixed <strong>and</strong> inclusive community.”<br />

The majority of <strong>Shrewsbury</strong> have a target affordable housing rate of<br />

20%.<br />

Coma Survivor treks three mountains for<br />

New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton<br />

Father-of-two, Simon Burke, has raised thous<strong>and</strong>s of pounds for the<br />

nurses that saved his life at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton.<br />

Burke, 48, was in a coma for ten days <strong>and</strong> spend nearly two weeks<br />

on a ventilator after developing sepsis group A streptococcal invasive<br />

tropical toxic syndrome.<br />

After cutting his leg, the limb began to blister <strong>and</strong> Burke suffered full<br />

body swelling. When woken by his wife, he had a solid rash on his<br />

side which had turned yellow <strong>and</strong> by 4pm that day he was on life<br />

support.<br />

Wanting to give back after the support <strong>and</strong> treatment he received,<br />

Burke scaled Crib Goch, Garnedd Ugain <strong>and</strong> Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)<br />

in north Wales in one day. So far, he has raised £3,000 for<br />

Wolverhampton’s Integrated Critical Care Unit.<br />

Plans submitted for New Sixth Form centre<br />

in Telford<br />

Plans have now been submitted for a new Sixth Form centre in<br />

Telford, based in former council offices close to Telford Central<br />

railway station.<br />

Telford <strong>and</strong> Wrekin Council managed to secure government funding<br />

for the project last year which includes the renovation of the<br />

Addenbrooke House offices in the Station Quarter.<br />

Councillor Shirley<br />

Reynolds, Cabinet<br />

Member for Children,<br />

Young People, Education,<br />

Employment <strong>and</strong> Skills<br />

referred to the news as<br />

"very exciting" for the<br />

area <strong>and</strong> stated it would<br />

provide a "huge boost" to<br />

Telford College's existing<br />

training. The college<br />

currently delivers further <strong>and</strong> higher education courses from its main<br />

site in Wellington.<br />

by Katie Wilson


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79


Mental Health Check!<br />

Check in on YOU: Prioritise<br />

Your Mental Health This<br />

Autumn<br />

As the seasons change, so can our<br />

moods <strong>and</strong> mental states. Whether<br />

it's the shorter days of winter or the<br />

busy social calendar of summer, each<br />

season can bring its own set of<br />

challenges when it comes to our<br />

mental health.<br />

Checking in on your own mental<br />

health regularly is crucial so make<br />

this autumn you take the time to<br />

reflect <strong>and</strong> check in on YOU.<br />

It’s vital to recognise these changes <strong>and</strong> take the time to<br />

consider where they might be coming from. Don’t fall<br />

guilty of just passing them off as being ‘tired’ or it being<br />

‘just a part of life’ <strong>and</strong> start to prioritise your own<br />

wellbeing as much as anything else.<br />

The Importance of Regular Mental Health Check-<br />

Ins<br />

Checking in on your mental health should be as routine<br />

as your physical health check-ups. Regular mental<br />

health check-ins help you become more aware of your<br />

emotional state <strong>and</strong> identify any signs of stress, anxiety,<br />

or depression before they escalate.<br />

This proactive approach allows you to take early steps to<br />

address any issues, preventing them from becoming<br />

overwhelming. Mental health check-ins can also help<br />

you recognise patterns or triggers related to seasonal<br />

changes. By underst<strong>and</strong>ing how different times of the<br />

year affect you, you can develop strategies to maintain<br />

balance <strong>and</strong> well-being throughout the year.<br />

How to Check in on Your Mental Health<br />

1. Pause <strong>and</strong> Reflect - Take a few moments each day to<br />

reflect on how you're feeling. Are you more tired or<br />

irritable than usual? Are you finding no joy in activities<br />

that usually make you happy? Journaling can be a<br />

helpful tool for tracking your mood <strong>and</strong> identifying any<br />

changes.<br />

2. Assess Your Stress Levels - Consider what’s currently<br />

causing you stress. Are there specific situations or<br />

people that are contributing to your anxiety? Identifying<br />

sources of stress is the first step in managing them <strong>and</strong><br />

taking steps to eliminate them.<br />

3. Sleep <strong>and</strong> Energy Levels - Sleep <strong>and</strong> energy levels are<br />

closely linked to our mental health. Notice if you’re<br />

sleeping more or less than usual, or if you’re feeling<br />

unusually fatigued. These could be signs that your<br />

mental health needs attention.<br />

4. Check Your Social Connections - Social isolation can<br />

worsen feelings of depression <strong>and</strong> anxiety. Reflect on<br />

your social interactions – are you connecting with others<br />

as much as you need? Do you feel supported by your<br />

social circle?<br />

The Effect of Seasonal Changes<br />

Seasonal changes can have a profound impact on our<br />

mental health. Many people experience a dip in mood<br />

during the winter months due to the reduced sunlight, a<br />

phenomenon known as Seasonal Affective Disorder<br />

(SAD). Conversely, the pressure to be active <strong>and</strong> social<br />

during the summer can lead to feelings of anxiety or<br />

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Even if you don’t experience significant mood shifts with<br />

the seasons, subtle changes in energy levels, motivation,<br />

<strong>and</strong> overall well-being can occur. These shifts are often<br />

linked to changes in routine, daylight exposure, <strong>and</strong><br />

social expectations, all of which can affect our mental<br />

<strong>and</strong> emotional health.<br />

5. Engage in Self-Care - Make sure you’re engaging in<br />

activities that nourish your mind <strong>and</strong> body. Whether this<br />

includes exercise, meditation, hobbies, or simply taking<br />

time to relax, be sure to set aside time to engage in the<br />

activities that will help your mood <strong>and</strong> wellbeing.<br />

6. Look back on pictures of you from years back – Is<br />

your smile brighter than what it is now? This is a great<br />

way of reflecting on how things have been before <strong>and</strong><br />

comparing it to where you are now. Were you happier<br />

years back when things were different? Or have you<br />

come a long way from where you were some time ago?<br />

7. Seek Professional Help if Needed - If you notice<br />

persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or any other<br />

mental health concerns don’t hesitate to seek<br />

professional help. A mental health professional can<br />

provide support <strong>and</strong> strategies to help you manage your<br />

symptoms.<br />

By Katie Wilson


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Yes guys its Dribbz, With all the<br />

coverage of the Olympics I thought it<br />

was only right to catch up with<br />

Telford's own gold medalists<br />

paralympic Micky Bushell MBE, to find<br />

out how life has been for him since<br />

winning his Gold medal on home soil<br />

back in 2012.<br />

Firstly welcome to The Scene Magazine, for<br />

the readers that may not of heard of you<br />

please could you introduce yourself <strong>and</strong><br />

explain a little about you <strong>and</strong> your<br />

connection with Telford?<br />

My names Micky Bushell MBE, I am a<br />

Paralympic world chair racer from Telford,<br />

I've lived here all my life <strong>and</strong> I've been<br />

racing now for 23 years <strong>and</strong> won various<br />

medals gaining silver <strong>and</strong> gold in the<br />

Paralympics. I've won Five world champs<br />

<strong>and</strong> five European medals of all three silver<br />

bronze <strong>and</strong> gold. Outside of my sporting<br />

background I'm a personal trainer <strong>and</strong> a<br />

financial advisor.<br />

Winning a gold medal in the 2012<br />

Paralympics must of been an absolute<br />

honour for you. Can you describe the feeling<br />

when you won?<br />

My first thought after winning the gold was<br />

relief <strong>and</strong> a rush of emotions, its so hard to<br />

put it into words what had happened because<br />

it all happened so quickly, But it really was<br />

amazing.<br />

You not only won gold but also set a<br />

Paralympic record of 14.75 seconds, more<br />

than 0.3sec ahead of China's Zhao Yufei <strong>and</strong><br />

Yu Shiran, the defending champion. How did<br />

that feel ?<br />

I was ahead of the silver <strong>and</strong> bronze places<br />

by quite some margin for the hundred which<br />

felt amazing. Training was going really well<br />

that year <strong>and</strong> we all knew I was going to<br />

perform well.<br />

So for me it was just another day. I am<br />

always competing with myself, its nice to be<br />

in front of everyone else but I'm always<br />

trying to break my own goals.<br />

How did Telford celebrate you winning your<br />

Olympic gold medal?<br />

Telford celebrated the win by giving me some<br />

great publicity, So many people<br />

congratulated me when I returned, even the<br />

local college congratulated me <strong>and</strong> put on a<br />

meet <strong>and</strong> greet event for the public to attend.<br />

This was really valuable for the students <strong>and</strong><br />

gave them something positive to do. They<br />

also helped to fund some courses for me to<br />

attend which was a really kind thing of them<br />

to do. Just genuinely the public were<br />

fantastic throughout. Shropshire even had its<br />

first golden post box to commemorate the<br />

medal being won <strong>and</strong> a commemorative<br />

stamp went into the postal circuit too.<br />

Since your victorious win in 2012 what else<br />

have you been doing for the sport of<br />

Wheelchair sprinting within the community?<br />

Following on from 2012, I am now coaching<br />

various athlete's in wheelchair. In my<br />

community role we've opened up an<br />

academy for wheelchair users, not<br />

specifically athlete's but wheelchair users.<br />

My aim is to teach them how to be more<br />

independent, how to use their chairs better<br />

<strong>and</strong> how to be fitter healthier <strong>and</strong> stronger.<br />

Basically the aim is for them to live the best<br />

possible life they can.<br />

For any of our readers who may have a<br />

disability who are looking to get active, What<br />

would be your advice ?<br />

Set your target small <strong>and</strong> build on this daily,<br />

even if its 30 seconds its so much better<br />

than nothing at all. Stay persistent with it <strong>and</strong><br />

strive each day. You will feel tired <strong>and</strong> it will<br />

hurt but if you stay with it over time there<br />

will be a huge change for you.<br />

What were some of your highs <strong>and</strong> low<br />

points of competing <strong>and</strong> being involved in<br />

the Olympics?<br />

My high was certainly 2012, I mean you cant<br />

get much better than that, Winning a gold on<br />

home soil I think that tops it. My low was<br />

probably when I got Sepsis in 2015. To tell<br />

the truth I was roughly 12 hours from death,<br />

I was very ill, in <strong>and</strong> out of hospitals for 7<br />

months or more. It really hit me hard even<br />

when I recovered physically, mentally it took<br />

me just over a year <strong>and</strong> a half or longer to<br />

get over it <strong>and</strong> get my head straight. That's<br />

when I felt the most disabled.<br />

In 2023 you set a new target for yourself to<br />

climb the Wrekin a hill of 1,334ft on your<br />

h<strong>and</strong>s which took you more than five hours<br />

<strong>and</strong> seen you raise £3,500.<br />

How did that feel to complete this target <strong>and</strong><br />

how difficult was the climb?<br />

Climbing the Wrekin was definitely a huge<br />

challenge, something that I actually<br />

underestimated. Purely because I didn't think<br />

it would be quite as hard as it was. Truth be<br />

told it was one of the hardest things I've ever<br />

had to do. Walking on my h<strong>and</strong>s up hill was<br />

a challenge, but the cause of the challenge<br />

was amazing <strong>and</strong> we raised £7,500 which<br />

was incredible.<br />

Within this <strong>magazine</strong> we like to highlight<br />

men's mental health <strong>and</strong> I was wondering if<br />

you have suffered with your own mental<br />

health whilst living with your disability <strong>and</strong><br />

how you have overcome this?<br />

I'll refer back to having Sepsis, this was<br />

mentally one of my lowest points <strong>and</strong> for the<br />

first time I felt like I was actually disabled.<br />

Quite often I live my life in my head as an<br />

able bodied person so the Sepsis really took<br />

me down to an incredibly low place. However<br />

the support around me consisted of my<br />

team, my family <strong>and</strong> my great coach. A big<br />

part of my recovery was actually doing<br />

something again, heading back to the gym,<br />

getting fit <strong>and</strong> getting strong. Aiming for a<br />

goal also helped me to rise out of the pit I<br />

was in. Having support was the biggest<br />

dominator to my recovery.<br />

Finally do you have any words of advice<br />

about life for any of our readers who may<br />

need some inspiration?<br />

The biggest piece of advice I can give, no<br />

matter what it is, jump into it full with a full<br />

heart. Because no matter how scary it may<br />

seem, it may just pay off <strong>and</strong> be really worth<br />

it.<br />

if it fails, you've learned something. So<br />

nothing is a wasted moment. If you live life<br />

like that, you really can strike forward <strong>and</strong><br />

grab any opportunity that comes your way.<br />

Micky Bushell MBE<br />

Interview by Dribbz (Editor)


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Politics...<br />

General Election: Labour’s<br />

Promises to The UK<br />

Following on from the UK general<br />

election, the Labour party under the<br />

leadership of Keir Starmer, have set<br />

out a range of promises <strong>and</strong> policies<br />

aimed at addressing the country's<br />

pressing issues.<br />

With a strong focus on economic<br />

recovery, social justice, <strong>and</strong><br />

environmental sustainability,<br />

Labour’s pledges reflect their<br />

ambition to reshape Britain’s future<br />

<strong>and</strong> make big adjustments over the<br />

coming years.<br />

corporations introduced by the Conservative<br />

government to fund public services <strong>and</strong> reduce the<br />

national debt.<br />

Public Services<br />

The Labour Party has placed a strong emphasis on<br />

revitalising public services, which have been under<br />

strain due to years of austerity measures <strong>and</strong> the<br />

impacts of the Coronavirus p<strong>and</strong>emic. In healthcare,<br />

Labour promises to address the staffing crisis in the<br />

NHS by recruiting thous<strong>and</strong>s of new doctors, nurses,<br />

<strong>and</strong> other health professionals. They also plan to cut<br />

waiting times by increasing funding for the NHS <strong>and</strong><br />

increasing access to mental health services.<br />

In education, Labour is committed to reducing class<br />

sizes, providing free school meals to all primary school<br />

children, <strong>and</strong> improving access to higher education by<br />

removing tuition fees. These policies aim to create a<br />

more equitable education system, where all children <strong>and</strong><br />

young adults have the opportunity to succeed regardless<br />

of their background.<br />

Housing <strong>and</strong> Social Issues<br />

Addressing the UK’s housing crisis is another high<br />

priority for the Labour party. They have pledged to build<br />

at least 150,000 new social <strong>and</strong> affordable homes each<br />

year to tackle the shortage of affordable housing. They<br />

also promise to introduce stronger tenant protections,<br />

including longer-term tenancies <strong>and</strong> rent controls in<br />

areas with high rental costs.<br />

Labour’s social justice agenda extends to reforming the<br />

welfare system. They have promised to scrap the<br />

controversial Universal Credit system <strong>and</strong> replace it with<br />

a fairer alternative that ensures adequate support for<br />

those in need. The party also aims to address the root<br />

causes of poverty by increasing child benefits <strong>and</strong><br />

investing in job training programs to help people get<br />

back into work.<br />

Climate <strong>and</strong> Sustainability<br />

Economic Growth<br />

A central pillar of Labour’s platform is its commitment<br />

to economic growth that benefits everyone within the<br />

UK.<br />

The party has promised to implement a “green<br />

prosperity plan,” aiming to create over a million jobs in<br />

the green energy sector. This initiative is part of a<br />

broader strategy to transition the UK towards a net-zero<br />

economy by 2030. The plan includes substantial<br />

investments in renewable energy, green technologies,<br />

<strong>and</strong> infrastructure projects that will not only address<br />

climate change but also stimulate economic activity.<br />

Labour also aims to tackle inequality through its<br />

economic policies. They have pledged to raise the<br />

minimum wage to a level that reflects the real cost of<br />

living, ensuring that work pays fairly for what it asks<br />

from its employees. Additionally, the party has promised<br />

to reverse tax cuts for the wealthiest individuals <strong>and</strong><br />

Labour’s environmental commitments are among its<br />

most ambitious promises. The party has set a target for<br />

the UK to become a net-zero carbon economy by 2030,<br />

far ahead of the government’s 2050 target. This will be<br />

achieved through massive investments in renewable<br />

energy, energy efficiency measures, <strong>and</strong> sustainable<br />

transport systems.<br />

Labour also plans to introduce a Clean Air Act to reduce<br />

air pollution <strong>and</strong> protect public health. This includes<br />

tougher<br />

regulations on<br />

vehicle emissions,<br />

as well as<br />

investments in<br />

public<br />

transportation to<br />

reduce car<br />

dependency.<br />

By Katie Wilson


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Home & Garden<br />

Top Reasons Why Autumn<br />

is the Best Time to Enjoy<br />

Your Garden<br />

Autumn is a season of transformation<br />

where the heat of summer gives way<br />

to crisp, cool air, <strong>and</strong> gardens take on<br />

a new, vibrant lease of life.<br />

For many gardeners, this is the most<br />

enjoyable time of the year to engage<br />

with their outdoor spaces for a<br />

multitude of reasons. Whether you’re<br />

an avid enthusiast or a casual<br />

gardener, autumn offers a unique<br />

opportunity to savour in the beauty,<br />

productivity, <strong>and</strong> tranquillity of your<br />

garden.<br />

their autumn state, gardens are transformed into<br />

canvases of gold, red, orange, <strong>and</strong> purple.<br />

The fiery hues of maple <strong>and</strong> oak combined with the rich<br />

tones of asters, chrysanthemums, <strong>and</strong> ornamental<br />

grasses create a stunning backdrop for all of autumn’s<br />

events.<br />

Unlike the delicate pastels of spring or the lush greens<br />

of summer, autumn’s palette is bold <strong>and</strong> striking,<br />

offering a unique <strong>and</strong> dramatic shift in your garden.<br />

Planning for the Future<br />

Autumn is not just a time to enjoy the present; it’s also<br />

an ideal season for setting the stage for future garden<br />

success.<br />

Many plants benefit from being planted in the autumn<br />

when the soil is still warm enough to encourage root<br />

growth, yet the air is cool enough to reduce shock. Trees,<br />

shrubs, <strong>and</strong> bushes planted in autumn have a head start<br />

on establishing themselves before winter, leading to<br />

more robust growth in the spring.<br />

Additionally, this is the time to plant spring-blooming<br />

bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, <strong>and</strong> crocuses, ensuring a<br />

colourful display once the weather warms up again.<br />

Comfortable Weather<br />

The cooler temperatures of autumn can make garden<br />

activities much more pleasant <strong>and</strong> enjoyable. The<br />

scorching heat of summer, where even minimal activity<br />

can lead to fatigue, gives way to mild, breezy days<br />

perfect for spending time outdoors.<br />

Whether you’re weeding, planting bulbs for next spring,<br />

or simply sitting back with a warm drink to admire your<br />

h<strong>and</strong>iwork, the comfortable weather of autumn is the<br />

perfect cosy retreat from the busyness of everyday life.<br />

Harvesting <strong>and</strong> Preparing<br />

For those that grow vegetables, autumn is a time of<br />

harvest. Root vegetables like carrots, <strong>and</strong> potatoes are<br />

ready to be unearthed, while late-season crops such as<br />

pumpkins <strong>and</strong> apples are at their peak.<br />

The harvest season provides a satisfying conclusion to<br />

the year’s hard work, allowing gardeners to enjoy the<br />

literal fruits (<strong>and</strong> vegetables) of their labour. Autumn is<br />

also a time to prepare the garden for winter. Pruning,<br />

mulching, <strong>and</strong> composting are essential tasks that<br />

protect plants <strong>and</strong> soil during the cold months, ensuring<br />

a healthy garden come spring.<br />

A Time for Reflection<br />

The Colours<br />

Autumn arrives with a breath-taking display of warm<br />

<strong>and</strong> vibrant colours. As trees <strong>and</strong> shrubs transition into<br />

Autumn is also a season of reflection <strong>and</strong> gratitude. The<br />

slower pace <strong>and</strong> the act of putting the garden to bed<br />

offer a moment to look back on the growing season <strong>and</strong><br />

appreciate the cycles of nature. It’s a time to celebrate<br />

successes, learn from challenges, <strong>and</strong> plan for the<br />

future.<br />

By Katie Wilson


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Home & Garden<br />

Making The Most of<br />

Autumn from the Comfort<br />

of Home: 8 Cosy Activities<br />

for this Season<br />

As the crisp air <strong>and</strong> vibrant foliage of<br />

autumn settle in, there's no better<br />

time to embrace the warmth <strong>and</strong><br />

comfort of home.<br />

Whether you're looking for<br />

relaxation, creativity, or connection,<br />

this season offers endless<br />

opportunities to enjoy the cosiness of<br />

indoors. Here are eight activities that<br />

will help you to make the most of<br />

autumn without leaving your haven.<br />

Explore Your Culinary Skills with Autumn<br />

Recipes<br />

The flavours of autumn are just as rich <strong>and</strong> inviting as<br />

the colours outside making it an ideal time to<br />

experiment in the kitchen.<br />

Try your h<strong>and</strong> at making hearty soups, baking bread, or<br />

crafting homemade apple cider. If you're feeling<br />

ambitious, consider making your own pumpkin pie or<br />

cinnamon rolls from scratch.<br />

Cooking with seasonal ingredients not only enhances the<br />

flavours but also brings a comforting sense of tradition<br />

to your home.<br />

Engage in Autumn Themed Crafts<br />

Channel your creativity into crafting projects that<br />

celebrate the beauty of autumn. Whether it’s creating a<br />

DIY wreath from fallen leaves, painting pumpkins, or<br />

making scented c<strong>and</strong>les, these activities are a<br />

therapeutic way to express your seasonal spirit.<br />

Crafting also offers a great opportunity to create<br />

personalised gifts for friends <strong>and</strong> family as the holiday<br />

season approaches.<br />

Indulge in a Hot Drink Ritual<br />

One of the simplest pleasures of autumn is enjoying a<br />

delicious hot drink. Whether it’s coffee, tea, or hot<br />

chocolate, take time each day to savour the ritual.<br />

Experiment with different recipes, try making a spiced<br />

chai latte or a decadent hot chocolate with marshmallow<br />

or consider hosting a virtual tea party with friends to<br />

share your latest creations.<br />

Practice Mindful Journaling<br />

Autumn’s introspective nature makes it an ideal time to<br />

start or renew a journaling practice.<br />

Create a Seasonal Reading Area<br />

Transform a quiet corner of your home into a cosy<br />

reading nook complete with soft blankets, plush pillows,<br />

<strong>and</strong> warm lighting.<br />

Choose a selection of books that reflect the autumnal<br />

mood - think mystery novels, classic literature, or heartwarming<br />

stories that compliment the season's reflective<br />

atmosphere. A cup of hot cider or spiced tea adds the<br />

perfect finishing touch to your reading spot.<br />

Host an Autumn Movie Marathon<br />

Autumn is all about comfort making it the perfect<br />

season for a movie marathon. Create a line-up of films<br />

that capture the essence of autumn such as cosy<br />

romantic comedies, nostalgic favourites, or eerie<br />

thrillers that set the tone for Halloween.<br />

Don’t forget to prepare a spread of seasonal snacks like<br />

caramel popcorn, pumpkin-spiced treats, <strong>and</strong> hot cocoa.<br />

Reflect on your goals, experiences, <strong>and</strong> the changes<br />

happening both in nature <strong>and</strong> within yourself.<br />

Journaling can be a powerful way to process emotions<br />

<strong>and</strong> cultivate gratitude, particularly during this season<br />

of transition.<br />

Autumn-Inspired Puzzles or Games<br />

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend an evening,<br />

consider autumn-themed puzzles or board games.<br />

Jigsaw puzzles featuring autumn l<strong>and</strong>scapes or games<br />

that encourage storytelling or creativity can be a fun way<br />

to wind down after a busy day.<br />

Learn a New Skill<br />

Autumn is a time of learning <strong>and</strong> growth. Take up a new<br />

hobby or skill that you can enjoy indoors, such as<br />

knitting, photography, or playing a musical instrument.<br />

Online classes or videos make it easier than ever to<br />

explore new interests without even leaving home.<br />

By Katie Wilson


JC<br />

Garden Services<br />

COVERING ALL YOUR GARDEN NEEDS<br />

TREE SURGEON & LANDSCAPING<br />

Tree Felling, Pruning, Shaping<br />

Fencing, Driveways, Slabbing<br />

Turfing, Artificial Grass<br />

Stump Removal, Hedge Trimming<br />

Reduction Work, Lawn Mowing<br />

Please contact JOSH for a free quote<br />

07825 588284<br />

JCGardenServices@yahoo.com<br />

www.jc-gardenservices.co.uk


Home & Garden<br />

Embracing the Cosy: Top<br />

Tips for Decorating Your<br />

Home in Time for Winter<br />

Now into the cooler months winter<br />

will soon be upon us meaning the<br />

days will grow shorter, the air<br />

crisper, <strong>and</strong> our homes become<br />

sanctuaries from the cold.<br />

Decorating your space for the winter<br />

season isn’t just about adding<br />

warmth - it's about transforming your<br />

home into a cosy retreat where you<br />

can unwind <strong>and</strong> embrace the charm<br />

of the colder months.<br />

Have a read of our top tips on<br />

infusing your home with winter<br />

magic <strong>and</strong> creating a haven that’s<br />

both comfortable <strong>and</strong> stylish.<br />

Don’t forget about the pillows – start adding just a few<br />

velvet or cable-knit covers to your sofa to create a plush,<br />

inviting space.<br />

Create the Atmosphere with Lighting<br />

Winter's short days <strong>and</strong> long nights make lighting an<br />

essential part of home decor. To create a cosy<br />

atmosphere, opt for soft, ambient lighting rather than<br />

harsh overhead lights.<br />

Table lamps with warm-toned bulbs, floor lamps with<br />

dimmers, <strong>and</strong> strategically placed c<strong>and</strong>les can all<br />

contribute to a warm, inviting glow to your home. For a<br />

touch of winter whimsy, consider string lights which can<br />

be draped over a mantle, hung along a window, or even<br />

arranged in a large glass vase for a sparkling effect.<br />

Lighting isn’t just about being functional; it’s a key<br />

element in creating a mood <strong>and</strong> environment that feels<br />

perfect for winter.<br />

Embrace Earthy <strong>and</strong> Jewel Tones<br />

Colour plays a significant role in setting the mood for<br />

winter. This season, earthy tones like deep browns, rich<br />

greens, <strong>and</strong> warm taupe can make your home feel<br />

grounded <strong>and</strong> serene.<br />

Pair these with classy jewel tones like sapphire blues,<br />

emerald greens, <strong>and</strong> ruby reds to add a touch of luxury<br />

<strong>and</strong> vibrancy. These colours can be incorporated<br />

through accent pieces like cushions, curtains, or even a<br />

feature wall.<br />

A jewel-toned velvet armchair or a collection of richtoned<br />

vases can also serve as focal points, drawing the<br />

eye <strong>and</strong> adding a pop of colour to the winter l<strong>and</strong>scape<br />

of your home.<br />

Scent the Season<br />

Finally, don’t forget to engage the senses beyond sight<br />

<strong>and</strong> touch. Scent plays a powerful role in how we<br />

experience a space <strong>and</strong> winter is the perfect time to<br />

incorporate fragrances that evoke warmth <strong>and</strong> comfort.<br />

C<strong>and</strong>les or diffusers in scents like cinnamon, pine,<br />

vanilla, or clove can instantly make your home feel more<br />

inviting. Simmering a pot of water with orange slices,<br />

cinnamon sticks, <strong>and</strong> cloves on the stove is another way<br />

to infuse your home with a gorgeous, cosy, winter<br />

aroma.<br />

Layered Textures for Warmth<br />

One of the easiest ways to make your home feel warmer<br />

is by adding layers of textures. Start with soft, thick<br />

fabrics like wool, faux fur, <strong>and</strong> chunky knits.<br />

Swap out lighter summer throws for heavier blankets<br />

that invite you to curl up on the sofa with a good book.<br />

Consider draping a faux fur throw over the back of an<br />

armchair or layering rugs on your floors to add depth<br />

<strong>and</strong> warmth.<br />

By Katie Wilson


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Home & Garden<br />

Preparing Your Garden for<br />

Winter: Essential Tips for a<br />

Healthy Spring<br />

As the vibrant days of summer<br />

disappear <strong>and</strong> we welcome the cooler<br />

tones of autumn, gardeners must<br />

shift their focus from nurturing<br />

plants to preparing their gardens for<br />

the cold months ahead.<br />

Winterising your garden not only<br />

protects your plants <strong>and</strong> soil from<br />

harsh conditions but also sets the<br />

stage for a flourishing spring. Here’s<br />

some top tips to help you get your<br />

garden ready for the next season.<br />

insulates the soil, prevents erosion, <strong>and</strong> reduces weed<br />

growth.<br />

Clear Out Dead Plants<br />

Once you've harvested, it's time to clear out the dead<br />

plants from summer. Removing dead or diseased plants<br />

is crucial to preventing the spread of pests <strong>and</strong> diseases<br />

over the winter.<br />

Compost healthy plant material but be careful not to<br />

compost any diseased plants, as this could introduce<br />

pathogens to your soil next season. This clean-up also<br />

gives you a blank slate to work with when spring arrives.<br />

Prune Bushes <strong>and</strong> Trees<br />

Perennial plants, which return year after year will also<br />

need some care before winter sets in. Be sure to cut back<br />

any dead or diseased stems <strong>and</strong> remove dead flowers.<br />

However, some plants benefit from leaving their foliage<br />

intact over winter as it provides natural insulation <strong>and</strong><br />

can catch snow which adds moisture to the soil. Trees<br />

<strong>and</strong> shrubs can also be pruned during this time, focusing<br />

on removing any dead or crossing branches to prevent<br />

any damage over the harsher months.<br />

Prepare your Equipment<br />

Winter is an excellent time to clean <strong>and</strong> store your<br />

gardening tools properly. Sharpen your pruners, clean<br />

shovels, <strong>and</strong> coat metal surfaces with oil to prevent rust<br />

<strong>and</strong> store hoses <strong>and</strong> other equipment in a dry, sheltered<br />

place to protect them from freezing temperatures.<br />

Proper maintenance of your tools extends their lifespan<br />

<strong>and</strong> ensures they’re ready to use when spring rolls<br />

around.<br />

Protect Delicate Plants<br />

Some plants may need extra protection to survive<br />

winter's chill so consider bringing potted plants indoors<br />

or to a sheltered location.<br />

Harvest <strong>and</strong> Preserve<br />

The first step in preparing your garden for winter is to<br />

harvest any remaining fruits, vegetables, <strong>and</strong> herbs.<br />

Many plants, especially root vegetables like carrots can<br />

tolerate a light frost but it's wise to gather your produce<br />

before the ground freezes solid.<br />

Herbs like basil, mint, <strong>and</strong> parsley should be harvested<br />

<strong>and</strong> preserved by drying or freezing, so you can enjoy<br />

their flavours throughout the winter.<br />

For plants that remain outside, use cold frames or<br />

burlap wraps to shield them from frost <strong>and</strong> wind.<br />

Additionally, adding an extra layer of mulch around the<br />

base of delicate plants can help insulate their roots from<br />

the cold.<br />

Start Planning for Next Year<br />

Finally, autumn is an ideal time to plan your garden for<br />

the coming year. Reflect on what worked well <strong>and</strong> what<br />

didn’t in the past<br />

season.<br />

Protect the Soil<br />

Your garden's soil needs protection during the winter in<br />

order to maintain its fertility for the upcoming seasons.<br />

Begin by testing the soil to determine if it requires any<br />

amendments like lime or compost.<br />

After amending, cover the soil with mulch or a cover<br />

crop. Mulching with straw, leaves, or wood chips<br />

Consider crop<br />

rotation to manage<br />

soil health <strong>and</strong> pest<br />

control <strong>and</strong> start<br />

researching new<br />

plants or<br />

techniques you<br />

want to try.<br />

By Katie Wilson


Peterson Funeral Directors<br />

Pearl Service<br />

Hearse Only<br />

Just £2,400<br />

Includes all third-party fees for all local<br />

crematoriums, doctors’ fees,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Minister or Celebrant fees<br />

Ruby Service<br />

Hearse & 1 Limousine<br />

Just £2,650<br />

Includes all third-party fees for all local<br />

crematoriums, doctors’ fees,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Minister or Celebrant fees<br />

Diamond Service<br />

Hearse & 2 Limousines<br />

Just £2,900<br />

Includes all third-party fees for all local<br />

crematoriums, doctors’ fees,<br />

<strong>and</strong> Minister or Celebrant fees<br />

Complete Inclusive Package<br />

Sapphire Service<br />

Horse Drawn Carriage, Hearse &<br />

1 Limousine - Just £3,400<br />

Includes all 3rd party & professional fees<br />

Cannock area please ring 01543 820387<br />

Wolverhampton Funeral Home 01902 478174<br />

Walsall Funeral Home 01922 517693<br />

E: petersonfunerals@hotmail.com<br />

W: www.petersonfuneraldirectors.co.uk<br />

F: petersonfuneralservices


Home & Garden<br />

Garden makeover with<br />

Mark Pumford<br />

STONEWORK & LANDSCAPING<br />

Transforming gardens for over 30 years is<br />

Mark Pumford Stonework & L<strong>and</strong>scaping,<br />

<strong>Oswestry</strong> (MPS). Offering a professional,<br />

quality service from start to finish, their<br />

services include full l<strong>and</strong>scaping, water<br />

features, all stone work, decking, fencing,<br />

patios, repairs <strong>and</strong> repointing.<br />

Specialising in Stonework such as miniature stone<br />

bridges, dry stone walling, repointing of stone houses<br />

<strong>and</strong> all general stone work. They also offer modern day<br />

stone cladding which is a great way of easily<br />

transforming tired <strong>and</strong> dated brickwork.<br />

If you are looking for a complete garden make over for<br />

2018, then look no further than MPS. Working with you<br />

to help design <strong>and</strong> plan your perfect garden, they will<br />

clear your garden of all unwanted materials <strong>and</strong> create<br />

your dream garden, no matter on shape or size. From<br />

new turf, new patio, Dremel gravel, supplying <strong>and</strong><br />

planting of borders or even a spectacular water feature,<br />

MPS have got it covered. Some people know exactly<br />

what they want however others don’t, this is where<br />

MPS’s expert advice can guide you through the process<br />

giving you a range of options to choose from.<br />

MPS’s services don’t stop there, bespoke fencing,<br />

decking <strong>and</strong> carports are also on offer. Using top quality<br />

products such as Hercules for decking, which is available<br />

in many colours <strong>and</strong> features natural wood <strong>and</strong> a unique<br />

non-repeating colour variation within each board,<br />

ensuring a beautiful finish every time. Carports can be a<br />

great addition to your home, helping to prevent frost on your car in the winter<br />

months <strong>and</strong> keeping you dry from the rain when getting in <strong>and</strong> out of your car, they<br />

also allow you to use garage space for other things!<br />

Mark Pumford Stonework & L<strong>and</strong>scaping not only offer a wealth of experience but<br />

also a friendly <strong>and</strong> professional service at competitive prices. Free <strong>and</strong> honest<br />

advice <strong>and</strong> quotations are offered <strong>and</strong> a wide range of quality services <strong>and</strong><br />

l<strong>and</strong>scaping available to suit your budget, no job is too big or small for Mark<br />

<strong>and</strong> his team!<br />

MPS cover areas such as ELLESMERE, OSWESTRY, SHREWSBURY,<br />

WHITCHURCH, WREXHAM <strong>and</strong> further, distance is not an object!<br />

Contact Mark Pumford on 01691 671849 or<br />

07815 647421 for a free <strong>and</strong> detailed quotation<br />

@ Mark Pumford L<strong>and</strong>scape Gardener <strong>and</strong> Stone Walling<br />

Scene Local Media 01952 780058


MARK<br />

PUMFORD<br />

STONEWORK & LANDSCAPING<br />

“FOR A PROFESSIONAL<br />

QUALITY SERV ICE<br />

FROM START TO FINISH”<br />

BASED IN<br />

OSWESTRY AND<br />

COVERING THE<br />

SHROPSHIRE AREA<br />

ALL ASPECTS OF<br />

STONEWORK &<br />

LANDSCAPING<br />

UNDERTAKEN<br />

TRANSFORMING<br />

GARDENS FOR<br />

OVER 30 YEARS!<br />

MPS<br />

STONEWORKS<br />

DRY STONE WALLING WATER & STONE FEATURE’S<br />

STONE REPAIRS REPOINTING SMALL STONE BRIDGES<br />

DECKING FENCING PATIOS<br />

07815 647421 or 01691 671849


1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8<br />

9<br />

10 11<br />

12<br />

13 14 15<br />

16 17 18<br />

19<br />

20 21 22 23 24<br />

25<br />

26 27 28<br />

29 30<br />

31<br />

32<br />

Clues Across<br />

1. Stubborn (9)<br />

9. Join the military (6)<br />

10. Den (4)<br />

11. Animal flesh (4)<br />

12. Water boiler (6)<br />

13. Grave (7)<br />

16. Stepped (4)<br />

17. River mud (4)<br />

18. Transparent resin<br />

(3)<br />

20. Light brown (3)<br />

21. Exhort (4)<br />

23. Scottish hillside (4)<br />

25. Soft-soled shoe (7)<br />

26. Prances (6)<br />

29. Inflatable mattress<br />

(4)<br />

30. Distant (4)<br />

31. Flower part (6)<br />

32. Demoted (9)<br />

Clues Down<br />

2. Mug (6)<br />

3. Muddy (6)<br />

4. Rain cloud (6)<br />

5. Wood (4)<br />

6. Alliance (7)<br />

7. Food regime (4)<br />

8. Litter for the injured<br />

(9)<br />

13. National leader (9)<br />

14. Dappled horse (4)<br />

15. Vocalises (5)<br />

18. Skulk (4)<br />

19. Cattle thief (7)<br />

22. Extra performance<br />

(6)<br />

23. Yellow fruit (6)<br />

24. Charge with air (6)<br />

27. Famous hotel (4)<br />

28. Beget (4)<br />

Solutions: Across — 1 Obstinate; 9 Enlist; 10 Lair; 11 Meat; 12 Kettle; 13 Serious; 16 Trod; 17 Silt; 18 Lac; 20 Tan; 21 Urge; 23 Brae; 25 Sneaker; 26<br />

Struts; 29 Lilo; 30 Afar; 31 Anther; 32 Relegated.<br />

Down — 2 Beaker; 3 Turbid; 4 Nimbus; 5 Teak; 6 Entente; 7 Diet; 8 Stretcher; 13 Statesman; 14 Roan; 15 Sings; 18 Lurk; 19 Rustler; 22 Encore; 23<br />

Banana; 24 Aerate; 27 Ritz; 28 Sire.<br />

98


You stay<br />

in the<br />

warm,<br />

we’ll sort<br />

out the<br />

lawn<br />

Our lawn care is year-round. We seed them, feed them, even<br />

control the weeds. So, you don’t have to.<br />

And, be it maintenance or repair, we do the heavy lifting.<br />

Like Aeration <strong>and</strong> Scari 昀 cation, releasing compacted soil <strong>and</strong><br />

reducing thatch (both causes of moss) to allow moisture, air<br />

<strong>and</strong> nutrients down to the roots.<br />

Book your FREE lawn consultation today<br />

Shropshire branch<br />

Call 01630 655888<br />

Email shropshire@greenthumb.co.uk<br />

<strong>Oswestry</strong> branch<br />

Call 01691 655111<br />

Email oswestry@greenthumb.co.uk


Join us for<br />

our next<br />

events<br />

Oxbow Manor care home,<br />

<strong>Shrewsbury</strong><br />

Veterans breakfast club<br />

Third Wednesday of each month, from 10.30am<br />

Join us for a delicious breakfast in our café, meet<br />

members of your local community who have served, or<br />

are serving, in the Armed Forces <strong>and</strong> learn more about<br />

how the team at Oxbow Manor could support you.<br />

Carers café<br />

Last Wednesday of each month, 2pm - 4pm<br />

Join us at Oxbow Manor for our carers café! Enjoy<br />

coffee <strong>and</strong> cake whilst gaining much-needed support<br />

from our friendly team <strong>and</strong> meeting like-minded<br />

members of the community.<br />

We work closely with the Dementia Link Team <strong>and</strong><br />

Admiral Nurses, who are always on-h<strong>and</strong> to offer<br />

advice <strong>and</strong> support on caring for an older loved one.<br />

Rated<br />

9.9<br />

out of 10 on<br />

carehome.co.uk<br />

Trusted to care<br />

To attend please call<br />

01743 598 325 or email<br />

ann.rose@careuk.com

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