Welsh Country Nov Dec 17

Welsh CountryNov-Dec 2017 • Issue 79 • £2.95
Your Countryside Magazine for Wales

Gardening Pictorial Food &
Wales Drink
Nothing To Directory
Wear?

PLUS: WELSH CONNECTIONS • PUZZLES • BOOKSHELF •
FISHING • ARTS & CRAFTS • PAMPER • MUSIC • WALKING

welshcountry.co.uk

Bob Jones - Prytherch & Co.
Chartered Surveyors, Estate Agents, Auctioneers & Valuers

50 Rhosmaen Street Professionals in Land & Property
Llandeilo

Carmarthenshire
SA19 6HA E-mail: [email protected] 01558 822468
Web: www.bjpco.com

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• An Excellent Opportunity arises to • A Choice Small Farm & Private • Super Country Holding of 24 Acres or
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Front Cover Image: CONTE
Black Mountain Gold - www.blackmountaingold.org
Countryside Eat, Drink & Sleep
Address: Aberbanc, Llandysul, Ceredigion, SA44 5NP
Tel: 01559 372010 6 WELSH CONNECTIONS – Graham 20 BEST OF WELSH & BORDERS
E-mail: [email protected] Watkins tells us about the Cockle Women FOOD GUIDE – Please use our listing to
Website: welshcountry.co.uk of Penclawdd. source the best food and drink in Wales
and the Borders.
To e-mail a member of staff: 9 FISHING – Tony Rees, like many
use first [email protected] anglers, is already saying that it’s not 26 WELSH HOSPITALITY – Building
long to go until the start of the Trout the link between Welsh Food and Drink
Editor Season! with tourism.
Kath Rhodes
Out & About 29 WHERE TO EAT – Fabulous food,
Commercial Manager much of it local, in our selection of the
Ian Mole 10 GWILI RAILWAY – was treated to a best restaurants, bistros, inns and pubs.
VIP visit by Mrs Marion Thomas.
Artistic Designer 30 FOOD LARDER – Updates from our
Zoe Gladwin 11 STORIES IN STONE – Geoff Best Of Welsh & Border producers.
Brookes tells the tragic tale of what
Illustrators happened to The Maja. 32 WELSH KITCHEN – Four
Zoe Gladwin, Richard Stockton, Charlotte Wood suggestions to help you solve your foodie
14 WALKING WALES – Tom Hutton dilemmas: Potato & Leek Soup with
Regular Columnists/Photographers climbs Pen y Garn, the 2nd highest of the Chives, Healthy Vegan Stir Fry, Chicken
Geoff Brookes, Ian Charlesworth, Cwmdeudwr hills, standing high above Caesar Salad Cups and BerryWorld
Christine Chalkin, Penny Davies, Zoe Gladwin, the divide between the Wye Valley and Vegan Blackberry & Chocolate Cupcakes.
Tom Hutton, Anthony Rees MBE, Richard Stockton Cwm Rheidol.
56 STAY AWHILE – If you can escape
Additional Writers/Photographers 18 NEWSROUND – A snapshot of for a break, do try one of our super
Scott Artus, Graham Watkins, Martin Perry, what’s happening around Wales. places
Thomas Winstone
C M
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14

TENTS 38 Issue 79 Nov - Dec 17
Croeso – Welcome
Lifestyle 61 GARDENING – Penny Davies from
the National Gardening Scheme looks I’m really not sure quite where this year has gone
34 PARSON & THE PUBLICAN – head at the late Autumn Garden. as I faced the stark reality of having two more
to Hay on Wye for a spot of Christmas issues to complete before the Christmas break.
shopping. 66 HOROSCOPES – Christine Chalklin One of the problems of a bi-monthly is our deadline
gives her forecast for November & dates are so early. I start planning our Christmas
38 PICTORIAL WALES – Thomas December issue in July and of course not even the London
Winstone shares a selection of his companies I deal with for our Pamper pages are
wonderful photographs with us. 67 NOTHING TO WEAR? – There’s ready for Christmas that early. But I’m pleased
clothing temptation and gift suggestions that in Pamper this issue I’ve got two great Welsh
42 ARTS – Check out the talented artists from: Chatham, Cyberjammies, Hanwag companies heading my Christmas gift idea round-
we are working with for that perfect and Weird Fish. up. The first is based near Newport, Pembrokeshire,
Christmas present. Cwtch Body & Sole that produce candles, body
Plus.... scrubs and reed diffusers which are gorgeous. Then
46 PAMPER – It’s treat time with lots of there’s Natures Helpers who are on the outskirts
gift ideas for Christmas. 64 WELSH COUNTRY MARKETPLACE of Cardiff and sell a range of natural cosmetic
products, all handmade from scratch in small
53 POETRY – Martin Perry’s poem, Grace batches, using natural oils, butters, their own honey
Williams, with a beautiful illustration by and beeswax. I love being able to highlight two
Zoe Gladwin. super Welsh companies, so please check out our
Christmas Gift Ideas pages starting on Page 46.
54 GRUMPY OLD GEEZER – rages
over the rural programme. For those that are difficult to buy for and we all
have those in our friends and families don’t we?
54 MUSIC – Five varied CDs for you to Turn to Pages 42 - 44 and check out our artists
enjoy. and craft makers for those unusual ideas that can
make the perfect present. You’ll not be surprised
55 BOOKSHELF – Our book choices this my next suggestion has to be the gift of Welsh
issue. food and drink. Our superb artisan producers with
us on our ‘Best Of Welsh & Borders’ listing, plus
Welsh Country many will be local Christmas fairs across Wales, or
Welsh Country is produced and published in Wales. check out their websites and see what gift packs are
An independent lifestyle magazine, that is not funded by the on offer. I’m really grateful for your support of our
Welsh Government and is available throughout Wales and advertisers and want people to buy locally because
I know that spend will stay in Wales and help our
on subscription. Welsh economy grow. Now this really is my final
suggestion, use our ‘Where To Eat’ and ‘Stay Awhile’
KEEP UP-TO-DATE pages to treat someone to a delightful dinner or
WITH NEWS AND lunch or perhaps a welcome weekend break. Most
EVENTS ONLINE have gift vouchers available, if not just talk to them,
I think that’s a great idea and is a gift you can look
www.welshcountry.co.uk forward to when the stress of the festive season is
over.

To close I do want to say a massive thank you,
not just to Zoe our talented in-house designer, but to
our writers, illustrators and photographers who send
me such quality work so that Welsh Country, the
only pan Wales magazine, continues to be a first-
class publication that we are immensely proud of.
Last, but not least, are our loyal readers who have
supported us, many of them since our first issue,
many thanks.

Until next time……….

KaKtahthRRhohdoedse,sE, Edidtoitror
[email protected]

The Cockle Women

of Penclawdd

It was early, before the sun’s warming rays were clean and safe to eat. The cockle women were a tough breed
touched the land. A group of women waited with calloused hands; they had to be to survive. ‘The women have
with their donkeys for the tide to turn. Their webbed feet and the men quarrel with boathooks,’ wrote Dylan
feet were bare. Their clothes shabby and Thomas. He was writing about Laugharne but the same could be
worn. They followed the receding water out across the estuary, at said of Penclawdd.
first in single file, past the deep channels of treacherous running
water, and then spreading out, each to their own bed. The donkeys Saturday was different, it was market day. The cockle women
followed without fuss, they knew the way and had trod the path gathered early. Each had a heavy basket, filled with cockles,
a hundred times before. Some women walked ten miles to their balanced on their head and boots tied around their neck. A cap
cockle beds as their mothers had done before them. From the or folded towel protected their heads. They walked barefoot to
shore, they looked like tiny dots sprinkled across the sand. Then, save shoe leather, until they reached Olchfa (washing place) where
bent double with their bums in the air, the back breaking work they bathed their feet and put on the boots; to look respectable in
began, raking the cockles from the heavy sand, sieving them, the town. From there, they walked to Swansea market to sell their
packing the cockles into sacks and loading the donkeys. Oyster catch. The nine mile journey home was easier, back to Olchfa to
catchers swooped and stole the women’s cockles. ‘Rats with wings,’ remove the boots and on again through the village of Killay to
they called them. With the tide turning, it was time to return. The Penclawdd. Now, the baskets were lighter, containing just a few
women and the donkeys, with their heavy burdens, retraced their delights like sugar or tea. Lizzie Davies remembers her mother
steps toward the shore and safely. It was a race to beat the rising walking across the fields with a basket on her head. She would
water before the deep channels blocked the way. In some places the help her mother cockling before she went to school. Later, with
water advanced faster than a woman could run; where delaying for the coming of the railway, the journey was faster and the morning
an extra bag of cockles might cost a life. train filled with cockle women, dressed in Welsh costume, on their
On the shore, the women’s work continued, in small sheds way to market. Some of the cockle women walked to Morriston
behind their homes, washing and boiling the cockles, until they and went from house to house carrying wooden and brass buckets
filled with cockles. The 2.30p.m. train to Penclawdd was known as

Mary Pamp, of New Inn Cottage, went
cockling with a friend in December
1937. Despite being experienced they
were overtaken by the incoming
tide and carried out to sea. Other

cockle women watched but could do
nothing to save them. The bodies were

given up by the sea and buried at
Penclawdd a few days later.

In November 2013 five men were con-
victed of illegal cockle picking on the

Burry Inlet. When challenged, after
being seen loading sacks of cockles
into a 4x4, the men tried to drive away
but, after a short chase, their vehicle
got stuck in the sand and they were

arrested.

Lord Chief Justice Cambell 1855 Nov-Dec 17
6

WELSH CONNECTIONS

Illegal cockle picking is a highly profitable business. On the 5th Februay 2004, 23 Chinese
illegal immigrants drowned while cockling in Lancashire. They had been warned of the in-
coming tide but didn’t understand English. The gang-master leading the pickers, who were
described in court as slaves, was sentenced to 14 years in prison as a result of the disaster.

the relish train because of the delights the women brought home £7m pounds worth of cockles died, in one year, as a result of the
for supper. contamination. In 2012, the cockle beds around Carmarthenshire’s
shoreline were closed. Thomas Hughes, Chairman of the Burry
Many of the cockle women supported injured or unemployed Inlet Hand Gatherers’ Association, described the situation as,
husbands. Others were adding to a husband’s income or widows ‘Catastrophic.’
raising children. Money in their pockets gave the women
confidence. Penclawdd was a matriarchal society with children The cockles on Burry Estuary have been harvested since Roman
taking their mother’s family name. When German bombers times. There is a plan to help the industry to recover and remain
destroyed Swansea Market, the cockle women opened stalls in the sustainable but the cockle women who trudged barefoot across the
street and carried on trading. Another delicacy from Penclawdd mud flats, with their donkeys each day, have gone forever. U
was laver bread, seaweed, gathered from the rocks and boiled for
eight hours until it was a green pulp, loved by locals and full of Words: Graham Watkins
iron. Laver bread is still prepared and is an acquired taste.
The Magna Carta gave every citizen the
In the 1920’s horse drawn carts replaced the donkeys and more right to collect eight pounds of cockles
recently the carts have given way to four wheel drive vehicles. It’s
no longer legal to boil cockles commercially without a licence and from the foreshore.
processing has become industrialised. In the 1970’s Burry cockles
were still sold at Swansea market but more were being exported.
Some went to London and other provincial cities. Cockles from
the Burry Estuary were enjoyed on the continent and as far away
as Canada, America and Africa. In Spain, cockles were used as an
ingredient for paella. Sadly over fishing has reduced the cockle
population and water testing has revealed high levels of bacteria,
responsible for more cockle deaths. According to the Daily Mail,

www.welshcountry.co.uk Back ground C reated by Freepik 7

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About the image Call: 01559 372010

Title: Stairway of Saints
St. David’s Cathedral in Wales is one of Britain’s oldest
or visit: welshcountry.co.uk
cathedrals. The Cathedral stands on the site of a 6th-
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Christian monk.

It is considered the holiest site in Wales due to its relics of

St. David. The cathedral was a major pilgrimage destination
throughout the Middle Ages and It remains a thriving church
Jul-Aug 2017 • Issue 77 • £2.95
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8 Sep-Oct 17

Gardening Pictorial
Wales

Thoughts for start of the trout season........

As you read this Christmas is upon us and many 5RB or email [email protected] for information. Or visit
anglers will be already speaking of, not long to bigraymond123.wixsite.com/uraa. You will not be disappointed
go until the start of the Trout Season. Winter can with the fishing.
be a low time of year for the angling calendar
but the chance to fill up the Fly box for 2018. It is also the time In contrast to the Trout (Game fishing Scene) the coarse fishing
when traditional fly tying classes make a start. It is where those in Wales is expanding rapidly. Carp fishing is becoming the major
passionate about this branch of game fishing, fishing the fly, part of the coarse fishing that young anglers want to take up. All
encourage young people and indeed those of a more mature age over Wales what were once Game fishing put and take fisheries
who would like to take it up, to join them in the fascinating art of are now serious coarse/carp venues. We are lucky in Wales to have
making a fly. There is no better thrill than to use a fly you have tied many of these, as well as Club coarse fisheries, in close proximity
and cast it into a pool, lake, or stream for a fish to be fooled into to our major population centres and near holiday destinations. On
taking it. The exhilaration and feeling of success knows no bounds. the other hand there are many natural lakes around Wales where
A new fly Tying initiative: The Cardiff Branch of the Fly Dressers’ anglers who look for a challenge when fishing can find superb wild
Guild was successfully launched at the Pantmawr Inn, Rhiwbina coarse fishing. Ponsticill reservoir in South Wales is one such venue
Cardiff and will now meet on the first Monday of the month , 7 -9 and this year it has been a mecca for the pike and bream fishermen.
pm at the Pantmawr Inn.
Contact: Roger Lewis [email protected] for information. At the time of writing this the Salmon fishing has not been as
well as expected. It is too early to say what the final figures will be
Whilst most of our rivers, natural lakes and reservoirs are but looking at most reports from around Wales I do not see the
governed by statutory seasons of varying times there are many that prospect, unless we have a good end to the season, of last season’s
are called put and take fisheries stocked with Triploid Rainbow and numbers being reached.
Brown trout (Triploid Non Breeding) that stay open. These give the
trout angler who many years ago would have had to cease fishing, This year has seen two consultations in Wales that have angered
due to seasonal restraint, the opportunity to carry on. the Angling fraternity. The New proposed Access legislation
and the new proposed Bylaws and fishing restrictions Natural
Many of the put and take fisheries that opened for trout fishing Resources Wales want to impose on anglers in Wales. Anglers have
in south Wales have now turned their efforts into making them a right to ask why is it that in Wales we seem to go out of our way
Carp Fisheries. This means that there are fewer fisheries that cater to make more restrictions when in England their proposals are far
for and open most of the year for trout fishing. Most Welsh Water more acceptable. In Wales it is the mandatory Catch and release
Reservoirs do and one of their Reservoirs, Cantref, that is run by option in England it is Voluntary measures to increase rates of
Merthyr anglers opens on the first March and closes on the 30th Catch and Release by anglers, on rivers where stocks are not in
November. good health. WHY?

Another Angling Association from one of the Welsh valleys In England they are making every effort to abolish all netting
the Rhondda, that was synonymous with the coal industry, also in Wales we are not. WHY? I realise my statement on Salmon
now boasts some excellent fishing. The Upper Rhondda Angling Catches will give Natural Resources Wales opportunity to justify
Association has historically produced its own trout for stocking. their stance, but there are so many things that are affecting Salmon
They mainly stock these into the Llyn Fawr Reservoir it has an area populations that they are not addressing but taking the easy option
of 9.8 hectares (24 acres) and lies south of Rhigos near the Town of restricting anglers once again. U
of Aberdare it is also near the source of the river Rhondda Fawr.
Originally a smaller lake, it was converted into a reservoir in the Words: Tony Rees
early 20th century. They stock this from their own fish farm and Picture: Ceri Thomas
the quality of trout produced by this dedicated group is a must to
fish for. Contact, U.R.A.A 121 Dumfries Street, Treherbert CF42

A fine Rainbow from Cantref Reservoir

wwww.wwel.swhecloshucnotruy.nctory..ucko .uk 99

VIP Mrs Thomas Visits Gwili Railway

On 23rd August the Gwili Railway was treated to a VIP purchased and rescued about eight miles of trackbed and was running
visit by Mrs Marion Thomas. Her host was Carriage an initial steam-hauled service on a one-mile section of it. The Gwili
and Wagon Manager, Dewi Jones (pictured). This Railway has the distinction of becoming the first standard-gauge
GWR vintage carriage, Number 216 was built in 1888 preserved railway to operate in south west Wales when it re-opened
to diagram S7, Lot 415 and the build took place in Swindon the one-mile section of the Carmarthen-Llanpumsaint route from its
Works for the Great Western Railway, GWR. base at Bronwydd Arms, three miles north of Carmarthen. Since then,
the railway has expanded to Danycoed and the company continues
To trace the history means going back to 1933 when the to hope to expand to Llanpumsaint. Currently, the railway is working
body portion was bought and became a proud family home at south towards Carmarthen to a new station called Abergwili junction,
Pentrecwrt, near Llandysul, Ceredigion. There it remained as a which will be located alongside the roundabout at the northern end
proud family home until the 1960s when it became a donkey of the A40 Carmarthen By-pass. The locomotive stock of the Gwili
stable until it was vandalised. Then in 1991 it was saved by the Railway is unusual in that it mostly represents local industrial and
Gwili Vintage Carriage Group and was moved to the Gwili wartime operations rather than mainline services.
Railway. When discovered it had no under frame, no wheels, no
glass or partitions, picture frames, seats and some of the floor
was missing. Plus, as to be expected, the roof needing a complete
replacement.

To arrest further deterioration work started immediately,
but with only a small team of volunteers it took time as the
Gwili Railway had to constantly battle for funds to restore this
beautiful carriage to its original design. Today 80% of the work
has now been completed but there is still more work to do with
the door and upholstery as well as some painting.

Family History

Meta Jones bought the carriage for her mother Eliza Davies in How Can You Help?
1933 for £11. Marion Thomas was then born in November 1934
and Eliza Davies is Marion Thomas’s grand-mother. It was Eliza Volunteers are the lifeblood of the Gwili Railway. As well as
that named the carriage Caveri. When Eliza died in 1967, Meta preserving a valuable part of our Welsh railway heritage, their work
gave the grounds the carriage was on back to the Llysnewydd gives pleasure to tens of thousands of visitors every year. Volunteers
Estate together with the carriage. The Geology Railway Carriage span a wide age-range, from students to the retired and as you’d expect
Group had the carriage in 1991. from a wide range of social and occupational backgrounds.

Gwili Railway are keen to find new volunteers to train for
operational roles: especially firemen or firewomen. There are also
opportunities to train as guards and signalmen or signalwomen. Full
training is provided free of charge and this is such a great opportunity
to spend time with like-minded people, preserve Welsh railway
heritage and meet the many visitors that this railway attracts each year.

To download a volunteering application form or for more news
about the railway visit: gwili-railway.co.uk. U

Words: Scott Artus
Pictures: Gwili Railway

Dewi Jones, head of the Vintage Carriage and Wagon
Department quoted, “It was a pleasure to show Marion the
vintage carriage and how we have transformed her old home into
a museum exhibit for the railway. The stories of our carriages
give our visitors an insight into how important it is to maintain
these historic carriages”.

Background On Gwili Steam Railway Above: Eliza Davies, Noel Davies, Nia Davies, Demi Jones & Dyfan

The Gwili Steam Railway operates a standard gauge preserved
railway from Bronwydd, near Carmarthen in south Wales along
a short section of the former Carmarthen to Aberystwyth railway
that closed for passenger traffic in 1965. The track was lifted in
1975. The Gwili Railway was formed in 1975 and, by 1978, had

10 Nov-Dec17

STORIES IN STONE

MThe aja

www.welshcountry.co.uk 11

We braved the tight and labyrinthine streets of am here. But this other A. Brookes did not.
Holyhead in search of the Maeshyfryd Burial Board When I got home the excellent Commonwealth War Graves
Cemetery and, although betrayed by the complex
one-way system, we found it eventually. We were Commission website (www.cwgc.org) filled in the details for
there to take pictures of the memorial to The Thetis submarine me. He was Sergeant Alan Fincher Brookes from Selly Park in
disaster of 1939 featured in Welsh Country Magazine May 2013. It Birmingham. He was a pilot in the Royal Air Force Volunteer
was not difficult to find, for it dominates the cemetery, at the end of Reserve and, more importantly, son of Alfred and Dorothy and
the central aisle. husband of Margaret. Not a relative as far as I know but certainly a
When the job was done, I turned my attention to the other man just like me, with his own hopes and dreams ,who didn’t live
graves that surrounded it. They all represent a story – and I cannot long enough to make them all happen.
leave them alone. They were some Commonwealth War Graves and
I walked along the rows, reminiscent of the vast cemeteries around But there were other graves too that drew my attention. They
Ypres in Belgium. I read them, as I always do. There was a Dutch had Chinese names on them. It was so unexpected. They were
name, there was an unknown sailor of the Merchant Navy, found the crew of a Merchant Navy vessel and I had to find out what it
washed ashore. I then found someone with my own surname, was that had brought these men to a cold cemetery in Holyhead.
which always makes you take particular notice. It was exactly the It emphasised to me how war reaches out across the world and
same as all the rest, yet as they all do, it represented a unique life. A. emphasised to me that Wales has never been a place apart. I was
Brookes, Pilot. 21st July 1941. My father was A. Brookes. He was in looking at the graves of Chinese sailors who died fighting with us
the RAF, serving in North Africa as ground crew. He survived and I and who are now buried such a long way from home. Their story
was the story of their ship, The Maja.

The MV Maja was a motor tanker. It was built in 1931 and
was Dutch owned, part of the Anglo Saxon Petroleum Company

12 Nov-Dec 17

STORIES IN STONE

fleet. It had become a workhorse, bringing fuel and crude oil to families, perhaps in the only way they knew how. You can imagine
Manchester and Barry Island as part of the trans-Atlantic convoys, that there might have been young children and now, without a
regularly braving danger and destruction in its vital contribution to father, the family would need to find another way of sustaining
the war effort. itself. Perhaps in fact these gravestones are the only way in which
the memory of some of the victims is still preserved.
Her final voyage was in January 1945 when she left Swansea for
Belfast and Reykjavík with 10,680 tons of gas oil and motor spirit. The Chief Engineer S. G. Moffit received an OBE for his actions
Not the most pleasant of cargos but one with which the crew of The during the attack, and Pumpman Chou was awarded the Lloyd’s
Maja would have been accustomed, for this was their life. On this War Medal for Bravery at Sea. Without their heroism perhaps more
occasion she was unescorted, although she carried some gunners men would have been lost. But in spite of their efforts the ship
for protection. The gunners were part of HMS President 111 went down and their colleagues died. It seems so sudden and so
which was a shore-base in London for gunners who served aboard tragic. An indication of the global effect of a war that could reach
merchant ships, deployed to counter the threat of submarines. out as far as it did, and draw in and then destroy people from all
Ships like The Maja were called “Defensively Equipped Merchant over the world, in this case in a cold and forbidding January sea.
Ships.” Of course you could add guns to a ship quite easily. But you
couldn’t turn them from a merchant vessel into a battleship. Ironically a previous vessel called The Maja, a two masted steel
barque carrying 1960 tons of coal had been torpedoed 15 miles
The Maja was essentially very easy prey and so it proved. east of Glasgow in 1918. History can indeed repeat itself. You can
On Monday 15th January 1945 the ship was torpedoed and sunk understand why submarines were so hated. These silent hidden
by Uboat 1055, south east of Drogheda off the coast of Ireland. killers that struck without warning, always unseen.
Gunners Harris, Ibbotson, Iles, Newton, Parish and Wood, who
were charged with protecting the boat, were lost along with 17 crew The story of the Uboat that sunk The Maja is no more cheerful
members. either. It had a short destructive career under its commander,
Oberleutnant zur See Rudolf Meyer. It was launched in March 1944
‘‘The story of the Uboat that sunk The Maja and only ever made two patrols. So it only had two opportunities to
is no more cheerful either. It had a short bring death and sorrow to strangers. The first patrol began on 11th
destructive career under its commander, December 1944 from Marviken in Norway and lasted for 53 days.
Oberleutnant zur See Rudolf Meyer. It was Uboat 1055 patrolled the Irish Sea and the North Atlantic. It was
regarded as a successful tour of duty. At 6.15pm on 9th January it
launched in March 1944 and only ever made attacked a convoy and sank a Liberty ship, the Jonas Lie, which was
two patrols. So it only had two opportunities heading from Swansea to America. Two vessels, the Roanoke and
the Normandy Coast, were attacked and sunk on 11th January 1945.
to bring death and sorrow to strangers.’’ 4 days later The Maja went down. This was its last ‘kill.’ Rudolf
Meyer received an Iron Cross.
The master, Captain William Robinson, 37 crew members and 2
gunners were eventually picked up by the Belgian trawler Hendrik On 5th April 1945 Uboat 1055 left Bergen on patrol once more.
Conscience and were landed at Holyhead. The mission did not start well. It was attacked almost immediately
by Norwegian motor torpedo boats but managed to escape. But
Some bodies were recovered and taken to Douglas cemetery on 19 days later, on 23rd April 1945, it went missing. It was lost in
the Isle of Man, whilst others were brought to Holyhead with their either the North Atlantic or the English Channel, but no one really
comrades. These were the graves I had found. knows. It disappeared without trace. All we can be sure about is
that 49 men lie in an iron coffin called UBoat 1055 on the bed
A search of the CWGC website threw up more information and of the sea, joining numerous other victims of the war in the cold
with it a glimpse of the reality that lies behind the uniformity of water. I have always thought that it would be such a horrible way
those clean gravestones. to go.

The names of their wives. It is this unexpected detail that for me It is just a small encounter, largely forgotten. Its Chinese victims
turned those exotic names into real and ordinary people. rest unexpectedly above an alien sea. Their death is merely another
of the many incidents that are part of the bigger picture of the
World War II. But no matter how small a detail of war these two
boats were, men died at sea. And they were fathers and husbands
and sons, whether English, German or Chinese and some of them
still remain at the bottom of the sea. U

Ling Tsai Sin, Fireman. Words & Pictures: Geoff Brookes
Ah Teng Lie, 37 Pantry Boy. Husband of Fung Sze. Illustration: Charlotte Wood
Fong Mok, Seaman. Husband of Kaan See.
Ching Ran Hing, Saloon Boy. Husband of Ching Sze.
Low Kai Pow, Fireman.
Sur Sai Ming, 30, Chief cook. Son of Fong Sze. Husband of Lai Sze.

They were not merely names carved carefully upon a
gravestone. They were real men. Working as sailors to support their

Stories In Welsh StoneTo SPECIAL OFFER
purchase Geoff’s by Geoff Brookes
01559 372010 £9.99
book contact Including P&P
or visit

www.welshcountry.co.uk

www.welshcountry.co.uk 13

Walker’s Fact File 23
4
Distance: 10km (6 miles)
Time: 4 hours 1
Start & finish: Forestry Car Park at The Arch, east of Devil’s 5
Bridge (SN765755)
Maps: OS Explorer Series (1:25 000) 213 ©Crown copyright 2017 Ordnance Survey. Media 009/17
Tourist Information Centre: Aberystwyth TIC – tel. (01970)
612125
Nearest Town: Devil’s Bridge
Paths: Mainly clear tracks through woodland and over open
hillsides. The very top section is slightly more vague.

14 NMSeoapvy--ODJuecnct 1167

WALKING WALES

Pen y Garn

Mid Wales

©Crown copyright 2017 Ordnance Survey. Media 009/17

P1 5
en y Garn, the 2nd highest of the Cwmdeudwr hills, stands chliogvheanbCowvemthYestdwiyvtidhe. Itb2ehtawseseunfftehreedWoyveeVrathlleeyyaenadrsC–wimts
Rheidol, with its southern slopes dropping into the deeply
western flanks are covered with a huge plantation, and the northern tip of its summit plateau is home to what was
once Wales’ largest wind farm. But despite this, it’s a great place to wal3k with varied terrain, a real mix of different
paths, and a truly remote ambience. U

4

www.welshcountry.co.uk 15

16 NSeopv-ODecct 1167

WALKING WALES

Plan your route...

1. Head out of the top end of the car park, away from the
road, on the left hand of the two trails and walk easily up to
a crossroads of tracks where you keep straight ahead. This
leads into the forest briefly before emerging into an open
stretch on the flanks of Bryn-llwyd. Continue straight ahead
to a crossroads of tracks at Coed y Ceuleth and keep straight
ahead here to continue along the flanks of Truman, with
views down over Cwm Ystywth and up towards Pen y Garn.
Continue past a track to the left to a junction.

2. Keep straight ahead again, still following the obvious
main track, and at the next junction, keep left to continue
uphill. This now offers great views left, over Craig y Ceffyl
to the steep, craggy flanks of the Nant Rhuddnant. The
gradient relents slightly here but keep straight ahead
around the northern flanks of Pen y Garn, ignoring a track to
the right. Continue to a junction with a huge track, where the
sheer size of the turbines really hits you.
3. Turn sharp right onto this track and continue climbing,
thankfully away from the turbines, with magnificent views all
around. Go through a gate and cross a stile on the right, to
follow the fence up until you meet another, rougher track.
Cross this and another stile to gain access to the summit of
Pen y Garn, which boasts a good shelter, constructed from
rocks from an ancient burial cairn, as well as a concrete
triangulation pillar. On a good day it’s possible to see the
Brecon Beacons from here.
4. To descend, rejoin the higher track and follow it down until
it eventually merges with the main track. Now follow this
easily down, around a series of hairpin bends, and then
parallel with the forest until it eventually forks as it enters
the forest. Turn right, into the forest and follow the main
track around to the right and then left and then straight
ahead at a crossroads with a footpath. Continue easily down
to another junction with another footpath and turn right onto
this onto a narrow path that leads across a footbridge and up
to join a broad forest track.
5. Turn left onto this, and then turn sharp right onto the drive
of Gelmast Farm. Follow the diversion around the farmyard,
with the farm on your right, then bear left onto a track that
then climbs easily back up across a pasture and into the
forest. Keep ahead into the trees and you’ll soon come to the
crossroads you passed earlier in the walk. Turn left here to
return to the car park and the Arch.
Words & Pictures: Tom Hutton

www.welshcountry.co.uk 17

newsround Wales' Reports Roundup

Petition To Reopen Carno Railway Station

Severn Bridge Tolls Being Reduced A new petition to reopen a Powys railway station has been
launched - 10 years after one was submitted. More than 800
Tolls on the Severn Bridges will be cut in January for people signed a petition to reopen Carno station in 2007 and
the first time, as VAT is removed from the fees. The it was among the first to be considered by the Assembly's new
reduction takes effect on 8th January, the date the two Petitions Committee.
crossings return to public ownership Motorists will also
not face the usual inflation-related increase on New Year's Day. As a result of Lord Beeching’s railway restructuring in the UK
the station shut in 1963. Now the Welsh Government refused
Cars entering Wales will be charged £5.60 instead of £6.70, to give an update on Carno's bid to reopen the station having
with vans paying £11.20, not £13.40 and coaches £16.70, previously said it was "committed to improving rail travel for
currently £20. passengers right across Wales" and had "appealed to the UK
Government for funding for a number of new railway stations."
UK ministers confirmed in July that it was a step towards
abolishing tolls altogether at the end of 2018. Since the Severn Trains still pass through the overgrown platform - on the
Bridge first opened in 1966, it’s the first time that the toll Cambrian line between Aberystwyth and Shrewsbury - but the
has been cut. Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns said for so many nearest station is about six miles away in Caersws. Campaigners
years, the tolls on both Severn Crossings have been seen as an have been trying to reopen the station since 2002 and say the
economic and symbolic barrier to Wales' future prosperity. Our village is on the longest stretch of railway without a station in
decision to reduce the tolls, before abolishing them altogether, Wales - with 22 miles between Caersws and Machynlleth.
will cut costs for businesses, for commuters and tourists alike,
helping boost jobs and trade in Wales and across the south-west Jeremy Barnes, chairman of the Carno Station Action
of England. This is yet another strong indicator that Wales is Group, said,"We're producing a new petition because it's the
open for business and of the UK government's commitment to 10th anniversary since the first one went in and we need to keep
making the right decisions for Wales' future as part of a strong plugging away to keep Carno as high a profile as we can." U
United Kingdom."
Welsh Prison Wins Top Garden Award
The UK government said estimates showed abolition of the
tolls could boost the south Wales economy by £100m a year and A Welsh prison has won the coveted Windlesham Trophy
save regular motorists more than £1,400 a year. U award for the best kept prison garden in England and Wales,
judged by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS). HMP and YOI
Parc, a Category B men's private prison and Young Offenders
Institution in Bridgend is the first prison in Wales to win the
annual competition which has been running for over 30 years.

The large, modern prison houses 1,750 prisoners, of whom
around 15 work on the extensive gardens at any given time.
Every available space has been brought to life with plants,
including a herbaceous border, wildflower meadows, living
roof and vegetable and herb gardens that are used to grow fresh
produce for the prison kitchens.

The judges were impressed by the ingenuity shown in the
creation of the various displays, incorporating the skills from all
departments within the prison and the enthusiasm displayed by
the gardens team for horticultural work and in passing on their
skills and knowledge to the prisoners.

Mike Thomas, who leads Parc’s horticultural team said: “We
are absolutely delighted to win the Windlesham Trophy. It’s only
the second time that we’ve been a finalist in the competition so
to scoop top prize is fantastic and testament to all the hard work
put in by the staff and prisoners.” U

e largest CHARTERED CERTIFIED ACCOUNTANTS AND
ating from REGISTERED AUDITORS
ncluding
for personal, Operating from twelve offices throughout South and West Wales
plus VAT & including Swansea, Camarthen and Haverfordwest

For further information please
call your local office. Details can

be found at:

www.ashmole.co.uk

18 Nov-Dec 17

Compiled by Kath Rhodes

Worse Phone Connection Than Hebrides WWorld Premieres In Rural Wales This November
e don’t get many world premieres in rural Wales
Mobile phone connections in parts of Wales are worse but Mid Wales Opera are doing just that –
than on the Hebridean island of Tiree, a communications unveiling a brand new orchestration of William
expert has said. Cardiff-based Prof Dix believes the ‘crippling Walton’s classic comedy The Bear opening in
problem’ of not-spots needs to be tackled. He said doing Llandinam, Powys on November 2nd.
this instead of providing faster broadband would help to
transform internet access in Wales. Although the Welsh MWO’s Music Director Jonathan Lyness has created a new
Government is set to publish a plan for improving the version of this hilarious 20th century comedy for just three singers
situation Professor Dix said: "Although connectivity is likely and five musicians.
to have improved over the last four years, the gap between
Wales and the rest of the UK is likely to be the same. Most The production is the first ever MWO ‘SmallStages’ tour and
of the time, whilst walking and at places I stayed on the way, will be visiting 15 small theatres, churches and community halls
I felt lucky to get two bars of basic mobile signal and pretty across Wales including Aberdaron, Cilgerran, Ammanford and
much every area in north Wales was bad." He continued, many more stunning locations.
“Issues that get most attention relate to speed of connections
- with many government pledges based around these. Composed in 1967 and based on Anton Chekhov’s play of the
However, if you spend time in a rural area you realise it is not same name, The Bear tells of the widow, Mme Popova, mourning
the speed per se that is most problematic, but the reliability the death of her husband until the arrival of the rough-hewn land
- short drops which are not long enough to be raised as agent, Smirnov (the “bear” of the title). Passions run high and their
an outage of service. These range from a few seconds to a sparring culminates in a duel – and a love affair.
minute, but long enough to break downloads/uploads, which
are already slow." U With world class singers and musicians, including Adam Green
as Smirnov and Carolyn Dobbin as Popova, The Bear is full of
Too Much Power Centralised In Cardiff entertainment, parody and great tunes and is ideal for opera first
timers.
More powers should be handed to Welsh regions rather
than ministers controlling everything from Cardiff, says the The second half of each performance will feature a mix of
Welsh Secretary Alun Cairns. music, poetry and prose based around Pushkin’s great party scene
from Tchaikovsky's great opera Eugene Onegin, which MWO are
On the 20th anniversary of the referendum that created the touring in spring 2018.
Assembly, the UK cabinet minister said too much power had
been "centralised". In 1997 Wales voted by a narrow margin - For information and tour listings please go to www.
just 6,721 votes out of 1.1 million cast - in favour of creating midwalesopera.co.uk. MWO SmallStages is supported by the
an assembly. Ashley Family Foundation, Foyle Foundation and Arts Council of
Wales. Performed by arrangement with Oxford University Press. U
Wales should respond to the challenge posed by new
elected mayors in Bristol, Manchester and Merseyside, he
said. Mr Cairns said voters now accepted the Assembly was
part of the political landscape, even if most would "never
love" the institution. U

C Welsh Country Magazine M@WelshCountry www.welshcountry.co.uk

www.welshcountry.co.uk 19

Best BUY LOCAL - EAT LOCAL

of Welsh & Borders Our Best of Welsh and Borders listing is your guide to sourcing a mouth watering
array of produce from Wales and its Borders. Most producers have mail order
services available or you can meet our producers, passionate about their wonderful
produce, at your local food markets and food festivals throughout the year. You can
also visit our website where you can read their latest news and find links straight
through to them.Welcome to the cream of the Welsh crop………………………

NORTH WALES

Daffodil Foods Limited North Wales Mid Wales
South West Wales South Wales

Daffodil Foods Limited, Gwynedd Toffoc Ltd, Anglesey Forte’s Ice Cream, Conwy
Welsh cultured products, yogurts and desserts Triple distilled finest UK grain vodka, infused We make each of our ice creams from our
made from fresh Welsh dairy ingredients. The with our unique toffee, giving that golden taste original 1926 recipe using only the finest
branded luscious layered yogurts are sold across only found in TOFFOC. Available from all Welsh ingredients. 35 amazing flavours of ice creams,
Wales in Tesco, Asda and other independent ASDA stores. sorbets and frozen yoghurts on offer!
shops and stores.  +44 (0)1248 852921  +44 (0)1492 876739
 +44 (0)1758 720786  www.toffoc.com  www.fortesicecream.co.uk
 www.daffodilfoods.co.uk
Hufenfa’r Castell, Harlech Aerona Liqueur, Gwynedd
Glasu Ice cream, Gwynedd Delectable dilemmas of delicious ice cream, Unique aronia berry products form Wales, made
Glasu ice cream is made from fresh milk from Welsh whole milk, double cream, British sugar with hand-picked aronia berries from plants
cows grazed on award winning pastures on blended with fresh fruits and flowers from the grown on the family farm. Available through
the family farm. With great pastures and happy hills & gardens of Harlech. Magical flavours independents shops, delis, wholesalers and
cows, plus quality ingredients, gives delicious from spring to autumn. online.
homemade ice cream.  +44 (0)7810 164547  +44 (0)1766 810387
 +44 (0)1758 720435  www.hufenfa.co.uk  www.aerona.wales
 www.glasu.co.uk
Purple Moose Brewery, Gwynedd Llaeth y Llan, Conwy
Welsh Lady Preserves, Gwynedd Award-winning brewery producing five beers in Family run business taking local Welsh
Producers of award-winning handmade cask conditioned & bottled format: Snowdonia wholesome milk and creating yummy artisan
conserves, marmalades and condiments since Ale, Madog’s Ale, Elderflower Ale, Glaslyn yogurts in all kinds of flavours and sizes. They’re
1966. Each batch is prepared from the finest Ale and Dark Side of the Moose. Available available through independent shops, delis, multi-
ingredients and cooked in the traditional way, throughout Wales and from our online shop. retailers and wholesalers throughout Wales.
ensuring consistent quality and taste.  +44 (0)1766 515571  +44 (0)1745 540256
 +44 (0)1766 810496  www.purplemoose.co.uk  villagedairy.co.uk
 www.welshladypreserves.com
Bim’s Kitchen, Flintshire The Shop Cilcain, Mold
The Coconut Kitchen, Gwynedd Bim’s Kitchen use exotic ingredients like baobab Our village shop and café, near Mold, is open
Developed at our restaurant in Abersoch, our fruit, cashew nuts, alligator pepper, peanuts, 7 days a week stocking a wide range of locally
Thai sauces, marinades, and curry pastes are tigernuts, moringa, birdseye chillies and hibiscus sourced produce showcasing the incredible
available for you to re-create our exciting dishes to make delicious, African inspired original- quality and skills of our suppliers.
at home. Available from outlets across Wales and recipe sauces, condiments and nut butters.  +44 (0)1352 740184
its Borders.  +44 (0)7412 619013  www.theshopcilcain.com
 www.bimskitchen.com
L coconut1kitchen

 www.thecoconutkitchen.co.uk

20 Nov-Dec 17

South Caernarfon Creameries, Gwynedd Da Mhile Distillery, Ceredigion Derwen Farm Shop, Powys
Wales’ oldest farmer-owned dairy co- Independent award winning farmhouse Specialising in quality local fresh free-range
operative. Nestling in the foothills of distillery and tasting gallery in west Wales meat, local & international cheeses & daily
Snowdonia, we are dedicated, quality cheese producing organic whisky, gins and orange 33 deliveries of fresh fruit and vegetables, local &
makers and distributors of Welsh dairy liqueur. Wales distilled. Tours available: seasonal. An in-store kitchen produces mouth-
products under the Dragon brand. Mon-Fri: start 3pm. watering cakes, pies, pastries & quiches.
 +44 (0)1766 810251  +44 (0)1239 851528  +44 (0)1938 551586
 www.dragonwales.co.uk  www.damhile.co.uk  www.derwenfarmshop.co.uk

Blas ar Fwyd, Llanrwst Beacons Farm Shop, Powys Oast House Brewery, Aberystwyth
Blas ar Fwyd is a north Wales based fine food Welsh Venison Centre, offers a range of home A micro-brewery business based just outside
& wine retailer, wholesaler & caterer with a produced venison, beef, lamb, local bread, the town of Aberystwyth in Mid Wales currently
Wales-wide distribution network, quality eggs, cheese and other deli items. There is using local brewing facilities, producing cask
delicatessen and cafe-bar. also a coffee shop with stunning views. conditioned, kegged and bottled ale for trade
 +44 (0)1492 640215 Shop: Mon - Sat 7:30 - 5:00 or online. and the public.
 www.blasarfwyd.com  +44 (0)1874 730929  +44 (0)1970 627907
 www.beaconsfarmshop.co.uk  www.oasthousebrewery.co.uk
Celtic Spirit Company, Anglesey
The oldest spirit company in Wales. Producer Cambrian Training Company, Powys Radnor Preserves, Powys
of high quality spirits and liqueurs from family They are one of the leading training providers An artisan manufacturer of handmade
recipes, dating back to the 1890s, including in Wales and specialise in delivering preserves creating exquisite marmalades,
award-winning Black Mountain and Danzy Apprenticeships and Jobs Growth Wales chutneys, jellies and preserves, using the
Jones liqueurs. opportunities across a range of industries to finest natural ingredients of the highest quality,
 +44 (0)1407 730021 support employers & individuals. sourced locally as far as possible.
 www.celticspirit.co.uk  +44 (0)1938 555893  +44 (0)1497 870007
 www.cambriantraining.com  www.radnorpreserves.com
Menai Oysters and Mussels, Anglesey
Fresh cultivated oysters and mussels located Brecon Brewing Limited, Powys New Quay Honey Farm, Ceredigion
in the Menai Strait, producing sustainable A range of beers from one of Wales’ leading Started beekeeping in 1995 producing a
very high quality shellfish in the best of Brewers, Buster Grant. Drawing heavily on blended honey from the diverse wildflowers
environmental conditions. Available from the local influences, we aim to bring the Beacons in the area. There’s a Visitor Centre, Shop,
shop or online. to you. Direct sales and mail order available. Tearoom & Meadery plus a live ‘Bees Behind
 +44 (0)1248 430878  +44 (0)1874 620800 Glass’ exhibition.
 www.menaioysters.co.ukm  www.breconbrewing.co.uk  +44 (0)1545 560822
 www.thehoneyfarm.co.uk
Condessa Welsh Liqueurs, Anglesey Neuadd Fach Baconry, Powys
Situated on the Isle of Anglesey, Condessa An award-winning family producer of Bacon, Monty’s Brewery, Powys
specialise in the production of award-winning Sausages and Gammon who personally Based near Montgomery this family owned
liqueurs: Original Welsh Cream, Praline Welsh handle the whole process from well cared business run by Pam Honeyman produces a
Cream, Apricot, Black Cherry & Sloe Gin. for pigs, to the customer, ensuring that their range of regular and seasonal beers including
 +44 (0)1407 730021 products are totally delicious. the award winning Sunshine, Hilltop & the
 www.condessa.co.uk  +44 (0)1686 688734 NEW Dark Secret.
 www.baconry.co.uk  +44 (0)1686 668933
Conwy Brewery, Conwy  www.montysbrewery.co.uk
Cask and bottled ales of the highest quality
with the best range in north Wales. We are Neuadd Fach Baconry
proud of our Welsh roots; all beers are brewed
and bottled at our brewery.
 +44 (0)1492 514305
 www.conwybrewery.co.uk

MID WALES

Cnwcy Manal Cakes , Ceredigion
Bespoke bakes in Wales. Specialising in
custom made cakes, cupcakes & baked
bouquets for all occasions to make your
special day extra special ..... Made with love
just for you.
 +44 (0)1239 810213
C Cnwcymanal Cupcakes

Caroline’s Bakery School, Powys
Courses for the beginner wanting a gentle
introduction to baking or anyone wishing to
up-skill and requiring a master class in all
aspects of baking, Caroline is there to help.
 +44 (0)1874 690378
 www.carolinesbakeryschool.co.uk

www.welshcountry.co.uk 21

Sarah Bunton Luxury Chocolates, Aberystwyth
We produce luxury, award-winning chocolates,
with pride and passion. Handmade above our
tearoom and gift shop in Devil’s Bridge. Ideal
gifts for any occasion. Trade enquiries welcome.
 +44 (0)1970 890650
 www.sarahbunton.co.uk

Welsh Sausage Company, Powys
Award-winning Welsh Farmhouse Sausages
using Welsh pork, beef & lamb. Available in a
range of flavour combinations from Traditional to
Mediterranean & Indian inspired. Sausages as
they used to be!
 +44 (0)1938 553365
 www.langfords-foodhall.co.uk

SOUTH WEST WALES

Conti’s Cafe Conti’s Café, Ceredigion Gethin’s Cyder, Pembrokeshire
Now opened at the National Trust Tearooms in Multi award winning Cyder made from the juice,
Morgan’s Brew Tea, Powys Llanerchaeron and open every day from 10:30 of unique Pembrokeshire apple varieties, the
We have a tea selection of 46 teas to tickle your until 4:30. Serving freshly cooked meals using whole juice and nothing but the juice, with no
taste buds. From black tea to caffeine free, from local produce, our award winning ice cream. added water, artificial sweeteners, colours or
Herbal Infusions to Fruit infusions, all mixed for Free parking. flavourings.
your enjoyment.  +44 (0)1570 422223  +44 (0)7731 616903
 (0)1938 552303  www.contisicecream.com  www.gethinscyder.co.uk
 www.morgansbrewtea.co.uk
Farmers Food From Home , Pembrokeshire
Brecon Farmers Market, Powys Fingers and Forks, Powys Great Taste Award winning Chilli Jam is just
The best of local food and drink indoors at A family run catering business operating one of the many Homemade Jams (such as
Brecon Market Hall 9.30 -2.00pm on 2nd throughout mid Wales and the Marches. We are Strawberry & Pimms), Chutneys and Pickles, all
Saturday of every month. Café and live music. dedicated to using only the finest ingredients and made from homegrown, hedgerow foraged or
 [email protected] whenever possible source from local producers, local produce.
 www.breconfarmersmarket.co.uk many of whom are organic.  +44 (0)7960 093716
 +44 (0)1597 850095 C Farmers Food at Home
Orgasmic Cider Company, Herefordshire  www.fingersandforks.com
Award winning cider & perry traditionally Oscar’s Kitchen, Swansea
produced from our own orchards in the beautiful Rikki Lloyd, Powys Homemade chutneys, relishes, pickles, jams,
Wye Valley available from our farm shop trade High class award-winning family butcher. jellies and marmalades, syrups and chilli
enquires welcome. Suppliers of local Welsh lamb and beef sauces. Made in Wales by a Welsh woman! Firm
 +44 (0)1544 327244 supplying the hotels and restaurant trade. favourites are caramelised red onion chutney,
 www.orgasmiccidercompany.co.uk Excellent service! lemon chutney and apple and ginger chutney.
 +44 (0)1938 552683  +44 (0)7540 377400
Talgarth Mill, Powys  www.lloydsgourmetmeats.co.uk C Oscar’s Kitchen
A restored flour mill, milling artisan flour two or
three times a week. A variety of lovely flours Montgomeryshire Spring Water Co, Powys Pembrokeshire Sea Salt Company, Pembs
and bread kits are available. Tours of the mill Spring waters of outstanding natural taste. The New and innovative, yet embracing the age-old
Tuesday to Sunday. hills of Montgomeryshire provide an excellent craft of salt manufacture. Producing high quality
 +44 (0)1874 711352 variety of minerals which contribute to the fine sea salt, flavoured salts, salted desserts & body
 www.talgarthmill.com taste of our still, sparkling and flavoured water. scrubs. Available online, local markets, retailers
 +44 (0)1588 622900 & events.
Ty Gwyn Cider, Herefordshire  www.montgomeryspring.co.uk  +44 (0)1348 811136
Award winning farm cider served in many of  www.pembrokeshireseasalt.co.uk
Monmouthshire and Herefordshire’s leading Gwatkin Cider, Herefordshire
gastro pubs and restaurants. Purchase from their Producing award-winning cider & perry from Caws Cenarth, Carmarthenshire
cider shop/licensed cider bar or from specialist ingredients grown on the family farm. Visit the First-class cheese made from locally sourced
retailers. Trade enquiries welcome. farm shop, open every day, for the full range of organic milk using traditional methods. Suitable
 +44 (0)1981 241181 our 35 ciders and perries produced by ourselves. for vegetarians. Winner of many gold awards!
 www.tygwyncider.co.uk  +44 (0)1981 551906 Visit and watch the cheese-making process or
 www.gwatkincider.co.uk buy online.
The People’s Market, Ceredigion  +44 (0)1239 710432
Created to show case local food drink & craft Mark Webb & Son, Ceredigion  www.cawscenarth.co.uk
producers in and around Lampeter, held at the Specialists in homemade sausages and
Victoria Hall every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the burgers with all meats sourced from local farms. Welsh Bakery, Pembrokeshire
month between 10am and 1pm Suppliers of quality meat to the public, catering Our bright and friendly shops bustle every day as
C The People’s Market, Lampeter companies and award-winning farm shops. customers pop in for their freshly baked bread,
 +44 (0)1239 851285 cakes and pastries, sandwiches and of course
 [email protected] coffee.
 +44 (0)1646 698907
 www.welshbakery.net

22 Nov-Dec 17

Preseli Gold Sausage Company, Pembs Cwrtau Bach Deli Foods Company, Carms Welsh Cottage Cakes, Carmarthenshire
Multi award-winning including Welsh & National Award-winning fresh / preserved foods inspired Producing and distributing the most popular Bara
Sausage champions. Made in Pembrokeshire by global flavours, made from quality ingredients Brith in Wales along with a wide range of tasty
using only the best ingredients. Reduced salt & including seasonal homegrown produce. cakes in two sizes. Traditional Taste, True Value
Gluten free a speciality. Mexican salsas, Mediterranean tapenades, and Excellent Service throughout the Principality.
 +44 (0)1348 875585 pestos, unique pickles and jams + fresh deli  +44 (0)1558 824213
 www.preseligoldsausagecompany.co.uk street food.  www.welshcottagecakes.co.uk
 +44 (0)1994 419086
Cothi Valley, Carmarthenshire  www.cwrtaubach.co.uk Cowpots Luxury Jersey Ice Cream, Carms
Delicious baked goods, croissants, pasties, Local jersey milk / cream makes Cowpots
tarts, made with goats’ milk, cheese or meat. Estelle’s Gower Goodies, Gower farmhouse dairy products- available from our
Pork pies, sausage rolls & Christmas pork Artisan Producer of the finest chilli sauces shop Shake Jacket Roll, Mill Street, Carmarthen,
hampers. The home of ‘Goatylicious’ fresh, raw extreme sauces, preserves, chutneys, relish + The Cowshed Bistro on the farm and other
goats’ milk. etc. Using traditional methods, Estelle always good stockists.
 [email protected] uses the finest ingredients in her own unique,  +44 (0)1994 240434
C @cothivalley modern quirky recipes.  www.cowpotsicecream.co.uk
 +44 (0)7807 035488
Deli Delights, Cardigan  www.estellesgowergoodies.co.uk Puffin Produce, Pembrokeshire
Chocolate making, Patisserie and Savoury bakes Blas Y Tir, home of Welsh Produce, where we
workshops available for Adults & Children at Gerwyn’s Fruit & Veg, Carmarthenshire work with our team of expert growers to bring
Aberporth or a venue to suit you. Now offering As well as fresh fruit & vegetables to the you a variety of award-winning potatoes and
Residential cookery holidays, see website for wholesale & retail market, their specialist seasonal vegetables.
details. container grown box & bay trees will make your  +44 (0)1437 766716
 +44 (0)1239 810928 property that bit special.  www.blasytir.com
 www.delidelightswales.co.uk  +44 (0)1558 824000

Crwst, Pembrokeshire
Crwst is a newly established micro-bakery
based in a small home kitchen nestled in the
Preseli hills. We proudly produce handmade
organic breads and seasonal patisserie style
bakes.
 +44 (0) 1239 842 338
 www.crwst.cymru

Gower View Foods Ltd, Carmarthenshire
The UK’s leading independent butter production
centre, packing butter for some of Europe’s
leading brands. Home of the award winning
Shirgar Welsh Butter, freshly churned and
packed here in Carmarthenshire.
 +44 (0)1269 846958
 [email protected]

Rhosyn Farm Produce, Carmarthenshire
Old Spot pork, sausages, bacon, Herdwick lamb
and mutton. Available via box scheme, farm gate
sales, and telephone sales. Carefully reared and
butchered by our own hands.
 +44 (0)1267 281631
 [email protected]

Gwaun Valley Meats, Pembrokeshire
Award winning Traditional Butchers, quality
meats, and homemade sausages, burgers &
faggots.Order online via our Website also.
 +44 (0)1348 840838
 www.gwaunvalleymeats.co.uk

Andrew J Rees & Sons Ltd, Pembrokeshire Blas Y Tir
Quality wholesale and retail butchers with a Pig
Roast and BBQ service. With customer service
a priority, you can guarantee the right meat for
your needs.
 +44 (0)1834 861892
 www.andrewreesbutchers.co.uk

www.welshcountry.co.uk 23

Tan Y Castell, Pembrokeshire Solva Seafoods, Pembrokeshire Daioni Organic, Pembrokeshire
Award-winning Welshcakes & Bara Brith baked Can you get fresher? Locally caught shellfish Family run organic dairy producing a full range
to traditional Pembrokeshire recipes using the and line caught fish including lobster, brown and of fresh and long-life dairy products including
finest natural ingredients. Available for retail, spider Crab. Fish box available daily, weekly, award winning flavoured organic milk drinks.
wholesale, ambient & frozen markets. monthly or delivered for that special occasion. Daioni means ‘Goodness’ in Welsh, and Daioni
 +44 (0)1834 861997  +44 (0)1437 729169 / 07773 846560 Organic cows happily graze free range on lush
 www.welshcakes.com  www.solvaseafoods.co.uk and fertile pastures.
 +44 (0)1239 682572
Celtic Wines Ltd, Pembrokeshire Aardvark Alternatives, Carmarthenshire  www.daioni.co.uk
Wine merchants supplying the highest quality Supplying wholefoods, organic & seasonal
wines, spirits and beers. Well over 500 different vegetables, fruit & salad boxes. A full range Cardigan Bay Shellfish, St Dogmaels
wines from all four corners of the world ranging of 100% local & organic beef, lamb, poultry & Family run boat fishing cardigan bay, for crab,
from the unusual to the sublime. cooked meats available online. lobster, scallops, spider crab, hand line sea
 +44 (0)1646 681369  +44 (0)1267 232497 bass, mackerel, coracle caught Teifi sewin and
 www.celticwines.com  www.aardvark-wholefoods.com salmon and other products when available.
 +44 (0)1239 621043
Mantle Brewery, Cardigan Ty Te, Carmarthenshire  www.cardiganbayfish.co.uk
Fine Welsh ales from Cardigan town, available in Delightful, traditional tea shop serving great
casks and bottles. Brews include Rock Steady, homemade meals, cream teas, delicious cakes Carmarthenshire Cheese Company, Carms
MOHO, Cwrw Teifi & our award winning Porter, and light lunches. We also offer a fantastic outside Manufacturer of a wide range of award winning
Dark Heart. Contact us for nearest stockist, or catering service for any event or gathering. cheeses. Shop and visitor centre now open,
buy direct from the brewery.  +44 (0)1239 712881 / 07779 590470 offering a great selection of Cheese, Wine,
 +44 (0)1239 623898  www.cenarthtearooms.co.uk and other Welsh delicacies. Situated next to
 www.mantlebrewery.com Carmarthen Park & Ride.
Caffi Carn Alw Market Hall, Cardigan  +44 (0)1267 223714
Templeton Direct, Pembrokeshire Serving lite bites, quality coffee and speciality  www.carmarthenshirecheese.co.uk
The bespoke online retail arm at Templeton Beer teas. Good wholesome food, homemade by us,
Wine & Spirit Co, supplying the home drinking served to a high standard and always a warm Cardigan Bay Brownies, Cardigan
connoisseur with the great beers & wines you welcome. New Carvery served 12-2pm. The home of the best chocolate brownies in west
enjoy at your favourite pub or restaurant.  +44 (0)1239 621695 Wales! Succulent moist brownies in the most
 +44 (0)1834 860992 C Caffi Carn Alw Upper Market Hall delicious flavours from traditional choc & salted
 www.templetondirect.co.uk caramel to Turkish delight & Nutella.
Queens Bakery, Cardigan  +44 (0)7403624801
T Glyn Davies, Pembrokeshire Traditional bakers with wide range of breads  [email protected]
Traditional local butchers specialising in local to suit all tastes. Delicious range of cakes/
meat, poultry and game. Also offering a good pastries always available. Baking for special Little Valley Bakery, Gower
selection of marinated and rubbed meats – occasions, trade and retail from the High Street. Artisan bakers making high quality bread
perfect for the grill or BBQ.  +44 (0)1239 621695 using organic flour and traditional methods.
 +44 (0)1239 820246 Distributing bread and sweet treats around
 [email protected] Cwm Deri Vineyard, Pembrokeshire Swansea & Gower. Supplying to local
Producing an extensive range of grape & businesses, attending markets and food
The Big Bite, Cardigan traditional country fruit wines, liqueurs & festivals.
Delicious home-made baguettes, sandwiches mead. Vineyard, shop & stunning conservatory  +44 (0)1792 371346
and cakes all made using quality ingredients. We restaurant open all year. Mail order available.  www.littlevalleybakery.com
also stock artisan scotch eggs & sausage rolls , Come & taste!
and made to order gourmet salad pots, all great  +44 (0)1834 891274
food for on the go!  www.cwm-deri.co.uk
 +44 (0)1239 613006
 [email protected]

Myddfai Market, Carmarthenshire
Myddfai Community Hall & Visitor Centre has
a wide selection of locally made crafts and art,
over 70 artisans and a lovely cafe with home-
made dishes using local produce.
 +44 (0) 1550 720 449
 www.myddfai.org

Bluestone Brewing, Pembrokeshire
Using their own Preseli spring water this family
Farm brewery produces a selection of award
winning ales with bold flavours. Visit the onsite
tap house & visitor facility to try for yourself.
 +44 (0)1239 820 833
 www.bluestonebrewing.co.uk

Cwm Deri Vineyard

24 Nov-Dec 17

Welsh Brew Tea, Swansea
Special blend of quality African and Indian teas
perfectly complement Welsh waters yielding
flavour/colour relished by tea drinkers. Also full
range of speciality teas, coffee and drinking
chocolate.
 +44 (0)1792 363391
 www.welshbrewtea.co.uk

Welsh Gluten Free Bakery Products, Carms
Gluten Free Bakery products for Coeliacs,
Vegan welsh cakes and vegetarian options, from
various stockists. Try our Great Taste Award
2017 Brown Seeded bread with a slight hint of a
nutty taste.
 +44 (0)1267 211409
 www.wgfbakeryproducts.co.uk

SOUTH WALES

This Is Beer, Bridgend Drwytho, Aberdare Black Mountain Gold Chocolate
With over 25 Welsh breweries plus others Evolving from a love of herbs and a passion for
worldwide you’re sure to have something to suit cooking. The delicious and tasty herb infused oils Black Mountain Gold Chocolate, Monmouthshire
your taste. The online shop delivers Europe can be used for cooking, in dressings, marinades Artisan Chocolate made by our Master Chocolatier,
wide. Don’t forget the range of spirits, cider and or simply for drizzling. Jules James, in the beautiful town of Abergavenny.
wine.  +44 (0)7564 394378 Enjoy award-winning truffles, bars or enjoy a
 +44 (0)1656 457025  www.drwytho.co.uk chocolate making course - fun for the whole family; a
 www.thisisbeer.co.uk mouth watering experience.
Clams Cakes, Ebbw Vale  +44 (0)1873 855139
Cwm Rhondda Ales, Rhondda Valley Baking artisan batches with over 30 years  www.blackmountaingold.org
Producing highest quality craft ales full of craft baking experience, traditional recipes
flavour that are firmly rooted in the rugged, with contemporary flavours, including Loaf Apple County Cider Co, Monmouthshire
natural environment in which they are brewed. Cakes, Round Cakes, Muffins, Tray Bakes and Award winning cider producer specialising in
Representing the latest step in the Jones family Macarons. Sold to independent coffee houses single variety ciders made from 100% apple
farm. nationwide. juice. Available in bottles or straight from the vat.
 +44 (0)1443 777491  +44 (0)1495 357620 Orchard walks, cider tasting and farm shop open
 www.cwmrhonddaales.co.uk  www.clamscakes.co.uk for visitors. Simply Scrumptious!
 +44 (0)1600 750835
Vale of Glamorgan Farmers’ Market, Cowbridge Delicia Cakes & Teas, Rhondda Cynon Taff  www.applecountycider.co.uk
Holds markets 1st and 3rd Saturday at Cowbridge Specialising in full flavoured, homemade cakes
and every 4th Saturday at Penarth. 9.00am - at realistic prices, 120 high quality speciality White Castle Vineyard, Monmouthshire
1.00pm. Offering shoppers a wide range of quality teas from around the globe from one of Wales’ Producers of award winning quality Welsh
local produce direct from the producer. leading tea suppliers to the general public and wines, offering conducted vineyard tours, wine
 [email protected] wholesale. tasting and Welsh cheese platters. Visitors are
 www.valefarmersmarket.com  www.deliciacakesandteas.co.uk warmly invited to visit our tranquil setting in the
beautiful countryside of Monmouthshire.
Natures Little Helpers, Cardiff Gwynt Y Ddraig Cider, Rhondda Cynon Taff  +44 (0)1873 821443
Our hard working bees have helped us to produce Our award winning range of ciders are produced  www.whitecastlevineyard.com
honey and a range of handmade natural skin care using established recipes. Each cider has a
and beeswax products. Beekeeping supplies and contemporary and unique flavour - we have Claire’s Kitchen, Monmouthshire
experience days catered for. something to suit every taste! Mail orders Homemade quality preserves traditionally
 +44 (0)7970 289677 available via the website. produced in small batches at home in
 www.natureslittlehelpers.co.uk  +44 (0)1443 209852 Claire’s kitchen. A vast range of chutney, jam,
 www.gwyntcider.com marmalade, fruit vinegar and curds.
Miss Daisy’s Kitchen, Brynmawr Wales True Taste Gold Winner 2012-13.
Award winning Great Taste 3* Artisan jam and Samosaco, Pontyclun  +44 (0)1291 624506
chutney producer specialising in vintage recipes. Experts at producing a variety of nutritious &  [email protected]
All of our produce is hand cut and homemade authentic Indian snacks & meals using locally
with the majority of ingredients local sourced. sourced ingredients. Based in a purpose built Blaenafon Cheddar Company, Torfaen
 +44 (0)7799 360012 accredited facility in south Wales. An award winning Food Tourism Destination;
 www.missdaisyskitchen.co.uk  +44 (0)1443 800554 Family business producing handmade cheeses.
 www.samosaco.co.uk Visit us Mon-Sat 10-4pm. Pwll Mawr our Mature
Cheddar is aged in Big Pit Mining Museum. A free
visitor attraction.
 +44 (0)1495 793123
 www.chunkofcheese.co.uk

www.welshcountry.co.uk 25

Welsh Hospitality

Building The Link Between Welsh Food and Drink With Tourism

After the legendary summer From beaches to mountains, we can offer our visitors local produce
enjoyed by Welsh tourism hills to coastal path walks, there is markets, an abundance of fantastic
there will not be many, scenery that will literally take your food festivals and fairs. Many hotels
if any, people that will breath away. Add into that mix sailing, and restaurants are now promoting
disagree with me when I fishing, walking, climbing, canoeing, buying local produce and their menus
say Wales is fast becoming a holiday surfing, the list for those thirsting for highlight for example where their
hotspot. This is understandable as action and fun is endless. For those beers and cider are from, who their
Wales has so much to offer visitors. who like to look back at the past, well local butcher and farmer are, where
Over 40% of tourism businesses are Wales has that in abundance too with their tea, cheese, butter and breakfast
reporting more visitors this year than magnificent castles, historic houses, marmalades are produced. This is
in 2016 and for the first time, 2017 many with beautiful gardens there are so important for their guests, even if
is showing that Wales is on track so many places to visit and enjoy for they do not really class themselves
to reach 1.5 million for the first time people of all ages. as foodies; it gives guests a further
by the end of the year. Many Welsh sense of Wales and ‘Welshness’.
businesses are to be congratulated A further attraction for visitors to What we need to ensure is that all
as they’ve taken responsibility for Wales is that they love sampling local eateries are highlighting Welsh food
their own marketing which has food and drink, looking for different and drink, because if they’re not they
proved successful with 23% reporting produce than their local supermarket are missing a huge trick. U
increased visitors as more people stock. Here again I can blow the
were staying in the UK. Welsh trumpet as we’ve not only got Words: Kath Rhodes
a growing sector of delightful delis,

Cowpots – Utilising The Cowshed

Since starting production of Cowpots ice
cream on the family farm in July 2005 there
were always plans to have their own outlet on
the farm which is in Whitland, on the outskirts of
Carmarthen. In January 2014, work started at the
farm on conversion of the old milking parlour and
in July work was complete and ‘The Cowshed’
was opened serving ice cream and café food.
Today it is an ice cream parlour and fully licensed
pizzeria open through into the evening for meals
and events. There are also a large range of
Welsh ales and ciders on offer. With a wood fired
traditional pizza oven and ice cream made with
Jersey milk from a local herd, this is a unique
offering that appeals to all ages. Their market is
not just locals but has a huge appeal to visitors as
there are still some cattle on the farm which has stunning views over Carmarthenshire along with a beautiful woodland
walk that can take up to 2 hours.
Local advertising along with leaflet distribution, social media and food festivals has allowed Cowpots to keep targeting
both visitors as well as locals. Working with other local businesses, Bed & Breakfasts, holiday lets and other local
attractions has also been successful in bringing in more tourists to The Cowshed.
The next project for 2018 is to offer camping on the farm and allow visitors to be able to make the most of this lovely
setting.

Ceridwen Centre - The Personal Touch

If you’re a small catering team, as many are in west Wales, then it’s
obviously more efficient if ingredients and products come to you rather
than you driving around the countryside collecting yogurt from here,
eggs from there. Many of us buy through a distributor, Castell Howell or
Blas ar Fwyd, or in our case both. It’s more convenient, saves precious
time and resources and opens doors to many producers who we might
not have encountered otherwise, or who might not want to deal direct
with the little guys.
It’s so special for us kitchen and front of house folk, when the actual
maker, grower, sourcer or producer does deliver direct. Because Gwynt
y Ddraig cider phone regularly to check what we need and deliver
in their distinctive liveried van to us several times a month we feel

26 Nov-Dec 17

we have a connection with where our cider comes from and the people who make it and that our custom, as a Welsh
business, is valued by another and very successful Welsh business.
When guests are around when a van from Gwynt, or from Joe’s ice cream, or Caffle Brewery arrives, it makes a palpable
difference to these customers too, that something they will be able to consume or buy while they are with us has been
delivered personally. They like seeing the face behind the product or the brand. This effect applies equally whether it’s
a big Welsh name or a one or two man/woman band - people are just as interested when honey arrives from one of
two local beekeepers we buy from, vegan ice cream turns up from Ice Green in Cardigan, the farmhouse box cider is
delivered by the farmer up the lane, or the local butcher or charcutier.
While we’re on excellent terms with the regular drivers who bring us goods via the big delivery corporations and
whilst maybe there is a lot to be said for focussing on what you do well and letting other folk do the rest, it feels rather
distancing when suppliers who once turned up with boxes in the boots of their cars, now use the conventional methods
of shipping. Sentimental? Not really. Businesses in this sector need to cling on to individuality, to cultivating relationships
of trust and mutual support, if they are to survive and thrive.

Fodder in the Field & The Hut on Moel Famau – Take Guests To The Hills

Diners were recently treated to a legendary
dining experience at a pop-up restaurant set
up at the top car park of Moel Famau between
Mold and Ruthin. Located within the Clwydian
Range in North East Wales, Moel Famau is the
highest hill and provided spectacular views for
dining.
Jointly organised by friends Caroline Dawson,
who runs outdoor catering company Fodder in
the Field and Kate Richards, owner of The Hut
on Moel Famau, the event held in July drew
in food lovers hoping to sample the culinary
delights made with locally-sourced produce.
This included hay-cooked local Welsh lamb,
vegetables from the Vale of Clwyd and local
honey cake with Chilly Cow Ice Cream for
dessert; all washed down with North Star Gin and Hafod Ale.
Another event, Dinner and Dens, aimed at families, was held on Friday 4th August in Coed Nercwys, when diners were
given their own den-making kits and encouraged to embrace their sense of adventure while enjoying some delicious
locally sourced food and drink. The meal included Welsh jacket potatoes with Halen Mon oak smoked local beef chilli –
reared just 3 miles away from the forest. The dessert offering at this event was homemade brownies and Chilly Cow Ice
Cream topped with fudge also made by Kate, which the children could enjoy sat in their dens! The evening ended with
marshmallow toasting on the campfire.
Following the success of these two events, the pair hope to bring a series of experiences to the area next year, with new
and exciting themes and locations being planned.

Blas Restaurant – Highlights Local Produce

In August this year Blas Restaurant at Twr y Felin Hotel won ‘Best
Use of Pembrokeshire Produce in a Hospitality Outlet’. An annual
event, the Pembrokeshire Produce Mark Awards highlight just four
businesses for their outstanding use of food or drink. The scheme
has more than 300 members, which are verified to ensure that the
product they sell or use is made in Pembrokeshire.
Meaning ‘Taste’ in Welsh, Blas offers a menu influenced by the
season and locality and champions produce sourced from
predominantly Pembrokeshire and Welsh suppliers, as well as
foraged ingredients from the surrounding countryside and coast.
Under Head Chef Simon Coe, Blas is quickly establishing a
reputation as north Pembrokeshire’s leading fine dining restaurant
with a warm Welsh welcome, receiving a two Rosette Award for
Culinary Excellence within just 8 months of opening and in July
2017 winning the Radio Pembrokeshire Food, Drink and Hospitality Business Award, which is voted for by the public.
Blas Restaurant prides itself on accommodating guests with dietary requirements. Chef Simon explained: “We are able
to offer dining for gluten free, coeliac, vegetarian, dairy free and vegan diets. Tailor-made menus are available to guests
with allergies. Where possible drinks are of Welsh origin, or produced in Wales”.

www.welshcountry.co.uk 27

dnFcfhnariristFmwaysdfonaoddofaliigoarc
o
Y gorau oll o gynnyrch Cymreig gyda

chawsiau, cigoedd, pysgod, gwin, seidr,

pwdins, jam a llawer llawer mwy.

Y lle perffaith i stocio i fyny ar ddanteithion

blasus yn ystod y cyfnod cyn y Nadolig.

The very best of Welsh produce with
cheese, meats, fish, wine, cider, pastries,
puddings, jams and much much more.
The perfect place to stock up on a few
gastranomic goodies in the run up to
Christmas.

Mynediad a Free entry and
parcio am ddim parking all day
trwy’r dydd
Take the 03 bus!
Cymerwch y bws 03!

oSDatyudrddaSya2dw5 Nno2ve5mTbaerchw10ed0ad1m9-704p6m2 32 32
n

o
a
28 Nov-Dec 17

To Showcase Your Where To Eat
Eaterie Here Contact:

01559 372010

FOR MORE The Bakers’ Table The Hive The Shed Fish & Chip Bistro
MENUS Award winning café & real bread bakery,
AND winners of a Gold National Tourism Award The Hive Bar & Grill and award winning Award-winning fish bistro overlooking the
SPECIAL 2015 using only top quality products. Locally honey ice cream. Situated in a historic quay. Specialising in our own and locally
OFFERS sourced produce wherever possible, or converted wharf overlooking the picturesque caught fish and shellfish. Open 7 days a
made on site, but always served with love harbour town of Aberaeron. American style week (closed Tuesday/Sunday evenings in
FROM THESE and care. Everyone is made welcome, food with an European influence. Our menu school term-time, check website).
ADVERTISERS whether relaxing with a cup of tea or having includes local crab & chilli risotto, Hive Evening service subject to bookings.
lunch with a group of friends. burgers, ribs, steaks & more. Check out our
SEE... website for full menu & events.

Talgarth Mill, Talgarth, Powys, LD3 0BW The Hive, Aberaeron, Ceredigion, SA46 0BU Porthgain, Pembrokeshire, SA62 5BN
 www.talgarthmill.com  www.thehiveaberaeron.com  www.theshedporthgain.co.uk
 01874 711125  01545 570445  01348 831518

Blas Restaurant Ty Morgans The Belle @ Llanllwni
Ty Morgan’s is situated in the small, but With the emphasis on locally produced
Twr y Felin Hotel’s AA Two Rosette restaurant busy town of Rhayader, the gateway town Welsh ingredients we use fresh and ethically
Blas – meaning ‘Taste’ in Welsh – offers a of the beautiful Elan Valley Dams. There’s a sourced ingredients as well as a selection of
menu influenced by the season and locality, day time menu, a bistro and an evening bar sweets and desserts made daily to ensure
with dishes designed to reflect Wales and its menu with a varied selection of wonderful the freshest and highest quality.
produce. Open daily for breakfast, brunch, food. There’s a coffee shop, a bar area and
lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and drinks, we outside courtyard. Centered around casual bistro food with
welcome resident and non-resident guests an influence from the Mediterranean and
alike. Rhayader Powys LD6 5BH providing a relaxed atmosphere.
 www.tymorgans.com
Blas Restaurant, Twr y Felin Hotel, St Davids Llanllwni, Carmarthenshire, SA40 9SQ
SA62 6QT  01597 811666  www.thebelle.co.uk
 www.twryfelinhotel.com/dining  01570 480495

 01437 725555


welshcountry.co.uk

C Food For Thought Pen Y Cae Inn Carlton Riverside

Welsh Country An established family run café with a So much more than a gastro pub with a Multi-award winning restaurant using high
TO FEATUREMYagOaUzRine passion for our menu and mouthwatering diverse tasty menu using the very best of quality ingredients cooked with care and flair
daily specials including vegan and gluten- local ingredients and seasonal produce, by a chef with passion: Mary Ann Gilchrist.
EATERIE HERE free choices. From full English breakfast suiting all tastes and age groups. With the She uses local produce, sourcing as many
PLEASE CONTACT to afternoon teas. In-house baked yummy most wonderful art displayed & its own micro ingredients as possible from local farmers
cakes,Tea Pig Teas, speciality coffees and hot zoo immediately behind the establishment a and growers. A substantial element of the
MIAN ON: chocolates can be enjoyed in our cosy coffee meal out becomes a family day out. produce is organically grown and the fish is
lounge or unique dining area. caught by sustainable methods.
@welshcountry Pen y Cae, Brecon Road Swansea Valley,
13 Pendre, Cardigan, Ceredigion, SA43 1JL SA9 1FA Irfon Cr, Llanwrtyd Wells, Powys, LD5 4SP
 [email protected]  www.penycaeinn.com  www.carltonriverside.com
C Food For Thought  01639 730100  01591 610248
01559 372010
 01239 621863

www.welshcountry.co.uk 29

From The Larder

MARKET DATES NOT TO MISS Loyalty Cards At Cowbridge & Penarth Markets

Brecon Farmers’ Market These two markets have been running a loyalty card scheme for over 2
Market Hall, Brecon years now and their customers love it! When a customer spends £5 at any
11th November & 9th December stall within the market, the stall holder signs a box for you. Obviously if you
from 9.30am - 2pm spend £20 at a stall you will have 4 boxes signed. When a card is full you fill
Cowbridge Farmers' Market in your details and put it in the collection box on leaving the market. There
Arthur John’s Car Park is no limit to how many cards customers can have in the draw. The market
4th & 18th November and 2nd & 23rd December have a quarterly draw and the winner receives a hamper which is made up
from 9.00 -12.30pm of items donated from all the stalls. The 2nd prize winner receives £15 to
Lampeter People's Market spend with the 3rd £10 as the market picks up the tab.
Victoria Hall
11th & 25th November and 9th & 23rd December This scheme works really well as those who spend the most money
from 10.00am – 1.00am therefore have lots of cards in the draw box and more chances to win prizes.
Myddfai Farmers' Market So we are rewarding our most loyal customers while collecting contact
Myddfai Community Hall details of new customers each time also. For Cowbridge and Penarth
29th November & 20th December markets it’s a Win, Win for all! U
from 9.00am – 1.00pm
Penarth Farmers' Market Cowbridge market takes place at the Arthur John’s Car Park on the 1st &
West Bourne School 3rd Saturday each month with Penarth holding their market at Westbourne
25th November & 16th December School every 4th Saturday.
from 9.00 –12.30pm
Business Booming At Welsh Cottage Cakes
Gwatkin’s New Flower Power
Based in Llandeilo, Carmarthenshire, Welsh Cottage Cakes continues to
At the recent Ludlow enjoy immense success with yet another launch into High Street supermarket
Food Festival, Gwatkin Morrisons as well as expansion into north Wales through NISA and other
won a Gold Award for stores. Retailers both large and small are actively seeking to stock their
the Best New Product cakes as an essential part of their local or Welsh range which gives so much
with their Flower Power credence to the ‘Made in Wales’ brand.
Elderflower Cider.
Sales of their traditional Welsh Cakes have continued to grow in
This company have popularity and they were immensely proud to be awarded First Prize out
been commercially of over thirty entries in the first ever Bako Wales Product Competition in
making their award- May this year. They were also delighted to have received a Second Prize in
winning cider and perry the Gluten Free Class for their Fruit and Brandy Cake. This has been a real
for over 25 years and breakthrough for the bakery into the ever growing and demanding world of
although the cider was Gluten Free Products. Their Fruit and Brandy Cake, as you would expect is
always made on their full of fruit and alcohol, as they do not use flavourings and the rich texture of
farm, they just never sold any of it! There’s much that cake has found wide acceptance.
history here as their orchards are marked on the
1831 map but in the 1790s, the farm was still a deer Once again all praise must go to their hard working staff under the
park so their history of cider making goes back leadership of Bakery Manager, Dan Evans and Business Manager, Nia
almost 200 years. Their farm, Moorhampton Park Williams. U
Farm in Abbeydore, started as a Monastic Grange of
the Abbey situated further down the valley. For the latest news visit: welshcottagecakes.co.uk
It is likely that the elder trees were first planted
by the monks and lay-brothers who worked on the
Grange, today the elder trees grow profusely around
the farm and the River Dore hence the decision to
harvest the elderflowers to make, Flower Power,
their Elderflower Cider. The elderflowers are picked
by hand whilst still white, which gives a narrow
time-gap of less than a week to do this, otherwise
the flowers become too bitter. The flowers are then
blended with their award-winning cider and left
to infuse. The result is their Flower Power Cider,
which, for this year is a limited edition and now
they have to wait until the elderflowers bloom next
year to make some more. U
For all the latest news visit: gwatkincider.co.uk

30 Nov-Dec 17

Bluestone Brewing Goes From Strength To Strength

Bluestone Brewing received some
amazing news back in July. Through the
Big Lottery Fund they have been awarded
a grant to install their own bottling plant.
As part of the Coastal Communities fund,
issued by the Welsh Government, the grant
will allow them to completely transform
the way that the Brewery currently works.

The new bottling line, which they
hope to have installed and raring to go by
Spring next year will allow them to bottle
everything on site. This will save money,
mileage and time as they will no longer
have to rely on another Brewery doing
their bottling for them. The plant will be
capable of bottling up to 1,000 bottles an
hour, which is quite impressive! At the
moment, when they bottle on site, they are
unable to brew and bottle at the same time
as the bottling takes up so much space,
staff & time. This new plant means
that the Brewery will now be completely free every day to brew as much beer possible, which can only be good news!
This is a massive step forward for all at Bluestone Brewing Company and they marked their 4th birthday in October, it's great to see
their Brewery go from strength to strength. U
For the latest news visit: bluestonebrewing.co.uk

Black Mountain Gold Move To Abergavenny Conwy Brewery Award Winning Ales

A move from Crickhowell to Abergavenny has been a boost Conwy Brewery were delighted to receive two more prestigious
to this artisan chocolate retail business. It goes without saying awards for their ales recently. Clogwyn Gold, which has already
that Jules James, one of only a handful of ‘Master Chocolatiers’ received multiple awards, won a Silver award at the International
in the UK, really knows and loves his chocolate. Everything is Beer Challenge Awards held in London. They also collected a
handmade on site from luxury Belgian truffles and their Award Bronze award for a new addition to their core range, Beachcomber
Winning caramels. With boxed collections for special occasions, Blonde. Managing Director, Gwynne Thomas, described the win as
a mouth-watering selection of Dragon Bars and their new Bean “a fantastic achievement to get such high recognition for our ales
2 Bar made with coconut sugar for a natural caramel taste, there particularly as these awards are judged by some of the world’s top
really is something for all chocolate lovers. beer writers, tasters and brewers”.

Jules shares his chocolate passion with others through his But there’s been more good news as Morrisons supermarket
Chocolate Tasting & Making Workshop, that’s a great gift idea chain, who have been stocking a range of Conwy Brewery ales for
for all chocolate lovers. As well as making beautiful handmade nearly three years, as from October, three more of their ales, San
creations for Corporate Events, Wedding Functions etc. Jules has Francisco, Riptide and California from their West Coast range
made chocolates for BBC Wales, ITV Wales, The Great British of American-style IPA’s will now be available at branches across
Bake Off and many more. If you’re stuck for a gift idea this Wales.
Christmas, or even thinking ahead to Valentine’s Day, you’ll be
spoilt for choice from Black Mountain Gold. U Their first export order is heading across the channel to Une
Petite Mousse near Lyon and another ‘first’ is that they’re sending
For the latest news visit: blackmountaingold.org their beer in 330ml bottles. Surfin’ IPA will be joining a selection
of international beers to create a beer advent calendar which will
be available from the French online retailer. Gwynne Thomas
explained, “330ml bottles are something we’ve thought about for
some time. So when we received this enquiry it seemed like the
ideal opportunity to
test our capabilities”.
The brewery are
also in talks with
real ale importers
in Scandinavia
in a bid to create
more exporting
opportunities for
their Welsh beers. U

For the latest news visit: conwybrewery.co.uk

www.welshcountry.co.uk 31

x4
x6

Potawtoit+h LCeheikveSs oup Chicken Caesar
Salad Cups

You’ll need: You’ll need:

1 large Blas y Tir leek, chopped 3 tbsp mayonnaise
3 cups of diced Blas y Tir white potatoes 1 clove garlic, crushed
1 large onion, diced 1 tsp Djon mustard
2 tbsp dried thyme 20g parmesan, finely grated plus a little extra for decoration
600ml boiled water 4 radishes, cut into wedges
1 vegetable stock cube 3 spring onions cut into strips
1 handful of fresh, chopped chives 1 ready-roasted chicken breast, shredded
Salt & pepper to season 2 Little Gem lettuces

What next? What next?

1. Place the diced onion and leek in a pan with a splash of water. 1. In a large bowl combine the mayonnaise, garlic, mustard and
Put the lid on and cook over a very low heat for 3 minutes. parmesan and beat well.
2. Add the remaining water and crumble in the vegetable stock 2. Add the radish, most of the spring onion and shredded
cube. Add the potatoes and thyme and simmer for 20 minutes chicken breast to the bowl and stir well so everything is coated.
until the potatoes have softened (the smaller you cut up the 3. Separate the leaves of the Little Gem lettuce and lay out on a
potatoes, the faster they will cook). platter. Spoon a little of the chicken mix into each lettuce leaf and
3. Remove from the heat and season top with the extra parmesan and left over spring onion. U
4. Sprinkle with the chopped chives then serve with fresh, crusty
bread to soak up all the yummy juices and you’ve got a winner! For more recipes visit: lovethecrunch.com
U

This recipe has been created exclusively for Blas y Tir by food
blogger, The Balanced Kitchen. For more food inspirations, visit her
Instagram page.

32 Nov-Dec 17

WELSH KITCHEN

x1
x18

Healthy Vegan Stir Fry CVheogcaonlaBtleaCckubpecrarkyes&

You’ll need: You’ll need:

1 serving Rice Noodles 250ml almond milk
4 Blas y Tir spring onions 220g caster sugar
1 Sweet red pepper, chopped 80ml rapeseed oil
3 Long-stem broccoli, finely diced 1tbsp vanilla seed paste
1 Carrot, shaved into long strips 210g self-raising flour
1 Courgette, shaved into long strips 1tsp baking powder
1 large handful of fresh Spinach 30g cocoa powder
2 Blas y Tir savoy cabbage leaves, finely chopped 120g blackberries, chopped if large
1 clove of garlic, minced For the icing:
1 tsp ground ginger 150g icing sugar
1 tsp ground cumin 20g blackberries plus extra to decorate
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 packet Tofu, drained and chopped into cubes What next?
Tamari
Sesame Oil
Sea salt & ground black pepper to taste

What next? 1. Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan and line two bun tins with
fairy cake size cases. In a bowl beat together the milk, sugar, oil
1. Bring a pan of water to the boil and add the rice noodles. and vanilla until combined.
2. Simmer for 8-10 minutes, or as per packet instructions. 2. Reserve 2tsp of flour then in a separate bowl sieve together
3. Drain and set to one side. the flour, cocoa and baking powder. Fold the dry ingredients
4. In a large wok, add 1 tsp coconut oil, minced garlic and spring into the wet until all combined. Sprinkle the reserved flour over
onions. Turn up the heat and cook for 1-2 minutes. the blackberries and gently shake them until they’re coated then
5. Quickly add the remaining ingredients (excl. the rice noodles). gently stir into the batter.
Add 1 tsp sesame oil and 1 tsp tamari to the wok. 3. Divide the mixture between the cake cases, bake for 20-24
6. Heat through and turn continuously. minutes until the cakes spring back when you gently press the
7. After a couple of minutes, add the rice noodles and combine. tops. Leave to cool completely.
8. Plate and sprinkle with black sesame seeds! U 4. While the cakes are cooling, make the icing. Roughly mash the
blackberries and stir into the icing sugar.
5. When the cakes are cold spread the icing over and top with a
whole blackberry. U

This recipe has been created exclusively for Blas y Tir by food For more recipes visit: berryworld.com
blogger, The Balanced Kitchen. For more food inspirations, visit her

Instagram page.

www.welshcountry.co.uk 33

TheParson & The PublicanTHEPARSON
t is Thursday, a pre-Christmas
market day in Hay and the
stalls provide a wonderous
Iprofusion of ideas for pressies
and a chance to check that Christmas
provender is on order. So we spend a
happy hour wandering from the clock
tower up to the Butter Market and across
the square under the castle’s benign
watch. Laughing ladies and giggling
girls, all well wrapped up against the
cold, proffer their wares; finest cakes, jams and preserves; glowing
citrus fruits, bags of nuts, boxes of chestnuts and dates, bunches
of parsley, peppers in traffic light colours, mucky root veg, stacked
We stand in the portal as I mutter the words “Open Sesame” and
the automatic doors part before us, the OLV chunters on about
my mixing up pantomimes a little; he is soon silenced. There is not
a crook or nanny in this place that is not festooned with something
that someone is going to need at some point – and the boys and girls
who populate this version of Santa’s Grotto know where everything
is and are more than happy to help.

As we stagger across the road with our purchases I am not sure
that we have added to the total sum of presents for others but there
are certainly a few treats that Santa never need know about tucked
in the basket and bags.

cabbages, caulis and leeks, packs of home cured bacon, sausages in
glistening links; bread, tarts, croissants and pastries; sweet smelling
bath things for the lady who still likes to luxuriate; ribbons, buttons
and lace, tea cosies for that second cup. There are spices one could
almost imagine brought by eastern travellers from afar and jewel-
like fruits, plump and fresh from the sun, glacé or crystallised for
cakes, puddings and mince meat. Here too are the cheeses to fill the
corners as the port is supped and the brandy swirled around the
glass, or to sharpen the jaded palette on Boxing Day with cold meat
and pickles.
The sharp wind drives us into Shepherds for a restorative coffee.
A warm fug steams up the specs. Wicker baskets clashing we wend
our way through yummy mummies and their all-terrain buggys,
folk down off the hill with half an eye on the weather, seasoned
shoppers sorting parcels and doing a quick inventory of bags, ladies
exchanging news of grandchildren and dogs, the solitary with his
newly purchased book. We find a corner table with a good view.
The excellent coffee has the desired recuperative effect upon my
companion and he is soon ready to sally forth into the breach once
more.
There is still more to choose from; a bijou bit of bric-a-brac, a
bargain from some one’s attic; delicate earrings dancing in the breeze;
the choice is endless. Bells tinkle above doors and shopkeepers greet
us. It is busy but somehow still polite and pleasant. We are coping
well with the task in hand but still a few gifts elude us. “Never fear!” WTHE PUBLICAN
quoth I and direct the OLV in the direction of the market place. hat could be better after a spell in the pressured
He is side-tracked for a bit by the display of smoked salmon on the world of commerce than to retreat behind the
fish stall but ere long we stand before that shrine of the last minute stout Inn door to soak up the friendly warmth
shopper - “Get your own back” I whisper, “Buy ‘em all socks.” It is and revive the Inner Man? So here we sit in the
an irresistible temptation and in the twinkling of an eye the deed is bar of the creeper clad Blue Boar watching the constant flow of
done. cheery souls stopping by for a winter warmer, or something more
substantial, served by the delightful and friendly Scarlet. The coal
There are still more opportunities as windows full of finery and fire glows as the mellow wintry sun shines on the polished copper
fripperies beckon the boutique shopper. Hay Vouchers from Pugh’s and umber tinted oak panelling. We place our order and chat about
in the middle of town are a great gift for the ladies who frequent our morning’s escapades; the subject, as oft is the case, comes
such places. As we proceed up the street the Christmas window at around to food - in particular the challenge of the Christmas Bird;
the butchers is not to be missed. what spiced and herbal delicacies to introduce into which orifice of
the festive roast. Thus prompted I tell my old chum the saga of the
Our lunch destination is in sight but there is one last visit to ‘Big Bird’.
be paid. Jones’ Homeware, the Ironmongers and Cook Shop, is an
Aladdin’s cave of wonderment for the perplexed Christmas shopper.

34 Nov-Dec 17

PARSON & PUBLICAN

In a manner reminiscent of Alison Uttley’s classic story of the techniques to hand, as it were, but none of them seemed to make any
Wandering Hedgehog there appeared in the village one early impact upon this monster. We were standing in the swirling snow
summer’s day a traveller, a Romany who went by the name of Johnny with just the headlights to lighten our darkness when Johnny had a
Fox. He found work on a local farm where he lived in a caravan with brain wave. Perhaps the greatest error of the afternoon was to listen
his dogs and a pet sheep. Very little time elapsed from the moment to him but at the time and with the last flicker of Perry warmth still
the first thin blue spiral of smoke rose from the tin chimney till he fuddling the brain it seemed quite reasonable. We would use the lid
presented himself, cap in hand, at the Inn door. Having secured a of the boot as a guillotine.
promise from him to abide by the rules of the house Johnny became
a regular face amongst the throng. If inclement weather kept him off Somehow we managed to open the boot and while I struggled
the land he would undertake odd jobs around the Inn. to hold onto the bird with its neck placed strategically for the lid
to do its business Johnny arranged his sparse frame for maximum
So it was not surprising that just before
Christmas he and his ever present impact. At any moment we might be discovered about our
lurcher, Woofie, joined me to collect task so speed was of the essence. Bang went the lid,
the turkey. Since we never knew the bird kicked and jerked, the dog went berserk,
quite how many family, friends, Johnny slipped on the deepening snow, a
waifs and strays would be cloud of feathers and flakes obscured the
present at the Yuletide view. Speedily pulling ourselves up along
Board we always ordered the car I gained the front seat and was
a bird of considerable pulling off as Johnny slammed the
proportions. Although door shut, shouting as he did for
not far the farm was Woofy to keep it down. Knowing
somewhat off the the snow would soon cover our
beaten track. It was tracks we made for home.
getting dark and the In our inebriated state we made
sky threatened snow a very late but triumphant entry
so I told Johnny that home. With the warm glow of a job
we should not loiter. well done gradually supplanting the
However, once we had glow of Perry we summoned a small
crossed the common and crowd to the back of the car to view
bounced down the track it what must have been the largest turkey
seemed churlish not to accept carcass in captivity. By the light over the
the offer of a glass of home-made back door of the pub I encouraged the
Perry ‘just to keep the cold out’. It crowd closer the better to see and with a
would be fair to say that this was the first flourish I threw open the boot.
error in what was to become an afternoon There have been few more sobering moments
littered with errors. Our next was to have a second, just
to see how the first was getting on. Much later, and much warmed, in my life as the lamp bathed the darkness of that
we staggered out of that hospitable kitchen to be met by a sharp compartment in its revealing glare displaying not the plump
wind bearing flurries of snow. The farmer led us across the icy yard breast and mammoth drumsticks of the Goliath but rather its
to a byre where, penned in with a couple of hurdles, stood the largest severed head, sporting a rather startled expression, and a few
turkey I have ever seen; ‘But, but it’s still alive’, I spluttered.” feathers eddying in the empty chasm.
The Parson is tickled. Indeed if the food had not arrived at that
‘And all the fresher for it.’ said the farmer, ‘Give us a hand moment I am not at all sure that he wouldn’t have done himself
here Johnny.’ Together they gathered up the indignant bird and in an injury but the arrival of a steaming plate diverts him. It is well
treacherous procession staggered towards the car. Even through the worth paying attention to. My chum has plumped for the pork steak
Perry induced fog it was the clear that this monarch of the turkey on a garlicky stew of white beans liberally sprinkled with parsley.
race was not going to fit in the boot so turkey and dog shared the Warming and sustaining. My warm salad of pigeon breast with
back seat as we started for home. black pudding restores my self-confidence somewhat. This is exactly
the food to sustain and we partake with pleasure as indeed we do
Whether it was our talk of rapid dispatch or a dislike of car travel of Scarlet’s attentive service and warming smile. Pleasantly replete
in general I know not but the turkey began to attack Woofie who and greatly cheered we are wafted through the door by Scarlet’s best
retaliated in kind. Soon the inside of the car was full of fur and wishes and drift gently back to the gleaming chariot to make our
feathers. way home. U

I stopped on the common unable to go any further. It was clear Words: Parson - Ian Charlesworth, Publican - Richard Stockton
that the bird had to be dealt with immediately. I am no stranger Illustrations: Richard Stockton
to the sharp twist and pull that painlessly dispatches most fowl,
and with a side-line in moonlit expeditions Foxy had a variety of

Who are the Parson and the Publican?

Richard Stockton is a retired Innkeeper who once kept a 16th Century sporting Inn of considerable repute and
Ian Charlesworth is the Rector of five rural parishes in the beautiful Wye Valley. Together they enjoy jolly jaunts
around the countryside. Frequently these lead the Parson and the Publican along the road less travelled, where
interesting churches and welcoming hostelries lead them astray but there is always a story to be found in either
place, sometimes told in marble, sometimes heard over the pumps. Such tales and their observations form the

substance of their articles, each delicately illustrated with daubs from the InnKeeper’s brush.

www.welshcountry.co.uk 35

Coffee Break

Try our puzzles to test your logic skills. Use the clues given below the crosswords to fill in the
answers and complete the grids as best as you can. The goal of Sudoku is to fill in a 9 x 9 grid
with numbers so that each column, row, and 3 x 3 section contain the numbers between 1 to

9. Your task is to use logic to fill in the missing numbers and complete the grid.

CROSSWORD

1 2

ACROSS DOWN ACROSS DOWN
1. Get rid of (4) 1.. Calamity (8) 1. Comradeship (11) 2. Append (3)
3. Beloved (8) 2. Hillock (5) 9. Peculiar (3) 3. Grant (5)
9. Exclude (4,3) 4. Deviation (6) 10. Bringing to an end (9) 4. Unicellular organism
10. Collier (5) 5. Protestation (12) 11. Cubed (5) (6)
11. Diligence (12) 6. Blessing (7) 13. Floating (7) 5. Summary (7)
13. Deserved (6) 7. Listeners (4) 14. Poem (6) 6. Copy (9)
15. Verse (6) 8. Inhumanity (12) 16. Needlework (6) 7. Not easily described
17. Dedication (12) 12. Chief prop (8) 18. Cockerel (7) (11)
20. Over (5) 14. Disorderly (7) 19. Principle (5) 8. Incitement (11)
21. Very old (7) 16. Abrade (6) 20. Perpetual (9) 12. Crowd (9)
22. Ceased (8) 18. Perfect (5) 21. Jeer (3) 15. Understanding (7)
23. Scourge (4) 19. Was profitable (4) 22. Limited (11) 17. Platitude (6)
19. Claw (5)
21. Piece (3)

36 Nov-Dec17

PUZZLES

SUDOKU

12 37

Find the answers to these puzzles in
Marketplace on page 65

www.welshcountry.co.uk

Thomas Winstone

Thomas Winstone is a fire fighter from south Wales with a passion for photography, in particular wildlife and landscapes.
Photography has been a significant part of Thomas’s life, providing a more ataractic and peaceful flipside to his
unpredictable and understandably, stressful job. Thomas’s photography has taken him places he would never have
explored before, leading him to discover and experience some of the most beautiful places that Wales has to flaunt.
Take the stunning capture on these pages of Pen y Fan, Thomas set his tripod and camera facing up the ridge, which was still
covered with undisturbed snow, offering him a unique angle. He says, “Trying to capture the stars minutes before the sunrise was
a special moment, albeit a chilly one!’’. It is amazing where a camera and an enthusiastic outlook can take you!
Using a very artistic eye and some impressive photography skills, each of Thomas’s images seem to tell a story in their own
right, so be sure to take a look at his Flickr and Facebook accounts which are stocked with more of his magnificent work! U

Pen Yy FFaann Broad Haven South
3388 NJuolv--ADuegc1177

PICTORIAL WALES

www.welshcountry.co.uk 39

Craig Cerrig Gleisiad

Carreg Cennen Abergavenny

Mountain sheep braving the elements in the harsh Welsh winter

St Brides Bay

Brynmawr NJuolv--ADuegc1177
40

PPIICCTTOORRIIAALL WWAALLEESS

Taken from Corn Du in the Brecon Beacons looking out to Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales
Nuthatch, a small woodland bird often found in parks and gardens

To see more of Ryan’s photographs
you can contact him using the following
methods:

Email: [email protected] or via his
Facebook account: Ryan S Williams

To see more of Thomas Winstone’s beautiful photography you can visit his Flickr and social
media pages:

Instagram: Toms206
Facebook: Thomas Winstone Photography
Flickr: Thomas Winstone

www.welshcountry.co.uk 41

Arts & Crafts

Sarah Jane Brown To Launch New Exhibition New Bear For Christmas From Tweedies

Contemporary landscape painter Sarah Jane Brown is launching a new Tweedies are
exhibition ‘The Momentum of Colour’ in Off The Wall Gallery, Cardiff proud to present
in November. This solo exhibition of landscape and seascape paintings this Christmas
examines how colour can be a driving force in motivating thought and their newest and
brightest Welsh bear
emotion throughout the process of painting. – Gaenor.
‘I’m often drawn by colour to something; colour is compelling
and can do something emotive,’ says Sarah Jane. ‘When I start to Gaenor is
paint, I lay raw colour down on the canvas, allowing the colour to handcrafted from
drive my thoughts and emotions, and from there the painting gathers a gorgeous rich
momentum.’ red herringbone
Inspired by the diversity of colours found amongst the tweed from Trefriw
expressive skies, mercurial seas and rural landscapes of her home Woollen Mill in
in Pembrokeshire, Sarah Jane’s contemplative and responsive work north Wales. Being
explores her relationship with colour and the sensations awakened a very strong colour
by her observations. This new exhibition expands upon her theme of it was quite difficult
awareness, presenting a thought-provoking and insightful portfolio of to tone in felt and
paintings. woollen yarns, but
Dates: 11th November - 5th December 2017. Venue: Off The Wall I hope you feel we
Gallery, The Old Probate Registry, 49 Cardiff Rd, Cardiff CF5 2DQ. have succeeded.
Open: 9.30am-5.30pm Tues-Fri, 10am-4pm Sat. Gaenor has dark cream felt feet and warm caramel ears. A peach,
Website: galleryoffthewall.com roma red and heather hand knitted hat and roma red scarf complete
a very snug Christmassy picture.
Established in 2005 Tweedies are now in their 12th year of trading.
The bears and paperweight mice are 100% British, multi award
winning, original, quirky and colourful, with personalities bigger
than their ears!
Maisie our flagship bear is trying to keep order in the workshop
as everyone is very excited about a future forever home and a lot of
rattling can be heard in the plastic boxes.
As another year is coming to a close, we would like to take this
opportunity of wishing all our customers past, present and future, a
very happy Christmas and New Year. Will you find a Tweedie under
your Christmas tree? If you do, please remember to give them a
whole lot of love.
To view more bears and mice visit: tweedies.biz

Ucheldre Arts Centre

Ucheldre lives at the top of the town of National Theatre, The Met and The RSC are all being shown.
Holyhead. An arts centre dedicated to cheldre’s Restaurant is also open daily with delicious home
bringing visual, and performing arts to
the people of Holyhead and Anglesey. The cooking. The Christmas menu is available now and bookings
Gallery spaces host regular new exhibitions being taken.
of work, and as you walk around Ucheldre’s
beautiful gardens more permanent For further information, prices and tickets please see our
installations surprise and please. website at www.ucheldre.org or call the box-office

Ucheldre has a dedicated theatre space. on 01407 763361
Originally a convent chapel its acoustic lends
itself to wonderful music performances;
classical piano, chamber music, opera, jazz
and folk all live on stage. This season we have
the Voskresenije Choir of Saint Petersburg,
Ensemble Cymru, and The Devil’s Violin. As well as visiting
performances Ucheldre has its own in house drama groups.
Coming soon are Peter Quilter’s “Duets” and this year’s panto
“The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”. Ucheldre also buzzes with the
activities of a wide range of workshops, classes and clubs all year
round.

Ucheldre screens regular films and live broadcasts. The
exciting new 2017/18 seasons from The ROH, Ballet and Opera,

42 Nov-Dec 17

Arts & Crafts

TELYNAU TEIFI HARPS POTERI CARN ALW SARAH JANE BROWN ORIEL KING STREET GALLERY
Telynau Teifi Harps is a not-for-profit I’m Cilla and I’ve been potting and teaching Sarah Jane Brown’s new solo exhibition King Street Gallery is fast becoming a
community business based in Llandysul, pottery for 30 years, producing simple but ‘The Momentum of Colour’ launches at destination for collectors of fine art and
West Wales. Combining the best of the old eye catching designs, often with a sense of Off The Wall Gallery, Llandaff, Cardiff from contemporary ceramics, with regular
and new, we are relentless in our pursuit of humour. You can see a selection of my work 11th November, and explores how colour exhibitions of new work being showcased
sound quality. We marry innovation and new in the Guildhall Market Cardigan but I also motivates thoughts and emotions throughout on a bi-monthly basis. The Chate Room is
technology with traditional skills whilst also produce bespoke work creating the most her process of painting. Current work can available for rent to artists wishing to stage
supporting the wider community. In doing this wonderful gifts with a personal meaning. also be viewed at Etcetera Gallery, St Davids their own exhibitions.Vacancies for New
we hope to secure the harp making traditions and the Russell Gallery, London. Members in all Fine Art and Applied Art
of Wales for future generations. Cilla Lewis, Cardigan, Ceredigion disciplines.
 [email protected] C Sarah Jane Brown – Paintings
Llandysul Ceredigion SA44 4DT  01239 621695 33 King Street, Carmarthen SA31 1BS
 www.teifiharps.com  www.sjbart.com  www.kingstreetgallery.co.uk
 01559 363222
 [email protected]  01267 220121

CHRISTOPHER WYN BROWN DOROTHY MORRIS FINE ART WELSH TWEED OLWEN JONES - ANIMAL PORTRAITS
Christopher produces vitreous enamelled Greenspace Gallery exhibits local artists work Welsh Tweed clothing and accessories are Original horses, livestock, wildlife and pet
jewellery and sculptures, using copper as the Dorothy shows her own fine art, batiks and inspired by the rugged countryside around us. portraits in pastels or oils. Immortalise
base. Each piece is unique as it is handmade, ceramics. Greenspace Gallery is versatile Our 100% wool fabric is woven locally and your special pets and companions in fine
but variations in firing temperature and time with exhibition space to hire with special with a flash of electric polka dot lining does art so that you and future generations can
affect the finished item. Christopher will be rates for students, plus tea rooms providing more than bring attention to the cut or fold of enjoy and remember. Items available for
attending Llanerchaeron Winter Fair 2nd & delicious homemade cakes and savoury one of our jackets. Full range on our website. personalisation include prints, mugs, cards,
3rd December. vegetarian dishes using local, ethical and key rings, and magnets. Contact Olwen to
Fairtrade products whenever possible.  [email protected] discuss your requirements.
Brynsawdde, Llangadog,  www.welshtweed.com
Carmarthenshire, SA19 9PR 2nd Floor, 30 King Street, Carmarthen, Gwyddelwern, Denbighshire, LL21 9DU
 www.christopher-wyn-brown.co.uk SA31 1BS  [email protected]
 www.dorothymorris.co.uk
 01550 777574  01490 412472
 01267 267652 / 07969 273577  07968 969854

ORIEL PLAS GLYN-Y-WEDDW TYDDEWI GALLERY TREFRIW WOOLLEN MILLS CYNTH WEYMAN
One of Wales’ most picturesque art venues, Pembrokeshire’s only gallery showing Manufacturers of traditional Welsh Gallery open Tues – Sat 10am – 4pm for
nestling in the village of Llanbedrog on the original paintings by artist Pauline Beynon. bedspreads, travelling rugs and tweeds from People’s Fine Art and Watercolours. Images
Llŷn Peninsula, within an area of outstanding Showcasing a constantly changing selection the raw wool. Our pure wool fabrics are made transformed into textile relief akin to stained
natural beauty. Open Daily 10 - 5 (closed of paintings, ceramics, glass and bronzes, up into throws, cushion covers, bags and glass. Gilcée prints, cards, and stocking filler
Tue, Oct - May excluding school hols). 12 from local and invited artists. ‘A jewel in the purses. Visitors can view the weaving and mugs. New collection of ‘My Posh Scarves’
acre woodland with headland walks, outdoor artistic landscape’. Something for everyone, water powered turbine (Monday – Friday in luscious silks especially for Christmas .
theatre and self catering unit to rear of from serious collectors to those sourcing except Bank Holidays, mid February – mid ‘Thaw Begins’ ‘Towy Valley’, ‘Pembrokeshire
mansion, sleeps 12. unique, tempting, affordable art. December). Seascapes’ & lots more.

Llanbedrog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd, LL53 St. Davids, Pembrokeshire, SA62 6NS Trefriw Woollen Mills, Main Road, Trefriw, Inspired 2 Collect Gallery, Albion Arcade,
 www.oriel.org.uk  www.tyddewi.com
Conwy Valley, LL27 0NQ 4 Blue Street, Carmarthen SA31 3LQ
 01758 740763  01437 720386  www.inspired2collect.co.uk
 www.t-w-m.co.uk

 01492 640462  07772820313

www.welshcountry.co.uk 43

To Showcase Your Work Here
Contact Ian: 01559 372010

JULIA HARRIS GWILI POTTERY TWEEDIES LLANWRTYD COMMUNITY TRANSPORT
Julia Harris artist and illustrator will be Creating domestic pottery for over 35 years, Award winning original, quirky, colourful, To help raise funds for the transport scheme
opening her studio doors to the public Gwili pottery is produced in an impressive 100% British collectable bears and we recycle glass bottles and create a variety
Monday 16 to Sunday 22 October 10am to variety of shapes and is available in around paperweight mice, all looking for their of products for sale: ornaments for the garden
4pm (other dates by appointment). Not only 40 strong, individual and colourful designs. forever homes. Beautifully handcrafted in and home, sharp-free glass chips for plant
can you see Julia work, you will have the From mugs and plates to jugs, vases and Welsh and Shetland tweeds and yarns with pots and garden paths and, new to the range,
opportunity to buy original paintings, prints lamp bases, each piece is unique, everything great attention to detail, making unique gifts our glass jewellery produced directly from
and cards. Give the Gift of Art this Christmas. is hand-thrown and hand painted at the to love and treasure. Stock bears up until 15 recycled bottles and glass.
welcoming workshop and gallery. December depending on availability. A very
The Studio at Ty Newydd, Dan y Fron, happy Christmas everyone.  [email protected]
Abercraf, Swansea Valley SA9 1XX Pontarsais, Carmarthen, SA32 7DU  www.llanwrtydcommunitytransport.org.uk
 www.juliaharris.wales  www.gwilipottery.com Orleton, Ludlow, Shropshire, SY8 4HU  0011998822 555522772277/ /555511229955
 www.tweedies.biz
 01639 731222 / 07973 717207  01267 253449
 07917 264237

CHARLOTTE WOOD ZOE GLADWIN DITTA FOLDESI-SZALKAI THOMAS WINSTONE
Passionate illustrator produces work for Internationally collected artist specialising Portrait painting from photos in various Thomas Winstone is a fire fighter
advertising, book covers, greetings cards, in, but certainly not limited to, fine animal media. Reproductions of many famous from south Wales with a passion for
packaging, editorial for companies and portraiture - produced in a varied range of paintings from a Swansea based artist. photography, in particular wildlife and
private commissions. Inspired by nature detailed mediums including paintings, pencil Contact Ditta with the details of your landscapes. Using a very artistic eye and
and impressionists, illustrations are full of works, photography and more. Available for requirements. some impressive photography skills, each
sensitivity and experimentation. Exhibited commercial work and personal commissions. of Thomas’s images seem to tell a story in
in shows in Wales and London. A unique To follow progress of current artworks and  [email protected] their own right, so be sure to take a look at
drawing style which has led to working with keep up to date on any news, be sure to his Facebook account which is stocked with
the likes of famous illustrator Quentin Blake. check out Zoe’s Facebook page. lots of his magnificent work!

 [email protected] C Gaia Illustrations C Thomas Winstone Photography

 www.charlottewoodillustrator.com  www.gladwinphotography.co.uk
 0077550033 002244118833
 01239 615372

E TO FEATURE YOUR For more from these
WORK HERE advertisers see ...
u
PLEASE CONTACT www.welshcountry.co.uk
@WelshCountry IAN ON:

 [email protected]
 01559 372010

44 Nov-Dec 17

Fully staged and accompanied by chamber ensemble

November 2 LLANDINAM - 3 LLANFAIR CAEREINION - 4 ABERMULE
6 ABERDARON - 7 CRICCIETH - 8 DENBIGH - 10 RHOSYGILWEN - 11 ABERYSTWYTH

16 YSTRADGYNLAIS - 17 BARMOUTH - 18 ABERDOVEY - 23 HAY ON WYE
29 LUDLOW - 30 AMMANFORD - December 1 CWMBRAN - 3 PRESTEIGNE

www.midwalesopera.co.uk 45
www.welshcountry.co.uk

Made in Wales

Cwtch Body & Sole

Based near Newport on the beautiful north Pembrokeshire coast, Cwtch Body & Sole is a

1. Lemongrass & Ginger Sea Salt Body Scrub Cflooumripsah1ninyg. business that runs alongside their sister business, the Pembrokeshire Sea Salt
Handmade and luxurious, this is made from salt from
their Pembrokeshire Sea Salt Company. With a coconut Cwtch Body and Sole takes their insp2iration from nature and even their website
oil base that contains Vitamin E, an anti-oxidant with reflects the local environment, using the colours of the sea, sands and craggy cliffs that
anti-aging properties that protects against wrinkles, skin
cracking, sagging. It’s also anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and surround them. Some super gift ideas for Christmas. For more information visit: 3
anti-microbial. This is a wonderful way to exfoliate with
natural oils to moisturise your skin. There are six beautiful cwtchbodyandsole.co.uk
fragrances available. Online price £14.99 & p&p.
2. Lemongrass & Ginger Peppercorn Soy Wax Candle 1 3
Made with natural soy wax and premium fragrance oils 2
this candle range has a creamy, luxurious texture and
colour. With a minimum burn-time of 20 hours, it burns
cleanly and evenly and being soy wax, which has a lower
carbon footprint than paraffin or petroleum wax, its eco-
friendly and much less likely to soot. Six super fragrances
to choose from. This makes a super gift if you can bear to
give it away! Online price £8.99 plus p&p.
3. Lemongrass & Ginger Reed Diffuser (Boxed)
This is eco-friendly and uses a base oil from a renewable
source and hand produced fragrance oils from the UK.
The reeds are porex, meaning they will not clog and
don’t require turning, so the diffuser evaporates more
efficiently, lasts longer and smells sweeter in your home.
The base oil is non-toxic, has little odour, evaporates
slowly and fully enhances the scent of diffuser’s natural
fragrance oils and so prolongs shelf-life. There are eight
fragrances to choose from. Online price £13.99 plus p&p.

4

2 Natures Little Helpers
4
Based on the outskirts of Cardiff, the company sell a range of natural
3 cosmetic products which are all handmade from scratch in small batches,

using natural oils, butters, their own honey and beeswax. These make
great gift ideas, visit: natureslittlehelpers.co.uk

1. Lemon Grass Hand Balm
Honey, beeswax, geranium and lavender combine to make this a beautiful natural
hand and body balm. 50g/£5.95
2. Organic Hand & Body Balm
Honey, beeswax, geranium and lavender combine to make this a beautiful natural
hand and body balm. 50g/£5.95
3. Cardamom and Orange, Rosemary, Cinnamon Spice Luxury Hand Made Soap
Each bar of soap is cut and wrapped by hand so no two bars will be exactly alike.
Your skin deserves a treat and these are it! £3.90
4. Beeswax Candles, Including Hand Rolled, Conical & Beehive Shapes.
These candles have a long burn time and are all rolled by hand.
Prices start from £1.10
5. Orange & Raspberry Lip Balm
Just what’s needed - a natural balm for your lips. This tin is so handy for your bag,
desk draw or bedside table. There are lots of flavours to try. 15g/£3.50

25
1

46 Nov-Dec 17

Gift Ideas

1. 24K Bio-Gold Skin Radiance Night Cleanser from Bio-Essence

With anti-oxidant property this effectively but kindly removes daily 3

pollutants and clears pores of stubborn residue. Cleverly recharges

dull and tired skin and gives and retains the moisture that your skin

so needs. This cleanser helps to defy signs of ageing whilst your

skin renews, regenerates and repairs each night.

100g/£6.99 Superdrug.

2. All Is Calm, All Is Bright from Ren Skincare (Boxed)

This is the best introduction into Ren’s best-selling skincare

products. The set contains: 15ml Glycol lactic mask, 50ml

Evercalm global protection day cream and 10ml Keep Young &

Beautiful instant firming beauty shot. This makes a great gift. 1

£29. renskincare.com

3. ‘Tis The Season To Feel Rosey from Ren Skincare (Boxed)

A luxurious selection from Ren’s top award winning Moroccan

aRnod1se10O0tmtol set contains: 200ml bo2dy wash, 75ml sugar body polish
top
gold glow perfect dry oil. A fabulous gift from this

brand. £45. renskincare.com

4. Rosemary & Eucalyptus Foot Salts from SBC

You are on your feet all day but sadly tend to ignore them. Loved

this super soak as it’s such a great idea, the eucalyptus oils

combined with sea salts and salicylic acid soften hardened skin,

then rosemary leaf oil deodorises your feet, whilst propolis extract

helps any minor foot concerns. This is such a treat for your feet.

£25. bcgels.co.uk

5. Rosemary & Eucalyptus Foot Scrub from SBC

Cleverley combining pumice and salicylic acid that work together

to buff away dead skin cells to feet are soft and smooth. Enriched

with rosemary, eucalyptus and arnica extracts to stimulate and 2

revitalise tired feet. This simply beautiful collection is one of my

favourites because their products work. £15. sbcgels.co.uk

45 8 6. Rosemary & Eucalyptus Foot Cream from SBC
9 This top quality, moisture-rich foot cream will leave your feet feeling brilliant. It’s rich in shea butter to
6 nourish dry, hard and cracked skin. With natural herbal extracts your feet will look and feel fabulous.
7 £15. sbcgels.co.uk

7. BarePro Performance Wear Liquid Foundation SPF204from Bare Minerals (Boxed)

This is their newest foundation and the best for me! It has long-wear technology that mimics the natural
lipids in your skin giving 24 hour full, breathable coverage. Resistant to water, sweat, it's heat resistant,
hypoallergenic, oil & fragrance free and gives a natural matte finish. The brilliant brush is designed to
blend the tricky areas around the nose and eyes. You’ll not believe how good it is until you try it.
30 shades. £29. Brush £24. bareminerals.co.uk
8. Compact Duo from Joan Collins Beauty (Boxed)
Timeless Beauty totally sums up Joan Collins and this is her ‘can't be without’ product. The meticulous
Skin Perfecting Powder, evens skin tone, disguises open pores, regulates shine giving staying power to

£m1a6k.ej-ouapn.cHoyllidnrsabtienaguatyn.cdoh8mighly pigmented Divine Lips lipstick is all you need for your glamour look.

9. Class Act Mascara from Joan Collins Beauty (Boxed)
A fabulous no-shed formula, that’s smooth and creamy, doesn’t clump but creates a natural look that
lasts. Easy to apply and does add impact. A peptide booster promotes growth and fullness, giving you
really glamourous lashes. I loved this. Opthamologically tested. Colours: classic black/dark brown.
6ml/£20. joancollinsbeauty.com

Pussy Willow & Fresh Green Foliage from Peony
Fool people with this lush statement arrangement that they will be convinced this
is real! Peony are the only world-wide licence holder for the manufacture of faux
flowers recognised by the Royal Horticultural Society for their floral excellence.
A beautiful large bottle neck vase holds trailing Pussy Willow and fresh green
foliage. Not set in still water, so just arrange as you wish. This will make a
stunning gift and it will last! £117.50/qvc.com/product code: 707938

www.welshcountry.co.uk 47

Perfect Presents... 3

2

1

5
46

1. Go Crackers Gift Set from Heathcote And Ivory (Boxed) 4. Gardeners Hand Therapy from Crabtree & Evelyn (Boxed)
A set of 3 decorative crackers each containing a 30ml hand cream with three The garden plays havoc with hands but this therapy is just what’s needed a blend
different designs and fragrances from across the Vintage & Co collections. These of nutrient-rich shea butter, moisturising glyercin, deodorising clover and soothing
enriching hand creams contain shea butter and vitamin E, perfect for softening bisabolol from camomile that will help nourish and condition work-roughened hands.
and moisturising hands. Why not use these as surprise gifts at the dinner table 100g/£18. crabtree-evelyn.co.uk
on Christmas Day? £10. heathcote-ivory.com 5. Gardeners Hand Recovery Scrub from Crabtree & Evelyn (Boxed)
2. Scented Drawer Liners from Heathcote And Ivory (Boxed) Very dry and garden-roughened hands will benefit from this shea butter-rich
You get 6 scented draw liners with a Zen like design that will not only brighten treatment that exfoliates, moisturises and conditions to instantly restore softness and
up drawers and cupboards but leave a subtle scent of green tea, jasmine and suppleness. This scrub is deliciously fragranced with fresh green clover, lavender,
cedarwood. £7. heathcote-ivory.com sage rosemary and thyme. 100g/£17. crabtree-evelyn.co.uk
3. Gardeners Merry Hands from Heathcote And Ivory (Boxed) 6. Gardeners Hand Wash from Crabtree & Evelyn
All gardeners need to give their hands extra spoiling and this is how to do it. Blended with Alfalfa, carrot root, rosemary leaf, sage and chicory leaf, this will leave
There are 3 x 15ml shea butter cream and 3 x 15ml hedgerow creams, blended your hands feeling clean and refreshed after gardening. This mild pH balanced
with shea butter, essential oils, hedgerow extracts and almond. There are three formula, is naturally deodorising leaving hands as nourished as an English Garden
hand creams scented in the original Gardeners fragrance and three scented after every wash. 300ml/£16. crabtree-evelyn.co.uk
with the new hedgerow fragrance. This is how to bring comfort and joy to all
gardeners. £12. heathcote-ivory.com

48 Nov-Dec 17

7
9

8

7. Time To Unwind from Aromatherapy Associates (Boxed) 49
This De-stress collection contains a 150ml limited edition muscle gel, a 13ml
mind bath and shower oil and a 20ml body oil. Wonderful essential oils of
rosemary, frankincense and lavender help soothe muscles, ease tension, calm
and relax the body and the mind – just what’s needed over the festive break!
£35. aromatherapyassociates.com
8. Pomelo Fragrance Paintbrush from Jo Malone (Boxed)
Trust Jo Malone to create a new way to wear fragrance, just think of your body
as a canvas and paint your skin with scent. Sweep the gel from head to toe;
across your neck, up and down your arms and body, then line the back of your
legs – basically take it everywhere as it dries in seconds. Pomelo, a delicious
citrus is Jo’s signature scent and understandably becoming a cult classic.
18ml/£40. joloves.com
9. Thirsty Work Anti-Ageing Moisturiser from Angela Langford
I’m becoming addicted to this brand and loving this ultra-hydrating anti-ageing
moisturiser with raspberry, rosehip, chia seed and argan to improve skin
elasticity and help protect against future damage. Vitamins A & C are blended
with antioxidants Q10 and arctic blackcurrants to work on fine lines and wrinkles.
Hyaluronic acid keeps your skin hydration, so no wonder it’s now one of my hero
products. 50ml/£37.50. angelalangford.com

www.welshcountry.co.uk

Christmas Treat Time

1. Turban from AQUIS Hair Towels 2 3. NO!NO! Pro (Boxed) 4
Wet hair is at its most vulnerable as Cleverly using Advanced Thermicon
it loses 60% of its strength as keratin Technology this is a professional hair
proteins absorb water, so this gets hair removal treatment for guys & gals and is
into a damp state quickly to regain its suitable for use on body, face and upper
strength. This turban not only halves your lip, offering proven results that last when
drying time but improves look of hair with used regularly whatever your hair colour.
less frizz, plus it allows you to do other It’s easy and simple to get rid of hair
things whilst hair dries. It’s such a brilliant painlessly at home – this works! There
idea. 7 colour choices. £30. is also a 60 day, yes 60 day money back
feelunique.com. guarantee which makes this a superb
gift. £199. nonopro.co.uk

1 2. Well Heeled Express Pedicure (Boxed) 3 4. Ear & Neck Snuggles from Welsh Tweed
This is how to stay warm and cosy when
This is an electronic foot file with micro the Welsh winds blow. Both are made from
crystal rollers that spin over 200 times a 100% wool with the neck snuggle having
minute, effectively but gently buffs away a soft fleece lining. The ear snuggle really
hard dry skin from heels, soles and toes fits snuggly with an elasticated band at the
in minutes. Easy to use to keep your feet back. Ear & neck snuggles are
in tip-top condition and makes a great £22.50 each. welshtweed.com
Christmas present.
£24.99 magnitone.co.uk

Stocking Fillers - Eyes & Nails

3 45
2 6

7

1

1. Smokey Eye Kajal Liner from Bobbi Brown 4. Angel Dust from Leighton Denny

This fabulous liner has a soft and creamy texture and actually stays put. Easy to This is a crafty one as it’s a clear polish with broken crystal glitter pieces for

apply and the smudger sponge at one end is great for creating a look that works eye-catching sparkle. Roll the polish between your hands to mix and then apply

for you, plus sharpener included. Bobbi understands what’s needed and more 2 thin coats to each nail, waiting 1 minute between each application.

importantly what works! 3 shades to choose from. £19. bobbibrown.co.uk 12ml/£12. leightondennyexpertnails.com

2. Extra Eye Repair Cream from Bobbi Brown 5. Rock Solid from Leighton Denny (Boxed)

Use this cream morning and night, just warm between two fingers and press This is a clever reinforcement treatment for fragile, soft or sensitive nails. If

along the under eye area. This is light, yet effective and made a real difference you’re suffering from acrylic damage your nails are thin, you must try this.

in skin texture, on fine lines and dark circles too. It also acts as a great base for 12ml/£12. leightondennyexpertnails.com

makeup application.15ml/£30.67 bobbibrown.co.uk 6. Passion from Leighton Denny

3. Smokey Eye Mascara from Bobbi Brown (Boxed) This is really a gorgeous colour, a deep, rich red cream. It is the classic

This for me is BB best mascara. It lengthens and fans out lashes and doesn’t go sophisticated red which to me epitomises glamour, luxury and style. Easy

hard which other brands do. You can apply it lightly or vamp it up for a real wow to apply and last well, no wonder Leighton is known as the King Of Nails.

eye look without having to wear false eye lashes. 6ml/£24.50 bobbibrown.co.uk 12ml/£12. leightondennyexpertnails.com

7. Duplex Buffers from Leighton Denny

Just what is needed to care for cracking/flaking nails as it smoothes and flattens.

Use the grey side to refine, then turn over and use the cream Chamois leather

side to shine your nails. 2 pack/£9.leightondennyexpertnails.com

50 Nov-Dec 17