AUGUST 2019 ISSUE 146

THE ABERGAVENNY FOCUS

wall2wall Jazz Festival 26th August - 1st September (pg. 15) FeaturingTrombone Legend, Dennis Rollins Saturday 31st August, 12:15 & 7pm, Melville Theatre ABERGAVENNY TOWN & VILLAGES LLANFOIST GOVILON GILWERN

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Get in touch - 01873564424 GetGet in in touch touch - -01873564424 01873564424 [email protected] [email protected] www.ChristieResidential.co.uk | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5EU [email protected]@taylorandcoproperty.co.ukwww.taylorandcoproperty.co.uk www.taylorandcoproperty.co.uk www.taylorandcoproperty.co.ukwww.taylorandcoproperty.co.uk Christie Residential - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd 2 15/10/2015 12:12:44 Estate | Letting | Land Agent Estate | Letting | Land Agent www.christieresidential.co.uk | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny. NP7 5EU EstateEstate | |Letting Letting | |Land Land Agent Agent 01873 852221 CL 2 3 www.ChristieResidential.co.uk | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5EU

Christie Residential - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd 2 15/10/2015 12:12:44 THE ABERGAVENNY Dear Readers, Contents FOCUS I sincerely hope you’re all enjoying your Summer. As I write this editorial, we have just experienced a week of incredibly warm Editorial & Contents 4 Publisher: Focus Magazines Ltd weather and an amazing thunderstorm, the likes of which I’ve Weather: August’s Outlook 23 Tel: 01873 856614 never seen in this country before. Some of the photos that were Editorial & Advertising: captured are amazing. It’s lovely to experience warm weather Puzzles! 59 Hannah Hill: hannah@thefocus.wales in this country, but the unusual pattern and increasingly high Graphic Design & Accounts: Next Month: Children & Families 61 Pete Hill: [email protected] temperatures do make me worry about the ever-present climate- change crisis that we’re facing. 7 9 Contributions: The Focus Directory 62 George Beale Lots of you will have children and grandchildren at home for the Malcom Brinkworth summer holidays, which can seem like a bit of a trial after the first few COMMUNITY David Collyer days. Fortunately we live in an area where there is no end of activities New Garden at Abergavenny Library 7 Debs Hancock to enjoy, most of which are free. My four year old likes nothing better Bernard Illman Llantilio Pertholey VPA 8 Peter Jones than going into the woods and climbing trees - totally free and a Ann Miles good way to expend energy. If you’re looking for other activities, Govilon WI Centenary 9 Hannah Mlatem check out our events calendar, which we also publish online, for 16 Helen Morgan everything to keep you and the kids entertained this summer. EVENTS Jill Nicholson Jonathan Powell Our Focus Feature this month is all about Homes & Gardens, so do Canals Trust Duck Race 13 Anne Rainsbury have a good read through that for some ideas and inspiration. Our Kate Taylor front covers are images from Wall2Wall Jazz Festival, which takes place wall2wall Jazz Festival 15 Claire Timbrell in Abergavenny from 26th August. More on that on Page 15. And, of 16 course, Brecon Jazz Festival takes place between 9th-11th August too, Flower Festival, Christchurch Govilon Whilst every care is taken with materials 15 17 submitted to The Abergavenny Focus, the so if you’re into Jazz, then August is the month for you! August at Abergavenny Castle 17 publisher cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to such materials. Opinions Enjoy this month’s read, Events Calendar 18 expressed in articles are strictly those of the author. This publication is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form without LOCAL BUSINESS written permission from the publisher. Prices and details are subject to change and conditions www.thefocus.wales 25 and the publisher can take no responsibility Nicholls Loyalty Scheme [email protected] CTheFocusMagazine for ommissions or errors. The inclusion of an 27 advertiser in this magazine is not necessarily a Tel: 01873 856614 Miles Morgan 32 35 recommendation. © Focus Magazines Ltd 2019 Foxhunters Care Community 43

AUGUST 2019 ISSUE 146 AUGUST 2019 ISSUE 64 31 THE ABERGAVENNY HOMES & GARDENS THE FOCUS ADVERTISE WITH US! FOCUS Crickhowell, Brecon & The Usk Valley Become Lord or Lady of the Manor 32 Our Magazines are monthly, A5 sized, full August in the Garden 35 colour publications, delivered solus, door Stunning Garden on the slopes of the Blorenge 36 wall2wall Jazz Festival 26th August - 1st September (pg. 15) wall2wall Jazz Festival FeaturingTrombone Legend, 26th August - 1st September (pg.9) to door for free. We offer cost effective Dennis Rollins FeaturingTrombone Legend, 41 st Tiny Gardens Saturday 31 August, 12:15 & 7pm, Melville Theatre Dennis Rollins ABERGAVENNY TOWN & VILLAGES LLANFOIST GOVILON GILWERN Saturday 31st August, 12:15 & 7pm, Melville Theatre, Abergavenny advertising rates which start at just £21 BRECON • CRICKHOWELL • LLANGATTOCK • TALGARTH • TRETOWER • GLANGRWYNEY • BWLCH Circulation• LLANGYNIDR • LLANGORSE 5,500, • LLANFRYNACH • CWMDU which • TALYBONT-ON-USK • Clean Oven Co. 45 36 CirculationHOMES FROM PARRYS8,000, which is hand delivered, solus, per month. Your advert will appear in full 21 Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire NP7 5AA 01873 736515 | [email protected] | www.fineandcountry.com HOMES FROM PARRYS

21 Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire NP7 5AA isFocus handbanner - July 2019.indd 1 delivered, 10/07/2019 14:45 to01873 homes 736515 | [email protected] | andwww.fineandcountry.com businesses colour, we provide a free, professional solus, to homes inFocus bannerCrickhowell, - July 2019.indd 1 Brecon, 10/07/2019 14:45 LIFESTYLE & CULTURE Llangattock and Talgarth, design service and big discounts for and businesses in Hannah Mlatem: Summer Hair needs extra TLC 49 Abergavenny, Llanfoist, with additional pick-up points in the following bookings of 3 months or more. Call Gilwern and Govilon, 51 villages: Bwlch, Cwmdu, Hannah or Pete today on 01873 856614 Paint Nights with additional local Glangrwyney, Llanfrynach, pick-up points Llangorse, Llangynidr, or email [email protected] History: Why Caerleon was Key 53 Talybont-On-Usk, and 55 51 55 Tretower. Photography: How we view our pictures 4 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 5 COMMUNITY This year also happens to be the centenary of Andrew Carnegie’s death, (11th of August 1919). Being one of the world’s richest men, he founded over 2000 Carnegie libraries around the globe. The new library garden has also featured in Abergavenny’s entry to the annual Wales in Bloom competition. F.O.A.L.S. first started by providing pots of geraniums on the library steps. Last year, we New Library Garden made up and provided planters and boxes around the front of Graphic Design Websites the library. This year has seen the George Beale (left), chairman of F.O.A.L.S. with the Mayor of Abergavenny Posters Ecommerce and other F.O.A.L.S. members. addition of the new library garden to the overall display. Leaflets & Flyers Digital Media he year 2006 was the replacing. Friends Of Abergavenny George Beale Brochures Graphics for Social Media centenary of the opening Library Service,(F.O.A.L.S.) Tof Abergavenny’s Carnegie successfully applied to a local library. To celebrate this event, environmental company, Viridor, a group of volunteers decided for a grant to refurbish and replant to turn a piece of waste ground, the garden. The new garden was CONTACT PETE HILL: [email protected] at the rear of the library, into a officially opened by the Mayor of TEL: 01873 856614 memorial garden. Abergavenny, Tony Konieczny, on 29th of June 2019. Over the years, the original wooden flower beds decayed and needed

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This House and the topics of what were the good of the whole community’ of the Second World War, we decided stream then becomes part of The called ‘monthly lectures’ in those so every month we accept members’ our name needed alteration. River Usk near Abergavenny Castle, Centenary Year early days were Flies and also Home donations to the local Food Bank and linking the two areas. Nursing. In their first year Govilon Women’s Aid. Skills taught during that time WI bought a sweep’s broom which Llantilio included, amongst other things, Our aims remain the same - to As part of our centenary celebrations could be hired out to members for a we have, so far, had afternoon tea having hens to produce eggs, honey provide an enjoyable, good value, Pertholey VPA few days! at the Gliffaes and still to come are production, making preserves and social evening, enjoying our Speakers a special Centenary Supper and to become These days we are more about ‘Fun pickles, fruit production, cookery and and their presentations, providing a music night to which other WIs Gavenny so on, all of which were instructed by a warm welcome, enjoying two and Friendship’ with a good measure will be invited. We’ve also set our Gardening Club Usk College of Agriculture. Through outings per year and events such as of ‘Education’ thrown into the mix. members a Centenary challenge regular lectures and demonstrations, A Summer Tea Party, Jumble Sales, So far this year our speakers have and we hope that by the end of the and visiting gardens to expand our Harvest Service, Harvest Supper and a included Olympic medallist Becky year between us we will have one ctober 1956 saw the formation knowledge, VPA’s were formed all Christmas Lunch and Party. James as well as Rachel Watson hundred new experiences under our of Llantilio Pertholey Village giving us a master class in bread belts. Produce Association, over Monmouthshire. We have been O A very good Members Show, (free making. We also had Michael Cordel supported by many Notable among the few survivors. entry to the public) takes place introducing us to the delights of If anything that we do appeals to you personalities and people from Since it is nearly 63 years ago since from 2:00pm on the first Saturday in armchair yoga and still to come we why not come to one of our monthly the Parish and beyond. They all our inception, we feel that maybe our September at The Community Hall The current members and the meetings. enjoyed the marvellous benefits of have ‘The Other Glenn Miller Story’ relevance has faded in the public’s with over 300 entries and over a 100 original 1920 group growing their own food, fruit, flowers and Rebecca Blount speaking about We are pleased to see anyone who eye. We have therefore decided to classes. Entrants range from 3-93. and plants as well as sharing this his is an exciting year for us as one of the current hot potatoes- would like a taster of what the WI rename ourselves, not forgetting Recycling. knowledge and encouraging others. Please come and join us, Membership we celebrate our centenary can offer so come along on the This is still just as important today; our heritage, history and all who first Thursday of the month to The is open to all and you will be made T in September. I wonder if the However it’s not all about the monthly to grow and eat your own produce contributed in whatever way during Salisbury Hall in Govilon at 7.30pm. to feel very welcome. We hope to see women who met for the first time meetings. We have a Book Club and an is wonderful. We feel the associated that time. on September 8th 1919 thought We don’t need prior warning but you soon! informal lunch club at a local venue as you can contact our President, Jill benefits, both physically and that their Institute would still be Hence forth we shall be Gavenny Malcom Brinkworth well as groups who enjoy cinema and Nicholson on 01873832097 or email mentally are of great importance. thriving a hundred years on. Gardening Club! This is a reference theatre visits together. [email protected]

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MVODIFT Tel no: 01873 853575, email: [email protected] • The Dennis Rollins Big Bluesy Jazz Band Youth Workshop with Performance at the wall2wall Festival is for young musicians. • A Renewal Gospel Choral Workshop -for singers of all Welcome to Regency59 Nestled in the Heart of Abergavenny town and street ages with a performance at The wall2wall jazz Festival bustling with independent boutiques, family business- es and market hall, Regency 59 is the definition of the • Jazz for Young ‘uns - an hour of musical fun with rhythm modern Nepalese and Indian Restaurant. and instruments Rigorous attention is paid to the quality and the fresh- ness of the ingredients used in preparation and • Tango Jazz workshop.- open to any musician, learn more presentation with no compromise. about the Tango music style Regency 59 is committed to provide only the healthi- est food using locally sourced fresh meats, fresh vege- tables and spices ground on site. Something for everyone, I am sure that you will agree We look forward to seeing you there! With no touch of artificial colour, no added preserva- tives in any of our recipes we remain true to the flavours. Details and tickets can be purchased online at: For booking please call on 01873 859962 Visit www.regency59.co.uk 59-60 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5EU www.blackmountainjazz.co.uk Debs Hancock The Official Food Of Jazz Music In Abergavenny Renewal Choir 50%OFF PIZZA WHEN YOU SPEND £40 OR MORE ONLINE USE CODE 50JAZZ40 T&Cs: Cannot be used with any other offer. Offer can only L 3circlescare C 3 Circles Care be used in Domino’s Abergavenny. Expires 30/9/2019. 14 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 15 EVENTS EVENTS Visitors will be surprised by the a fantastic production of the Ali Baba and the Forty number of links that Govilon village Thieves on Thursday 22nd August at 5pm. With an has with the Victorian era and these amazing set and hilarious slapstick and if you are will all be staged and celebrated wondering just how 5 actors turn into 40 thieves – you through floral art. really will be amazed. Not to be missed, an excellent show for everyone! And finally on Friday 30th August All Things A preview evening on the 5th will 5pm - another of David Walliams best selling books for kick off the start of the festival and kids Gangsta Granny is brought to the outdoor stage this will be “tickets only”. Tickets Victorian by Heartbreak productions. are £10 each and include light Flower Festival, Christchurch refreshments. Tickets £14 adult / £8 child / £40 Family (2+2) Book yours now at Abergavenny Museum tel 01873 854282 Govilon, 5th - 8th Sept Tickets for 6th - 8th will be £3. Abergavenny Museum’s (11-4 daily except Wednesday) Visitors are also welcome to pay Summer Season of Outdoor at the door. Refreshments will be You can also book Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves online his year marks 200 years The flower arrangers of available to purchase on these Theatre at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/monmouthshire/ since the birth of Britain’s Christchurch in Govilon have set nights. abergavenny-castle/ali-baba-and-the-forty-thieves-at- T longest reigning monarch, out to mark this special anniversary August at abergavenny-castle Queen Victoria. She certainly year, in their own unique way, by The church will be open for viewing made her mark on the world and staging a flower festival. from 10am till 4pm each day. Abergavenny Castle her life has often been portrayed Throughout the first weekend in To bring the event to a close, on through film, book and television September, this beautiful village Sun 8th at 4pm there will be a ook your tickets now for our brilliant summer One of the most recent and very church will be adorned with Songs of Praise service, to which all season of Theatre in Abergavenny Castle popular adaptations, of course, was displays, created by the flower are welcome. A chance to raise the B Grounds. We’ve got four fantastic shows the ITV series, Victoria, starring the arranging team, plus friends and roof of this historic little church with including two family productions in August this year, actress, Jenna Coleman at her best. helpers, all designed to illustrate, “All all your favourite hymns. so put these dates in your diary now or better still It certainly stirred up interest in the Things Victorian”. Ann Miles book tickets. Victorian era. First up on Wednesday 14th August at 7pm are the fun and funny Pantaloons with Jane Austen’s Sense & Sensibility. They gave their first ever performance at the castle last year and went down a storm, so catch this fast-paced and faithful adaptation of this much- loved Austen classic. From Regency style to 1930s glamour with the costumes, music and the decadent wit of Noel Coward’s Private Lives on Tuesday August 20th at 7pm. Heartbreak Productions transport the audience to a fashionable hotel in Deauville where two honeymooning couples find that one of life’s coincidence tricks has extraordinary consequences... Our last two shows are especially for family audiences, but adults will find them as much fun as the kids that they are designed for. The incredible Illyria bring

16 VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 17 EVENTS 8TH AUGUST & EVERY THURSDAY Family Fun Day with Craft Activities for See our article on Page 15 and visit hungry work, so come prepared with Testaments’ by Margaret Atwood OPEN MIC Hen & Chickens Pub, from Kids. Food & Refreshments, Stalls. blackmountainjazz.co.uk/wall2wall- picnics! Bring seating, rugs etc, picnics with an evening event and Old Skool 7.30pm Blaenycwm Primary School, Blaenavon jazz-festival/ for tickets and info and warm clothing for when the sun midnight opening. We’ll be starting at Rd, Brynmawr, NP23 4BR. Entries on the goes down. Gates open 4.15pm 8pm with a talk by Avril Horner at the EVENTS 8TH – 26TH AUGUST day from 12pm. judging starts 1pm 26TH AUGUST Recommended age 7+ Tickets £14 per Parish Hall, followed by platters and CASTELL ROC AT CHEPSTOW Free Admission MBACT ANNUAL DUCK RACE adult, children £8, family (2+2) £40 wine and chat at Book-ish. We’ll be CASTLE The family friendly festival held 3pm, Coach & Horses, Llangynidr Contact Abergavenny Museum: 01873 hosting a little bit of a Margaret Atwood CALENDAR inside Chepstow Castle. Spectacular and 20TH AUGUST See Page 13 for more info 854282 quiz and then we’ll be celebrating the intimate and internationally recognized PRIVATE LIVES OUTDOOR THEATRE 29TH & 30TH AUGUST publication launch at midnight! for its relaxed atmosphere and variety of Heartbreak Productions bring an 5TH -8TH SEPTEMBER Tickets to include a copy of the book, LOCKDALES VALUATION DAY Free 2ND AUGUST shows. www.castellroc.co.uk evening of sparkling entertainment, ALL THINGS VICTORIAN FLOWER FESTIVAL entry to the talk and platters and a glass Valuations, No obligation From 10am, Llanfoist Village Hall Film Night nostalgic music, and delicious one liners See article page 16 for more info. of wine at Book-ish. We’re also offering various locations. See Advert on Page 23 GREEN BOOK A working-class Italian- 10TH AUGUST with Noël Coward’s celebrated 1930 the chance to pre-order a copy of the Friends of Castle Meadows Walk: comedy Private Lives. Performed in the for full details 7TH SEPTEMBER American bouncer becomes the driver GAVENNY GARDENING CLUB book and get a glass of wine from of an African-American classical pianist DRAGONFLIES & OTHER INSECTS fabulous setting of Abergavenny Castle 11:30pm for just the price of the book. 30TH AUGUST ANNUAL SHOW See our article on on a tour of venues through the 1960s Lead by Steve Butler. Meet 10am, Byefield grounds, this is not to be missed. Bring Visit www.book-ish.co.uk for more info Lane car park seating – low backed chairs, rugs, etc, GANGSTA GRANNY OUTDOOR THEATRE Page 8for more info. 2pm, Llantilio American South. 7.30pm, Llanfoist Village End the summer holidays with this picnics + warm clothing for when the Pertholey Community Hall, Free Entry 11TH SEPTEMBER Hall. Entry £4 treat – the last in our season of outdoor 9TH-11TH AUGUST sun goes down. Gates open 6.15pm ABERGAVENNY OVER 50’S ACTION GROUP theatre in the fabulous setting of 9TH SEPTEMBER 3RD & 4TH AUGUST BRECON JAZZ FESTIVAL Brecon Jazz Tickets £14 per adult, children £8, family Talk by Mr. Jeff Chard entitled ‘Otter Abergavenny Castle, and the second AN EVENING WITH ANN CLEVES INSPIRED 2019 Festival is back for its 36th consecutive (2+2) £40 Contact Abergavenny Museum: a wonderful World’. A great welcome of our family shows. Heartbreak Discussing her latest book The Long Call Inspired by the 60’s Inspired 2019 is the year! Visit www.breconjazz.org for full 01873 854282 awaits you. We have a varied Productions bring another adaptation 7.30pm-9.30pm, Bookish, 18 High St, first of hopefully an annual event to listings and ticket info programme for the season including of best selling author David Walliams’ Crickhowell. Tickets £10/£20. Visit www. raise money for charity and deserving 21ST AUGUST our Christmas party with entertainment. 13TH AUGUST books, a tale full of forbidden fun, book-ish.co.uk for bookings and info causes. The outdoor event will be a two- PAINT NIGHT For full info see article on Be great to see you there! Sessions HOLIDAY FUN: FREE CHILDREN’S CRAFT Gangsta Granny, the grandma with day outdoor concert in the beautiful Page 51 Woodfired, 26 High St, Merthyr run from 10am - 12 noon and are Do you live in Gilwern? Are you a secret life. Heartbreak Productions 9TH SEPTEMBER grounds of Abergavenny Castle. Tickets Tydfil. 7pm-9pm, £25 per person. Visit £2.00 per session. Trinity Hall, Baker St, looking for stuff to do with the kids invites you to join Ben, and his Gangsta PARTY TO PUBLICATION £24.50. Visit www.inspired2019.co.uk for www.daffirose.com Abergavenny this summer? Well look no further, Book-ish will be celebrating the tickets and line up. Granny on their grandest adventure. this summer there’s lots of great stuff 22ND AUGUST This exciting escapade will be very much anticipated publication of ‘The 4TH AUGUST happening over at Gilwern Community ALI BABA AND THE FORTY THIEVES Friends of Castle Meadows: Centre, right next to the park and library. OUTDOOR THEATRE The first of the BUG HUNT Walk lead by Steve Williams. 9am-11am, Giwern Community Centre, family shows at our season of theatre Children Must be accompanied by an Common Rd, Gilwern outdoors in the fabulous setting of adult. Meets 1pm, Byefield Lane car park Abergavenny Castle. This is as much fun 14TH AUGUST for the adults as the kids it’s designed 6TH AUGUST SENSE & SENSIBILITY for! Illyria bring to life this tale from the BOOK CLUB AT GILWERN LIBRARY OUTDOOR THEATRE This funny, Arabian Nights, Ali Baba & the Forty 9am-11am fast-paced and faithful new adaptation Thieves, with their usual brilliant staging for outdoor theatre by The Pantaloons and skilful effects it’s packed with QUALITY DECORATING 6TH AUGUST & EVERY TUESDAY of Jane Austen’s much-loved classic cliff-hangers, larger-than-life characters, CRAFTING 4 CANCER SUPPORT GROUP features live music, audience interaction, laughs galore, and the most magical SERVICE Tuesdays 10.30am-1pm, Tithe Barn, Monk romance and heartbreak. Performed in cave you’ve ever seen! Perfect summer St, Abergavenny. For more information, the fabulous setting of Abergavenny fun for thieves and vagabonds aged All aspects of interior and exterior contact Karen Smith: 07796 333737 Castle grounds, this is not to be missed. 5+. Bring seating, rugs etc, picnics and work undertaken Bring seating – low backed chairs, rugs, 7TH AUGUST warm clothing for when the sun goes etc, picnics + warm clothing for when down. Gates open 4.15pm. Tickets £14 • Painting, decorating PAINT NIGHT Unleash your creativity, the sun goes down. Gates open 6.15pm. per adult, children £8, family (2+2) £40. • Wallpaper hanging wine glass in one hand and paintbrush Tickets £14 per adult, children £8, family Contact Abergavenny Museum: 01873 in the other. You will be guided step- • Floor and wall tiling (2+2) £40. Contact Abergavenny Museum: 854282 by-step through a painting, from start 01873 854282 • Fully qualified with over 30 yrs to finish, taking home your very own 25TH AUGUST experience canvas master piece. All materials 15TH-18TH AUGUST LLANYNIDR AGRICULTURAL SHOW • Fully insured provided! Free-styling encouraged, GREEN MAN FESTIVAL See Advert on Page 13 for more info • Quality workmanship guaranteed beginners welcome…get loose and get www.greenman.net Gates 9am, Llangynidr Hall & Fields, Free creative! For full info see article on Page Car Parking 51 Trading Post, Nevill St, Abergavenny. 18TH AUGUST Contact Richard Knight on BRYNMAWR ROTARY CLUB 6.30pm-8.30pm, £25 per person. Visit 26 AUG – 1ST SEPTEMBER 01873 854904 or 07812 429732 www.daffirose.com COMPANION DOG SHOW WALL2WALL JAZZ FESTIVAL 18 19 TheTheManorManor SimplySimply Magical Weddings Weddings HEALTH & WELLBEING AT CrickhowellCrickhowell CivilCivil Ceremonies Ceremonies && ReceptionsReceptions up up to to 200 200 Guests Guests PETERSTONE COURT SPA WonderfulWonderful Views OverOver the the Brecon Brecon Beacons Beacons Feel your cares melt away with our cosy detoxing clay cocoon

A top-to-toe luxurious pampering treatment that includes an orange & zingy lime exfoliation, warm body cocoon and head massage. The treatment is finished with a light coconut massage that will leave your skin feeling smooth, silky and conditioned. We offer daily, monthly and annual gym memberships. Please phone or call in to view the facilities, including fully Contact Our Team for More Information equipped gym, sauna, Jacuzzi, treatment and relaxation rooms. [email protected] Contact Our Team for More Information T: 01873 810212 SEE OUR WEBSITE: PETERSTONE-COURT.COM LLANHAMLACH, BRECON, [email protected] EMAIL [email protected] POWYS, WALES, LD3 7YB OR TELEPHONE 01874 665387 T: 01873 810212 20 21 PONTHIR ABERGAVENNY A5 AD WK9.qxp_Layout 1 08/03/2019 14:40 Page 1

WE DON’T JUST WE AL The Month Ahead: August 2019 SO After some pleasant spells of weather during late June and throughout parts of July, August HAVE O will afford a similar pattern with periods of dry, fine, and warm to very warm conditions. SELL AWARD 100 QU VER With the prospect of a favourably positioned jet stream, any high pressure should be able to ALITY USED bed down across Wales for a decent length of time, allowing temperatures to climb rather nicely, perhaps edging into the 80’s from time to time, with any very warm and humid WINNING NEW VEHICLES IN spell being brought to a close with thunderstorm activity. However, one of the key elements to providing long and sustained phases of warm weather during Summer is the ability for GROUP S high pressure to build back in rather quickly, a trait that may well be displayed in August. A CARS... TOCK. slightly drier and warmer month is expected. Jonathan Powell

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n keeping with this month’s sympathetically renovated and offers a welcoming introduction to flora and fauna. A covered parking area for approximately 20 a separate detached Stables block Focus Feature on the theme luxurious country residence. You the home, with substantial period walkway pagoda dripping vehicles plus two garages. The within the grounds, which would of Homes and Gardens, can even become Lord or Lady of oak doors, flagstone flooring with mature wisteria opens paddock benefits from direct be suitable for easy conversion ITaylor & Co. present the Manor as these titles can be and oak beams, leading to three to a pond with water feature, vehicular access to the road. to an additional holiday let or this beautiful country home, acquired by separate negotiation. spacious reception rooms, among a plethora of specimen trees commercial/business unit, subject The dwelling also includes a complete with woodland and other rooms on the ground floor. including a monkey puzzle tree, to planning consent. The main house dates from the lucrative business opportunity landscaped gardens. an orchard with fruit trees and 15th century and has recently Twr Mihangel is set in of an attached and imposing Viewings by appointment with a handsome beech tree. There Taylor & Co are delighted to have been extensively refurbished to approximately 1.5 acres of Elizabethan 2-storey octagonal Taylor & Co are a multitude of seating areas been instructed in the sale of Twr create an incredible balance of attractive mature landscaped and stone-castellated tower, dotted throughout the attractive T. 01873 564424 Mihangel, an impressive Grade modern living facilities, whilst gardens perfectly planted and which has operated as a highly gardens plus an open-fronted sun W. www.taylorandcoproperty.co.uk II listed detached 5-bedroomed retaining all its original historical gloriously arranged with natural successful Romantic Retreat house with decked BBQ area and period house, situated on the and architectural splendour, woodland and free flowing garden holiday let business by the present E. abergavenny@ a substantial vegetable garden. edge of the medieval village of including hand-carved oak beams, spaces encircling the residence. owners for over 10 years - and - taylorandcoproperty.co.uk Formal gardens lead to a wicket Llanvihangel Crucorney. imposing stone fireplaces, solid Stone flagged pathways are most notably, it recently featured gate opening into a paddock oak external doors and oak-framed beautifully interspersed with in The Sunday Times as one of Twr Mihangel offers a unique which extends along the rear leaded-light windows throughout. overflowing flowerbeds brimming the top three romantic retreat Asking Price OIEO £875,000 opportunity to own a of the property to an extensive Inside, the double-entranced hall with an abundance of seasonal holiday lets in the UK. There is also 32 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 33 HOMES & GARDENS ow the year has flown, look quite majestic especially if you August already. This month have a hedge or wall backdrop. can bring forth the fruits of H A plant which seems to be out of BIG SUL all your labours in the way of soft CONSTRUCTION GARDEN SERVICES fashion now is the fuchsia, some GN fruit and vegetables, but sadly varieties of them create splashes the borders can lack colour and BUILDING & ROOFING of reds and pinks well into early vibrancy as so many early summer MOBILE: 07799 720816 Exterior winter. flowers come to an end. • Extensions Cleaning Dont forget to keep up the Do not despair, borders can be • Renovations All Surface Pressure laborious task of dead heading, it • Washing revived by planting late flowering • Slate & Tile Roofing is the only way to keep the flowers Driveway & Patio perennials such as Penstemons and coming. 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Stunning Garden nestled on the slopes of the Blorenge Mountain, above Llanellen

hard to believe that more enjoyable than watching galtonia and a range of alpine combines the mountainside has been lovingly carved by a this beautiful garden is bees and butterflies flit between and rock plants. The garden in location with a Mediterranean local craftsman into two owls It’slocated at an elevation flowers, small birds chittering to spring is particularly spectacular alfresco vibe. This means the who watch over the garden and of around 600ft, on the side of a one another, while higher up birds with naturalised bulbs including outdoor space becomes an homestead with their protective, Find your space... mountain, isn’t it? Even harder of prey wheel and arc overhead. daffodil, crocus, fritilleria, grape extension of the living space in steady gaze. Monmouthshire. to believe is that it is only fifteen All with the stunning backdrop of hyacinth and wood anemone. which to relax with a good book This type of garden is among A beautiful environment in which to work, live and love. minutes drive away from the the Blorenge Mountain. In midwinter, it is peaceful and and a glass of wine, or to entertain the many that Fine & Country centre of Abergavenny. majestic when blanketed in snow friends, throw parties, or just This sanctuary of a garden offers specialise in. If you are looking to and wreathed in mountain mist. A simply absorb the beauty of a The estate agent couple who a slice of peace and tranquility buy or sell a beautiful home with perfect Winter Wonderland. Welsh sunset. own this property have lived here and something new to admire a wonderful garden to match, for the past 18 years and, during with the passing of the seasons. Earlier this year, the owners Other, more wild delights include contact Heather Cook at Fine that time, have slowly but surely In the spring and summer the completed a major revamp a mountain stream where lovers of & Country on 01873 736515 or ABERGAVENNY • SALES • LETTINGS • MONMOUTH wrangled with their wild patch garden is a riot of colour as flowers of the terrace area, creating a a natural water feature (including heather.cook@fineandcountry. 21 Nevill Street, Abergavenny NP7 5AA of land, taming it into a peaceful bloom abundantly and gloriously magnificent barbecue/outdoor the owner’s granddaughter) can com or call into the Parrys Fine & Sales: 01873 858990 Lettings: 01873 859237 haven where they can relax and including foxglove, delphinium, kitchen and entertaining area enjoy a splash and a paddle in Country office in Nevill Street. 2 Agincourt Square, Monmouth NP25 3BT recharge their batteries. At the allium, hebe, berberis, azalea, (complete with coveted Green Egg the clear mountain water, and Sales: 01600 713030 Lettings: 01600 775936 end of a long day, there is nothing monbretia, hellebore, caryopteris, BBQ!), which somehow perfectly the stump of a fallen tree which 01873 858990 [email protected] 36 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 37

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AC Puddle New Advert 2019.qxp_Layout 1 25/03/2019 15:40 Page 1 AC Puddle New Advert 2019.qxp_Layout 1 25/03/2019 15:40 Page 1 modern. A little rose such as Rosa ‘Bonica’ with its clusters of powder pink flowers is ideal for a small garden, as is English lavender for its scent and fires - fireplaces - stovesfires - firefplaces - stovies restar jasmines as an evergreen climber - fireplaces - stoves fires - fireplacfeisre -s s-t ofivreesplaces - stoves which will thrive against a warm Tiny Gardens sunny wall. How to make the best of small ACCESSORIES outdoor spaces Fairy lights, storm lanterns, scatter cushions with a bold print, and citronella candles, which look both Here’s our short guide to tiny furniture, giving a sense of more pretty and keep the bugs at bay, gardens, from the best furniture to space. Often you can pick these up are all ways of dressing the space use and the type of plants to grow in salvage yards, vintage shops or to make it look both chic and to make even the most petite of online. appealing. patios a space to be proud of. PLANTS If you have a little bit more space SHOWROOMS: 111 OSBORNE ROAD S• HPONWTRYPOOOOML S• :N 1P141 6OLSUBORNE ROAD • PONTYPOOL • NP4 6LU FURNITURE Potted plants bring a burst of life to to work with, think about a firepit Email: [email protected]: [email protected] Vintage, mismatched bistro tables a patio, terrace or balcony, and can SHOWROOMS: 111 OSBORNE ROAD • PONTYPOOL • NP4 6LU or chiminea as a focal point and a 01495 755 820 - www.ac0p1u4d9d5l e7.5c5o m820 - www.acpuddle.com and chairs are on trend. Not only be shifted around when you fancy place to gather with a warm blanket Email: [email protected] can the chairs be folded away for a change. A tiered plant stand is a on cooler evenings. A small water easy storage, but the open backs great way of saving space and really feature in a corner will bring a sense 01495 755 820 - www.acpuddle.com and narrow legs allow light to travel dresses up a corner. All manner of of drama and serenity to the space. through, unlike big, bulky wooden styles are available, from retro and

SHOWROOMS: 111 OSBORNE ROAD S• HPONWTRYPOOOOML S•: N1P141 6OLSUBORNE ROAD • PONTYPOOL • NP4 6LU BROKEN, LOOSE Email: [email protected]: [email protected] 01495 755 820 - www.ac0p1u4d9d5l e7.5c5o 8m20 - www.acpuddle.com OR UNEVEN Cuddle & Cwtch PATIO SLABS? Quality clothing for babies and children CRUMBLING MORTAR JOINTS? Stockists of Frugi Organic cotton clothes, RESTORATION WEED GROWTH AND MOSS PROBLEMS? Kite Clothing, Emile et Rose and SPECIALISTS “The SHOWROOMS: 111 OSBORNE ROAD • PONTYPOOL • NP4many more. 6SHOWROOMS: 111 OLSBORNE ROAD • PONTYUPOOL • NP4 6LU SHworkmanship was OWROOMS: 111 OSBORNE ROAD • PONTYPOOL • NP4 6LU Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Efirstm class and the ail: [email protected] 01495 755 820 - 01495 755 820 - 0speedy1 completion 495 755 820 - www.acpuddle.com www.acpuddle.com most welcome” www.acpuddle.com – David Johns

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54A Frogmore Street, Abergavenny. Call us on 01873 850524 www.cuddleandcwtch.co.uk TEL: 07811 443561 www.vianapatios.co.uk 40 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 41 LOCAL BUSINESS

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oxhunters Care Community, get bored! For those who like space move in to a care home. Foxhunters part of Dormy Care, is a new and quiet time there are a choice offers a home from home feel F luxury purpose-built care of beautifully designed lounges, with as much support as you may home that opened in November. library and a snug. need. We focus on encouraging Offering 70 fully furnished independence and enabling older A stunning choice of dining rooms ensuite bedrooms, including people to live their lives in the best opening on to the gardens via a four companion suites to enable possible way. We offer short term Luxury living patio or balcony offer a fine dining couples to stay together, the respite for those looking for a break experience using locally sourced home offers residential, nursing or a holiday as well as permanent produce and a menu that changes and dementia care in a sought- stays giving you and your loved daily. We also offer a range of lighter after location in Abergavenny. one’s peace of mind that this is a with quality care bites and snacks to suit every Boasting stunning views of the home for life. dietary need. Welsh mountains and beyond, We want family and friends to be there is plenty of outside space to The home focuses on wellbeing part of your stay at Foxhunters, our enjoy and many of the rooms have and keeping active and offers Residential, Nursing and Dementia Care doors are open to everyone to visit patio doors on to the beautiful a gym with personal trainer whenever they wish – including landscaped grounds. designed to support older people. Make a lifestyle choice with a move to Foxhunters care home. For more your furry friends! Alternatively, you can enjoy time in Foxhunters offers a range of information about our companion suites for couples or to arrange a visit, the cinema, a fully stocked library or We would be delighted to show outstanding facilities that residents take part in one of the many daily you around; our fantastic team offer call us on 01873 564836 or visit www.dormycare.co.uk. and visitors can enjoy. A coffee activities on offer. Weekly gardening a warm welcome – as well as daily lounge offering freshly made cakes clubs, trips out, visiting entertainers homemade cakes! and snacks throughout the day and and church groups – you can our own Harrys Bar - a fully stocked To find out more visit www. be as busy as you wish. A great and complimentary bar to enjoy a dormycare.co.uk or call us on 01873 opportunity to meet new friends pre- dinner drink or an evening with 564836 to arrange a visit. and enjoy new hobbies. friends! A cinema and games room and a gym designed for the older We believe that life shouldn’t stop person means there is no time to just because you have chosen to 42 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 43

Foxhunters - Publication Advert 1-0.indd 1 26/07/2019 09:18:52 be assured that you are dealing with up on their core values over the years, a company that values your business paying attention to the small things EVERYTHING and respects your home. that matter. “The Clean Oven Company put you “We believe that as a cleaning service, and your home first. We use our own the level of clean should come as UNDER ONE ROOF Forget trying to clean your oven branded eco-friendly solutions that standard. We therefore focus a lot of ALL YOUR PLUMBING NEEDS OPEN TO THE TRADE AND PUBLIC - ABERGAVENNY’S INDEPENDENT PLUMBING MERCHANTS yourself with shop-bought are individually prepared for each attention on the little things that make products this summer. The Clean customer. We do not use acids or a big difference. For example, being THE QUALITY YOU WANT Oven Company are on hand to caustics and all of our solutions can be polite, friendly and turning up for the SERVICE YOU DESERVE professionally do the job you hate, handled without the need for gloves, appointment on time (we will always freeing up time for you to enjoy the goggles or masks. There’s also no phone ahead if we are running early AT A PRICE sunshine. need to vacate the kitchen during the or late). We also care for your property For most of us, the Summer months process.” by covering your kitchen floor and also YOU CAN AFFORD are there to be enjoyed. Sadly, that The team can clean a single or double any hallway carpets to ensure access doesn’t mean that the household oven with add-ons (hob or extractor) routes are kept clean and tidy. MADE TO chores can be put on hold. Cleaning in around two hours. Range units and “All of our technicians are also fully the oven is often faced with dread, Agas will take up to three hours. Time trained and insured so your property is especially as it can get messy, create you can be relaxing in the sunshine. fully protected. Existing customers can MEASURE fumes, take up a lot of time and still not also benefit from our regular payment give the perfect finish you want. “If the door has a vented system, we will be able to remove the oven door plans, priority bookings in busy periods That’s where The Clean Oven Company and split the layers of glass to clean and also a discounted service to can help this summer. Covering all of both sides. This even includes triple reward their loyalty,” says Lee. Abergavenny and South Wales, their glazed doors. So if you’re looking to take some time 32 team of professional cleaners can have out this Summer and still get the oven At the end of the appointment, your your oven looking and smelling like cleaned professionally, call The Clean new. technician will heat the appliance to ensure it is working correctly and the Oven Company today. Getting your Director Lee Moreton told oven is safe to cook in straight away,” oven ready for Autumn will be one less Abergavenny Focus: “It’s our high level says Lee. thing to worry about, leaving you to of service that sets us apart. From your enjoy the sun with loved ones. initial call, to job completion, you can The Clean Oven Company have built 10 YEARS 2006 - 2016 This is Sarah. She’s busy RELIABLE QUALITY Kitchens & SERVICE Bathrooms cleaning her oven... Bedrooms Sliding Robes All manufactured by our skilled trades people on site at Sarah called the domestic oven cleaning Mirage, Abergavenny specialists, so she could relax and enjoy a coffee

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01873 859 300 HEREFORD ROAD, MARDY, ABERGAVENNY, NP7 6LE WWW.LUCYHOCKEYHAIRSTUDIO.CO.UK [email protected] 46 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 47

Summer STYLE

R HANNAH MLATEM E FEEL

Led by Hannah, her team offers the S Hair needs

best in hair care, styling and colour H extra TLC! Just some of the services we offer:

A SLIMMER • Gents’ Cuts At Hannah Mlatem we’ve been

• Blow Dry P offering Kerastraight for five years. • Colour

E • Kerastraight; a semi- Our clients love it and always permanent blow dry , come back for more. It’s a hair • Hot towel cut throat shave R THIS treatment that gives you a blow • Wedding Specialists E dried look, lasting for up to Call us and make a reservation: D four months. It’s not a chemical 01873 832214 straightening, it’s a smoothing E SUMMER Follow our daily behind the scenes, live hair pics, system which is great for unruly, videos and latest news on Facebook, Twitter, F 38 Main Road, Gilwern, NP7 0AS I dry or fine hair that needs a bit of Pinterest and Instagram N extra oomph! E Prices start from £99, pop into the & salon for a free consultation or Call S R us and make a reservation: C C E U 01873 832214 C O 38 Main Road, Gilwern, NP7 0AS L O Hannah Mlatem

P

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R HeadQuarters

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O are delighted to announce the arrival U

R of our new Senior stylist, Jo!

B We Jo has been in the hairdressing care which she hopes will add to the

O industry for 30 years and during already successful reputation of the salon. D

this time she has completed many In her spare time, Jo loves reading, music, Y training courses, becoming a highly travelling, keeping fit and most recently, experienced, accomplished and spending time with her Maltese puppy, Teddy. successful stylist. She prides herself Her diary is now open for bookings. on delivering the highest standard of both hairdressing and customer Call the salon on: 01873 856296

Liposuction Alternative FDA Approved half head of foils + cut and blow dry, OR AUGUST OFFER FULL HEAD Colour + cut and blow dry www.claireprice.com with our new senior stylist jo, email: [email protected] 10% OFF... WHEN YOU SHOW THIS VOUCHER 01873 859229 Offer for new clients only, valid until 31/08/19

7a Lion Street, Abergavenny. NP7 5PH Tel: 01873 856296 Beechcroft House, Hereford Road, Mardy, Abergavenny NP7 6LE 48 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 49 LIFESTYLE & CULTURE Claire plans to include more Paint Night locations and venues across the Brecon Beacons while continuing to offer her weekly workshops & demos for art groups and individuals across South Wales. In July, there are Paint Bella Capelli Nights in Crickhowell (14th August), HAIR & BEAUTY SALON Abergavenny (7th August) and Merthyr Tydfil (21st August) and Claire is now taking private bookings for Paint Nights, including baby showers All aspects of hairdressing, including hair ore and more of us are It’s fun art, not fine art’. Since starting and bridal parties. For more info or to out her mobile art school (www. Mattending so called “sip and get involved visit www.daffirose.com daffirose.com), over 700 budding extensions and a wide range of Beauty Treatments paint” classes, where you learn or search Daffirose Art on Facebook artists have attended Claire’s demos to paint while enjoying a drink and Instagram. (or two). Recently, these events and workshops, with Paint Nights Now offering Microblading Semi-permanent have taken off around the world, being a relatively new addition to her Website: www.daffirose.com and including New York, Dubai, offering. www.clairetimbrell.co.uk Email: Brows, and Henna Brows [email protected] Phone: London…and now, South Wales! Claire believes the success of her 07951491941 Facebook: facebook. Paint Nights specifically are down Welsh Artist and art tutor Claire 5a Lion Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5PH to consumers increasingly being com/daffiroseart Instagram: Timbrell, whose work can be seen drawn to experiences that engage instagram.com/daffiroseart at www.clairetimbrell.co.uk, has them and allow them to express 01873 269342 run a series of sell out ‘paint nights’ themselves rather than simply buying in various towns within the Brecon something. She explains, “I see a Beacons such as Abergavenny, mix of couples, friends, families and Crickhowell and Merthyr Tydfil. Claire regulars attending Paint Nights – all explains ‘Paint Nights are a chance to looking for that relaxing quality time unwind, learn something new and with each other. I am passionate that enjoy a relaxed evening with friends. art should be for everyone”.

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50 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 51 LIFESTYLE & CULTURE it was produced indicate the wide cultural and trade contacts of Roman Brit-ain. The blue pigment was first developed in Egypt but then manufactured in Italy and sold around the empire. The bright red is from is cinnabar or vermillion (mercuric A friendly practice based from home Why Caerleon was Key sulphide) mined in Spain and distributed from Rome. Paintings such Hypnotherapy is a powerful tool used to Isca, as it was known to the invaders, was a river port as this would have been a statement break negative patterns of behaviour. that was free from flooding. This was a key to the to anyone who visited the house that Roman fort becoming the centre of military control in its owners were able to afford the Amongst many things it will help with: south Wales. Helen Morgan from Abergavenny Local luxuries that came with a place in the 4 Insomnia 4 Obsessions History Society reports. Roman Empire. 4 Anxiety and depression 4 Phobias and fears Frank Olding’s tour of Caerleon and Photos by Frank Olding 4 Fertility and childbirth 4 Pain management Caerwent on September 19th costs oday, the ruined Again location was key. Caerwent £21 including tea & coffee. Entrance 4 Low self-esteem 4 Weight control amphitheatre where sat astride the Roman road from to the baths for non-CADW card- 4 Anger Tgladiators fought before Gloucester to Caerleon. For wealthy carriers is £4.20. To join the trip you 6,000 spec-tators, stands just Britons, the Roman conquest brought need to be a member of ALHS (£10 Get the best out of life – Hypnotherapy works! outside the walled area, and this part of Wales into contact per annum) the remains of the finest Roman with the style of Imperial Rome. For details visit For lots more information and reviews visit: barracks are part of the legacy. Some of the most sophisticated abergavennylocalhistorysociety.btck. abergavennyhypnotherapy.co.uk Another highlight is the Roman Mediterranean-style houses were to co.uk Tel: 01873 831427 Parry Hypnotherapy baths where cinematic technology be found here. In the Roman world, Helen Morgan brings a soldier diving into the brightly coloured walls and ceilings water to life. with floral mo-tifs or scenes from mythology were the norm in wealthy Twelve miles away is Caerwent or homes. But this style of painting was Venta Silurum. This was the buzzing unknown in pre-Roman Britain. market town of the native Silurians whose ruins are are, arguably, on a One piece, in particular, that has par with Pompeii, and has the best attracted interest is a fresco painting Mindset preserved defences of any Roman of a peacock from a 3rd-century Hypnotherapy, Counselling & Cognitive behavioural therapy town in Britain. At its peak in the house at Caerwent excavated in 2nd century AD, Caerwent was the the 1980s. Enough has survived to administra-tive centre for an area that allow its original appearance to be Some of the therapies covered: extended across the old counties recreated. of Brecknock, Glamorgan and Counselling Not only is the peacock itself a work Alcohol Problems Monmouthshire. of art, the pigments from which Depression Drug Related Problems Stress Relief Bereavement MIRANDA SEYMOUR-SMITH Massage and gift Anxiety Phobias Psychotherapy and Coaching South Wales Reflexology vouchers available Confidence Issues Marriage Guidance “If something is bothering you, Treatments Insomnia Post-traumatic Stress it can help to talk things through” for Women Lovely home treatment room in Central Stop Smoking Examination Nerves Qualified, UKCP registered Individual and couples therapy, and • psychotherapist offers confidential clinical supervision Abergavenny •Trained in Reflexology, Remedial Weight Loss/Gastric Band Therapy Travel Sickness help tailored to you individually and Sports Massage •Member of Massage I work with all kinds of troubles, Training Institute and Association of Reflexologists Free first session to see if it works for you including trauma, depression, Therapeutic treatments with postural and aftercare advice Face to face, telephone or Skype bereavement, family/relationships, • sessions available illness, anxiety and low confidence Call: 07584043509 or 01873 739143 BASED IN LLANOVER VILLAGE OFF A4042 Kate Gardiner 07815051427 Millstone Barn, Llanvihangel Crucorney, Abergavenny, NP7 8DH Text or call: [email protected] www.goodlivingmassage.co.uk 07463 780292 www.southwalespsychotherapyandcoachingco.uk fb.me/goodlivingtherapy 52 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 53 LIFESTYLE & CULTURE

For information about all our upcoming events and to book your tickets visit our website: photography in focus WWW.BOOK-ISH.CO.UK or call 01873 811256 HOW WE VIEW OUR PICTURES

I have two sons aged 12 and 18. Around the time my youngest was born, I stopped shooting film, closed my darkroom, and fully embraced digital cameras. I loved 18 High Street, Crickhowell, Powys. NP8 1BD the technology, the way I could look at the back and see Tel: 01873 811256 what I’d shot. The way I could save money on having to buy my own developing chemistry, or paying someone www.book-ish.co.uk else to print my photos. It revolutionized the way I worked. I had grown up on film; I loved it, especially time spent in the darkroom making prints for customers ne of the biggest changes in photography or myself. I have so many photos of my eldest son, Solution Focused in the last ten to fifteen years is the advent now a photographer himself, when he was a baby and of digital and smartphone technology, a toddler. Sadly I have almost none of my youngest. I Hypnotherapy and how we now view our photos. A vast learned the hard way, along with thousands of others. O Technology is fallible. Hard drives fail. CD roms get lost, majority of us now carry most of our photos around Nicola Taylor 07802 286386 with us in our pockets. My iPhone has thousands of external storage packs up. It only takes a stroke of bad luck and your precious memories can be gone in a flash. BA(Hons), DSFH, HPD images on it, most of them stored on the cloud, and [email protected] These days we store images on the cloud and across www.eclipsesfh.com many of them in the midst of being processed. I have digital darkroom technology which enables me to multiple devices, so in theory this shouldn’t be able to shoot a picture, process it to get the effect I want, and happen, but I’m not sure I’m ready to trust what I can’t upload it to one of a multitude of sites for the world see 100% just yet. In the last couple of years I’ve gone Change your attitude to view, and all in a matter of minutes. back to shooting film for all of my personal projects, and I print, something everyone did but few now do. to food and lose weight In many ways this is fantastic. We can have Recently I’ve been going through 20-30 year old prints 2 session course at The Abergavenny conversations with friends and strangers about life and scanning them. A couple are shown here. These are events, whip our phones out and show off our kids memories I will never lose to some random technology Natural Therapy Centre or pets, even god forbid what we ate for tea last glitch. Print your best pictures. The feeling you will get Thursday 5th September 7-8.30pm night. I can sell my work to people I will never meet, from them is so much more than you ever will from a and probably never even visit where they live. But screen. Thursday 19th September 7-8.30pm ultimately, what is a photo for? Whether we shoot Total cost of the course £60 for commercial purposes, artistic purposes, or just More of my work can be seen on Instagram @nedsoldman for memento, how long do we want our work or our or at www.davidcollyer.wordpress.com Facebook David. precious reminders of loved ones to be accessible? collyer/9212 I can be contacted at davidcollyerodp@ What if technology goes wrong? Several years ago, I gmail.com for prints or commissions David Collyer found out the hard way.

54 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 55 Electrician www.pgelectrics.uk Do you find it difficult to get someone 10 Monmouth Road, Abergavenny NP7 5HH www.lodgedental.co.uk Call 01873 854711 for more information

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