“Say It with Flowers” Love Lily Pg

FEBRUARY 2019 ISSUE 140

THE ABERGAVENNY FOCUS

“Say it with Flowers” Love Lily Pg. 32

ABERGAVENNY TOWN & VILLAGES LLANFOIST GOVILON GILWERN

Passionate about your property

HOMES FROM PARRYS

21 Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire NP7 5AA 01873 736515 | abergavenny@ﬁ neandcountry.com | www.ﬁ neandcountry.com

Focus banner - Feb 2019.indd 1 16/01/2019 16:10 Chartered Surveyors | Estate, Land & Letting Agents | Auctioneers | Planning Consultants | Building Design

Rural Residential Commercial Design

DJ&P NEWLAND RENNIE | WALES | GOLD WINNER | SALES

DJ&P NEWLAND RENNIE | SOUTH WEST | BRONZE WINNER | SALES

IF YOUR MAIN EVENT THIS YEAR IS TO MOVE HOME, CALL US TODAY TO ARRANGE YOUR FREE, NO OBLIGATION VALUATION

www.newlandrennie.com Contact us www.djandp.co.uk

Abergavenny Caldicot Chepstow Cwmbran T. 01873 859331 T. 01291 430331 T. 01291 626775 T. 01633 868341 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Monmouth Wrington Wotton-under-edge Old Sodbury T. 01600 712916 T. 01934 864300 T. 01453 843720 T. 01454 320144 [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Rural | Residential | Commercial | Design

Regulated by RICS & The Property Ombudsman AMC Finance Agents Newland Rennie is a trading name of DJP Newland Rennie Ltd. Registered Number: 10675560. Registered Office: Calyx House, South Road, Taunton, TA1 3DU.

2 Your local & independent Your localagent & independent providing expertise, serviceYour local and &results independent agent providingagent expertise, providing expertise, service andWeservice currentlyYourresults have localand more of ourresults &properties independent under offer than any of our competitors. agent providing expertise, We currently have more of our properties under offer than any of We currently have moreIf you of ourservice properties are underlooking offer than any toof buy,and sell, letresults or rent come and see us or call on our competitors. 01873 852221 to discuss your needs. our competitors. We currently have more of our properties under offer than any of our competitors. If youYour are looking local to buy, sell, let& or independent rent come and see us or call on 01873 852221 to discuss your needs. If you are looking to buy, sell,YouragentIf let youor rent come are and seelooking us orlocal callproviding on to buy, sell, & let independentor rent comeexpertise, and see us or call on 01873 852221 to discuss your needs. 01873 852221 to discuss youragentservice needs. providing and results expertise, www.ChristieResidential.co.ukservice and results | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5EU YourWe Independentcurrently have more andof our propertiesTruly Local under offer Property than any of Experts

Chooseour competitors. our award winningWe currently have more ofservice, our properties under offer than any of www.ChristieResidential.co.ukwww.ChristieResidential.co.uk | 53| 53Cross Cross Street, Street, Abergavenny, Abergavenny, NP7 NP7 5EU 5EU Christie Residential - OctIfour you2015 competitors. Advertare looking4-1.indd 2 to buy, sell, let or rent come and see us or call on 15/10/2015 12:12:44 weYour01873 have 852221 local to discuss your& needs.independent Your local & independentagent providing expertise, yourYour best local & independent agent providingYourserviceIf you expertise, are local looking and to buy, & sell, resultsindependent let or rent come and see us or call on Your local & independent service and Christieresultsinterests agentResidentialagent - Oct 2015 Advertproviding 4-1.indd providing 2 expertise, expertise, 15/10/2015 12:12:44 Weagent currently have providing more of our properties underexpertise, offer than any of atserviceservice heart and and results results We currently have more of our propertiesour01873service competitors. under 852221 offer to thandiscussand any yourof results needs. Your local & independent our competitors. Christie Residential - OctWe 2015 currently Advert 4-1.indd have 2 more of our properties under offer than any of 15/10/2015 12:12:44 We currently have more of our properties under offer than any of agent providing expertise, www.ChristieResidential.co.ukIf youour | 53 competitors.Crossare Street, looking Abergavenny, toNP7 5EU buy, sell, let or rent come and see us or call on We currently have more of our properties under offer than any of If you are looking to buy, sell, let ouror rent01873 competitors. come 852221 and tosee discuss us or callyour on needs. service and results If you’reour competitors. looking to buy, sell or let your home 01873 852221 to discuss your needs. If you are looking to buy, sell, let or rent come and see us or call on If youthen are looking come to buy, and sell, letsee or rentus comeor calland see on us or 01873call on 852221 01873 852221 to discuss your needs. We currently have more of our properties under offer than any of 01873If 852221you are tolooking discussto to yourbuy, discuss needs.sell, let or yourrent come needs. and see us or call on our competitors. 01873 852221 to discuss your needs.

www.ChristieResidential.co.uk | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7If you 5EU are looking to buy, sell, let or rent come and see us or call on www.ChristieResidential.co.uk | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5EU 01873 852221 to discuss your needs. 01873www.ChristieResidential.co.uk 852221 | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5EU Christie Residentialwww.ChristieResidential.co.uk - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd 2 | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5EU15/10/2015 12:12:44 www.ChristieResidential.co.uk | 53 Cross Street,CL Abergavenny, NP7 5EU Christie Residential - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd 2 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 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 01873 852221 to discuss your needs. If you are looking to buy, sell, let or rent come and see us call on our competitors. We currently have more of our properties under offer than any service and results expertise, providing agent & independent local Your Christie Residential - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd 2 15/10/2015 12:12:44 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

Christie Residential - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd 2 www.ChristieResidential.co.uk15/10/2015 12:12:44 | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny,Christie Residential NP7 - Oct 20155EU Advert 4-1.indd 2 15/10/2015 12:12:44

Christie Residential - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd 2 15/10/2015 12:12:44 15/10/2015 12:12:44

Christie Residential - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd 2 15/10/2015 12:12:44 THE ABERGAVENNY Dear Readers, Love is in the air this month because, of course, it’s February and FOCUS Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Will you be doing something to celebrate? We have lots for you on the subject of Valentine’s Day Publisher: Focus Magazines Ltd and Wedding Planning, so do have a leaf through our featured Tel: 01873 856614 articles and adverts for some inspiration! Editorial & Advertising: Naturally there’s lots to keep you entertained if love and Valentine’s Hannah Hill: [email protected] isn’t quite your thing. As always there’s plenty going on in and around Graphic Design & Accounts: Pete Hill: [email protected] Abergavenny, so make sure to update your diary using our events calendar. Cover: Love Lily Contributions: We are very fortunate that lots of businesses, old and new, like to Kay Blackwell advertise with us in the pages of the Focus. We enjoy chatting with our Richard Binns Francis Buxton advertisers each month and getting their feedback about the readers David Collyer who contact them directly from having read our magazine. If you William Gilbert Nesta Griffiths own a business and you are interested in advertising with us, it’s now Patricia Griffiths easier than ever to browse the price and size of adverts and make a Debs Hancock booking with us online. Visit our website www.focusmagazinesltd.co.uk/ Pip Hassall David Holman advertise-with-us/ where you’ll find an advert calculator, answers to lots Iolanda Jackson-Johns of FAQ’s and information about other services we can offer from online Jamie Emma Lynch advertising, graphic design and website design. Pauline Mardell Prue Martin Of course our magazine is nothing without the invaluable local news Helen Morgan and events that you, our readers, let us know about from month to Carol Mutlow month. We are always on the look out for a good, engaging story and Jonathan Powell Whilst every care is taken with materials we are very keen to promote charitable events and fundraisers that submitted to The Abergavenny Focus, the involve and benefit our local community. Do get in touch with us either publisher cannot accept responsibility for via our website or the old fashioned way, by picking up the phone and loss or damage to such materials. Opinions chatting to myself or Pete. We’re only too happy to speak to you. expressed in articles are strictly those of the author. This publication is copyrighted and This month’s cover photo comes from the wonderful floral arrangments may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. Prices and by Love Lily. Do have a look at the article on Page 32, because Valentine’s details are subject to change and conditions Day or not, who doesn’t love a beautiful bunch of flowers? and the publisher can take no responsibility Enjoy the read, for ommissions or errors. The inclusion of an www.thefocus.wales advertiser in this magazine is not necessarily a [email protected] recommendation. CTheFocusMagazine © Focus Magazines Ltd 2019 Tel: 01873 856614

FEBRUARY 2019 ISSUE 140 FEBRUARY 2019 ISSUE 58

THE ABERGAVENNY THE ADVERTISE WITH US! Crickhowell,FOCUS Brecon & The Usk Valley YOUR FREE COMMUNITY MAGAZINE, FOCUS PROMOTING LOCAL BUSINESSES Our Magazines are monthly, A5 sized, full colour publications, delivered solus, door “Say it with Flowers” to door for free. We offer cost effective Love Lilly Pg. 32 Art at CRiC Martin Truefitt-Baker; Pg. 15 ABERGAVENNY TOWN & VILLAGES LLANFOIST GOVILON GILWERN advertising rates which start at just £21 • CRICKHOWELL • LLANGATTOCK • TRETOWER • GLANGRWYNEY • BWLCH • LLANGYNIDR • • LLANGORSE • LLANFRYNACH • CWMDU • TALGARTH • TALYBONT-ON-USK • BRECON • Passionate about your property Circulation 5,500, which Passionate about your property per month. Your advert will appear in full CirculationHOMES FROM PARRYS 7,500, which is hand delivered, solus, 21 Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire NP7 5AA 01873 736515 | abergavenny@ﬁ neandcountry.com | www.ﬁ neandcountry.com HOMES FROM PARRYS

21 Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire NP7 5AA Focus banner - Feb 2019.indd 1 16/01/2019 16:10 is hand delivered, to 01873homes 736515 | abergavenny@ﬁ neandcountry.com and | www.ﬁ neandcountry.com businesses colour, we provide a free, professional solus, to homes inFocus bannerCrickhowell, - Feb 2019.indd 1 Brecon, 16/01/2019 16:10 and businesses in Llangattock and Talgarth, design service and big discounts for Abergavenny, Llanfoist, with additional pick-up points in the following bookings of 3 months or more. Call Gilwern and Govilon, villages: Bwlch, Cwmdu, Hannah or Pete today on 01873 856614 with additional local Glangrwyney, Llanfrynach, pick-up points Llangorse, Llangynidr, or email [email protected] Talybont-On-Usk, and Tretower. 4 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] Editorial & Contents 4 Suitcase Theatre: Loving Friends 23 Weather: February’s Outlook 27 World Day of Prayer 25 Tintern & Brockweir Walk 28 LOVE! Next Month: Save the Planet 61 Say it with Flowers: Love Lily 32 Taxi Rank 61 Nana’s Kitchen: Lavender Hearts 35 Puzzles! 62 Celebrate your marriage your way 37 COMMUNITY Say “I do” in paradise: Miles Morgan 38 NH Sound 7 Romance on the Costa Brava! 41 An Evening with Jim Ramsey 8 LOCAL BUSINESS Gilwern U3A 9 Love & Marriage at the Jewellery Exchange 43 Talycoed horse trough restored 13 ‘Le Tour de France’ at The Kestrel 45 Ed’s Epic Etna Challenge 15 Peter Cox Ltd 47 EVENTS LIFESTYLE & CULTURE Events Calendar 16 Jazz in Abergavenny 51 The Priory Sessions 19 Photography in Focus: Stuck in a rut 52 Fairtrade Fortnight 20 Local History: A Stronghold Recovered 57 The Shires at Castell Roc 21

7 46 19 20

28 32 52 57

Advertisers Chesters 31 In Tune Osteopathy 12 Parry Hypnotherapy 54 1861 Restaurant 34 Christie Residential 3 Jewellery Exchange (The) 43 Parrys 1&64 A.W. Property Maintainence 47 Claire Price Beauty Clinic 42 Keiran Phillips 6 Pawfessional Touch 27 A1 Blinds Tredegar 26 Clare Johnson - Podiatrist 44 Kestrel (The) 45 Peterstone Court 40 Aber Forest & Garden 54 Clean Oven Company 34 Lee Jowitt Auto Repairs 10 Phil Evans Domestics 26 Abergavenny Fuels 23 Colourfence 59 Lodge Dental 24 Ponthir Suzuki 22 AC Puddle & Co. 20 Countryside Decorators 11 Love Lily 32 Premier Financial Services 26 Bidmead Cook 63 Cuddle & Cwtch 58 Lucy Hockey Hair Studio 48 Red Dragon 46 Big Sul Garden Services 10 Cwmbran gates 11 Mamhilad Park Estate 56 Rentokil 47 Billy Russell Floor Care 25 Eclipse 50 Manor Hotel (The) 36 RPB Building & Maintenance 58 Black Mountains Plumbing 50 Evergreen Blinds 11 Martin Sheperd 45 Rubin Lewis O’Brien 8 Bookish 55 FR Ball Insurance 18 Miles Morgan Travel 39 Sigma 3 60 Brynteg Natural Therapies 44 GN Construction 10 Mindset 8 Simon Emery Handyman 6 Canine Connections 34 Good Living Massage 15 Mirage Furnishings 30 Suitcase Theatre Co. 23 Casa De Luna 46 Green Park Power 18 Miranda Seymour-Smith 15 SupaDupa Cleaning 12 Catherine A Williams 26 Handy Team (The) 6 Nevill Hall 6 Torfaen Glazing 14 Cats on Vacation 27 Hannah Mlatem 44 Newland Rennie 2 Vision IFP 12 Celtic Computer Systems 18 Hannah’s Music/Castell Roc 21 Nick Ramsay 54 Wood Worx 34 Helping Hand Home & Garden 6 P.G Electrics 11 VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 5 Simon Emery Helping HANDYMAN SERVICES Hand Domestic odd jobs Tiling, painting and Home & Garden Services decorating, Reliable and Friendly help tackling the jobs you All jobs considered can’t, (or would rather not) do. [email protected] For example: mobile: 07414231461 • Landscaping • Patios • Hedge Trimming • Fencing • Grass Cutting • Tree Stump Removal • Ride on Lawn Mower for large grass areas The Handy Team • Putting up Cuboards, Shelves and Curtain Rails Many years experience. •House Improvements, etc. No job too small; try us and see. For Reliable, Friendly and Trustworthy help at a General maintenance/garden work. Hanging competitive rate... pictures, shelves, curtains and blinds. Painting & decorating. Flat pack assembly, installation. Telephone: 07871 415919 Call us on: 07860857990 email: [email protected] Nr. Crickhowell Keiran Phillips GARDEN CARE & TREE FELLING NPTC Qualified - Fully Insured Mowing Strimming HedgeCutting Weeding & Planting Tree Felling Log Splitting Patio Cleaning BESPOKE TIMBER PRODUCTS AND LANDSCAPING ALL YOUR GARDEN NEEDS AND MORE Mrs. S. Woodhouse Mr Derek Jones(Treasurer) [email protected] [email protected] 07896999529 01873 855773 0779 654 2316 [email protected] 01873 857979 01873 851583

6 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] COMMUNITY did not feel that my show was being professionally produced. The situation at NH Sound deteriorated towards the end of last year when all of the broadcasting equipment was removed from the studio. After Christmas the new group got together and decided to proceed with trying to start something else. In January, we met with the Health Board to ask whether there was space in which to re-start the station, but unfortunately this was not forthcoming, although they were happy to support any initiative that would benefit the patients at Neville Hall Hospital. As most listeners to the station accessed shows digitally, this is a real possibility. We are currently searching for premises in Abergavenny in which to locate a new radio station. If anybody NH SOUND has such a space, please let me know on – [email protected] or RE-CONNECTING WITH THE COMMUNITY 07774608215. We have had great support already from Craig Titchener from he story of local radio station NH in the local community as well as Abergavenny Voice and many TSound goes back nearly 40 years representing those in hospital and to others to launch this project, but will now, in fact 2019 marks it’s 40th connect again to our various listeners obviously need money to purchase anniversary. throughout the world. new equipment. We will be starting Those who may have been following There was a huge amount of a fund for this purpose which we recent events concerning the station interest to do this, not only from the will publicise as soon as possible. will know that a lot of its well- known presenters but the general public We think that Abergavenny should presenters have left over the last who bombarded social media asking have its own community radio year and indeed the very popular what had happened to NH Sound! which represents all those in the station manager, Pamela Parry also town. People will be encouraged to stepped down due to various reasons I was also questioned frequently by come onto shows to talk about their including ill health. people who wanted to know why I projects, businesses and events. We had stopped my Tuesday night radio would love to broadcast from large New management took over and the show. Former guests on the show events in Abergavenny, and believe focus of the station changed. including Councillor Teslin Davies, that the station should be a medium Mayor of Abergavenny, Hannah Hill for bringing people together and Unfortunately, the subsequent from Abergavenny Focus, Liz Davies promoting all that is good locally. broadcasts have not been well from Abergavenny Chronicle, author received and do not accurately reflect Matt Johnson, Lucie Parkin from the We will also need new presenters and the demographic of Abergavenny Abergavenny Writing Festival and of sponsors, so please let me know if and the patients in the hospital. course Martha Musonza Holman from you fit this bill! I decided to contact some of the ex- Love Zimbabwe (to name a few) were The past may have had its problems, presenters to discuss the situation to also interested in the story. but we are very much looking see whether we could start a radio I had to explain that I was not happy towards a brighter future, with your station that would be well received with the current management and help. David Holman VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 7 AN EVENING WITH JIM RAMSEY ocal singer and songwriter LJim Ramsey, often to be heard delighting the visitors wandering through the streets of Abergavenny and in the Kings Arms, is coming to Llanwenarth Citra village hall on Saturday 16th February at 7pm for an evening of live music from the 60’s and 70’s. Organiser Janet Hurst said, “We know that lots of people love to hear this music and we are continuing our fundraising for the tower of St Peter’s Church by having an evening of Jim and Chilli [and rice]”. and put in an accessible loo and fun and something to cheer up small servery which will make the a winter evening – think of it as a ‘The first phase of the restoration church more accessible for wider Valentine treat!’ of the church, to restore the roof community use. We will probably Tickets are £15 including food and of the nave and chancel has been need to raise around £250,000 for available from Janet 01873 854440, successfully completed and we are the work,’ said Pip Hassall. ‘We are 853271 or Pip 857392 now raising funds for the second grateful to Janet for organising this phase which is to repair the tower evening which should be great Pip Hassall

If you have been injured in an accident through no fault of Relationship Problems? DON’THelping MISS you yourRelationshipRelationship own, you may be entitledProblems? Problems? to compensation for your Helping you Helping you injuriesDivorce and is losses. an emotionally We can guarantee difficult thatand yourpainful claim time. will beWe Divorce is an emotionally difficult and painful time.dealtDivorce with is byan a emotionally Qualified Solicitor, difficultWe experienced and painful intime. claims We like: understand and can deal with all the stressfulOUT ON issuesA understandunderstand and and can can deal deal withto with all allthe the stressful stressful issues issues to to move on help you. movemove on on helphelp• you.Trips you. and Falls • Accidents at Work • Road Traffic Accidents • Clinical Negligence We can help sort out your financial arrangements,WeWe can can help help sort sort out out your your financial financial arrangements, arrangements, • Industrial Disease with ensure that you make the best decision forwithFAIRwith your ensureensure that that you you make make the the best best decision decision• Fatal for Accidentsfor your your children, prepare Separation Agreements and more.children,children, prepare prepare Separation Separation Agreements Agreements and and more. more. your life youryour life life Our aim is to win your claim for you and help you get on with We also offer free, initial, over-the-phone adviceOUTCOME yourWeandWe also life. also Mostoffer offer offree, free,our initial, cases initial, over-the-phoneare aover-the-phone dealt with on advice a advice ‘no win, and and noa afee’ number of different DIY options should you preferbasis.numbernumber Give ofto usofdifferent adifferent call to DIY discuss DIY optionsgo options your should claim should youor youpop prefer prefer in to to arrange togo go it alone or only have limited legal support. it alone or only have limited legal support. ait noalone obligation or only freehave consultation limited legal with support. one of our Solicitors.

/ YOUR TRUSTED LOCAL LEGAL PARTNER/ YOUR/ YOUR TRUSTED TRUSTED LOCAL LOCAL LEGAL LEGAL PARTNER PARTNER

Tel: 01633 867000 Email: [email protected] Web: www.rlo.lawTel:Tel: 01633 01633 867000 867000 Email: Email: [email protected] [email protected] Web: Web: www.rlo.law www.rlo.law Gwent House, Gwent Square, Cwmbran NP44 1PL GwentGwent House, House, Gwent Gwent Square, Square, Cwmbran Cwmbran NP44 NP44 1PL 1PL

8 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] COMMUNITY NOTE: There is a special Dementia Awareness Day for U3A members GILWERN U3A and others in the locality at 2pm on 27 February in the Community Centre, jointly organised by Llanelly Community Council – more information on web site.

nyone wishing to take their accompanied by snippets of a violin All monthly meetings of Gilwern Apartner away for a romantic concerto and other atmospheric U3A are held in the Community Valentine’s break should look no pieces. A delightful afternoon left Centre, Common Road, Gilwern further than the Italian island all wanting to go out and book the and start at 2pm. It is possible to of Ischia, according to Gilwern next flight. join Gilwern U3A on the day, with U3A’s January’s speaker, Malcolm the annual subscriptions of £15 A bit of a change, then, to the next Meadows. His talk entitled being slashed to only £7.50 for meeting on 13 February when the “William Walton and the Gardens membership up to the March 2019 talk by Jenny Bowen will be about of Ischia” transported members to meeting, ensuring an entertaining the King of Swaziland and his fifteen this stunningly beautiful island in and fascinating year. The benefits of wives – apparently considered to the Bay of Naples, where his wife, belonging to Gilwern U3A are open be insufficient at the time! Add to Lady Susanna Walton, created an to all retired, semi-retired persons that the advance notification for a amazing garden out of what was and those no longer looking after magical Open Meeting afternoon virtually a volcanic quarry. families. Non-members are always on March 20 when Gerry Walker will welcomed to the monthly meetings After introducing the audience to be entertaining us with “The Art of and will be charged £2 per head. the life and music of Sir William the Magician”, giving an insight into For full details of Gilwern U3A visit Walton, he then went on to enthral the secrets of prestidigitation – or the website on www.gilwernu3a. all present with views of the perhaps not. org.uk. astounding Giardini La Mortella, all Kay Blackwell Mindset Hypnotherapy, Counselling & Cognitive behavioural therapy

Some of the therapies covered:

Counselling Alcohol Problems Depression Drug Related Problems Stress Relief Bereavement Anxiety Phobias Confidence Issues Marriage Guidance Insomnia Post-traumatic Stress Stop Smoking Examination Nerves Weight Loss/Gastric Band Therapy Travel Sickness

Call: 07584043509 or 01873 739143 Millstone Barn, Llanvihangel Crucorney, Abergavenny, NP7 8DH

VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 9 TEL: 01873 859100 Full range of vehicle repairs, carried out by a fully trained ex-police technician

OPEN: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.30pm Sat 8.00am - 12.30pm Conveniently located at the rear of Nevill Hall Hospital: 73 Union Road Ind Est, Abergavenny, NP7 7RQ • TEL: 01873 859100 Mob: 07591 521752 • Email: [email protected] • Web: www. leejowittautorepairs.co.uk BIG SUL GARDEN SERVICES GNCONSTRUCTION BUILDING & ROOFING Exterior MOBILE: 07799 720816 Cleaning • Extensions All Surface Pressure • Washing • Renovations Driveway & Patio • Slate & Tile Roofing • Resealing & Sanding • Fibreglass Flat Roofing • Gutters Cleaned using • Carpentry & Joinery High Level Vac • Brickwork & Stonework Facia & Guttering Cleaned • Kitchens & Bathrooms • Conservatory Valeting & • Cleaning • Plastering • Upvc doors and windows FULLY INSURED / DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL For a Free Quote Phone Jamie • Conservatories 07891 358684 • Garage Conversions 01495 756275 www.gnconstructionabergavenny.co.uk email: [email protected] ABERGAVENNY BASED www.bigsul.com ALL WORK GUARANTEED 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE

10 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] Electrician www.pgelectrics.uk Do you find it difficult to get someone to come and do a small job? • Extra Lights • Additional Sockets Smoke Alarms Homebuyer Inspections QUALITY DECORATING • • • New Fuse Boards • EV Charging Points SERVICE • Garden Power • Fault Finding Free Quote All aspects of interior and exterior • Qualified Electrician • • Six Year Guarantee • OLEV Approved work undertaken Fully Insured • Tidy Work • Reasonably Priced • Painting, decorating • Reliable Service • • Wallpaper hanging Satisfaction Guaranteed • Floor and wall tiling I will assure you of a quick response and a • Fully qualified with over 30 yrs reasonably priced service. experience Call Phil - Your Local Electrician on: • Fully insured • Quality workmanship guaranteed 01873 583 043 [email protected] Contact Richard Knight on 01873 854904 or 07812 429732

local business great aftercare free quotes and fitting Tel: 01633 482758 special offers on the www.gatesandrailingsgwent.co.uk website complete range of blinds

We also specialise in: ● Glass & Wrought Iron ● uPVC Gates & Fencing Balustrades your local manufacturers of high quality blinds ● Security Window ● Gate Automation Grills & Shutters For friendly service & fast delivery call ● Palisade Fencing ● General Fabrication Ken or Catherine Barwise We welcome all aspects of Commercial Fabricating. Visitors Welcome at 01873 811113 Unit 21, Springvale Ind Est w: evergreenblinds.co.uk email: [email protected] Springvale, Cwmbran, NP44 5BA VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 11

IAN D CAMPBELL ACII, Chartered Financial Planner Independent Financial Adviser Website: www.visionifp.co.uk

Are your financial affairs in order to maximise and protect your wealth and that of your loved ones? IAN D CAMPBELL ACII, Chartered Financial Planner & Independent Financial Adviser Website: www.visionifp.co.uk With over twenty-five years’ experience in financial services, I provideAre yourpersonalised financial specialist affairs independent in order,financial adviceto maximise and acrossprotect a wide range your of areas wealth that include: and that of your loved ones?

With over Investment Planning If you are interested in 25 years’ • Investment exploring any of these  Pension &Planning Retirement Planning experience topics further, please  Inheritance Tax / Estate Planning in financial • Pension & contact me to arrange services, I provide Retirement If you are interested in exploring further, any of these topics, pleasea free initial discussion personalised specialist Planning contact me to arrange a free initial discussion about your needs. about your situation. Email: independent financial • Inheritance Tax / [email protected] Email:advice [email protected] across a wide range Estate Phone: Planning 07531 075379 Phone: 07531 075379 of areas that include: or 01873 859649

Ian D Campbell Independent Financial Services Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Vision Independent Financial Planning Ltd which is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Firm reference number 487395. This can be verified by visiting The Financial Services Register. The FCA do not regulate Inheritance Tax Planning

Local Business! Ian D Campbell Independent Financial Services Ltd is an Appointed Representative of Vision Independent Financial Planning Ltd which is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Firm reference number 487395. This can be verified by visiting The Financial Services Register. The FCA do not regulate Inheritance Tax Planning

We provide the following to the highest standard:

Office Cleaning

Property Management Cleaning

Domestic Cleaning

Rental change over /End of tenancy

One-off Cleans

CALL CATHERINE POLLARD ON: 0796 997 2468 or 01873 850879 [email protected] www.supadupacleaning.co.uk

12 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] COMMUNITY UNVEILING OF THE CONSERVED TALYCOED HORSE TROUGH

onservation of the Over the decades the trough celebration were neighbours and stone water trough built had been colonised by ivy and supporters. at Talycoed, Llantilio the supporting rear wall had C Owners, Zara and Chris, thanked Crossenny in the 1880’s by fallen into disrepair. The trough’s everyone who helped with the renowned Monmouthshire newest owners, Chris and Zara year-long venture. Zara said, historian Sir Joseph Bradney is Duncan, approached the Village “We had a really lovely crowd of the tenth project successfully Alive Trust for help in tackling people in the afternoon, those completed by local buildings the renovation after deeds of a who had helped and those who preservation charity, The Village nearby farmstead they purchased live in the hamlet and Talycoed Alive Trust. revealed the structure was their Court. Listening to the talk, responsibility. The trough provided drinking memories came out about those water for animals using the Support for the conservation who had met at the trough in former main route between project was granted by the their teenage years to hang out, Monmouth and Abergavenny Country Houses Foundation, those who remembered the hunt and the structure was listed The Community Green Energy stopping there, as well as people in 2000 as being of special Advisory Group Community who witnessed the neglect and architectural and historical Benefit Fund (Llanvapley solar deterioration over the years. significance. It was carved from farm), The Village Alive Trust “Thank you to everybody who a single block of sandstone and and the trough’s owners. Expert has helped...it’s wonderful inscribed with a motto in Welsh stone conservators and a to see it now settled in its which translates as Free Water local stonemason carried out environment with beautiful views for All. the conservation work. Trust to Offa’s Dyke behind its lovely volunteer Eric Evans researched Sir Joseph Bradney built an stonework”. and illustrated an interpretative impressive home at Talycoed panel which was designed by Art Details of all the work undertaken Court after demolishing an Matters. by The Village Alive Trust can be existing house previously owned found at www.villagealivetrust. by Crawshay Bailey Junior, son of The culmination of the successful org.uk the iron master. His 12 volume conservation project was Patricia Griffiths History of Monmouthshire, celebrated at an unveiling of 1904-1932, set the template the panel by Trust Vice President for recognising and recording Edward Holland and with a toast the significance of the county’s of mulled wine. Joining the vernacular buildings. VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 13 TORFAEN DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS Misted Glass Units Replaced With more than 25 years of experience in the glazing industry, Torfaen Double Glazing Repairs is a small, friendly team of glaziers who undertake all aspects of Double Glazing

Our range of glazing services include: Misted & cracked units replaced | Double glazing repairs | Replacement locks and handles | uPVC door panels & replacements | Faded stained glass windows | Glass cut to any shape and size | Conservatory windows and roo ng repaired | French and Patio doors repaired | Leaks and draughts repaired For a FREE, NO OBLIGATION Quote call us today! Tel: 01633 863060 Or Visit our Website: www.torfaenglazing.co.uk Unit 2 Court Road Industrial Estate, Llantarnam, Cwmbran NP44 3AS

14 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] TORFAEN DOUBLE GLAZING REPAIRS Misted Glass Units Ed’s Epic Etna Replaced With more than 25 Challenge years of experience in Edward pictured with Vesuvius the glazing industry, ocal man Edward Beverley- Ed reached the base of Mount in the background Torfaen Double Jones AKA ’the pond guy’ Etna on the 4th January but was the crater, as a result of increased Lhas taken on another unable to get to the crater due to volcanic activity. Glazing Repairs is challenge this year to find an heavy snow and high winds. He Ed has now started his journey back active Volcano, last winter Ed did manage to get a piece of lava and hopes to be in Wales by the a small, friendly “followed the Swallows to the as a memento of his epic trip after end of February. team of glaziers who Sahara desert and back. All in aid a six hour trek up the side of Etna of St Davids hospice care charity. in heavy snow. He has met many You can follow Ed’s journey on Facebook. “Edward Beverley-jones” undertake all aspects Ed left the Sugarloaf near nice people who have helped him of Double Glazing Abergavenny on 25th October on on his way. There has also been If you would like to make a an epic journey to Sicily. Ed only tough times, he encountered donation please go to his just has his bicycle for company and a fuel protesters in France, strange giving page www.justgiving.com/ very limited budget to get there footsteps in a tunnel at the Italian fundraising/ed-jones4 Our range of glazing services include: and back. This is no holiday for him; boarder and bugs in his basher! St Davids hospice care shop in Cibi he is sleeping out in the wilds in After a few days of rest due to Walk, Abergavenny has a map up Misted & cracked units replaced | Double glazing repairs | Replacement locks his basher and cooking on a “baked the bad weather, Ed was able to to shop how far Ed has travelled. bean can” cooker which also keeps make it to the top of Etna, despite Where you can also make a and handles | uPVC door panels & replacements | Faded stained glass win- him warm carrying everything he being a little disappointed that he donation for Ed’s efforts. dows | Glass cut to any shape and size | Conservatory windows and roo ng needs on his bike. wasn’t able to cook his breakfast at repaired | French and Patio doors repaired | Leaks and draughts repaired MIRANDA SEYMOUR-SMITH Massage and gift Psychotherapy and Coaching South Wales Reflexology vouchers available For a FREE, NO OBLIGATION Quote call us today! “If something is bothering you, Treatments it can help to talk things through” for Women Qualified, UKCP registered Individual and couples therapy, and •Lovely home treatment room in Central psychotherapist offers confidential clinical supervision Abergavenny •Trained in Reflexology, Remedial help tailored to you individually and Sports Massage •Member of Massage I work with all kinds of troubles, Training Institute and Association of Reflexologists Tel: 01633 863060 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 Or Visit our Website: www.torfaenglazing.co.uk BASED IN LLANOVER VILLAGE OFF A4042 Kate Gardiner 07815051427 Unit 2 Court Road Industrial Estate, Llantarnam, Cwmbran NP44 3AS Text or call: [email protected] www.goodlivingmassage.co.uk 07463 780292 www.southwalespsychotherapyandcoachingco.uk fb.me/goodlivingtherapy VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 15 5TH FEBRUARY Tickets just £10 to include a goodie bag Book-ish Event: to take home. For tickets visit www. TRACEY THORN IN CONVERSATION book-ish.co.uk WITH JUDE ROGERS EVENTS Tracey Thorn singer, songwriter 7TH FEBRUARY & EVERY THURSDAY and writer who is best known as OPEN MIC being one half of the duo Everything Hen & Chickens, Flannel St, CALENDAR but the Girl will be in conversation Abergavenny. From 8pm with journalist and music critic 11TH FEBRUARY & EVERY SECOND Jude Rogers. 7.30pm, Angel Hotel, MONDAY OF THE MONTH FEBRUARY Abergavenny. Visit www.book-ish. co.uk for tickets and more info PARKINSONS UK COFFEE MORNING GROUP 5TH FEBRUARY Talk by Jon Williams on Siren Safety DRAGONS & DAMSELS 11am – 1pm, Maerdy Park Resource Centre, Hereford Rd, Abergavenny 2019 11TH FEBRUARY Civic Society Meeting WALES AIR AMBULANCE Dr Ami Jones, National Director of the Emergency Medical Retrieval and Transfer Service Cymru (EMRTS Cymru) will explain the workings and 1ST FEBRUARY A Talk about Dragonflies organised logistical challenges facing Wales Air Llanfoist Village Film Night by Gwent Wildlife Trust. Talk by Steve Ambulance Service. Join us for tea/ ‘KING OF THIEVES’ Williams. 7.30pm, St Michaels Centre, coffee at 7pm. Meeting commences King of Thieves is the incredible Penypound. Admission £3 true story of the spectacular Hatton 7:30pm Non-members £2. Methodist Garden diamond heist, the biggest 7TH FEBRUARY Church Hall, Castle St, Abergavenny and most daring in British history, Book-ish Event 13TH FEBRUARY humorously told through career HARRY POTTER BOOK NIGHT best performances from a stellar cast Abergavenny History Society Talk: which includes Sir Michael Caine, Jim HAY CASTLE Speaker – Mari Fford Broadbent, Ray Winstone, Michael 7.30pm King Henry VIII School Hall. Non Gambon, Tom Courtenay and Charlie Members are welcome to join on the Cox.7:30pm, Llanfoist Village Hall, night. See our article on Page 57 for Church Lane, Llanfoist. Entry £4 more info 3RD FEBRUARY BORED ON SUNDAY? 13TH FEBRUARY An afternoon of board games – come Gilwern u3A and play some traditional favourite THE KING OF SWAZILAND AND HIS games or try a new one. Maybe FIFTEEN WIVES bring a game to share with others. A talk by Jenny Bowen. 2pm, Gilwern Community Centre, Common Rd, Refreshments provided for a small Harry Potter Book Night is a chance charge to cover costs. 3pm-5pm, for fans young and old to celebrate Gilwern. See article on page 9 Abergavenny Baptist Church, Frogmore J.K. Rowling’s wonderful series – and St, Abergavenny 13TH FEBRUARY it’s a chance to pass the magic on ABERGAVENNY OVER 50’S 4TH FEBRUARY to new readers who haven’t yet ACTION GROUP Book-ish Event: discovered these unforgettable This month’s talk: Rainforest Explorer. LAURA SHEPHERD-ROBINSON IN books. Book-ish will be celebrating Speaker is Mr. John Meredith and Harry Potter Book Night at the is about his 6 weeks spent in the CONVERSATION WITH JOANNA NADIN Clarence Hall, Crickhowell, with a very Discussing her page turning crime jungles of Honduras. There’s a great special guest – Chris Rankin, who thriller; Blood & Sugar. 7.30pm, Book- welcome with “Over 50s Action played Percy Weasley in all the Harry ish, 18 High St, Crickhowell. Visit www. Group” all very welcome for the cost Potter films. The night will include a book-ish.co.uk for tickets and more info of £2 for the session, tea and coffee reading from Chris and an interview available. Join us for chit chat. and Q&A session. 16 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] EVENTS 10am-Noon, Trinity Hall, Baker St, Visit www.book-ish.co.uk for more info register then head over to our website. Abergavenny and bookings www.hospiceofthevalleys.org.uk All Day event. Registration £5 or £25 for 14TH-16TH FEBRUARY 24TH FEBRUARY a team of 8. Tel: 01495 717277 Suitcase Theatre Company presents: Black Mountain Jazz Club: LOVING FRIENDS ADAM GLASSER AND THE JOHN 5TH MARCH BY ANTON CHEKHOV PAUL GARD TRIO ST DAVID’S DAY CONCERT See article on page 51. 8pm, Melville A celebration with Blaenavon Male Theatre, Penypound, Abergavenny. Voice Choir and local performers 7.30pm, Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. 25TH FEBRUARY – 10TH MARCH Tickets £8. Box Office 01873 850 805 FAIRTRADE FORTNIGHT Annual opportunity to showcase how 7TH – 9TH MARCH vital Fair Trade (FT) is for the primary Concept Players: producers of chocolate, coffee, MY FAIR LADY Set in the Russian countryside at the tea, wine, cotton, fruit etc etc: vital Join Concept Players as they return turn of the 19th century, this drama for their economic well-being, for with this timeless musical classic. explores the expectations and limits their health care, for their children’s Follow the story of cockney Eliza of friendship. Based on a short story education, for their communities. Doolittle as she is transformed by by Anton Chekhov and dramatised Various events and locations Henry Higgins into a lady. This Lerner by William Gilbert. 7.30pm, Melville throughout the fortnight. See and Loewe musical is chock full of Theatre, Penypound. Tickets £9 visit our article on Page 20 for more unforgettable songs such as Get Me www.suitcasetheatrecompany.com information To The Church On Time, Wouldn’t It Be Loverly, With A Little Bit Of Luck, I Could 15TH FEBRUARY 1ST MARCH Have Danced All Night and, of course, BLAENAVON MALE VOICE CHOIR Llanfoist Village Hall Film Night: On The Street Where You Live. CONCERT CHRISTOPHER ROBIN 7:30pm, Borough Theatre, Abergavenny. In concert at Llanwenarth Baptist In this very different offering from Tickets £12. Box Office 01873 850 805 Church, Govilon. The concert will last year’s Goodbye Christopher commence at 7pm. Tickets are £6 Robin, Ewan McGregor stars as a 9TH-17TH MARCH each and can be ordered from Mrs. middle-aged Christopher Robin, now CRICKHOWELL WALKING FESTIVAL G. Gates, Tel 01873 830021 or pay at burdened by a stultifying white- Clear away the winter cobwebs and the door. collar job that prevents him from join us for 9 days of wonderful walks spending quality time with his wife and talks during the Crickhowell 16TH FEBRUARY (Hayley Atwell) and daughter (Bronte Walking Festival. Walks for all abilities JIM RAMSEY WITH CHILLI & RICE! Carmichael). Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, with experienced Guide plus Live music from the 60’s and 70’s Eeyore, and Tigger venture from the entertaining and informative evening Llanwenarth Citra Village Hall, in aid Hundred Acre Wood into London to events. Booklet available from tourist of St Peter’s Church Tower repairs turn his life around. info centres but all information is also Tickets £15 per person. See our article 7.30pm, Llanfoist Village Hall, Entry £4 online. To book a walk or evening on Page 8 for more info event, please visit the website: www. 2ND MARCH crickhowellfestival.com 23RD FEBRUARY HOSPICE OF THE VALLEYS: Book-ish Event: BIG WELSH WALK AN EVENING WITH WHITNEY Join the Hospice and Life Size Models To keep up to date with all the SCHARER – THE AGE OF LIGHT in climbing the highest mountain events in the coming months, Join us for an evening with Whitney in South Wales, following on in the don’t forget to visit our online Scharer, author of The Age of Light. footsteps of some Big Welsh Icons. Transporting us from bohemian Paris Become a Hospice Trooper! Are you events calendar on our website to the battlefields of WWII, The Age of up for the challenge of a sponsored at: www.thefocus.wales Light is a powerful and intoxicating walk up Pen-y-Fan with a difference; story about love, obsession and the follow in the footsteps to visit giant Let us know about community personal price of ambition. In her Welsh Iconic Models which will be events that you’d like to share immersive debut novel, Whitney waiting for you at the top for a photo Scharer brings a brilliant and opportunity. Perfect for friends, with everybody; use the revolutionary artist out of the shadow families, individuals, teams and events submission form on our of a man’s legacy, and into the light. colleagues and well behaved dogs Tickets to include a glass of wine. welcome For more information and to website.

VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 17

Commercial COMPUTER SYSTEMS Celtic Invest in solar and sustainable

energy to increase your Hardware ~ Software profitability and eco credentials. Funding and interest free credit available in Wales. We also Domestic Upgrades & Repairs ~ Networks design smart systems for locations with grid limitations. If you’re looking to reduce Maintenance ~ Laptops energy costs, Green Park Power

are your friendly and professional installers. Every New & Reconditioned installation is designed

especially for your home and is seen through to the completion Complete Systems of the Feed-in-Tariff. Ask us about: Energy Storage/Tesla Batteries ADSL / Broadband Provider Off Grid Systems Solar Car Ports/PV Woodsheds/Etc Service & Repair Call:01873 269031 Tel: (01873) 858111 As a trusted Service Contractor or 07792 970406 Green Park Power have the Email: [email protected] experience to quickly identify Email: [email protected] and resolve the causes of system Visit: www.greenparkpower.co.uk 29 Cae Pen Y Dre, failure. We are also able to Green Park Renewables Ltd: optimise many systems to gain a Company No. 09497000 VAT No. 119968074 higher return on investment. Registered Address: The Summerhouse, 1 Maple Close, Abergavenny, NP7 5UP Abergavenny, Monmouthshire. NP7 5JU

18 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] COMMUNITYEVENTS

The Priory Sessions March 2019 Tony Wright of Terrorvision

fter a successful first two their reputation as major players in nights late last year, this the Brit Pop scene with hits such AMarch sees the return of as Marblehead Johnson and Slight The Priory Sessions to St Mary’s Return, the latter taken from their Priory in Monk Street. number one album Expecting to Fly, which actually knocked Oasis’ First up this year is a solo concert monolithic What’s the Story from the by Tony Wright of the rock band top of the charts in February 1996. Terrorvision on March 16th. The Some feat. Again, expect to hear old band had a string of top 30 hits favourites and new songs alike. singles and albums throughout the 1990s, and became known for their As the program for The Priory in energetic concerts. Terrorvision’s 2019 comes together we can also success saw them appear on such reveal that legendary American revered TV shows as Top of the Pops, singer song writer Dean Friedman TGI Friday and even Noel’s House will bring his one man show to Party where they performed their Abergavenny on July 25th. Dean biggest hit song Tequila. Expect Friedman first came to prominence to hear Terrorvision favourites and in the 1970s with mega hits such as Mark Morriss of The Bluetones newer solo material from Tony at Lucky Stars and Lydia. This ‘Evening the concert, where support comes With Dean Friedman’ will be an all American from Abergavenny band Sweet seated concert. singer song Ignitions. Tickets for all Priory Sessions writer Dean March 29th The Priory Sessions shows are available from www. Friedman welcome another rock star who woodfiredsummit.com or in person enjoyed enormous success during from Music One, Chesters Wine the 90s, Mark Morriss of The Merchant and Christie Residential Bluetones. The Bluetones cemented in town. Jamie 19 EVENTS Fortnight: an annual opportunity farmers. Despite their hard work, to show-case how vital Fair Trade they’re often overlooked and FAIRTRADE (FT) is for the primary producers of under-represented. So their voices chocolate, coffee, tea, wine, cotton, and stories will be at the heart of fruit etc etc: vital for their economic this year’s Fortnight – which runs FORTNIGHT well-being, for their health care, for from Feb 25 to March 10. You’re their children’s education, for their encouraged to support one or communities. How does this work more of the events, which will for FT producers? They receive include: a price that covers their costs of SAT MARCH 2: FT food tasting, production: plus a Premium, a little Oxfam shop, Frogmore St extra to invest in their business or TUES MARCH 5: Pancake lunch, their community. Methodist hall, Castle St, from 12 For the past 11 years, Abergavenny noon has been officially designated a Fair SAT MARCH 9: MAIN EVENT, Trade town. Which means that our Methodist hall, from 10 am: to local Council officially encourages include speakers, music, stalls, our shops and stores and coffee refreshments bars and hotels etc to offer FT hocolate! Doesn’t everyone goods wherever they can. For up-to-date details of love it? I certainly do: events, see the website Cespecially tasty are the dark Each year’s Fortnight offers a theme: monmouthshirefairtrade.org.uk/ chocolate Fairtrade bars (Divine or this year’s will be cocoa. Farmers abergavenny/, or the Facebook Green & Black). of this crop, especially in W Africa, page @AbergavennyFT, or see the have seen their prices crash to crisis window display in Red Square Every year in Feb/March we’re levels in the past few years. The Francis Buxton invited to celebrate Fairtrade problem is even worse for women A.C. Puddle & Co. Fireplaces • Fires • Stoves • Central Heating Family Run Business with over 40 Years experience Expert fireplace, fire installation and central heating service with customer satisfaction guaranteed Address: 111 Osborne Road, Pontypool, Torfaen, NP4 6LU Tel: 01495 758077 / 01495 755820 Email: [email protected] | Website: www.acpuddle.com

20 EVENTS fans and a Venue. This band have We so look forward to welcoming THE SHIRES AT publically discussed their love and Ben, Chrissie and the band back appreciation for our humble Festival to Chepstow. They are such lovely with comments such as, “Its such a people as well as such wonderful CASTELL ROC beautiful place. I mean this Castle is performers. The Shires first played just absolutely amazing”, “definately here back in 2016, with the show come to Castell Roc, Chepstow both selling out and going on to be Castle, whether you are a Band or featured in the BBC documentary an Artiste, or to come and watch”, The Shires: New Country, which “it’s such a nice vibe here”, “just chill detailed their incredible rise to out and enjoy your night, enjoy fame and how they spearheaded the music, enjoy everyone else’s today’s interest in Country Music company” and “you’ll make friends within the UK (plus footage here I’m sure”. and interviews of their impact in another little Town, called With back to back sell-out shows Nashville).” at Chepstow Castle and so many requests from the public to have If you have experienced The Shires them again (the list really is as at Chepstow Castle’ before, we are long as the queue to get in to the sure you will be back. If you missed Venue on their show nights), the the previous shows then come Castell Roc announce details of Festival are over the moon to reveal along and see what you’ve been the show set for Friday 9th August the most welcomed return from missing! One other thing that’s for 2019 at Chepstow Castle, and it’s a the incredible global superstars of sure is a ‘sell-out’ so you will need to guaranteed sell-out. Country music, ‘The Shires’. A simply ‘buy now’ to beat the rush. stunning band, in simply stunning Carol Mutlow It’s not very often that you get a surroundings, making for a simply cohesive bond between Artistes, stunning evening.

VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 21 THE ALL-NEW SX4 S-CROSS

FROM NIL ADVANCE PAYMENT

Request a Test Drive today: ponthirroadservicestation.co.uk Abergavenny Suzuki Union Road, Abergavenny NP7 7RL 01873 853563

The features referred to in this advertisement and all specifications and equipment vary depending on engine, transmission and model grade. Model shown: SX4 S-Cross 1.6 SZ5 available at £19,749 on the road (metallic paint available at £430). SX4 S-Cross range official fuel consumption figures in mpg (L/100km): Urban from 39.7 (7.1) to 55.3 (5.1), extra urban from 55.3 (5.1) to 76.3 (3.7), combined from 47.8 (5.9) to 67.2 (4.2). Official C02 emissions from 135g/km to 110g/km. Search /SuzukiCarsUK Fuel consumption figures are based on an EU test for comparative purposes only and may not reflect real driving results. SX4 range: SX4 S-Cross 1.6 SZ3 Manual available at £14,999 to SX4 S-Cross 1.6 DDiS SZ5 ALLGRIP Manual available at £23,549. On the road price valid from 1st January 2014 to 31st March 2014. All prices and specifications correct at time of going to print.

22 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] EVENTS SUITCASE THEATRE COMPANY PRESENTS Following on from four sell-out very long time? And will the magical performances of A Midsummer spell of the Leonovs’ country estate Night’s Dream in the spectacular and overturn all his resistance, tempting LOVING FRIENDS atmospheric setting of the ruins of him once again to reach out for love BY ANTON CHEKHOV Llanthony Priory, Suitcase Theatre in a lonely world? Company has returned to its Melville Loving Friends is a new dramatized Centre base with the aim of creating version of a Chekhov short story a production which is both intimate by William Gilbert, who is also and intense, exploring the world directing the production. The of Chekhov’s subtle and engaging production runs from Thursday 14th characters in a performance space to Saturday 16th February and starts which really suits the company’s at 7:30pm at the Melville Centre in passionate commitment to theatre Abergavenny. Tickets can be bought which touches the heart. through Suitcase Theatre’s website After twelve years of living and (www.suitcasetheatrecompany. working in Moscow, Misha returns com) or by phoning 01873 853167 to the country estate of his dear (Adults: £9, under 18s: £5). Tickets friends, Sergei and Katya Leonov. Also can also be reserved (payable hakespeare, Dickens, staying with the Leonovs are Katya’s on the door) by emailing: info@ Conrad, Gogol and Picasso. younger sister, Nina, and Katya’s best suitcasetheatrecompany.com. SJust five of the classic names friend, Vera. In the past, Vera and William Gilbert that have received the Suitcase Misha seemed destined to marry, Theatre treatment since the but somehow it never came to pass. company was formed five years As the five friends try to solve the ago. Now it’s the turn of Anton increasing financial problems of the estate, Misha finds himself having to Chekhov, the 19th Century face up to his past actions – to his Russian master of both the love for Vera, in particular. Why has he stage and the short story. avoided his loving friends for such a

VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 23 10 Monmouth Road, Abergavenny NP7 5HH www.lodgedental.co.uk Call 01873 854711 for more information L Let our dedicated and highly-skilled ooking dental team take care of you General

After General | Cosmetic | Invisalign Let our dedicated and highly-skilled dental team take care of you Let our dedicated and highly-skilled Let our dedicated and highly-skilled dental team take care of you COMM LY EN H D IG E Call 01873 854711 for more information H D WINNER 2016

BEST YOUNG DENTIST 10 Monmouth Road, Abergavenny NP7 5HH www.lodgedental.co.uk WALES 10 Monmouth Road, Abergavenny NP7 5HH www.lodgedental.co.uk Best Young Dentist Call 01873 854711 for more information dental team take care of you SOUTH L | Let our dedicated and highly-skilled

COMM LY EN H D IG E Call 01873 854711 for more information H D WINNER 2016

BEST YOUNG DENTIST 10 Monmouth Road, Abergavenny NP7 5HH www.lodgedental.co.uk WALES

Invisalign Best Young Dentist SOUTH COMM LY EN H D ooking IG E Call 01873 854711 for more information H D WINNER 24 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] 2016 BEST YOUNG DENTIST 10 Monmouth Road, Abergavenny NP7 5HH www.lodgedental.co.uk WALES Best Young Dentist SOUTH dental team take care of you General Y Best Young Dentist Best Young Dentist WINNER ou SOUTH BEST YOUNG DENTIST | H IG H L Y

C WALES 2016

D Cosmetic E D After | Invisalign Y Best Young Dentist Best Young Dentist WINNER ou SOUTH BEST YOUNG DENTIST H IG H L Y

C WALES 2016

E D 25 Nesta Griffiths are o.uk c e. r EVENTS .uk a ead our our ead t cleaning c .co arpe t Cleaning y c ONSUMER GUIDE a and Billy Russell a y all an e Carp an T billyrr ussellﬂoo wnloaded and r wnloaded . FREE Consumer Guide: FREE Consumer vinepublications FREE C wners of Billy Russell Floorc do celebrate the service celebrate by prepared of Slovenia. the women in over is celebrated of Prayer Day The It120 countries. in Samoa and begins languages travels in native prayer Asia, the world; through throughout Africa, and the Middle East, Europe in finishing the Americas before American 38 hours later. Samoa some further and information * For with details of together resources, WOP services see the area in your www.wwdp.org.uk website: o The SHOCKING truths about The SHOCKING pe Don’t c Don’t www or it’s FREE! ed betty@gra Come - Everything is Ready! Everything Come - t email: n essed with or 833715 01873 594011 2019 people will gather to 2019 people will gather to WORLD DAY OF PRAYER DAY WORLD ts st erful equipme erful ou will be impr w 01684 arpe k fully CRB chec echnicians, y back World Day of Prayer is an of Prayer Day World inter-church international, which enables us organisation hear the thoughts of women to all partsfrom of the world: their The concerns and prayers. hopes, is vast. An the day for preparation based is international committee national are and there York in New in each participatingcommittees meet conferences Regional country. consider the serviceto and then make Finally, their plans. local groups on Friday near you at a church 1 March call y and c tise VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES ONLINE: FOCUS THE VISIT er er t al cleaning. Y vice adv our mone v aining and po xperienced t xperienced o T emo ed or y t our uphols sonal ser or y ained and e Cleaning Ever Seen ...... Cleaning Ever Seen esults of our tr esults f esults the r Amazingr stain 100% deligh friendly per r Fully tr

The Most Thorough Carpet and Upholstery Carpet The Most Thorough • • • • • •

      0 invitation is for everyone - men, is for invitation verything and the is ready 1

have for the future. for have they have met and the hopes they met and the hopes they have republic. They share the challenges share They republic. of Yugoslavia, a Marxist socialist Yugoslavia, of War when their country a part was War since the end of the Second World World the end of the Second since on the barriers they have faced faced on the barriers they have and they encourage us to reflect us to and they encourage have prepared this year’s service this year’s prepared have and youngest countries in Europe, in Europe, countries and youngest of Slovenia, one of the smallest one of Slovenia, join this Day of Prayer.* Women Women of Prayer.* join this Day women and children of all ages to of all ages to and children women E

ED D N E

M O 2016

WALES

G I H

BEST YOUNG DENTIST BEST YOUNG SOUTH ou

WINNER Best Young Dentist Y Invisalign | After Cosmetic | General dental team take care of you team take care of dental ooking Let our dedicated and highly-skilled dedicated our Let L for more information for 01873 854711 Call 10 Monmouth Road, Abergavenny NP7 5HH www.lodgedental.co.uk NP7 5HH Abergavenny Road, 10 Monmouth

LookingAfter LookingYou After You

General | Cosmetic | Invisalign General | Cosmetic | Invisalign

Let our dedicatedLet and our highly-skilled dedicated and highly-skilled dental team takedental care of team you take care of you

COMM COMM LY EN LY EN H D H D IG E IG E Call 01873 854711 for more Callinformation 01873 854711H Dfor more information H D

WINNER WINNER 2016 2016

BEST YOUNG DENTIST BEST YOUNG DENTIST 10 Monmouth Road, Abergavenny NP7 5HH www.lodgedental.co.uk10 Monmouth Road, AbergavennyWALES NP7 5HH www.lodgedental.co.uk WALES Best Young Dentist Best Young Dentist SOUTH SOUTH DOMESTIC APPLIANCE CATHERINE A. WILLIAMS LTD. REPAIRS, SPARE & SALES CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT Quality repairs to all brands of: We offer a complete range of •ELECTRIC COOKERS & HOBS •WASHING MACHINES Accountancy and Advisory Services for • TUMBLE DRYERS both personal and business clients: •DISHWASHERS•FRIDGE FREEZERS•VACUUM CLEANERS • Sole Trader, Partnership and Corporate Accounts Tel: 07572 289243 • Tax Returns www: philevansdomestics.co.uk D Email: [email protected] • Bookkeeping, and VAT returns • Making Tax Digital • Cloud based accounting systems • Payroll and Auto enrolment pensions A WEALTH • Management Accounts and OF Business Consultancy EXPERTISE ON YOUR All sizes of clients are catered for and are DOORSTEP given the same friendly and professional Premier Financial Services offers specialist advice in a service at reasonable prices. wide range of areas including: • Investment Planning 17 Nevill Street, • Inheritance Tax Planning Abergavenny Monmouthshire • Pensions & Protection Planning • Mortgages* 01873 856911 1 High Street Crickhowell Powys NP8 1BD [email protected] Tel: 01873 810285 Fax 01873 810746 Email: *Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up www.pfswm.co.uk repayments on your mortgage [email protected]

A1 BLINDS BLINDS TREDEGAR TREDEGAR LTD

THETHE VALLEY’SVALLEYS LEADING LEADING BLIND BLIND SPECIALISTS SPECIALISTS

ALL ALLAREAS AREAS COVERED COVERED Quality Vertical Rollers & Venetians made to Day: Day/Night: 01495 717717 545 order direct from our factory Evening: 01495 724 348 FREE no obligation quote at competitive prices 1st Class after sales service TRADING FOR OVER Directors & Representatives: Ronald Reed / Geraint Davies 25 YEARS FREEPHONE 0800 197 7545

26 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] Untitled-11 1 THE VALLEY’S LEADING BLIND SPECIALISTS13/06/2014 12:16

DIRECTORS & REPRESENTATIVES EVENTS The Month Ahead: February 2019 February has often been the month during the winter season to unleash a ‘sting in the tail’ of what has, apart from the winter of 2017/18, proved a rather toothless affair in recent years. Before the onset of March and the prospect of at the very least, a general uplift towards milder temperatures, the last month of winter 2018/19 may yet have an assortment of wintry cards to play. That said, whilst the long range forecast models have been quite accurate for December 2018 and January 2019, February may just buck the trend. The models tend to settle for an above average month for precipitation, and milder than average for temperatures. I cast some doubt on this, tending to think that February won’t pass without snow, ice, and bitterly cold temperatures making more than just a cameo appearance. Should the level of precipitation the models suggest be correct, with perhaps the temperature values not so in line with predictions, snowy incursions may well hold some disruptive elements to contend with.

Forecast from Jonathan Powell PAWFESSIONAL TOUCH Dog Grooming ALL Services BOOK

DOGS NOW! A brand new, purpose built, boarding WELCOME! cattery ‘Cats on Vacation’ is located just outside Llanarth, between Abergavenny and Raglan with easy access from Abergavenny, Raglan, Monmouth, Usk, the Heads of the Valleys and surrounding areas. Postcode NP15 2LY. Email:

For more information contact Ruth: Tel: 01600 780110 Email: [email protected] 01495 618377Email: 101 Bailey Street, Brynmawr NP23 4DN catsonvacation.com Email: Email: VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 27 Tintern & Brockweir Walk river wye This month’s walk is a circular route, following fairly level paths beside the River Wye and takes in the beautiful Tintern Abbey. We did the walk on a sunny, late October afternoon when the paths were fairly mud-free. It’s easy to see that the walk could get quite sludgy after rain, though, so best to wear some wellies or a pair of old shoes that you don’t mind getting mucky. The walk starts at the Old Station at Tintern, located on the A466. You can park here for a nominal fee. We did the walk at a leisurely pace and took 3 hours to complete it. We included a spot of lunch, some book browsing in Tintern and Brockweir a mooch around Abbey Mill. There are plenty of tea shops and cafes along this route, particularly around the Abbey, which is about half way.

10. Pass through a gate into a field to rejoin the banks of the Wye on your right. Follow the river until you reach a gate, proceed through this gate and turn left to climb a flight of steps. Continue along this path until you The Old Station reach your starting position, back at the Old Station.

Tintern Parva St. Michaels 9 9. Continue along the A466 to pass Abbey Mill again on the right. Further along this road, you will pass Stella Books on your left and a pub called ‘The Moon 10 and Sixpence.’ Stella Books is worth a visit if you’re interested in rare and out of print books. Soon you will reach a lane which branches right from the main road (signposted Wye Valley Walk and St Michael’s Church). Follow this lane until you reach St Michael’s. Go through the churchyard passing the graveyard on your left.

6 Abbey Mills 7 Tintern Abbey river wye 8 8. Pass the Abbey ruins on your left. There are more tea 7. Continue past Abbey Mill on the A466 and then options here, as well as a good pub. Turn right at the turn left along a lane. Follow this lane until you come top of this road to rejoin the A466 and continue walking to a small church and then turn right. Follow this path along it. Be careful on this road if you have small passing cottages and houses until you emerge at a small children as it can be busy, especially at the weekends. roundabout with the Tintern Abbey car park opposite.

Kids, see if you can spot these things along the way. Tick them off as you go 28 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] river wye 1. Begin at the Old Station at Tintern and turn right along the old platform so that the river is on your right hand side.Continue through woodland along the disused trackbed. At the end of the track you will come across concrete steps leading to a road. At the top of these steps, turn right and cross the bridge to Brockweir Village

2. After crossing the bridge, follow the road to the right. As you pass Brockweir Brockweir Inn, bear right. In approx 20m turn right at a signpost to Brockweir Moravian Church. 2 Pass the church and bear left to a stile.

3 3. Follow the path along the riverbank. In approx 300 metres before you reach the tree line of the woods, veer left towards a stile in a The Old Station hedge. You’ll need to keep your eyes peeled for 1 this as it’s easily missed. 4 Tintern Parva

St. Michaels 4. Cross the stile and turn right onto a tree lined path. Continue along this path which, in approx 140m, becomes a wood.

5. After a further 500m, a path joins from the left and there is a low stone wall on the right. Walk downhill, ignoring a field gate 5 on the right and go down a steep, rocky path. Pass a signpost and emerge onto a broad track, ignoring the stile immediately ahead. Turn right and follow the track as it bends to the left and crosses a wooden decked bridge.

Abbey Mills 6. Walk ahead to the A466 in Tintern. Turn left to Abbey Mill. Here there are tea and refresh- Tintern Abbey ment options as well as some lovely gift shops. river wye

7. Continue past Abbey Mill on the A466 and then turn left along a lane. Follow this lane until you come to a small church and then turn right. Follow this path passing cottages and houses until you emerge at a small roundabout with the Tintern Abbey car park opposite.

VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 29 KITCHENS, BEDROOMS AND BATHROOMS DESIGNED FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE 32

WE ALSO SPECIALISE IN TILES AND ALL FLOORING

MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME… VISIT MIRAGE AND BE INSPIRED… MIRAGE, ESTABLISHED IN 1987. WE ARE VERY PROUD TO BE CELEBRATING 31 YEARS OF SERVING ABERGAVENNY AND SURROUNDING AREAS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT We Supply, Manufacture and Install Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms Mirage House, Mill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire. NP7 5HE T: 01873 858043 E: [email protected] 30 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] KITCHENS, BEDROOMS AND BATHROOMS DESIGNED FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE See this? 32 So did 7,500 other households and businesses ADVERTISE FROM ONLY £21 reach up to 13500 homes & businesses from Abergavenny to Brecon WE ALSO SPECIALISE IN TILES AND ALL FLOORING Call Hannah or pete 01873 856614 FOCUS MAGAZINES

“ABERGAVENNY’S INDEPENDENT WINE MERCHANTS, PROVIDING A CAREFULLY SELECTED RANGE OF AWARD WINNING WINES FROM AROUND THE GLOBE, SERVING WINES BY THE GLASS IN STORE ON OUR COSY MEZZANINE ALSO, POP IN AND SAY HELLO NEXT TIME YOU’Re IN TOWN.” MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME… VISIT MIRAGE AND BE INSPIRED… LLOYD, BEN & CHESTER MIRAGE, ESTABLISHED IN 1987. @chesterswine WE ARE VERY PROUD TO BE CELEBRATING 31 YEARS OF SERVING ABERGAVENNY @chesterswinemerchants AND SURROUNDING AREAS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT chesters wine merchannts We Supply, Manufacture and Install 2 stable mews, lewis lane Kitchens, Bedrooms and Bathrooms abergavenny,np7 5ba Mirage House, Mill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire. NP7 5HE 01873 856565 T: 01873 858043 E: [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 31 LOVE Say it with Flowers Roses are red, violets are blue, find the secret message, from me to you!

very Valentine’s Day, and as such synonymous with It’s not just colour that has a code, billions of flowers are Valentine’s, but be careful what as the number of roses gifted to sent by secret, and not colour you plump for as each hue your lover also holds significance. E so secret, admirers carries a different connotation. A single rose indicates love at first to express their feelings of sight, while nine roses signifies Red stands for true love, whereas adoration and admiration. But eternal love, and of course the pink implies a warm affection, whilst you may have thought Valentine’s Day special; 12 roses your chosen bouquet was simply yellow symbolises friendship, declares to your sweetie ‘be mine.’ a sweetly-scented display of while white is the suggestion of a This is why the team at love lily your affection, the flowers you new beginning, or if things have simply love what they do! Working pick could actually be saying taken a turn for the worse try with flowers every day has got something entirely different artificially coloured roses, such as to be the most rewarding job in thanks to the secret code of blue which means impossible, or the world – and don’t they know floriography (the language even black signifying death! it! Owner & Head Floral Designer of flowers), developed by the Emma says, ‘supplying florals for Victorians as a sneaky way of all occasions, from weddings to sending ‘concealed’ messages to funerals & on those special days, that special someone. such as Valentines Day & The rose is universally Mothering Sunday, revered as an really is a joy. emblem It means so of true much to love, play our

32 TO AD- LOVE part in these memorable days They also design, produce and For further information on and we put our absolute all into deliver the most spectacular weddings & to discuss your everything we create’. weddings every year and also run floral requirements in detail the successful and popular ‘Flower Emma set up love lily in call 01873 856618. And if you School Wales’, with a variety of Abergavenny back in 2006 and fancy a fabulous day out at their classes throughout the year. has supplied beautiful breath Flower School take a look at the taking florals from the off. Now To place your order for Valentines programme of events www. based in their unique floral design Day, Mothering Sunday or for any flowerschoolwales.co.uk. Follow studio, an old chapel in Radstock floral enquiry, visit www.love-lily. Emma and the team and their day Court just off Regent Street, Emma com and order online or contact to day floral fun on Instagram: & the team continue to supply team lily on 01873 856618 who @emmalovelily beautiful fresh daily bouquets with will be happy to help. both local & national delivery available.

VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 33 Fitting Floors Stairs WoodWorx Doors Cupboards Carpentry & Joinery Kitchens Skirting

Chris Davies 193 Badminton Grove, Ebbw Vale, NP23 5UN KENNEL CLUB +44 (0)7525 270881 [email protected] GOOD CITIZEN PUPPY CLASSES

Business-Card-CD.indd 1 16/10/2018

• PUPPY CLASSES PUPPY • ADOLESCENT CLASSES SOCIALISATION • KENNEL CLUB CLASS CLASSES 25TH FEBRUARY • DOG HOTEL BOARDING at Riverside Vets, Abergavenny NEW PUPPY CLASSES (6-7pm) & For further information contact Tracey Prall on 07735401076 OLDER DOG CLASSES (7-8pm) both starting 23rd September at Govilon Village Hall [email protected] | www.canineconnections.co.uk FUN AGILITY CLASS starting October 1st, at Triley Fields, 6-7pm 10 YEARS 2006 - 2016 This is Sarah. She’s busy RELIABLE QUALITY & SERVICE cleaning her oven...

Sarah called the domestic oven cleaning specialists, so she could relax and enjoy a coffee while it’s done!

The

Clean OvenCo

• Ovens • Agas • Grills • Hobs • Extractors • BBQs • Microwaves • CALL Clever Sarah! Y TODA 01873 594 054 www.thecleanovenco.com Put the sparkle back into Your kitchen today!

34 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] LOVE Nana’s Kitchen

Lavender Lavender flavoured cakes Hearts and biscuits are all the rage Ingredients: Sift the flour and ground rice and at the moment. add to the mixture, together with This shortbread • 125g **lavender infused sugar, the reserved lavender seeds and plus extra for sprinkling mix until the mixture resembles is subtle in • 225g softened unsalted butter breadcrumbs flavour and goes • 300g plain flour With floured hands, work the mixture perfectly with a until it comes together • 50g ground rice cup of Earl Grey Tip onto a floured work surface tea. Of course **Lavender sugar can be obtained at and knead gently until the dough the larger high street supermarkets, is smooth. Chill in the fridge for 15 you can make however, if you can’t find it you can minutes the biscuits any make your own by mixing 1kg caster sugar with two teaspoons of lavender Roll out the dough to 5mm thickness shape, but hearts flowers. Store in an airtight jar for up to and cut out shapes, placing them are particularly six months. onto the baking trays. Sprinkle with a little extra lavender sugar and place appropriate in the fridge for another 30 minutes for Valentine’s Method Grease and line two baking trays with Preheat the oven to 180C/160 Fan/ Day. It ’s an easy, non-stick parchment paper Gas 4 straightforward Sieve the sugar into a bowl reserving Bake the biscuits for 15-20 minutes recipe and should the lavender seeds until later – this until pale golden brown. make 15-20 prevents the lavender being broken Gently place the biscuits onto a up when creaming the butter and biscuits depending cooling rack to cool. Do this carefully sugar. Add the softened butter and as they will be soft. Sprinkle with a on the size of your cream together little extra lavender sugar if desired. cutter. Pauline Mardell VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 35 TheTheManorManor SimplySimply Magical Weddings Weddings CrickhowellCrickhowell CivilCivil Ceremonies Ceremonies && ReceptionsReceptions up up to to 200 200 Guests Guests WonderfulWonderful Views OverOver the the Brecon Brecon Beacons Beacons

Contact Our Team for More Information [email protected] Contact Our T:Team 01873 for 810212 More Information [email protected] T: 01873 810212 36 LOVE TheManor Simply Magical Weddings Celebrate your marriage... Crickhowell Civil Ceremonies & Receptions up to 200 Guests Wonderful Views Over the Brecon Beacons

Your Way!

f you, your child, or friends The above words, together with As well as exchanging vows and of yours are planning on formally identifying yourselves rings, some couples choose to Itying the knot, it’s worth to the Registrar and signing the include a unity ritual as part of their knowing that the traditional rules marriage/civil partnership register ceremony which symbolizes the regarding wedding ceremonies in front of two independent couple joining their lives together. no longer apply – apart from a witnesses and the Registrar, are It can include anything from Pagan few obligatory words. You can the only legal requirements for handfasting, lighting of candles, or Apache style sand rituals, which even seal your love with a light marriage. sabre. Yes. Really. involves the pouring of coloured This means that it’s possible for sands into a bowl. Some choose By UK law, only specific Declaratory couples to design their own quirkier rituals such as replacing Words and Contracting Words have candles with light sabres or glow to be said in a Registry Office or ceremony, using personal and meaningful vows of their choice. sticks to add some humour and licensed venue, in order for your personality to proceedings. marriage to be recognised in law Depending on how traditional and and for a marriage certificate to be conventional the couple wishes to There is a wealth of information issued. be, the sky is the limit in terms of and ideas online about how to put together your wedding ceremony. These words are: creativity and allowing personalities to shine through. Before you get too carried away, Declaratory Words however, ensure you enlist the help Many couples opt for a personal I do solemnly declare that I know of a civil celebrant or humanist marriage address, where the not of any lawful impediment why celebrant who will guide you “ celebrant composes a narrative, I (your name) may not be joined in through the process, and give you matrimony to (partner’s name) which talks about the couple, useful tips and ideas of their own how they met, fell in love and the about what does and doesn’t work. Contracting Words ” adventures that brought them to With so much choice and flexibility I call upon these persons here their wedding day. Often couples at your fingertips, there’s no reason Contact Our Team for More Information present“ to witness that I (your name) like to choose their own readings, why your wedding needs to be do take thee (partner’s name) especially if there is a specific piece anything like other weddings you [email protected] to be my lawful wedded wife (or that is meaningful and personal to may have attended; you can truly T: 01873 810212 husband) them. make your day your very own. ” VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 37 LOVE Say “I do” in paradise with the help of Miles Morgan Travel

ith the costs of With a dedicated wedding planner, no further than the Beachcomber weddings at home stunning views and a guarantee Bespoke which even includes Wcontinuing to increase, of just one wedding a day at each spa treatments and wedding Miles Morgan Travel are seeing of the eight resorts, weddings at photography to create a truly more and more people choosing the Beachcomber properties are unforgettable day. to tie the knot abroad and one of magical. Choose between the Each of the eight Beachcomber the most popular destinations is three superb wedding packages hotels holds its own individual the beautiful island of Mauritius. to help create your perfect day, character and style, with tantalising providing inclusions and the Pristine white sandy beaches, cuisine, a vast array of activities and chance to add additional elements sparkling turquoise waters and stunning locations so you can kick to your wedding, you can rest picturesque landscapes, Mauritius start your married life in tropical assured your special day will be is the perfect destination for a bliss. stress-free from start to finish. relaxed and luxurious Indian Ocean Exchange your vows in dreamy Eva Hanley, Manager in our wedding. locations with the Beachcomber Abergavenny branch, and members We are a main agent for Bliss package which has all the of her team, have travelled several Beachcomber Tours who as the essentials for a Mauritius wedding times to Mauritius so are perfectly first hotel company in Mauritius, including legal procedures, fees placed to offer expert advice and secured enviable beachside and documentation or start your first-hand knowledge. In fact, Eva locations on the island. Each married life with the Beachcomber loves Mauritius so much she is of their eight properties offer Barefoot wedding package where returning this year! Call the team luxurious accommodation options, additional extras such as a wedding today on 01873 566004 and book award-winning a la carte dining, cake for your guests, recorded a free appointment and start impeccable service and a dreamy music and makeup for the bride are planning your romantic escape. setting ideal for your romantic included. If you are dreaming of the Mauritius wedding. ultimate wedding package, look 38 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] Local An Audience with TRAVEL Event in Joe Lavers Abergavenny from Wendy Wu Tours

Wendy Wu Tours, like ourselves, are an award-winning company and have been creating extraordinary tours for over 20 years. Their comprehensive range capture the very essence of any destination they visit. Wendy Wu programme of tours include China, Southeast Asia, Japan, India, Sri Lanka - and most recently, South America. Join us to learn more.

Tuesday 5th March 2019 The Angel Hotel, Abergavenny At 7pm

Phone lines open until 10pm 01873 566004 70 Frogmore Street 8 www.milesmorgantravel.co.uk Abergavenny NP7 5AU Winner VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 39 HEALTH & WELLBEING AT PETERSTONE COURT SPA

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 equipped gym, sauna, Jacuzzi, treatment and relaxation rooms.

SEE OUR WEBSITE: PETERSTONE-COURT.COM LLANHAMLACH, BRECON, EMAIL [email protected] POWYS, WALES, LD3 7YB OR TELEPHONE 01874 665387

40 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] LOVE If your idea of romance is good Romance on the food and local wine, Begur and the many little coastal towns will suit you down to the ground; Try Costa Brava! Tamariu with its horseshoe bay, great fish restaurants and clear blue water or Aigua blava whose name speaks for itself. You can listen to wonderful flamenco on Wednesday evening at Sa Rascassa tucked away in a tiny cove with a courtyard lit by fairy lights. Or return to Scuba dive there the following morning . Of course staying at home is a ur villa is just outside the have the most fantastic sunsets in popular option: You can play table lovely old village of Begur this part of the world. Or you can tennis, swim in the pool which is on the Costa Brava with wander around Begur enjoying its O flood lit at night and BBQ the fresh its tiny coves, blue waters and fantastic colonial houses built by wonderful old towns. the wealthy residents returning fish that you have bought in one from Cuba where they had made of the local markets or even at the There is nothing more romantic their fortune. Every September supermarket down the road which than sitting on our balcony there is a Cuban festival where has its own family of fishermen. sipping a drink and looking over everyone drinks Mojitos and Who says romance is dead? the mountains to the sea and dances until the sun comes up. watching the sun go down. We Prue Martin

FOR RENT Casa de la Luna Stunning Villa situated in a beautiful part of the Costa Brava with local owners. The Villa is a Kilometre from the pretty old village of Begur and has fantastic views over the mountains to the sea. It can accommodate 2-10 people and has a private garden and pool. There are several superb beaches nearby.

Please contact: Terence or Prue Martin at [email protected] or on 01873856589 for more information, prices and photos.

VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 41 The Ladies’ Ultimate Valentines Treat Relax with a Clarins Signature Facial and receive a complimentary back massage Subject to availability throughout February 01873 859229 email: [email protected] www.claireprice.com

Claire Price Beauty Clinic, Beechcroft House, Hereford Road, Mardy, Abergavenny. NP7 6LE

42 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] LOCAL BUSINESS and items of value, all at exceptional incredible prices especially with the LOVE & MARRIAGE…. prices. Items of value can be extra 25% off for Valentine’s for the AT THE JEWELLERY bought, sold and exchanged. month of February! They also offer a full repair and The Jewellery Exchange is open EXCHANGE valuation service for all types of 5-days per week, Tuesday – Friday 9 VALENTINE’S OFFER jewellery and watches. till 5. Saturday 9 till 3. They carry a wide range of stock The Jewellery Exchange. 11B Market 25% OFF DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT ranging from silver charms to Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire. RINGS for february certificated diamond rings and NP7 5SD everything in between! Tel: 01873 850006 email: admin@ pringtime is traditionally a time jewelleryexchange.co.uk www. Come and see their fantastic Swhen our thoughts turn to jewelleryexchange.co.uk Love & Marriage, especially with range of white and yellow gold Follow us on Facebook & Twitter Valentine’s Day on the horizon. engagement rings set with diamonds, also eternity rings and Iolanda Jackson-Johns What better time to pay a visit to wedding bands. your Local, Independent Jewellery Store in Abergavenny, The Jewellery They have a selection of Clogau Exchange, and surprise your loved Welsh Gold rings – all at a fraction one with a special gift of jewellery. of their new retail price. The Jewellery Exchange opened Bespoke jewellery can be made to its doors on the 1st July 2016 and your own unique specification at is run by husband and wife team, competitive prices. Dean & Iolanda. So, what are you waiting for – come They are very proud to offer pre- and select that special gift for the owned quality jewellery, watches special person in your life – all at

Your Independent Jewellery Store in Abergavenny

11B Market Street, Abergavenny, Mon. NP7 5SD • 01873 850006 www.jewelleryexchange.co.uk

VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 43 HANNAH MLATEM Led by Hannah, her team offers the best in hair care, styling and colour

Just some of the services we offer: • Gents’ Cuts • Blow Dry • Colour • Kerastraight; a semi- permanent blow dry • Hot towel cut throat shave • Wedding Specialists

Call us and make a reservation: 01873 832214

Follow our daily behind the scenes, live hair pics, videos and latest news on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram 38 Main Road, Gilwern, NP7 0AS

Now Available Locally New Year New Beginnings Seasonal Offer Prices start at £35 • Home Visits BryntegNaturalTherapies.co.uk 07980 110808 Health & Beauty All Wrapped Up! Fully Insured Member of the Association of Reflexologists

44 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] LOCAL BUSINESS They are keen to share more tastes Bonnezeau and Vouvray which ‘LE TOUR DE and flavours from their time there pair beautifully with the king of so the menu will be taking a leap, puddings, Tarte Tatin. to predominantly French cuisine FRANCE’ AT THE The first leg will be on Thursday and a Gallic wine list. In line with 7th March with a wine and cheese this change they are launching ‘Le KESTREL tasting involving: Cremant de Loire, Tour de France’, an invitation only Muscadet Sevre et Maine-sur lie, series of dinners and wine tastings, Sancerre, Chinon red and a Layon, touring a different region’s food alongside cheeses from Cœur de and wine specialities each month. Berry, St Maure de Touraine, Selles In order to partake, invitations are sur cher and Crottin de Chavignol. open to all who are registered The kitchen will also be making with the K-club and numbers will a traditional ‘Le Mans’ rillette for be limited to about 25, on a first the occasion, with some crusty come first booked basis. www. baguettes from The Angel bakery. thekestrelinn.com/k-club he Kestrel Inn has been Meanwhile the restaurant will The first stop will be The Loire, reopened for 4 years now and be open as usual on a Friday and Tas many of you may know famed for its beautiful Chateaux, Saturday evening until the summer, Richard and Fiona spent nearly ten sparkling cremant, shellfish and except for private parties, so it only years in France with their family, crisp white wines. Cabernet franc remains to say ‘a bientot’ or see you prior to moving to Wales. They reds from Chinon are sipped soon. were immersed in a rich culture of with pork dishes and rillettes. Not food and wine, in the once British Richard Binns to forget the unctuous sweet Aquitaine region near Bordeaux. gems from the Coteau du Layon,

The Kestrel Inn BAR RESTAURANT ROOMS Martin Shepheard UPCOMING SPECIAL EVENTS Martin Shepheard St Valentines Dinner Menu 14th, 15th and 16th February PAINTER & DECORATOR Three courses £29.50 BESPOKE WALLPAPER HANGING Mothers Day Sunday Lunch Fully Insured • Domestic & Commercial 31st March Quality Workmanship From £22.00 City & Guilds Qualified Please find our menus here: Tel: 07971 454879 thekestrelinn.com/events or 01873 830943 01874 731044 WWW.THEKESTRELINN.COM [email protected] BRECON ROAD. NR CRICKHOWELL, NP8 1SB

VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 45 The Oriental Rug Cleaning Specialists We will clean your rug using state of the art specialist rug cleaning equipment

We can sanitise and deodourise your rug to ensure that pet stains and odours are eliminated

We will return your rug to you looking glorious, revived and smelling beautiful!

Collection and delivery service available Call us on 0800 002 9543 for your FREE quote today!

0800 002 9543 www.prestigerugspa.co.uk S V M 46 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] LOCAL BUSINESS LOCAL BUSINESS Rising damp is the general term for One of the most severe property water that rises up the fabric of a problems is dry rot, simply because building after being absorbed from of the potential damage it can COMMON the surrounding ground. This can cause - it is essential to find and be caused by a failure of a damp treat the issue as quickly as possible. Dry rot can be identified by its proof course, a bridged damp PROPERTY ‘mushroom-like’ odour, damaged proof course, or there being no and brittle timber, rust coloured damp proof course at all. You may spore dust, and cotton-wool-like ISSUES THAT spot rising damp by stains on your mycelium and fruiting bodies. walls up to a metre high, peeling Once the source of moisture has CAN DAMAGE wallpaper, and cracked or bubbling been removed, the affected areas plaster. This is solved by by a new can be repaired and sprayed with YOUR HOME damp proof course, removing a fungicidal treatment to prevent where the existing damp proof future growth. The Oriental Rug Cleaning Specialists Rising damp course is bridged and replastering If you have noticed any of these or most people ensuring their the affected area. issues in your home and would like house is free from damp is not to speak to a professional then give We will clean your rug using state of the Penetrating damp from high Fthe first thing on their agenda, us a call on 01873 877 645 and we art specialist rug cleaning equipment but if damp gets a foothold it can ground levels can also damage can arrange a no obligation survey be difficult to eliminate without walls and plaster as moisture from our local surveyor. professional help. With the colder migrates from the ground into the Peter Cox are a founder member weather you may spot signs of internal surface of the walls. If the We can sanitise and deodourise your of the Property Care Association, a damp in your property, and while ground cannot be lowered then the Which? Trusted Trader and we are rug to ensure that pet stains and odours you may think it’s harmless, if left best treatment for this is modern rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot with it could lead to problems in your are eliminated waterproof tanking treatments, over customer 950 reviews. home. providing a barrier for the moisture. www.petercox.com We will return your rug to you looking glorious, revived and smelling beautiful! Property Rated ‘Excellent’ with Maintenance raising standards in property preservation over 950 reviews Collection and delivery service available AW Have you noticed damp in your

Call us on 0800 002 9543 for property? your FREE quote today! PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE, VALUE FOR MONEY Advice and specialist solutions for: BUSINESS WITH A FRIENDLY AND HONEST Rising & penetrating damp APPROACH TO ALL JOBS Basement & structural waterproofing Carpentry Painting & Decorating • • • Wet & dry rot Floor & Wall Tiling Garden & Outside • • Woodworm Maintenance Decking and fencing • • Structural repairs Plastering Patios Other services available • • • • Wall tie replacement “If a job can be done, do it well” ASSOCIATION

Call Andrew on 01873 269049 or For a no obligation survey call: 07455 200218 for a free, no obligation quote. 01873 877 645 0800 002 9543 [email protected] www.prestigerugspa.co.uk www.petercox.com S V M www.awpropertymaintenance.co.uk VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 47 Lucy Hockey HAIR STUDIO

KNOW WHAT YOU’RE MADE OF

SKILLED FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL RELAXED

01873 859 300 HEREFORD ROAD, MARDY, ABERGAVENNY, NP7 6LE WWW.LUCYHOCKEYHAIRSTUDIO.CO.UK [email protected] 48 Lucy Hockey HAIR STUDIO

KNOW WHAT YOU’RE MADE OF

SKILLED FRIENDLY PROFESSIONAL RELAXED

01873 859 300 HEREFORD ROAD, MARDY, ABERGAVENNY, NP7 6LE WWW.LUCYHOCKEYHAIRSTUDIO.CO.UK [email protected] 49 The Solution Focused Ultimate Hour Hypnotherapy complete mind and body relaxation therapy ALSO available Nicola Taylor BA(Hons), DSFH, HPD 07802 286386 [email protected] www.eclipsesfh.com

Help with: Anxiety, Bowel disorders, Depressive symptoms, Exam stress, Grief and loss, Low-self- esteem, Phobias, PTSD, Sleep problems, Smoking cessation, Sports performance, Stress and Weight loss.

ABERGAVENNY BASED PLUMBING AND HEATING COMPANY

Fully accredited with Gas Safe and Oftec offering high standards at SERVICES cost effective rates • Oil Boiler Servicing, Installation and Repair • Gas Boiler Servicing, Installation and Repair • Gas Cookers & Fires Servicing, Installation and Repair • General Plumbing Services

EMAIL: [email protected] OFFICE: 01873 850 981 MOBILE: 07435 967 895

50 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] LIFESTYLE & CULTURE BMJ CLUB PROGRAMME 2019 Book on the door or online: www.blackmountainjazz.co.uk SUNDAY 24TH FEBRUARY ADAM GLASSER Jazz AND THE JOHN PAUL GARD TRIO www.adamglassermusic.com. Adam Glasser’s unique harmonica in Abergavenny sound combines his South African Grammy nominated jazz vocalist and saxophonist Becki Biggins roots with many years immersed in the UK jazz scene – Adam’s he classic jazz love songs a monthly club night, on the harmonica can be heard on from the Great American last Sunday of the month in the numerous CDs – most notably with TSongbook have been intimate performance space of artists such Sting guitarist Dominic part of the “Lexicon of Love” for a the Melville Theatre, Pen y pound, Miller, Brazilian vocal legend Zizi Century now. Abergavenny NP7 5UD Possi and Australian fusion virtuoso How do you choose a favourite Loved by musicians and audience Carl Orr. with over 1500 songs expressing alike, this is the place to be on love in all its glory? Do you prefer a Sunday evening where the SUNDAY 31ST MARCH 2019 the golden oldies sung by Frank bar is open from 7.30pm with CHUBE FEATURING JAZZ HARPIST BEN Sinatra or Ella Fitzgerald? Or the live jazz from 8pm. Join us, sit CREIGHTON GRIFFITHS more contemporary voices of Amy back in the raised seating of the Chube is a young jazz fusion band Winehouse, Diana Krall and Claire auditorium and listen to world class based in Cardiff. Chube draw their Martin? musicianship performed at close inspiration from a wide variety of artists and genres and aim to write Whichever your preference there hand. Only 70 seats are available electro acoustic music that pushes is a song to reflect your feelings for every gig making this a truly the boundaries of their instruments whether in or out of love and exclusive musical experience. their timeless messages form a If you love listening to the THURSDAY 29TH AUGUST –SUNDAY 1ST very special backdrop to our lives, American Songbook, we are proud SEPTEMBER 2019 whether in an advert, film score to say that we have some real gems or listening to your favourite artist in our BMJ programme this year. ABERGAVENNY WALL2WALL JAZZ perform on CD, Spotify or even Look out for Grammy nominated FESTIVAL 2019. vinyl. jazz vocalist and saxophonist Becki Now in its 6th year and hosted at Biggins performing in The Melville various venues in Abergavenny, the There is however, no substitute to Black Mountain Jazz Club annual hearing music performed live. Theatre here in Abergavenny in May and Jazz Vocalist of the year wall2wall jazz festival goes from Here at Black Mountain Jazz Club 2018 Ian Shaw, who will open our strength to strength keeping quality we aim to bring you the best of jazz wall2wall Jazz Festival with a Jazz jazz live in Monmouthshire. musicianship here to Abergavenny. Supper at The Angel Hotel at the We are proud to say that several of Black Mountain Jazz Club hosts end of August. this year’s artists have been voted UK Jazz musicians of the year 2018 and we are delighted to have hosted musicians of this quality. Put the dates in your diary, whilst we are busy planning our artists for wall2wall 2019 (to be announced on our website in the new year): www.blackmountainjazz.co.uk We look forward to seeing you there! Jazz Vocalist of the Debs Hancock year 2018, Ian Shaw 51 photography in focus STUCK IN A RUT

tarting next month I’m even try your hand at shooting For many years I was a racing going to start looking film if that’s something alien to cyclist. I competed on the road S at the technical aspects you. and at cyclocross, a particularly of photography. This could tough and somewhat bizarre But this month I want to look at be anything from the type of branch of the sport where bikes something that affects all people equipment available to use, what that are essentially road bikes with who work in creative media, cameras and lenses, or even knobbly tyres are raced on off road and that’s what to do when the phones best suit your style, to circuits. Having been retired from dreaded block strikes. The more manual control of those devices. competition for a few years, just you try to overcome it, the deeper I’ll look at composition, subject after Christmas I was moaning to it can become. I’ve got a couple of matter, ways of processing an my partner that I rarely rode the projects on the go at the moment image, shutter speed, aperture, very expensive road bike I had in which are beginning to draw to a exposure. Do we want pin sharp the garage and that if I was going natural conclusion, and a couple of images, or blurred? Is a narrow to eat this much, I needed to do others I’m hoping to start once the depth of field more effective, some exercise. I’d recently found logistics are worked out, but I’m not or does the subject require a superb pocket film camera in the type of person who is cut out everything to be in focus from a house clearance shop in town, for periods in the doldrums. foreground to horizon. You could an Olympus XA2 from the early 52 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] LIFESTYLE & CULTURE 80s. When I mentioned that I was has a direct link to the sport of thinking about getting another cyclocross. I ride, shoot film, and can eat more! And, there’s always cyclocross bike, my partner asked then process it myself, uploading my iPhone in a pocket too so I can why I didn’t combine the two, and the images to various sites for shoot digitally. slip the camera into a cycling jersey sale, including links to my work on Everyone’s a winner! pocket and document the sights I Strava, a fitness app many of you saw when out training. will be familiar with. More of my work can be seen on Instagram @nedsoldman or at www. Bingo! A new project was born. And there you have an introduction davidcollyer.wordpress.com Sometimes you just have to sit to the beauty of the technical Facebook David.collyer/9212 back, perhaps think laterally, and aspects of photography in the I can be contacted at wait for inspiration to strike. The modern world. Traditional film shot [email protected] for project is called “Stuck in a rut”, on the road, and available to view prints or commissions. which obviously references the digitally, and I get fit again into the David Collyer creative black hole I was in, and bargain, which means of course I

53 Aber Forest & Garden A friendly practice based from home Garden Maintenance Hypnotherapy is a powerful tool used to + Lawn care + Fencing break negative patterns of behaviour. Amongst many things it will help with: + Planting + Tree care + Brush Cutting 4 Insomnia 4 Obsessions 4 4 + Hard & Soft Landscaping Anxiety and depression Phobias and fears 4 4 + Bespoke Wooden products Fertility and childbirth Pain management 4 Low self-esteem 4 Weight control (planters/raised beds/log stores) 4 Anger Nicholas Jones Get the best out of life – Hypnotherapy works! For lots more information and reviews visit: 07738 072356 abergavennyhypnotherapy.co.uk [email protected] Tel: 01873 831427 Parry Hypnotherapy BE SEEN

ADVERTISE FROM ONLY £21 reach up to 13500 homes & businesses from Abergavenny to Brecon Call Hannah or pete 01873 856614 FOCUS MAGAZINES 54 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] Friendship

Acquaintance Mate Sympathy Ally Pal Trust Amigo Share Boyfriend Buddy Chum Closeness Companion Comrade Empathy Favour Fondness Fun Girlfriend Honesty Kinship Lend Loyalty Find the names of the words relating to friendship in the grid and the remaining letters will spell out a related phrase

For information about all our upcoming events and to book your tickets visit our website: WWW.BOOK-ISH.CO.UK or call 01873 811256

18 High Street, Crickhowell, Powys. NP8 1BD Tel: 01873 811256 www.book-ish.co.uk VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 55 ANOTHER DEVELOPMENT BY

NEW

Now Available - Mamhilad Self-Storage are offering a new indoor container storage facility, which is very competitively priced. The facility benefits from CCTV monitoring and the double security of the business park gatehouse and the security of the facility itself. • £100 PER MONTH (INC. VAT) • 8 FT X 20 FT CONTAINERS • 24/7 ACCESS • SECURITY LIGHTING • FLAT TARMAC SURFACE

Mamhilad Self-Storage is situated in an established business park, Mamhilad Park Estate, in Torfaen, on the border with Monmouthshire. The Estate lies on the A4042 dual carriageway mid-way between Newport and Abergavenny. Right in the epicentre of Gwent! CONTACT US NOW TO BOOK YOUR CONTAINER : [email protected] v : 01495 763 275 o : a4042.com

CHECK US OUT ON: C: @MamhiladParkEstate P: @mamhiladparkestate Y: @Mamhilad_Park S: Mamhilad Park Estate 56 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] LIFESTYLELIFESTYLE && CULTURECULTURE ANOTHER DEVELOPMENT BY

NEW

Hay Castle has faced fire and fury Now Available - Mamhilad Self-Storage are offering a new indoor through the centuries as invaders, container storage facility, which is very competitively priced. A Stronghold patriots, country gentry and a bookseller The facility benefits from CCTV monitoring and the double security of made their mark. Now it is the turn of the renovators who have moved the business park gatehouse and the security of the facility itself. Recovered in to save the medieval ruin and its Jacobean annexe. Helen Morgan from • £100 PER MONTH (INC. VAT) Abergavenny Local History Society • 8 FT X 20 FT CONTAINERS reports. • 24/7 ACCESS Photos courtesy of Hay Castle Trust. ts story starts with the arrival of The castle was attacked again by By 1939 Benjamin Guinness was • SECURITY LIGHTING William de Braose who began Llywelyn Fawr in 1231 and had to living there and, while he was away • FLAT TARMAC SURFACE I building the stone castle in be rebuilt by Henry III. Eva de Braose at war, fire destroyed the east wing. the town centre. Nicknamed the who had reclaimed the land and In the 1960s, the habitable part Ogre of Abergavenny, his wife was built the gatehouse was granted was bought by Richard Booth, the Mamhilad Self-Storage is situated in an established business park, known as Lady of Hay until 1216 murage rights to pay for stone walls. second-hand book baron, only for when she and her husband fell This afforded some respite, but another fire to break out in 1977. Mamhilad Park Estate, in Torfaen, on the border with Monmouthshire. out with King John. As a result, both town and castle suffered from “Restoration has begun to restore the town and castle were torched Owain Glyndwr’s forces in 1400 and The Estate lies on the A4042 dual carriageway mid-way between the exterior of the mansion, using while she and her son starved to during the 1460s conflicts. Newport and Abergavenny. Right in the epicentre of Gwent! pictures from 1914 showing a tiled death in captivity. In the early 1800s the castle roof,” says Mari Fford, of Hay Castle dungeon was still used as the town Trust which bought the site in 2011. CONTACT US NOW TO BOOK YOUR CONTAINER gaol. But little of the original castle The interior will be made accessible has survived, other than the great but otherwise left untouched to : [email protected] gatehouse and part of the keep. reflect its chequered history. A viewing platform in the Norman v : 01495 763 275 The gabled Jacobean mansion, keep will open up views across the which dominates the town, was Wye Valley and the borderlands. The o : a4042.com built alongside the castle in about gatehouse which was hidden by 1660. It underwent makeovers over protective ivy for nearly 250 years the years, including being split into will be reopened. three apartments — each with a CHECK US OUT ON: separate staircase during a legacy Mari Fford’s talk on Hay Castle in King dispute. In Victorian times, it was a Henry VIII school hall on February C @MamhiladParkEstate P: @mamhiladparkestate vicarage, and the diarist Rev Francis 13th starts at 7.30pm. Non-members : Kilvert, who held the living in are welcome to join on the night. Y S: Mamhilad Park Estate nearby Clyro, was a regular visitor. abergavennylocalhistorysociety.org.uk : @Mamhilad_Park Helen Morgan VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 57 Cuddle & Cwtch Quality clothing for babies and children

Stockists of Frugi Organic cotton clothes, Kite Clothing, Emile et Rose and many more.

54A Frogmore Street, Abergavenny. Call us on 01873 850524 www.cuddleandcwtch.co.uk

LOCAL ABERGAVENNY BASED FAMILY BUSI- NESS WITH 15 YEARS EXPERIENCE Reliable - testimonials available ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING WORK UNDERTAKEN: •Renovations & Refurbishments •Extensions & Conversions •Kitchens & Bathrooms •Wet Rooms •Carpentry & Flooring •Brick & Stone Work •Roofing •Patios •Plastering & Rendering •Guttering & Fascias •Tiling •Handyman Service •New PVC door and windows fitting CALL ROB ON 07946103696 OR now canfitted supply wardrobes and install 01873 853075 FOR A FREE, NO WWW.RPBBUILDINGMAINTENANCE.COM OBLIGATION QUOTE. [email protected]

58 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 59 EXCLUSIVE OFFER

FREE SAUCEPAN SET* OUR BIGGEST EXCLUSIVELY WITH THIS VOUCHER

Claim your free saucepan set, worth £142, EVER SALE with your kitchen purchase during Our Biggest Ever Sale. Please present this voucher when you book your design appointment. Magnificent Kitchen & Bedroom Offers AF02FEB19. *Terms & Conditions apply. Please ask in store for full details. Amazing appliance, solid surface Only available with a full kitchen purchase. and accessories offers Buy Now, Pay 2020

BOOK YOUR FREE DESIGN APPOINTMENT TO CLAIM YOUR EXCLUSIVE OFFERS [email protected] | 01873 850911 9.8 out of 10 37 Frogmore Street, Abergavenny, NP7 9AN 60 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected]

Focus-SinglePage-JAN19.indd 1 23/01/2019 12:03:46 Next Month’s FOCUS…

Time is running out for us to take action to combat climate change and the toll that human behaviour has on our planet. It’s all very well looking at the bigger picture, but what’s happening at a local level? EXCLUSIVE OFFER We’ll be looking at this in Next Month’s Focus, so if you have a story to share then let us know. If you’re a business owner and you have a product or service to promote that is kind to the environment and you’d like to tell our readers about it, then we can assist in promoting that for you. In March we will also be covering Mother’s Day, so do get in touch if you have something to advertise! DEADLINE DATE IS 20TH FEBRUARY Browse sizes and rates for adverts online at www.thefocus.wales CALL US ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL: [email protected] TO MAKE A BOOKING OR FOR MORE INFO

* TAXI FREE SAUCEPAN SET 01873 850 000 EXCLUSIVELY WITH THIS VOUCHER [email protected] OUR BIGGEST www.fastcarsabergavenny.co.uk

FIND US ON Claim your free saucepan set, worth £142, RANK TAXICALLER EVER SALE with your kitchen purchase during Our Biggest Ever Sale. Please present this voucher when you book your design appointment. • 24 Hour Service Magnificent Kitchen & Bedroom Offers AF02FEB19. • Friendly Drivers *Terms & Conditions apply. Please ask in store for full details. Amazing appliance, solid surface Only available with a full kitchen purchase. • Executive Travel and accessories offers • School Transport Buy Now, Pay 2020 01873 859 839 OR BOOK YOUR FREE DESIGN APPOINTMENT 07780 457 477 TO CLAIM YOUR EXCLUSIVE OFFERS [email protected] [email protected] | 01873 850911 07970 182 283 9.8 out of 10 www.lewistaxisofabergavenny.co.uk 37 Frogmore Street, Abergavenny, NP7 9AN VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 61

Focus-SinglePage-JAN19.indd 1 23/01/2019 12:03:46 PUZZLES! Spot the Difference

Yes!The feeling you get The feeling you getwhen Bidmead Cook Yes!agree a let or sale on when Bidmead Cook agree a let or sale onyour property your property

Quick Crossword QUICKACROSS CROSSWORDDOWN 1 2 3 4 5 6 Across7 Not occupied (6) 1 Mother (4) 7 8 h 8 Musical dramas (6) 2 Disappear (6) Find your perfect matc 7 Not occupied (6) 9 Vehicle for hire (4) 3 Piled up (7) 9 10 8 Musical dramas (6) 10 Opposite (8) 4 Connects (5) 9 Vehicle for hire (4) with Bidmead Cook and Waldron 11 Not as dark (7) 5 Closer to (6) 11 12 13 10 Opposite (8) Make your move with Bidmead Cook! 13 Old coin (5) 6 Railway coach (8) 14 11 Not as dark (7) 15 Regularly (5) 12 Casual (8) 15 16 17 18 Old coin (5) 1713 Culinary herb (7) 14 Haggle (7) 19 WE HAVE EXPERIENCE IN SELLING AND RENTING HOUSES LOCALLY PLEASE CALL YOUR CLOSEST OFFICE TO TALK ABOUT THE CURRENT 2015 Very Regularly cold (8) (5) 16 Votes for (6) 20 21 22 MARKET AND GET AN ACCURATE VALUATION. 2117 Relax Culinary (4) herb (7)18 Scratch (6)

2320 Large Very fight cold (6) (8) 19 Repairs (5) 23 24 Aberdare Coleford AbergavennyMerthyr Tydfil 2421 Hinder Relax (6) (4) 22 Fizzy drink (4) 26 Whitcombe Street, Aberdare, 19 High Street, Coleford 118 High Street,Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8AP Rhondda Cynon Taff CF44 7AU Gloucestershire GL14 2SE 15 HighT: Street, 01685 388106 Abergavenny 23 Large fight (6) Solutions on our website: www.focusmagazinesltd. Telephone : 01685 886086 T: 01594 834799 T: 01873E: [email protected] 640 3 Piled up (7) co.uk /category/crossword-solutions/ 14 Haggle (7) E: [email protected] E: [email protected] 24 Hinder (6) Opening doors since 2001 E: [email protected] 4 Connects (5) 16 Votes for (6) Abergavenny Crickhowell 3a Penybont Road, Pencoed OpeningDown doors since 2001 15 High Street, Abergavennybidmeadcook.co.uk14 High Street, Crickhowell, Bridgend CF35 5PY Monmouthshire NP7 5RY Powys NP8 1BD T: 01656 861010 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 018735 Closer856614 ORto EMAIL(6) [email protected] 18 Scratch (6) bidmeadcook.co.uk62 T: 01873 853640 T: 01873 812006 E: [email protected] 1 Mother (4) 6 Railway coach (8) 19 Repairs (5) E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Ross on Wye 2 Disappear (6) Casual (8) Fizzy drink (4) Brynmawr Ebbw Vale 8 Broad Street, Ross on Wye 12 22 27 Beaufort Street, Brynmawr, 1 Bethcar Street, Ebbw Vale, Herefordshire HR9 7EA Blaenau, Gwent NP23 4AB Blaenau, Gwent NP23 6HH T: 01989 763553 T: 01495 313135 T: 01495 302301 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

Chepstow Lydney 27 High Street, Chepstow 9 Newerne Street, Lydney Monmouthshire NP16 5LJ Gloucestershire GL15 5RA T: 01291 628215 T: 01594 843497 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

Cinderford Monmouth 21 High Street, Cinderford 116/118 Monnow Street, Monmouth Gloucestershire GL14 2SE Monmouthshire NP25 3EQ T: 01594 826213 T: 01600 714874 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

Opening doors since 2001 bidmeadcook.co.uk Yes!The feeling you get The feeling you getwhen Bidmead Cook Yes!agree a let or sale on when Bidmead Cook agree a let or sale onyour property your property

Find your perfect match with Bidmead Cook and Waldron Make your move with Bidmead Cook!

WE HAVE EXPERIENCE IN SELLING AND RENTING HOUSES LOCALLY PLEASE CALL YOUR CLOSEST OFFICE TO TALK ABOUT THE CURRENT MARKET AND GET AN ACCURATE VALUATION.

Aberdare Coleford Merthyr Tydfil 26 Whitcombe Street, Aberdare, 19 High Street, Coleford Abergavenny118 High Street,Merthyr Tydfil CF47 8AP Rhondda Cynon Taff CF44 7AU Gloucestershire GL14 2SE 15 HighT: Street, 01685 388106 Abergavenny Telephone : 01685 886086 T: 01594 834799 T: 01873E: [email protected] 640 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Opening doors since 2001 E: [email protected] Abergavenny Crickhowell 3a Penybont Road, Pencoed Opening doors since 2001 15 High Street, Abergavennybidmeadcook.co.uk14 High Street, Crickhowell, Bridgend CF35 5PY Monmouthshire NP7 5RY Powys NP8 1BD T: 01656 861010 bidmeadcook.co.uk T: 01873 853640 T: 01873 812006 E: [email protected] 63 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] Ross on Wye Brynmawr Ebbw Vale 8 Broad Street, Ross on Wye 27 Beaufort Street, Brynmawr, 1 Bethcar Street, Ebbw Vale, Herefordshire HR9 7EA Blaenau, Gwent NP23 4AB Blaenau, Gwent NP23 6HH T: 01989 763553 T: 01495 313135 T: 01495 302301 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

Chepstow Lydney 27 High Street, Chepstow 9 Newerne Street, Lydney Monmouthshire NP16 5LJ Gloucestershire GL15 5RA T: 01291 628215 T: 01594 843497 E: [email protected] E: [email protected]

Opening doors since 2001 bidmeadcook.co.uk