YOUR FREE COMMUNITY MAGAZINE, PROMOTING LOCAL BUSINESSES JULY 2020 ISSUE 157

THE ABERGAVENNY FOCUS

HOMES FROM PARRYS HOME 21 Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire NP7 5AA for 01873 736515 | [email protected] | www.fineandcountry.com SUMMER

Focus banner July 2020.indd 1 25/06/2020 13:37 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 moreIfWe you of ourservicecurrently properties are underlooking offer have than any to ofmore buy,and of sell, our let resultsproperties or rent come under and offer see thanus or anycall ofon 01873our competitors. 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, 2019  2020 www.ChristieResidential.co.ukservice and results | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5EU LETTING AGENT Your Independent and Truly Local Property Experts IN ABERGAVENNY We currently have more of our properties under offer than any of

OUR HOME IS NOW OPEN AND A WARM WELCOME AWAITS YOU our competitors. Our door is We currentlyopen have more of ourto properties welcome 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 rentyou come and see usback! or call on 15/10/2015 12:12:44 Celebrating our arrival with Special Introductory rates Your01873 852221 local to discuss your& needs.independent until 31st August 2019!Your local & independentagent providing expertise, YourYour local local & independent& independent agent providingserviceIf you expertise, are looking and to buy, sell,results let or rent come and see us or call on agent providing expertise, ARE YOU CONCERNED ABOUT THE LOCAL HOUSINGservice MARKET? and Christieresults Residentialagent - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd providing 2 expertise, 15/10/2015 12:12:44 OUR LATEST REPORT IS OUT NOW serviceWeservice currently haveand moreand ofresults our results properties under offer than any of WWW.TAYLORANDCOPROPERTY.CO.UK/BLOG"Try our first class We currently have more of our propertiesour01873 competitors. under 852221 offer to thandiscuss any yourof needs. Your local & independent service taylor made for our competitors. Christie ResidentialWe -currently OctWe 2015 currently Advert have 4-1.indd havemore 2 more of our of properties our properties under under offer offer than thanany ofany agentof 15/10/2015 12:12:44 providing expertise, you" www.ChristieResidential.co.ukourIf competitors. youour | 53 competitors.Crossare Street, looking Abergavenny, toNP7 5EU buy, sell, let or rent come and see us or call on 24 KateLion TaylorStreet - Director If you are looking to buy, sell, let or rent01873 come 852221 and tosee discuss us or callyour on needs. service and results If you’re looking to buy, sell or let your home Abergavenny NP7 5NT 01873 852221 to discuss your needs.If you If are you looking are looking to buy, to sell,buy, let sell, or letrent or come rent come and see and us see or uscall or on call on 01873then01873 852221 852221come to discuss to discussand your seeneeds.your needs.us or call on 01873 852221We currently have more of our properties under offer than any of Get in01873 touch - 01873564424 564424 to discuss your needs. our competitors. [email protected] [email protected] www.taylorandcoproperty.co.ukwww.taylorandcoproperty.co.uk 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. Estate | Letting | Land Agent www.ChristieResidential.co.uk01873www.ChristieResidential.co.uk 852221 | 53 Cross| 53 Cross Street, Street,CL Abergavenny, Abergavenny, NP7 5EU NP7 5EU Christie Residentialwww.ChristieResidential.co.uk - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd 2 | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP715/10/2015 5EU 12:12:44 2 Christie Residential - Oct 2015 Advert 4-1.indd 2 15/10/2015 12:12:44 3

Christie ResidentialChristie Residential - Oct 2015 - Oct Advert 2015 4-1.indd Advert 4-1.indd 2 2 15/10/201515/10/2015 12:12:44 12:12:44 www.ChristieResidential.co.uk | 53 Cross Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5EU

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

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Celebrating our arrival with Special Introductory rates until 31st August 2019!

"Try our first class service taylor made for you" Kate Taylor - Director

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Estate | Letting | Land Agent www.thefocus.wales THE ABERGAVENNY Dear Readers, CTheFocusMagazine Well, here we are again! It’s been a while since you’ll have seen a Contents FOCUS physical copy of the Focus arrive through your letterbox and that’s because, like so many businesses, we had to make the tough decision Publisher: Focus Magazines Ltd to pause production of our printed magazine. REGULARS Tel: 01873 856614 Contact In April, May and June we produced online e-magazines of the Focus Editorial & Contents 4 Pete Hill: [email protected] and, if you haven’t been online to read them, you can catch up on our Contributions: website www.thefocus.wales where you’ll find our back issues for the Weather: July’s Outlook 13 Dr Giles P Croft past few months. David Holman Puzzles! 41 6 Hannah Mlatem We’ve had so much great feedback about the e-magazines and so much Lee Moreton support from our readers and local businesses who are both our friends The Focus Directory 43 Helen Morgan and loyal clients. Nevertheless, we are very happy to be back to what we Marion Pearse love doing most – printing 8,000 magazines and delivering them to the Jonathan Powell residents of Abergavenny, Llanfoist, Gilwern and Govilon. COMMUNITY & EVENTS The world remains a strange and uncertain place. Sometimes it feels Whilst every care is taken with difficult to find a foothold before things change again. Against the Black Lives Matter Comes to Abergavenny 6 materials submitted to The backdrop of a worldwide pandemic, the movement to push for race 11 Abergavenny Focus, the publisher equality has gathered momentum. We try hard not to push a political Back to Business 9 cannot accept responsibility for loss or agenda in the Focus, nevertheless, this issue affects every corner of damage to such materials. Opinions every society, including our own community right here in Abergavenny, Abergavenny Community Centre 11 expressed in articles are strictly and we felt compelled to acknowledge this very important topic in this those of the author. This publication month’s magazine. is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form without As Summer takes on a slightly different feel this year, we explore how you SUMMER LOVIN’ written permission from the publisher. can make the most of it with the restrictions that are still in place. Namely, 14 14 Prices and details are subject to how to dine at home in style with the help of some clever businesses Dining in is the new Dining out change and conditions and the who have adapted to our changed circumstances. There’s also a walk 28 publisher can take no responsibility for to enjoy, encouraging you to keep our National Parks from becoming Usk Riverside Walk ommissions or errors. The inclusion of overcrowded as you seek places to enjoy a spot of exercise. 17 an advertiser in this magazine is not Love is What We Have in Common necessarily a recommendation There’s lots to discover in this month’s magazine and we really hope you’ll enjoy it. It’s GREAT to be back! © Focus Magazines Ltd 2020 [email protected] Tel: 01873 856614 LOCAL BUSINESS

JUNE 2020 ISSUE 73 YOUR FREE COMMUNITY MAGAZINE, PROMOTING LOCAL BUSINESSES JULY 2020 ISSUE 156 Hannah Mlatem 21 THE THE ABERGAVENNY SOUTH POWYS ADVERTISE WITH US! 28 FOCUS FOCUS Clean Oven Co. 23 Our Magazines are A5 sized, full colour Parrys: Where Did 13 Weeks Go? 24 publications, delivered door to door for free. We offer cost effective advertising Wild Things 45 rates which start at just £25 per month. 37 BEHIND Looking Your advert will appear in full colour, HOMES FROM PARRYS HOME LIFESTYLE & CULTURE 21 Nevill Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire NP7 5AA for 01873 736515 | [email protected] | www.fineandcountry.com THE MASK SUMMER Ahead we provide a free, professional design Focus banner July 2020.indd 1 25/06/2020 13:37 8,000 copies hand 13,000 copies service and big discounts for bookings Book Review: Rodham 33 delivered monthly to delivered bi-monthly of 3 issues or more. Call Hannah or Pete homes and businesses door to door Cath Barton: In the Sweep of the Bay 35 in Abergavenny, comprehensively today on 01873 856614 or email Llanfoist, Gilwern and Govilon, with additional covering the LD3 and [email protected] History: In Our Ancestors’ Footsteps 37 local pick-up points NP8 postcodes 45

4 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 5 COMMUNITY

Black Lives Matter Comes to Abergavenny Photo Credit: Del Edwards Credit: Photo ver the last couple of weeks the Black lives matter campaign crowd was that it was a mix of people by reading out the names of black and fashion, sport and films are other to get along because they fear each there has been two peaceful and several councils in Wales and from different backgrounds and ages people in the U.S.A. who had been areas with a lot of black influence. other; they fear each other because Oprotests in the town to mark Members of the Senedd had lent with young people in the majority. killed by police officers. The crowd All of these things would seem to they don’t know each other; they the Black lives matter campaign. their support as well. Monmouth knelt while these names were being indicate that people are becoming don’t know each other because they The speakers were also mainly young, MS, Nick Ramsay was also pictured recited. more tolerant and understanding. have not communicated with each The first event happened in Linda and passionate about the problems holding a Black lives matter sign. However, in the wake of the recent other. I refuse to accept the view that Vista Gardens on the 4th June when they had experienced growing up in Afterwards, Martha commented protests there have been many mankind is so tragically bound to the approximately 75 people gathered It was telling that the next protest Wales. However, the overriding theme on the issue. ‘This generation of adverse comments that have upset starless midnight of racism and war to hold a half hour silent vigil. The was organised by three young local was that of education, and the need British people is the most travelled me and made me really wonder how that the bright daybreak of peace appropriate social distancing was women, Amber Stratton, Isobel for people to learn and understand of any before. Popular destinations far forward we have moved in this and brotherhood can never become scrupulously observed as one would Holland and Millie Taylor who felt very more about black history. now include The Gambia, Egypt, direction over the last few years. That a reality… I believe that unarmed expect from local people. strongly that what had happened to Mexico, Morocco and Turkey. This All of the speakers received is why I am fully behind the Black lives truth and unconditional love will George Floyd was abysmal and that would seem to indicate that people It was an extremely moving occasion enthusiastic applause. The last matter movement. have the final word.” something needed to change. in this country want to experience with many people holding banners person to talk was Martha Musonza and enjoy different cultures. The I have spoken on Fairtrade issues Let’s remember Jo Cox and her with various comments relating to Fortunately, the weather held up Holman who praised the people of most popular take away food in in over 300 schools in Wales and message of hope - the death of George Floyd in America. on the day and by 6.30pm there Abergavenny who had welcomed her the U.K. is chicken tikka masala and encouraged pupils to learn more were about 300 people gathered on her arrival in the town in 2007 and ‘While we celebrate our diversity After that, the momentum behind we seem to relish visiting different about black history and cultural in the park to listen to the speakers their continuing support. She added what surprises me time and the movement increased rapidly, and restaurants to taste cuisine from all understanding. We need to use the who included – Lexia Richardson, that the town council had also been time again as I travel around the a further event was planned for the over the world, one of the things that Black lives matter campaign as a Zakaryah Gordon-Evans, Gabrielle of great help and had agreed to work constituency is that we are far more following Tuesday in Bailey Park. thankfully we have in abundance springboard to create a better world Fakande, Marcus Richardson and on an official twinning programme united and have far more in common here in Abergavenny. Many people and way forward. and many more! Martha Musonza Holman. between the town and Domboshawa with each other than things that Meanwhile, the Welsh Government over the generations have listened to had issued a statement supporting in Zimbabwe. She ended her speech Martin Luther King said – ‘People fail divide us.’ The interesting thing about the and loved music by black musicians, David Holman

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Call: 07767307193 Email: [email protected] A MORTGAGE IS A LOAN SECURED AGAINST YOUR HOME. 54A Frogmore Street, Abergavenny Visit : www.seymourmortgagesolutions.co.uk YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP Office: 24 Lion Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5NT UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY OTHER Call us on 01873 850524 www.cuddleandcwtch.net DEBT SECURED ON IT. 8 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 9 There can be no denying, that as we learn to live with it, the coronavirus will be the main topic of discussion for a long time yet, and while we are mindful that old freedoms may be short-lived, Summer is here and talk of returning to work, school, shopping and holidays is beginning to take the edge off the lockdown LOCAL ABERGAVENNY BASED FAMILY BUSI- Abergavenny experience. NESS WITH 15 YEARS EXPERIENCE We are currently making the Community Centre community centre and grounds as Reliable - testimonials available ‘covid safe’ as possible so that when ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING WORK UNDERTAKEN: ello! It feels good to be back. continue to expend enormous effort we are permitted to do so, small We have missed being part in identifying and administering Renovations & Refurbishments Extensions numbers of people will be invited • • Hof your monthly read. the various sources of Government to meet – outside at first. As part of & Conversions Kitchens & Bathrooms Wet [and other] support available to • • Over at the community centre we our ongoing commitment to families businesses, presently. In addition Rooms Carpentry & Flooring Brick & Stone are keeping busy. Like many others, and children, we have been talking • • to this support, we would like carrying out acts of community to funders and the outdoor learning Work •Roofing •Patios •Plastering & Rendering to acknowledge the valuable service, we have been supporting providers, ‘Everyday Play’, about the Guttering & Fascias Tiling Handyman Service support received from Community possibility of offering sessions in July • • • people through lockdown, getting Foundation Wales, Moondance and August. For details of these, and •New PVC door and windows fitting on with maintenance [LED lighting Foundation, and the Gwent Regional all future activities and Notices, please upgrade] while the building rests, Partnership Board’s small grant visit the website or facebook - or ring CALL ROB ON 07946103696 OR and, to ensure that the grounds are scheme, whose grants are equipping the centre on 07751666481. a sanctuary for people and wildlife, 01873 853075 FOR A FREE, NO us to plan and prepare for the we continue to be caretakers to From all of us here, we wish you a safe WWW.RPBBUILDINGMAINTENANCE.COM marathon ahead. OBLIGATION QUOTE. the burgeoning garden. Behind the and happy July, and please remember [email protected] scenes, volunteers at the charity that we are here if you need us. Marion Pearse

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free quotes and FOLLOWING GOVERNMENT GUIDELINES fitting 121 Sessions with me in my paddock OR • at your home if you are in Abergavenny special offers on the with full social distancing in place. website Small group classes will be starting in my • paddock the week beginning 13th July complete range of for the following: Alex Evans blinds 1. Life Skills for Puppies up to 24 weeks REGISTERED DIETITIAN WITH 12 YEARS’ CLINICAL A purpose built boarding cattery, ‘Cats on 2. Life Skills for Adolescent Puppies 6 EXPERIENCE IN THE NHS Vacation’ is located just outside Llanarth, months to 12 months between Abergavenny and Raglan with 3. Older Dog classes (one year and above) Help with conditions including: easy access from Abergavenny, 4. 121 Fun Hoopers sessions •Coeliac disease •Inflammatory bowel Raglan, Monmouth, Usk, the 5. Tricks and skills 6 months and above disease •Irritable bowel syndrome •Liver Heads of the Valleys and disease •Unintentional weight loss and your local manufacturers of high quality blinds surrounding areas. The enclosed Paddock is also Diet for an active lifestyle Email: Postcode NP15 2LY. available for you to hire in 30 • min blocks for your dog to For friendly service & fast delivery call have off lead exercise. (subject Clinic just outside Nevill Hall Hospital Ken or Catherine Barwise to availability) £5 per half hour. www.abergavennydietitian.co.uk 01873 811113 Email: For more information contact Ruth: Mob: 07791 298584 Tel: 01600 780110 For further information contact Tracey Prall on 07735401076 w: evergreenblinds.co.uk Email: [email protected] 07842 516285 Email: [email protected] | www.canineconnections.co.uk email: [email protected] catsonvacation.com Email: 10 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 11 “We have over 30 year’s experience in Coronavirus The Month Ahead: July providing a complete Haven stairlift service safety measures from consultation in place Mobility and installation to after sales care and both in our shop We stock a wide selection of rise & recline servicing” and for home visits chairs ranging from next day delivery models to bespoke, custom-made furniture to suit all budgets and needs. Contact us today for a free, no obligation home assessment 01633 861717 After a splendid run of weather during April and May, June faltered somewhat, but still at times Visit our showroom where you will find a provided some warm and pleasant spells of weather. By the same token, a rather mixed affair would wide range of products and demonstration seem to be the general theme for July. With high pressure systems struggling to establish themselves STRAIGHT AND RISE for any length of time, we can expect fair runs of fine weather, but these will be challenged by some less models to try out. Our friendly sales staff CURVED STAIRLIFTS & RECLINE are at hand to help you find the solution TO SUIT ALL CHAIRS illuminating summer conditions. The first half of the month would tend to favour settled weather, the that is right for you. BUDGETS second half looking more changeable. However, it will probably be the second half which will harbour some searing temperatures which in turn will trigger thunderstorms and the associated downpours, leading to temporary fresher conditions before humidity builds again. It may well be left to August to Unit 14, Avondale Industrial Estate, Cwmbran, NP44 1UG 01633 861717 Open 9am-5pm Mon-Fri, install any sustained periods of dry and warm weather. For July, slightly above average for rainfall, and 9am-1pm Sat. Closed Sun slightly above average for temperature. www.havenmobility.com Jonathan Powell

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10 To advertise call 01684 833715 or email: [email protected] Prickly Pear Catering

Imagine sitting down to this delicious looking plate of Thai Cod with coconut, lemongrass and chilli broth, garnished with fresh dill and garden herbs. And how Dining In about a Medjool date sticky toffee pudding, rich fudge sauce, thick cream and caramel shard for dessert? You’d be forgiven for thinking this is the food you’d only find in a sit down restaurant, but you’d be wrong. This is the work of Prickly Pear Catering who, at the beginning of lockdown, decided to adapt to provide takeaway meals is the New twice a week to those who needed and wanted food at home that was nourishing, dynamic and indulging. Dining Out Weekly themes have ranged from Mexican to Indian, Thai, Persian, Greek, British, French, Italian and more. As months of lockdown gradually begin to ease, there are They rely on local traders such as Cashells, FE Richards still lots of restrictions in place, especially for the hospitality of Crickhowell, and Brecon Milk so the #StayLocal and and restaurant industry. #ShopLocal message is very important to their business. Luckily, here in Abergavenny, we’re blessed with lots of independent businesses Find them on Facebook: @pricklypearcatering with quirky out-of-the-box thinking, who have come up with cool ideas to make www.pricklypear.uk.com dining in much more than just a pizza, Chinese or chip shop experience (not that there’s anything wrong with those.) As a result of Covid-19, however, there are now some pretty amazing dining at home options available for collection and delivery. We picked some of our favourites. Why not give them a whirl? The Beer Box

If you haven’t yet stumbled across this great little business, you’re in for a treat! The Beer Box is a wedding and events The Gaff company ‘who had to adapt after all their’ weddings and events were postponed due to Covid 19. And they really did! Fancy a juicy burger and duck fat chips? How about some beer battered onion rings to go with that? They’ve developed and put together the innovative and fun The Gaff has got you covered, but you’ll have to be Cocktail Box which is personally delivered by Ben (The Owner quick. Their recent batch of Gaff Burgers and chips of The Beer Box) and you’ll find him outside your front door sold out within half an hour! Not to worry, they’re wearing a bow tie and a set of braces whatever the weather! producing weekly takeaways on Saturdays and Cocktail boxes have included some fan favourites and they’ve each week brings a different theme – think Indian, been varying their options every month. Each box has a Chinese and French Bistro - something to suit set theme to make the perfect addition to a date night, gift everyone’s taste! package or any occasion you think suitable! Think Brambles, Pornstar Martinis, Espresso Martinis, Mojitos, Country Gardens, The Gaff prides itself on the produce they use in their Moscow Mules, Pina Coladas...the list goes on! restaurant dishes and wanted customers to be able to get hold of the best fresh produce during lockdown Boxes contain all you need to create delicious cocktails (except too. As well as stand out takeaways, you can get your ice cubes for obvious reasons) delicious high quality spirits, hands on fresh fish boxes (straight from Brixham mixers and fresh ingredients will be carefully measured Market), fresh local veg as well as locally sourced beef, into individual glass jars and lovingly, hygienically packed pork and venison. along with a glass shaker jar. They also provide step by step instructions on how to create your delicious beverages in no Find them on Facebook @thegaffrestaurant time at all! www.thegaffrestaurant.co.uk [email protected] For a fun cocktail night, get in touch!. Find them on Facebook @ Thebeerbox1 | www.thebeerboxcompany.co.uk VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 15 Love is What We Have in Common Photo Credit: Del Edwards watched an eight minute of my echo chamber to read things video of a man being crushed I wouldn’t normally read, listen to Step back far enough from all ideas to death and I realised I know new podcasts, challenge the biases of ‘other’, and eventually you arrive nothing. The content of my I’m not even aware are running at our shared humanity. You can call Ilittle world—white, middle class, the show for me. In doing so, I’ve it what you like—the human spirit, male—was placed in sudden stark flipped and I’ve flopped – more and true nature, a common sense—but relief against the backdrop of all more I have found myself nodding love’s as good a word as any. When human experience and I felt small in agreement to both sides of an we shelve all preconceptions and and useless. argument. we listen without prejudice, love is Coming up short for pragmatic In one webinar I heard Brandon what we have in common. solutions, I fell back on what I do telling his story: born of a black More than baseless platitude, this know, summed up in a quote from father and white mother, he is a great place to operate from, Stephen Covey, “We see the world sat uneasily with the concept when feeling small and useless. not as it is, but as we are.” of identity by colour. A criminal youth saw him spending 15 years For in each given moment, all Yes. A good starting point. Examine in prison, where, having been we have, is to do what makes the lens through which I am introduced to the understanding sense. Instinctively we know that filtering the world. We can never that his world—like yours—is decisions born out of confusion, have too much of this, because created in thought, he had a hate or fear will lead to no good. the sobering fact is, none of what profound change of heart. He now So, get comfortable with not we think we know is true. It’s a set works for the city, hand in hand knowing and arm yourself in all of beliefs, gathered over time, like with the police; has grown to like your endeavours with this simple our wardrobe. The years pass, we them, is further confused by the question; a guideline that will never wear roughly the same clothing very notion of identity. Where does get you into trouble: What would each day and we fail to notice how he stand, now? love do? entrenched we’ve become. Hearing this, my own questions For in the words of Martin Luther The illuminative equivalent of trying arose: If our thoughts about who King Jr., “Love is the only force on a new style of clothes, is to listen. we are, are not constant, then what capable of transforming an enemy Given that we’re all experiencing is? If we can turn inwards and look into a friend.” individual, thought-created realities, beyond all of our opinions and it’s the only way to understand beliefs, to their source, then what Dr Giles P Croft becomes visible? At what point do another’s world. So I stepped out gilespcroft.com we reach common ground? Healing • Coaching • Speaking 16 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 17 PART OF CITY PLUMBING, MERTHYR TYDFIL

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Full range of vehicle repairs, tyres, batteries, and MOT carried out by a fully trained ex-police technician TEL: 01873 859100 OPEN: Mon - Fri 8.00am - 5.30pm Sat 8.00am - 12.30pm Conveniently located at the rear of Nevill Hall Hospital: Find us at Unit 6 and 6b Pant Ind. Est. Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2SR 01685382383 73 Union Road Ind Est, Abergavenny, NP7 7RQ • TEL: 01873 859100 Mob: 07591 521752 • Email: [email protected] • Web: www. leejowittautorepairs.co.uk “We have everything you need to create your desired retreat” 18 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 19 test everyone. We will organise the week before to see you one at a time We provide the following to the HANNAH MLATEM for this. highest standard: Led by Hannah, her team offers the No walk-ins allowed. As we usually run best in hair care, styling and colour anyway we won’t be taking walk-ins Office Cleaning and our door has to remain closed Just some of the services we offer: between clients. Property Management • Gents’ Cuts We will only be able to see one Cleaning • Blow Dry client at a time so please appreciate • Colour this will take us a little longer to get Domestic Cleaning • Kerastraight; a semi- permanent blow dry to everyone. I’ll be coming in from

Rental change over /End • Hot towel cut throat shave maternity leave to help speed it up of tenancy • Wedding Specialists for you all. Call us and make a reservation: We will adhere to STRICT social

One-off Cleans 01873 832214 distancing rules, we cannot accept lateness (or earliness!) As we are only Follow our daily behind the scenes, live hair pics, allowed one client at a time per stylist. videos and latest news on Facebook, Twitter, “ Pinterest and Instagram 38 Main Road, Gilwern, NP7 0AS Please don’t bring anyone with you for CALL CATHERINE POLLARD ON: your appointment and only bring car keys and phones. No handbags, no We provide a professional, flexible and 0796 997 2468 magazines. We can only offer water, reliable service. Competitively priced to suit tea and coffee in papercups for now. or We will provide PPE for you. Masks, individual requirements. 01873 850879 “ gloves and hand sanitizer and after [email protected] every client we will do a deep clean www.supadupacleaning.co.uk and every gown will be changed. We will also wear masks face shields and gloves and aprons for every client and won’t be able to talk at the back wash or face to face. Unfortunately there will be no hot INALLY the Welsh Assembly following social distancing. I have towel beard shaves or shaping Government has announced changed the way the salon is set up available at the moment. Just gents Fplans for hair salons to re-open. and we have emailed clients with cuts. COMPUTER SYSTEMS a new salon protocol, to ensure For those who weren’t booked in Celtic There wasn’t any official guidance everyone’s safety.” but want an appointment we are Hardware ~ Software however Hannah and her team are operating a priority list. We will let ready for the new way of work. You may have noticed while strolling you know a day when we will open or driving through Gilwern that the Upgrades & Repairs ~ Networks “We have spent a lot of time the phone and messages for you to salon has had a makeover. “We want request to be on the list. completing courses and honing our to come back with a bang. Fresh starts Maintenance ~ Laptops skills, as well as learning new ones. and fresh paint! We’ve got a new look There will be sanitizers on every I’ve followed a stylist who has friends and we’re excited to share it! station and our tools and chairs will New & Reconditioned all around the world and we’ve taken be steralised after every client. great steps to ensure we follow their The way we do things has Please call when you arrive and we Complete Systems guidelines to ensure the safety of our dramatically changed. We now have will let you into the shop. clients and staff at this strange time.” to follow government guidelines so We will need to do virtual here are some new rules to follow and ADSL / Broadband Provider consultations and pictures with some There are new rules to follow at how we plan to open to keep you and clients so we can work out how long Hannah Mlatem but rest assured, the us safe. goal is still the same. “I want clients to you’ll need and what we need to do! Tel: (01873) 858111 feel this is even more of a safe haven We will call clients already booked Anyone who wants an appointment Email: [email protected] than usual. We all need some special from March 23 to give priority booking. So sit back, we will call you! please contact us, leave your number time to relax, now more than ever. and we’ll be in touch. Let us know 29 Cae Pen Y Dre, We NEED everyone who has colour to what days and times you’d like.” “We are only allowing one client come for a patch test. Whether you’ve Abergavenny, NP7 5UP per stylist at any time and always 01873 832214. used box colour or not, we need to 38 Main Road, Gilwern, NP7 0AS 20 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 21 website and implementing a new PPE kit and will be monitoring their CATHERINE A. WILLIAMS LTD. and simplified pay monthly option to temperature before every job. We CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT help spread the cost of oven cleaning politely request that the kitchen Oven across more manageable payments. area is left clear for the duration Co of the appointment and that 2m We offer a complete range of We have also been able to retain all Accountancy and Advisory Services for social distancing is in place at all our loyal work force and feel really times. We will still be accepting cash both personal and business clients: First and foremost I hope that this Tel: 01633 482758 fortunate that we have not had to and cheque payments for those update finds you and your families make any redundancies. www.gatesandrailingsgwent.co.uk • Sole Trader, Partnership and safe and well. Personally, I have customers unable to pay via the card Corporate Accounts never experienced anything like I want to thank everyone that terminal. An online payment can • Tax Returns this pandemic in my lifetime and purchased a ‘Buy Now Use Later’ be arranged if you require a totally • Bookkeeping, and VAT returns I hope that I never have to again. oven cleaning voucher to support contactless method of payment. • Making Tax Digital I am sure many of you will have us through lockdown and, also to Alongside oven cleaning we are • Cloud based accounting systems been impacted by the virus and my our pay monthly customers who also now able to offer an antiviral • Payroll and Auto enrolment pensions condolences to those who have kept making payments as usual. sanitising service known as Steri- • Management Accounts and lost friends and family as a result. We even had customers contact us Shield. Applied via a dry fog it is an We also specialise in: Business Consultancy Just being here and still having unprompted to offer to pay for a efficient and cost-effective way to a business to re-open feels like a future oven clean up-front. I have ● Glass & Wrought Iron ● uPVC Gates & Fencing ensure your home is sanitised. This All sizes of clients are catered for and are massive victory in itself and one said before that we have the best Balustrades given the same friendly and professional service is also available to business that we are so grateful for. customers and things like this just go owners looking to provide a safe ● Security Window ● Gate Automation service at reasonable prices. to reaffirm that. environment for staff and customers Grills & Shutters For the safety of our staff and The good news is that we are now as they re-open after lockdown. ● Palisade Fencing ● General Fabrication customers we closed the business taking bookings for July and can’t Existing oven cleaning customers can We welcome all aspects of Commercial Fabricating. on March 23rd and went into a wait to get back to cleaning ovens. enjoy a 20% discount of this service. Visitors Welcome at state of hibernation. We have used 1 High Street Crickhowell Powys NP8 1BD the lockdown period to make For safety we have conducted a risk Our team is ready to go again and Unit 21, Springvale Ind Est Tel: 01873 810285 Fax 01873 810746 Email: several improvements to our service assessment and implemented new we can’t wait to get back to what we Springvale, Cwmbran, NP44 5BA [email protected] including new dip tanks, new COVID safe working procedures. All do best. staff have been issued with a new booking and reminder software, new Lee Moreton

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Martin Shepheard COVID Safe Working Martin Shepheard Procedure PAINTER & DECORATOR Sarah called the domestic oven cleaning BESPOKE WALLPAPER HANGING specialists, so she could relax and enjoy a coffee Fully Insured • Domestic & Commercial while it’s done! Quality Workmanship City & Guilds Qualified The Tel: 07971 454879 Clean OvenCo • Ovens • Agas • Grills • Hobs • Extractors • BBQs • Microwaves • CALL Clever Sarah! Y or 01873 830943 TODA 01873 594 054 [email protected] www.thecleanovenco.com Put the sparkle back into Your kitchen today! 22 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] 23 was to continue. The team kept in The team worked tirelessly Parrys Fine & Country have touch with one another via Zoom throughout lockdown, assisting fully prepared their offices and Where Did 13 Weeks Go? meetings. The photos here show with house moves for buyers and procedures to comply and adhere a thirteen week Zoom collage – tenants, keeping in touch with to COVID-19 policies, and are very The Parrys Fine & Country Team reached a point where the world below) that she had heard at a from week one through until their clients, handling new valuation excited to be getting back to what closed their doors on 23rd March. began to lock down. Heather sat recent memorial service, Heather final lockdown zoom. From bad and viewing enquiries and building they do best – helping people to That morning Partner, Heather at her desk that morning and cried resolved to hit the reset button. hair days to bad signal, from tears registers of potential sellers and buy, let, sell and rent property. Cook, ventured into the office in – not for herself, but her fellow to laughter, from pyjamas to suits, buyers for when they could start It was time to face this situation If you would like to visit Parrys the early hours, one last time, to business owners in Monmouth they have been able to support doing business again. head on and with a positive Fine & Country in person, they collect what she could in order to and Abergavenny, her colleagues, one another and learn that routine mindset. Thirteen weeks on and as part of request, for the foreseeable future, work remotely, not knowing when friends and family. It was a moment and communication is key and that lockdown easing, Parrys Fine & you contact them in advance to or if the time would come that the to embrace the fear and worry of an Heather and her business Partners, there is always a positive to look for. Country are now open and able schedule an appointment. doors would be open again. uncertain future. Vivienne and Ben, were determined The team have all learned so much to carry out viewings on vacant Parrys and Fine and Country are that though the doors to the Parrys about each other during lockdown After the uncertainty surrounding Drawing strength from the words in properties and can visit both vacant always open online. Fine & Country showrooms may and have a much closer bond how the virus would affect the a poem by Walter D. Wintle, (shown and occupied properties to prepare have been closed, the business across the two offices. For further information please visit country early on, it had finally them for marketing. parrys.com It’s All In the State of Mind If you think you are beaten, you are, If you think you dare not, you don’t, If you’d like to win, but you think you can’t, It is almost certain you won’t. If you think you’ll lose, you’re lost, For out of the world you’ll find Success begins with a fellow’s will- It’s all in the state of mind.

Full many a race is lost ere even a step is run, And many a coward falls ere even his work’s begun, Think big, and your deeds will grow; Think small, and you’ll fall behind; Think that you can, and you will - Its all in the state of mind.

If you think you are out-classed, you are; You’ve got to think high to rise; You’ve got to be sure of yourself before You ever can win a prize, Life’s battles don’t always go To the stronger or faster man; But soon or late the man who wins Is the man who thinks he can. Walter D. Wintle

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26 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 27 When I picked this walk in June, nearly all the Open Access land Usk Riverside Walk in the Brecon Beacons was still closed, but this little gem is not only open, but importantly, within 5 miles of Abergavenny, (a moot point after 6th July!). Recent easing of restrictions means that the Black Mountains are once again open. However, given their popularity, you may still find this walk a little quieter than the peaks. The walk takes us along the banks of the Usk. Part of the route actually forms a small segment of the Usk Valley Way, so there are helpful way markers along the way. Being only 3.3 miles long and pretty much all on the level, it’s suitable for all the family (although there is a small stretch of road, so be careful). The route passes through a farm and several livestock fields, so dogs should be kept on a lead. You will almost certainly need to dress for mud! Directions are overleaf

This walk was originally completed, mapped and photographed in 2013. Natural (including flood waters) and man-made changes to the environment may have left areas inaccessible or dangerous. Focus Magazines cannot take any responsibility for this.

28 29 To Get There When you reach the river, have 3a pause to appreciate this From the Hardwick roundabout, beautiful spot! Turn left, go over Electrician take the B4598 signposted for Usk the stile and follow the riverbank. www.pgelectrics.uk and Clytha. Shortly after the road crosses over the A40, take the Do you find it difficult to get someone right at the Steel Horse cafe on the When you’re ready, continue to come and do a small job? corner. Go over the bridge over following the curve of the river Extra Lights Additional Sockets the Usk, and then take the first left, 8 QUALITY DECORATING • • around the perimeter of the field. Smoke Alarms Homebuyer Inspections signposted for St Mary’s church. • • When you get to a small cottage SERVICE New Fuse Boards EV Charging Points Follow the lane to the church • • don’t try what the OS map Garden Power Fault Finding where there is parking outside for suggests, which is walking All aspects of interior and exterior • • 3 to 4 cars on the roadside. between the cottage and the river. work undertaken • Qualified Electrician • Free Quote Go over a stile into a small Instead, bear left and go through • Six Year Guarantee • Est.2009 4wood. You will pass a green the steel gate. Go past the cottage, • Painting, decorating • Fully Insured • Tidy Work Reliable Service Reasonably Priced fishing lodge on the left. and return to the riverside. • Wallpaper hanging • • • Floor and wall tiling Satisfaction Guaranteed • Fully qualified with over 30 yrs I will assure you of a quick response and a experience reasonably priced service. • Fully insured Call Phil - Your Local Electrician on: • Quality workmanship guaranteed From the Church, set off along 01873 583 043 the lane heading away from the [email protected] 1 Cross a small wooden Contact Richard Knight on direction from which you arrived. footbridge and stile, along the Make your way uphill. Shortly after 5 01873 854904 or 07812 429732 edge of a field, and then another Yewtree cottage, take the turning Follow the river bank (go over bridge and stile. to the left. 9another stile) all the way to Pant y Goitre bridge, with it’s distinctive circular tunnels. Mindset Hypnotherapy, Counselling & Cognitive behavioural therapy Continue following the river Follow the lane to the farm at 6past two distinctive conifer Some of the therapies covered: Pant y Beiliau. The path bears trees, over another stile and along At the bridge, turn left 2 Counselling Alcohol Problems right and passes between the another field edge, and over (yet 10and join the road. This is a farm buildings. Please respect the another) stile. moderately busy B road, so walk Depression Drug Related Problems farm by not straying from the in single file, and keep dogs and Stress Relief Bereavement path. On the other side of the farm children under control. Walk along Anxiety Phobias yard there is a steel gate marked to Pant y Goitre farm Confidence Issues Marriage Guidance with a yellow arrow. Go through At the signpost for St Marys the gate, and follow the field Church, turn left and follow Insomnia Post-traumatic Stress boundary on the left down the 11 the lane all the way back to the Stop Smoking Examination Nerves hill. car park. You are now at Llwyn Corner; a Weight Loss/Gastric Band Therapy Travel Sickness 7crook in the Usk. There is a pebbly beach here and if you take some sandwiches with you, this Call: 07584043509 or 01873 739143 might be the place to enjoy a Millstone Barn, Llanvihangel Crucorney, Abergavenny, NP7 8DH picnic! 30 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 31 LIFESTYLE & CULTURE

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Sittenfeld in collaboration with you with: But when he asks her to marry difficult for you or a loved one, then Penguin Live and The 4 Indies. we're here to help - from 30 minutes • Personal care him, Hillary gives him a firm No. per day to full-time live-in care. • Getting up or going to bed Our carers are COVID-19 aware • Preparing meals and are following local and • Shopping national Government • Help getting around guidelines. • Leisure activities We are open! 3 Circles Care: still delivering • Housekeeping Visit us in the shop or choose from over 5,000 titles online. essential services where possible • Assisting with medication and where it is safe to do so. 9TH JULY 10TH JULY 13TH JULY • Provide a break to an existing See our Curtis At Home with At Home with To find out how we can help you, family member or care giver Jeffrey Facebook Page Sittenfeld Rob Biddulph for more Call: 01873 269 273 • 24 hour care DRAW WITH ROB is now Archer in Coversation with an incredible activity information Visit: www.3circlescare.co.uk Hadley Freeman. book for every family about our Online registration to share, so join Rob 20TH JULY upcoming live essential. Each ticket and learn to draw your receives a copy of favourite characters – At Home with events Rodham from Penguin Blue to a Lesley Pearse @bookishcrick very Hot Dog, and many more! Office 9, Central Chambers, Lion Street, Abergavenny, Monmouthshire NP7 SPE [email protected] - www.3circlescare.co.uk 18 High Street, Crickhowell, Powys. NP8 1BD Tel: 01873 811256 www.book-ish.co.uk Telephone: 01873 269 273 32 VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 33 LIFESTYLE & CULTURE In the Sweep of the Bay Did you have to do lots of How does where you live research and travel in order here in Abergavenny to write the novella? influence your writing? I’d visited Morecambe some years I very rarely set stories in this area. ago - just on a day out like Ted and I did write a nearly novella-length Rene in my book, and I had a good story set in Abergavenny a few picture of it in my mind. I haven’t years ago, but I think that’s going to been back, but I did do some online stay in a drawer - too much risk of research to check my geography people recognising themselves! Do you require personalised advice from DoaDo you fullyyou require requireDo personalised qualified personalisedyou advice require from advice a fully from qualified personaliseda adviceand from real-life events that a happen fully in qualified fully qualified Financial Adviser local to you? the book. What can we expect next Financial Adviser local to you? Financial Adviser local to you? Financial Adviserany will be familiarlocal with to you? from you? Abergavenny based Is there any reason you I’m writing a third novella. Very • Pensions and Retirement Planning writer Cath Barton’s decided to write this as a different, set in a fictitious South Pensions and Retirement Planning Pensions and RetirementPensions Planning and RetirementM Planning novella The Plankton Collector. novella as opposed to a American city where people • Savings and Investments It won the New Welsh Writing novel? What do you like venerate a statue of the Virgin. It Savings and Investments Savings and InvestmentsSavings and InvestmentsAmeriCymru Prize for the Novella about ‘the novella’ as a has, like my first book, elements of form? • Inheritance Tax Planning and Probate in 2017 and is an atmospheric magical realism. Inheritance Tax Planning and Probate Inheritance Tax InheritancePlanning and Probate Tax Planning andnovel Probate in which a My first book,The Plankton Collector, mysterious character – was a novella and I am drawn to How have you found • Mortgages • Equity Release the Plankton Collector lockdown in terms of Mortgages Mortgages Mortgages the shorter novel as a form, both as – visits members of a reader and writer. I like its punch. writing? Has it afforded you • Protection • Long-term Care family torn apart by I tend to write ‘short’ rather than more time and space to Protection Protection Protection grief and regret. ‘long’ and aim for the telling detail write, or have you found it more difficult? November 2020 sees the rather than lengthy descriptions. I have kept a daily journal during publication of Cath Barton’s new Who is your favourite novella, In the Sweep of the Bay, a lockdown and for the past two character in the novella months I’ve been joining a Zoom lyrical warm-hearted tale, exploring and why? group of writers for a 5 minute marriage, love, and longing, set freewrite on most weekdays. No against the majestic backdrop No favouritism! I love all my characters. I do have a soft spot chat, just writing. That’s been of Morecambe Bay, the Lakeland helpful in oiling my brain: like many Fells, and the faded splendour for Vincenzo, whose story sits alongside that of Ted and Rene. He’s writers, I’ve found concentrating on of the Midland Hotel. I was lucky creative writing very difficult during from Milan - you have to read the enough to be sent a copy ahead of lockdown. Now that we’re beginning book to discover his connection publication later this year and sat to come out into our new world I’m with Morecambe! ASSOCIATE ASSOCIATE ASSOCIATE down ‘virtually’ with Cath to chat finally able to focus on serious writing 2019-20 2019-20 2019-20 about it. Is there any part of In again. Thank goodness! Where did the idea of the the Sweep of the Bay story come from? that you’d describe as In the Sweep of the Bay is published autobiographical? by Louise Walters Books and will be The book started as a piece of published in paperback and ebook flash fiction about an elderly No, the book is fiction. But, as in The Plankton Collector, there’s on 23rd November. Early, signed couple going on an outing to visit copies are available from www. something of my mother in there, Please contact Dr Josh Lewis for a free initialPlease contactconsultationPlease Dr Josh Lewis contact for a free initial on: consultation Dr Josh on: Lewisthe statue for of Eric Morecambe. a free In initial consultationlouisewaltersbooks.co.uk/shop-1 on: that little story I wanted to give a not in the specific story, but in terms of the life of a woman Cath’s first novella The Plankton Mobile: 07979 157259 Mobile: 07979 157259 Mobile: snapshot07979 of a relationship. I 157259decided Collector is available through New to explore their relationship, to look marrying after the war and bringing Abergavenny office: 01873 854488 | ChepstowAbergavennyAbergavenny office: office: 01873 854488 office: | Chepstow01291 office: 0187301291626373 626373 854488 | Chepstowup children in the 1950s, and the Welshoffice: Review newwelshreview.com/ 01291 626373 at what had brought them to this book/the-plankton-collector point and the larger picture. personal sacrifices that entailed. E: [email protected] | www.iamfinancial.netE: [email protected]: [email protected] | www.iamfinancial.net | www.iamfinancial.net 34 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 35 LIFESTYLE & CULTURE 33 Years in the making, You’re in safe hands In Our Ancestors’ Footsteps

For All Your Kitchen Needs

Mirage House, Mill Street, Abergavenny. NP7 5HE T: 01873 858043 E: [email protected] With the five-mile rule still in place, Helen Morgan from Abergavenny Local History Society follows an old tramway that is a haven of tranquility today

OFF GRID but an artery of the industrial revolution. SYSTEMS ENERGY STORAGE/ nce up on the open overgrown. Parts of the site were five chapels were built in the valley Green Park TESLA BATTERIES SOLAR CAR PORTS/ hillside and From excavated in the 1980s, and relics to accommodate their devotional PV WOODSHEDS Gilwern wharf where include furnaces, walls, tunnels needs. Even six-year-olds were the canal crosses the and a wheel pit. The key to its employed at Clydach Ironworks in Power Oriver, a path leads down to the location is the river whose power 1841. The management’s statement bank above the river. The path worked the mechanical bellows, to a parliamentary commission, through the tunnel under the and proximity to Llanelly limestone which led to the 1842 Mines Act, canal is the footprint of the quarries, iron ore and coal for coke says it all: “Our workpeople derive tramway that linked Gilwern with in the drift-mines in the hillside comfort and moral advantage from Clydach ironworks from the 1790s. above. In its heyday, Clydach was the suspension of their labours After about a mile, the path turns illuminated at night by the great for a certain number of hours on SERVICE left through a gate shortly after fires of the blast furnaces, rolling Sundays.” Llanelly parish graveyard, COMMERCIAL DOMESTIC passing Forge House and Forge mills and coke yards and deafened above the gorge to the north-west & REPAIR Cottages near site of the 17th- by the heavy thud of the steam bears testimony to the lives and Invest in solar and sustainable energy If you’re looking to reduce energy costs, As a trusted Service Contractor, Green century charcoal-fired furnace hammer which, it was said, could deaths of some of those involved to increase your profitability and eco Green Park Power are your friendly and Park Power have the experience to and forge at Clydach North. It flatten a ball of iron with ease, or with industry at the time. credentials. Funding and interest free credit professional installers. Every installation is quickly identify and resolve the causes of now joins the pavement under crack a hazelnut without crushing Due to Covid-19 restrictions, available in Wales. We also design smart designed especially for your home and is system failure. We are able to optimise the A465 and turns right. Where the kernel. The first blast furnace Abergavenny Local History systems for locations with grid limitations. seen through to its completion. many systems to gain a higher return on the road meets Station Road, a was built in 1797 and, as three Society activities are suspended 10 year warranties as standard. investment. signposted track leads to Clydach others followed, so the population until further notice. Our website ironworks. grew. Some were farmers weary abergavennylocalhistorysociety. Call: 01873 269031 or 07792 970406 Built in the late 18th century, it of scraping a living from the land; btck.co.uk will be updated when others arrived from as far afield as Email: [email protected] now looks like the ruins of some more in-formation becomes available. fairytale castle, all mossy and Cardigan, Radnor, Gloucester and Visit: www.greenparkpower.co.uk Somerset. Between 1829 and 1836, Helen Morgan 36 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 37 ABERGAVENNY MEDITATION COMMUNITY

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07922848765MEDITATION COMMUNIA TY

to book or discuss artapartstudio - y n n e v a g r e b A n i n o i t a t i d e M n a t e b i MISTED T AK Picture

GLASS UNITS Tibetan Meditation in Abergavenny -

Y T I N U M M O C N O I T A T I D E

Tibetan Meditation in Abergavenny - All Welcome! M

Y N N E V A G R E B A Framing REPLACED Bespoke picture framing All Welcome! Mount cutting service Glass repairs Find more information at abergavennymeditationcommunity.com and ADDITIONAL SECURITY on our Facebook Group Please contact [email protected] / Email: [email protected] 07922848765 to book or discuss BROKEN HINGES Tel: 07980906331

THEFT DAMAGE MISTED DAMAGED HANDLES Thank You for 33 Years of supporting Mirage CONDENSATION PROBLEMS your local manufacturer GLASS UNITS REPLACED All glass fitted conformsF to iBSn ENd 1279-6 more information at We Repair: Locks Letteraberg Boxesavenn y m Handleseditationcommunity.com and Faded /Stained Glass on our Facebook Group Discoloured UPVCP Doorlease Panels contact [email protected] / Tel: 01633 86306007922848765 to book or discuss For All Your Sliding www.torfaenglazing.co.uk or Fitted Robes Unit 2 Court Road Industrial Estate, Llantarnam, Cwmbran NP44 3AS Mirage House, Mill Street, Abergavenny. NP7 5HE T: 01873 858043 E: [email protected] BS EN 1279 38 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 39 LIFESTYLE & CULTURE Spot the Difference BIGGARDEN SERVICESSUL Exterior Cleaning All Surface Pressure • Washing Driveway & Patio • Resealing & Sanding Gutters Cleaned using Pet care services covering Abergavenny and • High Level Vac surrounding areas. Services offered include - • Facia & Guttering Cleaned • Dog walking – ½ hour and hourly rates • Conservatory Valeting & • House visits if you are out for long Cleaning periods of time FULLY INSURED / DOMESTIC & COMMERCIAL • Equine care including daily checks, For a Free Quote Phone Jamie mucking out, feeding, turning out and 07891 358684 exercising 01495 756275 DBS checked and insured email: [email protected] Contact Anna for more information Mobile - 07892 684329 www.bigsul.com Email [email protected] Or find me on Facebook – Spotty Dog Pet Services

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Re-opening mid July Spotted any of your AUTOMOTIVE FURNISHINGS nature neighbours Lee Jowitt Auto Repairs 18 01873 859100 A1 Blinds Tredegar 26 0800 197 7545 Castle Bathroom & Tile Centre 46 01291 431192 during lockdown? CHARITIES Dream Doors 16 01633 526077 inTune Osteopathy Nevill Hall Research Fund 26 01873 855773 Evergreen Blinds 10 01873 811113 Mirage Furnishings 36 01873 858043 Hands on Manual Therapy EQUIPMENT & REPAIRS • Back Pain • Joint Stiffness Celtic Computer Systems 20 01873 858111 GARDENS Haven Mobility 12 01633 861717 Big Sul Garden Services 40 07891 358684 • Headaches • Neck Pain Waller Rob by Photo Phil Evans Domestics 6 07572 289243 C Ralph Fencing 26 07531 965741 • Shoulder Pain. • Sports Injuries ESTATE AGENTS Colourfence 27 01633 211860 Cwmbran Gates 22 01633 482758 Are bees buzzing Christie Residential 3 01873 852221 With over 6 years experience Oren Tree Surgeons 40 7989211473 and birds bursting James Dean Estate Agents 47 01873 777207 working in New Zealand, recently Viana Patios 8 07811 443561 returned local, Ben Morgan, is now into song in your Parrys 1, 24 & 48 01873 858990 Taylor & Co 2 01873 564424 LEISURE practicing from Tudor Gate Surgery in backyard? AK Picture Framing 39 07980906331 HAIR & BEAUTY Abergavenny. Then enter our Gwent Wildlife Trust 42 gwentwildlife.org Hannah Mlatem 21 01873 832214 #wildlifefromhome “A FRESH Lucy Hockey Hair Studio 44 01873 859300 PETS competition! HEALTH & THERAPIES Bright Spark Dog Training 6 07590054723 APPROACH TO “Now more than ever, it’s a great time to truly connect Canine Connections 11 07735 401076 Abergavenny Dietician 10 07842 516285 and appreciate your wildlife neighbours.” Cats on Vacation 11 01600 780238 ONGOING PAIN” Ben Henriques: Meditation 39 07922848765 Iolo WilliamsGWT Patron and Spotty Dog Pet Services 40 07892 684329 Call: 07498 972334 #wildlifefromhome competition supporter Clare Johnson - Podiatrist 22 01873 859800 gwentwildlife.org/wildlife-home-competition HB Podiatry Clinic 39 01873 268640 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Email: [email protected] In Tune Osteopathy 42 07498 972334 Catherine A Williams Accountancy 22 01873 810285 Mindset Hypnotherapy 31 01873 739143 Focus Media 01873 856614 Miranda Seymour-Smith 45 07463 780292 FR Ball Insurance 12 01873 857533 Parry Hypnotherapy 40 01873 831427 IAM Financial 34 07979 157259 HOME & GARDEN Seymour Mortgage Solutions 8 07767307193 Abergavenny Fuels 20 01873 854 781 SHOPPING Bathroom Showroom (The) 19 01685 382383 Art Apart Studio 39 artapartstudio.co.uk Garolla 42 01873 360 025 Bookish 45 01873 811256

Cuddle & Cwtch 9 01873 850524 DIRECTORY BUILDING AND MAINTENANCE Bill Domi Plumbing Services 7 07462577555 CARE SERVICES Countryside Decorators 31 01873 854904 3 Circles Care 32 01873 269273 D J Simmons carpentry 7 07866 584807 GN Construction 45 07799 720816 COMMUNITY Green Park Power 36 01873 269031 Abergavenny Community Centre 11 01873 856925 Handy Team (The) 45 07860 857990 Martin Shepherd Decorator 22 01873 830943 P.G Electrics 31 01873 583 043 REMEMBER TO MENTION RPB Building & Maintenance 10 07946103696 Simon Emery Handyman 26 07414231461 THE FOCUS WHEN GLAZING Torfaen Glazing 38 01633 863060 CONTACTING OUR

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42 TO ADVERTISE CALL HANNAH ON 01873 856614 OR EMAIL [email protected] VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 43 Wild Things brings together two We’ve created all our designs in adult ideas: first, we wanted to make sizes too, because let’s face it - we’re clothes with universal appeal, no all children at heart! Check out our matter the gender. Secondly we website; wildthingsarehere.co.uk for wanted to promote the natural a fun alternative to what you might environment and the powerful role find on the High Street. We hope it plays both in terms of mental that you will love our designs and Lucy Hockey and physical wellbeing, but also in enjoy adventuring in them! capturing the imagination. HAIR STUDIO ild Things is a new Abergavenny based We set about creating a range Wbusiness. We design of clothes in bold and colourful ere at Lucy Hockey Hair Studio and sell fun organic clothing for designs, that feature fun and unique you can expect to receive a kids and adults, which celebrates statements to promote self-esteem nature and captures the magic of and confront gender stereotypes, professional service from the childhood. while championing the exploration H of the natural environment. moment you book your appointment to The idea for a new clothing brand the moment you leave. came about when looking for fun Our t-shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies colourful clothing for our young are made using organic cotton and daughter. We found ourselves are printed using water based eco- You’ll be welcomed into a friendly, constantly fighting back against friendly inks that are vegan friendly and not tested on animals. relaxed environment where we can the gender stereotypes we came up against. We were continually We are also committed to start your hair journey! Start with a searching for an alternative, but supporting projects that chime with we couldn’t find anything that the ethos of our business, which consultation where we’ll get to know empowered our daughter to be is why 5% of our profits go to The a little about you and your hair and more than a ‘dreamer’ or a ‘princess Wildlife Trust and The Bumblebee in the making.’ what you’d like to achieve. We have Conservation Trust. an extensive range of products and MIRANDA SEYMOUR-SMITH treatments to choose from, whether Local Psychotherapist Experienced Online that’s colouring using AVEDA products, “If something is bothering you, CONSTRUCTION it can help to talk things through” GN a Kerastraight smoothing system or Qualified, UKCP registered Individual and couples therapy, and BUILDING & ROOFING Great Length hair extensions. psychotherapist offers confidential clinical supervision help tailored to you individually I work with all kinds of troubles, MOBILE: 07799 720816 Online or Telephone sessions including trauma, depression, • Extensions available bereavement, family/relationships, AVEDA products are brimming with illness, anxiety and low confidence • Renovations pure flower and plant essences and LOCAL PSYCHOTHERAPIST HIGHLY EXPERIENCED IN ONLINE THERAPY • Slate & Tile Roofing Text or call: [email protected] • Fibreglass Flat Roofing transcending aromas that exhilarate, 07463 780292 www.southwalespsychotherapyandcoaching.co.uk • Carpentry & Joinery calm and nurture. We love the AVEDA • Brickwork & Stonework • Kitchen Installations colours as we have the option to The Handy Team • Bathroom Installations completely customise any colour, so we Many years experience. • Plastering can personalise the right colour for you! No job too small; try us and see. • Upvc doors and windows • Conservatories General maintenance/garden work. Hanging • Garage Conversions pictures, shelves, curtains and blinds. Painting & 01873 859 300 decorating. Flat pack assembly, installation. www.gnconstructionabergavenny.co.uk Hereford Road, Mardy, Abergavenny, NP7 6LE ABERGAVENNY BASED Call us on: 07860857990 ALL WORK GUARANTEED Www.lucyhockeyhairstudio.co.uk [email protected] Nr. Crickhowell 25 YEARS EXPERIENCE 44 VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES 45 CASTLE BATHROOM & TILE CENTRE CASTLE BATHROOM & TILE CENTRE YOUR LOCAL BATHROOM SPECIALIST YOUR LOCAL BATHROOM SPECIALIST WeLet areour family Now move Open! yours To celebrate Come the opening and of our say new office Hi we will sell your home for 0.5% plus VAT on a no sale no fee basis

let your property from £300 plus59 Frogmore VAT Street, Abergavenny, Sales offer limited for a period of NP7 5AR 6 months from 01.07.2020 01873 777207

James Dean are a family run firm who have a modern and hardworking approach to estate agency. We have experienced and professional staff that boast excellent local knowledge whilst providing a personal and supportive experience. To celebrate the opening of our new office we will sell your home for 0.5% plusWhether VAT and your Let yourselling property or buying, from £300 letting plus VAT. (sales offer – propertyor renting, to be instructed please on give a sole us agency a call. basis by 01.01.2021) Please call Oliver & Hywel Abergavenny Brecon Builth Wells London on 01873 777207 or email [email protected] www.castleshowroom.com 01873 777207 01874 624757 01982 552537 0207 467 5330

Cardiff www.castleshowroom.comPontypool Caldicot Caerphilly Unit 4, Regents Trade Park Unit 1 Unit 21, Unit 3a & 3b GaldamesCardiff Place, PontnewynddPontypool Ind Est, BeaconCaldicot Business Park SwanbridgeCaerphilly Court, OceanUnit 4, Way,Regents Trade Park Pontypool,Unit 1 NormanUnit 21, Way, Caldicot, BedwasUnit 3a &Ind 3b Est, If you have signed a sole agreement with another agent, we would advise Cardiff,Galdames Place, Gwent,Pontnewyndd Ind Est, Monmouthshire,Beacon Business Park CaerphillySwanbridge Court, you to contact us, so the terms of these conditions can be reviewed. CF24Ocean 5PF Way, NP4Pontypool, 6YW NP26Norman 5PY Way, Caldicot, CF83Bedwas 8FW Ind Est, T:02920Cardiff, 464234 T:Gwent, 01495 767993 T:Monmouthshire, 01291 431192 T:02920Caerphilly 885293 jamesdean.co.uk | [email protected] NP26 5PY CF83 8FW CF24 5PF NP4 6YW VISIT THE FOCUS ONLINE: WWW.THEFOCUS.WALES T:0292046 464234 T: 01495 767993 T: 01291 431192 T:02920 885293 47 The team at Parrys thank you for your patience and understanding over the last few months and look forward to assisting you with your property requirements.

21 Nevill Street, Abergavenny NP7 5AA Sales: 01873 858990 Lettings: 01873 859237

2 Agincourt Square, Monmouth NP25 3BT Sales: 01600 713030 Lettings: 01600 775936

@parrys.com

Focus Ad - July 2 2020.indd 1 25/06/2020 12:08