Tag Archives: mold

Family and friends redevelop historic village pub in memory of tragic cyclist

A BELOVED village pub has undergone significant redevelopment and will open its doors again in the coming weeks. The purchase of the freehold and refurbishment of The Cross Keys in Llanfynydd is bittersweet. A story that started as one of family loss, soon became one of gain; a life legacy to give back to the people and the community that meant so much to Mark Steene, a popular character in the picturesque Flintshire village. In 2015, Mark had a cycling accident which left him paralysed. Sadly, he passed away six years later aged just 54. A keen cyclist and businessman, he would spend many a happy time at The Cross Keys with friends, creating memories and sharing good times. His sister Mandy said: “Mark made me his beneficiary and I pondered how to best deal with that inheritance. My heart wanted him, not his money. “After a long time just sleeping on it, my head decided I wanted to do something lovely for him and his special place, Llanfynydd. “So, we collaborated with Mark’s close friends Andrew and Gwenan Roberts and came up with a dream plan to buy the village pub together and do our best to bring life and lustre back into the charming building for all of Mark’s community and friends to enjoy. “I feel I can put Mark to rest peacefully now this is becoming a reality. It’s all been made possible by the best team of people I could ever imagine.” Andrew, director of Mold-based MPH Construction, which is carrying out the renovation, is proud to bring the pub back to life and thanked villagers for their support over past months. “We are so pleased to take on the freehold and give The Cross Keys a new lease of life, it has been at the heart of Llanfynydd for centuries and has a special place in all our hearts,” he said. “There has been a full root and branch renovation, whilst being sensitive to its roots and history.” Gwenan added: “It’s important that we capture the spirit and authenticity of the pub’s 17th century history, so we are delighted with the beautiful mix of old and new, with many restored features with close links to our local environment. “For example, the window ledges are made from an old oak tree that was struck by lightning twice in a nearby field, and train tracks that ran alongside the pub more than 70 years ago have been exposed in the roof in the bar. “The last passenger train to ever pass through the village was in 1950 and my auntie was onboard, so there are many connections, this place is teeming with history.” Friend and hospitality adviser, Jo Meakin, who has more than 25 years’ experience in the world of quality pubs, says the venue will employ up to 20 full and part-time staff, and their vision is “to be a great pub, doing simple things exceptionally well, with pride, passion and setting the highest of standards throughout”. The bar will be the hub as you walk in with a good selection of cask ales, lagers, and wines, while the ‘Old Smithy’ has reclaimed parquet flooring and a log burning stove leading into a cosy snug with church pew seating. Other features include an extension to the kitchen complete with new equipment, and outside, the terrace has also been extended to take in the wonderful rolling views of Offa’s Dyke and the Welsh hills beyond. The menu will be fresh and seasonal, using local produce and supporting local businesses wherever possible. Gwenan said: “Recruitment has gone off with a bang, we’ve been overwhelmed with the response. “Our head chef, sous chef and assistant managers are already on board, and we are delighted to have offered the landlord position to Patryk Kapelinski, who has a wealth of experience in the industry. “The last six months have been a real labour of love, we are pedalling hard to get the doors open before Christmas and still have a few opportunities to join our team, so please head to our website and social channels to find out more and to keep up to speed with progress.” Patryk added: “Being a part of this adventure from the off is a dream come true. I cannot wait to open our doors and look forward to being a part of this thriving, happy community and getting to know everyone. I just know it’s going to be very special.” For more information, visit the website www.cross-keys.co.uk and follow The Cross Keys on social media at @TheCrossKeysLlanfynydd. Alternatively, call 01978 760333 or email info@cross-keys.co.uk

Businesses benefit from expansion and redevelopment of leading pet retailer

BUSINESSES are benefiting from the expansion of an acclaimed independent pet retailer.

PetPlace has enjoyed a significant period of growth, revamping its Abergele store to include a cinema and play park, opening a new headquarters in Kinmel Bay and recently unveiling a revamped building in Llangefni.

The 25,000 sq ft site also includes a play park, dog wash and coffee bar and was redeveloped by Old Colwyn-based Parra’s Construction.

Managing Director Simon Pritchard, who has more than 20 years’ experience in the sector, said it was a pleasure to work with PetPlace, adding: “We were extremely excited to be a part of this project to transform the existing facility into a new retail and dog play area which would act as a blueprint for their other stores in North Wales.

“The existing structure was tired and in desperate need of modernisation, so it was a huge transformation with a relatively small team and a lot of hard work.

“I think the finished product speaks for itself, and a lot of that is testament to the staff who continued to operate while works were undertaken. It is also a credit to the management’s forward thinking and vision – we were delighted to play a part in bringing that to life.”

Meanwhile, Oxfordshire-based Knowledge Ltd was tasked with installing digital software and technology across the state-of-the-art store.

Technical Director Nick Hill said: “We were excited by their vision and after travelling up to North Wales to see the layout for ourselves identified three key areas where digital signage could be used to enhance the customer journey, from enticing passing trade through to highlighting key product information and promotions.

“The final installation comprised of three high-brightness window displays, a freestanding 55” ‘Totem’ and eight smaller wall-mounted displays, all paired with a cloud-based content management system which allows full HTML-5, video and still image content to be deployed to all displays remotely and in real-time.

“All of which provides an immersive experience that guides customers on their journey through the store.”

The final touches were placed by Sure Retail, whose Crewe team – led by Business Development Director Giles Martin – are specialists in equipment and display solutions.

He said: “I often see correlation in working with companies that share our values, and us delivering stores I’m particularly proud of.

“PetPlace Llangefni is a prime example of this, as like us they are passionate about offering the best to their customers. Utilising innovation and creativity, whilst prioritising quality, ethics, and sustainability, throughout.”

Giles added: “The result is a true ‘destination store’, a purpose-built, engaging environment focused on customer experience and servicing the community, as well as individuals.

“It’s our privilege to assist in the realisation of PetPlace’s commendable vision, and we hope customers and staff will continue to enjoy this store for many years to come.”

PetPlace’s Managing Director Sion Pritchard thanked them for bringing the dream to fruition and said the firm is committed to supporting SMEs and small businesses and boosting the economy, both locally and across the UK.

“The result is a flagship store we are all very proud of,” he said.

“The response since opening has been incredible and Llangefni will now be held up as a benchmark for quality, innovation and customer service for pets and their owners – that was the vision we had all along, and they helped us to realise it.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email sales@farmandpetplace.co.uk. The app is available on platforms including Google Play and The App Store. 

Animal behaviour specialist and leading pet retailer join forces for UK-first dog play expo

PETPLACE joined forces with a leading animal play company to host a UK-first event for dogs and their owners.

The North Wales retailer’s revamped 25,000 sq ft Llangefni store held exercise and games sessions in partnership with Kong Company Ltd.

Kong ambassador and esteemed dog behaviour specialist Diane Kasperowicz shared an insight into how dogs play, with a focus on health and wellbeing and the best ways to enhance recall, improve nose work, and sharpen cognitive abilities.

Paul Ratcliffe from Kong thanked PetPlace for showcasing the “power of play” and added: “We chose to partner with them because their enthusiasm and attitude towards the welfare of dogs matches our own.

“This was the first event of its type ever held in the UK, so for it to take place over two days at PetPlace’s Llangefni store and dog park was fantastic.

“We rely on the knowledge of educated retail staff to ensure Kong products meet the needs of dogs, and after all, dogs need to play, so it’s an important connection.

“We often come across owners who show little or no interest in play, or don’t know how best to form a bond with their pet, so these sessions gave them lots of tips and advice they can take away for the future.”

Diane met with owners without their dogs, then held activities and exercises with them and their pets to see what toys their canine companions preferred, encouraging interaction to ensure more fun when out on walks or in the home.

PetPlace’s Business Development Manager Matt Davies thanked everyone who came along to the sessions.

“We have had a long and successful relationship with Kong, but this is the first time we’ve ever done anything like this,” he said.

“The feedback from our members was really positive so it’s something we will definitely look to do again in the future.”

Matt added: “PetPlace and Kong are known nationwide for pushing the envelope and being at the forefront of advances in the industry, and this was another example of that.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email sales@farmandpetplace.co.uk. The app is available on platforms including Google Play and The App Store. 

If you were unable to attend the event, and for more information, visit the ‘Classroom’ page on the Kong website: www.kongcompany.com.

Pet retailer unveils 25,000 sq ft Anglesey store as rebrand rollout continues

HUNDREDS of customers and special guests attended the grand opening of a much-anticipated pet store.

PetPlace unveiled its revamped 25,000 sq ft Llangefni site at the weekend.

There was plenty for curious canines and their two-legged friends to enjoy including an obstacle course, face painting, free ice cream, special offers, micro-chipping clinics, brand discounts and a host of games and activities.

World-renowned animal psychologist Roger Mugford – who trained the late Queen’s corgis – held free behaviour sessions, and the RSPCA and independent businesses and suppliers were on hand to share information and showcase unique products, centred on health, wellbeing, and safety.

PetPlace owners Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh thanked everyone who came along for being part of the special day, and for supporting a raffle in aid of the company’s chosen charity, Hope House Hospice.

“We were overwhelmed by the response, from the minute the doors opened we were busy all day, it was incredible,” said Paul.

“For us it was about giving the pets and their owners a unique experience, and not just for one day, this was a flavour of the innovative and exciting developments we have in the pipeline for Llangefni and our other stores in the years ahead.”

Sion added: “In addition to the retail side of things we will be launching a new play park and coffee bar for dogs at Llangefni in the summer.

“This is another step forward for PetPlace as we align our sites under the new brand, and we would like to thank everyone who came along to our open day and all of our loyal customers for your continued support.”

As well as Llangefni, the company has stores in Abergele, Ruthin, Mold, Gledrid (Oswestry) and a headquarters in Kinmel Bay.

Among the representatives from independent firms celebrating the opening on Saturday were Gill Thomas-Jones from sustainable health and beauty range Mountain Garden Botanics, based in New Brighton, Wrexham, and Jo Parr, owner of Merseyside-based The Dog Bowl Deli.

“We are a fun way of getting healthy treats into dogs, with a human twist as the treats are modelled on cakes, cookies, donuts and more while being completely natural, full of vegetables and fresh ingredients,” said Jo.

“We are already in the Abergele play park and look forward to being part of the new park here at Llangefni as we love working in partnership with PetPlace and congratulate them on today’s event.”

Gill added: “We have a long-standing relationship with PetPlace and are honoured to be here today at the revamped store.

“The team have always supported us as a local business and to be able to display our selection of handmade shampoos, soaps, deodorant bars, candles and other items – all palm oil, cruelty and plastic free – is huge for us. Well done to everyone here on a brilliant day and good luck for the future.”

Those words were reinforced by Roger, who says the PetPlace model should be followed by other retailers in the sector.

“The staff are friendly and approachable, the variety of stock is mind-boggling and all of it focused on the health and wellbeing of pets,” he said.

“I’ve said before that PetPlace is leading the world in supporting pets and their owners and this store has taken it to a whole new level.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email sales@farmandpetplace.co.uk. The app is available on platforms including Google Play and The App Store. 

 

Financial planners welcome new staff and secure sponsorship deal with grassroots rugby club

A PROMINENT financial planning firm at the heart of a North Wales community has thrown its support behind a successful grassroots rugby club.

Celtic Financial Planning is the new sponsor of Mold RFC’s youth development squad, which is made up of two age grades (U18 and U17) and focused on preparing players for the senior set-up.

The company, based on the town’s Bromfield Industrial Estate, is renowned for its work across north east Wales and position as an employer with a strong community and social conscience.

A keen rugby fan, Director Rob Lewis was pleased to be able to supply the club with a financial boost, including new kits manufactured by Macron, supplier to Wrexham AFC and the Welsh Rugby Union team.

“We are delighted to be sponsoring the youth squad and to help the club as it has such a huge history in this area while having a positive impact on the lives of so many people of all ages,” he said.

“This is an important time for us as we approach five years in business, so we look forward to making further announcements that will benefit our staff, the community and the environment – given our commitment to sustainability – in the months ahead.”

Rob added: “We wish the team all the best for this season and will be cheering them on from the sidelines.”

Rhys Hellen, lead coach for the youth side at Mold RFC – currently flying high in the North and Mid Wales Youth League – thanked the award-winning business for “making such a difference” on and off the pitch.

He said: “The new jerseys and sponsorship they have provided makes a massive difference to the whole squad and who we play against.

“The new sizing was provided with the current squad in mind so immediately the boys feel more comfortable and ready for the games.

“Our old shirts did not fit correctly, and some players had to wear alternative jerseys which doesn’t portray the club or the squad in a positive way.

“It may be a little thing to some people, but it has given the squad a huge lift and other clubs have commented on how good our kits look.

“Not only does the branding and sponsorship hopefully help Rob and the team, but clearly it makes an impact wider than just Mold RFC.”

Meanwhile, Celtic Financial Planning continues to grow, with mortgage adviser Sammy Jo-Peace the latest to join their 13-strong workforce.

Plans are still in motion for a new north west Wales office – adding to their sites in Mold and London – and last year they won the Micro Firm Financial Adviser of the Year title at the illustrious MoneyAge Awards.

For more information on Celtic Financial Planning, visit www.celticfp.co.uk or follow @celtic_FP on social media.

Alternatively, you can attend the company’s latest client seminar on June 15 from 6.30pm at Saughton Hall, Sychdyn.

Talented trio tackle A Levels while playing out a successful season on the rugby pitch

A TRIO of talented students is tackling A Levels while playing out a successful season on the rugby pitch.

Coleg Cambria learners Lugh Doyle, Mathew Pryce and Louis Williams have been training and playing as members of Rygbi Gogledd Cymru (RGC) Under-18s squad.

The squad are currently in the middle of the WRU Regional Age Grade competition, playing a series of eight matches against the other Regional Academies of Wales (Dragons RFC, Cardiff Rugby, Ospreys, and Scarlets).

RGC – the North Wales Rugby Development Region – works with academic institutions across North and Mid-Wales to ensure young players have a prosperous academic, vocational, and sporting future.

The three – who also play for Mold RFC – are balancing their studies at the college’s Deeside site with training and competing at Parc Eirias, Colwyn Bay, and enjoying every second.

Prop forward Lugh, 17, from Flint, a former pupil at the town’s high school, will complete A Levels in Maths, Further Maths and Physics this summer.

He said: “It is a challenge trying to fit everything in, but we are all passionate about rugby and hope to continue playing while at university.

“The coaches and lecturers are a big support so hopefully we go on to good things on and off the field.”

Those words were echoed by Mathew, who is preparing to take exams in English Language, PE, and Maths this summer.

He hopes to continue his studies at Bangor University, whilst training and playing as a member of its rugby performance programme, which operates in partnership with RGC.

Meanwhile, Louis is studying Geography, Psychology, and PE at Cambria.

“We’ve been a part of the RGC Pathway since under-15s and have come through the age grades together, so to still be training and playing at this level in the same squad is fantastic,” said Louis, who represented Wales at Under-18s on a tour of Scotland last summer, plays centre and is a former pupil at Argoed High School, Mynydd Isa.

Ex-Mold Alun pupil Mathew, 17, who plays tighthead prop, added: “We have had a good start to the season and are hoping that continues as we head into a busy time with exams, playing regularly for both Mold RFC and RGC, and with our exams this summer – it’s going to be non-stop but will be worth it.”

Pathway Head Coach Saul Nelson – celebrating 12 months at the helm of the Under-18s side, said: “All three are very passionate, talented and an important part of RGC, now and in the future.

“They will no doubt have a significant impact on our season and RGC moving forward.”

For more on RGC, visit the website: www.northwalesrugby.wales.

Visit www.cambria.ac.uk for the latest news and information from Coleg Cambria.

Pet retailer powers ahead with green vision following £250,000 investment

AN ACCLAIMED pet retailer has invested more than £250,000 in powering ahead with its net-zero vision.

PetPlace has installed up to 450 solar panels at its stores in Abergele and Llangefni, with Ruthin, Mold and Gledrid, Oswestry, set to follow.

The business has also introduced electric charging points at Gledrid, Llangefni and its Kinmel Bay headquarters – with Mold and Abergele next to have them – and they now have electric rather than gas forklift vehicles, electric company cars and digital display screens, which they hope will help towards the reduction of printed material.

Owners Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh enlisted Tremeirchion and St Asaph-based Hafod Renewable Energy to supply and fit the panels and worked closely with other local firms to support the North Wales economy and push ahead with its ‘green vision’ as a sustainable, responsible employer, one of the leading names in the pet retail arena.

“The investment in solar panels alone will result in a carbon saving of around 40 tons of C02 per year, so long-term we will see the benefits,” said Sion.

“Initially we have focused on Abergele and Llangefni, but we will look to roll out as we rebrand and refurbish our other stores.

“All of our vehicles are now electric – including forklift trucks in the warehouses – and we are more sustainable than ever before, with more energy efficiency improvements to follow.”

He added: “As well as Hafod Renewable Energy we have worked closely with Gwynedd Forklifts and Rawson EV Power, two North Wales companies that helped us with these projects and others over the years.

“We are focused on supporting local businesses in all sectors, not just our own, which also lowers our carbon footprint and further strengthens the economy in this region at a challenging time for all industries.”

David Jones founded Hafod Renewable Energy in 2010 with his late father Richard.

He was delighted to work with PetPlace and said: “It was a big project which equated to around a quarter of an acre of solar panels.

“The installation took a couple of weeks from start to finish and also included more than 1km of mounting rail and a battery system that will store energy to run their freezers overnight, producing more than 160,000kwh per year – enough to power 50 homes.”

David added: “It was fantastic to work in partnership with such a respected, growing business which has embraced sustainability and renewable energy.

“Due to the energy crisis – which has resulted in a surge in enquiries – we are also expanding, opened a new head office and taken on two more staff so it’s a very busy time for us.”

For more on Hafod Renewable Energy, visit www.hafodrenewables.co.uk.

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email hello@farmandpetplace.co.uk.

New face at award-winning financial planners with expansion on the horizon

AWARD-WINNING financial planners will continue with expansion and open their third office due to a surge in client demand and new staff.

Mold and London-based Celtic Financial Planning is identifying locations in north west Wales – Conwy, Gwynedd and Anglesey – given the growth of their customer base in those areas.

The latest recruit to join the firm is Jamie Hughes, who has spent more than 13 years in the sector.

A chartered financial adviser, Jamie – who lives in Prestatyn with wife Alex and sons Lucas and Dylan – is looking forward to being part of a burgeoning business with sustainability and community at its core.

“I have seen the way the company operates and its sense of place and culture, which really appealed to me,” said the Bangor University graduate.

“They have plans to grow further and I’m excited to be a part of that, it’s refreshing to be joining an organisation which is fresh and dynamic, which is not always the case in what can be a very corporate industry.

“I’m looking forward to getting started and delighted I can play a part in the firm’s continued long-term success.”

Celtic Financial Planning director Rob Lewis is looking at different locations and confident they will be even better placed to serve their clients in the west as they target £100m in managed funds from this year onwards having last week won the Micro Firm Financial Adviser of the Year title for 2022 at the illustrious MoneyAge Awards.

“We already have offices in Mold and London, so the natural next step given the amount of business we now have in that area – and with Jamie joining our diverse, principled team – is to have a presence there,” said Rob.

“The team and I are very passionate about North Wales and delivering sound financial advice across the region, so to have Jamie on board and be able to deliver an even better service to new and existing clients is heartening.

“There are a lot of opportunities for us to do even more along the coast and into those rural areas and we will be looking to capitalise on that in the coming months.”

He added: “We do have clients travel to us from as far away as Anglesey and Caernarfon, but we want to make life easier for them, and the long-term aim will be for Jamie – an experienced and talented financial adviser – to be based there.

“We now have 12 staff, which demonstrates the commitment we have to our fantastic, loyal clients, and that will only increase in the years ahead.”

For more information, visit www.celticfp.co.uk or follow @celtic_FP on social media.

Hearing care practice celebrates 25 years with another new site and jobs

A HEARING care centre celebrating its 25th anniversary will expand further after listening to customer demand.

Colwyn Bay Hearing Practice has opened a clinic in Chester, adding to its satellite sites in Mold and Anglesey.

Owner Adrian Dowling – a qualified audiologist for more than 30 years – also revealed a new member of staff will join their five-strong team this September.

With the health and safety of patients his top priority throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, he says they are in a strong position moving forward.

“Like all industries we faced challenges but thanks to our reputation for customer service and the personal touch our amazing team managed to navigate them and together we can look ahead with confidence,” said Adrian.

“Chester was a natural next step for us as we have a lot of clients from that area, and because this is a hands-on occupation it’s good for us to be able to have satellite centres where they can visit us without having to travel too far.”

He added: “Having opened my first clinic in Colwyn Bay in 1997 I’m delighted with our continued growth and thank everyone for the support we’ve received during that time.”

Offering a range of services from hearing aids to ear wax removal, tinnitus management and virtual consultations, the independent practice is one of the leaders in its sector.

Combining innovative technology with decades of expertise and experience, Adrian is keen to build on their solid standing having followed dad Michael into the profession.

“Over the last 25 years we have introduced new tech and machinery and are at the forefront of advances in that arena – including full diagnostic hearing assessments and hearing aids with Bluetooth and smart phone connectivity – but ultimately it’s all about the patient,” he said.

“That’s one of the reasons we are expanding and able to provide dedicated, bespoke care to people with hearing difficulties, wherever they are.”

Adrian added: “Being in Chester will mark an exciting new chapter for us, and as my dad previously had a clinic in the city some years ago there’s history there as well.

“Our home will always be Colwyn Bay, but I’m delighted we are able to support clients in other parts of the region and look forward to welcoming new patients in the months ahead.

“We really love what we do and once again would like to thank everyone who has shown us so much support.”

For more information, visit www.colwynbayhearing.co.uk and follow @colwynbayhearing on Facebook and Instagram.

Businesses and football club unveil new sponsorship deal and hospice goals

PETPLACE, LVL5 Gyms and Kinmel Bay FC have united to net support for a leading children’s hospice.

The North Wales pet retailer and recently launched fitness company are new kit sponsors for the FAW platinum-accredited club, which has more than 100 players across its junior, men’s and ladies’ sides.

And the three organisations will be holding events and fundraising activities throughout the season for Ty Gobaith and Hope House Hospices, including a sports and memorabilia auction next summer.

Sion Pritchard, owner of Snowdon Holdings group – which includes PetPlace and LVL5 Gyms Ltd – says the partnership will be focused on Kinmel Bay FC’s work in the community and supporting the players health and wellbeing journey as they aim for promotion from the North Wales Coast East Football League.

Rich Blake, a director of LVL5, personal trainer and Workplace Resilience and Wellbeing Master Practitioner (WRAW MP), will also be on hand to deliver advice and guidance on exercise, nutrition and healthy living.

“We opened our Kinmel Bay headquarters just over a year ago and already feel a strong connection to the people and businesses here,” said Sion.

“The work the club has done in this area is amazing, for children and adults of all ages, so we want to help them at grassroots level with their continued growth on and off the pitch.

“Through LVL5 we will also be able to assist with data monitoring and analysis, which I’m sure will all play a part in enhancing the players’ performances in training and on match days.

“And together we will continue to support Hope House Hospices through fundraising and events.”

Leon Field, Joint Manager of Kinmel Bay FC, added: “We thank PetPlace and LVL5 for their support and are excited about this new partnership.

“The kit looks fantastic and will certainly turn a few heads this season.

“We are also delighted to be championing Hope House and will do all we can to support what is an incredible local cause.”

The new strip was unveiled at PetPlace’s headquarters on Tir Llwyd Enterprise Park, where players and coaching staff were joined by Bev Bradley, Corporate Area Fundraiser for the charity.

She said: “We are so grateful and would like to thank Sion, Leon and everyone involved with both organisations for this commitment.

“As a Silver Business Champion, PetPlace has done so much for the hospice, and we are sure with the football club on board as well we can do even more to continue providing first-class, vital respite care for children across the region.”

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email hello@farmandpetplace.Co.uk.

For more news and information from Kinmel Bay FC, including upcoming fixtures and training sessions, visit www.kinmelbayfc.com or follow them on social media www.facebook.com/KinmelBayFC.

Visit www.hopehouse.org.uk for more on Hope House Hospices.