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The Wemian

Winter 2013

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EDITORLinda Etherington- 232088

SUB EDITORGeorge Highmore- 234430

DESIGN EDITORBev HowardTREASURER

Alex WilliamsonCHURCHES & SOCIETIES

Peter Turner - 01939 236683

thewemian@hotmail.co.ukwemianadverts@hotmail.co.uk

THEPlease send articles by email - Drop offsmall info/events at The Treacle Mine.

SPRING EDITIONDEADLINE

WEMIAN

EditorialWelcome to our winter edition of The Wemian! We are all pleased to see that our small town and HighStreet is attracting new businesses and that existing shops are looking good.If you are new to our town let me just run you through the fantastic range of independent shops andbusiness’s we have in our town. We have a new Bistro in Maypole, re-styled pubs; independent cafés, sandwich, fish and chips andlate night take a ways. A butcher, greengrocers and a lovely Deli where we can buy fresh produce,also a paper shop, convenient mini-markets and supermarket. There are Banks, insurance and estateagents a computer shop, optician, chemists, hairdressers, barbers, beauty and alternative treatments.Gardeners can find seeds; pets can be groomed and fed. You can buy carpets, household andhardware, electrical goods, jewellery, crafts, gifts, dance shoes, bags cards, antiques, recycled or brica brac. You can say it with flowers, buy the children sweets, a toy a new bike or a book. Friendlyservices to make your curtains, alter your clothes, have them dry cleaned or laundered. Plus localgarages to service your car and motorbike, along with a wider range of supporting services that areadvertising in our magazine. Add to this our traditional Thursday markets and a monthly farmersmarket that bring in more choices of goods to buy along with the seasonal Saturday Fayres and table-top sales you can see what a truly amazing variety is within walking distance of our urban homes. We have many younger families coming to live in Wem who enjoy supporting local events and ven-tures. Our schools are excellent ambassadors for the town; we have a great library, swimming pool,gallery and cinema, medical practice, dentists and the range of sporting clubs and facilities alongsideour active churches and societies, all welcoming young and old members alike making us asself-sufficient as we choose. In short, it is a wonderful town to live so let us be positive for 2013 and shout out proudly “We loveto live in Wem!”

‘Wem, the place to be!’Seasons Greetings to all. Linda Etherington. Editor.

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The Wem Transition Town Initiative2012 has been a very wet year; yields in many farmers fields are down by15% or more, which means that food prices are likely to rise. This will affectnot only fruit and vegetables but livestock as well because fodder will bemore expensive leading to higher meat prices. As large scale industrialfarming becomes more expensive some farmers are saving money byreturning to more traditional methods which makes it important to supportand encourage small and medium sized family farms. This is one of the mainaims of the Transition movement worldwide. Smaller mixed farms producemore food per acre than do the industrial size farms and use fewerresources in the process.In Wem we have had our now annual, Harvest Market which was evenbigger and better than the last one. It was opened by the Mayor of Wemand the Shrewsbury Town Crier, a big man with an even bigger voice. Themarket encourages local, small-scale producers to sell directly to the publicso benefiting the pockets of both. By the end of the morning more than 800people had crossed the threshold of the Town Hall. One of the highlights ofthe Market this year was the Apple Collection point. Here a variety of applesfrom trees in and around Wem were left for collection by Gerald, the farmerfrom Berriew who makes cider and apple juice. He will make our apples intohis famous juice and return it to Wem to be sold for a local charity.Hopefully next year we will have a better apple crop and thus more juice butit was good start to the project.The Harvest Window dressing competition was well supported by the localshops by some very good displays and those who took part enjoyed the localpub trail. The Wem Shoppers Guide is now well established and is muchappreciated by residents and shopkeepers alike. We have good shoppingfacilities in Wem; it is up to us to use them if we want to keep the TownCentre alive. There were several other events going on in Wem at the sametime, which meant that the Town was very busy and lively making it apleasure to be in and of extra benefit to local traders.Earlier in the year we organized a garden trail to see what others were doingin their gardens, gather tips and encourage each other to keep on growing.It is surprising to see how much can be grown in a pot or on a windowsill orbalcony.How can we as a community become more resilient in the face of ClimateChange and diminishing resources? Our answer to this is 'Localism', to do asmuch as we can for each other and ourselves in our own communities. Whatbetter place to begin than Wem, Where Everyone Matters.

Terry Hobday. Wem Transition Initiative.

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Wem Cricket ClubThe summer of 2012 heralded the inaugural season of the Shropshire CountyCricket League. Our First XI, captained again by Josh Gough, who is buildingexperience season on season, had a tremendous season and was pipped to theLeague title by Quatt by a mere 6 points in a very exciting finish to the summer.Apart from our overseas player, the excellent Tim Hutchinson, every other memberof the squad is a young player developed through our junior coaching ranks. Thisaugurs well for the future of the club, particularly as the county T20 trophy and theDiv 2 title of the Midweek Evening League were also captured.Congratulations also to our 2nd XI, captained by Russ Mellings and latterly in theseason by Steve Chandler, who also finished runners up in Reserve Division 1, andto our Third XI captained by Martin Peate who finished fourth in Division 4 of thenew league structure.One of the major talking points of the season has been the terrible weather – of 21games each of our Saturday sides should have been played, the First XI had 4cancelled and the other two sides 10 between them! Special mention must be madeof our overworked groundsman, Keith Higgins for the tremendous work he put ineach week trying to prepare the ground in the most difficult of conditions.Club stalwart, Paul Strefford has announced his retirement from junior coaching.Paul joined the club from Reman Services over 20 years ago to help with thecoaching and to set up an important new venture for the club, the formation of aThird XI. Many senior players now turning out regularly for the club havedeveloped their skills in Third XI cricket under Paul. In recent years, he has beeninstrumental in the setting up and development of our successful girl’s squad. Wethank Paul for all his sterling work for the club in these roles over the years. He willcontinue to serve the club as a committee member.Anyone interested in finding out more about Wem Cricket Club, can contact us byemail at wemcc@hotmail.co.uk, visiting our website www.wem.play-cricket.com,or by phoning the Clubhouse during opening hours on (01939) 234680.Graham Furber (Chairman)

WEM CC DATES FOR DIARY (2012/13)

December 3rd AGM (8pm)December 21st Grand Xmas Draw (9:30pm)January 14th GCM (8pm)

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SOCIETIES SOCIETIES SOCIETIESSOCIETY DAY FREQUENCY TIMEA.D.O.S. Committee Meeting 3rd Thursday of Month 7.30pmART SOCIETY TUES Weekly 2-4pmBEAVERS MON Weekly Term-Time 5.30-6.30pmBINGO WED Weekly 2-4pmBOWLING CLUB RegularBROWNIES TUES Weely Term-Time 5.30-6.45pmCARNIVAL COMMITTEE 2nd Monday of Month 7.30pmCHRISTMAS FESTIVAL As and when neededCIVIC SOCIETY 3rd Tuesday of Month 7.30pmCOMMUNITY CHOIR TUES Weekly 7.30pmCONSERVATIVE ASSOC’ Call for informationCONSERVATIVE SNOOKER CLUB Weeknights 7pmCUBS WED Weekly Term-Time 5.45-7.15pmFLOWER CLUB 2nd Thursday of Month 7.30pmFREE MASONS (Roden Lodge) 3rd Mondays Sept to April 6.30pmFRIENDS OF HOPE HOUSE TUES Call for information 10amGARDEN CLUB 3rd Thursday of Month 7.30pmGUIDES TUES Weekly Term-Time 7-9pmJUBILEE SENIOR BAND FRI Weekly 7.30-9.30pmJUBILEE TRAINING BAND FRI Weekly 6-7.15pmLINE DANCING CLASSES, Wem MON Beginners 7.30pm/Improvers 8.30pmLINE DANCING CLASSES, Preston Brockhrst THUR Beginners 8pm/Improvers 9pmODDFELLOWS THUR Weekly 10am-12noonPROBUS (LADIES) 2nd Thursday of Month 12.15 for 1pmPROBUS (MEN) 1st Wednesday of Month 12.15 for 1pmRAINBOWS TUES Weekly Term-Time 4.15-5.15pmRNLI (WEM BRANCH) THUR Weekly at Wem MarketROTARY CLUB MON Weekly, phone for timesROYAL BRITISH LEGION 2ND Wednesday of Month 7.30pmSCOUTS WED Weekly Term-Time 7.30-9pmSEQUENCE DANCERS WED Weekly 8pmSWEET PEA SOCIETY As and WhenTEA DANCERS 2nd Tuesday of Month 2.00-4.30pmTILSTOCK TODDLERS (0-5) WED Weekly Term-Time 1.30-3pmTRANSITION TOWN 1st Wednesday of Month 7.30pmWEM WALKERS SUN Call for details PMWOMENS INSTITUTE 1st Tuesday of Month 7.30pmYOUTH CLUB yrs 4,5 & 6 MON Weekly Term-Time 6-7.30pmYOUTH CLUB yrs 7,8 & 9 TUE Weekly Term-Time 7-8.30pmYOUTH CLUB:- New Wednesday club pending. Tish Dulson is now Leader-in-Charge of all

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SOCIETIES SOCIETIES SOCIETIESPLACE CONTACT TELEPHONEStage Door, Aston Street Margaret Simmons 01939 232466Wem Senior Club Susan Rogers 01939 290509Scout/Guides HQ. Bowens Field Sue Wilton-Morgan 01939 235703Wem Senior ClubWem Sports & Social Club (233287) P.Davies/D.Ball 01939 233918/234163Scout/Guides HQ. Bowens Field Lorraine Manley 01939 234532Wem Conservative Club Sue Holiday 01939 232547Wem Conservative Club Julie Hoffman 01939 235622Wem Senior Club Sheila Richardson 01939 235443Stage Door, Aston Street Terry Hobday 01939 234082Conservative Club Jean Williams 01939 232586Conservative Club Jean Williams 01939 232586Scout/Guides HQ. Bowens Field Suzanne Ward 01939 234542Wem Senior Club Barbara Healey 01939 232398Masonic Rooms, Whitchurch D.Y. Summerskill 01939 232221Phone for venue Kicki Rouse 01939 235125Wem Senior Club D. Lunt 01939 270485/M. Millington 01948 710328Scout/Guides HQ. Bowens Field Lorraine Manley 01939 234532Band Room, Thomas Adams School Ray Edge 01939 232001Band Room, Thomas Adams School Ray Edge 01939 232001Sports & Social Club (£3 on door) Stephen Rutter 01939 236773Village Hall (£2.50 on door) Stephen Rutter 01939 2367731, Talbot Development, Wem Isabel Sherlock 01939 200673United Services Club, Leek Street Doreen Stewart 01939 235527United Services Club, Leek Street Con Curphey 01939 234156Scout/Guides HQ. Bowens Field Louise Manley 07929 481582Market Stall in Wem Town Hall Paul Rowlinson 01939 233779Hawkstone Park Hotel John Templeman 01939 234184United Services Club, Leek Street D. Young 01939 234136Scout/Guides HQ Bowens Field Jane Chandler 01939 235997Wem Sports & Social Club H. Dulson 01939 234484Phone for information Val Good 01939 840779Wem Sports & Social Club D. Hayward 01939 232418Tilstock Primary School Mrs Metcalfe 01948 880347Various. Please phone for venue Terry Hobday 01939 234082Various local walks. E.Heath 01939 233405 / G.Brown(for times) 01939 232120Wem Senior Club A. Owens 01939 232140Wem Youth Centre, Leek Street Charlotte Jackson 07722 147127Wem Youth Centre, Leek Street Ange George 07989 704795Wem Youth Centre, Leek Street Tish Dulson 07969 930917

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Wem Farmers MarketTown Square, Wem.

Stallholders will be present to fulfil your needs. The Markets are on thesecond Saturday in every month up to and including December.

Ready made meals;  Produce and Preserves; Sweet pea Society, China,Cards & Gifts; Shrubs; Perennial Plants; Cakes & Pastries;

  Meat & Savoury Pies; Sausages & Bacon; Beef - Lamb - Pork and Chicken.

Fresh local Produce at Value for money prices.         Further details or to book a stall.

        Please ring Rhona. 01743 367407

CHRISTMAS CONCERTMUSICAL DIRECTOR: MR. STEVE GITTINS

SATURDAY, 22nd DECEMBER 2012 :7.00 pmSTANIER HALL, WEM

ADMISSION: ADULT £6.00 / CHILD £4.00

AVAILABLE FROM: RAY & JEAN EDGE 01939-232001OR PRINCES SHOP, HIGH STREET, WEM

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DO YOU WANT TO PAINT?Wem Art society would like to start an evening meeting in the newYear, would you be interested in an evening meeting from 7-9pm oneither a Monday, Tuesday or Thursday.Please contact us on 01939 290509 to let us know your preference.

WEM R.N.L.I.I would like once again to thank all the friends and residents in Wem andfurther a field  for their great support over the past year.  Without thesepeople bringing us numerous items to sell and the many who buy things fromour market stall each week we would be unable to raise such a good amountfor the R.N.L.I.Thanks again for your support and a Merry Christmas and a great New Yearfrom us to you all.

Wyllis Turner

Wem Millennium GreenThe Millennium Green on Aston Street is ‘Wem’s Green Open Space’managed by trustees, volunteers and Friends of the Green. It is an idealplace to hold outdoor or small events with your organisation, or visit toenjoy the peaceful surroundings.If you want to know more about the Green or would like to become avolunteer please contact us.

Linda Etherington; Chairman Green Trustees. 01939 232088.

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BOOKINGS & INFORMATION 01939 238279

A full events listing is available on www.wemtownhall.co.ukor emailing us at info@wemtownhall.co.uk

With a mixture of masks, puppets and live music this tale of mischief isreally brought to life! In a style closer to Roald Dahl than Disney, we aretaken on a fantastical journey from Pinocchio’s first moments as a talkinglog through a madcap series of scrapes and escapades with rascals Foxand Cat, a sinister puppet master, fairies, a terrible dogfish and a trip to theLand of Toys! Stay after the show for a back stage tour where the audi-ence gets a chance to try on a mask or play with a puppet. For ages 5-80!

An uproarious Victorian farce, is sure to have audiencesdoubled up with laughter. When amiable magistrate Posket (John Lithgow)marries Agatha (Olivier Award-winner Nancy Carroll, ), littledoes he realise she’s dropped five years from her age – and her son’s.When her deception looks set to be revealed, it sparks a series of hilariousindignities and outrageous mishaps.Tickets for all NT Live Productions: £11/£10 friends and children

Further National Theatre productions (still to be confirmed at time ofgoing to print) will take place in March and May 2013.

A fast, funny and honest story of one man’s search for a sense of belong-ing. From childhood and adolescence, through to adulthood, MichaelCrompton struggles to find himself and his community. One day, after be-ing kicked out of home after a fight with his father, he sets off to London tobecome an MC, Country Boy’s Struggle is his story.

A festive celebration of music by talented young people from ThomasAdams School.Tickets £5 Adults/ £2.50 Children

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An opera full of poignancy and exquisite sensitivity to the nuances of growing upand wrestling to understand your emotions, Eugene Onegin is full of poetry andmelancholy, encapsulating the fragile and turbulent emotions of youth, self-realiza-tion and finally the yearning to go back and undo what cannot be undone.

Performances of much loved songs from musicals by talented young people fromThomas Adams School plus guest performances.Tickets: £5 Adults/ £2.50 Children

An essential part of Christmas for audiences of all ages. One Christmas Eveyoung Clara creeps downstairs for one of her presents, but instead finds herselfat the start of a magical adventure as the Christmas magically tree grows and thetoy soldiers come to fight the Mouse King!

Those familiar with Lewis Carroll’s literary menagerie of colourful characters willenjoy theclarity with which Christopher Wheeldon portrays them in dance. It is a brilliantlyimagined show and, with a magical score, ingeniously inventive designs and awealth of theatrical effects, has something foreveryone to treasure.Tickets for all Royal Opera House productions: £15

With live music by Steve Nicholas and John Harrison respectively. Food and raf-fle available on the evening.

Coming up in the New Year we will be showing James Bond: Skyfall, Sparkle, GreatExpectations, The Hobbit, Madagascar 3, The Life of Pi and the hotly anticipatedLes Miserables.

An exhibition of prints, illustrations and books much of which is inspired by Brit-ish folk traditions and superstition. A great shopping opportunity just beforeChristmas!

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Wem Methodist ChurchAston Street, Wem. Office 01939 236452

SAT 10-11.30am Coffee Morning

SUN 10am & 6.30pm Worship

TUE 9.30-11.30am Toddlers Plus (Please bring an adult)

WED 2.30pm Women's Fellowship-Fortnightly March-Dec

FRI 7pm Shell Club (Children 7yrs+)

Our Lady's Roman Catholic ChurchLeek Street, Wem. Parish Priest Rev. Patrick English 01691 622283

Mass Times Sat, 5.30pm. Sun. 9.30am.

Polish Mass 1st&2nd Sunday of Month 6pm

Weekday Mass Wed. 10.30am.

Coffee Morning Last Tuesday of Month 10am-11.30am

The Religious Society of Friends 'Quakers'Rose Cottage, Chapel Street, Wem. T. Hobday 01939 234082 // G Roper 01939 233754

SUN 8.00pm Worship (1st Sunday of Month)

St Peter & St Paul's Parish Church, WemParish Priest: Rev C Cooke 01939 232550/Hall bookings: Mrs J Maund 01939 233485

SUN 8am Holy Communion SUN 9.45am The Eucharist (Family Eucharist 1st Sunday of Month SAT 10-12nn Coffee Morning (Last Saturday in Month) WED 2.15pm Mothers Union (1st Wednesday of Month) FRI 9.30am Holy Communion See Church notice board for Mums and Toddlers

Wem Baptist ChurchChapel Street, Wem. Pastors: Revs. P Wright 01939 232938/Al Simms 01939 768164

1st SUN 10.30am Worship in Wem Town Hall on 1st Sunday each month OtherSUNDAYS

9.30am, 11.15 am & 6.30pm. Worship (On 2nd Sunday of each month 4pm instead of 6.30pm)

WED 10-12nn Tiddlywinks THU 10-12nn Coffee Morning THU 6.15-7.30pm 7upz - (Activities for Children aged 7-11 yrs) FRI 5.15-6.15pm Dynamites - (Activities for Children aged 4-7yrs) FRI 7-9.30pm YP - (For Young People aged 11-15 yrs

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Are you sorry you did not keep up with that foreign language after leavingschool?

Have you a lively, enquiring mind?

Are evening classes beyond your budget?

Do you feel you should get more exercise perhaps by playing Bowls orjoining a walking group within your walking capabilities?

Maybe you have in depth knowledge of a handicraft you would like to passon to others?

Are you new to Wem and are looking to meet people in the area?

U3A is for anyone of mature years and not in full time employment, noqualifications are needed and U3A offers new challenges, newopportunities and new friends. Each U3A is self-managed; self financed and run by an elected committee.All members will belong to the Third Age Trust and will benefit by beingpart of a large organisation (300,000 members).

A wide range of support is available including liability insurance during allU3A activities, a large resource centre and help from other people runningsimilar groups with shared interests.Wem will be part of the West Midlands region with access to study daysand events held by neighbouring branches (e.g. Shrewsbury, MarketDrayton and Whitchurch).The magazine "U3A News" will be sent to you four times a year keepingyou up to date with information from further a field.

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toWem Town Hall

Our recently revamped Friends scheme now offers more benefits than ever!

Friends subscriptions are an important source of income for Wem Town HallCommunity Trust, your local charity. Your support as a Friend plays a vital role inthe continuing development and success of Wem Town Hall, and in return for yourloyal support you can enjoy:

· Discounts for selected live events

· Discounts for weekly cinema

· No additional charge for 3D screenings (3D coming soon!)

· The flexibility to transfer standard cinema tickets to a different screening ifyou find yourself unable to attend

· Exclusive ‘Friends’ Only’ events

· Invitations to Exhibition Private Previews

· News Updates

· An opportunity to influence the programmeWem Town Hall WANTS YOU to be its Friend!

Why do we want new Friends?Wem Town Hall Community Trust was set up in 2006 by local people who soughtto re-open the town building as a vibrant centre, for the benefit of the localcommunity and local economy.The Trust has worked tirelessly, with the support of volunteers and partnerorganisations, and in 2010 we took over the lease and successfully re-openedWem Town Hall. Today, the lively town centre venue is well used and well regardedby locals and visitors alike, yet still, we need to do more to make sure the venuehas a sustainable future.

The local council does not run the community venue. Throughout the year, wehave to earn enough money to pay the bills. This means that every pound spent inthe building helps to keep the doors open! By becoming a Friend you are investingin your local community venue and together we can make sure that Wem Town Hallis a venue that you can be proud of!What will it cost?

We know that family budgets are squeezed so we have set the annualsubscription at what we believe to be an affordable level. Being a Friend costs just£12 a year for an individual or £20 for a joint membership.How do I join?It’s easy – just pick up an application form from Wem Town Hall.

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BROCK: Farm RepsMost farmers will have been visited by a Representative of the various companiesthat supply goods and services to the agricultural industry. These travellingsalesmen, or possibly consultants, are part of the day to day life on the farm butbecause of the time load pressure on the present day farmers and farm managersthere is much less cold calling now, usually visits are by pre-arrangedappointments.In the past, cold calling Reps could vary from someone you’ve never met beforeand after a few minutes have moved on, as the farmer has expressed no interest,and you will probably never see them again, to someone who builds up arelationship that carries on for many years and eventually becomes a personalfriend. The latter has happened to me. It all started with a competitive quote forbuying Dairy cow concentrate ration from a well-known feedstuffs company. Istayed loyal to him and bought hundreds of tonnes of compound nuts over the years.Other Reps in the same line of business expressed surprise that I still stayed withthis company even though they were quoting several £’s per tonne less. I wouldsmile at them and say “Ah! but I like the man I’m dealing with!”There was then abemused silence whilst they sorted out their confused minds and tried to come upwith a diplomatic reply, which was not too derogatory, as they still needed to keepin with me in case I changed my mind and succumbed to commercial pressure! Icontain a secret feeling of self-satisfaction!I remember one particular Rep, who at the time I did not know, came sweeping ontothe main yard in a posh car. He was immaculately dressed and proceeded towardsme with a vey haughty demeanour. I thought, this man needs bringing down a pegof two he’s too full of himself. Of course a firm handshake starts the introductionand he continued in a very business-like way conducting his sales patter inprofessional style, but the vanity of the man is starting to rankle. I let him carry on,couldn’t get a word in edgeways anyway! Eventually his spiel stops and he looksconfidently at me expecting some bullet point questions to which he would havedetailed answers of course. He is expecting me to be fully won over with and order“in the bag” but I simply say, “I am not interested Mr ….. good day to you.” and Iwalk away to carry on with my work. This time my mind is coming up with the words“that’s shot you down mate!”Now the word shot reminds me of a very distinctive notice on a local farm entrancewall. It says “Every Third Traveller Shot, The Second One Just Left”. You may haveseen it; amazingly it never seems to have been vandalised and it’s been there fordecades!Travelling salesmen always arrive at your farm well dressed, even if smart casual,for obvious reasons. This can get them into trouble! I recall the story where thefarmer had said “That’s a timely visit, you couldn’t just give me a hand to get thesecattle into the trailer, I am taking them the Livestock Market. This can be a trickyoperation! Cattle rarely go willingly into a trailer and you have to be light of foot andchange direction quickly sometimes to stop the animal going the wrong way. Asluck would have it he lost his balance and ended up full length in the

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proverbial s..t, Oh dear!A lot of life is filled with your relationship withother people so it’s a good idea to get along withthem as much as you can. As this article showsit takes all sorts to make a world, but having anoutgoing mindset does improve your chancesand helps progress contentment with life. Ipersonally have made lifelong friendships withsome of these people to the extent of enjoyingeach other company at social and leisuregatherings. BROCK

Hatchers Legal Surgery

Hatchers Solicitors are delighted to announce that they will becontinuing to hold weekly Legal Surgeries each Thursday atWem Town Hall from 9am - 12pm.

The surgeries have proved to be very popular with advice beinggiven on a broad range of services including; Wills and Probateand Residential Property, Family, Employment, Commercialand Business matters.

By way of further support to the Wem community, Hatchers arewilling to provide talks/presentations to local groups andsocieties.

Please call in at one of the surgeries or contact JacintaWalmsley for further details.

For more information on our Legal Surgeries/presentations or ifyou wish to make an appointment, please call Jacinta Walmsleyon 01743 248545 or email her at j.walmsley@hatchers.co.uk

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WEM ADOSThose of you who are followers of the highs and lows of the DramaticSociety will be well aware that since the purchase of the old ApostolicChurch in Aston Street we have had nothing but “highs”Of course one of our all time “lows” was when our old, and much lovedTown Hall burnt down. We had performed there since the inception of thesociety, (1919 in case you have f�orgotten or are new to the town!) Itseemed that all our hopes and dreams may be lost, but our members aremade of stronger stuff and we set about buying the Church.At that time little did we for see what heights we would be able toachieve. In the last edition I wrote of our delight in our new extension,“The Green Room” In fact that actually doubled the original floor space,enabling us to create an area which is used in so many ways, an extrarehearsal room, a coffee and bar area as well as our audiences been ableto wait in a warm welcoming room instead of queuing out on thepavement on a cold, damp, sometime frosty evening.By now you will be wondering what I am leading up to, what more isthere to be overjoyed at? Well… on Wednesday 10th October 2012 theLord Lieutenant of Shropshire came to the Stage Door Theatre to presentTHE QUEEN’S AWARD FOR VOLUNTARY SERVICE. This is the MBE forvolunteer groups. The society has a long history of voluntary service tothe community, one of which was the running and servicing of thefunction room in the Wem Town Hall for 10 years and now finally theaward made to the volunteers working with the stage door youth. Theygive of their time talents and energy continuously with resultingoutstanding productions. None of this would be possible without thewonderful team, committee and members who support each other in allaspects. This absolutely wonderful, happy, emotional evening was asplendid example of the teamwork and friendship we all enjoy. We hadsuperb food, all provided by members and to cap it all we hadchampagne, the cost of this was met by the profit on the coffee bar, whata great team effort this was. It was as good as it gets, I just wonderwhere we can go from here? Perhaps Her Majesty will come to one of ourperformances.The last production by The Stage Door Youth was “Jungle Book” It wasthe first production for the society by Tess Barclay and what a

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breathtaking fun evening that was, thoroughly enjoyed by all, you can berestassured that Tess will not be allowed to make this her swan song! Tesswas ably assisted by Lynn Pulford and Andy Fletcher and I am afraid youare now in for a long list of the young people taking part, no one can bemissed out as they are all so talented and enthusiastic. Joe Schupp, LilyAshley, owen Price, Chloe Yale, Emily Ashley, Natasha Foster, HarrietCamber, Felix Ashley, Harriet Bagnall, Syddie Barclay, Tyreece Bailey,Sophie Bickley, Jacques Busk, Penny Edge, William Edge, Freya Dickens,Megan Hardiman, Emma Haston, Caitlin hose, Charlie Jones, KatieJones,Emily King, Hannah Phipps Oliver Tildesley. Just think about it allof those young people are attending every Saturday morning and otherrehearsals too. To support these demands, i.e. lighting, costumes, setbuilding, make up etc. there has to be a strong back stage team who alsoattend these Saturday and extra rehearsals and for ‘Jungle Book’ we hadAllen Crowe, Elliot Roberts, Jenny Colclough, Pat Williams, sarahThomas, Julie Blake, Sue Simcock, Rosemary Fenn-Wiggin, Kate Price, JonEdge, Kerry Edge, Gayle Brown, Jackie Schupp.

Just to keep up the pressure we entered the ‘Jungle Book’ in the Carnivalas a walking group and did win an award. To keep you in the picture StageDoor Youth will be giving you an end of term Christmas Showcase, keepyour eye on dates you don’t want to miss it.We held a very successful play reading, it is always good to welcome newfaces, it also helps with future casting, who knows if you come to the nextone you may find yourself with a staring role, or you may even find you area scene painter, whatever takes your fancy you will be made verywelcome. Just watch the notice board for the next At the moment we, thesenior members are rehearsing a play in two acts, a comedy by WilliamNorfolk ‘Caramba’s Revenge’ It has a cast of six women and one man, thatpart being taken by Jon Edge, do you think Jon can cope with all of thosewomen? (Sorry Jon, only joking.)

There are so many people interested in the society that Sue Udy hasoffered to do a newsletter. If you are interested please contact Sue directlyon udytowanroath@aol.com where you can receive the newsletter free ofcharge. If however you prefer a postal service there will be a small charge.Contact Sue 01939 210470.

Till next time – we hope you all have a Happy Christmas.Margaret.

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The A.G.M.of the Society was held recently, when the committee members were verydisappointed when so few 'Wemians' attended.  The society is in need of more help if the 2013 show isto be staged without any problems, so any offers of assistance, from youngsters to pensioners, withfresh ideas will be welcomed with open arms.  Meetings are very few, approx six a year, so please getin touch if you would care to volunteer.Details of the 2013 show were discussed and it will be held at the Thomas Adams School, as usual, bythe kind permission of the Head Teacher and the Adams team on the 20th and 21st of July our 25thAnniversary Show. The show schedule will include several new classes, especially one for Annual Species sweet peas,which were of particular interest this year in the National show and seeds of these can be obtainedfrom the society.  We would welcome suggestions for Children's classes, perhaps the Schools couldhelp? Also a theme for the Traders classes.   As the schedule will be printed early in the New Year, inorder for the exhibitors to select their seed varieties, any suggestions please a.s.a.p. to any member ofthe committee, or to Wyllis, at the Thursday market on the Lifeboat stall.The annual Social Evening has been arranged in April at the Butler Sports Centre when we invite ourTraders, Sponsors, Members and Friends to join us.The evening will include a substantialbuffet, a Raffle, optional, and entertainment yet to be organised.May we wish all a Happy, Merry Christmas a Peaceful New Year and better growing weather in 2013.

Wem Methodist Church Sun 23rd Dec 10am

6.30pm Nativity Service Candle lit Carol Service

Christmas Eve 11.15pm Midnight Communion Service Christmas Day 9.30am Family Service

Our Lady's Roman Catholic Church Wem St Michael's Ellesmere

Christmas Eve Carols 8.30pm Mass 9.00pm

Carols 10.30pm Mass 11.00pm

Christmas Day Mass 9.30am Mass 11.00am New Years Day Mass 11.00am Mass 10.00am

The Religious Society of Friends 'Quakers' Please contact Terry Hobday on 01939 234082

St Peter & St Paul's Parish Church Sun 23rd Dec 4pm Carol Service

Christmas Eve 5pm 11.30pm

Crib Service Midnight Mass

Christmas Day 8.00am 9.45am

Holy Communion Sung Eucharist

Wem Baptist Church Sun 23rd Dec 6.30pm Carol Service in Wem Town Hall Christmas Day 10.30am Family Service

20

ROTARY NEWSTo put it simply and with immense appreciation,the generosity of the people of Wem knows nobounds. Over the years during which theRotarians of this town have asked for yoursupport you have been amazing. To give broad-brush figures involved: In the year 1st of July2008 to 30th of June 2009 you helped theRotarians donate a total of £18,287 to its chosencharities and good causes. Over the same periodthe following year to June 2010 you helped usgive £21,702. Then, from 1st July 2010 to 30th

June 2011 the figure was a further £9,777. Puttogether, the 3 year sum is impressive, to say theleast A whopping £49,766 Where does themoney go? The Rotarians seeking your donations will, when possible, state the charityfor which they are collecting. On other occasions we might say that we are collecting,or fund-raising through a charity event, simply for Rotary Charities. Many readers ofThe Wemian will know that The Hope House Hospice and The Severn Hospice havebeen among the favourites for Rotary fund raising efforts. A total for the three years2009, 2010 and 2011 donations to the hospices was a massive £6272.  So, what arethose other Rotary Charities after the hospices? I hope you don't go cross-eyed intrying to read the following list, which I have to put into paragraph form because ofspace premium in your Wemian. They are in no particular order: British Red Cross.Rotary Young Achievers Awards.(from 7 local Primary Schools).Pump Aid (inAfrica).Shelter Boxes (in disaster areas).Wem ADOS. Wem Round Table. WemChristmas Festival. Trees for Schools. Wem Senior Club. Guide Dogs. Wem Scouts andGuides. Wem Medical Practice. Thomas Adams School. Thomas Adams Pupils KenyaProject. Thanks for Life (Polio Eradication Programme). Chernobyl Lifeline (ShrewsburyLink). Help for Heroes. Individual Sponsorships. Senior Citizen's Dream Holidays.Westlands Care Home (Comfort Fund). Loppington Youth Club. Wem Parish ChurchAppeal. Wem Town Hall Clock fund. Air Ambulance. Wem Mayor's Charity Fund. WemCemetery. North Shropshire Wheelers. North Shropshire Safety Scene. Lifeline.Hearing Dogs for The Blind. Lingen Davies Appeal. In addition to the Rotary Charitieslist, the Club allocated donations to purchase a copy of The Rotary Illustrated UsborneDictionary for every child leaving the local Primary schools to go to Secondary school.We hope to continue this new initiative. We in the Rotary Club of Wem and District willonly rarely attribute our fund raising efforts to Rotary Foundation since each Rotarianmakes a personal donation to that charity as a supplement to his or her membershipfees. Finally, we would like all contributors past and future to know that the wholeamount of monies collected by Rotarians goes to the nominated charities withoutdeduction for administration or expenses. In some instances we are able to transfermoney directly to a local Rotary club in a disaster area where it can be spent to fill agenuine need without delay

Again ...well done Wem. HGH

21

Many people will only have seen the youth club building from the outside they maynot even know it is still operating. It is not a pretty sight with its peeling wood,crumbling render and faded sign. Those of you who have been inside the youth clubbuilding in Leek Street in the past, will remember a ‘tired’ dated cold and uninvitingbuilding striving to make the best of what was there, to provide a space for ouryoung people to socialise and take part in a wide range of leisure time activities.

As part of a larger renovation project that the committee highlighted in a 3 yearAction Plan in 2009 we have been working hard to find funds to make the buildingmore warm, welcoming and accessible. We have upgraded toilet and cloakroomfacilities and installed a new gas central heating system. Wem Town Council andthe Local Joint Committee continue to support us. Donations ‘in kind’ have alsobeen received from the Co-op and various other sources and we are constantlyamazed by such generosity. We can’t quite believe that local housing associationMeres & Mosses, have recently provided and fitted a new kitchen that will form partof our brand new Internet Café project. It should also help us to become moresustainable as a charity by attracting more people from the community to use thebuilding for all sorts of activities such as coffee mornings, tabletop sales, parties etc.One of the directors of a local company - Hammersmith, (who used to come toyouth club when he was a lad), was keen to support the work we are doing byundertaking all the building work involved in the kitchen/internet café project at costprice and they have also included a number of items free of charge. A fabulous tailormade computer workstation area and trendy new counter frontage has brought us

into the 21st century! During the next few weeks we will welcome a working partyfrom Stoke Heath prison that has agreed to do some free decorating for us if wesupply the materials. Providing we can find sufficient funding, we intend to buy somenew furniture for the Internet café and replace the old floor covering.

We welcomed 3 young people from Thomas Adams School who chose to do theirDuke of Edinburgh community placement with us and who now work as young

volunteer session helpers. We are soon to look forward to a new 6th form studentjoining us to do a work experience placement, before she goes off to university tostudy to be a Primary School teacher. And we are pleased to encourage youngteenagers attending the club to take on some session responsibilities, particularlyworking alongside adults with our younger members. This not only improvestheir self-confidence and self-esteem, but is also a great help to our session leaders.e amazing things in their lives,

22

I write this article I am feeling a little sad because this will be my last input to theWemian as Chair of Wem Youth Centre Committee. I have decided that the time isright for me to step down after four years, in the hope that we can find someonewho is willing to give up some of his or her spare time to devote to this veryworthwhile cause There is plenty to keep someone interested as different things arehappening all the time. I have really enjoyed working alongside an excellentcommittee over the past few years. Its great to see the changes we had talked aboutcome into being. There is something about working with or for young people thathas always made me feel good. From my very early days as a Youth Worker intraining, doing placements at Shotton Hall boys school in Harmer Hill or TheLakelands school in Ellesmere; right through to my present-day job at ThomasAdams school. It could be seeing ‘our’ young people grow up and have children oftheir own. You watch them grow and develop and some go on to achieve amazingknowing that the school and youth club was a part of that transition. The childrenoften look so like their parents did at the same age…. Those who know my familywill vouch for the fact that my own grandson is a ‘mini me’ of his dad, my sonStewart! Thirty years ago I started running Wem youth club when my children weresmall, then after a break of twenty odd years I went back as chair of the committee,with my daughter Joanna taking on the then Leader in Charge position…full circle!Wem Youth Club has been a big part of my life and I hope that others who followme will feel the same.

1. Do you want to ‘give something back to our community’? Do you think you might havesomething to offer Wem Youth Club?

2. Would you be interested in taking on the chairs position or joining Wem Youth Centremanagement committee in any capacity?

3. Maybe you would like to come along to help leaders run their sessions? Do you haveany practical or other skills/experience you could offer that might help?

4. Would you be prepared to help out occasionally at fundraising events by baking cakes,shifting furniture, decorating the room for parties etc?

5. If you answered YES to any of the above questions and want to find out more pleaseget in touch. I hope to see you around Wem in my newly found ‘spare’ time!

Enid Smith Chair Wem Youth Centre Management Committee Tel: 01939 232013 email: enids1@tiscali.co.uk

23

Next year’s event is set to be bigger and better than ever. Afterjoining forces with the Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012 Wem’s‘Vehicles of Interest’ Rally is moving back to its traditional slot,twinning with the Sweet Pea weekend.

So, a date for your diary: Sunday 21st July 2013.

Why ‘Vehicles of Interest’?We are often asked. Back in 1998 Ben Young, a member of Wem’sChamber of Commerce, was involved in planning a display ofvintage vehicles, but several experts were quick to point out that‘vintage’ is quite a precise category: at its widest interpretation itcovers cars built between 1919 and 1935. Similarly, ‘veteran’ meanspre-1905, and ‘classic’ includes everything between twenty and fortyyears old. No umbrella was wide enough, so ‘of interest’ waschosen to fit the bill.And ‘interesting’ vehicles continue to be our main concern. Lastyear, for example we were able to display a prototype electricvehicle from Renault. Not ‘vintage’, not ‘veteran’, nor even ‘classic’,but it certainly caused a lot of interest.For 2013 we are planning to move to a new venue: the ‘Rec.’(officially ‘Wem Recreation Ground) and to repeat the optionalparade through the town centre, which was such a crowd pleaser atthe Jubilee.Registration is free, and there’ll be a cuppa waiting for entrantswhen they arrive. There are prizes to be won, and we are currentlyin discussion with the management at Joules Brewery in MarketDrayton, who have offered to sponsor a perpetual challenge trophyfor the most interesting vehicle of the year.

So, whether you are powered by petrol, diesel, paraffin, batteries,steam, pedal or sail come and join us at Wem’s‘Vehicles of Interest’Rally and Parade 2013, on July 21st.If you would like to know more give Becky, at Robinson & Young, aring on 01939 235300.

24

Swords & Ploughshares Project A visit to HEFF in Shrewsbury is always a pleasantexperience, especially if the Midcounties Co-operative Community Fund is handing over acheque for nearly £1,000 in support of a project. We are very grateful for this support.Briefly the society is looking at what has shaped Wem & Surrounds over the last 200 yearsaround the themes of food, farming, trades and war. Collecting reminiscences has beenvery difficult, not because people are unwilling to help but trying to store and edit theinformation is too time-consuming for the small number of volunteers. IT (and specificallySpence Whalen of Wem Town Hall) to the rescue! Following Spence’s advice and with theCo-op’s support, we are purchasing an iPAD and a number of WCS members will beundergoing an intensive IT training course at Wem Town Hall. Soon Wemians and theirmemories will be being videoed ready for uploading to the web. So if you have volunteeredyour memories and have been wondering why we haven’t appeared to collect them – wewill be there! ‘Swords and Ploughshares’ will become a virtual museum on the webawaiting the day when Wem has its own museum.

Our September meeting (Old Tools and Trades of Wem & Surrounds - Reminiscences of Wem) hada comprehensive display of old tools used in the countryside. Each speaker explained what their toolswere used for, including those for boat making and woodworking, and agricultural equipmentconnected with milk and cheese production and for working the land using horses. We all learnt theimportance of the bellyband to a horse pulling a heavy cart if that cart tipped backwards. Nobellyband, and the poor horse would be hanging by the neck! The iPAD would have been very usefulat that meeting. A few short videos demonstrating use of tools and equipment are worth thousands ofinert pictures. There was a selection of unusual items and members entered a competition to guesswhat they were used for.

At a packed October meeting, Sue Yates gave us a presentation on ‘The Boat Saturn’. Saturn was aflyboat that used to work on the Shropshire Union Canal. These boats were very fast and hadpriority over other boats because they carried perishable goods e.g. cheese and butter to the cities ofthe north. The Shropshire Union Canal Restoration scheme set about raising the money to buy theboat and to restore it. After 5 years fund-raising, it was restored and re-launched in 2005, in time tocelebrate its 100th birthday and is now used to educate people- especially children, about life on thecanals.

Next year’s meetings:Tuesday January 15 The Story of Lee Brockhurst by Roger AshtonTuesday February 19 The Story of Pub Signs by Dorothy NicolleTuesday March 19 The Story of the Silhouette factory by Nigel Hinton

…and finally, the Wem War Memorial project will also be coming to the fore again.

If you are interested in becoming involved with Wem Civic Society – please contact01939 235443 or wemcivicsociety@yahoo.co.uk

25

The Government of the day at the start of the Second World War, 1939 to1945, decreed that it would be Operation Pied Piper – the evacuation frombomb-threatened cities of thousands of children to safer, peaceful ruraltowns and villages. Little did I know that I would be part of this unprece-dented mass exodus – and just how much it would shape my life as a childand in adulthood.Yes, I became a reluctant Wemian, although it was some time after theoperation was set into motion and after the town was literally invaded byseveral hundred of what could only be described as refugees.What happened in the 13th century between a mysterious visitor and thecitizens of the German town of Hamelin anxious to rid their town of ratsbecame the basis of a dark fairy tale. There was no happy ending to thestory and this could also be said of the fate of many of those, children andparents, involved in a 20th century phenomenon, although there wereexceptions and the way my life panned out probably makes me one ofthem.My own enforced move to Wem from Liverpool was preceded by that ofmy brother, Joe, and sisters Hilda and Dorothy. As the “baby” of the family– I used to cringe at that! – aged under five I was able to stay behind in thecity with Mum. My father? He had died relatively young when I was still ababy.Harking back to Operation Pied Piper, its significance and sheer scalewere obviously lost on us small children, but I have no qualms about goingon-line to discover some of its fascinating details. Apparently, in the firstfour days of September 1939 as many as a staggering three millionpeople – mostly children – were evacuated from cities to the countrysideto save a whole generation from the threat of World War II enemybombers. An estimated 130,000 were from Merseyside alone andhundreds of us must have descended on Wem with townspeople andevacuees puzzled and apprehensive about what was happening to turntheir lives upside down in such dramatic fashion.My late brother (Joe, mentioned earlier), when settled in Wellington,Telford, wrote about himself in a very personal way just for his wife andfamily. Now, because I have no memory at all of my own journey and thatof my mother to Wem, I make no apologies for dipping into Joe’s accountof that fateful trip and a little of its aftermath.He wrote: “It all started from Lime Street station, where me and my twoyounger sisters and dozens more evacuees set off on a journey full

apprehension. It was a very sad and emotional time with lots of tears,some children so upset that mothers and fathers took them off the trainand refused to let them go. I suppose they were entitled to do this, but noone knew just how nasty the impending conflict was going to be. Havingno father to make decisions, it was left to Mum to decide to send us to aplace of safety.“It was September 2 1939. I was nearly 12, Hilda 10 and Dorothy 9. Wewere leaving behind a mother and baby brother, John. All had one thing incommon – the gas mask slung around our necks.

There were tears as could be expected, but travelling like us three, to keepeach other company, was perhaps better than being alone. I do rememberstanding in the (train) corridor watching the scenery change gradually fromtired looking dirty buildings to green fields with cows grazing. I wasbeginning to realise then that we were very much on our own and a littlebit frightened…….of mixed sexes didn’t help. It was only after we had been dragged all overtown and desperation was setting in that we finally managed to findsomeone to take us.”

“A small market town in Shropshire was our destination and when theynamed it as Wem we were none the wiser! Our arrival was a bit chaoticand frantic efforts were being made to sort us out. It was no wonder reallywhen you stopped to think of the rapid change of events and one can onlylook back and express gratitude to those doing a wonderful job. After all, itwas local people who took us into their homes without knowing what theywere letting themselves in for – and I suppose that also applies to thechildren being taken in to be cared for.

“As a family of three and not wanting to be parted at this early stage, it didhave its drawbacks. Not many houses had the accommodation and thefact that we were of mixed sexes didn’t help. It was only after we had beendragged all over town and desperation was setting in that we finallymanaged to find someone to take us.”

To be continued…

AN AMAZING MORNING ATLONDON 2012

I recently had a chance to count myself lucky on two accounts. Firstly, I have twovery lovely daughters, one of whom was successful in obtaining two tickets to theOlympic Stadium on the 6th of August 2012 and, secondly that she thought of herold Dad when deciding who to invite to share the event. We had heard all the hypeabout failings at this and that in the run-up to the Games and were quite preparedfor crowds, delays, security jam-ups and many other supposed shortfalls. Howwrong everybody was. Arriving in plenty of time before the start of many track andfield qualification events, we joined an almost solid stream of ticket holders on thelong walk from the coach drop-off points. Within the first ten yards we weregreeted by cheerful and enthusiastic Games-Makers, all volunteers who made usfeel both welcome and full of expectation. We passed through two separate ticket-checking points, one a visual and the next a scan, with hardly any pause in ourprogress. Quite expecting a delay at the final security check-in we were amazed tofind a bank of perhaps a dozen scanners at which we were asked to empty ourpockets and, like any airport check, place the contents in a tray to be scanned aswe passed through the usual arch. The many hundreds of people converging onto stadium at that time were hardly delayed more than a few minutes. Indeed I wasso moved by the experience that I told a nice policewoman on point duty that Iwas quite disappointed at not having been subjected to a 'Pat-Down'. She offeredto oblige but I thought that might be taking a bit of a liberty in the circumstances.Again without delay we ascended the steps into our particular spot in the stadiumand our breath was drawn by the magnificence of the scene. We had some time towait as the stadium filled to capacity and for the first event. Whilst my daughterstudied the forthcoming programme displayed on the screens at each end of thestadium, my technical mind drew me to the light boxes erected between each seatcontaining nine little LEDs and I knew immediately they were the 80,000 little bitsof magic that did, and would, give us the wonderful light display during theopening and closing ceremonies. Then, as the Discus competition started, I was todiscover to my delight that the discs were being returned from the range to thestart by remote controlled model Mini-Cooper cars. I never did discover the twoyoung operators as the cars were driven, reversed and skidded about. I have oftenbeen in high noise environments in my life but I can only describe the roar of thespectators as the athletes raced around the track as a solid wall of noise. Aspectator standing next to me remarked at one point as a Team GB athletegained ground that he could not hear his own voice above the ambient vibrations.I've taken a lot of words to just tell you that my day at London Olympics 2012 wasa magnificent experience, but I thought you might like to know.

HGH

28

J PAGE LTDELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR

EST. 1975

DOMESTIC &COMMERCIAL

INSTALLATIONS

01939 22052007973 106188

Lisa WardBy design

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Curtains &Soft FurnishingsTracks, Poles &Haberdashery

Please Call in

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29

WHITCHURCH INSURANCE SERVICES

YOUR LOCAL INSURANCE BROKER

IS YOUR HOME, MOTOR OR BUSINESS INSURANCE DUE?WHY NOT CALL IN OR PHONE 01948 665464 NOW!

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TEL: 01948 665464WWW.WHITCHURCH-INSURANCE.CO.UKenquiries@whitchurch-insurance.co.uk

Robinson & Young have been supplying & delivering gas for over 30years & have earned an excellent reputation for our high level of

expertise & customer service. Whether it be industrial gas, BBQ gas orany related accessories, Robinson & Young have a wide range of stock to

meet your requirements.

We Offer an efficient delivery service to local areas from 09:00 to 5:00Mon – Fri!!

For more information do not hesitate to contact Craig on 01939 235300or 07971924851.

Robinson and Young, Shrewsbury Road,Wem, Shrewsbury, Shropshire, SY4 5PA

Industrial GA S

30

www.princeselectrical.co.uksales@princestv.co.uk

38 High Street, Wem01939 232845

5 High Street, Whitchurch01948 662228

Church Street, Prees01948 840272

Plasma, LCD & LED TVsAerial & satellite installationsAuthorised Sky Digital dealer

Freeview & FreesatDomestic appliance sales & delivery

OPENING HOURS:MON - THURS 7AM - 9PM

FRI-SAT-SUN- 10PMSUN 8AM - 9PM

44 HIGH STREET, WEM

LOCAL INDEPENDANT RETAILER

* GROCERIES

* FRUIT & VEG

* BEER, WINES & SPIRITS

* DVD RENTALS

* CONFECTIONERY

* NEWSPAPERS & MAGAZINES

* PAYPOINT

* NATIONAL LOTTERY

www.freshvalue.co.uk Tel: 01939 236008

31

ACCIDENT REPAIR CENTREINCLUDING FIBREGLASSING

· MOT TESTING STATION· GARAGE SERVICES· RECOVERY SERVICES· COURTESY CARS AVAILABLE· AIXAM & MICROCAR

QUADRICYCLE DEALERCan be driven on full or B1 Motorcycle licence

26-28 ASTON STREET, WEMSHROPSHIRE, SY4 5AY

TEL: 01939 233243WWW.HANMERAUTOSERVICES.CO.UK

Grindall’sOf Wem

PRIVATE CHAPEL OF REST

A BEREAVEMENT SERVICECONDUCTED WITH DEDICATION &

COMMITMENT BY THE ONLY IN DEPENDANTTHREE GENERATION FAMILYFUNERAL DIRECTORS IN WEM

PREPAID FUNERAL PLANS AVAILABLE

WEM 01939 233903

40 Aston Street, Wem

Shropshire’s longest established dealership (over 35 years)

WE RIDE THEM, RACE THEM,SELL THEM & SERVICE THEM

BIKES & SCOOTERS IN STOCKCLOTHING & ACCESSORIESMOT’S, REPAIRS & SPARES

WE CAN COLLECT YOUR BIKE

TEL/FAX: 01939 232223

www.tonymossmotorcycles.co.uk

56 ASTON STREET,WEM,

SY4 5AU

32

www.saloptowing.co.ukC.R. CLEANING

CARPETS - ORIENTAL RUGS - UPHOLSTERY- OVENSEXPERTLY CLEANED

- STAIN GUARD PROTECTOR- HOUSEHOLD CLEANING (SPRONG CLEANS)- INSURANCE WORK (FLOOD & SMOKE DAMAGE)- DAILY OFFICE CLEANING CONTRACTS

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DAVID NIXON :OFFICE 01948 880994

Open:Monday Thursday Saturday 9am - 5am

Wednesday & Saturday 9am -1pm

Excellent QualityExcellent Workmanship

Extensive Range

Axminsters * Wiltons * Marley * Flotex * Tomkinson * Huega

FREE FITTING4 MORRIS SHOPPING PARK WEM

WEM: 01939 233661 or ELLESMERE: 01691 624422

www.adtcarpets.co.uk

MARK SHERRYBUILDING SERVICES

26 BARLEYFIELDS, WEM, SY4 5LU01939 236486 07812 132110

Julie67@orange.net

33

Daryl R. HaslehamClock, Watch & Gun Repairs

10b HIGH STREET 34-35 HATTON GARDENWEM LONDON EC1N 8DXSHROPSHIRE Tel: 020 7242 1708SY4 5AA Mob: 07956 317251Tel: 01939 235944 Email:darylhasleham@hotmail.co.uk

Shropshire LtdMobile Car Body Repair Specialist

Scratches, Scuffs & ScrapesAlloy Wheel Repairs Plastic Bumper Repairs

We can repair your car at your home or place of workAvailable 7 Days a week

Very competitive prices!For a local, professional, and reliable service

Contact us for a free estimateTel: 01948 841 468 Mobile: 07713 499 656

E-mail: info@back2new.cowww.back2new.co

BACK 2 NEW

34

WRIGHT NEWSNewspapers

ConfectionaryStationary & Cards

PAY POINT

High Street, Wem

01939 236622

& Five Element ReikiWhat can Reiki do for you?Reiki treatments last an hourand the benefits are many:Deep RelaxationReduce Stress and anxietyBoost energy levelsHelp relieve painEnjoy a better quality of life and more.

Learn Reiki at levels 1 & 2.

Wem Road Harmer Hill Shrewsbury SY4 3DZ

01939 290346info@newtonmeadows.co.ukwww.newtonmeadows.co.uk· Moving house and need

temporary accommodation?· Having friends or family to stay

but not enough room?· Or just wanting a break away

in one of our Self Catering cottages?· Our comfortable fully equipped

4* cottages may be the answer

For more detailsVisit our website, email

or ringThe Simcox Family

Light lunches, scones, cakes,savouries, etc, all home-made

35

LES WEATHERHEAD

CHIMNEY SWEEP

BRUSH & VAC

CLEAN & EFFICIENT

TEL: 01948 830 443

It is recommended thata chimney in use should beswept at least once every

twelve months

AZ’ MARKETING GROUP

GENERAL HARDWARE GOODSPROFESSIONAL JEWELLERY

REPAIR SERVICE – -

ALL WORK FULLY GUARANTEED

Watch Batteries Supplied &Fitted to Majority of Brands

FROM ONLY £1.50

azeezhakeem@hotmail.co.uk

TRADITIONAL WINDOWCLEANING SERVICE

Also: Gutters, Soffits, FasciasConservatory Roofs & Patios

Professionally cleaned to a veryhigh standard

Carpet CleaningDomestic & Industrial Cleaning

Call Mark Fitton01939 232644 or 07970 886442

36

Gemini with Beauty withinLadies & Gents hairstylists

Wig consultancy /stylingNHS & Private

Private Beauty treatment roomsFull range of bespoke beauty services

Facials/waxing/ massage/aromatherapy/acupuncture/holistic massage

Spray tan booth/Fake Bake retailVitesse vertical tanning Sunbed

Nail bar/nail art/acrylic & gel nails

52 High street 10 Watergate ArcadeWem Whitchcrch

01939 232186 01948 662624www.gemini..org.uk

37

CASTLE HOTEL

Opening TimesMon – Thu: 11am – midnight

Friday – sat: 11am – 1amSun:Midday – 11pm

14 HIGH STREETWEM

www.castlehotelwem.co.uk01939 236088

Food ServedMon to Sat:12 – 3pm & 6 – 9pm

Sunday Lunch 12 – 3pm

The Fruitful DeliDelicatessen & Fresh Produce.

A Range of Cheeses.Local Meats, Bakery & Anti Pasti Bar

Local Artisan Bread, Gluten Free Range.

Tel: 01939 232682 email: the-fruitful-deli@hotmail.co.uk

17 High Street, Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5AA

38

SELF STORAGE on WEM BUSINESS PARKSECURE LOCKED CONTAINER STORAGE

CARPET CLEANINGCLEANED - DEODORISED - STAIN PROTECTED AND DRY

IN AROUND 30 MINUTES+ HELP TO MOVE FURNITURE IF REQUIRED

DRY FUSION FROM VALUE VALET; YOUR LOCAL CARPET CLEANER

CALL TONY: 01939 233362www.value-valet.co.uk

Book an appointment now!Tel: 01939 235880 Mobile: 07794 524 347

13 Aston Street, Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5AY (by the railway station)

Chiropodist- Susan HaskeyBSc (Hons) pod, MChS, DpodM

Foot Health Practitioner- Jenny Copley

Ellesmere: 01691 622970Whitchurch: 07974 091984

Wem: 07583 264905

For appointments and enquiries contact Sue or Jenny

39

Domestic Appliance Repairs

Guaranteed repairs to:

WASHING MACHINESDRYERS

COOKERS

3 Ravenscourt WalkShrewsbury SY3 8ZF

Tel: 01743 360077

Mobile: 07968 047847

HOLLYFARM

NURSERIES

Shrubs, Trees, Roses, Heathers,Conifers, Fruit Trees & Bushes,

Bedding Plants & HangingBaskets.

Help & advice given freely.

Coffee BarnHomemade Cakes Served

Mon- Sat 10-5Sun 10-4

On A49 one mile north of Prees

01948 840630

THE CUCKOO ALE BANDLively danceable music, expert callingproviding an evening of pure Ceilidh

enjoyment

40

Chris will be pleased to help and advise you on the following dates:

Surgery Dates

41

A SMALL EXCLUSIVE, NEWLY BUILTOUTDOOR CATTERY IN A GARDEN SETTING

OPEN ALL YEARHEATED CHALETS

LISTED BOARDING CATTERYTHE LAURELSFOXHOLES

WEM SHROPSHIRESY4 5UJ

01939 232646fox.cat@hotmail.co.uk

Visitors welcome for viewing(between Lowe Hill & Whixall)

FOXHOLES BOARDINGCATTERY

Home Tuition

MATH/ENGLISH

8-16 year oldsCRB checkedReferences

Alan Cliff: 01939 234790

Mere La ModeCaptain TortueFabulous French Clothes & Accessories for Ladies

Shopping has never been easier andsuch fun!

Girls’ night inCoffee morning

Ladies lunchOne to one private styling consultation

Fund raisingFor more information about these stylish clothes at afford-

ableprices and the Hostess Discounts on offer, contact:

JuliaWilliamsIndependent Style & Fashion Consultant

01939 270831 / 07977 255574julia@merelamode.co.uk

www.facebook.com/merelamodewww.captaintortuegroup.com

42

WEM BUTCHERSFAMILY BUTCHERS

Prop. A.E. OLIVER

GAME MEAT

FRESH POULTRY

DAILY LOCAL DELIVERIES

A VARIETY OF SAUSAGESHOME COOKED PIES

SELECTION OF BAR-B-Q MEATSFREEZER MEATS

ALL HOME BAKED COOKED MEATS

PHONE 2324356 HIGH STREET, WEM

SALOP TOWINGTOWBARS SUPPLIED & FITTED

PLUS: TOWING ACCESSORIES

MOTOR HOME SECURITYCYCLE CARRIERS

DOMESTIC TRAILERSUNIT 2 BENBOW

BUSINESS PARKHARLESCOTT LANE

SHREWSBURYSY1 3FA

01743 467272www.saloptowing.co.uk

43

I USUALLY HAVE A MOBILE SURGERY ON A STARTING ATBEFORE VISITING (BOTH CHAPEL ST WEM)

AND FINALLY FOR THE MARKET.If you would prefer to make an appointment to see me at any other time please

telephone or send an email to:Pauline.dee@shropshire.gov.uk

PAULINE DEE

JR GIBSONCOUNTRYSIDE

SERVICES

National Proficiency testCouncil qualified in:

Tree work & fellingHedgelaying, Coppicing & Maintenance

Lawn treatment & careKnapsack spraying of drive, pathway, lawn weed control

Field/paddock toppingChain harrowing & other maintenance

Fencing, field gate hanging, stone wallingLoader tractor & driver for hire

Tractor mounted post borer & post knockerWell Seasoned Hardwood LogsTopsoil supplied & delivered

CALL:

01939 2202480777 9994613

Piano & ClarinetTuition

Lessons available inpiano & theory

Qualified Teacher with over 20years experience

Adults & Children welcomeCRB Checked

Contact: Katy Higgins

01939 236189

Rodney Holman JewelleryWillow TreeChristening & Wedding Gifts

44

MON- FRI 8am-3pm SAT 8am-2.30pmEat in or Take-away Delicious either way

Lost a button?

Hem come undone?Need a new zipper?

For all your repairs, alterations andsewing requirements

Contact:

Sue

On

01948 841076Or

07876 308062

Sudeley, Church Lane, Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5HS

Neil HughesRoofing

01939 233509 / 07813850263

Slating & TilingContractor

45

OPTICIANSFORMALLY B.NEWBOLD (SALOP) LTD

CHILDRENS & DESIGNER FRAMESCONTACT LENSES

MONDAY to FRIDAY 9-5PMCLOSED 1-2 FOR LUNCH

CLOSED SAT/SUN

01939 232016

10 HIGH STWEM

SY4 5AA

NUSYTE

24HR EMERGENCY LOCKSMITHSFOR ALL YOUR SECURITY NEEDS

LOCK CHANGES AND REPAIRSUPVC SPECIALIST FOR DOORS & WINDOWS

LOCK UPGRADES TO INSURANCE REQUIREMENTSOIL TANK / EXTERNAL GATE SECURITY

SAFE & GUN CABINETSBARS / GRILLS & SECURITY SCREENS

A FAMILY RAN BUSINESS SINCE 1995

CALL TONY MORGAN ON:Office: 01939232906Mobile: 07860111544

E mail: tonydynolocks@btinternet.comSENIOR CITIZENS DISCOUNT

LOCKSMITH COTTAGE TILLEY VILLAGE SY4 5HE

COUNTY SECURITY

46

CHAPEL STREET

~Dental & Implant Centre~Dr Gemma Cockburn BDS

Dr Roger Hadden BDSFamilies welcome / Preventative plans

Hygienist / TherapistCosmetics / Implants

Early / Late ApointmentsCards accepted

01939 232864www.spadental.uk/wemWem@spadental.co.uk

16 Chapel Street, Wem, SY4 5ER

Justine’s GemsThe Jewellers and Watchmakers of Wem

Clock & Watch RepairsJewellery Repairs & Ring SizingBespoke Handmade JewelleryPearl Re-StringingFree EstimatesValuations

Phone: 01939 235 94410b High Street

WemShropshireSY4 5AA

The Old Rectory Hotel is a real haven ofcomfort and style, where individually styledrooms, home grown produce and friendly

professional staffs are part of the experience.

Open to non –residents for lunches,dinners and coffee

Planning a Wedding –ask about our Grand wedding for a grand

For bookings, enquiries and Special offers

Tel: 01939 233233

Lowe Hill Road, Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5UAOr visit www.oldrectorywem.co.uk

Small is beautiful &style is everything

47

Fast efficient service for your Letters/Reports/AssignmentsA Curriculum Vitae? – Advice given oncontent and letters of applicationData EntryTelephone Answering Service

Call

01939 236600 or FAX 01939 232371

PIANO, KEYBOARD,SAXOPHONE AND

MUSIC THEORYLESSONS.

16 years teaching experience.100% exam pass rate.

Teaching 6 to 18 year olds inShawbury & Wem.

£10 per 30min one to one lesson.CRB Checked.

References available.

WEM TRAVEL

Private HireFriendly Lady driver17yrs Experience

Local WorkShopping etc

Pre-Book

01939 23367307971 291928

102 Lowe Hill Road Wem SY4 5UT

48

Hillc

op Bank

Set in the beautiful North Shropshirecountryside we have nine purpose

built kennels for the more pamperedpooch. All dogs walked twice daily.

Hillcop Bank FarmAston Road

WemShrewsbury

SY4 5SB(Between Aston & Lee Brockhurst)

Tel: 01939 232102Mobile: 07762 188425

A caring team of Dentists& Hygeinists

Mrs S Singh BDSMr D Singh BDSDental care plans

available

Garden & homeMaintenance

For all your gardening and homeDIY jobs

· Grass cutting· Hedges & fencing· Borders dug & planted· Painting & decorating· All home & diy jobs

Phone steve pearce on01939 234218

WEMBOOKSHOP

Customer OrdersBook Tokens

81 High StreetWem

ShropshireSY4 5DR

49

Vintage AllsortsWe buy & sell Collectibles, Antiques,

Jewellery & Quality Second Hand FurnitureOriginal gifts for all ages & occasionsFull house clearance service available

2 Noble Street, Wem, Shropshire, SY4 5DZ07812 519663 01939 235072

50

R.N. Wood SolutionsTOP QUALITY, AFFORDABLE AND CUSTOM

MADE GARDEN BUILDINGS SUCH AS:GARDEN SHEDS, SUMMER HOUSES,

AVIARIES, CHICKEN HOUSING,DOG + CAT HOUSING

ORDER NOW ON:01939 235985

www.rnwoodsolutions.co.ukUnit E4, Wem Ind. Estate, Wem

Shropshire, SY4 5SO

IAN CLIFFLawnmower, Chainsaw& Garden MachinerySales: Service : Repairs

Inc.

Wem Tool HireAll types of professional &

DIY tools for hire

28a ASTON STREET, WEMTel: 234711

The MaltingsUnit 15 Wem Business ParkNew Street, Wem, SY4 5JX

Home reared Gloucester Old Spot sausagesWe support local businesses by using

Local produce where possible,Homemade meals to eat in or take away.

OAP cooked meals from £2.50Local delivery availableStudent specials £2.99Breakfasts from £3.50

Homemade Steak BurgersHandcut Chips

See our daily specials board

01939 236364

Openfrom

8.30 am

FreeWiFi

Under New Management

51

THE OLD POST OFFICE25 High Street, Wem. Telephone - 01939 768 098

Recently Refurbished Pub.Serving locally sourced real ales,

Lagers & Spirits.

Friendly & Welcoming Staff.

Lunch Served:12-2pm Thu/Fri/Sat

Sunday Carvery 12-3pm

Weekend evening Entertainment

FUNCTION ROOM TO HIREPARTIES-MEETINGS-WEDDINGS-WAKES

Call in to see Noeline, Guy & Jackie.

52

HEAD OFFICECharleston House • Cruckmoor Lane • PreesGreen • Whitchurch • Shropshire • SY13 2BS

Tel 0870 393 0000 • Fax 0870 393 0011 Email hire@hawk-group.co.uk

CABINSTELEHANDLERS

CONTRACTS

BUILDERS

TRACTORS

MOTORS

TRAINING

HEAVY PLANT

LIGHT PLANT