Features Sneak Peek: July 4, 2020 Issue


Amazingly it’s time for our July 4 issue! Here’s what to look out for this week . . .

Just before lockdown, Simon Whaley explored the Welsh Border town of Oswestry.

Located between Welshpool and Wrexham, the town is thought to be named after Oswald’s Tree, where King Oswald of Northumbria was defeated by King Penda of Mercia in 642 AD.

The town’s location meant it was at the heart of much Welsh/English conflict throughout history. Today, Oswestry is a bustling market town with several historic landmarks.

Sand sculpting

Jamie sculpting the face of Charles Darwin. Photograph courtesy of Sand in Your Eye.

Gillian Harvey met Jamie Wardley, an artist with a unique skill. Jamie and his wife Claire started sand sculpting business “Sand in Your Eye” in 2006.

Jamie unexpectedly discovered his talent for sculpting while studying Environmental Science. After being scouted by a fellow sand sculptor, Jamie suddenly found himself travelling the world with his tools.

Read all about his journey with sand in this week’s issue.

Unprecedented times

Issue

The town of Clydebank was devastated by the Blitz. Alamy.

We spoke to Frank Meehan, a survivor of the Clydebank Blitz, about the similarities he found between the COVID-19 pandemic and those dark days.

Frank’s main takeaway? People tend to come together in times of uncertainty.

Wartime entertainers

Issue

American G.I.s entertained by pianist Horatio Davis and ENSA. Shutterstock.

Molly Green, author of “A Sister’s Song”, shared with us what she learned about wartime entertainers while researching for her novel, which is set in WWII.

Molly reflects on the role of key players such as the recently passed Dame Vera Lynn, and why wartime entertainers were so important.

Read up on the often hard but meaningful role of these entertainers.

I Scream, You Scream . . .

Issue

Everyone loves a Knickerbocker Glory… courtesy of Kelly’s Cornwall.

Just in time for the mini heatwave that’s been making its way across parts of the UK, we have a selection of ice-cream recipes just for you!

This Knickerbocker Glory is the perfect summer treat. We also have Chocolate and Pecan Brownies served with ice cream, Eton Mess served with ice cream, and much more.

Elsewhere in this week’s issue: 6 good reasons to eat spinach, Stephanie Hawthorne shares her expert advice on co-housing, we investigate whether miniature pigs make good pets, and much more.

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Mairi Hughes