SK Bramhall & Woodford January 2022 by SE Magazines

Bramhall & Woodford

THE INDEPENDENT MAGAZINE FOR THE SK7 COMMUNITY

Issue 72 January / February 2022 IN THIS ISSUE

Events - P5

Under the Hammer - P10

Interior Design - P14

Children’s Activities - P19

Food & Drink - P26

In Stitches - P28

Wellbeing Pilates - P32

Local History Events Community News Local Businesses Features

www.skmagazines.co.uk

- Interior Refurbishment Specialists - Plastering & Joinery - Interior & Exterior Decorating - Wallpaper Hanging - Experienced Craftsmen - Professional & Reliable Service - Insured & Accredited

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Welcome to SK Bramhall & Woodford Welcome to 2022 and the January / February issue of SK Bramhall & Woodford. We are re-running our Charity news article as there is still time to get in touch with Just Helping. They are here to take away your old Christmas trees, for a small donation. For the full details see page 30.

This month Food & Drink page 26

Parsnip Gratin

t’s cold and miserable as I write this as Storm Barra sweeps through the country. All I want to do is snuggle up in front of the fire and have some warming comfort food. Simon has asked me to write a recipe for January/ February and my first thought was something nice and sharp and healthy. However, the way I feel today and probably the way I’ll feel in January demands something a lot more warming. This is delicious as a main or a side to roast meats. You could omit the bacon if you want to keep it vegetarian – just adjust the seasoning.

1.5kg parsnips, peeled and sliced lengthways into halves or quarters (depending on size) Salt and black pepper Olive oil 1 knob butter (about 20g) 1 large onion, peeled and finely sliced 2-3 garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped 6 sprigs thyme, leaves picked 250g smoked bacon lardons 300ml double cream 100g wholegrain mustard A few gratings nutmeg 12 sage leaves 1 handful breadcrumbs (optional) 1 handful cheddar or parmesan, grated

What a couple of years it’s been for our local clubs. This issue we catch up with Bramhall Golf Clubs Lady Captain for 2020 and 2021, Maria Spencer. To find out what been going on turn to page 16.

Heat the oven to 180C (160C fan)/ 350F/gas 4. Put the parsnips in a large pan of cold water and add a generous pinch salt. Gently bring to a boil, then simmer for six to eight minutes, until just tender. Drain and set aside. Heat a glug of oil and the butter in a large heavy-based saucepan, and gently saute the onion, garlic and thyme over a medium heat. When the onions begin to soften (five to 10 minutes), add the lardons, and continue to cook until the bacon browns slightly and the fat runs. Taste for seasoning, remove from the heat, and add the cream, mustard and nutmeg. Arrange the parsnips cut side down in an ovenproof dish, and cover with the sauce. Top with the sage leaves, breadcrumbs (if using), and cheese, then bake for 20 minutes, until bubbling and golden brown.

Sharon has some great advice on something that will become more important in the coming years to our home…the “Home Office”. Check out Interior Design on page 14. As we are going to print the governments “Plan B” was coming into place so please remember to contact the organisers of the events and activities we have in the magazine. People and groups will be going at their own pace so it’s best to check up before you go than be disappointed on the day. Wishing you all a Happy New Year from the SK staff and advertisers. Cheers

Simon Simon Hemsley SK Magazines T: 07952 005518 E: simon@skmagazines.co.uk W: www.skmagazines.co.uk

Contents Welcome - Page 3 Events - Pages 5,6 & 8 Under the Hammer – Page 10 Community Care - Page 12 Interior Design – Page 14 Club News – Page 16 Children’s Activities - Pages 19 & 22 Health & Wellbeing – Page 24 Food & Drink – Page 26 In Stitches – Page 28 Charity News – Page 30 Wellbeing Pilates – Page 32 Community Index – Page 34 Mind Matters – Page 36 Ad Index - Page 38

To advertise in SKBramhall & Woodford please contact Simon Hemsley on 07952 005518 or e-mail simon@skmagazines.co.uk for further information. SKCheadle Hulme & Cheadle: September Deadline: February / March 2022 issue is 12th January. SKBramhall & Woodford and SKWimslow & Alderley Edge March / April issues is 11th February. (please allow two extra days for ad design). Printed by Stephens & George ©SK Magazines. All rights reserved. No reproduction can be made without permission.

SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022 | 3

R8 servicing & repair

0161 480 1100 4 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

EVERY MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY: CHEADLE HULME FITNESS Contact Penny on 0161 440 8059 or mail@cheadlehulmefitness.org.uk EVERY MONDAY: THE ROBINS SINGERS Email sec.robinssingers@gmail.com for more information. EVERY MONDAY AFTERNOON AT 2 PM: ART AND CRAFT GROUP AT BRAMHALL METHODIST CHURCH Call the Church Office for information 0161 439 1204 EVERY 3RD MONDAY OF THE MONTH: THE CURRY CLUB Contact Hazel Hiley, 0161 439 1281 Email hazelhiley@gmail.com LAST MONDAY OF THE MONTH: GATLEY & CHEADLE DIABETES GROUP Contact Jean 0161 485 1628. EVERY MONDAY & WEDNESDAY OVER 60’S MEN’S KEEP FIT Contact John on 01625 877549 or Graham on 0161 483 7631 EVERY MONDAY, WEDNESDAY & FRIDAY: CHEADLE HULME FITNESS Contact Penny on 0161 440 8059 or Email mail@cheadlehulmefitness.org.uk

EVERY FOURTH MONDAY OF THE MONTH: THE TREFOIL GUILD Further details from Secretary.BramhallTG@ gmail.com or 07887 950298. EVERY TUESDAY (TERM TIME ONLY): BROOKDALE YOUTH THEATRE Email BrookdaleYT@outlook.com EVERY FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH: BRAMHALL & WOODFORD SEWING & CRAFT CIRCLE Contact Karen on 07860 458260. EVERY TUESDAY: BRAMHALL WORLD CIRCLE DANCE GROUP Contact us through web site www.bramhallcircledance. wordpress.com or ring 07713 681439. First session free with SK booklet. FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH: CHESHIRE LADIES LUNCHEON CLUB Contact Joan Fitzgerald on 0161 428 2515. EVERY SECOND & FOURTH TUESDAY OF THE MONTH: STOCKPORT SYMPHONIC SOUNDS Contact Liz Pennington on 0161 439 7484 or Diana Oldfield on 0161 439 9219. FIRST AND THIRD TUESDAY EVERY MONTH: KNIT AND KNATTER GROUP Contact Jean on 0161 439 8241. EVERY WEDNESDAY: TODDLERS Contact 0161 485 1605 for details.

SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022 | 5

PLEASE CHECK MEETING IS ON BEFORE ATTENDING

EVERY WEDNESDAY: POWNALL PROBEX CLUB.  Email pownallprobexclub.org.uk EVERY WEDNESDAY: BRAMHALL PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY For more details. Email: info.bramhallps@ gmail.com or www.bramhallps.org EVERY WEDNESDAY: STOCKPORT BARBERSHOP CHORUS We sing as Harmony Revival and rehearse at 7.30 each Wednesday evening at Wesley Street Methodist Church in Hazel Grove and can be contacted via our website - harmonyrevival.co.uk, or by email to info@harmonyrevival.co.uk. EVERY WEDNESDAY: THE LAURENCE SINGERS Email: enquiries@thelaurencesingers.org.uk or call Cliff on 01625 527204 or visit www.thelaurencesingers.org.uk EVERY WEDNESDAY: STOCKPORT COMMUNITY CHOIR Email info@stockportcommunitychoir.org.uk or ring Phil on 07771 730 810. EVERY WEDNESDAY: BMC BABY CHAT BRAMHALL METHODIST CHURCH. For further details telephone 0161 4391204. STOCKPORT LADYBROOK SPEAKERS CLUB Contact Gaynor Dennett 07722 166605 visit www.stockportladiesspeakers.co.uk

6 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY: ROTARY CHEADLE & DISTRICT DEMENTIA GROUP Contact Rita Kumar 07899951600. EVERY WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH – PARKINSON’S UK – STOCKPORT BRANCH Check out our web page www.parkinsons.org.uk/ local-support-groups/regions/ stockport-branch for a full list of our programme. EVERY SECOND WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH: THE ARTS SOCIETY NORTH EAST CHESHIRE Contact Maggie Schofield on 0161 427 9451 or inf0@theartssocietynortheastcheshire.org.uk EVERY OTHER WEDNESDAY: STOCKPORT LADIES SPEAKERS For more information go to www.stockportladiesspeakers.co.uk or email sixdennett@aol.com

BROOKDALE YOUTH THEATRE PRESENT PETER PAN

A fantasy musical adventure! Mon 22nd – Saturday 27th November 2021 Curtain up 7pm and Saturday matinee at 2pm Brookdale Club and Theatre, Bridge Lane, Bramhall, SK7 3AB Book online at www.thebrookdaleclub.com or 0161 302 2302.

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EVERY THURSDAY: BRAMHALL THURSDAY CLUB Contact Carol Sargent g.davidsargent@btinternet.com, 0161 439 1779 or Facebook page, Bramhall Thursday Club. EVERY 1ST AND 3RD THURSDAY: PROBUS CLUB OF STOCKPORT SOUTH contact Chris Ward 0161 483 5174 or email: chris@vistech.plus.com. EVERY THURSDAY (TERM-TIME ONLY): TNT - A YOUTH GROUP FOR AGES 10-15 Contact Elaine Noden 0161 355 1459. FIRST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH: WOODFORD WI Contact Cheshire Federation of WIs at www.cheshirewi.org.uk or call 01244 347462. EVERY SECOND AND FOURTH THURSDAYS EACH MONTH LINK WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP AT BRAMHALL METHODIST CHURCH AT 2.30 PM Call the Church Office for information 0161 439 1204 THIRD THURSDAY OF THE MONTH (EX SEPTEMBER): Contact Jean Tudge 0161 487 1324. EVERY THURSDAY: LADYBROOK SINGERS Contact Mary: 07777 646828 if you want to find out more. You’ll find us on Facebook too. www.ladybrooksingers.co.uk EVERY 4TH THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH (EXCEPT FOR DECEMBER): RETIRED TEACHERS CLUB Contacted on 0161 4398794. SK8 7AA. Call 0161 486 9226. 8 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

EVERY FRIDAY: WOODFORD COMMUNITY CENTRE BRIDGE CLUB Contact Judith Fletcher on 0161 439 5310. EVERY SUNDAY: BRAMHALL BAPTIST CHURCH MORNING SERVICE For more details www.bramhallbaptist.co.uk or call 0161 440 9091. EVERY SUNDAY: LIVE MUSIC @ THE CHURCH INN Contact 0161 485 1897. EVERY SUNDAY: “HUNGRY FOR HELP” Contact Suzi: 07876 152 630. www.oagb.org.uk FIRST SUNDAY OF THE MONTH: THE BROOKDALE CLUB QUIZ NIGHT Contact Roger Salt on 0161 439 0371.

CHEADLE HULME GARDENING AND SHOW SOCIETY Welcome all members and some new ones hopefully to our busy 2022 schedule. Our January talk begins on Friday 14th 2022 at 8pm. Jane Allison will be giving a talk on ‘IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR’ - plenty of surprises to be found in our gardens on plant relatives. CHEADLE HULME PARISH ROOMS, CHURCH ROAD SK8 7JB There will be refreshments and a raffle. All welcome, come along and meet our friendly gardening club members. For more details ring Kate:- 0161 485 4322

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Cheshire leads the way with star finds after cracked Oriental treasure sparks worldwide bidding battle A new year of antique discoveries is under way and I hope Cheshire can replicate the success of 2021 when it sparked one of the year’s major finds.

trailing clouds, was achieved despite a 5cm by 8cm reglued section on the rim and a 27cm crack. Its style of decoration had its roots in the imperial designs of the Qianlong period (17361795). Similar examples exist in The Palace Museum, Beijing, China.

A damaged Chinese vase dismissed as worthless - sold for tens of thousands of pounds after I spotted its potential. I was called to value objects at a client’s Cheshire home but she didn’t show me the cracked vase, believing it to be of no value. A few years ago, she had taken the inherited piece to a U3A event to show an Asian ‘expert’. Due to its damage, she told our client it was worthless, nor did she recognise the mark on its base.

Isabel Murtough, head of Fine Art at Hansons, with the valuable Chinese vase.

However, it took my eye instantly. It was on top of a glass cabinet, its home for 25 years. Antique Oriental porcelain is highly sought after by wealthy Chinese buyers. They’re keen to repatriate items and honour the country’s rich ceramics heritage.

The owner of the vase, an 89-year-old retired speech therapist, told me she remembered seeing it at her grandparents’ house a long time ago. However, she had no idea how they came to own it.

She was amazed to discover its potential value and even more delighted by the result. She planned to share the proceeds with her children. Finds like this that make my day. It’s wonderful to deliver some unexpected windfall joy. In addition, a grateful Chinese buyer is thrilled to secure a piece of their country’s ceramics heritage.

Entries are invited for Hansons Closer investigation revealed that the Auctioneers’ forthcoming auctions. Chinese blue and white nine-dragon Free valuations and home visits This Chinese vase, Jiaqing bottle vase bore a Jiaqing mark from period, sold for a hammer available across Cheshire and the period 1796-1820 making it around price of £40,000. surrounding counties. To find out more, 200 years old. It entered Hansons’ email service@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk or October 2021 Fine Art sale with a guide price of call 01283 733988. £10,000-£15,000 – and sparked a fierce bidding battle. The hammer finally went down at £40,000 and the object returned to China. The total paid with buyer’s premium was £55,595. Not bad for Twitter: HansonsUK an item deemed worthless. Facebook: HansonsAuctioneersUK The strong price for the vase, which featured Instagram: hansons_auctioneers painted dragons chasing a flaming pearl among

10 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

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SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022 | 11

WINTER WRAPPED UP

hanges to our bodies as we get older mean that cold weather and winter bugs affect us more than they used to. And this winter, we know we’ll need to live with coronavirus as well as other respiratory viruses. The good news is that there’s lots we can do to help keep ourselves well at this time of year. The flu jab – it is really important to get your flu jab every year, even if you have had a flu jab the previous year. The flu virus changes every year, so you need to make sure that you get it each year. Bedroom windows – keep your bedroom window closed at night when the weather is cold. The coldest time of the day is just before dawn and breathing in cold air increases the risk of chest infections, heart attacks and strokes. The ideal temperature for bedroom is 18°C (64°F). Heating your home – It is best to keep your house at a stable temperature rather than turning the heating up and down and just putting on the heating for a couple of hours a day. Sudden changes in temperature can cause health problems. Recommended temperatures for the living room 21°C (70°F) and bathroom between 22°C and 24°C (71°F and 75°F). Insulation – you will feel the benefits of good insulation all year round, not just in winter. Insulation is like a Thermos; your home will stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Wear a hat – don’t just save it for the outdoors. It may sound silly but wearing a hat indoors during the cold weather is a really good idea, it will help you keep warm.

12 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

Keep moving – it may be tempting to sit in one room during the cold snaps but staying active is essential for your general wellbeing, it also generates heat and will help to keep you warm too. Try not to sit still for more than an hour. You can do chair-based exercises, moving your arms, legs and wiggling your toes can all help to keep you warm and well. Personal alarm – it is often the case that people feel more isolated than usual during the winter, this can knock our confidence. A personal alarm can help to reassure you, your family and friends. If you fall or you’re unwell it connects you to a 24-hour call centre who will contact a chosen person to help you or the emergency services. Age UK, the NHS and Government websites have information specifically for older people on how to keep safe in winter. We can also help by checking in with those who are vulnerable in our community to make sure they have stocks of food and medicines, so they do not need to go out during very cold weather.

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SECRETS TO CREATING THE PERFECT HOME OFFICE

orking from home is much more common practice since the awful Covid virus hit about 2 years ago. It’s not just entrepreneurs and some part time customer service types any more, there are so many of us finding ourselves WFH, but creating the perfect area for home working can be quite tricky. Most of us didn’t think we’d be spending most of our working day at home when we moved in, so being inventive with space is key. Storage is the first solution. You may not require a big room as we might see in a film, with a leather inlaid desk in the middle and room for your birthday party to go ahead around you. But you’ll usually need space for a laptop, books and some stationery whilst working, then lots of places to hide them all when you’ve put in your day’s work. After all, this new home office area is usually in the dining room or the corner of the bedroom. Built in cupboards are fantastic, yes, an investment but you can utilise all the corners and use the full height to squirrel your items away without losing things and it will look lovely. Eliminating clutter helps with not feeling claustrophobic. Paint them and your walls light, bright and inviting colours. Light blues and greens along with lots of white are calming colours. Adding plants is a great way to accessorise and helps

14 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

with air quality. Various studies have found that houseplants reduce stress and anxiety and facilitate healing. Research performed by scholars at the Harvard School of Public Health also discovered that “green” space increases the performance of cognitive function. A calm, bright working environment can help with productivity, whilst a small, dark room crammed with the ironing that hasn’t been done yet can negatively impact our mental health and slow us down. Rooms with large windows letting natural light in are the best, second best is to add some nice lighting. Task lights pointing to necessary areas along with general softer lighting is what to aim for. Most of your working day may be spent here so you deserve a lovely space that helps your mental health. You should look forward to at least being in a gorgeous room. I can help!

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Club News

MY UNUSUAL YEAR(S) AS LADY CAPTAIN

ressing up as a key worker (in my case a refuse collector), dancing with Elvis and being an inflatable witch are not exactly the first things you think of when you think of a Lady Captain’s role at a golf club. But then Bramhall Golf Club Ladies section isn’t exactly ordinary. The ladies love a good dance, a fun golf competition and a good time. We are serious about our golf too and that’s what makes it so great.

or a drink in our recently refurbished club house. A passion for golf is what we all have in common and ladies who win our Major competitions are rewarded with a trophy and their name on the boards.

Lady Captains Day

We have 3 teams that play in the East Cheshire leagues and we regularly enjoy success, this year the A team reached the final. We have lots of parties spread throughout the year, hence the dancing with Elvis. We raise lots of money for charity, hence the dressing up. We are a A team community.

I took on the role of Lady Captain in Charity Day dressed as key workers February 2020, Wuhan was in the This year we have welcomed news but we were more over 30 ladies into our worried about the winter academy, they are learning weather. Little did we realise that golf can be difficult that the true storm of covid but great fun. The Handicap was ahead of us. That year system means that very soon was spent organising lots of they will be joining in our events that, in the end, never competitions. actually happened. But during Ladies dinner that time the ladies section If you are interested in joining showed its true colours with our golfing community, just contact Rachel or everyone fully supporting each other and the Karen in the office on 0161 439 6092 or email club. Mercifully, 2021 has proved a lot more fun. them at OfficeAdmin@bramhallgolfclub.com I love Thursdays, when we usually have our golf competitions. They are always well supported, and after playing we come in and have lunch

16 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

Maria Spencer Lady Captain

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Aqua Babies

Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. Valley School, Whitehaven Road, SK7 1EN. 0161 973 1931.

Active Angels

Tuesday 10 – 11.30am (term time only) – drop in; 0 – 5 years old. Babies 50p, 1-2yrs £1 & 2+ £1.50. Provide a variety of toys and activities to suit all ages, along with healthy snacks and drinks. St Michael & All Angels Church, St Michael’s Avenue, Bramhall, SK7 2PG..

Babyballet Bramhall

Our magical classes run throughout the week for ages 6months - 5years. Babyballet is a fun and engaging way to help children of all abilities develop, co-ordination, musicality, posture and rhythm. Please email Miss Betty on bramhall@ babyballet.co.uk or call 07399 472449.

BMC Baby Chat

10:00-11:00 am. Term-time only. Bramhall Methodist Church, Bramhall Lane South Come and join us every Wednesday morning for a chat, tea/coffee and biscuits and the opportunity to meet other mums, grandparents and carers with young babies in the Bramhall area. For further details please contact Hannah@bramhallmethodists.og.uk

Baby Loves Massage

Tuesday mornings. Harper Studios, Newby Road, SK7 5DA (near Stepping Hill Hospital). Call Kate 07866 468245. Email babylovesmassage@live.co.uk. www.thebabymassagecompany.co.uk.

Bramhall Library Storytime

Mondays 11 – 11:30am. Sharing stories, sharing books. Age - Under 5’s Cost - Free Bramhall Library Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall. T: 0845 644 4307. E: bramhall.library@stockport.gov.uk.

Bumps and Bashes First Aid classes:

Classes take place in and around the Stockport area and can also be conducted in your own home. Please contact Jaime on 07909 005129 or email stockport@bumpsandbashes.com.

Drama (5-7’s)

Saturdays 1.15pm-2pm.Starlight Performing Arts Academy CIC, Bramhall Moor Lane, (opp Stepping Hill Maternity Hospital) SK7 5AA. T 0161 439 8009 or 07515 397715. www.starlightperformingarts.t83.net

Enjoy A Ball

Tuesdays at Bramhall Scout Hut, St Michael’s Avenue, Bramhall. Call Sam to pre book on 07973 886783. 1.45pm: 2.5-3.5 years & 2.45pm: 3.5- school age & 3.45pm: Reception & 4.45pm: Years 1 & 2.

Fun in French

For 4-11 year olds, on a Wednesday afternoon at 4pm (term time only) at the United Reformed Church, Robins Lane, Bramhall. A “La Jolie Ronde” licensed teacher, who uses songs, stories, role plays & games to teach French to children. Call Claire 07866 852859.

Jabberjacks

Wednesday mornings @ United Reform Church, Robins Lane, off Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall SK7 2PE. Call Sue on 01625 540999

Jo Jingles

Jo Jingles classes are carefully structured. Each week different educational themes are introduced using well-known nursery rhymes and action songs. Mondays 9.30am - Under 2s and 10.30 - Over 2s. Wednesdays 9.25am - Over 2s and 10.20 - Under 2s at Bramhall Methodist Church, Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall. Call Laura on 0161 431 0674/07983513491 to book

Little Fishes Toddler Group

Friday at 10-11.30 a.m. Bramhall Methodist Church, 23 Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall, SK7 1AL .For more information contact the church office on 0161 439 1204 or email office@ bramhallmethodists.org.uk.

Little Lambs Baby & Toddler Group 10-11.30am. Thursdays (term time only) at Bramhall Baptist Church, Woodford Road. SK7 1PB. Toys, refreshments and song time. Suggested donation of £2 per adult, pre-booking is now required. Check bramhallbaptist.org or email bramhallbaptist.church@gmail.com for more details.

Little Superstars Sports Club

Trinity Gardens, Davenport. Mornings & afternoons. Call Louise 07904 311552.

The Mill Youth Centre

Free Admission for 10-18 year olds. Mon-Fri 3:30-5pm & Sat 1-3pm & 6:30-8:30pm www.themillbramhall.com. 0161 440 8022

SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022 | 19

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All Home Improvements General Building Works House Builds Extensions Knock Through Family Rooms Open Plan Rooms Loft Conversions Bi-Folds BUILDING REGS • BUILDING CONTROL • STRUCTURAL CALCS PLANNING & ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES

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SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022 | 21

Michael’s Munchkins Baby and Toddler Group

Friday 10– 11.30am (term time only) drop in. £2.50 per family – coffee, tea, juice, cakes and biscuits included. For all pre-school children and babies with their parents and carers. St Michael & All Angels Church, St Michael’s Avenue, Bramhall, SK7 2PG.

Rhythm & Rhyme

We offer multi-sensory, exciting, structured classes with Makaton signing. Join the fun! For babies & preschool children. Thursday mornings, Bramhall 4th Scout Hut, 67 St Michael’s Avenue SK7 2PG. Call Laura 07795 484494 or visit rhythmandrhyme.co.uk

Rhythm Time

Mini Movers

Friday mornings. Phone Frances Donkin: 01270 884583 The Bramley Centre, Scout Hut, Bramley Close, SK7 2DT.

0161 474 4471

Seedlings

Tuesday 9am- 12pm at Bramhall Lawn Tennis Club. Call Abi on

Messy Play Classes

at Fir Road Scout Hut in Bramhall on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays. The classes are for children from 5 months to 5 years and are messy play and mark making classes with an emphasis on early writing skills. I can be contacted via this email address:katie@littlelearnersuk.com.

Mucky Pups Arts & Crafts

St Michael’s Scout Hut, St Michael’s Avenue, Bramhall. Mornings. Call Nikki on 07511 622445.

Praise & Play

Thursday 10 – 12 noon (term time only) drop in. All pre-school children, babies and their carers. They play, have stories and make music. Healthy snacks and drinks available St Michael & All Angels Church, St Michael’s Avenue, Bramhall, SK7 2PG.

Pre-School Ballet

Mondays and Saturdays. Bramhall School of Dancing. 0161 440 8093.

Pre-School Swimming

Monday 1.15-1.45pm and Friday 11.30-12pm. Hazel Grove Baths, Jackson Lane, Hazel Grove. Call 0161 439 5221.

Pre-School Tap Dancing

RJL Dance Studios, St Peter’s Parish Centre, Hazel Grove. Tuesdays at 3.454.15pm. Call 07739 695603 for places.

Pyjama Drama

Tuesday mornings 2- 5 year olds. United Reformed Church, Bramhall. Call Alison 0844 504 5119 or alison@pyjamadrama.com.

22 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

Hazel Grove Baptist Church, Station Street, Hazel Grove. Tuesdays 10-11.3oam and 1.152.45pm. Call first on 0161 487 3708.

Tiny Talk Baby Singing

Friday mornings at Benjafold Guide Hut, Ack Lane East, Bramhall. Call Julie on 07914 088845.

Tiny Thinkers

Tuesday 1.30pm – 2.15pm (term time only) booked. A pre-school learning class that provides education for children. 2.5 years – 5 years old. Fun stimulating games are played that teach phonic letters, numbers & shapes. Contact Karina on 07969633654. St Michael & All Angels Church, St Michael’s Avenue, Bramhall, SK7 2PG.

Tumble Tots, Gym Babes & Gym Bobs

Mondays, first class at 9.45am, last one at 3.50pm (7 classes). Bramhall Village Club, Lumb Lane. Wednesdays, first class at 9.30am, last class at 3.55pm. Fridays, first class at 9.30am, last class at 2.25pm. Saturdays between 12.15pm-3pm. Bramhall Lane Lawn Tennis Club, Ramsdale Road, Bramhall SK7 2PZ. Classes last approx 45 minutes. Please pre-book with Sue on 0161 456 6166 or tumbletots.bramhall@ntlworld.com.

YSBD Performing Arts Classes

for 2-18 year olds taught by industry professionals. Contact Principle Hannah 07738 16423.

If you are interested in attending any of these activities please phone first to check the details.

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Health & Wellbeing

CHOOSING THE PERFECT BRA!

ost women wear bras, but quite often the first thing they want to do when they come in from work or a long day out is to take them off!! This is certainly the case if you have a poorly fitting bra. It’s a dilemma trying to work out what to consider when buying a bra. So, I’ve put together a few pointers to help you. Women’s breasts vary hugely in size and shape, but their structure is essentially the same. They consist of fat and breast tissue along with nerves, veins, lymph ducts arteries and connective tissue. The connective tissue and fat help give the breast it’s shape and support. The breast tissue is there to supply breast milk when needed. The blood vessels and nerve supply keep it all alive and healthy. Bras help support these structures as well as give women a nice shape under their clothes. A sports bra will need to provide most support to avoid impact through the body overstretching the structures of the breast, whereas a bra to wear for special occasions doesn’t need to be as firm. A first bra for adolescent girls needs to be softer with no underwiring as do breast feeding bras. A bra for larger breasts will naturally be more substantial than one for a small cup size. From an Osteopathic point of view, we are interested in the areas of pressure that a bra creates. 1. Make sure the bra is not too tight around the rib cage or it will restrict your rib function and breathing. If it is too loose, the bra strap rides up your back and all the weight goes onto your shoulders. 2. Similarly don’t tighten your straps over your shoulders too much or it creates pressure on the

24 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

tips of your shoulders. An ideal balance is to get a snug fit in both areas and the loading shared. 3. A good bra fitter will be an excellent source of advice. Explain what the bra is needed for - sport, work, evening/shorttime wear. The fitter will be able to guide you on sizing, style and how to fit it properly. 4. It is a good idea to vary the pattern of bra straps to help your shoulders and neck. Try mixing a racerback bra style with over the shoulder straps or halter neck. 5. Once you have a few nice bras it’s worth looking at the care and washing instructions to make them last longer. Handwashing or gentle care programs are ideal. Popping the bras into a net bag in the washer also helps. 6. You may still wish to whip your bra off at the end of a day and this is no bad thing either!! We have some great bra shops near the practicehttps://www.facebook.com/ whatlyesbeneathbramhall/ in Bramhall Village https://www.facebook.com/vanillafudgel/ in Cheadle Hulme Enjoy choosing your bras - they can be beautiful and functional too and help you feel comfortable and confident from the inside out.

Jo Cheaney Osteopath Bramhall Osteopathic Practice

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Parsnip Gratin

Your Local Solicitors Out of Hours Appointments

What we do

Lockdowns have really proven how flexible we We provide advice and assistance in the following areas: can be. Whilst our staff are working from home and juggling responsibilities, we Residential Property recognise that you may be doing this too and Commercial Property the usual 9-5 does not work for you. If you Corporate & Commercial would prefer an out of hours telephone or Dispute Resolution video appointment, please do get in touch with Family Law us. Personal Injury Medical Negligence Face to Face Appointments Wills and Probate As restrictions begin to be lifted, we are now 10% Discount for Keyworkers able to welcome you back to our offices for face to face appointments. These appointments do need to be pre-booked so We are offering a 10% discount on all legal that we can manage numbers within the office fees for keyworkers. This offer is open to new and keep everyone safe. and existing clients on all new instructions.

Pepper House 1 Pepper Road Hazel Grove SK7 5DP Next to Let Loose! SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022 | 27

Welcome to the New Year!

t’s a New Year and a brand new you. Have you been signing up to all sorts of new promises to be a better version of you that you can? Well, sewing could be a big part of that. The Great British Sewing Bee is great, for us who like nice, homely sewing. For those of us wanting something a bit more upbeat and fashionable challenging, BBC3 will be introducing The Drop. As I write this, it has only just finished filming in Manchester, presented by Miguel, a high stakes competition to find the next Best Streetwear Designer. Sounds promising and hopes to encourage more slow fashion. Helping to save the planet and prevent the pile high overstocks, Scrap Stores and Thrift Shops are making a return. They’re fun and fabulous and not the old crummy, stale smelling, infested with creatures places we believed they were. Bramhall Thrift Shop is just one of those, a wonderful ‘Aladdin’s Cave’. Situated in Bramhall centre next to the shopping precinct, The Thrift Shop takes donations of all sorts of goodies, and they have an extensive display of haberdashery and fabrics. I picked up quite a few new pieces of fabric when I visited, and almost new haberdashery at a fraction of the cost I would normal be expected to pay. I always leave with a positive feeling of doing my bit for the environment as well as my community, but the proceeds raised in the store go to a worthwhile cause. You can have a look at the long list of charities the Thrift Shop has supported and continue to support when you visit.

28 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

I visited Bournemouth on my recent travels. There I found a wonderful Scrap Store (ReUseful UK), from a national chain of over 50 in the UK. There I found all sorts of glorious objects donated by well know businesses. From wooden spindles destined to make toy cars, to tubing, foam and fur (not real of course) and even male bed pans. A young boy was there with his mum collecting all sorts of thing to go in his £5 bin bag fill. He told me he was making himself a burger costume! Lettuce, relish and sesame seeds for the bun. Creativity is unfettered by the restraints of cost, so the more Scrap Stores and Thrift Shops we can encourage, the better for our communities in the long term. In the meantime, make little changes in how you shop. Stop choosing to buy items sold in blister packs. Do we really need to buy bobbins and scissors presented so neatly in a coffin of plastic? Choose to sew natural fibres. Avoid petroleum-based fibres such as acrylics, polyester, viscose, lycra and nylon. Consider natural waddings in quilting. Soya as well as cotton batting is now becoming a popular alternate to polyester. Shop wisely and look to make a difference. If you have any great ideas to make positive changes, let me know. Happy Sewing! Abi x https://www.facebook.com/AbisSewingDen/ @Abis.Den Machine Services www.Abisden.Com YouTube  https://www.youtube.com/c/AbisDen http://abisden.blogspot.co.uk

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SOFTWARE & ANTIVIRUS FULLY MOBILE PC When a loved one passes away, it is often a stressful time for the REPAIR Stoves & Fireplaces Swept APPLE & family. We can help you by supporting you through this difficult Flues Tested & Inspected MICROSOFT time and arranging for the Grant of Probate on your behalf for a PRIVATE & Liners Installed fixed fee of £300 inc VAT. Meetings canChimney be arranged in either BUSINESS & Reliable REPAIR & Bramhall, Heald Green or even in your Professional own home. For more UPGRADE information, give us a call or drop in to one of our offices. PAY BY CRB CHECKED CARD IT SUPPORT Book online 24/7

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Charity News

LET US COLLECT AND RECYLCE RECYCLE YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE IN AID OF ST ANN’S HOSPICE!

e are once again pleased to hear that JUST HELPING will be running their annual Christmas Tree collection in the South and West Manchester area including SK7 & SK8. The 2021 St Ann’s Hospice Christmas Tree collection takes place from 13th to 16th January 2022. The collection is in aid of St Ann’s Hospice, who are celebrating their 50th birthday this year, and other local charities. You can register your tree from 15th November 2021 . online at www. charityxmastreecollection.com The collection has been run by community volunteers, sponsors and donors for nearly 10 years in partnership with St Ann’s Hospice who receive 85% of the net proceeds. The average donation is around £15 per tree. The 2021 collection raised over £50k for St Ann’s Hospice in their 50th year! Rachel McMillan, Chief Executive of St Ann’s, said: “This year we’re celebrating our We’re approaching our 50th birthday at St Ann’s Hospice. We’re proud to be one of the oldest and largest hospices in the UK, in 2021 and the fact that we’re still here after half a century and still able to support local patients is down to the amazing support of our local communities. Everyone who makes a donation really does enable us to keep our doors open and allows us to continue to provide specialist care to those who need it most. Thank you.” Emma Dixon, Director of Clinical Services at St Ann’s Hospice, said: “Our teams continue to work tirelessly on the front line to make sure that patients and their loved ones can access the care they need. This has been a really hard year for all of us, especially at the hospice where our teams have been working tirelessly on the front line to make sure that patients and their loved ones can access the care they need. We’ve adapted and grown our services to ensure they still meet the needs of those who rely on us for specialist hospice care, and can only

30 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

continue to do so thanks to the support of local people. Please do consider registering your tree and making a donation so we can continue to provide care into 2022 and beyond.” Dr Paul Jarvis, Director of Business Development at St Ann’s Hospice, said: “The Covid-19 pandemic has really hit us hard at St Ann’s, with many of our fundraising events and activities cancelled. As an organisation, we need to raise around £20,000 a day to keep our services running, and we need the support of our local communities now more than ever. We can only keep our doors open if we continue to raise the money we need - the care of patients both now and in the future is reliant on your support, so thank you for taking part in this Christmas tree scheme. We really appreciate everything you do for St Ann’s and the people we care for.” Why have JUST HELPING recycle your Christmas Tree away in 2022? You don’t have to put it in your own car and have to clean up the mess! All trees are recycled in an environmentallyfriendly way. Your donation goes to local notn- for-profit organisations with 80% going to St Ann’s Hospice. It’s a WIN-WIN for all! www.charityxmastreecollection.com If you are able to help us with the collection, whether by sponsorship or leaflet distribution (maybe on your road or estate) or through social media with friends and neighbours or on the collection days with a van or your labour please get in touch at https://just-helping.org.uk/ contact/ Also a massive thanks to Snapes estate agents for sponsoring the cost 4 vans on collection day as well as advertising with us.

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Why Pilates is so valuable throughout the menopause

always promote Pilates as the ideal exercise for anyone and everyone, however this month I’m going to focus on women and the menopause. Improving your health during the menopause is essential. Exercise is the perfect way to improve your physical and emotional wellbeing but as your body experiences the changes that come with menopause you may be unsure what is safe and effective for you. Here are some tips to help you achieve your goals and why Pilates is so valuable throughout the menopause. Two significant factors for women going through the menopause is health risk to our cardiovascular system and bone strength. Maintaining physical activity not only helps address but also protect against these conditions. It’s important to mention that menopause isn’t the cause of cardiovascular disease but often the lifestyle changes that commonly occur in this period of life that increase your risk. Cardiovascular activities can be tricky during the menopause if you are experiencing hot flushes. This should not put you off exercising though as 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week can improve your health risks. The benefits of exercise are maintaining bone mass, improving strength and flexibility, and improving balance which in turn reduces the risk of falls and therefore risk of fractures. Weight bearing (3-5 times per week) and resistance/ strength exercise (2-3 times per week) help increase Bone Mineral Density by stimulating bone growth. Pilates is a great form of exercise for bone

32 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

loading due to the positions used and the action of muscles. We often don’t use our upper body sufficiently so four-point kneeling exercises on the mat will help you safely and effectively load your wrist bones. You may also have noticed your muscle tone change which can be frustrating when you have continued to exercise as normal. Softening of the muscles through hormonal changes not only means less strength but also less control over your movement. Pilates is proven and evidence based to build core strength to ensure you move safely and make the most of your training. Women often mention they lose their train of thought as they are going through menopause. Pilates focuses on the mind-body connection which means that your concentration will start to improve as well. Learning a new task has been scientifically shown to help brain health. So, if you haven’t done Pilates before, now is the perfect time to join a class. “Change happens through movement and movement heals” Joseph Pilates To find a qualified teacher, visit the Body Control Pilates website Jules Hardman Body Control Pilates Teacher www.jules-pilates-alderleyedge.co.uk

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Email: gareth.treecare@yahoo.com • www.bankswood-treecare.co.uk Office Hours: Mon-Sun 7:00AM - 19:00PM Bankswood Treecare is a friendly run business based in the SK area. We have £5 million public liability insurance and all our work is carried in accordance with guidelines set out in the British Standards for tree works (BS3998). We follow strict guidelines in relation to birds nesting and roosting or hibernating bats as well as other wildlife, we will liaise with the appropriate authorities if the need arises. You can be sure that we will not harm or damage the surroundings as we work with complete respect for the environment and the trees themselves. Contact an experienced tree surgeon if you want a quotation, consultation or even advice.

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Useful Contacts Stockport NHS Foundation Trust’s Stepping Hill Tel 0161 483 1010 www.stockport.nhs.uk Stepping Hill Hospital, Poplar Grove, Hazel Grove, Stockport SK2 7JE. Stockport Council Tel 0161 480 4949 www.stockport.gov.uk Stockport Council, Town Hall, Edward Street, Stockport, SK1 3XE

Alanna Vine (Cons) 0161 440 8872/07742 302894 cllr.alanna.vine@stockport.gov.uk Linda Holt (Conservative) 0161 456 1199 cllr.linda.holt@stockport.gov.uk Bramhall South & Woodford Brian Bagnall (Conservative) 07785 778571 brian.bagnall3@btinternet.com

Greater Manchester Police For non-emergency calls please contact Stockport West on 0161 856 9770 stockport.westnpt@gmp. police.uk.

Mike Hurleston (Conservative) 0161 486 1573 / 07774 195592 cllr.mike.hurleston@stockport.gov.uk

Community Groups

John McGahan (Conservative) 07770 127685 cllr.john.mcgahan@stockport.gov.uk

Bramhall Rotary www.bwrotary.org Woodford & Bramhall Branch Royal British Legion Tel 07729 905953 Bramhall Golf Club www.bramhallgolfclub.co.uk 0161 439 6092 Bramhall University of the Third Age (U3A) www.bramhallu3a.org.uk 0161 440 0447

Community Website www.bramhallweb.co.uk www.ilovebramhall.com

Local MP Mary Robinson MP www.mary-robinson.org.uk

Local Councillors Bramhall North Lisa Walker (Conservative) 0161 456 3941 07887 984844 cllr.lisa.walker@stockport.gov.uk

34 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

Around Bramhall Bramhall Library Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall SK7 2DU Tel: 0845 644 4307 email: mailto: Bram.library@stockport.gov.uk Opening Hours Monday - 10am - 5pm, Tuesday - 9am - 6pm Wednesday - CLOSED, Thursday - 9am - 7pm Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday - 9am - 4pm Bramhall Post Office Maple Road, Bramhall T: 016 439 4100 Opening Hours Monday - 9.00-5.30pm, Tuesday - 9.00-5.30pm Wednesday - 9.00-5.30pm, Thursday - 9.00-5.30pm Friday - 9.00-5.30pm, Saturday - 9.00-12.00pm Bramhall Health Centre 66 Bramhall Lane South, Bramhall, SK7 2DY Telephone: 0161 983 5850 Surgery Opening Hours The surgery is open during the following times (except Bank Holidays): Monday-Friday 8.30am - 6pm

Making our home your home

Situated close to the village centre and benefiting from excellent public transport links, Hillbrook Grange Residential Care Home is a place where you can enjoy full and independent living with the benefit of care and companionship all around you. Our ethos is about creating a compassionate, caring and supportive environment, and a fresh lively atmosphere. Founded in 1952, Hillbrook Grange is run as a not-for-profit registered charity and is managed by a small team, all of whom live in the Bramhall area. The team has two key objectives: delivering high quality, long stay, holiday, and respite care in a friendly and homely environment, and provision of this care at cost effective, competitive rates. To discuss your care needs with a senior member of the Hillbrook team please contact us:

Ack Lane East, Bramhall, Cheshire SK7 2BY Tel: 0161 439 7377 info@hillbrookgrange.co.uk SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022 | 35

Mindset Advice

IS MINDFULNESS THE ANSWER TO THE U.K’S MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS? The mental health landscape in the U.K. is worrying right now, and the rest of the world are suffering too. The COVID pandemic has made things far worse, but it is not as though we were managing our mental health brilliantly before March 2020. I think that the problem can be stated, at a very high level, as a total lack of connection in the world. A lack of connection to each other, but also, and perhaps more worryingly, to ourselves. Something Isn’t Working Too many of my clients are desperately stressed, exhausted and anxious. For many of them, the first time they have ever relaxed is in their first session with me – which is not okay at all. They literally never stop just “doing things” or “being busy”. In this world of constant “busy-ness” the art of doing nothing and therefore introspection and self-connection is in grave danger of being lost. Even our children cannot do nothing for a few moments without complaining of “being bored”. Overly busy people can’t be present. They can’t notice what is going on around them properly or more critically, what is going on within them. People may not notice how their children are feeling either, as they’re too busy, and begin to class “Fine” as a suitable debrief to a day’s events at school. When mental health strikes in the form of more serious problems for ourselves, our partners or our children, it is always “a shock” and something we “didn’t see coming”… but we may well have seen it, if we were looking a little closer. Governments, psychiatrists and psychologists globally are tearing their hair out, throwing money at the problem of mental health, but the solutions proposed are not reflective of this massive effort. What if they are overcomplicating the entire situation? What if the problem really is just a lack of connection and the remedy therefore is to re-establish connection in the world? What if mindfulness can do this? Mindfulness can be defined as; “a mental state achieved by focusing awareness on the

36 | SKBramhall & Woodford - January/February 2022

present moment, while calmly acknowledging and accepting feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations.” This is certainly a state alien to most people… Among many other benefits, mindfulness reduces stress hormones and boosts presence and awareness of ourselves and therefore our empathy and awareness of other people. Being more tuned in to those around us will lead to more kindness and less judgement. So, by looking inside, we become able to see the world outside far more clearly. In a more mindful and present world, people would not simply state that it is “okay not to be okay” whilst rushing to the next meeting, and instead would adopt the far more inclusive and helpful narrative that “no one is okay all the time”. Struggle is normal, we just need to support each other without judgment when it is required. What if some calm time with our children each day would boost our connection to them and we would see them and hear them more clearly, and meet their needs more effectively, ensuring they felt safer and more loved? The very worst thing that could happen if we all focussed on mindfulness a little more, is that we would feel calmer, happier and generally better. There is no downside. I am not suggesting it is a magic bullet to cure all of the world’s problems, but it will certainly help. Meditation is the easiest route to mindfulness, and you can learn how to do it for free on my YouTube channel. The time to re-connect with yourself and the world around you is now.

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A drill free, injection free, pain free smile makeover that can be done in just one appointment. This was one of the many cases that we have done where we have used composite bonding to transform a patient’s smile, and these amazing results were achieved in just one visit to the practice. We used composite edge bonding over a single session to give the patient’s teeth straighter edges and a smoother surface appearance, and also cover the discolouration and flecking. This created a natural, aligned smile without having to damage the patient’s own teeth. This is a popular simple and very effective treatment that we offer. It is reversible and the beauty of it is that it can take years off your smile, without the need for undergoing long, invasive and costly procedures. If you would like to know more about this treatment, or any others that we offer, please give us a on 0161-4860743 to book in for a free non-obligation consultation. You can also see lots of examples of our work, as well as lots of information videos about various treatments following our Instagram page, @churchrddental.

SK Bramhall & Woodford January 2022

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