SK Wilmslow & Alderley Edge January 2023

- Interior Refurbishment Specialists

- Plastering & Joinery

- Interior & Exterior Decorating

- Wallpaper Hanging

- Experienced Craftsmen

- Professional & Reliable Service

- Insured & Accredited

“Alex and his team decorated a large area of hall, stairs and landing. They were thorough, professional and I’m delighted with the result. I would highly recommend.”

M: 07874 188 050 • T: 0161 439 9195

A: 17 Earle Road, Bramhall, SK7 3HE

E: info@springdecorating.co.uk

W: www.springdecorating.co.uk

Spring Decorating Limited, registered in England and Wales No. 11658913

Welcome to Wilmslow & Alderley Edge

Welcome to 2023 and the January / February issue of SK Wilmslow & Alderley Edge. I hope you all enjoyed the festive period, possibly even got the chance to build a snowman too. Over the last couple of months, I’ve noticed a lot of bins been left out after collection day. It’s like an open invite to burglars that you or your neighbour are not in, so if you get the chance pop the bins on their drive and out of sight.

As usual we have our pages of events and activities in and around the area, to help get you out and about within the community.

This month I wanted to mention a wonderful event I went to just before Christmas “The Stockport Music Map Walking Tour”. From The Beatles to The Blossoms, or Jimi Hendrix to Joy Division it’s a must for any fellow music lovers or just lovers of all things Stockport, I guarantee you will have a great time, we sure did.

All the best for 2023 and I hope you enjoy the read.

Simon

Simon Hemsley

SK Magazines

T: 07952 005518

E: simon@skmagazines.co.uk

W: www.skmagazines.co.uk

This month

Under the Hammer page 10

Contents

Welcome - Page 3

Events - Pages 5, 6 & 8

Under the Hammer – Page 10

Community Care – Page 12

Wellbeing - Pilates – Page 14

Food & Drink - Page 16

Children’s Activities – Page 18 & 19

Mindset Advice – Page 20

In Stitches – Page 22

Charity News – Page 24

Financial Matters – Page 26

Health & Wellbeing – Page 28

Community Index - Page 30

Interior Design – Page 32

Ad Index - Page 34

To advertise in SKWilmsow & Alderley Edge please contact Simon Hemsley on 0161 488 1979 or e-mail simon@skmagazines.co.uk for further information.

SKCheadle Hulme & Cheadle: Februaryr / March Deadline: 10th January

SKBramhall & Woodford and SK Wilmslow & Alderley Edge March / April Deadline: 10th 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.

FROM GRAPE TO GLASS

A relaxed and traditional wine bar offering an extensive and carefully selected wine list with an eclectic mixture of Old & New World wines. We have over 40 wines available by the glass and over 150 wines by the bottle, selected from all around the world.

Paired with a selection of cured meats and cheeses to compliment our wines. For more information please join our mailing list.

Opening Times: Wednesday & Thursday 3pm -11pm • Friday, Saturday & Sunday - 12pm-11pm

Monday & Tuesday Closed info@winecellarwilmslow.co.uk

01625 529 773

2d Hawthorn Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 1AA

Call or email to book but walk ins always welcome

EVERY MONDAY: THE LINDOW SINGERS

Wilmslow Academy Primary School, Handforth Road, Handforth 7:30pm. For more information contact Ann Epton, on 0161 485 2231or Email Harry.Epton@ntlworld.com or visit https://www.lindowsingers.org.uk/

EVERY MONDAY AFTERNOON

In Together Wilmslow activities group for people with dementia and their carers. Games, crafts, songs, chat plus tea and cakes. Wilmslow Methodist Church, Water Lane, 2pm to 4pm. Call Sally 07786 482048, email intogetherwilmslow@gmail.com

EVERY MONDAY: KNIT AND NATTER GROUP

Call 01625 586962 for more details.

EVERY MONDAY: LEGO CLUB 3.30-4.30 ideal for 5+, free, no need to book so come and get creative. Wilmslow Library.

EVERY MONDAY: EXERCISE FOR SENIORS

Further details contact Angela 07790291648.

EVERY MONDAY: STORIES AND SONGS

11-11:30am ideal for 4 and under, Free, no need to book but telephone 01625 374 060 for further information. Wilmslow Library.

EVERY MONDAY: ITALIAN CONVERSATION CLASSES

Call Raffaella 07900 184318 with any questions. www.italianclasses.co.uk

EVERY MONDAY: BALLROOM/LATIN AMERICAN DANCE CLASSES:

Susan Young 07712 069627

EVERY MONDAY:

OTAGO BASED STRENGTH AND BALANCE CLASS

Monday 2.00-3.00 p.m. Chapel Court, Hawthorn Street, Wilmslow. Followed by refreshments.

£5.00 per class. (Contact Angela 07790291648)

EVERY MONDAY: TALBOT BADMINTON CLUB

Email: talbotshuttleclub@gmail.com for more information.

THIRD MONDAY OF THE MONTH:

EAST CHESHIRE ALPINE GARDEN SOCIETY. We are a sociable group of enthusiastic gardeners, many of whom have a wide knowledge of things alpine. Our aim is to present an all round gardening experience with an excellent programme of good countrywide speakers. Our meetings boast a friendly atmosphere and we are happy to welcome visitors and new members. We have plant sales a competition and a raffle. Come and meet us at Wilmslow Preparatory School at 7pm for 7.30 start, September to April. Subscriptions are Single £10, Joint £18 plus £1 per meeting. Visitors £4.

EVERY MONDAY AND TUESDAY: CLASSES FOR SEQUENCE DANCING

Contact Susan Young 07712  069627

EVERY TUESDAY: MAGIC VOICES

Wilmslow 7.30pm Wilmslow Parish Hall, Cliff Road, Wilmslow SK9 4AA

EVERY TUESDAY:

ROTARY CLUB OF WILMSLOW DEAN

Contact 01625 535580. www.wilmslowdeanrotary.org.uk.

FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH:

CHESHIRE LADIES LUNCHEON CLUB

Contact: Lesley Cox 07534471782

EVERY TUESDAY: BARNBY CHOIR

8pm til 8.45pm at Wilmslow Methodist Church, Water Lane, Wilmslow SK9 5AR Contact Shan Bristow, 01625 520193 or shan@shanbristow.co.uk www.thebarnbychoir.co.uk

EVERY TUESDAY: MEMORIES, WHATSITS & THINGMAJIGS

11am-12:  we will have a selection of photographs, town maps and other objects designed to evoke memories.  We will also have tea, coffee and biscuits so we can have a good old natter about how things have changed – telephone 01625 374 060 for further information. Wilmslow Library.

EVERY TUESDAY:

WILMSLOW BADMINTON CLUB

Email mickpeel@btopenworld.com.

EVERY TUESDAY: LUNCH CLUB

Royal Voluntary Service run a lunch club every Tuesday for older people at the Methodist church, Chapel Road, Alderley Edge ,12pm to 1pm we offer a sandwich, cake and cups of tea ,it’s a great way to meet new people and have a natter. contact Julie Dickson 01625 536412

EVERY TUESDAY: JAZZ AND SWING

Contact 01625 528336.

EVERY SECOND TUESDAY OF THE MONTH: THE ARTS SOCIETY WILMSLOW

Every second Thursday of the month: The Art Society Wilmslow. Meet at the United Reform Church Wilmslow and the contact details are : wilmslow@theartssociety.org

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

WOW SINGERS (LADIES’ DAYTIME CHOIR)

Further details: cantata16@gmail.com, 01625 269721 or www.cantatamusic.org

FIRST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH:

BOOK LOVERS GROUP

2-3pm: free, no need to book.  We will have a different book theme each month so call 01625 374 060 for further information. Wilmslow Library.

EVERY WEDNESDAY: BACKBEAT A CAPPELLA

Call Chrissie on 07929 103990 for further information. www.backbeatacappella.com.

FIRST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH: DEAN ROW WI

Call our secretary Sue on 0161 485 6684.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

ALDERLEY EDGE BRIDGE CLUB. Contact John Poole on 01625 584328 or Denis Langton on 01625 583720

EVERY WEDNESDAY: BABY BOUNCE

2:30-3pm: for 12 months and under, free, no need to book so join us for rhymes.  Call 01625 374 060 for further information. Wilmslow Library.

EVERY WEDNESDAY: ADCS & SCOTTISH

COUNTRY DANCING

Contact details 01260 253401.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

WILMSLOW KNIT AND NATTER GROUP

Suitable for knitters of any ability. 9.30 - 12.00pm at Coach and Four, Alderley Road, Wilmslow.

EVERY WEDNESDAY: RHYMETIME

10am to10.30 am at Alderley Edge Library, London Road, Sessions are free with no need to book.

EVERY SECOND WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH: WILMSLOW HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Contact us on 01625 536909 or by email to wilmslowhistoricalsociety@gmail.com

EVERY THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH: CONCERTS UNDER THE SPIRE:

Every Third Wednesday of the Month: Alderley Edge Methodist Church Lunchtime Concert Light lunches served from 12 noon followed by 45-minute recital starting at 1.00 pm. Admission to the concert by programme £7 available at the door. www.alderleyedgemethodistchurch.com

LAST WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH:

IT&CHAT:

2-3pm: If you need help with getting online or using our online resources, drop in for advice.  Telephone 01625 374 060 for further information. Wilmslow Library.

EVERY FOURTH WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH: WILMSLOW U3A

Meetings at 2.30pm with a different speaker each month New members are very welcome. Costs £1 each meeting after membership fee which includes a cup of tea and a biscuit. URC schoolrooms, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow. For more information check out www.wilmslowu3a.org.uk

EVERY SECOND THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH: ROW OF TREES CUM

WIMSLOW W.I.

Contact Jean on 01625 475222.

EVERY THURSDAY: MOVEMENT TO MUSIC Call Angela 0779029168.

EVERY THURSDAY: STORY & SONG. 10am to10.30 am at Alderley Edge Library, London Road, Sessions are free with no need to book.

EVERY THURSDAY: CLASSICAL YOGA

Contact Marion Duff on 01625 528650 www. marionduff.co.uk for details.

EVERY THURSDAY: THE THURSDAY GROUP - FOR MATURE UNATTACHED PEOPLE 07939 541158 www.thursdaygroup.co.uk

EVERY THURSDAY: KEEP FIT FOR SENIORS. Thursday 1.30-3.00 p.m. Chapel Court, Hawthorn Street. Wilmslow Standing and Seated Exercise to Music. Followed by refreshments £7.00 per class (Contact Angela 07790291648)

EVERY THURSDAY: YOGA

For more information email: diana.j.davidson@btinternet.com or call 0161 929 1947.

EVERY THURSDAY: RHYMETIME

11-11:30am: Ideal for aged 4 and under, free, no need to book – telephone 01625 374 060 for further details. Wilmslow Library.

SPRAY KITCHEN UNITS AND FURNITURE PAINTING

Maria Clayton Interiors specialises exclusively in upcycling kitchen units, bedroom units and all free-standing furniture. We o er all colours from both Little Greene and Farrow and Ball. Kitchen units and bedroom units sprayed to the colour of your choice.

We take all the hassle out of the process by dismantling the units ourselves, collecting and re assembling.

We have many year’s experience and our customers are always left satis ed. “We o er quality over quantity”

3 Church Street, Wilmslow, SK9 1AX

Care and support in

Alice chilton In-Home Care is recognised as one of the ‘top providers’ of home care in the whole of the North West. We have an exceptional team who provide the highest level of support to enable you to live safely in your own home. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic we have implemented additional safety standards, including weekly testing for our care team. Our services include:

07741 001757

EVERY FIRST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH: BOOK CHAT SOCIAL

5:45-6:45 - There is no set text, no specific genre just an opportunity to come and talk about what books you have been enjoying and possibly be inspired to try something new.  Tea, coffee and a biscuit or two will be available. No need to book.  Telephone 01625 374 060 for further details. Wilmslow Library.

EVERY SECOND THURSDAY OF THE MONTH: ALDERLEY EDGE SPEAKERS

Call Mike on 07973 155651.

EVERY SECOND THURSDAY: ROW OF TREES

CUM WIMSLOW W.I.

Phone our President Pam on 01625 529177 for further details.

3RD THURSDAY OF EVERY MONTH: TRANSITION WILMSLOW MEETING

Do join us and help us make Wilmslow a greener place; we plant trees, grow vegetables, organise guided walks, bike rides and talks, help people save energy at home and lots more! Do join us and share your ideas. Everyone welcome. 7.30pm either at Quaker Meeting House or via Zoom. Contact transitionwilmslow@gmail.com for details.

EVERY 4TH THURSDAY OF EACH MONTH (EXCEPT FOR DECEMBER): RETIRED TEACHERS CLUB

Contact 0161 4398794.

EVERY THURSDAY AFTERNOON: MOBBERLEY BRIDGE CLUB

playing at Chorley Village Hall Contact Brian 01625 533797 or Angela 01625 528826

EVERY THURSDAY LEGO CLUB:

5-6:30pm: ideal for 5+, free, no need to book so come and get creative - telephone 01625 374 060 for further details. Wilmslow Library.

FIRST FRIDAY OF THE MONTH: WILMSLOW

WORDSMITHS WRITING GROUP:

10:30-11:45: write poetry, short stories or scripts in an informal setting, no experience necessary. Free, no need to book.  Telephone 01625 374 060 for further details. Wilmslow Library.

EVERY SATURDAY MORNING: COFFEE – CONCERT – COMPANIONSHIP

Coffee Morning 10 am – 12 noon every Saturday (except August). Come and meet your friends, have a natter, browse the stalls for home-made

goodies, books, Traidcraft items and much more. Informal Piano Recitals from 11 am on the first Saturday of the month. Admission free.

Alderley Edge Methodist Church

www.alderleyedgemethodistchurch.com

EVERY SUNDAY MORNING: THE ALDERLEY EDGE, WILMSLOW AND DISTRICT

FOOTPATHS PRESERVATION SOCIETY

Visit www.footpaths.org.uk

EVERY SUNDAY: “HUNGRY FOR HELP”

Contact Suzi 07876 152 630 www.oagb.org.uk

EVERY SUNDAY: TAI CHI

All year round, every Sunday morning at 10.30am @ the Leisure Centre Cricket ground.  No tuition. No charge and free parking!

SATURDAY 28TH JANUARY: STOCKPORT SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

Tchaikovsky – Romeo & Juliet, Strauss – Four Last Songs, Strauss – A Hero’s Life. Stockport Town Hall. For tickets go to www.ticketsource.co.uk/sso For 10% off use the code SK10 in check out.

TUESDAY 21ST TO SATURDAY 25TH MARCH

2023 – FOOTLOOSE THE MUSICAL

Presented by TEMPO (The Edge Musical Performing Organisation).  TEMPO’s talented young cast are excited to be performing Footloose this year. Based on the successful 1980’s film it’s a show full of great choreography and unforgettable songs including the hits; Holding Out for a Hero, Let’s Hear it for the Boy and of course the unforgettable title track Footloose. Footloose will be at the Evans Theatre, Wilmslow Leisure Centre, each night at 7.30pm, with a Matinee on Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets, priced between £12 - £15 are on sale now, go to www.tempotheatre.com  and follow the link or call 07536 398948.

SATURDAY 25TH MARCH: THE LINDOW SINGERS SPRING CONCER

Conductor Kathryn Bradley. Accompanist Ethan Mitchell. The programme: Music of Stillness, Elaine Hagenberg, The Evening Primrose, Britten  String Quartet Recital, Locus Iste, Bruckner, Become Spring, Mitchell,Five English Folk Songs, Ralph Vaughan Williams Good Night, Dear Heart, Dan Forrest. 7:30pm at St Bartholomew’s Church Wilmslow.Tickets: full price £12; Students £3. Available from choir members, call 01625 611124 or on the door.

Amazed by collector’s paradise hidden inside 16th century Cheshire cottage

Sometimes you walk into a home and immediately feel mesmerised – such is the feast of antiques and curios on display. Your eyes flit from one object to another as you try to take it all in. A lifetime of treasures fills every nook and cranny, all accumulated with a collector’s passion.

Such was the case when I strolled into a Cheshire country cottage packed to its beamed ceilings with wonders galore, both modernist and antique. There was too much to take in at first glance –ornaments, vases, plaques, paintings, statues, furniture and figurines assailed my eyes.

Everything was compellingly different – antique and contemporary - but all gelled together in a vibrant mix of curios through the centuries.

I particularly admired an outstanding pair of centuries-old Italian gilded iron wall sconce candelabra, circa 1770-90. They were acquired from the estate of English actor the late Sir Christopher Lee (1922-2015), best known for his role as Count Dracula in Hammer Horror films.

The 250-year-old candelabra are worthy of starring in a movie themselves. They are in stunning original order. The three-sconce candelabra was regarded almost as a revolution in the illumination of large rooms. This pair may be Venetian.

From candelabra that held flickering candles centuries ago, a glance to my left took me back to the future. On display was a contemporary object by creative powerhouse Tom Dixon, founder of British

designer brand Tom Dixon. His ingenuity emerges in the curvaceous structure of a purple modernist bowl. However, such is the eclectic mix I am soon stepping back in time again to admire a Delft dish featuring King William of Orange (1650-1702). Delftware or Delft pottery is a term used for Dutch tin-glazed earthenware, a form of faience. Most of it is blue and white pottery, and the city of Delft in the Netherlands was the major production centre. However, the term covers wares with other colours made elsewhere. The style originated around 1600 and the most highly regarded period of production spans 1640-1740.

Completely different yet again, a rather sombre curio is a small coffin plaque engraved with the words, ‘J Young Undertaker’. Perhaps it was displayed in the undertaker’s office years ago. Unusual ceramics abound, too, and include a fearsome lion, one paw resting on a ball-like object. The items will be offered in Hansons’ January 9 Fine and Contemporary Art Auction. Entries invited for forthcoming sales. To arrange a free valuation or home visit in Cheshire, email service@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk or call 01283 733988.

Twitter: HansonsUK

Facebook: HansonsAuctioneersUK

Instagram: hansons_auctioneers

Contemporary bowl by Tom Dixon.

Italian candelabra dating back to circa 1770.

The sitting room in the cottage is packed with antiques and curios.

Coffin plaque to advertise an undertaker.

Antique pottery lion.

Cheshire Community Choirs is a group of daytime village community choirs for people who wish to sing for fun and friendship. No auditions or experience necessary.

Bramhall Community Choir meets at Centrepoint,  Bramhall Methodist Church on Fridays 2-3.30pm. Heald Green and Alderley Edge Community Choirs meet on Tuesdays. New term starts w/c January 9th 2023.

If you lack the confidence to join an existing choir our  Beginners’ Choir starts Friday 13th January at Bramhall URC 12-1pm

Lastly, if you are a ‘dot follower’ and would like to learn to read music, they will be holding basic theory classes starting Monday 9th January 7-8pm Bramhall United Reformed Church.

For any of the courses or for further information about our choirs please email cheshirecommunitychoirs@gmail.com or phone or text Kate on 07794 050591

OUR OWN NEW BEGINNING

The New Year is the world’s most celebrated holiday, it has been for at least as long as there have been calendars. This got me thinking about its meaning and the real significance of this holiday. Why we are drawn to celebrate it in such a big way and why is its celebration so common around the world for so many cultures?

Some would tell us that we honour the month’s namesake Janus, the Roman god of beginnings and ends who stands astride the end of one year and the beginning of the next, whose two faces allowed him to look simultaneously into the past and into the future. Others may say that there is no special significance, that we transition from one day to the next as usual but when the clock strikes midnight, marking the end of one year and start of another, it is very different. We take this moment to step outside our daily lives; we reflect, look back, take stock and assess the year gone by. We question how we did over the last 12 months and we resolve to do better, hence many people’s New Year resolutions.

The New Year can be like pressing a re-set button, we can give ourselves permission to draw a line under the past 12 months. Perhaps we can also forgive ourselves a little too, maybe we are not so happy with how we dealt with difficult situations and wished for better outcomes. We can allow ourselves to ‘start again’

and take comfort from the fact that others will feel the same way too.

I suppose we will each decide the New Year’s significance for ourselves, what it means to us personally and the impact it may have, or not, on our behaviours, actions and also how long they last! The New Year also brings hope, a feeling of expectation and a desire for something positive to happen. Perhaps this year we’ll see continued success in the development of a drug for Alzheimer’s which slows memory decline, further breakthroughs in cancer treatment, and cures for other life limiting diseases?

What we can be sure of is that each New Year brings the promise of new purpose, new goals, new hope and new intentions, it is an opportunity to create our own new beginning.

Best wishes for 2023.

Karen Perry Founder, alice chilton In-Home Care Services

STAY IN SHAPE THIS WINTER WITH PILATES

As the evenings grow darker and the frosty weather closes in, the spreads of delicious food begin to fill your tables. Winter is the perfect time to take up Pilates, and here’s why:

Boost Mood and Relieve Stress

The darkness that comes along with winter can often overwhelm your mental health. With common conditions such as SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) becoming ever present when the dark nights get longer, the endorphins released during Pilates can have a positive effect on mood and stress levels.

Avoid Injury

Many people become less active as the cold weather arrives, this can lead to muscles and joints tightening up, therefore inhibiting mobility in these areas. Keeping your body ‘well-oiled’ and warmed up with Pilates exercises throughout winter keeps you mobile, helping you to avoid injury.

Strengthen Your Immune System

It’s cold and flu season, and you need all the help you can get to avoid the dreaded runny nose, sore throat and scratchy cough that is common this time of year. Regular exercise is proven to strengthen your immune system helping to fight off infections.

Maintain Physique

If you usually participate in exercise during the warmer months, you don’t have to undo all of your hard work; Pilates can help you maintain your sports form through focused, core strengthening exercise.

Control Your Weight

We know that the selection of delicious party food and puddings can be tempting. Keeping up regular exercise over the season means you can still enjoy the festive menu, while also giving

your body a way to burn those extra Christmas calories.

What Pilates classes are there?

Pilates Matwork Classes

The most popular form of Pilates is matwork. Matwork is a more traditional form of Pilates, which as it has been developed has incorporated the use of equipment such as balls, stretch bands, foam rollers or magic circles.

High Intensity Power Pilates

HIP Pilates is a more dynamic form of Pilates that combines the precision and focus of a traditional Pilates session with the dynamic energy of a high intensity workout.

Combining core strength, balance and coordination with an energetic cardiovascular element HIP Pilates is the answer to many people’s search for a functional ‘feel good’ workout.

The class is fast paced, but importantly LOW impact. Therefore, you will increase your heart rate safely whilst burning fat and building lean muscle mass. The class also uses light hand weights, which improve bone health.

Pilates is for life and can be life changing, so stick with those New Year Resolutions and join a Pilates class now!

To find a qualified teacher, visit the Body Control Pilates website

Jules Hardman Body Control Pilates Teacher

www.jules-pilates-alderleyedge.co.uk

January Recipe

MEATBALL GOULASH

This is definitely going to warm you up on a cold winters night! It’s a Delia recipe but I’ve adapted it slightly as I found there wasn’t enough sauce and there was definitely too much paprika!. I served it with tagliatelle as per her suggestion but I think it would work well with mash potato too. The minced meats make it quite economical too.

Meatballs

350g each of minced pork and minced beef

1/2 a red pepper

1 small onion

1 big clove of garlic crushed

2 tbsp of fresh parsley chopped

50 g of breadcrumbs

1 large egg

1 tbsp of seasoned flour

2 tbsp of olive oil

Salt and pepper

Chop the pepper and onion really small –I did mine in a processor with the parsley. Put all the ingredients (except the olive oil and flour) into a large bowl and mix thoroughly (using your hands is the best way – take your rings off). Make small meatballs by putting about a dessert spoon into your hands and rolling around until you have about 24 balls. Toss them very gently into the seasoned flour. Heat the oil in a large casserole dish and fry the balls until they are nicely brown – do it in batches and be patient and gentle with them. It will get

smokey so be warned. Put them to one side while you sort the sauce out.

Goulash Sauce

1 medium onion chopped

/2 red pepper chopped

1 clove garlic crushed

1 x 400g tin chopped

tomatoes

1 tbsp hot paprika

Beef stock cube

Red wine – about a glassful

Pre-heat the oven to 140c Put the onions and the pepper into the casserole you just used to fry the meatballs. After 5 mins of scraping up all the crusty meat bits add the garlic and fry gently for another minute. Add the paprika and the dregs of the seasoned flour and mix thoroughly before adding the tomatoes. Use the tomato tin to measure the same amount of water and add a stock cube. Splash in the wine until you have a decent amount of sauce. Bring it up to a simmer and then gently put the meatballs in. Cover the casserole with a tight fitting lid and put into the oven for 11/2 hours.

Serve with tagliatelle tossed with poppy seeds and a good dollop of crème fraiche.

Enjoy with the rest of the red wine.

Be who you’ve always been... a social butterfly

At Abney Court care home being a social butterfly doesn’t stop when you make the journey into care. Bring your life with you to a place you can call home. Award winning, person centred care for over 40 years.

If you’re considering care for yourself or a loved one call 01615 164 806.

Trusted to care.

Abney Court care home

Cheadle

careuk.com/abney-court

Baby Ballet

Tuesday afternoon at Handforth & Prestbury School of Dance, Dean Row Community Hall, Dean Row. Call Michelle on 0161 483 6678.

Baby Bounce

suitable for 12 months and under - Tuesdays 9.4510.15. Wilmslow Library. Pleas book in advance by calling 01625 374 060

Baby Massage & More, Meet & Massage and Mother & Baby Yoga - Lushtums

Classes in Poynton, Hazel Grove & Parrswood at local venues or in your own home. Baby Massage & More is a lovely way to enhance your bond with your baby, aid relaxation and sleep, relieve colic and constipation and meet new friends. Postnatal Yoga with your baby to regain your strength and shape one day at a time, whilst having yoga fun with your baby. Babies welcomed with all their moods and states. Pregnancy Yoga and birth preparation also available. Contact Suzanne.wild@lushtums. co.uk or www.lushtums.co.uk.

My Baby Massage

Tuesday in Alderley Edge. Call Claire on 01625 583325 or 07952 810350.

Baby Reflexology

Thursday morning at Moor Lane, Wilmslow. Call Gabby on 07817 597288.

Baby Sensory

Tuesday morning & afternoon at St John’s Church Hall, Knutsford Road, Wilmslow. Call Beccy on 07503 547083.

Bon Bons

Wednesday morning at Wilmslow Parish Hall, Cliff Road, Wilmslow. Call Bonnie on 07739 359948.

Caterpillar Music

Monday morning at Wilmslow Leisure Centre, Rectory Fields, Wilmslow. Call Jan on 01925 860459.

The Creation Station

Wednesday morning at Dean Row Village Hall, Brown Lane, Wilmslow. Call Sarah on 0844 854 5065.

Friday Tots

Friday 10 – 11.30am at Alderley Edge Methodist Church. Call Susan on 01625 585166.

Little Footprints

Wednesday & Friday 9.15 – 11am at Dean Row Community Centre, Dean Row. Call Brenda on 01625 251097.

Little Strikers Pre-School Football

Monday morning at Parish Hall, The Corrs, Cliff Road, Wilmslow. Wednesday morning at The Scout Hut, Talbot Road, Alderley Edge. Call 07792 791382

Lego Club

Thursdays 3.30-4.30. Wilmslow Library. Pleas book in advance by calling 01625 374 060

Little Superstars Sports Club

Friday morning & afternoon at Wilmslow Leisure Centre, Rectory Fields, Wilmslow. Call Louise on 07904 311552.

Mums, Dads & Tots

Wednesday 1.30 – 3pm at St. Benedict’s Church, Hall Road, Handforth. Call Jacquie on 01625 250471.

Music Bugs

Friday morning at Wilmslow Parish Hall, Cliff Road, Wilmslow. Call Stacey on 0844 822 1175.

Praise & Play

Tuesday at 1.30 – 3pm at St Chad’s Church, Wilmslow Road, Handforth. Call Chris on 01625 530228

Puddle Ducks Baby & Pre-School

Swimming

Friday afternoon at The Hallmark Hotel, Stanley Road, Handforth. Call 01477 410080.

Pregnancy yoga

Sundays 9:30 - 11:00 at the Dean Row Village Hall, Wilmslow. Call Anna on 07801 058379 or email anna@yoga4pregnancy.co.uk

Postnatal yoga

Thursdays 10:00 - 11:30 at the Dean Row Village Hall, Wilmslow. Call Anna on 07801 058379 or email anna@yoga4pregnancy.co.uk. Little ones welcome.

Raindrops Tots

Tuesday 10am – 12pm (term time only) at Wilmslow Parish Hall, Cliff Road, Wilmslow.

Rhyme Time

Thursdays 11.00-11.30. Wilmslow Library. Pleas book in advance by calling 01625 374 060

Sally Williams Baby Ballet

Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday afternoons at Wilmslow Leisure Centre, Rectory Fields, Wilmslow. Call Sally on 01625 585070.

Songs & Rhymes

Mondays during term time at 10 am at Wilmslow Methodist Church. Please contact the church office on 01625 528892 for more info or to book a place.

Story Time for Under 5’s

Mondays 9.45-10.15. Wilmslow Library. Pleas book in advance by calling 01625 374 060

Talking Tots

Wednesday morning at Wilmslow Parish Hall, Cliff Road, Wilmslow. Call Beccy on 07947 735373.

Tennis Tykes

Monday & Friday afternoon (term time only) at St John’s Church Centre, Lindow. Call Caroline on 07843 342662.

Tiddlywinks Mini Church (activities, play & stories)

Story, song and craft activity session on Wednesdays during term time 10.30 am - 12 pm at Wilmslow Methodist Church. Please contact the church office on 01625 528892 for more info.

Tiny Hands

Friday 10 – 12pm at St Mary’s Methodist Church, Wilmslow Road, Handforth. Call Margaret on 01625 526591.

Tiny Toes

Wednesday morning at Wilmslow Leisure Centre, Rectory Fields, Wilmslow. Call Sally on 01625 585070.

Tumble Tots

Tuesday and Wednesday at Wilmslow Leisure Centre, Rectory Fields, Wilmslow. Contact Megan on 07814 020095.

Water Babies Swimming

Monday afternoon / Tuesday morning at The Hallmark Hotel, Stanley Road, Handforth. Call Chris on 01270 611111. Also Monday & Wednesday afternoon at The Holiday Inn, Altrincham Road, Wilmslow. Call 01270 781239.

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

ESTABLISH & LIVE BY YOUR PERSONAL BOUNDARIES TO MAKE 2023 A YEAR TO REMEMBER

As most of you will know, I like to be a little different in my articles. This new year is no exception. There will be no predicable narrative about setting good intentions, no, I will show you an approach that will guarantee that 2023 really is a Happy New Year for you.

Sounds great, but how?

I want you to understand, establish and live by your personal boundaries next year. This will make so many aspects of your life easier, such as goal setting and achievement, building self-esteem, confidence and regulating your personal relationships. Whilst there will be some difficult moments, this approach to life will ultimately make you happier.

But what even are boundaries?

Personal boundaries are rules (written or unwritten) which we each have in relation to our interactions with other people. Technically, we all have boundaries regardless of what we think or know about them. So, it is not a matter of deciding to have them or that we need them, they are already there. Despite them being there, not everyone knows what their boundaries are or even that they have them at all. The people that do know what their boundaries are don’t always live by them, because this can be quite hard. The reason is that once you know what your boundaries are, enforcing them is likely to mean that you may upset other people sometimes. This is because other people unconsciously want you to fit in with their plans and their own boundaries. Because of this, living by and strictly enforcing personal boundaries requires great self-esteem, self-belief and confidence. These traits are sadly not all that common, which means that many of us are existing in situations where personal boundaries are not being observed or protected. I will never forget what a client once said to me in their first session following a period of

narcissistic abuse. They said; “I wish I had not stuck up for myself in communicating my boundaries, as it was better to be loved by them than to be alone”. Let that one sink in. This shows both the courage needed to live a life protected by boundaries and also the endemic lack of selfesteem preventing many people from doing so. Thankfully I was able to help this client change their mind, but I would like to help many more people too. So what can we all do about this?

1. Firstly think about whether you know what your personal boundaries are. You will most likely have different boundaries for work colleagues, friends, family and romantic relationships.

2. If you don’t know what they are, that’s okay, give it some careful thought and write out what you think they are as well as you can.

3. Once you are happy with the definitions of your boundaries, think about whether you are living by them or not in the various situations you experience in your life.

4. If you are not living by them, either all the time or sometimes, then make a plan of how to introduce them into your relationships. This isn’t easy, and it is best to be gradual but firm as you proceed.

5. This is the hard part. Ride out the implementation period to the bitter end. Learn, adapt, grow and sit tight, it isn’t easy, but it is worth it.

Living a life that is broadly aligned with clearly understood and communicated personal boundaries will ensure that 2023 will be your best year yet.

If you need support with any stage of this journey then reach out to me.

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Microwavable Soup Bowl Cosiess

Awinter broth is soothing for tired, cold and weary muscles, fighting flu, coughs and colds. That’s how I see soup. However, living in Scotland for a brief time, I discovered that a soup seems compulsory part of a diet and most people I knew had them as comfort food.  I love a good homemade Stilton and Broccoli soup and I think Tomato or Minestrone are popular for most. Let’s make some bowl cosies to help keep the soup hot and your hands warm as you slurp into a good spoonful.

Make a template to start off with to ensure the cosy will fit your bowl.

A good measure will be a 10” square paper

Fold in half and then half again

Unfold, use the creases in your paper to mark out darts on each of the four sides.

From the edge of the paper, follow and mark a dot along the crease, at 2.5” toward the middle of the paper.

From the crease, along the sides of the paper, mark 1” on either side of the crease. Join the 3 marks to make a triangle.

Do this on all 4 sides of the square (I have shown one as an example in the square below)

Cut the triangles out and tape the paper together to make a paper bowl. If your soup bowl fits this cosy, then you can move onto making this in fabric.

If you find, your bowl is too wide, then use a larger square. You may need to go up to 13” for a pasta bowl shape.

If you have a deeper bowl, then, perhaps your darts need to be longer., Maybe make them 3”-4”. Not too long though.

Time to Sew

Use the template and cut out 2 pieces of 100% cotton fabric squares.

Cut 2 squares of a natural Batting (wadding) I use Soya and Cotton mix from Vlisene. It’s 1/4” thick.

Mark the triangle darts on the fabric and the batting, but do not cut them out.

Lay one fabric square with the wrong side against a piece of batting, I use 2 or 3 safety

pins to hold them together, treat this as one piece of fabric. Fold the fabric in half. Batting on the outside and fabric on the inside.

Sew from the tip of one of the triangles, down along the sides to the edge of the fabric.  Do this to the triangle on the opposite side of the fabric. Unfold the fabric and you’ll find you have shaped the fabric into half a bowl.

Fold the fabric in half along the other sides, and repeat, sewing these darts to form a bowl shape. Repeat for the second piece of batting and fabric squares.

Trim the darts o there is little fabric left along the seams. All the raw edges of the darts should be on the batting side.

Turn one of the bowls so the fabric sits outside and the batting is on the inside.  Sit this bowl inside the other. So now the two bowls are stacked, the fabric hidden inside and the batting on the outside. Match the raw edges along the top, the tips of the corners and the seams together.

Sew along all the top edges, leaving about 3 inches unsewn.

Turn the bowls through, pulling the fabric through to the right side out and the batting on the inside.

Press

Topstitch the opening a 1/4” away from the edge of the bowl edge and follow all the way around the edge of the bowl cosy

Bon Appetite! Enjoy your soup. Note: Do not use glues, spray of otherwise. Do not use anything like Insulbrite or any batting that contains foils. Fabrics must not have metallic finishes and remember to use a cotton thread.

Abi x

LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS

Hearing Dogs for Deaf People are looking for volunteers in Manchester and Cheshire to help train their young dogs who will go on to help deaf people leave loneliness behind and reconnect with life.

Could you help train one of our puppies?

As a volunteer puppy trainer, you will:

n Look after one of our adorable puppies or young dogs for anywhere between 6 months to 2 years at a time.

n Work with a trainer to learn more about dog training and attend local fun puppy classes.

n Meet likeminded people and make new friendships.

n Directly help deaf people leave loneliness behind and reconnect with life.

We require the following:

n A loving home with a secure garden and access to a vehicle.

n Access to a computer and the Teams app.

n Time to dedicate to training a young dog on a daily basis.

n Be aged 18 or over.

We are also recruiting volunteers for holiday cover and short-term stays.

No previous experience is required for the roleyou will have full support and guidance from a

Puppy Training Instructor both in person and online.

Caroline and Terry from Wilmslow have fully trained 3 puppies and their current trainee, Jayda is 7 months old. Caroline says “Jayda is making excellent progress. We start with basic training and when ready, we introduce them to public places and soundwork training to prepare them for their working role”.

If you’d like to find out more, please head to the ‘Volunteer’ section of our Website https:// www.hearingdogs.org.uk/ volunteer/

CHOPPY SEAS FOR LANDLORDS –is incorporating now more attractive?

Since 6 April 2020, landlords renting properties (excluding furnished holiday lets), that they own personally rather than via a company, have felt the full impact of the restriction of the tax relief previously permitted on their mortgage interest. This radical change has been phased in since April 2017 and by the 2020/21 tax year mortgage interest suffered, rather than being treated as a wholly deductible expense in the property accounts, was instead included as a 20% deduction from the tax liability. This means that the tax relief for the higher rate taxpayer is restricted to the 20% basic rate of tax rather than being at 40% as in the past.

The higher rate taxpayer then has already started to feel the impact of this change but worse was to come. The recent spike in mortgage interest rates has increased the borrowing costs in the buy to let market which means that for the higher rate tax-payer the rate of tax relief has been halved while at the same time the interest on a mortgage is soaring. And don’t forget that there is already a 3% Stamp Duty surcharge on the purchase of non-commercial buy-to-let and investment properties. The outcome of all these combined is a perfect storm for the current landlord and a much less appealing environment for potential new investors to enter.

There are a couple of potential solutions to mitigate against this to some extent. Remember that the restriction of tax relief to 20% does not impact a basic rate taxpayer, so married couples and civil partners who jointly own properties might consider a declaration of trust to change the beneficial ownership allocation of the property if one is a higher rate taxpayer while the other is not.

Another possible solution is to consider establishing a company to own the properties. The rate of corporation tax is currently less than the rate of income tax and furthermore there is no restriction on tax relief for mortgage interest. We always say that the longer-term objectives must be clearly defined in order to make the

best decision. But if the landlord already has a property portfolio, then the stamp duty and the capital gains tax burden of selling your own properties to your own new company is likely to be too great an obstacle - though there are statutory incorporation reliefs that can work in very specific circumstances.

An investor starting now with a long-term objective and who personally does not need access in the short term to the profits from his property, should look much harder at setting up a company to hold the target properties. Arrangements for a new company to raise finance may be complex but there are specialist lenders who may entertain lending, depending on the personal circumstances of the directors. Once established, the limited company’s portfolio could grow at the same time as enjoying the lower rate of corporation tax.

Any future sales of properties would be taxed at future corporation tax rates rather than the higher capital gains tax rates an individual would be liable to; though the company does not have an annual exemption allowance which for an individual is currently £12,300 pa. Remember as well that the proceeds of a future disposal remain in the company and to extract them would involve a further tier of tax, though careful planning may be able to help with this. Another route that could be of interest would be to establish a family investment company which would have bespoke rules and would enjoy potential inheritance tax and income tax savings for those involved. This is a specialist area though and great care should be taken.

Peter Bevan Bevan & Co, Chartered Accountants peter@bevan.co.uk

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL THE AMAZING SK READERS!!

Hope you’ve all had a fantastic festive period and like us at Bramhall Osteopathic Practice, are now looking at introducing new and positive things into your 2023 routine.

Swimming is one of my favourite activities, it’s hard to imagine that something so lovely can be so good for you! Outdoors is even better than indoors as you can get the benefit of being out in nature. An early morning swim has to be the best way to start your day…why not give it a try?

There are so many benefits to doing this activity, and here are just a few of them:

1. There is a meditative side to swimming in nature, you can look around and see beautiful views, birds, sea creatures or freshwater animals. These experiences make you feel relaxed and happy.

2. It is a non-weight bearing activity, this gives your body a break from the of some sports, being on your feet all day or doing lots of sitting at a desk.

3. The variety of strokes you can do, give all your muscles a workout. Back stroke is particularly good as it opens the chest and shoulders beautifully, areas that get very tight working at computers all day.

4. The cold stimulates your circulation, reduces inflammation, helps release endorphins, for that ‘feel good sense’ and stimulates your metabolism to help you lose weight.

5. It’s sociable, something you can do with friends or swimming groups. In Rhosneiger on Anglesey, where I swim, a group of local

swimmers set up “The Pandemic Paddlers” they have swum every day at high tide since the first lockdown. It has been a huge community building exercise.

6. Remember when swimming outdoors, always research how safe the area is to swim in. Use coloured floating devices so you can be seen easily. Check the water temperature, work out the maximum time you should stay in for, this is especially relevant when swimming in the winter months. If you are going to have a longer swim, a wetsuit and Neoprene shoes and gloves are helpful.

7. Wearing goggles means you can take your head low in the water and avoid over-arching your back and neck. Swimming a variety of strokes also avoids stresses on any one area of the spine and muscle group.

If swimming indoors you can mix up your swim with a few lengths of walking up and down the pool, another good variation.

I hope these tips are useful and inspire you to get in the water.

Swimming is brilliant, fun and beneficial….

Enjoy!!

Jo Cheaney

Useful Contacts

Cheshire East Council

Tel: 0300 123 5500 www.cheshireeast.gov.uk

Cheshire East Council, Westfield, Middlewich Road, Sandbach, CW11 1HZ

Cheshire Police

For non-emergency calls please 101 or 0845 4580000 (only call 999 in emergencies)

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.

Wilmslow Town Council 01625 402907 townclerk@wilmslow-tc.org.uk

Community Groups

Rotary Club of Wilmslow Dean 01625 535580 or 530535

www.wilmslowdeanrotary.org.uk

Wilmslow Royal British Legion Club

01625 523715

Email: info@wilmslowlegionclub.co.uk

The Green Room Theatre Wilmslow

Ticket-Line 01625 540993

email: mail@greenroomwilmslow.org.uk https://greenroomwilmslow.org.uk

Independent Community Website

www.wilmslow.co.uk

www.wilmslow.org.uk

www.whatsin-wilmslow.co.uk

Local MP

Esther McVey MP (Conservative)

01625 529922

officeofesthermcveyMP@parliament.uk

Local Councillors

Wilmslow Dean Row

Lata Anderson (Residents of Wilmslow)

07908 245751

Lata.Anderson@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Wilmslow East

David Jefferay (Residents of Wilmslow)

07729 707215

david.jefferay@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Wilmslow Lacey Green

Don Stockton (Conservative)

01270 686474

don.stockton@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Wilmslow West & Chorley

Mark Goldsmith (Residents of Wilmslow)

07729 707215 mark.goldsmith@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Iain Macfarlane (Residents of Wilmslow)

07767 667828

Iain.Macfarlane@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Around Wilmslow

Wilmslow Library

South Drive, Wilmslow, Cheshire. SK9 1NW

Tel: 01625 374060

email: wilmslow.library@cheshireeast.gov.uk

Opening Hours: Monday – 9am - 7pm, Tuesday –9am - 5pm, Wednesday - 9am - 1pm, Thursday – 9am - 7pm, Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday – 9am1pm. Sunday closed

Wilmslow Post Office

Tesco, Green Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 1LD

T: 01625 524036

Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday 8am – 8pm

Wilmslow Health Centre

Chapel Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire. SK9 5HX

T: 01625 548 555

Opening Hours: Monday, Wednesday & Thursday

8am – 6pm, Tuesday 8am – 8pm, Friday 7.30am – 6.30pm, Saturday 8.45am – Noon (pre booked appointments only on Saturday)

Wilmslow Dental Practice

26 Chapel Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 5HZ

T: 01625 441763

Opening Hours: Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm (closed for lunch 1-2pm)

Closed Saturday & Sunday

Citizens Advice

Admin phone number is 01625 432847

HOW TO DESIGN A COSY LIVING ROOM

There are lots of styles to choose from for your home, but designing a room has essentially many of the same rules no matter what your style. You do have to approach it collectively to make sure of a cohesive result that wows. If you have say 4 favourite things you want to keep but they’re all of a different style, it’s going to look muddled. A focal point is key with fireplaces being favourite in a living room. However not all living rooms have a fireplace so look for another focal point. The view is a great option or a fabulous mirror. Gather your furniture comfortably around this and add a rug. Rugs zone an area and can bring pieces together with texture, colour or shape. A rug might sit under the front legs of a sofa and incorporate a coffee table whilst having a colour within it that nods to the curtains or a chair. Collectively it starts bringing the room together.

Soft lighting is very important with so many choices it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Central lighting usually being the brightest is great if it can be used on a dimmer switch. Floor lamps, table lamps and candles are all important to give a cosy feel. Lamps can be directional or ambient depending on your choice and candles are super for a lovely warm glow.

Finishing touches like cushions, accessories, pictures and natural items from a timber floor,

wooden accessories, twigs or flowers all bring warmth to a room.

Do keep in mind your style, the look you’re aiming to achieve and don’t be afraid to take things out and move things around. You’ll be impressed with the result.

Let me know if I can help, Sharon.

Facebook: Tigermoth Home

www.tigermothhome.co.uk

Sharon@tigermothhome.co.uk

Instagram: @tigermothhomeinteriors

& COSMETICS IS NOW A MULTI-AWARD WINNING PRACTICE!

After entering the prestigious Private Dentistry and Dentistry Awards we were delighted to have been shortlisted for numerous categories in both. On November 4th 2022 the Clinical Director, Shi and the Marketing Manager, Gemma took a trip to London to attend the Private Dentistry Awards and were delighted

Most Improved Practice North

We then had another trip to make a few weeks later, to Leicester this time, for the Dentistry Awards. We took most of the team with us and were again, absolutely ecstatic to win ANOTHER five awards;

Best Practice Manager North West

Book in today for your free consultation at our multi award-winning dental practice, and see for yourself what all the fuss is about!