Chorlton & Whalley Range
index
community
April 2011
07875 360 368
info@devrod.co.uk
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please mention community index when responding to adverts
M Duffin Property Repairs Chimneys Pointing Roofs Gutters
Free Estimates
0161 789 6640 07944 729 608
to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
Contents 6 9 11 13 14 20 24 25 29
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TECHNOLOGY YOU CAN TRUST green h DO YOU CARE ABOUT CHORLTON? Chorlton Civic Society BOOK REVIEWS Chorlton Bookshop CHORLTON TAGPASSITON NEWS Save more, buy better, shop local CHORLTON’S BIG GREEN FESTIVAL Bike to the future... E-CYCLE BIKE DELIVERY SERVICE Interview with Jeff Heie LOCAL ARTS ROUNDUP by Natalia Fedoruk CHORLTON ARTS RADIO Chorlton FM 87.7 APRIL IN YOUR GARDEN Katherine Watson
PUBLISHER
Community Index
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20
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EDITOR/ADVERTISING Lesley Swann
SUB-EDITOR Sam Paechter
CONTRIBUTIONS
Chorlton Bookshop Carol Thompson, Natalia Fedoruk Katherine Watson, Richard Frost, Jeff Heie, Des Gregory, Mary Paul
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COVER PHOTOGRAPH Sam Fairbrother www.samfairbrother.com
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CONTACT US
Tel: Lesley 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk www.communityindex.co.uk DEADLINE FOR THE MAY EDITION 11th April 2011
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Barbakan Delicatessen
Award Winning Delicatessen, Continental Bakery and Specialist Cheese Merchants.
Freshly made Sandwiches, Soups and Salads. The Famous and Original BBQ Sausage Pan on Saturdays! Come and Eat on our Dining Terrace!
10% OFF
*
with this voucher in April 2011 *£5 minimum spend
67-71 Manchester Rd, Chorlton cum Hardy, Manchester, M21 9PW
www.barbakan-deli.co.uk
Telephone: 0161 881 7053
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A J ADAMS Pet Food
Bulk orders welcome
monkey puzzle
TOYS
High quality traditional and unusual toys and games for babies, toddlers and children of all ages
10%off * Micro or Maxi
West Indian & Asian Food
SCOOTER
we stock a wide range
WITH THIS ADVERT
*Valid until 31st May 2011 & cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer
Local Suppliers
to Retirement Homes & Hotels
FREE LOCAL DELIVERY Unit 19, Chorlton Place, Wilbraham Rd Chorlton, M21 9AQ Tel: 0161 881 1349
Tel: 0161 862 0100
93 Manchester Rd (opp. Unicorn) Chorlton M21 9GA
Mon - Fri 9.30am to 5.30pm Saturday 10am to 5pm Sunday 12 to 4pm
www.monkeypuzzletoys.com
Alexander Technique ! balance and poise ! ease of movement ! stillness ! strength in action ! voice
individual sessions, groups workshops !
ten-week introductory courses 3 May at 1pm., FallowďŹ eld 5 May at 6.30, Chorlton !
Sue Fleming MSTAT www.alexanderteaching.co.uk CNHC registered 0161 861 8848 to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
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green h
Gadgets. Aren’t they great? A huge array of shiny products await us, promising fantastic ‘apps’, helping us access ‘the cloud’, giving us a way in to new ways of communicating, sharing information and entertaining ourselves. It could be a mobile phone, a DVD player, a flat screen TV. It’s often a computer or a laptop. The adverts tell us how technology opens many doors, making the extraordinary possible. Apparently it all works together beautifully and simply. All there in a neat
technology you can trust package and an amazing deal. What’s not to like? But when you get it home, the task is often less straightforward. Exactly how do you flip the screen, catch the image, edit it and share it with family and friends on the internet? What do those terms mean? “May require additional hardware”? “Speeds may vary?” What is “the cloud” anyway? Think of gadgets as pieces in a technological big picture, a jigsaw if you like, often with a computer at the centre. Only the picture they make up may not be supplied as a guide to what you’re trying to piece together, and you might not have been given all of the pieces. If you’re lucky you may have a mate who is technologically minded and can make suggestions. Better still, they might take the thing off your hands and get it up and running for you. But they may not be around when you run into trouble again, or know enough to solve your problem. It’s tempting to go to the high street
chains for a cheap package with technical support thrown in. But, have you sat on the end of a phone waiting as the charges mount, eventually talking to someone who techno-babbles at you until you end up apologising for wasting their time and hang up? Green h offers you a human option, in your own home, linked to your particular needs. Fluent in techno-babble, we are able to match what you require with what’s on offer, in an increasingly complex technological world. Green h is not tied to manufacturers or software suppliers, but does have a firm grasp of the big picture. We’re free to provide impartial advice tailored to your needs and your budget. If you want, we can provide either new or second hand equipment, which can keep costs down and make responsive technical support more affordable. Despite the adverts, the reality is that technology will never be perfect, it is constantly changing and things can often go wrong. Green h can provide someone local to help you get what you need and make it work for you.
Des Gregory green h 0161 408 4016 www.greenh.co.uk
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Having a bad computer day? Would you like impartial advice? A computer that’s just right for you? Installed in your home or office? With ongoing help and support? All for less than a new one on the high street or online?
With green h you get a computer that meets your needs, from local people you can rely on, at an affordable price. Uniquely, green h provides hardware, software, installation and ongoing help and support in one easy package. Simple!
enquiries@greenh.co.uk Green H Advert - Final.indd 1
0161 408 4016
www.greenh.co.uk 17/02/2011 18:20:50
WE BUY UNWANTED
Stamp Collections
coins, medals, cigarette cards
Tel: 0161 902 0516 Home visits by arrangement
Manchester Philatelic Enterprises
Specialists in: • Tiling & Slating • Chimney Repairs • Leadwork
• Fascias, Soffits & Guttering
Call Lee today on 07764 483071 or 0161 900 5293 Email: lee@morrisroofs.co.uk to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
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The Chorlton local, qualified
local, qualified
City & Guilds multi skilled Tradesman
electrician • rewires, repairs & alterations • fire & burglar alarm systems • inspection & testing inc. P.A.T. call me for a free estimate Andrew Maunsell 07729241860
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Carpentry • Joinery • Electrical • Plumbing •Kitchens rewires,• repairs alterations Fencing&• Built in Furniture • Decks • fire Gates & burglar alarm• Locks systems • Shelves • Hardware • inspection & testing inc. P.A.T.
call Nick
0777 852 3088
call me for a free estimate Public Liability Insurance Domestic & Commercial Andrew Maunsell 07729241860 Environmentally Aware Small works always welcome v
local, qualified The Garden Angels
electrician
electrician
• Landscaping
To consult the
• rewires, repairs & alterations • rewires, repairs & alterationsof ambassadors • Garden Maintenance • fire & burglar alarm systems • fire & burglar alarm gardensystems loveliness Tree Surgery• inspection & testing inc. P.A.T. • inspection & testing inc.• P.A.T. call me for a free estimate Andrew Maunsell 07729241860
Phone 07799782551
call me for a free estimate Andrew Maunsell 07729241860
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Select Plumbing & Heating Central Heating Installation Power Flushing Servicing & Repairs Gas Cooker & Fire Installations Landlord Safety Certificates All types of Plumbing Work Fully Tiled Bathrooms Contact Tony Goss 0161 865 6657 07973 908 592
Mobile
Gas Safe
07875 360No. 368 Registered 196842 view the latest edition at www.communityindex.co.uk
info@devrod.co.uk
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Do you care about Chorlton? get involved in your local Civic Society If you care about Chorlton, protecting, improving and regenerating the area - and generally keeping it the great place it is to live and work Chorlton Civic Society, your local residents group, is for you! We cover the whole of Chorlton and Chorlton Park wards. We are fortunate to have councillors at most meetings and are grateful for their help an advice. Many of the 90 people who started the Society have moved away from the area; sadly, some have died. We are looking for interested energetic people who have the odd hour to spare who would like to help organise the Civic Society. We need help with social events, getting speakers, looking at planning applications on the web, publicising meetings & getting new members. This year our secretary is standing down as is the treasurer which will make running the society difficult – hence this plea. Chorlton Civic Society has
supported many causes since 1989 when we formed, many years ago we helped to stop the tip on Hardy Farm, tried to save Withington Hospital and more recently many members supported (and still are) the Save Chorlton Meadows campaign. Currently we have been active in trying to keep a right of way across the precinct car park. One of our successes has been producing a beautiful document which resulted in a huge part of Chorlton being added to the existing conservation areas. Just 4 members were responsible for this. There is an active Chorlton History Group which meets every other month at the Horse & Jockey pub on a Monday afternoon to discuss Chorlton’s History and to listen tomember’s own memories or historical research. The date of the next meeting is Monday, 4th April, 1.30pm at the Horse and Jockey. Please contact Bernard Leach if you’d like to come along (btleach@gmail.com).
If you feel you would like become involved with Chorlton Civic Society please get in touch or come along to one of our regular meetings at Chorlton Library.
Contact Chorlton Civic Society Mary Paul 07966 785 511 mary@dreemway.co.uk Jenny Slee 07570 879 091 www.chorltoncivicsociety.org.uk
Meetings are held every 2 months at the library at 7.30pm Dates for 2011: Tuesday 10th May Tuesday 12th July Tuesday 13th September Tuesday 8th November
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Chorlton Trade Paints tel: 0161 881 8337
fax: 0161 881 8415
With our designer tinting machines we can mix 1,000s of colours in a wide variety of finishes and sizes while you wait Suppliers to trade and general public Unit 2a Albany Trading Estate, Albany Rd, Chorlton, M21 QAZ Free Parking and Free Delivery locally on orders over £50
HMC Professional Painters & Decorators Domestic & Commercial Interior & Exterior Local Decorator
B.G. PLUMBING
EXPERIENCED
local plumber Bathrooms and tiling Blockages and leaks Pipework alterations
Call Harry:
0161 881 7982
07799 107 741 Free Estimates All Work Guaranteed
GAVIN HOWARD mobile: 07969 605321 email: howard.bgplumbing@gmail.com 87 Haig Road, Stretford, M32 0DP
WRAS approved, cert no. 28518
Special Credit Crunch Prices! please mention community index when responding to adverts
Book Reviews
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from Chorlton Bookshop
Labyrinth Kate Mosse
Mosse’s archeological mystery easily draws you into its plot set within both medieval and modern day France. In the present day, Alice unwittingly discovers an unusual cave harbouring two skeletons, triggering a series of events linked to the secret of the Grail. She realises she has been part of these events all along... Back in 1209, Alais finds her destiny is to protect the same secret with her life as she is entrusted with three encrypted books. On her tail, however, is someone who will do anything to gain the knowledge themselves, and they are closer to Alais than she realises. Labyrinth is extremely well written, intertwining events between the past and the present with detailed historical knowledge. A treat for any fan of fast paced historical fiction.
The Elegance of the Hedgehog Muriel Barbery
This little gem is part “Sophie’s World” part “44 Scotland
Street”! Set in a very upmarket Parisian apartment block we are introduced to a variety of characters. Overseeing the comings and goings is the dowdy concierge Renee who has spent years cultivating an unfriendly and less than helpful façade. Beneath this conceit is a woman who has a never ending thirst for knowledge and culture. She is petrified of her secret being “discovered” and avoids contact with neighbours unless absolutely necessary. This is until one of the inhabitants dies which sets in motion all kinds of changes. Although quite short, this book does take a few chapters to really get going. It’s worth persevering as a wonderful heart warming story unfolds. Along the way we are treated to philosophical and cultural references which help illustrate the point that education is often wasted on those who have easy access to it!
Return to Ribblestrop Andrew Mulligan
With Hogwarts still fresh in the memory, you might have thought that children’s fiction
would give the swerve to peculiar boarding schools for the time being. But Ribblestrop Towers is an exception - a fully realised creation, full of riotous happenings and barmy characters. Not for nothing is the school motto ‘Life is Dangerous’. The hazardous, ramshackle place is stuffed with secrets; secret tunnels, secret experiments, you name it. It’s also awash with weapons, crime, alcohol and, this time out, circus animals. It might sound heavy going, but the world of Ribblestrop is very, very funny - albeit edgy - and roller coaster strength exciting. From students to teachers, the school is a magnet for the strange, the troubled and the downright unhinged, but together it makes up one surprisingly affectionate family. The first volume in 2009 was a palpable hit, and this sequel maintains the same manic pace with occasional dark, dark twists. Mulligan and Ribblestrop have already been given the glowing seal of approval by fellow children’s authors Philip Ardagh and Andy Stanton.
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Tag News Congratulations! In a recent prize draw for registered cardholders Mrs Diane Berisford won a gift voucher for £10 to spend at Britain’s only toy shop co-operative; Chorlton’s Busy Bee Toy shop. Diane will soon be paying them a visit to find out more...Don’t forget to register your cards for entry into the next prize draws! The Tagpassiton scheme has been designed to help community groups raise money; every £5 card bought from a charity, school or community group raises £2.50 for their cause. Jean Genie is currently also donating profits from card sales to Beechwood Cancer Care. This year, as one of our own projects, Tagpassiton Scheme members from our Community Loyalty Schemes across South Manchester are working in partnership with other businesses in sponsoring Chorlton Arts Radio. Would you like to join us in helping provide
access to the airwaves for local community groups, schools and artists during Chorlton Arts Festival in May? Get in touch if you’d like to find out more. For every card bought online and mentioning Chorlton FM in the ‘where did you hear about us’ box, Tagpassiton will make it’s own donation to this fabulous cause. All registered cardholders can have a bit of fun by sponsoring too! Just look out for our email when you register your Tagpassiton card. Chorlton has a vibrant, independent business community; friendly, creative, inter-generational, hardworking and fun. They are working together to encourage us to
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consider the community balance when we spend and now, with our tagpassiton card in hand (or on key ring) we can do just that and enjoy great savings locally. Take your card for a spin, why not come and join in! Treasure Hunt Chorlton FM and Tag! Catch next months issue of Communty Index for more details.
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photo © Sam Fairbrother www.samfairbrother.com
Chorlton’s Big Green Festival by Richard Frost
Chorlton has quite a reputation for festivals.
up expert advice from cycling workshops and information stalls.
There’s Chorlton Arts Festival and Chorlton Beer Festival, of course. Then there’s Chorlton Book Festival and Beech Road Festival. And not forgetting Chorlton Park Festival. We could go on…
Jeff Heie, chair of Green Chorlton, said: “Chorlton’s Big Green Festival is all about celebrating sustainable living and this year’s programme will be the best yet. As a keen cyclist, I’m particularly looking forward to the Bike to the Future activities and I’ll definitely be joining in the bike parade.”
Despite launching in 2009, another free festival has quickly made a name for itself. Chorlton’s Big Green Festival is an annual celebration of sustainable living, with a strong emphasis on the word ‘celebration’. This year, Green Chorlton – the non-profit community group that runs the festival – has set its sights on winning over even more Mancunians, particularly those of us that love cycling. The theme of Chorlton’s Big Green Festival 2011 is Bike to the Future and there will be a huge number of bike-related attractions at St Clement’s Church on the day of the festival – Saturday, 16th April 2011. For instance, cyclists are encouraged to pedal over to join the largest ever bike parade through Chorlton. Also planned is a dance-off between rival bicycle dance troupes, a race to see who can fix a puncture the fastest and n o t l Chor a bicycle Swap fashion Plant g your show. n o l a & Visitors bring seedlings ! s, can plant s to swap seed even pick
had inside St Clement’s Church at the Green Chorlton Ceilidh. Local group The Midgebites will be performing a selection of popular country tunes and encouraging everyone to grab their drinks and get on the dancefloor. Chorlton’s Big Green Festival and the Green Chorlton Ceilidh aside, several other Green Chorlton events are planned throughout April.
You won’t need a bike to enjoy Chorlton’s Big Green Festival, however. Two live stages will showcase the hottest local musicians, including Thingumabob and the Thingumajigs, Sputnik Sweetheart and Shmoo, as food and drink stalls keep you refreshed with the tastiest meals, and the finest alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Beauty and the Bike, in association with Transition Chorlton, will feature a screening of the film of the same name in St Clement’s Church from 7.30pm on Saturday, 9th April. And the What Next? Forum, organised alongside Chorlton Refurb, will consider ways to make your home greener in St Clement’s Church from 7pm on Thursday, 14th April.
Meanwhile, families will not want to miss a personal appearance from Mr Bloom, star of the hit CBeebies show Mr Bloom’s Nursery. While the children learn how to grow their own fruit and veg, you can enjoy some much-needed rest and relaxation with complimentary therapies in the dedicated wellbeing area.
The Green Chorlton Ceilidh takes place straight after the festival inside St Clement’s Church. The ceilidh starts at 8pm and runs until 11pm. Tickets, costing £5, can be bought at the door.
The green aspect of the festival shines through in other areas. Hands-on workshops will provide pointers on how to reduce your carbon footprint, while arts and craft stalls will introduce you to the creativity on your doorstep. As the night draws in, Chorlton’s Big Green Festival comes to an end but there is more fun to be
Chorlton’s Big Green Festival
Saturday, 16th April, 11am - 7pm St Clement’s Church, Edge Lane, Chorlton www.greenchorlton.org.uk Twitter (@BigGreenFest)
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to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
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WOULD YOU LIKE TO LEARN TO SEW? Basic Sewing Skills Course 5 x 2 hour sessions
Tuesdays 7 - 9pm Pottery Corner 34 Beech Rd, Chorlton M21 9EL
• Complete window treatment design service, including FREE measuring • Curtains, hand stitched with range of headings, borders or trimmings • Roman Blinds • Bespoke Fabric Pelmets, Shaped or Straight • Soft Furnishings
£120 for 5 sessions Contact Ruth on 0161 881 9861 or Ruthlazarus227@btinternet.com
Next course starts 26th April • •
Become confident with a sewing machine Practise all the basic sewing operations -
To discuss design ideas call Joanne
buttonholes, zips, gathers, darts etc •
Take home a folder of examples to refer to later
Acorn Gardening • Garden maintenance • Fencing, lawns & hedges • Tree surgery
Call Ben: 07986 594822 0161 8319448 JOE DURKIN BRICKWORK AND BUILDING CONTRACTOR
“Building on experience” 0161 861 8636 07505 323 191 Call for a free quote Friendly and reliable service
Landscaping, design and maintenance • Paving, garden structures, brickwork • Full design and planting service • Specialist in new front garden planning laws • Pressure washing service
Free advice and quotes benpratt123@hotmail.co.uk
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to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
Transition Chorlton
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Presents
Beauty & the Bike Saturday 9th April
Film starts at 7.30pm - Refreshments from 7pm Suggested donation £2
at St Clement’s Church, Chorlton on the corner of Edge Lane & St Clement’s Rd
“The filmmakers have provided a film that will not only spark conversation but make you want to go out and make its vision a reality.”
Chorlton’s Big Green Festival - Bike to the Future Fringe Event http://greenchorlton.org.uk www.bikebeauty.org
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Engineered & solid wood floors Stud partition & plasterboard work All aspects of internal joinery Decking & fencing High quality work for a competitive price For a free quote contact Pete
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we’ll check it out BEFORE you buy VEHICLE INSPECTIONS WE BUY & SELL VEHICLES COLLECTION & DELIVERY SERVICE Call Dave:
0161 860 6064 07860 445 586
MOT
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Chorlton Gas N W NNDecorator inaWWest ina West
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07722 731 801 www.chorltongas.co.uk
please mention community index when responding to adverts
DO YOU NEED MORE SPACE? 19
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E-cycle
we talk to Jeff Heie about his new cycle delivery business What’s E-cycle? E-cycle is a new cycle delivery enterprise that is based in Chorlton and serves South Manchester. E-cycle uses a bicycle and heavy-duty trailer to collect and deliver a wide variety of items, from charity shop donations to E-Bay purchases to allotment supplies. What is unique about this set-up is the trailer. You don’t often see bike trailers that are capable of handling loads of up to 130kgs in weight and over 10 feet in length. Fortunately, South Manchester is relatively flat, so carrying loads of that weight is quite possible. What’s your background? And how did you come up with the idea for your business? Having moved from the U.S. to Manchester in 2007, I have lived in Chorlton for the last three and a half years and have been involved in planning Chorlton’s Big Green Festival. My family moved to England so that my partner could complete her PhD. We intentionally chose to live in Chorlton because we wanted to lead a more “local” existence. Our home in the U.S. was in Phoenix, Arizona, one of the most sprawling cities in the States. It takes nearly two hours (87.7 miles) to
cross the city from East to West using the motorways. Nearly everything that you want to do has to be done using a car. Everything was built around the car—going to the shop, taking the children to school, going to work, going out for a meal. We wanted to escape this way of life. It is the aforementioned values of living locally that led me to pursue the idea of starting a cycle delivery enterprise in Chorlton. I was supported in the start-up of this venture by seed funding from the Community Foundation of Greater Manchester. In December of 2010, I was awarded a grant that was channelled through the community group that organizes Chorlton’s Big Green Festival. The concept is relatively simple: use a bike and trailer for those things that normally require a car or van. Obviously the bike and trailer cannot do everything that a car or van can do, but it can do many of them, especially in a relatively local geographical area. While it may seem that this is a throw back to days gone by, the reality is that the price of fossil fuels is only going to rise in the future. We must explore ways to keep our communities resilient in the face of increasing demand and decreasing supplies of fossil fuels. The idea of E-cycle is as much about building a viable business as it is about getting people to start imagining a sustainable future.
What kind of things can you collect/deliver? Nearly anything that you can carry in a car or van, except maybe a piano! Too heavy! I offer: • Recycling collection • Charity shop collection (free) and delivery (paid) • DIY supplies delivery • Small-scale flat moves • Allotment supplies delivered directly to your plot—leaf mould, compost & plants • Delivery of Ebay, Gumtree & Freegle goods • Business Delivery Service: • Scheduled – delivery performed on a regular basis • On-call - one-time runs performed on an on-call basis Do you have a car? No. We have chosen to live without a car since we moved to England. We want to show our children that it is possible and even enjoyable to live without a car. We occasionally hire a car when we go camping or need to run errands that are farther afoot. The irony of this is that I love to drive. When I was growing up in the States, my family crisscrossed the country in our car. I have fond memories of these trips and gained a love of driving from them. What motivates you? In specific terms, I am motivated by the notion that E-cycle is a compelling idea and Chorlton is
21 the right place to carry out this concept. We really don’t need to rely so heavily on cars and vans, at least in our local communities. Many Chorlton residents recognize this to be true. Sure, we need lorries to deliver our produce that comes from Spain and France. But for smaller, more local deliveries, E-cycle can easily do the job. In broader terms, I am motivated by a concern for future generations. The current trajectory of the world economy is not sustainable. In my view, it is not possible to maintain perpetual economic growth on a finite planet. We are already running into some of the limits on world resources. Food is a powerful example of this. The combined challenges of population growth, climate change, and increased energy demand translate into everincreasing prices for commodities such as wheat, sugar, and corn. Keeping these staples affordable depends upon the availability of cheap energy. And the age of cheap energy is rapidly fading into the sunset. E-cycle is one very small effort at strengthening our local
economy through making it more sustainable. I hope it encourages others to come up with their own ideas of how to do this. Who will use the service? I hope that anyone and everyone will use it, from individuals to businesses to charities. We all need things moved from time to time, whether it be a load of remnants from spring cleaning that need to go to a charity shop or the clearing out of a shed that results in the need to take a load to the tip. However, I have learned from others who have started similar ventures that these efforts are most successful when a daily and weekly delivery routine is established. For example, partnering with several local businesses to deliver supplies, collect recycling, or deliver products on a regularly scheduled basis. What does it cost? I have structured the costs with the goal of providing a living wage. • Standard hire by the hour (one-offs) £12 • Regularly scheduled delivery
£10/hour • Furniture delivery (within Chorlton) items under £20 in value £5. Items £20 and over in value £10 • Collection of charity shop donations - Free How do you see our local transport system changing in the next 10 years? I believe that many people will choose to live without cars in the next decade. There are compelling environmental, financial, and health reasons to do so. It will certainly require a shift in priorities—towards living more locally. In addition, I hope that Manchester City Council will exhibit the foresight to greatly improve cycling infrastructure in Manchester. There is no reason why Manchester could not become a world class cycling city along the level with Copenhagen, Amsterdam, Paris, London, Barcelona, and Hamburg. What does a resilient local economy look like? It looks like Chorlton—strong independent shops; locally produced food; people getting around on foot, cycle, or public transport; lots of local festivals that build a sense of community; residents that support local businesses; businesses that support each other; a community that re-uses, refills, repurposes, and recycles; and a community that values it’s green spaces.
Contact e-cycle: Mobile: 07738 039 888 chorlton.ecycle@gmail.com
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Seasonal Update After another cold winter, signs of spring are in the air at Unicorn. While the hungry gap (the period between winter crops finishing & summer crops beginning) will last for a while, before too long we will start to see the first UK spring crops. The first herbs are now filtering through, and April & May will herald the arrival of UK rhubarb, asparagus, sorrel & broad beans. In the meantime, expect roots to dominate the UK range, supplemented with lovely Cornish cauliflowers & purple sprouting broccoli. As always, Spain is a few months ahead. Peas & broad beans are both in full swing, early season strawberries have been fantastic and asparagus is expected soon. All these will work their way north through France & Holland and eventually to the UK. April will see what has been another fantastic season for Sicilian blood oranges come to en end, so get them while you can…
Unicorn Price check
Prices (per kg) taken 8th March 11 comparing Unicorn organic produce with non organic at Morrisons.
Produce
Morrisons Non-Organic
Origin
Unicorn All Organic
Origin
Red Plums Savoy Cabbage Carrots Lemons Green Beans Purple Sprouting Broccoli
£6.99/kg 76p (sm) 74p/kg £1.67/kg £4.88/kg £7.45/kg
S.Africa UK UK Spain Kenya UK
£2.98/kg 79p(med) 89p/kg £1.34/kg £4.26/kg £4.36/kg
S.Africa Ormskirk Scotland Sicily Morroco UK
Decent food at affordable prices. www.unicorn-grocery.co.uk view the latest edition at www.communityindex.co.uk
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to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
Local Arts Roundup Natalia Fedoruk Chorlton Film Institute The Illusionist This month, CFI are showing The Illusionist (2006) featuring Edward Norton on Thursday April 28th. Set in early 1900s Vienna, magician Eisenheim (Norton) uses his powers to be with Sophie, a woman high above his status and involved with the crown Prince. This beautifully original romantic drama is guaranteed to keep you drawn in until the very end. Doors open at 8.10pm at St Clements Church, film starts at 8.30pm.
Manky Poets On Friday April 15th Manky Poets will be holding their monthly meeting with special guest Myra Schneider, who has published over 10 poetry collections. There is also a ‘readaround’ during which members of the audience can read whatever poem they wish. Entry: £2, runs from 7.45pm-9.30pm; doors open 7.30pm.
Chorlton’s Big Green Festival
With two live music stages powered by renewable energy, local organic food and drink, stalls and workshops, relaxation areas, swap shops and a bicycle parade, St Clements Church is definitely the place to be from 11am on Saturday April 16th! Open to all ages, free entry.
Live Cajun Music at The Beech Drop in to The Beech on Beech road on Tuesday April 26th to enjoy a live Cajun jam whilst enjoying a drink after a hard day’s work! Entry is free, and you will enjoy a collection of 10 musicians performing acoustic Cajun music from 9pm onwards.
Chorlton Sing Alternatively, if you prefer to join in with the music rather than listen then Chorlton Sing may be for you. Join in with the weekly Chorlton Sing at The Edge Theatre and Arts centre on Manchester road every Tuesday, 7.30pm-9.30pm, £6 per session. For more information check out: www.watersedgearts.com
Green Walk Arts & Crafts Open House Weekend Saturday April 30th & Sunday May 1st. For the fifth year running, some of the residents of Green Walk, Whalley Range are opening their houses to allow local artists & crafts people to exhibit & sell their work. Stroll leisurely between the houses & view some of the wonderful creations including jewellery, glasswork, paintings, ceramics, embroidery & many more attractive & affordable crafts. It’s the perfect opportunity to buy a special, unique gift for someone, or just treat yourself! There will be a cafe on the green where you can relax & enjoy tea, coffee & home-made cakes. This is an event for the whole community & has been very enjoyable & successful for the past few years. The houses & cafe will be open from 12 noon until 6pm on both days.
Chorlton Arts Radio The team behind Chorlton Arts Radio are returning to a shop front in Chorlton on 15th May 2011.
For the 2nd time, the folks at Chorlton Arts Radio will broadcast along side the Chorlton Arts Festival, this time not only online but on your radio as Chorlton FM. On 87.7FM we’ll be bringing arts, entertainment and community news & views direct in to the homes, offices, shops and offices of Chorlton. Chorlton FM 87.7, Broadcasting 24/7 directly from the centre of Chorlton and providing an additional performance space for plays, poets and performers and with a direct link to the festival ensures that you will get the latest information and updates on the festival as it happens together with radio shows and
performance from local people and community groups.
We’re proud to be sponsored by Tagpassiton, the community loyalty scheme and we’re delighted to be supporting Chorlton Good Neighbours as our chosen charity this year.
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who would like to get involved in our broadcast this year. We’re looking for content based on the arts and local community activities and campaigns.
In 2010 we had 10 live plays, 95 live acts, over 400 people involved and over 10,000 hits on the website!
Contact Chorlton FM:
This year we’ll be commissioning brand new pieces from poets, playwrights, musicians and performers and featuring established names on the arts scene.
0161 408 5256
This is your opportunity to get involved in the vibrant arts scene in South Manchester. We’d like to hear from individuals, groups and schools
If you would like to discuss an idea for content or a show, please contact us on: email: info@chorltonfm.com follow us @ChorltonRadio www.facebook.com/ chorltonFM www.chorltonfm.com If you’d like to sponsor Chorlton FM please contact carol@tagpassiton.com
The Green Walk Open House Art & Crafts Weekend Saturday 30th April and Sunday 1st May 2011, noon – 6pm Green Walk, off Wood Road, Whalley Range An exhibition of paintings, ceramics, glass, photography and more, by local artists Home made food and drinks on the Green
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Top Cat Services & Alpha Dog Walking Do you need your cat visited, fed and made a fuss of during the day?
Are you planning a holiday? Would you like your pets to stay in the comfort of your own home? Do you need your dog walking during the day? Please telephone 0161 232 8916 if you would like more information regarding the services we offer
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANERS • • • • • •
FAST DRYING SYSTEM FREE STAIN & ODOUR REMOVAL STAINGUARD PROTECTION 10% RETIRED PERSONS DISCOUNT ALL WORK IS FULLY INSURED ALL FURNITURE MOVED BY OPERATIVE
We are a local company based in Chorlton Fully trained to NCCA standards Ring or email for a FREE ESTIMATE
07742 369 231
or leave a message on 0161 881 4822 contact@pro-fresh.co.uk www.pro-fresh.co.uk to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
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Community Index
PRINT Litho print â&#x20AC;˘ Digital printâ&#x20AC;˘ Graphic Design Service
Business Cards Loyalty Cards Leaflets Flyers Posters Postcards Letterheads Compliment Slips Email us for a quote: print@communityindex.co.uk
Tel: 0787 589 5604 please mention community index when responding to adverts
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DEVINE
KITCHENS Design Service Available A new kitchen can add both character and wealth to any home, and here at Devine Kitchens we have the expertise and knowledge to advise you on the best use of space, lighting, fixtures and fittings to help create that dream kitchen into a reality. We have established an excellent reputation over the years for our high qulaity of workmanship and customer focus, all backed up with the various testimonials from our many satisfied clients. We have over 20 years of experience with high quality workmanship fitting kitchens that will inspire. We have a vast range of kitchens from the classic styled kitchens, or the more contemporary designs. We have a kitchen to suit everyones taste.
Tel: 0161 291 9680
www.devinekitchens.co.uk
Acorn CHIMNEY SWEEPING SERVICES Call John 0161 445 3650
open fires, boilers Agas, multi-fuel stoves birds nests removed
NACS member www.acornchimneysweepingservices.co.uk
R.P.L ROOFING From Small Repairs to Full Re-roofs Tiling • Roof Windows •Slating Lead Work • Gutters • Fascias Cladding • Chimneys Flat Roofs converted to pitch
Call now for a free no obligation quote...
0161 202 9729 or 07738 708701 Guarantee for reliability, full insurance, quality and total customer satisfaction
DL E
CARPENTRY & JOINERY
All types of Woodwork undertaken
PERIOD RESTORATION JOINERY SASH CORD WINDOWS MADE DECKINGS STORAGE SOLUTIONS WOODEN FLOORS PORCHES DOORS FITTED ETC KITCHENS FULLY FITTED
TEL: 0161 747 4524 MOBILE: 07946 231 106 EMAIL: dewaltz@btinternet.com
please mention community index when responding to adverts
April In Your Garden Designing a garden is an exciting and often daunting project. It is sometimes difficult to imagine what your garden could look like especially if the existing space is full of remnant random planting courtesy of previous owners/ mum/bank holiday impulse buys – and the lob-sided pond you put in three years ago with its seductive wrinkled black plastic liner winking at you every time you venture outside. Employing a garden designer could be an option. Having someone who is trained to see the potential of the space, calculate what elements would work where and for how much certainly short-cuts a few weekends of DIY design. However, if you fancy the challenge or would like to do it yourself, it’s not
mission impossible - there are a few principles you can employ to enhance the look of your garden. A key element of garden design is to think seriously about boundaries. In small urban gardens, it is tempting to think ‘inside the space’ but it is a mistake to ignore what frames it. Blurring your boundaries – especially with planting - is another golden rule of garden design, drawing the eye in and softening the hard limits of the space. This will inevitably make your garden feel bigger not smaller. On the same point, never take a lawn right up to a boundary – whilst you might think you are gaining space, a double layer of planting will provide a much more pleasing aesthetic. Another basic but effective
Katherine Watson principle of planting design is the old adage, ‘keep it simple’. Most of us don’t have a plot like Monty Don – sadly – so repeat planting in the garden makes for a restful space. What this means is putting back the single delphinium, holly hock and lupin you’ve just put in the trolley and instead buying multiples of plants to form calm drifts and blocks of colour. Interlace these with some structural shrubs for winter backbone and some verticals to break up the horizontal plane such as grasses, Phormiums, Digitalis (foxglove), Liatris (gay feather) etc. and your garden will start to take on a natural rhythm, neither over stimulating nor restlessly level. Katherine Watson, Fat Grass Garden Designs
to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
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Are you a LANDLORD? or thinking about letting your property? We have hundreds of potential tenants DESPERATE for property in Chorlton, Whalley Range and Didsbury.
We are confident that we can offer the most competitive rates in the South Manchester Market. We offer let only, let & management or management only services to ensure all of the properties on our books are kept at the best standard for our clients.
CALL NOW for a free no obligation quote from our expert team.
Tel: 0161 861 0060 Anglo Homes • 261 Barlow Moor Road • Chorlton • Manchester • M21 7GJ
www.anglohomes.co.uk
please mention community index when responding to adverts
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Business Index Arts & Crafts
Please note: Community Index accepts no responsibility for transactions entered into or work undertaken by any of the businesses advertising in the Index or any loss, harm or damage arising from using any of the products & services listed.
Food & Drink
Sewing Lessons
16
Broadoak Preservation Devine Building & Maintenance Joe Durkin
19 2
Building & Maintenance
16
Carpet Cleaning Profresh
26
Cat Care
Top Cat Services
26
Chimney Sweep
Acorn Chimney Sweeping Services
Computer services Greenh Unitech Computers
28 7 26
Dog Walking
Alpha Dog Walking Happy Paws
26 5
Electrician
Andrew Maunsell
8
Estate Agents JP & Brimelow
32
Floors
8
Devine Floorsanding
A J Adams Barbakan Delicatessen Unicorn Grocery
5 4 22
D L Enterprises Evolve Joinery
28 18
Furniture & Joinery Games Console Repair
7
Unitech Computers
Garage
Albany Auto Services
18
Acorn Gardening Fat Grass Garden Angels
16 29 8
Chorlton Gas Select Plumbing & Heating
18 8
Gardens
Gas Engineer Handyman
Chorlton Handyman
8
Homes & Interiors JoMo Interiors
16
Kitchens
28
Devine Kitchens
Letting Agent Anglo Homes
30
Chorlton Trade Paints HMC Painters & Decorators Nina West
10 10 18
Painting & Decorating
Plasterer Kieranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quality Plastering
16
BG Plumbing Select Plumbing & Heating
10 8
Plumbers Printers
Community Index Print
27
M Duffin Morris Roofing RPL Roofing
2 7 28
Roofer
Shopping
12
Chorlton Tagpassiton
Stamps
Manchester Philatelic Enterprises
7
Sue Fleming, Alexander Technique
5
Monkey Puzzle Toys
5
Therapy & Healing Toys & Games
Useful Numbers Council
Services
Manchester City Council
234 5000
www.manchester.gov.uk
Environment on Call
954 9000
Chorlton Library
227 3700
Chorlton Leisure Centre
861 0790
Local Councillors Chorlton Paul Ankers
cllr.p.ankers@manchester.gov.uk
Sheila Newman
cllr.s.newman.manchester.gov.uk
Victor Chamberlain
861 7035 881 9641 234 3002
cllr.v.chamberlain@manchester.gov.uk
Local Councillors Whalley Range Faraz Bhatti
861 0202
Mary Watson
860 5523
cllr.f.bhatti@manchester.gov.uk cllr.m.watson@manchester.gov.uk
John Grant
cllr.j.grant@manchester.gov.uk
Allotments Manager
07507 854784 226 3322
Chorlton Civic Society
Citizens Advice
0870 126 4094
Gas Emergency
0800 111 999
GMPTE Bus, Train & Tram Mersey Valley Countryside Warden Service Rail Enquiries NHS Direct
0870 6082 608 228 7811 905 1100 0845 7484 950 0845 4647
Police - non emergency
872 5050
Samaritans
236 8000
Community Organisations Action for Sustainable Living
277 0377
info@afsl.org.uk
www.chorltoncivicsociety.org
Chorlton Folk Club Thurs 9pm, Ellesmere Rd Cricket Club
Chorlton Good Neighbours
881 2925
goodneighbours@btconnect.com
Chorlton Reading Group
881 1813
Friends of Alexandra Park
226 7525
www.friendsofalexandrapark.org.uk
Friends of Chorlton Green
07092 898 721
http://friends.chorltongreen.org
Friends of Chorlton Meadows LGBT Parents Group
881 6276 636 7507 07970 298 559
Oxfam Chorlton
www.chorlton.co.uk Chorlton Aikido Club
861 8456
Chorlton Anxiety Group
226 3871
Rainbow Families
861 0108 07903 397 108
South Manchester Camera Club www.smcc.org.uk
www.whalleyrange.org
Appy Days The new FREE i-phone app from JP & Brimelow. Keeping your finger on the property pulse. Whether you’re buying, selling or renting, it’s the fast, easy way to keep up-to-date with your local property market. Download today from the app store, search JP & Brimelow.
SALES | 430 Barlow Moor Road, Chorlton, M21 8AD T. 0161 882 2233 E. chorlton@jpbrimelow.co.uk LETTINGS | T. 0161 882 2244 E. chorltonlettings@jpbrimelow.co.uk Offices also in Didsbury 0161 448 0622 and Withington 0161 445 9700