Chorlton & Whalley Range
index
community
March 2011
07875 360 368
info@devrod.co.uk
2
please mention community index when responding to adverts
M Duffin Property Repairs Chimneys Pointing Roofs Gutters
Free Estimates
0161 789 6640 07944 729 608
Contents 4 6 9 10 12 15 16 20
3
4
CHORLTON KNITS Knit one purl one with Natalia NEWS FROM CHORLTON GOOD NEIGHBOURS Helen Hibberd HAPPY PAWS SERVICES Its pawtastic! BOOK REVIEWS Chorlton Bookshop TAGPASSITON Save more, buy better, shop local IN YOUR GARDEN Katherine Watson COMPOST LOCAL Ian Trippier from Fairfield Compost LOCAL ARTS ROUNDUP Theatre, film & poetry
6 9 07595 158 135
10
www.happypawsservices.co.uk
PUBLISHER
Community Index
EDITOR/ADVERTISING Lesley Swann
SUB-EDITOR Sam Paechter
CONTRIBUTIONS
Helen Hibberd, Chorlton Bookshop Carol Thompson, Natalia Fedoruk Katherine Watson, Ian Trippier Jon Clarke
12
16
COVER PHOTOGRAPH
Michael Vicente 07989 212571 mvicente@live.co.uk
CONTACT US
Tel: Lesley 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk www.communityindex.co.uk DEADLINE FOR THE NEXT EDITION 11th March 2011
15
20
4
Chorlton Knits
by Natalia Fedoruk
equipment, and I was pleasantly I recently heard about a knitting surprised at the number of group that meets at Battery Park. people who offered me wool Although not a knitter myself, I if I could find a spare pair was intrigued to see what it was of needles. Everybody was all about; knitting, it seems, is willing to help me learn, and back.04"*$ $-"44&4 8*5) in fashion. their enthusiasm towards me 53"$&: $"35-&%(& */ $)03-50/ Chorlton Knits meets on the first as a novice was inspiring. Alas Thursday of every month at 6pm. 'PMMPX PO QSPKFDUT XJMM CF BSSBOHFE 5IJT JT B SFMBYFE HSPVQ this time there were no spare PO BO JOEJWJEVBM CBTJT XJUI MPUT I wasn’t sure what to expect NFFUJOH UP FODPVSBHF BOE PG PQUJPOT UP DIPPTF GSPN HBSEFO needles, so it is definitely worth JOTQJSF FBDI PUIFS TVQQPSUFE when I walked through the door PSOBNFOUT IPVTF OVNCFS TJHOT CZ UIF HVJEBODF PG MPDBM BSUJTU QMBOU QPUT WBTFT UBCMF UPQT bringing your own if you have and 5SBDFZ $BSUMFEHF although it was fairly quiet, CBUISPPN LJUDIFO TQMBTICBDLT FUD them. GPS XIJDI UIFSF XJMM CF FYUSB NBUFSJBMT there was a relaxed atmosphere. 1BSUJDJQBOUT XJMM XPSL BU UIFJS PXO SFRVJSFE UIBU QBSUJDJQBOUT DBO TVQQMZ PS QVSDIBTF BU UIF DMBTTFT
QBDF QJDLJOH VQ XIFSF UIFZ MFGU PGG FBDI TFTTJPO UIFZ BUUFOE
The diverse range of people was After settling down with a cup 5IVSTEBZT QN QN impressive; men and women, of tea I began to speak to some 1SPKFDU 0OF JT NBLJOH B TJNQMF ƒ QFS TFTTJPO NPTBJD EFTJHO XJUI CSPLFO DFSBNJD old and young. I spent my time of the people who had already QJFDFT HMVFE POUP CPBSE BOE HSPVUFE 6QTUBJST 4UVEJP 5IF &EHF *U XJMM CF TVJUBCMF GPS IBOHJOH PO BO chatting with different groups arrived, including Laura Pike, 5IFBUSF BOE "SUT $FOUSF JOEPPS XBMM "MM NBUFSJBMT GPS 1SPKFDU and it soon became clear that one 0OF XJMM CF QSPWJEFE GSFF PG DIBSHF of the founding members. $IPSMUPO . +( the social side of this meeting Everybody was welcoming and /FX TFTTJPO TUBSUT 5IVSTEBZ UI +BOVBSZ is really important. For most, it easy to talk to, and before I gives a change of scene in which knew#PPL WJB UFMFQIPOF it Battery Park was alive PS F NBJM JOGP!USBDFZDBSUMFEHF DP VL they can exchange ideas or get with tasty treats and knitting. help from others with a similar I hadn’t brought my own interest. It seems that groups
like Chorlton Knits have helped to make a potentially isolated craft into a very creative, sociable one. Knitting isn’t just for creating granny jumpers – some of the beautiful yet practical creations I witnessed being made have definitely left me wanting to learn the craft myself. Chorlton has always been a hub for arts and crafts, and alongside a strong community feel, for many there is a sense of self-sufficiency. The more I think about it, the more it seems that knitting represents many of the things that make Chorlton, Chorlton. So, maybe I’ll see you down there at the next meeting‌
.04"*$ $-"44&4 8*5) 53"$&: $"35-&%(& */ $)03-50/ 5IJT JT B SFMBYFE HSPVQ NFFUJOH UP FODPVSBHF BOE JOTQJSF FBDI PUIFS TVQQPSUFE CZ UIF HVJEBODF PG MPDBM BSUJTU 5SBDFZ $BSUMFEHF 1BSUJDJQBOUT XJMM XPSL BU UIFJS PXO QBDF QJDLJOH VQ XIFSF UIFZ MFGU PGG FBDI TFTTJPO UIFZ BUUFOE 1SPKFDU 0OF JT NBLJOH B TJNQMF NPTBJD EFTJHO XJUI CSPLFO DFSBNJD QJFDFT HMVFE POUP CPBSE BOE HSPVUFE *U XJMM CF TVJUBCMF GPS IBOHJOH PO BO JOEPPS XBMM "MM NBUFSJBMT GPS 1SPKFDU 0OF XJMM CF QSPWJEFE GSFF PG DIBSHF
'PMMPX PO QSPKFDUT XJMM CF BSSBOHFE PO BO JOEJWJEVBM CBTJT XJUI MPUT PG PQUJPOT UP DIPPTF GSPN HBSEFO PSOBNFOUT IPVTF OVNCFS TJHOT QMBOU QPUT WBTFT UBCMF UPQT CBUISPPN LJUDIFO TQMBTICBDLT FUD GPS XIJDI UIFSF XJMM CF FYUSB NBUFSJBMT SFRVJSFE UIBU QBSUJDJQBOUT DBO TVQQMZ PS QVSDIBTF BU UIF DMBTTFT
5IVSTEBZT QN QN ƒ QFS TFTTJPO 6QTUBJST 4UVEJP 5IF &EHF 5IFBUSF BOE "SUT $FOUSF $IPSMUPO . +(
/FX TFTTJPO TUBSUT 5IVSTEBZ UI +BOVBSZ
#PPL WJB UFMFQIPOF PS F NBJM JOGP!USBDFZDBSUMFEHF DP VL download the latest edition at www.communityindex.co.uk
5
A J ADAMS Fruit & Vegetables
Pet Food Plants FREE LOCAL DELIVERY Unit 19, Chorlton Place, Wilbraham Rd, Chorlton, M21 9AQ Tel: 0161 881 1349
monkey puzzle
TOYS
TOY SALE! Grab yourself a bargain! Further reductions on sale items
OVER 100
FABULOUS NEW TOYS on the way we need the space!
93 Manchester Rd Opening hours: (opp. Unicorn) Mon - Fri 9.30am to 5.30pm Chorlton Saturday 10am to 5pm Sunday 12 to 4pm Tel: 0161 862 0100 M21 9GA
www.monkeypuzzletoys.com
Alexander Technique ! balance and poise ! ease of movement ! stillness ! strength in action ! voice
individual sessions, groups workshops ! you can improve how you move, perform, look and feel !
Sue Fleming MSTAT www.alexanderteaching.co.uk CNHC registered 0161 861 8848 to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
6
News from Chorlton Good Neighbours Free “Be Well, Age Well” Course for local older residents One of the most successful and useful ventures recently has been the joint working between Chorlton Good Neighbours Care Group and mental health professionals from Older Adult Psychological services in South Manchester. A free six week course, backed and supported by Manchester City Council, called “Be Well, Age Well” was designed and offered to the Care Group’s members aged 55+ and focused on coping with worries and stress, and improving resilience and emotional wellbeing. Five courses have run so far with up to 10 participants in each. Transport via the Group’s volunteers has been provided for those with mobility difficulties and ages ranged from
55-90 years. One course member commented, “We have been given so many ideas that will help us - not only now but in the future”. Another course is due to start in May 2011, so you are an older adult and feel you might benefit from joining in, then please do get in touch.
Could you be our next volunteer treasurer? Chorlton Good Neighbours is asking anyone from the local community who has some book keeping skills and a bit of spare time if they could take on the role of volunteer treasurer for the Group. The current treasurer has been doing the job for over
17 years and wishes to step down so a replacement does need to be found fairly soon. If you feel you could offer something to the organisation, and would like be part of a caring, proactive and well organised team of volunteers and workers then please, please get in touch.
Contact Chorlton Good Neighbours Helen Hibberd Tel: 0161 881 2925 email: goodneighbours@ btconnect.com
7
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
8
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
local, qualified
Handyman
electrician
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
15
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 download the latest edition at www.communityindex.co.uk
info@devrod.co.uk
Happy Paws Services
9
it’s pawtastic!
Any dog owner knows that your little furry friend keeps your home full of love. They don’t ask for much in return – some tummy rubs, exercise and play time fun. “Life is pretty simple for our dog Caligula” (a scruffy 5 year old Border Terrier/Jack Russell that can stand up like a Meerkat!). “He’s happy chasing a ball and sad when we leave the house”. Emilie decided to set up Happy Paws Services after noticing that Chorlton and Didsbury is the Manchester epicentre for children and dogs. Happy Paws is a friendly, reliable and professional pet service offering dog walking in local parks, dog boarding in a loving home environment and home visits for cats and dogs/puppies.
Emilie, originally from the South of France, is now fully accustomed to the Manchester weather. “At least you know what to expect! The dogs don’t mind the rain either, in fact swimming at Chorlton Meadows is a doggie favourite. After their bath, its time for some hair dryer fun and cuddles”. Emilie understands how worrying it can be to find someone who is reliable and trustworthy for peace of mind. “I promise to treat your dog as my own and provide them with lots of love”.
Contact Emilie on: 07595 158 135
“Check out the competitive prices at:
www.happypawsservices.co.uk I provide 2 free walks to get to know each other and am fully insured and CRB checked”.
07595 158 135 www.happypawsservices.co.uk
10 8
Book Reviews from Chorlton Bookshop
become radicalised by a member of his Koran study group. Using these characters in particular, Faulks reveals a lot about the current emotional and financial state of Britain.
risking far more than losing their social position. Although a work of fiction, there’s no doubt that much of this book is based on fact. The author herself was raised in Mississippi by “The Help”. Serious issues are dealt with in this book in a thoroughly engrossing way. It’s definitely not all doom and gloom, especially the tale of Minny and her pie!
A Week in December by Sebastian Faulks As the title suggests, the story in this book unfolds over the course of a particular week in December. The story begins with a well connected society hostess planning a dinner party. The compiling of her guest list introduces us to some of the main characters. The sheer number of characters and sub plots can be hard to keep up with, but is well worth the effort. Faulks has faced some criticism, that by using so many characters he’s not able to make them believable. I wasn’t thinking about believable characterisation when I couldn’t put this book down! Faulks has chosen to deal with extremely topical and difficult issues. The character of Veals is a ruthless banker who only thinks about money and really has no redeeming features. Hassan has
The Big Bad Wolf and Me The Help By Kathryn Stockett This is one of those rare books that actually live up to expectations. The story is told through the eyes of Aibileen, Minny and Miss Skeeter. Set in 1960’s Mississippi, Aibileen and Minny are employed by bigoted white ladies far too busy arranging social events to look after their children or homes. Although part of this group, Miss Skeeter often finds herself unable to conform to their social expectations. In their own subtle way all 3 begin to take revenge on those who have belittled them for so long. In order to get their revenge Minny and Aibileen are
by Delphine Perret Translated from a French original, this takes the form of a comic strip in which a little boy meets the eponymous wolf of legend - except the wolf doesn’t feel remotely big or bad these days. So the boy gives him refuge in his bedroom, and trains him back up to full operational scariness. Actually it’s a sweet, leisurely tale of unlikely (and even imaginary) friendship, reminiscent of the innocent playground wisdom of Charles Schultz’s Peanuts, all simple line drawings and whip-crack dialogue. It even reveals the wolf’s real name..
11
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
12
save more, buy better, shop local Tagpassiton is a new, bright, exciting and rapidly evolving network of Community Loyalty Schemes linked by one card, with independent traders at their core. The Chorlton independents, listed on page 14, have generously created their own special loyalty offers for the scheme and merged them together for all cardholders to enjoy; the Didsbury and Levenshulme Tagpassiton schemes were created in exactly the same way. This means that Tagpassiton cardholders can use this ever expanding, innovative network of independent businesses to access a huge and growing range of exclusive discounts and special offers locally and further afield. Currently, there are Tagpassiton schemes running in Chorlton, Didsbury, Levenshulme, The Heatons, Levenshulme, Cheadle and even in Durham in the North East. And the scheme is growing ever wider! More and more businesses are joining
Tagpassiton, as awareness of the scheme is spreading and the network grows.
Community Loyalty Scheme Tagpassiton has been designed so that local charities and community groups such as Parent Teacher’s Associations, churches, social movements and clubs can benefit. Every £5 card bought from a charity or community group raises £2.50 for their cause. We are looking for lots of different groups to get involved and tell their members and supporters about the scheme and raise funds this way. If you are interested in being involved, please contact us.
Why? No matter what you are trying to buy there will be an independent business providing it, often with more bang for less buck. Let’s act with our wallets and purses and use the Tagpassiton network as a way to increase our awareness of independents and support them. It’s a small step to a vibrant, better High Street.
Each of our independent businesses offers something unique and together they offer an antidote to the ‘McHigh Street’. With local independents there is more knowledge, interest and passion. There will be someone interesting there to discuss ‘where and how’ products are sourced. Generally, they are transparent and careful in choosing suppliers to source goods locally, and fair with their own local suppliers when negotiating a good deal for customers. This all helps to sustain a thriving local community.
How do I recognise Tagpassiton traders? All the independent businesses taking part in the Tagpassiton scheme will display our distinctive, colourful hand logo. You will see it on their shop windows, their websites and promotional materials. In many places there is also a Tagpassiton poster on display clearly stating their particular offer to you. Some offers may change frequently to provide you with greater variety, especially food outlets. Look out for the ‘This week’s Special Offer to Tag Cardholders’ posters. All of the participating traders and their particular offers can be found at www.tagpassiton.com.
How can I join in? Theresa - Trendsetters David - Coffee n Chocolate
Theresa - Chorlton Locksmith
Tony - AJ Adams Fruit & Veg
Simply buy your card from community groups (such as
Chorlton Arts Radio) scheme businesses kindly helping to promote the scheme (Jean Genie is donating profits from card sales to Beechwood Cancer Care) or from us online. To then claim your discounts and offers, simply show your card before payment. No data trail of your spending habits is created. Take the time to register your card and we can keep you up to date with new additions and special offers. As a bonus registered cardholders have the opportunity to earn money extending the scheme and are entered into regular prize draws. See www.tagpassiton.com for details. We are always on the lookout for new ideas and links to help further our scheme. If you like what we are trying to do and want to help, please spread the word to help us sell cards and, if you are interested, please get in touch as we are hoping to form teams of volunteer ambassadors to help with scheme initiatives.
Chorlton Arts Radio We are very excited to announce that we are the 2011 sponsor of Chorlton Arts Radio which is also dedicated to giving community groups artists and musicians a voice and we will be helping them raise funds to support this aim. You can also help Chorlton Arts Radio to raise funds by buying your Tagpassiton cards from them, just see their website www.chorltonartsradio.com for
Emma - Bohos
AMT Fitness
details. In the spirit of the wider independent community why not take your card for a spin and discover what Levenshulme has to offer too. If you go in March, from the 10th, you will be able to pick up a Treasure Hunt entry form from local shops and discover hidden independent gems during your quest, ranging from the wonderful historic Antique Market to the ultra modern and dynamic Inspire Community Centre. During ‘Levenshulme Means Business Week’ from 21st -25th March there will also be some very special offers to cardholders. Just see the Levenshulme part
of our website for details and posters in participating outlets. South Manchester has a vibrant independent business community; friendly, creative, inter-generational, hard working and fun. They are working together to encourage us to consider the community balance when we spend and giving us the opportunity to save a huge amount of money. Having set the ball rolling the independent community invites you to join in.
Carol & Sam
Contact Tagpassiton: carol@tagpassiton.com Tel:
07812498342
Tagpassiton, 792 Wilmslow Rd, Didsbury, M20 6UG All photos by: Michael Vicente (mvicente@live.co.uk) 07989 212571
Stephen - Hickson & Blacks
Brahim - Wild at Heart
Amir - Village Dry Cleaners
Claire - Busy Bee Toys
14
In Your Garden Although the thought of getting the wellies on for actual gardening might seem bit premature in the (not-verybright) light of still cold and damp days, March is the time to really start thinking about the small things you could do to make a difference in your garden come summer. You can get your early potatoes in or try sowing parsnips again this month if you like, but for most of us with 24 years left on the allotment waiting list and a very modest patch of something resembling green out back there are some easy things we could do add that bit of oomph to our borders. Or you might just want to read about it here and come over all Vita Sackville-West for five minutes.
15
Katherine Watson
One flowering perennial (which means it’s supposed to come back every year) that can be sown this month and which is worth its weight in gold in my opinion, is Verbena bonariensis - a lovely purple flowering, willowy plant that Christopher Lloyd referred to as an essential ‘connecting thread’ in planting design and remains one of Great Dixters signature plants (a brilliant garden to visit if you’re going to Sussex BTW). I recommend it not only because it is easy, but it has come back in my main border for the last four years or so without any coaxing, nestling in with some stately varieties of Miscanthus sinensis (a ‘good-doer’ grass), providing a fantastic display well into the autumn. My sunny
border (this plant likes the sun) sits next to a gravel path and in late spring, I’ve already got 20 or so little verbena seedlings popping up – which might seem like a nightmare to neat-freaklow-maintenance gardeners, but if you’ve got a spare hour one weekend, you can literally pull these seedlings up, plant them in those purple pots you’ve got hanging around from last years B&Q trips, and you’ll have loads of new plants for your borders. Or to pass on to friends (the original concept of re-use and recycle). Either way, Verbena bonariensis is a belting, butterfly and bee attracting plant that will mix well in practically any colour scheme. Katherine Watson, Fat Grass Garden Designs
to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
10 16
Compost Local
An interview with Ian Trippier, Fairfield Compost What is Fairfield Compost? We’re a social enterprise based at the New Smithfield Market in Openshaw. We turn fruit and vegetable waste from the market and green waste from local parks and gardens into good quality compost for people’s gardens and allotments. What is the difference between Fairfield compost and multipurpose compost from garden centres and diy stores? At Fairfield we produce ‘pure’ compost, without the chemical fertilisers, animal by-products and peat that you often find in multi-purpose compost from garden centres and diy stores. Ours is most useful as a soil improver as it is rich in organic matter and nutrients, whereas multi-purpose compost is useful for potting plants or even seed sowing. Of course, you should
always prefer a peat free, organic multi-purpose compost when you buy one. What about my own home made compost, is that not good enough? It’s important that gardeners make the most of their waste, and we encourage people to make their own compost. However, Fairfield can help by offering bulk quantities, often needed on allotments and large gardens. Our compost is also free of diseases and weeds, as we process large quantities, raised to high temperatures around 80. Because our compost is weed free, it can be used as a mulch to suppress weeds on beds. Why is a local compost important? A lot of compost from garden centres and diy stores has travelled a fair bit, sometimes
coming from Northern Ireland, before getting to people’s gardens. Fairfield uses local materials to make its compost, and deliver it to local gardens. So if you’re in need of a soil improver, you should think twice before using multi-purpose compost, and prefer your own home made compost or a local source of soil improver. What next for Fairfield? We’re looking at ways of improving our product and making it more accessible to gardeners by delivering it in small bags or bulk bags. So, we would welcome any feedback from existing or prospective customers on how we can best serve them. For more information about Fairfield Compost, please visit www.fairfieldcompost.co.uk or call Ian on 0161 2312139.
17
THIS LOCALLY
PRODUCED
COMPOST
IS
SOIL IMPROVER
Sets off your plants beautifully! Use it as mulch to suppress weeds, retain moisture and protect roots and soil life. Dig it in to bring natural fertility because it is nutrient-rich and free of synthetic chemicals.
+
By using it you help divert both vegetable and green waste from landfills and save peat-lands.
GM FREE
TO PLACE AN ORDER OR FOR MORE INFORMATION
Visit: www.fairfieldcompost.co.uk or call: 0161 231 2139
reliable, organic
gardener 20 Years experience * Weeding * Pruning * Planting * Strimming * Clearing .................and much more
Community Index
PRINT Litho print • Digital print• Graphic Design Service
Please call: Serena Finzel
Business Cards
07813051465
Leaflets
BA Hons
Loyalty Cards Flyers Posters
Striking Fair trade lamps Local company Free Delivery
www.thecamphortree.co.uk
Postcards Letterheads Compliment Slips Email us for a quote: print@communityindex.co.uk
Tel: 0787 589 5604
18
Springtime is here! in Chorlton & Whalley Range
PRIME PROPERTIES
Springtime in Chorlto n & Whalley Range
After a very cold and dark winter it is lovely to see an abundance of snowd rops and crocuses flowe ring in our local parks and gardens. As the days get longer and brighter more and more green shoots of spring are appearing through the bare ground. Many woodland plants take advantage of spring sun shine to flower early before the tree leaves block much of it out. Why not take a stroll around Chorlton Meadows or Alexandra Park and enjoy some of the early signs of spring?
430 Barlow Moor Road Chorlton M21 8AD
SALES: 0161 882 2233 chorlton@jpbrimelow.co.uk
LETTINGS: 0161 882 2244 chorltonlettings@jpbrimelow.co.uk
www.jpbrimelow.co.uk
19
evolve joinery
Made Measure Furniture Co
Wooden & UPVC windows
New Kitchen Doors
Internal & external doors
& Worktops
Engineered & solid wood floors
Built in Cupboards
Stud partition & plasterboard work
Floating Shelves
All aspects of internal joinery
Bookcases
Decking & fencing
Bedrooms
David Deveaux
High quality work for a competitive price
t: 0161 408 5214 m: 07917 035 270
For a free quote contact Pete
07947 242 339 0161 718 2425
Bespoke Service FREE Quotations
evolvejoinery@yahoo.com
6 Needham Ave, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester M21 8AA
Chorlton Gas N W NNDecorator inaWWest ina West
N
ina est ina est Decorator Decorator
“She’s So Neat” Neat” “She’s So
07958 382 07958 382682 682
“She’s So Neat”
Decorator 07958 382 682
“She’s
Interiors, Exteriors
Interiors, Exteriors Paper Hanging Paper ColourHanging Advice Colour Advice
Interiors, Exteriors So Neat” Paper Hanging Colour Advice
07958 382 682
15 Years Experience Interiors, Exteriors Paper Hanging Colour Advice
Domestic Central Heating and Gas Engineers
Fully Qualified, Fully Insured, Gas Safe Registered Friendly and Reliable, Local References Available Service, Installation and Breakdown Repair on all makes of:
Boilers Fires
ob No oJo t mall s r o big
Cookers Unvented Hot Water Cylinders Under Floor Heating Central heating power flushing service available
Call Kevin for a no obligation quote Tel:
07722 731 801 www.chorltongas.co.uk
please mention community index when responding to adverts
20
Local Arts Roundup Orwell’s nightmare set to storm Chorlton stage Chorlton Players drama group are currently preparing to perform one of the most challenging productions in their 40-year history – the theatre adaptation of George Orwell’s “1984”. The story of a forbidden love brutally torn apart in a terrifying imaginary totalitarian state will be performed each evening between 31st March - 2nd April at the Church Hall on St Werburgh’s Road in Chorlton. Working to a different script than the one staged by the Royal Exchange theatre in Manchester last year, Director Mick Bowden explains how the idea for the show came about: “Last summer whilst flicking through my old record collection, I came across David Bowie’s ‘Diamond Dogs’ album which was to be the soundtrack for a rock opera of 1984 that never emerged. I remembered the powerful torture scene from BBC radio adaptation and it occurred to me what a brilliant show it would be to perform. Funnily enough, I was unaware that there was another version on stage in town at roughly the same time.” Chorlton Players are well known
for the innovative approach they take to their productions. It has become almost a cliché to stage the play by creating a retro-vision of what the year 1948 (when Orwell wrote the book) might look like projected into the future. Bowden’s intentions are quite different: “We’ll be performing a show loaded with video and audio effects but which will also reflect Manchester’s post-industrial heritage. We freely admit to adapting some of the city’s recent cultural iconography into our stage designs.” “1984” will begin at 7.30pm each evening, the Hall opening at 7.10pm. Tickets are £6.00 (£4.00 concession) and will be available on the door or from: www.chorltonplayers.com. Local interest in the show is very high and advance booking is recommended.
Also this month… CHORLTON FILM INSTITUTE On Thursday 17th March, CFI will be showing The Secret in Their Eyes (2009), an Argentine crime thriller directed by Juan José Campanella. This film flits between 1970s Argentina and the present day as retired policeman, Esposito, attempts to write a novel based on an old unsolved crime in the hope for closure… Doors open at St. Clements Church at 8.10pm, film starts at 8.30pm. MANKY POETS The poetry group’s monthly gathering will be held on 18th March at Chorlton Library, hosted by Copland Smith. Everybody is welcome. This month, readers include Julia Deakin and a guest poet! Doors open 7.30pm - 9.30pm.
by Jon Clark The Secret in Their Eyes
21
Acorn CHIMNEY SWEEPING SERVICES Call John 0161 445 3650
open fires, boilers Agas, multi-fuel stoves birds nests removed
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 NACS member www.acornchimneysweepingservices.co.uk
Guarantee for reliability, full insurance, quality and total customer satisfaction
DEVINE D KITCHENS LE
CARPENTRY & JOINERY
All types of Woodwork undertaken
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
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
to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
22
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 download the latest edition at www.communityindex.co.uk
23
Business Index Acupuncture
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.
Estate Agents
Acupuncture South Manchester
5
JP & Brimelow
Tracey Cartledge Mosaic Classes
4
Devine Floorsanding
Arts & Crafts
Building & Maintenance Broadoak Preservation Devine Building & Maintenance
24 2
Profresh
22
Carpet Cleaning Cat Care
Top Cat Services
22
Chimney Sweep
Acorn Chimney Sweeping Services 21
Computer services Greenh Unitech Computers
Dog Walking
Alpha Dog Walking Happy Paws
Electrician
Andrew Maunsell
Floors
8
Furniture & Joinery
D L Enterprises Evolve Joinery Made to Measure Furniture Co
21 19 19
Unitech Computers
21
Fairfield Compost Fat Grass Garden Angels Serena Finzel
17 15 8 17
Chorlton Gas Select Plumbing & Heating
19 8
Games Console Repair Gardens
7 22
Gas Engineer
22 9
Handyman
8
18
Chorlton Handyman
8
Homes & Interiors
thecamphortree.co.uk
17
Kitchens Devine Kitchens
21
Chorlton Trade Paints HMC Painters & Decorators Nina West
11 11 19
Painting & Decorating
Plumbers
BG Plumbing Select Plumbing & Heating
11 8
Roofer
M Duffin Morris Roofing RPL Roofing
2 7 21
Shopping
5 14
A J Adams 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
Gas Emergency
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
861 7035
Sheila Newman
881 9641
Victor Chamberlain
234 3002
cllr.s.newman.manchester.gov.uk
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
Citizens Advice
07507 854784 226 3322
GMPTE Bus, Train & Tram Mersey Valley Countryside Warden Service Rail Enquiries NHS Direct
Chorlton Civic Society 0870 126 4094 0800 111 999 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
to advertise call Lesley: 0787 589 5604 lesley@communityindex.co.uk
DO YOU NEED MORE SPACE? We specialise in: Basement Conversions Garage Conversions Property Refurbishment Other services: • • • • • • • • •
Structural Restraint & Repairs Wall Tie Installations Damp Proof Course Installation Eradication of Wet Rot/Dry Rot Full Modernisation & Renovation Works Roof Chimney & Gutter Overhaul & Replacement Damp Treatments for Cellars & Basements Concrete Repairs Qualified Surveyors
www.broadoakpreservation.co.uk
Call us today for a free no obligation quote
Telephone: 0161 337 0707 email: info@broadoakpreservation.co.uk