inside september - october 2017
magazines
Issue 58
bollington, prestbury & t y t h e r i n g to n
The local magazine our readers love to keep One of six magazines delivered to over 45,000 homes
magazines
inside
bollington, prestbury & t y t h e r i n g to n Working in publishing it can feel as though time is going far too quickly! We’re always working to deadlines well in advance of publication dates, meaning that here I am writing this in the middle of August, trying to find lovely autumnal photos for the covers. Meanwhile, the phone is ringing and emails arriving thick and fast with information about Christmas! I’m not complaining – your enthusiasm, contributions and feedback all add to the success of INSIDE Magazines and help us to make our offer that bit different. So, I’d like to say a big thank you to all the people who contribute editorial features. One of the most popular is The Walk and, thanks to Marple Ramblers and Poynton Ramblers, there’s always a new walk to try. Special thanks also to Graham Beech who has kept us up to date with the NGS Charity Garden Openings for many years. Finally – please keep sending any photos that might be suitable for the cover – we’ve already printed fabulous images on some of our titles. Whatever the season or occasion, send them in and we’ll file them away for the same time next year!
What’s INSIDE this month 4 simply books book club choice 7 Anything’s Possible with an E-Bike 10 In Touch 15 science & maths tuition 17 The Back Mechanic 21 volunteer for live at home 23 riverford recipe 24 the Walk 26 Crossword & sudoku 28 INSIDE People 30 Children’s Activities 17 33 time for a change 35 INSIDE Guide 39 gardening 40 Diary of a Geeky Knitter 42 Puzzle Solutions 45 Useful numbers 46 classified index
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Editor: Claire Hawker
Tel: 01625 879611
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Inside Magazines, 352a Park Lane, Poynton, Cheshire SK12 1RL. email: info@insidemagazines.co.uk www.insidemagazines.co.uk E-biking in Prestbury by Garth Aspinall
Copy deadline for the next issue: wed 11 october
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Inside Bollington, Prestbury & Tytherington is produced by Inside Magazines Ltd. We cannot be held responsible for views expressed by contributors or any advert content, including errors or omissions, or endorse companies, products or services that appear in this magazine. We endeavour to ensure that all local information given in this magazine is accurate, but we cannot always guarantee this. © Copyright Inside Magazines Ltd 2017. Material from this magazine may not be reproduced without prior written permission from Inside Magazines Ltd.
Design and artwork by Spring Creative | www.spring-creative.co.uk | 01925 714203
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simply books
book club choice
Mend The Living by Maylis de Kerangal is an extraordinary book. In the depths of a winter’s night Simon Limbeau is at rest. In a few hours’ time, just before six, his alarm will go off and he will venture into the freezing dawn, drive down to the beach, and go surfing (his great passion) with friends. It’s a trip he has made a hundred times before but today events will take a different (more tragic) course as the drama of a catastrophic accident unfolds – and we are drawn into the compelling story of how one person’s death can in turn hold out the hope of ‘mending the living’. Far from being the simple tale of a heart transplant, however, this is a novel which succeeds on so many levels. Meticulous in its medical detail - sensitive and compassionate in its handling of the moral and emotional dilemmas which all those touched by Simon’s sudden death face. Breathless writing combined with tragic subject matter make this a searing and unforgettable read – and a life affirming one too. It’s unlike anything I have ever read before. Do Not Say We Have Nothing by Madeleine Thien is a fascinating novel set in China in the years following Mao’s Communist Revolution. In 1990 ten-year-old Marie and her mother take in a young woman fleeing the aftermath of the Tiananmen Square protests. She brings with her stories of her family under Chairman Mao – stories which span the course of China’s recent turbulent history. Thien takes these stories and weaves them into a vivid and powerful novel that reaches back into China’s civil war and up to the present day. Epic in scope it’s also delicate and subtle in the detail of the characters’ lives – shedding light on a dark period of Chinese history through wit, humour and wonderful storytelling. I’ve always enjoyed books which blur history and fiction – introducing you to subjects of which you may have no more than a half-formed understanding. This is one of the best. And for the children… take a look at Fantastically Great Women Who Changed The World by Kate Pankhurst (descendant of Emmeline) - a wildly wonderful and accessible book about women who really changed the world. Bursting full with beautiful illustrations and astounding facts – everyone from Jane Austen to Mary Seacole, from Marie Curie to Rosa Parks…and many more besides. The perfect introduction to just a few of the incredible women who helped shape the world we live in.
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Simply Books 228 Moss Lane, Bramhall, Cheshire SK7 1BD 0161 439 1436 Open Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm Andrew Cant www.simplybooks.info
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anything’s possible...
with an e-bike
A few years ago, electric bikes (or e-bikes) were almost unheard of on English soil, but today it’s a different story. There are now numerous e-bike models on the market and more and more people are enjoying the benefits of this 21st century phenomenon. E-bikes are almost undistinguishable from a traditional bike and chances are you have seen quite a few such bikes in your own locality without actually realising it. Liz Hatherall and Ann Aspinall (pictured on our front cover) have now been riding e-bikes for about six years and haven’t regretted their purchases for one moment. In this article, they give us the benefit of their knowledge and considerable experience. So what is an e-bike? Put simply, it’s a pedal cycle that also has a small electric motor and battery fitted to
help propel it. These latter two components are almost always involved in one form or another and largely account for the additional weight of this type of bike. A simple switch enables you to choose at any time (depending on the terrain) just how much support you require. Assistance is typically provided in three or four increments – no support, eco (low) support, standard support and high support. More sophisticated e-bikes also have a ‘walk’ mode that means you don’t need to push the bike along yourself, which is especially useful if you need to get it up a ramp. Key to the practicality of the e-bike is the battery. The battery is typically charged overnight and can give you a range of up to sixty miles, but in practice its range will ultimately depend on the level of assistance you routinely require. For a long journey, a second battery, carried in your pannier is definitely a good idea. E-bikes come in all shapes and sizes to suit different kinds of terrain and a myriad of personal needs, and can be enjoyed by all ages. They come with differing technical characteristics and can cost between £500 and £4,000. As a rough guide, avoid the low-end Chinese products and be prepared to pay £2,000 min. for a quality product. With so many manufacturers, models, technical specifications and schools of thought around, it’s very important that you do your research and that you consult with a specialist dealer before Continued over
by Garth Aspinall
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you make your purchase. The ideal bike will feel comfortable for you and will enable you to do all the things that you have been dreaming about. Once you have decided that the investment is worthwhile, the quest for your ideal bike can be great fun and it’s likely that you will become as knowledgeable and enthusiastic about e-bikes as others are about their camera, car, caravan or mobile home. But most important of all, when you have finally made your purchase you will discover a whole new lifestyle and perhaps, a new and exciting world. Liz and Ann (both the ‘wrong side of 70’) have provided some really interesting insights into the benefits of owning an e-bike. In the last five years, they have pottered about the local area, completed many a shopping trip, enjoyed numerous day trips and, just for the record, have cycled over 5000 kilometres with five ‘Grand Tours’ across six European countries.
Ann bought her bike initially to keep up with her husband (yours truly), I still have an ordinary bike and now play ‘catch-up’ - especially on the hills! The Scottish Highlands for her are a possibility. For me? Well. I’m not so sure. An e-bike is a great way to do your local shopping. Panniers or specifically designed bags can accommodate a reasonable amount of shopping. Whether you are visiting your local supermarket or a European city, you will encounter no parking problems. Perhaps you could dispense with your costly second car! A good bike-rack towed behind your car can carry two or more bikes and makes it possible to reach all manner of destinations for the start of your ride. This could be a parking spot in Alderley Edge close to the quieter Cheshire lanes or the car park at the start of the Tissington Trail. With a little experience, you could plan an adventure trip, in the UK or abroad. There are wonderful routes, all very well sign-posted, in France, Germany and Austria. And if you are fortunate enough to own a campervan or mobile home, take your bikes with you and you will enjoy even greater flexibility. Hiring an e-bike is an important first step in your decision-making process. It will help you decide whether you enjoy the activity. Surf the internet to find out where you can hire. You can, for example hire at Parsley Hay or Ashbourne, the beginning and end points of the Tissington Trail.
Liz and Ann have provided some useful hints and observations – in no particular order of importance – to think about if you are considering the purchase of an e-bike. Cycling is not only pleasurable, but is recognised as a generally safe, low impact form of exercise that is kind to knees, hips and feet. An e-bike enables you to continue cycling when you are older. In fact, if walking is a problem, an e-bike could become your preferred way of getting out and about.
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However, whilst hiring a bike is helpful, you should also take the opportunity to test a range of bikes to find the best one for you. Visiting one of the major cycle exhibitions would be an interesting and time-saving way to explore and test all options. Don’t forget the Cycle to Work scheme which provides for subsidised purchase. We have a friend who cycles to the station, takes a train to Congleton and cycles at the other end to work, without once breaking into a sweat. If you feel inspired to find out more, google ‘e-bike’ and you will discover a wealth of information on the internet. Alternatively, you can email anaspinall@hotmail.com - Ann & Liz will try to answer any queries you might have.
in touch your local community noticeboard september - october 2017
DEMENTIA COMMUNITY COMPANIONS SCHEME Helena Smith, Volunteer Services Co-ordinator at East Cheshire Hospice is recruiting volunteers to a new service, Community Dementia companions. A volunteer is matched up with a person with early stage dementia, based on shared interests. This offers the person with dementia purposeful activity, or social contact, whilst giving their carer a few hours break, during which time they could get their hair done, meet friends, take exercise, or whatever suits them. The interest in this service has been huge, and we have quite a waiting list of wonderful individuals with dementia waiting to meet volunteers! After initial training sessions in September, the volunteer will be able to visit their chosen companion either in their home or on visits in the community. No personal care is involved, and support is given to the volunteers throughout training and their volunteering, so they can concentrate on enjoying making a real difference to the lives of the person with dementia and their carer.
Anyone interested in helping someone with dementia in their community a couple of hours per week can call Helena Smith on 01625 664984, or visit www.eastcheshirehospice.org.uk/volunteering
BOLLINGTON CHAMBER CONCERTS At a time when it can often be hard to keep up audience numbers for classical music, Bollington is bucking the trend. The reason is obvious - wonderful musicians, including internationally acclaimed groups like the Belcea Quartet and the Heath, and brilliant soloists like the pianist Tom Poster. More and more people are realising that you don’t need to go to the Wigmore Hall to hear the most exciting chamber concerts! The qualities of the venue are so important. The acoustics in the Arts Centre are first class, and the warmth and friendliness of the audience are so evident. Bollington is fortunate in being able to start the season with Jennifer Pike, the violinist who won the Young Musician of the Year in 2002 at the age of 12, and went on to receive international acclaim. She actually has local roots. There is a superb array of musicians to follow, including the Jubilee Quartet, young and hugely talented, and the Doric Quartet, formed in 1998 and very highly regarded.
Come along and try it! Jennifer Pike is playing on Saturday 23 September. Booking is easy online at www.bollingtonartscentre.co.uk/chamberconcerts or Tel: 01625 576402 or 01625 574435. Tickets £17.50 and £2 for students and people in receipt of means tested benefits
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THE NORTH WEST’S LEADING ENSEMBLE St George’s Singers ended their Diamond Anniversary season with another sell-out concert at Gorton Monastery and a review of their performance of Verdi requiem that described them as able to “stand at least alongside the Hallé Choir as the north west’s leading ensemble”. That is quite a journey for a self-funded choir that started 60 years ago as a local choir of 23 singers based at St George’s Church, Poynton. The choir is already preparing for the new 2017-18 season which is going to be their busiest ever, beginning with four concerts before Christmas. On 21 October they will be performing at Chetham’s new venue, The Stoller Hall performing Rachmaninov Vespers in a concert for Chetham’s Russian October 1917-2017 season. This concert also includes John Tavener’s hauntingly beautiful Song for Athene which readers may remember from the funeral of Princess Diana. In December there will of course be the ever-popular traditional family-friendly Carols and Brass by Candlelight, and just two days later the choir will be at The Bridgewater Hall performing in John Rutter’s Christmas Festival with The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and The King’s Singers. Full details of these and all the other events in the new season can be found in the season’s brochure which is now available at Poynton Civic Hall. St George’s Singers always welcomes enquiries from singers who are interested in joining them to perform great music in great venues. If that’s you, please ring the secretary Jacqui on 01625 875437 to arrange a few visits to rehearsals and to hear more about how to join the choir.
WILMLSOW GUILD NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY If you enjoy the countryside or wish you knew a little more about plants, animals and fungi, why not join other enthusiasts at the Natural History Society? During the winter experts deliver illustrated talks on a range of natural history topics; during the summer there is a programme of field trips. Lectures are held monthly on a Thursday – details will be listed in the INSIDE Guide.
For more information about membership contact David Warner 01625 874387, Steve Osborne 01625 879087 or email steve.osborne42@gmail.com
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Co-operative Travel still available in Macclesfield Have you been down Mill Street in Macclesfield, and found the Cooperative branded Thomas Cook shop has closed? Well don’t worry because there is still opportunity to book with a real Co-operative in Macclesfield, with membership points too! Midcounties Co-operative Travel is available to Macclesfield holidaymakers, by booking with Richard Slater, one of their Personal Travel Agents, who is available to book your trip from a very wide range of holiday companies, whatever your price range.
airlines and tourist boards invite him to review their products regularly. Richard said: “In recent years there has been an increase in demand for independent travel agents who have the skills and knowledge to help customers find the perfect holiday, with holidaymakers really valuing someone planning their trip who knows all about the destination they are heading to. “I would estimate I get at least 10% of new enquiries just from walking the dog in the morning. I get chatting to people, explain what I do and they remember me and get in touch when they are next thinking of booking a holiday. “I also have several customers I’ve known for decades. My first ever booking was a holiday to Ireland for a client who is still to this day booking with me. It’s lovely that they keep coming back – I think it’s because they enjoy booking with someone who really understands what they want to get out of their holiday and cares about them having the best experience possible.” Richard decided he wanted to work in the travel industry at the age of 15 after he went on his first foreign holiday – a cruise with his family.
Richard who is celebrating 30 years as an independent travel agent this month, providing holidays for local jetsetters and national clients, says “I love the job, every customer enquiry is different, I may start the day booking a client on a Shearings coach tour, then the next might be a family sun holiday, then a tailor-made trip to Australia, and on to a luxury cruise. Richard has spent the past three decades travelling across the world, from Canada and the Maldives to Tanzania and Sri Lanka, along with almost every country in Europe. This has allowed him to provide first hand advice and recommendations to customers who are looking for expert knowledge ahead of booking a trip. His in-depth knowledge has led him to become a ‘Disney Specialist Agent’ and achieve ‘Commodore’ status for his outstanding understanding of the cruise market, and because of his reputation, tour companies,
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He added: “It was such a fantastic experience, especially at that age, and I was fascinated by the prospect of all the locations available to explore. It was then I decided that helping people enjoy the holiday of a lifetime was the career for me. Thirty years later, seeing people’s holiday pictures and getting thank you messages on social media is still my favourite part of the job.” To book a holiday call Richard on 0800 567 7470, or why not meet him for a chat, at your home or in town for a coffee, he’s available at a time to suit you, including evenings and weekends.
Richard Slater The Personal Travel Agents Tel: 0800 567 7470 / 0750 430 3088 Email: richard.slater@ thepersonaltravelagents.co.uk www.mypersonaltravelagent.co.uk
Science and maths tuition Who we are? We are a team of experienced and highly skilled teaching experts in biology, chemistry, maths and physics for GCSE, IGCSE, AS and A2. Most lessons are to be in small groups but there is some availability for one to one as well.
Who needs tuition?
What our students say: All our students say that they notice an improvement in grades and confidence after a few weeks. They particularly value having easy to learn notes, question practice and regular testing opportunities. Here are two examples of comments, more can be found on the website: ‘I could see improvements in my knowledge and confidence straight away. Groups allow us to cover a large amount of content and highlight problem areas. In 1:1 lessons we can bring our own specific questions. Essays and tests done when not in lessons have much improved my exam technique – much more than could be done in school lessons.’ (C. A2)
Anyone who wants to improve their grade or enhance their understanding and confidence.
Benefits of small group tuition: ■■ Intensive coverage of key aspects of the subject specification ■■ Small group tuition optimises learning ■■ Extensive exposure to past questions and practice ■■ Students learn how to revise and enjoy learning ■■ On average our students have gained 1.5 grades through tuition
‘My knowledge and understanding has vastly increased and I have loved my lessons. My grades in science and maths dramatically improved within two months of the beginning of Year 10. Group lessons were great because we covered harder topics and did question practice in just one lesson rather than taking multiple lessons to cover the same amount. It was great for focused learning and preparation and consolidation prior to exams where everybody gets plenty of time. I have developed a very keen interest and I am hoping to take sciences at A level.’ (A. IGCSE) Group lessons can cover specification content in the most cost effective format. One to one lessons are tailored to match the needs of the individual. Most students enrol for groups or a mixture of both. More information can be found on the website. www.sciencetuitionmanchester.co.uk
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back mechanic a book review INTRODUCTION Back Mechanic has been on my back-burner for a while now, itching to get onto the pages of INSIDE Magazines and to offer a little hope to those readers who are frequent sufferers from back pain. Like millions of others, I suffered from recurrent back pain over many years, visited many different health professionals and pretty much despaired of finding any lasting relief. But two years ago, my thoughtful wife brought home a book entitled Back Mechanic, by Stuart McGill, Professor (Spine Biomechanics) University of Waterloo, Canada. I devoured this book, followed its advice and frankly, have experienced no back pain since. I should emphasise that it’s not my place to give medical advice. I am not qualified to do so. But this is a book that impressed me greatly with its depth of expertise and in my own case, it delivered the goods! Until recently, Stuart McGill was Professor of Spine Biomechanics at the University of Waterloo (Canada) where for some 30 years he had a laboratory and clinic that explored low back mechanics, injury mechanisms, rehabilitation protocols and performance enhancement. He has written over 240 scientific journal papers, four textbooks, and has mentored over 40 graduate students during this scientific journey. As a consultant, he has provided expertise on low back injury to various government agencies, many corporations and legal firms and numerous professional/international athletes and teams worldwide.
His third book ‘Back Mechanic’ is written for the layman and is a step by step guide to empower readers to become their own best advocate to get rid of back pain. This book is about learning your unique pain triggers and how to avoid them and it provides a comprehensive guide to each set of corrective exercises that will adjust your movement patterns and rebuild your tolerance and strength. By Stuart’s own admission, writing a book that was sufficiently simple for the layman was not an easy task, but I do feel that he has succeeded very well. There is an excellent balance between the technical explanations that are important to a proper understanding of how the back works and the clearly illustrated steps that the reader needs to follow to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and management of the pain. I have provided below a brief summary of his book.
THE BOOK PART 1 Understanding Back Pain In Part 1 we are given a thorough introduction to the nature of back pain. Stuart commences by alerting us to a number of myths surrounding back pain. One such myth is “non-specific back pain”, a term that is commonly used by doctors who simply don’t have the knowledge, time or resources to be of real practical Continued over
by Garth Aspinall
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help. Certainly, the traditional medical system approach, based on a 15 minute appointment with a GP, provides no opportunity to discover the cause of pain or to provide an appropriate plan to get rid of the cause and build pain-free movement. There is always a causal mechanism, he states, nor is it ¨in your head¨ which is becoming a mantra of clinicians who do not have expertise in thorough back pain assessment.
PART 2 The Self-Assessment This section of the book briefly describes the kind of assessment that Stuart would normally follow for his visiting patients and then describes in detail with supporting diagrams what you the reader can do to perform your own self-assessment. A series of tests enables you to identify those movements that are painful and those that are painfree. Stuart believes that most readers will be able to arrive at a conclusive diagnosis. The information gathered then enables you to narrow down the type of back problem from which you suffer and is the basis for the repair program that follows in Part 3. PART 3 The Repair Job: Using The Right Tools To Make Activity Pain-free
He also warns against back clinic treatment programs that require numerous return visits, often at quite some expense, where the patient has not been given the knowledge and skills to manage his/her own recovery. The surgical route is also discussed with a clear message that about 95% of patients who have considered surgery have been able to avoid it, with the help of the McGIll Method. Stuart finally warns against blind adherence to systems such as Yoga and Pilates. Whilst these correctly promote core stability as an important goal, he warns against certain movements/exercises that conflict with his own laboratory findings and could have a positively detrimental effect. There is much useful information and numerous diagrams illustrating the anatomy and functioning of the back. Examples of good posture and bad posture are examined in terms of how these determine spine load and pain. The opposing concepts of stiffness (a supporting girdle) and mobility are explored – both essential attributes in the functioning of a healthy back. Common back injuries and their causes are also discussed, together with tips as to how to avoid them. This part of the book concludes with some basic rules and guidelines to promote better back health.
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This section is about creating new habits. It’s about eliminating the cause of pain and finding pain-free postures when sitting, lying and standing. It provides exercises to help you stabilise the torso, core and spine throughout your daily movements. There are three painfree movement tools which, if executed correctly, will make a huge difference - the Squat, the Lunge and the Stop Twist. Being mentally aware is also fundamental in creating pain-free movement. Success depends on an ability to move mindfully. Explanations of how to sit, walk, bend, push, pull are covered together with a myriad of other tips to help you through the day. Perhaps the most crucial, life-changing offering in this book is to be found in this section - ‘The Big 3’ - a set of three exercises that we are urged to carry out on a daily basis. They consist of The Curl-up, The Side Plank and The Bird-Dog. Sadly, there is insufficient space here to describe how these should be performed and it would be irresponsible to provide a potted explanation. Suffice to say that they are within the capabilities of most of us and only take a few minutes a day. (Stuart also warns against a few exercises that seem to form part of current wisdom.) Another great piece of news is the importance that Stuart attaches to walking. OK. So you are already aware of that one! But I think it’s great to be reminded of something that is so accessible and so pleasurable, particularly in this part of Cheshire. Stuart explains how we can walk with a pain-free style and suggests
a progressive walking program as part of your overall recovery plan. Armed with all the knowledge and skills that you have developed over a period of four to six weeks, you are then offered a daily Core Program of activity something that should enable the majority of people to maintain a pain-free lifestyle. At this point, and with the proviso that you have achieved a noticeable reduction in your back pain, you are also invited to incorporate a few additional exercises to help restore the mobility of your hips. PART 4 Tuning The Machine For Best Performance This final part of the book is directed to those of an athletic disposition and offers further exercises to enhance strength and injury resilience – a program of exercises that will enable seriously sports-minded individuals to regain and build upon their previous levels of fitness. Also in this section you will find suggestions to manage special health conditions (sciatica, kyphosis, scoliosis, stenosis, overweight and others). The book terminates with a set of case studies.
SUMMARY This book does not offer a quick fix. There is no such thing according to Stuart McGill as ‘Freedom from Back Pain in 5 Days’ or any similar simplistic approach. On the other hand, the recommendations within the book are empowering yet easy to follow, modest in their demands and are based on years of scientific research. Anyone determined to find a cure for their back is likely to appreciate his approach and to accept that a modicum of daily discipline and commitment is a small price to pay for a happier and pain-free existence. I have the utmost respect for this unassuming expert who has managed to condense so much academic knowledge and practical hands-on experience into a book of manageable proportions. To find out more visit www.backfitpro.com Book available from www.amazon.co.uk From early September also available as a video enhanced version.
MHA LIVE AT HOME Supporting Independence for Older People I was driving to work one morning and couldn’t get that song out of my head; you know the one from Toy Story ‘You’ve got a friend’. All of our children know it and it made me think, children find it so easy to make friends because they join in and play. As we get older life tends to take over and when we reach retirement and old age our friends, partners and family tend to disappear and we have time on our hands but fewer friends to play with! Live at Home tackles isolation by promoting independence and wellbeing. We tailor our activities to suit the needs of our members, so if you want to meet people and make friends, take gentle exercise or have fun going out on trips or to an event then we can help. It’s often the little things in life that we worry about. Our staff and volunteers at Live at Home are here to help.
VOLUNTEERING IS SO REWARDING We have many services to meet the needs of our older generation but we need more volunteers to make their lives special. We are intending to start a new luncheon club in Bollington in October so we particularly need volunteers in this area who could spare about four hours a month. We need drivers, people to help at the new and (other) luncheon clubs and befrienders.
Other services on offer are an afternoon tea club with activities and gentle (seated) exercises. We have a ‘befriending’ service for those members who find it difficult to leave their homes, and a ‘take me home’ service for those members who need assistance and support with GP and hospital appointments. We also need people to help with other activities, social trips and events throughout the year. Volunteering for Live at Home is special; it’s not just about giving a few hours of your time, volunteering gives so much in return and you could help. Whatever skills you have, we need you!
Contact us today to see how we can be of service to you or to our older generation living at home. Tel: 01625 612410 Email: Macclesfield.liveathome@mha.org.uk by Chris Harrop
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Walk from Over Haddon
through Lathkill and Bradford Dales Distance: 8 miles Walk description: Starting in Over Haddon, this circular walk goes along both Lathkill and Bradford Dales, two picturesque short river valleys that eventually join the River Wye near Rowsley. It goes through Alport, stays below Youlgreave and then follows the Limestone Way as far as Cales Dale, when it veers away down into Lathkill Dale and back to Over Haddon. It has two fairly steep ascents out of each Dale, and one steep descent down steps. Starting point: A6 to Buxton, on towards Bakewell. Shortly after Ashford in the Water, turn right up Crowhill Lane. At the T junction, turn left as far as the B5055. Turn right and follow the signs to Over Haddon, turning left off the B5055. The walk starts from the main car park in Over Haddon where there are toilets. (SK203664) Map: OS Explorer Map for the White Peak, OL24. Follow Main Street, across from the car park, and walk through this small former lead mining village with magnificent views south over Lathkill Dale. Its most famous son is Maurice Oldfield, former head of MI6, and believed to be the inspiration for John le Carre’s George Smiley, is buried in the churchyard here. Water provision for all limestone villages is a big problem and the wells are blessed each June by the traditional well
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dressing, located down a side road at the east of the village, just before the Lathkill Hotel. Take the squeeze stile and small gate past the Hotel, and veer right diagonally across a few fields until you reach a stretch along the edge of the Dale. At the far end of this section, look back and enjoy the views down into Lathkill Dale, with its trout fishing pools dammed up by low weirs. As you reach the next field, take the path down along the right edge, not straight on; it ends in a short sloping section which can be tricky when wet, goes through a new gate, and reaches the Conksbury Road bridge. This ancient bridge lies below Conksbury, the site of a medieval village. Turn right down over the bridge and up the “Quiet Lane” as far as the path to Alport, in about 100 yards on the left. This path stays along the foot of the sloping fields and woodland, with a fence/hedgerow to your left separating you from the now wide Dale bottom, with its marshland and wildlife. Cross a small track and continue below the sloping fields, beneath Raper Lodge (SK214651) on your right. The path reaches the quiet hamlet of Alport where the Lathkill and the Bradford rivers join, affording power for a village mill at one time. The old sandstone houses, with their climbing roses and honeysuckle covered garden walls are a picture in summer. Cross the road by the bridge and head right past the former red telephone kiosk, now housing a defibrillator. Follow the footpath sign on the left here and head
into Bradford Dale. (SK221645) The clear pathway interchanges between stone track and grassy paths alongside a very small Bradford river. Keep straight on where a little stone footbridge leads up to the hamlet of Bradford. Go past the seat nestling under the limestone crag before reaching a sharp right turn towards the cluster of houses next to the road heading for Youlgreave. Cross the road and take the path, now the Limestone Way, along the right hand edge of the River Bradford (SK213640) This lovely grassy section below Youlgreave has a series of seats on its banks, providing good picnic stops. In a dammed pool along here, is the village “outdoor swimming pool!” Youlgreave, another former lead mining village, apparently is the most mis-spelt place name in the UK. The local council spells it as Youlgrave on its signs, and the OS maps insert the “e”. Look online to see the array of names it has been called.
The Walk On the next sharp right bend, cross to a short grassy path up to a minor road. (SK198642) The stone stile lifts you to road level where you go left for a short distance, then right, joining a field path diagonally upwards. Beyond a short wooded section, look to veer right away from the walled woodland on your left and the path leads gently up to a gate. Here the Limestone way follows a short narrow section to a road by Moor Lane car park. Go left along the road and where it meets Back Lane, cross over into a field path. Crossing two stone stiles, this clear but long section reaches Low Moor Wood, skirts to the right of Calling Low farm and downhill toward Cales Dale, giving magnificent views north. Take care on the steep flight of limestone steps, full of fossils, down into Cales Dale. Leave the Limestone Way and head right down to Sheepwash Bridge. Turn right back down a long stretch of Lathkill Dale, passing an abandoned mill, old millstone wheels, and enjoy this Nature Reserve with its busy bird life and abundant variety of plants. On reaching the road, turn left for the final pull up to Over Haddon (SK203662) with a welcome tea room on the left, before getting back to the car park.
At the end of this section, go through a wall, cross over the river and then take a right turn on to a good wide pathway. The Dale is narrow at first but widens where there are ponds behind a series of dams and weirs. Eventually a stone bridge crosses the river pools at the site of a former mill, and the Limestone Way heads up a steady climb, zig-zagging through the woodland before straightening out towards a road from Middleton to Youlgreave. Go right round the sharp right bend and follow the road past Lomberdale Hall for almost half a mile.
Presented on behalf of Marple District Rambling Club; with over 350 members, the Club organises up to five graded walks every Thursday and three every Sunday. For further information contact the Chairman, Sue Gilmore on 07775 620398, or the Membership Secretary, Claude Prime on 0161 4838596, or visit www.marple-uk/ community/rambling to see the walks programme. By Barry Wilson > Marple District Rambling Club
25
quick crossword Across 7. Lingerie (13) 8. Stirrer (8) 9. Jaw (4) 10. Room for Two? (4,3) 12. Normal (5) 14. Put On (5) 16. North Sea Rig (3,4) 19. Amir ____ (4) 20. Detail (8) 22. Dictatorial (13)
down 1. Stake (4) 2. Enzyme (6) 3. Child’s Wheels! (7) 4. Discovered (5) 5. Paper Screen (6) 6. White Flakes (8) 11. Energy Measurement (4-4) 13. Hairy (7) 15. Blasé (4,2) 17. Battle Shout (3,3) 18. Worship (5) 21. Tolerate (4)
How to play Sudoku
sudoku
Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition. You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.
26
Solutions on page 42
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inside people
Gail Ashton
BIPOLAR DISORDER ■■ Formerly known as manic depression Jenny Cooke talks to GAIL ASHTON, poet and advocate of those with mental health problems
■■ A condition that causes moods to swing from one extreme to another
October 10th is World Mental Health Day. Gail Ashton’s dazzling third collection of poems, What Rain taught us, has just been published and speaks about the healing power of poetry.
■■ 1 in 100 adults will be diagnosed at some point in their lives
‘I’ve always loved the ‘music’ of poetry right from being in the juniors at Primary School. I adored the poetry lessons when our teacher, Mr Billings, had us chanting poems,’ says Gail.
■■ During an episode of depression thoughts may lead to suicide
Later Gail worked as an English teacher in schools, then lectured in medieval literature, specialising in the poetry of Chaucer and folk and romance tales. In amongst all this she moved to Higher Poynton, created a garden, rehomed rescue dogs, wrote three books of poetry, and walked the local countryside widely. As a teacher Gail became increasingly concerned about the distress and mental health issues she witnessed amongst many adolescents in schools. ‘And I also became aware of how often the diagnosis of bipolar disorder was occurring in the university students I was teaching.’ Gail realised that often friends and family, who mean well, don’t understand what’s happening. As a society we’re slowly realising that children, teenagers and adults can all suffer anguish, fear, anxiety and despair. One in four people are affected by mental illness in England.* It could happen to any one of us. Meanwhile young people especially can go through dramatic episodes that may feature breakdowns in relationships, drugs, embarrassing incidents, being homeless.
28
by Jenny Cooke
■■ Often develops between ages 15 - 19
*Info taken from www.nhs.uk/conditions/bipolar Therapy can come in two ways: medical and pharmaceutical help from a psychiatrist and/or a holistic talking cure. On 29 October, 2016 Gail read an article in The Guardian by Susie Orbach, a psychotherapist, called, ‘The Poetry of Therapy’. Orbach pointed out that, although the therapist encourages a person to talk ‘as if’ telling them everything about their life, it’s a partial and selective version. There are ‘spaces’ round the words – what isn’t said. This, Orbach realised, is a bit like the ‘spaces’ around the words and ideas in a poem. Reading and writing poetry can be a form of therapy. Reading Susie Orbach’s comments about ‘white spaces’ around a talking cure and poetry got Gail started on her subject matter and later the design of the collection. Gail wanted to explore what happens to someone when a talking cure for bipolar reduces a person to silence. ‘What happens when there are only nine words left? When a person feels as if they’re shipwrecked? Cast adrift and there’s nothing left to cling on to?’ She began to compose What Rain taught us with its theme of rain-imagery running throughout the poems. The narrative arc moves from a fictional dialogue with a therapist, through a fictional sea voyage and later to a return home, where everything is different.
Gail worked with Adam Craig, a co-editor at Cinnamon. He designed the graphics in the book which add another layer of meaning to the poems. He was inspirational in using the cover images both within and without. For myself I am deeply struck by the poem, Bereft
Bereft
Other poetry collections and a memoir by Gail Ashton, all published by Cinnamon Press: ■■ Ghost Songs ■■ The Other Side of Glass ■■ What Rain taught us 2017 just published by Liquorice Fish, an imprint of Cinnamon Press. ■■ A Memoir Not in the Sky 2018 -2019
‘half-open door without lights on
■■ In the magazine Envoi, September 2017, Gail describes the writing of What Rain taught us.
the corpse road
Gail is available to talk about, perform and offer writing workshops on this and other themes.
extinguished
Contact her on: gailashton@btinternet.com
one by
www.gailashtonwriting.wordpress.com
one’
www.cinnamonpress.com The graphics indicate a heartbeat has stopped, the typescript fades to pale grey and by the next page the heartbeat comes to a full stop. Yet the poems carry on. Somehow when writing is so much part of a person they find the courage to keep on writing. Finally Gail offers some practical advice: ■■ Any one of us could need help at some point in our lives. Talk about it. Don’t keep it to yourself. Seek help sooner rather than later. Find a support network if you can. ■■ When friends and family want to help: be sympathetic. Take a meal round or make a cup of tea. If people can’t get themselves to an appointment, offer to take them. You would if they had a broken leg. ■■ If you would like to start writing try and find the right group for you and join it. Read widely in your chosen genre. ‘Think of it as a voyage …. Gail writes in the blurb on the back cover. ‘During the intimate, sometimes hostile, exchanges of psychotherapy, we sail across wilderness and homeland, reality and dreamtime replete with people, animals, and an inner voice exploring loss and the restorative of illness.’
29
Children’s Activities Things to do with pre-school kids
monday Trinity Tots at Holy Trinity Hurdsfield 9.30-11.00am Free play, craft activities and song time. Refreshments include tea, coffee, juice and toast. 197a Hurdsfield Road, Macclesfield. Contact 01625 424587 melissa@hthmacc.com
thursday
Tuesday
Jolly Bollys 10-11.30am Bollington Community Centre, Ovenhouse Lane.
Praise & Play 9.30-11am Term time only. St Oswald’s Church, Bollington. Contact Beverley on 01625 500970 or beverleynxn@aol.com
Please call 01625 378 081 or email hurdsfieldchildrenscentreadmin@cheshireeast.gov.uk for more information
Wacky Woods 10am -12pm Styperson Quarry Wood, Brookledge Lane, Adlington. Come and have fun in the woods with your pre-schooler in a guided session; even young babies can appreciate the joys of nature. £5 per child includes pancakes or crumpets on the campfire.
Stay & Play 1.30-3pm Hurdsfield Children’s Centre, Hulley Rd, Macc.
Contact 01625 573086. Turtle Tots 10-11.30am Term time only. For babies and toddlers 3 months to 3 years. Learn how to swim with your baby above and below the water and teach your baby water confidence and key lifesaving skills, all in a friendly and sociable environment! Shrigley Hall, Pott Shrigley. For more details contact judith.rucklidge@turtletots.com or www.turtletots.com/cheshireandsouthmanchester
For ages 0-5 with parents/carers. Please call 01625 378 081 or email hurdsfieldchildrenscentreadmin@cheshireeast.gov.uk for more information. Turtle Tots 3-4pm Mottram Hall, Prestbury. For more details contact judith.rucklidge@turtletots.com or www.turtletots.com/cheshireandsouthmanchester
Friday
(Classes also at DW Fitness, Macclesfield on Monday & Sunday – please contact Judith for more details)
Rhyme Time 10-10.30am Bollington Library. Free but children must be accompanied by an adult. Tel 01625 378 266.
Wednesday
Saturday
Rhyme Time 10-10.30am Bollington Library. Free but children must be accompanied by an adult. Telephone 01625 378 266
Footloose Dance Academy 9-9.55am Civic Hall, Bollington. Introduction to dance for 3-4 year olds, including Ballet, Tap, and Freestyle dance. Children will use their imagination, practise simple steps and learn co-ordination – whilst having fun! For more information visit www.footloosedanceacademy.co.uk and to register please contact Sarah on 07951 054 547.
NCT at Fun4all 10-12 noon Fun4all in Macclesfield. Under 1’s free, 1 and 2 year olds £1 and 3+ usual rates. Contact bumpsandbabies@eastcheshire-nct.org. uk, telephone 0844 243 6115, and see our Facebook page ‘Friends of East Cheshire NCT’ for more information and other events. Allsorts Toddler Group 1.30-3pm Term time only. Allsorts Pre-School, Bollington St John’s Primary School. £1.50 per family includes refreshments. Contact the pre-school supervisor Kathryn Cox on 07913628115 or allsorts3@virginmedia.com
30
Turtle Tots 3-4.30pm Mottram Hall, Prestbury. For more details contact judith.rucklidge@turtletots.com or www.turtletots.com/cheshireandsouthmanchester
Compiled by Clare Blackie email: c.blackie@insidemagazines.co.uk
Turtle Tots 9-10am Mottram Hall, Prestbury. For more details contact judith.rucklidge@turtletots.com or www.turtletots.com/cheshireandsouthmanchester Dad’s Group 10-12noon Hurdsfield Children’s Centre, Hulley Rd, Macc. Drop-in play session for dads and male carers. Monthly meeting so please call the centre 01625 378 081 for dates and more information.
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time for a change We know that many of our readers have visited the lovely Park House B & B on more than one occasion. With this in mind Howard and Mary would like to offer something a little different for your next visit.
Their new offer gives you the chance to choose your room (on a first come first served basis) and includes complimentary Afternoon Tea on arrival with a superb Full Breakfast all at the discounted rate of ÂŁ70 for two people. Breakfast at Park House is an experience in itself - choose from delights such as compote of apricot & cinnamon, locally sourced James Alpe Clitheroe pork sausage and smoked bacon, or Omelette Arnold Bennett - a light and creamy omelette, filled with smoked haddock and Lancashire cheese. There are several great places to eat nearby including the fabulous La Locanda where hosts Cinzia and Maurizio are happy to offer Park House guests a discount of 20% on any food from the full a la Carte menu (minimum 2 courses) with a complimentary glass of Prosecco. This offer is available Monday to Friday until the end of November 2017.
inside guide
september - october 2017
selected events in your area
Saturday 2 September
Tuesday 19 September
Bollington Horticultural Society and Flower Club 53rd Annual Show. Non-members and children welcome to enter. Details from Mrs Joyce Burton 01625 272668 or email: bollington. horticulturalsociety@hotmail.com Civic Hall, Bollington 2pm to 4pm
North Cheshire Photographic Society Robert Millin – Confessions of a Competition Addict. Hear how Robert, from Wigan 10 Photography Club, has become a highly successful photographer through being hooked on entering photographic competitions. Non-members £5 on the door. www.ncps.org.uk Poynton Civic Centre 7.30pm for 8pm start
Tuesday 5 September North Cheshire Photographic Society Going Solo - Jane Lines returns to give a presentation primarily about taking photographs in the Camargue, Languedoc in the South of France and will include some other competition images. Non-members £5 on the door www.ncps.org.uk Poynton Civic Centre 7.30pm for 8pm start
Tuesday 12 September National Trust Lecture Shakespeare and Being Human - David Seddon. Brookdale Club, Bridge Lane, Stockport, SK7 3AB 2pm
Sunday 17 September Plant Hunters’ Fair With entry at just £2.50 (half the normal entry price) for the Gardens and Plant Fair it is a great chance to enjoy the changing season at the wonderful Henbury Hall Garden. For full details of the venue and the nurseries attending please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk Henbury Hall Gardens, Henbury, Macclesfield, SK11 9PJ 10am to 5pm
17 September to 10 November Threadmill textile and embroidery group exhibition “The Silk Route and Beyond” The exhibits are based on the incredible journey taken in medieval times by merchants from Europe. Goods such as coal, glass and wool were taken through many countries across Asia to the eastern edge of China from where the merchants brought back to Europe the rare and luxurious treasure, silk. Silk Mill, Park Street, Macclesfield
stand out from the crowd
with our paid INSIDE Guide listings. Call 01625 879611 or email info@insidemagazines.co.uk for further details.
Wednesday 20 September Lunchtime Concert Juniper Ensemble: Anna Rosa Mari/flute, Eira Lynn Jones/harp Admission by programme £5. Light lunches available from 12 noon Alderley Edge Methodist Church 1pm
Saturday 23 September Bollington Chamber Concert Jennifer Pike. Jennifer, accompanied by her father Jeremy, presents an intriguing spectrum of Polish music by romantic and contemporary composers framing the nation’s favourite piece - The Lark Ascending. Bacewicz Polish Caprice; Knapik Partita Szymanowski Violin Sonata; Gorecki ‘Farewell’ Vaughan Williams Lark Ascending Karlowicz Impromptu; Wieniawski Polonaise de concert. www.bollingtonartscentre.co.uk/pike 8pm
Tuesday 26 September E Cheshire National Trust Association. A Penny’s Worth’ with Penny Dean OBE. Brookdale Club, Bridge Lane, Stockport 2pm
Tuesday 26 September Macclesfield Group of the Family History Society of Cheshire Short AGM, followed by short talks from members. Meetings are open to the public and admission is £2 per meeting including refreshments. For further details please contact macclesfield@fhsc.org.uk The Salvation Army Church, Roe Street, Macclesfield 7.30pm
Thursday 28 September Wilmslow Guild Natural History Society British Wildlife in Frozen Britain by Mike Roberts. Visitors very welcome (£4) More information from David Warner 01625 874387 Wilmslow Guild, 1 Bourne St, Wilmslow SK9 5HD 7.30pm
Tues 3 to Sat 7 October
Tuesday 24 October
Poynton Gilbert and Sullivan Society – Iolanthe Tickets £12 adults and £7 for ages 16 and under, available in advance either by emailing tickets@poyntongands.co.uk or call 01625 876394. They will also be available on the door each night as well as from MATES DIY on Park Lane, Poynton. Reserved seats are available, but only via the Ticket Secretary. Poynton Civic Hall 7.30pm
Macclesfield Group of the Family History Society of Cheshire Dating Old Photographs a talk by David Guyton. Meetings open to the public, admission £2 per meeting including refreshments. Further details from macclesfield@fhsc.org.uk The Salvation Army Church, Roe Street, Macclesfield SK11 6XD 7.30pm
Saturday 7 October Saturday Night at the Movies Macclesfield Methodist Church Community Choir and soloists, featuring classic songs from classic movies and all the glamour of a Hollywood premiere for your entertainment! Tickets are £10 available on 01625 433187 / 615298. Macclesfield Methodist Church 7.30pm
Sat 7 to Sat 14 October Wilmslow Green Room Theatre presents Kafka’s Dick by Alan Bennett. Tickets for Kafka’s go on sale Monday 11 September To book tickets, call 01625 540933 or www.wgrsoc.org.uk Enquiries: mail@wgrsoc.org.uk Wilmslow Green Room, 85, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow
Wilmslow Wells for Africa Souperday. A choice of four delicious soups served with bread, all homemade, plus a hot drink included in the entry price of £4 (children half price). You can also choose to buy from a wonderful array of cakes as well as preserves, textiles etc. The cost of providing clean water for one person in rural Africa is often less than £4. So one bowl of soup means one person would be able to have clean water. St John’s Church Rooms, Knutsford Road, Wilmslow SK9 6EL 11am to 2pm
Thursday 26 October
Tuesday 11 October
East Cheshire National Trust Lecture The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew: more than just a garden – Jackie Campbell. Brookdale Club, Bridge Lane, Stockport, SK7 3AB 7.30pm
East Cheshire National Trust AGM Brookdale Club, Bridge Lane, Stockport, SK7 3AB 2pm
Friday 27 October
Thursday 12 October Wilmslow Guild Natural History Society British Butterflies – a travelogue by Tim Melling of the RSPB. Visitors very welcome (£4) More information from David Warner 01625 874387 Wilmslow Guild, 1 Bourne St, Wilmslow SK9 5HD 7.30pm
Wednesday 18 October Lunchtime Concert Edward Robinson/baritone, Dennis Tjiok/piano Admission by programme £5. Light lunches available from 12 noon Alderley Edge Methodist Church 1pm
Saturday 21 October
36
Thursday 26 October
Marie Curie Autumn Charity and Craft Fair. Plenty to do, early Christmas handmade gifts, Bric-a-Brac, Tombola, plants and books. Tea, coffee, cakes and biscuits. Fun for all the family, children’s games and much more. Free entry. Contact Ken on 01625 874345 or ken.hillier@ yahoo.co.uk. Main Hall, Poynton Civic Centre, 10am to 2pm
LEGENDS OF SOUL with Neil Shaw-Hulme & Pete Hughes Book a table and come with friends. Enjoy live music, dance, sing along and have fun. Buffet included. Bar with real ale. Tickets £15. Contact: 01625/574410 or 576821 or email: bercar@hotmail.co.uk Bollington Arts Centre. Doors open 7pm for 7.30pm start
Saturday 28 October Bollington Chamber Concert – The Jubilee Quartet The Jubilee returns to Bollington four years on. Formed at the RNCM in 2006 and garlanded with prizes and awards, they are now under the guidance of the Belcea Quartet. Haydn op 20 no 2, Stravinsky Three pieces for string quartet, Beethoven Quartet op 18 no 1 www.bollingtonartscentre.co.uk/jubilee Bollington Arts Centre 8pm
Sunday 29 October Tea Dance Relax or dance to the sounds of the 30s, 40s and 50s from ballroom to jive, etc. Feel free to come in period dress! Raffle, tea and cakes and licensed bar. Tickets £6. Proceeds to the Royal British Legion. Contact - Diana 01625 585600 or Pauline 01625 583729. The Festival Hall, Talbot Rd, Alderley Edge 2pm to 5pm
Heleniums - My Favourite Plant The great garden writer Christopher Lloyd, when asked what his favourite flower was, replied: “the one I’m looking at now”. It’s that way with me with Heleniums; all are beautiful, all are equally easy to grow and all do a great job in the border, be it a 15-inch edger to a 6-footer at the back. Heleniums come in all shades and variations of yellow, orange and red. The only thing to remember is that Heleniums need good sunlight to obtain the best colours.
The short varieties are usually earlier to flower and with dead heading will go on longest. Probably the best is the 2ft tall Mardi Gras with its jolly masses of flower and a strong constitution. Also, highly recommended is the bright red Red Army and Fata Morgana. Mid height Heleniums (3ft tall) are great for the middle or back of borders (depending on the size of border). The most popular is Sahin’s Early Flowerer but a better choice is the magnificent El Dorado with very large golden yellow flowers. Hot Lava is a brand new one that is later to flower but very bushy. Tall varieties (4-6ft) might need a stake in an exposed site but I rarely need to resort to this as the stems are very thick and strong. Amber is the best of newer varieties with masses of flower on upright plants. Heleniums mix well with lots of garden plants. I particularly like them with grasses in late summer – short moor grasses (Molinia) or taller Silver Grass (Miscanthus) and Feather Grass (Pennisetum). Monarda (Bergamot) and Phlox make great companions as all require similar growing conditions.
The common name, Sneezeweed, comes from the use of dried and powdered leaves as medicinal snuff to cure colds and bronchitis. Don’t try this at home! Heleniums are toxic and harmful if ingested. In Germany, they are called Sonnenbraut –or Sun Brides; far more romantic! All Heleniums are a great source of nectar for bees and butterflies which will flock to the flowers with glee. Gardeners often think of Heleniums as late-flowering, adding colour to the August and September garden, but with careful selection of varieties and regular dead heading and watering, you can have Heleniums in bloom from mid-June until the beginning of November without having to resort to forcing plants in a greenhouse.
There are a few simple rules to follow to get the best out of heleniums: water whenever dry even in spring or autumn; deadhead short varieties regularly; cut down the stems to just above the ground in winter and only divide or move them in spring not autumn. Follow these and Heleniums should come back each year to brighten up your summer and autumn garden. Janet and I run Special Perennials, website www.specialperennials.com We attend Plant Hunters’ Fairs and will be at the wonderful Henbury Hall Garden, Macclesfield on Sunday 17 September with entry to this lovely rarely open 12-acre garden and plant fair only £2.50; For full details of these and other Plant Hunters’ Fairs please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk We are happy to bring orders to plant fairs for you to collect.
by Martin Blow > www.specialperennials.com
39
Diary of a geeky knitter And the bells are ringing on… Hi again Insiders! You might remember last issue, I told you all about sewing a dress to wear to my friends’ wedding at the beginning of June, and that even though I loved the feeling of wearing ‘Cher Tricoteuse Geeky’ I wasn’t in a hurry to repeat the exercise … the feeling didn’t last very long, and I may have gone on to repeat the process for another wedding at the end of July (cue self-brag). I couldn’t help it, I’ve got the dressmaking bug, but don’t worry, it doesn’t mean I’ve lost the geeky knitter vibe. I really do love to sew my own dresses now, if nothing more than I get to put pockets into everything!
Crochet chums Now, if you couldn’t tell, I’m a self-proclaimed advocate for all things woolly, yarny, and now sewing related. So much so that I am now spreading the awareness at work with a weekly crochet club! It happened quite by accident when a few ladies at work expressed an interest in learning, and I was happy to oblige. After a month or so, I took them from a humble granny square to choosing their own toys and setting off with their own hooks and dreams. A few other people in the office expressed an interest when they spotted us and here I am now, with a fully-fledged small crochet class at work. It’s been a lot of fun and I’ve been delighted to force my hobbies on willing students. There’s something very rewarding about sharing my passion for crochet in (yet) another outlet, and slowly I’m taking over my own life, if that is possible, by writing about it, teaching it, working with it, and of course doing it while I watch TV. I’m fairly certain by Christmas I will have started a knitting club too – who needs to eat at lunch time, eh?
If you are thinking about learning to knit or crochet, I highly recommend heading over to www.youtube.com and searching for some beginner videos. You will find a whole host of easy-to-follow tutorials and videos and with any luck you too will get the bug for knitted goodies! As ever, don’t hesitate to drop me an email should you have any questions.
jennythegeekyknitter@gmail.com www.thegeekyknitter.co.uk www.etsy.com/uk/shop/geeksgamesandknits
40
puzzle solutions
42
We are looking for friendly, responsible people to deliver Inside Magazines
It’s a great way to get a little exercise and earn some extra cash Altogether, about forty people currently help us to deliver our magazines. Many are retired or semi-retired and they really enjoy the experience. Our magazines are enthusiastically received in most homes, so there is always the chance of a smile or friendly word, en route.
For more details call 01625 879611
or email c.blackie@insidemagazines.co.uk
useful numbers Churches Bollington United Reformed Church Bollington Christian Life Church Prestbury Methodist Church Quakers St Oswald’s Church St Gregory’s RC Church St Peters Church Prestbury Tytherington Family Worship
Schools 01625 572817 01625 578100 01625 424361 01625 562109 01625 573162 01625 572108 01625 827625 01625 615195
pharmacies I Rowlands & Co The Village Pharmacy, Prestbury
01625 574401 01625 829216
Dentists Bollington Dental Practice Prestbury Road Dental Practice
01625 574609 01625 432300
Doctors Bollington Medical Centre Hope Cottage Surgery, Prestbury
08443 878481 01625 827319
01625 421000 01625 827319 111
Leisure Centre Bollington Leisure Centre Macclesfield Leisure Centre
01625 574774 01625 615602
Libraries Bollington Library Prestbury Library Macclesfield Library
01625 378266 01625 827501 01625 374000
Police Non Emergency
101
Post Offices West Bollington Post Office Tytherington Post Office
01625 572025 01625 572138 01625 572021 01625 572037 01625 572767 01625 422192 01625 422192 01625 829035 01625 383033 01625 384071 01625 383050 01625 610220 01625 426138 01625 827898
Travel Bus & Train Times National Rail Enquiries Manchester Airport
0871 200 2233 0845 748 4950 0871 271 0711
Utilities
Hospitals Macclesfield Hospital Prestbury Medical Centre NHS Non-Emergency
St John’s Primary School Bollington Cross Primary Rainow Primary School St Gregorys’ Catholic Primary Dean Valley Community Primary Beech Hall School Little Griffins Nursery Mottram St Andrew Primary Prestbury C of E Primary Bollinbrook Cof E Primary The Marlborough Primary School Tytherington High School All Hallows Catholic High School Fallibroome High School
01625 572378 01625 869042
Electricity – Power Loss Gas – Emergency Water Mains Environment Agency Floodline
0800 195 4141 0800 111 999 0845 746 2200 0345 988 1188
Helplines Alcoholics Anonymous Al-Anon Childline Citizens Advice Bureau Crimestoppers Directory Enquiries National Dementia Helpline RSPCA Samaritans
0845 7697555 020 7403 0888 0800 1111 03444 111 444 0800 555111 118 500 0300 222 1122 0300 1234999 116 123
Other Bollington Town Hall Bridgend Centre Bollington Arts Centre CCC Highways Bollington Veterinary Centre
01625 572985 01625 576311 01625 573863 0845 111 0315 01625 572999
45
classified index ADULT EDUCATION Spanish Classes
EDUCATION 29
BATHROOMS Dave Beal
Fitness for All
HEALTHCARE
Hulley Road MOT & Service Centre Inside front cover
Spire Regency
CARE HOMES & SERVICES 34 21
CARPETS Linney Cooper
CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Safeclean
22
CHILDCARE Nursery Rhymes Nursery
31
CLEANING Wild About Cleaning
43
DENTISTS Westgate Dental Practice
41
DELICATESSEN The Cheshire Smokehouse
16
DRAINAGE Pure Clean Drainage Solutions
38
DRIVEWAY CLEANING Wills Driveway Cleaning
11 Back Cover
Tyers & Co
32
5
Dream Doors Matt Finish
STAIR RENOVATIONS
13 22
41 41 14
TAXIS Lynx
Inside Back Cover
TRAVEL 42
Richard Slater
12
VETERINARY SURGEONS 9
Bollington Veterinary Centre
43
WEIGHT LOSS 34
Slimming World
41
WILLS 37
ORGANIC FOOD
East Cheshire Wills
6
WINDOW CLEANING 23
PAINTING & DECORATING
Cavendish Window Cleaning
42
WINDOW & CONSERVATORY REPAIRS 41
Cloudy2Clear The Window Repair Centre
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Thomas Ferns
MOBILITY
Kathy Shaw
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ROOFING
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LOFT LADDERS
Riverford Home Delivery
PRINT SERVICES
Kathy Shaw The Hemming Room
LAWNCARE
Ability Matters
19 11
SOFT FURNISHINGS
LAND & PROPERTY SALES The Brown Rural Partnership
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KITCHENS
More Than Loft Ladders
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Poynton Roofing
HOTELS
Greenthumb
Dave Beal
Bollington Printshop
HOME IMPROVEMENT & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
Park House B&B 20
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PLUMBING
Garden Clearance
CAR SERVICES & SALES
Cavendish Court MHA Live at Home Scheme
43
HEALTH & FITNESS 19
Pure Clean Drainage Solutions
PLASTERERS
C J C Electrical
GARDEN MAINTENANCE 4
BUILDING SERVICES Nab Construction
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ELECTRICIANS 43
BOOKSHOPS Simply Books
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