Inside Poynton Issue 84

inside poynton december 2019 - january 2020

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Issue 84

The local magazine our readers love to keep One of six magazines delivered to over 45,000 homes

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inside p o y n t o n 2019 has been quite a year for us with a graduation, a wedding and finally a house move!

The idea to ‘downsize’ swept over us when we rented a small cottage in Anglesey for new year and loved it! When we came back to a house with rooms that weren’t used, full of ‘stuff’ not people, we started taking more interest in For Sale boards! Funnily enough we stumbled across exactly what we wanted very quickly, so the process of selling ours was soon under way. Not something I’d repeat in a hurry! Sorting and getting rid of stuff we’d acquired over 20 years was a challenge (but a very satisfying one) and everything went remarkably smoothly until the last few days. I can’t recommend having two vans, with all your worldly goods packed in them, when there is still every possibility the chain might collapse completely – but we hung on in there and all was well.

So… goodbye 2019 and hello 2020, a new decade! Goodness knows what’s in store – in the meantime Season’s Greetings from Claire and Clare and see you next year!

What’s INSIDE this month 4 Farewell to Rob and Jean 7 scott’s journey 12 panettone Recipe 15 The Snap Tin 16 the beer & book club recommends 19 Poynton Live

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23 Diary of a Geeky Knitter 24 Puzzles 28 prairie planting 32 The Walk 37 In Touch

41 Travel - Costa Rica

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47 INSIDE Guide 55 Children’s Activities 56 Just 4 Kids 59 Puzzle Solutions 61 Useful Numbers

62 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 Winter at Poynton Pool

by Claire Hawker

Copy deadline for the next issue: mon 13 january

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Inside Poynton 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 2019. 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

Farewell to Rob and Jean If you noticed the church bells ringing merrily one Monday night in October, you were witnessing one of several farewell events to mark the departure of Reverend Rob McLaren and his wife, Jean, to pastures new in Holmes Chapel.

Many events involving food and thanks were laid on during the month, including lunch with the ‘retired lunch’ members, a celebration party at the British Legion and a Bring & Share lunch following Rob’s final service at St George’s. The Wine Society also hosted a farewell dinner in the church hall when chef for the night Scott Surtees (see page 7) and his wife Emma cooked a delicious dinner which was followed by toasts and speeches.

Whilst tinged with sadness, the farewell services joyfully celebrated Rob’s near 15 years of service in Poynton. The prayers were based on one of Rob’s

favourite hymns (Praise my Soul the King of Heaven) and the final congregational hymn ‘How Great Thou Art’ was fortified with a resounding descant by the choir.

On behalf of the parish, Dave McClelland presented Rob and Jean with a cheque and an amazing picture of them framed in the lychgate with a background of the church. The service ended with the choir singing the blessing ‘Go now in peace’.

poynton people Scott surtees Jenny Cooke talks to local resident and family man Scott Surtees - Michelin starred chef and Head of Catering and Hospitality at Warrington and Vale Royal College.

‘I’ve always wanted to be a chef ever since I was seven or eight years old,’ says Scott. ‘I used to bake a lot with my Mum, and she had an old Bero Flour cookbook complete with brown photos. I loved pulling up a chair, standing up on it at the counter and baking. I got filthy with flour, but I loved it. Cooking was just in me and I’ve never changed my mind.’

Photo by WVR College

Scott went to Tytherington High School in Macclesfield and in Year 10 was the only boy who did Food Technology. Aged 15 Scott did work experience at the Tytherington Golf and Country Club and after two weeks in the restaurant and kitchen they offered him a weekend job! ‘I loved Sundays in the kitchens with the chefs. It was amazing and my best time ever.’

Scott left school at 16, did catering at Macclesfield College including butchery, fish preparation, chocolate qualifications, even food hygiene. It all fascinated him.

Then came a big moment: his lecturer, Keith Birch, suggested he try for the Francis Coulson Scholarship sponsored by Relais & Chateaux, the prestigious worldwide hotel and gourmet restaurant company. ‘Imagine

by Jenny Cooke

what it felt like to hear I’d won it, the first person in GB to do so.’

‘It was the start of me working in some of the finest restaurants in the UK - Middlethorpe Hall in York, The Sharrow Bay in the Lake District and Hambleton Hall on Rutland Water with its four rosettes. It was there that Aaron Patterson the head chef, taught me everything I know about seasonality in British food. Later I became the head pastry chef at The Alderley Edge Hotel and during my time there, alongside head chef Chris Holland, it was awarded three rosettes and a mention in the Michelin Guide as one of the top restaurants.

More recently, Scott moved into education, gaining qualifications at Macclesfield College. ‘When I’d done my training as a Pastry chef, I qualified to become a chocolatier,’ says Scott, with a twinkle in his eye, ‘even though I don’t eat it a great deal. I haven’t got a sweet tooth – perhaps as well!’ He and the students at Macclesfield made a three feet high chocolate chef as the centrepiece for a signature dinner at the college.

They sculpted and moulded the chocolate, solid at the base and hollow higher up. ‘It certainly brought in the wow factor!’

Scott is now head of Catering and Hospitality at Warrington and Vale Royal College. He and his ‘fantastic team’ have worked hard to bring the catering department there to its present status: it’s won one rosette for the second year running from the AA College Restaurant Guide, each time Highly Commended. He and some of his students brought back a gold medal from the Welsh International Culinary Championships at Llandudno this year. ‘The department is run as a restaurant called Buckleys,’ he explains. The restaurant is popular in the town and one of the highest rated (see www.wvr.ac.uk/our-campuses/buckleys-restaurant/ for details and opening times.)

‘Students come at 16 and immediately it’s like the world of work. They must be on time, work industry hours and shifts, be clean and tidy. If things go wrong, we remain calm and they learn how to put it right. If a melting chocolate fondant bursts on the plate, the whole table has to be held back for 15 minutes whilst another one goes in the oven for 8 minutes and then rests before being served. Yet the students rise to the challenge.’

Continued over

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Scott never knows who he’s going to cook for, ‘I was working in the kitchen at The Sharrow Bay hotel one day when we heard that Sir Paul McCartney and his new wife Heather Mills were staying. For dinner they chose the vegetarian menu. Well of course, that was me. I cooked it and it was served in the restaurant to them. Next morning the kitchen door burst open and in walked Sir Paul McCartney and he said, “Who cooked the food last night?” Very cautiously I said, “Me, Sir.” He shook my hand and said, “That was an amazing meal last night.” He autographed the menu for me, and it’s now framed on the wall in my house. I’d met my ultimate hero and he’s a really, really nice man.’

Scott laughs. ‘Food is my life… but food isn’t worth my life. The most important thing in my life is my family, my wife Emma and son Ethan. After all,’ he says, ‘I just cook people’s dinner!’

Scott’s TOP TIPS for stress free Christmas catering ■■ Don’t give yourself too much to do on the big day.

You need to enjoy it too.

■■ Be realistic, even have a smaller menu. And don’t apologise.

■■ Be organised. Get things ready in advance ■■ Understand your own limitations and your kitchen’s limitations eg size of oven ■■ The freezer is your friend - straight from freezer to oven wows unexpected visitors ■■ Finally, clean kitchen and clean food

Scott’s Lemon Pavlova Serves: 4-6 Ingredients: ■■ 3 egg whites ■■ 185g caster sugar ■■ 1¼ teaspoons cornflour ■■ 1 unwaxed lemon ■■ 25g flaked almonds ■■ 150mls double cream ■■ 160g homemade lemon curd Method: 1. Preheat oven to 170°C. Line a baking tray with baking parchment. Beat egg whites until peaks form, then beat in the sugar a spoonful at a time until the meringue is stiff and shiny.

2. Sprinkle the cornflour over the meringue, then grate in the zest – a fine microplane is best for this – of ½ lemon and add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice.

3. Gently fold until everything is thoroughly mixed in.

Mound onto the lined baking tray in a circle approx 24cm in diameter, smoothing the sides and the top with a knife or spatula.

4. Place in oven. Immediately turn the temperature down to 140°C and cook for 45mins.

5. Remove from the oven and leave to cool, but don’t leave it anywhere cold as this will make it crack too quickly. If your kitchen is too cool, leave the Pavlova inside the oven with the door completely open. When you’re ready to eat, turn the Pavlova upside down onto a large flat plate or board.

6. Toast the flaked almonds, by placing them on a baking tray. Bake in a 170ºc oven for approx 8 mins.

When they’re done, remove to a cold plate so they don’t carry on cooking.

7. Whip the cream until thick.

8. Put lemon curd into a bowl. Beat with a wooden spoon or spatula to loosen. Taste the lemon curd (if it’s shop-bought) and add some lemon zest and juice if it’s too sweet.

Photo by WVR College

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9. With a spatula, spread the lemon curd on top of the meringue base. Top with the whipped cream, peaking it as if it were a meringue topping. Sprinkle with the zest of the remaining lemon followed by the flaked almonds.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE BUTCHER’S BLOCK!

Mike and Amanda Walton, proprietors at The Butcher’s Block on Park Lane, are over the moon to have been awarded New Butchery Business of the Year at the Meat Traders’ awards.

“We were lucky enough to be named as a finalist and invited to the awards,” said Mike. “Before the final decision was made, we were visited at the shop by one of the judges and given our opportunity to shout about what the Butcher’s Block has achieved since we opened, whilst also showcasing our amazing products on display. We had no idea who the winner would be and were overjoyed at just being a finalist. When they announced our category, and that we had won, all the hard work over the past 18 months really was worth it. We have been affected by the local floods, when we lost both stock and trade, and then electricity cuts which also affected our trade.

“This award was just the boost we needed - it was apparent that our community involvement helped massively towards us winning.”

Congratulations to the team – a well-deserved accolade!

Mini Panettone Little festive treats Method 1. Soak the fruit overnight in the orange juice.

2. Mix the flour and salt, the yeast and the milk in a mixer with a dough hook. You can do it by hand, it just takes longer. Gradually mix in two beaten eggs and the vanilla. Knead until the dough is smooth and springy. Leave in a bowl, covered with a damp cloth and allow to rise until doubled in size.

Preparation time: 45 minutes (allow 4-5 hours for proving time) Cooking time: 20 minutes Makes: 6

Ingredients ■■ 250g good quality plain flour ■■ 1 tsp dried yeast ■■ Pinch of salt ■■ 100ml whole milk, warmed (not hot) ■■ 3 eggs (Two beaten together, one extra) ■■ 1 tsp vanilla extract ■■ 50g golden caster sugar, plus extra for dusting ■■ 100g softened butter ■■ Zest and juice of one orange ■■ 100g raisins ■■ 100g sultanas

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■■ 100g mixed peel (for non-peel-lovers you can substitute cranberries)

3. Add the sugar, butter and the yolk from the remaining egg. Mix again, either with the machine, or by hand, until the dough is smooth again. Add the fruit and zest and knead quickly until it’s all incorporated into the dough. Leave in a bowl, covered with a damp cloth, in a cool place for at least two hours until doubled in size again. You can leave it in the fridge overnight if you prefer.

4. Line a large, six-holed muffin tray with paper cases. Divide the dough into six portions and roll into balls. Place one ball into each muffin case, cover with a damp cloth and leave for 20 minutes.

5. Heat the oven to 180C / 160 fan or Gas mark 4. Brush the tops of the panettones with the remaining egg whites and dust with caster sugar.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until the muffins have risen and are golden in colour. Leave to cool on a wire rack.

6. Variation - Add some brandy to the overnight soak in orange juice for a little extra kick.

the snap tin Emma Schofield, formerly from The Boar’s Head in Higher Poynton, has brought her famous pie-making skills right into the centre of the village. With Gordon Yoxall also cooking some old favourites, The Snap Tin, the most recent addition to Poynton’s thriving food and drink scene, has got off to a flying start. The name was chosen to tie in with Poynton history, as this is what miners called their metal lunch box.

The interior is lovely, cosy and welcoming – fitted and furnished to a very high standard, with a well-stocked bar and a menu on the blackboard of good homecooked food. The Lancashire Hotpot, complete with red cabbage of course, was a trip down memory lane for me. Tasty, comforting, great value and about as unpretentious as food can get! And let’s face it, not everyone makes good pastry, or a good pie filling, and even if you can, do you have the time or inclination?

What a treat to have someone else go to all that effort for you. The food seems to be exactly what everyone

wants with children, parents and grandparents all tucking in with relish and clearing their plates.

The mainly traditional (with the odd more exotic item thrown in) menu is served from 11am to 7pm Tuesday to Saturday. Coffee, tea and cakes are available all day and they have also started opening for light breakfasts from 9am. After 7pm The Snap Tin turns into more of a traditional bar.

The Snap Tin is a great concept, well executed by coowners Emma Schofield and Nikki Williamson, and we wish them all the best in their new venture. It’s always busy, so booking is recommended if you want to be sure of a delicious plate of proper homemade food!

Pop in for a drink or book a table soon – you won’t be disappointed!

Tel: 01625 630009

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which was extremely well described and most amusingly portrayed.

The Beer & Book Club recommends Autumn at The BBC included welcoming a new member to the band, a team outing to the Manchester Literary Festival, and a review about a book based in India, a review which naturally took place at our local Indian restaurant, The Appayon.

Our new member has shaken the group up a little, by not just reading the first book, but also coming along armed with extra research on different aspects of the novel itself. The effect on someone else was so stark that they responded by reading a whole book for the first time ever by the time we next met. No names, no pack drill.

The Mighty Walzer was the winner of the 2010 Man Booker Prize. It’s narrated by Oliver Walzer, whose prowess at ping-pong contrasts dramatically with his success with the opposite sex. Even with his improvised bat (the Collins Classic edition of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde) he can chop, flick and half-volley like a champion. When it comes to girls, however, he is not so skilful, needing guidance from the likes of Sheeny Waxman, fellow member of the Akiva Social Club Table Tennis Team and stalwart of the Kardomah coffee bar, to help him up his game.

The BBC really enjoyed the book. It was amusing, it flowed well, it had interesting characters aplenty and it was full of engaging pictures of northern life and Jewish life in 1950s Manchester.

The ping-pong provided an excellent backdrop to the bigger story being told. It led us into a world

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Whilst for some, it started well and ended well, for others it started well and trailed off towards the end. We all gained something from reading it, whether it was just general amusement, a tale well told, or from being shown a world in many ways very different from our own.

It was refreshing too for some, that the main character did not end up conquering the world, let alone the world of table tennis. Instead it was a story which felt much more real for the fact that the main character’s own life assessment contained regret and a degree of sadness for unfulfilled potential.

Our second book was Such a Long Journey by Rohinton Mistry, which turned out to be one of the most popular books we’ve read.

It was written in 1998, its setting is Bombay in the early ‘70s and it tells the tale of Gustad Noble. He lives in a one-bedroom rented apartment in Byculla and works at the Central Bank of India. He has three children and a wife called Dilnavaz, who looks after the household. Their neighbourhood is filthy; people urinate and defecate near the wall which encloses their building.

Gustad is involved with a rebel RAW Agent, Major Jimmy Billimoria, who is actively involved with an extremist organisation in East Pakistan.

The book revolves around what Gustad’s plight might be when news gets out of his involvement in his long-term friend’s activity, especially when he receives 10 lakh rupees to be deposited in small instalments in his bank.

This amid sentiments running high, war being declared between Pakistan and India, emergency blackout conditions and air raid sirens.

The characters leapt from the page, the setting could not have been described more vividly (was that the smell of urine?) and the plot kept our pages turning and our Kindles burning.

We would highly recommend both books from our autumn collection.

n to n y o P in ic s u m e v li f o e m o h e Th What’s on at THE CLUB in December Get down for a good old Saturday Night’s entertainment at The Club (formerly the Workmen’s Club) on Park Lane, where you can dance, drink and socialise with friends.

BLUEFUNK at The Legion Regular Blues nights featuring leading American and British blues artistes. A unique opportunity to see and hear widely acknowledged masters of the genre.

Nick Steed 5

The Driscols

Sun 1 Dec at 8pm

Tue 24 Dec

Probably the best band to have emerged from the local area in the last 2 years.

A killer repertoire of pop rock and dance floor classics to get you in the mood to boogie the night away. Tickets £10 behind the bar.

£10 from bluefunkster@gmail.com or call 0781 888 4324

Bluefunk Xmas Party Pete Shaw

Sat 14 Dec at 7.45pm

Sat 28 Dec

With three fantastic acts, a light supper and a daft raffle!

One of the most outstanding and versatile keyboard/vocalist performers on the music scene today. £3 members, £4non. Pay on the door.

£20 from bluefunkster@gmail.com or call 0781 888 4324

The Originals & DJ

Mike Farris Band Sat 17 Jan at 9pm

Tue 31 Dec

Incredible and gifted performer with a super-sized voice.

Join us for a fantastic New Years’ Eve night of live entertainment and dancing. £3 members, £4 non. Tickets behind the bar.

£18 from bluefunkster@gmail.com or call 0781 888 4324

Mat Walklate & Alex Haynes Sun Feb 02 at 8pm

Poynton Live is closing down on 31 December 2019

A convergence of talent from two highly distinctive British Blues artistes. £12 from bluefunkster@gmail.com or call 0781 888 4324

After five years, we’ve decided it’s time to move on and so we’re bringing down the final curtain on ‘Poynton Live’. It’s been really good; we’ve had some great times and met some wonderful people.

We’d like to think that it has helped organisers promote events and helped people to find out about them.

And we sincerely hope that it has made a difference to social lives in the village. Things have changed a lot over the years, and we see that social media platforms, including Poynton Live’s, are successfully facilitating promotions everywhere meaning there’s less need for dedicated websites. Finally, we’d like to thank everybody for their contributions and the many people and organisations that have supported us - and we hope you’ve all enjoyed it as much as we have!

So, it’s goodnight from us…. Geoff, Les and Mike

See www.poyntonlive.uk for more details

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PHOENIX FOLK CLUB at The Legion Regular monthly folk music nights where you can enjoy a wide range of top-class folk musicians in a friendly and comfortable environment.

Churchfitters Fri 6 Dec 06 at 8.30pm Inventive trio with musical saw, funk-rock bouzouki stomping fiddle and jazz sax! Supported by Grace Notes. Doors open 19:30, £12.50 at door.

Dave Hughes & Guests Fri 31 Jan 31 at 8pm Dave Hughes of Porkies is joined by friends and guests for a charity night of fun and folky music. Doors 19.30, £10 at door.

OTHER EVENTS IN POYNTON VERNON BRASS BAND Christmas at Poynton Civic Hall Sun 8 Dec at 2pm Tickets £8 / under-16s free from Vernon Building Society or at Door.

POYNTON G&S Carols at The Legion Fri 13 Dec at 7.30pm £10/£5 u-16 from tickets@poyntongands.co.uk, Mates DIY or 01625 876394

MAGIC, FUN AND CAROLS at Hockley Centre Sun 15 Dec at 3.30pm Tickets £5 from 01625 859 170 or admin@pcfpoynton.org.uk

JOEL WILDING Just in Time at The Civic Centre Wed 18 Dec at 7.30pm £7 from caterinawilding@aol.com or 01625 872473

EPIPHANY Christmas Classics at St. George’s Fri 20 Dec 20 (7.30pm) Sat 21 (4pm)

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Tickets £16 / £12 from 01625 858802 richard@musicians-network.net

Diary of a geeky knitter Many crafters are probably starting to think about the same thing at this time of year, whether you be sewists, knitters, crocheters, or everything in between.

It’s that time where we plan beautiful projects and homemade gifts for everyone we know, from loved ones to office colleagues, and even the mum of a friend we happened to hear mention that they liked a particular style of hat you know you like to knit. I can’t speak for everyone, but I always start off with the best intentions in the world, then I decide I need to be a little more selective with what I’m making and for who, and then I reach 11.30pm on Christmas Eve when I am furiously finishing a scarf for someone, battling through the red wine and port from that evening. Last year was no different, except I was finishing the hems on dresses for each of my sister and sister-in-law. As I mention, with the best intentions, I’m trying very hard to rein in my present making this year, particularly with a new house to decorate, but

the draw of the crochet and knitting (and sewing) is too great, and the draw to show someone how much I love them through my craft is something other crafters reading this will know all too well.

I’ve not just © Practical Publishing Ltd been up to gift planning this year in the run up to Christmas though. I’ve been busy designing for one of the other magazines that I help work on from time to time. Your Crochet & Knitting is a fun magazine that comes with 6-8 balls of yarn every issue, enough to make at least one of the projects you’ll find inside. A few months ago, I designed a pretty hexagon motif cowl in pastel colours that I love, and in an issue coming out before Christmas I’ve knitted a gun sampler scarf with lots of interesting stitch patterns to keep you interested. The colours were a joy to play with, and I’m very proud of these projects. Make sure to keep an eye out for the magazine in your local supermarket, and maybe one or two loved ones this year may find themselves opening these accessories as gifts come 25 December...

Merry Christmas everyone!

© Practical Publishing Ltd jennythegeekyknitter@gmail.com www.thegeekyknitter.co.uk www.etsy.com/uk/shop/geeksgamesandknits

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quick crossword Across 1 Outskirts of a city (7) 5 Follow orders (4) 10 In good physical shape (3) 11 Rotor blades that power a plane (9) 12 Ogle (3,2) 13 Clothes-maker (6) 15 Rounded paving stone (6) 17 Gentle bell-like sound (6) 18 Castle tower (6) 20 Ceremony, celebration (5) 23 Skittish, highly-strung (9) 24 Admiration (3) 25 Celtic stringed instrument (4) 26 Spotty infectious disease (7)

down 2 Disentangle, release (5) 3 Abhorrence, disapprobation (12) 4 Increase, improve (5) 6 Sandra _______, Speed actress (7) 7 Woollen thread (4) 8 Crime, infraction (7) 9 Unhesitating, resolve (12) 14 Small falcon (7) 16 Nightclub doorman (7) 19 Chart, diagram (5) 21 Delete, abolish (5) 22 Netting, tracery (4)

sudoku How to play 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.

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Solutions on page 59

Prairie Planting - part 2 Prairie gardens are a recent trend in garden design and mark a shift towards more natural looking, low maintenance perennial beds and borders. Part 1 of this article covered how to plant a prairie garden. This time I’m going to take a closer look at some of my favourite plants for this style of garden.

Ice Plants (Sedums) make ideal plants for the natural garden: they are tough, drought tolerant and form good sized clumps. They come in a range of heights from ground hugging mats to knee-high with large cauliflower-like heads. The taller ones can become topheavy if grown in rich soils so it may be best to take the tops of the stems off in late spring to encourage them to bush out rather than up. Old varieties like Autumn Joy and Brilliant have large heads or pink flowers. One of the brightest coloured is Red Cauli. There are lots of new varieties coming out with bronze or chocolate coloured leaves. The only pest to watch for is vine weevil grubs eating the roots in winter – check the plants are well rooted in late winter.

time and give a really good feed each spring. Their one drawback is the tendency to get powdery mildew (white powder on the leaves) in late summer. This doesn’t kill the plants but can cause leaves to drop off.

Don’t mulch Monardas! There are lots of varieties and colours including Gardenview Scarlet, Pink Supreme (short) and Violet Queen.

Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum) is another easy plant for the prairie with mid-high stems clothed in bee-friendly flowers. The variety Dropmore Purple has a really natural look and is ideal. Beware that Yellow Loosestrife (Lysimachia) is a different plant and some of these can be invasive.

Talking of invasive plants, be very careful if planting Cirsiums in the garden – these are the thistle family, and some are really pernicious weeds. However, the Purple River Thistle (Cirsium rivulare Atropurpureum) doesn’t invade and doesn’t seed and the tall rich flowers look great in the prairie garden.

No prairie planting is complete without grasses and among the best and toughest is Moor Grass (Molinia).

These come in a range of heights from 2ft (60cm) up to 6ft (180cm) and will grow in dry or very moist soils and are really hardy. The shorter ones are ideal for windy places. My favourite short one is Moorhexe and for a tall one I love the see-through stems of Transparent. Some, like Windspiel, take on brilliant colours in autumn.

Bergamot (Monarda) have aromatic leaves smelling of Earl Grey tea and unusual and striking flowers on top of stems between 2 to 4ft (60-120cm) tall depending on variety. They are ideal for a prairie planting because they spread to form large mats of leaves quickly covering the soil. I add lots of compost at planting

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by Martin Blow > www.specialperennials.com

Janet and I run Special Perennials, website www.specialperennials.com We sell at Plant Hunters’ Fairs throughout the season. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY 2020. We will be at the Plant Hunters’ Fairs at Bramall Hall, Stockport on Sunday 5 April 2020; The Dorothy Clive Garden, TF9 4EU (4 miles south of Bridgemere) on Sunday 12 & Monday 13 April; Cholmondeley Castle, Malpas SY14 8AH on Sunday 26 April and at Adlington Hall, Macclesfield on Sunday 10 May. All gardens offer half price or better entry for these special event days. Please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk for full details of these and other fairs.

Here at Uniquely Chic Furniture we source and sell quality pine, oak, vintage and shabby chic furniture.

We have a vast range of stock which changes constantly. New pieces arriving almost daily.

We also paint furniture. Our painting team are experts at transforming our furniture, or yours, into hand painted, individual, unique pieces. If you have a favourite or inherited piece that fits your space why not have it upcycled and uplifted in our workroom? We occasionally buy your furniture or sometimes we even do part exchanges, so why not pop in and see us, or email us.

As well as furniture, we also sell lighting, mirrors, shabby chic home accessories and gifts. New and returning customers always use the same two phrases when they visit...”Aladdin’s Cave” and “Treasure Trove”! We are open 6 days a week, including weekends. Come and visit us, you never know what you will find when you step through the door.

Canalside, Goyt Mill, Upper Hibbert Lane, Marple SK6 7HX Tel: 0161 484 5116 or 07785 794308 Email: uniquelychicfurniture@hotmail.co.uk www.uniquelychicfurniture.co.uk Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10-5.30pm Sunday 11-4.30pm Closed Mondays @be_uniquelychic

@shabbychicuk Official stockists of Frenchic ecofriendly chalk paint and accessories.

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BOLLIN VALLEY AND QUARRY BANK MILL Walk description: This is a circular walk out through Styal Village, across fields to the edge of Manchester Airport and returning along the Bollin valley through Quarry Bank Mill. It is mainly easy with 3 short steep climbs along the Bollin Valley pathway.

Distance: 4.25 miles circular from Quarry Bank Mill (SJ835830), or 6 miles starting from the Twinnies Bridge Car Park at SJ840821 – the western end of The Carrs.

Map: OS Explorer 268 Wilmslow, Macclesfield and Congleton Start: Quarry Bank Mill National Trust Car Park.

Alternatively, the walk can be extended by 1.75 miles by starting from the Twinnies Bridge Car Park* see note at the end.

Leave the car park along the adjacent path and exit through the Main Entrance building. Because you are heading away from chargeable areas, explain that you are going out through the Village. Cross the road and take the pathway diagonally opposite leading towards Styal Village, keeping to the left of the fence alongside the Apprentice’s House kitchen gardens. The young apprentices, both boys and girls, employed in the Mill, came from poor houses or work houses in Liverpool and some as far from home as Hackney and Chelsea.

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By Annie Durham

After a day’s work, they had to attend school and help in the kitchen garden, a hard life.

The path remains straight crossing over one track separating two fields, until you reach Styal Cross by Norcliffe Chapel. This medieval cross remained a stub until it was relocated and then restored in 2010. Keep straight on to the row of cottages ahead and turn right between these and their neat front gardens. All the cottages in the village were built by Samuel Greg for his workers, offering a scullery kitchen and two bedrooms.

The path reaches the road where you go straight across to the stile into a field. Keep to the right of the wall and follow the path up to a gateway ahead. Keep straight on across the next field heading for a gate next to a white cottage. This leads on to a track for about 100 yards where you turn left through a small gate and walk out alongside new fencing. At the end of the fencing, keep in a straight line to a main gate leading out from the field. Here, a short path heads over a stile and on to Holly Lane.

Turn left and follow the winding road to a T-junction.

Turn right as far as the sharp bend to the right, cross before the bend and head for the private road to the left, signposted as the Orbital Cycleway and Laureen’s Ride. Keep on this road, formerly Moss Lane, until you reach the perimeter security fence of Manchester Airport. Follow this track round to the left, and walk to the endless sounds of aeroplanes taxiing, landing

or taking off. After the path eventually follows a ‘dog leg’ bend, take the gap in the fence in the left, turn left up a small pathway and arrive at a flat grassy area where you could enjoy a lively and very different but memorable lunchtime picnic watching the planes.

From here you can see both runways, the main terminals and servicing hangars as well as the hospitality building housing the Royal Concorde. The airport was first known as Ringway from 1935 until 1938 when it became known as RAF Ringway during World War 2, and after the war expanded rapidly.

Terminal 1 opened in 1962, the first wide bodied Boeing 747 appeared in 1970, and in 1982, the main runway was extended by passing over a new tunnel route for Altrincham Road from Wilmslow. In 2001, a second runway was built and in 2010 Emirates landed their first “big one”, the A380.

Returning to the track, turn left and walk 100 yards before going left down towards the Bollin Valley. After the second gate, take a path down to the left and go through a wooden gate on to the river trail. Go left and head along this delightful woodland route all the way back to Quarry Bank Mill. When you reach the first river bridge, ignore it and head on past open fields where rare cattle breeds are grazed in the summer. This path is a little uneven and can be muddy in places so take care along it. Eventually you reach the woodland on a good path, leading up to Giant’s Castle, and a steep flight of steps up and down but with rest benches part way.

After the descent, cross over the Giant’s Castle Bridge and head up to a further climb over another river cliff.

The Walk

As the path flattens out down by the river, you reach Oxbow bridge. Cross here and turn left until leaving the river meander on the left. Bear right until you join the river closer to the Mill grounds. Cross over the small Kingfisher Bridge and then bear left up the wide path which has a flight of steps up the middle. Where it levels out at the top, take a pathway to the right which leads you past the expanded and developing garden area.

The path bends left past this area and leads to the road going down to the Mill. This magnificent 18th Century Mill was first built in 1784 using water power from the Bollin and became a busy cotton factory close to the cotton capital of Manchester. As the Industrial Revolution gathered pace, the Mill was expanded in 1860. Before then, it had acquired a Boulton and Watt steam engine to power the machinery when river levels fell. This NT owned working museum is well worth a visit or alternatively return another time but stay and enjoy the cafe and the shop, before returning up to the car park by the steps and winding accessibility pathways. *If you prefer to extend your walk, you can begin from the Twinnies Bridge Car Park at SJ840821 – the western end of The Carrs. From there take the path past the toilet block (now closed), over a river bridge next to the road, and stay inside the road before taking the second turning to the left. The path goes straight up to a gateway and continues in a straight line as far as Quarry Bank main car park where you pick up the earlier guided route. To return from the Mill, head up the path from the courtyard where small tables and chairs are set out. Keep above the fencing and follow the good path along the River Bollin. Where it divides go right along the river bank and join the outward pathway by the bridge, and return to the car park.

Marple District Rambling Club organises up to nine walks each week on Thursdays and Sundays. For more information, either ring our Chairman, Sue Gilmore on 07775 620398, or our Membership Secretary, Claude Prime on 0161 483 8596.

Alternatively, you could visit our website on www.marpleramblers.org to learn more about our Club’s programme of walks, socials and walking holidays.

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in touch your local community noticeboard

december 2019 - january 2020

TWO CHRISTMAS REMINDERS Don’t forget to buy a real Christmas tree so that you and your family can enjoy the traditional scent and look of a piece of nature in your home. Also, if you buy it from a supplier who advertises that their trees are from a sustainable source, nature will not suffer for your enjoyment!

But what about the inconvenience of disposing of your tree? The East Cheshire Hospice Christmas Tree Collection will come to your property to take the tree away for recycling. We’ve done that with over 75,000 trees in the last 19 years!

After last year’s momentous topping of One Million Pounds raised for our hospice, this year’s 20th Anniversary Collection has a very clear 20/20 vision to raise even more money in 2020!

On 11 & 12 January we shall once again be collecting your Christmas trees to take them away for recycling in an eco-friendly process. So, the second reminder is to book in for a collection.

Just log on to our website www.echtrees.org.uk to register. To save a load of volunteer and staff time, you can make your donation here as well. Perhaps you could tell your family, friends and neighbours about us too.

If you need to talk to us, please phone 01625 708939

SEASON’S GREETINGS FROM ST GEORGE’S SINGERS Christmas is approaching fast and St George’s Singers are stocking up on candles, mulled wine and mince pies for their traditional family Carols and Brass by Candlelight concert on 7 December at St George’s Church, Stockport. As well as carols from the choir there will be Christmas songs from the delightful children of Bradshaw Hall Primary School, dazzling brass from the supremely talented Chetham’s Brass Ensemble and of course plenty of opportunity for the audience to join in the celebrations.

Tickets are £13, £11 concessions, £4 students and children and refreshments are free. This year SGS are delighted to announce that, with the help of Poynton Round Table they are able to provide a coach to the church with pick-up points in Macclesfield, Poynton and Hazel Grove. Contact the ticket secretary on 01663 764012 or email tickets@st-georges-singers.org.uk for tickets and coach booking.

There’s another chance to sing with St George’s Singers on 18 January when they hold their annual Singing Day at St George’s Church, Poynton, led by their outstanding musical director Neil Taylor and accompanied by one-man orchestra-at -the-keyboard, Pete Durrant. This year the chosen work is John Rutter’s Requiem.

The Singing Day is a great musical event but it’s also a great social event, renowned for the friendly atmosphere and wonderful home cooked food. Contact Gillian Banks on 01925 213949 or email stgeorgessingingday@gmail.com but don’t delay as this event will sell out.

Both events can be also booked at www.st-georges-singers.org.uk Continued over

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in touch - your local community noticeboard

NEW HOMES FOR STOCKPORT’S GIANT FROGS 18 of the giant frogs from Totally Stockport’s Giant Leap Frog Art Trail went under the auctioneer’s hammer, raising a fantastic 31,000 for the Tree House Ward at Stepping Hill hospital. Running concurrently online and live in the showroom at Mercedes Benz, Stockport, a frenzied evening of bidding found new foreverhomes for the frogs.

Deputy Matron at Stepping Hill Hospital’s Tree House children’s ward, Claire Gibson, was ecstatic after the auction: What a fantastic night. I’m thrilled and just keep smiling! We are so very grateful and excited about what this means for the children and young people who use the Treehouse Children’s Unit. The proceeds far exceeded any of our expectations and we are awestruck at the possibilities that such a large donation opens up to us.

“Our Treehouse building celebrated its 20th birthday this year and how wonderful it will be to give it a much-needed new lease of life. The ground floor of the building serves all of our outpatient facilities and outside garden area, while the first floor is home to our inpatient ward and assessment area.

“We would love to create a spectacular experience, right from the front entrance to our building, where children and young people will feel comfortable and even excited about coming to; the frog auction will enable this to happen.”

Totally Stockport’s BID manager, Paul Taylor said: “When we first conceived the idea of the frog project, we never imagined just how successful it would be; over the summer thousands came to Stockport to follow the trail and discover all the frogs.

“To end the project with such a fantastic auction is truly amazing. A small dedicated team made all this happen and, on behalf of everyone involved, I would like to say a huge thank you to the sponsors, artists and local businesses who have supported us.

“LSH Mercedes-Benz Stockport have been fantastic and hosted a great evening and the team from Simon Charles Auctioneers gave their time for free, I really can’t thank them all enough. I would also like to say a BIG thank you to the people of Stockport who have loved and respected the frogs; that has given us the confidence and the drive to do it all again, watch this space!”

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costa rica

I have been to some amazing places on my travels, but it’s been a few years since my last ‘tropical’, long haul adventure. I’m excited to share with you an inside view from a recent trip I took to a real emerging hot spot, Costa Rica, and I’m convinced I can tempt everyone to go!

In early October I was lucky enough to be invited to experience the highlights of Costa Rica. It’s amazing how diverse the country is, and in only eight days we saw everything from volcanoes and thermal hot springs to sloths, monkeys, cloud forests and the Pacific Ocean.

Here’s a quick guide to the places you should visit:

Arenal & La Fortuna One of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica and with good reason. This area is stunning and is, of course, home to the impressive (active) volcano. Arenal is a real adrenalin junkie playground with numerous companies offering action packed (and in my opinion, slightly mental) zip lining parks, bungee jumping sights and white-water rafting. To be fair, we went zip

lining (very impressed with myself) and the adventure parks are very well organised and totally focused on health and safety. If adrenalin sports are your thing, you will love it! And after all that action, the area is full of beautiful luxury hotels, many with their own thermal hot springs where you can relax and enjoy the gorgeous, tranquil surroundings.

Monteverde After Arenal you should head down to Monteverde, the Cloud Forest, a ‘must’ on your Costa Rica tour. Only 60 miles from Arenal, Monteverde is in the Cloud Forest and the best word for it is, magical. This ecosystem is something you can only experience in a few spots on Earth and I felt very privileged to be there. If there’s one thing you will quickly discover in Costa Rica it’s that the locals are so proud and respectful of the world around them. Costa Rica is one of the greenest and more biodiverse countries in the world and the people are dedicated to preserving the environment. It’s almost as if the plants and animals come first and the people come second; it’s heart-warming and refreshing to discover this mentality.

Manuel Antonio Further south on the Pacific Coast, you see another side to Costa Rica, the beach! Costa Rica has many gorgeous beaches and offers great variety as not only can you visit the Pacific Coast, but you can also go north to the Caribbean.

Continued over

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Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to go to the Caribbean, but our trip to Manuel Antonio did not disappoint. Manuel Antonio is becoming a real backpacker paradise, though it’s worth pointing out there are some wonderful, luxury hotels here too.

You can visit the national park; lush rainforest, brimming with wildlife and lots of naughty white-faced monkeys (they’re thieves, beware!) The best part of this park is where two worlds meet; you follow the trails through the rainforest and emerge on to absolute paradise beaches! As we were there in low season, we practically had the beach to ourselves which was amazing.

Costa Rica has something for everyone. If you want to go and relax on the beach, you can. If you are a nature lover, it’s absolutely one of the best places on earth to visit and if you are an adventure seeker then there is plenty to keep you occupied.

At Not Just Travel, we can organise tailormade trips for all ages and all budgets and now I’ve been I can share with you my first-hand knowledge.

Thinking of going somewhere different in 2020?

I would highly recommend Costa Rica.

Lucy Allen Personal Travel Consultant Notjusttravel/waitingworld

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lucyallen.notjusttravel.com e: lucy.allen@notjusttravel.com p: 07512 784700

inside guide

december 2019 - january 2020

selected events in your area

Sunday 1 December

Wednesday 4 December

Capriccio Vocal Ensemble perform a concert of seasonal music with guest soloist Jayne Carpenter in aid of The Christie in Macclesfield. This will be a delightful afternoon of choral music, both ancient and modern, concluding with an audience singalong. Tickets £10, under 18s free. Available from 01625 829805, cherry@tmsservice.co.uk or on the door.

All proceeds to The Christie in Macclesfield.

King’s School Girls’ Division, Fence Avenue, Macclesfield SK10 1LS 3pm to 5pm

Poynton Philatelic Society We welcome our philatelic neighbours from the Trafford Philatelic Society to entertain us.

There are going to be three or four members displaying their collecting interests. This should be a lively evening with a lot of banter and good humour.

Ron Phelps 01625 877643 The Centre, Park Lane 7.30pm

Tuesday 3 December

Thursday 5 December

Poynton Christmas Fest & Craft Market Poynton Methodist Church (next to Waitrose) is hosting a craft market on the evening of Poynton Fest. Free entry, wide variety of crafts for sale, hot drinks etc.

Also, many stalls and activities in a traffic-free village.

Park Lane, Poynton 7pm to 9pm

Tuesday 3 December Adlington WI Christmas Party with buffet and mulled wine. Pop in to see us and be sure of a warm welcome, good company, a drink and a slice of homemade cake! More info from Jackie Shaw 01625 266251 or email adlingtonwi@gmail.com Adlington Village Hall, Mill Lane, Adlington SK10 4LF 1.30 to 3.30pm

Wednesday 4 December Poynton Local History Society: ‘The Last Drop: A Poynton Family Murder Mystery’ is the title of a presentation to be given by Steve Abbott at our December meeting. Annual membership of the Society is £12 and guests are always welcome at £3 per visit.

Tel: 01625 872068 St Pauls Community Room, Marley Road, Poynton, SK12 1LY 7.30pm

Wednesday 4 & Thursday 5 December Peter Pan Join the members of the NKTA Youth Theatre as they present a very special version of the classic tale of Peter Pan and The Lost Boys in a fantastic show full of songs, laughter and Christmas spirit for the whole family. Ticket Prices: £12/£8 Family of 4 £35. Quote INSIDE10 for 10% discount 24hr Box Office 0333 666 3366 www.theforumtheatre.co.uk The Forum Theatre Stockport, Stockport, SK6 4EA 7.30pm

Poynton Townswomen’s Guild This month is our members’ Christmas Meal Contact: 01625 879087

Thursday 5 December Wilmslow Guild Natural History Society Social Evening including Judith’s ‘fiendish’ Natural History Quiz (with prizes!) members’ presentations and seasonal fare. Visitors very welcome (£4) Details from Steve Osborne 01625 879087 or www.wilmslowguild.org The Guild, 1 Bourne St, Wilmslow SK9 5HD 7.30pm

Thursday 5 December Would you like to meet new friends? Thursday Group is a social group for unattached people of mature years, with several activities run by the members every week. These include walking, dancing, badminton, theatre and restaurant visits.

For more info see www.thursdaygroup.co.uk or ring Bill on 07505 076838, or just come along to new members night on the first Thursday in each month where you will be met by group members.

The Bulls Head Pub, 30 Wilmslow Road, Handforth, SK9 3EW 8.30pm

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Saturday 7 December

Sunday 8 December

Mickey’s Frozen Christmas Join Mickey & Minnie Mouse as they join Elsa, Anna, Olaf and a host of your favourite Disney characters in a colourful Christmas treat for the whole family. Dress as your favourite Disney princess or hero and sing along to those wonderful Disney songs we know and love in a wonderful way to celebrate the arrival of the magical time of Christmas!

Ticket Price £9/£8 Family of 4 £30 Quote INSIDE10 for 10% discount 24hr Box Office 0333 666 3366 www.theforumtheatre.co.uk The Forum Theatre, Stockport, SK6 4EA performances at 10am and 1pm

Stockport Symphony Orchestra Christmas Matinee for all the family.

A festive flight of fancy including music from Star Wars, Star Trek, The Snowman and much more presented and narrated

by Blue Peter presenter Lindsey Russell, conductor Rob Guy. More information at www.stockportsymphony.co.uk Tickets available at the box office, online or on the door. £15/£13 concessions/full-time students and children £5 Stockport Town Hall 3pm

Saturday 7 December Carols & Brass by Candlelight Family Christmas Celebration with St George’s Singers Tickets £13, £11 concessions, £4 students & children, from the Ticket Secretary on 01663 764012 or online at www.st-georges-singers.org.uk St George’s Church, Stockport

Saturday 7 December Christmas Comedy Night Join the fun with a night of comedy at The Forum Theatre.

Three amazing acts and a brilliant compere, the very best from the comedy circuit to keep you entertained. With open bar throughout the evening and cabaret seating this is the ultimate night out for friends, family or work colleagues alike!

Tickets £10 or two for £18! Quote INSIDE10 for 10% discount.

24hr Box Office 0333 666 3366 www.theforumtheatre.co.uk The Forum Theatre, Stockport SK6 4EA 8.15pm Doors open at 7.30pm

Saturday 7 December Poynton Ceilidhs Ironmasters, caller Baz Parkes. Traditional dancing to live music. Experience not necessary!

Tickets £9 on the door, cash only, under 16s half price.

To reserve or purchase tickets in advance please go to www.poyntonceilidh.co.uk Poynton Civic Hall 8pm to 11pm, doors open 7.45pm

Sunday 8 December Cheshire A Cappella and guests Join us for an afternoon of festive entertainment! Tickets £8, concessions £7 (includes a festive drink and mince pie) Email: den.jane@gmail.com or Tel: 01625 429602 or 07801 103479 Morley Green Club, Mobberley Rd, Wilmslow SK9 5NT 2.30pm

Sunday 8 December Barnby Choir Handel Messiah - Conductor Lloyd Buck, accompanied by Musica Nova.

Tickets £12 or £10 concessions, £5 students. Available on the door on in advance (recommended) from 01625 520193.

Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 1PR 7.30pm

Tuesday 10 December Simply Books presents … much loved radio broadcaster and TV presenter Mark Radcliffe takes us on a personal journey through some of the iconic tracks which have changed music history and reflects on his own experiences going in search of the stories behind them as told in his new book Crossroads.

Tickets: £10 To book call 0161 439 1436 or book online at www.simplybooks.info Fords Lane Church, Fords Lane, Bramhall 7.30pm

Thursday 12 December Worth Probus Club Members’ annual quiz. Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details.

St George’s Church Hall 2pm

Thursday 12 December Poynton Home Gardeners Club Tonight is our Christmas party despite being Election Day. We will be having a meal to start followed by quizzes, a magician and other fun things. Tickets £10 each, if you require tickets please contact Elaine on 01625 871603 British Legion Club, Poynton 7pm

Friday 13 December Carols at The Legion Tickets £10 for adults and £5 for 16 and under, and will be available either by phone (01625 876 394), or by email (tickets@poyntongands.co.uk) or from MATES DIY on Park Lane Poynton Legion Club on George’s Road West. SK12 1 JY 7.30pm Continued over

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Saturday 14 December

Wednesday 18 December

Festive Harmonies Concert with the Dovedale Singers, The Salford Royal Choir and Werneth Concert Band who will all combine for a Christmas festival of music. With a selection of both light music and Christmas favourites and over 100 musicians and choir members present, you can look forward to a relaxing and festive evening of music for all the family. Tickets available on Eventbrite.co.uk - search Festive Harmonies or on the door, just £8.50 including refreshments.

Poynton Civic Hall (Off Park Lane SK12 1RB) 7.30pm to 10pm

Poynton Philatelic Society Members evening where the subject is ‘Ships on Stamps’, followed by our Christmas buffet.

No meeting on 1 January! Ron Phelps 01625 877643 The Centre, Park Lane 7.30pm

Sunday 15 December Christmas Extravaganza with Alderley Edge Symphony Orchestra. Charity concert in aid of The East Cheshire Hospice Alderley Edge Methodist Church, SK9 7DU 3.30pm

Stockport Historical Society “Worsley and the Romans” by Michael Corless plus Christmas coffee evening. Visitors very welcome Admission £3. Further information from Tony Nightingale 0161 440 0570.

Stockport Sunday School, 96 Nangreave Road, SK2 6DQ (Next to Aquinas College) 7.45pm

Friday 20 and Sat 21 December

Vivaldi Four Seasons The Lindow Ensemble will perform a varied programme including The Four Seasons by Vivaldi.

Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 1PR 3.30pm

‘Classics at Christmas’ concert with Epiphany Join Epiphany for their annual ‘Classics at Christmas’ concerts.

Programme to include beautiful classics, theme tunes from ‘The Deerhunter’ & ‘The Godfather’, Troika and other Christmas favourites.

Tickets £16, £12 (concs) Advance booking advisable from 01625 858802 (or available on the door) St George’s Church Poynton, 7.30pm on 20 Dec and 4pm on 21 Dec

Tuesday 17 December

Wednesday 1 to Saturday 4 January

Poynton U3A Christmas Meeting There will be entertainment from Poynton Male Voice Choir, a quiz, free raffle and refreshments at our Christmas meeting.

Entrance £2 by ticket only. For more information contact enquiries@poyntonu3a.org.uk Poynton Civic Centre, 2pm to 4pm

Cheshire Youth Pantomime Society (CHYPS) pantomime Aladdin Tickets: £10 - £15 Book online: www.chypspanto.com or tickets@chypspanto.com or 07910 187583 Woodford Community Centre, Chester Road, Woodford, SK7 1PS 1.30pm and 7pm

Sunday 15 December

Wednesday 18 December Just in time Show featuring songs from musical theatre and even a little tap dancing too. In support of Nicola’s Fund, a small family run charity set up to support children with cancer and their families giving them somewhere to go on holiday and spend time together in a different environment.

Tickets £7 each with all proceeds going to the charity.

Tickets available via joelwilding.co.uk Enquiries 01625872473 or email just-in-time@joelwilding.co.uk Civic Hall, Poynton 7.30pm (doors open 7pm)

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Friday 20 December

Call 01625 879611 or email info@insidemagazines.co.uk for further details.

Wednesday 8 January The Arts Society North East Cheshire Captain Scott and his four companions died in the Antarctic in 1912. In this lecture Dr Max Jones will examine the different ways in which artists represented death in the polar wasteland and portrayed failure as heroic sacrifice. Free to members. To attend as a visitor (£8) contact Maggie Schofield on 0161 427 9451 or email info@theartssocietynortheastcheshire.org.uk The Brookdale, Bramhall 10.30am with coffee from 9.45am

Thursday 9 January Worth Probus Club Alan Eastwood will speak to us on ‘History of the English Pub.’ Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details.

St George’s Church Hall 2pm Continued over

Thursday 9 January

Thursday 16 January

Would you like to meet new friends? Thursday Group is a social group for unattached people of mature years, with several activities run by the members every week. These include walking, dancing, badminton, theatre and restaurant visits. For more info see www.thursdaygroup.co.uk or ring Bill on 07505 076838, or just come along to new members night on the first Thursday in each month where you will be met by group members.

The Bulls Head Pub, 30 Wilmslow Road, Handforth, SK9 3EW 8.30pm

Wilmslow Guild Natural History Society The Flowers of the Drakensberg Mountains – illustrated talk by Judith Lovelady. Visitors welcome (£4) Details from Steve Osborne 01625 879087 or www.wilmslowguild.org The Guild, 1 Bourne St, Wilmslow SK9 5HD 7.30pm

Friday 10 January Twinning Association 12th Night Dinner at Ciao, tickets £16 from the Civic Hall.

Ciao, Poynton 7.30pm

Saturday 11 January Open Day with Cheshire A Cappella We’re looking for new singers (ladies only!) and would love you to come along and sing with us for a day. We’ll assess your vocal range, then we’ll all learn a song together. Free of charge, lunch provided!Email: cheshireacappell@gmail.com or call Elspeth on 07521 101409 to reserve your place.

Morley Green Club, Mobberley Rd, Wilmslow SK9 5NT 10am to 4pm

Tuesday 14 January East Cheshire Association of the National Trust Lecture – Mick Jagger slept here – Barbara Foster Brookdale Club, Bridge Lane, Bramhall, Stockport, SK7 3AB 2pm

Wednesday 15 January Poynton Philatelic Society. Our first meeting of the New Year is our ever popular ‘Dyson Cup’ competition, where members put together a nine-page display to compete for this prestigious award. Ron Phelps 01625 877643 The Centre, Park Lane 7.30pm

Thursday 16 January Poynton Townswomen’s Guild Christine Barlow speaks about Animal Rescue Visitors welcome - £2 including coffee and biscuits Contact: 01625 879087 Poynton Civic Hall 10am to 12 noon

stand out from the crowd 52

Saturday 18 January St George’s Singers annual Singing Day Led by musical director Neil Taylor and accompanied by one-man orchestra-at-the-keyboard, Pete Durrant. This year the chosen work is John Rutter’s Requiem. The Singing Day is a great musical event but it’s also a great social event, renowned for the friendly atmosphere and wonderful home cooked food. Contact Gillian Banks on 01925 213949 or email stgeorgessingingday@gmail.com St George’s Church, Poynton

Sunday 19 January Friends of St George’s Afternoon Tea with the St George’s Handbell Ringers.

Tickets £5 from the Church Hall Office.

St George’s Church, Poynton 2.30pm

Tuesday 21 January Poynton U3A. Rupert Richards will give a talk on Behind the Scenes at Gawsworth Hall.

Entrance £1 including refreshments. For more information contact enquiries@poyntonu3a.org.uk Poynton Civic Centre, 2pm to 4pm

Wednesday 22 to Saturday 25 January Steel Magnolias - A hilarious and touching comedy drama 0161 302 2302 Brookdale Theatre, Bridge Lane, Bramhall Curtain up 7.45pm

Thursday 23 January Worth Probus Club. Pete Web will speak to us on ‘The Peak District-Rocks and Landscapes’ Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details.

St George’s Church Hall 2pm

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Call 01625 879611 or email info@insidemagazines.co.uk for further details.

Friday 24 January & Saturday 25 January A Night in the West End. Join us for an evening of West End entertainment as we take you to the heart of theatreland with extracts from some of the biggest musicals of all time.

Ticket prices £15/£10. 24hr Box Office 0333 666 3366 www.theforumtheatre.co.uk The Forum Theatre, Stockport, SK6 4EA 7.30pm

Saturday 25 January Stockport Symphony Orchestra. Bruch Violin Concerto soloist Martyn Jackson. Shostakovich Symphony No 7 “Leningrad”.

Conductor Rob Guy www.stockportsymphony.co.uk Tickets available at the box office, online or on the door. £15 full price/£13 concessions/students £5/accompanied children under 16 free Stockport Town Hall 7.30pm

Saturday 25 January Poynton Ceilidhs. Albireo, caller Peter Crowther. Dances are all explained by the caller and walked through before the music starts playing. Tickets £9 on the door, cash only, under 16s half price www.poyntonceilidh.co.uk Poynton Civic Hall 8pm to 11pm, doors open 7.45pm

Compiled by Claire Hawker email: claire@insidemagazines.co.uk

Don’t forget!

Copy deadline for the next issue:

Monday 13 January Tel: 01625 879611 email: info@insidemagazines.co.uk

keep in touch We’re only a very small team at INSIDE so we rely on you, the reader, to let us know what’s coming up in your area. We can’t guarantee to include everything we’re sent but if it’s local and community-based there’s every chance we will.

Email: info@insidemagazines.co.uk

Children’s Activities

Things to do with pre-school kids

Monday

Playaway 9.30-11.30am Poynton Baptist Church. Contact 01625 859036

tuesday Rhyme Time 10-11am Term time only, open to all preschool aged children and babies.

Come and join in the fun of rhyme, music and song.

Expand your social network and meet new parents.

Pay per week, no termly commitment. Please call 01625 87115, email pmcpreschool@hotmail.co.uk or visit www.poyntonmethodistpreschool.co.uk Poynton Methodist Church Room 3, off Park Lane, opposite Poynton Civic Hall, next to Waitrose

friday Rugbytots (For Boys & Girls 2 to 5yrs old) The World’s favourite Rugby Play programme, Coached by an award winning coach.

Building confidence, Social Skills, Coordination, Teamwork, Colours, Numbers, Shapes and much, much more!

Sessions: 2-3 ½ yrs (10:15am, 10.55am & 12.30pm) 3 ½ -5 yrs (9:20am & 11:35am) at the Civic Hall, Off Park Lane, Poynton, SK12 1RB. Term time only. Find out more at www.rugbytots.co.uk or contact Alick on 0345 313 6720 or Email alick@rugbytots.co.uk Free tasters subject to availability.

Saturday

Wednesday Bright Stars Toddler Group 9.30-11.00am Term time only, St Georges Church, Poynton. For more information contact Joe Hadfield 01625 879277 or email youth@poyntonparishchurch.org Pre-School Dance 2-2.30pm Term time only. St Martin’s Church Hall, Shrigley Road North, Higher Poynton. All children welcome from age 18 months.

Contact 07903 727763 or email missstephanie1@hotmail.co.uk Rhymetime 2-2.30pm Poynton Library. No booking and no charge.

All babies/pre-schoolers welcome with parents/carers

Thursday Parent & Toddler Group 9.30-11.30am Term time only, Poynton Methodist Church. For more information contact the church office on 01625 871592 Rhyme Time 10.30am Poynton Library. No booking necessary and no charge. All babies and toddlers welcome with parents/carers. Contact 01625 374818 Kickstarters – Age 2-3 9.30-10.15am Age 3-4 10.30-11.15am A world of pre-school football with a superhero twist. Join the miniature recruits, enter the goaliverse, and earn the super power stickers.

Civic Hall, off Park Lane, Poynton, SK12 1RB. Register on first day of attendance, all sessions pay as you go £5.

Baby Ballet & Tap 9-10am The Hockley Centre, Park Lane. Step Ahead School of Dance, contact Natalie on 07799 614260 for further details.

Methodist Who Let The Dads Out? 9.30-11am 4th Saturday each month for dads and grandads with their children aged 0-7. £2 per family which includes toast for Dad and healthy snacks and juice for children. Just turn up.

Contact church office 871592.

Who Let the Dads Out? 9.30-11am Second Saturday of the month during term time, St Georges Church Hall, Poynton. For dads, grandads and other male carers and their children aged 0-7 years. £2.50 per family which includes bacon butty and coffee for the dads and toast & juice for the children. For more information contact Joe Hadfield 01625 879277 or email youth@poyntonparishchurch.org Kickstarters – Age 2-3yrs 9.30-10.15am Age 3-4yrs 10.30-11.15am See Thursday. Poynton Sports Club, London Road, Poynton Website: www.kickstartersfootball.co.uk Contact: 07853 273578.

sunday Richmond Rovers JFC Young Ballerz 18 months - 5 years. For more information email youngballerz@richmondroversjfc.co.uk Or ring 07411 632114.

Website: www.kickstartersfootball.co.uk Contact: 07853 273578

Compiled by Clare Blackie > email: c.blackie@insidemagazines.co.uk

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56

puzzle solutions

useful numbers

Leisure Centre

Churches

Library

Lostock Christian Fellowship Poynton Baptist Church Poynton Christian Fellowship St Paul’s RC Church Poynton Methodist Church Poynton Parish Church (St Georges with St Martin’s)

01625 260341 01625 859036 01625 859170 01625 872606 01625 871592 01625 879277

01625 850828 01625 874667 01625 876900 01625 875 074

01625 872299 01625 872134 01625 875618

Helplines Alcoholics Anonymous Al-Anon Childline Crimestoppers RSPCA Samaritans Citizens Advice Bureau Directory Enquiries You & Yours Counselling

0800 9177650 02074 030888 0800 1111 0800 555111 0300 1234999 116 123 03444 111 444 118 500 01625 874225

Local Government MP’s Constituency Office E. Cheshire Council Info Services Poynton Town Council

01625 422848 0300 123 5500 01625 872238

Well Pharmacy L Rowland & Co

01625 872214 01625 873955

Police Station (non-emergency)

101

Poynton Post Office

01625 850262

Schools Lostock Hall Primary School Lower Park Primary School St Paul’s RC Primary School Vernon Primary School Worth Primary School Poynton High School

01625 383838 01625 872560 01625 877688 01625 872556 01625 875900 01625 871811

transport Open Hands Transport Traveline Bus & Train Information National Rail Enquiries Manchester Airport

01625 878589 0871 2002233 0345 748 4950 0808 169 7030

Utilities

Hospitals Macclesfield District General Hospital Stepping Hill Hospital NHS Non-Emergency

01625 374818

Post Offices

Doctors Priorslegh Medical Centre McIlvride Medical Practice Poynton Clinic

Poynton Library

01625 876442

Pharmacists

Dentists Poynton Dental Surgery Wish Dental Practice Chester Rd Dental Care Mydentist

Poynton

01625 421000 0161 483 1010 111

Electricity – Power Loss Gas – Emergency Water Floods Water Leaks Environment Agency Floodline

105 0800 111 999 0345 672 3723 0800 330 033 0345 988 1188

classified index ACCOUNTANTS

DECORATORS

Lloyd Piggott Chartered Accountants 40 Nolan James Chartered Accountants 39

Dean Wilson Spring Decorating

ADULT EDUCATION

DOG GROOMING

Wilmslow Guild

46

BATHROOMS Hazel Grove Bathroom Centre

51 17 11 48 58

BUILDING SOCIETIES Vernon Building Society

26

9

CARE HOMES & SERVICES Abney Court Alice Chilton

43 22 30

CHILDCARE Children’s Choice Day Nursery Kids Zone

54 54

CHIROPRACTORS The Back Clinic

40

CLEANING SERVICES Alice Chilton Cleaning

20

CLUBS & ENTERTAINMENT Cheshire A Cappella The Club

62

LIT 30 59 30

SCZ Electrical Services

David Hanson The Snap Tin Adlington Retirement Living

36

Poynton Roofing

Adlington Memorial Park

Inside Front Cover Brian Sharples & Son Inside Back Cover

Crimeguard Security

FURNITURE 31 53

GARDEN LANDSCAPING & MAINTENANCE 29 29

34 58 61

Keoghs Nicholls Lindsell & Harris 39 Manners Pimblett Back Cover

STAIRCASE RENOVATIONS The Stair Shop

44

TAXIS 20

TOYS Crookilley Toy Emporium

17

TRAVEL 4 14

Lucy Allen Personal Travel Consultant 41

TREE SERVICES

HEARING SERVICES 22

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Harness Tree Care 29 Swift Tree & Arboricultural Services 42

WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES 59

Pate & Lever Windows

51

WINDOW & CONSERVATORY REPAIRS

JOINERY Trevor Garner

15

SOLICITORS / LEGAL SERVICES

ASAPP Cars

HAIR & BEAUTY Carl Howard Hidden Gem

40

ROOFING SECURITY

Trevor Garner 15 42

PLUMBING & HEATING

FUNERAL SERVICES

Dreamscape Gardens NRG Garden Services

25

RETIREMENT property 21

FIRES

Garolla

17

RESTAURANTS & BARS 59

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Uniquely Chic

13 57 10

LETTING AGENT Your Home From Home

ELECTRICIANS

Cheshire Hearing Centres 45 18

COMPUTER & INTERNET Mike Knibb SR Computers

LIGHTING

GARAGE DOORS

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Safeclean

Techni-Pave Pure Clean Drainage Solutions

Brilliant Fires 57

BUTCHERS The Butcher’s Block

Pure Clean Drainage Solutions

Stratagem Wealth

BUILDING SUPPLIES & RENTALS Pure Clean Rental Solutions

17

DRIVEWAYS & PATIOS

BUILDING SERVICES Creative Design & Build JS Services Whitehall Builders

Kitchens of Poynton Matt Finish Prescott & Joule

DRAINAGE

BOOKSHOPS Simply Books

Blue Finn

KITCHENS 15 5

59

The Window Repair Centre

60