Inside Poynton Issue 85 by INSIDE MAGAZINES

inside poynton february - march 2020

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Issue 85

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inside p o y n t o n 2020 – not just a new year but the start of a new decade. With everything that’s going on in the world right now you could be forgiven for viewing the coming years with a feeling of trepidation. Alternatively, you could look forward with optimism – after all a lot of what’s happening is completely out of our control so, arguably, there’s little point spending time and energy worrying about it.

What’s INSIDE this month 4 yoga life - one year in poynton 7 margaret holbrook, playwright 8 Diary of a Geeky Knitter 11 a gift from miss lawrance 14 Recipe 16 the beer and book club

Instead, you could focus on putting that energy into your own community, where you can make a difference. Make 2020 the year to support everything local, whether that’s joining clubs and societies, supporting charity events or volunteering, or making a determined effort to shop locally, visit local restaurants and entertainment venues. Think before you automatically go online to plan a holiday, call your local travel agent or drop by and have a face-to- face chat – you might save yourself a lot of time and hassle! If you’re able, leave the car at home and get out on foot as much as you can. It’s good for you, it’s better for the environment and you bump into lots of friendly people!

19 In Touch

Until next time…

62 Classified Index

23 Puzzles 27 daffodils 32 The Walk 34 a cruise for everyone 39 Right to the Core 40 Real Life Motoring

43 your 2020 vision 44 INSIDE Guide 55 Children’s Activities 56 Just 4 Kids

60 Puzzle Solutions 61 Useful Numbers

Editor: Claire Hawker

Tel: 01625 879611

Inside Magazines, 352a Park Lane, Poynton, Cheshire SK12 1RL. email: info@insidemagazines.co.uk www.insidemagazines.co.uk Canal at Higher Poynton by Claire Hawker

Copy deadline for the next issue: Tuesday 10 March

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 2020. 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

ONE YEAR IN POYNTON

February will see celebratory events and offers at YogaLife, to mark one year since the Poynton Studio opened. Now firmly rooted in the community, the studio has adapted and developed its offering to meet the needs of its members. Co-owner Ian Baylon told us:

‘The response to the studio has been wonderful, and we’ve attracted members from much further afield, as well as lots from Poynton. We’ve listened to our members and created a timetable with a wide appeal, balancing the number of active, power-based classes to allow for more flow and restorative yoga. The restorative classes are particularly popular – there’s often a waiting list on Sunday mornings!’ ‘We’re working to forge links with local groups such as the runners, cyclists, Slimming World and U3A, in keeping with our vision of a community-based studio. One of my favourite events was a one-off Yoga in the Park we held on the hottest day of the year in 2019.

We promoted it on social media and 83 people turned up, some with children, some with dogs; it was a really uplifting family event.’ YogaLife Poynton is providing local jobs for local people – they’ve expanded the front-of-house team and introduced a job-share, so three people now share two roles. They’ve showcased new teachers by giving them the chance to run speciality workshops such as yoga with music and yoga with oils and contributed raffle prizes to the local school fairs. The birthday celebrations will take place week commencing Monday 24 February. Look out on the website and app for special birthday offers including buy-one-get-one-free class passes and some free classes introducing new teachers. The week will end with a gratitude workshop for members on 29 February. Yogalife offers classes for all fitness levels, ages and experience – you can pick up a class guide and timetable from reception or visit the website to find out more. Probably the easiest way to keep in touch, see what’s available and to book classes is to download the app – search for Yogalife Poynton. It’s a very userfriendly app and details all the available pricing plans so you can choose one to suit you. www.yogalifepoynton.com 4b Park Lane, Poynton SK12 1RE

Jenny Cooke talks to

Margaret Holbrook, playwright ‘When I was a child, I remember making up stories and writing little books. I was seven when I said, “I’m going to be a writer!” Then ten years ago I began writing seriously.’ Margaret has always written poetry which she now realises ‘is the most difficult thing to edit and get right’. There were rejections at first and then ORBIS magazine accepted her poem about Bury.

‘I put an advert in The Stage magazine online as I searched for actors. Andrew Mallinson played the character, Keith, and Lucy Savin played Jacki.’ The setting is the Bolton Interchange, the two characters are waiting for a bus and begin to chat. Gradually it emerges that Keith has a disability, though this is never mentioned out loud. Eventually we discover that Keith has coped with tragedy. The audience are on tenterhooks all night, just in case Keith might harm Jacki. He never does. Instead he simply enjoys talking to the beautiful and sympathetic girl, while she listens so carefully. It’s important to Margaret to empower women playwrights. ‘Only 17% of productions worldwide are written by women and only 4% are directed by women,’ she says. ‘It’s still a bit like it was for the Bronte sisters who had to use male names to get a hearing in the 19th century.’

In 2012 she entered a competition at the Ovation Theatre in Glossop for a seven-minute play. She decided on a dinner party setting and called her play, Soup for Starters. There was only one speaking part, but she needed six other actors to play the guests. ‘It was a learning curve,’ says Margaret, who produced and directed the play as well. She bought a dinner service from a charity shop and hired props from the theatre. She knew a local actor, David Wilkinson, sent him the script, he agreed to take part and rehearsals began. First the play made it to the final ten; on the night it was in the final three and Margaret got an honourable mention. ‘David received an award for best actor. So, I felt that my words in the script had won something. It was a great encouragement.’ Recently Margaret’s powerful play, The Bus Stop, had a brief tour locally including the Civic Hall in Poynton. by Jenny Cooke

How does Margaret get her ideas? ‘I was in Wakefield about three years ago when I overheard two young lads as they walked past. One was saying, “I’m shoppin’ for shoes.” It stuck in my mind. So that’s why Keith is carrying a box of shoes at the Bolton Interchange! Keith says these words, which leads on to him telling Lucy his story. A play usually starts with such an incident which develops into a setting. The characters will be ‘trapped’ in a place and they’ve then got to resolve the idea through conversation, and we see what happens.’ Margaret, who is a member of The Society of Authors, has written over 30 plays: Talk to Me a winner in Halifax 2013; Our Brian, longlisted for BBC R4’s Opening Lines 2014; Not for Want of Trying performed at Wirral’s Festival of Firsts 2015 and Ruthless, longlisted at Bolton’s Octagon Theatre 2017. Margaret also writes poetry, novellas, short stories and novels, available at Waterstones [Empress Publishing]. She runs a bi-monthly group called ‘Poetry and Prose at Petersgate.’ Find out about these and more at www.margaretholbrookwrites.weebly.com

Diary of a geeky knitter Seeing more in your craft Recently, I pulled together an issue of Crochet Now in which the pattern collection theme was called ‘Music in Stitches’. Everything inside the magazine was somehow inspired by music. Some were literal interpretations of the theme, such as a favourite song that inspired a blanket design. Others though were a little more creative and played instead with how music and crochet are more alike than you realise. Where musical notes flow into one another to create a finished piece of music that can invoke emotions like happiness, sadness, or passion, crochet can have a similar effect. Individual stitches can flow and play over one-another to create stunning textures that inspire you, or colours can be used to create warmth, coolness, or even emotional response depending on the story or intent behind that design. Now if you aren’t as big a crocheter or knitter as I am, this might be a very strange idea to process. But many of you reading this might find that two or more of your interests that, on the surface appear very different, might in fact have more in common than you realise. Perhaps that explains why you like those things after all! This isn’t supposed to reveal any huge philosophical revelation (as I clearly love to attempt in this column about knitting and geeky things…) but it was just something that occurred to me as I was deciding what to write about this month. Now that we are in a new year following the bustle of one of the more fun (and sometimes stressful) periods of time, self-care and me-time is at the forefront of my mind. Connecting two of my interests in this way is somehow a comforting thought that plays into this self-care mindset. I’m not entirely sure how, or if this would even work for everyone, but seeing the links and connections in things I enjoy, like music and

crochet, enhances the enjoyment of both pastimes, particularly when enjoyed together in a meditative way. Perhaps this isn’t the same for you, and I’ve not quite worked out how to connect knitting to my enjoyment of video games, but sometimes it’s nice to just stop and let your thoughts wander to little realisations that give you pleasure. And then of course share those inane thoughts with your friends who patiently read your article, wondering what on earth is she on about… jennythegeekyknitter@gmail.com www.thegeekyknitter.co.uk www.etsy.com/uk/shop/geeksgamesandknits

A GIFT FROM MISS LAWRANCE 2020 will be 100th anniversary of The Club – officially Poynton Workmen’s Club, affectionately known as The Workies! Take a look at the facing page for details of the Centenary celebrations over Easter weekend in April. In the meantime, here’s a brief history of the club and how it has evolved over the past 100 years.

It’s probably not known by many of you that the club owes its foundation to an American heiress! The foundation of the club is closely tied to the Vernon family who lived at Sudbury Hall, Derbyshire. The Lord of the Manor, by inheritance, was Baron Vernon, who was known locally as Lord Vernon. In 1885 an American heiress, Miss Frances M Lawrance, married the 7th Lord Vernon - George William Henry. In the same year she donated £400 for the benefit of the miners and other working men resident in Poynton. Back in 1903, where the club is now situated, stood a small brick club that the 8th Lord Vernon independently built for his colliery workers, which included a separate 25-yard rifle range building constructed of wood and corrugated iron sheets. Meetings of the Trustees were held annually, but no major decisions were made until the war ended. Eventually, at the 1919 meeting some 34 years since the Lawrance gift, it was decided that a new Workmen’s Club should be built. Francis Lawrance William, the 9th Lord Vernon, agreed to convey to the Trustees the rifle range, the existing miners’ club built by his brother, and the relevant land situated at Poynton Green. The estimated cost of the required alterations was £1,108 whereas the available funds had reached only £919 - a huge sum of £189 short! The matter was resolved when Lord Vernon signed a Deed

to provide a bank guarantee, for an additional sum of £1,000, to cover future financial requirements. The alterations were completed, the club was registered as the Poynton Working Men’s Club and finally opened in the autumn of 1920. The initial membership numbered 298, out of a total population of some 2,500 persons. Here it would be appropriate to add that at one stage in its life, the club was “struck off’ for out of hours drinking and the drinks licence was revoked. The then Secretary, who eventually became Life President - Arthur Booth - kept the club operational by dispensing soft drinks instead of ale! When the licence was restored the club had a change of name and became the Poynton Workmen’s Club. In 1934 the club purchased the old school garden, an area of 3,600 square yards, situated at the rear of the Club, in order to construct a bowling green. The cost was 1 shilling and 6 pence per square yard, plus a £50 donation to the new Clumber Road School garden, and the cost of cultivating an equal area of land. Since this area of land was too small for a full-sized bowling green, the club purchased a further three acres for £450. The bowling green was completed and fenced off from the rest of the club, and the surplus land was rented out by the club to a chicken hatchery. By 1973 the club was growing quickly and there was a requirement to expand by constructing an extension on some of the adjacent land belonging to the club. This included the old ex-headmaster’s house that was now owned by the club. The local Planning Authority demanded the construction of a large car park as a condition of the extension. But there was no access from Park Lane and the chicken farmers claimed that the land was being used for agricultural purposes so the tenancy could not be terminated. Without access from Park Lane the club could not comply with the council’s requirement and enlargement was impossible. Although the club had enough money for new buildings, this frustrating situation continued until 1978, when Macclesfield Council served the club with a Compulsory Continued over

With access to Park Lane the club could comply with the council’s requirements and an extensive enlargement programme was completed in 1981.

Inside view of what is now the Vernon Suite

Purchase Order in respect of the near one acre of land occupied by the chicken farmers. The council used this land to build Willow Close, as council-owned bungalows. The club received a payment for the land, and in addition gained access to Park Lane. In a separate swap and cash deal the building known as the “clinic” was acquired from the council and was initially modified as living accommodation for the club secretary. This building was further modified in 1995 to become the Willows Suite which was used as a function room for private parties, owned by, but separate from the club. It’s still owned by the club and is leased to a children’s nursery business.

In 1999 it was decided to sell the one-acre field to the rear of the bowling green for sheltered accommodation. The application was refused and kept on hold by the council for two years. At a Public Inquiry held in September 2001 the developer was again refused planning permission by the Planning Inspector, but on a matter of building design only. Holland Court was built, along with a new car park, and the area was landscaped. In 2016 a major refurbishment of all the rooms was completed, resulting in the attractive building we see today. Editor’s note Poynton Workmen’s Club is registered under the Friendly Societies Act 1974. Working men’s clubs are a type of private social club first created in the 19th century. The club is a non-profit organisation run by members through a committee, elected annually.

Bacon and Mushroom Risotto

A tasty and simple New Year supper Preparation: 10 mins Cooking time: 30 mins

Method

Serves: 4

1. Heat the oil in a deep frying pan and fry the onion and bacon gently for 5 mins to soften. Add the mushrooms and cook gently for a further 5 minutes until they start to release their juices. Stir in the rice and cook until the rice begins to look translucent.

Ingredients ■■ 1 tbsp olive oil ■■ 1 onion ■■ 8 rashers streaky bacon, chopped ■■ 250g chestnut mushrooms, sliced ■■ 300g risotto rice ■■ 1 litre hot chicken stock ■■ Grated parmesan to serve

2. Add the stock, a ladleful at a time, stirring well and waiting for most of the stock to be absorbed before adding the next ladleful – it will take about 20 mins for all the stock to be absorbed. 3. Once the rice is cooked, season and serve with the grated Parmesan.

fight in the Indian Wars - against the Sioux and the Yurok - and, ultimately, the Civil War. Moving from the plains of Wyoming to Tennessee, it’s an intense and often brutal story of two men and the unconventional family they create with a young Sioux girl, Winona, covering what many see as the most crucial years in American history.

The Beer & Book Club recommends Days Without End – Sebastian Barry One of the many exciting aspects of being part of The BBC (and yes, I did use the word ‘exciting’) is that you turn up for a discussion without knowing beforehand what everyone else has thought of the book under debate. And with so many different characters in the group, it’s not always easy to predict whether a book will receive a major thumbs up, a big thumbs down or something somewhere in-between. Our festive book choice was a case in point. I arrived at The Cask in January blissfully unaware of how people had felt about Days Without End by Sebastian Barry. Personally, I’d thought it was one of the best books we’ve read as a group, but it hadn’t been the most comfortable of reads and some of the key themes might not be everyone’s pint of Long Hop. For a change I decided to kick things off and pronounced my view that this book was blooming brilliant (no blaspheming at The BBC you understand). I scoured the room for nods of approval, but it was early doors and members were keeping their cards close to their chest. As each member got to say their bit, however, it turned out that I was not the only one believing that this is a masterpiece. The book is narrated by, and tells the story of Thomas McNulty, who, aged barely 17 and having fled the Great Famine in Ireland, signs up for the US Army in the 1850s. With his brother in arms, John Cole, Thomas goes on to

The voice of Tom McNulty is haunting and direct. “No one wanted us. Canada was a-feared of us. We were a plague. Only rats of people. Hunger takes away what you are.” He tells us what he became. “I only say it because without saying I don’t think anything can be properly understood. How we were able to see slaughter without flinching. Because we were nothing ourselves, to begin with.” Whilst brutal and violent on one level, the novel is also a tender love story. Openly, John and Tom are best friends. Secretly, they are lovers. Just as I suspend finding out what others think of our book choice before we meet to discuss it, I also avoid reading reviews until we’ve reviewed the book as a group. And when I came across this review in The Guardian it brings together all that we discussed at our meeting, and more: ‘Days Without End is a work of staggering openness; its startlingly beautiful sentences are so capacious that they are hard to leave behind, its narrative so propulsive that you must move on. In its pages, Barry conjures a world in miniature, inward, quiet, sacred; and a world of spaces and borders so distant they can barely be imagined’. Enough said.

in touch your local community noticeboard

february - march 2020

‘Step by Step’ Health Walks Volunteer Success Everybody Sport & Recreation is working with a group of passionate volunteers, who have been trained by Walking for Health UK, to provide weekly short walks in Poynton town centre and rural surroundings. The aim is to help local residents get out and increase activity levels, whilst having fun and meeting new people. The volunteers’ hard work and enthusiasm has recently been recognised when they won Everybody Sport and Recreation’s ‘Volunteers of the Year 2019’. They were awarded for their commitment to planning, mapping and leading fun, social walks for all of those who participate, with numbers still on the rise. These FREE short walks are accessible to all, particularly people who are looking to increase their activity, and after each walk, we encourage people to stay for a warm drink and chat if they have time. The walks are bi-weekly, every other Wednesday, meeting at 9.45am for a 10am start from various locations around Poynton.

To join the walk is completely free. If you are interested in joining the group, or even becoming a volunteer walks leader, please get in touch via email sport@everybody.org.uk or call 07967 756501

FREE LIP-READING CLASS FOR ADULTS Do you, a friend, or a member of the family have a hearing loss? Do you feel isolated, or like you’re missing out on conversation? Come along and give us a try, everyone is welcome. We start back on Tuesday 21 January from 10.30am to 12.30pm for eight weeks at St George`s Church Hall, Poynton.

Find out more by calling (or text to) Debra on 07791 951577 or email lipreading.debra@btinternet.com

POYNTON and DISTRICT ROTARY Poynton Rotary carried out their annual Christmas collection on two Saturdays in December outside Waitrose, Aldi and the Post Office. They are very grateful for the generosity of the Poynton public enabling them to raise the sum of £750 to support local charities and organisations. This is just one of various local activities where funds are raised to help the local community; the main event of the year is Party in the Park held at Poynton Pool. This year it will be held on 13 June, so please put the date in your diaries and await further details about acts and tickets, in the coming months. Continued over

in touch - your local community noticeboard

NHS Self Care Award for Poynton Town Council In January, Poynton Town Council received an NHS Bronze Self Care Award at a celebration ceremony held at the Civic Hall. The award is part of an enterprising programme by NHS Cheshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to promote the benefits of self-care throughout its local communities. The initiative aims to roll out key messages using specially trained self-care champions and are particularly targeting students and working populations. To achieve the criteria for the award the town council have made a significant step towards promoting self-care in their area. Sharon Duke, Communities Co-Ordinator at Poynton Town Council said: “Since undertaking the self-care campaign training I have delivered five self-care workshops at Poynton High School and over 150 pupils attended. Self-Care is about keeping fit and healthy, understanding when you can look after yourself, when a pharmacist can help, when to get advice from your GP or another health professional. It was great to see how engaged the pupils were in the workshop, it was a brilliant opportunity to provide them with the information and confidence needed for them to enable them to self-care.’’ Noreen Caldwell, Public Engagement Manager at NHS South Cheshire CCG said: “I’m really proud of the work that Poynton Town have done to achieve the NHS Bronze Self Care Award. It’s really important that we promote self-care as this provides people with the advice and support needed to treat minor conditions themselves or signpost them to the right care for their need.”

If you are interested in becoming a self-care champion please contact Noreen Caldwell by email noreen.caldwell@nhs.net or call 01270 275286

quick crossword Across 1 Accomplishment (4) 3 Infrequent (8) 9 Reasonable, coherent (7) 10 Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s comic (5) 11 Conference (5) 12 Revere, venerate (6) 14 Bureaucrat (13) 17 Sausage (coll) (6) 19 American actress and activist Ms. _____ Sarandon (5) 22 Avoid, dodge (5) 23 Definitely, absolutely (2,5) 24 Unlit, gloom (8) 25 Aftermath (4)

down 1 Misfire, flop (4,4) 2 Fury, acrimony (5) 4 Engineered, conspired (6,7) 5 Cyborg (5) 6 Most expensive (7) 7 Chicken pen (4) 8 Shrewdness, intelligence (6) 13 Dark-haired (8) 15 Wander, ramble (7) 16 Dwell, settle (6) 18 Deduce (5) 20 Steam bath (5) 21 Short for Charles (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 donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone. Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

Solutions on page 60 23

Daffodils: Spring’s Golden Trumpets

“Daffodils, that come before the swallow dares, and take the winds of March with beauty” – Shakespeare is not the only poet to be inspired by the sight and scent of daffodils in early spring and likewise gardeners are beguiled by their beauty. As well as the old favourites like the giant “King Alfred” there are miniature types for alpine gardens and all sizes in between, so every garden can find space for Narcissus, be it a large drift or just a few miniatures growing in pots. Most are very accommodating, growing in most conditions in sun or a little shade, however some species require good drainage. Most benefit from being kept watered during flowering. The bulbs are usually planted at a depth of roughly twice their height eg a 5cm bulb would be planted with its top about 10cm below the soil. Plant large bulbs around 15cm apart and miniatures 10cm apart. If you are naturalising the bulbs in grass don’t be too precise with spacing – toss the bulbs onto the soil at the approximate distance, moving apart any that fall too close together.

succeed. Don’t panic this spring if you’ve forgotten to plant in autumn as you will find a wonderful selection of pot grown plants at Plant Hunters’ Fairs in March and April and these can be planted out straight away. Once the flowers fade, they should be deadheaded as producing seed weakens the bulbs and lessens next year’s flowering. A good way to deadhead a large drift is with a thin whippy stick to behead them with a deft flick of the wrist as you walk along. Don’t be tempted to remove the leaves before they die off naturally as this weakens the plant as well. Some growers recommend allowing the dead leaves to remain to feed the soil as well. Clumps can be divided in summer: store the bulbs dry if necessary, before replanting from late August. It is also possible to grow Narcissus from seed although you will have to be patient for them to flower. Continued over

The best time to plant bulbs is August to October or November, although later planting can sometimes by Martin Blow > www.specialperennials.com

diarrhoea. They can also cause irritation and burning sensations on the lips and mouth and skin irritation. These symptoms can persist for up to three hours. Daffodils are always the heralds of spring, as AA Milne so aptly put it: “She turned to the sunlight and shook her yellow head, And whispered to her neighbour: ‘Winter is dead.’” People ask what the difference is between Daffodils and Narcissus? Narcissus is the scientific name for all flowers of this type; Daffodil is the common name for Narcissus pseudonarcissus, or Trumpet Narcissus. Narcissus enthusiasts classify the plants by their colour and shape and length of the trumpet. Another common question is why do plants go “blind” – producing all leaf and no flower? Usually this is due to planting too shallowly but may be due to removing the leaves too soon after flowering; lack of fertiliser or failing to deadhead. All parts of Narcissus are toxic if eaten, the bulbs most so, causing nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and

Janet and I run Special Perennials - we sell at Plant Hunters’ Fairs throughout the season. We will be at the Plant Hunters’ Fairs at Bramall Hall, Stockport on Sunday 5 April; 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 events days. Please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk for full details of these and other fairs.

SNOWDROP WALK AT RODE HALL

Snowdrops are treasured as nature’s first sign of the end of winter and as a national symbol of spring cheer. Experience one of the UK’s most popular Snowdrop Walks by visiting Rode Hall & Gardens to mark the start of spring. A beautiful end-of-winter walk for all the family with a wonderfully diverse landscape and over 70 varieties of snowdrops. Walk along paths amidst carpets of white flowers on an enchanting mile-long route (with options for longer or shorter walks). Take in the wild beauty of cascading snowdrops in the Old Wood and Wild Garden, the scenic path down to the Lake and drifts of snowdrops in the borders of the formal Nesfield garden in front of the Hall. Highlights are also the two-acre walled kitchen garden and an unmissable vista down the Colonel’s Walk where some of the rarest varieties can be viewed. A labour of love, the snowdrops have multiplied over six generations of the Wilbraham family; they were first planted by Sibella Wilbraham in 1833 who came from a family of gifted gardeners. This passion and care continues to the present day, having been further developed by Anne Baker Wilbraham over the last 30 years. Gardeners shouldn’t miss the opportunity to snap up some snowdrops to plant at home (including a limited

number of rare varieties). Rare snowdrops to view on the walk include the Yellow Cheshire Snowdrop (Lady Elphinstone), the giant Comet, the Viridapicis with green marks on the outer petals rather than the inside and Merlin with all green inner segment. There is also the opportunity to view the snowdrops through strategically placed mirrors under some of the plants. Daphnes, Cyclamen and Hellebores are also in bloom. Randle Baker Wilbraham, owner of Rode Hall says “We are looking forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to come and experience the beautiful snowdrop walks in the enchanting gardens here at Rode. We hope that everyone will have a special day out, take in the walks and enjoy our Tea Room. We love sharing this unforgettable start to spring with our visitors – those who make an annual pilgrimage from across the UK, along with those closer to home and our new visitors too.” Snowdrop Walks are at Rode Hall & Gardens, Cheshire ST7 3QP 1 February to 1 March 11am to 4pm (closed Mondays). £5 adults, £2 children (under 5s free).T: 01270 873237 enquiries@rodehall.co.uk www.rodehall.co.uk

Miller’s Dale

via Monsal Trail, Topley Pike, Chelmorton and Priestcliffe Walk description: A circular walk that starts at Miller’s Dale Station, and follows the popular and flat Monsal Trail, a disused railway line, until just beyond Blackwell Mill Bike Hire. The route then continues to the Wyedale Car Park, from where it crosses the A6 to ascend a steep winding path to the side of Topley Pike quarry. Farm tracks then lead to the village of Chelmorton and from there to the small settlement of Priestcliffe. A series of stiles across fields lead to Miller’s Dale Nature Reserve and back to Miller’s Dale. Distance: 9 miles, 14.5kms. Walking time: 3 to 4.5 hours. Map: OS Explorer OL24, West Sheet. Start/Parking: Pay and Display at Miller’s Dale Car Park/Station, where there is a cafe (check Winter opening hours) and toilets. T. 01298 871869. (Grid Reference SK138733, Postcode SK17 8SN). Refreshments: Miller’s Dale Station (see above), Church Inn, Chelmorton (T. 01298 85319) and the Waterloo Inn on the A6. From the car park turn westwards along the Monsal Trail towards Wyedale for around 3 miles, passing through the Chee Tor Tunnel, Chee Tor Tunnel No. 2 and the Rasher Cutting Tunnel. After these tunnels there is a

By Francis Aynsley-Smith

viaduct on the right and the view then opens up on the right to show Blackwell Mill Cycle Hire and Tuck Shop (T. 01298 70838, closed in the winter), with a terrace of white cottages on the opposite bank of the river. After a further 200 metres the Monsal Trail comes to an end. Follow a footpath on the left and a flight of steps going down to the River Wye below. At the river turn left and follow the broad track to Wyevale Car Park. From the car park cross the busy A6 with care. The gate to Topley Pike Quarry is directly in front. Take the public footpath to the left of the gate, leading gently uphill between fences for about 300 metres. On the right there is a gate signposted to Deepdale, and an information board. Go through the gate and begin the steep climb up a twisting path to the top of the hill, with the quarry over to the right. Near the top, look to the left to find the stile across the wall. Go over the stile into a field, and head half right for 200 metres. Aim for the next stile that leads into a grassy lane. Turn left and continue southwards. The grassy lane merges with a farm track called Caxter Way Lane on the OS map. After 200 metres take the farm track that goes off to the right; it is way-marked. The lane curves to the left and comes to a metal gate. Go straight on past the gate into another grassy lane with stone walls on either side. This is easy walking with fine views. Continue for 1km until you arrive at the A5270. Cross

the road, and the grassy lane continues for 300 metres to a gate in front signed “Private Land”. The path turns left here. After 75 metres there is a small stile on the right beside a rusty metal gate. Go over this and cross the fields (with 2 more stiles) in a straight line to Chelmorton, visible in front. Once in the village main street, turn left on the pavement. Note the two interesting water troughs on the left, the last of seven, fed by “Illy Willy Water”, formerly Chelmorton’s main water supply. Keep straight ahead with the church on your right and the Church Inn to your left. The church has an interesting weathervane of a locust and is dedicated to St John the Baptist. Go uphill past the pub and the Illy Willy Water Spring, to find the bridleway and turn right, climbing steeply past the trees to where it opens out at the top. There are excellent views all round. The path is tussocky and runs over former lead mine workings. Where the path splits keep to the right. After passing through a gate into Pillwell Lane (the Pennine Bridleway), turn right and immediately left to keep in the same direction. Cross the stile into a field. This path runs straight across three more stiles to arrive at the Limestone Way, also called Sough Lane on the OS map. It is broad - turn left along it through an iron gate. The track is easy to follow and soon goes downhill, twisting as it does so. It leads down to the Waterloo Inn on the A6. Cross the A6 with care and

The Walk

continue opposite on the tarmac lane. This runs gently downhill bearing to the right and crossing another tarmac road before reaching Priestcliffe. There is little traffic on the lane. From the small green in the centre of Priestcliffe follow the signpost leftwards towards Millerdale. T he track bears half left past a farm. After 50 metres, there is a finger post and stile to the right that takes you into a field. Cross the left-hand corner of the field at 45 degrees to reach the next stile. The path here then runs pretty straight in a north easterly direction over a succession of stiles. These have been painted yellow on either side making the sequence easy to follow. This is easy walking over fields, first descending then rising to the ridge and the Miller’s Dale Nature Reserve. Cross the stile here and the path turns right and descends alongside a series of old iron posts (the descent can be steep in places). Keep going to reach the Monsal Trail at the bottom. Turn left here and after 300 metres return to Miller’s Dale Car Park/Station. Poynton Rambling Club organises and leads walks during the day on Sundays and Wednesdays, with popular evening pub walks in the summer months, as well as social events and walking weeks elsewhere in the UK. All are welcome, and membership costs just £5 a year. For a full schedule of walks and further information about our friendly Club please visit www.poyntonramblingclub.co.uk

A CRUISE FOR EVERYONE

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions when it comes to cruise holidays, but I’m convinced there is a cruise for everyone. Whether you want a mega ship or a small, intimate ship, each company has its own offerings and character. One thing that is undeniably true of cruises is that they present fantastic value for money and give you the opportunity to cover a lot of ground in a short space of time. Once you’re on the ship you don’t have to worry about accommodation, catering or entertainment and, you wake up in a new, beautiful destination every day! Here is a little guide, depending on your dynamics and preferences, to help you figure out who to sail with.

FOR FAMILIES One of the great benefits to booking a cruise holiday is that many of the ships offer something for everyone, with so many facilities you’re spoiled for choice! From dance classes, casinos and spa treatments for mum (and dad), to amazing kid’s activities for the youngsters. Companies like Norwegian and Princess offer brilliant cruises for families in popular destinations like the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Designed with families in mind, the ships offer family suites and interconnecting cabins so can cater for large groups.

FOR DISCOVERY ‘Expedition’ cruising refers to those trips that take you somewhere a bit more off the beaten track. A chance to get truly immersed in the local nature and culture. More emphasis is placed on the experiences onshore, and the educational aspects, than on the ship itself. If you’re interested in places like Alaska and the Galapagos that offer a ‘holiday of a lifetime’, consider sailing with Hurtigruten or Celebrity. Their expert expedition teams become your invaluable hosts and offer something really unique.

FOR LUXURY Dare I say, if you want to push the boat out (ahem), then look to the 6* cruise liners like Silversea and Seabourn. This is where all-inclusive really means, all-inclusive! Flights, transfers, all dining (including in the speciality restaurants), fine wines, shore excursions, everything is taken care of. Almost every cabin on the ship will be a suite too and some of them even come with your own butler! The luxury cruise ships are often smaller too, meaning a more relaxed, intimate feel. Not only that, but their smaller size means they can reach ports with shallower harbours, that the ‘mega’ ships can’t, such as Nevis in the Caribbean or Chania in Crete.

RIVER CRUISES With Spring comes the start of river cruise season (at least in Europe). Offering you a chance to visit places ocean liners simply can’t go, you can really get into the heart of a country. The ships are obviously smaller than the ocean vessels and as such don’t offer the same range of facilities and entertainment, but booking a river cruise is more about the destinations you can experience, rather than the ship itself. Consider a cruise along the Douro in Portugal, the highlights of which include the Port warehouses of Porto, scenic vineyards, pretty villages and the chance to visit the trendy city of Lisbon. Of course, for those who want a real change of culture, tropical river cruises are available too along the Nile or Mekong for example. The popularity of cruise holidays is continuing to grow but choosing the right cruise can be a bit overwhelming. There are many different packages on offer, and you could get caught out by hidden costs so it’s always advisable to speak to an agent and book with them. At Not Just Travel we work with all the major cruise suppliers, for ocean and river cruises, and we can take care of your holiday from start to finish. Lucy Allen Personal Travel Consultant Notjusttravel/waitingworld lucyallen.notjusttravel.com e: lucy.allen@notjusttravel.com p: 07512 784700

RIGHT TO THE CORE Why core exercises are important

What are the benefits of core strength?

We know that getting fit is important for a healthy life. Often, we equate fitness with running, cycling, walking or some other form of exercise. But there’s one aspect of fitness that is often overlooked; our core muscles.

Building a strong core provides a firm and flexible support for every activity your body performs. The stability provided gives you better balance and better posture which in turn helps prevent falls and injuries in your day-to-day life. The support from your core muscles takes the strain away from your skeleton and helps hold it in place alleviating some forms of back pain, stiffness and soreness when you move your body.

Whenever I talk about building muscle everyone pictures someone at a weight bench pumping iron until their biceps bulge out of their shirts. But strengthening and toning your muscles can be much more subtle. And even a small amount of work on your core strength can dramatically improve your overall fitness and well-being.

What are your core muscles? Your core muscles form a ring around the middle of your body. Most people think of the six pack muscles in the abdomen, but the core includes a range of muscles in your sides and back as well. Their job is to keep the top and bottom halves of your body connected together, whilst allowing them to move independently. They form a strong foundation that the majority of your other muscles depend upon when you move your body.

When do I use my core muscles? Practically every movement you make and every position you put your body into involves your core muscles. They are really important. Bending over to pick something up, twisting to look behind you and sitting up in bed are more obvious moments your core is activated. But running, walking, sitting in a chair and even standing still all rely on core strength. Without it the top half of your body would simply flop over. by Robert Grant

Any time you move, whether it’s for exercise or doing the housework or gardening, a strong core will help you perform better and reduce muscle fatigue in the other parts of your body, by giving them a firm base to attach to.

How can I build my core strength? One of the best things about core strength is that you don’t need a gym or expensive equipment to improve it. There are lots of exercises you can do at home. Make sure you seek medical advice before attempting any new exercise regime. Most people think of sit ups as the prime core exercise. I advise people not to do sit ups as they are not particularly effective and the continual flexing of the base of your spine can lead to lower back injuries. My top tips are planks, leg raises and mountain climbers. If you’re not sure what these are have a chat with your local personal trainer or gym instructor, or search on YouTube for easy-to-follow tutorials. Take your core strength seriously and it will improve every aspect of your fitness as well as provide the central support essential for your body.

Electric Vehicles

The very clever Kia e-Niro is pointing the way towards the immediate future of personal and private transportation. But let us not get ahead of ourselves here as this is not a review of the e-Niro just yet, rather a rumination regarding the practicality of electric vehicle travel right here and right now.

range for the time spent charging. Turns out they’re not all the same... Checkout the What Car? EV charging guide online and look for rapid chargers rather than just fast on Zap Map.

TIP 1 - download Zap-Map

Take a good look next time you see an EV charge point at the services. They all look the same, don’t they? Now look closely at the charging cables available and you’ll notice that some have a Type 2 charger (capable of charging from 7 kW to 22 kW, fully charging an EV in 3-4 hours) on one side and a Chademo on the other and yet others have a CCS (rapid DC units which are at least 50 kW and will charge the majority of EVs to 80% in around 30-60 minutes) and Chademo charger. Which to choose? It’s different for some EVs (Nissan, Renault, Mitsubishi and Tesla) but generally and from my own experience with the Kia, it’s the CCS type charger that you need when looking to maximise recharging.

Before going anywhere, you absolutely must download the fantastic Zap-Map app which is compatible with both Android and IOS and is packed full of invaluable features. Without going into detail, you input your own EV information and then have access to a UK-wide charging point map (constantly updated) currently showing over 6,000 charging locations and 19,000 connectors. There’s also a superb route planning feature that you can customise to your own required specifications. Believe me when I say that this superb app helps extinguish any doubts regarding range anxiety.

Tip 2 - know your charger Familiarise yourself with the type of charger you need to find on the journey so that you can access maximum

by Martin Hall

Tip 3 - maximise recharging

Tip 4 - don’t charge to 100% Don’t waste time charging twice at a charge point (one 45 min charge followed straight away by another) trying to get the battery up to 100%, as it takes longer than just finding another charge point as and when you need it. Most, if not all, EV manufacturers recommend

that charging to 80% rather than 100% will help extend the real-world lifespan of the EV’s battery pack. Indeed, Tesla themselves recommend charging to 100% only if a longer journey is to be undertaken. And then there’s the time it takes to fill the final 20%, which takes longer to complete relative to the first 80%. So, charge to 80% and off you go.

Tip 5 - use more than one app Download and register with several of the most popular EV charging apps available on either IOS or Android, allowing yourself the luxury of choice when it comes to charging your chosen EV. You really don’t want to be wasting time trying to set up the correct app and payment card on the journey itself. Try out Zap Map, ChargePoint, PlugShare, Polar Plus, Pod-Point and Electric Highway.

Whether we like it or not the electric vehicle revolution is here to stay. Prices will come down, range will increase and charging times will reduce, but until they do, take on board the advice given and carry on enjoying the drive. It’s going to be an electrifying journey. Where will you go? Martin Hall writes www.motormartin.com a ‘real life’ motoring blog that focusses on the car itself rather than lap times, a blog to see if the car you want is good for shopping or commuting, a blog that recognises that ‘real life’ motoring should also be fun on the bends.

your 2020 vision Hindsight is a wonderful thing. We often reflect on the past year and mourn chances we didn’t take or connections we didn’t make. So why not try turning things round? Instead of looking backwards, make 2020 the year to develop your vision for the future. This is about so much more than new-year resolutions you’ll be moving into the new decade with 2020 vision!

Request a planning meeting It could be with your boss, or your partner! When you think about the next year — do you see yourself staying at the same job? If so, do you want to be considered for promotion or a transfer? Would you like to plan a big trip with your partner, or start a family?

Review your goals - short and long-term

With your boss you might mention projects you’d like to lead, qualifications you’d like to study for. With your partner you might want to talk about joining a gym together, planning a safari, or taking up ballroom dancing.

Are your everyday activities helping you to accomplish your short-term goals? Are you working on meaningful projects? Make sure at least some of your daily activities help you to accomplish your short-term goals, and that those short-term goals can build to let you accomplish larger goals and objectives.

These discussions are useful in both your work and your private life. They can help you understand points of dissatisfaction in your work or relationship and give you the clarity you need to explore a change. By sitting down with your partner to discuss your hopes and dreams, you can understand and support each other better day to day.

But don’t be a slave to your goals. It’s okay to change directions and shift deadlines. A new year is a great time to re-evaluate and check whether your long-term goals from six months ago are still relevant to you today.

Invest in yourself

It can be helpful to write down your goals using pen and paper, and then hang them in a place where you can see them. This acts as a visual prompt to remind you and inspire you day-to-day.

Nurture relationships Sometimes friendships and family relationships get placed on the backburner when we’re busy. Are there friends and relatives in your contacts list who you haven’t spoken with lately? Use this season to catch-up, reconnect, and nurture the relationships that matter.

There’s a difference between being comfortable and being complacent. Try stepping out of your comfort zone and take an online course, sign up with the Open University or night classes at college. Try out a yoga class or a massage, or simply go away with a friend or a partner to a spa for a few days.

Reflect on lessons learned Don’t dwell too much on what you didn’t achieve in 2019, but it’s good to think about what you did accomplish. What did you learn? What did you achieve? A lot probably happened in the past 12 months, but life moves so fast that too often we don’t take time to reflect on all we’ve learned. Take note of your discoveries and think about ways you can apply those lessons with intention as you move into the new year.

inside guide

selected events in your area

Saturday 1 February

WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY

Halle Afternoon Chamber Concert - The Halle’s youngest principal player, Sergio Castello Lopez is joined by the Liang string quartet to perform one of the masterpieces of the chamber repertoire, the Brahms Clarinet Quintet. Also included in the programme is Schubert’s Quartettsatz and Haydn’s string quartet op 20 no 2. Tickets £11 and £9 (concession) Under 18s free. Includes refreshments. Tickets available from, Church Office (0161 439 1204), Thrift Shop, Simply Books (228 Moss Lane) and at the door. Bramhall Methodist Church 2pm

Poynton Philatelic Society Our Guest Speaker is Mark Everiss who will be displaying his interest entitled ‘Russian Civil War Part 1.’ This is a very specialised part of stamp collecting and Mark has extensively researched this subject. Ron Phelps 01625 877643 The Centre, Park Lane 7.30pm

Saturday 1 February History Wardrobe presents: Bad Girls in Bonnets. Jane Austen’s guide to being brazen; a bold, brash and beautiful celebration of Austen’s wicked women, and a truly revelatory look at clothes and crime in the18th century – an era when stocking-theft or silk smuggling carried serious consequences. With fabulous original costume items, criminal history and readings from the outrageous Miss Austen herself. Tickets £10, reserve over the phone 01625 374000 or pick up in person from Macclesfield Library Macclesfield Library, Jordangate, Macclesfield, SK10 1EE 11am

SATURDAY 1 & SUNDAY 2 FEBRUARY Mind Body Spirit Event 50+ Exhibitors including 30+ workshops, talks and demonstrations of mediumship – all included in the entrance fee of £4 or £3.50 concessions, full/weekend pass £6/£7 in advance or £1 more on the door. FREE PARKING, FREE MAGAZINE, FREE RAFFLE ENTRY www.rosemarydouglas.com Masonic Guildhall, Stockport, SK1 3UA

WEDNESDAY 5 FEBRUARY Poynton Local History Society ‘Postcards of Bramhall’ is the title of a presentation to be given by Ian Cameron for our first meeting of 2020. Annual Membership of the Society is £12, and guests are always welcome at £3 per visit. Our new publication, ‘Poynton Soldiers of the Great War 1914-1919’, price £7.50, will be on sale. Tel: 01625 872068 St Pauls Community Room, Marley Road, Poynton, SK12 1LY 7.30pm

february - march 2020

Thursday 6 February 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 Club, Bridge Lane, Bramhall, Stockport, SK7 3AB.

Tuesday 11 February East Cheshire Association of the National Trust Lecture – Doorstep Crime Awareness – Paul Unwin Brookdale Club, Bridge Lane, Bramhall, Stockport, SK7 3AB 2pm

Tuesday 11 February North Cheshire Photographic Society A bit of a Journey - Mark Gilligan, an award-winning photographer and writer based in the North of England will be talking about his photography. Having been involved in imaging for more than 40 years, he has also produced and directed hundreds of TV programmes. £5 visitors, £2 members Poynton Civic Centre 8pm

Wednesday 12 February Stockport Walking and Outdoors Group An illustrated talk entitled ‘Machu Picchu-The hard way, A trek through the High Andes’ by Norman Harris. All are welcome, admission £1. For details of all our events including Wednesday evening meetings, day walks and weekends at www.stockportwalkingoutdoors.org.uk Hazel Grove Civic Hall 8pm

WEDNESDAY 12 FEBRUARY

Saturday 15 February

The Arts Society North East Cheshire Pat Clark provides a comprehensive survey of the life of Charles H. Mackie and the development of his art, from his early struggles as an artist up to his final recognition. The people he met - Gauguin, Vuillard, Hornel - and the places he painted - Kirkcudbright, Normandy, Venice - form the core of the talk. A journey with this ‘forgotten man’ of Scottish art will provide evidence of his skill as a colourist and reclaim his place in art’s pantheon. Free to members, £8 for visitors. To attend as a visitor please contact Maggie Schofield on 0161 427 9451 or email info@theartssocietynortheastcheshire.org.uk Brookdale Club, Bramhall 10.30am with coffee from 9.45am

Prestbury Choral Society’s Annual Singing Day Simon Mercer will guide us through the ever popular classic, the Haydn Nelson Mass, concluding with an informal performance. Simon’s passion, sympathetic and empathetic teaching style, great patience and experience, as well as a lively sense of humour, continue to ensure great success and satisfaction among the members of his choirs. So, whether you sing in a choir already or would just like to give it a go, do come and join us. You won’t be disappointed and it will be such fun! Musical scores will be provided and the fee for the day is £20. Register online at www.prestburychoral.uk or telephone Cynthia for more information on 01625 828875. United Reformed Church, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 1PR

Thursday 13 February Worth Probus Club Peter Pennington will speak to us on The Black and White Minstrels. Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details. St George’s Church Hall, Poynton 2pm

Thursday 13 February Wilmslow Guild Natural History Society Wild Britain- part 2 – illustrated talk by Brian White. Visitors very welcome (£5) Details from Steve Osborne 01625 879087 or www.wilmslowguild.org The Guild, 1 Bourne St, Wilmslow SK9 5HD 7.30pm

Thursday 13 February Poynton Home Gardeners Club. Katherine Cook, the Head Gardener at Quarry Bank, National Trust, will speak regarding the future plans for the gardens at this lovely property. Further information from Elaine on 01625 871603. Royal British Legion Club, Georges Road West, Poynton 7.30pm

Saturday 15 February Barnby Choir Singing Day led by Keith Orrell Programme: George Shearing, Songs and Sonnets from Shakespeare. To book contact Ann Elphick on: a.elphick@virginmedia.com or call 01625 583752 Venue Wilmslow Methodist Church, Water Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5AR 10am to 4.30pm

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Tuesday 18 February Poynton U3A General Meeting Susan Holden will give a talk on ‘They should’ve asked my husband’. Entrance £1 including refreshments. For more information contact enquires@poyntonu3a.org.uk Poynton Civic Centre, 2pm to 4pm

Tuesday 18 February North Cheshire Photographic Society Exotic Wildlife Photography - Sheila Giles has travelled extensively to visit remote destinations in search of rare and endangered wildlife. She also produces audio visual sequences. Sheila will be showing us her images and AVs including mountain gorillas, and Komodo dragons! £5 visitors, £2 members. Poynton Civic Centre 8pm

Wednesday 19 February Craft and Chatter Fortnightly get together for crafters of all kinds, card making, quilting, collage, embroidery etc. Bring your own project and enjoy good crafting company with a cuppa and cake, lots of friendly chatter and the opportunity to learn from each other. Contact Chrissie 0161 439 8262 for further details. £2 donation requested. Dean Row Chapel Hall, Adlington Road, SK9 2BX 2pm

WEDNESDAY 19 FEBRUARY Poynton Philatelic Society Guest Speaker is Peter Kirk from Macclesfield Philatelic Society, who will be displaying ‘Pitcairn Islands.’ Peter is a great orator and his displays are always very informative. Ron Phelps 01625 877643 The Centre, Park Lane 7.30pm Continued over

Thursday 20 February

Wednesday 26 February

Poynton Townswomen’s Guild Anne Beswick speaks on A History of Manchester in 10 Plants Visitors welcomed, £2 including coffee and biscuits. Contact: 01625 879087 Poynton Civic Hall 10am to 12 noon

Meet the Author Join us to meet Beth Morrey in conversation about her muchacclaimed debut novel Saving Missy, a tender story about love, loss and the transformative power of friendship and community. Tickets: £8 Venue: Simply Books To book call 0161 439 1436 or book online at www.simplybooks.info Simply Books, Bramhall 7.30pm

Friday 21, Saturday 22 and Saturday 29 February Hazel Grove Musical Festival 93rd Season www.hazelgrovemusicalfestival.org.uk

Saturday 22 February Bollington Chamber Concerts: The Victoria Quartet Haydn Op 76 no 4 Sunrise; Kodaly no2; Brahms Op 51 no 2 in A minor. Tickets £19 Book online at www.bollingtonartscentre.co.uk/victoria Phone 01625 576402 or 574435 Bollington Arts Centre 7.30pm

Tuesday 25 February Macclesfield Group of the Family History Society of Cheshire. Wagon’s West a talk by Ian Cameron. Three Cheshire brothers converted to Mormonism in its early years in England and in about 1850 set off for the US with their families, heading for Salt Lake City on sailing ships and on wagons crossing the Great Plains, with three entirely different outcomes. Open to the public, admission £2 for members £3 non-members including refreshments macclesfield@fhsc.org.uk. Salvation Army Hall, Roe Street, Macclesfield, SK11 6XD 7.30pm

Thursday 27 February Worth Probus Club. Russell Hedley will speak to us on Secrets of the Waterways. Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details. St George’s Church Hall, Poynton 2pm

FRIDAY 28 FEBRUARY Stockport Historical Society “Old Crocs and Dodgy Car Salesmen: Interpreting Cheshire’s Vehicle Registrations 1904-1907” by Dr Craig Horner. 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 28 to Saturday 29 February Magic of the Musicals Junior Join the NK Theatre Arts youth theatre members as they take us on an evening of West End entertainment to the heart of theatre-land with extracts and songs from some of the biggest musicals of all time. Ticket Prices £12/£8 24hr Box Office 0333 666 3366 www.theforumtheatre.co.uk The Forum Theatre, Stockport SK6 4EA

WEDNESDAY 26 FEBRUARY

Saturday 29 February

Interested in Turner and Constable? Nicola Moorby, author and art historian examines the epic rivalry between these two giants of British art. As unlike in background and temperament as their paintings were in style, these two geniuses transformed the art of landscape. This study day sets them head to head and examines their differences, their similarities, battles and shared triumphs in a set of three one hour lectures The total cost is £30 (non-refundable). Non-members who want to attend should go to www. theartssocietynorthwestcheshire.org.uk where there is a booking form in the Special Interest Days section. The Brookdale Club, Bramhall 10.30am to 3.30pm

Poynton Ceilidhs Boldwood, caller Bob Morgan. Traditional dancing to live music. Experience not necessary! Dances are all explained by the caller and walked through before the music starts playing. Tickets are £9 on the door, cash only, under 16s are half price. To reserve or purchase tickets in advance please follow the links on the website: www.poyntonceilidh.co.uk. Poynton Civic Hall 8pm until 11pm, doors open 7.45pm

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Saturday 29 February Stockport Symphony Orchestra. Mendelsohn: Overture A Midsummer Night’s Dream; Mozart: Piano Concerto no 25; Stravinsky: Rite of Spring. Conductor and soloist Peter Donohoe 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 Continued over

WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH

Tuesday 10 March

Poynton Local History Society Judy Popley will give a presentation entitled, ‘Trafford Park; from Stately Home to Retail Park’ at our March 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

North Cheshire Photographic Society Photographing Landscape Whatever the Weather. Tony Worobiek will be discussing how to make the most of any weather situation when taking photographs. Tony is the author of 17 books and studied Fine Art the University of Newcastle upon Tyne. He has won awards for photography in the UK and internationally www.tonyworobiek.com £5 visitors, £2 members Poynton Civic Centre 8pm

WEDNESDAY 4 MARCH Poynton Philatelic Society Our speaker is one of our members Jonny Palazzo, who will be displaying ‘Italian Revenues.’ This is a really fascinating insight into the official sector of stamp collecting, very difficult to obtain. Ron Phelps 01625 877643 The Centre, Park Lane 7.30pm

Tuesday 10 March East Cheshire Association of the National Trust Lecture – Adlington Hall with Anne Woods Brookdale Club, Bridge Lane, Bramhall, Stockport, SK7 3AB 2pm

WEDNESDAY 11 MARCH

Hazel Grove Festival Winners’ Concert Pay on the door £5 Hazel Grove Methodist Church 7pm

Together with art historian Sian Walters we explore how Raphael moved from humble initial commissions in and around his home town of Urbino to a covetous position at the court of the most important patron in Italy, Pope Julius II, for whom he created some of the most sublime and influential frescoes of the early 16th century. The talk is at the Brookdale in Bramhall at 10.30 am with coffee from 9.45am. Free to members, £8 for visitors. To attend as a visitor please contact Maggie Schofield on 0161 427 9451 or email info@theartssocietynortheastcheshire.org.uk

Saturday 7 March

Thursday 12 March

Alderley Edge Symphony Orchestra Concert Beethoven: Piano Concerto No 3, Soloist Slava Sidorenko; Mussorgsky: Pictures at an Exhibition; Tchaikovsky: Suite: Sleeping Beauty Tickets: Adult £10, under 18 £1 Phone 01625 581321 or online at www.aeso.org.uk Alderley Edge Methodist Church, Chapel Rd, SK9 7DU 7.30pm

Worth Probus Club Professor Ian Morison will speak to us on The Beauty of the Heavens. Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details. St George’s Church Hall, Poynton 2pm

Wednesday 4 to Saturday 7 March Quartet - An extremely witty comedy 0161 302 2302 Brookdale Theatre Bramhall. Curtain up 7.45pm

Saturday 7 March

Saturday 7 March Bramhall Worker Bee Market Following the success of last Autumn’s event, Worker Bee Markets return to Bramhall village with locally handmade crafts, gifts, fresh produce, jewellery, homeware, International Street food and more. Find hand-picked quality artisan goods right on your doorstep. Workerbeemarkets.wordpress.com Bramhall Village Square SK7 1AW 10am to 3pm

Thursday 12 March Poynton Home Gardeners’ Club Graham Royal from the Highfield Apiary of Sutton, who has 30 years’ experience in beekeeping will be speaking regarding looking after honey bees. Further information from Elaine on 01625 871603. Royal British Legion Club, Georges Road West, Poynton7.30pm

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Continued over

Tuesday 17 March

FRIDAY 20 MARCH

Poynton U3A Annual General Meeting After the business has concluded the Town Clerk will give an update on Parish news, then a short talk from Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service. We urgently need new committee members in order to keep this very successful U3A running for future members to enjoy, please consider helping. Members only, entrance free. For more information contact enquiries@poyntonu3a.org.uk. Poynton Civic Centre 2pm to 4pm

Stockport Historical Society “Radio Caroline-North” By Brian Cullen. 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

WEDNESDAY 18 MARCH Poynton Philatelic Society Our Guest Speaker this evening is Keith Downing from Chesterfield, who will be displaying ‘Tramways’. This is a first from us; we have members who have interests in Trams and their usefulness in the early 20th Century so it will be an area of interest. Ron Phelps 01625 877643 The Centre, Park Lane 7.30pm

Wednesday 18 to Friday 20 March North Cheshire Photographic Society Annual Exhibition Come and see a fantastic display of photographs produced by the North Cheshire Photographic Society! Our Exhibition will be open to the public from 10am until 4pm on Thursday 19th and Friday 20th March with free admission. In the evenings of 18th and 19th we will be hosting our major photographic competitions featuring the best images from clubs all over the North West and beyond, and all are welcome. For more information visit www.ncps.org.uk Poynton Civic Centre

Thursday 19 March Poynton Townswomen’s Guild AGM Presentation of cheque to Macmillan Nurses with a talk. Contact: 01625 879087 Poynton Civic Hall 10am to 12 noon

Thursday 19 March Wilmslow Guild Natural History Society Gardening for Butterflies – illustrated talk by Jan Miller. Visitors very welcome (£5) Details from Steve Osborne 01625 879087 or www.wilmslowguild.org The Guild, 1 Bourne St, Wilmslow SK9 5HD 7.30pm

stand out from the crowd

FRIDAY 20 March A fun evening with songs from the Shows, music from the world of Opera, Light Opera and Musical Theatre performed by Supertonic, who are four wonderful singers with piano accompaniment. Drinks in the bar at 7pm. Tickets £10 from Jean James 0161 439 8241. All proceeds will to be going to the Club’s flood fund. The Brookdale Club Bridge Lane Bramhall SK7 3AB 8pm

Saturday 21 March Bollington Chamber Concerts: Craig Ogden and Helen Thatcher Burgmueller- 3 Nocturnes; Piazolla - Adios Nonino, Cafe 1930, Oblivion, Libertango, Nin Suite Espagnole; Villa-Lobos - Bachianas Brasileiras no 5; Napoleon Coste - Le Depart; Gnattali - Sonata; Zenamon - Reflexes no 6; Granados Danza Espanola no 5. Tickets £19 Book online at www.bollingtonartscentre.co.uk/ogden Phone 01625 576402 or 574435 Bollington Arts Centre 7.30pm

Tuesday 24 March Macclesfield Group of the Family History Society of Cheshire. Studying the three R’s: an introduction to School and Education Records for Family Tree research a talk by Claire Moores. Open to the public, admission £2 for members, £3 for nonmembers including refreshments. For more details please contact macclesfield@fhsc.org.uk. Salvation Army Hall, Roe Street, Macclesfield, SK11 6XD 7.30pm

Tuesday 24 March North Cheshire Photographic Society Yellowstone Seasons and a World of Nature. Trevor Davenport will be giving us a double bill covering natural life in Yellowstone plus a wide-ranging tour of natural history in numerous countries. £5 visitors, £2 members. Poynton Civic Centre 8pm

with our paid INSIDE Guide listings.

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

Wednesday 25 to Saturday 28 March

Saturday 28 March

Shrek The Musical Shrek brings all the beloved characters you know from the film to life on stage and proves there’s more to the story than meets the ears. Performed by the award-winning team from NK Theatre Arts, Shrek proves that beauty is truly in the eye of the ogre. Ticket Prices: £18/£15 24hr Box Office 0333 666 3366 www.theforumtheatre.co.uk The Forum Theatre, Stockport SK6 4EA at 7.30pm with Matinee on Saturday at 2pm

Poynton Ceilidhs. Kraken, caller Rosie Bryce. Traditional dancing to live music. Experience not necessary! Dances are all explained by the caller and walked through before the music starts playing. Tickets are £9 on the door, cash only, under 16s are half price. To reserve or purchase tickets in advance please follow the links on the website: www.poyntonceilidh.co.uk. Poynton Civic Hall 8pm until 11pm, doors open 7.45pm

Thursday 26 March Worth Probus Club Geoff Scargill will speak to us on Sir Edward Elgar. Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details. St George’s Church Hall, Poynton 2pm

Saturday 28 March Stockport Symphony Orchestra Tchaikovsky: Romeo and Juliet; Tchaikovsky: Sleeping Beauty; Sibelius: Symphony no 5. Conductor Matthew Wood. Tickets available at the box office, online or on the door £15 full price/£13 concessions/students £5/accompanied children under 16 free www.stockportsymphony.co.uk Stockport Town Hall 7.30pm

Saturday 28 March Hazel Grove Worker Bee Market Locally sourced fresh produce and handmade gifts, crafts and homeware will join tasty International street food vendors at this popular event run by local artisan market organiser. Easy parking next door at the Park&Ride. Find hand-picked quality artisan goods right on your doorstep. Workerbeemarkets.wordpress.com Rising Sun Pub, 2 Buxton Road SK7 6AD 10am to 3pm

Compiled by Claire Hawker email: claire@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

friday

tuesday

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

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

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

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 10.3011.15am A universe of pre-school football. Join the miniature recruits, enter the goaliverse, and earn the super power stickers. Poynton Sports Club, London Road, Poynton

Kickstarters – Age 2-3 9.30-10.15am Age 3-4 10.30-11.15am A universe of pre-school football. Join the miniature recruits, enter the goaliverse, and earn the super power stickers.

Civic Hall, off Park Lane, Poynton, SK12 1RB

sunday

Website: www.8-by-8.co.uk Contact: 07853 273578

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

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

SHREK AT THE NEW-LOOK FORUM The very first Stockport performance of SHREK THE MUSICAL takes place this March when The Forum Theatre hosts what will be a spectacular performance and fun for the whole family. Based on the Dreamworks film, the musical follows Shrek, Donkey and Fiona and all the fairy-tale characters as they battle the villainous Lord Farquad. Director Hannah Gorst told INSIDE Magazine what the audience can expect: “This is going to be a wonderful show with a terrific hard-working cast and crew, an amazing set, fantastic costumes and of course a dragon that is likely to steal the show. We are all so excited and extremely proud that we are involved in the very first performance of Shrek in Stockport. The kids will love it, the adults will laugh out loud, don’t miss this wonderful show! Tickets for Shrek which runs from 25 to 28 March including a Saturday matinee are on sale from www.theforumtheatre.co.uk or by calling 0333 666 3366.

The Forum Theatre has recently seen the installation of brand-new auditorium seating and air conditioning so if you haven’t paid a visit to the theatre recently, there is no better time! With a wide and varied performance schedule, there is something that everyone can enjoy, from major musicals to tribute bands, comedy nights to Shakespeare. Help support local theatre and secure your seat for the biggest shows in town!

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Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget! Copy deadline for the next issue:

Tuesday 10 March Tel: 01625 879611 email: info@insidemagazines.co.uk

07956 134900

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

DOG GROOMING

Lloyd Piggott Chartered Accountants 38

Blue Finn

BATHROOMS

DRAINAGE

Hazel Grove Bathroom Centre

BOOKSHOPS Simply Books

17 37 26 58 49

CARE HOMES & SERVICES Alice Chilton

CARPETS & FLOORING Carpet Creations

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Safeclean

CHILDCARE Brookhouse Farm Nursery & Preschool Kids Zone

53 54

CHIROPRACTORS The Back Clinic

CLEANING SERVICES Alice Chilton Cleaning

35 21 10 57 60 42

DECORATORS Dean Wilson Spring Decorating

Stratagem Wealth

60 13

PLUMBING & HEATING David Hanson Local Plumbing

Adlington Retirement Living

FUNERAL SERVICES

ROOFING

Adlington Memorial Park Inside Front Cover Brian Sharples & Son Inside Back Cover

Poynton Roofing

GARAGE DOORS

SOLICITORS / LEGAL SERVICES

Garolla

GARDEN LANDSCAPING & MAINTENANCE Dreamscape Gardens NRG Garden Services Robinsons Garden Maintenance

29 29 20 17

HEARING SERVICES 18

60 20

JOINERY

SECURITY Crimeguard Security

Keoghs Nicholls Lindsell & Harris 18 Manners Pimblett Back Cover The Stair Shop

TAXIS ASAPP Cars

TRAVEL Lucy Allen Personal Travel Consultant Prestbury Travel

34 5

Harness Tree Care 42 Swift Tree & Arboricultural Services 29

WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES Pate & Lever Windows

KITCHENS Matt Finish Prescott & Joule

TREE SERVICES

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

Trevor Garner

42 41

STAIRCASE RENOVATIONS

HAIR & BEAUTY

ICAN Handyman Trevor Garner

RETIREMENT PROPERTY

FIRES Brilliant Fires

PATIOS Pure Clean Drainage Solutions

LETTING AGENT Your Home From Home

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Cheshire Hearing Centres

COMPUTER & INTERNET Mike Knibb SR Computers

SCZ Electrical Services

Carl Howard

CLUBS & ENTERTAINMENT Hits On The Pitch The Club The Forum

Willâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Driveway Cleaning

LIGHTING LIT

ELECTRICIANS

BUILDING SUPPLIES & RENTALS Pure Clean Rental Solutions

DRIVEWAY CLEANING

BUILDING SERVICES Creative Design & Build JS Services Whitehall Builders

Pure Clean Drainage Solutions

Transform Your Kitchen

WINDOW & CONSERVATORY REPAIRS The Window Repair Centre

49 36

50 59

YOGA YogaLife