Inside Poynton Issue 67

inside poynton February - march 2017

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Issue 67

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 Welcome to this bumper February-March issue! It’s a real pleasure to bring you such a varied and chunky publication at this normally quieter time. There’s so much to digest.

Huge thanks go to our contributors for your allimportant editorial pieces. The ‘great outdoors’ features as strongly as ever and spring is yet to come!

Huge thanks also go to our advertisers, old and new, who bring such quality services and products to our community. We would like to extend a very special welcome to Halliwell Jones who will be looking forward to meeting your motoring needs during 2017.

New Year, as we all know, is the traditional time to plan a few changes and as publishers we have a few in store for 2017. In this issue, we have started the ball rolling with some design and layout changes, some subtle, some a little more obvious, but all with the aim of doing real justice to the content and to giving you all the best possible experience.

What a great way to start the year! Thank you and enjoy!

Co-Editors - Garth Aspinall

What’s INSIDE this month 4 Poynton People 7 the book group recommends 8 the long weekend 10 Diary of a Geeky Knitter 14 local buzz 17 In Touch 23 Jake’s Perspective 27 Snowdrops 31 Barry’s Gardening Tips 32 Walks in Cheshire 34 Crossword 8 37 arthur’s story 45 Sudoku 50 Children’s Activities 53 Inside Guide 58 Puzzle Solutions 61 Useful Numbers 62 Classified Index

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Claire Hawker

Tel: 01625 879611 Cover photo: February at Poynton Pool

by Garth Aspinall.

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Inside Magazines, 352a Park Lane, Poynton, Cheshire SK12 1RL. email: info@insidemagazines.co.uk www.insidemagazines.co.uk

Copy deadline for the next issue: mon 13 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 2017. Material from this magazine may not be reproduced without prior written permission from Inside Magazines Ltd.

Design and artwork by Spring Creative | www.spring-creative.co.uk | 01925 714203

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poynton people

George simms

After a life of bravery and public service, George Simms, 92, was awarded the Legion d’Honneur medal in October 2016 by the French Government.

On the morning of 5 June 1944 George Simms and the other men of 41 Royal Marines Commando Unit wondered why they were being sent off in boats when the weather was so bad. The English Channel was heaving. Then the orders changed and they were sent back to their sealed training camp at Southampton.

They’d been allowed no cameras, no telephone calls, no mail, and no communication with the outside world.

Next morning the weather changed briefly for the better. George and his comrades were sent off again across the Channel, this time beginning to get an idea of what was to come. Once the French beaches came into sight they clambered into landing craft, waded into waist-deep water and got to shore at Lion-Sur-Mer. Their order was to be first on to the flat sands of Sword Beach and open up the way for the British 8th Army coming on behind from Africa. They’d worn their berets proudly but now all they could think of was to dodge the incessant machine gun fire, avoid the anti-personnel mines and get up the beach as fast as they could. This was D-Day. ‘It was early morning light,’ says George, then 20, of 41 Commando Unit. ‘All hell was let loose. We were peppered with fragments of shrapnel.’ Indeed George still has some shrapnel in his body. So many of his friends were lost that day and so many senior officers from the Unit died that Unit 41 had to be disbanded after D-Day. ‘Later that morning,’ says George ‘I was seriously wounded myself.’

George was sent back across the Channel and taken on a special hospital train to Hereford to be nursed.

Eventually he made a good recovery. The whole experience was so difficult that George has only been back once to Normandy. At first no one talked about their experiences. However he has since talked to his

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by Jenny Cooke

sons and grandchildren and now is happy to tell us about that day. ‘It’s so important that it should never happen again in Europe,’ he says.

After WW2 George worked for the Fire Service in Stockport and after some years was badly injured again, this time in a serious fire at a night club. Later he received a bravery award. He retired at 50 and then did a job in the Civil Service for 15 years. ‘I’ve worn different uniforms all my working life,’ he jokes.

17 months ago George’s sons applied for him to receive the Legion d’Honneur medal, which has been awarded to those who took part in the 1944-45 Normandy landings. He got a letter in August from the French Ambassador in London and was invited to a ceremony at Chester. However George received his hand-made medal by registered post at home, his sixth medal. Two family celebrations in recognition of this honour are planned.

He has been married for 71 years to Connie, also 92, and has three sons, nine grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren. A card from the Queen to honour his 70th wedding anniversary sits on the window ledge.

George is very proud of all this but there is one thing that makes him even more glad. ‘I am very proud of my long and happy marriage,’ he says.

There is a book about 41 Commando Unit, available on the internet: They did what was asked of them: 41 (Royal Marines) Commando Unit 1942 - 1946 By Raymond Mitchell.

Published by Firebird Books 1996.

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the book group

recommends

Both by acclaimed writers, the titles this month involve families and the relationship between parents and their offspring. The first is a novel Unless by Carol Shields. The narrator is Reta Winter, 43 years old, living with her family doctor partner Tom of 23 years, in the beautiful countryside north of Toronto. Together they have three daughters and a comfortable middle class lifestyle. Reta enjoys a modestly successful literary career both as the translator of a French lady octogenarian’s memoirs and as a novelist in her own right, fitted in around her family and her domestic duties. Her first novel is light and summery and she is writing the next in the same vein.

The clouds gather when she discovers her eldest daughter Norah has left her caring boyfriend, dropped out of university, and is sitting cross-legged on a Toronto pavement with a begging bowl on her lap and a cardboard sign around her neck saying GOODNESS. Reta, Tom, and the younger sisters go to see her with food and money and follow her to the dosser’s dormitory where she sleeps but all efforts to speak to her are rebuffed.

The chapter headings all take the form of prepositions and conjunctions – “Nearly” “Once” ”Despite” “Whatever” as Reta desperately tries to find an explanation for her daughter’s actions and to maintain an ordinary life in the face of grief and chaos.

The novel is a study in awakening and loss of innocence in both mother and daughter and a fascinating read.

For our second book we selected Kid Gloves - A Voyage Round My Father a memoir of the distinguished highcourt judge William Mars-Jones written by his writer son Adam, who cared for his widowed father as he drifted into vagueness and dementia.

In his youth, used to having his way in court, William held sway over his family, when conversation veered to argument he had to win. He was mercilessly dismissive of his sons. He was vain, pompous and combative to a degree unusual even in high court. But Adams portrait is respectful if undeceived, filled with humour and especially when describing his father’s last days – tenderness.

The first part of the book is really funny. The jokes are often a paragraph in length, a child’s sex education and his understanding of the digestive system reminded us of our own with hilarious results.

His father’s career is revisited. He was junior council for the prosecution of the Moors Murderers. He defended Kevin McClory who took Ian Fleming to court for stealing his work for a Bond film. He spoke for Gilbert O’Sullivan who naively signed away rights to his work.

Most moving was Adam’s coming out to his father “a homophobe’s homophobe.” His father persecutes him with records of successful testosterone treatments which disconcertingly had been provided by his father’s research assistant.

The book was difficult to navigate, having no chapters or even breaks between paragraphs, but is very well written and with interesting insights into the men and the judiciary. We enjoyed it.

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The long Weekend As we face the winter days ahead and look forward to signs of Spring and warmer weather to come, there’s nothing better than having a long weekend to look forward to… a quick break to a European city for culture, food and a change of scenery. With direct flights from Manchester to make the most of the destination, we recommend…

Carcassonne, located in the South West of France, Carcassonne is the largest mediaeval fortified city in the world, and has a spectacular position on the crown of the hill, with views stretching across to the Pyrenees.

Wander the cobbled streets, browse the shops with basketware and local pottery, and stop for coffee in one of the tree lined squares. Cassoulet is the local regional speciality and is a hearty casserole of duck and sausage, perfect with crusty bread. For a special treat, book into the De La Cite Hotel, built into the city walls and next to the beautiful church. The Canal du Midi also passes through Carcassonne and a walk along its banks is not to be missed.

Reykjavik, capital city of Iceland, is on the wish list for many people, particularly to see the Northern Lights,

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but there is so much more to see than this. The famous Blue Lagoon thermal baths are perfect for relaxation in the delightful warm waters and there are a great selection of tours from the city exploring the countryside of geysers, glaciers and volcanos.

Vienna has long enjoyed a reputation for a great short break destination. A visit to the great selection of museums and galleries to cover every taste is a must, as are the Habsburg palaces. We arranged concert tickets for recent clients and they thoroughly enjoyed the visit and their front row seats! We can also arrange tickets for the Spanish Riding School and the Vienna Boys Choir.

by Kristina Hulme > travelbydesigngroup.com

Lisbon is one of the friendliest, most charming and unspoilt capital cities in Europe. Whitewashed houses stretch down the sparkling River Tagus, watched over by the magnificent Castelo Sao Jorge and tree lined boulevards connect with steep winding cobbled streets.

Eating out is a treat with delicious fish and seafood dishes a speciality.

Copenhagen has been fascinating travellers from around the world since it was founded in 1167.

Many of the city’s most impressive buildings date from the golden age of the 17th Century when the extensive canal network was founded. Today you will discover excellent museums, top class restaurants, a sophisticated nightlife (with great jazz clubs), gabled houses, narrow streets, colourful markets, ancient harbours and the wonderful Tivoli Gardens.

Bologna is often regarded as Italy’s ‘richest ‘secret’, overshadowed as it is by the nearby ‘big hitters’ of Florence and Venice, yet it is a beautiful ancient and delightful city. It’s a university city – older than Oxford with some wonderful museums and piazzas and fabulous architecture. At the centre of the city is the mediaeval Asinelli Tower, and it’s worth climbing the 498 steps for fabulous panoramic views of the city.

The food of course, is fantastic, using the local Parma ham and parmigiano cheese, but you will also find that spaghetti bolognese is a Neapolitan dish and not local to the city! However, there are plenty of other pasta dishes to be had as a delicious alternative. ... and many more exciting destinations just a couple of hours direct flight from Manchester.

If you have been inspired to book a Long Weekend, contact Travel by Design on 01625 584195 for our extensive range of destinations and hotels.

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Diary of a geeky knitter A German Adventure As I write this month’s thoughts, I’ve just come back from a pre-Christmas trip to Cologne, Germany, to visit the most amazing Christmas markets I have ever attended! We actually went to see a concert, but this timed so happily in December we had to make a little holiday out of it. If you ever get the chance to visit some true German Christmas markets, I can’t recommend Cologne highly enough. Not only are the markets vast and magnificent, but the city is steeped in rich history (get to the Cathedral as soon as you can, you won’t be disappointed) and if this wasn’t enough, Cologne has a chocolate museum: heaven.

It’s not all been German chocolate and gluwein for me recently, no matter how desperately I wish that were the case. I’ve been busy designing knitting and crochet patterns to share online, and it’s a part of my hobby that’s been developing over the last few years which I have come to love a great deal. It’s a challenge but a lot of fun. Not only am I designing my own accessories and toys, but to be able to write instructions in such a way that others can make their own versions as well is splendid. My most popular pattern to date is a knitted owl hat, which you can find for free on my blog. I’ve also designed many toys and a few accessories as well which are all free. Just recently I’ve shared my first paid-for pattern; an aptly designed space invader’s hat, perfect for the geeky knitter (how nicely that’s worked out) and a great gift for anyone who is a fan of video games or geeky things like me, it being such an iconic game.

If you want to find out more, be sure to visit the blog.

You will find the link at the foot of this page as usual and thank you for bearing with me and my personal plug!

Try something new!

It’s the New Year, and I am sure everyone will join me in hoping that 2017 will be an improvement on the year just gone (regardless of your political leaning – it’s been a tough year). What better way to get the year off to a great start than trying something new? If, like me, the prospect of more exercise or joining a gym is a less than appealing one, why not try some crafting? There are some great classes in your area, from the Wilmslow Guild to Aquinas College in Stockport. Last year I took part in the dressmaking course that took me from sewing skirts all the way to crafting my own cosplay costumes (think back to last issue’s article). I can’t recommend this course enough, and if dressmaking isn’t your thing you are sure to find something you will love to learn!

To find out more about classes near you, visit www.aquinas.ac.uk or www.wilmslowguild.org and be sure to keep an eye out in your copy of INSIDE Poynton. jennythegeekyknitter@gmail.com www.thegeekyknitter.co.uk www.etsy.com/uk/shop/geeksgamesandknits

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c0-housing communities Back in 1998 a group of six older women got together in the hope of changing the way they would live in their later years. The group had a clear vision, to be in a community of like-minded women, to maintain their independence and privacy but to be able to call upon the community for support and social contact when needed.

The women founded the “Older Women’s Co-Housing” (OWCH) group and were inspired by the success of senior housing projects developed in The Netherlands.

Having seen that such communities did exist, they embarked on an 18 year journey to realise their dream.

The dream has indeed become a reality. In the summer of 2016 a purpose-built block of flats in North London was completed and ready for the members of the

OWCH group to move into. The development offers 17 flats for sale and 8 for social rent to women over 50 who are members of the OWCH. The journey to get to this point has been long and sometimes painful, not least because this is an unfamiliar housing model and has required the input of so many different parties.

There is so much more to this story and I can’t really do it justice in just a few words but it is a very important story that needs to be heard. How we choose to reside in our later lives is a concern for us all but there is little choice, especially for those without financial means.

What these women have achieved is inspiring, what we need now is for co-housing to be adopted and developed to provide older people with the lifestyle they choose for themselves. www.owch.org.uk

Karen Perry, Founder alice chilton In-Home Care Services Limited www.alicechilton.com

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Local buzz

February - march 2017

PURPLE CROCUS BULBS IN POYNTON Members of Poynton and District Rotary Club, with help from Poynton in Bloom, have planted 5,000 Crocus Tommasinianus Ruby Giant in eight locations in and around Poynton. The bulbs are now starting to come up and will flower in late February.

The bulbs have been planted as part of Purple4Polio, a nationwide Rotary campaign in its bid to rid the world of polio. With eradication now closer than ever, Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland’s latest campaign, Purple4Polio, is designed to unite communities to engage in activities as part of the final push to eradicate polio for good.

President of Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland Eve Conway says: “The world stands on the brink of an historic milestone and we must focus our efforts on the final push to eradicate this disease to ensure a polio-free world. We are now so close to finishing the job with only three remaining countries where polio is still endemic, Pakistan and Afghanistan. That is why the Purple4Polio campaign is so important to raise awareness and funds. Let’s join together to make history and End Polio Now and Forever.”

For more information visit www.rotarygbi.org and see the Purple4Polio information

POYNTON VILLAGE 10k This year’s Poynton 10k will take place on Sunday, 26 March, starting and finishing at Poynton Civic Centre. The route takes in Poynton pool, both Lady’s and Prince’s inclines as well as a short section on the Middlewood Way. The event sold out last year and is well on the way to doing the same again this year. Electronic ‘chip timing’ equipment will be used and last year medals were given to all finishers and goody bags to everyone taking part.

To enter the race go to www.crazylegsevents.co.uk and chose the ‘Enter on-line’ option next to the race detail.

The organisers, Crazy Legs Events are also on the lookout for local partners to help promote the race and they also need lots of volunteers. If you can help, contact Anthony Ward Tel: 07904 427931.

PHOTOGRAPHIC SOCIETY EXHIBITION Come and see a fantastic display of photographs produced by the North Cheshire Photographic Society!

Our Exhibition of members images in Poynton Civic Centre will be open to the public from 10am until 4pm on Thursday 23 and Friday 24 March with free admission. We will also be hosting our major photographic competitions featuring the best images from clubs all over the North West and beyond, and all are welcome.

Wednesday 22 March: North Cheshire Challenge Interclub Print Competition in the evening Thursday 23 March: Exhibition open and North Cheshire Challenge Interclub Digital Knockout Competition in the evening Friday 24 March: Exhibition open. Members only Exhibition Dinner and Awards Presentation in the evening

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For more information visit www.ncps.org.uk

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in touch your local community noticeboard February - march 2017

ASDA FOUNDATION FUNDS BRAND NEW KITCHEN FOR THE CENTRE The Centre in Poynton is delighted to announce that with the support of the Asda Foundation, our local Community Centre is now able to get a brand new modern kitchen.

The Asda Foundation, which supports good causes across communities in the UK, has awarded the Centre with a £14,000 grant towards the cost of a new kitchen. This funding will kick start Phase 3 of the refurbishment programme of Poynton’s oldest public building which has seen an investment of close to £100,000 in the past 18 months.

Geoff King, Trustee at the Centre said ‘the generosity of the team at The Asda Foundation will ensure that the Centre, which is currently used by more than 500 people each week, will continue to offer the people of our great town a community building suitable for a multitude of community activities. Our sincere thanks go to the team at Asda for their valued support with the refurbishment.

www.thecentreinpoynton.co.uk

BRUSH UP ON YOUR FRENCH! The Twinning Association of Poynton (TAP) holds monthly French speaking evenings, when we meet socially, have a drink, and endeavour to speak French! It’s not taken too seriously, it’s free, and we do help each other.

It really doesn’t matter what level your language skills are at, so do come along and join us. Our next French evenings are Wednesday 25 January and 22 February at the Poynton Royal British Legion, Georges Road West, starting at 7.30pm You might also want to be aware that TAP’s annual AGM takes place at 7.30pm on Friday 17 February, at the British Legion. After the brief formal business of the AGM is dealt with, it will take the form of a social evening, and supper is offered at £5 per person - this is optional, but advance booking is required if you do wish to eat.

If you are contemplating a trip to France this year, and are interested in visiting our new twin town of Haybes in the Ardennes region, let us know on the night, and we can help with advice on hotels, camp sites and so on.

Further information from the TAP Secretary, Glenys Parry Jones.

Email: glenys.parryjones@ntlworld.com

POYNTON BUSINESS JELLY CAFE Do you work at home, run your own small business or work as a freelancer? Why not come along to the Business Jelly café to meet other freelancers and small business people, bring your lap top and work alongside other like-minded people in a different setting for a few hours, chatting, exchanging help and advice or just working somewhere different.

We provide free wifi, light refreshments and the chance to make new connections and meet the hosts from Poynton in Business and Poynton Town Council. You are welcome to drop-in at any time or stay from 9am to 12.30pm on the last Thursday each month for a charge of £3. The next three cafés are on Thursdays 26 January, 23 February and 30 March.

For further information, please ring 01625 872238 Continued over

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in touch - your local community noticeboard

PUBLIC DEBATE AROUND PLANS FOR LOCAL HOUSING AND GREENBELT In October, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority published a draft 20 year plan for housing across the region. This plan is known as the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework – GMSF for short.

As part of the plan, greenbelt restrictions would be lifted in specific areas across Greater Manchester (around 25% of greenbelt land will possibly be developed). This includes greenbelt land near High Lane, Marple and Hazel Grove as well as greenbelt land near Cheadle Hulme, Heald Green and Woodford.

The GMSF have stirred public debate with the pressing need for more housing and job creation cited as the main reason ‘for’ the plan. Whereas those ‘against’ it question the affordability of any new housing, lack of infrastructure and the possible destruction of recreational, agriculture and wildlife-rich green spaces. The plans have resulted in cross-party protest groups forming such as the ‘Save Stockport’s Greenbelt’ campaign.

Part of the plans also include the use of former industrial land – otherwise known as ‘brownfield’ – and there are moves to try to establish a register of such sites. The stated approach of the GMSF vision is to use brownfield sites first.

The plans are currently in draft stage and are due to go through public consultation and review before being finalised. The first stage of consultation closed in January and a report will be published in the coming months.

From there, the GMSF is likely to be reviewed and revised before further consultation takes place. More details are likely to be made known as the process continues.”

Details of the protest group can be found on Save Stockport’s Greenbelt Facebook page or at www savestockportsgreenbelt.org.uk

GOLDEN HOG ROAST Poynton Town Council Mayor, Cllr Mrs Sandra Horsman, is holding a charity event to which all local people and the Mayors of Cheshire East towns and villages are invited.

The Poynton Town Council Mayor’s Golden Hog Roast will be an afternoon of food, music, wine, singing and general entertainment in aid of Poynton-based charity Ollies Army. The event will take place at Poynton Civic Hall on the afternoon of Saturday 11 March from 2pm to 5pm. Tickets are £15 adult and £7 children.

More details are available from Sandra Horsman on 01625 872368 or the Civic Hall on 01625 872238

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in touch - your local community noticeboard

CLEAR OUT YOUR CLUTTER FOR BRAIN INJURY The Headway charity shop is kicking off 2017 with a ‘clear out your clutter’ campaign to support more local people affected by brain injury, The Park Lane shop is calling out for donations of clothes, bric-a-brac, household goods, toys, games and any other items in a bid to replenish stock after the busy Christmas period.

The charity, which works to support people affected by brain injury and their families, would also like to thank its loyal customers for their support over the busy holiday season. “The incredible support and generosity of the local community over the Christmas season has been overwhelming,” said shop manager Sue Watkins “We would like to thank all of our wonderful volunteers and customers for bringing a real festive cheer into our shops and to everyone who chose to ‘Gift Aid’ their items to ensure donations go even further.

“January can be a quiet time for us and, as we rely entirely upon community support, such generosity has never been more important to help us continue delivering vital frontline services to brain injury survivors and their families in 2017. Whether there is an unwanted Christmas present you want to give a good home or winter-wear you are clearing out to make space in your wardrobe – please think of Headway when clearing out your clutter as even the smallest contribution can make a big difference to the lives of people affected by brain injury.”

Stock donations will be warmly received at the Headway charity shop or for more information call Sue Watkins on 01625 877978

Dog lovers urgently needed in 2017 Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, a national Charity that trains clever dogs to alert deaf people to important sounds, is scouring Cheshire East for dog-lovers willing to take care of their adorable puppies. Hearing Dogs for Deaf People relies on its extensive network of more than 1,900 volunteers across the country in order to continue its life-changing work. In particular, the Charity is looking for dedicated local dog-lovers to become ‘Puppy Socialisers’ in 2017.

Caroline and Terry Roeves, volunteer puppy socialisers from Wilmslow, say: “We have had our first puppy Daphne for just over a year. Now we have dozens of new friends from regular dog walks. We are so much fitter and enjoy opportunities to socialise Daphne in local libraries, schools, stores, cafes and restaurants. Daphne loves all of this and the fuss that is made of her. We love volunteering for Hearing Dogs. Being part of the Hearing Dogs family is an experience that far exceeds our expectations and puts a smile on our and others’ faces every day. We would definitely recommend puppy socialising for Hearing Dogs, your life will change for the better from day one!”

Michelle Taylor, Puppy Training Instructor for Cheshire East adds: “If you live in the area and are looking for something new to do this year, then why not give something back and meet some loveable life-changing puppies along the way? As long as you have a car, a secure, private garden, and enough time to train a puppy daily, then we would absolutely love to hear from you.

You really can make such an enormous difference.”

To find out more about puppy socialising, contact the volunteering team on volunteer@hearingdogs.org.uk, 01844 348122 or visit our website www.hearingdogs.org.uk/volunteer

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park house b&B recommends We would like to recommend a very exciting new place to visit in Clitheroe - Bowland Brewery at Holmes Mill where you can sample a selection of local Craft Ales.

Home to Bowland Beer Hall and possibly the longest bar in Britain, this former textile mill has been brought back to life as a food, drink and leisure hub.

At the heart of the whole complex is the Brewery and Beer Hall, a showcase for Bowland Beers alongside

many others from respected suppliers both nationally and internationally. You will find at least 24 cask ales on the bar and an extensive menu reflecting the best world beer food served daily. The Boilerhouse with its cafe, patisserie, bakery and gelateria serves a delightful selection of our Holmes Made breads and cakes, and offers an all-day dining menu featuring sandwiches, salads, soups and daily specials.

What’s more there are lots of exciting developments to unveil in summer 2017 including the Bowland Food Hall, a spectacular showcase for fabulous local produce and the best of beyond.

Holmes Mill, Greenacre Street, Clitheroe, BB7 1EB. (Near Sainsbury’s)

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Jake’s perspective Hi guys, I’m back once more with a special article. This is my one year anniversary with Inside Poynton.

Anniversary x 1,000,000 Since the last time we spoke I have been to a lot of celebrations. The majority of these have been related to landmarks in time. The first of these was at the Lowry in Manchester a while back. One of my dad’s former students but now colleague got married to a guy called Chris and kindly invited us to the after party. The second celebration was my grandparent’s 50th wedding anniversary.

What an achievement.

Imagine being with somebody for that long. This day really inspired me. Let’s hope Gemma and Chris can reach this landmark. My parents have just had their 23rd anniversary so they aren’t too far off either. However, of course they didn’t have a party.

For a bunch of professors this would be far too much excitement. Also, me and my dad have just had our fifth gig partner anniversary on the same day, at the same gig, as The Levellers celebrated their 25th anniversary of the album Levelling The Land. In our five years we have been to see The Levellers 11 times (and a lot of other bands too!). This includes at their fantastic festival, Beautiful Days, and at clubs in Manchester.

They truly are musical geniuses.

Shopping with Sassy Sally The other day I had the pleasure which every man dreams of. Yes, I was shoved on a train with Sassy Sally on the way to Stockport. When we arrived I was hauled into River Island. It soon became clear to me that it is actually possible for a girl to spend two hours trying

by Jake Crossley

on dresses in one shop. I got to the stage where when I was asked “Jake what does this one look like?” I just nodded and smiled before first glance. After the torture was over it started again as I found myself in front of the false nails and eyelashes in Superdrug. Somehow 45 mins passed and I was finally allowed in JD sports.

However after literally two mins she barged in and told me I was taking too long. Finally, we got back on the train to Cheadle Hulme where at last I would be able to buy myself a well-deserved hot chocolate from Costa. Until I discovered that they cost £3 and having Yorkshire blood I just couldn’t bring myself to pay it.

More swimming success Recently at my swimming club’s Club Championship I managed to bag myself four gold medals in 100m events and the Senior Boy Championship title. Also, in what I would call my biggest achievement ever I was given the honour of being Club Captain for 2016/17.

And after all of this there was a rewards evening where every child got the humiliation of seeing their mums dancing to Agadoo, YMCA and the Macarena. We had swimming training the day after and I swear I have never seen the pool so empty. Some say it’s the flu, others say the party went on too late for most kids but I say it’s a very sad case of Humiliateditis. Hope you’re having a good new year! See you next time.

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National Gardens Scheme

Snowdrop Festival

During February the National Gardens Scheme (NGS) stages its second Snowdrop Festival to show that just because it’s winter doesn’t mean that there are no gardens to visit. The festival marks the imminent change of season with special openings of gardens renowned for their snowdrop displays. Galanthophiles (snowdrop lovers) will be in their element whilst those with more eclectic tastes have a mix of hellebores, aconites and other early spring flowers to admire, all of which makes a visit to an NGS garden well worth the effort of being outdoors on a cold day.

George Plumptre, Chief Executive of the NGS, says: “During our first Snowdrop Festival in 2016 many of our garden owners were overwhelmed by the amount of visitors that attended their openings. Many remarked that visitors were perfectly happy to wrap up warm and brave the elements to see the stunning view of hundreds of snowdrops on display in a garden.”

“Whether you want to admire the different varieties of snowdrops or just have a walk in lovely surroundings, visiting a National Gardens Scheme garden in February will be the perfect escape.”

Visitors to Snowdrop Festival gardens will also have the benefit of knowing that their entrance fee is supporting wonderful causes; the NGS currently donates over £2.6 million annually to its nursing and caring beneficiary charities, which include Marie Curie and Parkinson’s UK.

and spring bulbs. See how Dawn and Peter Freeman have brightened up their winter garden with carefully selected plants providing colour from leaves, stems and berries to brighten the dullest winter day. Light refreshments available and, as a very welcome treat, mulled wine for inner warmth!

WEST DRIVE GARDENS Open 19 February, 11am to 2pm, £3 children free.

With displays of hellebores and snowdrops, here are two gardens of very different character, reflecting their owners’ gardening styles. Although suburban, they are surrounded by mature trees and have a secluded feel.

There is a wild life pond at and other water features, though some inhabitants may be hiding if the weather is too chilly. Ceramics and containers with alpines complete the picture. Homemade teas.

DUNHAM MASSEY - Altrincham WA14 4SJ National Trust, Open for the NGS on 26 February, 11am to 5.30pm. £8.60 children £4.30 Explore the largest Winter Garden in the UK. There are over 1600 winter shrubs, trees and evergreens chosen for their scent, colour and texture, all complemented by snowdrops, winter irises, and cyclamen.

Continued over

Participating Gardens Nationwide, over 80 gardens are involved in the NGS Festival. Local participants include:

BUCKLOW FARM Pinfold Lane, Plumley, nr Knutsford WA16 9RP Open 26 February 1pm to 3pm, £3.50, children free.

It’s just a short drive through the country lanes to this quirky English country garden, complete with the sight of free-range hens set against carpets of snowdrops

Dunham Massey by Carol Drake

by Graham Beech www.ngs.org.uk

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RODE HALL - Church Lane, Scholar Green, ST7 3QP) Snowdrop Walks: 4 Feb - 5 March 11am to 4 pm Tues - Sat (Closed Mon) For opening times and information, please phone 01270 873237, email enquiries@ rodehall.co.uk or visit www.rodehall.co.uk Adults £5/ Children £2/Under 5’s free.

Enjoy a beautiful end-of-winter walk for all the family in a wonderfully diverse landscape with over 70 varieties of Snowdrops – one of the largest displays in the country. The terraced rock garden and grotto area are carpeted in snowdrops in February followed by daffodils and bluebells.

The tearooms are open serving homemade cakes, light lunches and refreshments. A roaring log-burner in the winter sets the scene.

Further afield If distance is no object, venture out towards the Wirral peninsula to visit Liz Carter’s NGS garden.

Briarfield

BRIARFIELD - The Rake, Burton, Neston, CH64 5TL Sat 25 & Sun 26 February 1pm to 4pm. Admission £3, children free. Liz’s garden is part of this year’s snowdrop festival. You can also meet Liz in Neston Market each Friday morning, selling her rare and unusual plants (70% to NGS).

For more info on visiting NGS gardens, go to www.ngs.org.uk, phone 01493 211535, buy the NGS publication “Gardens to Visit 2017” or, in the gardening season, pick up free local leaflets from libraries and larger garden centres.

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barry’s

gardening tips

I’m writing this in January and the weather is not very conducive to spending much time in the garden. There will be some of you who say that January is a time to avoid the garden altogether. But I think it would be a shame to miss what’s going on out there entirely. So why do I venture into my garden at this time of year?

The mahonias are at their best right now. I have eight of various types, and their racemes of bright yellow flowers give off a wonderful scent whenever the temperature climbs a few degrees above freezing. They are much appreciated by the occasional bumble bee that has been disturbed from its winter slumber. Below them a row of sarcococca add their vanilla perfume to the mix. Clumps of Cyclamen coum, with their delicate pink and white flowers, are reason enough to venture outside… after all that’s why I grow them and when else am I going to see them? And of course snowdrops are beginning to push their noses above the ground, although according to a couple of dedicated galanthophiles I overheard this week ‘Jack Mead’ and ‘Mrs Macnamara’ have been up and about for a while; clearly something going on between those two!

I overheard this week ‘Jack Mead’ and ‘Mrs Macnamara’ have been up and about for a while; clearly something going on between those two!

But besides appreciating individual plants this is the time to take in the bare bones of the garden, its structure and shape. This is when I assess the mix of evergreen and deciduous shrubs for example. Is there a balance? Do things need to be moved? I spend time wandering around, ignoring the cold drizzle, and make mental notes of what I’m going to change. Obviously this doesn’t mean I will actually get around to making all those changes but it’s nice to have plans.

This time last year I embarked on some drastic alterations to my woodland garden. I decided the balance between light and shade had tilted too much towards the latter and certain plants were suffering.

Basically it had become over-mature and needed rejuvenating. The canopy of an oak tree was lifted, a 30’ conifer was rather dramatically ‘reshaped’ (still not sure about that one), a huge rhododendron (ponticum, the thuggish one) was dug out (cheaper than joining a gym) and most importantly a series of ivy-covered arches, which had been a focal point for over 20 years, were ripped out. This led to the repositioning of azaleas, daphnes and other smaller shrubs.

I couldn’t have done all this without being able to study the garden in winter. A year later I can see I made the right decision. If your garden looks right at this time of year then it will almost certainly look right come spring and summer.

Finally a very belated Happy New Year! Let’s hope 2017 is an improvement over the last one… and I don’t mean horticulturally!

by Barry Davy email: barry.davy@ntlworld.com

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a leap too far Allow 4 hours, this route has 1200ft (360 mts) of ascent.

Use OS Map OL 1 Dark Peak Area.

Grid Ref SK073994.

This walk generally has clearly defined footpaths but can be difficult on the moorland as the weather can change quite quickly. Adequate clothing and boots are essential.

The walk passes two reservoirs, starting from Crowden car park which has free parking, just off the busy A628 road.

To arrive at Crowden which has a busy youth hostel, we went through Glossop and took the B6105 until it joined the A628 where it is necessary to turn very sharp left, the sign for Crowden is a short distance on the right. We started the walk, crossing over the A628 and going through a kissing gate and then took another path on the left which goes parallel to the reservoir. Eventually the route reached the end of the reservoir with a steep short flight of steps taking us over the river Etherow. After a short distance through a wooded area we crossed over the B6105 up to the

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Longdendale Trail which runs south east alongside the Torside Reservoir. This trail follows the line of the Great Central Railway Woodhead line, built in1847 to link Manchester and Sheffield. It claimed many lives, 32 for the Woodhead Tunnel alone, other workers died in the cholera epidemic of 1849. Some of the graves can be seen at Woodhead Chapel, above the Woodhead Reservoir dam.

After about a mile we passed the Longdendale trail car park, which can be an alternative start point for the walk, but it is a pay and display car park, with a fee of ÂŁ4.50, hence the Crowden start point! After another mile the B6105 was crossed again and we left the Longdendale trail to go down the metalled road and over the dam of Torside Reservoir. If this road is missed it is possible to continue alongside the Rhodeswood Reservoir by the trail and cross over the dam here. Our group made a short coffee break on a handy bench overlooking the water of Rhodeswood.

Later we continued through a picturesque area of scrub and woodland until we reached the road running over the dam. Turning right here we climbed upwards and soon reached the A628, turning left for a few yards before we crossed over and took the old quarry track which zigzags up the heather and grass slopes. We then crossed a stile at the side of a locked wooden gate

The Walk

presumably locked to stop off road vehicles going any further. The route then entered the woods of Didsbury intake, climbing steadily but quite easily, with the cliffs on our left and the valley on our right. Eventually we reached the disused Tintwhistle Knarr quarry where millstone grit rocks were quarried long ago, the scattered stones of which now made seats for a handy lunch stop.

Soon we arrived at the edge of ‘Lad’s Leap,’ where legend records that young men, rebuffed in love, would jump into the valley below After some 20 minutes the two minute warning was given, and ignoring the moans and complaints of the lazier members (not the ones shown in the picture) we again set off along the narrow path which in parts had a rather forbidding drop on our right. This however only lasts for a fairly short distance, and soon we came to another stile, marking the edge of the moor by Rawkins Brook with a peaty path called ‘Black Gutter,’ on the other side of the stile. We then headed north east across the moor towards the edge of what is

known as Millstone Rocks. Soon we arrived at the edge of ‘Lad’s Leap,’ where legend records that young men, rebuffed in love, would jump into the valley below.

There is probably no truth in the legend but it adds to the many mysteries of the Pennines. The picture shows the likely spot with the outcrops where the probably fictitious young men hurled themselves off. The moors of aptly named Bleaklow can be seen on the other side of the valley.

We carried on, the path becoming a bit indistinct, but keeping the Torside Reservoir on our right, and after Highstone Rocks, we descended quite steeply, taking care not to slip on the muddy patches, until we reached the Pennine Way, which we followed for a short distance and then we turned left towards Crowden Valley, crossing Crowden Brook past the youth hostel and back into the car park. Everyone felt a sense of achievement at having completed a varied and interesting walk.

Poynton Rambling Club has over 100 members with walks on Wednesdays and Sundays. It caters for walkers of all abilities and varies from easy to strenuous, with distances between 5 and 12 miles.

For further details visit the website at www.poynton ramblers.org.uk

by Peter Jaques > Poynton Rambling Club

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quick crossword Across 1. Expressing Support (4) 3. Doomed (3-5) 9. Style of Desk (7) 10. Geometric Point (1,4) 11. Mentally With-It (12) 13. Plod (6) 15. Venera on (6) 17. A Sunny Autumn? (6,6) 20. A Showery Month? (5) 21. Tops of the Mountains (7) 22. Giving Way (8) 23. Stupefy (3)

down 1. Integrity (8) 2. Soft Palate (5) 4. Benign Tumour (6) 5. UFO (6,6) 6. Fabric (7) 7. Hurry (4) 8. Obdurate (6,6) 12. Incarcerate (8) 14. Intimidate (7) 16. Flag (6) 18. Intended (5) 19. Newborn (4)

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word search Find the hidden words in the word search grid.

Gold Magnesium Silver Copper Mercury Sodium Platinum Iron Aluminium

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Solutions on page 58

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arthur’s story A copy of the New Testament, with the inscription ‘Presented to A Robinson on leaving Edinburgh War Hospital on 27 March 1917’ sparked local historian Alan Hulme’s quest to find out more about Arthur. 100 years on, Alan has written this article, the first part of which appears below.

After the war started in 28 June 1914 there was overwhelming pressure on Arthur to volunteer. On Friday, 11 September 1915 there was a call to arms in the Stockport Advertiser; a letter from local Lord Vernon ‘now serving King and Country’ was relayed to the readers saying that “he earnestly hopes that there will be a loyal and speedy response to Lord Kitchener’s appeal for support in this terrible war.” In previous weeks there had been pages of much the same with appeals by Lord Newton and even King George, including photographs indicating that volunteers were trained and ready in three weeks. A further notice announced that there would be ‘free coal for wives.’

Arthur Robinson was born on 13 January 1895, one of six children to James Clayton Robinson and his wife Grace who loved at Beulagh Cottages at 3 Park Lane, Poynton. The property was later extended by James’ sister Emily (Swann), with the ground floor serving as a chip shop. J C Robinson had a business as a joiner, builder and undertaker. At the outbreak of World War I, Arthur was an apprentice joiner; Grace and James wanted him to be an architect.

By this time the family had moved round the corner to 16 London Road North, a rather majestic stock brick fronted four bedroomed house, a newly-built property named Hilldene. Arthur would be 20 years old at this

by Alan Hulme

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point, not yet out of his apprenticeship. There was likely to have been some pressure on him from his parents to finish his apprenticeship amidst their concern over the high number of casualties in France. Indeed, this high number was affecting the number of volunteers so much so that on 11 October 1915, Lord Derby was appointed Director-General of Recruiting shortly after which time he introduced ‘The Derby Scheme.’

Seemingly, against his parents’ wishes, a month later Arthur volunteered on 23 October 1915 at Stockport and was signed up to join the 155th East Cheshire Heavy Battery of the Royal Garrison Artillery. A hard-tobelieve story is that James and Grace were so annoyed with Arthur that they burned his clothes after he left.

Hard to believe as in James’s obituary in 1933 it was reported that he had been a prominent church member and chorister for 51 years!

Arthur’s Statement of Service shows that he was posted overseas on 31 May 1916. His battery would have been one of those which, for seven days before the Battle of the Somme stated on 1 July, would have been pounding the German enemy lines on a 15 mile front. The unprecedented rain made conditions so much harder in an already unfamiliar and hostile environment.

Four months later, on 9 October, he was in a military hospital at Rouen and on his way back to Blightly with several gunshot wounds to both thighs and arms.

By 13 October he was in the Edinburgh War Hospital at Bangour in West Lothian, being one of the many hospitals requisitioned by the Army. He was one of the 3,000 servicemen treated there during WW1.

Arthur’s story will continue in the next issue.

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Inside Bollington, Prestbury & Tytherington Inside Bramhall Inside Hazel Grove & High Lane Inside Marple Inside Poynton Inside Wilmslow & Alderley Edge

uniquely

chic

Here at Uniquely Chic Furniture, we sell quality solid pine and oak furniture. We are experts at transforming our furniture, or yours, into hand-painted, individual, unique statement pieces.

Our paint finishes can be block colour, distressed, ‘in vogue’ shabby chic, or any finish you want. You pick your colour and finish and we complete a bespoke service which gives each piece a new lease of life. If you have an inherited piece, or furniture that fits your space, why not have it uplifted in our workroom?

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 (except Bank Holidays) @be_uniquelychic

We also sell shabby chic home accessories, such as lighting (including chandeliers), mirrors, cushions and gifts. New and returning visitors to our showroom here at Goyt Mill always use the same two phrases… .”Aladdin’s Cave” and “Treasure Trove”.

You never know what you will find when you step through the door!

Official stockists of Frenchic ecofriendly chalk paint and accessories.

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the cost of long term care How 100,000 families are paying massive care home bills that they don’t need to.

You can forget the long standing Government promise that those who save will see their wealth ‘cascade down the generations.’ Today it is estimated that three out of four people whose parents go into a care home lose all or most of their inheritance.

As part of the assessment process councils have the power to investigate the way in which any capital or assets have been disposed of before going into care.

What they are looking for is ‘deliberate deprivation of assets’ whether it be signing over a property to a relative or giving away large sums of money.

So what can be done to assist you in making sure that your family do not lose out?

Act Early Assets should never be given away at the last minute but can be protected as part of long term estate planning.

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So act early, when you are fit and well and unlikely to require imminent residential care.

Rely on a Family Trust A person could transfer the ownership of a property into a lifetime discretionary trust. Again this has to be done early and as part of your long term estate planning.

There are many important benefits of setting up a trust such as helping mitigate and reduce probate fees, generational inheritance tax planning and sideways disinheritance. This will enable you to keep on living in the property and retain control with the ownership of the property going to the beneficiaries of the trust on your death.

For more information on Estate Planning please contact East Cheshire Wills on 01625 410688

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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.

Solution on page 58

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A fresh approach to hearing care Highly trained hearing aid audiologist David Roche spent over 25 years in the industry before setting up Cheshire Hearing Centres; during this time he has earned an outstanding reputation for excellent customer service and client satisfaction.

what particular features you may need. He will then discuss your results and recommend suitable options.

Cheshire Hearing Centres pride themselves on their independence - they are truly able to recommend what is right for the client regardless of the manufacturer.

After many years satisfying his hearing aid clients throughout South Manchester he has now

People sometimes worry about spending a lot of money on hearing aids that might not work for them. By offering a completely free no obligation trial on many instruments, David can help you to overcome any initial concerns and discover what modern digital hearing aids can do for you.

opened Stockport’s only dedicated high street independent hearing centre. The centre, operating from 15 Ack Lane East in Bramhall, offers daily clinics Monday to Friday with evening and Saturday appointments by arrangement.

Hearing problems can be very upsetting and distressing.

At Cheshire Hearing Centres you can be sure of not just an understanding ear but quality personal care and attention, ultimately improving the quality of life for you and your family.

By conducting a detailed hearing assessment, David can ascertain the extent of hearing decline and

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David is extremely approachable, he is more than happy to discuss specific concerns you may have over your hearing or the problems experienced by a loved one. Even if you haven’t purchased a hearing aid from Cheshire Hearing Centres, they are still more than happy to provide you with a six-monthly check up service free of charge.

Contact Cheshire Hearing Centres on 0800 970 8850

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49

Answers: towel, sponge, soap, bubble bath, shampoo, rubber duck. Extra letter answer: shower

just 4 kids

Children’s Activities Things to do with pre-school kids

Monday St. Paul’s Catholic Pre-School 9-3pm Open Monday – Friday Term Time only. Marley Road, Poynton. A caring and stimulating environment, open to all. Please call ahead from more information – 01625 858222 Playaway 9.30-11.30am Poynton Baptist Church. Contact 01625 859036 Garden Club 3.30-4.00pm Commencing 6th February, term time only. For preschool families and friends. Come and join us in Poynton Methodist Preschool garden to enjoy the fun of gardening, play and social time. Tea & Coffee available. No termly commitment. Contact 01625 871115 pmcpreschool@hotmail.co.uk

Tuesday Story Time 11am Term time only. Hazel Grove Library. Stories, rhymes and songs followed by some colouring. Contact 0161 217 6009.

Rhyme Time 9.30-10.30am Term time only, for all preschool children. Come and join in the fun of Rhyme, Music and Song. Pay per week, no termly commitment.

Contact 01625 871115 pmcpreschool@hotmail.co.uk

Wednesday Bright Stars Toddler Group 9.30-11.00am Term time only, St Georges Church, Poynton. For more information contact Sarah Williams 01625 876889 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

Thursday Parent & Toddler Group 9.30-11.30am Term time only, Poynton Methodist Church. For more information contact the church office on 01625 871592 Stay & Play 10-11.30am Term time only, Poynton Children’s Centre, Clumber Road.

Contact 01625 383090 or email poyntonchildrenscentreadmin@ cheshireeast.gov.uk

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Rhyme Time 10.30am Poynton Library. No booking necessary and no charge. All babies and toddlers welcome with parents/carers. Contact 01625 374818

Friday Wiggle Tots Group 9.15 - 11.15am Term Time only. St Paul’s Pre-School, Marley Road, Poynton, SK12 1LY. Maximum 25 children per session, £2 per family. Contact: Clare 01625 858222 or email stpaulspspoynton@gmail.com

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

NEW Mini Professors Preschool science classes for 2-5 year olds 10.00-10.40am for 3-5 year olds 11.00-11.40am. Term time only. Poynton Players Theatre, Georges Road West. Two hands on experiments, osngs, story and a film clip, with a new exciting topic each week. Call Professor Laura on 07985901901 or email eastcheshire@miniprofessors.co.uk Who Let the Dads Out? Between 9am & 11am Second Saturday of the month during term time, St. Martin’s Church Hall, Higher Poynton (near the Boars Head Pub). A dads and toddler group for dads, grandads or male carers and their preschool children. £2.50 per family which includes a bacon butty & coffee for the dads and toast & juice for the children. Contacts Julie Briggs on 07769 938269, or email julie@briggs.me.uk Footy Fun – football for boys and girls 2pm-3pm for Y1. 3pm-4pm for Preschool & Reception Poynton Leisure Centre. The first session is free! Subs are £3.50 per session, pay as you play. As the children are so young parents are asked to participate with their child. Come along and enjoy!

Contact: Jo Sewart jo.sewart@richmondroversjfc.co.uk mobile: 07733 076 264 or Pete Hayward phayward03@gmail.com mobile: 07867 306 356

If you run a local activity for young children and email would like to be included on this page please c.blackie@insidemagazines.co.uk

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

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52

inside guide

January - February 2017

selected events in your area

WEDNESDAY 1 FEBRUARY

MON 6 to SAT 11 FEBRUARY

Poynton Philatelic Society Guest speaker, Mr John Horton, will be displaying his collecting interest in ‘VICHY FRANCE.’ This is a very interesting display on an unusual World War II subject. For information on our Society then please email Ron Phelps on janronwebmates@supanet.com or call 01625 877643. The North Room, Poynton Community Centre, Park Lane, Poynton 7.30pm

Poynton Players present Ladies in Lavender by Shaun McKenna A stage adaptation of the 2004 film. Tickets Mon £7.50, Tues to Sat £8.50. www.poyntonplayers.co. Booking line 0333 666 3366 Poynton Players, George’s Road West, Poynton

WEDNESDAY 1 FEBRUARY Poynton Local History Society Kevin Dranfield will give a presentation on ‘Stockport in WW1’. Annual Membership of the society is £12 and guests are very welcome at £2 per visit. Tel: 01625 872068.

St Pauls Community Room, Marley Road, Poynton SK12 1LY 7.30 pm

Thursday 2 February Would you like to meet new friends?

Are you over 50 and single? Thursday Group is a friendship group for men and women, with several activities run by the member every week. These include walking, dancing, badminton, theatre and restaurant visits. More info at www.thursdaygroup.co.uk, ring Mike on 07860 396286, or just come along.

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

Saturday 4 February Cheshire Chorale with Cheshire Sinfonia Beautiful Music in Bramhall.

Bach - Suite No. 3 in D major; Lauridsen - Lux Aeterna; Bach - Magnificat. Tickets: £12 (Full), £10 (concessions), £3 (under 18) Reserved tickets available in advance from 01969 667033 or at the door.

St Michael’s Parish Church, Robins Lane, Bramhall 7.30pm

Sunday 5 February Marple and District Allotments Potato Day Now in its 6th year, Marple Potato Day has become a popular event and is always well supplied with homemade cakes. Free entry. Further information at www. marpleallotments.org.uk or by phoning the organiser, Joe Presford on 0161 427 5261 Senior Citizens Hall, Marple, SK6 6BE 10am to 2pm

THURSDAY 9 February Worth Probus Club Arthur Cross will speak to us on ‘The Snows of Kilimanjaro’.

Please contact Peter Owen on 01625871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details.

St. George’s Church Hall 2pm

Thursday 9 February Poynton Home Gardeners Club Steve Halliwell will talk on Gresgarth Hall Gardens, near Lancaster. Further details from Elaine on 01625 871603 or visit www.poyntongardenclub.co.uk Royal British Legion Club, St. George’s Road West, Poynton 7.30pm

Saturday 11 February Barnby Choir Singing Day led by Keith Orrell Music for the Resurrection. Rachmaninov-All Night Vigil (Vespers Nos. 13,14,15) and Keith Orrell -Exsultet. Singing ticket price of £20 includes music hire, morning coffee, afternoon tea. Please call Ann Elphick on 01625 583752 for further information or visit www.thebarnbychoir.co.uk Wilmslow Methodist Church, Kings Close, Wilmslow SK9 5AR 9.30am to 4.30pm

Tuesday 14 February East Cheshire Association of the National Trust Lecture – ‘Amazing Women Pilots’ Speaker Victor Crawford.

St Michael’s Church Hall, St Michaels Avenue, Bramhall 2pm

Wednesday 15 February Poynton Luncheon Club Join us at the Deanwater Hotel for a delicious lunch and be entertained with ‘Sweet Memories’ by speaker Janet Bradshaw.

Want to join us? Contact membership secretary Pam Orton 0n 0161 483 4557 Continued over

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WEDNESDAY 15 FEBRUARY

Tuesday 21 February

Poynton Philatelic Society Mr Mark Dutton will be displaying his interest in ‘WARS OF THE 20TH CENTURY’, a different subject to the previous meeting and is well worth seeing. For information on our Society then please email Ron Phelps on janronwebmates@ supanet.com or call 01625 877643. The North Room, Poynton Community Centre, Park Lane, Poynton 7.30pm

Poynton U3A General Meeting Kevin Dransfield will speak on ‘The Stockport Viaduct.’

Please take this chance to renew your membership of Poynton U3A if you haven’t already done so. Entrance £1 including refreshments. For more information contact enquiries@poyntonu3a.org.uk Or visit our website at www.poyntonu3a.org.uk Main Hall, Poynton Civic Centre, 2pm to 4pm.

Thursday 16 February Poynton Morning Townswomen’s Guild Speaker: Peter Hyde on Oldham Mountain Rescue. Visitors are welcome, contact Kath on 0161 456 5299 Poynton Civic Hall 10am to 12 noon

Thursday 16 February Wilmslow Guild Natural History Society Switzerland – Landscape and Flora, by Roy Beacham.

A look at this beautiful and interesting country from a naturalist’s point of view. Visitors welcome £4. Further information from the Chairman – David Warner 01625 874387 Wilmslow Guild, 1 Bourne Street, Wilmslow 7.30pm

Saturday 18 February Prestbury Choral Society Singing Day Come and Sing Mozart’s Requiem. Visit our website www.prestburychoral.org or call our secretary on 01625 262249 for details.

Wilmslow United Reformed Church

Saturday 18 February Northern Chamber Orchestra ‘Thrill of the Chase’ with Naomi Atherton, horn.

Tickets £18/£14; £7 students; 18s and under free. From NCO Box Office 0161 247 2220; Macclesfield VIC, Town Hall 01625 378123; Silk Museum Shop, Heritage Centre or on the door. www.ncorch.o.uk Heritage Centre, Roe Street, Macclesfield 7.30pm

Monday 20 February Mart Rodger Manchester Jazz £6 entry, enquiries 01663 763532 Poynton British Legion, Georges Rd. Poynton 7.30pm

stand out from the crowd

with our paid INSIDE Guide listings.

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

Tuesday 21 February Poynton Flower Club Flower Demonstration entitled “Inspired by…..” with demonstrator Louise Jones from Wallasey. Visitors welcome £5. Enquiries 01625 875158. Poynton Civic Hall 7.30pm

Wednesday 22 February Simply Books presents JOANNA TROLLOPE OBE launching her new novel City of Friends Join us for a very special event with one of the country’s most popular and distinguished authors. Tickets: £10, to book: call 0161 439 1436 email events@simplybooks.info or book online at www.simplybooks.info St Michael’s Church, Bramhall 7.30pm

THURSDAY 23 February Worth Probus Club Bernard Loveday will speak to us on ‘Advances in Modern Imaging’. Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details.

St George’s Hall, Poynton 2pm

Thursday 23 February East Cheshire Association of the National Trust Lecture ‘The Caledonian Canal and the Invergarry to Fort Augustus Railway. Speaker Andy Holmes. St Michael’s Church Hall, St Michaels Avenue, Bramhall 7.30pm

Saturday 25 February Hallé Chamber Concert Hallé Woodwind Quintet, playing pieces by Verdi, Gounod, Ibert and Malcolm Arnold. Tickets £11 and £9 (concession) available from Church Office (0161 439 1204), Simply Books (228 Moss Lane), Thrift Shop and at the door. Under 18s free.

Refreshments included.Bramhall Methodist Church 7.30pm

Saturday 25 February POYNTON CEILIDHS: Albireo, caller Dave Ball 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 visit www. poyntonceilidh.co.uk. Reserved tickets will be held on the door. Doors open 7.45pm, bar til 11pm Poynton Community Centre, Park Lane 8pm

Wednesday 1 March

Tues 7 to Sat 11 March

Simply Books presents HANNA SILLITOE introducing her new book RADIANT Recipes to heal your skin from within. Hanna shares her secret – and the uplifting story of her personal journey to good health.

An inspiring evening for anyone interested in living a healthier lifestyle. To book tickets call in at Simply Books, phone 0161 439 1436, or book online at www.simplybooks.info Simply Books, Bramhall 7.30pm

TEMPO presents FAME the Musical For more information and tickets go to www.tempotheatre.com Tickets are also available by calling 07969 176148.

Evans Theatre, Wilmslow Leisure Centre, Wilmslow 7.30pm, Saturday matinee 2.30pm

WEDNESDAY 1 MARCH Poynton Philatelic Society Guest speaker Mr Graham Chadwick, will be displaying his interest in ‘ALICE IN WONDERLAND AND RAILWAYS’, which will be an eclectic mix of stamps, well worth seeing.

For information on our Society please email Ron Phelps on janronwebmates@supanet.com or call 01625 877643. The North Room, Poynton Community Centre, Park Lane, Poynton 7.30pm

WEDNESDAY 1 March Poynton Local History Society ‘From Copper to Velvet Havana, the Deserted Village’ is the title of a presentation by Ian Doughty. Annual Membership of the society is £12 and guests are very welcome at £2 per visit.

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

Thursday 2 march Would you like to meet new friends?

Are you over 50 and single? Thursday Group is a friendship group for men and women, with several activities run by the member every week. These include walking, dancing, badminton, theatre and restaurant visits. More info at www.thursdaygroup.co.uk, ring Mike on 07860 396286, or just come along.

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

Saturday 4 March Concert with Alderley Edge Orchestra Adventures on the High Seas.

Book your passage – 1st Class seats £10 and steerage at only £1 (for the under 18s) phone 01625 581321, online at www. aeorchestra.org.uk or at the door.

Alderley Edge Methodist Church, SK9 7DU 7.30pm

Saturday 4 March Northern Chamber Orchestra ‘Echoes of Vienna’ With Steven Osborne, piano. Tickets £18/£14; £7 students; 18s and under free. From NCO Box Office 0161 247 2220; Macclesfield VIC, Town Hall 01625 378123; Silk Museum Shop, Heritage Centre and on the door. www.ncorch.o.uk Heritage Centre, Roe Street, Macclesfield 7.30pm

WED 8 to SAT 11 MARCH Brookdale Theatre presents Salt of the Earth A comic drama by John Godber. Ticket info 0161 439 0505 Brookdale Theatre, Bridge Lane, Bramhall 7.45pm

THURSDAY 9 March Worth Probus Club Donald Lodge will speak to us on ‘Life and Times of a Butler’. Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details.

St George’s Hall 2pm

Thursday 9 March Poynton Home Gardeners Club Tom Atherton of the National Sweet Pea Society will talk on “Sweet Peas.” Further details from Elaine on 01625 871603 or visit www.poyntongardenclub.co.uk Royal British Legion Club, St. George’s Road West, Poynton 7.30pm

Saturday 11 March The Poynton Town Council Mayor’s Golden Hog Roast An afternoon of food, music, wine, singing and general entertainment in aid of Ollies Army. Tickets are £15 adult and £7 children. All welcome. Contact Sandra Horsman on 01625 872368 or the Civic Hall on 01625 872238 Poynton Civic Hall, off Park Lane, Poynton, SK12 1RB 2pm to 5pm

Tuesday 14 March E Cheshire National Trust Lecture The Vernons and the building of Sudbury Hall, speaker Dr Cherry Ann Knott. St Michael’s Church Hall, St Michaels Avenue, Bramhall 2pm

Tuesday 14 March North Cheshire Photographic Society ‘Taking Stock’ by Laurie Campbell, one of Scotland’s leading natural history and landscape photographers. Though there will be some technical information about equipment and photographic techniques used, the presentation style is aimed to be informative about the subjects themselves and the fieldcraft skills required to get close to them.

For more information visit www.ncps.org.uk and www.lauriecampbell.com £8 entry fee.

Poynton Civic Centre 7.30pm for an 8pm start Continued over

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Wednesday 15 March

THURSDAY 23 March

Poynton Luncheon Club Gruelling Experiences is the intriguing title for a talk by Peter Higginbotham at the Deanwater Hotel. Want to join us?

Contact membership secretary Pam Orton on 0161 483 4557

Worth Probus Club Bill Walker will speak to us on ‘The Four Ages of Canals.’

Please contact Peter Owen on 01625 871574 or peterowen49@btinternet.com for further details.

St George’s Hall 2pm

WEDNESDAY 15 MARCH

Saturday 25 March

Poynton Philatelic Society Guest speaker Mr R, Wheatley, will be displaying his collecting interest in ‘EGYPT’, this will be and excellent display with a varied range of material on show. For information on our Society then please email Ron Phelps on janronwebmates@ supanet.com or call 01625 877643 The North Room, Poynton Community Centre, Park Lane, Poynton 7.30pm

Cheshire Sinfonia – Beautiful Music in Bramhall Elgar - Introduction and Allegro Op.47; Elgar - Cello Concerto in E minor Op 85. Soloist: Simon Turner; Brahms - Symphony No.1 in C minor Op.68.

Tickets: £12 (Full), £10 (concessions), £3 (under 18) Reserved tickets available in advance from 01969 667033 or at the door.

St Michael’s Parish Church, Robins Lane, Bramhall 7.30pm

Thursday 16 March Poynton Morning Townswomen’s Guild AGM Presentation of cheque to Poynton Community Centre and talk

by Geoff King. Visitors welcome. Contact Kath on 0161 456 5299. Poynton Civic Hall 10am to 12 noon

Monday 20 March Mart Rodger Manchester Jazz £6 entry, enquiries 01663 763532. Poynton British Legion, Georges Rd. Poynton, SK12 1JY 7.30pm

Tuesday 21 March Poynton U3A Meeting This will be our Annual General Meeting. Please come to vote for the committee and perhaps consider yourself as a committee member. Entrance free including refreshments. For more information contact enquiries@poyntonu3a.org.uk or visit www.poyntonu3a.org.uk Main Hall, Poynton Civic Centre 2pm to 4pm

Thursday 23 March Wilmslow Guild Natural History Society Brief AGM, followed by ‘Penguins and Proteas’ by Judith Lovelady. An exploration of S.Africa’s Garden Route. Visitors welcome £4. Further information from the Chairman – David Warner 01625 874387 Wilmslow Guild, 1 Bourne Street, Wilmslow 7.30pm

Thurs 23 & Fri 24 March

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North Cheshire Photographic Society Annual Exhibition Come and see a fantastic display of photographs produced by the North Cheshire Photographic Society! Our exhibition of members images in Poynton will be open to the public on these two days with free admission. For more information visit www.ncps.org.uk Poynton Civic Centre 10am to 4pm

Saturday 25 March POYNTON CEILIDHS Discussion Topic, caller Patrick Rose. Traditional dancing to live music. Experience not necessary! 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. To reserve or purchase tickets in advance visit www. poyntonceilidh.co.uk. Reserved tickets held on the door til 8.15pm Poynton Community Centre, Park Lane 8pm to 11.30pm

Tuesday 28 March North Cheshire Photographic Society An Evening with Kirk Norbury, a Landscape, Nature and Time– lapse photographer based in Ayrshire. Kirk will show us his landscape and fantastic astrophotography skills and explain his time–lapse photography showing some great images he has captured. His work has been published in Outdoor Photography, DSLR Magazine, Countryfile and BBC Wildlife magazine, and he’s also had his time–lapse photography used for an ITV episode of Ray Mears Wilderness Walks.For more information visit www.ncps.org.uk and www.kirknorbury.co.uk £3 entry fee for non-members Poynton Civic Centre 7.30pm for 8pm start

Thursday 30 March E Cheshire National Trust Lecture What the papers said, speaker Judith Atkinson St Michael’s Church Hall, St Michaels Avenue, Bramhall 7.30pm

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

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COMPUTER PROBLEMS? Broadband setup, Wireless Networking, Virus and Spyware removal, Software reinstalls, Upgrades and Custom builds Free friendly advice NO CALL OUT CHARGE

NO FIX NO FEE

Mike Knibb 01625 267422

60

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 260728 01625 859036 01625 859170 01625 872606 01625 871592 01625 850524

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

0845 7697555 02074 030888 0800 1111 0800 555111 0300 1234999 116 123 03444 111 444 118 500 01625 874225

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

01625 374818

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

Post Offices

Doctors Priorslegh Medical Centre McIlvride Medical Practice Poynton Clinic

Poynton Library

01625 876442

Pharmacists

Dentists London Road Dental Surgery Wish Dental Practice Chester Rd Dental Care Phoenix Dental Practice

Poynton

01625 421000 0161 483 1010 111

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 383040 01625 872556 01625 875900 01625 871811

transport Open Hands Transport Bus Information Train Information

01625 878589 0161 228 7811 0845 748 4950

Utilities Electricity – Power Loss Gas – Emergency Water Mains Environment Agency Floodline

0800 195 4141 0800 111 999 0845 746 2200 0845 988 1188

61

classified index BATHROOMS

ELECTRICIANS

Dave Beal

60

BOOKSHOPS Simply Books

6

BUILDING SERVICES JS Services Ken Wood & Son SP Lee & Co Whitehall Builders

35 60 28 59

CAR DEALERSHIP Halliwell Jones

15

CARE HOMES & SERVICES Alice Chilton Carmel Lodge Inspired Retirement Village

13 52 26

CARPETS & FLOORING Carpet Creations

11

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING Zap-Clean Safeclean

44 51

CHILDCARE Brook House Farm Nursery & Preschool Centre 43 Kids Zone 51

CHIROPRACTORS Poynton Chiropractic

58

CHURCHES Poynton Christian Fellowship

Inside Front Cover

CLEANING SERVICES Diamond Home Support

44

CLUBS & ENTERTAINMENT Poynton British Legion

45

COMPUTER & INTERNET Mike Knibb Tech Teacher

60 6

DRAINAGE Pure Clean Drainage Solutions

30

DRIVEWAYS Wills Driveway Cleaning

36

Maddocks SCZ Electrical Services

EVENTS & VENUES Adlington Hall and Gardens Poynton Players

21 38

FLORISTS Green Earth

9

FURNITURE Uniquely Chic Turners Landscaping

36 52

HEALTH & WELLBEING John McGovern Clinical Psychologist

20 16 60 60 29

KITCHENS Kitchen Refinishing Matt Finish

60 60 Inside Back

Park Lane Physiotherapy

46

Garth Aspinall Piano Tuition Dave Beal

61 60

PLUMBING & HEATING David Hanson

58

PUBS & RESTAURANTS Tom Yam

22

Poynton Roofing

59

Crimeguard Security

18 60

SOLICITORS / LEGAL SERVICES Manners Pimblett Slater & Gordon

Back Cover 25 & 39

STAIRCASE RENOVATIONS The Stair Shop

5

LOFT LADDERS 48

16

TREE SERVICES LTS Treework 30 Swift Tree & Arboricultural Services 28

TRAVEL Travel by Design

16 44

LAWNCARE Greensleeves

Dean Wilson Kathy Shaw Spring Decorating

Kathy Shaw 36 60 60

JOINERY D C Joinery Ken Wood & Son Trevor Garner Woodvine Designs

PAINTING & DECORATING

SOFT FURNISHINGS

HOTELS Park House B&B

29

SECURITY 47

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE ICAN Handyman K&J Home Maintenance Trevor Garner

Eco Dazzle

ROOFING 6

HEARING SERVICES Cheshire Hearing Centres

OVEN CLEANING

PLASTERING 48 60

HAIR & BEAUTY Carl Howard The Cut

12

PIANO TUITION 29

GARDEN MAINTENANCE NRG Garden Services Robinsons Garden Maintenance

Riverford Home Delivery

PHYSIOTHERAPY 41

GARDEN LANDSCAPING

More Than Loft Ladders

62

ORGANIC FOOD 48 40

8

WILLS East Cheshire Wills

42

WINDOWS & CONSERVATORIES Pate & Lever Windows

52

WINDOW & CONSERVATORY REPAIRS The Window Repair Centre

57