Inside Wilmslow & Alderley Edge Issue 55

inside april - may 2017

magazines

Issue 55

wilmslow & alderley edge

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

magazines

inside wilmslow & alderley edge Spring is a New Beginning was the title of one of my favourite books when I was a child. With lovely illustrations of baby birds hatching, flowers, trees in bud and gambolling lambs, it beautifully captured the arrival of this hopeful season.

This spring it’s also a new beginning for INSIDE Magazines. In February, after 11 years running the business together, my former co-editor and business partner, Garth, has left to pursue other interests.

Garth reveals all on page 9! Rest assured he will still be contributing his lovely cover photos and the occasional article along the way.

We’re very pleased to feature Quarry Bank on the April-May cover. It’s such a fascinating place to have right on our doorstep and if it’s a while since you’ve been there you really should visit again to see all the remarkable changes.

This issue also features plenty of other places to go and things to do. I hope you enjoy it and continue to support the local businesses which make this magazine possible.

What’s INSIDE this month 4 Wilmslow Then & Now 9 magazines, music & me 17 ngs Springtime celebration 21 Barry’s Gardening Tips 22 Diary of a Geeky Knitter 26 Crossword & sudoku

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28 rhine river cruise 32 the walk 37 In Touch 43 Riverford competition 44 simply books book club choice

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46 hall of mirrors 48 Just 4 Kids 50 Children’s Activities 53 Inside Guide 58 hot cross buns recipe 59 Useful Numbers 60 Puzzle Solutions 62 Classified Index

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Editor: Claire Hawker

Tel: 01625 879611

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Inside Magazines, 352a Park Lane, Poynton, Cheshire SK12 1RL. email: info@insidemagazines.co.uk www.insidemagazines.co.uk Quarry Bank Glasshouse © Nick King.

Copy deadline for the next issue: wed 10 may

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Inside Wilmslow & Alderley Edge 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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wilmslow then... ...and now Opposite Wilmslow’s railway station is the former rectory, erected in around 1780 by Reverend Edward Beresford. It once stood in extensive grounds with gardens and numerous outbuildings, on land currently occupied by the Leisure Centre and its car park. Despite the large extension on the Alderley Road side, many of the original external features are still recognisable. In 1828 William Gladstone, who was to become Prime Minister on four separate occasions, arrived from Eton to stay for twelve months as a pupil of the rector.

Whilst in Wilmslow he made the acquaintance of the Greg family of Quarry Bank Mill, particularly William Rathbone Greg who was the same age and with whom he shared in a keen interest in politics. In March 1915 the rectory became the Wilmslow and Styal Red Cross Hospital, with 15 beds for wounded soldiers which were quickly filled. The commandant was Marian Greg, wife of Lt-Col Ernest Greg of Norcliffe Hall, Styal. Too large and grand to be a modern rectory, the building has been repurposed a number of times, including as offices for Natwest Bank, as a public house and currently as a Miller and Carter steakhouse.

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Photographs: Wilmslow Historical Society Collection

by Jon Armstrong > Wilmslow Historical Society

ahead of the curve A rare example of a 19th century curvilinear glasshouse has been restored at the National Trust’s Quarry Bank after a year-long restoration project.

The 1820s glasshouse was built to supply the owners of Quarry Bank mill, the Greg family, with tender fruit of the time, such as grapes and peaches. Its innovative design and use of modern technology sent a clear message to guests about the Gregs’ financial success and position in society.

Although the conservation charity acquired the 18th century cotton mill in 1939, it was only in 2010 that the kitchen garden was acquired by the Trust. The jewel in the crown of this walled garden was the severely damaged curvilinear glasshouse, a name given to the structure because of its unique curved roof.

Eleanor Underhill, Quarry Bank’s general manager, said: “We knew that we had something special here and that hidden under years of decay and old corrugated sheeting was a remarkable glasshouse which had stood derelict for many years. We carried out archaeological, structural and historic research into the building which revealed that it is one of the earliest curvilinear hot houses in the country. We knew then that we had to save it.”

Results from the survey along with photographs, letters, diaries, maps and garden plant orders from Quarry Bank’s extensive archives, provided the team with an opportunity to accurately restore the glasshouse to its former glory and understand more about the purpose of its design.

Sarah Witts, Quarry Bank’s head gardener, said: “Seeing the glasshouse restored to its former glory is a real delight. It is such a unique structure and tells us a lot about the lives of the Greg family and the luxuries they would have enjoyed compared with the mill workers.

“With our newly installed biomass boiler, we’ll be able to heat sections of the glasshouse so that exotic plants such as orchids and palms along with fruits including grapes and peaches that the Gregs would have enjoyed, can once again be grown here.”

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Quarry Bank Glasshouse © Nick King.

As well as the glasshouse, the adjoining back sheds that were once the potting area for the estate’s gardeners and the location of the boilers, have been restored. Archive material revealed that two of the Greg family children also used the space to create a small museum where they would display the treasures that they had found across the estate. Now, the National Trust has used these stories as the inspiration for its interpretation of the space.

These ‘interactive potting sheds’ will allow visitors to discover the story of the people who cared for the garden. With displays telling the stories of Quarry Bank’s gardeners and a mini museum filled with curious finds, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

The restoration of the glasshouse is part of a major four year, £9.4 million project to transform Quarry Bank and reflect its position as a rare survival of a complete industrial community, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Wolfson Foundation and other generous organisations and individuals. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/quarrybank

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Magazines, Music and Me Garth Aspinall reflects on eleven years at INSIDE. Forgive me for striking a rather philosophical tone, but that’s how I feel today, as I reflect upon the end of an era – eleven years of publishing INSIDE Magazines. On 1st February I handed control of this publishing venture to Claire Hawker, my longstanding business partner, with a view to enjoying a more relaxed pace of life. It’s a moment to celebrate and I wish her every success.

Claire has a great work ethic, has played a huge part in our success and will continue to deliver a magazine you can enjoy.

From my own perspective, the last eleven years have been a joyful privilege – an experience that I could not have envisaged at any previous stage of my life.

Looking back, I can scarcely remember a day that I haven’t relished. There have been so many things to enjoy. The pleasure of meeting so many people fired up by the challenges of their everyday lives.

The appreciation so often expressed by contributors, advertisers and readers. The joys of writing copy, especially those advertorial pieces that showcase the qualities of a deserving local business. The day trips and cultural visits that I might never have undertaken, if there were not the need for an editorial piece. The innumerable sorties, in all kinds of weather, to source an acceptable front cover image. The luxury of an office base, less than a mile from home. Discovering local roads, villages and towns that had been unfamiliar to me. The focus and the adrenalin rush dictated by 132 monthly deadlines. And last, but not least, the camaraderie and shared ideals I experienced as part of the INSIDE Magazines team.

I don’t believe in retirement; it’s a word that has no place in my vocabulary. I have discovered what I enjoy and hope to write and contribute for a while longer, to these much-loved magazines. But something intrigues

me – the length of time that it took me to find myself, to discover the two jobs that I have truly enjoyed in my life - teaching the piano and publishing a magazine.

I believe that we are all unique, with passions and abilities that are deeply rooted in our souls and that these should be given every opportunity to blossom.

In my case, they became quite apparent at a relatively early age.

My working-class childhood in Birmingham was a mixed experience. On the minus side, I suffered rather at the hands of a Victorian and somewhat tyrannical father, felt the burden of our financial hardship and ultimately, couldn’t wait to leave home. On the plus side, I enjoyed playing the piano, thanks (almost grudgingly) to my father who had a real love of classical music and to my nearby uncle Albert who was a very competent pianist. I passed my Grade 2 piano exam and then the money for lessons ran out. At school I discovered that the arts were my forte and that all things scientific or technical were best left to others.

On a September morning, in 1961, I got on my bike and cycled to Manchester to start my French Studies course.

by Garth Aspinall

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practice had reached its zenith (some 42 pupils) and for the sake of having a little variety and to get out of the house, I took on a part-time job, working a few hours a week selling advertising space at MacMillan Scott, a publications management company in Macclesfield.

This part-time job was my first big stroke of luck. It was here that I had my ‘light bulb’ moment and chanced upon the idea of publishing a local magazine. I googled ‘local magazines’ on the internet and noted that most publications in existence were little more than advertising directories. I felt that there was a niche for a more aesthetic and readable publication.

There followed three halcyon years, socially rewarding and subject to few personal regrets, other than the class of my degree! I evolved, uninterrupted, into a carefree Francophile until September 1964 when I was rudely confronted by the need to face the inevitable world of work.

It was at this point, in retrospect, that things might have gone better! For family reasons, instead of accepting a perfect media-related Public Relations job in the southwest, I opted for a Management Trainee scheme with BSA Group in Birmingham. If I’m honest, I was not in the least excited by this world of engineering. Neither was I particularly excited by an introduction to Hollerith punched card equipment! And yet, two years later, on the back of this experience, I allowed myself to be seduced by the new and glamorous world of computers, securing the position of Systems/Programmer with a Manchester based computer bureau. Newly married, I was very relieved to be able to bring home a salary that paid the mortgage on our new home! This superficially attractive career starting in 1966 gave rise to 33 long years in the corporate computing world and although the numerous business proposals and sales presentations provided some outlet for my natural talents, these were clearly of secondary importance. Only redundancy saved me.

In 1999, a Poynton High School evening class in Music Theory, followed by success in piano exams and a teaching course at The Royal Northern College of Music catapulted me at the start of the millennium into a rewarding piano teaching practice which I still enjoy immensely to this day. By 2005, my piano teaching

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My second huge stroke of luck was a chance conversation with Claire - one of my piano pupils at the time. I discovered that she had an editorial background and more importantly, an enthusiasm for my idea. We pooled our individual skills and within a few weeks INSIDE Magazines was born.

When I now reflect on my journey, I feel those ‘inbetween’ years were certainly not a complete waste of time, but rather a period of preparation for the golden days to come. I was not ecstatic about the jobs that I held down and at times felt a little doom and gloom. But I kept my chin up, enjoyed holidays and leisure time and thankfully, the mortgage always got paid!

Certainly, I would like to have found my feet a little earlier; but none of us have total control and we just have to adjust to the unexpected events that can take over our lives and sometimes thwart our dreams. What is important is our level of self-awareness and the nature of our response to all that life throws at us. In my case I recognised the opportunity when it presented itself and, at the age of 64, found the courage to take the plunge!

It’s on this latter note that I would urge young and old alike to be patient and optimistic. Be careful not to undervalue the worth of your current position or to exaggerate any discontent you feel. You might be accumulating some valuable experience. However, don’t let present circumstances blind you to the possibility of a different and brighter future, whatever your age. Stay aware of your own unique gifts and desires and afford them every possible outlet. Be proactive, maintain a healthy attitude, try new things and with a little good fortune, you will get the timing right and you could well fulfil your dreams.

‘Life-saving’ Bio-Detection Dogs Dogs play an important role in many people’s daily lives, not only as companions but also as practical help and support to those with disabilities, such as guide dogs for the blind. There are many examples of dogs being lifesavers, the most famous would be the St Bernard through tales of alpine rescues over the years.

More recently there have been stories of dogs saving the lives of owners with type 1 diabetes by alerting them when they are at risk of a seizure. Then we have dogs who are trained to provide a 100% reliable warning up to 50 minutes prior to an oncoming epileptic seizure. For the 30% of people with epilepsy unable to control their seizures by medication, the dogs give them time to find a place of safety and privacy so that they can remove themselves from any danger.

Dr Claire Guest, co-founder of Medical Detection Dogs, realised she had breast cancer after her dog began nudging an area of her chest which felt bruised. Tests later revealed she had two tumours. Dr Guest believes that we are not dealing with coincidence but in fact science and that dogs are highly sophisticated bio-sensors.

The evidence is so compelling that the NHS are extending trials to assess if dogs could be used to detect prostate cancer at an early stage. Sadly there is no funding for the training of ‘detection dogs’ it’s left to charities, however England’s Health Secretary will consider the findings of the NHS trial when published.

MP Iain Duncan Smith believes the “pioneering research doesn’t just have the potential to save lives, but also to save our NHS many millions of pounds.”

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

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COMPUTERITIS

SLOUCHED BODY POSTURE In this issue I am exploring computeritis and slouched body posture, an issue that is impacting on the young too!

We can spend long hours at a desk with workload and time pressures often meaning we don’t even break for lunch! Time flies when you’re browsing the internet or connecting on social media during which time you might be slumped or sprawled on a sofa or bed balancing a laptop at an angle. Great invention maybe but look at what happens to the body as we adjust our bodies and heads to look at the screen.

A slumped posture can also reflect a mental, emotional state of being as we draw in on ourselves and react to stressors, tough or negative environments. Then there’s cold weather-itis; hunching against the cold or gripping the steering wheel as we rush around on auto-pilot to the next event in our busy lives.

Eventually over time this gives rise to painfully tight muscles in the shoulders, neck and upper back. The assumption is that the back muscles are weak and can’t keep the back upright, but they are not the real culprit here. Unless you address the bigger picture,

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over time the body habituates the slouched, slumped posture from which even the most expensive ergonomic furniture won’t save you. Eventually this could lead to tingling in the arms and hands and the walking stick posture!

SO WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE SLOUCH? The action of slouching contracts the muscles in the front of the body, drawing the shoulders forward and contracting the chest muscles. The muscles in the back need to lengthen to allow the body to curl forward as do the muscles in the back of the shoulder girdle. If the back muscles are already tight, when the body slouches these muscles will recoil and tighten even more – hence the greater pain. Add to that the chin jutting forward as we lift it from a head down curled state and the upper back and neck muscles tighten even more. As the spine rounds into the slump we sit more on our lower backs and sacrum rather than properly on our bottoms; this draws the pelvis upwards contracting the lower belly muscles and tightens the buttocks.

Muscles have the natural ability to contract or lengthen and release back to neutral. In this case the muscles at the front of the body (belly and chest muscles), need to be reminded of their natural ability to release back to their neutral length. This allows the body to come upright, the back muscles to return to neutral, then the head will come back into balance. Then you can work on releasing the rest, regaining the body’s natural neutral posture, freedom of movement and the ability to move well.

If you recognise yourself or someone you know in this article why not contact me to see how I can help you to reconnect with your body and posture.

springtime celebration

for the National Garden Scheme

This year, the National Garden Scheme celebrates its 90th year, having donated over £50 million to nursing charities. To mark such a milestone, you’ll see a bright new design for our booklets, signs and posters, plus a redesigned website and mobile apps.

During April and May, there are almost 20 springtime gardens to visit in the Cheshire and Wirral area and these are listed below, in date order, for ease of reference. For further information (locations, opening hours etc), please visit www.ngs.org.uk, or collect a copy of the Cheshire & Wirral booklet from your local library or larger garden centres. The average admission price is £4, children free; home-made teas usually available.

For information on all gardens in the scheme throughout England and Wales, please visit www.ngs.org.uk, download our mobile app or buy The Garden Visitor’s Handbook 2017.

Sunday 23 April Briarfield – Burton, nr Neston CH64 5TL. A 2-acre garden with lots of rare and unusual plants.

Long Acre – Bunbury, CW6 9PS. A 1-acre garden, also with many specialist plants.

Poulton Hall– see above

Sunday 30 April Mount Pleasant – Kelsall CW6 0TB. 10 acres of gardens and woodland

May Gardens Monday 1 May All Fours Farm – see above Framley – Willaston, nr Neston CH64 2US. Five acres of mature woodland and plants, now at their very best.

Mount Pleasant – see above Mount Pleasant

National Garden Scheme Diary April Gardens Saturday 15 April Bank House – Bickerton, 4ml NE of Malpas. 1½ acre garden at the foot of Bickerton Hill

Sunday 16 April All Fours Farm: Aston by Budworth, Northwich CW9 6NF. A traditional country garden.

Saturday 6 May

Bank House – see above

Hathaway – Tytherington, nr Macclesfield SK10 2LB. A third of an acre with colourful borders.

Saturday 22 April

Sunday 7 May

Poulton Hall – Poulton Lancelyn, nr Bebington CH63 9LN, 3 acres with themed gardens - ideal for children to explore.

Hathaway – see above Tirley Garth Gardens – Willington, nr Tarporley CW6 0RQ. 40-acre garden designed by Thomas Mawson.

Almost 3000 rhododendrons and axaleas.

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Wednesday 10 May

Saturday 20 May

Tatton Park – Knutsford WA16 6QN. Many features including restored walled garden, plus Japanese, Italian and rose gardens.

Inglewood – Heswall CH60 6TN. Half-acre garden with stream and large koi pond.

Thursday 11 May Cholmondeley Castle Gardens – Cholmondeley, nr Malpas SY14 8AH. 20 acres of romantically landscaped gardens.

Sunday 21 May Dunham Massey – Altrincham WA14 4SJ. Vibrant Edwardian garden, sweeping lawns and richly planted borders.

Inglewood – see above Sandymere – Cotebrook nr Tarporley CW6 9EH. 16 landscaped acres with terraces, walled garden, woodland walks and much more to explore.

Tirley Garth Gardens – see above.

Cholmondeley Castle Gardens

Sunday 14 May Abbeywood Gardens – Delamere, nr Northwich CW8 2HS. Total of 45 acres of woodland with connecting pathways. Over 4 acres of gardens.

Ness Botanic Gardens – Neston CH64 4AY. 64 acres of landscaped and natural gardensoverlooking the Dee estuary.

Stonyford Cottage – Oakmere CW8 2TF. Famed for its Monet-style landscape. Board walks connect wild areas with views to cottage garden.

Tirley Garth Gardens – see above

Tirley Garth

Friday 19 May 10, Statham Avenue – Lymm WA13 9NH. Quarter-acre terraced and sloping plot rising to Briddgewater cal towpath.

Inglewood

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Still can’t find what you’re looking for?

If the dates don’t suit, note that group visits can often be arranged, sometimes subject to a minimum group size.

by Graham Beech www.ngs.org.uk

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barry’s gardening tips april - may 2017

Spring has a subtle way of arriving. You notice that today is a touch warmer than yesterday and it’s a little lighter for longer in the afternoon.

Buckthorn is flowering along the verges of the Handforth bypass and if you’re a rambler you’re aware that leaves are sprouting in the hedgerows. Many plants at this time of year have mottled or marbled leaves. The elegant spotted-leaved erythroniums give a hint of the exotic. Their turk’s cap flowers are held on thin stems above their sprays of leaves. Erythronium ‘Pagoda’, with its yellow flowers, is most commonly seen but in my garden more delicate E. ‘White Beauty’ and E. ‘Knighthayes’ are the stars of the show. The glossy leaves of Arum italicum ‘Pictum’ look as if they have their own skeleton drawn in white on their surface and Brunnera ‘Jack Frost’ is a plant I wouldn’t be without.

The familiar milk-splashed leaves of pulmonarias brighten shady corners, with their cow-slip like flowers fluctuating between pink and blue. There are many good, named varieties but all of them benefit from being cut to the ground after flowering. In fact it’s worth noting that any perennial that flowers before Midsummer’s Day can, and should, be cut to the ground as soon as it has finished flowering. Fresh new growth and possibly more flowers will soon appear.

If left uncut, by August the garden will be looking tired and brown. Now you have no excuse.

renowned for the seasonal riot of colour from these plants, which cover two and a half acres of twisting paths in a woodland dell created in a Victorian quarry.

I just hope this garden manages to avoid the current wave of the fungus Phytopthora, which can have a devastating effect on rhododendrons (as well as other species).

The familiar milk-splashed leaves of pulmonarias brighten shady corners, with their cowslip like flowers fluctuating between pink and blue Speaking of garden-visiting I don’t think it’s too early to mention the Wilmslow Wells for Africa open garden day. Many gardens in and around Wilmslow open their gates to visitors on the same day, usually between 15 and 20 of them, for which you pay a paltry sum to see them all; no I can’t remember how much but it’s a bargain! It’s on Saturday 24 June so stick in your diary now.

May is the time for rhododendrons and azaleas to shine. I know one or two people who aren’t keen but I love their bold colours. To see a great display go and visit the Dorothy Clive Garden in Staffordshire. It’s

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

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Diary of a geeky knitter Is spring here yet?

As we go into what ought to be the spring time, in the good old fashioned British weather we just can’t seem to shake that cold, wet, winter feeling. Normally around this time of year I start to feel a little down; nothing big to look forward to, like Christmas or summer holidays, and wondering just when oh when will the weather cheer up. But this year, I’ve been so busy I haven’t had a chance to feel down, and I can’t believe we are already coming into spring!

The positives of being a serial yarn addict also means that the big bonus of long drawn out winters (or have they always lasted until May?) is that it gives me more time and excuses to stay inside, with tea and homemade cookies (yes, that’s what I have right now as I write this) and knit! Or, of course, crochet, which is how I made some new friends in the New Year.

Ok, ok, I write ‘friends’ when I actually mean giantimaginary-crochet-friends. I made two ‘creatures’ (for want of a better term) called Willow and Rowan; one for me and one for a friend’s birthday (who says those in their late 20’s can’t have toys still?) and I just love on a cold evening, to wrap up in my pjs and cuddle Willow (the blue one – she’s mine). Sad? Perhaps. But it works for me! If you are a crocheter and want to see where the pattern is from and how I made these, just head on over to the blog!

Feeding my addiction It’s not just the weather that is doing nothing for my yarny ways; have you visited Magnolia Tree in Poynton yet? I popped in in late January, to help beat those January blues I don’t seem to be suffering from yet, to say hello to Lucy and to have a look round. Funnily enough, I had spoken to Lucy through email a few weeks beforehand in my role as editorial assistant on a knitting and crochet magazine, but I wanted to say

hello in a knitting capacity and I am so glad I did. We had a lovely chat and just nattered which is always the great thing about popping into a yarn shop. I spotted some beautiful wool too, though I told myself I didn’t need it… and by the time I got home I changed my mind and promptly ordered it online from Lucy! No regrets had here – it will be knit into a scrumptious peppermint coloured (the name alone sold it for me) cable knit jumper. Can’t wait to wear that around, so if spring wouldn’t mind delaying for just a smidge longer, I would really appreciate it.

In final news, if you are a knitter, crocheter, sewer, or general crafter, I am organising a craft swap on my blog! Head on over to sign up and take part if that’s your thing, or simply keep track of everyone’s progress!

Ciao for now Insiders. jennythegeekyknitter@gmail.com www.thegeekyknitter.co.uk www.etsy.com/uk/shop/geeksgamesandknits

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WEAVING NEW HOPES Increased consumer appreciation and the growing demand for stylish handmade designer Persian carpets not only helps to tastefully embellish the interiors of many UK homes; it also delivers substantial grass root benefits to otherwise agriculture dependent rural communities of Rajasthan, India.

Tim and his partner Susan (above right) of The Weave Rug Company Bollington recently visited India to appreciate first-hand how the benefits of a guaranteed wage can help facilitate financial inclusion and poverty elevation to the remote and isolated agricultural dependent communities of the Indian countryside.

The recent introduction of Persian Carpet weaving means the typically impoverished farming communities are now no longer solely dependent on the low and often unpredictable income provided by agriculture alone and can now instead start to benefit from a guaranteed weekly wage. A steady income, coupled with a government endorsed Artisan Card, helps the weavers with the required formalities needed to open bank

accounts. This offers a sense of personal empowerment and opens other doors and possibilities. Having the card demonstrates a recognised profession and skill, leading to more certainty of a dependable income, which can in turn help to secure essential school funding loans, medical care for families and other aspirations to these otherwise poor farming communities.

To see a wonderful collection of handmade carpets rugs in both contemporary and traditional styles you can visit The Weave Rug Company Showroom, situated on the Ground Floor of the Clarence Mill in Bollington.

Tel 01625 261 276 – or to learn more about the socio economic benefits of carpet weaving please visit the company website www.theweave.co.uk

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quick crossword Across 7. Party Game (7,6) 8. Words of Appreciation (5,3) 9. Rooster (4) 10. Chocolate Cake (7) 12. Fish (5) 14. Small Glass Bottle (5) 16. Graze (7) 19. Huge (4) 20. Edict (8) 22. Islands off Cornwall (5,2,6)

down 1. Of the same kind (4) 2. Sift (6) 3. Insect (7) 4. Transpire (5) 5. Soldier (6) 6. Prevent (8) 11. Practise (8) 13. Comprise (7) 15. Song of praise (6) 17. Bulb of Onion family (6) 18. Flag (5) 21. Attract (4)

sudoku

How to play Sudoku Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone.

Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

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Solutions on page 60

Room with a view on a Rhine river cruise More than any other type of holiday, river cruising really steps up to the plate when views to die for are on your list of travel ‘must haves.’

Koblenz and Mannheim in some style. UNESCO World Heritage-listed for its unique combination of geological, historical and cultural gems, a journey along this fabled waterway is something to remember for a very long time.

Heidelburg again has a beautiful riverside setting and is one of Germany’s oldest and most famous university towns. Visited by many 18th and early 19th century romantics, most notably the poet Goethe, it also inspired JMW Turner and appears in some of his greatest landscapes.

Steeped in folklore and charm, the Rhine’s ripe banks burst with story-book castles and verdant vineyards, all waiting to be enjoyed from the comfort of your floating five-star hotel.

Whether soaked in from the comfort of your luxurious balcony suite or admired with new friends over cocktails through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the Panorama Lounge, something new waits round every bend of the river.

An array of endlessly-changing scenery from rolling valleys to dramatic cliffs mark your journey, punctuated by picturesque ports and the beating heart of vibrant cities. A cruise on the mighty Rhine delivers like no other.

Take the breathtaking Rhine Gorge, for example. This awesome 65km stretch marks your route between

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River cruising is ideal for single passengers too; one of our favourite operators, Scenic, together with their sister company Emerald, currently have some great departures with no single supplement.

With a river cruise it is easy to get off the ship each day, and explore either with the group, or independently.

The ships generally dock centrally, just a short walk

by Kristina Hulme > travelbydesigngroup.com

from the centre of town, and always with plenty of places of interest within easy reach.

Amazing vistas abound ashore too where you’ll enjoy a flexible choice of excursions in every destination ensuring you spend your holiday exactly the way you want to. From Strasbourg, why not journey to the awe-inspiring Black Forest and take in the spectacular scenery on a guided hike?

And in Mannheim, views come no more five-star than on an unforgettable Enrich event at the Baroque Palace of Rastatt.

Surrounded by spectacular gardens, this formidable venue could be the backdrop to a private classical music concert, exclusively for you and fellow guests.

As the sun sets on another day of discovery, so it does on that day’s port. So step out onto your Scenic sun lounge, have your butler deliver you a tipple of your choice, and raise a toast to a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Contact Travel By Design on 01625 584195 to book your river cruise.

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?

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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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

Froggatt, Padley Chapel and the Edges Distance: 7½ miles Ascent/descent: 1,200ft Walk description: This delightful circular walk starts from Curbar Gap car park and passes through woods on the way down to the village of Froggatt. It then follows the Derwent Valley Heritage Way before visiting Padley Chapel and then continuing uphill through Hay Wood. The final part of the walk is a Peak District classic along Froggatt and Curbar Edges, giving spectacular views, especially on a clear day.

Starting point: Curbar Gap car park (SK 261746) is a National Trust car park, free for members. There is also some parking alongside the road that leads up from Curbar to Curbar Gap. Map: OL24 White Peak From the car park walk downhill on the road in the direction of Curbar. After a short distance the road bends sharply to the left. About half way along before the road bends again (to the right) there is a path to the right (West, SK 257747). Follow this path through a field and into a wooded area. Continue on obvious path through trees until reaching a gate on the right,

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signed Froggatt (SK 255747). Take the path to the right (NNE) Follow this broad path through bracken and woods. The path runs parallel to the edges above you.

Ignore all paths to right and left. Pass through two walls with metal gates and on reaching a clear cross path (SK 248760) which comes down from the edges, turn left and immediately through a gate. There is now a steep descent on variable surfaces with loose stones, so care is needed.

On reaching a road (A625) cross with care to a stile beside a gate opposite. Go over stile and take clear path as it descends to a minor road in Froggatt. Turn right and continue on road. Shortly a road joins from the left. By taking a few steps along the road to the left onto the bridge there is a good view of the River Derwent. Retrace your steps to the junction and continue in your original direction on the road (Hollowgate). Continue through the attractive village of Froggatt. Part way along the road there is an elevated footpath on the right. At the end of this footpath take a lane going left ignoring a no through road sign (Spooner Lane).

Keep on Spooner Lane until it ends and becomes a narrow track. Continue along this track to a very narrow squeezer stile. Continue keeping wall on right. At the end of the wall (SK242768) the path goes diagonally left (NNE) to a gap in a wall. Now keep wall on left to gap in next wall. Continue through the wall in the same direction as before (the wall on your left now turns away from the path. You are aiming for a stile across the field giving access into Horse Hay Coppice (SK 244770).

The path through the coppice is very clear and undulating with some delightful spots where it crosses streams. On leaving the coppice keep heading north with a wall and trees on the left until reaching a flat bridge and an opening on the left. Go through the opening (SK 245776) and then NNE across a field to a stile at the road (B6521) near Grindleford Bridge (SK 245778). Cross this busy road and continue on pavement away from the bridge, past houses on left until reaching a stile by a gate. Go through stile and continue on path going north until gap on left takes the path to the left of the line of trees ahead of you.

Keep to the left of the line of trees and follow them until reaching a concrete footbridge. Bear right (mag bearing 26˚) following right hand side of wall. This area can get quite muddy. After crossing through a broken wall (SK243788) bear right (NE) to eventually meet a track (SK244789). Turn right along track and cross railway bridge to minor road. Turn right. Around 100m on the left is a gate leading to the rear of Padley Chapel, where there are the remains of Padley Hall. This makes an excellent spot for a lunch break. Information about the Chapel and The Padley Martyrs can be found at www.derbyshire-peakdistrict.co.uk/padleychapel

When you are suitably refreshed re-join the minor road and continue along it until reaching a right hand bend which will take you back over the railway line at Grindleford Station. On the left, just over the bridge, is the Station Café which is very popular. Immediately after the café a waypoint points left. Follow this steep concreted path up to the road (B56521). Turn right and walk a short distance along this road. There is a footpath after a few yards. On reaching a small road turning left (Tedgness Road), cross the road with great care and go up this side road. After just under ¼ mile take a waymarked path going left (SSE) behind houses.

The Walk Remain on this clear path through Hay Wood ignoring paths on either side. The path gradually ascends until reaching a short steep descent to a stream and then ascending to meet a road (A625). Turn right onto this busy road for a very short distance, crossing over to a path that goes off to the left through a gate (next to padlocked white gate, (SK 254775). Take this clear path which slowly ascends through woods before reaching more open areas. There is a small stone circle off to the left (SK 249767) which is worth a short diversion although it can be difficult to find when the bracken is at its tallest! Continue on the clear path after the diversion. You are now walking along Froggatt Edge. As you progress the path gets closer to the edge and good panoramic views will be seen to the West as well as good moorland views to the East. This area is popular with climbers and you may see them as they ascend from below.

The walk continues on the clear path and regular diversions towards the edge are recommended to see the views. In a couple of places the path goes around large rock outcrops. There are optional paths that will take you over these if you prefer. As the path starts to descend towards Curbar Gap the car park can be seen, in trees, to the left. On reaching a gate take the left fork which swings further to the left to return you to your starting point. There is often an ice cream van parked here in the summer and in recent years this has been joined by a van selling drinks and cakes. Neither of these can be guaranteed!

Marple District Rambling Club organises up to 30 walks at all levels each month, going out on Thursdays and Sundays. For further information, phone Sue Gilmore, 0161 427 1471 or Deirdre Nolan, 0161 427 7794.

Alternatively, view the web site, www.marple-uk/community/rambling

By Brian Beardwood > Marple District Rambling Club

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in touch your local community noticeboard april - may 2017

FOOD & DRINK WEEK 24 to 29 APRIL Wilmslow Business Group has put together a programme of food-related events and special offers for the third year running to encourage residents and visitors to discover what Wilmslow has to offer when it comes to food. Restaurants, pubs, hotels and cafes are all participating and this year’s event is sponsored by the newly refurbished Stanneylands which is set to be relaunched in April.

The exciting mixture of events include: a pop up dining experience at Tru Kitchen; a pizza making party at Pizza Express; a cake competition to be judged at Bridgmans; a ladies fashion lunch at Sarafina and wine tasting evening at Majestic Wine.

Catherine Mackenzie, Chairman of Wilmslow Business Group said “This event always creates a buzz in the town and brings the community together. Make sure to buy your tickets quickly as they’re limited. Have a delicious week!”

Copies of the Food & Drink Week programme will be available at April’s Artisan Market, the Library, Wilmslow Leisure Centre and several local food outlets.

For further information contact isobel@wilmslowbusinessgroup.co.uk or follow the event at www.getintowilmslow.co.uk

BEATING THE BOUNDS Beating the Bounds used to be a traditional church event, last held in Wilmslow in the early 80s. This year it’s back with a Beating the Bounds sponsored walk being organised to raise money for East Cheshire Hospice. The organisers hope this will be a great community event and it has support from a number of local organisations and businesses.

There are two routes, a 15 mile walk close to the parish boundary and a 5 mile walk that is ideal for families and those looking for a stroll.

The walks start and finish at the Rugby Club and the aim is to provide all walkers with refreshments.

For more information and registration details visit www.eastcheshirehospice.org.uk/ beatingthebounds

WILMSLOW WRITERS Wilmslow Writers meet on the first and third Monday of the month at St. John’s Church Hall on Knutsford Road, Wilmslow, SK9 between 10am and 12 noon. Some members are published authors but no previous experience is necessary, just a love of writing for its own sake.

For further information contact our Secretary on 01625 524962 Continued over

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in touch - your local community noticeboard

ARTWORK ON DISPLAY Ellie Prime, formerly of Wilmslow High school and now at Newcastle University, had her painting of her brother James recently exhibited at Overseas House in London as part of the Royal Institution of British Artists scholarship awards. Ellie’s painting was selected for submission by the Wilmslow branch of the Decorative and Fine Arts society.

Ellie said, “It was fabulous to see my painting in the exhibition and to meet other RBA 2017 scholars at the preview. I feel very grateful that my work was selected for this exciting national opportunity.”

LINDOW SINGERS The Lindow Singers is an enthusiastic mixed voice choir of around 40 singers who give four main concerts a year, in the Wilmslow, Handforth and Alderley Edge areas, and also at the RNCM. We have built up a strong partnership with Sale Choral Society giving us the opportunity to perform a wide selection of works with orchestra. We have also been pleased to take part in joint concerts with Sale Gilbert and Sullivan Society.

We are a friendly group and are happy to welcome singers who would like to join us. We sing a range of music, both sacred and secular and rehearse weekly on Monday evenings at The Wilmslow Academy (formerly Dean Oaks Primary School) on Handforth Road in Wilmslow.

For further information please phone our membership secretary, Ann Epton, on 0161 485 2231 or email lindowsingers@gmail.com

HUNT OUT THOSE SPECIAL PLANTS AT ADLINGTON HALL Over the last eight years the Plant Hunters’ Fair at Adlington Hall has become firmly established in the gardener’s calendar as the place to go to get something different and special for your garden. The popular plant fair will be set against the backdrop of the historic hall and is surrounded by the beautiful gardens and parkland. All this is available to roam and explore for the special entry price of just £3, that’s half standard entry price! (children 15 years and under are free when accompanied by an adult).

With so much to see, why not take one of the free guided tours of the gardens with the Head Gardener Anthony O’Grady or simply relax, take in the beautiful gardens and enjoy the lovely refreshments that are available.

The fair opens at 10am and closes at 4pm. For further information, please see www.planthuntersfairs.co.uk

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in touch - your local community noticeboard

ALDERLEY EDGE WOMEN’S GROUP We are a small friendly group of retired ladies who like to spend time together and we welcome all ladies, regardless of age. We enjoy talks given by guest Speakers and also games, such as Bingo, followed by a nice cup of tea and cake. If you are looking for a way to meet new people and learn new things then why not come and join us? You might find it is just your cup of tea!

We meet on the second Wednesday of the month at the Emerson Suite, Festival Hall, Alderley Edge at 2pm.

We also meet for a social ‘coffee and get-together’ at The De Trafford Arms in Alderley Edge on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 10am

For further details contact: Margaret Potts Tel: 01625 582154

DEAN ROW WI We are a large and friendly group of ladies who meet the first Wednesday of every month at 2pm at Dean Row Village Hall, Browns Lane, Wilmslow. We always have an interesting speaker, discuss the activities that are planned for the following month and have tea, biscuits and chat with old and new friends.

We have a number of sub groups such as bowls, book club, drama group and craft and chatter - we also arrange outings to all sorts of places.

If you would be interested in joining us, just pop by or give our secretary Sue a ring on 0161 485 6694. You will be made very welcome.

CHARITABLE WORK IN THE COMMUNITY The Furniture Station is a charity based in Hazel Grove that supports vulnerable families and individuals going into accommodation with the provision of re-used, good quality furniture.

Driven by four staff and 25 volunteers, it supports local people suffering crisis, families experiencing financial hardship, homeless people going into accommodation and those having to set up a new home for a reason beyond their control. Some 2,500 furniture items are delivered to around 700 homes each year, relieving poverty and allowing neighbours to establish and maintain their tenancy.

The Furniture Station was awarded The Queens Award for Voluntary Service in 2015, followed by Community Spirited Organisation at The Proud of Stockport Awards 2015; both recognising the value in the work carried out to help those who are deprived. Having a bed to sleep on or a table to eat food from are essential items that we often take for granted, yet they are needed to improve wellbeing, to maintain a family’s tenancy and allow that family to secure a more independent lifestyle.

The Furniture Station will collect your unwanted, re-usable furniture items FREE of charge to support families in need. Stock is currently low. We need sofas, wardrobes, drawers, beds, tables and more. Please DONATE goodquality furniture by calling 0161 456 0717

The Furniture Station, Hazel Grove Baptist Church, Station Street, Hazel Grove, Stockport SK7 4EX.

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Play Bridge? Times they are a changing!

As we get older things change; this is equally applicable to the numbers attending the various Bridge sessions run by Bramhall Bridge Club at the Bramhall Village Club. Playing bridge regularly requires you to use maths, strategy and concentration. As a result it’s a great way to stimulate your brain and help keep your memory active and your brain alert. As the saying goes ‘use it or lose it.’

Playing bridge is a great way to ‘use it!’

Bramhall Bridge Club has hosted well supported sessions of a good standard for many years, both on Wednesday and Friday evenings, in addition to bi-monthly evening sessions on the first and third Saturdays of the month.

More recently there seemed to be a demand for daytime sessions at which point the club started Tuesday morning sessions for improvers; this has been phenomenally successful and as a result further changes are in the pipeline.

A new session marketed as “friendly and competitive” will be available on Monday afternoons (1.30pm – 4.30pm) starting on Monday 24 April. Come along – no partner is required and you will be guaranteed a game. Cost will be £2.50 for members and £3.50 for non-members, everyone will be very welcome and who knows it might not be too long before more day time sessions are available.

For further information please contact Howard Stubbings on 0161 432 3316.

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Win an Organic Recipe Box Founded by farmer Guy Watson, Riverford has been growing and selling organic veg for 30 years and through a national vegbox scheme delivers to 47,000 customers a week.

Dave Hanlon, who delivers Riverford produce in our area, asked if I would like to try their new Quick & Light recipe box. The box contains fresh organic produce, stepby-step recipe cards, and all the ingredients required. Each meal has fewer than 500 calories per portion using leaner cuts of meat, less fat, and lots of seasonal veg.

I’m already a fan of Riverford Organic produce although I often just pick and choose the items I want instead of one of the regular veg boxes. The idea of a recipe box isn’t something I’ve ever considered so I approached it with interest and a little trepidation.

I’m not very good at following recipes – I’m more of a guess the quantity and chuck it all in together kind of cook. So imagine my delight at receiving a box all labelled up with the separate ingredients for three individual meals for two people, right down to the herbs and spices all measured out into the exact quantities required.

The pre-measured ingredients more than made up for the extra time it takes to read and follow a new recipe and I made both meals comfortably in less than 30 mins. They were fresh, tasty and, importantly for me, there’s no waste. The portion sizes were surprisingly generous for ‘light’ meals – in fact the Mushroom & Leek Dahl made plenty for two with a small portion left over for my lunchbox the next day – perfect!

In my box the other meals were Chicken, Spinach & Chickpea Tagine and Herby Pork Escalopes with Roast Tomatoes & Courgettes. The recipes change every week with the seasons, so you’ll always have something new to try. If you’re short of time to plan and prepare but want to eat fresh, healthy, organic food rather than ready meals, then these recipe boxes are an ideal solution – I will definitely be going back for more!

Other recipe boxes available are original, featuring much loved Riverford recipes; quick, speedy seasonal recipes on the table in under 30 minutes; and the vegetarian packed with tasty, fresh and nourishing recipes. Starting from £24.95 and delivered free they are available to order online at www.riverford.co.uk/recipeboxes or by calling the farm on 01803 227227.

To win a Riverford recipe box email competition@insidemagazines.co.uk with the word RIVERFORD as the subject. Please also tell us which issue of INSIDE Magazine you receive. Two names will be picked at random after the closing date of 20 April; Riverford will contact the winners to arrange delivery of your box.

T and C’s: Winner must live in an existing Riverford delivery area (most of England and South Wales including Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Cheshire and High Peak). Prize consists of one, two person, two meal recipe box. There are two recipe boxes to be won.

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simply books

book club choice

His Bloody Project by Graeme Macrae Burnet is an astonishing piece of writing. The year is 1869. A brutal triple murder in a remote community in the Scottish Highlands leads to the arrest of a young man by the name of Roderick Macrae. The centrepiece of the novel is Roderick’s memoir in which he sets out the circumstances which led to such merciless acts of violence - and for which he makes a very frank confession of guilt. It falls to his lawyer and an ‘expert’ in the emergent field of forensic psychiatry to try and save Roderick from the gallows.

Was he mad? What credence should be set by Roderick’s account of events?

This is a spellbinding literary thriller. The description of the impoverished life of highland crofters is vivid and compelling and our sympathies for the accused and his persecution by the Laird’s Constable puts us in the curious position of willing a guilty man to be set free. But is Roderick’s version of events the only ‘truth’? Fascinating and gripping.

Rose Tremain is one of our favourite authors. Her new novel The Gustav Sonata is as beautifully written as any of her previous books.

Gustav grows up in a small Swiss town, where the horrors of the Second World War now seem a distant echo. But Gustav’s father has mysteriously died, and his adored mother Emelie is strangely cold and indifferent towards him. He is a lonely child until one day at Kindergarten he meets Anton. The two boys develop an intense and lifelong friendship but Anton has yet to grasp how deeply his life and Gustav’s are entwined and will only do so when it is almost too late…

A compassionate, elegant and spare piece of writing with a very rare and persuasive understanding of human emotion. One of Rose Tremain’s very best!

And for the children…One Hundred Sausages by Yuval Zommer is a delight. Scruff just loves sausages…so imagine his horror when ONE HUNDRED top-notch sausages are stolen from the butcher’s shop.

And imagine his shock when he gets the blame! It’s time for Scruff and Wonder Dog to take action and sniff out the real culprit.

And finally…Rupert Battersby will be talking at the shop on Wednesday 3 May about the fascinating history of his forebear’s family firm Battersby Hats – its rise and fall over more than a century, and the private triumphs and tragedies of the family who ran it.

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Simply Books 228 Moss Lane, Bramhall, Cheshire SK7 1BD 0161 439 1436 Open Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 5.30pm Andrew Cant www.simplybooks.info

We are looking for friendly, responsible people to deliver Inside Magazines

It’s a great way to get a little exercise and earn some extra cash Altogether, about forty people currently help us to deliver our magazines. Many are retired or semi-retired and they really enjoy the experience. Our magazines are enthusiastically received in most homes, so there is always the chance of a smile or friendly word, en route.

For more details call 01625 879611

or email c.blackie@insidemagazines.co.uk

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hall of mirrors Alderley Edge Festival Hall has mirrored Alderley Edge’s changing needs for nearly 90 years – and it’s in better shape than ever before!

If you’ve ever wondered how Alderley Edge Festival Hall came into being, the clue’s in the name; it was built to house the Alderley Edge Music Festival, which began its illustrious history in 1909, and was doing so well by the 1920s that the Festival committee needed a purpose-built home for this major annual event. An appeal for money was made, a plot was secured from the De Trafford estate, and the Festival Hall was built in 1928, complete with a sprung dance-floor, seating for 450 people downstairs, and with a further 230 seats on the balcony. There was also a rather clever mechanical device which could raise the rear half of the auditorium by three feet and six inches to create a stage for concerts large enough to contain 200 people.

Cinema when it opened in 1938, and it showed films throughout the Second World War period. By 1944 it was owned by Marks Circuit Cinemas – the name reflecting a now long-forgotten concept of a chain (or ‘circuit’) of cinemas owned or managed by a single company. Marks Circuit Cinemas owned about 20 establishments in the Manchester area up until the end of the 1940s. During its use as a cinema in the war years, it continued to be used by Alderley Edge Music Festival.

Re-invention as a cinema For ten years after it opened, the Alderley Edge Music Festival shared its new venue with other community groups, including the Alderley Edge Orchestra, which is still a vibrant part of village life and the Hall also witnessed plays and other entertainments for the pleasure of the locality.

However, despite its popularity and its regular usage, the Festival Hall was in financial trouble by the late 1930s and had accumulated an overdraft of some £4,500 (over £210,000 in today’s money) so it had to be sold. Its new owners re-named it as The Regal

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by John Wallace

Dancing and wrestling In the years after the Second World War, the Regal Cinema was re-born as the Regal Ballroom and came into its own as a superb music and dance venue that became a major regional hit in the 1950s and ‘60s. As well as featuring local big bands and pop combos, it played host to a dazzling array of nationally celebrated groups, including Freddie and the Dreamers, the Hollies, Wayne Fontana and the Mindbenders, and Shane Fenton and the Fentones (of course you’ll know that Shane Fenton later re-invented himself as Alvin Stardust!).

The Regal was also used as a wrestling venue in the 1960s, and a wrestler-impresario by the exotic name of Count Bartelli used to stage a multi-bout show at the Regal featuring heavyweight wrestling luminaries of the time such as Alf Cadman, Bob Sherry - and Jack

Dempsey (not the boxer), who was famed for defeating wrestling’s bad guy, Mick McManus, in the British Welterweight Championship of 1958.

A Medical Centre and multi-purpose venue Since then, the Festival Hall has been mercifully used for far less aggressive purposes – and of course, in most recent times it has been entirely refurbished and re-built, now incorporating a fine village Medical Centre (formerly the George Street practice) and pharmacy. This includes a large function space that still operates as a concert hall for Alderley Edge Music Festival, as well as a dance venue for private and public functions – thus proving the Festival Hall’s past, present and future importance as a vital part of Alderley Edge village life!

John Wallace is currently writing a book focusing on the history of the Festival Hall, and would welcome any information, memories and recollections of the Hall’s past. If you would like to add your contribution, please contact him at noffin@aol.com

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Answers: thread, pin cushion, sewing machine, thimble, scissors, tape measure Extra letter answer: needle

48

just 4 kids

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

Monday

Thursday

Songs and Rhymes. 9.30am and 10.15am Wilmslow Methodist Church. Share all the favourite songs with the child in your care, refreshments and play area available. Drop in sessions, £1 per session

Under 5’s Rhyme Time 11-11.30am Term time only. Wilmslow Library. Children must be accompanied by a parent or carer. Contact 01625 374060

Contact Susan on 07966 507898 or the church office, 01625 528892 (answer phone pm) WFA Little Strikers Pre-School Football 10-11am 18 months – 4 years Term time only. Wilmslow Parish Hall, Cliff Road. £5.50 per session, no pre-booking required. Contact Erik on 07792 791382 Under 5’s Story Time 11-11.30am Term time only. Wilmslow Library. Children must be accompanied by a parent or carer. Contact 01625 374060.

Under 5’s Story Time 2.30-3pm Term time only. Handforth Library. Children must be accompanied by a parent or carer. Contact 01625 378272

Tuesday Under 5’s Rhyme Time 10-10.30am Term time only. Alderley Edge Library. Children must be accompanied by a parent or carer. Contact 01625 374030.

Under 5’s Rhyme time 11-11.30am Term time only. Handforth Library. Children must be accompanied by a parent or carer. Contact 01625 378272

Wednesday Coffee, Cake & Craft/Tiddlywinks 10am-12noon Wilmslow Methodist Church. Coffees, hot chocolates and cakes with play area for little ones. Prices from 50p to £1.50. Contact Susan on 07966 507898 or the church office, 01625 528892 (answer phone pm) WFA Little Strikers Pre-School Football 10-11am 18 months – 4 years Term time only. Alderley Edge Scout Hut. Talbot Road. £5.50 per session, no pre-booking required. Contact Erik on 07792 791382 Mums, Dads and Tots 1.30 to 3pm Term time only. St Benedict’s Church Hall, Hall Road, Handforth.

Lots of toys for under 5’s, come along for a cuppa. Contact Jo on 07762 494843.

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Baby Massage 1.30 pm Wilmslow Methodist church. For babies 8 weeks+ and their careers. £5 per session, including refreshments. For information and to book in, please contact Susan on 07966 507898 or the church office, 01625 528892 (answer phone pm) Thursday Tots 2-4pm Term time only, Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Alderley Road. For pre-school children and parents/carers. £1.50 per family.

Contact thursdaytots@hotmail.co.uk, or phone Barbara on 01625 584267.

Friday Friday Tots 10-11.30am Term time only, Alderley Edge Methodist Church, Church Hall, Chapel Road. Contact Susan Moran on 01625 585166.

Baby Rhyme Time 2.15-2.45pm, Alderley Edge Library.

This is for babies aged under 1 who are not walking. Sessions run throughout the year. There is no requirement to book a place and the sessions are free.

WFA Little Strikers Pre-School Football 11.30-12.30pm Term time only. St Johns Church Hall, Knutsford Road, Wilmslow SK9 6EL £5.50 per session , no pre-booking required. Contact Erik on 07792 791382

Saturday WFA Little Strikers Pre-School Football 9.30-10.30 for 18 months to 2 ½ years. 10.45 - 11.45 for 2 ½ to 4 year olds. All year round. Pownall Hall School, Carrwood Road, Wilmslow. £5.50 per session, no pre-booking required. Contact Erik on 07792 791382.

Sunday Messy Church 4pm onwards First Sunday of every month, Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Alderley Road. For more information please contact messychurchwilmslow@hotmail.com or phone Barbara on 01625 584267.

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

inside guide

april - may 2017

selected events in your area

SATURDAY 1 APRIL

Saturday 8 April

Capriccio vocal ensemble presents ‘Spring into Song’ A concert in aid of the Macclesfield Branch of Arthritis Research UK Conductor: David Walsh Accompanist: Tim Walker.

Tickets: £10, under 18s free. Tickets & further information from 01625 873491, 01625 263558 or the Visitor Information Centre, Town Hall, Market Place, Macclesfield 01625 378123 email: maccong.aruk@virginmedia.com United Reformed Church, Park Green, Macclesfield, SK11 7NA 7.30pm

Northern Chamber Orchestra NCO Soloists – ‘Masterworks.’ 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; on the door. www.ncorch.co.uk Heritage Centre, Roe Street, Macclesfield 7.30pm

Sunday 2 April Bollington Festival Music Theatre presents Rainbow to Rainow.

More info at www.bollingtonartscentre.co.uk Tickets on the door.

Bollington Arts Centre 2.30pm and 5pm

Monday 3 April Wilmslow Writers Some members are published authors but no previous experience is necessary, just a love of writing for its own sake.

For further information contact our Secretary on 01625 524962 – see In Touch for other dates.

St. John’s Church Hall on Knutsford Road, Wilmslow 10am to 12 noon

Thursday 6 April 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

Friday 7 April Oscar’s Extravorganza ‘Flying Around’ themed organ recital. Admission Free – retiring collection. Organist Philip Underwood FRCO. www.organrecitals.com St Bartholomew’s Church Wilmslow 1.15pm

Saturday 8 April The Laurence Singers Join us for a super tasty, musical treat that won’t ruin your waistline! Great, traditional fare, all locally sourced, from your favourite English composers! With music from Elgar, Purcell, Gilbert & Sullivan, Vaughan Williams, Stanford (Te Deum) and much more. Tickets £9 (£8 conc.), 0161 850 0304, tickets@thelaurencesingers.org.uk Booking advised. www.thelaurencesingers.org.uk Wilmslow United Reformed Church, Alderley Road, Wilmslow SK9 1PR 7.30pm

Sunday 9 April The Lindow Singers J H Maunder: Olivet to Calvary. Conductor: Russell Medley.

Accompanist: Richard Brocklehurst.

Refreshments will be available in the interval. Tickets £10 (Full) £9 (Concessions) £2 (Students) from choir members or call 01625 611124 St Bartholomew’s Church, Cliff Rd, Wilmslow SK9 4AA 3pm

Sunday 9 April Bollington Festival Choir Spring Concert Three contrasting masterpieces, written between 1730 and 1815, directed by Donald Judge, including JS Bach’s cantata Nun danket alle Gott (based on the hymn we know as Now thank we all our God), Handel’s anthem Let God Arise and Schubert’s Mass in G. All three works will be accompanied by a small chamber orchestra. Please call 01625 575554 for tickets.

St Oswald’s Church, Bollington

Tuesday 11 April East Cheshire Association of the National Trust Lecture ‘How we communicate’ with speaker Helen Tenwolde.

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

Continued over

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

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Wednesday 19 April

MON 24 to SAT 29 APRIL

Lunchtime Concert with Elliot Gresty/clarinet and Russell Lomas/piano Admission by programme £5, light lunches available from 12noon, concert commences at 1pm. Further information from 01625 586713. Alderley Edge Methodist Church, Chapel Rd

Brookdale Theatre Guys and Dolls A musical Fable of Broadway based on a story and characters of Damon Runyon. Ticket info 0161 439 0505 Brookdale Theatre, Bridge Lane, Bramhall 7.30pm Saturday matinee 2.15pm

Wednesday 19 April

MON 24 to SAT 29 APRIL

Craft and Chatter A fortnightly get together for crafters of all kinds, card making, quilting, collage, embroidery, sewing and any other interests you might have. Contact Chrissie 0161 439 8262 for further details. £2 donation requested.

Dean Row Chapel Hall, Adlington Road, SK9 2BX 2pm

Friday 21 April Wilmslow Guild Specialist Lecture Revealing the Green Man, with Mark Olly. Tickets £8, last date for purchase is 7 days before the event. For more information visit www.wilmslowguild.org Wilmslow Guild, 1 Bourne Street 7.30pm to 9.30pm

Saturday 22 April Wilmslow Guild Plant Sale Come to the Wilmslow Guild for our annual plant sale run by the Gardening Club. Both unusual and more familiar plants will be available for sale at reasonable prices. Admission is free.

Wilmslow Guild, 1 Bourne Street, Wilmslow SK9 5HD 10am to 11am

SATURDAY 22 APRIL A Public Enquiry Into The Death And Resurrection Of Jesus You are invited to this dramatic performance which explores what is revealed when 21st century ‘due process’ and medical knowledge meet 1st century eye witness testimony.

Voluntary donations to ‘SyriaRelief’ in lieu of tickets. www.m-c-c.org.uk.

MACCLESFIELD TOWN HALL Council Chamber 8pm

Saturday 22 April Wilmslow Symphony Orchestra Concert programme Sibelius: Finlandia, Tchaikovsky: Concert Suite from Sleeping Beauty, Sibelius: March from Katelia Suite, Sibelius: Symphony no. 1. Tickets £12, £10, £2 under 16’s Tickets available from; Ticket Secretary 01925 756 144. Bang and Olufsen, Alderley Rd, Wilmslow, 01625 527666. Therapy, Bank Sq, Wilmslow, 01625 400113. Via the website or at the door www.wilmsloworchestra.co.uk Evan’s Hall, Wilmslow Leisure Centre 7.45pm

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Poynton Players present Neighbourhood Watch A dramatic comedy by Alan Ayckbourn. 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 26 April Wilmslow Guild Flower Club ‘Wood you believe it’ with Dorothy Monks. Contact Ros Heywood on 01625 529467 or visit www.nafascheshire.org.uk Wilmslow Guild, Bourne Street 1.45pm

Wednesday 26 April Wilmslow U3A Naughty but Nice with June Corner A charge of £1 is made for each meeting which includes a cup of tea/coffee and a biscuit URC schoolrooms, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow 2.30pm

Thursday 27 April Wilmslow Guild Natural History Society Confessions of a Lunatic, by Kevin Briggs. Birding and other wildlife in the Lune Valley. Visitors welcome £4. Further information from the Chairman – David Warner 01625 874387 Wilmslow Guild, 1 Bourne Street, Wilmslow 7.30pm

Thursday 27 April East Cheshire Association of the National Trust Lecture ‘Scientists, Engineers, Mathematicians and Medics associated with Didsbury.’ Speaker Diana Leitch. St Michael’s Church Hall, St Michaels Avenue, Bramhall 7.30pm

Saturday 29 April Cheshire Sinfonia - Beautiful Music in Bramhall Schubert – Symphony No.5 in B flat major D.485; Wagner – Siegfried Idyll WWV.103; Mendelssohn – Symphony No. 3 in A minor Op.56 (‘Scottish’) 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

Wednesday 3 May

Saturday 13 May

Craft and Chatter A fortnightly get together (also on 17 and 31 May) for crafters of all kinds. Bring your own project and enjoy good crafting company with a cuppa and the opportunity to learn from each other. We look forward to seeing you at Contact Chrissie 0161 439 8262 for further details. £2 donation requested.

Dean Row Chapel Hall, Adlington Road, SK9 2BX 2pm

The Swing Commanders and G I Jive At The May Fair Dance playing music from the 40s and 50s.

Swing, Jive, Ballroom Latin, Barn Dance, Virginia Reel, etc. are all part of the fun evening or relax, listen to the music and watch the dancing. Licensed Bar - Tickets £15 (to include light bites). Tel: Diana 01625 585600 or Margaret 01625 585802.

The Festival Hall, Talbot Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7HR 7.30pm to midnight

Thursday 4 May 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 13 May

Friday 5 May

Wednesday 17 May

Oscar’s Extravorganza Oscar’s Package Holiday themed organ recital. Admission Free – retiring collection. Organist Philip Underwood FRCO. www.organrecitals.com St Bartholomew’s Church Wilmslow 1.15pm

Lunchtime Concert A recital by Students from the Royal Northern College of Music Admission by programme £5, light lunches available from 12noon, concert commences at 1pm Further information from 01625 586713 Alderley Edge Methodist Church, Chapel Road

Sunday 7 May Plant Hunters’ Fair Half price entry to the gardens and plant fair £3 Adlington Hall, Mill Lane, Macclesfield, Cheshire, SK10 4LF 10am to 4pm

Saturday 13 May Gleneagles Ps & Qs Quilt Show Our friendly patchwork and quilting group is holding a quilt exhibition and sale. There will be stalls selling materials and sewing items, a raffle and tombola. Light lunches, cakes and refreshments will be available. £3 entrance to include tea/ coffee.

URC church, Wilmslow Road, Heald Green, SK8 3BH 10am to 4pm

Saturday 13 May Northern Chamber Orchestra ‘Summer Night’ with Lara Melda, 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, on the door. www.ncorch.co.uk Heritage Centre, Roe Street, Macclesfield 7.30pm

Barnby Choir Concert Brahms: Liebeslieder Waltzs, Elgar: Serenade for Strings (Arranged for piano duet), Chilcott :Songs and Cries of London Town, Parry: I Was Glad and Blest Pair of Sirens. Tickets available on the door or in advance from Anne Macdonald 07810 517464 (£12, £10 Concessions, £5 Students) Further information please visit www.thebarnbychoir.co.uk St Bartholomew’s Church Cliff Road Wilmslow SK9 4 AA 7.30pm

Thursday 18 May ‘Lightning Under Their Skirts’ a play by Joy Winkler. Suitable for children aged 11+ Tickets cost £10/ £8 concessions/ £5 children (ticket price includes ‘sixties’ style refreshment!)

Macclesfield Library, Jordangate, Macclesfield 7.30pm

Saturday 20 May Alderley Edge May Fair An established part of the local events calendar, Alderley Edge May Fair is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike!

Village Parade – Arena Events – Live Music – Dog Show – Fancy Dress – Funfair -- Circus – Artisan Market Stalls – Freshly Cooked Food – Licensed Bar – FREE ENTRY The Park, Ryleys Lane Continued over

don’t forget!

Copy deadline for the next issue is

Wednesday 10 May

Call 01625 879611 or email info@insidemagazines.co.uk to secure your space.

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Saturday 20 May

Wednesday 24 May

Cheshire Chorale and Cheshire Sinfonia Beautiful Music in Bramhall.

Delius – Songs of Farewell; Duruflé - Requiem; Elgar – Enigma Variations Op.36.

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

Wilmslow Guild Flower Club ‘Elemental’ with award winning florist Alison Cooper Contact Ros Heywood on 01625 529467 or visit www. nafascheshire.org.uk Wilmslow Guild, Bourne Street 1.45pm

Sunday 21 May Join Transition Wilmslow on a Food Foraging afternoon Led by James Wood, expert forager and cook, we will take a walk through the wilder parts of Wilmslow and look for plants we can make tea with, flavour drinks with and cook with. All welcome, dress for the weather, and bring a basket or bag for what you collect.

Adults £20, accompanied children free, pre booking essential through Eventbrite at http://bit.ly/2mzx16R (no booking fee) Meet at 2pm prompt at The Carrs Car Park, Cliff Road, Wilmslow, SK9 4AA

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Wednesday 24 May Wilmslow U3A. Cycling with John Wallace A charge of £1 is made for each meeting which includes a cup of tea/coffee and a biscuit URC schoolrooms, Chapel Lane, Wilmslow 2.30pm

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hot cross buns A traditional Easter, springtime treat, why not bake a batch to share with friends, neighbours and colleagues? Delicious served either warm with butter or just plain, at any time of day.

Ingredients for 12 servings Dough ■■ 500g strong bread flour ■■ 7g easy bake yeast ■■ 275ml whole milk ■■ 50g butter (unsalted, cold, diced) ■■ 1 medium beaten egg ■■ 75g unrefined golden caster sugar ■■ 1 ½ tsp salt

Toppings ■■ 75g sultanas ■■ 2 tsp mixed spice ■■ 100g plain white flour ■■ 50g mixed peel

1. MIX: Boil the milk in a pan, remove from heat then add the butter. Leave to cool until warm.

Mix the dry ingredients in a large bowl and then add the milk and beaten egg, stirring with a wooden spoon. KNEAD: On a lightly floured surface, knead the mixture for approx. 10 minutes. RISE: Lightly grease the large bowl, place the dough in the bowl then cover with a clean cloth and leave to rise until doubled in size – this could be up to two hours dependent on how warm theroom is.

2. SHAPE: Sift the mixed spice over the dough, then knead in the sultanas and mixed peel. Slice into 12 even sized pieces, roll into balls and place, well-spaced, on a lined baking tray.

3. PROVE: Cover the dough again, and leave until doubled in size again. Preheat oven to fan 180C/200C/Gas 6. BAKE: Score a cross on top of each bun with a sharp knife. Mix the plain flour with a tbsp. of water at a time to form a paste.

Use a piping bag to pipe crosses on the buns on the cuts you made. Bake the buns for around 11-15 minutes or until golden.

4. GLAZE: Melt the jam, sieve then brush apricot glaze over buns and leave to cool on a wire rack.

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useful numbers Alderley Edge Churches Methodist Church Methodist Church Office St Mary’s Church with Birtles St Philip’s Church (Vicarage) St Philip’s Parish Office St Pius X Church

Local Government 01625 873407/583337 01625 586713 01625 585440 01625 583249 01625 581477 01625 582386

01625 528892 01625 520309 01625 520309 01625 532145 01625 583251 01625 528892 01625 523384 01625 522776 01625 532600 07974 997798 01625 403509

01625 584545 01625 548555 01625 529421 01625 532244 0161 426 5844

Fire Service (non-emergency) Wilmslow Fire Station

01625 524066

Hospitals Macclesfield Hospital NHS Non-Emergency

01625 421000 111

Leisure Centres Wilmslow Leisure Centre Macclesfield Leisure Centre

Police (non-emergency) (non-emergency)

101

Alderley Edge Post Office Handforth Post Office Wilmslow Post Office

01625 599655 01625 522946 01625 524036

Alderley Edge Schools Alderley Edge Pre-School Playgroup The Ryleys School Alderley Edge Primary School Nether Alderley Primary School Mottram St Andrew Primary Alderley Edge School for Girls

Ashdene Primary Dean Oaks Primary Gorsey Bank Primary Lacey Green Primary Lindow Primary Pownall Hall School St Anne’s Fulshaw St Benedicts Catholic Primary Styal Primary Wilmslow Grange Primary Wilmslow High School Wilmslow Preparatory School

01625 599300 01625 583241 01625 383262 01625 583282 01625 829035 01625 583028

01625 383232 01625 383333 01625 383020 01625 525157 01625 582555 01625 523141 01625 523536 01625 520207 01625 383253 01625 526566 01625 526191 01625 524246

Travel 01625 533789 01625 615602

Bus Information Train Information Manchester Airport

01625 374030 01625 378 272 01625 615602 01625 374060

Utilities

Libraries Alderley Edge Library Handforth Library Macclesfield Library Wilmslow Library

01625 504791

Wilmslow Schools

Doctors/Medical Centres Alderley Edge Medical Practice Wilmslow Health Centre Handforth Health Centre Kenmore Medical Centre Hulme Hall Medical Group

0300 1235500

Post Offices

Wilmslow Churches Methodist Church, Wilmslow St Ann’s C of E Church St Bartholomew’s Parish Church St Chad’s Handforth St John’s Lindow St Mary’s Methodist Handforth St Teresa’s RC Church St Benedict’s RC Church Wilmslow United Reformed Church Quaker Meeting House Dean Row Unitarian Chapel

E. Cheshire Council Info Services Macclesfield Borough Neighbourhood Wardens

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

0300 125 5020 option 4 0845 748 4950 0161 489 3000

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

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classified index BATHROOMS Dave Beal

DENTAL CLINICS 60

Trinity House Dental Care Westgate Dental Practice

29

DRAINAGE

44

DRESS AGENCY

31 47

DRIVEWAYS

BLINDS North West Sunblinds

BOOK SHOPS Simply Books

BUILDERS JS Services S.P. Lee & Co

CAR DEALERSHIP Halliwell Jones

23 7

CAR REPAIRS Scratches & Scrapes

The Cheshire Wardrobe

41

CARPETS & FLOORING

GARAGE DOORS

CHIROPODISTS 45 56

CHURCHES 36

CLEANING SERVICES Diamond Home Support Wild About Cleaning

60 57 40

COUNSELLORS Eyre Therapy

57

DECORATORS Steve White

30

61

57

LAWNCARE Greensleeves

5

LOFT LADDERS More Than Loft Ladders

52

MUSEUMS Avro Heritage Museum

52

ORGANIC FOOD Riverford Home Delivery

43

OVEN CLEANING 41

PLASTERING Dave Beal

60

PLUMBING & HEATING ASM Gas, Heating, Plumbing G.P.Green Ltd

61 42

RUGS Back Cover

Carrington Doors Styal Landscapes Turners Landscaping

19

HEALTH AND WELLBEING Susan Roberts Body Therapy

14

HEARING SERVICES 12

HOME IMPROVEMENT & PROPERTY MAINTENANCE F.T.W Services

Falcon Security

8

The Hemming Room

57

SOLICITORS Slater & Gordon

16 & 34

STAIRCASE RENOVATIONS The Stair Shop

41

TRAVEL Travel by Design

28

TREE SERVICES Swift Tree & Arboricultural Services 8

61

WINDOWS CLEANING

29

WINDOW & CONSERVATORY REPAIRS

KENNELS & CATTERY Studholme Kennels & Cattery

25

SOFT FURNISHINGS 8 20

GARDEN FURNITURE Instashade

The Weave

SECURITY 61

GARDEN DESIGN & LANDSCAPING

Hear Pure

CLUBS & ENTERTAINMENT Bramhall Village Club

61 42 47

ESTATE AGENTS Mosley Jarman

Matt Finish

Ovenclean

C J C Electrical G. P. Green Ltd Maddocks Uniquely Chic

27 11

51 49

ELECTRICIANS

Alice Chilton In-Home Care 13 Cavendish Court Inside Front Cover Home Instead 56 Inspired Retirement Village 24

Churches Together in Wilmslow

8

Greenbank Preparatory School Ladybarn House School

FURNITURE

Alderley Edge Foot Clinic Foot Doctor

19 57

Styal Landscapes

CARE HOMES & SERVICES

Linney Cooper Living Floors

62

Pure Clean Drainage Solutions

EDUCATION

CAR LEASING & FINANCE Britannia Car Finance

KITCHENS 15 45

Cavendish Window Cleaning The Window Repair Centre

56

Inside Back Cover