Local Life Magazine

IN & AROUND EAST CHESHIRE SEPTEMBER 2010

£2.00

QUINTA PRIMARY SCHOOL Happy school where great minds meet

NETHER ALDERLEY

HISTORICAL VILLAGE

LINEAR PARK, POYNTON

WALK IN FAMOUS FOOTSTEPS

CONGLETON PILOT MUM

FLYING HIGH

NANTWICH FOOD FESTIVAL ST PETER’S CHURCH, NR. CREWE FASHION IN THE SHOPS WHAT’S ON SPOTLIGHT ON CONGLETON

09

The Real Fire C o DISLEY

FROM INSPIRATION TO INSTALL ATION

Traditional & Contemporary Fires & Fireplaces of Distinction Stove & Solid Fuel Specialists Hetas & Gas Safe Registered Fitters See an extensive range of gas & electric fires in our three storey showrooms where we will be happy to give professional & independent advice

01663 762600 32 Market Street. Disley. Stockport SK12 2DT. MAIN A6.

www.realfireco.co.uk

combined therapy centres REGISTERED MEMBERS OF THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS COUNCIL | RECOGNISED BY ALL MAJOR INSURANCE COMPANIES

5 1 CTC celebrate their

YEARS

15 year anniversary A quality experience over a wide range of treatments

NEW CLINIC NOW OPEN AT LAUREL BANK SURGERY, OLD HALL STREET, MALPAS, CHESHIRE, SY14 8PS. TO BOOK AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL

Physiotherapy Assessment and Treatment • Acupuncture • Sports Massage • 01270 588244 Bio-Mechanical Assessment • Reflexology • Hydrotherm Massage • Remedial Massage • Dietician • Personal Fitness Training • Counselling • Psychotherapy • Indian Head Massage • Reiki • Hypnotherapy • Chiropody • and much more...

For appoinments at all clinics please call:

01270 588244 CLINICS NOW AT CREWE HALL AND ROOKERY HALL

7 Mallard Court, Mallard Way, Crewe Business Park 1 George House, Princes Court, Beam Heath Way, Nantwich

CREWE • NANTWICH • CONGLETON • STOKE • www.ctcphysio.co.uk 2 LOCAL LIFE

Manchester International Airport

M56 A556 M6

contents ISSUE NO: 41

Hazel Handforth Grove Disley

M A538

WILMSLOW

A6

Alderley Edge

Bollington

Prestbury A537

A537

A535

Buxton

MACCLESFIELD

A34

Gawsworth Winsford M6

A533

CONGLETON

A53

A534

A530 SANDBACH

A51

A54

A54

A523

A34 Biddulph

A534

Leek

A500

SEPTEMBER 2010 A529 A530

CONTRIBUTORS Deborah Bowyer Editor d.bowyer32@btinternet.com

28

06

60

Dilys Gater Arts Editor anecdotespublishing@btinternet.com

Tony Mullock - Magazine Design Andrew Pickford - Photographer Shirley Palin - Photographer

ADVERTISING Carole Walsh Advertising Manager carolewalsh@btinternet.com

01782 385071 53

39

57

Maureen Read Advertising Executive maureenread@laxt10.freeserve.co.uk

4 12 20 24 28 30

Spotlight on Nether Alderley Historical village

Property Magnificent homes on the market

Quinta Primary School Great minds think alike

Kindergarten to College Pilot Mum Flying high

Spotlight on Congleton Booming town looks to the future

36

Linear Park

39

Fashion in the shops

44

Take a walk in the footsteps of David Bellamy

New looks for Autumn

Antiques Oak - a symbol of strength

46 51

Home Interiors and Gardens Out & About Nantwich Food and Drink Festival

52

Wining and dining

54

St Peter’s Church

57

What’s On

60

Spotlight on Dance

Guide to fine food

Cover Picture Meadow Farm

By Andrew Pickford

Reaches out into the community

Your guide to theatreland

Colour and passion

62

Entertainment Round Up

64

Classifieds

66

01782 372185

News, views and gossip

Diary of events Leisure and entertainment

• The opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of C A Walsh Publishing Ltd. The greatest care has been taken to ensure accuracy but the publishers cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means without prior permission of the publisher.

All advertising, and subscription enquiries to: 01782 385071 carolewalsh@btinternet.com Published by C A Walsh Publishing Ltd. Cresta Common Lane Rough Close Stoke-on-Trent Staffordshire ST3 7ND Telephone/Fax: 01782 385071 email: carolewalsh@btinternet.com Printed by Buxton Press

LOCAL LIFE 3

Nether Alderley ‌

HISTORIC VILLAGE WHERE footballers, soap stars and wildlife unite

By Deborah Bowyer Pictures: Andrew Pickford

THE MILL AT NETHER ALDERLEY

A

4 LOCAL LIFE

lbert the owl twizzles his head round and takes a side view of the rolling countryside around him.

The barn owl is a permanent resident at the animal rescue hospital at Meadow Farm in Nether Alderley.

Found by the roadside about a year ago, the captively bred owl is perfectly at home in his safe haven in the Cheshire countryside.

Altrincham M56 A556 M6

Manchester International Airport

M A538

Handforth

Poynton Pott Shrigley Wilmslow Alderley Edge A6 Knutsford Bollington Nether Alderley

Prestbury

A537

A535

A34

Winsford

HazelGrove Disley

Middlewich

Holmes Chapel M6

A533 A530

A537

Macclesfield Gawsworth A54

A54

Congleton

A534

Sandbach

A523

A53

A51 A34 A534

Crewe

Barbridge

Nantwich

Shavington A500 A529

Wrenbury A530

Wybunbury

Audlem

Alsager

Biddulph Leek

Buxton

And he couldn’t have chosen a better place to live than the pretty village of Nether Alderley off the busy A34 road.

It may no longer have a pub or village shop – in another life it would have had both - but the village still has lots to offer.

And when the multi-million bypass Alderley Edge bypass is complete, taking traffic away from the village, it is set to be a lot quieter.

The village has many famous visitors and residents both in this century and previous ones.

The Old Rectory next to Nether Alderley’s stunning St Mary’s Church was once the home of Neil and Christine Hamilton.

And the pretty 14th century church next door, complete with its 1200 year old yew tree in the grounds, has a wealth of history.

Not only does it have original William Morris curtains and a LOCAL LIFE 5

Nether Alderley …

L to R Margaret Springle, Florence Daw, William Hurst, Archie Ferns, Jack Cheetham and owner Melanie Hallam

6 LOCAL LIFE

William Morris and Byrne window, it also has an opera box type pew for the Stanley family.

In the grounds of the church, is the Stanley Mausoleum which houses a tomb containing the ashes of the 4th Lord Stanley and his wife, Mary Katherine The mausoleum also contains various village artefacts, depicting Nether Alderley’s rich history.

On one side is a `bier’, used to carry shroud-wrapped bodies into the church prior to burial.

On another side, are photographs and signs of times gone by, one showing the village shop now a bed and breakfast.

The Stanleys produced barons and baronets, earls and kings, cabinet ministers, bishops, explorers and a philosopher to name a few.

A separate entrance at the side of the church leads to the Stanley pew which has the six shields belonging to the wives of the Stanleys.

The Old School stands at the entrance to the church and is now used as the parish hall.

St Mary’s Church has been used as a set location for Sherlock Holmes and the wedding of Coronation Street characters, Molly and Tyrone.

And it was also the venue for the christening of Manchester United’s Michael Carrick’s daughter attended by Rooney and other guests.

“The church is in a very beautiful location and has a wealth of history,” said Rector, the Rev James Clark Milnes.

“Nether Alderley is a fantastic village and a wonderful place to live and work. It’s like a world on its own.”

Melanie Hallam, owner of Alderley Day Nursery, on Congleton Road, Nether Alderley, is also full of praise for the village.

“It’s really like a suburb of Alderley Edge and is in a very convenient location for people working in a variety of locations,” said Melanie, who set up the nursery after having her first child. “It’s a lovely place.”

The nursery follows the Montessori approach to learning, developed by Dr Maria Montessori, to encourage children to learn from both individual self-governing activities as well as team challenges in a safe, caring and well-ordered environment.

Fellow Nether Alderley business owners, husband and wife team Peter and Jan Bowen run Alderley Pilates Studio at

Nether Alderley Primary School

DON’T MISS NEXT MONTH’S

Local Life VILLAGE FEATURE Haslington LOCAL LIFE 7

Nether Alderley …

Monks Heath Hall in Chelford Road, The duo trained as Body Control Pilates teachers after successful careers in teaching, marketing and personnel management, “Having been teaching locally we were looking for a convenient location for our clients as well as the opportunity to provide a distinctive setting,” said Peter.

“Our studio has good accessibility but its location in a stylish barn conversion provides a peaceful and relaxing setting.

“We actually live nearby in Chelford but Nether Alderley works for clients from not just Alderley itself but also nearby Prestbury, Macclesfield, Wilmslow and Knutsford.

“We enjoy visits from teachers from London who run teachers workshops and lessons for our clients. All love the peaceful rural setting and are fascinated by the sight of the occasional cow peering through the window or a glimpse of a pheasant.”

Jane Stanton with Albert the owl, Meadow Farm

8 LOCAL LIFE

Buttercross in church grounds

Jan and Peter of Alderley Pilates Studio.

LOCAL LIFE 9

Nether Alderley …

10 LOCAL LIFE

Historic buildings abound in Nether Alderley, including the Grade II listed Millbrook Cottage in Congleton Road, many years ago the village shop but now a guest house.

At the end of the garden is a small babbling brook gently flowing from the mill opposite.

The Elizabethan corn mill, Nether Alderley Mill, one of only four virtually complete corn mills in Cheshire, belongs to the National Trust.

Further on in the village, is AstraZenca’s Alderley Park, home to some of the world’s most skilled and experienced science professionals working at the frontiers of medicine.

And while work on the frontiers of science is being carried out at Alderley Park, barriers of science and biology of a different kind are being pushed back at another location.

Deep in the rolling countryside surrounding Nether Alderley, Meadow Farm is home to a thriving animal rescue hospital run by Jane Stanton and Martin Turner.

“I read about Martin’s work and decided to offer him some space at the farm,” said Jane.

“We get calls from members of the public and the RSPCA to take in rescued animals and birds.”

Albert the owl is one of the centre’s many residents and is set to become a permanent one.

“We all love him and he’s so friendly,” said Jane, who helps Martin run the animal rescue hospital.

Albert is happy to be in the spotlight but like many of the village’s past and present residents, he also enjoys a quieter, more rural pace of life.

LOCAL LIFE 11

PROPERTY LEEK’S 15,000 SQUARE FEET LIGHTING SHOWROOMS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Table lamps over 500 in stock Mirrors large and small from £9

Low energy bulbs from £1 Over 1,000 ceiling lights in stock (many with substantial discounts)

Crystal

Special clearance prices on end of range lighting.

Lights a speciality

Fabric shades over 500 different styles and colours in stock

Plus many different styles of Pendants available

BUXTON ROAD • LEEK TEL: 01538 371000 FAX: 01538 373399 • MON-FRI 10.30-5PM • SAT 10.00-5PM • SUN 12-4PM •

www.mister-s-interiors.co.uk SOLO

12 LOCAL LIFE

STUNNING NEW

of the month

LY CONSTRUCTED six bedroom home with state-of-the-art features A substantial newly constructed family house, designed and built to the highest specification, Camps Mount in Prestbury has a leisure complex complete with a swimming pool, six person Jacuzzi, sauna and gym.

The opulence and artistry of the exterior is amplified by the interior, with the use of bespoke fittings with the natural qualities of the marble/stone and walnut complemented by 21st century fittings, such as Lutron lighting, Wi-Fi, iPod docking station and wiring for Sky and sound system.

This Intelligent Home System has touch pads to the ground and first floor principal rooms, with a sophisticated underfloor heating system.

A solid oak front door leads to a galleried entrance hall with limestone flooring and an impressive bespoke walnut and glass

staircase.

The kitchen is bespoke and hand-built with a mixture of cream painted and walnut wall and floor units. The kitchen/breakfast room is open plan to the day room, which has a bespoke walnut AV cabinet housing a Plasma screen television. The day room opens out onto rear gardens via French doors. There are three further generously proportioned reception rooms.

The first floor has four large double bedrooms, most of which have coving and walnut detailing, giving each room an opulent feel. The master suite has a beautifully fitted walnut dressing room and en suite bathroom with audio speakers and Aquavision TV. There are three further double bedrooms to the first floor, all with luxurious en suite bath/shower rooms with

stone tiling. There are two further double bedrooms to the second floor, served by a beautifully fitted family bathroom.

The air conditioned gymnasium is accessed via the first floor and overlooks the leisure suite below. The sumptuously fitted leisure suite houses a 10m x 5m tiled and lit level deck swimming pool with remote controlled cover. To the end of the pool is a tiled Jacuzzi.

Camps Mount is approached via electric gates that open out onto a parking and turning area to the front of the house and garaging. The beautifully landscaped gardens lie predominantly to the rear, with a large stone-flagged terrace abutting the rear elevation, accessed from French doors throughout the ground floor. The manicured lawns are encompassed by mature hedging.

Guide price: ÂŁ3.95m

For more information contact Jackson Stops: 01625 540340 LOCAL LIFE 13

Holmes Chapel

Over Alderley

A delightful family house with mature gardens & swimming pool.

4 reception rooms, garden room, study, kitchen, utility, 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms (1 en suite). Garaging, storage room, car port & outdoor WC. Beautifully landscaped gardens with outdoor heated pool & summer house. In all just over approximately 1 acre.

A charming 19th Century lodge house. Entrance hall, 2 cloakrooms, drawing room, dining room, morning room, study, kitchen, utility, sitting room/bedroom 4, 3 bedrooms (all en suite). Double garage, annex, stable block, all weather manège, paddocks, beautifully landscaped gardens, in all just over approximately 3 acres.

Guide Price: £1,050,000

Guide Price: £1,695,000

Fast find 39663

Fast find 39703

Hulme Walfield

Prestbury

An extremely spacious dormer bungalow. Entrance hall, WC, 3 reception rooms, breakfast kitchen, 3 bedrooms (1 en suite), bathroom. Garaging, various stores, magnificent manicured & landscaped gardens, paddock land, fully stocked pond, approximately 3.5 acres.

Perfection in architecture & design. Galleried entrance hall, 3 reception rooms, study, media room, breakfast kitchen, utility, cloakroom/WC, 5 bedrooms (4 en suite), bathroom.

Leisure suite with indoor pool, Jacuzzi & sauna. Double garage with gym/apartment above, landscaped gardens with terrace.

Guide Price: £725,000

Price on Application

Fast find 39667

Chester 01244 328361 Hale 0161 928 8881 Offices covering the UK 8 Water Lane, Wilmslow, Cheshire SK9 5AA.

Fast find 38476

Wilmslow office 01625 540340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk

www.jackson-stops.co.uk Use the fast find codes on our wesite to find out more

OAK TREE COTTAGE, POTTS SHRIGLEY

RURAL PROPERTY

with easy access

Oak Tree Cottage, Pott Shrigley, stands within about 1.5 acres of garden and paddock in an idyllic elevated rural setting alongside a country lane on the edge of Lyme Park and the Peak National Park.

A delightful stone built cottage, with westerly facing rooms, the terrace to the front offers splendid summer evening entertaining space for barbecues and al fresco dining.

The driveway sweeps through the gardens and around to the side of the house past the double garage and on to a second entrance, creating a drive though facility if needed.

The main entrance is via double doors to the stone flagged reception hall with a turning

galleried staircase and a beamed ceiling.

Panelled doors lead off to the main reception room with oak floors, a beamed ceiling and an attractive stone & slate fireplace with a living flame gas fire. There is a dual aspect and a bay window to enjoy the view.

The living room has a dining area, a cottage fireplace with a wood burning stove, a triple aspect and French doors opening to the gardens and terrace. A cloakroom with a wash hand basin and a separate w.c. with a utility area lead off via cottage doors.

The kitchen is in a cottage style with painted cupboards, terracotta floor tiles and De Deitrich and Baumatic appliances. Granite tops and superb views to the front.

A boiler room lies off and a door to the rear

opens to a small terrace over which planning permission has been obtained to build a two storey extension. On the first floor, the galleried study landing area has exposed timber purlins and leads off to the attractive master bedroom suite with its dressing area, fitted wardrobe cupboards and an en-suite.

The two remaining bedrooms lie off the other side of the landing and are both doubles, one has fitted wardrobes and both share the house bathroom which has been attractively reappointed with Travertine marble tiling, a contemporary white four piece suite with a double ended bath and has a shower over with a glazed screen.

Guide price: ÂŁ799,950

For more information contact Savills: 01625 417450 LOCAL LIFE 15

OLD MANOR FARM, MARPLE

PERIOD FAMILY HOME

in secluded setting

Hidden deep in a woodland setting at the head of a meandering driveway, Old Manor Farm stands within about five acres of gardens and woodland yet is close to the village of Marple and only a few minutes drive from Stockport.

This delightful and rambling family house has a wealth of character and period features, exposed timbers, beams and superbly proportioned rooms. There are three staircases in total including a ‘secret’ spiral one, in stone, leading off the drawing room to the master bedroom.

The graded roof and right hand wing are in stone and there is a separate cottage with two bedrooms and ground floor garaging. This Grade II* listed house is a period family home in a private setting yet conveniently located.

The main entrance has a covered porch opening to an entrance vestibule behind which stands a cloakroom with a separate w.c.

The more formal rooms lie off to the right

while the day-to-day rooms lie to the left and include a sitting room with a double aspect and a real fire.

A door leads off to the family kitchen with an informal dining area, exposed timbers, a wood burning stove to the sitting area and two openings to the kitchen area with its range cooker and a spiral staircase leading up to the second landing.

A stable door opens to the side and a pair of French doors open to a double glazed conservatory which enjoys views over the rear gardens and opens to the sunny rear terrace.

The formal areas are off the oak floored hall and these include the splendid galleried dining hall with its exposed wall timbers.

The drawing room is in the lower stone section of the house and has a wonderful open fire and a double aspect. There is a door off to the stone spiral staircase which leads up to the master bedroom. The remaining ground

For more information contact Savills: 01625 417450 16 LOCAL LIFE

floor room is currently used as a utility/work room and is ideal as a work/hobby room with double doors opening to the rear terrace.

On the first floor, the main landing leads to the master bedroom with a double aspect, fitted wardrobes and a wash hand basin. The second bedroom suite leads off the landing via a small inner landing with access to a washroom with a w.c. and a separate shower room.

The third bedroom is accessed from the main landing and has fitted cupboards, exposed wall timbers and a double aspect. A door also leads to the second landing which is accessed by a spiral staircase from the kitchen. This leads to two further bedrooms and a house bathroom with a separate w.c. The separate detached cottage lies to the west of the house and includes a garage with a separate access to the cottage.

Guide price: £895,000

Stunning property surrounded by lush countryside Dunge Farm is an exclusive and select rural development of only seven properties located midway between two of Cheshire’s most sought after villages, Alderley Edge and Prestbury.

The inspired design of Number 4 Dunge Farm has been further enhanced with a thoughtful and imaginative extension which has created the ultimate ‘lock up and go’ three double bedroom home.

Surrounded by lush Cheshire countryside and with landscaped and manicured gardens, the property has been beautifully interior designed and includes premium brand fixtures and fittings.

The entrance driveway to the development meanders around the properties and leads to the double parking area to the side of the property.

The atrium-style entrance hall has limestone flooring, a skylight and a French door leading to the rear garden. The living room lies off to the left and includes walnut flooring, a vaulted ceiling, a triple aspect and creates a wonderful entertaining space.

The Siematic kitchen has Gaggenau appliances, a Neff fridge freezer and dishwasher, Corian surfaces and travertine marble flooring and opens to a breakfast area and sitting room with French doors opening to the sunken rear terrace with its Westerly aspect and lawned surround.

An inner hall area gives access to the utility room which has matching Siematic units, plumbing for a washing machine, a sink, gas central heating boiler and limestone flooring.

There is a ground floor master bedroom suite although this room could be used as a further reception room if required and it features walnut flooring, a dual aspect and Poliform wardrobes which are available by further negotiation.

There is an en-suite shower room finished in a very contemporary style with limestone flooring and a wall mirror.

On the first floor, the landing offers a useful study area with a Velux window and walnut floors and there are two good double bedrooms including a guest bedroom with a double French door opening to a Juliet balcony, bespoke Poliform fitted wardrobes and a

dressing table area.

The en-suite bathroom is in travertine marble and has a double ended bath with side mounted mixer tap and a shower, a glazed shower screen, a vanity wash hand basin and a low level W.C. The bathroom cabinet is fitted and as the other bathrooms, is in a very contemporary style. The second double bedroom has bespoke Poliform wardrobes and doors opening to a balcony, two Velux windows, one of which is hidden.

The house bathroom has a vanity wash hand basin, a low level W.C., a double ended bath with side mounted mixer tap, a large wall mirror and bathroom cabinets.

Guide price: £ 750,000

For more information contact Savills: 01625 417450

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Thornycroft Farm . Pexhill Rd . Siddington . Macclesfield SK11 9JN • Open Times . Tues - Fri 9.00 - 5.30 . Sat 9.00 - 5.00 LOCAL LIFE 17

11 CHURCH ROAD, CHEADLE HULME, STOCKPORT, CHESHIRE WORLD FAMOUS RECORDING STUDIO Fully equipped operational recording studios (equipment priced separately) Well established studio with extensive client list. Reception area, control room and 5 studio areas. Rare opportunity to acquire a property of this type LOCATION Revolution Recording Studios are situated on Church Road (B5095) which is within close proximity of Ack Lane West (A5149) and Handforth bypass (A34) in the centre of Cheadle Hulme. The property is therefore easily accessible and within 6 miles of the M60 orbital ring road.

The studio located in a mixed use area, being close to local shops, opposite Cheadle Hulme High School and in a popular residential area.

DESCRIPTION The property comprises a detached brick built building, which has been adapted and converted for their present use as a fully equipped recording studio. The property is arranged on ground and first floor levels and is an attractive traditional red brick building set beneath a slate covered roof.

This presents a rare opportunity to acquire a building of this specialised nature which is fully fitted out and equipped for its use as a Recording Studio. With its strong reputation and extensive client list of Artists, such as The Who, Doves, Sad Cafe, Deborah Harry, Frank Black, Johnny Marr and Take That to name a few.... (Please refer to revolutionstudios.co.uk) ACCOMMODATION The front entrance porch has concrete tiled floor with plastered and painted walls and ceiling. This provides access to the entrance hall and corridor to the main playing areas, and kitchen. The kitchen has tiled

concrete floor and plastered and painted walls, double glazed timber windows and roof.

Access to the main studio, with the suspended timber floor, sound proofed walls and ceiling and is part timber clad. There are two sound booths which are glazed with aluminium framed sliding doors. A further front studio (has been used as drum booth and second control room).

Stairs to the first floor storage area. Reception with suspended timber floor and sound proofed walls. Main control room and rear overdub booth.

PRICE £410,000 exclusive.

The studios are entered in the draft valuation at April 2010 at a rateable value of £11,750.

FITTINGS The studio is a fully equipped and operational Recording Studio with full soundproofing.. The Studio has been established since 1975, and is well equipped for its continued use. There are two Eastlake designed control rooms and a large playing area with various isolation booths.

STUDIO WEBSITE www.revolutionstudios.co.uk

CHARTER WAY, SILK ROAD BUSINESS PARK, MACCLESFIELD

• High bay warehouse • Fully automated racking system • Advanced reduced oxygen fire suppression system • Covered loading bays SERVICES The property benefits from all mains services and drains to a public sewer. The high bay warehouse has an advanced reduced oxygen fire suppression system and benefits from smoke detection and alarm system throughout.

The property is available in a fully operational condition, as all operating systems and equipment handling equipment are within the Freeholder’s ownership.

LOCATION WH2 is located on Astra Zeneca’s 100 acre site, Silk Road Business Park.

The self contained site and building is located approximately 1 mile due north of Macclesfield Town Centre and 20 miles south of Manchester City Centre. The site benefits from communication links to the North West and National Motorway Network. Junction 1 of the M60 motorway is approximately 13 miles due north and Junction 19 of the M6 motorway is 12 miles due west.

SALE/RENTAL PRICE: On application

THE BOX, BROOKE COURT, LOWER MEADOW ROAD, HANDFORTH DEAN

ROAD ONE/ROAD THREE WINDSFORD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, WINSFORD:

CHARLES ROE HOUSE, CHESTERGATE, MACCLESFIELD

THE COURTYARD, CATHERINE ST, MACCLESFIELD

FOR SALE /TO LET High specification self contained offices with on-site parking.

Extends to 5,032 sq ft. Price £1,000,000 exclusive. Rent £17 per sq ft.

For Sale/To Let. Modern Industrial Unit with high eaves and yard. Extends to 33,200 sq ft (Will Split). Rental/Sale price on Application.

TO LET / May Sell, High Quality Office Premises, Within a Listed Building of Character, Includes Good On-site Parking, 3904 sq ft

To Let. High Quality offices with parking in town centre location. 4,004 sq ft (will split).

Rent £14 per sq ft.

POYNTON INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, FIRST AVENUE, POYNTON

TUDOR HOUSE, 53 CHESTERGATE, MACCLESFIELD

2B HAWTHORNE LANE, WILMSLOW

BEECH LANE, MACCLESFIELD

To Let. Warehouse Units with offices and parking. Sizes from 4,225 sq ft 14,234 sq ft. Rental price based on £4.25 per sq ft, incentives available.

To Let/For Sale Prominent Town centre offices. The property measures 3,244 sq ft over three floors with basement for additional storage. Rent £40,000 p.a. Sale Price £495,000.

GAWSWORTH BUSINESS CENTRE, GAWSWORTH

ZURICH HOUSE, HULLEY RD , MACCLESFIELD

To Let. Brand New Development of characterful office accommodation in a rural location. Only 1 suite left from 1,000sq ft. Serviced office available at 150 sq ft.

To Let. Refurbished self contained office with substatial parking. Located next to Silk Road , which forms the main town centre bypass. Sizes from 1,765 sq ft – 3,663 sq ft. Rent £12 per sq ft.

12 C ADLINGTON INDUSTRIAL ESTATE

89 CHURCHILL WAY, MACCLESFIELD

To Let. High quality self contained office with ample onsite parking.

Extends to 2,096 sq ft over 2 floors.

Rental £30,000 p.a.

To Let. Medical centre, suitable for a variety of uses subject to planning.

Prominent main road location. Extends to 2,141 sq ft. Rental £35,000 pa.

To Let. Modern Retail Unit with parking in town centre location.

Extends to 1,196 sq ft over ground floor, rental £23,500 p.a.

38, CHARLOTTE STREET, MACCLESFIELD

Tel: 01625 262222

8, GEORGE STREET, ALDERLEY EDGE

For Sale. Self contained retail/office extends to 718 sq ft. Sale Price £75,000 Rental £8,500 p.a.

To Let. Self contained office building recently refurbished with parking in the centre of the village. Extends to 1,120 sq ft, Rental £15,000 p.a.

OAK HOUSE, MARKET PLACE, MACCLESFIELD

63, MILL STREET , MACCLESFIELD

To Let. Prime three storey shop in the centre of Macclesfield. Neighbouring occupiers include Subway and Oxfam, extends to 1,580 sq ft. Rental £14,950 p.a.

MACCLESFIELD OFFICE Hallams Commercial, Victory House, Churchill Way, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK11 6AY

TO LET, SHOWROOM, WORKSHOP AND OFFICES, CAN DIVIDE UP, RENTAL ON APPLICATION

TO LET. Modern, newly refurbished offices in the centre of Macclesfield Town Centre.

From 1,173 sq ft – 2,395 sq ft. Rental £10 per sq ft (Up to 1 year rent free)

CITY CENTRE OFFICE Hallams Commercial, 346 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4LY www.hallams.com info@hallams.com

Tel: 0161 833 4944

LOCAL LIFE 19

Quinta Primary School...

HAPPY SCHOOL where great minds think alike

N

ot many primary schools can lay claim to a link with the veteran British scientist Sir Bernard Lovell, but The Quinta in Congleton is one.

The school was opened in February 1968 by the then Professor of astronomy at Manchester University, Sir Bernard Lovell.

It takes its name from The Quinta Portuguese for a large five-bedroom house – and was opened to serve the rapidly growing estate around it.

And the school, in Ullswater Road, is as popular today as it was all those years ago when it first opened its doors.

In fact, so popular is The Quinta that plans are in place but awaiting funding for an extension to further improve facilities at the growing school.

The Quinta has 312 pupils on its roll and has a welcome and friendly atmosphere.

Tracey Walklate became head teacher in 2006 and is full of praise for both its staff

20 LOCAL LIFE

By Deborah Bowyer Pictures: Andrew Pickford and pupils.

“We have a caring and committed staff who take pride in creating a stimulating environment,” said Miss Walklate.

“We are proud of our pupils’ achievements and believe that they are attained by a high standard of teaching and by close cooperation between home and school.

“Parents and teachers are partners in the education of every child. When a child starts at this school, parents are invited to share in the education of their child.”

The school has notched up numerous awards - the Basic Skills Quality Mark (received three times), Artsmark Silver, Financial Management Standard in Schools, Healthy Schools, School Achievement

Award and Active Sportsmark.

It sets out to develop the individual talents and gifts of all pupils through a wide range of learning experiences. Ensuring children are confident, independent and motivated learners and have respect for others.

“We are committed to providing a happy, caring and stimulating environment for the children where they will be encouraged to work, to seek high standards.

“We aim to promote a positive learning environment where children are respected and nurtured,” said Miss Walklate.

In fact, the pupils’ respect for each other was noted by Ofsted inspectors in their 2009 visit.

To quote the report: “This is a happy school because pupils respect each other.

Pupils are polite and well-mannered. They talk with pride about their school.”

The school practices a “mind-friendly” approach to learning – the use of appropriate

ways of relaxing, invigorating, stimulating and re-energising both hemispheres of children’s brains to learn to the best of their ability.

“Mind-mapping is a colourful method we like to teach children as a powerful tool in developing note-taking and memory skills,” said Miss Walklate.

“Using a mind-friendly approach to learning makes sense and it’s fun. We are aware that each individual has different needs and has their own preferred learning styles; some people prefer learning through activities which involve visual stimuli whereas others are either auditory or kinaesthetic learners.”

The teaching of many subject areas is supported by a wealth of extra curricular activities.

These include tuition in the violin, keyboard and the guitar by peripatetic music teachers.

LOCAL LIFE 21

Quinta Primary School…

Sports skills are taught by coaches from clubs such as Port Vale and Macclesfield Town.

Pupils can also choose from a wealth of after school clubs including netball, cricket, tag rugby and cross-country.

And the school also has excellent community links with major local events such as Congleton Carnival.

Pupils also get the chance to take part in

22 LOCAL LIFE

residential visits to places like Beeston/Conway Outdoor Education Centre, Standon Bowers and Boreatton Park Education Centre, the latter for Year 6.

And this year’s end of year production featured a mixture of flappers, soldiers, rockers and rappers.

For `A Step Back in Time’, written and directed by deputy head teacher, Michael Shaw, the cast explored the music, dance and

culture of the last century.

The production featured World War One, the roaring 20s and the birth of rock and roll in the 1960s.

“The Quinta Primary School stands for quality, integrity and achievement,” said Miss Walklate.

“We endeavour to give the children the best possible educational experience during their time with us.”

LOCAL LIFE 23

Kindergarten to College ...

THE DAY VERNON PUPIL MET AN AUTHOR By 10 year old Joel Bearn from Vernon Primary School in Poynton who recently won a national writing competition launched by the children’s author, Harriet Goodwin. n 27th July Harriet Goodwin (published author) came in to show us how she wrote her Blue Peter Short listed book ‘The boy who fell down exit 43’!

It is a fabulous book which Harriet brought to life using artefacts relating to the characters and the story. Harriet had a dream in which a boy who is 12 takes his mother’s car, crashes it and falls down exit 43. He then finds the underworld where the dead live. She had never written a book before but just had to get this down on paper. Harriet showed us the draft copies and different book covers that were considered before the final version was published.

I heard about the book through a national competition Harriet ran on her website and my teachers at school Miss Walker and Mrs Lenehan encouraged anyone to enter – Harriet challenged her readers ‘If you could be one of the ghosts in my book, which one would you be?’ Over 400 pupils across the country entered and I had a fantastic email a short while ago to say I had won! The prize means that her next novel ‘Gravenhunger’ - out in January 2011, will be dedicated to Vernon Primary School and me. She also will call one of the characters Joel (my name) and I received £50 in book tokens and so did my school! Harriet finished off her inspiring visit with book signing and a challenge to enter her next competition to design a map of the underworld.

O

Middlewich High School Specialist Maths and Computing and Science School

POYNTON HIGH SCHOOL and PERFORMING ARTS COLLEGE

Open Evening 6.30 pm – 9.00 pm Thursday 23rd September 2010 The school has excellent facilities including 5 ICT suites.

Excellent results at KS3 and KS4 - 5+ A*-C at GCSE 79% in 2009 - 5+ A*-C including English and Maths at GCSE 64% in 2009

OPEN EVENING YEAR 7 ENTRY 2011

THURSDAY 30th SEPTEMBER 6.00 - 9.00pm

SIXTH SI IXT XTH H FO FORM RM Y YEAR EAR EA R 12 E ENTRY NTRY NT RY 2 2011 011 01 1 THURSDAY 21st OCTOBER 6.30pm - 9.00pm

Middlewich High School King Edward Street, Middlewich, Cheshire CW10 9BU to arrange a visit during the school day please contact the School Office on 01606 288170 or admin@middlewichhigh.cheshire.sch.uk “This is a good school that offers outstanding care for its students in an exceptionally safe environment”. Ofsted - October 2009

YEW TREE LANE, POYNTON, SK12 1PU

Tel: 01625 871811

Email:info@phs.cheshire.sch.uk • www.phs.cheshire.sch.uk

24 LOCAL LIFE

IMPROVED NURSERY facilities for Alderley Edge Girls

N

ursery children at Alderley Edge School for Girls will be enjoying the delights of new facilities as they return to school this month. The development which has taken place over the summer holiday period provides access to an all-weather outdoor provision, a shared cloakroom for the children in the Nursery and Reception classes, and a new kitchen area.

Mr Lawrence Groves, Headmaster of the Junior School enthused, “We aim to provide our girls with the very best start to learning life so we were delighted to receive planning permission for the development - our youngest pupils really will benefit from the additional facilities and new play equipment on offer�.

Alderley Edge School for Girls is renowned for being an outstanding school (ISI 2009), and provides a first class, well-balanced education from Nursery through to Sixth Form. With small classes and a friendly atmosphere, it is no wonder some girls travel over 20 miles a day, and come from as far afield as Derbyshire and Staffordshire to attend the school.

The launch of the new development will be marked with an official opening celebration early in the Autumn term but anyone interested in viewing the new facilities or who would like to know more about any aspect of school life is invited to contact Julie Bedigan, School Registrar on 01625 583028 or is welcome to attend a whole school Open Day on Saturday 6 November.

LOCAL LIFE 25

Kindergarten to College ...

The Rileys School

WORKING TOGETHER

for the common good of the wider community

A

ll Hallows Learning Community is a partnership of Church schools working together for the common good of the wider community. Our Learning Community caters for children from the early years through to 19 and we are committed to nurturing young people by helping them to embrace Christian values in daily living and learning. Our voluntary aided status provides our schools with the freedom to innovate and define a unique learning culture which truly supports the intellectual, social, moral and spiritual development of young people. We recognise that our children are your most precious gift and we believe that every child matters. Our schools are distinctive in identity and provide learning and community activities which support outstanding individual care, high academic standards, and the inclusion of all children whatever their needs. All of our schools are recognised by OfSTED to be outstanding in many aspects. Children who join our learning community primary schools progress through to All Hallows Catholic College and are supported through a huge range of transition activities which begin from Year 4 onward. Applications for places in our schools are welcomed from all parents who are in sympathy with our values and who genuinely want a Christian education for their children. Our website www.allhallows.org.uk/lc provides you with a complete list of open events and contact details for all of our schools. Come and see us at work and play!

26 LOCAL LIFE

THE RYLEYS SCHOOL providing a perfectly rounded education

T

he Ryleys has a proven track record of providing an outstanding education to children between the ages of 3 and 13 across many years. But it offers so much more than the best possible academic achievement for its pupils.

Each child is known personally and the school works together with parents to help to fulfil their son or daughter’s promise. It is this extended family atmosphere that is evident from the moment you step through the door. The warm and friendly environment helps the children feel safe, happy and

secure, and encourages them to achieve their full potential.

Each child has individual abilities and talents, which are identified and maximised by the highly qualified and experienced teaching staff. Small class sizes allow each child to receive the encouragement and individual attention necessary to inspire and motivate them.

and Sport.

• Emphasis on the core values of respect, good manners, a positive attitude and consideration for others.

• An enjoyable experience for all; a school where children can thrive.

See for yourself what makes The Ryleys different. To arrange a personal tour at any time call 01625 583241 or for more information visit www.theryleys.com

In addition, The Ryleys provides: • The best possible teaching and support in non-academic subjects, with particular strengths in Music

LOCAL LIFE 27

Learning to fly ...

PILOT MUM

F

lying might be considered a past-time for the rich and famous but one Cheshire mum is ensuring it is more in reach than many people think.

Most teenagers dream of passing their driving test and saving up to buy their first car.

But life in the fast lane was always destined to be different for one Congleton schoolgirl whose dream was entirely different.

As a 14 year old, all Claire Louise Hatton wanted to do was take flying lessons and get her private pilot’s licence.

So the teenager got a weekend job with Manchester Flying School, helping out with admin and reception duties as well as cleaning the planes.

28 LOCAL LIFE

is flying high

A family holiday to Kenya had fuelled an ambition to take flying lessons and get her private pilot’s licence.

And sure enough, Claire’s dream came true when she flew solo for the first time on her 17th birthday, eventually gaining her private pilot’s licence.

But it was after saving up enough cash to get her commercial licence and eventually her flying instructor rating that her career really took off.

And now the experienced pilot, once the country’s youngest female flying instructor, is helping others to fulfil their flying ambition and become pilots.

Claire, mum to five year old Thomas, is a flying instructor with

Ravenair at Liverpool John Lennon Airport.

The 33-year-old from West Heath, Congleton, spends part of the week teaching others how to fly.

Claire flew Bulldogs with Bristol University Air Squadron then worked as cabin crew for Monarch Airlines, alongside gaining her instrument meteorological conditions, night and multi-engine ratings.

She gained her commercial licence age 21, then became the UK’s youngest female flying instructor, age 22.

Claire first instructed at Manchester, where she had worked since being 14, then moved to Caernarfon to work as an instructor and Pleasure Flight Pilot on a Piper Aztec., PPL “I’ve always want to learn to fly. If it’s your passion then you’ll do it. Every flight is different “If you love flying like I do then it’s always in your thoughts. I’ve never wanted to do anything else.”

And Claire, whose husband, Martin is Chief Flying Instructor and Flying School Manager for Ravenair Flying School, has written a book about flying.

Entitled “You Have Control! Being a Better Flying LOCAL LIFE 29

Learning to fly ...

Instructor”, takes a look at how to be a good instructor and inspire students.

And although flying training packages need an outlay of both time and money, Claire (pictured) says it’s well-worth the effort.

“Many people save up because it’s in their blood to learn to fly. We get people from all kinds of backgrounds wanting to learn,” said Claire.

“It is often perceived as a rich man’s sport but you need to compare it with owning a horse or pursuing a passion for golf. If it’s always been your dream to learn to fly then you will do it.” * Prices for trial flying lessons vary.

For example, a 60 minute trial flight with Ravenair from Liverpool John Lennon in a two seater costs £125 including VAT. Contact Ravenair’s website – www.ravenair.co.uk for further details.

Hattonaviation provides ground school training for the Private Pilot’s Licence (PPL) in the form of group classes, one-to-one training and self study CDs. Further details from www.hattonaviation.co.uk

30 LOCAL LIFE

The best just got better Welcome to the new look Lawton Manor Beautiful on the outside …

…caring on the inside.

Thanks to a £1.5 million investment, South Cheshire’s premier care home just got even better. Set in two acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, Lawton Manor, like all Majesticare’s luxury care homes, has always offered the best possible quality of life but now with the completion of our Garden Rooms extension, we can offer our residents, their friends and families even more.

We have a number of new rooms available, all featuring the highest possible standards of luxury and the latest technology, including full en-suite with shower, electric profiling beds, flat screen TV and extensive views of the countryside or gardens.

The extension also provides a host of additional facilities, including: • A dedicated library • Picture House • Games and Wii room • Latest hydrotherapy baths • Beautiful gardens

There is no better way to get a feel for Lawton Manor and the Majesticare way of life, than to come for a visit.

Which is why we have opened up our doors for you to come and see our new development, so you can get a real feel for the luxury and attention to detail we offer.

If you have any questions about Lawton Manor and the Majesticare way of life, please call Home Manager, Sharon Smith on 01270 844200 A: Lawton Manor, Church Lane, Church Lawton, Stoke on Trent, ST7 3DD

T: 01270 844200 F: 01270 882725 E: lawtonmanor@majesticare.co.uk W: www.majesticare.co.uk

LOCAL LIFE 31

Spotlight on Congleton ...

BOOMING TOWN looks to the future

I

f you go down to the woods today, you’re sure of a big surprise. In fact, if you take a trip to `Beartown’ alias Congleton, there are plenty of surprises in store.

And you won’t have to go far to find the bare necessities for the pretty market town, which gets its name from bear-baiting in the 1620s, has it all and lots more.

Congleton is a popular place to live, work, and shop due to its excellent transport links and infrastructure.

The town grew from a thriving market town into a major centre of textile production in the 18th century.

Congleton has links with cotton spinning, silk ribbon making and velvet ribbon production.

And some of these links can be traced at Congleton Museum in Market Street behind the town hall.

Visitors to the museum can trace the history of Congleton from prehistoric times, through the English Civil War and the heyday of the textile industry.

But it’s the thriving town centre, home to around 150 or so shops ranging from national chains to independent stores which is popular with shoppers.

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ALL THE ABOVE AT NO EXTRA COST Now’s the time to go green amd save on your heating bills by calling Congleton’s longest established glass window and conservatory installers.

ORDER NOW TO BEAT THE VAT INCREASE For a free greener quotation

Royle Street, Congleton, Cheshire Tel:

01260 274505 Email: congletonglassco@btconnect.com www.congletonglass.co.uk A family run business for 42 years

32 LOCAL LIFE

And hundreds of jobs are set to be created with plans for a multimillion scheme for the town in the pipeline.

The plans include a new 5,400 square metre food store, a hotel and six new shop units.

The plans also feature a new market with a total of 47 indoor and outdoor stalls, a new public square and improved pedestrian links to other areas in the town centre.

There is also another separate plan to overhaul the town centre in a £50 million project.

Congleton today is a magnet for shoppers and visitors who come to enjoy all that a market town has to offer.

Congleton is also well served for out-of-town shopping in the Barn Road area where Tesco is situated.

There are also a number of major retailers situated in that area not to mention food outlets.

And shoppers needn’t look too far to work off excess calories as FX Leisure is in Alexandria Way. And for those needing physiotherapy help, CTC Physiotherapy has a clinic within FX Leisure in Congleton.

N.A.G. Member

Established 1920

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE • Diamond jewellery at unbeatable prices.

• Our fully equipped workshop has a design and manufacturing service.

• We guarantee fast and reliable quality repairs.

• “Lovelinks” - just one of our many designer brands in stock WE SELL JEWELLERY THAT DOESN’T COME BACK, TO CUSTOMERS THAT DO! 62 High Street, Congleton, Cheshire CW12 1BA Tel: 01260 291332

Diamonds • Wedding Rings • Watches & more LOCAL LIFE 33

Spotlight on Congleton ...

Combined Therapy Treatment Centres (CTC) offer a range of treatments from sports massage to physiotherapy assessment and treatment.

Need a stroll? Congleton Park is just a five minute stroll from the town centre and is an example of a Victorian park at its best.

Originally designed by Edward Kemp and opened on May 29th 1871, the park was restored to its former glory thanks to a heritage grant in 2004/5.

The park has everything from a play park for toddlers and junior children, to a bandstand, a bowling green and a Jubilee Pavilion.

Stockists of: • OLSEN • JENSEN • EMRECO • GELCO LADIES AND CHILDREN’S FASHIONS & FOOTWEAR NOT YOUR FABULOUS CHIC, STYLISH FASHIONS TO SUIT EVERY OCCASION DAUGHTERS Children Birth-14yrs Ladies Sizes 8-28 Shoe Sizes 3-9 JEANS • DORIS STREICH • LEBEK NEXT DAY DELIVERY IF ORDERED BEFORE 12 NOON • OSCAR B

online

SHOPPING

www.deliametcalfe.co.uk See our main advert on page 42

34 LOCAL LIFE

St

15A Bridge Street, Congleton Tel: 01260 297521 5 Gaunt Buildings, Derby Street, Leek Tel: 01538 383959

oc

kists

7TH HEAVEN BRIDAL announce move to bigger premises

7

th Heaven are pleased to announce their move from Black Lion Court, Congleton to bigger premises based at on Lawton Street, Congleton. The move will enable 7th Heaven to showcase their gowns in a new shop front as well as providing specific areas for trying on bridesmaid dresses, steaming and alterations.

The search for new premises has taken some time as it was important to owner Helen Allen that the shop was special: “We have been looking for somewhere for a while as we wanted somewhere where we could recreate the feel and atmosphere of our current location, Black Lion Court, Congleton. The new shop we have found on Lawton Street is within walking distance of where we currently are and has exactly this. It also means we can continue to expand our range of dresses and designers. The new shop will be open early October 2010”.

Since opening their doors in April 2009 the business has steadily grown, as has the range of designers they stock, which now include Sophia Tolli, Alfred Sung, Trudy Lee & new this season – Ronald

Joyce. As well as bridesmaid dresses by Sophia Tolli & Dessy.

To accessorise all the dresses 7th Heaven Bridal also stock beautiful Swarovski crystal tiaras by Liza Designs, and they have recently added the Benjamin Adams range of shoes to their existing collection by Belle. Helen said: “All of our shoes can be dyed, so gone are the days of searching every shop around to find the perfect match. This service is very popular with bridesmaids and mother of the bride.”

Alongside these they also sell everything a bride needs including veils, jewellery and other accessories.

Helen would like to take this opportunity to thank all 7th heaven customers for their continuing support and looks forward to welcoming both existing and new customers to the new shop.

7th Heaven Bridal advise booking an appointment to ensure they can provide the one on one service that every bride deserves.

For more information or to make an appointment please call 01260 277 123 or email info@7thheavenbridal.co.uk

The Majesticare Way of Life at Lawton Manor Care Home

A

t Lawton Manor, we believe that life should be inspiring, fulfilling and entertaining.

Our home provides a warm, friendly environment, where residents get as much as they possibly can out of life.

Not only do we offer beautiful settings, modern facilities and varied activities, we also go out of our way to create a real feeling of community. When residents join us we do everything we can to make them and their friends and family feel welcome, as well as giving them every opportunity to mix and make new friends.

Your Own Space We understand the importance of having a space to make your own. Although all our rooms are fully furnished and tastefully decorated to the highest standard, we encourage our residents to personalise them by bringing along items of furniture and cherished mementoes. Our residents’ rooms are whatever they want them to be – a place to rest, read a book, watch TV or entertain family and friends.

We want our residents to have every opportunity to keep up with their hobbies and interests – and hopefully develop a few new ones along the way.

We have many varied and imaginative activities, carefully chosen by our dedicated Social Care

Manager. From shopping trips to painting classes, we have something for everyone.

Our food philosophy Good food is one of the greatest pleasures in life; that is why the meals we serve are freshly prepared using only the finest ingredients. Our highly skilled chefs use locally sourced, fresh ingredients to produce a varied menu of tasty, nutritious and beautifully presented food and they are always happy to accommodate individual requests. Our residents can also decide where they eat – in their rooms or with friends in our restaurant style dining room.

There is no better way to get a feel for Lawton

Manor and the Majesticare way of life, than to come for a visit.

Which is why we have opened up our doors for you to come and see our new development, so you can get a real feel for the luxury and attention to detail we offer.

If you have any questions about Lawton Manor and the Majesticare way of life, please call Home Manager, Sharon Smith on 01270 844200 A: Lawton Manor, Church Lane, Church Lawton, Stoke on Trent, ST7 3DD T: 01270 844200 F: 01270 882725 E: lawtonmanor@majesticare.co.uk W: www.majesticare.co.uk

LOCAL LIFE 35

Linear Park ...

TAKE A WALK IN THE footsteps of TV botanist Professor David Bellamy

W

hen Professor David Bellamy opened the Middlewood Way 25 years ago, no one realised how popular the picturesque route would become.

Since his visit in 1985 when he unveiled a plaque at Higher Poynton Station, the former railway route has been turned into a nature treasure trail.

The popular 10 mile traffic free route, which links the countryside with historic mill towns, is now a linear park.

And since the day when Professor Bellamy delighted onlookers by taking his shoes and socks off and wading through a mucky pond, it has received around 7,000,000 visits.

And it is easy to see why because the picturesque route plays host to a wide range of flora and fauna.

36 LOCAL LIFE

Not only that, much work has been done to ensure there are places for walkers to take a break or families to picnic.

Bridges have been repaired along the route and thousands of shrubs and trees planted not to mention miles of ditches dug.

In three years, the line as far as Bollington was transformed from an eyesore into a trail providing walking, riding and cycling facilities away from road traffic.

It runs approximately parallel to the Macclesfield Canal and passes through Bollington and Higher Poynton.

There are many options for easy circular walks or for the more adventurous, a public footpath network reaches into the Peak District foothills in one direction and the Cheshire Plain in another.

The route is used daily by adults and children to get to work and LOCAL LIFE 37

Linear Park ...

school and it’s also popular with walking groups as it connects into Cheshire East’s public footpaths.

Middlewood Way forms part of Route 55 of the National Cycle Network and is also a hit with horse riders.

The five evenly spaced picnic areas attract families wanting to eat their sandwiches, drink their beverages and watch passing walkers.

At Bollington, the route passes above the river on a viaduct where walkers can take in views to the hills and mills of the area.

One route detailed in Cheshire East Council’s “Cheshire East Council, ‘Walks For All’ booklet takes walkers from Jacksons’ Brickworks* to Nelson Pit and back.

The route covers a distance of one and a half miles return (4 km) and walkers should allow between one and two hours.

There are however many other parts of the Middlewood Way, managed by Cheshire East Council’s Ranger Service, which are equally as accessible Cheshire East Councillor Andrew Knowles, cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “The Middlewood Way has stood the test of time and is a great place to go for a walk, a bike ride or a hack on horseback, and it will continue to benefit the residents of Cheshire East.

“Thanks to the Ranger Service the Middlewood Way continues to provide a home for great wildlife as well as providing a beautiful countryside destination for our visitors.” * Postcode of Jacksons’ Brickworks for satnav is: SK12 1UT Photo credit: pics courtesy of Cheshire East Council

38 LOCAL LIFE

shops

The

Local Stockists: Broadbents, Stockton Heath Elizabeth Ann, Alsager Helen Winterson, Marple Jean Galimore, Macclesfield La Boutique D’Or, Knutsford Vicki Allen Hale

JEAN GALLIMORE LADIES’ FASHIONS Sizes 10-28 (Under the new ownership of Pat Wain)

Michael H Gold : Sommerman Personal Choice : Finn-Karelia Chianti : Brendella Richard Stump : Faber Tanya : Enreco Doris Streich : Menk Collage : Loft David Barry : Tulchan Frank Lyman : Grazia

Autumn ranges arriving daily New opening times: 9.30 - 4.30 Monday-Saturday 142 Park Lane, Macclesfield

Tel: 01625 423896 EASY PARKING Doris Streich

Our Chauffeur Service is always available

Faber

LOCAL LIFE 39

shops

The

SUMMER SALE -this season’s hats greatly reduced To hire, to buy or exclusive design service.

All the latests styles from top milliners, for all ages and occasions By appointment you can have a fitting from a trained milliner in a relaxed setting

Kate Clarkson

Get Ahead Hats Park Farm, Grotto Lane, Over Peover, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 9HJ

Tel: 01565 723333 Email: kate@getaheadhats.co.uk Web: www.getaheadhats.co.uk

40 LOCAL LIFE

shops

The

LOCAL LIFE 41

LADIES AND CHILDREN’S FASHIONS & FOOTWEAR Stockists of: • OLSEN • JENSEN • EMRECO • GELCO NOT YOUR DAUGHTERS JEANS • DORIS STREICH • LEBEK • OSCAR B

online

SHOPPING

NEXT DAY DELIVERY IF ORDERED BEFORE 12 NOON

www.deliametcalfe.co.uk FABULOUS CHIC, STYLISH FASHIONS TO SUIT EVERY OCCASION Children Birth-14yrs Ladies Sizes 8-28 Shoe Sizes 3-9

St

• Promotes weight loss • Tones muscles • Improves posture Get in shape without setting foot in a gym

oc

kists

15A Bridge Street, Congleton Tel: 01260 297521 5 Gaunt Buildings, Derby Street, Leek Tel: 01538 383959 42 LOCAL LIFE

Olsen available at these local stockists: Susie Blues Poynton SK13 1RD. 01625 858365 Delia Metcalfe Congleton CW12 1AS. 01260 297521 Delia Metcalfe Leek 01538 383959 Lucilles Macclesfield SK11 6BX. 01625 422113 Bratts Northwich CW9 5AP. 01606 43344 Bratts Nantwich CW5 5AB. 01270 623865 Hoopers Wilmslow SK9 1PB. 01625 525381 Helen Winterson Stockport SK6 7AD. 0161 427 2245 Bird Cage Knutsford 01565 651787

Local Betty Barclay stockists: Broadbents, Knutsford Broadbents, Stockton Heath Emma Somerset, Wilmslow French Dressing, Altrincham Hoopers, Wilmslow John Lewis, Cheadle Hulme Susie Blues, Poynton

LOCAL LIFE 43

CHESHIRE RIDER QUALIFIES FOR FAMOUS HORSE SHOW

H

orserider, Helen Platt, has qualified to compete at Horse of the Year Show at the NEC in Birmingham next month.

Tens of thousands of competitors set out each year to become one of the coveted finalists at HOYS – the world-famous horse show, the pinnacle of the domestic equestrian calendar.

Helen from Hartfield, near Northwich has qualified Opal for the Search for a Star Riding Club Show Horse.

Having always wanted a horse, Helen bought Opal at the age of 35 and over the next five years they developed an amazing partnership, winning a string of events.

The only issue was jumping - Helen’s confidence jumping was zero. When her friend, Ruth, suggested they give the Search for a Star class a go, panic initially set in at the thought of the two jumps involved.

However, the whole of the Bridgewater Riding Club in Cheshire were behind them, supporting her throughout the process and

44 LOCAL LIFE

Opal pulled out all the stops to help.

Ruth said: “There genuinely is no more deserving pair. Helen has battled the demons and won!” Helen added: ”The Search for a Star riding Club Show Horse class is my chance to let everyone know how much Opal means to me, and we’ll both have a wonderful time!”

Following the most successful show ever, Horse of the Year Show 2010 promises to be another exceptional event not to be missed! This year’s show will host the finals of the most highly regarded showing and show jumping championships, alongside an exciting line-up of equestrian entertainment.

In addition, HOYS will also play host to the winning H Factor act The Knights of Middle England. Their exciting display features fast paced stunt riding and jousting by a team of regal and very handsome Knights.

For show information and ticket prices visit: www.hoys.co.uk

Antiques

Jane Grant has been dealing in antiques for many years, the last nine from Tarporley Antiques Centre. As a child she visited her grandparents in London at the weekends and she’s convinced it was the Saturday afternoons spent keenly exploring the stalls of the famous Portobello market that inspired an early interest in antiques.

…

OAK - A SYMBOL OF STRENGTH, ENDURANCE AND TRADITION

T

hough often neglected nowadays, oak furniture has its own very special charms. Oak itself occupies a special place in the English imagination – it brings to mind hearts of oak, great ships at sea, and the venerable oaks of forest, village green, and folk lore. A symbol of strength, endurance and tradition.

This is largely because of oak’s physical characteristics. A dense, coarse-grained wood noted for its strength and hardness, and resistant to insects and fungus because of its high tannin content, it has been used for centuries – for ships, barrels, carts, doors, panelling … and of course for furniture. Solid tables and chairs, settles, chests, drawers, cradles, candle/wine stands, cupboards, stools, book cases.

Like so much English furniture, oak reflects social history. It was from the early 18th century, when England was trading extensively around the world, that oak’s primacy was decisively first challenged (along with other traditional wood such as elm and yew). New woods, notably mahogany, rosewood and satinwood, were now imported and were far better suited to a change in style and mood.

For the rapidly growing middle classes, keen to display both their affluence and their good taste, solid oak was all too redolent of the country squire’s cosy parlour, of roast beef and ale – more Fielding’s Tom Jones than Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. In the new Georgian townhouses of London and Bath, and the country seats, the lightness and elegance of rococo and the neoclassical were all the rage, with an occasional exotic dash of Chinese, forms perfected by designers like Chippendale, Sheraton and Hepplewhite.

This furniture was not just functional it was self-consciously elegant, stylish and decorative, meant to be seen and admired. And the problem was that, as a relatively coarse-grained wood, oak was not well suited to the requirements of the new styles, namely fine carving, inlays, fretwork, and veneers. Also, the foreign woods introduced a new range of grain effects and colours into furniture making.

Oak appealed largely to those with more traditional tastes and a liking for the solid and durable (and the kitchen rather than the drawing room). I don’t want to suggest, however, that it crude or clumsy; many Georgian pieces in particular are elegant in design, decoration and construction. Oak saw something of a revival during the Victorian era, when, as a reaction to industrialisation, and in a desire to root English identity in the distant past, there developed a keen interest in the Middle Ages and Gothic. And oak was quintessentially English.

Exceptional early pieces can fetch many thousands of pounds, but there is of course a great deal of oak furniture around and lots

of bargains to be found, especially as even good oak furniture is costs far less than it did ten years ago.

There is an interesting sale at Bonham’s in Chester this September. Because it’s familiar and understated, ‘strong and silent’ rather than demonstrative, oak can sometimes go unnoticed.

Paying it just a little attention can be immensely rewarding.

Jane Grant, Tarporley Antiques, 01829 733919, email: Jane.a.grant@googlemail.com

LOCAL LIFE 45

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Home Interiors & Gardens …

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hether they like it or not, people learn to live with their staircase, even if it looks old fashioned and out of place.

Local Wilmslow -based interiors specialist, James Grace, can offer you the opportunity to open up living space and bring outdated staircases and homes into the 21st century with their innovative approach to staircase renovation.

The service offers a convenient and affordable solution for tired old staircases. With staircase renovation the structural components of the staircase are left in place and the treads, risers and strings re-clad in new wood. All other components, such as the spindles, are removed and replaced in hardwood or even metals or glass, achieving either a classic or contemporary look.

Mrs Evans, a client from Prestbury said “Our house was built in the early 1960’s; it looked old fashioned no matter what we tried to do.

The new staircase is first class and our home now has a 2010 look.

The work was quick and well done with no dirt. 100% finished by the end of the day!”

Having 14 years experience in the staircase industry and more recently supplying bespoke staircases for multi-million pound properties, business owner, Scott Storey has seen how a great staircase can become a real statement and wants to channel his experience into helping people to transform their homes.

Renovation has quick results with minimal disruption – with most projects completed in 24 hours, thanks to the team of competent professionals employed by the company.

For more information or to arrange a free consultation call 0161 822 0030 or visit www.staircase-renovations.co.uk

LOCAL LIFE 47

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Now Customers have the chance to see first hand the amazing new range of individually designed and manufactured kitchens by a multi skilled workforce here at English Interiors, and the superb quality of our “ultima” range of kitchens which offers our customers choice including oak, vinyl, melamine gloss doors in various colours and much more; enabling our product range to cater for individual budgets. We are one of the few companies within the midlands who can offer such a versatile choice of kitchens which we pride ourselves on, as our kitchens and furniture can complement our customers own lifestyle.

We will also be showing Aga cookers, inspirational floor and wall tiles, granite and various work surfaces plus kitchenware, so if your style is classic or contemporary we have a collection that has something to suit everyone.

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We offer a full design service and each kitchen is constructed by a team of time served cabinet makers; Our fitting team are well established and very professional.

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We are also showing Aga cookers, inspirational floor and wall tiles and kitchenware.

We are also providing an Aga cooking day, where you will be shown how to get the best from an Aga. You will be welcome to ask questions at any point during the day.

Best of all you will be able to sample the delicious food that has been cooked on the Aga. Don’t miss our Special Introductory Offers on our new range of kitchens.

LOCAL LIFE 49

In the garden September What new plants need in preparation for autumn

W

Annie Martin from Woodford Park Garden Centre offers some topical tips ...

50 LOCAL LIFE

e know that a lot of our customers have lost plants this year because of the exceptionally cold winter and spring. I lost my Australian Tree Fern which I do miss, so now I have a space to fill. Nature provides us with the perfect conditions for gardening as we move towards autumn and it is an ideal time to get planting.

There is still plenty of colour around in fact it is all rather vibrant! Weigela ‘Monet’, a compact deciduous shrub has very appealing foliage, silvery green edged with fresh cream now tinged with a fiery pink.

A cottage garden old favourite is Lavatera which flowers long into the autumn and ‘Baby Barnsley’ is a compact variety. This hardy and popular shrub will keep flowering well into the autumn and its white, almost baby pink flowers with a red throat are very pretty. You’ll need to give this a good prune in the spring to keep its shape, but otherwise it’s very easy to keep.

It’s now Sedum season and these succulent leathery plants are also beloved of butterflies.

Sedum telephium ‘Matron’ has a bluish leaf with a pink hue and large clusters of pink flowers, whilst Sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ is brighter green with flowers of salmon pink turning russet as they mature. Again these are easy to grow and prefer a ‘gritty’ free-draining soil.

One of the most exquisite of perennials Schizostylis coccinea ‘Pink Princess’ would have to be my pick of the season. Known as the Kaffir Lily, it has fresh green leaves and crocus-like flowers on tall stems. Gorgeous!

For striking colour and architectural stature go for Yucca gloriosa ‘Bright Star’, just be mindful that the tips of its impressive blade-like leaves are sharp. This plant stands out from the crowd with its yellow edged foliage tinged with pink as the temperatures begin to fall. Although it looks quite exotic it will tolerate partial shade, is drought tolerant and can withstand temperatures down to minus ten degrees.

When you’re ready to plant, give the root ball a really good soak in a bucket of water. Dig a good size hole, one that is much bigger than the root ball and then add a sprinkling of fish, blood and bone to the bottom of the pit; this will really help bolster the roots and allow it to settle in over the winter in readiness for the spring.

When you have finished planting add mulch to the surface, this will help keep the roots warm during the winter.

Don’t forget that autumn is the right time to plant in spring bulbs and you’ll save yourself some money if you buy them as bulbs now rather than young plants in the spring.

Bulbs can be under planted in autumn containers or planted in the ground, in a well drained site. With so many different bulbs to choose from take comfort that some packs contain a selection of bulbs that complement each other so the choice had been made for you!

Out & about …

Food festival has all the right ingredients for success

P

reparations are in full swing for the new-look Nantwich Food & Drink Festival - and there are big plans on the menu to make it the tastiest yet.

The much-loved event is returning to Nantwich over the weekend September 24-26 but this year it is taking place around town centre locations - and will be free of charge to anyone who wants to enjoy its mouth-watering array of attractions.

More than 10,000 food lovers enjoyed last year’s event on Mill Island and organisers hope to top that by spreading the stands and displays across the entire town.

Various activities and tasting sessions will be held on the town square, Nantwich Civic Hall (inside and out), Volunteer Fields, Churchyardside, Cocoa Yard, Pillory Street and the Methodist Church and White Swan car parks.

Businesses across town will be throwing up their doors to stage events including whisky tasting sessions, sausage-making workshops, cup cake decorating classes, Aga food demonstrations and more.

Organisers promise a vast array of regionally produced gourmet foods, beer and wine tastings with more than 2,000 products to sample. Famous for its cheese, no Cheshire food festival would be without it and there will be numerous varieties to sample as well as speciality breads, sausages and award-winning pork pies.

Fans of the amber nectar will find plenty to entertain them at Nantwich Cricket Club which will be the venue for a CAMRA beer festival over the weekend. Nantwichbased Woodlands Brewery, which is helping to stage the event, has launched new ale to mark the festival – a fullbodied and fiery brew named after the Great Fire of Nantwich in 1583.

Back in town, The Civic Hall will be transformed into a vast Gourmet Food Hall and will house up to 50 stalls.

A not-to-be-missed farmers’ market will also form

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part of the action and pubs, cafés, shops and restaurants will host tasting sessions and demonstrations throughout the weekend.

The event is being organised by Nantwich Food and Drink Festival Ltd – a not-for-profit organisation led by volunteers.

Festival chairman, Graham Fenton, said: “Our aim is to make Nantwich a paradise for foodies and bring thousands of people into town over a long weekend when things generally quieten down for tourism.

“The big difference about this year’s event, of course, is that it is free. We don’t want cost to be an issue preventing local people from enjoying a fabulous festival and all the associated activities on their doorstep. “ Cheshire East Council is the main sponsor of the event with support also coming from Mornflake in Crewe and Taste Cheshire.

Fantastic range of toys for boys & girls of all ages • Lego • Hasbro • Playmobil • Sylvanian Families and much more!

Cheshire East Councillor Andrew Knowles, Cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing, said: “We are delighted to be sponsoring this prestigious event.

“The festival will showcase the best food and drink Cheshire has to offer, people will also get the opportunity to sample cuisine from around the world. This event has attracted many visitors to Nantwich and I have high hopes for this year’s festival.”

A variety of street entertainment will help create an impressive backdrop and a great party atmosphere.

St Mary’s Church will be holding a harvest festival and various restaurants will be staging events including a French theme night and Scottish Gourmet evening at Rookery Hall.

For more information, visit www.nantwichfoodfestival.co.uk

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LOCAL LIFE 51

Wine and Dine

Formerly The Congleton Steak House

4 Mill Street, Congleton, Cheshire Telephone: 01260 27 33 88

Weddings in Beautiful Cheshire.

The Plough is licensed to hold Civil Marriages and our delightful gardens provide the perfect setting.

We cater for small or large parties and will help to plan the perfect celebration.

Luxury accomodation is available for the Bride and Groom and guests. No room hire charge.

A stunning place to celebrate!

Email: theploughinn@hotmail.co.uk • www.theploughinnateaton.co.uk

THE BROWNLOW INN

Surrounded by stunning countryside and superb views, customers travel from miles around to sample our award winning menu.

Opening Times: Mon - Sat 12 - 3pm, 6 - 12pm.

Meals served 12 - 2pm and 6 - 9.pm.

Open all day for food on Sunday.

The Brownlow Inn, Brownlow Heath Lane, Brownlow, Congleton, CW12 4TH

Tel: 01477 500281 info@brownlowinn.co.uk

The Bulls Head is back The Bulls Head has returned under new ownership. Now run by Stephen Lord and Kris Perrin, old friends who have gone into business together.

“We plan on restoring the site back to its former glory with initiatives such as our famous steakstones and fabulous steaks,” say Stephen and Kris.

“We’re also introducing our TFI Friday Nights where all drinks are £2 from 9pm12am, along with BYO Wednesdays where you bring your favourite bottle of wine (free of charge) and dine with us.

“We’re also introducing games nights where teams can play against each other on Nintendo Wii to see who is Congleton’s best sporting person.

“We also offer 50% discount on all steaks Monday evening and a soup and sandwich combo deal throughout Monday-Wednesday lunchtimes.”

All this in our fabulously decorated venue. We are also bringing back Live Music in the form of our newly titled Venue @ Congleton - an area specifically designed for live music and entertainment.

Here, we’ll be holding everything from Ladies’ Lunches to Battle of the Bands and comedy nights.

We also boast a beautiful outdoor marquee that can be used for weddings, christenings and parties of all kinds (especially now the warm weather has arrived).

‘The Bulls Head At Congleton Has The Largest Screen In Congleton Showing All The Action From The 2010 World Cup. Come Down And Enjoy The Games In Our Very Own Specialist Marquee.

Free Entry And Drinks Offers Available’ Please come and join us and if you like, you could stay in one of our 11 stunning rooms available throughout the year.

The Davenport Arms - Included in The AA Best Pubs in Britain Guide 2009 and also CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2009, The Davenport Arms, on the A34 Congleton Road, at Marton, near Macclesfield, offers real ales and fine wines along with a traditional and contemporary menu which has been created using only the freshest

and highest quality ingredients. In a relaxed, cosy atmosphere with a log fire, food is served in the bar from 6pm on Mondays. From Tuesday to Saturday lunch and dinner menus are available from noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 9pm respectively. Sundays food is served from noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 8.30pm. Food is available on Bank Holiday Mondays and the bar is open all day from Friday to Sunday. Just 10 minutes from Alderley Edge and Macclesfield and a mere 5 minutes from Congleton, The Davenport Arms is a must for the discerning diner or anyone looking for a quiet and relaxed drink. There is a superb beer garden and a freshwater well in the middle of the restaurant. For further details and to book call 01260 224269 or email enquiries@thedavenportarms.co.uk Restaurant L’Endroit - in Lawton Street, Congleton, has an emphasis on traditional French Cuisine – without the nouvelle – made by chef patron Eli Leconte. The watchword at Restaurant L’Endroit is quality, sourcing only the very best of food, exquisite preparation and excellent service. Patrons enjoy their meals in an intimate and relaxed setting and can sit at streetside tables in warmer times. Diners may also be assured Restaurant L’Endroit is an entirely microwave free zone. Any parties over six are asked to pre-book their meal. Telephone 01260 299548.

The Plough - The Plough at Eaton has a long history going back to the 1600s when it was built as a coaching inn. The inn has been modernised in recent years but the ancient oak beams, small alcoves and open fires are still in place and make this a cosy, intimate place for a quiet drink or a meal. Food is also served in the Old Barn restaurant which is full of character with its gallery and wealth of exposed timbers. The Plough also offers some impressive accommodation with 17 ensuite double

Please call 01260 224269 for bookings and enquiries www.thedavenportarms.co.uk

Traditional French Cuisine “without the nouvelle” OPEN: Lunchtimes: Tues-Sun (Except Sat). Dinner: Tues-Sat

Restaurant L’Endroit Ron, Sara and the Team welcome you to the Davenport Arms A classic country pub serving Real Ales & Fine Wines with a menu created using only fresh ingredients Included in The AA best Pubs in britain guide 2009 and also CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2009 Congleton Road (A34), Marton, Macclesfield, Cheshire SK11 9HF

52 LOCAL LIFE

70/72 Lawton St, Congleton CW12 1RS

Tel/Fax. 01260 299548

Fine Cask Ales, Fine Wines and Fine Food Classic English dishes, freshly cooked with mostly locally sourced produce www.doginn-overpeover.co.uk Accommodation available The Dog Inn • Well Bank Lane • Over Peover • Nr. Knutsford • WA16 8UP

Tel: 01625 861421

rooms converted from garages at the rear of the pub. The Plough is licensed for civil weddings and its delightful gardens provide a perfect setting for wedding photographs. The pub is also an ideal venue for meetings both large and small and we also cater for functions such as birthdays, christenings, retirements and engagement parties. For more information tel. 01260 280207 or visit the website at www.theploughinnateaton.co.uk The Dog Inn - In Over Peover, nr Knutsford has welcomed locals and travellers since the turn of the 19th Century.

The Dog Inn is still the focal point of village life and pride themselves on their range of cask ales from small regional breweries and an extensive menu consisting of classic dishes, freshly cooked with many ingredients being sourced within a six mile radius. Two spacious dining rooms are available where diners can dine incomfort.

To keep things lively, regular entertainment evenings run throughout the year.

Accommodation is also available enabling guests to experience a traditional English pub life. For further details contact 01625 861421. The Dog Inn, Well Bank Lane, Over Peover, WA16 8UP. Brownlow Inn - Is celebrating having acheived the huge accolade from East Cheshire Chamber of Commerce and Business of ‘BEST EATERY 2010’.

Brownlow is just off the A34, five minutes drive from the centre of Congleton, and the pub and restaurant offers an extensive menu. The owners pride themselves on ageing and cutting all of their British beef steaks and are becoming the number one choice in the area for a world class cut of meat, which customers travel from miles around to sample.

There are traditional favourites, such as home-made cottage pie, steak and kidney pie, lamb steaks and poached salmon, plus the signature international flavoured grill selection. The dishes are just a small example of the variety of the choices on offer, which are all complemented by an extensive wine list or a pint of traditional cask ale.

The Brownlow Inn was also a top three finalist in Congleton Council’s 2008 and 2009 Restaurant of the Year awards and there is an additional reason for celebrations in 2010 as they welcome the fifth consecutive year of providing their customers with outstanding food and service.

Opening times are Monday to Saturday, 12 noon to 3pm, and 6pm to midnight. Meals are served from 12 noon to 2pm and from 6pm to 9pm. But The Brownlow is open all day for food on Sundays. The Brownlow Inn also caters for larger groups celebrating a special occasion and offers the choice of a private dining area.

For further details contact The Brownlow Inn, Brownlow Heath Lane, Congleton, CW12 4TH. Telephone 01477 500281 or email info@brownlowinn.co.uk

Masterchef comes to Nantwich N antwich had a sprinkle of star dust when the famous TV programme Celebrity Masterchef was filmed at Mill Island.

The episode featured a selection of celebrities whose identities were kept a closely guarded secret.

Judges Gregg Wallace and John Torode, and the entire film crew were welcomed to the town during Holly Holy day and the re-enactment of the Battle of Nantwich.

The Battle took place during John Torode the English Civil war in the reign of King Charles I in 1643.

The battle was between the Parliamentarians and the Royalists and saw the Royalists defeated in 1644.

In celebration, the Parliamentarians, led by Sir Thomas Fairfax, wore sprigs of Holly in their hats, which gave the event its title.

Andrew Knowles, Cheshire East Council’s Cabinet member for health and wellbeing said: “Since our Love Food Hate Waste campaign, I have become increasingly interested in creating new dishes, so I look forward to the programme and getting some ideas.”

Andrew Martin, Cheshire East councillor for the Nantwich Ward said: “I’m pleased the BBC has chosen to feature Nantwich and one of our most famous historical enactments. I’ll certainly be watching.”

The episode was shown last month but was perfect for whetting appetites in time for Nantwich Food and Drink festival this month.

Greg Wallace

St Peter’s Church …

RURAL CHURCH reaches out into the community

A

Victorian church near Crewe is about to start a new chapter in its life by uniting town and country.

St Peter’s Church at Leighton-cumMinshull Vernon is having a new community hall built next door.

And Priest-in-Charge, the Revd Philip Goggin, says the plan is to build a real sense of community across town and country dwellers.

St Peter’s, about a mile north of Leighton Hospital on the outskirts of Crewe, has a wide and varied congregation.

The £200,000 hall project, numerous years in the making, is due to be finished shortly and replaces a much smaller prefabricated hall.

And the Revd Goggin says it is hoped the hall, which will be run by the church on a not for profit basis, will become a focal point for the area.

“We have great plans for the hall to run all kinds of things and to be used by the local community,” he said.

“We want to build a sense of community across a diverse population of town and country dwellers.

“We have raised locally about half the costs of the building and the rest has come from WREN (Waste Recycling Environmental), Cheshire East, and the local Civil Parish Council.

The new hall will be the icing on the cake for the Victorian church, which can seat around 150 people and was consecrated in 1849.

Revd Goggin, who was curate at nearby Sandbach Heath for three years, says the aim of the hall is to bring a sense of belonging and friendship.

“We’re very excited and so pleased it is all happening and coming together. It’s a very exciting time for the church,” said the Revd Goggin, who is also a governor at Mablins Lane

St Peter’s Church …

Community Primary School in Crewe.

St Peter’s is Anglo-Gothic in style and is based on a design by the famous architect, Sir Gilbert Scott.

All the furnishings and fittings of the church are typical of the Victorian period. A new choir vestry at the west end of the church was dedicated by the Bishop of Stockport in 1966.

A memorial plaque near the lectern commemorates twelve men from the area who died in the First World War. And one of the men, John Edwin Robinson, is buried in the church’s graveyard in a family grave.

Around 8,000 people live in the parish belonging to the church and there are three services on a normal Sunday – Holy Communion, Family Eucharist and Evensong.

Numerous couples choose to marry at the church and St Peter’s maintains a full programme of social and fundraising activities for people of all ages.

And this month, another major fundraising event is set to hit all the right notes – St Peter’s very own version of the Last Night of the Proms.

“We are fortunate to have a very active and supportive congregation and we are all so delighted that the new hall is being built,” said Revd Goggin.

56 LOCAL LIFE

SEPTEMBER SONGS, DANCES AND SHOWS

Dilys Gater takes a look at what’s on in our local theatres

K

ids seem to be having it all their way in entertainment as delightful Peppa Pig brings her party to the stage – families can catch the show at the Regent Theatre, Hanley on September 8 & 9. Grownup kids enjoy the original Blues Brothers show running at the Regent from September 13 – 18, and the latest presentation from the stunning Cirque de Glace. Called Evolution, this dazzling ice show telling the story of man’s evolution on our planet runs from September 22 – 26. Also at the Regent are the Texas Tenors on September 10 (also to be

seen at the Buxton Opera House on September 5) and An Evening of Carole King & James Taylor on September 10; while the all-singing-all-dancing show Don’t Stop Believin’ runs from September 30 – October 2.

Not to be missed at the New Vic Theatre, Newcastle-under-Lyme is Chris Monks’ uproariously popular new take on the G&S favourite The Mikado – set in the Titipu Cricket Club! Those who loved his original interpretations of classics Don Giovanni and Carmen and other G&S shows, make sure

you don’t miss this one. Described by The Times as ‘the funniest version of any G&S you are likely to see’, it runs at the New Vic from September 8 – 18.

From September 25 – October 9, the New Vic Theatre will be presenting Eugene O’Neill’s raw and raunchy masterpiece Desire Under the Elms. First staged in 1924, this tale of greed, ambition and murderous passions in 19th century New England is an American classic which confirmed Nobel Prize winning O’Neill’s reputation as the leading playwright of his time.

LOCAL LIFE 57

What’s On …

An evening of Burlesque

Ephraim Cabot and his three grown-up sons lead a life of hard work and loneliness on the remote family farm. A widower who has worked two wives into early graves, Ephraim rules over his children with Old Testament harshness and the Cabot boys hate him, waiting only for his death and the chance to claim their inheritance. But then Ephraim brings home a seductive new wife, the alluring Abbie, half the old man’s age and twice as calculating, who has plans of her own. As passions run high, she’ll use any weapon in her fight for a home, for security, and for love…

For opera lovers, Clonter Opera offer another chance to see their current production, La Cenerentola on October 2; and Mid Wales Opera bring their production of Verdi’s Falstaff to the Buxton Opera House on September 26.

Entertainment in Manchester includes psychic Sally Morgan at the Opera House on September 16 and Ross Noble on September 29 & 30. At the Palace Theatre see The Drifters on September 8; American harpist, pianist and songwriter Joanna Newsom on September 18 and Shakespeare 4 Kids – A Midsummer Night’s Dream on September 27 & 28. At the Royal Exchange don’t miss the chance to experience Christopher Marlowe’s stunning and savage tragedy Doctor Faustus, running from September 8 – October 9; while from September 23 – October 9, modern classic Arcadia can be seen at the Lowry Theatre.

In 1812 a scandal rocked the Croom household in Derbyshire. A sexual liaison, possibly involving Lord Byron, apparently ended in a fatal duel. Two hundred years later, a pushy academic and a popular historian are trying to uncover the house’s true history. Landscape gardening, Newtonian physics, classicism versus romanticism and chaos theory are all part of this comic literary detective story, both an exuberant celebration of the unpredictability of love and sex, and a poignant study of change and decay.

At the Lyric Theatre, catch musical cabaret evening Busting Out on September 2 (also at Buxton Opera House on September 16) and Rhod Gilbert on September 3 & 4.

Julian Clary appears at the Quays Theatre on September 3 & 4 and John Godber’s Sally Morgan

Elkie Brooks

58 LOCAL LIFE

Circque de Glace

Teechers runs at the Quays from September 7 – 11 (also at Buxton Opera House from September 13 – 15).

A new production of Evita is all set to stun at the Lyric from September 6 – 18; and Sean O’Casey’s brilliant masterpiece The Silver Tassie can be seen at the Quays from September 14 – 18. Set at the height of the Great War this sweeping play follows the lives of two young footballing heroes from the tenements of Dublin through the battlefields of France, and their return home. The Silver Tassie, one of Sean O’Casey’s greatest plays, is a thrilling spectacle using all the resources of the theatre; farce, humour, movement and music. The Rambert Dance Company also perform at the Lyric from September 22 – 24.

There’s a buzz at Buxton where the new Pavilion Arts Centre opens this month. (See more in our Round up feature). Among the attractions at the Buxton Opera House are Richard Hawley (September 3); Elkie Brooks’ 50th Anniversary Tour (September 4); Roxanne Pallet starring in Rock Around the Clock (September 6 & 7) and David Mammet’s Oleanna (September 10 & 11).

A varied programme also includes Steve Steinman’s Vampires Rock on September 19; an Evening of Burlesque (September 21) and Ian Dickens production of the hilarious comedy Murdered to Death (September 23 – 25). Actors of Dionysus present Aristophanes’ bawdy, provocative and delightful Lysistra (over 14s only please) on September 27.

The Texas Tenners

Desire Under the Elms

The first ever show in Buxton's new Pavilion Arts Centre !

Fri 24 & Sat 25 September 7.45pm Matinee: Saturday 2.45pm Tickets £15. Discounts are available.

Call the Box Office on 0845 127 2190 or book online at www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk

LOCAL LIFE 59

Spotlight on Dance ...

COLOUR AND PASSION Dilys Gater discusses Flamenco hat woman worth her salt has not dreamed of being able to sidle onto a dance floor in an exotic gown and rattle her heels to the sound of guitars while effortlessly performing the flamenco? At one stage (as a ‘mature student’) I undertook lessons in London, held by a highly acclaimed former dancer and accompanied by a real Spanish guitarist, not your usual CD of suitable music for beginners.

There were several of us novices as well as a few more advanced souls, all determined to acquire the necessary grace and passion of the flamenco dancer – if only so that we had an excuse to visit the Spanish shop which sold beautiful flamenco dresses with their fabulous flounced skirts and fringes. Alas, for some of us, the dream never materialized. The fact that classes were held on the top floor of a high building with no lift meant that I, for one, was reduced to gasping ungracefully for breath and needing a rest by the time I had crawled up the numerous flights of stairs, before the classes had even started. And what really defeated me was the fact that though our teacher Madame had actually started dancing after going to Spain to learn flamenco as a result of her own health difficulties – finding herself not only cured but launched on an

W

60 LOCAL LIFE

international career - I had a foot problem that stubbornly refused to allow me to do the same.

The traditions of flamenco are strict and governed by centuries of symbolism and meaning. It was thrilling to be dancing out the story of the bull fight, to be swirling a cape and (for the moment at any rate) to be lithe and sinuous, every lift of the elbow, every snap of the head and fingers tingling with power. Would I perhaps be good enough to be able to perform in the equivalent of the end-ofterm show, I wondered hopefully, a vision of this mature student miraculously transformed into a slim and glamorous twenty-somethingyear-old for the occasion. But it was not to be.

Before the term had finished my foot had triumphed over my ambition and I was no longer able to climb the stairs to the factory of dreams on the top floor. No show – no flamenco dress – no performance to remember, stepping with colour and passion into the spotlight.

But the knowledge acquired of what lies behind the movements and music of flamenco makes it all the more enjoyable for me now to sit and watch a performance of Spanish dance, able to appreciate the skill and artistry of the performers. The pictures illustrating this feature show highly acclaimed company Jaleo, a regular visitor to our area, which appears at Buxton Opera House on September 17 (as well as other

images evoking the spirit and atmosphere of the dance). For dance lovers this is not to be missed.

Promising ‘compelling new insight into the flamboyant and magical flamenco world of Andalusian dance, song and guitar, the company is joined by new dancers, including sensational award-winning star Jose Leon, whose charismatic stage presence, vibrant choreography and stunning technique have won the admiration of the public and praise of the flamenco critics.

‘Fusing the essential elements of flamenco with their own inimitable brand of Spanish passion and emotion, Jaleo unleash the raw energy and sensuous rhythms inherent within flamenco. A potent cocktail of explosive footwork, haunting vocals, virtuoso guitar playing and percussive handclapping from southern Spain, all delivered by some of flamenco’s finest artists.’

What more can one say except – ole!

LOCAL LIFE 61

Round Up …

ENTERTAINMENT ROUND UP Dilys Gater with news, views and gossip New ways of looking at the familiar – an artist’s eye can reveal the world to us in fresh and amazing ways…

And in these days of increasing threats of doom and gloom for the arts, it’s inspiring to hear of a new theatre opening, as well as familiar friends continuing to bring their artistic vision to the public…

OLD PAVILION THEATRE BECOMES NEW ARTS CENTRE

T

he exciting news that a new theatre complex is opening puts Buxton firmly on the map again this month, with the promise of opportunity, shows and events that can take audiences far beyond the glittering confines of the still much-loved Opera House (which is right next door).

Buxton’s new Pavilion Arts Centre will open its doors on Saturday September 18, when there is free entry from 10am – 4pm for visitors to inspect the Main and Studio rooms with their retractable seating and multi-functional performance and exhibition spaces, see the dressing rooms and balcony and relax in the new bar.

John Hegley

Room on the Broom

62 LOCAL LIFE

Redevelopment of the former Paxton Suite began back in February at a cost of some £2.5m.

The building, which was initially opened as the Pavilion Theatre in 1889, has been carefully restored to its original status, including the restoration of the balcony area that had been covered for over thirty years. As the first theatre for over 100 years to open in the vicinity, the Pavilion Arts Centre offers a valuable dualpurpose venue that the local community can utilize as home to local junior, youth and student theatre companies as well as touring exhibitions and shows. Set in the stunning green flag Pavilion Gardens, the versatility of the space - a 93-seat studio theatre with retractable

seating; 80 sqm of workshop space; main auditorium of 360 seats with retractable seating; and flat floor exhibition/workshop space of 200 sqm - ensures that the venue can be used for a wide range of events including weddings and conferences.

A 10-day festival commencing on September 24 will celebrate the opening of the Pavilion Arts Centre. Opening with Chalkfoot Theatre Arts production of Tom McGrath’s play Laurel & Hardy, and including highlights such as Room on the Broom, a new musical adventure for children from the creators of The Gruffalo (September 26 & 27) as well as the extremely talented (and extremely silly!) string trio Pluck (Sept 30) and Britain’s favourite comic poet John Hegley (Oct 3), the Ten Days festival will bring hundreds of visitors to the area and showcase the flexibility of the redevelopment.

The new venue is to be jointly managed and programmed by High Peak Theatre Trust (Buxton Opera House), who will use it as a second venue to the main house with an alternative programme, and High Peak Borough Council (specifically the management and staff of the Pavilion Gardens complex), who will use it for conferences, meetings, fairs and exhibitions. The Buxton Festival, Buxton Festival Fringe and International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival will also use the venue for part of their programmes each summer.

Pavilion Arts Centre tickets are available at the Opera House Box Office on 0845 127 2190 or visit www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk to view a full list of events and book tickets online. Our pictures give a glimpse of the new Arts Centre and some of the events featured in its opening Ten Days programme.

Arabian Nights and Days

Various artists in Moving Clay

MOVING CLAY Moving Clay is a group of professional artists from Cheshire who exhibited their work at Dukes Court Studio, Macclesfield throughout last June. Set up in 1996, the group work in a variety of media and the exhibition included varied ceramics, paintings, textiles, wood, glass and jewellery. A special evening was held on June 17 when the superb local group, Glass Ankle was performing at Ronnie’s Bar. Artists in the group include Philip Bennett, Jacki Clark, Rosemary Graham, Julie Hamer, Pat Higginbotham, Tony Jackson, Jayashree Jaipal, Bruce Lyons, Jane Osmond, Dorothy Pickering, Ruth Robinson, Estella Scholes and Jeff Teasdale.

Local Life has featured Tony Jackson and Jeff Teasdale in recent issues, and it is good to see some of the work by other artists. For more details of the group and its work call Shelagh Malley on 07977 488964 or Julie Hamer on 07782 312264.

LOCAL LIFE 63

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LOCAL LIFE 65

DIARY of events

September

Wednesday 1 September If your club, society Tatton Park, Knutsford - lunchtime lecture – The or organisation is holding an Italian Connection – the Egertons and Italy. 11 am lecture, optional lunch 1 pm. £23 per person or event that you’d like to see featured £10 for lecture. Pre-booking essential – phone in the Local Life Diary of Events pages 01625 374428. please email the details, including the name Tatton Park, Knutsford - Elizabeth Gaskell’s of the event and a brief description, the date Cheshire. Mansion exhibition. Knutsford, it takes place, details of ticket/entry prices, where Elizabeth Gaskell grew up is well known and a contact telephone number, to as her inspiration for ‘Cranford’. But other stories d.bowyer32@btinternet.com and we’ll do and her letters also tell of her links with Tatton our best to include it.

Park and Dunham, Tabley House and Capesthorne, and the Cheshire countryside. Until October 31st Prestbury Flower Club, Zena Stone ( Bolton ) sensational gardens. Prestbury Village Hall 1.45 Presented by Middlewich & District Show Society. pm sharp. Visitors always welcome. Information Competition/displays o fruit and vegetables, tel: 01625 433689 or 01625 828853 flowers, cakes and crafts.

Thursday 2 September Sunday 12 September Bat walk and talk, Brereton Heath Local Nature Discovery centre walk – majestic mills. Short Reserve. Led by Ged Ryan from the Cheshire Bat circular walk exploring Bollington’s Industrial Group and Cheshire East Council’s ranger service.

Heritage. 10 am – 12 pm. Meet at Bollington Booking essential on 01477 534115.

Discovery Centre, Clarence Mill, Clarence Road, Nantwich table top sale Bollington.

Friday 3 September American Civil War at the Old Hall, Tatton Park.

Saturday 4 September 12pm - 5 pm – last entry 4pm Pride and Prejudice – Illyria outdoor theatre at the The Christie Walk of Hope, Tatton Park, Old Hall, Tatton Park. Adult £10, child £7. Call Knutsford. A chance to take part in a 10K stroll 01625 374400 to book. around Tatton Park to raise money for this leading Pennies and pottage, Little Moreton Hall, cancer hospital. To register: 0161- 446 3400 or Congleton, 11am – 4 pm – step back in time with visit www.christies.org. the Tudor & Stuart Living History Society and find Monday 13 September out what life was like for the poor in the 16th The Original Blues Brothers – the smash hit century. musical. 7.30 pm Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Congleton & District Horticultural Society, annual 0844 8717649 or show. 10:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Congleton, Town www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke Hall. Admission: 50p, accompanied children free.

Town Trail – join Fiona Ware and Macclesfield Schedules available from 01260 277386, 01260History Society’s John Gee to learn how the town 273230 and Congleton Information Centre. of Macclesfield has been shaped by its long Sunday 5 September history. Time: 10 am – 1 pm. Meet outside Pennies and pottage, Little Moreton Hall, near Macclesfield Town Hall. Booking essential – Congleton, 11am - 4 pm – step back in time with 01625 504505. the Tudor & Stuart Living History Society and find Tuesday 14 September out what life was like for the poor in the 16th The Original Blues Brothers – the smash hit century. musical. 7.30 pm Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, The Knutsford Great Race. Time: 12 pm – 5.15 0844 8717649 or pm. Meeting point: The Moor, Knutsford. www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke Information www.theknutsfordgreatrace.co.uk Wednesday 15 September Wednesday 8 September The Original Blues Brothers – the smash hit Wednesday Walk – a 6 km walk along the River musical. 7.30 pm Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Bollin through the wildflower meadows of 0844 8717649 or Riverside Park and the farmland of Prestbury. 10 www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke am – 1 pm. Meet at the Riverside Park Ranger Thursday 16 September Centre, Beech Lane Macclesfield.

The Original Blues Brothers – the smash hit Friday 10 September musical. 7.30 pm Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, The Texas Tenors, 7.30 pm Regent Theatre, Stoke0844 8717649 or on-Trent, 0844 8717649 or www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke Nantwich table top sale Saturday 11 September Friday 17 September Rhos Orpheus male choir in concert at St.Oswalds The Original Blues Brothers – the smash hit church, Lower Peover, 7pm with Alf Gladman and musical. 7.30 pm Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, Rebecca Taylor as soloists.

0844 8717649 or Tickets £10 available 01565 722762 www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke American Civil War at the Old Hall, Tatton Park.

Saturday 18 September 12pm - 5 pm – last entry 4pm Meet the Music Makers, Little Moreton Hall, near An Evening of Carole King & James Taylor, 7.30 Congleton 11.30 am – 4 pm. Acclaimed instrument pm Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, 0844 maker, Eric Moulder and his wife Jane present a 8717649 or www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke fascinating insight into how woodwind instruments Middlewich Annual Show, Civic Hall 2 pm.

were made and played in Tudor times.

The Original Blues Brothers – the smash hit musical. 7.30 pm, matinee 2.30 pm Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, 0844 8717649 or www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke Middlewich WW2 Weekend, Civic Way car park, Market Field, Civic Hall, the Wych Centre, St Michael’s Parish Church and elsewhere in the town. Living history exhibits, 1940s style concert, dance and cinema and much more.

Sunday 19 September Meet the Music Makers, Little Moreton Hall, near Congleton 11.30 am – 4 pm. Acclaimed instrument maker, Eric Moulder and his wife Jane present a fascinating insight into how woodwind instruments were made and played in Tudor times.

Autumn fruits – a short walk around the country park looking at the variety of fruits that are found there at the end of the summer. Time: 10 am – 12.30 pm. Meet at Tegg’s Nose, Langley car park, Macclesfield.

Middlewich WW2 Weekend, Civic Way car park, Market Field, Civic Hall, the Wych Centre, St Michael’s Parish Church and elsewhere in the town. Living history exhibits, 1940s style concert, dance and cinema and much more.

Wednesday 22 September Cirque de Glace – Evolution. Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, 0844 8717649 or www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke Thursday 23 September Cirque de Glace – Evolution. Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, 0844 8717649 or www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke Friday 24 September Cirque de Glace – Evolution. Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, 0844 8717649 or www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke The Perfect Fifth, BBC Philharmonic, 8 pm Victoria Hall, Stoke-on-Trent.

Saturday 25 September Cirque de Glace – Evolution. Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, 0844 8717649 or www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke Corn dollies at Brereton Heath – join the Dane Coppice Craft group for this workshop. Booking essential through Aileen Thompson on 01270 760810.

Sunday 26 September Cirque de Glace – Evolution. Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent, 0844 8717649 or www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke Green swop Sunday – take along your spare garden or house plants, seeds and cuttings and swop them with other green fingered gardeners.

Time: 2 pm – 4 pm. Meet at Astbury Mere Country Park, Sandy Lane off A34 Newcastle Road, Congleton.

Wednesday 29 September Congleton & District Horticultural Society, bee keeping by Eddie Rush, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

Thursday 30 September Don’t Stop Believin’, 8pm Regent Theatre, Stokeon-Trent, 0844 8717649 or www.ambassadortickets.com/stoke

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