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Inside Bramhall Aug-Sept 10

Inside

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August - September 2010

Bramhall

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Welcome to the August-September issue of

Inside Bramhall As usual, we bring you a mixture of news and events from far and near. Well not so far! But we do try to tempt you beyond familiar Bramhall territory. For those who enjoy rambling (and a sharp descent) we feature a walk over Kerridge Hill. If you prefer something a little less strenuous, there are lovely gardens that you can still visit throughout August and September, courtesy of the National Gardens scheme. For those who take shopping trips to Manchester, we recommend a brief and inspiring interlude at the John Rylands Library.

Inside this issue News from the Village Square 3 All About Brookdale

Health & Wellbeing

National Gardens Scheme Update

Simply Books Book Club Choice

Building Hope

Eating Out

Calling All Divas

Manchester Gems

Recipe

Walks in Cheshire

Points of View

All at Sea in Macclesfield

Crossword

Just for Kids

Sudoku

Noticeboard

We hope you enjoy the magazine, but whatever you do, have fun!

Inside Guide

Puzzle Solutions

Garth Aspinall Claire Hawker Co-Editors

Classified Index

Useful Numbers

Closer to home is Brookdale Open Day - an opportunity to explore the diverse activities provided by this great local club. If you think there’s something special, or someone special that we should feature in Inside Bramhall, do let us know. We are always pleased to hear from you. In this issue we would like to extend a welcome to Zoe Unsworth of Sandwich Heaven (in Fir Road) and wish her lots of success with her new venture. We would like to remind all Bramhall businesses that you can reach almost 7,500 homes in Woodford and Bramhall for as little as £20 per month. Give us a call for details. Finally, we are pleased to announce that the winner of our Day of Pampering competition was Glenys Richards – an article about Glenys and her special day will feature in our October-November magazines. Lunch for two in the Riverford Travelling Field Kitchen was won by David Hoyle.

Copy deadline for next issue Monday 20 September

You can contact us at Inside Magazines, PO Box 184, Cheshire SK12 1WZ

Tel: 01625 879611 email: bramhall@insidemagazines.co.uk www.insidemagazines.co.uk Design by Spring Creative www.spring-creative.co.uk 01925 714203

Inside Bramhall is produced by Inside Magazines Ltd. We cannot be held responsible for views expressed by contributors or any advert content, including errors or omissions, or endorse companies, products or services that appear in this magazine. We endeavour to ensure that all local information given in this magazine is accurate, but we cannot always guarantee this. © Copyright Inside Magazines Ltd 2010. Material from this magazine may not be reproduced without prior written permission from Inside Magazines Ltd.

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News from the Village Square Sponsored by Bramhall Village Square Since writing in the last issue, we have now had Bramhall Festival, Fathers Day, the Longest Day and are heading towards Christmas! Only joking about Christmas, but isn’t it amazing how once we have passed 21 June the media starts talking about winter? If you have been down to the square recently, you will have seen the new furniture within the piazza area. It has certainly proved very popular and on the days when the sun is out you really could feel as though you were in the Mediterranean whilst eating, drinking and listening to live music or watching the regular entertainment. Both the Courtyard Café and Country Fayre are busy every day serving customers al fresco and soon the Courtyard Café will be enjoying a later licence and serving Sunday brunch every week. We have now had Dave from Jellybean Juggling performing his amazing juggling and plate spinning acts, creating balloons and encouraging all children (and some grown ups too) to learn a few circus skills. He has certainly proved very popular and it has been fabulous to watch the children enjoying themselves whilst Mum and Dad sit and relax in the piazza. Unless you were out of the country, you cannot have failed to enjoy the magic of Bramhall Festival 2010!

The parade was even bigger than last year and luckily the sun shone down on everyone walking through the village. This year it was judged by Mark Hunter MP and two of our local war veterans, who, after a lot of deliberation, decided on Team Spirit to win the first prize for their great costumes and amazing routine. Throughout the whole weekend everywhere in Bramhall was packed and the atmosphere was wonderful for young and old alike. There was something for everyone: food; drink; dance; music; magic; lots of special promotions in the shops and lots and lots of fun. Light up Bramhall will be the next big event organised by the Bramhall Business Community and this will take place on the first weekend in December. Meanwhile, in the piazza we will be hosting various events throughout the coming months. To learn all about our news and events on a regular basis please visit our website. On behalf of everyone in Bramhall Village Square, we look forward to welcoming you over the next few months. Carole www.bramhallcentre.co.uk

Photos supplied by Caramel Photography.

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Glastonbury Goes Green Now Europe's biggest music festival has been and gone for another year, its founder, Michael Eavis, is building Britain's biggest privately owned solar farm. He is taking advantage of the Government's new, heavily subsidised ‘Clean Energy’ scheme to install a solar photovoltaic system on the roof of the "Mootel" – the barns that are home to the farm's herd while the festival is on. Sunshine is never guaranteed at the festival but that has not deterred him from building the enormous solar roof, which is expected to deliver enough electricity to power about 40 houses. Thanks to the government’s feed-in tariff, under which participants are paid a premium rate for the electricity they produce, Eavis expects to earn about £45,000 a year from the system as well as reducing the farm’s energy bills. The new feed-in tariffs, which all homeowners will pay for through higher energy bills, are a great offer for homeowners, farmers, businesses and landowners looking for a high interest, long term and tax free investment. “We will benefit from this financially but when it starts generating a profit, I will spend all that money on more solar energy, so it will also be a good investment for the nation," says Eavis. Closer to home local renewable energy company iGen has seen huge interest in its solar electric solutions from homeowners keen to take advantage of the government’s feed in tariff. “People are really taking notice of solar PV as a viable investment - the thought of an investment that returns around 10% a year and reduces CO2 at the same time seems like a no brainer”.

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All About Brookdale It’s not just a theatre it’s more an enrichment to life How many times have you passed a strange building just off the roundabout at the bottom of Bridge Lane in Bramhall and seen a banner outside saying Sweet Charity, 26th April or Open Bridge Drive 16th September ? Have you ever wondered what goes on in there? You may have presumed it’s ‘just’ a theatre. And it is a theatre – a 200 seat theatre putting on five shows a year, from comedies or tragedies to musicals expertly performed by some award-winning amateurs, aged anywhere from 14 to 84, some of whom go on to be professional. But it’s so much more than that! Brookdale Club is primarily a social experience. It has so many activities that you will be hard pushed to find something in which you can’t become involved and enjoy, whether or not you’ve done it before.

Brookdale is essentially a family club catering for the many and varied interests of a wide age range, from a youth drama group to a luncheon club for retired members. This variety of activities is truly extensive. For just a few pounds a year you can become involved in anything from Andante, a choral group that meets every week, to the Wine Society that arranges wine tasting, the occasional trip to a wine-related location and monthly social events. In between there are numerous activities offering opportunities for the more to less actively inclined. For the former there’s

everything from bowling to rambling, strolling, travel and a gardening section that boasts over 200 members. For those interested in more indoor pursuits there’s a 200+ member Bridge club, a dancing section, an art group, linguists – everything from French, to Welsh and many in between - and crossing these boundaries are activities such as digital photography and Caracamp (for caravanners and campers). Even if you’re not inclined to become so actively involved in any of these, there’s a range of ‘support’ activities that include maintenance – the Club maintains its own buildings – to Theatre Workshop and Social or General committees that help with the running of the Club. Or you could simply relax in Brookdale’s welcoming bar. If you’re still not sure “what goes on in there?” you can find out for yourself at the Club’s Open Day from 11am to 3pm on Sunday 12th September. Entrance is free and there’ll be demonstrations of most of the Club’s activities, with refreshments available. Just turn up, you’ll be made most welcome.

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Health & Wellbeing with Alexandra Worsley Fit and fabulous for summer Now it’s summer, the thought of peeling off the winter layers and baring some flesh can be pretty daunting. A lifestyle with a varied but healthy diet, teamed with regular exercise and the right footwear, can kick start the transformation process and help turn unsightly, dimpled and un-toned legs into pins to envy. The team from Alexandra Worsley Health and Wellbeing clinic in Bramhall offers some top tips and advice to get a bootylicious body just like the stars: Go Walk-About There’s no doubt about it, walking is good for us. Whether we walk to improve our general health, to control our body weight, to keep fit or just to get us from A to B, there are a number of benefits. For example, by walking just one mile our bodies can burn up at least 100kcal (420kJ) of energy and walking two miles a day, three times a week, can help reduce weight by one pound every three weeks. It also alters our metabolism so our body burns fat instead of sugars to help towards weight loss. Walk in Style Being kitted out with the appropriate footwear doesn’t have to be expensive; indulge feet in a pair of FitFlops and go walking in them. Not only are they super comfortable and come in a range of designs and colours to suit any wardrobe, but they’re biomechanically engineered to help tone and tighten leg muscles while walking.

the world’s most fabulous celebs who are known to give FitFlops the thumbs up – from Hilary Swank and Jessica Biel to the uber glam supermodel Heidi Klum. Boost Your Body Flush out the toxins and give the body a real boost in time to show it off this summer. The new ‘Organic Weight Management Plan’ from Viridian Nutrition, which is now available in store from Alexandra Worsley, is a comprehensive plan featuring the diet, a unique motivational position which encourages the shedding of pounds and a pledge to charity, recommended exercises to get stuck into and four supplements to help keep the body healthy. Alexandra Worsley is making it even easier to get in shape for summer by stocking a wide range of FitFlops and products which can now be ordered online. To find out more, or to place your order, log onto www.alexandraworsley.com

SPECIAL OFFER Mention Inside Bramhall for your £10 gift voucher when you purchase a pair of FitFlops from Alexandra Worsley.

Look stylish and get a workout at the same time – and follow in the footsteps of some of

Voted No. 2 Independent Health Store Retailer of the Year by the National Association of Health Stores! The Homeopathic Health Clinic, 19 Bramhall Lane South SK7 1AL. Tel 0161 439 9856 www.alexandraworsley.com

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National Gardens Scheme With so many great NGS gardens to visit throughout Cheshire the school holidays will fly by. There are gardens with secret corners, others with fish ponds or weird plants. And the best news is that almost all of them are free for kids! When autumn comes the full blaze of summer colour may be over but there's still lots to enjoy. Start planning for next year - see how even the smallest garden can be fun for all seasons. 73 Hilltop Avenue, Cheadle Hulme

UPDATE

Formal garden of 11/2 acres surrounding historic house (not open) lived in by George Mallory, the Everest Mountaineer. Clipped box parterres, yew hedges, herbaceous borders, exotic vegetable garden and immaculate lawns. Open: Sun 22 August 2pm-5pm 39 Osborne Street, Bredbury

1/6-acre plantswomanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden. Well stocked with a wide range of sun-loving herbaceous plants, shrub and climbing roses, many clematis varieties, pond and damp area, shadeloving woodland plants and small unusual trees, in an originally designed, long narrow garden.

This dahliaholic's garden contains over 250 dahlias in 150+ varieties, mostly of exhibition standard. Shapely lawns are surrounded by deep flower beds that are crammed with dahlias of all shapes, sizes and colours, and complemented by climbers, soft perennials and bedding plants. An absolute riot of early autumn colour.

Open: Sun 8 August 2pm-6pm

Open: Sat 4 & Sun 5 September 1pm-5pm

Hillside, Mobberley

35 Heyes Lane, Timperley, Altrincham

A magnificent, tranquil garden, this 6 acre site is home to a huge collection of rare birds including 80 flamingos. Beautiful rare plants, mature trees and several queen palms surround the various ponds and waterfalls. This delightful garden is also home to a rare collection of bonsai trees.

Small mature suburban garden 30' x 90' on sandy soil, maintained by a keen plantswoman member of the Organic Movement. Improved accessibility with several changes to this yrround garden; including tree haven for birds and new plantings, trees; small pond; greenhouses; many kinds of fruit with a good collection of interesting and unusual plants. A true plantspersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden with many environmentally friendly features including wildlife havens.

Open: Sat 7 & Sun 8 August 11am-5pm Lyme Park, Disley 17-acre garden retaining many original features from Tudor and Jacobean times. High Victorian style bedding, Dutch garden, Gertrude Jekyll style herbaceous border, Edwardian rose garden, Wyatt orangery and many other features. Also rare trees, lake, ravine garden, lawns, mixed borders and rare Wyatt garden. Open: Sun 8 August 11am-4.30pm

Newton Hall, Mobberley

Open: Sun 5 September 2pm-5pm For more information consult the NGS Cheshire & Wirral Gardens brochure or visit www.ngs.org.uk

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Simply Books Book Club Choice

My first choice this month is A Gate at the Stairs by Lorrie Moore. This is a brilliant coming-of-age novel set in present day America and one of my favourite books so far this year. When twenty year-old Tassie moves to the college town of Troy to study, she finds work as part-time nanny to a professional couple living in the suburbs. She is soon drawn into their lives and that of their newly adopted toddler – and before long all manner of complications surface. By turns funny and distressing, our book club found this is an absorbing read - the writing is inventive and quirky and moves you along at a terrific pace. And there are some shocking twists which I for one did not see coming! It’s become a bit of a cliché to describe a novel as ‘post 9/11’ but this is a book which deals with current anxieties – family, race, religion, the environment – with a light touch and in ways we can all recognise in our own experience. By way of contrast my second book The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant is an historical novel set in 16th century Florence. Alessandra is barely fifteen when her father engages a young painter from Northern Europe to decorate the family chapel in their Florentine palazzo. The book follows Alessandra's daily life closely, re-told as a memoir written by

Alessandra late in her life. Her passion for painting and learning serve her well for herself, but not in the face of her family who have designs on her marriage to a rich and powerful husband. Inevitably there are tensions and conflicts which have to be resolved one way or another. Alessandra’s story is set against the turbulent backdrop of political infighting in Florence and the author’s detailed description of this is every bit as fascinating as our heroine’s plight. As with the very best of historical novels you get an understanding of events told through the lives of characters with whom you feel emotionally involved. If there’s one book to take with you to Tuscany (or your back garden) this summer this is it! Andrew Simply Books, 228 Moss Lane, Bramhall, Cheshire SK7 1BD 0161 439 1436 www.simplybooks.info Thursdays in August: Join us for the ‘rescue chair’ – stories and activities for children. We'll be holding 'rescue chair' mornings each of the following Thursdays in August: 5 12 & 19 August Two sessions each morning: 10-10.45am for 3-5years and 11.30-12.15pm for 6+ years Book early to be sure of a place!

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Building Hope Local mezzo soprano Bonnie Allaby has turned her passion for singing into a unique opportunity to entertain by staging concerts to promote local talent. Bonnie, who lives and works in Wilmslow, searches for local talent and stages concerts to give people the chance to perform without cost or audition. The concerts raise money for Revive, a Vision Mozambique project to build a Women’s Rehabilitation Centre to rescue women who have been forced into prostitution. Bonnie’s dream is to build centres such as this one worldwide. Bonnie is also the new voice of Canalside Radio, delivering a chilled and witty start to Sunday Mornings, covering musical ‘goings on’ and a “Thought for the Day message”. 102.8fm Canalside Radio at 8am. Below is a list of events planned for later this year - if you are a budding performer why not take this chance to showcase your talent at the same time as raising money for this worthy project? Some of the dates are still to be confirmed but contact Bonnie now to see how you could get involved.

A Taste of the Classics Prestbury or Alderley Edge 25 September Choose to perform your favourite Aria, Lied, Mèlodie, orchestral piece or choral ensemble to provide a real showcase of fantastic music.... a real celebration. Solo / Duets / Trio / Quartet – Male or / and Female. Orchestral Instruments – All families, performed in solo, duet, trio or group. Choirs – All Forms including; Ensemble, Barbershop, Male Voice.

Big Swing Era with High Tea Poynton 16 or 17 October Musicians: Do you fancy joining the band for

a one off electric show? – Or show off your talents as a soloist to get our toes tapping in the 2nd half? Dancers: Find your favourite song and open the show with a bang. Performers: Accompaniment can be provided. Choose your favourite songs of the era and we’re away!

Pure Pop (and Hip Hop) Wilmslow Saturday 19 November Pop music ranges from fun, funky to touching and poignant. Can you rival Glee club? Can you sing like Christina, Perform like JLS, Dance like Britney, Shake it like Beyonce or Shakira, Play like Chris Martin, scat like Jason Mraz or rap like Chipmunk? Perform as a solo artist or as a group. Backing singers and or backing dancers allowed. Choreograph your favourite pop songs for Solo, Group or as Backing Dancers Perform as a soloist or group or accompany singers either as a soloist or part of a band.

Acoustic Sessions Bollington Christian Life Church 10 December Male and Female singers performing classic Acoustic Hits accompanied by their own guitarist or pianist. This will be Nov/Dec time so feel free to make a song Christmassy. With a candlelit setting and cafe style layout It’s a real opportunity to show what you’re made of, engage with the audience and give it all you’ve got.... from the chilled to the funky... just be yourself. For more information about getting involved, purchases and concert tickets visit www.bonnieelizabeth.com. For information on Vision Mozambique www.visionmozambique.org.uk

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Eating Out We were delighted to be offered the chance to review the stylish 39 Steps restaurant in the picturesque Styal village just three miles from Wilmslow. Under new ownership since September 2006, 39 steps is run by owner Jon Rebecchi and offers a modern British fine dining experience spiced up with just a hint of the Mediterranean. The first thing that struck us was the comfortable ambience - the interior is sophisticated without being stuffy; contemporary with a warm feel. The restaurant isn’t very large so at the start of the evening when only a couple of tables were occupied it still felt cosy and welcoming. The staff were friendly and attentive yet unobtrusive throughout the evening. To start with we chose a goat’s cheese salad with pea shoots, asparagus, toasted almonds and aged balsamic. The dish was moist, crispy, fresh and flavoursome with soft and fluffy goats cheese. The other starter, a trio of seared Scottish scallops with sweet chilli jam, crème fraiche & herb salad was delicate and perfectly seasoned. The main course lamb dish was simply delicious – served pink as requested with creamy fondant potato on a bed of fine ratatouille. The succulent lamb blended perfectly with the robust flavours of the rosemary and red wine reduction.

The other main course was packed full of flavour, the confit leg of duck contrasting beautifully with the more delicately flavoured breast meat and accompaniments of broad beans, potato rosti and cognac and cherry sauce. The desserts were an absolute treat – a fluffy soufflé with the lovely sharp tang of rhubarb and a creamy pool of custard underneath. It smelt delicious and tasted divine. The Orange & Grand Marnier Crème Brulee was also a triumph - a beautiful crunchy top, with silky crème brulee and melt in the mouth buttery shortbread. The presentation of all the courses was excellent – a feast for the eyes as well as the palate! In conclusion and bearing in mind that we always endeavour to give a balanced account in our restaurant reviews, we would have to give top marks for this particular experience. We would heartily recommend 39 Steps for a special occasion or just a treat anytime. See sample menus and prices online at www.39stepsrestaurant.co.uk As a special offer to Inside Magazines readers Jon would like to offer the three-course table d’hote menu with a glass of wine at the special price of £25 from Monday to Thursday evenings before 8pm. This is available until the end of September* - just mention the offer when you book your table. 39 Steps Restaurant Altrincham Road, Styal, Cheshire SK9 4JE. Tel: 01625 548144 *please note 39 Steps closes for three weeks from 9 August, reopening on 31 August.

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Calling All Divas! Championships and we sing a growing repertoire of hit numbers, both modern and traditional, some choreographed and in the inimitable style of 4-part a cappella harmony. It’s hugely enjoyable.

In less than 18 months since its inception, Cheshire A Cappella has already earned itself a well-deserved reputation as being an entertaining and vibrant group of characterful performers. Comprised of all ages and from many different backgrounds, our one big bond is we all love to sing and so often, we hear from our audiences and from competition judges, that the energy and the fun we project are infectious! Praise indeed! We meet each Wednesday evening at 7.30pm at The Morley Club on the outskirts of Wilmslow. Correct breathing, physical posture, group dynamics, musical interpretation – these are just some of the techniques practised throughout the evening’s rehearsals and quite apart from the pleasure we take in learning and performing new songs, we’re all aware of just how fit we’re becoming! What a way to increase fitness levels and general well-being.

Now boasting a membership level of over 50 singers, Cheshire A Cappella is actively seeking new women to join us in September. Do you love to harmonise? Can you sing high? Or do you prefer to sing low? If you can answer YES to any or all of these questions, then you’re going to enjoy releasing your inner Diva with us! The FREE induction course on offer will give you the opportunity to come along for 3 weeks, not only to find out about the chorus, but also to learn a fabulous new song alongside our existing membership. It’s fair to say, you’ll want to stay on! Cheshire A Cappella’s style is a totally fun and sociable way of singing so don’t miss out. Call us on 07896 157411 or email sing@cheshireacappella.org or visit www.cheshireacappella.org and register now for September’s course. We’re waiting for you!

The chorus performs at corporate and charity events, music festivals and annual UK

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Manchester Gems The John Rylands Library You probably have mixed emotions about Manchester. There will be things you love and things you hate about the place. But how well do you know this historic, world-famous city? If you only ever go there for the theatre or the shops, you’re in for a nice surprise. In this and further issues, we highlight a few places that we think are really worth a visit - and we begin with The John Rylands Library. The Library is located at 150 Deansgate in the heart of Manchester. It’s immediately adjacent to the new Spinningfields complex and is just a few metres away from Kendals department store. This library is part of the University of Manchester and contains one of the world’s finest collections of rare books and manuscripts. For researchers, it is an important working academic library. For the casual visitor, it is, at the very least, a magnificent building – a wonderful example of Gothic architecture, with an incredibly inspiring interior. The main staircase leads up to the Historic Reading Room - one of the finest reading rooms in the world - and provides stunning views of the Entrance Hall below and the Lantern Gallery above. Downstairs from the Entrance Hall can be found the original Victorian toilets, unchanged since 1900 and still in use today.

Why you should visit. • Great architecture, unique displays and a special atmosphere. • Lovely food at the café (a good place to be if you’re not a culture vulture) • A very tasteful gift shop • Really friendly staff in every department • Entrance is free Special Events There are various events and public lectures. For details Tel: 0161 306 0555 or visit www.library.manchester.ac.uk Opening times Sunday and Monday 12 noon to 5pm Tuesday – Saturday 10am to 5pm

There is an Introductory Gallery where you can find out how and when the Library was built and discover its fascinating history. You can learn about the lives of John and Enriqueta Rylands and the textile business on which their wealth was founded. In the Activities Gallery, the whole family can explore how books and manuscripts were made in the past and how some of the techniques are still used today. The Spencer and Crawford Rooms, the Christie Gallery and Rylands Gallery all have much to offer and there is a rolling programme of exhibitions.

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Chocolate Courgette Cake By Jane Baxter, Riverford Field Kitchen Taken from the Riverford Farm Cook Book

• • • • • • • • • •

120g softened unsalted butter 125ml sunflower oil 100g caster sugar 200g soft brown sugar 3 eggs, lightly beaten 130ml milk 350g plain flour 2 tsp baking powder 4 tbsp cocoa powder 450g courgettes, peeled and finely grated

• 1 tsp vanilla extract Put the butter, sunflower oil and both sugars in a bowl and beat together until light and fluffy. Gradually beat in the eggs and then the milk. Sift the dry ingredients together and fold them into the mixture. Stir in the courgettes and vanilla,

then spoon the mixture into a 20x35cm baking tin lined with baking parchment. Place in an oven preheated to 190°C and bake for 35-45 minutes, until a skewer inserted in the centre comes out clean. Cut into squares whilst still warm.

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Walks in Cheshire Our walk this time starts in Bollington, and is a pleasant 4 mile circular route heading out in the direction of Rainow and returning along the ridge of Kerridge Hill to White Nancy. The landscape is very lush and pleasant, mainly through gentle rolling pasture and pockets of woodland. The climb up to Kerridge Hill is steady, and the route down to Bollington from the White Nancy is steep but it’s well worth it for the magnificent views from the top. Allow a couple of hours or more to enjoy this walk at a leisurely pace. The walk starts at the top of Bollington’s Lord Street. Kerbside car parking is available on both Church St and Lord St. Just as Lord St turns sharply right, at the top of a hill you will see Cow Lane heading off to the left. Walk along here to a gate at the far end. Go through the gate and you will see two paths across the field. Follow the upper of the two paths going uphill until you reach a gate and cattle grid at the far corner.

At this point, continue to the left along an open track. Follow this track down to a lane at the bottom of the valley. Turn to your right, then fork right in front of a row of terraced cottages. Pause to have a look at the weir and pond to your left – this is a very pretty spot, the final remnants of the former silk mill. Go through the gate into Waulkmill Wood and follow the path until you emerge through a metal swing gate onto a field. Continue along the lower part of two fields aiming for buildings on the far side. Keep on the path to a wooden gate then continue along the track though a couple more fields. At one point the track forks, just after a gate – keep to the lower path here. When you reach a narrow wooden gate with a footpath sign, go through this onto a narrow track through trees emerging onto a walled track. At the end of this you will come to the main road (Tower Hill).

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Turn right and walk along the pavement, passing the Rising Sun Inn and continuing until you reach Lidgetts Lane bending off sharply to the right. Walk up here and almost immediately ahead, on a sharp left hand bend you will see a gate with a large stone stile next to it. Go over this stile, past a row of hawthorn trees on your right, and through another gate. Keep going straight ahead along the track until it clearly forks (just after another gate). Ignore the lower path and follow the left hand one that climbs up the hill, through the trees. It is a very obvious path (don’t do what we did and turn off too early and scramble up the side of the hill – it’s hard work and there’s no way through at the top!)

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Bollington is directly ahead of you, at the bottom of the hill. Follow the steep path down – in places it’s almost like stone steps. When you reach a track at the bottom, cross straight over this (keeping ahead rather than turning left or right) and you will see a new-looking metal gate ahead of you. Go through this and continue to follow the path down until you reach Cow Lane and Lord Street.

This path climbs gradually up until you reach a metal swing gate with a yellow waymarker sign. Go through this and continue along the track, passing through several more gates following the ridge of Kerridge Hill. At one point you climb a stile over onto a path marked Gritstone Trail – just continue in the same direction passing two quarries on your left hand side until you reach the distinctive landmark, Bollington’s White Nancy.

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Sandwich Heaven A warm welcome to Bramhall's newest sandwich shop on Fir Road. Sandwich Heaven was the dream of proprietor Zoe Unsworth who lives in Bramhall and knows the area well. She thought Fir Road was in need of a really nice sandwich shop and it is in a perfect location as there is plenty of free parking. Sandwich Heaven prides itself on serving freshly-made sandwiches to order, just how you like them. They only use the finest quality locally sourced ingredients and make all their own fillings. Fresh bread rolls are delivered daily and delicious homemade cakes and treats are also on offer. In the few weeks since Sandwich Heaven opened Zoe has been delighted with the response she has received. Many customers are returning daily; they love the fresh sandwiches and find the prices very reasonable too. Sandwich Heaven serves hot breakfast rolls, lovely lunchtime sandwiches, paninis, oven cooked baked potatoes, salad boxes and delicious cakes! Also fresh coffee including lattes, cappuccinos and americanos. Why not go along and meet Zoe and the team at Sandwich Heaven and treat yourself to a heavenly sandwich today? Telephone orders welcome. Call 0161 439 6146

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Points of View Women drivers: the theory and the truth! Now I am the first to condemn anyone who pokes fun at women drivers. The feminist in me would never allow somebody to put half of the population in a box labelled “Bad Drivers.” I would rather stick needles in my eyes than betray my fellow women. However, a recent encounter forced me to view things a little differently. The first encounter, much to my embarrassment, occurred when I was attempting to park my car between a BMW and a Mazda. The space was tight and my skills, admittedly, were limited. I managed to somehow wheedle my tiny Corsa into such a position that I couldn’t move backwards or forwards without severely damaging either car. After around 15 minutes I decided to face the facts. I was stuck. I began to panic, and glanced around hoping the drivers who had stopped around me would be sympathetic enough to allow me a little more time (although for what, I had no idea!) And then he who can only be described as a gentleman caught my eye, and mouthed “shall I park it for you?” I nodded so quickly I can only hope it didn’t look too pathetic. Around two minutes later, he had perfectly parked my Corsa neatly between the two cars. Desperately grateful the damsel in me gathered the only words I could think of in gratitude: “thank you, you’re a lifesaver, thank you so much!” He simply shrugged

by Rachel Vora

off my admiration, as if he had only done what any person would have done in that situation (which of course, was entirely untrue as we were surrounded by many drivers who chose to either ignore me or become more frustrated at the wheel!) I however felt wholly indebted to him, almost as if he had just given me his last Rolo. He was gone as quickly as he had appeared and I watched him (still absorbed with gratitude) zoom away in his black sports car. Now I am the last woman on this earth to wait for a knight to come to my rescue. If I’d have lived in the sixties, I feel sure I would have been involved in bra burning, and promoting women’s rights. But I feel that situation forced me to admit the fact that driving may just be a man “thing”. Otherwise I’d probably still be sat in my Corsa in the middle of that car park. Maybe there is a reason why there are no successful Formula One women drivers. Maybe there is a reason why there are no women presenters on Top Gear. And there is also a reason why the theory about women being exceptionally bad drivers exists. Yes, I’m afraid it may be true. Men are the better drivers (on the whole). In the world of motoring, women should take the back seat. And I have come to accept this fact... gradually. After all, women do own the world of cooking, cleaning, ironing, washing and oh so much more. So I figure we can afford to give it to the men just this once. (To the gentleman who rescued me that morning: if you happen to read this, you were my inspiration for this article and taught me more than you know! Thank you!)

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A Touch of The Orient Situated alongside what’s often described as one of the prettiest parts of the Cheshire ring canal route, The Weave Oriental Carpet & Tribal Interiors showroom has finally found the long awaited but perfect setting to display its many thousands of beautiful Oriental Carpets and Tribal interior furniture items. With the new showroom now open The Weave offers all the space customers need to leisurely enjoy the greatest selection of quality Oriental carpets in the UK. As clarified by the proprietors, the production of truly authentic Oriental carpets varies greatly according to lifestyle, skill and availability of materials to the weaver. Ultimately the design of the carpet is a reflection of the weaver’s personality

and as such we should never see two identical pieces. It’s this important factor which explains why we see such a great variation in styles, sizes and qualities of carpet available. Price too is largely dictated by this and explains why we see 5x3ft tribal rugs from around £70 to thousands for the bigger and more beautiful pieces. It’s this very diversity of the weaver’s ideas that allows Oriental carpets to look fantastic in all types of settings, modern or traditional it’s all about finding that perfect piece to suit the right home. Whether you’re looking for that spectacular, one-of-a-kind showpiece or smaller rug to add a touch of cosy character to your home you’re likely to find that perfect piece at The Weave.

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The Secret to Looking Younger The benefits of CACI facials have long been known and as such, have attracted a strong celebrity following - Barbara Windsor, Lyndsey De Paul, Anthea Turner, Gillian Taylforth, Sadie Frost and Tamsin Outhwaite to name just but a few. It has even been reported that Sir Cliff Richard and Olivia Newton John also know the secret of CACI facials. But do you know what they do? CACI (Computer Aided Cosmetology Instrument) is the result of 20 years of research by the acknowledged pioneer of micro-current therapy, Dr Thomas Wing. Backed by over 20 years of medical research CACI is the best known system within the beauty industry and is considered the most technically advanced treatment by both professionals and the public alike. CACI has become synonymous with the micro-current non-surgical face lift technique. The method used has been medically documented to successfully stimulate muscle tone and enhance skin tissue repair, achieving the most effective and long lasting results.

particularly around the jawline and eyebrows, my skin texture has improved and wrinkles reduced. Friends and family have commented on how well I am looking but it is my secret!” Nicholas Perricone MD, board certified dermatologist, international anti-ageing expert and best selling author states “As a dermatologist brand, we not only look for new ways to improve the skin, we also look at the importance of maintaining underlying musculature and bone structure to preserve youthful contours and smooth skin. The CACI Ultra is unrivalled when it comes to maintaining a lifted, firm and toned face and neck” If you want to discover the secret for yourself, contact June Rakestraw at the Cheadle CACI Clinic for a free consultation. June is a trained CACI Specialist and is a full member of the Guild of Professional Beauty Therapists.

CACI will gently help to tighten and tone sagging muscles, smooth the appearance of fine lines and plump out wrinkles leaving the skin visibly uplifted with a lasting youthful glow. The treatment offers a serious alternative to collagen injections and surgery, in an increasingly appearance conscious world. Suzie from Bramhall knows the secret “Recently I felt that my face had aged significantly and as I have just celebrated a milestone birthday, I thought that I would treat myself. As I have only had one facial in my entire life I was unsure what type of facial to choose. After completing some research on the internet I found details of the Cheadle CACI Clinic. I was not quite sure what to expect from this type of facial but June immediately made me feel at ease and she fully explained what would happen throughout the treatment. My face has now definitely lifted,

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Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained Preparing for change, whether it be starting or leaving university, a new job or change within the home, facing up to life’s challenges can be daunting. But challenges aren’t to be feared, they’re to be overcome. Take on a challenge as though you were grabbing an opportunity, an opportunity to grow. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. It is my own personal belief that life never throws out a challenge you can’t take on and achieve. We are all able to discover and utilise what it is that we need to brave any given situation. Here are seven sure ways to give you the confidence you need to face your challenge head on. Say yes, not no. Seize the opportunity and make the most out of it. Being faced with challenges is something each and every one of us will come across throughout our lives however big or small. Say yes to these challenges. Face them, learn new strengths and grow. Think positive. Believe it can be done and have faith in yourself. Your thoughts have a strong connection to your actions, keeping your thoughts constructive and encouraging of any tasks will give you a great head start in successfully achieving them. Challenge yourself. Turn the challenge around by challenging yourself to overcome it. Break down the bigger picture by setting yourself goals. Goal setting is a great way to assess what needs to be done and how it can be achieved. Identify any barriers. These are any obstacles that may prevent you from attaining your goals. Once you know what may stop you, you will be able to take a step back and think about how you are able to break down each of these barriers to allow you to move forward in successfully achieving your desired outcome.

Enjoy the moment. Having fun in life is an important key to success. Enjoy the challenge and the lessons you find along the way. This has a strong link to positive thinking. Not all aspects of life are easy sailing and joyful, but, finding the positive will help keep the motivation. Make mistakes. Fear of failure and making mistakes can often hold us back in life. Very few people will go through life without making mistakes and the more challenges you take on the more mistakes you are likely to make. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, but when you do, learn from them. There is no such thing as failure, only feedback. And finally, live life to the full. Lianne Pendergast

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Here Comes Summer

As with any change of season, summer brings along changes of activity which can be exciting and enjoyable but also challenging for our bodies. It’s amazing how many acute low back problems come through our door; a result of patients lying on their tummies on sunbeds reading for hours on holiday or from lifting heavy suitcases. It’s worth thinking a bit ahead and breaking up or adapting these new activities so they don’t stress your spine. Our osteopathic team are always happy to help people get over their ‘holiday spinal hiccups’ or to do a pre-holiday MOT to get you off on holiday feeling mobile and relaxed from the start. Also available are acupuncture, homeopathy, counselling, aromatherapy and reflexology offered from highly qualified and experienced therapists. Happy Summer Joe Cheaney

Bramhall Osteopathic Practice 57 Woodford Road Bramhall SK7 1JR

0161 440 0298 www.bramhallosteopaths.co.uk 34

FRENCH POLISHERS H. G. Finishes Hand painted, sprayed & traditional finishes to kitchens, floors and furniture Est. 25 years

0161 439 4719

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All at Sea in Macclesfield around the house. Her unique seahorses in shades of blue, white and turquoise evoke this underwater world. Other popular marinethemed ceramics include brightly coloured fish and paler sea urchin forms. All Sue’s pieces start as flat sheets of clay that she cuts out and shapes before assembling into the finished piece. “My working process is a bit like dressmaking,” she explains, “but that’s where the analogy ends!” Macclesfield Town Hall in October might seem an unlikely place to find seahorses – but Sue Crossfield’s ocean-inspired ceramics are set to be a key attraction at Art Fair 2010, the region’s premier affordable art fair.

In addition to displaying at Art Fair 2010, Sue has a number of other prestigious venues lined up in the North West this autumn.

After 30 years as a teacher inspiring others, Cheshire-based Sue is fast earning a reputation as an artist in her own right. At a recent exhibition in Exeter, her quirky seahorses sold out after just three days, and she has been working hard to keep up with orders from across the UK and further afield. Sue’s work is inspired by her south coast childhood, where she spent many happy hours splashing in the sea, collecting shells and dipping into rock pools. She admits to still being a compulsive beachcomber, hoarding collections of pebbles, shells and seed heads

Art Fair 2010 will be held at Macclesfield Town Hall between 8 and 16 October, exhibiting a stunning range of paintings, photography, sculpture and ceramics. It is held in aid of East Cheshire Hospice and supported by McCann. Entry is free and opening hours will be 10am – 5pm daily, except Sunday, with extended openings, until 9pm, on Friday and Tuesday. With 85 quality artists exhibiting across a stunning range of paintings, photography, sculpture and ceramics, whatever your budget, whatever your taste, we are confident there will be something for everyone in this exciting art event. More details can be found at www.theartofcaring.org.uk

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Quick Crossword

Across 1 3 5 6 7 9 10 11 12 14 15 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25

Mass of rugby players (5) Brick carrier (3) To exist (2) Hawaiian garland (3) Margin (3) By way of (3) Notion (4) Inflammatory skin disease (4) Pig pen (3) Also (3) Spoiled (3) Blame or responsibility (4) Requires a scratch (4) Defile (3) Bag-like structure (3) Employ (3) In the manner indicated (2) Peculiar (3) Droll (5)

Down 1 2 3 4 8 13 15 16 17

A farewell (4-3) Rustic (5) Condition which may cause 19 across! (5) Journal (5) State of insanity (7) Padded pot cover (3,4) External (5) A court or tribunal (5) Embroidered edging (5)

Solution on page 46.

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4 T JUS IDS K Tongue Twis ter She

k Silly Limfieshrcaiclled Marie,

as a There once w sea. a swim in the Who fancied deep water She swam into ught her hite shark ca But a great w s tea. her up for hi And gobbled

sells sea shel ls on the sea shore. The shells sh e shells I’m su sells are sea re.

Seaside Silli es Q. Whi ch fish can pe rform operations?

Can you find the seaside words in our word search? bucket

crab

ice cream

sand

sea

shells

spade

sun

waves

A sturgeon

Q. What’s th e difference between a fi sh and a pian o? A. You can’ t tuna fish

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