Bramhall mail

ROADWORKS CHAOS TO HIT BRAMHALL? Four Main Routes Into Stockport To Have Roadworks At The Same Time

Bramhall residents could be facing four weeks of frustration as roadworks are planned on four different routes into Stockport.

Whilst the planned works aren’t directly in Bramhall town centre, they could have a knock-on effect on residents travelling in and out of Bramhall.

The roadworks are planned to take place on the A6 around High Lane and Hazel Grove with 24 hour traffic lights in place from October 31 to November 18.

Offerton Road, in Hazel Grove, which can be used to navigate around the A6 will have temporary lights starting the same day until November 11 from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Bramhall Lane, in Davenport, another alternative to the A6 will have carriageway repairs needing temporary lights.

These will be in use 9.30am to 3.30pm during the week, longer at weekends. A section of Woodsmoor Road will also be closed at times.

Also work to improve the junction of Spring Gardens, Churchgate and Waterloo Road, central Stockport , has already begun and runs until November 20.

With Christmas shopping trips starting to be planned, it could be a slightly longer drive for festive shopping but the Council plans to have all works finished well before the seasonal rush really kicks in.

Issue 50

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Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Lady Barn House Headteacher White Van Men Hoax Looks Forward To Bright Future Warning After Heald Lady Barn House Preparatory School’s new Headteacher Mark Turner might be an expert in the ancient world, but he aims to prepare his pupils for tomorrow’s world.

The married father of a teenage daughter has worked across independent and state primary and secondary education, for the last seven years as Headmaster of Warwick Preparatory School, and takes over at North’s largest independent coeducational school from Sheila Marsh, who retired in the summer.

He said: “The children in our care now will live on well into the 21st and even into the 22nd Century and we need to give them the skills and attributes to enable them to make the most of all the opportunities ahead.”

Change

“This means not only embracing new technologies but, as the pace of change inevitably gathers pace, giving them the self-confidence to have a go and take risks; the versatility to solve problems and the team-working and collaborative skills to lead and shape not only their own futures but those of others as well.”

A former rugby fly-half and attacking batsman, Mark took a first class honours in Classics at Exeter before going to St John’s College, Cambridge to gain his teaching qualification.

His first teaching job was at a secondary school in Northamptonshire. Part of his role there was to act as primary school liaison officer and he soon realised that his real passion lay with working with the younger inquiring mind.

After seven years at Dean Close Prep School in Cheltenham, he was appointed Deputy Head of the largest primary school in Gloucestershire.

His first headship was in school in the picture postcard setting of the Cotswolds, before returning to independent education as Deputy Head at the prestigious Royal Grammar School in Worcester.

Following this Mark was appointed Headmaster at Warwick Preparatory School and led the school through a period of much growth and development.

He continued: “On first visiting Lady Barn, I

l LOOKING AHEAD: Lady barn House Headteacher Mark Turner

felt immediately in tune with its strong emphasis on family values, academic excellence and extensive and creative extra-curricular provision, but I also believed that I had something to offer the school and lead it through the next part of its exciting journey.”

Popular

He added: “There isn’t the slightest hint of pomposity at Lady Barn, which can perhaps be evident in the independent sector, just teachers, staff, parents and pupils working happily together.

It’s no surprise the school is so popular and well regarded with this as its recipe for success.”

He says his first task is to examine the school across the board to determine what more can be done to make it even better, taking feedback from staff, directors, children and parents, while maintaining those qualities that have made Lady Barn, appropriately located on Schools Hill in Cheadle, such a wonderful place for a child’s primary school years.

Green Scam Attempt

Local residents have been told to be aware of what appears to be a two-man hoax team working out of a white van in the area after an attempt was made to scam an elderly Heald Green woman out of £2,000.

The men, wearing yellow high visibility vests, approached the woman on the morning of October 5th explaining that they had spotted a fault on her roof which they would fix for her for just £10. However, on ‘inspecting’ the roof, they then told her that more extensive repair work was required and attempted to accompany her to her bank to withdraw £2,000.

The Police were called and the men made off without taking any money. A similar report was made in the Cheadle Hulme area close to The Pointing Dog pub.

The men were driving a white Citroen Berlingo van, with ‘North West Roofing Contractors’ on the side.

Roses Frontman Brown Esapes Ban After Speeding In Stockport Stone Roses lead singer Ian Brown escaped a driving

ban after telling a court that he needed to go shopping for his elderly parents. Brown faced a disqualification after he was caught travelling at 37 mph in a 30 mph zone.

Guilty

After pleading guilty to speeding on the A6 at Stockport, Brown said a ban would hinder him driving eight miles to see his father George, 81, and mother Jean, 79, and getting groceries for them.

“They are both elderly and immobile. It falls to Ian to look after them. He spends the days doing errands, doing their shopping,” Brown’s lawyer said.

“He is rehearsing in the middle of nowhere and is one of four who need to be there,” the lawyer added.

Hardship

Later, Brown was not banned from the road after the court agreed that the iconic rocker might suffer ‘exceptional hardship’ if that were the case.

Heroes Save Stockport Man, 88, From Fire

Four friends spotted a burning house and stopped to rescue an elderly man - then got back in their car and went on their way.

The four men spotted the blaze at Glebe Street, Offerton and sprung into action.

Fire had broken out when a tumble dryer suffered an electrical fault and a man, 88, was lying on the living room floor.

Saved

Steve Johnston, watch manager at Offerton fire station, said: “Four guys happened to be passing in a car and undoubtedly saved his life.

“They put their t-shirts over their faces and went in to get him out. They were very brave to go into such a hostile and hot environment.”

Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

END OF AN ERA

10-year-old wins Bramhall’s Got Talent

The winner of this year’s Bramhall’s Got Talent competition was fantastic 10-year-old singer Faye Gregory-Lambert who wowed the crowd with her version of ‘A Million Voices’. First prize was £500 donated by event sponsor Talent HR and Recruitment, £50 to spend at Chilli Banana, a 2- hour recording session offered by The Mill Official and a winner’s bouquet from Bramhall Flowers.

End of the line for 369 as Stagecoach end bus route

It may only be a simple bus route, but, in the four decades that it has served the area, the 369 service that ran between Stockport and Manchester Airport has become almost as much of a Finney Lane fixture as Christ Church or The Griffin pub.

The route was withdrawn on October 30th by operator Stagecoach as they look to streamline the service and has been replaced by the 368 and 368a on early morning journeys Since the mid seventies, the 369 has connected Heald Greeners to the main shopping centre of Stockport as well as onward journeys from the bus or train station to destinations all over the UK.

Cheadle Hulme Dog To Be Film Star

Romance

It’s also been responsible for blossoming romance in the area as Heald Green resident Merv Payne recalls: “I used to travel up from London by train at weekends to visit my girlfriend in Heald Green after we met on holiday in 1990.

“I’d catch the 369 at Stockport and meet her after she finished work at Lo Cost supermarket on Finney Lane.

“We’ve been married 25 years next year, I didn’t think we’d out-last the local bus service!”

The change may prove problematic for some however who rely on the 369 for direct routes and will find they have to change, however it is believed the lLAST STOP After 40 years the 369 route has been withdrawn from service by operator Stagecoach. frequency of the 368 will be increased.

The Green Stream Of Cheadle Mystery That Made National News

What started out as an inquisitive posting on a social media group eventually made the national news as Cheadle residents wondered why a stream in a local park turned BRIGHT GREEN! Dog walkers and locals were left puzzled when they came across the almost neon-coloured water on Adswood Park, off Councillor Lane.

From fears of a chemical leak to jokes about the Incredible Hulk having a cold and sneezing into it, it was the hot topic of a Facebook community page and eventually made it onto the ITN national news website.

It didn’t remain a mystery for long however as

New thinking needed to save our greenbelt

Councillor Iain Roberts

What do you do when the Government says you’ve got to build 20,000 new homes, and if you don’t come up with a plan they’ll just let developers build pretty much wherever they like? The answer is that you come up with a plan!

The ten councils across Greater Manchester have been working together and they have a plan, but it’s deeply worrying. They propose building thousands of houses on greenbelt land near Heald Green, Cheadle Hulme, Woodford and High Lane.

I say we need to protect our greenbelt.

Stockport is being targetted by developers and, when you add it together with Cheshire East’s housebuilding plans, this would see an area of green fields the size of Heald Green concreted over.

All those new houses will mean more cars on our busy roads, more children needing school places, more medical centres, shops and all the rest of it.

What can we do?

We do need more homes for people. Stockport is a popular, growing area to live and we need

new homes for our children and grandchildren. But those homes should be built in our towns first.

Before we open up the greenbelt for development we must bring every empty home back into use, develop every old mill building, empty warehouse, factory and derelict piece of land. Only when all that is truly done should we move onto the greenbelt.

And we need to be sure we can deal with the extra traffic and school places. Right now we are being given warm words about how important that infrastructure is. Words are all very well, but we need firm plans and we need the money to deliver them – and they won’t be cheap.

Have your say. Go to the website, www.greatermanchester-ca.gov. uk/gmsf, before the consultation finishes in December. We can get this right. We can build the homes we need without concreting over the greenbelt. But to do it we need some new thinking from both the Government and the Greater Manchester councils, so we have to make our voices heard.

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it was soon revealed that it was a specialist dye purposely put in the stream by United Utilities.

A spokesman for company says they were contacted by the Environment Agency to help them trace the source of a pollution problem: “We were called on Monday afternoon by the Environment Agency because we have specialist equipment that can help trace where leaks and pollution issues are coming from.

Our teams have used a non-toxic dye in which the Environment Agency officers will be able follow to where the source of the problem is.

It’s non-harmful to wildlife and will clear within around 12 hours.”

Cheadle Hulme-based Manchester Rugby Club On Lookout For New Sponsor Due to a last minute drop out, Manchester Rugby Club in Cheadle Hulme is still

seeking a main shirt sponsor for the whole of this Season.

Manchester Rugby Club is the original Manchester Football Club, and was registered as so in 1860. Other bigger Manchester football clubs subsequently had to add “City” and “United” to their names to respect the original registration. It is the only Club able to use the official Manchester crest on its shirts and as a logo. Consequently, it is the second oldest rugby union club in the World.

The Club boasts a range of teams that not many clubs can boast and the Mini and Junior (M&J) section has recently produced some amazing talent with 4 Premiership rugby players (more than any other club in England) and 6 England players in the last 5 years.

If you are interested in seeing your company on the front of these shirts as the official sponsor as well as other significant incentives, contact: manchesterrugby@ acrobatfcsm.com

Stockport Metro Swimmers Have 2020 Vision Local companies can now become one of the first Foundation Sponsors for Stockport Metro Swimming Club in a brand new ‘Give me 4’ campaign.

Stockport Metro “Wolfpack” is far more than just a swimming club, it’s a family steeped in World and Olympic sporting success.

There’s something in the water which gives it the unique ability to nurture sporting and lifestyle success.

Metro exists further than its National, European and World champions, the Wolfpack brings people together to fight for that dream in life, however big or small.

The name and imagery of the wolf, emphasises the togetherness and team spirit. The times are exciting as our young swimmers have a real chance

of competing in the next Olympics in Tokyo 2020.

‘Give Me 4’ relates to the four years’ plan to the next Olympics.

We are looking for local companies that might partner with the fabulous Stockport Metro Swimming Club.

There is a portfolio of benefits that each generous sponsor will receive for helping out – to assist any businesses marketing and/or corporate social responsibility plans in the Borough, Regionally or Nationally.

An organisation with immense tradition and the most successful club in this sport in the UK in terms of medallists.

More information from Adrian on 0161 286 6564 or stockportmetro@ sportinstockport.com

A epileptic dog rejected by thousands of potential owners has found fame on the big screen – after landing a role in blockbusting film Transformers: The Last Night. Freya, a cross pitbull and Staffy from Cheadle Hulme has spent two weeks on set making the movie, in which she plays the pet of Sir Anthony Hopkins.

Stepping Hill Parking ‘One Of Highest In UK’

A one hour stay in the car park at Stepping Hill hospital is now thought to be the joint second highest in the entire country. Behind only Royal Surrey County Hospital (£4), Stepping Hill, is tied with Hereford County Hospital charging £3.50 for a one hour stay.

Stockport NHS Foundation Trust increased its prices by about 40% over the summer.

Gatley Primary School Expansion Planned

Plans are being discussed to extend Gatley Primary School.

Demand is such that even children living close to the school have been unable to get in.

Residents are being consulted on extending it to three-form entry.

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Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

The Forum Centre at Wythenshawe continues to develop and improve its services. 2016 has seen the launch of the refurbished gym, a new presentation area, upgrades to meeting spaces, cafe improvements, and in the library, the new three-course dinner The comprehensive leisure facility on site provides affordable sports and leisure for to a banquet. all. In addition to the new gym spaces, Their freshly prepared the large swimming pool and training pool dishes can be tasted host lessons, leisure swimming, and pool in Forum Flavours, parties. Wythenshawe Amateur Swimming the concourse cafe.

Club is also based at the centre.

For those with a The Better Swim School teaches children creative bent there is from four years old to swim. Progress can a versatile new space be monitored online through Home Portal. on the ground floor of the library, designed Convenient monthly to encourage creative thought direct debit payments are and aspiration. available which include The comprehensive MakerSpace boasts a range free swimming for the child of computer equipment such outside of their lessons. leisure facility as Apple Macs, a HP Sprout The busy fitness class on site provides PC, 3D printing and sewing timetable offers more than machines, which can all be 30 classes each week with affordable sports used free of charge and on a favourites including Les drop-in basis.

Mills Body Attack and Body and leisure for all.

Pump plus Group Cycling, The children’s library has Yoga and Pilates. benefited from funding through the Wolfson Foundation to provide Leisure facilities and classes can be accessed on a casual basis or through a new fixtures, fittings and also a new range of membership options. programme of digital activities.

The Forum is a licensed venue for It is a bright and welcoming space for civil weddings and its versatile spaces children and families to browse books, accommodate a range of requirements. get online safely, join in with activities and enjoy a varied calendar of events.

The newly christened Willow Suite is ideal for business meetings, networking events, It is free to join the library and private functions, wedding ceremonies and memberships are available to all residents small receptions of up to 60 people for a of Greater Manchester including Stockport, wedding breakfast.

Trafford and Tameside.

The on-site chefs – artisan caterers Obson & Co – work closely with the Forum events team to provide function catering from canapés to a buffet, from a

MakerSpace and updated children’s library.

Upcoming shows at the Forum The Great Pretender - Saturday 12 November, Tickets: £14.50 Pantomime - The Pirates who saved Christmas 3rd, 4th, 10th & 11th December, Tickets: Family £18, Adult £6, Concession £4 Sally Morgan Friday 27th January 2017,

Tickets: £24.00

Circus of Horrors Sunday 29th January 2017, Tickets: Adult £22.00 Adult, Concession £19.00. *Adults Only show

Call 0161 935 4020 to book tickets.

Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Rare Archive Photographs Of Cheadle Royal Hospital On Show In Major New Photographic Exhibition

A revealing collection of rare archive photographs of the historic Cheadle Royal Hospital has recently been discovered, with many of the pictures now available to view in a major photographic exhibition in Cheadle Public Library, as well as online on the Cheadle Civic Society website.

Archivists from the Cheadle Civic Society have worked closely with Cheadle Royal Hospital staff throughout the year to find hundreds of rarely seen photographs which depict a rich variety of scenes at this specialist mental health hospital over the past 120 years.

Many of the photographs, which were largely used for marketing purposes in the early part of the 20th Century, show the extraordinary grandeur of this early Victorian hospital building and the extensive range of facilities which were available to patients at the time.

They show everything from the lavish and very comfortable living quarters which were used by the mainly private or donation-supported patients in the pre NHS era, to the beautiful manicured gardens,

expansive sports fields and magnificent ballroom, which were all designed to provide a highly convivial place for people to get very specialist health care and recuperate.

250th anniversary

What is of great significance is that Cheadle Royal Hospital is the oldest dedicated mental health hospital in the North-West and this year it is 250 years since it originally opened in the centre of Manchester, when it was called the Manchester Lunatic Asylum.

As the needs of the asylum grew, a new, highly advanced hospital was built in the late 1840s in what was then countryside around Cheadle, and since it opened, it has provided highly innovative specialist mental health care to many thousands of vulnerable people.

Today, it remains one of the country’s leading specialist mental health hospitals, providing ground breaking treatment to people of all ages and with a range of mental health issues, from eating disorders to continual self-harm, with all patients now referred

to the hospital by the NHS. There are also a selection of revealing photographs of Cheadle Royal’s “seaside retreat” -a magnificent Victorian home built in more than 30 acres of land close to the sea-front in Colwyn Bay. This is where many patients with less acute conditions were sent from the 1910s to the late 1950s to convalesce in an even more convivial environment.

Phillip Gould-Bourn, chairman of the Cheadle Civic Society, said: “The pictures not only provide a fascinating insight into the history of one of the oldest mental health hospitals in the country, but they also show how important heritage preservation is in helping to get a clearer understanding of the past.”

A number of these rare photographs are now on a show at a special exhibition at Cheadle Public Library, 23 Ashfield Road, Cheadle, which will remain for the next six months.

A larger selection of photographs, as well as further information about the history of Cheadle Royal Hospital, can also be viewed online at: www. cheadlecivicsociety.org

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Stockport Child Cuts Hair For First Time – For Charty

A seven year old Stockport girl has had 30cm of her hair cut to raise money for charity. Maddie Hampson from Marple who has only ever had ‘a one-inch trim’ donated the tresses to the Little Princess Trust which makes wigs for children undergoing chemotherapy. She was also sponsored and raised over £350.

Planning approval granted for Stockport’s Mersey bridge

Planning permission has been secured for a new road bridge across the River Mersey in Stockport. The bridge will link Astley Street on the north side of the river with Swaine Street to the south, enabling bus services to be re-routed through the town centre, while also improving access to the interchange. Works for the bridge and associated highways are expected to start in 2017

Jail For ‘UK’s Most banned Driver – From Stockport

A man described as the UK’s most banned driver has been jailed after being caught driving while disqualified for the 61st time.

John Pearson, 52, of Stockport, also has 10 convictions for drink-driving. Stockport magistrates sentenced him to four months in prison after he pleaded guilty to drinkdriving, disqualified driving and driving without insurance.

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Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Three More Stations To Be Book Award Winners Announced Manned Round The Clock In Return To ‘Local Policing’

The winners of this year’s Stockport Children’s Book Awards, hosted by Stockport Libraries & Information, were announced at a special presentation event.

The presentation evening was held at Edgeley Park on Wednesday 19th October, and was hosted by Craig Bradley ‘That Poetry Bloke’ poet, writer and performer.

Stockport children, aged three to 16 years old, from across the borough, read contemporary books and then voted for their favourite authors and illustrators.

The winners were: • Best Picture Book: Never Tickle a Tiger by Pamela Butchart and Mark Boutavant published by Bloomsbury Press • Best Read for Juniors: Imagination Box by Martyn Ford published

by Faber and Faber • Best Teen Read: Jessica’s Ghost by Andrew Norriss published by David Fickling Books The event was also attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Stockport, Councillor Chris Gordon and Dr Margaret Gordon who presented awards for the Reader of the Year Award and Most Improved Reader of the Year.

This summer the “Big Friendly Read”, with a Road Dahl theme challenged the children to read 6 books over the holidays and come and tell library staff about their experience. 16 children won tickets to this awards ceremony by completing the challenge.

lCheadle Hulme Police Station will no longer be the only one in Stockport manned 24 hours

Cheadle Heath Police Station is no longer the only one in the Stockport area to remain manned twenty four hours as the region looks to shake up its Policing policy.

The move came in from September 26th and will see stations at Bredbury, Reddish and Hazel Grove going 24/7.

For the last six years only the headquarters at Cheadle Heath, off Europa Way, has been round the clock, and it remains the only station where the public can attend.

But Superintendent Jo Rogerson says officers being based out of an additional three stations is something that will make a difference to the community.

She said: “The reopening of these buildings helps us become more instilled in our communities in Stockport.

“It allows officers to respond quickly to incidents near them and also helps them understand the issues that are most important to their local community. Local knowledge should increase.

“Visibility should also increase in those areas, allowing for a greater confidence and reassurance in the work that we do.

“It is a return to local policing, it is very exciting.”

Since 2010 all round the clock frontline officers worked out of Cheadle Heath, while the others were only used by neighbourhood officers and PCSOs.

Stockport Now Third Best Place To Live Outside London

Stockport is now officially the third best place to live outside London – making an impressive jump from 15th in the 2015 list.

The poll is topped by Crewe, taking the place of Chester which is now second.

Each town was given a score and an A to E grade for each category - affordability and employment, amenities, schools, internet connectivity and accessibility to public transport. The score for each category was added up to create the overall ranking.

Crewe scored 74.3 per cent, with Chester on 71.7 per cent and Stockport just a fraction behind on 71.5 per cent.

Of course, we all know that Stockport always has and always will be the best place to live!

Got a story?

Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

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Liam Sheils Reviews the 2016 Edinburgh Fringe

Edinburgh the city that never ceases to enthrall

Edinburgh is a place dear to this writer’s heart – indeed I visit several times a year for the sheer love of the ancient city’s history, landscape, romance, artistic and musical heritage, grandeur and spectacular architecture. I therefore jumped at the chance to return for the Fringe Festival this year, with it being a one-of-a-kind attraction filled a seemingly endless number of fascinating curiosities.

Where else could you see musician ‘Gecko’ in an enclosure like an oriental vegetable”; deliver a straight-faced (and wonderful) song followed by husband and wife singer/dancer that takes place partly from the perspective duo ‘Cozy’ mixing together live music, dance of an Edinburgh Zoo panda who sadly won’t and, of course, speed painting? “get a chance to see the [Fringe] Festival, sat

Shows

With thousands of shows to choose from and so much of the city I wanted to see I decided to leave my mobile phone with Google Maps in my pocket and instead wander to whichever nook or cranny of the Scottish capital drew my eye. I surmised, accurately, that wherever I headed it would not be long before I arrived upon an intriguing show that would draw me in. It was in this manner that I stumbled upon ‘Improvised Bond’ at La Belle Angele, which promised “a brand new James Bond film every night!” The improvised comedy ensemble, Men With Coconuts revelled in outdated Russian stereotypes and outrageously named Bond girls from the pre-Craig era and, in spite of this being well-trodden ground due to various spoofs over the years (most famously the ‘Austin Powers’ films), the team’s quick-wittedness and thrill of seeing them cope admirably without the safety net of a script more than made up for this.

Born of the same free spirited rambling through Auld Reekie was a chance encounter with the ‘Boomerang Club’, “London’s favourite spoken word night!” on tour at Cowgate’s Pilgrim bar.

However, before realising that nearly everybody performing work was an accomplished veteran with their own Fringe show elsewhere, I unwisely signed up to read an angstdriven unrequited love poem when asked as I entered the venue, “Are you performing?”

Profound

My affirmative answer was a

split second decision that left me squirming as quality acts like comedian Paul Cree delivering witty, profound observations of male adolescence and the aforementioned musician, Gecko, who has shared a stage with the likes of Ed Sheeran one by one damned me further. Truth be told I actually considered leaving when I firstly became aware of the huge level of talent on display and secondly realised, such was the closeknit nature of the venue, that I would not be able to speak to the hosts to withdraw my name without seriously disturbing the other performers.

Escape

It’s possible and indeed probable that only the fact that the door to my escape was on the other side of the performers, which made it impossible to escape unnoticed, kept me in my seat.

Mercifully and miraculously I remembered all the words and at the end the piece even seemed to reveal itself to be somewhat well received.

However, although I was relieved to have made it through the experience relatively unscathed, my frayed nerves and I decided to remain nonparticipatory throughout the rest of my trip!

While not a spontaneous find, ‘Bluesy Woozy Man’ at the Voodoo Rooms, with Addy van der Borgh embodying the role of a comical drunken jazz musician whose best days seemed likely to be behind him, proved no less enjoyable for it.

Van der Borgh gave himself to this tragic persona completely - and did so while proving

himself a dab hand with both a piano and a harmonica.

I had the privilege of seeing this show shortly after I’d arrived in the city and it immediately reminded me why I love the Edinburgh Fringe so much.

More than anywhere else I’ve been or am likely to go, there is a wealth of opportunity to discover odd, unique and brilliant shows.

Further intelligent comedy came from the likes of Erich McElroy’s political show, ‘Electile Dysfunction’ at Bar 50 in which he humorously skewered such (admittedly easy) targets as Donald Trump and Boris Johnson; and Robert Newman’s ‘The Brain Show’ at Summerhall which sought to debunk simplistic theories about human emotion, with a certain degree of success - and perhaps most importantly made the audience laugh while doing it.

Coinciding with the Fringe in August was The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Those who have already been acquainted with this event may agree it’s an experience to behold against the stunning backdrop of the Castle Esplanade.

A high point of the production featured New Zealand’s Lochiel Marching Drill Team striding in time to a rousing orchestration of Lord of the Rings’ main theme as images of Hobbiton and Mount Doom were projected onto the castle walls.

Highlight

Another highlight proved to be the Imps Motorcycle Display Team (astonishingly featuring only children aged 5 to 16) completing incredible stunts as the bold, haunting melody of Star Wars’ ‘Imperial March’ theme played on, pyrotechnics popped and animated X-Wings flew by.

Perhaps best of all, however, was the United States Army Europe Band and Chorus’ medley of Benny Goodman’s ‘Sing Sing Sing’, Elvis Presley’s All Shook Up and a joyous rendition of Aretha Franklin’s ‘Freedom’ accompanied by period twentieth century dancing which provided a comparatively modern contrast to the more traditional military movements and morris dancing seen elsewhere throughout the production.

Overall, the production provided an epic spectacle that straddled cultures and generations and brought excitement at every turn.

Surely there could be no greater tribute to this grand, compelling and historic, yet thoroughly contemporary city.

You can travel from Manchester to Edinburgh with Transpennine Express.

Tickets can be purchased on 0845 600 1671 or from their website www. tpexpress.co.uk/co.uk If you would like to know more you will find it here www.edinburghfestivalcity.com

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Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Do You Police Witness Appeal For Qualify Cheadle Road Rage Attack For Free Childcare?

Show Your Support To Protect Our Precious Green Belt Land

Mary Robinson MP for Cheadle

The ten Councils making up the Greater Manchester Combined Authority have drafted the ‘Greater Manchester Spatial Framework’ which if given the go ahead will release much of our precious green belt for housing development.

In Stockport, this would mean building around 13,000 houses on previously protected green belt land, and in Cheadle proposals are to build 2400 houses in Woodford, 3700 along the A34 in Cheadle Hulme and 2000 in Heald Green.

We need more homes, but I oppose mass development on green belt. Instead, I favour regeneration projects to develop brownfield sites such as derelict buildings and disused industrial sites, many of which blight a community’s landscape.

In March this year, the Government announced plans to encourage Councils to bring forward derelict and underused land for new homes by awarding funding to help introduce a brownfield register,

giving developers access to a database of potential sites for new homes, including affordable housing.

Stockport was one of the Councils to receive this funding from the pilot scheme, yet their plan as part of the Spatial Framework suggests two-thirds of the projected homes the area needs will be achieved by concreting over green belt.

We only have a limited amount of land and once the green belt is lost, it can never be replaced. I urge Stockport Council to reconsider their plans and apply some real vision to regenerate areas that would truly benefit from the investment this would bring, and in doing so protect our precious green belt for generations.

To enable local residents to show their support for this initiative, I have launched a petition, which you can sign here: www. maryrobinsonmp.wixsite.com/ protectthegreenbelt

Parents and carers in Stockport may be eligible for free childcare and education for two-year-olds.

Families across the borough could benefit from up to 570 hours per year of free childcare at nurseries, pre-schools or childminders across the borough.

If you receive certain benefits or have an annual household income below £16,190, you can visit your local Sure Start Children’s Centre where they will check if you are eligible for free childcare.

You will need to provide your national insurance number, name and date of birth.

If you are working you will need to provide evidence of your benefits, which is your tax awards notice (TC602).

They will then help you find an available nursery, pre-school or childminder; help you register your child and provide you with a letter to take along to your chosen place so you can access the free hours.

Councillor Colin Foster, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Children and Family Services, said: “This is a great offer for local families to benefit from childcare they might otherwise not be able to afford.

“High-quality care and education are key to helping young children get a good start in life — that’s why we are encouraging parents to find out if they are eligible for free childcare.”

For more information, drop into any Sure Start Children’s Centre, call 0161 474 5037 or visit www.stockport.gov.uk/ freechildcare.

Police are asking for witnesses to a road rage incident in Cheadle where a man got out of his car and assaulted another driver before speeding off.

A Ford Focus and a Vauxhall Corsa are understood to have pulled up alongside each other near to the Premier convenience store on Stockport Road, Cheadle Heath, before two men inside the cars began to argue.

The driver of the Focus got out and went over to the Corsa, before assaulting the other man. He then returned to his car and drove off towards the Pyramid. The victim was taken to hospital with minor injuries.

A Greater Manchester Police spokesman said they received multiple calls to Stockport Road following reports of an assault.

“There was an altercation between two men who had pulled up alongside each other.

One man then got out of his vehicle and assaulted the other man before driving away from the scene.

“The suspect is described as being of large build. He was wearing a grey hoody, black trousers and glasses.

“Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101.”

Cheadle Hulme Man Gets Life Sentence For Murdering Wife

A man from Cheadle Hulme has been jailed for life for murdering his wife.

Imran Khan, 39, stabbed his wife Nasreen at their home on Monday 18 April 2016.

Senior Investigating Officer, Duncan Thorpe, from GMP’s Major Incident Support Unit said: “This is a tragic incident which has left a mother dead and three children without parents. My heart goes out to them; they are the ones who have lost out most here.

Controlling

Imran Khan Credit: GMP

“Imran Khan is a controlling individual.

His actions on that fateful night have left his and Nasreen’s family and friends devastated.

“If you’re a friend, family member or neighbour who witnesses signs of domestic abuse, please report it to police. GMP takes all reports of domestic abuse seriously and we can’t do this alone.

Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Plea For Help For Cheadle Heath Five-Year-Old With Rare Condition

New Plans Submitted For Gatley Pub Development

New plans have been submitted to build six homes on the site of the High Grove Pub in Gatley.

The High Grove was subject to a concerted but ultimately unsuccessful bid from support group The Friends of The High Grove to prevent brewery Hydes from closing it earlier this year.

However, an initial planning application for four homes was suddenly withdrawn and there was allegedly some discussion taking place between the group and the developers to buy back the land.

That appears to have come to nothing and the new application was recently lodged.

The father of a five year old boy from Cheadle Heath is determined to fight on for his son after being told there was nothing more that could be done for him.

Joshua Burns-Adair from Cheadle Heath was given just a one in 56 million chance of being born alive.

But he defied those odds and is now five despite his condition which is a rare type of dwarfism called Jeune’s syndrome which only affects his rib cage.

Crushed

Heald Green and Cheadle Hulme Sites In First ‘Green Belt Housing’ Proposals

It means that compared to the rest of his body, his ribs are just a fraction of the size, and his larger internal organs are being crushed as a result.

Joshua, who attends The Valley School in Bramhall has undergone two operations to break and extend his ribs to help him breathe, and he now has two metal plates each side of his rib cage.

But doctors at the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital have told dad Mark and partner Amanda that there’s nothing more they can do.

But after researching specialist chest hospitals, they have found three centres in the USA and Canada which they hope can help save their little boy.

Help

Mark said: “We’ve found hospitals in Philadelphia, Boston, and Montreal, and we are now in contact with doctors there to see if they can help Joshua.”

The journey to the US or Canada could cost the family more than £100,000, and a fundraising page has been set up to help raise money. lPLEA: Joshua’s dad is looking to USA and Canada for To donate to Joshua’s fund, visit www.gofundme.com/joshuaburnsadair . help for his son

Bramhall Singer Looks To Boost Numbers For Community Choir

A Bramhall-based singer is looking to spread the word of choir singing to improve health and wellbeing.

Award-wining barbershop singer, Kate Firth, 51, runs Cheshire Community Choirs based in Knutsford, Wilmslow and Alderley Edge, which

aims to teach people how to improve their breathing, lung function and posture.

Kate said: “Some members have mental health issues, some have physical disabilities,” “I focus very much on health singing, the use of the core and diaphragm and

healthy breathing.

“It’s all about position, how you learn to breathe properly, so often their lung function improves and their mood is elevated.

Kate is focussing on building membership at her Knutsford choir, whose members she has described

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as ‘very committed’, but she is also taking new members at Wilmslow and Alderley Edge.

Kate has a firm background in music, having competed across the pond in America against some of the world’s leading barbershop choirs.

She also runs private singing tuition.

Green Belt land in Heald Green and Cheadle Hulme has been earmarked in initial proposals that form part of a Greater Manchester Council initiative to provide more homes.

A site close to Heald Green Large Local Centre and Heald Green station has been identified as having the potential to deliver up to 2,000 new dwellings.

And land off the A34 near Cheadle Hulme - which is bounded by the A34 to the East and Wilmslow Road to the West - has been identified for upwards of 3,700 dwellings with a potential new access directly onto the A34 at Eden Point.

Following a consultation process, Greater Manchester Combined Authority will review all of the responses and consider how they need to review our strategy. It is their intention to consult on a ‘Publication Plan’ in Summer 2017, with submission to the Secretary of State at the end of 2017 and adoption of the GMSF in 2018.

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Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Stockport College Relaunch Website With A Modern Look

Stockport College have launched their newly refurbished website, developed by Manchester-based company Modern English.

Modern English have developed a through a partnership with the skills network, website to rival any educational institution as well as gaining information on receiving of Stockport College’s size, locally and support with fundamental employability nationally. skills.

The new website - at www.stockport.ac.uk Prospective apprentices will benefit now boasts a unique user-friendly browsing from the transparent process in securing an experience for both prospective and current apprenticeship through the current vacancies list, or merely finding out more about what students, parents and corporate partners.

With improved usability visitors can life is like to be working and studying with acquire information such as relevant job Stockport College. opportunities, term dates and the latest events The site also provides information on fees such as Open Days and Open Evenings in a and funding to help prospective students understand what is available. matter of seconds.

School-leavers can access vital information Students can also access the courses they such as how to apply to college right the way can enrol onto that will put them on the through to retrieving the latest prospectus, career path they have chosen. The Career Area will display all the relevant courses which is available to download now.

Visitors looking for information on adult and qualifications you can study to pursue courses can now view a list of online courses your chosen vocation.

The newly launched Stockport College website

Gatley Ex-Pro Footballer Charged With Fraud

l CHARGED: Efe Sodje of Gatley is an ex professional footballer and coach for Macclesfield Town

A man from Gatley has been charged with fraud after a three year long investigation.

Efe Sodje, 44, was charged along with brothers Sam, Stephen and Bright over their involvement the Sodje Sports Foundation.

Efe Sodje was a professional footballer with Macclesfield Town and Luton and also had a spell as coach at Macclesfield.

Sam Sodje, 37, and Stephen Sodje, 42, both of Abbey Wood, south east London, Efe Sodje, of Gatley, Cheshire, and Bright Sodje, 50, from Sale, also in Cheshire, have all been charged with fraudulent trading.

The four have been the subject of a three-year investigation by the National Crime Agency following allegations of irregularities in their charity.

Sam Sodje played for Reading in the Premier League and Nigeria, during a football career which ended in 2013.

Bright Sodje used to play rugby league for Sheffield Eagles, Wakefield Wildcats and Hull KR. An NCA spokesman said: “Four people have been charged with fraud offences after an investigation by the National Crime Agency.

“Bright, Efetobore, Samuel and Stephen Sodje were charged with fraudulent trading and bailed until November 14 when they will appear at Westminster Magistrates Court.”

Bramhall Natural Beauty Store Scoops Award A Bramhall natural beauty store has scooped a prestigious retail award.

Amaranth won the Best Independent Retailer gong at the Natural Beauty Retail Awards.

Now in its second year, the Natural Beauty Retail Awards highlight the valuable contribution and support of retailers to the growth of the vibrant natural and organic beauty market.

Innovation

The awards recognise and celebrate the industry’s dedication and innovation in offering their customers a great retail experience, with the winners decided by a panel of leading industry experts.

It was among illustrious company with top brands such as Waitrose, Debenhams

and Holland and Barrett also receiving recognition.

The awards were announced the Autumn edition of Natural Beauty News.

The Bramhall Lane South retailer promotes natural and organic beauty to customers both in the local area and nationally through their website and social media.

Natural Beauty News editor Julia Zaltzman said: “The standard of excellence within the natural beauty industry has never been higher, with product innovations, customer care and consumer awareness all at the forefront of this pioneering sector, we are proud to be able to highlight those who are truly trailblazing within their categories.”

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Stockport Residents Urged To Use Shopmobility

Residents with mobility or visual difficulties are being encouraged to access Shopmobility Stockport’s services, as they have helped hundreds of residents to get around the borough.

Providing rental scooters and wheelchairs at a small cost, Shopmobility Stockport made 2,300 trips possible last year alone.

Located at Level 2 of Merseyway Car Park, residents can register for the service where they will receive training on how to use the scooters or wheelchairs.

Membership costs £20 for one year plus £5 when you hire equipment, or if you have a temporary disability or live outside Greater Manchester the charge is £5 a day.

You do not need to be registered disabled, but you must provide identity such as bank statement or drivers licence.

If you have one of the following conditions and you wish to use a scooter or power chair, you will need to bring a letter from your doctor to say that you are fit to use powered equipment: Epilepsy, Diabetes – controlled by insulin, fits or blackouts, sleep disorders, mental impairment (e.g. Alzheimers), poor concentration, severe weakness or tiredness in the upper limbs, learning disabilities Shopmobility Stockport is open Monday to Saturday from 9.00am to 5.00pm (except Bank Holidays). If you can’t get a taxi or car into town, a time and place can be arranged to meet you with the equipment.

Councillor Wendy Wild, Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Adult Social Care at Stockport Council, said: “Shopmobility Stockport is a great service that helps people with mobility or visual difficulties to get around Stockport easily, enabling them to be more independent and have more contact with other people.”

For more information, call 0161 666 1100 or visit www.shopmobilitystockport.co.uk.

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Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Bramhall and Cheadle Hulme Crossing Patrols Required

Lollipop men and women are needed for key roads in Bramhall, Romiley, Adswood and Cheadle Hulme.

Stockport Council has a number of vacancies throughout these areas for which we are seeking to recruit conscientious and reliable employees. School crossing patrols are provided to help children and their families cross the road safely on their way to, and from, school each day throughout the borough.

They are not necessarily directly outside a school but could be anywhere on a direct route to a school.

Hours are usually between 8.00am - 9.15am and 3.00pm - 4.00pm during school term time. Full training and uniform is provided.

Councillor Dean Fitzpatrick, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Education, said: “School crossing patrols provide a valuable service to our community in Stockport by keeping local children and families safe. However, recruitment for this role has become steadily more difficult in Stockport and across the country as well. That’s why I’d like to encourage residents of all ages to get in touch with us and apply for this role.” To find out more and apply, visit www.yourcounciljobs.co.uk.

Gatley And Heald Green Residents On Alert As Ringway Third Runway Rumours Start

Gatley and Heald Green residents probably won’t have paid much attention to the recent decision by the government to award a third London airport runway to Heathrow.

Knock-on effect

But the move could have a knock-on effect with talk quickly starting about the possible benefits of a similar move at Manchester’s Ringway Airport.

Within hours of the controversial decision being announced by Prime Minister Theresa May, speculation already began, with some sources quoting a potential rise in revenue from the current

£25bn per year to up to £75bn in revenue should an additional runway be added at Manchester.

But such talk will no doubt unsettle Gatley and Heald Green residents who live close to the current two runway airport with fears of increased traffic and noise pollution.

However, with disagreements even among May’s own cabinet over the Heathrow decision which even if it were to go ahead wouldn’t happen until at least 2025 - locals probably shouldn’t worry just yet about an issue that could be up to two decades away.

Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

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Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Bramhall Together Trust Looks For Community Funding Vote

Bramhall Together Trust is hoping to secure funding for its community events through a community funding initiative with a little help from the community itself.

The Aviva Community Fund offers the chance for the general public to vote for important cases in their community to get funding, and the Bramhall Together Trust is hoping to be successful and receive this community support funding.

The Bramhall Together Trust rely totally on sponsorship and donations from the local community to make sure the events can take place, buts as time goes by these brilliant community events are harder and harder to successfully put on and are in real danger of stopping.

You can vote at: https://community-fund. aviva.co.uk/voting/project/view/16-1154

Stockport Boy Nears Charity Target - And Wins Another Award

Romiley 10-year-old Luke receives British Citizen Youth recognition A seriously ill Stockport boy is close to achieving his ambitious fundraising target has been given another award for his courage.

Luke Chapman, of Romiley in Stockport , wants to raise £38,000 for children’s charity When You Wish Upon a Star by the time he turns 11 in March.

He has had four bouts of open heart surgery - and countless other operations - as he was born with complicated heart defects.

Currently he is at £31,000 and this work, as well as his positive attitude, saw him given a British Citizen Youth Award at the House of Lords.

Mum Kelly Chapman, 36, said: “They were looking for people who have made a difference to other people’s lives.

“Twenty children were in receipt of one, all had their own stories and to hear them was inspiring.

“Luke wants other children in hospital to have the same family time he did at Disneyland.”

Accolades

Previously Luke has been given accolades including British Heart Foundation’s young hero award and has met a host of famous people including the Queen and David Beckham.

Kelly said: “He doesn’t go into school shouting about it but he realises how special it is.

“There are so many things Luke can’t do that others take for granted.

“This is the flip side, Luke would be really excited

lWINNERS Luke with David Beckham

about playing a game of football with his friends.”

Luke is hoping to get to his target with a football match early next year between a team of ‘real-life heroes’ such as doctors and firemen and a team of celebs.

Luke organised a sponsored event every day in 2015 with a theme to coincide with what ‘national day’ it was, including national water melon day and barber shop quartet day. Now he has his sights on the football game.

Kelly added: “The biggest obstacle is finding a pitch, then we can get a date, then we can get people to sign up.”

If you can help call Kelly on 07821 710793.

Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

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Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

BREAK TIME QUICK CROSSWORD Across 1. Predicament (6) 4. Grass (5) 8. Old Testamant figure (5) 9. Mischievous (7) 10. Inundate (7) 11. French cheese (4) 12. Hill (3) 14. Of the ear (4) 15. Rim (4) 18. Container (3) 21. Weapons (4) 23. Smoothing out (7) 25. Conspicuous (7) 26. Race (5) 27. Follow (5) 28. Loves (6)

Down 1. Ordinary (6) 2. Examine (7) 3. Teach (8) 4. Exchange blows (4) 5. Put off (5) 6. Girl’s name (6) 7. Exhausted (5) 13. Relapsed (8) 16. More dirty (7) 17. Riff-raff (6) 19. Dens (5) 20. Way out (6) 22. Funds (5) 24. Destiny (4)

Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

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HAVE A PUNK ROCKIN’ GOOD TIME AT THE FORUM THIS MONTH This month we present the drama by Stockport playwright Simon Stephens “Punk Rock”.

Set in the Common Room of a Grammar School we follow the lives of teenagers approaching the end of their school lives and witness the various plots and love triangles effecting these adolescents.

Gritty

This is a play that will be performed “in the round” in an intimate setting, so this is a great performance to watch for those who like gritty drama, as this performance contains strong language and adult themes, therefore not suitable for children.

As December is around the corner we have the perfect events to welcome the festive period in with some great nights of Christmas entertainment in Stockport.

Comedy

We kick off on Saturday 3rd December with a Comedy Night at the Forum.

Our comics include Dan Nightingale and Steve Shanyaski, both of whom have appeared on shows such as John Bishop’s Only Joking and Jason Mannford’s Comedy Rocks!

We are also delighted to be able to announce that the winner of English Comedian of the Year and Patron of NK Theatre Arts Brennan Reece will bring his brilliant performance to the Forum Theatre.

Tables of up to 12 are available which includes the comedy and music to finish.

So if you are looking for a fantastic and local night out this coming Christmas then why not laugh all the way to The Forum Theatre for this brilliant night of comedy!

Tickets are now on sale priced just £10 each or two for £18. VIP tickets are also on sale, which includes priority seating and a drinks package!

Drama

On the 7th and 8th December we have two nights of singing, dance and drama with the NK Theatre Arts youth theatre as children, young people and young adults bring a festive show to Stockport which is the perfect family night out to celebrate Christmas.

If pantomimes are your thing, then this year the magical tale of Cinderella will be told this December with school and public performances now on sale as we welcome JB Productions to Stockport.

Once Christmas is over, the performances keep on coming, with our January trip to the heart of London’s theatre land when we present “A Night in the West End”.

This is a brilliant evening of musical theatre as we celebrate the songs from the shows in a cabaret setting on Friday 27th and Saturday 28th January as we feature musicals such as Chicago, Miss Saigon and many more.

What a perfect Christmas gift to get a fan of Broadway shows!

Classic

Tickets are also on sale for our February production of the Willy Russell classic play “Blood Brothers”.

The story is a contemporary nature verses nurture plot, revolving around fraternal twins Mickey and Eddie, who were separated at birth and one raised in a wealthy family while the other raised in a poor family.

The twins’ different backgrounds take them to opposite ends of the social spectrum, one becoming a councillor and the other unemployed and in prison.

Friendship

They both fall in love with the same girl, causing a tear in their friendship and leading to the tragic death of both brothers.

Russell says that his work was based on a one-act play that he read as a child about

two babies switched at birth ... it became the seed for Blood Brothers.

Other Events coming soon to the Forum Theatre include the fantastic musical “Made in Dagenham” based on the hit film, William Shakespeare’s wonderful play “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” As ever our Music, Dance and Drama workshops continue as we offer all-inclusive sessions for children, young people and adults from the ages of 5yrs+. Our Musical Theatre sessions take place on a Monday evening, Drama on a Tuesday evening with Dance on a Saturday. We have also introduced a brand new monthly session for babies and toddlers on the first Friday of the month with the brilliantly interactive “Story Tree” now in Stockport. For full details of our classes and times, visit our website www.nktheatrearts.org.uk

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Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

Steward Required

Experienced Steward required for social club in Wythenshawe, Manchester.

Managing a team of 8 including bar and cleaning staff, you should have the necessary skills to lead our team and efficiently operate the club. You will be accountable to the Club Committee. Applicant is required to be an outgoing, well groomed, customer service orientated individual. Ideally the candidate should be a full time resident of the area.

The successful applicant should have experience of Stock control and Cellar Management Organising staffing and to manage, motivate, develop and support the team within the club ensuring inductions, training, assessment and appraisals are completed and documented.

Ensuring that all administrative requirements are completed, including stock taking, staff records and Health & Safety documentation.

Appropriate qualifications preferred but not essential Position type: Full Time Hours: 55 hours per week including weekend shifts Salary: negotiable. References required Contact Sam or Mike on 0161 902 0978 Monday, Wednesday or Friday between 10.00am and 12 noon or email stjohnsbenchill@btconnect.com

City Today Couriers are a well-established Transport & Logistics Company based in Stockport Manchester that have an exciting opportunity for new self-employed, experienced, professional and enthusiastic couriers to help provide us with a delivery solution for our ever increasing customer base and client demands.

Our requirements are: If you fit the criteria and are looking for an * Based in or around Stockport/Manchester or surrounding exciting & rewarding challenge please contact areas. or email the below to discuss further. * Have sameday delivery experience.

We are also looking for Aviation Cargo Training * Have your own van either small size or transit size (no cars).

Level 4 accredited drivers. * Be able to work flexible hours.

Nathan Cockcroft : 07810 806484 * Experience in working as an owner driver (self-employed) Email : nathan@citytoday.biz courier.

Your Chance To Help The Stockport Community

Build a Team this Christmas

Try an activity with a difference and build team spirit before tackling the New Year.

Several organisations throughout Stockport have benefitted from a trip down to Challenge 4 Change in Trafford Park.

This last two months of 2016, the unique, inbound activity centre and charity hopes to welcome and entertain more groups that want to sample ‘team building’ and fun prior to Christmas parties and the commencement of festivities.

More information from: dave@challenge4change.org or www.challenge4change.org

Police Want To Speak To ‘Man In Flowery Shorts’ After Attempted Bank Robbery In Cheadle

It’s that time of Year. The Aviva Community Fund is open for votes again. Let’s help our Stockport campaigns?

The Aviva Community Fund offers the chance for local community projects to win funding because together it says: “we can do more for the causes you care about”.

Look for projects in the Borough and help them get to the finals by voting for them! No money or donation is necessary simply, register to vote. Then you get 10 votes per person to use how you want. You can give all your votes to one project or spread them across up to 10 projects. The choice is yours!

This Year our Stockport appeals hoping to get our support include: Stockport Metro Swimming Club and Manchester Rugby Club. See: https://community-fund.aviva.co.uk/acfcms/get-involved

Greater Manchester Police want to speak to a man who attempted to rob a bank in Cheadle.

The unmasked man walked into Santander in Cheadle, Greater Manchester at about 17:00 GMT on Monday.

In a note, he threatened to shoot staff with a gun if they pressed the emergency bell.

But he left empty-handed after a cashier ignored him and brought the counter shutters down.

It is believed he headed away from the premises in High Street towards Ashfield Road.

Det Con Kirsty Pierce from Greater Manchester Police said no-one was hurt but staff were “left badly shaken”.

She said the offender in his “rather eyecatching flowery patterned shorts” had “thought ahead enough to write the note, and we want to speak to him before he tries to do this again”.

Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com

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Telephone: 0161 491 2966 / 07779 300162 - Email: stockportmail@aol.com