Delivered to: Stafford, Penkridge, Little Haywood, Great Haywood, Forebridge, Western Downs, Hixon, Parkfields, Weeping Cross, Haughton, Gnosall, Littleworth, Rowley Park, Derrington, Acton Trussell.
Great Prizes to be won inside this issue: Severn Valley Railway – Family days out The Grand Theatre – Tickets for Jack and the Beanstalk Pantomime The Telegraph Cruise Show at the NEC – Win a pair of tickets
October/November 2012
Inside This Issue: Local features, Recipe of the month, Puzzles, Eating out at Blue Ginger Restaurant review, local entertainment, plus lots more! 01
| OCTOBER/NOVEMBER STAFFORDSHIRELocal OUTLOOK magazine delivered 2012 to 20,000
selected homes and businesses*
R O F TH E ILE
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TIL
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TILE R ET
THE LARGEST SELECTION OF WALL & FLOOR TILES THROUGHOUT THE MIDLANDS
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L LE N C E I N
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• CERAMICS • GLASS • MARBLE • PORCELAIN • MOSAICS • TRAVERTINE • ADHESIVES • TOOLS
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK Monday - Friday 8.00am - 6.00pm Saturday 8.00am - 5.30pm Sunday 10.00am - 4.00pm
www.tilechoice.co.uk
CANNOCK
Units 25&26 Longford Ind.Est Longford Rd WS11 0DG
01543 469400
LICHFIELD
13 Titan Way Britannia Ent Park Lichfield WS14 9TT
01543 264795
ALL TILES
WALSALL
Birchills House Birchills Ind.Est. Green Lane WS2 8LE
01922 746666
BILSTON
7 Millfields Road Bilston Wolverhampton WV14 0QJ
01902 405526
02Also at: BURTON STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012 • DERBY • SHREWSBURY • WEST|BROMWICH • BIRMINGHAM • PERRY BARR • KIDDERMINSTER • BROMSGROVE • CHELTENHAM • GLOUCESTER • NORTHAMPTON • KETTERING • CORBY
ditor
E A Message From The Hello readers, Welcome to the October/ November edition of the Staffordshire Outlook magazine.
The winners of the Black Country Living Museum & Focus Golf Academy competition from the August /September edition are below. Well done to all the winners and thank you to everyone who entered.
We hope you’re enjoying reading the magazine with this edition featuring our eating out review at Blue Ginger Cannock, local news, local features, puzzles and lots more!
If you belong to a local group or charity and would like forthcoming events published in this magazine please email: info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk
Don’t forget to enter the competitions with the winner being published in the next Stafford edition of the magazine, good luck.
If you are a business owner and would like to be featured in Staffordshire Outlook then please contact us on the details below.
Congratulations to:
Winner of Focus Golf Academy Free Golf Lesson Jonathon Harris – Acton Trussell Winners of Black Country Living Museum – Family Tickets Claire Bratt – Hixon Christopher Hollinshead – Castle Bank, Stafford Seraphine Crooke - Penkridge
Staffordshire Outlook Magazine Ltd 30 Swinburne Close, Sutton Heights, Telford TF7 4PZ Tel: 01952 321334 Staffordshire Outlook Magazine is published by Staffordshire Outlook Magazine Limited www.staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Advertising enquiries Sharon Caldwell - Sales Manager Email: Sharon@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Editorial/What’s on information Mal Caldwell - Editor Email: info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk Cover shot: Tixall Gatehouse courtesy of Dan Elmore Magazine design: www.s28.co.uk
Remember to keep this magazine at hand as we publish a useful numbers page at the back. We would like to thank all of the businesses for supporting this magazine and hope that our readers will use these reputable companies when the need arises, and don’t forget to mention Staffordshire Outlook if using any of the advertisers! All that’s left to do is relax and enjoy your local magazine. Enjoy your read…
Contents
The Nuffield – Wolverhampton Hospital TA Henns T&T Electrical World Windows and Doors Direct Ltd CRS Cannock The Grand Theatre competition Keep a date for a tenner Love Lane Interiors Having a Hoot at Penkridge Market Museum of Cannock Chase Stafford Tile Centre Wash Bathrooms The Telegraph Cruise Competition Penkridge Church Organ Fund Fireside Factory Best Kept Village Winners Fireside Gallery Lily’s Shifnal - autumn Recipe of the month Full restaurant review at Blue Ginger Perry & Phillips Severn Valley Railway – Competition The Rich Miners of Cannock Webbs – Washing machines Guildhall Shopping Centre Christmas Cask finder App Stafford Badgers FC Toms Tip Horoscopes Puzzles Subaru XV- by Rob Taylor Brindley Volvo- V40 Useful Numbers Index of advertisers Puzzle Solutions
Mal 4 6 8 9 10 12 14 15 16 16 17 17 18 18 19 22 23 24 26 28/29 30 32 34/35 36 38/39 40 41 42 44 45 46/47 48 49 50 50
We gratefully acknowledge the support of businesses whose adverts appear in Staffordshire Outlook magazine and whilst every care is taken to ensure accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for loss, damage or omission caused by error in the printing of an advert or editorial. All artwork is accepted on strict condition that permission has been given for use in this publication. Adverts are accepted on the understanding that descriptions of goods and services are fair and accurate. Staffordshire Outlook magazine does not officially endorse any advertising material included within this publication. All rights reserved. No part of this publication maybe reproduced, stored in any retrieval system of transmitted in any form - electronic, mechanical, photo copying or otherwise - without the prior consent of Staffordshire Outlook magazine.*total distribution 20,000 copies across two months.
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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al
pton Hospit m a rh e lv o W h lt a e H Nuffield
Why go miles for private treatment when we’ll go the extra mile for you here? The Nuffield Health Wolverhampton Hospital opened in 1978 and is situated in Wood Road, Tettenhall, Wolverhampton. We are set within extensive, beautiful mature grounds of 6.5 acres and have an established reputation in the region as the leading provider of local healthcare. Thursday 5th April marked the official re-opening of the newly rejuvenated local landmark and saw the Lord Mayor of Wolverhampton perform the ceremonial duties. Hospital Director, Tony Avery, said: “The Mayor was really enthusiastic and very impressed with what we have accomplished here.” “As the largest non-profit organisation we have been able to make the £1 million re-investment into the hospital to directly benefit our customers.” An integral part of community life as well as one of Wolverhampton’s largest employers – with some 200 staff members – the hospital provides so much more than just healthcare. It is committed so supporting and sponsoring many charities and good causes within the community. Keen to create a modern, comfortable and relaxed environment the hospital boasts 39 private rooms, each complete with a flat screen TV, wi-fi and en-suite facilities, along with 2 HDU beds. It’s features like these that make the customer experience at the Nuffield feel more like a stay in a hotel. “People are more aware of health and healthy lifestyles than ever 04
before and we want them to have access to the very best services.” A great emphasis has been placed on installing the latest safety features – such as advanced nurse call systems and refreshing the operating theatres. Dedicated suites offer specialist treatments and services such as aesthetics and endoscopy, while a day-care suite caters to the needs of ‘walk-in’ patients of those who require minor surgeries. “The refresh programme is not just cosmetic; it incorporates many safety features and updates existing services of real importance.” And with technology in medical care advancing quicker than ever, the Nuffield always remains at the cutting edge: “It’s really important to keep up with technology in order to offer the best standards of care.” We offer services across a vast range of speciality areas and accept patients who have private medical insurance from all health insurers including BUPA or patients who choose to pay for themselves. Simply choose your consultant and ask your GP for a private referral. Services that we offer: • Breast Surgery • Dermatology • Diagnostic Imaging (X-Ray, MRI, Ultrasound) • Ear, Nose and Throat • Exercise ECG and Cardiology Investigations • Gastroenterology • General Medicine • General Surgery • Genito-Urinary Medicine • Gynaecology • Medical Oncology • Neurology • On site Pathology and Phlebotomy • Ophthalmology
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
• Optometry • Oral Maxillofacial • Orthopaedics • Paediatrics (children) • Pain Management • Physiotherapy • Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery • Podiatry • Pre-assessment • Private GP Service • Psychiatry • Psychology • Rheumatology • Urology • Varicose Veins • Weight Loss Surgery We can also offer a Personal Medical Loan facility making your healthcare more affordable with 0%* interest free loans available subject to terms and conditions. If you would like to know more about any of the services we can offer or you have a general enquiry please contact us on 01902 793259 or visit our website at www.nuffieldhealth. com/wolverhamptonhospital With ever-growing waiting lists on the NHS for many procedures, it’s reassuring to know that there’s a top-notch and thoroughly refreshed alternative on the doorstep. Nuffield Health Group Awards • 2012 NHS Litigation Authority (NHSLA) level three • Winner of 2011 Health Investor Private Hospital Group of the Year • 2010 Laing and Buisson Award for Management Excellence • 2010 Health Investor Social Enterprise of the Year *0% APR typical. There will be a £55 admin charge. All loans are subject to status. Exclusions apply.
Wolverhampton press ad 218x140 06_12_10.indd 2
07/12/2010 13:59:54
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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Come and see the new fashion brands at T. A. Henn… The Wolverhampton family based jewellery store celebrating its 165th anniversary this year keeps on moving on with its time by bringing you the best of fine and of quality fashion jewellery in Wolverhampton.
Over the last three years, T.A. Henn has focused on gathering the bread and butter of fashion with brands such as Pandora, Ti Sento, Tresor Paris, Coeur de Lion, Clogau, Ice Watches, Bering, Soldier to Soldier, Unique…
Still more to fashion to come at T.A. Henn… Your story around your wrist
Exclusive New Watches Collection
Spend £40 or more and receive a free pair of Tresor Paris Earrings* *Terms and conditions: The earrings offered by T.A. Henn are the Tassilly 6mm white crystal for purchases of a minimum value of £40. Subject to stock availability and not valid on sales items or in conjunction with other offers. This voucher is valid until the 31st of October 2012.
T.A. Henn 38 - 41 Princess Street Wolverhampton WV1 1HD 06
Come and see us and we will be delighted to help.
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Tel: 01902 428486 info@tahenn.com Find us on Facebook www.tahenn.com
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
07
T&T Electrical World Welcome to T&T Electrical World – Specialist for all your electrical needs. We are now situated in a brand new refurbished showroom at 498 Stafford Road, Wolverhampton. Tom Brotherton, managing Director wanted to offer a one stop shop for both commercial and domestic customers and to bring confidence back to the local public using tradesmen, giving customers piece of mind that they are dealing with a firm of the utmost professionalism & integrity. Whether you need a socket for your house, a light for your office, a fusebaord fitting or a complete re-wire our team T&T Electrical will provide a fast, professional service.
Along with domestic & commercial electrical installations we a UK stockist of decorative electrical sockets, switches, garden lights, chandeliers, wall lights, spot lights, LED lighting, energy efficient electric heating and Westinghouse ceiling fans. The All new LED strip lighting is available and on display in 15 different solid colours, strobe effect, fading and flashing, Great for the festive season and we can either supply or supply and fit.
online lighting store with over 500 products to choose from. Call in to the showroom today at 498 Stafford Road, Wolverhampton WV10 6AN open Mon to Fri 9-5pm Sat 9-4pm or phone on 01902 785670 or 07834462363 or email tom@tandtelectrical.co.uk
www.tandtelectrical.co.uk
Our philosophy is that attention to detail speaks volumes about the quality of our products and work. Our electrical engineers wear T&T branded uniform at all times and our vans are fully liveried to give you the peace of mind that you are dealing with a firm of the utmost professionalism & integrity. We welcome you to visit our showroom where you will see a small range of products we sell on display. We also have an
Led bulb • Cheapest in the uk • 3 Year guarentee • Warm white/cool white/ daylight • Dimmable or non dimmable
T & T Electrical World Domestic - Commercial Electrical Contractors
Electrical Contractor Staffordshire, West Midlands & Surrounding Areas
NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN! • Decorative Lighting - online shop now open • LED Lighting Specialists • Decorative Sockets & Switches • Energy Efficient Electric Heating New Fuse boards from £250
Electrical Home Surveys from £80 Full House Rewires from £1500
498 Stafford Road, Wolverhampton WV10 6AN Tel 01902 785670 or 07834462363 tom@tandtelectrical.co.uk www.tandtelectrical.co.uk 08
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Direct Windows And Doors The windows of your home are the first thing that people see, so Windows and Doors Direct Limited are here to make your home stand out from the rest.
Limited
We are an independent family run businesses with a wealth of UPVC experience and we now boast a very impressive showroom at 498 Stafford Road, Wolverhampton. We offer you a free quotation and this can either be done in the comfort of your home or simply visit the showroom where you will see our professional set-up and you won’t be disappointed!
standard. With a 10 year guarantee on all services.
With our total focus on attaining customer satisfaction we offer a no deposit scheme with all work carried out. No monies are paid until completion of work, this gives you the trust & confidence that you do not part with your cash until you are happy!
We are not just a man in a van, come and see us now at 498 Stafford Road, Wolverhampton (opposite Wing Wah Restaurant) or call our professional team on 01902 786257. MonFri 9-5pm Sat 9-4pm.
We sell a large range of products including Composite Doors, Windows, Porches, Conservatories, Orangeries and Garage Conversions. All windows have an energy rating of “A RATED” as
We are committed to competitive prices, so will beat any like for like quote, however we will never compromise on quality, service or aftercare.
W i n d o wands Doors
All work is project managed by the owner of the company and he will deal direct with you so there are no pushy sales men here at Windows and Doors Direct. All work is carried out by our own team of professional fitters.
Direct Ltd
NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN!
A RATED
WinDoWs AnD DooRs AT fAcToRy pRicEs 6 Flat Windows One Opener Per Window 1 x UPVC Door
All this for only £1999.00 Fully fitted We will beat any like for like quote!
01902 786257
498 Stafford Road, Wolverhampton (opp Wing Wah Restaurant)
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
09
CRS
Our quality stands well above some of the top names in the bedding industry. However quality is never enough and our pricing structure is as competitive as any in the bedding world. There is a range to suit all budgets, and to compliment this an average five working day delivery time which means that your best nights sleep can be with you in a short space of time.
We at CRS have collectively over 30 years of experience in selling beds.
“As the Store Manager and Bed Buyer I would like to welcome you into our store, where one of our bed specialists will provide you with all you need for a good nights sleep, but make sure you set your alarm as I cant be responsible for you being late for work! don’t take my word for it, take some tips from my team on how to choose a bed for a great nights sleep”. Andy
• Buy the best bed you can afford. • Always remove your outdoor clothing.
• You spend a third of your life in bed, so make the right choice. 10
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
2 FREE memory foam pillows
with every double/king-size divan bed purchased Stafford edition
OFFER 2
Buy 2 drawers
GET 2 FREE on all double/king size divan beds purchased Stafford edition
• Remember your bed is a 10 year investment, take your time, relax and lie down on the beds.
OFFER 1
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
11
- Competition e tr a e h T d n ra G n to p Wolverham
Two lucky winners can each win 4 tickets to see JACK AND THE BEANSTALK on Tuesday 11th December at 7.15pm. This year’s Grand Theatre pantomime JACK AND THE BEANSTALK will be from Dec 8th 2012 to Jan 20th 2013 will star much-loved actress, TV star and Loose Women presenter Sherrie Hewson and veteran panto entertainer Keith Harris plus the lovable Orville and Cuddles the Monkey in an unmissable family spectacular. Actor and comedian Ken Morley will play The King; X-Factor singing sensation Niki Evans returns for her third Grand Theatre pantomime as The Fairy and legendary pantomime performer Nigel Ellacott joins the line-up as Jack’s mom, Dame Trott. Brought to you by the same team behind Snow White and The Seven Dwarfs and Aladdin, JACK AND THE BEANSTALK will take you high above the clouds on a magical journey. Featuring a larger than life beanstalk and one very mean giant at the top of it, this classic tale will be magically brought to life in Wolverhampton’s biggest pantomime yet! So don’t wait for the magic to start - climb to the top of the queue and book now!
Call the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Box Office for more information on 01902 42 92 12 or online at:
www.grandtheatre.co.uk
To be in with a chance of winning simply answer the following question correctly and email your answer to info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk with your name, address and telephone number to arrive by 12th November 2012. Only email entries can be considered for the competition and winners will be notified by telephone.
Sherri Hewson stars in which hit sitcom set in Spain? A Eldorado B Benidorm C Duty Free D Triangle Competition Terms and Conditions Please email all entries to info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk. Winners to collect tickets from the box office on the night. Tickets cannot be exchanged and no cash alternative prize nights available. Winners may be required to partake in relevant publicity.
12
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
The Heating Experts
At Northern Gas Heating our mission is to deliver better service and better prices than any other central heating company. As a Northern Gas Heating customer we guarantee you will get an installation and a price that’s just right for you. Did you know you could be reducing the cost of your gas bills by upgrading to an ‘A’ rated - energy efficient boiler, whilst also dramatically reducing your carbon footprint?
New / Replacement Boiler Installations Complete Central Heating Systems Boiler Servicing
Do you qualify for help with your heating? To promote cleaner - more carbon friendly fuels, the A1 scheme aims to provide funding to help homeowners move to better heating alternatives. Just call for more details and to find out if you qualify.
Solar Technology & Renewables In addition to our high quality boilers and central heating systems, Northern Gas Heating offers a wide range of the very latest technologies to provide modern energy efficient solutions, tailored to the individual requirements of each home. Both Solar Thermal & Photovoltaic (PV) are fast becoming popular methods of either heating water or electrical power generation. To complement our solar options, we also provide proven Air Source Heat Pump solutions. Looking to go greener or simply take advantage of the convenience and potential efficiencies? Solar technologies & renewables are the modern choice for property upgrades, renovations and new builds.
Solar Thermal Photovoltaic (PV) Air Source Heat Pumps Don’t forget Northern Gas are always happy to help with anything heating related, always offering the best products at very competitive prices.
Why not call us and discuss your requirements. Contact today on:
Please quote Staffordshire
Phone: 01902 393393 Outlook when calling. www.northerngasheating.com
Harrison House, Marston Road, Wolverhampton, West Midlands WV2 4NJ E-mail: contact@northerngas.net
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
13
A Tenner! Keep A Date For Under
Spring in Victoria Park, Stafford
St Mary’s Parish Church, Stafford
With the celebration of the Olympics come and gone, a summer that never arrived, the time is now right to think about purchasing a calendar for 2013! Robert Cartwright Photography can meet your needs! A Stafford and District calendar, illustrated with 36 colourful photographs, highlights Stafford and its Victoria Park, Shugborough Hall, Cannock Chase, Doxey Marshes Reserve and the local canal scene. Every month is themed with a large photograph supported by two small ones, alongside the wellproportioned calendar section, which is ideal for making a note of all those appointments, birthdays and anniversaries that cannot be missed. The calendar is printed locally to a very high standard by Jason Cornish, Managing Director of the Calendar Company of Brocton. It is available in Stafford at Waterstones, the Ancient High House, Ye Olde Soup Kitchen and the Riverside Art Gallery. Also at Springslade Lodger on Cannock Chase, Staffordshire Wildlife Trust at Wolseley Bridge, the Post Offices at Brocton, Bridle Road in Stafford and Great Haywood, plus the Village Stores in Little Haywood. Priced at under a tenner the calendar also makes an ideal gift for friends both at home and abroad.
In case of difficulty please call Robert on 01785 254283, or email robertandrew.cartwright@virgin.net 14
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Autumn - Stafford Victoria Park
Trent and Mersey Canal at Great Haywood, Stafford The High Bridge at Woodseaves near Stafford, Shropshire Union Canal
Love Lane Interiors specialise in GLASS SPLASHBACKS, GLASS WORK TOPS, WINDOW CILLS, GLASS BALUSTRADING and GLASS SHOWER SCREENS all made to fit your space.
Give Your Home Some L ve... Based in the middle of Staffordshire and West Midlands borders we aim to keep overheads down and prices competitive so the coloured glass can be viewed in selected kitchen and bathroom showrooms in the area. Offering a stylish alternative to tiles and grout, whether you have a full kitchen wrap or just a hob splashback and upstands, the glass will dramatically change your room giving your old kitchen a new contemporary lift or your new kitchen the classy wow factor it deserves. For bathrooms the glass can replace tiles in the shower area giving you a stunning transformation with a hygienic surface and no grout to attract debris for you to clean! Adding a glass window cill will also reflect the light giving you a sleek and shiny surface. Love Lane interiors also provide solutions for shower enclosures and wet rooms by giving you that made to measure glass door or partition that is made to fit your space perfectly. Love Lane staff are a friendly approachable team who offer a service to suit the customer, whether that is SUPPLY ONLY or TEMPLATING AND FITTING service. For more interior ideas and FREE QUOTE just call Louise on
01922 411077
Glass splashbacks Glass Window Cills- Reflective and Hygenic 1000`s of colours to choose from Made to measure shower screens Templating & Fitting service
For more interior ideas & free quote
Call Louise 01922 411077
www.lovelaneinteriors.co.uk email: louise@lovelaneinteriors.co.uk
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
15
ween… o ll a H is th t’ o o ‘H a e Hav
Penkridge Market will be holding a Halloween event for all you budding Witches and Wizards on Wednesday 31st October, including everything from Witches, owls and toffee apples. The event will run from 9am to 3pm, and with free admission and free parking, it’s a fantastic free day out for all the family. Our Penkridge Witch will be recruiting a new ‘apprentice’ on the day, so raid your ‘Witch’s Wardrobe’ and come dressed to scare us. The best dressed Witch will be announced at 2pm, outside The Old Deanery Farm Cafe and there will be a treat in store for the best costume. There will also be Owls and Birds of Prey on display from Gentleshaw Wildlife Centre, near Eccleshall, which is a small sanctuary for exotic animals and Birds of Prey. Visitors will be able to talk to the staff and meet the birds ‘up-close and personal’. For more information please see their website www.gentleshawwildlife.co.uk
Liz Williams - owner of Penkridge Market
All the regular market stall holders will be there selling everything from fabulous food and drink to gifts, cards, handbags and jewellery - a great place to start your Christmas shopping. Plus there will be a wide variety of refreshments available, as well as the onsite Cafe. Penkridge Market is situated in the centre of Penkridge, and is signposted off the A449. It is easily accessible from Junction 12 of the M6 and is only 6 miles from Stafford; 7 miles from Cannock and 10 miles from Wolverhampton (postcode ST19 5AP). For further information please telephone 01785 714221 or log onto the website www.penkridgemarket.co.uk
Gold Standard!
Artists, art groups and photographers from across the district are being sought for an Open Art Exhibition at The Museum of Cannock Chase later this year. The museum will be showcasing the best of the district’s artistic talent in the bi-annual Open Art 16
exhibition in partnership with Community Wellbeing Arts. To celebrate Olympic year, this year’s theme is ‘Going for Gold’ and entries that link to the Olympic themes and ideals will be particularly welcome. The museum is now managed by leisure provider WLCT on behalf of Cannock Chase District Council. Annette French, WLCT’s Museum Service Manager, said: “There’s loads of ways to get involved whether you’re a professional artist or just feel inspired to try something new! “Entries can be in the form of paintings, drawings, photographs, needlework, crafts, ceramics
or sculpture, so however you choose to express yourself we would love to hear from you.” Applicants must either live or work in Cannock Chase District and be able to demonstrate how their work relates to this year’s theme. Entry forms and details of the competition criteria are available from the museum now for final submission on 12th and 15th October so there’s still plenty of time to create something new for the show. Successful entries will be on display at the museum for the Open Art Exhibition, which runs from 22nd October to 19th December 2012.
The Museum of Cannock Chase on Valley Road, Hednesford is open daily from 11am to 5pm with last admission at 4.30pm. Admission is free. For more information, call the Museum on 01543 877666 or log onto www.cannockchasedc.gov.uk/museum.
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Stafford Tile Centre Welcome to Stafford Tile Centre – We are a family run business who have been trading since May 2010. We are specialists in all your tiling needs. Situated in a newly refurbished showroom at Unit 1 Greyfrairs Way, Stafford. Chris Tunnicliffe, Managing Director has a wealth of knowledge in all aspects of the ceramic floor and wall tile trade and can offer you his advice, and can help any customer to work out any measurements for that new tiled kitchen, bathroom or any other room that you are wanting to tile. We offer a full range of tiles, floor to wall, including ceramic, porcelain, natural stone and luxury vinyl tiles - Polyflor. We also stock a full range of bathrooms suites, and right now we are offering 25% off all bathroom suites and tiles when brought together! Call in to the showroom today at Unit 1 Greyfrairs Way, Stafford ST16 2RF open Mon to Fri 8.30-5pm Sat 9-4pm and Sun 11-4pm or phone 01785 223309 www.staffordtilecentre.co.uk
Wash A warm welcome to ‘Wash’, a family owned business that believe your bathroom and kitchen are just as important as any other room - they should be bright, comfortable, in keeping with your lifestyle and encompass all your needs. At ‘Wash’ we pride ourselves on innovative ideas that fit the criteria of your bathroom, ensuite and kitchen area with products that suit your needs through our extensive portfolio.. We offer a free of charge, no obligation home visit, where we can gain an understanding of your needs and requirements for your project, this information will then allow us to design your project and provide a 3d computerized photo realistic image for you to peruse. At ‘Wash’ we can provide and install all types of products from the Traditional or Modern, through to the Contemporary and Bespoke designs. You can be assured that your interests are kept from concept to completion by our friendly and personable team. ‘Wash’ offers a full design, supply & installation service for our clients or alternatively a supply only service for the more advanced client who wishes to install themselves. You can be assured that all installations are carried out to a very high standard and are project managed via the ‘Wash’ team to completion with a second to none support warranty. You can also have the confidence that all of the installers that ‘Wash’ use have many years installation experience and also carry full liability insurance.
25%
OFF ALL BATHROOM SUITES AND TILES WHEN BOUGHT TOGETHER
UNIT 1 GREYFRIARS WAY, STAFFORD ST16 2RF 01785223309 154-156 Cannock Road, Blackfords, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 5BZ
Wash
bathroom & kitchen design
Design, Supply and installation Call Dawn
for a free home design visit
01543 500687 sales@washbathroomsand kitchens.co.uk
www.washbathroomsandkitchens.co.uk
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
17
ow!
E Sh The Telegraph CRUIS
NEC, Birmingham: 20-21 October 2012 The UK’s biggest event for discovering a world of voyages Be sure not to miss the UK’s biggest cruise showcase - perfect for those new to cruising and needing help to plan their first voyage, or seasoned cruisers looking for inspiration for their next holiday at sea. This is the only place where you will find all the major and specialist cruise
lines under one roof, hear directly from the cruise experts about what’s new for 2013 and save thousands of pounds with the exclusive show only offers! So whether you enjoy sailing in six-star comfort, visiting remote destinations, have a spirit for adventure or prefer relaxing in the most modern resort-style ships perfect for the whole family, then The Telegraph CRUISE Show is the place to be.We are giving 5 lucky readers the chance to win a pair of tickets to the show! Just answer this simple question:
Where is The Telegraph CRUISE Show taking place? A - ExCel B - NEC C - The local village hall Email your answers to: info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk with name, address and contact
number or on a Postcard to: Staffordhshire Outlook Magazine, 30 Swinburne Close, Sutton Heights, Telford TF74PZ.
READER’S TICKET OFFER: We are offering our readers reduced price tickets to the show when booked in advance! Get your tickets for only £5 (that’s saving £5 off the door price!) by quoting ‘OUTLOOK’ when booking tickets online at www.cruisingshow.com or when calling 0871 620 4024. (Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras).
h Organ Fund… rc u h C r Fo 0 0 16 £ es is a Charity Walk R
Members of Penkridge Choir walked a staggering 21 miles last Saturday (1st September) from Lichfield Cathedral to St. Michael and All Angels Church in Penkridge, in order to raise vital funds for their Village Church. The 21 mile walk took the 10 choir members from 9.30am to 8pm, and they were joined at Springslade Lodge by MP and patron Jeremy Lefroy, who walked the last 7 miles with the group. The group were seen off from Lichfield Cathedral by Archdeacon Liley and welcomed at Penkridge 18
by Rector Yerbury. The money raised will be put towards the estimated £80,000 needed to restore the 125 year old Church Organ at St. Michael and All Angels Church in Penkridge. The organ has now been surveyed by the renowned expert Paul Hale, Rector Cori at Southwell minster and the Committee are now awaiting a formal report and rebuild specification, before putting it out to organ builders for tender. The Organ Restoration Appeal Committee are planning many other events and are estimating that it will
take a gruelling 2 years of fund raising, to raise the total sum needed to restore the organ to its former glory. John Aldridge, Chairman of the Committee said: “The organ is the focal point of our beautiful Grade 1 Listed Church and as there have been no significant changes to the organ since 1888, it is a very rare instrument that we want to preserve. It has such a unique sound and can effectively play music from the 16th to the 21st Centuries.” St. Michael and All Angels Church are situated in the centre of Penkridge, and are located just off the A449, by the Littleton Arms pub (postcode ST19 5AN). The Church is open to visitors most days between 10.30am and 12 Noon, but please do check their website for details www.stmichaelspenkridge.co.uk
If you would like any further information or would like to make a donation please contact John Aldridge on 01785 712640; e-mail jaldridge1@sky.com or see their website www.stmichaelspenkridge.co.uk
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Fireside Factory Are you looking for an amazing deal on your next fireplace or are you looking for that wow factor?
Buy direct… We are able to offer you some amazing deals by buying direct from the factory, so no middle man adding to your costs.
We are open to the public: Monday - Friday - 9.00am - 5.00pm and Saturday - 10.00am - 4.00pm
We also offer a bespoke “MADE BY US” selection of stone, marble or wooden fireplaces. Tell us what you would like, choose your style, choose your material and tell us your required measurements.
5%
Are you keeping your carpet?? We also offer a made to measure hearth service, tell us your existing hearth measurements and we will make your new hearth to either exactly the same size or to the size you require. Come and have a look at over 100 displays of fireplaces, gas fires and electric fires.
Marble fireplaces available from just £399 or as a package with a 3.9KW gas fire just £499. Other packages are available in a range of sizes and colours or with a choice of gas of electric fires. Most of these fireplaces are in stock should you require a quick delivery or are available on our next available fitting date should you require installation by our experienced Gas Safe team.
We will beat any genuine quote by
Looking for something special?? We have a selection of inglenooks, grand fireplaces or super contemporary fireplaces if you are looking for the wow factor.
No
sales people
All our installations are carried out by our team of Gas Safe & HETAS approved fitters. Full delivery and installation service available. If you do not know where to start, pop in and have a chat with our experienced team who are always happy to offer advice. Visit us online at:
www.firesidefactory-nortoncanes.webs.com 1st Floor, Units 6-7 Norton Canes Business Park, Norton Green Lane, Norton Canes, Staffordshire WS11 9SS Tel: 01543 277366
• Free electricity • Returns of up to 10% per year • Tax free index quarterly payments guaranteed for 20 years • Local family business • Bespoke systems
1st Floor Units 6/7 Norton Canes Business Park Norton Green Lane, Norton Canes, Staffordshire WS11 9SS
01543 277366
*****LIMITED OFFER***** 46” Black granite suite complete with 2KW remote control electric fire ONLY £399 or 3.9KW gas fire £450
**CLEARANCE** UP TO 50% OFF EX DISPLAY FIREPLACES
Your Local Solar Power Professionals
Please visit www.acesolarenergy.co.uk and see what our customers say or ring Martin NOW on 01902 562440 for free EXPERT advice email: martin@aceelec.co.uk
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www.firesidefactory-nortoncanes.webs.com 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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Open: Monday to Saturday 9-6pm, Sunday and bank holidays 11-4pm 20
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
3 Amazing floors of style and choice Create the wow factor with our beautiful ranges of bespoke furniture and accessories
79a Darlington Street Wolverhampton WV1 4JD Tel: 01902 428489 Email: interiorsitalia@hotmail.co.uk www.interiorsitalia.co.uk 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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on 2012
petiti Best Kept Village Com
“ALL THE WINNERS – AND MORE!” The results of this year’s Best Kept Village (BKV) Competition were declared at Weston Village Hall. An audience of approximately 200 people heard John Perry, MBE, Chairman of the Best Kept Village Competition Working Group (who organise the competition on behalf of the Community Council of Staffordshire) announced those villages which had been highly commended for their efforts in 2012, the winning villages in five districts in the county and the two Best Kept Villages in the whole of Staffordshire – which were Haughton (Best Large Village) and Oakamoor and Derrington (Joint Best Small Villages). John Perry said: “We had 57 entries this year, which was well up on last year. Perhaps some villages were invigorated by the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics. A number of villages that hadn’t entered for a while did so this year – and they did pretty well too!” Very high standards were achieved again in this year’s competition and it was as difficult as ever to separate the “top villages”, so much so in fact that Haughton & Derrington were joint trophy holders in Stafford District and it was impossible to split Oakamoor and Derrington for the Best Small Village in the County. The BKV Competition isn’t just about villages which compete for top honours, however, and the organisers have special praise for those villages which have only an outside chance of winning, but enter BKV to improve the environment of their villages. For many years Wombourne, with a population of 16,000 and by far the largest village to enter the competition has worked hard to satisfy the requirements of BKV and has shown consistent and significant improvement to the overall environment of the village over that time. 22
Joint small county winners L-R Derrington, Joan Davies, Oakamoor
Because of this a Special Commendation has been awarded to Wombourne by the Working Group this year – the first time that such an award has been made. Chris Welch, Chief Executive of the Community Council said: “This year’s BKV Competition was the 57th since it was established. We can only organise the competition with the generous help of its sponsors – Staffordshire County Council, Rubery Owen Holdings Ltd, South Staffordshire Council, South Staffordshire Housing Association, Lafarge Cement UK- Cauldon Works, The Leavesley Group on behalf of The National Memorial Arboretum. In these difficult financial times we are particularly grateful for their continued
David Owen and Haughton joint trophy winners
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
support – and hope that they will be able to support us again in 2013”. Finally, John Perry said: “I should like to thank all the villages that entered BKV in 2012 and worked so hard through a very difficult summer to achieve the standards they did. Thanks also to our volunteer judges who gave their time to make the competition possible – many of whom got rather wet at times in doing so! We always need more judges so if you could spare a couple of days in May and June, give it a go! Please contact Liz Sanderson at the Community Council on 01785 242525 or email: communitycouncil@staffs.org.uk for further information”.
David Owen and Derrington joint trophy winner Stafford
Fireside Gallery Fireside Gallery has been going for four generations. The present encubants, Mitch on Sales and Tony on installation, have many years of experience between them. There is no pressure selling with us. We offer a relaxed but highly professional service from start to finish.
and material (wood, marble, slate, limestone and granite). They can be altered to your specifications. Gas, electric and solid fuel appliances available. We will supply only or supply and fit your new fire or fireplace, we will remove your existing fireplace, takeaway all the rubbish,
plaster where necessary and electrical work is undertaken. We offer free surveys at a time to suit you! WE DO NOT DO PROBLEMS, WE DO SOLUTIONS! With an easy access showroom with ample free parking, for the right fireplace at the right price come to us at Fireside Gallery Cannock.
Mitch is from a fitting background so has all the technical know how to make sure what you buy, will do the job you want it to. Tony is a highly qualified engineer (Gas safe and Hetas approved), and will deliver a professional, clean and tidy job. Just keep him topped with coffee! Our fireplaces can be made to any size and in a wide range of colours
FIRESIDEGALLERY 01543 503 321 We don't do problems we do solutions
We have something for ever yone
info@firesidegallery-cannock.co.uk
Fitting of Gas Fires & Solid Fuel Stoves If you are looking for gas, electric or solid fuel fires and fireplaces, our highly experienced staff at fireside gallery can do it all.
Professionally fitting your fireplace As registered Gas Safe and HETAS fitters, our work is carried out in a professional and safe manner. For your peace of mind, if you experience any problems with your fire or fireplace, we provide an excellent after-care and repairs service.
Bespoke fireplaces created to your specification All of the fireplaces we fit are made to measure and created to your specifications. For example if you see a marble fireplace and want it in granite, we can change it for you. If you have a specific design in mind, we can either get a quote based on your design or draw a plan from your directions. If you would like to discuss your fireplace ideas, please contact us and speak with one of our experts.
Call Fireside Gallery to arrange a free site survey on
01543 503 321
or call in to our large showroom Bridge Works, Walsall Road, Cannock, Staffordshire WS11 0JL info@firesidegallery-cannock.co.uk www.firesidegallery-cannock.co.uk
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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Lily’s Of Shifnal d Accessories n t Selection Of Shoes A
For The Bes
Every girl loves to shop, and if you’re looking for a fantastic selection of shoes, bags and accessories this autumn, then a visit to Lily’s of Shifnal is a must. Packed full of a great range of unique, fashionable and gorgeous designs, the independent boutique has everything you could wish for. And what’s more, owner Jo Shotton is on hand to help with any special purchases:
Whether you love colour, sparkle or just something that bit special, the exclusive and top quality brands on offer at Lily’s - including Irregular Choice, Bronx, Riva and United Nude - are sure to be just what you’re looking for. And with new additions all the time, there’s always a reason to call in: “We are really excited to be stocking a brand new range this season from Blackmail. It’s a fantastic Italian brand that simply oozes European
“We know how hard it can be to find the right shoes, bags and accessories to complete an outfit - especially if it’s for a wedding or other important occasion. That’s why we are always keen to help our customers find something that’s just right. Ladies can bring in their dresses and we will find something to match up perfectly.”
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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
chic and captures a strong look with fierce statement styling.” “There are some truly gorgeous shoe and boot designs in the Blackmail collection. They’re ideal for those who love to make a style statement with their footwear and will brighten up any gloomy autumnal day.” Whatever you’re looking for, a visit to Lily’s is a must. With so much on offer in store - and online - you’re sure to fall in love with any purchase you make.
ure Centres
uncil Leis o C e ir sh rd o ff ta S th u So children aged 2-12 years can choose from a whole list of different sessions, some of which include:
This October South Staffordshires leisure centre’s which include Cheslyn Hay, Codsall, Penkridge and Wombourne are offering a fantastic range of children’s school holiday activities. From Monday 29th October - Friday 2nd November and for one week only,
•
The Amazing ‘Animal Man’
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Zombie Drumming and Dancing for Little Horrors
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Circus Skills
•
Spiders Webs, Bat Wings & Ghostly Crafts
•
Halloween Theme days
•
Plus much more
Valid 29th October – 2nd November 2012
Prices have been kept as low as possible to try and make activities as affordable as possible so have a look at what’s on offer. Visit www.sstaffs.gov. uk/sussed or contact your local leisure centre direct: Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre 01922 417790 Codsall Leisure Centre 01902 844032 Penkridge Leisure Centre 01785 714152 Wombourne Leisure Centre 01902 898202
Cheslyn Hay Leisure Centre Codsall Leisure Centre Penkridge Leisure Centre Wombourne Leisure Centre
01922 417790 01902 844032 01785 714152 01902 898202
FREE JUNIOR SWIM PASS Voucher must be presented at reception. You must be aged under 12 years to use the voucher. 1 voucher per person, per offer. Children under 8 yrs must be supervised by an adult in the water. Vouchers can be cancelled at any time. Contact your local leisure centre for swim times. Name....................................................... Date......................................................... Centre...................................................... October 2012 Edition
www.sstaffs.gov.uk/leisure
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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Serves 2
Recipe Of The Month Recipe provided by Chef Jon Young The Barnt Green Inn, Kendal End Road Rednal, Birmingham B45 8PZ Tel: 0121 445 4949
Pan Fried Mackerel Fillet with Cauliflower and Horseradish Puree, Curried Aubergine Fritters and a Rocket and Beetroot Salad. INGREDIENTS • 2 Mackerel Fillets • 1 medium Cauliflower • Milk • Teaspoon of Horseradish Sauce • A Dash of Olive oil • 1x medium Aubergine • Teaspoon of Curry Powder • 125g Plain Flour • 1 Egg • 200ml Sparkling Water • Vegetable oil • Pack cooked beetroot • Rocket
METHOD 1. Start with the cauliflower and horseradish puree, chop up the cauliflower into small pieces and place into a deep pan, add a touch of milk till the florets are barely covered and simmer on a medium heat until the cauliflower is soft, now remove the cauliflower from the milk (Keep the milk) and puree in a food processer, add a teaspoon 26
of horseradish and some of the remaining milk to make a puree consistency, season the puree and transfer into a saucepan, leave to simmer on a low heat. 2. In a bowl mix together the flour, sparkling water, egg and curry powder, whisk until it resembles a light batter mixture add more flour if needed, now cut the aubergine into 2cm rounds, lightly flour them and place into the curry batter mixture, leave to one side.
translucent pink to white as it cooks est 4mins, when the fillets are almost white turn them over and continue cooking for a brief minute, the skin should now be slightly crispy, The Mackerel will take approximately no longer than 5 minutes to be cooked.
3. For the rocket and beetroot salad, wear food gloves too stop your hands dying pink and grate the peeled beetroot and mix together with the rocket, season appropriately.
5. For the Fritters put some vegetable oil into a deep frying pan and place on a medium heat, when the oil has heated up place the batter covered Aubergines slowly into the hot oil, take caution. Fry for approx. 3-4 mins turning them over occasionally, remove from the oil when they are crisp and golden brown, place on kitchen paper to remove any excess oil.
4. For the Mackerel, place a large frying pan over a medium heat and add a dash of olive oil, when the oil begins to heat up place the mackerel fillets skin side down, it should have a gentle sizzle when cooking, turn the heat down if too hot. The mackerel will change from
6. Take the puree off the heat and spoon onto the plate, using the back of the spoon smear it across the plate, take the fritters and place in the centre, serve the mackerel on top of the fritters skin side up, place the rocket and beetroot salad on the side and serve.
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Would you like to reach over 20,000 readers in Cannock, Stafford and surrounding areas?
Now is the ideal time to promote your seasonal menus, special offers or forthcoming events in
For further details on promoting your venue Call Sharon Caldwell on: 01952 321334
Open from 5.30pm - Midnight (7days a week)
Christmas Bookings now being taken!
Indian Cuisine The only indian restaurant to have been awarded a 5 star award from rate my place for Kitchen Hygiene. Misbah the master chef can cook anything to suit customers requirements. All of the superb mouthwatering dishes being freshly prepared at the time of ordering, using only the finest produce.
Described by many customers as a culinary experience of a lifetime.
New Road Featherstone Nr. Wolverhampton WV10 7NW
01902 307846 01902 738299
Eat in or take away
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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Blue Ginger
Ginger who explained that he and his staff had been running the restaurant for a year and they have new and returning customers every week.
Many friends and family had recommended Blue Ginger to me, so this evening my partner and I we’re excited to be dining in the restaurant which is situated in Huntington, Cannock.
Abdul told us both that Blue Ginger had been named as ‘The best Indian restaurant in Cannock and surrounding areas for 2012/2013 at the MBA awards (Midlands Balti Association) This award is assessed on a number of criteria including food, service and atmosphere. The award was given by the midland curry enthusiasts club who are part of the Midlands Balti Association.
On this delightful evening we parked on the large free car park which is to the front of the restaurant and made our way inside. As we walked through the doors we were greeted by a large modern bar area with large comfy leather sofas, which was great for customers ordering a take away. We were welcomed into the restaurant by Abdul Karim the owner of Blue 28
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Blue Ginger is also recommended on the Best of Cannock website. We were shown to our large rounded table which felt like our own private booth and given the menus. The waiter asked if we would like to order drinks, my partner had a medium white wine and I opted for a Kingfisher lager. Whilst browsing through the menu the waiter explained that all the main dishes including the specials were 2 for 1 (Mon – Thurs when dining in the restaurant) which we both said was a fantastic offer.
Our waiter returned to our table to take our order and was very helpful and recommended dishes to us after asking what our preferences were.
My partner and I were absolutely spoilt for choice, the menu has something for everyone, whether it be a traditional Indian dish or a dish off the specials section of the menu which I must say sounded very tasty!! Traditional starters are priced at £2.95 - £5.95 and fusion appetizers from £3.50 - £10.95. Main courses start at £5.95 - £10.95.
For starters I chose chicken tikka with my partner going for the king prawn puri which was described as mediterranean large prawns fried with onions, tomatoes and selected herbs, moderately spiced and served on puri bread. For our main courses I wanted to try a different dish, so off the specials I went for the chicken silsila which is chicken, onions, peppers and tomatoes, toasted in a clay oven. Then served with mushrooms and spiced with green herbs and served on a bed of noodles. My partner chose the chicken tikka bedami which is chicken tikka cooked with cashew nuts and almonds in a delectable fresh cream sauce, along with pilau rice and a plain naan bread. We ordered more drinks whilst our food was being prepared and we both mentioned how much we liked the décor which is very modern, spacious and contemporary. There is also a very relaxed feel and the staff are very polite, helpful and professional.
Our starters arrived and they looked and tasted scrumptious! We were both looking forward to our main dishes and when they came we were very impressed. Both dishes were beautifully presented and we couldn’t wait to tuck in! Everything was cooked to perfection and if we had to describe it in one word it would be ‘delicious!’ Once finished we both said that was quite possibly one of the best Indian meals we had been for. We were too full for deserts this time but said when we came again, which we definately would be then we would share a starter to leave room for a pudding afterwards. Blue Ginger is a fully licensed restaurant and caters for 120 diners.
Named best Indian restaurant in Cannock & surrounding areas by MBA (Midlands Balti-association) award is for 2012-2013 OPENING HOURS Sunday:1pm-10pm Mon-Thurs: 5.30pm-11.30pm Fri-Sat: 5.30pm-Midnight
SUNDAY BUFFET Dine in only Eat as much as you like from a wide range of our exquisite dishes. 1pm-10.00pm
Adults £7.95/Child £4.95
CHRISTMAS BOOKINGS NOW BEING TAKEN 12.30-2.30 - 2 Sittings English or Indian dishes
Adult £24.95/Child £11.95 2 FOR 1 MEAL
20% DISCOUNT FREE HOME DELIVERY FREE BOTTLE OF WINE
On all dishes including specials Monday to Thursday - Dine in only
on all food orders collected
Within 5 mile radius and on orders over £10.00
Stafford Road, Huntington, Cannock, Staffordshire WS12 4NU
with every takeaway order above £25.00
01543 500 300
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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n Days
luatio Perry And Phillips Va One of the pleasures of being an auctioneer is VALUATION DAY. That is when people bring in items to be auctioned. You never know what might arrive and anything special usually arrives out of the blue. These items are not always valuable, it is just that there is something about them. Sometimes it is because of the design, or the craftsmanship of who made it, or the simplicity of the design.
Two differing examples of such items arrived in the last few weeks. The first object was not particularly valuable, probably £60-100, but the unique design so simple, so well made, and so effective. I suppose you would call it a shooting stick as you can use it as a walking stick but it can also metamorphose into a seat. It was made out of polished and bent bamboo, which makes it light but strong and attractive, it easily changes from a walking stick to a firm and strong canvas seat with brass fitments. It was a pleasure to hold and admire its design and flexibility. The next item was also a walking stick but completely different and it turned out to be much more valuable. However when it first came in we were not very sure at all. The item was in such good condition for something that was supposed to be nearly 200 years old, and it was so exquisitely decorated that we feared it was a fake made out of a new resin. We asked the person who had brought it in to leave it with us and we would call them in a few days and they agreed. When the valuation day had finished we began to examine it thoroughly. It was a walking stick made out
of whalebone and was beautifully inlaid through over half of its length, it was made by someone working on a whaling ship sometime between 1780 and 1840, such items are called Scrimshaws, but we needed to do a lot more research to fine tune a description and a value. After more research we established that the head of the walking cane was Walrus Tusk, the cane stem was Whalebone and the inlay was Giant Turtle shell. The inlay depicted an Eagle and Stars and therefore it was probably from an American whale ship and the inlays also had images of early steam boats that were around the area of Boston, so we dated it about 1825. At that time we needed to give the owner an estimate of the price we might achieve so we told them £2500-£4500 and they asked us to sell it in the next Perry and Phillips auction. During the next week we continued our research and we contacted Whaling Museums in America to see what Scrimshaws they had and searched auction records to find out the prices of any similar lots that had been sold. There was not a similar lot that had been sold, the Scrimshaw we had was much, much better than anything else we could find anywhere, so now we thought perhaps we might achieve £15,000. Our auction catalogue went on the Internet on the Wednesday afternoon and by Friday we had people from all over the world wanting to bid for the item the following Tuesday. We had to arrange for extra people to work on auction day to man extra phone lines. The bidding opened at £2000 and nearly 8 minutes later reached £46,000. Two stories showing how important our Valuation Days are, so if you have anything your not sure of bring it along.
48 Mill Street, Bridgnorth WV15 5AG Tel: 01746 762 248 Perry and Phillips hold valuation days, for sale items only, each Wednesday from 10am until 4pm. 30
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Old Mill Antique Centre
At The Old Mill Antique Centre we have 4 floors of antiques and quality reproduction furniture – and literally thousands of gift ideas for everyone – all displayed in charming and elegant room settings
Antique & Reproduction Furniture 1000’s of Gift Ideas Bespoke Furniture Beautiful tables made to your design & specification in-house using only the best quality seasoned Oak or Pine.
Homemade Cakes & Snacks Open 7 days – 10am to 5pm Car Parking Available
Mill Street, Low Town, Bridgnorth WV15 5AG Tel: 01746 762248
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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d A Day! n e p S o T y a W l u rf e d A Won visitors into this lovely Georgian town, on the banks of the River Severn, with its Christmas tree seasonal decorations and lights.
When the children and the grandchildren have grown up Moms and Dads and Granny’s and Granddads still enjoy a Christmas season visit to the Severn Valley Railway! The ever popular ‘Santa Special’ services will be operating on the Severn Valley Railway once again this year. Trains operate every weekend in December before Christmas. All ‘Santa’ services leave from and return to Kidderminster Town station which is conveniently located next to the mainline station. Why not leave the car at home and let the train take the strain! With the Santa Special Service you are invited to take an atmospheric steam train journey from Kidderminster to Arley, right out in the heart of the Worcestershire countryside. All seats are reserved for you on the outward train of your choice. At Arley visitors leave the train to meet Santa in his grotto. With Christmas lights, and seasonal entertainment, usually by a choir or band, you are certain to get into the mood for Christmas. Every fare paying child receives a present from Santa and you can then choose which train to catch for the return journey to Kidderminster. On the return journey many families take a break in their journey at Bewdley, where a short walk will take
In addition to Santa Specials the SVR operates ‘Santa Herald’ trains on December 21st with a choice of departure times from Kidderminster throughout the day and Christmas Cracker trains for schools throughout the month. On the ‘Santa Herald’ service the train journey is longer but Father Christmas visits every fare paying child in their seats giving out presents. Christmas Cracker trains have a similar format but are only available for pre-booked school, nursery and playgroups. Christmas Luncheon and Evening Dining Trains operate throughout the month and make a super treat for a day or evening out with friends before or after Christmas. Buts that’s not all, on Saturday evenings in December you are invited you to join one of the Christmas Carol trains which operate between Kidderminster and the Visitor Centre at Highley. Community carol singing at various locations along the way, led by a choir, will put you right in the mood for Christmas. Advance booking is essential for all pre-Christmas services as follows: Santa Specials, Santa Heralds & Christmas Carol trains – 01299 403816. Christmas Cracker trains – 01746 862387. Restaurant Car Services – 01562 757515. After Christmas the Railway re-opens on Boxing Day. Why not sample the ‘Festive Season Service’ which operates for 16 miles over the whole length of the line between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth (or reverse) through to January 6th 2013. For Festive Season trains there is no need to book, just turn up and pay on the day. Just answer correctly the three simple questions below for a chance to win one of these super prizes for your family. 1. How long is the Severn Valley Railway? 2. Where do all ‘Santa’ services depart from? 3. Where do Santa Steam Specials go to?
Our friends at the Severn Valley Railway would like readers to join in the Christmas fun and have provided three sets of tickets for three lucky families to travel on a Santa Steam Special on December 3rd. Your train will depart from Kidderminster at 12.15pm.
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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Email your answers to info@staffordshireoutlook.co.uk with name, address and contact number or on a Postcard to 30 Swinburne Close, Sutton Heights, Telford. TF74PZ Winners will be chosen at random from all correct entrants. All entry details will be forwarded to Severn Valley Railway.
National Leaders in Local Food Visit our award-winning Farm Shop and Tea Room. Savour home-produced food how it should taste. Home produced fruit and veg Award-winning sausage, bacon, gammon and pies Home-reared pork and beef Dine in our Country Kitchen tearoom Follow us on facebook!
Log onto www.essingtonfarm.co.uk and enter your email address to receive updates of offers and events. Tel 01902 735724
Bognop Rd, Essington, Wolverhampton WV11 2AZ
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
33
nnock Chase a C f O ry to is H g in in es The Rich M By Robert van der Do It’s an unfortunate fact that many people living or growing up in Staffordshire and the Black Country are unaware of the region’s proud coal mining heritage. The great bulk of Staffordshire in fact lies upon coalfields that can be divided into three distinct areas: the South Staffordshire or Black Country coalfield; the North Staffordshire Coalfield, which extends to the Pennine foothills and, located in between, the Cannock Chase Coalfield. The Cannock Chase Coalfield assumes a triangular shape, with its base running east to west along the Bentley Fault between Pelsall and Essington and its apex reaching about ten miles north at Rugeley. The Bentley Fault separates it from the South Staffordshire Coalfield, compared to which the furthermost depths of the Cannock Chase Coalfields are greater, thanks to a significant downthrow, or sinking of rocks on one side of the fault, in the area south of Cannock. Near Rugeley the depths of the concealed coal-producing seams reach 1,600 feet, about twice as deep as those encountered in the North and South Staffordshire fields. The surface coal deposits of the Cannock Chase fields were possibly mined as early as Roman times, but with the essential need for coal in the agricultural age practically non-existent they remained in good supply long into the post-Medieval period. The first evidence we have of coal mining taking place on Cannock Chase is
from 1298, within the manor of the Bishop of Coventry and Lichfield in Cannock itself. A number of coal mines situated at Beaudesert Old Park were recorded by the mid-fifteenth century. The primary technique used to mine coal once the exposed deposits were exhausted was to sink a shaft through the rock into the mineral beneath and excavate the coal via a bucket at a shallow level. The miner would be transported by a winch and once the cavity became too dangerous or collapsed another mine would be started nearby. This method was known as a ‘bell pit’ technique because a pit in cross-section resembled a bell. Once Britain’s industrial expansion got under way from the late-sixteenth century onwards Cannock Chase received great demand for its ironstone and coal resources. There are recordings of this type of mining being carried out at Cheslyn Hay in 1630 and at closeby Great Wyrley in 1642. So overwhelming was the desire for coal as the primary source for fires by the end of the
seventeenth century that the production of charcoal, integral to the ironworking of the Medieval period, underwent serious decline. Charcoal-fuelled iron foundries, which had been a unique preserve of Cannock Chase, became extinct by the mid-eighteenth century when charcoal production ceased. Brereton, located at the northernmost point of Cannock Chase Coalfield, became a stronghold town of the local coal industry from 1777 when a tram link was established between its mines and the Trent and Mersey Canal. By 1850 Brereton was the most important town on the Chase coalfield, having long been the source of coal for the City of Lichfield thanks to the canal link. Mining activity remained productive in the southern half of the Chase too however and in the next 20 years actually increased as new pits were opened in an expansion northwards from the line of the exposed seams. That expansion was instigated by entrepreneurs William Harrison and John Robinson McLean, the former sinking pits at Wyrley Common and Brownhills and later establishing the Mid-Cannock Colliery in 1913. Robinson McLean was among the founding members of the Cannock Chase Colliery Company, began in 1852 and only seven years later transporting coal as far away as London. Cannock Chase even saw a rise in mining activity in the later decades of the nineteenth century, with a flood of new companies setting up particularly around Cannock, including the Cannock and Leacroft, Mid-Cannock and Cannock and Huntingdon companies. A great number of them however were short-lived, failing to deliver their investors any return and subsequently sold for a fraction of the amount they cost to establish. In the cases of
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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
together in 2002 to form the Cannock Chase Mining Historical Society. With the help of the Coal Authority, the County Records Office and local libraries they’ve managed to create a series of books and opened a website; www.ccmhs.co.uk, celebrating the achievements of the industry.
Huntingdon and Fair Oak the mines were abandoned due to flooding before even a bucketful of coal was yielded. For all the success the coal mining industry brought to the local region, it should be remembered that tragedy sometimes came with it. Floodings and abandonments were not uncommon occurrences and brave miners were inevitable casualties. The biggest disaster at the Cannock Chase Coalfield happened in 1872 when 22 men lost their lives to the flooding of Pelsall Colliery. A fire accounted for the lives of five men at Old Hednesford Colliery in 1911 and explosions caused the losses of 14 and six lives at the Grove and West Cannock Collieries respectively in the 1930s.
a greater number would start to be closed once the 1950s were underway, largely because mining coal was becoming economically unviable. The legacy of coal mining in Cannock Chase is something that deserves to be documented and since there is now little physical evidence left of the region’s one time dependence on the mines, a group of former miners got
The society uncovered records of over 400 mines and thousands of shafts and also brought to light a number of proud facts, notably incidents of bravery that resulted in a George Medal for Samuel and David Booker in 1937 at Littleton Colliery and the Order of Industrial Heroism for Jimmy Tatton in 1953 and Ernie Passam in 1955 for separate rescue acts at Walsall Wood Colliery. An intriguing curio is that even petrol was produced from Cannock Chase coal in the 1920s and 30s. Cannock and Leacroft Colliery provided a car in 1934 with the first petrol made from coal in Great Britain. It was all thanks to the Chase’s abundant reserves.
Despite the dangers that mining could be associated with and the failure of many recent companies as the twentieth century approached, production from the Cannock Chase Coalfield continued to increase, with 3 million tons per annum recorded in 1890. New pits were still being opened and shafts sunk to greater depths. By 1925 collieries were occupying deep measures at Brereton, Cannock Wood, Wimblebury, Burntwood, Chase Terrace, Heath Hayes, Cannock, Hednesford, Brindley Heath, Huntingdon, Norton Canes, Great Wyrley and Pelsall. In 1933 there were estimated to be 20,000 miners employed in Cannock Chase, who produced between them around five to six million tons per year. The following decades were to see a gradual decline in the mining of coal however, with the sinking of the Lea Hall Colliery at Rugeley, began in 1951, the only significant development on the Cannock Chase Coalfield since the 1920s. Lea Hall was also one of the last to close, being shut down as recently as 1990. Collieries were nationalised in 1947 and many within Cannock Chase merged together, but 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
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ebbs W t A s e in h c a M g in sh Wa
The market for home laundry has recently seen unprecedented innovation which is great news for consumers. Anyone looking for a new washing machine will have more choice than ever before with exciting new technologies to increase performance, make life easier and save both money and precious resources when in use. The main trend are for much larger drums meaning that families need do fewer washes saving time, money, and helping the environment. Of course the other benefit is that overloading, which can shorten the life of the machine, is much less likely. Many customers looking to replace their existing will only have a 5kg load. Hotpoint now produce their Aqualtis range with an 11kg load and eight or even nine kg loads are increasingly common.
terms of energy efficiency which shows signs very significant savings over the expected life of the machines. Another feature of these advanced products is the super silent operation, a benefit greatly appreciated by many, as people are spending more time in their kitchens. Bosch have incorporated a new “wave” drop design drum to help protect delicate fabrics yet still giving a superior wash performance. Also the optimised paddle and drum design makes for precise textile movement, constant water flow and equal detergent distribution for perfect results every time. The WAP28360 model incorporates this new drum design, a generous 9kg load, and a maximum 1400rpm variable spin. Bosch washing machines also have a feature called “vario-perfect” which lets you decide whether you would like your laundry more quickly or more economically. The ecoperfect button saves an additional 20 to
Faster spine speeds are also more prevalent with 1,400rpm common and some machines capable of spinning at 1,600rpm. This means much dryer laundry and, of course, less need for tumble drying, so saving time and money. The Bosch WAP28360has a specially designed drum which spins at 1,400rpm but performs like a 1,600rpm machine and is particularly gentle. Washing machines are becoming much more economical to run. Hotpoint Aqualtis range is now rated at A+++ in 36
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
30% more energy and with speed perfect you have the option to wash your laundry up to 60% faster. As in the way with technology many advanced and desirable features that begin life purely at the top end of manufacturers’ ranges are now becoming available at much lower price points. Many mid priced washing machines are much more advanced than the top models of only three years ago. It’s important when looking for a new washing machine to consider which developments matter most to you. At Webbs we have over fifty years of experience in matching customers needs to the right product it’s a responsibility we take really seriously. So if it was ever true that washing machines were simply white boxes it certainly isn’t now. They are feature packed with a machine to suit everyone.
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Centre, Stafford
ldhall Shopping Christmas at The Gui Stafford Christmas Lights Switch-on - Saturday 17th November. Probably the most spectacular Christmas Light Switch-on Event in Staffordshire with a full day of entertainment and fun for all the family. The day starts at 11.00am with the popular Father Christmas Parade when Santa arrives in town with his real live reindeer and a carnival procession with marching
bands, dressed floats, costume characters and much, much more. Following the parade the activities focus on Market Square where a 40ft stage and big screen are erected. Singing, dancing, competitions and demonstrations take place between 12.30pm and 4.30pm when the excitement starts to build for the big switch-on. At 5.00pm the Christmas Lights are turned on and this is followed by a spectacular firework display launched from the roof of the
Guildhall Shopping Centre. As this is a totally free event, it is extremely popular, so visitors are advised to arrive early (and please leave pushchairs and buggies at home!).
Featuring in this year’s Father Christmas Parade are: Jacks of Frost
Ostriches
Two frosted stilt-walking, glam-dancing elves that will interact and melt with the crowd.
These wacky ostriches with riders on their backs run amuck through town chasing and pecking at those who get in their way.
The Air Ace Armitage ‘Tiger’ Thomson the intrepid aviator in his miniature Spitfire aircraft. Watch out for his aerial fly past!
Following on from the Christmas Lights Switch on event, the Guildhall Shopping Centre has an exciting and entertaining programme of events – not to be missed! Vinny
Sir Ralph Luvvie Saturday 1st December (30 minute performances at 10.30am/12.00noon and 1.30pm). Eye-rolling, camp comedy, in a motorised armchair - once met, never forgotten... 38
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Saturday 8th December (30 minute performances at 10.30am/12.00noon and 1.30pm) A silent clown with a gentle style, combining physical comedy, balancing feats, an array of juggling skills and uninhibited audience participation. Vinny makes the straightforward seem impossible and the seemingly impossible look easy.
Vinny is a simple fellow who is easily confused, he can’t tie a shoelace and has a memory like a sieve but with a little help from his friends in the audience he is somehow able to perform astonishing feats of balance and co-ordination.
Edmond Tahl Saturday 8th December (30 minute performances at 11.00am/12.30pm and 2.00pm) Edmond accidentally finds himself trapped in a perpendicular world of absurdity, where the bizarre is always close on his heels. Amidst a reality of swarming bees, low flying helicopters, squeaky prams, spaghetti western gun fights, ringing telephones, improbably large monsters, crashing glass, James Bond scenarios, etc. etc… he attempts to keep his composure. The show combines music, sound effects and mime, into an improvisational high energy comedy performance. Not to be missed!
Hodman Dodmanott and Sally Forth Saturday 15th December (45 minute performances at 11.00am and 1.00pm) An extraordinary, beautiful and funny walkabout puppet act that gets mobbed wherever it goes in the World.
The biggest thing to come out of the country of Oblivia in eons Hodman Dodmanott and Sally Forth are two tiny adventurers with a lot on their minds - and even more on their backs. Join these elderly amblers as they set out to unfathom the modern world, meet strange and exciting new people and search for a decent place to camp! This is one of the well-loved acts around, delighting audiences the World over with its witty improvisation, charming characterisations and utterly captivating effect. This memorable couple amble merrily through the crowds bringing laughter and joy wherever they go. Enjoy their hilarious attempts at Christmas shopping and carol singing (although singing may not be quite the right word!).
Victorian Carol Singers Saturday 22nd December Join in with our Victorian Singers and enjoy some tradition Christmas carols.
Visit Santa in his Grotto Visit Santa in his Grotto at the Guildhall Shopping Centre from Saturday 17th November through until Sunday 23rd December 2012. This is the only ‘free to enter’ grotto in Stafford Town Centre and each child will receive a small chocolate gift. Any donations will be in aid of St John Ambulance.
Santa will be available to meet children at the following times: Saturday 17th November - 12.00noon to 5.30pm* Saturday 24th November - 10.00am to 3.00pm Sunday 25th November - 10.30am to 3.30pm Saturday 1st December - 10.00am to 3.00pm Sunday 2nd December - 10.30am to 3.30pm Saturday 8th December - 10,00am to 3.00pm Sunday 9th December - 10.30am to 3.30pm Saturday 15th December - 10.00am to 3.00pm Sunday 16th December - 10.30am to 3.30pm Monday 17th December - 10.00am to 3.00pm Tuesday 18th December - 10.00am to 3.00pm Wednesday 19th December - 10.00am to 3.00pm Thursday 20th December - 10.00am to 3.00pm Friday 21st December - 10.00am to 3.00pm Saturday 22nd December - 10.00am to 3.00pm Sunday 23rd December - 10.30am to 3.30pm Subject to some flexibility at the discretion of the Management. * NB Santa will be in the Christmas Parade from 11.00am to approx.12 noon when he will move to his grotto. Santa will be on stage in Market Square from 4.45pm to 5.30pm
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afford’s Best Pubs
s Tourists Around St Caskfinder App Guide
With 13 million tourists from home and abroad visiting pubs every year, Cask Marque has invested in enhancing the iconic British pub experience with the CaskFinder app. Stafford boasts over 100 Cask Marque pubs and visitors to the city can navigate their way to the best pint using the smartphone app as well as taking part in the ‘World’s Biggest Ale Trail’. The newly launched feature on the app challenges ale-lovers to visit as many pubs as they can and to register their efforts by using their phone’s camera to scan QR codes placed on Cask Marque certificates in accredited pubs. The app records the number of pubs visited and rewards prizes for milestones of 25, 50 and 100 pubs. Once you have scanned 100 pub barcodes you become a Cask Marque ambassador, which includes the opportunity to spend the day with an assessor, visiting a number of pubs to see how Cask Marque ensure a quality pint.
Tourists can also use the following features of the app:
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Details of the cask beers on sale in each pub
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Description of over 1,000 beers from 250 brewers using Cyclops Beer database
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Rate beers to help other ale fans
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Find similar beers
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Beer Festivals – a complete list with contact details, admission prices and maps
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Beer Blog – from award winning writer, Pete Brown, that gives you an inside track on the beer industry
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Beer of the Week – a featured beer of interest
Download the upgraded version of CaskFinder straightaway to start your very own World’s Biggest Ale Trail.
•
New Bar code reader for bottled beers – try it on your Tiger beer to get the full Cyclops descriptors and suggested beers for you to try
For any further information please visit our website www.cask-marque.co.uk or contact Alastair, email: ali@cask-marque.co.uk
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Cask Marque Director, Paul Nunny, who is responsible for the quality of ale in pubs said: “Cask ale is a British institution which should be celebrated by everyone up and down the country. The CaskFinder app helps customers get the most out of their pub visits and rate their favourite beers, sharing tried and tested favourites with other app users.”
ilee Year
mond Jub ia D A r o F g in p o H s The Badger
Chairman Brian Townsend receives a 3rd year sponsorship cheque from Ron Aitken, MD of Mainline Haulage
2012/13 Team Photo
Following one of the most successful seasons in the club’s history, this season sees Brocton celebrate 75 years of football and they are hoping it will be a season to remember for more than one reason. Last term, a high place finish of 7th in the Midland Combination Premier League coupled with reaching the 3rd Round of FA Vase and a Walsall Senior Cup Final appearance at Walsall FC was a just reward for the effort put in by John Berks and his team. This season in the league will be arguably the toughest so far with some famous non-league teams with rich pedigree such as Atherstone Town and Bromsgrove Sporting (formally Bromsgrove Rovers) taking part for the first time. Added into the mix this season will be some local spice with Stafford Town also joining the league, a move which will only
Brocton FC’s Silkmore Lane Ground
benefit both clubs and provide a real local derby for the Badgers. The club will also join be taking part in the FA Cup and FA Vase this year with Bewdley Town and Shawbury United the respective visitors to Silkmore. Off the pitch, it’s been a busy time for the committee with Mainline Haulage extending their sponsorship for a 3rd season (pictured) and preparations for the 75th anniversary celebrations on the 16th September in full swing. A full ‘history of Brocton FC’ book is planned along with celebration events throughout the season. Please see www.broctonfc.com for further details.
Brocton FC Volunteers (top left to bottom right) Nigel Pepper (Vice Chairman), Terry Homer (Secretary), Brian Townsend (Chairman), Trevor Cooke (Committee), Eddie Wright (Treasurer), Barbara Chandler (Committee), Brian Chandler (Committee)
Brocton FC – Best In England. With their 75th anniversary season about to commence and after only 4 full seasons at Silkmore Lane, Brocton FC have won a prestigious award from the Football Association. Terry Homer, Groundsman and Club Secretary has won the Groundsman of The Year for Step 5 and Step 6 football clubs of the non-league pyramid system across the whole of England. This award is a rich reward for Terry and the other unsung heroes at the football club who spend much of their spare time maintaining the revered pitch and grounds. Although Terry would humbly never admit it, the ground is
Terry Homer Receives his FA Groundsman of the Year 2012 Step 5/6 Trophy
Brocton FC’s Silkmore Lane Ground
the envy of many clubs at this level with all who visit the ground for the first time, surprised at the facilities on offer to aspiring local footballers. In fact, the club is usually inundated with requests to host games through the season. However, the club comes first and the pitch is kept exclusively for home games only. Some have joked, it is easier to get a game at Wembley! Perhaps not entirely true, but that is where Terry is headed to collect his award in October.
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onth: M e th f o ip T p o T ’s m To Bunion (Bunionette) Tailors
A tailor’s bunion (little toe bunion) is very similar to a bunion of the big toe joint. s the name suggests this condition was named because a tailor would sit with their legs crossed allowing the outside of the foot to rub against the floor causing irritation and inflammation (swelling). The incidence of a tailor’s bunion is much higher in women than in
men. There are genetic factors and biomechanical factors involved, however this condition is commonly thought to be due to shoe fashion. Wearing narrow-toed shoes and high heels may accelerate the formation of the tailor’s bunion due to the extra pressure put on the outside of the foot. Conservative treatment includes using anti-inflammatory oral medications or an injection of medication and local anaesthetic to reduce this swelling. The podiatrist may request x-rays but in most cases you can diagnose the condition by a visual examination. The podiatrist may remove any corns or calluses that develop due to the tailor’s bunion. It is common to have a corn on the outer aspect of the tailor’s bunion due to friction pressure.
Slip on Orthotics/insoles will help to correct any underlying biomechanical problem to and prevent the condition from progressing. Footwear should be
changed to broad fitting shoes with a minimum heel. An elastic gel sleeve can be applied for pain relief. The 1st or 5th toes should not be placed under undue stress in footwear. There are tailor’s bunion alignment splints you can use to correct the condition although this product was initially designed to be used after tailor’s bunion surgery; however, gently stretching the soft tissues around the small toe joint helps prevent the need for surgery. Surgical correction is the final option available. See a Podiatrist/chiropodist for an assessment & treatment if you’re desperate, or call Tom Casey on 07828 613615
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STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
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Your Monthly Horoscope ARIES MARCH 21 - APRIL 20 Financial planning is on the agenda for October. Responsible Saturn moves into the monetary area of your chart and demands a review. Benevolent Jupiter urges you to communicate in a different way and as your ruler Mars changes signs on the 7th, new ways of improving your capital could emerge. TAURUS APRIL 21 - MAY 21 In October, the love planet Venus travels through the joy and romance area of your chart. You’ll need to scrutinise your resources and your relationships very carefully. What is not working and what has to go? The warrior planet Mars is also in Scorpio until the 7th bringing some radical change! GEMINI MAY 22 - JUNE 21 October brings change to all things concerning your working methods. New career opportunities could now become apparent as motivational Mars energises this sector. With Venus, the planet of beauty, now in industrious Virgo you’ll also be looking at radical ways to change your appearance and improve your health. CANCER JUNE 22 - JULY 22 Romance and partnerships are high on the agenda for you during October! This should turn out to be a transformational month as you review your relationships and decide if they are going where you want them to. Creativity is also highlighted and your mind will be full of new and inspirational ideas. LEO JULY 23 - AUGUST 23 There is plenty of activity on the home front for Leos during October. Energetic Mars asks what needs improving but stern Saturn demands you check how resourceful you can be. With Inspirational Venus in industrious Virgo it shouldn’t be too hard to start up new projects and see them through. VIRGO AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 22 October’s planetary aspects bring passion and excitement to normally reserved Virgos. Maverick planet Uranus and Expansive Jupiter are in pivotal sectors of your chart and new ideas for money making schemes present themselves. Communication is on the agenda, but with a completely new angle. 44
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
LIBRA SEPTEMBER 23 - OCTOBER 23 Whatever you have been through during this time you will have learned a lot and you can Task master Saturn leaves your sign on the 5th and won’t be back until September 2039! Now put difficult times behind you. The new moon in your sign on the 15th heralds the start of creative new projects. SCORPIO OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22 October marks a new cycle for Scorpios. Mars, one of your planetary rulers, leaves your sign for adventurous Sagittarius on the 7th and communicative Mercury will have arrived on the 5th. The biggest challenge is responsible Saturn arriving for his 2 ½ year stay on the 6th. Its time to re-focus on your goals SAGITTARIUS NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21 This month turns your attention towards demands in your personal life. Striking a balance between energy spent on work and energy spent on domestic matters is essential now. Sun and Mercury in balanced Libra will help you to get your message across in a diplomatic but firm manner. CAPRICORN DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20 Expansive Jupiter is in a pivotal sector of your chart and work and health matters come to the forefront. A blast of personal energy comes your way as Saturn, your ruler, urges you to focus and show your leadership skills. Inspired with new confidence you’re at your most convincing this month. AQUARIUS JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 18 October highlights your ambitions and your purpose as duty bound Saturn arrives at the highest point in your chart. Your sense of achievement is heightened and it is a good time to develop new business plans and goals. The new moon on the 15th brings opportunity for an exciting new adventure. PISCES FEBRUARY 19 - MARCH 20 Change is in the air for Pisceans during October. Although your home and family are highlighted, there is also a distinctive pull toward excitement and adventure. You know that you want to shine, and with energetic Mars in daring Sagittarius you are open to exciting and challenging ideas.
Sudoku 数独 DEPICTS
DAMPENS
DAMPING
9
3 5 8
D
2 9 6 3
5
D
7 4 2
D
7
1 2 3
1 9 9
4 6
5 1 1
Each row, column and 3x3 box must contain the numbers 1 to 9 just once. This can be done by applying logic -you don’t have to guess!
Fit the words into the honeycomb. Each word begins with the letter shown and must surround that letter. Words can be either clockwise or anti-clockwise.
CROSSWORD Across 1. Ambrosia (6) 4. Neglect (8) 10. Incorrect (9) 11. Famous (5) 12. Eccentric (5) 13. Industriousness (9) 14. Scurry (7) 16. Wise one (4) 19. In ___ of (replacing) (4) 21. Ranges (7) 24. Militarist (9) 25. Overweight (5) 26. Audio transmission (5) 27. Arrest (9) 28. Volunteered (8) 29. Sitting room (6)
Down 1. Unnecessary (8) 2. A noncommissioned officer (8) 3. Bother (5) 5. Strongmen build these (7) 6. Temple (9)
7. Purpose (6) 8. Made a gesture of assent (6) 9. Boundary between 2 nations (6) 15. Venomous (9) 17. Gossamer (8) 18. A pale purple colour (8)
20. Raise in value (7) 21. A dramatic composition (6) 22. Change direction abruptly (6) 23. Relating to a wedding (6) 25. Classical music theatre (5)
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Rob Taylor XV Marks The Spot By
It’s safer than the womb, sure-footed like an Olympic gymnast and - happily - comes in all colours. Rob Taylor has the scoop on the new Subaru XV. There’s no way around it: it’s orange. Tango orange. Ford Focus ST orange. Terry’s Chocolate Orange orange. And I like it. In a world of monochrome, pseudo-sophisticated German - and German-lite - cross-over vehicles, this new Subaru XV stands out like a sunset in the Sahara. But don’t think that because it’s the colour of a crayon, it’s a cartoon car - it’s not. In fact, it’s a very serious car indeed. With a permanent four-wheel drive system, the XV is more stable and sure-footed in all weathers than a mountain goat; a five-star Euro NCAP rating makes it 46
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
the safest car in its class too. Preferring function over fancy it has all the hallmarks of a classic Subaru. If you care about child safety, listen up: Subaru’s newest SUV scored the highest possible marks in child occupancy protection tests at Euro NCAP. And legendary Japanese build-quality means it’s capable of shrugging off the rigours of family life too. You might even say it’s more durable and robust than a child’s Tonka toy, hence the colour. The 2 litre diesel horizontally-opposed ‘Boxer’ engine is tractable at low-revs, gutsy if pushed, but sophisticated enough to waft you quietly around the city suburbs in style, on some of the funkiest alloys I’ve ever seen on an SUV. Not flashy, nor incongruous, they enliven the side-profile of the vehicle enormously. Of course, you may be loathe to take the XV off-road for fear of scratching them, but that’ll be the only thing stopping you, as with considerable ground-clearance, a Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and a Limited
Slip Differential, the XV has other off-roaders licked. In fact, a leisurely day spent off-roading is far less dangerous than wandering alone and unsupervised into the cavernous boot-space. Your family will be left filling out missing-person reports if you do.
Care Of (ETCo) scheme. Free with every new vehicle, this three-year deal offers cover for everything from dent and alloy wheel repairs to an accident management service and is worth £700 in itself. Never before has a trip to a car dealer promised to be so painless.
SE specification finds this model boasting dualzone air conditioning, a rear-view parking camera, iPod connectivity, leather seats, cruise control and privacy-glass in the rear. And this is on top of an already generous list of standard kit. Pretty good so far, so let’s crunch some numbers.
So the numbers add up and Subaru has a product and package which makes sense to the left - more logical - hemisphere of your brain, but, you’ll be thinking, can I love the XV? Is it a case of Subar-oooh or just not for you?
There’s 147 bhp to play with and 350 Nm of torque between 1,600 - 2,400 rpm; 0-60 mph arrives in 9.3 seconds, top speed is 120 mph; it’ll touch 50.4 mpg on the combined cycle and knocks out just 146 g/km of Co2. And prices start from £21,295 (model tested: £26,295).
Well, having spent a week with it, I’m happy to report that I’m very impressed. With striking looks and a regal driving position allied to serious overtaking punch and fine handling manners, the XV proves itself to be extremely versatile.
Subaru now offer one of the most comprehensive aftercare packages as well, with the Everything Taken
It appeals to both ‘XY’ and ‘XX’ buyers alike. And it doesn’t take a genius to work out that kids will love it too. Just look at the colour. 01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
47
y Wolverhampton le nd ri B ith W e nc ie sc on Adopt A Clean C
Brindley Wolverhampton urges local businesses to adopt a clean conscience on the eve of the arrival of the new V40 Volvo dealership Brindley Wolverhampton’s corporate sales team is urging local companies to adopt a cleaner conscience by choosing company cars with Drive-E technologies after the brand achieved third place in the top 20 fleet brands for eco-driving at its specialist business centres. Now in its fifth year, the company carsector dedicated magazine and website BusinessCar’s survey rates the top 20 fleet brands for eco-effectiveness. The BusinessCar survey provides valuable information for fleet operators looking for the most fuel-efficient vehicles with the best CO2 which translates into both fuel pump savings and less benefit in kind (BIK) payments. Thanks to fuel efficient vehicles, which now include 14 versions across the brand’s two sub-100g/ km 2013 models - the C30 and the all-new V40, Volvo leapt into the top three in the rating and recorded a massive 8.8% below its EU target. An increasing number of businesses are looking at ways to reduce costs and selecting more fuel and taxefficient vehicles for company car fleets is an obvious choice which translates to cleaner motoring. Brindley Wolverhampton, located at Wolverhampton Road, Codsall, has seen demand for vehicles with Drive-E technologies continually rise and the arrival of the V40 this month (July) is expected to boost sales of its more fuel efficient vehicles even further. 48
• Volvo achieves top three place in BusinessCar Survey’s eco-driving league • Drive-E technologies can mean savings at the fuel pump and less benefit in kind (BIK) payments for company car drivers • Brindley Wolverhampton urges local business to consider cleaner vehicles and save money Says the dealership’s business sales manager Neal Shaw: “We are seeing more and more user choosers selecting vehicles with reduced personal tax implications (Benefit in Kind) which inevitably means driving cars which are more fuel efficient and emit less CO2. The benefits can extend beyond the first year, for example, the new V40 D2 with a CO2 rating of just 94g/ km, stays in the lowest tax band for the first two years. Fleet managers and local bosses can also save money with Employers National Insurance contributions on the lower CO2 cars as well as lower fuel costs.”
they are powered by conventional means, electric or a combination such as the new plug-in hybrid. An incredible 330+ cars across the Volvo range now fall under160g/ km CO2 reflecting the brand’s commitment to fuel efficient driving.
Using data from a number of sources, including the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), BusinessCar identified 10 categories, each marked out of five to give a grand total out of 50, which was then doubled to reach its percentage score.
• V40 D2 Manual (with 205 tyres) - 78.5mpg & 94g/km
Volvo was the survey’s biggest climber over last year with a 74 per cent rating behind winners Peugeot (82 per cent) and Volkswagen (80 per cent) but achieved a higher rating than rivals Audi (70 per cent), Mercedes-Benz (34 per cent) and BMW (68 per cent). The Drive-E name follows on from Volvo’s DRIVe-badged vehicles. Originally fitted to those models that offered the best environmental performance in their respective segments, the new Drive-E is now the suite of innovative technologies to include low emitting vehicles whether
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
Sub-100g/km CO2 + £0 Road Tax, Benefit in Kind (BIK) 2012/13 just 13 per cent models with Drive-E technologies (figures - combined cycle): • C30 D2 Start/Stop 78.5mpg & 94g/km
• V40 D2 Manual (with 225 tyres) - 74.3mpg & 99g/km Low emissions and high mpgs are now available with an automatic too. S60,V60, S80 and V70 models with the D2 engine are available with the Powershift gearbox all sub 120g/km for CO2. Environmental and economic factors are not compromised as the automatic gearboxed cars deliver exactly the same fuel economy and emissions as the class-leading manual ‘boxed variants. And for those who want a bit more power with their low Co2s and high mpgs, the D3, D4 and D5 manual engines are all within reach, all except V70 are 120g/km and below.
Useful Numbers CHEMISTS
St. Austin’s R.C Catholic School
01785 356765
Asda Late Opening Pharmacy
01785 782010
St. Dominic’s High School for Girls
01902 850248
Browning Street Pharmacy
01785 252541
St. Johns C.E (C) Primary School
01785 251960
Cornwell’s Chemist
01785 250151
St. Leonards Primary School
01785 356890
Lloyds Pharmacy
01785 225851
St. Michael’s C of E First School
01785 712344
Rowland’s Pharmacy
01785 212707
St. Pauls C.E (C) Primary School
01785 356634
0500 970348
Stafford Grammar School
01785 249752
White House Pharmacy
01785 712829
The Grove Primary School
01785 356412
Wolverhampton Road Pharmacy
01785 258181
& Nursery Units
The Co-operative Pharmacy
COUNCILS
Tillington Manor Primary School
01785 356880
Vernon Lodge Preparatory School
01785 850568
Penkridge Parish Council
01785 714157
Wolgarston High School
01785 788400
Staffordshire Borough Council
01785 619000
Yarlet School
01785 286568
Staffordshire County Council
03001 118000
South Staffordshire District Council
01902 696000
Staffordshire Parish Council Association 01785 277499
HOSPITALS Stafford Hospital
01785 257731
Rowley Hall Hospital
01785 238600
EDUCATION Blessed William Howard Catholic School 01785 244236
POST OFFICES
Blessed Mother Teresa’s Catholic Primary School
01785 356405
Cannock Road Post Office
01785 661836
Charnley Road Post Office
01785 252624
Brooklands School
01785 251399
Great Haywood Post Office
01889 881213
Castlechurch Primary School
01785 356772
Highfields Post Office
01785 241799
Chase Academy
01543 501881
Littleworth Post Office
01785 223769
Copsewood Primary School
01785 258482
Midlands Co-operative Post Office
01785 216880
Doxey Primary School
01785 356100
Penkridge Post Office
01785 712201
Stone Road Post office
01785 252103
John Wheeldon County Primary School 01785 356636} King Edward VI High School
01785 258546
Marshbrook First School
01785 712780
LOCAL EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Parkside Primary
01785 617205
In an emergency always call 999
Penkridge Middle School
01785 355545
For general enquiries:
Princefield First School
01785 714050
Staffordshire Police
0300 123 4455
St. Anne’s Catholic Primary School
01785 663128
Staffordshire Fire Service
08451 221155
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
49
Index of Advertisers Antiques & Auctioneers Old Mill Antique Centre
31
Bathrooms Love Lane Interiors
15
Wash Bathrooms
17
Beds & Bedroom Furniture CRS
10 & 11
Interiors Italia
20 & 21
Carpets (Supply & Fit) CRS
10 & 11
Car Sales Brindley Volvo
52
Children’s Activities South Staffs Leisure Centre
24
Severn Valley Railway
31
Electricians T&T Electrical World
8
Electrical Stores Webbs
37
Entertainments and Leisure Severn Valley Railway 33 South Staffs Leisure Centre 25 The Grand Theatre 51 Wolverhampton Race Course 33 Fashion Ladies wear Lilly’s of Shifnal
24
Fire Place/Stoves Fireside Factory Fireside Gallery
19 23
Fire service Staffordshire Fire Service
43
Jewellers T.A. Henn
Kitchens (Supply, Design & Fit) Love Lane Interiors
15
Wash Bathrooms & Kitchens
17
Lighting T&T Electrical World
Furniture/Furnishings CRS 10 & 11 Interiors Italia 21 & 22
Kings Repose Blue Ginger
19
Northern Gas
13
Hospital (Private) Nuffield
Stafford Tile Centre
50
SUDOKU
STAFFORDSHIRE OUTLOOK | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2012
28 & 29
Ace Solar
Tiles
Interior Designers Interiors Italia 21 & 22 Love Lane Interiors 15 Wash Bathrooms & Kitchens 17
25
Solar Energy Installations
Glass & Hardware Specialists Love Lane Interiors 15 4
8
Restaurants
Tile Choice
2 17
Theatre The Grand Theatre
51
Windows and Conservatories Windows and Doors Direct Ltd 9
Puzzle Answers CROSSWORD
7 & 42
HONEYCOMB
Great Theatre at the Grand! MON 15 - SAT 20 OCT
TUE 30 OCT - SAT 3 NOV
TUES 6 - SAT 10 NOV Bilston Operatic Company presents...
MUSIC AND LYRICS BY JERRY HERMAN
AN AMATEUR PRODUCTION
‘As exciting as The Woman In Black’ The Guardian MON 12 - SAT 17 NOV
TUES 20 - WED 21 NOV
THE GLOBAL PHENOMENON IS BACK ONE LAST TIME!
SADLER’S WELLS PRESENTS
THURS 22 - SAT 24 NOV
Ballet Girls & Hip Hop Boys!
“Zany and Zippy, hilarious and heartwarming. a winner” the times
MON 26 NOV - SAT 1 DEC
Follow us on
SAT 8 DEC - SUN 20 JAN
@WolvesGrand
TUES 19 - SAT 30 MARCH
Like us on Facebook: Wolverhampton Grand
Box Office 01902
42 92 12
BOOK ONLINE AT www.grandtheatre.co.uk
01952 321334 | WWW.STAFFORDSHIREOUTLOOK.CO.UK
51
Don’t follow the crowd
volvo V40 0% APR representative
personal contract purchase
£199 per month
78.5mpg combined fuel consumption, 94g/km emmission PCP finance example for Volvo V40 Diesel Hatchback D2 ES 5 door: Cash price of vehicle £19745, Deposit £5150, Amount of credit £14595, Interest £0, Total charge for credit £0, Interest rate 0% APR Representative, one initial payment of £199.40, 35 monthly payments of £199.41, Duration of agreement 37 monthsone final payment of £7416.25 (guaranteed future value), Total amount payable £19745.
BRINDLEY WOLVERHAMPTON
Wolverhampton Road, Codsall, Wolverhampton WV8 1HF Also now at
BRINDLEY STOURBRIDGE Grange Lane, Lye, Stourbridge DY9 7HH
www.brindley4volvo.co.uk
T. 08430 225525
T. 08430 224295 CALLS CHARGED AT LOCAL RATE
Fuel consumption for the Volvo V40 D2 in mpg: Urban 70.6, Extra Urban 83.1, Combined 78.5.0, CO2 emissions 94 g/km. PCP based on annual mileage of 10,000 excess mileage charged at 14.9pence (plus vat) per mile for the first 5000
miles, twice that rate thereafter. Prices supersede all previous offers and are correct at time of going to press. Picture for illustration only. Part of the 52 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER BrindleySTAFFORDSHIRE Garages Group – OUTLOOK keeping the|West Midlands motoring2012 since 1931.